Seoul (TIP): Nuclear envoys of South Korea, the US and Japan on May 28 strongly condemned North Korea’s latest attempt to launch a military spy satellite, casting it as a blatant violation of UN resolutions and a serious threat to peace.
Lee Jun-il, director general for Korean Peninsula policy, discussed the North’s botched space rocket launch in three-way phone talks with his US and Japanese counterparts, Jung Pak and Yukiya Hamamoto, respectively, Seoul’s foreign ministry said in a release.
The envoys “stressed that it was a blatant violation of UN Security Council resolutions banning the North from any such launches using ballistic missile technology and that its provocations pose serious threats to peace and security in the region and beyond.”
The three sides vowed to continue coordination trilaterally and with the international community to prepare for the North’s potential additional provocation, saying such acts will “only strengthen the three-way security cooperation.”
The phone talks came after the North said it launched a new rocket carrying a military reconnaissance satellite from a launching site on its northwest coast on Monday. The launch failed due to the air blast of the rocket during the first-stage flight.
It was the first launch attempt by Pyongyang after it successfully put its first military spy satellite into orbit in November last year, following the two previous botched attempts in May and August, respectively. (IANS)
Month: June 2024
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Nuclear envoys of South Korea, US, Japan condemn North Korean spy satellite launch attempt
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Cops search European Parl over suspected Russian interference
Brussels (TIP): Belgium’s federal prosecutor’s office said on Wednesday that police carried out searches at the residence of an employee of the European Parliament and at his office in the Parliament’s building in Brussels over suspected Russian interference.
Prosecutors said in statement that the suspect’s office in Strasbourg, where the EU Parliament’s headquarters are located in France, was also searched in partnership with the EU’s judicial cooperation agency, Eurojust, and French judicial authorities.
The raids took place less than two weeks before Europe-wide polls on June 6-9 to elect a new EU parliament. An investigation was announced last month by Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, who said his country’s intelligence service has confirmed the existence of a network trying to undermine support for Ukraine.
“The searches are part of a case of interference, passive corruption and membership of a criminal organization and relates to indications of Russian interference, whereby Members of the European Parliament were approached and paid to promote Russian propaganda via the Voice of Europe news website,” prosecutors said.
Prosecutors said they believe the employee played “a significant role in this.” Several Dutch news outlets identified the suspect as a staffer for EU lawmaker Marcel de Graaff of the far-right Dutch party Forum for Democracy. A person with knowledge of the investigation confirmed that the reports were accurate. —AP -
Hong Kong convicts 14 pro-democracy activists
Hong Kong (TIP): Fourteen pro-democracy activists were convicted in Hong Kong’s biggest national security case on May 30 by a court that said their plan to effect change through an unofficial primary election would have undermined the government’s authority and created a constitutional crisis.
After a 2019 protest movement that filled the city’s streets with demonstrators, authorities have all but silenced dissent in Hong Kong through reduced public choice in elections, crackdowns on media and the Beijing-imposed security law under which the activists were convicted.
Those found guilty of conspiracy to commit subversion included former lawmakers Leung Kwok-hung, Lam Cheuk-ting, Helena Wong and Raymond Chan, and they could face up to life in prison when sentenced later. The two defendants acquitted were former district councillors Lee Yue-shun and Lawrence Lau. But the prosecution said it intends to appeal against the acquittals.
The activists were among 47 democracy advocates who were prosecuted in 2021 for their involvement in the primary. Prosecutors had accused them of attempting to paralyze Hong Kong’s government and topple the city’s leader by securing the legislative majority necessary to indiscriminately veto budgets.
In a summary of the verdict distributed to media, the court said the election participants had declared they would “either actively use or use the power conferred on the (Legislative Council) by the (Basic Law) to veto the budgets.” Under the Basic Law, the chief executive can dissolve the legislature if a budget cannot be passed but the leader would have to step down if the budget is again vetoed in the newly-formed legislature.
In the full, 319-page verdict, the court also said if the plan to veto bills would lead to the dissolution of the legislature, it meant “the implementation of any new government policies would be seriously hampered and essentially put to a halt.”
“The power and authority of both the Government and the Chief Executive would be greatly undermined,” the court said in the verdict. “In our view … that would create a constitutional crisis for Hong Kong.”
The judges concluded that “unlawful means” are not limited only to criminal acts, and that it was not necessary for the prosecution to prove the accused knew that the means to be used were “unlawful.”
Lau, who was acquitted, told reporters that he should not be the focus at the moment as other defendants in the case warrant the public’s concern and love. He said if there’s any “star” in the case, the judgment should be “the star” because it set out the logic and perspectives of the judges. “This is part of our rule of law,” he said. — AP -
Xi pledges more Gaza aid at summit with Arab leaders
Beijing (TIP): Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated calls for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state and promised more humanitarian aid for people in Gaza as he opened a summit with leaders of Arab states on May 30 in Beijing.
In a speech opening the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum, Xi said, “War should not continue indefinitely.” He restated China’s backing of a two-state solution and pledged $69 million in humanitarian aid for Gaza. He also promised $3 million to a UN agency that provides aid to refugees of the war.
Meanwhile, Hamas said it had told mediators it would not take part in more negotiations, but was ready for a “complete agreement”, including an exchange of hostages, if Israel stopped the war. — Agencies -
Pragg claims maiden classical win over Carlsen to avenge World Cup final loss
Stavanger (TIP)- Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa crushed world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen for the first time in the classical format to emerge as the sole leader in the Norway Chess here. Having lost to him in the final of the last World Cup, Praggnanandhaa finally got past the home favourite in what would be known as a clear classical triumph. The Indian has also beaten him a few times at online and faster versions of the game in the past.
Following the third-round win, the 18-year-old Indian now leads the men’s section with 5.5 points, half-a-point clear of American Fabiano Caruana who scored his first victory in classical against reigning world champion Ding Liren of China.
Carlsen, on three points, is third in the updated standings but with each classical win worth three points, this might not hold for too long.
Hikaru Nakamura of the United States, Firouzja Alireza of France and Liren are all joint fourth currently on 2.5 points in the six-player double round-robin contest.
“I wish Magnus would take similar risks against us old folks,” said Nakamura on Carlsen’s choice of playing a risky battle against Praggnanandhaa.
Classical chess, also known as slow chess, allows players significant amount of time to make their moves, usually at least one hour. Carlsen and Praggnanandhaa had drawn their previous three encounters in this format.
In the women’s event, Praggnanandhaa’s elder sister R Vaishali maintained her sole lead after getting past Anna Muzychuk of Norway in the Armageddon game after drawing the classical one. Vaishali ensured a draw in Armageddon as black against Muzychuk.
Vaishali rose to 5.5 points and enjoys a point’s lead over women’s world champion Wenjun Ju of China, who is sole second by half-a-point margin over compatriot Tingjie Lei.
Muzychuk, Pia Cramling of Sweden and Koneru Humpy share the fourth spot on three points each.
It was a Sicilian Kan, an opening that does not find many takers in the elite chess circles, wherein Praggnanandhaa got an advantage through better space control right from the beginning.
The middle game saw Magnus’ king stuck in the centre and the Indian super-talent capitalised with some deft manoeuvres after the minor pieces were off the board.
Eventually, the king’s vulnerability came to question as Praggnanandhaa posed some dangerous checkmate threats. The game lasted just 37 moves.
Source: PTI -
French Open: Top seeds blossom in Paris rain
Aryna Sabalenka and Novak Djokovic soared into the third round of the French Open May 30 as tournament organisers stepped up their fight against unruly fans by announcing an alcohol ban in the stands while also dealing with the wet-weather backlog. Playing under the roof on Court Philippe Chatrier even as Roland Garros officials were scratching their heads over what to do with the schedule after a fifth straight rain-hit day, second seed Sabalenka blew away qualifier Moyuka Uchijima 6-2 6-2. “That’s the little advantage we get as top players because we play in big stadiums with the roof,” Sabalenka said. “So I knew that no matter what the weather is going to be, I’m going to play my match. That’s really helpful.”
Defending champion Djokovic then outclassed Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena 6-4 6-1 6-2.
Djokovic has been some way from his convincing best in an erratic season where he is bidding to win a record 25th Grand Slam title and the top-seeded Serbian was dragged into a battle by Carballes Baena after recovering an early break.
“There’s always conviction and belief inside of me that I can win a Grand Slam,” Djokovic said. “That’s the reason I’m still competing at this level. I still of course sense that I have the game and I have the goods to go far,” he added. Source: Reuters -
Wearing India jersey is different feeling, hope to make it count: Pant
New York (TIP)- It would be 527 days since his life-threatening accident when Rishabh Pant dons the India jersey on June 5 at the Nassau County ground for the opening T20 World Cup match against Ireland and he can’t wait for it. On March 23 this year, Pant wore the blue of Delhi Capitals while making an emotional comeback after the horrific car crash in 2022 but he is more eager to wear a different shade of blue — the ‘India Blue’ to be specific.
“Getting back on the field with an Indian jersey on is a different feeling altogether. this is something I missed a lot…Hopefully I (can) make it count and make it better from here,” Pant told BCCI.TV on the sidelines of India’s first net session ahead of the warm-up game against Bangladesh on June 1.
Pant, who underwent an intense 15-month rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy, had teammate Suryakumar Yadav for company during this interaction and recalled the time how his presence helped him cope with the loneliness of his injury management programme in the NCA.
“Seeing the team here and meeting them again, spending time, having fun with them, having a conversation with them, I really enjoyed,” a beaming Pant said. Having scored 446 runs in 13 IPL games, Pant is slowly getting back into the groove. The leaner and fitter Pant looked in nice touch at the India nets at the Cantiague Park on the outskirts of New York City.
Pant also spoke about the prospects of cricket gaining popularity in the USA going forward. He felt the T20 World Cup could be the start of an eventful chapter.
“We are used to playing in certain countries but this is a different prospect. It has opened up a different channel for sport because I feel cricket is growing around the world and…getting the exposure here would be nice for cricket as well as USA cricket,” he said.
He spoke about the drop-in pitches that will be used during the tournament and also the bright sunshine that he and the rest of the team is getting used to. “New pitches are there. I’m just getting used to the conditions. The sun is a little bit brighter here, so just getting used to the conditions over here. Let’s see how it goes,” Pant concluded.
Source: PTI -
Bhadrakali Jayanti
Bhadrakali Jayanti is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth anniversary of Goddess Bhadrakali. This festival is observed on the ‘ekadashi’ (11th day) of the Krishna Paksha (the dark fortnight of the moon) in the month of ‘Jyeshta’ in the Hindu calendar, which corresponds to May or June in the Gregorian calendar. The word ‘Bhadra’ means ‘good’ in Sanskrit, and it is believed that worshipping the Goddess on this day ensures her protection over the good. In some regions of India, this day is also known as ‘Apara Ekadashi,’ and in Orissa, it is called ‘Jalakrida Ekadashi.’
Mythological Significance
According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Bhadrakali appeared from the hair of Lord Shiva when he became angry after learning about the death of Goddess Sati. The goddess appeared to kill Daksh Prachapati, the father of Goddess Sati. The main purpose of his appearance was to destroy all the demons on earth. Bhadrakali Jayanti is an important day for Hindus and is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country. It is especially important for Arya Saraswat Brahmins, with notable celebrations in the Indian states of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir.
Importance of Bhadrakali Jayanti
The significance of Bhadrakali Jayanti is mentioned in the ‘Nilmat Purana’ or ‘Vitasta Mahatmya’. Worshipping Goddess Kali on this day is believed to help devotees overcome all obstacles in their lives. Devotees believe that by offering prayers to Goddess Bhadrakali, all horoscope problems, including ‘Grah Dosha,’ can be resolved. Additionally, it is believed that worshipping on this day can fulfill eleven desires, as Bhadrakali Jayanti falls on Krishna Paksha Ekadashi. When the festival falls on a Tuesday or during the ‘Revati’ Nakshatra, it is considered even more auspicious. If it coincides with the ‘Kumbh Mela,’ it gains even greater significance.
Celebrations of Bhadrakali Jayanti
People across India celebrate Bhadrakali Jayanti 2024 with enthusiasm and devotion. Additionally, they decorate temples dedicated to the goddess with flowers, lights, and offerings to honor the special day. Moreover, devotees gather in temples and at home to perform special puja ceremonies, where they offer prayers, fruits, flowers, and sweets to the goddess. Lastly, they believe that these offerings bring blessings and protection from Bhadrakali.
Many devotees also observe a fast on this day as a mark of respect and devotion to the goddess. Throughout the day, prayers and chants fill the air. Additionally, people sing hymns and kirtans in praise of Bhadrakali. In some places, processions take place with the idol of the goddess carried through the streets. Moreover, these processions are accompanied by music and dance. Ultimately, these celebrations bring the community together and strengthen their faith.
Traditions and Rituals of Bhadrakali Jayanti
Bhadrakali Jayanti 2024 is a day of deep devotion and spiritual practices. Devotees observe various traditions and rituals to honor the goddess and seek her blessings. These customs strengthen their faith and connection with the divine.
Fasting
Many devotees observe a day-long fast as a mark of respect for the goddess. This fast helps them focus on their devotion and spiritual growth.
Special Puja
Devotees perform special puja ceremonies at home or in temples, offering fruits, flowers, and sweets to the goddess to seek her blessings.
Homa
People conduct fire rituals, known as homa, to invoke the goddess and seek her divine protection and blessings for prosperity.
Chanting Mantras
Chanting mantras dedicated to Bhadrakali is a way to connect with the goddess and ask for strength and courage.
Devotional Songs
Singing bhajans and kirtans in praise of Bhadrakali fills the air with devotion and creates a peaceful atmosphere for worship.
Decorating Temples
Temples are beautifully decorated with flowers, lights, and other ornaments to create a festive and spiritual ambiance.
Offerings
Devotees make offerings of coconut, sweets, and other items to the goddess as a gesture of devotion and gratitude.
Cultural Performances
In some regions, people organize cultural performances like dance and music to celebrate Bhadrakali Jayanti 2024, showcasing local traditions.
Processions
Devotees may organize processions with the idol of the goddess carried through the streets, accompanied by music and dance.
Meditation
Many people spend time meditating and reflecting on the goddess’s qualities, seeking her guidance and inner peace. These traditions and rituals help devotees deepen their spiritual connection with the goddess and receive her blessings. Through these customs, people honor Bhadrakali’s divine presence and strive to live in alignment with her teachings. -
Mahabaleshwar: The hill station of Western Ghats
Mahabaleshwar is a hill station in India’s forested Western Ghats range, south of Mumbai. It features several elevated viewing points, such as Arthur’s Seat. West of here is centuries-old Pratapgad Fort, perched atop a mountain spur. East, Lingmala Waterfall tumbles off a sheer cliff. Colorful boats dot Venna Lake, while 5 rivers meet at Panch Ganga Temple to the north.
PLACES TO VISIT
There are many places to visit in Mahabaleshwar, which add to the laidback vibe of this gorgeous hill town. From the serene Venna Lake (where you can go boating too), and the cliff-tops which are the best vantage points here, to the Pratapgarh Fort soaked in history, and the lush Mapro gardens—there’s lots to do here. Ideal for family vacationers, backpackers and couples, Mahabaleshwar is an ideal getaway for those who want to immerse themselves in nature’s splendour and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Mapro Garden
One of the most popular tourist places in Mahabaleshwar is the Mapro Garden. It is located at Gureghar on Mahabaleshwar-Panchgani road which is approximately 11 km from Mahabaleshwar. This isn’t an ordinary garden; it encompasses attractions that would entice both children and adults like a Chocolate factory, a small nursery and a children play area. There is a restaurant serving mouth watering refreshments like sandwiches, fruit salads, strawberry shakes and ice creams. Visitors can also purchase the Mapro products like jams, preserves, marmalade, toppings, syrups and squashes, from the retail outlet here. Around March/April, the Mapro conducts a fascinating four days, Strawberry Festival. Where they present variety of strawberry based delicacies like strawberry pizza, strawberry bhel, chocolate dipped strawberries and strawberry sandwiches. This would make an amazing time to visit the Mapro Garden.
Wilson Point (Sunrise Point)
Stand tall at 4,710 ft above the sea level and mesmerise yourself as you watch the sun rise from the Wilson Point. The rising sun brightens up your life and rejuvenates you for the journey ahead. There are three stone platforms built for tourists to sit and conveniently admire the pristine nature. The Wilson point, which is also known as the Sunrise point is the highest point in Mahabaleshwar. It is named after Sir Leslie Wilson, who was the Governor of Bombay when the British ruled. This Sunrise point has three watch towers, from where tourists can see the breath taking scenic beauty of Mahabaleshwar.
Mumbai Point
The Sunset Point at Mahabaleshwar is known as the Mumbai Point, as it is situated on the old road to Mumbai. Several tourists consider this as one of the must places to visit in Mahabaleshwar. Each time the sun sets it paints the sky with varied colours luring its spectators. Standing atop the hill you see the sun submerge in the valley and vanish. The soothing atmosphere and a pleasant weather, makes this place a perfect spot for rejuvenation. One can plan a picnic with friends and family at this the Mumbai Point, an age old tourist attraction. The Mumbai Point is open for visitors on all days.
Arthur’s Seat
Amongst the several places to visit in Mahabaleshwar, one of the most popular is the Arthur’s Seat. It is also known as the Queen of the Points or the Madhi Mahaal. The Arthur’s seat is at a height of 1470m and is located approximately 13 KM from the market in Mahabaleshwar. The speciality of this point is that, in case you throw light weighed thing in the valley, it comes up again due to air pressure. The Arthur’s seat is situated amidst fascinating panorama, one can admire the Konkan and the Deccan on another. The best time to visit the Arthur’s Seat is from the month of October to the month of June. The temperature throughout is moderate, the winters are cool and the summers are moderate.
Mahabaleshwar Temple
The Mahabaleshwar Temple that is located 6 km to the north of the main city is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is one of the significant pilgrimage sites for the Hindus. It was built in the 16th century and it portrays a typical South Indian architectural style. The temple is very beautifully built, it has stone walls and is divided into two parts, one being the sanctum sanctorum and the other is the central hall. -
Markets rebound in early trade after 5 days of decline
Equity benchmark indices rebounded in early trade on Friday, May 31, after falling for the past five days, amid a rally in Asian markets along with buying in index majors Larsen & Toubro and Mahindra & Mahindra.
The 30-share BSE Sensex climbed 550.22 points to 74,435.82 in early trade. The NSE Nifty went up by 147.15 points to 22,635.80. In the five days of fall, the BSE benchmark tanked 1,532 points or 2 per cent.
From the Sensex basket, Larsen & Toubro, Mahindra & Mahindra, Bajaj Finance, UltraTech Cement, NTPC, IndusInd Bank, Tata Motors and Titan were the major gainers.
Infosys, Bharti Airtel, Kotak Mahindra, Tata Consultancy Services and HCL Technologies were among the laggards.
The electioneering for the ongoing general elections halted on Thursday ahead of the last phase of polling to be held on Saturday, June 1.
In Asian markets, Seoul, Tokyo, Shanghai and Hong Kong were trading in the positive territory.
Wall Street ended lower on Thursday, May 30.
Global oil benchmark Brent crude went lower 0.34 per cent to USD 81.58 a barrel.
Unclaimed deposits with banks rise 26%
Unclaimed deposits with banks have witnessed a 26 per cent jump year on year to Rs 78,213 crore at the end of March 2024, as per the RBI Annual Report released on Thursday. The amount with the Depositor Education and Awareness Fund stood at Rs 62,225 crore at the end of March 2023.
Banks, including cooperative banks, transfer unclaimed deposits of account holders lying in their accounts for 10 or more years to RBI’s Depositor Education and Awareness (DEA) Fund.
As a measure to assist the account holders and with a view to consolidating and rationalising the extant instructions on inoperative accounts, the Reserve Bank issued a comprehensive guidelines earlier this year on the measures to be put in place by the banks covering various aspects of classifying accounts and deposits as inoperative accounts and unclaimed deposits, as the case may be. -
Google to invest $2 billion in Malaysian data center and cloud hub
KUALA LUMPUR (TIP)- Google plans to invest $2 billion in Malaysia, developing its first data center and a Google Cloud hub in the latest big foray by a U.S. tech giant in the Southeast Asian country. The news follows Microsoft’s recent announcement that it would put $2.2 billion over the next four years into building Malaysia’s new cloud and artificial intelligence infrastructure. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim hailed Google’s investment as a sign of faith in Malaysia’s governance and economy. Anwar said Thursday that the investment is expected to add $3.2 billion to the economy and create 26,500 jobs by 2030. The investments are a coup for Anwar as he seeks to consolidate his strength against a strong Islamic opposition.
Google said in a statement that the new hubs will be developed at a business park in central Malaysia’s Selangor state, to meet growing demand for cloud services and for artificial intelligence literacy programs for Malaysian students and educators.
Malaysia will be the 12th country to house a Google data center. The Malaysian Google Cloud hub — which will deliver services to large enterprises, startups and the public sector, will join 40 regions and 121 zones currently in operation around the world, it said.
“This investment builds on our partnership with the government of Malaysia to advance its ‘Cloud First Policy,’ including best-in-class cybersecurity standards,” said Ruth Porat, Alphabet Inc.’s president and chief financial officer. Anwar met with Porat and other business leaders during visits to the U.S. last year. Source: AP -
IMF upgrades its forecast for China’s economy
The International Monetary Fund has upgraded its forecast for China’s economy, while warning that consumer-friendly reforms are needed to sustain strong, high-quality growth. The IMF’s report said the world’s second-largest economy will likely expand at a 5% annual rate this year, based on its growth in the first quarter and recent moves to support the property sector. That is a 0.4 percentage point above its earlier estimate. But it warned that attaining sustained growth requires building stronger social safety nets and increasing workers’ incomes to enable Chinese consumers to spend more. The IMF also said Beijing should scale back subsidies and other “distortive” policies that support manufacturing at the expense of other industries such as services.
The ruling party has set its annual growth target at “around 5%,” and the economy grew at a faster-than-expected 5.3% in the first quarter of the year, boosting the global economy. The IMF said its upgraded forecast also reflects recent moves to boost growth, including fresh help for the property industry such as lower interest rates and smaller down-payment requirements on home loans. Source: AP -
S&P raises outlook for India to ‘positive’
New Delhi (TIP)- After a gap of about 10 years, S&P Global Ratings has upped India’s outlook to positive from stable on robust growth prospects for next three years and public spending, and raised hopes for an upgrade in two years provided the government continues reforms and policies to keep fiscal deficit under check. While retaining India’s sovereign rating at the lowest investment grade of ‘BBB-’, S&P said it expects broad continuity in economic reforms and fiscal policies, irrespective of the election outcome.
Results of the ongoing general elections will be announced on June 4.
“India outlook revised to positive on robust growth and rising quality of Government spend,” S&P said, while affirming long-term rating at ‘BBB’. The ratings are looked at by investors as a barometer of the country’s creditworthiness and has impact on borrowing costs. Last in 2014, S&P had upped India’s outlook to stable from negative.
“Our positive outlook on India is predicated on its robust economic growth, pronounced improvement in the quality of government spending, and political commitment to fiscal consolidation. We believe these factors are coalescing to benefit credit metrics,” S&P said. -
Indian-origin researcher discovers way to charge laptops, phones in just a minute
In the modern world of science and technology, we spend most time charging our electric appliances. But what if we tell you that you will now be able to charge your dead laptop or smartphone in just a minute? Well, the technology is here. Recently, an Indian-origin researcher has revealed a novel technology that can help in charging a laptop and phone in one minute. Moreover, using the same way, you can charge your electric car in 10 minutes only. Let’s see what this technology is.
How is it possible?
Ankur Gupta, an assistant professor of chemical and biological engineering at the US-based University of Colorado Boulder and his team of researchers discovered this new technology. In a study, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers explained how tiny charged particles, called ions, move within a complex network of minuscule pores. The breakthrough could lead to the development of more efficient energy storage devices, such as supercapacitors, said Gupta, an assistant professor of chemical and biological engineering.
Gupta said, “Given the critical role of energy in the future of the planet, I felt inspired to apply my chemical engineering knowledge to advancing energy storage devices. It felt like the topic was somewhat unexplored and, as such, the perfect opportunity.”
Gupta explained that several chemical engineering techniques are used to study flow in porous materials such as oil reservoirs and water filtration, but they have not been fully utilised in some energy storage systems. The study stated that this discovery is not only for storing energy in vehicles and electronic devices but also for power grids, where fluctuating energy demand requires efficient storage to avoid waste during periods of low demand and to ensure rapid supply during high demand. Supercapacitors, energy storage devices that rely on ion accumulation in their pores, have rapid charging times and longer life spans compared to batteries. The researcher said that the primary appeal of supercapacitors is their speed. “So how can we make their charging and release of energy faster? By the more efficient movement of ions,” said Gupta. -
Monster sunspot that triggered solar storm on Earth returns with a bang
Monster sunspot, designated AR3664, responsible for the May 10 solar storm that triggered the strongest auroras on Earth in over five centuries is back. After disappearing from Earth’s view, the sunspot bigger than the planet has returned. The gargantuan sunspot announced its arrival with a massive solar flare and the image of the explosion was captured by amateur astronomer Michael Karrer.
The explosion was so big that it caused a deep shortwave radio blackout over East Asia and hurled a bright coronal mass ejection (CME) into space. A CME is one of the most powerful explosions from the Sun that travels at millions of kilometres per hour carrying plasma and material across the vacuum of space.
In the early weeks of May this year, Earth was slammed by a series of seven solar storms over the weekend that triggered strong auroras in several parts of the world.
Travelling at a staggering speed of 48 lakh kilometres per hour, the coronal mass ejections barrelled through space to slam into Earth. Starting May 10, the intense activity kicked off a stunning display of auroras in several parts of the world including India, the rarest of rare occurrences.
The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a rare severe geomagnetic storm warning when a solar outburst reached Earth on Friday afternoon, hours sooner than anticipated. The effects of the Northern Lights, which were prominently on display in Britain, lasted through the weekend and are possibly to go into the week.The auroras were so bright that it was visible even in India. Hanle in Ladakh witnessed a bright red flash in the skies as the charged particles from the Sun struck into Earth’s magnetic field.As the solar storm struck Earth, space agencies across the world scrambled to protect assets and astronauts in space. American space agency, Nasa, India’s Isro and SpaceX all had to adjust and course-correct their satellites to evade the stress.
With the sunspot returning to view, more activity and explosions are expected. Source: India Today -
AI darling Nvidia’s market value surges closer to Apple
Nvidia’s shares rallied around 6% to hit a record high leaving the AI chipmaker’s stock market value about $100 billion away from overtaking Apple in a major reshuffle of Wall street’s biggest players. Last trading at $1,128, Nvidia’s market capitalisation reached $2.8 trillion, compared to a market value of $2.9 trillion for Apple, which is Wall Street’s second-most valuable company after Microsoft.
Its stock surged as much as 8% to $1,149.39 during the session, an intra-day record high. Apple’s stock was down 0.2% in afternoon trading.
Nvidia’s shares have surged nearly 13% since it forecast second-quarter revenue above Wall Street expectations last week and announced a stock split, which excited investors as they continue to bet on the AI poster child.
“The market has been struggling to keep up with the company’s ever improving growth trajectory. At a mid-thirties forward earnings multiple, this still doesn’t feel like bubble territory,” said Derren Nathan, head of equity analysis at Hargreaves Lansdown.
WhatsApp might be able to generate images quickly using Meta AI
Before AI (artificial intelligence) tools made their way in our lives, generating images was something that only accomplished designers could do. However, anyone can create the image they want with tools like Midjourney, Microsoft Copilot (earlier Bing) and Google Gemini. Now, as per recent reports, creating images will be even more feasible since WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature.
According to a WA Beta Info report, WhatsApp is working on a new feature to generate AI-powered images quickly. A new shortcut within the chat attachment sheet is being tested to help users generate these images efficiently. According to the screenshot shared by WA Beta Info, this upcoming feature could use Meta AI, an advanced assistant capable of complex reasoning, executing instructions, visualising concepts, and solving intricate problems.
At present, users can generate images directly within the Meta AI chat or by using a command in group chats. The upcoming update is expected to simplify this process by adding a shortcut to the chat attachment sheet. Hence, users will not have to switch to their Meta AI chat in order to generate images, they can do so by just tapping a single button. -
Lifestyle choices for optimal kidney health
It is essential to our general health to keep our kidneys in good working order. The kidneys are essential to many bodily physiological processes, and maintaining good health depends on the kidneys operating properly. Our lifestyle decisions have a big impact on whether kidney illnesses arise or not, as well as on maintaining the health of the kidneys. For the best possible kidney health, consider these healthy lifestyle options and how to incorporate them into your daily routine.
Consume a Well-Balanced Diet
Our kidneys digest everything that we eat or drink. Bad eating habits can eventually cause renal and other health issues. As a result, choose meals like vegetables, whole grains, fresh fruits, low-fat or fat-free dairy products that are good for your kidneys and your body as a whole. Reducing your intake of salt and added sugars is also crucial.
Exercise
Exercise and physical activity are beneficial for more than simply your weight when included into your daily routine. It can reduce your chance of developing long-term illnesses, such as chronic kidney disease. In addition, it can greatly lower blood pressure and improve heart health, all of which are essential in preventing kidney injury. Including exercise or physical activity in your routine does not require you to push yourself to the limit, like finishing a marathon.
Maintain Hydration
Staying hydrated during the day requires consuming a lot of fluids, as maintaining a regular water intake is beneficial to the kidneys. Water reduces the incidence of chronic kidney disease and aids in the kidney’s removal of toxins and sodium. Aim for 1.5 to 2 litres of fluid each day at the very least.
Control your blood sugar
Kidney damage can occur in people with diabetes or other conditions that result in high blood sugar. Your kidneys have to work harder to filter your blood when the glucose (sugar) in it cannot be used by your body’s cells. Years of exertion may cause potentially fatal consequences from this. On the other hand, damage is less likely if you can control your blood sugar. Additionally, a doctor can take action to lessen or stop further damage if the injury is discovered early. -
Statin therapy can reduce heart disease and death in elderly
Using statin therapy as the first line of treatment for cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention was found effective in preventing heart disease risk and all-cause mortality, even in adults aged 85 years and older, according to a study on Tuesday. Statins are known to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, thereby decreasing the risk of CVDs.
Previously, the consensus on using statins for primary prevention of heart disease in adults aged 75 years or older has been little because of a lack of proper representation of the population in randomised controlled trials, said researchers from the University of Hong Kong.
The study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, included adult patients over 60 without pre-existing diagnosed CVDs. The average follow-up was 5.3 years.
Of the 42,680 adults aged 75 to 84 years, 9,676 developed CVDs. Among the 5,390 adults aged 85 years or older, 1,600 developed CVD.
The results showed that in all age groups, initiating statin therapy was associated with a lower incidence of CVD and all-cause mortality, said the researchers.
This was seen “even among the older population aged 85 years or older,” they added.
The new study showed that statin use did not increase the risk for adverse events such as myopathies and liver dysfunction.
The researchers also acknowledged limitations like unmeasured confounders, such as lifestyle factors like diet and physical activity. Source: IANS -
Medical tests women in their 30s and 40s must undergo
Women may be at risk of a range of diseases and infections compared to men due to biological differences and gender inequalities. As per WHO, globally, adolescent girls and young women are twice as likely to be at risk of HIV infection compared to boys and young men. This higher HIV risk is associated with unsafe and often unwanted and forced sexual activity. During pregnancy, malaria, HIV and TB all can pose significant risks to pregnant women, her foetus and the newborn child.
Important tests for women in their 30s and 40s.
Pap smear and HPV tests
This is a test for detection of abnormal cell growth that causes cervical cancer. A regular screening between a time period of 3-5 years is recommended based on age and previous results. Human papillomavirus testing is also important for sexually active women because it can also lead to cervical cancer.
Mammogram and breast self-examination
It is a breast cancer screening test. It can detect breast tumours and abnormalities at an early stage when treatment is most effective. Depending on your situation, annual or biennial tests are recommended. A breast self-examination allows a female to understand the normal look and feel of their breasts. Any changes in the breasts, if and when felt, must be reported to the healthcare professional for consultation.
Thyroid function test
TFT determines levels of the thyroid hormone in the body, helping in detection of diseases like hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.
Blood pressure and cholesterol tests
The risk of cardiovascular diseases increases with age. A test for blood pressure and cholesterol every 4-6 years will help prevent heart diseases and brain strokes.
Blood glucose test
An annual blood glucose test is advised to detect conditions like diabetes and pre-diabetes. This test becomes more crucial for people who are obese or have a family history or have any other risk factor.
Bone density test
A dexa-scan is important for detection of diseases like osteoporosis and bone loss, especially if people have risk factors.
Cancer screening
People at risk may also go for colon and skin cancer screening based on age, family history and other risk factors. Source: HT -
Benefits of hydraulic acid
Hydraulic acid (HA) is making headlines as the magic ingredient in over-the-counter beauty products worldwide. And for good reason too! It is naturally found in the body (about 15g), and lends itself to moisturising the skin and staying youthful. However, as one ages, it doesn’t help to have that boost of HA from an external source and apply it topically. Using it regularly on your skin helps enhance tissue function. As the skin ages, and loses moisture and elasticity, HA helps hold in water and aids skin health and longevity. The skin is smoother and more supple. Microscopic studies across the world have shown a delay in the onset of wrinkles. Applying HA ensures that the moisture is locked in, and the layer of serum or cream on your skin means that harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun don’t damage your skin.
Worried that you might be getting too much moisture? HA is considered a ‘smart’ ingredient. It adjusts itself according to each body and skin type’s need, the weather conditions, humidity and so on. Taken only on the advice and prescription of your dermatologist, and as an oral supplement, HA can enhance collagen production, keeping the skin cell structure intact for longer. Collagen is one of the most effective proteins that makes the skin firmer and more supple, and HA boosts the synthesis of this protein. Certain HA creams are not meant for the face. Instead they are used on the joints topically to repair damaged tissue, and are particularly useful in cases of osteoarthritis.
However, you need to watch out for a few things. Make sure that the serum or cream you’re opting for does not contain alcohol, parabens or sulfates, since these ingredients will counter all the good being done by HA, and could backfire. Consult your skin specialist before you make any choices.
Why Vitamin C is good for your skin
Vitamin C is one of the most effective nutrients for your skin and is known for various benefits. Vitamin C infused in skincare products protects skin from sun damage and harmful rays. This ingredient also helps to smoothen out dark spots for a clearer skin. It helps to boost collagen production, which helps to hold the skin together, making it tighter and brighter. This ingredient also rejuvenates skin, keeping dryness at bay and improving skin’s clarity and glow.
How to get Vitamin C
This vitamin can be included by various fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons to name a few. A medium sized orange has about 70mg of Vitamin C, which is one of the popular sources.Apart from this many Vitamin C skincare products like serums, cream, lotions work great for topical use. It is best to consult a dermatologist for the right dosage. You can also look for facial therapies which infuse Vitamin C for skin lightening and brightening. -
Tomato Fish
INGREDIENTS
250 gm tomato, 1 large onion, 2 teaspoon turmeric, 2 teaspoon ginger paste, 1 teaspoon coriander powder, 1 pinch salt, 1 tablespoon coriander leaves, 500 gm fish, 2 tablespoon yoghurt (curd), 1 teaspoon red chilli, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 3 tablespoon refined oil.
Method
– Remove any pin bones from the fish fillets and cut into large chunks. Rub 1 ½ tsp turmeric powder and 1 tsp salt over the fish and set aside for 10 minutes.
– Boil water in a pan. Make a cross cut on the stem side of the tomatoes. Plunge the tomatoes in boiling water for 30 seconds and remove. Peel the tomatoes and chop them finely. Also, chop onions very finely.
– Heat oil in a large pan. Spread the fish pieces on the pan and fry till golden in color. Turn and fry on the other side as well. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
– Add the onions to the same pan. Saute for 5-6 minutes till soft and cooked. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, ginger paste, sugar and chopped tomatoes. Mix well and cook for 4-5 minutes till the tomatoes are tender.
– Remove from fire, cool slightly and blend in a blender to get a coarse paste. Return the paste to the pan on the fire. Add 1 cup water and bring to a boil. reduce the heat and allow to simmer for a minute. Whisk the yoghurt and add to the simmering curry.
– Add the fish pieces along with any juices and simmer for 4-5 minutes. Add the chopped coriander and mix well.
– Remove from fire and serve hot with rice or rotis. -
Manicure mistakes you’re making
No beauty look is complete without a flawless manicure. It’s the finishing touch everyone needs for a balanced look whether you favor bright polish and nail art or keep your nails entirely bare. And if you happen to treat yourself to a professional mani regularly, chances are you want to extend the life of it as long as possible. Following simple rules for upkeeping your mani is key when a salon visit isn’t in the cards. We all know the importance of the standard nail filing and using quality polishes to achieve a clean and neat look.
Don’t apply too many coats
Applying thick coats of nail paint gets you one step closer to ruining your perfect manicure. Slapping on layers of polish will increase your chances of getting smudges and nicks as the paint will take much longer to dry completely. To avoid such accidents, apply thin coats of the paint to ensure faster drying.Always wait for a few minutes before adding more layers of polish. Also, paint it in just one direction to achieve a smooth finish.
Avoid hot water
If you’re looking for a manicure that lasts, then avoid contact with hot water for at least six hours after getting a manicure. Hot water can ruin your hard work, so wear gloves while doing water related chores and save your polish from chipping. On the other hand, cold water will be your savior. Dip your nails into a bowl of ice water for 1-2 minutes. This will set and dry your polish in a matter of minutes.
Don’t shake the bottle
DO NOT shake your bottle before applying the nail paint. Shaking creates air bubbles which should always be avoided if you’re looking for an immaculate manicure. When air gets trapped inside the bottle, it creates froth making your nails chip faster. Instead of shaking, roll your bottle in your hands and see the difference.
Don’t skip the base coat
Just like a good primer can keep your make-up looking flawless every day, using a base coat will provide the same service to your nails. A layer of base coat can easily extend the wear of your manicure by at least a couple of days. Soaking a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol or white vinegar and applying to your nails before the base coat will help in sealing the natural oils and giving an even finish to your manicure.
Don’t cut your cuticles
Cutting your cuticles is a major health risk. Even beauty experts agree that cuts can easily get infected and it’s not an ideal to commit this sin. Rather, push them back using cuticle pusher tool. This will prevent the paint from sticking to the cuticles which can heft the polish from the nail bed and cause chipping. If you don’t have a cuticle oil handy, make your own using a combination of olive and coconut oil. You can even add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the mixture. Apply your homemade oil directly to your cuticles and gently massage. -
Jennifer Lopez calls AI ‘scary’, says her face is manipulated in commercials for ‘selling skincare’
Singer-actor Jennifer Lopez, who stars as a data analyst in her latest film “Atlas”, says she has experienced the “scary” side of artificial intelligence (AI) with skincare advertisements using manipulated photos of her face. Lopez further said there are two sides to technological advancements and her Netflix movie does a good job at depicting them. “Selling skincare that I know nothing about” using manipulated photos of her face covered in “wrinkles”, she told Variety at the Los Angeles premiere of “Atlas”.
“It’s really scary. Right away we had them stealing our faces. So, yes, (AI) is really scary… I think you should be respectful of AI… We have to be open to all possibilities. These movies that are talking about AI — especially this one — do a really good job of showing both sides,” she added. In the movie, Lopez plays Atlas Shepherd, a brilliant but misanthropic data analyst with a deep distrust of AI, who joins a mission to capture a renegade robot (played by Simu Liu) with whom she shares a mysterious past.
“But when plans go awry, her only hope of saving the future of humanity from AI is to trust it,” read the streamer’s official plotline.
Directed by Brad Peyton and written by Leo Sardarian and Aron Eli Coleite, “Atlas” also stars Lana Parrilla and Mark Strong. Source: PTI -
Brad Pitt and George Clooney reunite for Apple TV’s ‘Wolf’s’
Actors Brad Pitt and George Clooney team up after 16 years for Jon Watts’ upcoming action comedy, Wolfs. The trailer released on Wednesday shows them play two lone-wolf fixers who are looking to handle a botched killing before it gets out of hand.
The 2-minute-43-seconds long trailer sees a woman calling a fixer to help her after a murder. Unfortunately, it looks like more than one person was sent in to handle the job. George and Brad make it clear it’s “not how (they) work” but are given no choice in the matter. Soon they realise that the body they’re carrying might not be dead after all, leading to chaos. The person they’re handling even describes them as “basically the same guy” much to their irritation. Brad and George produce the Jon-directed film under the Plan B Productions and Smokehouse Pictures banners. Apple is also producing the film with them, while Sony Pictures Releasing distributes it. In addition to the lead pair, Wolfs also stars Austin Abrams, Amy Ryan, and Poorna Jagannathan.
Fans reacted to the trailer, calling it a reunion they ‘deserve’. One fan wrote, “Oceans franchise meets Bullet Train. This is the best type of movie we wanted to see!” Another wrote, “Ocean’s Eleven vibes man…. its gonna be a feast for cinephiles.”
For the unversed, it has been 16 years since Brad and George acted together. They starred together in Ocean’s Eleven and its sequels, Ocean’s Twelve and Thirteen. Their last film together was 2008’s Burn After Reading.
Speaking to Entertainment Tonight in December, George sarcastically joked that he’s working with “pretty boy” Brad again because “he needed work, he’s an up-and-comer.” When asked if it felt like no time has passed while working on Wolfs, George said, “No, it feels like a lot of time has passed. Too much time.”
Wolfs will hit theatres on September 20. -
Zac Efron & Nicole Kidman Share Steamy Scenes in ‘A Family Affair’ Trailer
The year of the age-gap romantic comedy is about to continue on Netflix. The streaming service has debuted the first trailer for “A Family Affair,” the new rom-com in which Nicole Kidman, 56, and Zac Efron, 36, play romantic partners. In the film, Joey King stars as a young woman who works as an assistant for a movie star, played by Efron, and discovers he has become romantically involved with her mom, played by Kidman. The trailer begins with King walking in on them in bed together before screaming, running into a wall and passing out.
The footage then cuts to a passionate love scene between Efron and Kidman. “I went a little crazy,” Kidman’s character says. “I’m allowed, right?” Later, the two are seen sharing a romantic dinner in a completely empty restaurant before King’s character bemoans their “gross sexcapade thing” and declares that they’re “not Jack and Rose” from “Titanic.”
“A Family Affair” was directed by Richard LaGravenese, whose previous movies include “The Last Five Years” and “P.S. I Love You.” It also stars Kathy Bates and Liza Koshy. Efron and Kidman previously played lovers in 2012’s “The Paperboy,” directed by Lee Daniels.
“A Family Affair” will hit Netflix on June 28. The film will arrive on Netflix this summer on the heels of the Prime Video romantic comedy “The Idea of You,” which similarly depicted the relationship between a woman, in that case Anne Hathaway, and a famous younger man, played by Nicholas Galitzine. Hathaway said she loved that the central relationship in “The Idea of You” provided “hope and this exploration that your life is yours and it’s to be enjoyed by you, and only you know how it’s going.” She added, “Perhaps one of the signs of maturity is being able to define your life for yourself.”