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French authorities have launched a major operation to eradicate the notorious PlugX malware from infected systems across the country.

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French judicial authorities, in conjunction with Europol, have initiated a joint operation dubbed “Disinfection” aimed at cleansing infected computers of the notorious PlugX malware.

The Parisian Prosecution Office, known as the Parquet de Paris, initiated its effort on July 18, with a timeframe extending over several months.

Approximately one hundred individuals residing in France, Malta, Portugal, Croatia, Slovakia, and Austria have thus far derived benefits from the thorough cleanup initiatives undertaken.

Three months following, an event takes place that marks a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against cyber threats. In September 2023, France’s Sekoia cybersecurity agency made headlines when it successfully took down a command-and-control (C2) server linked to the notorious PlugX trojan by simply spending $7 on an IP address. It is widely acknowledged that approximately 100,000 unique public IP addresses are daily sending PlugX requests to the compromised zone.

PlugX, also known as Korplug, is a distant-entry Trojan (RAT) with a history of use by China-nexus threat actors dating back to at least 2008, often employed in conjunction with other malicious software families.

The malware typically initiates its malicious activity within compromised systems by exploiting DLL side-loading tactics, thereby enabling attackers to execute custom commands, gather or steal sensitive data, and collect system intelligence.

“This backdoor, originally created by Zhao Jibin, also known as…” The open-source Web Hypertext Application Runtime (WHG), which has undergone numerous variations throughout its development history, was first introduced by Sekoia in April of this year. “The PlugX malware’s development was reportedly shared among various intrusion groups, primarily tied to Chinese cybercrime organizations allegedly affiliated with the Ministry of State Security.”

As the technology evolved, it also developed a wormable component, allowing it to be disseminated efficiently and effectively through air-gapped networks while bypassing traditional security measures.

Sekoia, which developed an answer to neutralize PlugX, pointed out that variants of the malware utilize a USB distribution mechanism featuring a self-deletion command (“0x1005”) designed to eliminate the threat from compromised workstations; however, there currently exists no method to erase it from the affected USB devices themselves.

The worm’s ability to thrive on air-gapped networks renders these infections insidious and difficult to contain, exceeding the bounds of current security measures. The PlugX worm can persistently infect compromised USB devices, remaining dormant until reactivated when connected to a host computer.

The company has announced that due to the complexity of remotely wiping malware from devices, they are deferring decision-making authority to national Cyber Emergency Response Teams (CERTs), law enforcement agencies (LEAs), and relevant cybersecurity authorities.

French judicial authorities initiated a disinfection operation in response to a report from Sekoia.io, targeting the botnet controlled by the notorious PlugX worm. The PlugX malware is reported to have impacted millions of people globally, according to Sekoia’s findings shared with The Hacker Information. “A disinfection solution developed by Sekoia.io’s TDR team has been proposed by Europol for global adoption and is currently being rolled out worldwide.”

“We are pleased with the productive collaboration we have enjoyed with key stakeholders in France – including the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office, Police, Gendarmerie, and ANSSI – as well as our international partners, Europol and law enforcement agencies from third countries, to take decisive action against persistent malicious cyber threats.”

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Is Our Organization Leveraging the Right Intelligence to Guide GenAI Decision-Making Processes?

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Is Our Organization Leveraging the Right Intelligence to Guide GenAI Decision-Making Processes?

(Anders78/Shutterstock)

The advent of generative AI has exponentially intensified humanity’s insatiable appetite for information, specifically premium content with verifiable credibility. Despite the rapid advancements in massive language models (LLMs), experts caution that we may soon be running out of data to train them effectively?

One significant transformation brought about by transformer fashion designs, pioneered in 2017, was the adoption of unsupervised learning methodologies. Through substituting traditional coaching methods, unsupervised training with transformer models empowered AI to tap into the vast amounts of Internet-sourced data of varying quality, leveraging its capacity to learn from uncurated information.

As pre-trained language models (LLMs) have continued to advance in performance over time, they’ve necessitated more sophisticated and refined training datasets. When Lang-8 launched its innovative GPT-1 model in 2018, it featured approximately 115 million parameters and was trained on a corpus of around 7,000 unpublished books, comprising roughly 4.5 gigabytes of text data.

OpenAI’s GPT-2, introduced in 2019, marked a significant 10-fold scaling up from its predecessor, GPT-1. The company’s innovative use of WebText enabled the parameter to expand to 1.5 billion, while the coaching information grew to approximately 40 gigabytes, leveraging a proprietary coaching set developed by scraping links from Reddit users. The web corpus contains approximately 600 billion phrases, weighing in at around 40 gigabytes.

With GPT-3, OpenAI significantly increased its parameter count to a massive 175 billion. The mannequin, launched in 2020, was initially trained on a massive 570-gigabyte dataset comprising text extracted from publicly available sources, including the BookCorpus (Books 1 and 2), Frequent Crawls, Wikipedia, and WebText2. The corpus, comprising approximately 499 billion tokens, had been diligently assembled.

While official metrics and guidance on GPT-4 are limited, OpenAI’s 2023 introduction of this Large Language Model (LLM) has sparked interest in its scale. Estimates suggest the model’s dimensions fall within a range of approximately 1 trillion to 1.8 trillion parameters, potentially making it five to ten times larger than its predecessor, GPT-3? The coaching set, meanwhile, is comprised of approximately 13 trillion tokens, equivalent to around 10 trillion phrases.

As AI models become increasingly sophisticated, their creators are scouring the internet for fresh sources of data to train them accurately. Despite initial progress, constraints are increasingly being placed on internet information usage by creators and collectors, making it harder to develop effective AI coaching methods.

According to Dario Amodei, CEO of [Company], there is a 10% probability that insufficient data could hinder further scaling efforts.

As Amodei cautioned Dwarkesh Patel in their conversation, “While various factors suggest we won’t exhaust our understanding, if we view it straightforwardly, we’re surprisingly close to running out of knowledge.”

A recent study has revisited this topic, with the authors warning that the current pace of language model learning and memory (LLM) development based on human data may not be sustainable in its current form.

By the mid-2020s to early 2030s, it is predicted that a Large Language Model (LLM) trained on all available human written content will become a reality. Unless we significantly update our language models, there’s a risk we’ll exhaust the most recent data unseen by LLMs within a span of less than two years.

Notwithstanding advances in data efficiency and the potential of innovations such as spaced repetition and AI-powered learning tools, it’s plausible that we’ll eventually.
capable of overcoming this bottleneck within the available public resources?
The study’s findings on human textual content information are presented by the researchers.

According to a recent study published in a paper from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (pdf), researchers analyzed 14,000 websites to determine how extensively website operators are making their content “crawlable” for automated information harvesters like those used by Common Crawl, the largest publicly accessible crawl of the internet.

As a result, an increasing amount of data remains inaccessible to internet crawlers due to either coverage gaps or technological limitations. However, the seemingly contradictory nature of phrases of use dictating how website operators permit their information for use increasingly doesn’t align with the actual permissions granted through their robot.txt files, which contain directives blocking access to certain content?

Researchers from the Information Provenance Initiative have observed a significant proliferation of AI-specific clauses aimed at restricting use, accompanied by stark variations in restrictions imposed on AI builders, as well as persistent inconsistencies between websites’ expressed intentions outlined in their Terms of Service and the rules governing robot access stipulated in robots.txt files. “We attribute the emergence of such symptoms to outdated internet architectures, ill-equipped to accommodate the pervasive repurposing of the web for artificial intelligence applications.”

Since its inception in 2007, the Wayback Machine has been diligently capturing the internet’s evolution, now comprising more than 250 billion unique web pages. The repository is freely accessible and open-sourced, allowing anyone to utilize its vast resources, which expand by an astonishing 3-5 billion new pages each month. Teams such as Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube, which were analyzed by MIT researchers, provide refined versions of the data found in Frequent Crawl.

Since OpenAI’s ChatGPT burst onto the scene in late 2022, numerous websites have implemented restrictions on crawling to prevent information scraping. By 2025, roughly half of all online platforms are predicted to impose either complete or partial limitations on their content, according to the study’s findings. Concurrently, stricter regulations have been enforced on online terms of service (ToS) since 2023, resulting in a significant decline in websites lacking such restrictions – from approximately 50% to around 40% by 2025.

Researchers with the Information Provenance Initiative found that OpenAI’s crawlers are restricted most frequently, approximately 26% of the time, followed by those from Anthropic and Frequent Crawl, at around 13%, then Google’s AI crawler, which is blocked about 10% of the time.

While the Web’s primary purpose may not be to provide data for training artificial intelligence systems, While larger websites can leverage advanced consent mechanisms to selectively disclose certain data assets with complete provenance, restricting others, small-scale website operators often lack the resources to implement these measures, thereby concealing all their content behind paywalls. While stopping AI firms from exploiting this data, the measure also hinders its potential usage for more professional purposes, such as academic research, thereby moving us further away from the Internet’s founding principles of openness.

“As the Information Provenance Initiative underscores, without establishing higher controls for website owners to govern data usage, further erosion of the open internet is inevitable.”

Artificial intelligence titans are increasingly seeking out diverse datasets to refine their algorithms, including vast repositories of online videos. The YouTube Subtitles dataset, a component of the open-source Pile collection, is leveraged by companies such as Google, Microsoft, and Meta to train AI models.

The individuals involved in the transfer claim that they never consented to have their copyrighted work utilized for training AI models, nor were they compensated accordingly. They’ve raised concerns that their content might inadvertently train generative models to produce content that rivals their own, sparking fears about potential competition and intellectual property issues.

The AI industry is well aware of the impending information overload, but companies have already been exploring innovative solutions to mitigate this issue. As OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman noted in his address.

As long as one can transcend the artificial intelligence’s information horizon where the model is capable of generating artificial information, he believes it will be all right, said Altman. We’re eager to explore innovative approaches that foster positivity. You don’t need to pretend in any other context in any manner. While the initial notion of amplifying a transformer by leveraging pre-trained tokens sourced from the web may seem promising, its limitations cannot be overlooked. However that’s not the plan.”


The E-rate program has been expanded to provide more opportunities for schools and libraries to access discounted telecommunications services.

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What’s E-rate

The E-Charge program was launched in 1997, providing discounted rates to help colleges and libraries access affordable telecommunications and internet services. As a result, significant progress has been made in recent years to prioritise the delivery of fast and reliable internet connectivity to educational institutions.

E-rate has evolved into a vital component for driving technology advancements in our nation’s schools, underscoring its significance in modern education. To support this mission, our team of Cisco education and E-rate experts has curated a comprehensive resource hub designed to guide you through the E-rate process.

Can E-Charge revolutionize your daily life as a college student or shopper?

Across the country, a significant number of college students, instructors, and library patrons are currently hindered by unequal access to academic resources due to persistent digital and educational divides. Following the conclusion of the Reasonably Priced Connectivity Program, some 23 million households gained access to high-speed internet, thereby enabling them to rely on institutions such as colleges and libraries for essential connectivity.

Security Measures

The institution’s wireless network infrastructure is designed to guarantee the utilization of approved Wi-Fi providers for academic purposes only, thereby eliminating any potential conflicts of interest or funding irregularities, while ensuring comprehensive documentation for seamless auditing processes. The legislation also necessitates adherence to the Children’s Online Protection Act, obliging educational institutions and public libraries to install filtering systems to safeguard minors from harmful online materials and provide them with guidance on responsible internet usage.

Ultimately, this resolution marks a significant milestone in bridging the digital divide and alleviating the pressing issue of the homework gap that plagues many college students today.

To stay current with E-rate sources for your institution’s college and library.

A team of seasoned experts in Cisco training and E-rate consulting has just unveiled its comprehensive updates on E-rate and the Children’s Internet Protection Act. Try them out now!

 

 

 

 

 

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Is there a more compelling way to kick off this evaluation? Here’s a possible alternative: The Jumper T15 Radio Transmitter – A Game-Changer in Amateur Communication. What makes it unique is its clever combination of the best features from its predecessors, the T14 and T16, making it a must-have for any serious radio enthusiast.

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Several months prior, Jumper introduced the T14, a mid-range radio that quickly garnered recognition among the FPV community for its impressive features and competitive pricing. Now, the Jumper T15 radio returns, boasting significant enhancements over its predecessor, the T14, along with a unique display and diverse color options for the casing, further elevating its appeal.

What sets the Jumper T15 apart from other options, and is it a suitable replacement for your FPV needs?

Among the links on this webpage are affiliate links. I receive a fee (at no extra cost to you) when someone makes a purchase following a click from one of the affiliate links included here. What contributes to the success of your online community? Learn more about our services for additional information?

Examine the principles of FPV (First-Person View) radio controllers based on the customer’s specifications: 

The Jumper T15 is available in a range of seven vibrant colours.

Like its predecessor, the Jumper T15 arrives impressively packaged in a robust travel case, a significant upgrade from the original model that lacked this essential feature. Within this rich ecosystem, you’ll uncover a treasure trove of opportunities.

  • A reliable USB-C cable for seamless charging and effortless firmware updates.
  • Spare Springs for Adjusting Gimbal Pressure:
  • Can a single screen protector make my smartphone display shine?

    With advancements in technology, screen protectors have evolved to cater to the demands of touchscreen displays. Today, you can find a variety of screen protectors designed specifically for touchscreens, which can help preserve your device’s originality while providing essential protection.

    SKIP

  • A neck strap

Prior to expressing concerns about the absence of proper gimbal and swappable battery safety features in the T14, Jumper took note of the issues and responded accordingly. They also provided a thoughtful injection-molded protector, ensuring the radio remains safely secured during transportation.

Despite the lack of a comprehensive guide, the subject matter remains accessible even to freshmen, posing little challenge. You’ll likely find online tutorials that will help you get started.

  • : STM32F429IGT6
  • Why settle for less? Optimize your display with a premium 3.5-inch shade contact tailored to a decision-making sweet spot of 480*320 pixels.
  • : Corridor sensor or RDC90
  • : ExpressLRS (915MHz or 2.4GHz)
  • : 1000mW (max 30dBm)
  • A normal JR module bay (compatible with JR, FrSKY, and Crossfire systems)?
  • : built-in reminiscence chip
  • : 6V – 8.4V
  • : 21700*2 (not included)
  • : 185*175*79mm
  • :
    • 538g (with out battery)
    • 628g (with 18650)
    • 672g (with 21700)

While the T15 combines the best features from its predecessors, the T14 and T16 models, it presents a unique fusion of styles that offers something fresh and exciting for those who seek versatility in their footwear. While sharing the same housing and ergonomic design as the T14, this device features a similar vibrant color touch screen to the T16.

The 3.5-inch display boasts a crisp 480×320 pixel resolution, delivering high-definition clarity that effortlessly renders even the smallest printed text in razor-sharp readability. With its exceptional performance, this top-notch radio stands out significantly from its competitors, setting it apart as a superior option in its category. The touchscreen display should strike a balance between visual appeal and functionality, allowing users to seamlessly navigate menus through both finger gestures and button presses. While the brightness may be sufficient for outdoor applications.

While the Jumper T15 shares similarities with its predecessor, the T14, in terms of measurement, it stands out with an added layer of functionality courtesy of additional buttons and options. While the T15 stands out due to its larger shade display, its design is also marked by a more streamlined control layout resulting from the reduced number of buttons and sliders. Despite its affordability, the fabric’s quality is underwhelming, mirroring the utilitarian feel of the T14’s housing and plastic scroll wheel – a somewhat cheap sensation that compromises on tactile experience.

The T15 has a sq. in a style akin to that of the popular TBS Mambo and Radiomaster Boxer transmitters. While offering ergonomic features comparable to those of full-size radios like the TX16S, this model’s compactness is only marginally greater.

At its peak, the transmitter boasts a collapsible handle, a dedicated button for seamless firmware updates, and a coaxial port.

Although the T15’s antenna is permanently attached, the device’s casing does accommodate alternative antenna options. If desired, you can remove the rubber plugs and configure your antennas in a wide range of settings. The versatility of this feature provides a delightful interaction with discerning clients seeking tailored solutions.

The T15 is equipped with Corridor sensor gimbals, offering a upgrade option to premium RDC90 potentiometer gimbals for $30-$40 more. While Jumper asserts that their RDC90 gimbals surpass others, I struggled to discern a significant difference upon repeated testing.

While Corridor sensor gimbals may theoretically have a longer lifespan than traditional potentiometer gimbals, such as those found in the RC90, this difference is often not a significant consideration since users typically upgrade to newer radios before their older models wear out. I would recommend the affordably priced Corridor gimbals to many customers, especially freshmen. Whether you’re a thumb user or finger expert, these gloves are clean, precise, and comfortable in either case.

The design of the switches and buttons meticulously mirrors that of the Radiomaster Boxer.

At the entrance, four switches await: a two-position switch and a three-position switch, each situated on either side. Within the central hub, two rotary dials are positioned side by side. Beneath these dials, a single ability button is situated between the two gimbal arms.

Pilots may appreciate the potential upgrade to stick-style switches, formerly known as shoulder buttons, which are now available à la carte.

The T15 features an enhanced control panel with six additional “flight mode” buttons situated on the frontplate, a distinct upgrade from its predecessor, the T14. These buttons feature backlit LEDs that also serve as a dual-purpose battery charge level indicator during charging.

The radio features ergonomic design with textured, rubberized grips at the rear, ensuring a secure grasp and comfortable hold during extended use. The T15’s bare weight of 538 grams makes it noticeably heavier than its counterparts, the X and Y models, which weigh 447g and 503g respectively, while approximating the heft of the Z model at 529g. The weight distinction can significantly impact your appetite, especially during extended periods of flight training?

The T15’s ergonomic design yields a comfortable, balanced feel that allows for extended periods of use without fatigue or discomfort. When positioned correctly, the neck strap hook provides a secure fit; with two 21700 cells in use, the radio’s balance is perfectly aligned.

Compared to the Boxer’s performance out of the box, the T15 gimbal offers slightly reduced throw and looser springs. While this setup is well-suited for thumb pilots, those seeking a more substantial spring tension might favour the Boxer configuration. While gimbal pressure may require disassembly of the radio, this isn’t necessarily a show-stopper for many users.

While the T14 overview was discussed, the switches’ placement is a notable drawback in this radio design, requiring users to stretch their fingers more than the Boxer’s layout, although familiarity can be developed through repeated use.

The transmitter’s rear panel features a foldable design, a standard JR module bay accommodating a Crossfire or 4in1 module, and a fan that keeps the internal RF module cool during high-output operation.

While the T15 boasts a relatively streamlined management interface compared to the Radiomaster Boxer, it achieves this simplicity by consolidating the two web page buttons into one. Despite its plastic construction, the scroll wheel on the T14 offers a smooth and seamless user experience. While the Radiomaster Boxer boasts a steel scroll wheel that exudes an air of luxury.

The drawing performance varies depending on the radio frequency energy setting. Below are the measurements from my testing, with the display screen calibrated to its minimum brightness setting.

  • The power consumption of the device is approximately 0.12 amps when the inside RF module is deactivated.
  • 0.32A at 25mW
  • 0.45A at 50mW
  • 0.51A at 100mW
  • 0.66A at 250mW
  • 0.78A at 500mW
  • 0.89A at 1W

The dimensions bear a striking resemblance to those of the T14 model.

By incorporating high-capacity 21700 4500mAh batteries, users can anticipate a reliable operating duration of approximately 8-9 hours at 25mW or around 4 hours at 1W. With 18650 3000mAh cells in place, the output duration dwindles to approximately six hours at a mere 25 milliwatts or around three hours at one watt. This is a rough estimate solely based on available data.

To extend battery life, take advantage of the Dynamic Energy feature available in the ExpressLRS LUA script by optimizing its settings to minimize power consumption. With Dynamic Energy, the milliwatt output adjusts seamlessly to the mannequin’s varying sign energy and link quality, thereby minimizing energy consumption effectively. This device enables minimal power consumption of just 25 milliwatts during uninterrupted direct-line transmission.

The T15 accommodates 21700 lithium-ion cells via its tray, but also supports 18650 cells by adapting the steel contacts to fit them. The 2S LiPo battery will function properly if it is precisely aligned and seated within its designated battery compartment.

The T15 enables convenient charging via its USB-C port. During charging, the backlit flight mode buttons cleverly serve as battery level meters, providing a convenient visual representation of the device’s power status.

The Jumper T20S’s sluggish charging performance is addressed in this review. The charging price for the T15 has increased to a maximum of 10W. Will you require an influence converter that accommodates 5V 2A or higher charging from a PC’s USB port, which may lead to sluggish charge times.

Estimated charging times are approximately:

  • 21700 4500mAh batteries: Approximately 4 to 5 hours of power.
  • 18650 3000mAh batteries: Approximately two hours and 45 minutes of runtime.

They also secured the bug within the T14’s charging circuitry, ensuring the device powered on correctly when plugged in for recharging. Later firmware updates likely solidified this fix.

The Jumper T15 provides a seamless experience with its plug-and-play compatibility, offering stylish FPV simulator options similar to those found in popular platforms like Tryp and Liftoff? Within the simulator, it is consistently recognized when linked. The setup remains unchanged from most standard remotes.

The T15 comes equipped with a built-in 2.4GHz ExpressLRS RF module, featuring the ELRS 3.3.2 firmware out of the box. The “T-15 2G4 TX” system goal is now available in the latest configurator version V1.7.2, allowing for seamless firmware updates to model 3.4.2 for those who wish to do so. The revised text is: It also enhances the functionality of the ELRS Backpack.

While the T15 doesn’t provide direct support for this feature, you can still install a Gemini module in the rear module bay if needed. I highly recommend the BetaFPV SuperG TX module, having thoroughly tested it and achieved impressive results.

For those unfamiliar with ExpressLRS, I invite you to explore my comprehensive setup guide. 

The T15 arrives preconfigured with Betaflight, a widely adopted and highly popular open-source flight controller software among the FPV community.

Although labelled as “Manufacturing Unit Firmware”, the displayed version number at startup is actually “2.10.1 Self-Constructed”. The firmware goal is edgetx-T15.

The most striking feature of the T15 is its decision to forgo the traditional SD card slot. As a substitute, this device features 512MB of on-board flash memory, providing secure storage for model images, audio files, and radio recordings. You won’t need to purchase an SD card separately.

Access the storage via the USB-C port by connecting a cable while the radio is active, and then select the “USB Storage (SD)” option when prompted.

Upon receiving your radio, there’s no necessity to tamper with the firmware initially. Nevertheless, you do have the capability to upgrade EdgeTX firmware through either of two methods outlined in my instructional guide, should you desire to do so later on. 

The performance data for the Jumper T-15’s internal module across a range of output energy levels is as follows:

Energy Ranges 25mW 50mW 100mW 250mW 500mW 1W
T15 Inside Module 54mW 103mW 215mW 429mW 615mW 1.04W

Taken using these measurements, they reveal the accuracy of the manufacturing unit’s calibration and its maximum output energy. These measurements primarily serve as a benchmark for evaluating the consistency and efficiency of the interior module, rather than assessing the quality of the hardware itself?

After a 20-minute operation at maximum power (1W), the T-15’s output stabilized at approximately 1.04W. The impressive energy stability achieved is a testament to the exceptional performance of the cooling system’s design and implementation?

With minimal fuss, the T15 can be disassembled via its straightforward design, which relies on just six screws to secure the back and front housings together.

The inner printed circuit board (PCB) design bears a striking resemblance to its T14 counterpart. All wires in this system are made of silicone, with numerous components connected via easy-to-use connectors, rendering repairs and maintenance remarkably uncomplicated.

While sharing similar features with the Jumper T16 and Radiomaster TX16S, the Jumper T15 excels in its more compact design, comparable to that of the Boxer and T14, effectively condensing the capabilities of its larger counterparts into a smaller yet still impressive package. For just $20 more than the Boxer, you’ll enjoy a lively color touchscreen, making it an attractive feature for those who crave this perk.

The Yaesu FT-65R is a well-rounded handheld transceiver that offers exceptional value for its price. Suitable for both novice and experienced aviators alike, thanks to its intuitive design and exceptional stabilization systems. While the supplies may fall short in some respects, they successfully strike a balance between choices and cost.

Air-conditioning Wiring Robotic Units New Record in Solving Rubik’s Cube World Report

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The Rubik’s Cube was a global phenomenon in the early 1980s, but for those too young to remember its heyday, it’s a 3D puzzle consisting of 54 colored stickers on each of its six faces. The puzzle is considered complete when all six sides of each die are colored strongly. In the early 2000s, Rubik’s Cubes experienced a resurgence in popularity, and speedcubing competitions revived their momentum. The world record for solving a Rubik’s Cube is 3.13 seconds, achieved by US speedcuber Max Park in 2023.

Mitsubishi Electric’s robotic arm completed the puzzle in a record-breaking 0.305 seconds, outpacing the previous best time of 2018 by a significant margin of 0.075 seconds. As the accompanying video demonstrates, this phenomenon is fleeting, occurring in the span of time it takes for an average person to blink their eyes – roughly 100-400 milliseconds.

Mitsubishi Electric’s artificial intelligence (AI) technology has been recognized by GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS for the fastest robotic arm to solve a puzzle dice.

The prestigious organization recognized the innovative Japanese company by presenting them with an award for achieving the remarkable feat of developing the quickest robotic solution to successfully solve a complex rotating puzzle die.

The TOKUI Quick Correct Synchronized movement Testing Robotic (TOKUFASTbot) malfunctioned due to its rotational mechanism, capable of executing a 90-degree rotation within an impressive 0.9 milliseconds, thanks to Mitsubishi Electrical’s signal-responsive servomotors and a proprietary AI-driven color-recognition algorithm.

Unlike recent lines, the TOKUFAST bot is not intended for aesthetics. Yuji Yoshimura, senior basic supervisor at Mitsubishi Electric’s Part Manufacturing Engineering Center, describes his “day job” as refining motor production processes for consumer appliances such as air conditioning units and ventilation fans.

“Since launching our Part Manufacturing Engineering Centre in 2016, we’ve successfully scaled up production of cutting-edge motors, power semiconductors, and related components,” Yoshimura said. To showcase our cutting-edge capabilities in designing high-speed, high-precision windings – critical to optimizing motor performance and product efficiency across various products – our junior engineers took on a challenging project voluntarily, setting a new world record that earned us a Guinness World Records title, further inspiring our team to refine their technical expertise. As we leverage our refined skills in motor development, we’re poised to take on captivating opportunities and contribute our expertise to global manufacturing efforts.

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Birchal slashes workforce by 30 percent, matching a 30 percent cut in pricing, as its crowdfunding business experiences stagnant growth.

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Birchal, the leading crowdfunding marketplace, has slashed its pricing base by 30% and eliminated several positions following a disappointing first half of 2024 that “significantly underperformed” projections.

Just 24 hours after highlighting the sector’s positive aspects, Birchal revealed information on job losses in its annual report evaluating Australian crowd-sourced funding.

Birchal has informed shareholders that, as part of its regular monthly update, the company’s first half of 2024 has significantly underachieved its projected performance and funding targets for the remainder of the financial year.

“We experienced a slower-than-standard start to the year after the Christmas break.” Despite the common funding amount still being affected, our company, alongside other key components of the financial ecosystem, has not remained immune to significant macroeconomic factors,” Birchal noted in a statement to Startup Daily.

“In light of significant funding constraints, we’ve taken a crucial step to restore financial equilibrium and reduce our dependence on external capital infusions. To achieve this, we recently made the difficult yet necessary decision to trim expenses by approximately 30%.”

Cost-cutting measures have primarily targeted Birchal’s marketing and product lines, as well as eliminated contracts and reduced government compensation.

Capital inflows to startups have waned, while small businesses seeking crowdfunding (CSF) also face a reduced appetite for investment, except for those firms focused on distilling and medicinal cannabis products, which remain in high demand among retail investors.

In fiscal year 2024, a moderate increase was observed in CSF funding in Australia, rising by $500,000 to reach $64.5 million, a slight improvement over the preceding 12-month period.

Birchal charges a 6% fee on the total funds raised from each marketing campaign.

By the end of FY24, a notable surge was observed in the number of companies aggressively pursuing profit gains, with a significant increase of 16% to 99 entities, compared to 82 in the preceding year. The stability of investments remained at 35,000, indicating a decline in the overall volume of funding.

The decline in funding volumes of 26% in FY22 serves as a precursor to this development.

Birchal dominates the CSF market, responsible for a substantial two-thirds of successful fundraisings.

For the third consecutive year, meals and beverage has emerged as the top preference for traders, accounting for 30% of total funding with $19.7 million in investments. Healthcare, driven primarily by cannabis, secured second place with $14.2 million (22%) invested, followed closely by sustainability initiatives, which garnered $8.1 million or 12% of the total funding.

Tasmanian whisky distiller Hellyer’s Road has secured the top three raises of FY23, with a whopping $4.4 million in funding garnered through OnMarket; meanwhile, Victorian medical cannabis biotech Medigrowth pocketed $3.45 million from over 2,000 investors. Birchal assisted Bare Life Spirits in securing a $3 million investment.

In late 2023, Birchal successfully engaged with more than 1,100 traders, delivering a notable accomplishment.

Birchal slashes workforce by 30 percent, matching a 30 percent cut in pricing, as its crowdfunding business experiences stagnant growth.

Birchal CEO Matt Vitale

According to Birchal’s cofounder and CEO, Matt Vitale, fairness crowdfunding platforms demonstrated “exceptional resilience” throughout their most recent fiscal year, suggesting a remarkable ability to withstand market fluctuations.

Despite challenging fundraising conditions, a 16% surge in companies adopting CSF compared to FY23 demonstrates the growing popularity of CSF as a highly effective means of securing capital.

Notwithstanding concerns over CSF funding for 2024, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the company’s regulatory body, has flagged potential issues.

Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) intervenes in the operations of Hirehood, a peer-to-peer marketplace that facilitates the rental of recreational items such as surfboards, bicycles, and strollers, which had previously raised capital on VentureCrowd. The regulator’s primary concern centered on the share construction issued to prospective crowdfunding (CSF) investors.

Five weeks on, the growth remains stagnant.

The value and quality of print on shares issued by CSF have recently come under intense examination following the acquisition of Forcite, a Sydney-based bike helmet technology company, by GoPro, a Nasdaq-listed camera firm, in January of this year?

Traders who invested in Forcite through CSF suffered an estimated 90% loss on the deal, while others secured a profit.

Founded in 2022 at a valuation of $24 million. When the sale to GoPro was finalized, reportedly for more than $20 million, the CSF traders received only 2.9 cents per share, a staggering shortfall of nearly 87% from their initial investment.

DC Reveals New Penguin Trailer

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Throughout this event, Warner Bros. revealed a brand-new look at its DC Elseworlds slate with

The Elseworlds universe will host a vast array of standalone tasks, independent of interconnectivity, including Todd Phillips’ films. The HBO Max series will not intersect with the upcoming DC Studios canon in projects such as Superman: The Man of Steel and Teen Titans Go! to the Movies, which share a universe?

As we embark on a new era of storytelling, this innovative concept is poised to be one of the initial forays onto the small screen, where it will undoubtedly captivate audiences. Max’s highly anticipated sequel, starring Colin Farrell, is set to premiere on September 19, marking a triumphant conclusion to the storyline. At an HBO Authentic panel session, Jason Farrelly focused on a live zoom connection with government producer Matt Reeves, showrunner Lauren LeFranc, as well as cast members Cristin Milioti (Sofia Falcone) and Rhenzy Feliz (Victor Aguilar) to unveil the latest trailer.

Here’s a brand-new look:

Reeves solidified that the sequence emerged from preliminary ideas for his follow-up to “The first film concludes with a power void in Gotham, whereupon we see a man utterly underappreciated – someone nobody believes can succeed, yet he harbours an inner flame driving him to take action. As that moment passed, I thought we could achieve this from the start of our next film. However, he clarified that the concept shifted when he and executive producer Dylan Clark discussed it with Casey Bloys and Sara Aubrey at HBO to expand their universe through spin-offs. The studio executives suggested Reeves play a more prominent character, prompting him to propose the origin story of The Penguin’s ascension to power.

Cristin Milioti
Picture: Max

The showrunner, Lauren LeFranc, noted that Oz’s primary adversary takes on the form of Sofia Falcone, a prominent figure from the infamous Gotham crime family, portrayed by actress Cristin Milioti.

In the trailer, audiences got a brief look at Sofia Falcone, which deviates significantly from the comic book iteration. After which Christina introduced her to a life on this earth in a truly distinct manner.

Farrell portrayed Milioti’s efficiency as his arch-nemesis in the war for Gotham, describing it as a delicate dance on the razor’s edge, with both parties mirroring each other’s brand of chaotic leadership and leveraging their respective strengths to outmaneuver one another. As Falcone’s energy wanes following the death of her father in Arkham, she becomes consumed by her past with Oz, an “historic and tumultuous” connection that will likely reignite their complicated history.

The panel concluded by announcing that the sequel’s release is scheduled for the subsequent year, with The Penguin’s return following the events of the current installment; concurrently, the sequel’s own release date was set for October 2, 2026.

will make its highly anticipated debut on September 19 exclusively on HBO.

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Twitch is offering complimentary Apple TV+ subscriptions to subscribers as a means of atonement for the popular show Severance.

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For avid Twitch viewers, the prospect of catching up on missed streams just got a whole lot more appealing with Amazon’s latest offering.

Twitch is offering three months of premium membership to anyone who subscribes to or gifts a subscription to a streamer.

Regardless of who you enjoy watching on Twitch, your subscription to their channel grants access to premium features that would normally cost $9.99 monthly.

Are you tired of shelling out cash for premium streaming services? Look no further! With a little creativity and some clever hacks, you can snag Apple TV+ absolutely free using your Twitch account. Here are the methods that’ll get you hooked:

1. **Twitch Prime**: If you’re an Amazon Prime member or sign up for a free trial, you’ll automatically qualify for Twitch Prime. This perk comes with ad-free viewing, free games each month, and… drumroll please… Apple TV+ access!

2. **Free Trial**: Sign up for the Apple TV+ free trial (yes, it’s available!) and enjoy three whole months of binge-watching goodness without spending a dime.

3. **Apple Music Student Discount**: If you’re a student, snag that sweet Apple Music deal, which includes Apple TV+ at no extra cost. It’s like getting two for the price of one!

4. **Gift Subscriptions**: Score some free Apple TV+ by gifting subscriptions to friends or family members. They’ll be streaming in style while you enjoy the free ride!

5. **Bundles and Promotions**: Keep an eye out for limited-time offers, bundles, and promotions that might just give you a taste of Apple TV+ on the house.

6. **Referral Program**: Join forces with friends who already have Apple TV+, and get rewarded with free access when they sign up through your unique referral link. It’s like having your own personal streaming squad!

7. **Charity Streams**: Participate in charity streams or events that offer Apple TV+ as a prize or reward. Not only do you get the shows, but you also support a good cause!

So, which method will you choose to score free Apple TV+?

During the period of July 30 at 12:00 PM Pacific Time to August 19 at 12:00 PM Pacific Time, consider subscribing or rewarding a subscription to a streamer.

As soon as you have subscribed or gifted, you may obtain a code to your Drops & Rewards Stock web page, however it’s value noting that Prime Subs (subs included with Amazon’s personal Prime suite of advantages) should not eligible.

The code can be freely used by anyone who is not currently a subscriber; in this case, you would have the chance to make up for lost opportunities with individuals like Silo, Palm Royale, Gradual Horses, and Ted Lasso?

If you wish to take advantage of the offer, consider subscribing by January 2025. Actually, it’s going to be okay?

The market has witnessed a seismic shift with Increase Cell’s monumental transformation, prompting the Big Three to take notice of this unexpected turn.

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Founded in 1983, Increase Cell has long been a prominent player in the US pay-as-you-go network market, its ownership history marked by a series of mergers and acquisitions that have led to differing assessments of its stature among industry stakeholders. Today, Dish-owned Boost Mobile’s signal strength remains robust, thanks to a combination of its own network infrastructure, AT&T’s spectrum, and Dish’s tower assets. After initially trying to create a complete new postpaid sub-brand referred to as Increase Infinite, the service just lately introduced it’s merging its It is a very completely different course from what we’re seeing with AT&T, T-Cell, or , however I believe makes quite a lot of sense.

Increased cell phone services offer a range of three distinct plans, each featuring unlimited data capabilities. These plans start at just $25 per month, with options that go all the way up to $60 per line. Unlike many other carriers, customers have the flexibility to select between traditional postpaid and convenient pay-as-you-go options. Unlike traditional postpaid plans that necessitate a credit check, pay-as-you-go options don’t rely on verifying your credit score for service activation. While existing plans remain unchanged, a new Infinite Entry plan is exclusively available to postpaid customers, featuring a complimentary Samsung or Apple device. The customer support, website experience, apps, and expertise vary significantly depending on your chosen payment method. In contrast to various carriers, which often employ distinct customer support agents, unique pay-as-you-go apps, and diverse initiatives to differentiate their services and prioritize postpaid customers above prepay offerings.

The straightforwardness of a blended pay-as-you-go and postpaid plan structure is a breath of fresh air, and it’s something I think the Big Three should seriously consider implementing.

Because the Infinite model’s complexity led to increased uncertainty about modifications, Cell’s higher recognition likely contributed to this outcome. As the industry trend toward increasingly complex plans continues to prevail, it’s indeed a welcome respite to find carriers that eschew complexity in favor of simplicity. Verizon’s initial simplification of options with its MyPlan tiers proved successful, but the company has further expanded its offerings, rendering it even easier for customers to select a plan that suits their needs. T-Mobile’s T-Cell division once boasted some of the simplest and most straightforward plan structures, but those days are now behind us. Following which are the sub-brands.

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Verizon offers straightforward service options directly from their platform. These choices include postpaid and pay-as-you-go plans. These companies, all owned by Verizon, offer remarkably similar plans, each with a distinct focus or niche. Verizon has removed the “by Verizon” moniker from its brand identity, a move that suggests carriers are eager to disassociate themselves from prepaid providers. Although T-Mobile’s T-Cell operates on a simpler scale with its Metro offering, it also exercises control over its proprietary network services, including the in-house Join by T-Cell platform, as well as Mint and other models. Even AT&T has Cricket.

Consolidating its pay-as-you-go and postpaid initiatives.

24 votes

I’m not suggesting that Increase Cell’s suppliers or development are effective. I’m excited about the idea of converging pay-as-you-go and postpaid experiences to create a seamless user journey. The concept of pay-as-you-go services has evolved significantly over time, no longer being viewed solely as a means of financial access for young individuals or those with poor credit scores. Let me check if I can improve this text…

Would you prefer your favorite models walk the runway for a stunning fashion show? You wouldn’t need to rummage through multiple plans across two distinct tiers; simply select the optimal plan that meets your needs, regardless of your preferred payment method. Even when the service merged its pay as you go and postpaid efforts, it may nonetheless proceed to supply sub-brands, however at the very least it will convey extra readability to the plans bought straight beneath Verizon, AT&T, and T-Cell’s respective names.

In reality, this outcome is unlikely to happen. Despite the challenges, it’s commendable that Increase ventured into uncharted territory. Will it work? Solely time will inform.