Uncrowned Guard

Thank you to both of you for being excellent members and a core part of the community here!  It will be a truly missed project, but a lot is telling me that it is finally the right time to call it a day here.

Director Shawn Levy Clarifies Deadpool & Wolverine Not Deadpool 3

Director Shawn Levy has clarified that the upcoming film "Deadpool & Wolverine" should not be mistaken for "Deadpool 3." Despite being the third installment in the Deadpool series, Levy emphasized that the film is a distinct project focused on a two-hander character adventure involving Deadpool and Wolverine.

A Unique Standalone Entry in the Deadpool Franchise

In an interview with Screen Rant, Levy highlighted that "Deadpool & Wolverine" offers a fresh narrative perspective, distinct from its predecessors. While it remains part of the Deadpool series, the film aims to carve its own path, exploring the dynamic between the iconic characters in a standalone adventure.

Exciting Additions and R-Rated Content

Apart from the titular duo, "Deadpool & Wolverine" promises to introduce a diverse array of characters from Marvel's multiverse. With numerous cameos expected, director Shawn Levy expressed excitement about integrating beloved characters into the storyline. Additionally, the film's recent unveiling of Wolverine's classic comic book outfit and the release of raunchy footage at CinemaCon 2024 underscore its commitment to delivering the signature R-rated humor and action of the Deadpool franchise.

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Paramount Confirms Transformers and G.I. Joe Crossover

Paramount Pictures has officially announced at CinemaCon 2024 the much-anticipated crossover between Transformers and G.I. Joe. The revelation comes hot on the heels of the ending of Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, leaving fans buzzing with excitement.

Star-Studded Production Team

The crossover movie will see Steven Spielberg joining as an executive producer, along with a stellar lineup of producers including Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Mark Vahradian, Michael Bay, Tom DeSanto, and Don Murphy. While further details about the film remain scarce, the creative talent behind the scenes promises a thrilling cinematic experience.

A Long-Awaited Crossover

For enthusiasts of both franchises, the prospect of seeing Transformers and G.I. Joe together on the big screen is a dream come true. Teased for years, this collaboration marks the first live-action portrayal of the iconic crossover, bringing together two beloved universes in a cinematic spectacle.

Transforming the Franchise

With Transformers: Rise of the Beasts setting the stage, the forthcoming crossover is poised to redefine the Transformers franchise. As anticipation builds, fans eagerly await the next installment, expected to deliver an electrifying blend of action and nostalgia.

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Apple Renews Monarch for Season 2

Apple TV Plus has confirmed the renewal of its spinoff series, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, for a second season. The show, which debuted last year, will see the return of showrunners Chris Black and Matt Fraction. While details about the new season are still under wraps, fans can anticipate more monstrous adventures from the Monarch universe.

Expanding the Monsterverse

In a significant move, Apple has announced a partnership with Legendary to develop multiple spinoff series set in the "monsterverse." This expansion hints at a broader exploration of the iconic Godzilla franchise beyond Monarch: Legacy of Monsters. While specific details remain undisclosed, fans can expect diverse narratives and exciting new characters.

Apple TV Plus Continues to Impress

Amidst the renewal and expansion news, Apple TV Plus continues to showcase its commitment to diverse content. Alongside the Godzilla-related announcements, the streaming platform dropped the trailer for its upcoming sci-fi thriller, Dark Matter. Starring Joel Edgerton and Jennifer Connelly, the series promises captivating storytelling and compelling performances. Dark Matter is set to premiere on May 8th, adding to the platform's growing lineup of original programming.

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Exciting news regarding the safety of our drinking water! The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently finalized regulations on the levels of certain "forever chemicals" allowed in our public water supply. This marks a significant step forward in safeguarding our health and well-being.

Key Points from the Announcement

• Regulated Chemicals: The EPA has established legally enforceable federal limits on five types of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals."
• PFAS Ubiquity: These chemicals, found in numerous everyday products like nonstick pans, food packaging, and firefighting foams, have likely already entered most Americans' bloodstreams due to their widespread use.
• Health Implications: While the full extent of PFAS's impact on health is still being researched, studies have linked high exposure to an increased risk of cancer, liver damage, high cholesterol, and reproductive health issues.
• New Regulations: The new rules set limits for PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA (GenX Chemicals), as well as mixtures of several chemicals. Public water systems must ensure that levels of these chemicals remain below mandated thresholds.
• Implementation Timeline: Water systems have three years to sample their water and inform the public about PFAS levels. They then have five years to develop and implement plans to reduce PFAS levels if necessary.
• Impact on Communities: It's estimated that up to 10 percent of the nation's public drinking water systems may need to treat water or find alternative sources to comply with the new standards. Additionally, a Harvard study highlighted disproportionate exposure among communities with larger Black and Latino populations.

Join the Discussion

What are your thoughts on these new regulations? Do you have any concerns or questions about PFAS and its presence in drinking water? Let's use this forum as a platform to share insights, experiences, and ideas on ensuring safe and clean water for all.

Your participation is valuable in raising awareness and advocating for healthier communities. Let's work together to make a positive impact!

[Source: Original article on EPA regulations on "forever chemicals" in drinking water.]

I'd like to share some fascinating insights from recent research led by Hank Jenkins-Smith, Ph.D., from the University of Oklahoma's Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis. Their study delves into American adults' perceptions of fusion energy and sheds light on both the support and misinformation surrounding this promising technology.

Research Highlights

• Broad Public Support: The research reveals that there is significant public support for fusion energy among respondents.
• Limited Knowledge and Misconceptions: Despite the support, the study found that many Americans have limited knowledge about fusion energy and often confuse it with fission energy. Misconceptions stemming from pop culture references and memories of past nuclear accidents contribute to concerns about fusion's safety.
• Safety Concerns: Respondents expressed a desire for careful consideration of safety constraints and future incentives for fusion energy development in the United States.
• Messaging Matters: The research emphasizes the importance of clear and accurate messaging surrounding fusion energy. Misleading statements from opponents could potentially undermine public trust and acceptance of this technology.

Implications and Recommendations

• Safety Culture: There's a call for fusion industry stakeholders to prioritize safety measures, drawing lessons from the fission industry's robust safety culture.
• Responsible Messaging: Developers, regulators, and advocacy groups are urged to be mindful of their messaging, avoiding overly optimistic claims and ensuring transparency to retain public trust.
• Harnessing Technological Optimism: The study suggests leveraging Americans' inherent technological optimism to garner support for fusion energy, highlighting its potential to address critical issues like climate change and energy security.

Join the Discussion

What are your thoughts on the public perception of fusion energy? How can stakeholders effectively address misconceptions and build trust in this promising technology? Share your insights and ideas in this forum thread!

Let's engage in constructive dialogue to explore the role of fusion energy in shaping our future energy landscape.

Looking forward to hearing your perspectives!

[Source: Original research published in the journal Fusion Science and Technology.]

A Historic Shift: Apple's Policy Update

In a significant policy update, Apple has announced that it will now allow retro game emulators on the App Store, marking a departure from its previous stance. The move, revealed in an update on Friday, signals a notable shift in Apple's approach to app restrictions, particularly concerning gaming emulation software.

Retro Revival: Embracing Emulators

For years, game emulators have been banned from the App Store, forcing users to resort to alternative methods for accessing retro gaming experiences on iOS devices. However, with this latest update, Apple has opened the doors for developers to submit game emulator apps globally. Notably, Apple emphasizes that these emulators must comply with all applicable laws, suggesting a crackdown on apps offering pirated game titles.

Anticipated Responses and Legal Context

The decision to allow retro game emulators comes amidst increasing pressure on Apple from both regulatory bodies and industry players. In response to antitrust scrutiny, particularly in the United States and the European Union, Apple has been making adjustments to its App Store policies. Recent updates also include revised rules for super apps like WeChat, requiring mini-games and mini-apps to utilize HTML5 rather than native formats.

Navigating Antitrust Challenges and Global Regulations

Apple's policy updates appear to be a response to ongoing legal challenges and regulatory demands. Notably, the European Commission has been vocal about the need for Apple to relax its rules, particularly regarding in-app purchases and external links. The latest changes aim to address concerns raised by regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders, although debates surrounding Apple's commission fees for external purchases continue to persist.

As Apple continues to navigate antitrust challenges and regulatory scrutiny, its latest policy updates represent a significant step towards fostering a more open and competitive app ecosystem. However, the impact of these changes on developers, consumers, and the broader tech industry remains to be seen.

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Enter Hollywood's Next Blockbuster: Monopoly Goes Live-Action

Prepare to pass go and collect your cinematic entertainment, as Lionsgate announces plans for a live-action Monopoly movie, with production helmed by Margot Robbie's LuckyChap. While the prospect of adapting a board game about real estate domination into a compelling film narrative may seem daunting, Lionsgate is determined to defy expectations and deliver a captivating movie experience.

LuckyChap's Vision: Bringing Monopoly to the Big Screen

Margot Robbie's production company, LuckyChap, known for backing hits like Birds of Prey and Barbie, is set to breathe life into the Monopoly universe. Lionsgate film head Adam Fogelson expressed confidence in LuckyChap's ability to offer a fresh perspective on the Monopoly IP, highlighting their track record of success and innovative storytelling. With Robbie's creative vision at the helm, the Monopoly movie aims to capture the imagination of audiences worldwide.

Navigating Hollywood's Game Board: Challenges and Opportunities

While Hasbro, the owner of Monopoly, has long harbored ambitions of creating a cinematic universe based on its iconic toys and games, the road to success in Hollywood is not without its obstacles. Past attempts, such as Battleship, have faced mixed reception, underscoring the importance of a well-crafted plan to ensure the Monopoly movie resonates with audiences. As Lionsgate ventures into uncharted territory, they must navigate the delicate balance of honoring the beloved board game while crafting a narrative that translates seamlessly to the silver screen.

Charting a Course for Success: Lionsgate's Strategy

With the success of Greta Gerwig's Barbie serving as inspiration, Lionsgate is poised to turn Monopoly into the next blockbuster franchise. By leveraging LuckyChap's expertise and capitalizing on the timeless appeal of the Monopoly brand, Lionsgate aims to defy expectations and deliver a cinematic experience that captivates audiences of all ages. As the Monopoly movie enters development, all eyes are on Lionsgate and LuckyChap to see if they can turn a beloved board game into a silver screen sensation.

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Meme Coins Rise on Solana: A Battle of Boden and Tremp

Amidst the frenzy of meme culture, two peculiar cryptocurrencies, "Jeo Boden" and "Doland Tremp," have emerged as skyrocketing stars on the Solana blockchain. Inspired by United States President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump respectively, these meme coins are witnessing a surge in popularity and trading activity, setting the stage for a fascinating showdown in the crypto world.

BODEN vs. TREMP: The Race to the Top

As the virtual battle unfolds, the Biden-inspired Jeo Boden (BODEN) and Trump-inspired Doland Tremp (TREMP) are commanding attention on the Solana trading scene, particularly on the Raydium decentralized exchange (DEX). While both coins are experiencing significant gains, BODEN currently holds the upper hand with a larger market cap and a notable 24-hour surge. With a market cap nearing $473 million and a price surge of 60% to nearly $0.69, BODEN appears to be leading the race. On the other hand, TREMP, trading at $0.83, boasts a market cap of approximately $83 million, enjoying a surge of about 54% in the same time frame. Despite the apparent advantage of BODEN, the Tremp faithful remain unwavering in their support, keeping the competition fierce and spirited.

Meme Coin Mania on Solana: Exploring the Phenomenon

As the name suggests, meme coins draw inspiration from internet jokes, memes, and public figures. Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies such as Ethereum and Bitcoin, meme coins derive their value from cultural references and events, often resulting in high volatility. However, their popularity has skyrocketed on the Solana blockchain, attributed to its speed and low transaction costs. The Solana ecosystem has witnessed a staggering $1.8 billion in trading volume within the last 24 hours alone, with meme coins contributing significantly to this surge. With a combined market capitalization of $8.15 billion, Solana-based meme coins are reshaping the landscape of cryptocurrency, showcasing the power of meme culture in the digital asset realm.

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Introduction

The field of virology, particularly studies focused on virus evolution, plays a crucial role in understanding how viruses adapt, spread, and can be contained or neutralized. However, this research often involves manipulating viral genomes to assess their potential impact on humans, a practice that has raised ethical concerns and fears of accidental outbreaks. The debate over these practices, including "gain-of-function" research, has been further ignited by the COVID-19 pandemic and the controversies surrounding the Wuhan Institute of Virology. This discussion aims to explore whether the risks and ethical dilemmas associated with virus evolution studies are justified by the potential benefits.

Affirmative: The Case for Continued Research

• Public Health Preparedness: Proponents argue that research on virus evolution is essential for pandemic preparedness, enabling scientists to predict how viruses could mutate and jump between species. This knowledge is crucial for developing vaccines and therapeutic strategies ahead of potential outbreaks
• Scientific Advancement: Understanding virus evolution is a fundamental aspect of virology that contributes to broader scientific knowledge, helping inform public health strategies and contributing to the development of new technologies, such as mRNA vaccine platforms.
• Regulatory and Safety Frameworks: Supporters maintain that the risks associated with virus evolution studies can be managed through stringent biosafety and biosecurity measures. Research is often conducted in high-containment facilities, and many countries have regulatory frameworks designed to minimize the risk of accidental release.

Negative: The Risks and Ethical Concerns

• Potential for Accidental Release: Critics argue that the risk of accidental release of a modified virus could have catastrophic consequences. They point to incidents of lab escapes of SARS and other pathogens as evidence that even high-security labs are not infallible.
• Ethical Implications: There are significant ethical concerns about "playing god" with viral genomes. Manipulating viruses to be more transmissible or deadly, even in controlled settings, raises questions about the morality of creating potential biological hazards.
• Dual-Use Research Dilemma: Research on virus evolution can be considered dual-use, meaning it has the potential to be applied for both beneficial and harmful purposes. There's a fear that the knowledge and techniques developed could be misused for bioterrorism.

Wuhan and COVID-19 as a Case Study

The Wuhan Institute of Virology has been at the center of discussions about the risks associated with virus evolution studies, particularly due to allegations and theories linking the COVID-19 pandemic to possible research activities conducted there. While no concrete evidence supports a lab-origin theory of the virus, the situation underscores the global ramifications of virology research and the importance of transparency and international cooperation.

Conclusion

The debate on the risks and rewards of virology research on virus evolution is complex, involving scientific, ethical, and safety considerations. While the potential benefits for public health and science are significant, they must be weighed against the possible risks of accidental release and the ethical dilemmas posed by manipulating life forms at a fundamental level. Finding a balance requires robust international dialogue, transparent research practices, and a commitment to global safety standards to ensure that the pursuit of knowledge does not inadvertently lead to harm.

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Some Additional Notes on the Wuhan Institute of Virology for Reference

The Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) has been at the center of intense discussions and speculation concerning its role in virus evolution studies, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Located in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, where the first cases of COVID-19 were reported, the WIV is a leading research institution that studies virology and immunology. Among its many research activities, the institute has been known for its work on coronavirus in bats, including research on their evolution and potential for crossing species barriers to infect humans.

Virus Evolution Studies at WIV

The WIV has conducted extensive research on bat coronaviruses, which are of significant interest to virologists worldwide because these viruses have the potential to jump from animals to humans (zoonotic transfer), leading to outbreaks like SARS, MERS, and potentially COVID-19. The institute has a state-of-the-art biosafety level 4 (BSL-4) lab, which enables it to safely study dangerous pathogens. 

One area of research that has attracted public attention is "gain-of-function" studies. These are experiments in which pathogens are genetically modified to enhance their properties, such as increased transmissibility or virulence, to better understand their potential impact on public health. Proponents of gain-of-function research argue that it is crucial for anticipating and preventing future pandemics. However, critics argue that it poses significant biosafety and biosecurity risks, including the possibility of accidental release.

Controversies and Theories

The origin of the COVID-19 virus (SARS-CoV-2) has been the subject of intense scrutiny and speculation. Some theories suggest that the virus could have accidentally escaped from the WIV, given its proximity to the initial outbreak and its known research activities. However, there is significant debate and investigation into the origins of the virus, with no conclusive evidence proving a lab leak as of my last update in April 2023. Most scientific consensus still supports the theory that the virus likely has a zoonotic origin, having crossed into humans from an animal species, a common pathway for the emergence of new infectious diseases.

International Response and Investigations

The World Health Organization (WHO) conducted an investigation into the origins of COVID-19, which included a visit to the WIV. The team's report, released in March 2021, deemed a laboratory leak "extremely unlikely" but called for further research in all areas except the lab leak hypothesis. The investigation and its findings have been met with mixed reactions from the international community, with some countries and scientists calling for more transparent and comprehensive investigations.

Vinyl records have once again outdone CDs in sales, marking the second consecutive year for this trend. Last year, 43 million vinyl records were sold, which is 6 million more than CD sales. This growth in vinyl sales has been consistent for 17 years, with vinyl also generating significantly higher revenue—$1.4 billion compared to CDs' $537 million.

Despite the rise of streaming services, which account for 84% of music revenue, physical media remains resilient, holding an 11% share of sales. The RIAA notes this endurance even amidst the rise of generative AI, which poses new challenges for the music industry.

Vinyl's popularity could be attributed to the decline in CD players in cars and computers, as well as the tactile and visual appeal of vinyl collections.

Machine Learning in Beer Flavor Prediction

• Study Overview: A groundbreaking study has utilized machine learning to predict beer flavor profiles and consumer preferences. By analyzing chemical and sensory data from a diverse selection of 250 beers, researchers have demonstrated the potential of data-driven approaches in the food industry.
• Key Findings: Among various predictive models, the Gradient Boosting algorithm emerged as the most accurate, showcasing its capability to decipher complex food characteristics and align them with consumer tastes.
• Impactful Compounds: The research highlighted several chemical compounds that significantly influence beer flavor. These findings challenge previous assumptions and underscore the importance of certain elements that were previously undervalued in flavor science.
• Future Applications: This study not only enhances our understanding of beer flavors but also signals a shift toward personalized food production. Leveraging big data and machine learning, manufacturers can now aspire to create customized flavors that cater to individual preferences, potentially revolutionizing the food and beverage sector.

The Research: Predicting and improving complex beer flavor through machine learning | Nature Communications

Instagram has recently updated its recommendation algorithm for political content. During the U.S. election season, the platform will not proactively recommend political posts to users unless they follow the accounts. This change aims to limit the spread of political content and could affect users' exposure to diverse political views, which is crucial for community organizing and staying informed.

Adjusting Your Content Preferences

For those who wish to continue seeing political content, Instagram provides an option to adjust settings:

• Navigate to your profile and access the 'Settings and activity' page.
• Under 'What you see,' select 'Content preferences' and then 'Political content.'
• Choose to either see political content from non-followed accounts or keep it limited.

Meta's History with Political Content

Meta, Instagram's parent company, has faced controversies over political content, including the Cambridge Analytica scandal and issues related to the January 6 Capitol event. The new policy could have significant implications for content creators and the platform's role in political discourse.

Remember, if you change your preferences on Instagram, it will also apply to Threads, an integrated app within the platform.

DOJ Lawsuit Against Apple: The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), along with 16 state and district attorneys general, has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple. They accuse the company of maintaining an illegal monopoly in the smartphone market by restricting competition and driving up prices1.

Allegations: Apple is alleged to have disrupted “super apps,” blocked cloud-streaming apps, suppressed messaging quality between iOS and Android, limited third-party smartwatch functionality, and blocked competing digital wallets. These actions are claimed to protect Apple’s monopoly and harm consumers and developers.

Legal Actions: The lawsuit seeks to prevent Apple from using its control to undermine competition and asks for relief to restore competitive conditions. The DOJ did not specify if they would seek to break up Apple but emphasized the need for remedies tied to the court’s findings2.

Apple’s Response: Apple defends its practices, stating that the lawsuit threatens its principles and could hinder its ability to innovate. The company plans to move to dismiss the case and disagrees with the DOJ’s market definition, arguing for a global perspective3.

The article details the government’s efforts to challenge Apple’s market practices and the potential implications for the tech industry.

Read more: US sues Apple for illegal monopoly over smartphones - The Verge

I use a laptop as I used to travel a lot for work, but a desktop is my preferred setup.

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it sounds like the first one was a wild success.  I suppose you could downplay "play civilization vs a high risk surgery", but I personally couldn't even imagine the joy that something like this would provide to a full quadriplegic who would have otherwise found gaming completely inaccessible along with most other forms of entertainment.

Nolan Arbaugh's Experience: Nolan, a quadriplegic, has been able to play chess and Civilization VI on his PC using a Neuralink brain implant.

Implant Functionality: The implant translates brain signals into Bluetooth commands, allowing Nolan to control a mouse cursor intuitively.

Impact on Daily Life: The technology has significantly improved Nolan's quality of life, enabling him to engage in long gaming sessions without physical strain.

Ongoing Development: Although the implant has been life-changing for Nolan, he acknowledges that there are still issues to address and that it's not the end of the journey.

This breakthrough represents a remarkable advancement in brain-computer interface technology.

Read More: https://www.pcmag.com/news/first-human-to-receive-neuralink-implant-says-it-lets-him-play-civilization

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A New Visual Experience on Spotify

Spotify is set to enhance how fans connect with music and artists by launching music videos in beta for its Premium users across select markets. This new feature marks a significant addition to the streaming platform, offering users the chance to experience their favorite songs not just audibly but visually, mirroring the transformative impact music videos had since their explosion onto the scene in the early '80s. Spotify aims to deepen the artist-to-fan connection by integrating music videos into the platform, recognizing their pivotal role in turning listeners into fans and influencing pop culture.

Diverse Ways to Connect with Artists

The introduction of music videos on Spotify is part of the platform's broader strategy to offer diverse and meaningful ways for artists to connect with their audience. Spotify already features several artist engagement tools such as Canvas, Clips, Artist Bios, Live Events, and Merch. These features have proven effective in driving engagement, with Canvas visuals, in particular, leading to higher rates of user interactions. Music videos will now join this suite of tools, offering both new and loyal fans an immersive experience that complements the listening experience.

Accessing Music Videos on Spotify

The beta rollout of music videos begins with a limited catalog, including global hits from artists like Ed Sheeran, Doja Cat, and Ice Spice, as well as tracks from local favorites such as Aluna and Asake. Premium users in the U.K., Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Brazil, Colombia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Kenya will be the first to access this feature. They can toggle between audio and video modes on supported tracks via iOS, Android, desktop, or TV devices, enhancing their listening experience with the option for full-screen viewing in landscape mode. As Spotify gathers feedback from this beta launch, it plans to expand the music video catalog and availability to more users and countries, further bridging the gap between music and visual artistry on its platform.

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5 hours ago, Kyng said:

Aren't we up to 28 now 😛 ?

 

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Yes, we were. Lol

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