Lai Ching-te officially becomes Taiwan's president, succeeding Tsai Ing-wen amid heightened tensions with China. Lai aims for peace with Beijing, despite being labeled a separatist. Vice-president Hsiao Bi-khim, known as the "cat warrior," also sworn in. China's greyzone tactics include cyberattacks and military incursions. Lai, a former vice-president, faces challenges in a divided legislature. Taiwan-China relations remain strained, with China's goal of unification. tensions have escalated with increased Chinese aggression.

Demand for AI "enablers" is rising, with Asian companies poised to benefit. Data center capacity in Asia and the U.S. is projected to grow at 20% annually from 2023 to 2027. Asia's data center power needs are expected to double by 2027, with over $100 billion to be invested in AI. Morgan Stanley recommends Tenaga Nasional, Sembcorp Industries, and GDS Holdings, with potential upsides of over 35%.

UK government researchers found that chatbot AI models are easily manipulated to issue harmful responses, even without deliberate efforts. The AI Safety Institute tested five large language models, revealing vulnerabilities to basic jailbreaks. Developers like OpenAI and Anthropic emphasize internal testing to prevent harmful content. The research, released ahead of a global AI summit, highlights the need for safety measures in AI technology.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's helicopter crashed in heavy fog during a convoy, with rescue teams facing challenges due to weather conditions. The incident occurred near Jolfa, Iran, close to the Azerbaijan border. President Raisi was traveling with officials, including Iran's Foreign Minister. The president's life is at risk, and prayers have been requested. Raisi, a hard-liner, won the 2021 election and faces US sanctions.

The crash of President Raisi's helicopter in Iran comes amidst economic turmoil, public discontent, and geopolitical tensions with Israel and the U.S. If the president dies, the vice president must organize an election within 50 days. Iran faces a crisis of legitimacy, with recent protests, economic struggles, and high inflation. The country's future remains uncertain, with questions about the next supreme leader.

Stroke is a leading cause of disability and death globally. A new test combining blood biomarkers and a clinical score can accurately identify large vessel occlusion strokes (LVO), a severe type of ischemic stroke. This tool could revolutionize stroke care, ensuring timely treatment. In a study of 323 patients, the test detected LVO strokes with 93% specificity and 81% sensitivity, ruling out brain bleeds. Future use in low-resource settings is promising.

Social media harbors an online underworld where young girls' photos are exploited by men. From small websites to large platforms, children's images are being consumed inappropriately. Men make sexual comments and pay for exclusive content, with some even transforming photos into pornographic deepfakes. Brands like BrandArmy and Instagram are profiting from this exploitation. Authorities warn about the criminality and urge vigilance to protect children online.

The upcoming week holds significant events globally. Former US President Donald Trump faces a final verdict in a "hush money" case. In the UK, inquiries into infected blood and wrongful convictions continue. Julian Assange's extradition appeal decision is expected. Central bankers will speak, and economic data will be released. Corporate news includes shareholder votes and earnings reports. Taiwan's new president will be inaugurated. Chelsea Flower Show and other world events are scheduled.

Google's AI chatbot Bard's incorrect response caused a $100bn loss for Alphabet. The rush to release advanced AI software, like Microsoft's ChatGPT, led to market competition. Companies prioritize profit over reliability, risking safety and societal welfare. Tesla's rushed AI features led to crashes and recalls. Start-ups launch subpar AI devices, prompting warnings from OpenAI. Governments and industry leaders advocate for responsible AI development. The tech industry faces ethical challenges in AI proliferation.

UN's Martin Griffiths warns of dire consequences in Gaza due to aid shortages caused by Israel's military offensive. Only 50 trucks of aid daily reach the north, while routes to the south are blocked. Relief supplies via a temporary floating pier are insufficient. Israeli airstrikes in Rafah and northern Gaza have resulted in civilian casualties and destruction. Internal unrest in Israel over the handling of the situation is escalating.

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is the third leading cause of death in Pakistan, with around 300,000 annual deaths due to drug-resistant bacteria. Pakistan is the third-largest consumer of antibiotics globally, with Rs126 billion worth consumed in 2023. Health experts warn against misuse, overuse, and abuse of antibiotics, leading to global public health concerns. Efforts are being made to raise awareness and develop a national action plan.

NASA-funded Pulsed Plasma Rocket (PPR) aims to reduce travel time to Mars to just two months, generating up to 100,000 N of thrust with a specific impulse of 5,000 seconds. This innovative propulsion system could revolutionize deep space missions, enabling more efficient and rapid travel for astronauts and cargo, while reducing crew exposure to Galactic Cosmic Rays. The project is advancing to Phase II of the NASA Innovative Advanced Concept study.

A recent report shows Social Security's trust funds may be depleted in a decade. Despite this, benefits will continue with revenue from payroll taxes. 75% of adults 50+ fear benefits will run out, but even if trust funds deplete, benefits will be reduced. Most claim at 62, facing a 30% cut. Waiting past full retirement age increases benefits by 8% yearly. Experts advise delaying claiming for higher benefits.

The World Health Organization's Bacterial Pathogens Priority List (BPPL) highlights critical antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including gram-negative and Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains. High priority pathogens like salmonella and shigella are prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, posing significant healthcare challenges. Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a growing concern due to misuse of antibiotics. The list aids in prioritizing research and interventions to combat drug-resistant bacteria and safeguard public health.

Universities face challenges balancing free speech with safety amid protests over the Israel-Hamas conflict. Over 35,000 deaths in Gaza, 1,200 in Israel, and 250 hostages. Protests at U.S. campuses led to arrests and police intervention. Worldwide, universities grapple with allowing or intervening in demonstrations. Administrators' handling of protests under scrutiny. Pro-Palestinian encampments in the U.K. and Europe. Cambridge University protesters emphasize freedom of expression and community support.

The Supreme Court will hear a petition on May 20 challenging India's new criminal laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Act. These laws replace the IPC, CrPC, and Indian Evidence Act. The PIL claims the laws were enacted without proper debate and seeks a stay. The new laws introduce harsher penalties for sedition and define terrorism for the first time.

In January 2020, China identified Sars-CoV-2 as transmissible from human to human, leading to a lockdown of Wuhan. Despite early detection and a revamped disease reporting system post-Sars, bureaucratic missteps and censorship allowed the virus to spread globally. A study suggests that if Wuhan had locked down earlier, Covid-19 cases in China could have been significantly lower. Chinese authorities failed to learn from past mistakes.

Physicists from National Cheng Kung University developed a protocol for fast-charging quantum batteries, leveraging the wave-like nature of particles. By using a trapped ion as a qubit, they demonstrated efficient energy storage through superposition. The 'many doorways, one room' approach induced an interference effect, potentially leading to a "perfect charging phenomenon." This scalable process could revolutionize energy storage, offering rapid charging and power extraction from quantum systems.

Chris van Tulleken advocates for healthier eating habits to combat the negative effects of ultra-processed foods. He emphasizes the importance of community and authenticity in food choices. Van Tulleken suggests outlawing conflicts of interest in scientific bodies and implementing warning labels on unhealthy foods. He criticizes multinational food companies for prioritizing profit over public health. His research highlights the harmful impact of ultra-processed foods on physical and mental well-being.

Bill Gates recommends "Brave New Words: How AI Will Revolutionize Education" by Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy. The book discusses AI's potential to enhance global education by tailoring lessons and assisting teachers. Gates believes AI tutoring can help close the education gap for low-income students. Khan Academy's AI chatbot tutor, Khanmigo, has been rolled out to over 65,000 students. Gates sees AI as a game-changer in education's future.

A new theory of quantum gravity could explain the discrepancy in the expansion rate of the universe. The Hubble tension, with a 10% difference in measurements, may be resolved by incorporating quantum effects into the theory. This could align the Hubble parameter values from different observations. The study suggests that quantum gravity's role in the early universe could be experimentally tested through cosmic microwave background properties and gravitational wave characteristics.

An international media investigation, Dubai Unlocked, revealed individuals, including terrorist financiers and drug lords, purchasing millions in Dubai properties. Notable names include former Afghan Parliament Speaker Mir Rahman Rahmani and cryptocurrency scammers linked to a US$4 billion fraud case. The leak, involving over 70 media outlets, exposed ownership details of hundreds of thousands of properties. Accused Su Jianfeng allegedly sold Dubai properties worth tens of millions to foreigners in Singapore.

Saudi Arabia's Prince Mohammed bin Salman and US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met in Dhahran to discuss strategic agreements, including potential recognition of Israel. Talks also covered the Palestinian issue, Gaza conflict, and humanitarian aid. The Biden administration aims for Saudi recognition of Israel in exchange for security ties. The Gaza conflict resulted in over 1,170 deaths, with Saudi-Israeli normalization pending Palestinian state recognition.

Green-tech investment is crucial to combat climate change. Private companies are developing solutions like green power, battery efficiency, and mycelium-based materials. Meghan Sharp from Decarbonization Partners discusses investing in clean energy and green materials. Green technology excites investors, with a focus on emerging technologies in the next decade. Investment in green tech is growing rapidly. Follow Green Pulse Podcast for more insights on sustainable solutions.

Ben-Gurion University researchers discovered how cancer cells survive without glucose, potentially leading to new cancer treatments. The protein EBP4 regulates fat production in cells during glucose starvation. By disrupting this mechanism, cells cannot survive starvation or form tumors. This finding is crucial for brain cancer treatment development. Collaboration with BGN Technologies aims to create a molecule targeting EBP4 for cancer therapy.

Brazil reported 4,921,252 cases of dengue fever in 2024, the highest on record. The Oswaldo Cruz Foundation in Rio de Janeiro cultivates Aedes aegypti mosquitoes carrying Wolbachia bacteria to reduce virus transmission. Wolbachia inhibits virus development in mosquitoes. The foundation's biotechnology factory aims to combat dengue fever by spreading Wolbachia in mosquitoes. (65 words)

Technology's impact on humanity is debated between Silicon Valley's vision of unity and Hollywood's fear of dehumanization. The Portal project, aiming for global connection, faced lewd behavior and controversy. Online disinhibition, tribalism, and immaturity are noted, likening adult online behavior to childlike antics. The internet's influence on society is compared to domesticating wolves into dogs, suggesting a regression into immaturity.

Climate greatly impacts malaria transmission. In Africa, 94% of global cases and 608,000 deaths occur annually. A new study predicts a decrease in malaria suitability by 2100, especially in West Africa, but an increase in river corridors. Hydrology-driven models show more accurate results than previous rainfall-based ones. Understanding these changes can aid in targeted malaria control efforts.

A new dengue vaccine has received WHO pre-qualification, offering hope in the fight against the disease. Dengue fever poses a significant global health challenge with debilitating symptoms and fatal complications. The vaccine's approval marks a crucial step forward, especially for countries like Pakistan facing recurrent outbreaks. Ensuring equitable access and integrating the vaccine into national immunization programs are vital for effective prevention and control.

In the tech world this week: 1) OpenAI released GPT-4o, a new language model with multimodal capabilities. 2) Google introduced Gemini 1.5 Flash and Project Astra to rival OpenAI's GPT-4o. 3) Apple launched iOS 17.5 with new features like cross-platform tracking detection. 4) iPhone 16 Pro models may have larger, brighter displays with a 20% peak brightness boost for SDR content.

OpenAI introduced GPT-4o, a versatile model responding to audio inputs in 232 milliseconds. Google announced AI-generated Search summaries using the Gemini model. A Sophos report revealed 64% of Indian organizations faced ransomware attacks in 2023, with an average ransom demand of $4.8 million. Livemint was recognized as the fastest-growing news website globally.

Israel's military campaign in Gaza has killed over 35,000 Palestinians, including nearly 14,000 children, in the past seven months. The New York Times' coverage of the events has been criticized for its lack of objectivity. The Western media's pro-Israel bias has been highlighted, with examples of skewed reporting and editorial decisions. Despite some journalists' efforts, there is a long way to go in achieving balanced coverage of the Palestine issue.

OpenAI's Superalignment team, tasked with overseeing superintelligent AI systems, faced resource allocation issues leading to key resignations, including co-lead Jan Leike and co-founder Ilya Sutskever. The team aimed to address technical challenges in controlling AI. Despite publishing safety research and granting funds, the team disbanded, raising concerns about OpenAI's safety focus. Leike emphasized the importance of preparing for advanced AI models.

In 2023, Cassie accused Sean "Diddy" Combs of abuse, leading to a settlement. Subsequent lawsuits alleged sexual abuse dating back to the 1990s. Combs temporarily stepped down from Revolt, faced business setbacks, and denied all allegations. In 2024, a video surfaced showing Combs attacking Cassie in 2016. Homeland Security raided his homes in a sex-trafficking investigation. Combs denies all accusations.

A study funded by Cancer Research UK found the HPV vaccine reduces cervical cancer cases, particularly in more deprived groups. The vaccine prevented around 190 cases in the most deprived group compared to around 60 in the least deprived. Over 12 years, the vaccine reduced cervical cancer rates by nearly 90% and pre-cancerous conditions by around 95%. The study emphasizes the importance of early vaccination.

Donald Trump's criminal trial nears its end with Michael Cohen's damning testimony about hush money payments to Stormy Daniels. Trump faces 34 felony counts for falsifying business records. Cohen testified Trump directed the payments and orchestrated the cover-up. Trump's defense painted Cohen as a liar. Republicans show support. The jury's decision could impact Trump's political future. Polls show a slight increase in Americans believing Trump committed a crime.

Apple is set to reveal its plans for generative AI at the Worldwide Developers Conference on June 10. Speculation surrounds potential partnerships with ChatGPT or Google's Gemini technology for iPhone integration. Apple's focus on privacy and in-house chip manufacturing could shape its approach. Analysts predict a significant AI launch following recent advancements in the field. The company aims to differentiate itself through hardware, software, and privacy.

Climate change negatively impacts individuals with brain conditions, worsening symptoms and increasing mortality. Urgent action is needed to protect vulnerable populations. Research led by UCL highlights the substantial potential effects of climate change on neurological and psychiatric disorders. Extreme temperatures, poor sleep, and adverse weather events exacerbate brain health issues. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding and mitigating climate change's impact on brain health.

An experimental HIV vaccine at Duke University triggered broadly neutralizing antibodies in a 2019 trial, offering hope for a lasting solution. HIV has infected over 85 million and caused 40 million deaths. PrEP reduces HIV risk but requires daily use. HIV mutates rapidly, making vaccine development challenging. Broadly neutralizing antibodies are key, but difficult to produce. Researchers aim to create a vaccine targeting multiple HIV strains.

Health experts warn against drinking raw milk for immunity from bird flu, as H5N1 has been found in U.S. cattle herds. Raw milk sales increased by 21%, but experts caution against consuming it due to health risks. H5N1 has infected 48 mammal species, including dairy cows. The FDA advises against raw milk consumption due to disease-causing microbes. H5N1 has infected nearly 890 people globally, with a 52% fatality rate.

Approximately two-thirds of the world's coral reefs are experiencing bleaching due to severe heat stress, as reported by NOAA. This threatens marine biodiversity and coastal economies. The 2014-2017 event was severe, but 2023-24 could surpass it. Recent assessments show alarming coral mortality, with up to 93% bleaching in some areas. The Atlantic Ocean is particularly affected, with nearly 100% of its reefs experiencing bleaching-level heat stress.

A team of international scientists reported that human-driven climate change worsened extreme temperatures in Asia last month. Record-breaking heat affected billions, with deaths, school closures, and crop damage. Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam saw their hottest April days, while India reached 46°C. Climate change made extreme temperatures in South Asia 45 times more likely. Urgent action is needed to adapt and protect vulnerable populations.

Solar storms, or solar flares, are natural occurrences from the Sun, posing threats to technology-dependent civilization. NASA's model, DAGGER, provides a 30-minute warning before a storm hits. The Carrington Event in 1859 was the most intense recorded storm. DAGGER uses AI to predict solar storm impacts rapidly and accurately, offering crucial lead time for preparation. This technology could revolutionize our response to solar threats.

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed willingness to negotiate over the conflict in Ukraine during an interview with Chinese media. The ongoing conflict has forced nearly 8,000 people to flee their homes. Ukraine awaits new military supplies from the U.S. China claims neutrality but supports Russia's stance. Putin praised China's peace plan for Ukraine. The visit aims to strengthen Russia-China ties and challenge the Western democratic order.

A study presented at the European Congress of Obesity revealed that participants taking semaglutide had a 20% lower risk of heart attack, stroke, or death due to cardiovascular disease. The research involved 17,604 adults across 41 countries, showing promising cardiovascular benefits regardless of weight loss. Semaglutide could be a groundbreaking medical breakthrough akin to statins, potentially transforming chronic diseases. Participants on semaglutide lost more weight than those on a placebo.

President Biden and Secretary Blinken warned of Ukraine's vulnerability due to delayed U.S. arms approval. The gap in funding left Ukraine weakened, lacking critical equipment. Despite this, Ukrainians held their ground against Russian forces near Kharkiv. With U.S. assistance flowing in, Ukraine is expected to make gains. Secretary Blinken plans to meet with President Zelensky. The aid aims to help Ukraine "hold the line" and regain territory from Russia.

OpenAI introduces GPT-4o, a versatile AI model combining text, audio, and vision capabilities. It's free for ChatGPT users, available in the API, and faster and cheaper than GPT-4 Turbo. GPT-4o can process math problems visually, translate in real-time, and understand emotions. It features a voice assistant with dramatic or robotic tones, and even singing abilities. The model aims to revolutionize AI interactions with its multimodal approach.