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Engineers Create New Ways to Shape Bread-Derived Carbon Electrodes for Sustainable Use Engineers Create New Ways to Shape Bread-Derived Carbon Electrodes for Sustainable Use A team of engineers has introduced two innovative techniques for shaping carbon electrodes derived from bread. The methods, which build upon previous research, enable the formation of electrodes in precise and sturdy forms. These advancements could enhance the sustainability of electrode production by utilising stale bread, a commonly wasted food item. The process involves heating bread at high temperatures in an oxygen-free environment, converting it into a carbon-based material suitable for applications such as desalination systems. The research aims to refine this process for potential large-scale production, offering an eco-friendly alternative for carbon electrode manufacturing. New Techniques for Molding Carbon Electrodes According to the study published in Royal Society Open Science, the research was conducted by David Bujdos, Zachary Kuzel and Adam Wood from Saint Vincent College and the University of Pittsburgh. The team built upon earlier efforts by Adam Wood, who had previously demonstrated that stale bread could be used to produce carbon electrodes due to its high carbon content. The latest development introduces two techniques that allow for shaping the electrodes into desired forms. The first method involves compressing bread using a 3D-printed mold before subjecting it to the heating process. This technique enables the formation of precise electrode shapes. In a test, a zigzag mold was used to demonstrate its effectiveness. The second method requires blending bread with water before shaping it manually. Once formed, the material is dried and carbonised in an oven. While this approach provides less precision, the resulting electrodes are reportedly more durable. Potential for Sustainable Electrode Production As per reports, the researchers believe these methods could contribute to the development of a low-cost capacitive desalination system. The aim is to create an environmentally friendly solution that reduces food waste while addressing water purification challenges. Efforts are underway to refine the process and explore possibilities for large-scale implementation. For details of the latest launches and news from Samsung, Xiaomi, Realme, OnePlus, Oppo and other companies at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, visit our MWC 2025 hub. People in Modern Societies Sleep More but Have Irregular Sleep Cycles Microsoft Copilot App for macOS Released; iPhone and iPad Apps Get Updates Source link #Engineers #Create #Ways #Shape #BreadDerived #Carbon #Electrodes #Sustainable Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

The difficult choices facing Ukraine’s Zelensky The difficult choices facing Ukraine’s Zelensky Paul Kirby Europe digital editor Reuters Ukraine’s president has few options now that the US has paused aid to Ukraine Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky is in a bind. After last Friday’s disastrous meeting in the Oval Office, it seems nothing that he says goes down well with President Donald Trump. And now the US has suspended aid to Ukraine, his options are looking increasingly thin. Even a former close Republican ally in the US, Senator Lindsey Graham, has turned on him, suggesting “he either needs to resign and send somebody over that we can do business with, or he needs to change”. What kind of change might that be – or should he resign if that’s the price of US support? Should he apologise to Trump? This option seems Zelensky’s most likely way out and Ukraine’s prime minister now says Kyiv is open to talks on signing a minerals deal with the US. Trump told Zelensky point-blank on Friday he was not in a very good position: “You don’t have the cards right now – with us you start having cards.” Zelensky had been ready to sign-off on the minerals deal with Trump on Friday before he was told to leave the White House. That particular card appears to have remained on the table, and on Monday night Zelensky’s chief aide Andriy Yermak said he was working on it with Republican Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick and the deal was “crucial for both our countries”. But clearly the Trump administration is holding out for more. Zelensky cannot afford to be humbled into an abject apology. After three years of Russian bombardment, Ukrainians are not in the mood for capitulation. But he would have to find a form of words sufficient to appease Trump. He might also have to accept a ceasefire on Trump’s terms, even if he still believes peace is “very, very far away”. Would the deal mean a resumption of aid and to what extent? Certainly that’s a priority for Kyiv. The head of parliament’s foreign affairs committee, Oleksandr Merezhko, says suspending US aid is dangerous for Ukraine’s ability to defend its own civilians. Is resignation an option? Falling on his sword is not something Zelensky will or can consider. Trump has called him both unelected and a dictator, echoing Vladimir Putin’s Russian propaganda narrative since the start of the war. Zelensky said on Sunday night it seemed “a bit undemocratic” for Ukrainians to be told who should be their president. He is after all Ukraine’s elected leader, and although his term was meant to end last year, he remains president under martial law, which came into place precisely because of Putin’s Russian invasion. It would be a great result for Putin, who has sought to replace Zelensky since the start of the war and will not even talk directly to him “because of his illegitimacy”. But the only way Zelensky would consider it would be in exchange for Nato membership for Ukraine, and Trump has said he should forget about that. Could he rely on Ukraine itself and Europe instead? Several Ukrainian figures made clear on Tuesday they would hold out for as long as necessary without US aid, but some reports suggest the US pause has halted critically important air defence missiles and artillery. Ukrainian MP Fedir Venislavskyi told local media that they could last about six months, but only the US could provide them with air defence systems and long-range multiple rocket systems. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal says Ukraine is already producing about a third of the weapons it needs, and its goal was 50%. So could Zelensky rely on European allies instead? European nations have collectively paid out substantially more than the US in aid to Ukraine, and the head of the European Union’s executive Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has announced plans to beef up Europe’s defence capability. She is proposing up to €800bn in defence funding – some of which would also go to helping Ukraine. But the EU and *** are adamant that US security guarantees are vital in the event of a ceasefire, even if in Sir Keir Starmer’s words “it is right that Europe do the heavy lifting”. Denis Shmyhal himself describes concrete US guarantees as “existentially important” for Ukraine and the entire continent. Source link #difficult #choices #facing #Ukraines #Zelensky Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

EU Commission proposes $A1.4 trillion defence plan EU Commission proposes $A1.4 trillion defence plan The European Commission has proposed new joint EU borrowing of 150 billion euros to lend to EU governments for defence as part of an overall 800 billion euros ($A1.4 trillion) financing effort to boost Europe’s defence capabilities. The 150 billion euros of new joint borrowing is to go towards building pan-European capability domains like air and missile defence, artillery systems, missiles and ammunition, drones and anti-drone systems or to address other needs from cyber to military mobility, the Commission said. “It will help member states to pool demand and to buy together. This will reduce costs, reduce fragmentation increase interoperability and strengthen our defence industrial base,” Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. EU leaders will discuss the proposal at a special summit devoted to defence spending on Thursday. The Commission also proposed to lift limits imposed by EU rules on government spending in case of defence investments. “If member states would increase their defence spending by 1.5 per cent of GDP on average this could create fiscal space of close to 650 billion euros,” von der Leyen said. The Commission also proposed that EU countries can use for defence purposes money they receive from the EU budget in funds to equalise the standards of living across Europe. All these elements could provide up to 800 billion euros for EU governments to spend on defence projects. “Europe is ready to assume its responsibilities. Europe could mobilise close to 800 billion euros for a safe and resilient Europe. We will continue working closely with our partners in NATO. This is a moment for Europe. And we are ready to step up,” she said. Von der Leyen’s announcement came hours after US President Donald Trump decided to stop all military aid to Ukraine following his disastrous meeting in Washington on Friday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. On the issue of Ukraine, Von der Leyen said her plan would also help the war-torn nation as it struggles, especially with any joint purchase of military materiel. “With this equipment, member states can massively step up their support to Ukraine,” she said. “Some of our fundamental assumptions are being undermined to their very core,” von der Leyen wrote to EU leaders. “The pace of change is disconcerting and increasingly alarming.” EU leaders hope Hungary won’t scuttle agreement on the proposal. Within the EU, unanimity is often necessary for agreements on international affairs and Ukraine, and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orb?n has often kept the 26 other member states back. with AP Source link #Commission #proposes #A1.4 #trillion #defence #plan Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Best Helldivers 2 Loadout for Bug Divers: Weapons, Stratagems, More Best Helldivers 2 Loadout for Bug Divers: Weapons, Stratagems, More The Terminids, commonly known as Bugs, are one of the primary factions in Helldivers 2. Much like any other bug-like alien creatures we see in popular culture, the Terminids are always found in swarms and bring overwhelming numbers to every battlefield. Unlike the heavily armored Automatons, Bugs rely on numbers and aggression. Which means you need a specific loadout. This is the first step to being a bug diver. | Image Credit: Arrowhead Game Studios So what kind of loadout is best to fight the Terminids? Well, you need the right combination of weapons, Stratagems, and armor to handle bugs. Fire-based weapons, explosives, and mobility are some of the best options for clearing out bug holes. So let’s take a look at the best loadout for taking down Terminids effectively. Best Weapons For Terminids in Helldivers 2 Fire is your new best friend versus the Terminids. | Image Credit: Arrowhead Game Studios First off, when you’re choosing a weapon to fight the Terminids, you’re gonna want weapons that can handle large swarms but also the armored bugs like Chargers and Bile Titans. Fire is very useful against Terminids, and it makes flamethrowers and napalm exceptionally good against them. You can also use shotguns and automatic weapons to clear swarms before they can close the distance. Don’t worry though, if you’re picking a fight against the Illuminate, we still got you. FLAM-40 Flamethrower – This is one of the simplest, but best weapons against the Bugs. It burns through swarms quickly and does a fair bit of work if you’re against armored bugs. LAS-99 Quasar Cannon –Not only does this weapon have infinite ammo, it can take down Bile Titans and one shot Chargers with a headshot. Very useful in the late game. SG-225 Breaker /SG-225IE Breaker Incendiary – Shotguns are great against bugs, and what better shotguns to pick from than the Breaker and its incendiary variant. GP-31 Grenade Pistol – This is a great secondary weapon you can get for a little extra explosive damage for clearing bug holes and finishing off heavier foes. LAS-16 Sickle – If putting bullets into the Terminids isn’t enough for you, then the Sickle is A reliable weapon that fires lasers. Best Stratagems to Use Against Bugs in Helldivers 2 There’s a lot of options to pick from. | Image Credit: @Ebontis/YouTube Stratagems are the bread and butter of Helldivers 2. And you’ll need some good ones in your battles versus the bugs. Much like the weapons, the big area of effect flame ones like the Orbital Napalm Strike and high penetration ones like the Eagle 500kg Bomb are extremely effective. You can also opt for slightly defensive and mobility focused ones for a more supportive role. ARSENAL EXPANSION: With the successful liberation of Mastia and Tarsh from the grasp of the socialist Automatons, the Orbital Napalm Barrage has been made available for immediate requisition! Drown their red eyes in the redder flames of liberty! pic.twitter.com/Ww4dhjDAUh — HELLDIVERS 2 (@helldivers2) September 16, 2024 Orbital Napalm Strike – One of the best options you have for clearing out hordes and keeping Bug Breaches under control. Eagle 500kg Bomb – A high-damage airstrike that you’ll want to use for big and armored Terminids like the Bile Titans and the Chargers. Orbital Gatling Barrage – This one is like a lower cooldown version of the Napalm strike which gives you more flexibility versus groups. SH-32 Shield Generator Pack – The shield pack is a must-have if you want to focus on your defense. Its multi-element resistance has come clutch in many situations. Best Armor Sets for Terminids in Helldivers 2 You need to be fast versus Terminids. | Image Credit: Arrowhead Game Studios When it comes to armor, it’s not as straightforward as the weapons and stratagems. Armor in Helldivers 2 depends a lot on how you like to play, and not on what enemies you’re facing. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t any that favor a bug diver. For Terminids, mobility is often more important than durability, and you’ll also want armor that increases your grenade capacity. SC-30 Trailblazer Scout – This is the best option if you’re a player who wants to stay mobile and wants to be as fast as possible. CE-74 Breaker – This is one of the light armors with the Engineering Kit perk that gives you increased damage capacity and is the fastest among them. Outside of these options, you can use any of the medium or heavy ones if you feel like playing a more tanky playstyle. It really comes down to preference of playstyle and looks if you have the perks right. So feel free to experiment and take it at your own pace. Okay so, all these weapons, stratagems, and armors are cool and all, but let’s not forget that we usually have squadmates. If you’re playing with your buddies, then you can adjust your loadout according to theirs and vice versa to get the best possible one. If you’re a loner solo game though, go wild. Source link #Helldivers #Loadout #Bug #Divers #Weapons #Stratagems Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump, the GOP and DOGE have launched their attack on Social Security. You should start worrying now Trump, the GOP and DOGE have launched their attack on Social Security. You should start worrying now Perhaps the most frequently cited quote from Donald Trump relevant to his purported efforts to root out government waste has been “we’re not touching Social Security,” or variations thereof. I expressed skepticism about this pledge shortly after the election by listing all the oblique ways the Trump administration could hack away at the program. It gives me no pleasure to update my observation with the words, “I told you so.” “We’re not touching Social Security.” Donald Trump makes a false promise Among the weapons Trump could wield, I wrote, was starving the program of administrative resources — think money and staff. Sure enough, on Friday the program, which is currently led by acting Commissioner Leland Dudek, announced plans to reduce the program’s employee base to 50,000 from 57,000. Its press release about the reduction referred to the program’s “bloated workforce.” To anyone who knows anything about the Social Security Administration, calling its workforce “bloated” sounds like a sick joke. The truth is that the agency is hopelessly understaffed, and has been for years. In November, then-Commissioner Martin O’Malley told a House committee that the agency was serving a record number of beneficiaries with staffing that had reached a 50-year low. I asked the Social Security Administration to reconcile its claim of a bloated workforce with the facts. I got no reply. Nearly 69 million Americans were receiving benefits as of Dec. 31, according to the agency. That figure encompassed 54.3 million retired workers, their spouses and their children, nearly 6 million survivors of deceased workers and more than 8.3 million disabled workers and their dependents. Agency employment peaked in 2009 at about 67,000, when it served about 55 million people. Read more: Column: An exhaustive debunking of the dumbest myths about Social Security “Without adequate staff at the agency,” Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) said at a news conference Monday, “there will be people who can’t get their benefits, *******.” Not only beneficiaries could be affected by Trump’s raid on Social Security. About 183 million people pay Social Security taxes on their earnings. Their right to collect what they’re entitled to based on their contributions is dependent on the system recording those payments and calculating their benefits accurately, to the last penny. Any incursion by DOGE into the program’s systems or the scattershot firings that Dudek forecasts puts all that at risk. In his testimony, O’Malley talked about how the agency had struggled to establish an acceptable level of customer service. In 2023, he said, wait times on the program’s 800 number had ballooned to nearly an hour. Of the average 7 million clients who called the number each month for advice or assistance, 4 million “hung up in frustration after waiting far too long.” The agency had worked the wait down to an average of less than 13 minutes, in part by encouraging customers to wait off the line for a call back. Disability applicants faced the worst frustrations, O’Malley said. The backlog of disability determinations, which often require multiple rounds of inquiries, hearings and appeals, had reached a near-record 1.2 million. The program estimated that about 30,000 applicants had died in 2023 while awaiting decisions. O’Malley had asked for a budget increase in fiscal 2025 to add at least 3,000 workers to the customer-service ranks, but it wasn’t approved. Make no mistake: The starving of Social Security’s administrative resources, which is currently taking place under the guise of ferreting out fraud and waste, is no accident. It’s part of a decades-long Republican project aimed at undermining public confidence in the program. Back in 1983, for example, the libertarian Cato Institute published an article by Stuart Butler and Peter Germanis calling for a “Leninist” strategy to “prepare the political ground” for privatizing Social Security on behalf of “the banks, insurance companies, and other institutions that will gain from providing such plans to the public.” Political opposition, as it happens, resulted in the death of George W. Bush’s push to privatize Social Security in 2005. Read more: Column: Trump pledges not to cut Social Security. Here are the ways he could breach that promise Germanis has since become a fierce critic of conservative economics and politics. Butler, who had spent 35 years at the right-wing Heritage Foundation before joining the Brookings Institution in 2014, told me by email he now advocates a private retirement system as an “add-on” private option rather than an alternative to Social Security. He also said he thinks “cutting staff and the claim that Social Security is rife with fraud and abuse are both ridiculous.” The Trump acolytes have already taken an ax to some Social Security operations, as announced by Dudek — a former mid-level agency worker who stepped into the vacuum created by the departure of several managers who had dustups with Elon Musk’s DOGE outfit and by a delay in Senate confirmation of Commissioner-designate Frank Bisagnano, a banking and Wall Street veteran. Last week, Dudek closed the agency’s office of transformation, which he called “wasteful” and “redundant.” The office was engaged in helping to keep the agency’s website operational and to develop usable online resources for beneficiaries and applicants. He closed its office of civil rights and equal opportunity, certainly functions relevant to the program’s operations. Employees in both offices were laid off or fired, and their pages on the website were removed. On Monday, Dudek bragged about having “identified” some $800 million in cost savings, including through the cancellation of contracts that, for all he knows, may be crucial to the agency’s functioning. The largest “savings” came from a freeze on hiring and overtime in disability determination services, worth $550 million, according to Dudek. But that’s an area where hands-on contact between applicants and the agency is indispensable. Academic researchers reported in 2019 that the closing of field offices dealing with disability applications led to “a persistent 16% decline in the number of disability recipients in surrounding areas, with the largest effects for applicants with moderately severe conditions and low education levels.” Read more: Column: Social Security is again in the crosshairs of a GOP budget, even though a long-term fix would be simple In an appearance Friday on Joe Rogan’s webcast, Musk called Social Security “the biggest Ponzi scheme of all time,” a repetition of an ancient meme that demonstrates only that he knows nothing about Social Security, and nothing about Ponzi schemes. The program boasts an 85-year unbroken record for paying beneficiaries what they’re owed, and currently holds a reserve of nearly $2.8 trillion in Treasury securities, all publicly disclosed. The GOP brain trust has accepted the claim that Social Security is rife with fraud without devoting a moment’s thought to it. House Speaker Mike Johnson absurdly claimed Sunday on “Meet the Press” that Musk’s “algorithms crawling through the data” are “finding enormous amounts of waste, fraud and abuse.” There’s absolutely zero evidence for that. Can we trust Musk to find it? This is the guy whose claim that “millions” of people aged 150 or older were receiving payments was decisively debunked — the notion that benefits were going to people that old was merely an artifact of the software program used by the agency. No payments are going to anyone in that category; Social Security automatically ceases payments to anyone who has reached the age of 115. The chief bug in the system is Musk’s ignorance. By the way, the search for waste, fraud and abuse — call it WFA — has a long and discreditable history. Ronald Reagan pledged to ferret out enough WFA to cut the federal budget by more than 6% (sometimes he said 10%). One of his first steps, however, was to fire 15 departmental inspectors general, whose jobs involved finding WFA. Sound familiar? One of Trump’s first orders upon taking office was to fire inspectors-general at 17 federal agencies. Reagan impaneled the so-called Grace Commission, whose chairman, industrialist J. Peter Grace, promised to unearth billions of dollars of the elusive WFA. The commission’s eventual proposals included taxing Social Security benefits, adding soy meat-extender to school lunches ($84-million savings over three years), and eliminating the regulatory agencies that oversaw industries represented by the panel’s members. The truth is that Social Security is one of the most efficient agencies in the federal government. Its administrative costs are one-half of one-percent of its total costs, which include benefit payments. What’s the goal of this raid on Social Security, the nation’s premier anti-poverty program and one whose beneficiaries live by the tens of thousands in every congressional district in the land? It’s as if Trump and Musk are intent on staging a natural experiment on whether Republicans can tick off or terrify 69 million Americans at one fell swoop by taking away their sustenance in old age or disability — and still win election. They’re bound to learn, to the contrary, that there isn’t a federal program that Americans value more than Social Security. Are they dumb enough to try killing it? We shall see. Get the latest from Michael HiltzikCommentary on economics and more from a Pulitzer Prize winner.Sign me up. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Source link #Trump #GOP #DOGE #launched #attack #Social #Security #start #worrying Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Stock futures are under pressure again as Trump's tariffs spark retaliation: Live updates – CNBC Stock futures are under pressure again as Trump's tariffs spark retaliation: Live updates – CNBC Stock futures are under pressure again as Trump’s tariffs spark retaliation: Live updates CNBCStock Market in Turmoil Over Trump Tariffs: What To Know NewsweekStocks and bond yields slip as Trump tariffs ignite new trade conflicts Reuters5 Things to Know Before the Stock Market Opens Investopedia Source link #Stock #futures #pressure #Trump039s #tariffs #spark #retaliation #Live #updates #CNBC Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Paula Radcliffe: Perimenopause made Tokyo Marathon even ‘sweeter’ Paula Radcliffe: Perimenopause made Tokyo Marathon even ‘sweeter’ Paula Radcliffe says the experience of going through the perimenopause made completing the Tokyo Marathon even “sweeter”. The 51-year-old finished in less than three hours on Sunday, her first marathon since retiring in 2015 aged 40. The perimenopause typically starts a few years before the menopause, external and can cause symptoms such as hot flushes, heavy bleeding and heart palpitations. Asked about the differences compared to running during her competitive career, Radcliffe told BBC Radio 5 Live: “It’s very different. Not only the effects of perimenopause and managing the fatigue and fluctuations that come with that, energy and muscle recovery wise. “When the children were smaller it was a little bit easier. There are lots of things to juggle now and it’s no longer my career, now it’s a hobby like lots of people. “I really take my hat off to everyone who juggles the training with a career, and family life around that, because it’s a different way – but it makes the achievement when you cross that finish line a little bit sweeter.” The menopause, which signals the end of a woman’s reproductive years, typically occurs around the age of 51 but for some it can happen earlier. The age at which the menopause occurs can be impacted by a number of factors, including treatment for other conditions. Hormone levels change during the menopause – most significantly oestrogen, which controls the menstrual cycle and contributes to a number of other bodily processes. Radcliffe, who gave birth to her first child in 2007 and her second in 2010, is aiming to complete the six major marathons by running in Boston next month. She ran London, New York, Chicago and Berlin during her career, before competing in Tokyo last week. Source link #Paula #Radcliffe #Perimenopause #Tokyo #Marathon #sweeter Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Perth Wildcats lose to Melbourne United in NBL semifinal and a missed goaltending call was pivotal Perth Wildcats lose to Melbourne United in NBL semifinal and a missed goaltending call was pivotal Heartbroken Perth Wildcats players and coaches will be forced to watch the NBL grand final series knowing they were denied a crucial two points after a late missed goaltending call in a game which they lost by just one point. The Wildcats lost game three of the NBL semifinal series 113-112 to Melbourne United in what could be the last match fans see Bryce Cotton play in the NBL. He will now consider his future and is expected to receive massive offers to play overseas. But the high-scoring shootout could easily have been a Wildcats win. Ben Henshall was denied two points from a goaltend by Marcus Lee with 2:33 remaining and scores level. Henshall’s shot touched the backboard and was above the rim before Lee got his hand to it. Camera IconBen Henshall’s shot clearly touched the backboard before Marcus Lee got his hand to it. Credit: Unknown/Kayosports Rubbing salt into the wound, Lee was then fouled just five seconds later and made a free throw to put Melbourne in front. “I had a view of it but I’ll have to put the game on my computer and make sure my eyes were telling me what I felt in that moment. It’ll be interesting reviewing,” Wildcats coach John Rillie said. Melbourne scored the next five points after that incident and still led by that margin inside the final minute before Cotton made it a one possession game and then Jesse Wagstaff tied the scores. Wagstaff made a high-pressure three-pointer with 2.9 seconds remaining. But Melbourne called a time-out, advanced the ball and executed a perfect play to get the ball to Chris Goulding. He was fouled by Henshall with 0.8 of a second left and won the game with a free throw. Camera IconChris Goulding won Melbourne the game late. Credit: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images Rillie said his team is devastated. “You saw our team throughout the season just fight and find ways to win and give yourself a chance to win,” Rillie said. “That was a tremendous character trait of our team. They got up five with a minute to go. The way we pursued that one possession and offensive rebounds. Wags hit the big three to tie it up. That last minute, you can’t ask for anything more to give yourself a chance like that. Great series. It’s disappointing we’re the losers of it.” Cotton was superb with 33 points, five rebounds, six assists and three steals. He scored 16 points in the first quarter to put Melbourne under pressure. Rillie didn’t want to discuss Cotton’s future after the game. Kristian Doolittle was also outstanding with 37 points, 10 rebounds and five assists. Camera IconA shattered Kristian Doolittle. Credit: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images “Once he returned from his injury, he’s shown that he is deserving of a few more accolades and credit around the league,” Rillie said. “That blows my mind. that guy shows up to work every day and does it at a pretty elite level and gets overlooked for a lot of things in my opinion. He’s unbelievable. Melbourne will play the winner of Wednesday night’s game between Illawarra and South East Melbourne and attempt to go one better than their grand final loss last season. Ian Clark stepped up for Melbourne, scoring a career-high 38 points. Chris Goulding also had a night out with 30 points, including nine three-pointers. Camera IconBryce Cotton talks with Chris Goulding. Credit: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images It was the second time in as many years that the Wildcats have lost in game three of a semifinal series. Rillie said his team had improved a lot and done a wonderful job to overcome injuries throughout the season. But nothing will dull the pain of a finals loss. “We were very close to sitting here talking about being in the championship series. If you look in my time, I think we’re progressing nicely through that,” he said. “At the end of the day, we’re here to win and we didn’t do that. Then you look at everything and what could we all do a little bit better to achieve that. You saw that on display in the fourth quarter of game two. Nothing is going to trump the final result.” Source link #Perth #Wildcats #lose #Melbourne #United #NBL #semifinal #missed #goaltending #call #pivotal Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

The excellent Breville Barista Express coffee maker is back to its ****** Friday price The excellent Breville Barista Express coffee maker is back to its ****** Friday price The best coffee makers are rarely cheap but there are some good deals around if you’re looking to invest in a delightful way to start the morning. Right now, you can buy the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine at Amazon for $549.95 (was $749.95) which is a sizeable saving of $200 off the regular price. This brings it back down to a price we last saw during ****** Friday. There have been other incremental discounts since then but none as hefty as this one. If you missed out then, and you’ve been thinking about it ever since, this is your chance. The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is one of the best around and is highly regarded by pretty much everyone who uses it. It has an integrated precision conical burr grinder, provides optimal water pressure, and even has a powerful steam wand for creating cool latte art. It’s sure to delight coffee fans. Today’s best coffee maker deal In our Breville Barista Express review, we appreciated how it’s “simple to understand” while offering “plenty of adjustable settings”. It makes a tasty espresso, of course, but it’s not too complicated to figure out. Ideally, you’ll want to spend some time mastering it but that’s all part of the fun for coffee enthusiasts. Its integrated grinder means you can go from beans to espresso in under one minute, thanks to its precision conical burr grinder grinding on demand to deliver the right amount of freshly ground coffee directly into its portafilter. You can also adjust the water temperature and hand texture microfoam milk for enhanced flavor and better looks. Sounds complicated? Far from it. The Breville Barista Express will still appeal to novices who simply want a tasty cup of coffee at home. If you want one of the best espresso machines, this is a good starting point. If you want something a bit more advanced, check out the best bean-to-cup coffee machines. Alternatively, while you’re working on simplifying your life, there are some great Dyson vacuum deals. Source link #excellent #Breville #Barista #Express #coffee #maker #****** #Friday #price Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Suikoden Star Leap Is The First New Suikoden In Over A Decade, And It’s A Mobile Game Suikoden Star Leap Is The First New Suikoden In Over A Decade, And It’s A Mobile Game Konami has announced a brand-new entry in the fabled RPG series, Suikoden. It’s called Suikoden Star Leap and it’ll be on iOS and Android. Star Leap free-to-play with microtransactions, and it is the first Suikoden game since 2012’s Suikoden: The Woven Web of a Century, which was on PSP but never released outside of Japan. The game follows a silent protagonist who’s the son of the village chief, Hou. One night, the village is attacked. The hero, along with his friends Hisui, Shirin, and Shapur, embark on a new journey to restore peace to the village once again. Like every Suikoden game, Star Leap has 108 recruitable characters and the rest will be revealed at a later date. Star Leap also sees the return of pixel-art graphics, like the first two Suikoden games had, an breaking from the 3D models of the previous three games. In an interview with Famitsu, producer Shinya Fujimoto said that Star Leap takes place between the events of Suikoden V and Suikoden I. Additionally, the first chapter of Star Leap will heavily feature Odessa Silverberg, the original leader of the Liberation Army in Suikoden I that the protagonist eventually becomes in charge of. While no release date has been revealed for Suikoden Star Leap, a remaster of the first two Suikoden games is releasing soon. The bundle is called Suikoden I & II HD Remaster Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars and launches on March 6 for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S. It features brand-new quality-of-life features such as adjustable battle speeds and auto-saves. Source link #Suikoden #Star #Leap #Suikoden #Decade #Mobile #Game Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Exclusive-Fired US government workers with top security clearances were not given exit briefings, sources say Exclusive-Fired US government workers with top security clearances were not given exit briefings, sources say By Timothy Gardner and Jonathan Landay WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Some U.S. government workers with top security clearances fired in mass layoffs overseen by Elon Musk in recent weeks were not given standard exit briefings and advised on what to do if approached by foreign adversaries, four sources told Reuters. The lack of so-called “read outs” for workers with clearances dismissed by Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency in February could raise security risks as they dealt with secret information on everything from managing nuclear weapons to protecting the power grid from influence by adversaries and ensuring the safety of U.S international development staffers, former security officials said. Trusted news and daily delights, right in your inbox See for yourself — The Yodel is the go-to source for daily news, entertainment and feel-good stories. Dismissed employees with top-secret clearances are normally given a final security briefing reminding them of non-disclosure agreements they signed when they got the clearance. They would also sign forms acknowledging that disclosing any kind of classified information is ******** and turn in their laptops, said the sources who spoke on condition of anonymity. Two sources with top security clearances dismissed by DOGE, one at the Department of Energy and one former senior official at the U.S. Agency for International Development, told Reuters they were not debriefed. Another worker still at the DOE, said several of the 28 workers fired on Feb. 14 at the National Nuclear Security Administration, which oversees the nation’s nuclear arsenal, had clearances and were not debriefed. The fourth source is a person familiar with the situation at USAID. Both DOE sources said the laptops of fired workers had been cut off from access to department data but that they were not immediately required to hand those in. There were more than 1.25 million U.S. government workers, contractors and others who held top-secret clearances as of October 2019, according to the most recent unclassified report published on the issue by the U.S. Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC). It is not known how many were fired by DOGE without being given the final security debriefing. A DOE spokesperson said the department “is taking the appropriate steps to ensure all recently dismissed Energy employees are reminded of their obligations to the United States as defined by federal law.” The State Department and the White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Kevin Carroll, a former undercover CIA officer who is now a lawyer at Fluet, said the failure to conduct final briefings for U.S. officials holding top-secret clearances was a “terrible counterintelligence risk.” “When you get read off the program, they remind you that you agreed to keep information confidential and it would violate the Espionage Act if you don’t,” he said. Officials at the briefing also instruct outgoing personnel what to do if approached by a foreign intelligence service and offered money to provide classified material. The U.S. government is on heightened alert about foreign adversaries attempting to steal U.S. data and technology and recruit Americans as spies. “Foreign spies routinely pose as commercial head-hunters on professional networking sites to target individuals for recruitment or information gathering purposes,” NCSC posted on X on Feb. 25. U.S. law enforcement and counterintelligence officials have long said ******** espionage agencies are using social media accounts to try to recruit Americans with access to government and commercial secrets. ‘SHORTCUTS’ Mark Zaid, an attorney who specializes in national security law, said that “any deviation” from established security practices can create concerns. “The shortcuts and quick brash actions DOGE, and particularly its young, inexperienced non-security personnel are taking are creating serious and unnecessary security risks,” said Zaid. None of the employees with security clearances for nuclear secrets were properly debriefed, the current DOE source said. Those employees could be targeted by foreign adversaries for nuclear espionage, and could be vulnerable to approaches since they have lost their source of income, the source said. Elon Musk and SpaceX face at least three federal reviews over whether they have complied with federal reporting rules aimed at protecting national security, the New York Times reported in December. In 2019, the Pentagon reviewed Musk’s security clearance after the billionaire smoked ********** on comedian Joe Rogan’s live show. Such reviews ordinarily occur once instances of a potential infraction come to light, Pentagon officials have said. Musk was able to apply for his security clearance to be reinstated, sources said. Musk said on X that he had agreed to do random drug testing for three years. Musk did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The fired USAID specialist with top-secret clearance to work on programs designed to avert conflicts and bolster stability in Southeast Asia and the Middle East said they were terminated without being given the standard exit security briefing or forms to sign. The specialist started at USAID some eight years ago as a contractor before being hired full-time in a civil service position in the Bureau of Conflict Prevention and Stabilization. The worker, terminated on Feb. 24, needed clearance to access classified intelligence reports that helped make “informed strategic decisions” on poverty reduction and humanitarian programs for people who might otherwise be driven to extremism. (Reporting by Timothy Gardner and Jonathan Landay, additional reporting by Marisa Taylor, editing by Deepa Babington) Source link #ExclusiveFired #government #workers #top #security #clearances #exit #briefings #sources Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Ray-Ban and Meta just teased new limited-edition smart glasses – but they’ll be in frustratingly short supply Ray-Ban and Meta just teased new limited-edition smart glasses – but they’ll be in frustratingly short supply Meta announces new limited-edition Ray-Ban Meta glasses They’re launching sometime in March A promo image suggests numbers will be limited to just 3,600 units Meta has announced that new “limited-edition Ray-Ban Meta glasses” are set to land this month, with promo images suggesting they’ll be transparent just like the previous limited-edition design it launched – but expect them to be even harder to get your hands on. Beyond a look at the Ray-Ban logo on a clear-ish frame that shows off the hardware inside the smart specs, we know relatively little about the design. The previous clear frames used the Wayfarer frame type, but this new run could get the Skyler or Headliner design, which have more rounded lenses, although our money is on a bold new design like the frames A$AP Rocky – Ray-Ban’s new Creative Director – just unveiled at Milan Fashion Week – which would tally with the “straight from the runway” comment in Meta’s promotional material for the new limited-edition specs. We also don’t know if these specs will come with the same limited-edition ****** case as the previous edition, instead of the standard brown, though we hope they do. Expect a challenge at checkout Can’t get clear pair? The colored translucent options also look great (Image credit: Meta) Adding to the list of unknown is that Meta has yet to reveal a price. Given that the previous limited model cost $429 – which is about $100 more than the standard translucent frames – we expect this new design will also be pricier than standard Ray-Ban smart glasses, and perhaps even pricier than the previous limited design. We say that because while Meta’s last limited run consisted of 7,500 pairs, this time it’s only making 3,600 – at least, that’s what ‘0001/3600’ printed on the frames in the promo image on its website is suggesting. Given the even more limited supply, Meta may choose to bump the price up, so if you’re keen to pick up a pair for yourself you’ll want to act fast when they drop. There’s no precise release date to mark on your calendars, though there is a ‘Notify me’ button on the website if you want to get an update when the glasses go live –just be prepared to go home empty handed. Scalpers are showing that they’re still in full force in 2025 by ruining limited drops for tech, and there’s a good chance they’ll strike again here. There may also be scammers around looking to take advantage of the hype if stock does run dry – so be careful buying glasses claiming to be the limited edition Ray-Bans from unofficial stores and resellers. Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more. You might also like Source link #RayBan #Meta #teased #limitededition #smart #glasses #theyll #frustratingly #short #supply Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Okta gets an upgrade from D.A. Davidson after earnings beat, sees the stock surging more than 40% Okta gets an upgrade from D.A. Davidson after earnings beat, sees the stock surging more than 40% Okta could have a strong growth runway in its future, if the company’s latest quarterly report is any indication, according to D.A. Davidson. The firm upgraded the identity and access management stock to buy from hold on Monday. It also raised its price target to $125 per share from $90, signaling more than 43% upside. The upgrade came after Okta reported better-than-expected fourth-quarter results, which sent the stock higher by 15% in the premarket. The company also hiked its full-year outlook. OKTA 5D mountain OKTA rallies “Double-digit growth now seems durable,” analyst Rudy Kessinger wrote. “[Management] repeatedly characterized the qtr. as a ‘blowout’ & spoke more positively about the business than we have heard in years.” “Sales productivity reached a multi-year high, DBNRR [dollar-based net retention rate] is stabilizing, enterprise & channel contribution are picking up, newer products are contributing more meaningfully, and more,” the analyst added. Kessinger wasn’t the only one who upgraded Okta after the company’s earnings. Mizuho’s Gregg Moskowitz changed his rating to outperform from neutral and hiked his price target to $127 from $110. “Mgmt emphasized that the macro environment was largely unchanged this quarter. That said, OKTA clearly executed better this quarter, and mgmt cited a ‘blowout quarter’ with record bookings,” he said. Source link #Okta #upgrade #D.A #Davidson #earnings #beat #sees #stock #surging Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Exclusive: Google’s rumored new 'Pixie' assistant is finally coming to the Pixel 10 as Pixel Sense – Android Authority Exclusive: Google’s rumored new 'Pixie' assistant is finally coming to the Pixel 10 as Pixel Sense – Android Authority Exclusive: Google’s rumored new ‘Pixie’ assistant is finally coming to the Pixel 10 as Pixel Sense Android Authority Source link #Exclusive #Googles #rumored #039Pixie039 #assistant #finally #coming #Pixel #Pixel #Sense #Android #Authority Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Nintendo has successfully blocked a French file storage site from hosting pirated games Nintendo has successfully blocked a French file storage site from hosting pirated games The French court has decided in favour of Nintendo in a case involving a file storage site and its handling of pirated Nintendo games. The decision had previously been made by the Paris Court of Appeals back in April 2023, with the court finding that Dstorage SAS was responsible for failing to remove or block access to pirated copies of Nintendo games distributed via its website 1fichier.com. The court ordered Dstorage to pay €442,750 to Nintendo in compensation, plus €27,000 to cover legal expenses, but the company decided to appeal the verdict, rather than accept it. Now the Cour de Cassation, France’s highest judiciary court, has decided that Dstorage SAS is indeed liable for the storage of unauthorised copies of Nintendo games, and its failure to remove or block access to them after Nintendo demanded it take the content down. The decision effectively means that sharehosting sites on French soil and in Europe (including 1fichier.com) must quickly remove or block access to ******** content when requested, and if they fail to do so they will be liable to pay compensation to the rights holders effective. In a statement, Nintendo said it was “pleased with the Court’s finding of liability against Dstorage”, adding that it “believes that it is significant not only for Nintendo, but for the entire games industry”. “It will prevent sharehosters like 1fichier.com from claiming like it did during the proceedings on the merits that a prior decision from a court is needed before pirated content must be taken down, and it confirms the rights that holders have to give notice of when claiming that notified content infringes copyright or trademark rights,” it said. 1fichier was home to numerous repositories of pirated games. “Together with its recent decision of January 15th, 2025, confirming that a major French Bank had rightfully terminated a payment processing agreement with 1fichier.com due to lacking anti-piracy measures, the French Supreme Court leaves no doubt that sharehosting providers like 1fichier.com are not a safe haven for storing and sharing ******** content.” The result is the latest in a string of legal decisions that have gone in Nintendo’s favour as it continues to fight against the piracy and emulation of its software and hardware. Last year it sued the creator of popular Nintendo Switch emulator Yuzu, claiming The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom had been pirated over a million times in the week and a half before its release. The company subsequently issued a DMCA notice at GitHub which led to the site removing 8,535 repositories containing versions of the emulator. Nintendo then set its sights on Switch emulator Ryujinx, which was subsequently shut down by its lead developer after he was contacted by Nintendo, offering “an agreement to stop working on the project, remove the organisation and all related assets he’s in control of”. Source link #Nintendo #successfully #blocked #French #file #storage #site #hosting #pirated #games Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Waymo, Uber begin offering robotaxi rides in Austin ahead of SXSW Waymo, Uber begin offering robotaxi rides in Austin ahead of SXSW A Waymo car drives along a street on March 01, 2023 in San Francisco, California. Waymo, Alphabet’s self-driving car division, announced that it has laid off over 135 employees in a second round of layoffs this year. Justin Sullivan | Getty Images Waymo on Tuesday began offering robotaxi rides in Austin, Texas, through the Uber app. The launch sets up Waymo to showcase its driverless technology during Austin’s annual South by Southwest festival that kicks off Friday. Approximately 300,000 people descend on the Texas capital to attend SXSW on average each year, according to the Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We can’t wait for Austin locals and visitors alike to experience Waymo One via the Uber app starting this week,” said Nicole Gavel, Waymo’s head of business development and strategic partnerships, in a statement. Waymo previously said it would be launching in Austin, among several other U.S. cities, in 2025. Austin is the first market where Uber will manage and dispatch a fleet of Waymo vehicles. Riders in Phoenix can book Waymo rides through the Uber app, but the ride-sharing company does not manage the Waymo fleet in that market. The two companies’ partnership will expand to Atlanta later this year, where Waymo employees have already begun taking fully autonomous trips across the city, the company said Tuesday. Uber sold off its autonomous vehicle, or AV, unit in 2020 after a string of earlier safety incidents including one fatality. The two companies have not disclosed how they split revenue for Waymo rides booked through the Uber app. “With Waymo’s technology and Uber’s proven platform, we’re excited to introduce our customers to a future of transportation that is increasingly electric and autonomous,” Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said in a statement. Alphabet-owned Waymo, which has pulled far ahead of self-driving car competitors in the U.S., is currently serving over 200,000 paid trips per week across San Francisco, Los Angeles and Phoenix, according to the company. Waymo’s Austin expansion also sets up the company for a potential clash with Elon Musk-led Tesla later this year. Tesla has promised to launch a driverless rideshare service in Austin in June. The company already produces electric cars with partially automated driving systems. These require a human driver at the wheel ready to steer or brake at any time. Tesla has designed a robotaxi, called the CyberCab, but the company does not yet produce it. Waymo riders will be able to travel across 37 square miles of Austin, covering neighborhoods including the city’s downtown, Hyde Park and Montopolis, the company said. Uber users who request an Uber X, Uber Comfort, Uber Green or Uber Comfort Electric will be shown the option to match with Waymo vehicles when available, the company added. — CNBC’s Lora Kolodny contributed to this report. WATCH: Uber and Lyft drop on news Waymo is expanding to Miami Source link #Waymo #Uber #offering #robotaxi #rides #Austin #ahead #SXSW Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Bushey crossbow killer planned attack after being ‘rejected’ Bushey crossbow killer planned attack after being ‘rejected’ Brian Farmer BBC News, Hertfordshire Reporting fromCambridge Crown CourtPA Media A 26-year-old man planned a murderous attack on his ex-partner’s family after being rejected and rebuffed, a prosecutor has told a trial. Kyle Clifford murdered former partner Louise Hunt, her sister Hannah Hunt, and their mother Carol Hunt at the family home in Bushey, Hertfordshire, on 9 July 2024, Alison Morgan KC said. She also told Cambridge Crown Court that Clifford had restrained and ****** Louise. Clifford, of Enfield, north London, admitted *******, false imprisonment and possession of offensive weapons, but denied *****. Facebook Louise Hunt ended her relationship with Clifford in June 2024 Miss Morgan gave detail of the attacks when opening the prosecution at Clifford’s ***** trial on Tuesday. Carol, 61, was stabbed to death and Hannah, 28, and Louise, 25, suffered fatal crossbow bolt injuries at their house in Ashlyn Close. The three women were the wife and daughters of BBC racing commentator John Hunt. Clifford admitted three ******* charges in Cambridge in January. Contributed Carol Hunt, Louise Hunt and Hannah Hunt were killed in their home in Bushey, near Watford Miss Morgan said Clifford accepted that he had murdered the three women and been “unlawfully in possession of a knife and a crossbow”. She said he also accepted that he had falsely imprisoned Louise Hunt and restrained her against her will. “The only issue for you to determine is that of *****,” Miss Morgan told jurors. “During the course of this prolonged incident, the prosecution alleges that the defendant ****** Louise Hunt. “It was a violent, ******* act of spite, before he then killed her.” She added: “You will have to determine that allegation against him. “He denies that he ****** Louise Hunt on 9 July of last year.” Miss Morgan said the Hunt family lived in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, at the time of “these events”. She added: “Louise Hunt ran her dog grooming business from a pod situated in the rear garden of the address. Hannah Hunt worked as a beauty therapist locally. Carol Hunt was at home during the daytime.” Miss Morgan said Mr Hunt, who is a racing commentator and works for the BBC, had one “surviving daughter”, Amy Hunt. Miss Morgan added: “He was working on 9 July 2024 and was not present at the address during that day, a fact which was checked by the defendant during the course of these events, by searching online to see what racing events were taking place that day.” ‘****** temper’ Miss Morgan said Clifford and Louise had met on a dating website and been in a relationship for about 18 months. “Louise Hunt is described by her friends in the highest terms as being a caring, positive and happy person, who was hardworking and who had developed her own business, ‘Groom and Glow’,” Miss Morgan told jurors. “However, friends and family were concerned about the effect of her relationship with the defendant.” Louise had told one friend that Clifford had a “****** temper” and there had been a “number of incidents” where he had “behaved in an aggressive manner”, the trial heard. A family member found Clifford to be “odd”. They were concerned about Louise’s relationship with the defendant and the way that he treated her, Miss Morgan said. Miss Morgan added: “Hannah Hunt had said the family found the defendant to be disrespectful, rude and arrogant. “They hoped that the relationship would come to an end.” ‘Planning an attack’ The prosecutor said Louise instigated the end of the relationship, supported by friends and family. She told the court Clifford had relationships with “other women” and hid them from Louise. Clifford tried to “rekindle” the relationship but was rebuffed by Louise and the “rejection” had “angered” him. Miss Morgan said he was angry at Louise and her family generally, as he “correctly assumed” that friends and family members had advised Louise to end the relationship. Miss Morgan said Clifford set about “planning an attack” on the Hunt family. ‘Sucking the life out of me’ In late June 2024, Louise had “made it clear” to Clifford that she did not consider his “behaviour” to be “acceptable”, Miss Morgan added. Louise had said the relationship was “sucking the life out of me” and made it clear that she was “finishing” with Clifford. On 26 June 2024, she had written: “… I’m sorry Kyle but I feel I can’t continue with what we have, I feel like it has been broken and I can’t ignore how I’ve been feeling or made to feel in our relationship over the course of the year . “I don’t know that in the future if we both do the work on ourselves this could be something amazing, but I just feel right now I owe it to myself to take some space and walk away for my own sanity and health. “Thank you for the incredible time we’ve had this year, I hope you know how much I love you and still will for a long time . I never want there to be anything ****** between us ever. Take care of yourself always please.” Miss Morgan said Clifford appeared to accept “this position”. But she said, in the days that followed, it became clear that he had not accepted the break-up. She said he began to “plan the attack that would take place on 9 July 2024”. She said Clifford also created a telephone note, which appeared to be a “suicide letter”, addressed to relatives. But she said he made no suicide, or self-harm attempt, before mounting his attack. Clifford was not at the trial and the judge told jurors he had opted not to attend. He previously served in the military from 2019 for around three years. Following the murders, he became the subject of a manhunt for a number of hours before he was found injured in Lavender Hill Cemetery, in Enfield, after shooting himself in the chest with the crossbow. The trial judge, Mr Justice Bennathan, previously told jurors that it would be “fundamentally wrong” to think that Clifford must be guilty of “anything else” because he had admitted *******. The trial continues. Source link #Bushey #crossbow #killer #planned #attack #rejected Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Target sees near-term profit squeeze from tariffs, cautious spending Target sees near-term profit squeeze from tariffs, cautious spending By Siddharth Cavale and Juveria Tabassum (Reuters) -Target on Tuesday forecast full-year comparable sales below estimates, and said uncertainty around tariffs as well as consumer spending would weigh on first-quarter profits. The Minneapolis-based retailer joined retail bellwether Walmart in raising caution about its expectations for the year as sticky inflation and tariffs on imports proposed and implemented by President Donald Trump temper demand, particularly for the non-essential categories like home furnishings and electronics that makes up more than two-thirds of Target’s sales. Target expects comparable sales to be about flat in the year through January 2026, compared with analysts’ average estimate of 1.86% growth, according to data compiled by LSEG. It expects earnings of $8.80 to $9.80 per share, largely in-line with Wall Street’s $9.31 estimate. Target said the annual forecast does not consider any impact from tariffs. Consumers, however, continue to be stressed and at least some of the noise surrounding the levies hit sales in February, a Target spokesperson said. “The company expects to see meaningful year-over-year profit pressure in its first quarter,” it said, attributing the impact to tariff uncertainty, as well as weak demand for apparel and other discretionary products during February. “We will continue to monitor these trends and will remain appropriately cautious with our expectations for the year ahead,” Chief Financial Officer Jim Lee said in a statement. The disappointing outlook may reflect the mood of shoppers who in January pulled back spending far more than expected and showed that they are much more worried about the impact of tariffs on their wallets. Target, in particular, has also faced more backlash and boycotts by its patrons for ending its diversity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in January, with some noting the company’s reputation for inclusiveness had helped it attract a younger, more diverse consumer base. Foot traffic at Target stores dropped 6.1% on average from the week of January 27 through February 23, according to data from Placer.ai. Target did not mention any impact of ending its DEI initiatives in its outlook. For the holiday quarter, Target reported a 1.5% rise in comparable sales, topping estimates of a 1.3% increase, according to data compiled by LSEG. Earnings fell 19.3% to $2.41 per share, but beat estimates of $2.27. Gross and operating margins declined due to higher promotions and delivery costs. Target’s shares flitted between gains and losses in premarket trading on Tuesday. They were last up 1%. Story Continues Beauty, apparel, toys and sporting goods were top performers during the quarter, while home decor and furnishing sales were negative, a spokesperson said. Shoppers also did more of their shopping online, with digital comparable sales up 8.7%, which led to an increase in costs of box shipping, or those made within one or two days, he noted. (Reporting by Juveria Tabassum in Bengaluru and Siddharth Cavale in New YorkEditing by Nick Zieminski) Source link #Target #sees #nearterm #profit #squeeze #tariffs #cautious #spending Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

I tried Apple’s new AI-powered Invites app, but I’m not sure why anyone else would I tried Apple’s new AI-powered Invites app, but I’m not sure why anyone else would Apple Intelligence is gaining more features with every beta release across iOS, macOS, and iPadOS, but the company surprised pretty much everyone at the start of February when it released the Apple Invites app. Less an extension of its various operating systems and more a siloed application, it leans on some Apple Intelligence features but mostly feels like a sort of central point for Apple’s own services. I tested it out since I needed to plan my son’s sixth birthday party, and while I can’t deny it has that Apple ‘sheen’ to it, I find myself struggling to get all that excited about it. ‘Diminishing Returns’ (Image credit: Apple/Lloyd Coombes) Apple Invites wasn’t perhaps what we were expecting from the company, but just like the Sports app, it’s another app that can dovetail with multiple Apple services. It’s essentially a fulcrum that can link to your calendar, photos, and even Apple Music to set the tone for your event. That’s great, but if you’re not tied into any of those, you’ll see diminishing returns. Apple Invites is perfectly usable by anyone outside of the ecosystem to respond, but naturally you can’t build the perfect playlist or drop in that ideal photo if you’re not tied in with Apple. It makes sense, of course — Apple isn’t going to go out of its way to integrate Spotify, after all, but it’s worth noting before you start loading up your events. AI for the rest of us? (Image credit: Apple/Lloyd Coombes) My favourite thing about Apple’s new Invites app is just how easy it is to use. If you’ve ever used something like Google Meet or Outlook, you’ll know that trying to populate all the required fields the first time can feel a little awkward, leading to follow-up edits. Naturally, these aren’t necessarily made for a quick video call and are more for ‘IRL’ events, but I appreciate that Apple has made it so easy to use nonetheless. As long as you have an iCloud+ subscription, you can add a title, event details, and some snazzy generative AI images (or your own), along with a playlist to capture the vibe, and pretty much get it sent out within a few minutes. It’s a far cry from the e-vites of yesteryear, and while Apple Intelligence’s slogan of “AI for the rest of us” hasn’t rung true for many, it feels like a smart move to integrate it into an app that’ll be used to send glitzy invites to Apple users and non-Apple users alike. Outside of the Apple ecosystem? No problem (Image credit: Apple/Lloyd Coombes) While you need an iCloud+ account to send your invites, anyone can RSVP regardless of their device of choice. In my use case, that’s particularly handy — sending an invite to my mother-in-law’s iPhone was easy enough, but my parents have Android phones. I appreciate not needing to adjust either way, too, just sending out a barrage of invites all in one go. If you are in the Apple ecosystem, Invites is merely a nifty bonus on top of Family Sharing, cloud-based storage, and features like Custom email domains. But who is it for? The question I kept coming back to while tooling around with the app was “who is this for?” and I don’t think I’ll be alone in that. It feels like a proof-of-concept rather than a must-have tool, and while I don’t doubt some families will gravitate toward it in the way Genmoji has become more popular with some users, it just feels like a strange time to introduce an event invite service. I’m also not sure what the future looks like for the app. I’m not entirely sure what I’d want Apple to add outside of additional integrations, but what’s here feels so focused on a single purpose that it feels an oddity next to Apple’s increasingly malleable (and powerful) in-house apps. Look how Reminders and Notes have grown over the last few years and it’s hard to plot a similar trajectory for Apple Invites. Does it need one? Perhaps not, but the whole thing just feels like it’s in a weird spot when most people just text each other invitations to events anyway. You might also like Source link #Apples #AIpowered #Invites #app Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Waymo and Uber’s Austin robotaxi expansion begins today Waymo and Uber’s Austin robotaxi expansion begins today Waymo and Uber’s robotaxi service is launching today in Austin, exclusively in the Uber app. The companies announced their plan to expand to Austin and Atlanta in September 2024, and Waymo raised a cool $5.6 billion in October to help pay for it. Unlike the Waymo One service offered to riders in San Francisco and Los Angeles, interested Austin riders will get a chance to ride in a Waymo just by ordering an UberX, Uber Green, Uber Comfort or Uber Comfort Electric ride, similar to how things are handled in Phoenix. You’re not guaranteed to receive a Waymo when you do order one of those rides, but Uber says you can increase your chances of receiving one by changing your “Ride Preferences” in the app. Upfront prices remain the same whether you get a Waymo or not, though if you do end up in a robotaxi, you won’t be prompted to tip. You’ll use the Uber app to unlock the Waymo, open its trunk and start your ride, too. Uber / Engadget Uber says Waymo One will cover 37 square miles in Austin, and in a first for the company, Waymo vehicles themselves will be stored, cleaned and maintained by a third-party partner, Avomo, theoretically making the experience even more taxi-like than before. Waymo won’t be the only major self-driving shop offering rides in Austin. Tesla’s robotaxi service is supposed to launch in the Texas capital in June. They’re not evenly matched so far, though. In May 2024, Waymo said it makes 50,000 paid trips every week. It remains to be seen how quickly Tesla will reach the same scale. For its part, Uber has expressed interest in offering Tesla rides through its app, too, though so far the EV company is operating on its own. Source link #Waymo #Ubers #Austin #robotaxi #expansion #begins #today Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

A23a: World's biggest iceberg runs aground off remote island – BBC.com A23a: World's biggest iceberg runs aground off remote island – BBC.com A23a: World’s biggest iceberg runs aground off remote island BBC.comWorld’s Largest Iceberg Runs Aground Off South Georgia NewsweekNew Antarctic Iceberg Speeds Off nasa.govLargest Iceberg Grounds Near South Georgia Island Mirage NewsSee the birth of a new ICEBERG in Antarctica MSN Source link #A23a #World039s #biggest #iceberg #runs #aground #remote #island #BBC.com Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump’s sweeping tariffs on Canada, Mexico are now in effect – National Trump’s sweeping tariffs on Canada, Mexico are now in effect – National The first round of U.S. tariffs and Canada’s counter-tariffs are now in effect, marking the start of a trade war between the long-time North American allies. As of Tuesday, a sweeping 25 per cent tariff has been imposed on all goods going into the United States from both Canada and Mexico, with a 10 per cent tariff on Canada’s energy exports. In response, Canada has hit back with an initial 25 per cent tariff on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods, with additional tariffs on another $125 billion in American goods to come three weeks later, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said. “Canada will not let this unjustified decision go unanswered,” Trudeau said in a statement Monday night, hours before the U.S. deadline. “Our tariffs will remain in place until the U.S. trade action is withdrawn, and should U.S. tariffs not cease, we are in active and ongoing discussions with provinces and territories to pursue several non-tariff measures,” he added. Story continues below advertisement “While we urge the U.S. administration to reconsider their tariffs, Canada remains firm in standing up for our economy, our jobs, our workers, and for a fair deal.” 1:58 How Canada is preparing to hit back at Trump’s tariffs Trending Now U.S. plan to nearly triple softwood lumber duties a ‘massive threat’: Eby Trump says tariffs on agricultural products coming April 2 President Donald Trump had signed an executive order on Feb. 1 to levy the duties on the U.S.’s neighbours due to the flow of ******** migrants and fentanyl. Get breaking National news For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen. The broad-based tariffs were put on hold for 30 days after new border security commitments were made by Canada, but Trump pulled the trigger on Tuesday. In response to Trump’s original vow of 25 per cent tariffs on ********* goods, Canada released its own list of planned counter-tariffs. Meanwhile, Canada is bracing for two more rounds of tariffs threatened by the Trump administration, including additional 25 per cent duties on all steel and aluminium imports coming to the U.S., including from Canada, set to go into effect March 12. Story continues below advertisement On April 2, Trump is also planning to impose global reciprocal tariffs on all of America’s trading partners, including Canada. More on Canada More videos &copy 2025 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc. Source link #Trumps #sweeping #tariffs #Canada #Mexico #effect #National Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Ferrari win case to delay Enrico Cardile’s start at Aston Martin Ferrari win case to delay Enrico Cardile’s start at Aston Martin An Aston Martin statement said: “This is a matter between Enrico and Ferrari and their legal representatives in Italy, and the parties continue to be engaged in the process. “As such we won’t be making any further comment. We will make an announcement in due course.” Ferrari’s legal victory means Cardile will not be available to start work at Aston Martin until long into the development phase of the team’s 2026 car. F1 is introducing new chassis and engine regulations together in 2026 in one of the biggest rule changes in the sport’s history. Cardile’s signing was one of a series of major changes at Aston Martin as owner Lawrence Stroll seeks to turn his team into world title contenders. Adrian Newey, the legendary former Williams, McLaren and Red Bull designer, started work as managing technical partner of Aston Martin on 3 March. Newey, regarded as the greatest designer in F1 history, has begun work in time to have a significant input into the 2026 car. Under F1 rules, teams were not allowed to start aerodynamic work on their 2026 cars until the start of this year. In 2026, Aston Martin will become Honda’s factory engine partner, having been a Mercedes customer since the team was renamed for the historic sports car brand in 2022, and for many years before that in its previous guises as Racing Point and Force India. The team started working in a new factory last year, a new driver-in-the-loop simulator was inaugurated this winter, and a new wind tunnel has been built and is expected to be ready for research and development work in the coming weeks. Source link #Ferrari #win #case #delay #Enrico #Cardiles #start #Aston #Martin Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Sleep patterns could hold key to predicting recovery in acute brain injury patients Sleep patterns could hold key to predicting recovery in acute brain injury patients The sleep patterns of brain injury patients could hold the key to identifying the likelihood of long-term recovery, researchers say. Columbia University and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital researchers monitored the overnight brain activity in 226 comatose patients’ electroencephalograms, or EEGs, a test that measures electrical activity in the brain. They were looking for sleep spindles — bursts of brain activity during sleep that are linked to memory and other cognitive functions. “Spindles happen normally during sleep and they’re showing some level of organisation in the brain, suggesting circuits between the thalamus and cortex needed for consciousness are intact,” said Jan Claassen, associate professor of neurology at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. The patients also underwent more complex testing for cognitive motor dissociation, which is when a patient appears unconscious but shows brain activity indicating they can think and remember. About a third of patients had well-defined sleep spindles, including about half of patients with cognitive motor dissociation. Among patients with sleep spindles and cognitive motor dissociation, more than three quarters of patients (76 per cent) showed evidence of consciousness by hospital discharge. One year later, 41 per cent of these patients had recovered neurological function and could care for themselves during the day, with either minor deficits or moderate disability. Published in Nature Medicine, the early stage research shows sleep spindle detection could be a promising early predictor of whether acute brain injury patients could recover consciousness. “We’re at an exciting crossroad in neurocritical care where we know that many patients appear to be unconscious, but some are recovering without our knowledge,” Dr Claassen said. “We’re starting to lift the lid a little bit and find some signs of recovery as it’s happening.” Source link #Sleep #patterns #hold #key #predicting #recovery #acute #brain #injury #patients Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Huge combine harvesters arrive in London for Pancake Day rally after police tractor ban Huge combine harvesters arrive in London for Pancake Day rally after police tractor ban Huge combine harvesters have arrived in London for a “Pancake Day rally” after police banned tractors from the capital. Thousands of farmers are expected to descend on London today for a protest from Whitehall towards Parliament at midday over inheritance tax changes. The Met Police has banned all “mechanically propelled vehicles” from London following protests last month that saw hundreds of tractors disrupt traffic across the city. A small number of farming vehicles have been allowed into London with prior permission from the police. It is unclear if the three four-metre tall combine harvesters parked in Whitehall were approved. The march is the latest action being taken by farmers who are unhappy over Labour’s plan to bring in a 20 per cent inheritance tax rate on agricultural land and businesses worth more than £1m. Farmer Olly Harrison, one of the organisers, has said the protesters will aim to explain to MPs “the levels of investment needed in agriculture just to produce something simple like a pancake”. The Lib Dems and the Conservatives have urged Labour to scrap the changes, which are due to come into force from April 2026. Key points Protesting farmers turn up in huge combine harvesters Farmers could be arrested if they drive tractors at rally, police warn Farmers to gather in London for pancake day protest against inheritance tax Third Labour MP speaks out against inheritance tax plans What is the government’s new inheritance tax policy for farms? 11:28 , Alexander Butler Labour is pressing ahead with a 20 per cent inheritance tax rate on agricultural land and businesses worth more than £1m, essentially scrapping an exemption which meant no tax was paid to pass down family farms. Farmers say that it will force land sales, stall investment, and hurt families lacking succession plans. But the Government has stood firm, calling the move a “fair and balanced approach”. The Lib Dems and the Conservatives urged Labour to scrap the changes, which are due to come into force from April 2026. Pictured: Farmers turn up for inheritance tax protest 11:08 , Alexander Butler Children turn up for farmer protest: ‘Forsake of the Pancake!’ (Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire) A farmer with a placard reading ‘No farmers, no food!’ (Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire) Pictured: Farming vehicles drive up Parliament Street 11:00 , Alexander Butler A JCB tractor drives along Parliament Street (Alex Croft/The Independent) A forage harvester drives among traffic in Whitehall (Alex Croft/The Independent) Tractors and harvesters drive onto Parliament Street 10:52 , Alexander Butler Dozens of tractors and harvesters have started driving onto Parliament Street, Alex Croft reports. The huge vehicles were parked off the main thoroughfare this morning. It is not clear if they have permission to be there or not. The Met Police banned all “mechanically propelled vehicles” from London following protests last month that saw hundreds of tractors disrupt traffic across the city. However, a small number of farming vehicles have been allowed into London with prior permission from the police. A four-metre tall Grimme sugar beat harvester driving on to Parliament Street (Alex Croft/The Independent) The sugar beat harvester on Whitehall this morning (Alex Croft/The Independent) ‘We must stand up to government’s inheritance tax plans’, Labour MP says 10:39 A third Labour MP has broke ranks with the party to oppose the government’s plans for inheritance tax. Henry Tufnell, MP for South and Mid-Pembrokeshire, warned it was not only wealthy landowners who would be affected by the decision to levy inheritance tax on farms worth more than £1m. “It’s affecting the fabric of the society within those rural communities and that’s why we were elected,” Mr Tufnell told Sky News. Protesting farmers turn up in huge combine harvesters 09:57 , Alexander Butler Protesting farmers have turned up to London in gigantic combine harvesters. A huge Grimme sugar beat harvester towered over two smaller vehicles outside Whitehall this morning. A self-propelled Claas Jaguar 970 forage harvester was parked next to it, alongside a Claas combine harvester. The Met Police has banned all “mechanically propelled vehicles” from London following protests last month that saw hundreds of tractors descend on the city. Some vehicles have been allowed into London with prior permission from the police. ‘We don’t need any tractors,’ say organisers in face of arrest threat 09:40 , Alexander Butler Farmer Olly Harrison, one of the organisers, said: “We don’t need any tractors, this is on foot. “We are going to have some kit to show to the MPs to explain the levels of investment. “We’ve sorted all that out, you just get yourself there on foot,” he told those taking part. “Let’s explain the levels of investment needed in agriculture just to produce something simple like a pancake.” Commitment to farmers ‘steadfast’ government says 09:27 , Alexander Butler A Government spokesperson said: “Our commitment to farmers remains steadfast. “This Government are investing £5 billion into farming, the largest budget for sustainable food production in our country’s history. “We are going further with reforms to boost profits for farmers by backing British produce and reforming planning rules on farms to support food production. “Our reform to agricultural and business property reliefs will mean three quarters of estates will continue to pay no inheritance tax at all, while the remaining quarter will pay half the inheritance tax that most people pay, and payments can be spread over 10 years, interest-free. “This is a fair and balanced approach which helps fix the public services we all rely on.” What is the ‘tractor tax’? 09:20 , Alexander Butler Labour is pressing ahead with a 20 per cent inheritance tax rate on agricultural land and businesses worth more than £1 million. The move essentially scraps an exemption that meant no tax was paid to pass down family farms. The plans are due to come into force from April 2026. Farmers and their tractors protest in Whitehall, London last month (Gareth Fuller/PA) (PA Wire) Police statement on farmer’s protests today 08:39 , Alexander Butler Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ben Russell, who is commanding the policing operation, said: “Two previous protests have taken place in the same area, with the same organisers, in recent months. “The second protest saw a significant number of people attend with tractors and other large farming vehicles. Whitehall was blocked for much of the day and there were lengthy significant delays on surrounding roads. “It is our responsibility to ensure that protests don’t cause serious disruption to the life of the community and we’ve used our powers under the Public Order Act to ensure that does not happen on Tuesday. “We have been in regular contact with the organisers to explain our decision making and I’m grateful for the positive and collaborative approach they have taken.” Why are Britain’s farmers protesting? 08:37 , Alexander Butler Why are Britain’s farmers protesting? ‘We don’t need any tractors,’ say organisers in face of arrest threat 07:59 , Tara Cobham Farmer Olly Harrison, one of the organisers, said: “We don’t need any tractors, this is on foot. “We are going to have some kit to show to the MPs to explain the levels of investment. “We’ve sorted all that out, you just get yourself there on foot,” he told those taking part. “Let’s explain the levels of investment needed in agriculture just to produce something simple like a pancake.” Farmers could be arrested if they drive tractors at rally, police warn 07:51 , Tara Cobham Farmers could be arrested if they drive their tractors at a march in central London, police have said. Conditions have been imposed under the Public Order Act preventing demonstrators from bringing tractors, other than a limited number already agreed by the organisers to demonstrate the costs of such specialist equipment, the Metropolitan Police said. Deputy assistant commissioner Ben Russell, who is leading the policing operation, said last month’s protest saw a “significant number of people attend with tractors and other large farming vehicles”. He said there were lengthy road delays, adding: “It is our responsibility to ensure that protests don’t cause serious disruption to the life of the community.” Scotland Yard warned that it is a criminal offence to breach the conditions or to incite others to do so, and that anyone doing so may face arrest. Farmers and their tractors descended on Parliament Square in further protests against new tax rules last month (PA Wire) What are the farmers’ and government’s arguments 07:45 Farmers say that it will force land sales, stall investment, and hurt families lacking succession plans. But the government has stood firm, calling the move a “fair and balanced approach”. Government stands firm in face of strong opposition to the move 07:41 , Tara Cobham The government has stood firm in the face of strong opposition to the move, insisting its approach is “fair and balanced”. A government spokesperson said: “Our commitment to farmers remains steadfast. “This Government are investing £5 billion into farming, the largest budget for sustainable food production in our country’s history. “We are going further with reforms to boost profits for farmers by backing British produce and reforming planning rules on farms to support food production. “Our reform to agricultural and business property reliefs will mean three quarters of estates will continue to pay no inheritance tax at all, while the remaining quarter will pay half the inheritance tax that most people pay, and payments can be spread over 10 years, interest-free. “This is a fair and balanced approach which helps fix the public services we all rely on.” The government has stood firm in the face of strong opposition to the move (PA Wire) Lib Dems and Tories have urged Labour to scrap the changes 07:39 , Tara Cobham The Lib Dems and the Conservatives urged Labour to scrap the changes. Shadow environment secretary Victoria Atkins called the move “vindictive”. “Once again, rural communities will gather in Westminster to show their united opposition to Labour’s vindictive family farms tax. “Our rural communities have warned repeatedly that Labour’s tax hike is stopping investment, inflicting an enormous emotional toll on farming families and will break family farms,” she said. She also argued that introducing this tax puts domestic food production and security at risk. Tim Farron, the Lib Dem environment spokesman, said: “British farmers are the best in the world. We need them now more than ever to restore nature, provide food security, tackle climate change and support the rural economy. “The Government must reverse this disastrous family farm tax and instead provide farmers with the support and funding they need to do what is best for the country and for future generations.” Shadow environment secretary Victoria Atkins called the move ‘vindictive’ (Lucy North/PA Wire) What is the ‘tractor tax’ 07:37 , Tara Cobham Labour is pressing ahead with a 20 per cent inheritance tax rate on agricultural land and businesses worth more than £1 million. The move essentially scraps an exemption that meant no tax was paid to pass down family farms. The plans are due to come into force from April 2026. Tractors have featured heavily at previous farmers’ protests in London – but on Tuesday, police have banned farmers bringing the vehicles (PA Wire) Farmers to gather in London for pancake day protest against inheritance tax 07:34 , Tara Cobham Farmers will return to central London to protest inheritance tax changes with a “Pancake Day rally” on Tuesday. Attendees will march from Whitehall at around midday towards Parliament, with the demonstration due to end at 3pm. The protest will be largely on foot as police are allowing only a limited number of tractors after last month’s demonstration caused traffic delays. Farmers who bring tractors in breach of the conditions could face arrest. Farmer Olly Harrison, one of the organisers, has said the protesters will aim to explain to MPs “the levels of investment needed in agriculture just to produce something simple like a pancake”. Source link #Huge #combine #harvesters #arrive #London #Pancake #Day #rally #police #tractor #ban Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]