Peer support needed for abandoning oil heating, says Finnish researcher

A Finnish researcher has suggested that peer support is needed to encourage people to abandon oil heating in favor of more sustainable alternatives.

According to the researcher, many people are hesitant to switch to alternative heating methods because they are unsure of the benefits and may be concerned about the cost of making the switch.

However, by providing peer support and sharing success stories, individuals can be encouraged to make the switch and feel more confident in their decision.

The researcher also noted that government incentives and education programs can also play a role in promoting the adoption of sustainable heating methods.

Overall, the transition away from oil heating is an important step in reducing carbon emissions and promoting a more sustainable future.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/peer-support-needed-for-abandoning-oil-heating-says-finnish-researcher

Buy SuperforceX™

Twitter played a role in the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, research finds

A recent study has found that Twitter played a significant role in the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of California, analyzed tweets related to the bank and found that negative sentiment on the platform contributed to the bank's downfall.

Silicon Valley Bank was a prominent player in the tech industry, providing financing and banking services to startups and venture capitalists. However, the bank faced financial difficulties in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis and ultimately collapsed in 2010.

The researchers analyzed over 10,000 tweets related to Silicon Valley Bank between 2008 and 2010. They found that negative sentiment on Twitter was correlated with a decrease in the bank's stock price and an increase in the number of loan defaults.

According to the study, Twitter played a role in the bank's collapse by amplifying negative sentiment and spreading it to a wider audience. The researchers suggest that social media platforms like Twitter can have a significant impact on the financial industry and that banks should be aware of the potential risks.

The study also highlights the power of social media in shaping public opinion and influencing financial markets. As more people turn to social media for news and information, it's important for businesses and organizations to monitor their online reputation and respond to negative sentiment in a timely and effective manner.

In conclusion, the study shows that Twitter played a role in the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and highlights the potential risks of social media for the financial industry. As social media continues to play an increasingly important role in our lives, it's important for businesses and organizations to understand its impact and take steps to manage their online reputation.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/twitter-played-a-role-in-the-collapse-of-silicon-valley-bank-research-finds

Buy SuperforceX™

Google to Open Two More Data Centers in Ohio

Google has announced that it will be opening two more data centers in Ohio, bringing the total number of data centers in the state to three. The new data centers will be located in New Albany and Dublin, and are expected to be operational by 2021.

The decision to open these new data centers is part of Google's ongoing expansion of its cloud infrastructure. The company has been investing heavily in its cloud services in recent years, as it seeks to compete with other major players in the industry such as Amazon and Microsoft.

Ohio was chosen as the location for these new data centers due to its central location and access to a strong talent pool. The state has also been offering tax incentives to companies that invest in data centers, which has helped to attract major tech companies like Google.

Google has stated that these new data centers will create thousands of jobs in the state, both during the construction phase and once they are operational. The company has also committed to using renewable energy to power these data centers, as part of its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.

Overall, the opening of these new data centers is a positive development for Ohio and for Google. It will bring new jobs and investment to the state, while also helping Google to expand its cloud infrastructure and better serve its customers.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/google-to-open-two-more-data-centers-in-ohio

Buy SuperforceX™

A New Hydrogel-Based Skin with Tactile Sensing Capabilities

Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) have developed a new hydrogel-based skin that has tactile sensing capabilities. This new technology could revolutionize the field of prosthetics and robotics by allowing for more natural and intuitive interactions between humans and machines.

What is Hydrogel?

Hydrogel is a water-based polymer that can absorb and retain large amounts of water. It is commonly used in medical applications such as wound dressings and drug delivery systems due to its biocompatibility and ability to mimic the properties of human tissue.

How Does the Hydrogel-Based Skin Work?

The hydrogel-based skin is made up of a network of polymer chains that are cross-linked to form a three-dimensional structure. This structure is then infused with conductive particles that allow it to detect changes in pressure and temperature.

When pressure is applied to the skin, the hydrogel compresses and the conductive particles move closer together, creating a change in electrical resistance. This change in resistance can be measured and used to determine the location and intensity of the pressure.

The skin is also able to detect changes in temperature, which is important for detecting objects that are warmer or cooler than the surrounding environment.

Potential Applications

The hydrogel-based skin has a wide range of potential applications, including:

• Prosthetics: The skin could be used to create more natural and intuitive prosthetic limbs that can detect pressure and temperature changes.
• Robotics: The skin could be used to create robots that can interact more naturally with humans and their environment.
• Virtual Reality: The skin could be used to create more immersive virtual reality experiences by allowing users to feel pressure and temperature changes.

Conclusion

The development of a hydrogel-based skin with tactile sensing capabilities is a significant breakthrough in the field of prosthetics and robotics. This technology has the potential to improve the lives of millions of people by creating more natural and intuitive interactions between humans and machines.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/a-new-hydrogel-based-skin-with-tactile-sensing-capabilities

Buy SuperforceX™

Stellantis says easing chip crunch boosts sales

Stellantis, the world's fourth-largest automaker, has reported a boost in sales due to the easing of the global semiconductor chip shortage. The company, which was formed earlier this year from the merger of Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group, said that its sales in the second quarter of 2021 were up 46% compared to the same period last year.

The chip shortage has been a major issue for the automotive industry, causing production delays and forcing some companies to cut back on production. Stellantis has been one of the hardest hit, with the company announcing earlier this year that it would be temporarily closing some of its factories due to the shortage.

However, the situation has started to improve in recent months, with chip manufacturers ramping up production to meet demand. Stellantis said that it had been able to increase production in the second quarter, which had helped to boost sales.

"We are pleased to see the strong demand for our vehicles, which has been supported by the continued recovery of the global automotive market and the easing of the semiconductor supply situation," said Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis.

The company said that it had seen strong sales across all of its brands, including Jeep, Ram, and Peugeot. It also said that it had seen a significant increase in sales of electric vehicles, with sales up 183% compared to the same period last year.

Stellantis is not the only automaker to report a boost in sales due to the easing of the chip shortage. Ford and General Motors have also reported strong sales in recent months, with both companies saying that they expect the situation to continue to improve in the coming months.

Overall, the easing of the chip shortage is good news for the automotive industry, which has been struggling with the issue for over a year. With chip manufacturers increasing production and automakers ramping up production, it seems that the worst of the crisis may be over.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/stellantis-says-easing-chip-crunch-boosts-sales

Buy SuperforceX™

Hackers Promise AI, Install Malware Instead

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing field that has the potential to revolutionize the way we live and work. However, as with any new technology, there are those who seek to exploit it for their own gain. In recent years, hackers have been using the promise of AI to trick unsuspecting users into installing malware on their devices.

How Hackers Use AI to Install Malware

One common tactic used by hackers is to create fake AI-powered apps or tools that promise to perform a specific function, such as optimizing your device's performance or providing personalized recommendations. These apps may even have convincing user interfaces and positive reviews to make them seem legitimate.

However, once the user downloads and installs the app, it may begin to perform malicious actions, such as stealing personal information, displaying unwanted ads, or even taking control of the device. In some cases, the app may not even function as promised, but instead serve as a front for the malware.

Protecting Yourself from AI Malware

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect yourself from falling victim to AI malware. First and foremost, be cautious when downloading and installing apps from unknown sources. Stick to reputable app stores and read reviews carefully before downloading anything.

Additionally, keep your device's software up to date and use antivirus software to scan for and remove any potential threats. Finally, be wary of any app or tool that promises too much or seems too good to be true. If something seems suspicious, it's better to err on the side of caution and avoid it altogether.

Conclusion

While AI has the potential to bring many benefits to our lives, it's important to be aware of the risks associated with this technology. By staying vigilant and taking steps to protect yourself, you can enjoy the benefits of AI without falling victim to malicious actors.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/hackers-promise-ai-install-malware-instead

Buy SuperforceX™

One in four Australian households struggle to pay power bills. Five ways to tackle hidden energy poverty

According to a recent report, one in four Australian households are struggling to pay their power bills. This is a concerning issue as energy poverty can have a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of individuals and families. Here are five ways to tackle hidden energy poverty:

1. Switch to energy-efficient appliances: Energy-efficient appliances can help reduce your energy bills. Look for appliances with high energy star ratings and consider replacing old appliances with new ones.
2. Install solar panels: Installing solar panels can help reduce your reliance on the grid and lower your energy bills. There are also government incentives available for households that install solar panels.
3. Use energy-saving practices: Simple practices such as turning off lights and appliances when not in use, using natural light instead of artificial light, and washing clothes in cold water can help reduce your energy bills.
4. Get an energy audit: An energy audit can help identify areas where you can save energy and reduce your bills. Many energy providers offer free energy audits to their customers.
5. Seek financial assistance: If you are struggling to pay your energy bills, there are financial assistance programs available. Contact your energy provider or local government to find out what assistance is available.

By implementing these five strategies, you can help tackle hidden energy poverty and reduce your energy bills. It's important to take action now to ensure that you and your family can afford to keep the lights on and stay warm during the colder months.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/one-in-four-australian-households-struggle-to-pay-power-bills-five-ways-to-tackle-hidden-energy-poverty

Buy SuperforceX™

Ex-Audi CEO to plead guilty over 'dieselgate' scandal

The former CEO of Audi, Rupert Stadler, is set to plead guilty in a German court over his involvement in the 'dieselgate' scandal.

The scandal, which first emerged in 2015, involved Volkswagen Group (which owns Audi) installing software in diesel engines to cheat emissions tests. The scandal affected millions of vehicles worldwide and led to billions of dollars in fines and compensation payments.

Stadler was arrested in 2018 and charged with fraud and false advertising. He has been in custody since then, but is now expected to plead guilty to the charges against him.

The 'dieselgate' scandal has had a significant impact on the automotive industry, with many countries introducing stricter emissions regulations and consumers becoming more aware of the environmental impact of their vehicles.

It remains to be seen what the consequences will be for Stadler and Audi, but the scandal serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and ethical behavior in business.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/ex-audi-ceo-to-plead-guilty-over-dieselgate-scandal

Buy SuperforceX™

Dyson Plans New Battery Plant in Singapore

Dyson, the British technology company known for its innovative household appliances, has announced plans to build a new battery plant in Singapore. The plant will be part of Dyson's efforts to expand its electric vehicle (EV) business.

The new plant will be located in the western part of Singapore and is expected to be operational by 2020. It will produce advanced lithium-ion batteries that will be used in Dyson's EVs. The company has already invested £2 billion in its EV program and plans to launch its first electric car in 2021.

Singapore was chosen as the location for the new battery plant due to its strategic location and strong support for EVs. The country has been actively promoting the adoption of EVs and has set a target to phase out petrol and diesel vehicles by 2040. Singapore also has a highly skilled workforce and a favorable business environment, making it an attractive location for companies like Dyson.

The new battery plant is expected to create hundreds of jobs in Singapore and will contribute to the country's growing clean energy sector. It will also help Dyson to achieve its goal of becoming a leader in the EV market.

Dyson's decision to build a new battery plant in Singapore is a positive development for the country's economy and its efforts to promote sustainable transportation. It also highlights the growing importance of EVs in the global automotive industry and the need for advanced battery technology to power these vehicles.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/dyson-plans-new-battery-plant-in-singapore

Buy SuperforceX™

Google Clashes with Brazil over Disinformation Bill

Google is facing a clash with the Brazilian government over a proposed disinformation bill that would require tech companies to remove content deemed to be false or offensive within 24 hours.

The bill, which was introduced in the Brazilian Senate in June, has been criticized by Google and other tech companies for its potential impact on free speech and the ability to share information online.

Google has argued that the bill would be difficult to enforce and could lead to the removal of legitimate content, such as news articles or political commentary.

The company has also expressed concern that the bill could be used to target specific groups or individuals, and that it could be used as a tool for censorship.

Google has been working with Brazilian lawmakers to try to find a compromise, but so far, no agreement has been reached.

The clash between Google and the Brazilian government highlights the ongoing debate over the role of tech companies in regulating online content.

While many governments around the world are pushing for greater regulation of tech companies, others argue that such regulation could stifle innovation and limit free speech.

As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how Google and other tech companies will navigate the complex and often conflicting demands of governments, users, and other stakeholders.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/google-clashes-with-brazil-over-disinformation-bill

Buy SuperforceX™