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Increase in ICMS Tax on International Purchases in Brazil

Starting today, ten Brazilian states have implemented an increase in the ICMS (Tax on Circulation of Goods and Services) rate for international purchases. Consumers who shop from sites like Shopee, Chiin, and AliExpress will now face a 20% tax, up from the previous rate of 17%.

The states that have adopted this change are:

• Acre

• Alagoas

• Bahia

• Ceará

• Minas Gerais

• Paraíba

• Piauí

• Rio Grande do Norte

• Roraima

• Sergipe

The remaining regions in the country continue to uphold their existing tax regulations.

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In addition to the state-imposed ICMS, purchases from abroad valued at up to $50 are subject to a 20% tax, commonly referred to as the "tax for blouses." This tax has been in effect since August of the previous year. When combined with all applicable taxes, the total cost of an item can reach up to 50% of its original price. For instance, an item priced at R$100 could end up costing R$150 after taxes.

SpaceX Launches Historic Mission

On Monday, excitement was also in the air due to an unprecedented scientific mission. The astronauts involved are now in space following a successful launch. SpaceX executed the Frame Two mission late Monday night, where the Falcon 9 rocket carried Shung Wang, a cryptocurrency billionaire, alongside three other guests.

The crew includes:

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• Jannick Mckelsen, a Norwegian filmmaker

• Rabia Rog, a robotics researcher

• Eric Philips, an Australian adventurer

The launch took place at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

Launch Details

The Falcon 9 rocket followed a standard launch trajectory, heading south after liftoff. The flight path took it over Cuba and Panama before placing the spacecraft into a polar orbit—an orbit that has not been previously attempted by a crewed mission.

Shortly after launching, the first stage of the Falcon 9 successfully returned to Earth, landing on a barge at sea. The second stage accelerated the Crew Dragon to speeds exceeding 28,000 km/h, putting the crew into the desired orbit.

Mission Objectives

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The four astronauts will conduct 22 experiments during their mission, primarily concentrating on the health of the crew. Notably, they aim to capture the first-ever X-ray images of a human in space, examine exercise limitations on blood flow to preserve muscle and bone mass, and cultivate mushrooms in microgravity as a potential space crop.

Interestingly, the chosen trajectory suggests that the planning emphasizes the mission’s uniqueness, as the tests themselves do not strictly require a polar orbit.

The crew began their training for the mission in 2024, honing their skills in extreme environments in Alaska and at SpaceX’s California headquarters. The Front mission is anticipated to last between three to five days.

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The Groundbreaking Space Mission Launch

This past Monday marked a significant moment in space exploration as a groundbreaking scientific mission took flight. The anticipation surrounding this unprecedented expedition had been palpable, and the astronauts are now in space after a successful launch.

SpaceX's Historic Flight

The mission, dubbed Frame Two, was launched by SpaceX late last night. The Falcon 9 rocket was tasked with carrying billionaire cryptocurrency entrepreneur Xung Wang along with three guests: Norwegian filmmaker Jenck Melsen, robotics researcher Rabia Rog, and Australian adventurer Eric Philips. The launch took place from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

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The Falcon 9 rocket followed a southern trajectory after lift-off, flying over Cuba and Panama before placing the spacecraft into a low Earth orbit that had never before been attempted by a crewed mission.

Technical Achievements

Just minutes after launch, the first stage of Falcon 9 successfully executed a retrograde burn and landed on a barge in the ocean. Meanwhile, the second stage propelled the Dragon capsule to speeds exceeding 28,000 km/h, positioning the crew in their desired orbit.

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During their journey, the quartet of astronauts will conduct 22 experiments, primarily focused on crew health. Noteworthy objectives include capturing the first-ever X-ray images of a human in space, investigating blood flow restriction exercises to maintain muscle and bone mass, and growing mushrooms in microgravity as a potential long-term space crop. Interestingly, while many of these experiments do not specifically require a polar orbit, the mission's chosen route emphasizes the uniqueness of the voyage.

The crew has reportedly begun training for the mission in 2024, engaging in activities set in extreme environments both in Alaska and at SpaceX's headquarters in California. The mission is slated to last between three to five days.

NASA's Evolving Strategy

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Meanwhile, NASA's current strategy increasingly relies on partnerships with private companies. Though Boeing's initial attempt at crewed missions left much to be desired, they are expected to resume their entry into the space race soon.

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore of NASA spent over nine months aboard the International Space Station aboard a capsule designed by Boeing, known as the Starliner. Unfortunately, this capsule encountered several significant failures during the mission. Consequently, both NASA and Boeing are collaborating to solve these issues, which represent the first step towards a new crewed flight involving the Starliner.

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Since the Starliner’s return to Earth, NASA and Boeing have been poring over the mission data to identify the causes behind five propulsion failures and the helium leaks that occurred during the flight to the ISS last year. The plan moving forward includes testing the Starliner's primary propulsion system in the coming months, as well as evaluating a new seal for the helium system. The goal is to complete these tests within the year, targeting new flight tests for late 2025 or early 2026.

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In conclusion, overcoming these technical challenges will allow for a more accurate timeline for Boeing's return to the realm of crewed space operations. As such ventures continue to push the boundaries of exploration and innovation, the collaborative efforts of organizations like NASA and private companies like SpaceX and Boeing will play a critical role in the future of space travel.

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NASA's Current Strategy: A Shift to Private Partnerships

NASA's current strategy hinges on collaborations with private companies, a shift that marks a significant turn in the agency's approach to space exploration. Among these partnerships, Boeing stands out, despite having experienced a rocky start. The aerospace giant is expected to make a comeback in the space race soon. Below, we delve into the details surrounding their recent challenges and upcoming plans.

The Starliner Mission and Its Challenges

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Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from NASA spent over nine months in space, transported to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard a Boeing-designed capsule known as Starliner. However, this mission did not go as smoothly as planned; the capsule faced multiple failures during its operation. Responding to these challenges, Boeing and NASA are currently collaborating to address the anomalies that arose during the flight.

Following the Starliner’s return to Earth, both organizations have been carefully analyzing mission data to understand the root causes behind several motor failures and helium leaks that were encountered during its transit to the ISS last year. These issues must be resolved prior to executing any new crewed flights with the Starliner capsule.

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Looking forward, Boeing and NASA intend to test the primary thrusters of the Starliner in the coming months, as well as test a new sealing system for helium. There is optimism that these critical preparations could be completed by the end of this year, with the next test flight anticipated for late 2025 or early 2026. Once these milestones are achieved, a more accurate timeline can be established for Boeing’s return to space operations.

Coffee and Health: The Impact of Preparation Method

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Transitioning from aerospace to the daily pleasures of life, coffee has emerged as a beloved beverage worldwide. With over 2 billion cups consumed daily, it serves not just as a morning ritual but is also believed to have numerous health benefits. However, the method of preparation may substantially influence these health effects.

A recent study conducted by scientists from Uppsala University in Sweden has unveiled a fascinating insight into how the way we brew coffee can directly affect cholesterol levels in our bodies. The research identified two specific compounds—cafestol and kahweol—that are natural diterpenes found in coffee, which can contribute to increased levels of LDL cholesterol, commonly referred to as "bad" cholesterol.

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The study highlighted that coffee brewed through modern methods, such as capsule machines or espresso makers, tends to have significantly higher levels of these diterpenes. Conversely, traditional brewing methods utilizing paper filters markedly reduce the presence of these compounds, thus lowering potential health risks associated with cardiovascular issues.

Through a robust analysis of coffee prepared using various techniques—ranging from automatic machines to traditional methods and beverages purchased from cafes—the researchers concluded that opting for the classic paper filter can be beneficial. This simple choice may help safeguard cardiovascular health without sacrificing the daily coffee ritual that many cherish.

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In summarizing these findings, it becomes clear that making conscious choices in both aerospace ventures and everyday life, such as how one brews coffee, can yield noteworthy impacts on outcomes, whether they're related to space exploration or personal health.

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The Stakes of Elon Musk's Satellite Internet in Brazil

As Brazil stands on the brink of a significant decision regarding satellite internet, all eyes are on the National Telecommunications Agency, Anatel. This Thursday, a ruling concerning SpaceX's Starlink could profoundly alter the landscape of connectivity in the country, creating ripples in both the economic and geopolitical spheres.

Context and Current Operations

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Starlink, the satellite constellation operated by SpaceX and founded by billionaire Elon Musk, presently runs approximately 4,400 satellites worldwide. With over 335,000 clients in Brazil alone, the company has made significant inroads into the country's internet service landscape. Last December, Starlink petitioned for authorization to deploy an additional 7,500 second-generation satellites across Brazilian territory, which would more than double its existing fleet and enable the usage of new frequency bands that had not been utilized for such services in Brazil.

Concerns About Sovereignty and Cybersecurity

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The proposal has ignited discussions about critical issues, including cybersecurity and digital sovereignty. The central concern, articulated by Anatel advisor Alexandre Freire, revolves around ensuring that the data transmitted by these satellites is compliant with Brazilian laws and remains under national jurisdiction. This facet of the debate highlights the broader implications for Brazil's regulatory capacity for technologies that operate from space.

Strategic Importance of Brazil

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Brazil's geolocation near the equator provides a distinctive strategic advantage for global satellite coverage, making it an attractive market for satellite internet services. Additionally, the extensive remote areas like the Amazon and vital oil platforms create an increasing demand for reliable connectivity. Currently, only 81% of rural households have internet access compared to 94% in urban settings. This disparity signals a vast, untapped market for technologies that can operate without traditional terrestrial infrastructure.

Competition and Criticism

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However, the expansion efforts of SpaceX are not without opposition. Competing companies like Claro and Hughes have raised concerns about potential interference and congestion in airspace as a result of Starlink's growth. Moreover, the competition is intensifying as China also plans to enter the fray with its satellite initiative, aiming to launch up to 14,000 satellites, with Brazil as a target for global expansion.

Potential Benefits of Starlink's Approval

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If Anatel approves Starlink's expansion plan, it could lead to a rapid improvement in digital inclusion for isolated regions, provide connectivity to schools, support precision agriculture, and even assist in monitoring the Amazon rainforest. Projections indicate a burgeoning satellite internet market in Brazil, potentially reaching nearly $1 billion by 2030—approximately 700 million reais at current exchange rates.

Conclusion: A Turning Point in Technological Sovereignty

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The outcome of Anatel's decision will undoubtedly mark a pivotal moment in Brazil's approach to technological independence and security. Ultimately, as the saying goes, "he who controls the skies will shape the future of connectivity." As Brazil navigates this crucial juncture, the implications of this move could resonate well beyond its borders, influencing global connectivity dynamics in the years to come.

This video has already been summarized: https://inleo.io/threads/view/taskmaster4450le/re-taskmaster4450le-2h4udekop

У Сатурна исчезли кольца: астроном Владимир Сурдин объяснил суть явления

Сначала о самих кольцах. Они были впервые замечены Галилео Галилеем в 1610 году. Эта система плоских концентрических образований находится на высоте от 6630 до 120 700 километров над экватором планеты и состоит из силикатных пород, оксида железа и частиц льда. Размер этих частиц варьируется от песчинок до размера небольших автомобилей. Кольца Сатурна можно наблюдать в обычный любительский телескоп или в бинокль с хорошим увеличением.

Одна из основных теорий происхождения колец Сатурна, предложенная Эдвардом Рошем, гласит, что они являются остатками спутника, подошедшего слишком близко к Сатурну и уничтоженного приливными силами планеты. Согласно варианту этой теории, спутник был разрушен в результате столкновения с другим небесным телом — астероидом или кометой. Кстати, у Сатурна есть 274 не разрушившихся спутника.

– Владимир Георгиевич, как же так получилось, что кольца Сатурна вдруг исчезли из поля нашего зрения?

– Кольца – это «космический мусор», летающий вокруг планеты в определенной плоскости, и, в зависимости от того, смотрите вы на кольца «с ребра» или под другим углом, вы можете видеть или не видеть их. «Невидимость» колец наступает каждые несколько лет, когда мы, то есть, наша планета Земля оказывается в плоскости колец Сатурна. Сейчас это кажется вполне рядовым, понятным явлением, хотя раньше оно удивляло астрономов. В частности, они задавались вопросом: «Как кольца, имеющие сотни тысяч километров в диаметре, могут быть такими тонкими в толщине?!». Это все равно, что толщина бумажного листа размером с футбольное поле! Примерно так толщина колец Сатурна относится к их размеру. Фантастически тонкие!

I’m always amazed with how little exposure fsd gets outside of social media and YouTube? It’s an insane tech, personal experience..I “was driven” from Ct to Madison WI in a 2025 M-Y, a 22 hr trip on I 90 by FSD 13.2.8. I had 1 safety int due to a guy doing a stupid move on a motorcycle. The car may have handled it but I reacted. Other than that a few lane choices I disliked but that’s it! Drove me through Cleveland and Chicago on I90 flawlessly. Lane 5:22 shifts, exits, finding superchargers all on fsd. Actually used Farsad’s referral to buy the car. Thank you and keep pushing the positive side of Tesla. Maybe Tesla owners should start offering fsd rides home to the paid

Deliveries are the closest approximation of vehicle sales reported by Tesla but are not precisely defined in the company's shareholder communications.

Tesla doesn't break out sales and production by model or region. However, the company said that it produced 345,454 of its most popular Model 3 and Model Y cars and delivered 323,800 of them in the three months ending March 31.

The company reported 12,881 deliveries of its other models, including its angular steel Cybertruck.

During the quarter, Tesla faced planned, partial shutdowns in some of its factories that allowed the company to upgrade manufacturing lines to start producing a redesigned version of its popular Model Y SUV.

Tesla shares sank 36% in the first quarter, their steepest drop since the fourth quarter of 2022 and third-biggest decline in the company's 15 years on the public market. The drop wiped out $460 billion in market cap.

Pegged one-to-one to the U.S. dollar and backed by cash and short-term Treasury securities, USDC has roughly $60 billion in circulation and makes up about 26% of the total market cap for stablecoins, behind Tether's 67% dominance. Its market cap has grown 36% this year, however, compared with Tether's 5% growth.

The company's push into public markets reflects a broader moment for the crypto industry, which is enjoying political favor under a more crypto-friendly U.S. administration. The stablecoin sector specifically has been ramping up as the industry gains confidence that the crypto market will get its first piece of U.S. legislation passed and implemented this year, focusing on stablecoins. President Donald Trump has said he hopes lawmakers will send stablecoin legislation to his desk before Congress's August recess.

Stablecoins' growth could have investment implications for crypto exchanges like Robinhood and Coinbase as they become a bigger part of crypto trading and cross-border transfers. Coinbase also has an agreement with Circle to share 50% of the revenue of its USDC stablecoin, and Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong said on the company's most recent earnings call that it has a "stretch goal to make USDC the number 1 stablecoin."

The stablecoin market has grown about 11% so far this year and about 47% in the past year, and has become a "systemically important" part of the crypto market, according to Bernstein. Historically, digital assets in this sector have been used for trading and as collateral in decentralized finance (DeFi), and crypto investors watch them closely for evidence of demand, liquidity and activity in the market.

Pineau was one of Meta's top AI researchers and led the company's fundamental AI research unit, or FAIR, since 2023. There, she oversaw the company's cutting-edge computer science-related studies, some of which are eventually incorporated into the company's core apps.

She joined the company in 2017 to lead Meta's Montreal AI research lab. Pineau is also a computer science professor at McGill University, where she is a co-director of its reasoning and learning lab.

Some of the projects Pineau helped oversee include Meta's open-source Llama family of AI models and other technologies like the PyTorch software for AI developers.

Concern Grows Alaskan Volcano May Be Close to Eruption
An earthquake that hit 30 miles away from a volcano in Alaska has scientists concerned it may erupt in a few weeks, according to the Daily Mail.

An earthquake that hit 30 miles away from a volcano in Alaska has scientists concerned it may erupt in a few weeks, according to the Daily Mail.

On Tuesday, the US Geological Survey (USGS) detected a 3.7-magnitude earthquake near Petersville, Alaska, which sits 30 miles northwest of the Mount Spurr volcano and 85 miles from Anchorage.

Scientists at the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) have warned that as a result of the increased seismic activity coupled with the increase in gas emissions emanating from Mount Spurr, "an eruption is likely, but not certain, to occur within the next few weeks or months."

Matt Haney, the scientist in charge at the AVO, told the Daily Mail an eruption would likely occur at the Crater Peak side vent, and "it would be explosive," spewing plumes of ash 50,000 feet high.

He also noted that the ash plumes could drift southwards, blanketing the city of Anchorage, "but fortunately, there are not any communities in that radius that would be affected" by lava.

On Tuesday morning, rockets launched from northern Gaza triggered warning sirens in the Israeli city of Sderot. The IDF confirmed the interception of the projectile and responded with both evacuation notices and precision strikes targeting the launch sites.

Additional U.S. forces deployed to the Middle East

The U.S. military announced on Tuesday that it is deploying more air assets to the Middle East in response to escalating tensions and ongoing threats to American forces in the region. According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the move is intended to bolster force protection and regional deterrence.

I am a custodian at an Elementary school in California. Out of 100 staff, I am 1 of 5 men. I make sure any conversation I have is within camera range. I make sure I keep my rolling trash can between me and any female that stops me to ask a question. I do not talk about anything beyond work, and even then, I keep those conversations short and constantly tell those teachers to send me an e-mail about any requests so that I have a paper trail. I already know that I am a 5th class citizen, and despite being in a Union, I know that any form of complaint they won't protect me from.

Now, administration officials are seeking agreements with other countries similar to the deal with Panama in February, the Journal reported.

Under that one-time agreement, the U.S. sent more than 100 migrants, mostly from the Middle East, to Panama, which detained the migrants and worked to send them to their home countries.

The Journal added that Trump officials aren't necessarily looking to sign formal agreements. They hope nations agree to the requests, perhaps in exchange for financial arrangements.

The Journal also said administration officials are trying to persuade some Latin American countries to sign longer-term agreements designating them as safe places for migrants to ask for asylum.

Many of the countries being contacted are places where the U.S. government has raised serious concerns about human-rights abuses. They include Libya and Rwanda.

In the capital, Naypyitaw, a team of Turkish and local rescue workers used an endoscopic camera to locate Naing Lin Tun on a lower floor of the damaged hotel where he worked. They pulled him gingerly through a hole jackhammered through a floor and loaded him on to a gurney nearly 108 hours after he was first trapped.

Shirtless and covered in dust, he appeared weak but conscious in a video released by the local fire department, as he was fitted with an IV drip and taken away. State-run MRTV reported later in the day that another man was saved from the same building, more than 121 hours after the quake struck. Both were age 26.

Another man was rescued by a team of Malaysian and local crews from a collapsed guesthouse in the Sagaing township, near the epicenter of the earthquake close to Myanmar's second-largest city, Mandalay.

Even if the military does, it's too early to say whether a pause in fighting could lead to something longer lasting, he said.

The head of Myanmar's military government, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, has rejected the idea of a ceasefire so far.

Most recently, an opposition militia belonging to the Brotherhood Alliance reported that the military fired on a relief convoy of nine Chinese Red Cross vehicles late Tuesday in the northern part of Shan state near Ohn Ma Tee village.

The Ta'ang National Liberation Army said that the Chinese Red Cross was bringing supplies to Mandalay and had reported its route to the military.

But Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, spokesman for the military government, said that the convoy hadn't notified authorities of its route ahead of time, MRTV reported. While not mentioning the Red Cross, he said that security forces had fired into the air to deter a convoy that refused to stop near Ohn Ma Tee village, the site of recent fighting with the TNLA.

A three-person team from the U.S. Agency for International Development arrived Tuesday to determine how best to respond given limited U.S. resources due to the slashing of the foreign aid budget and dismantling of the agency as an independent operation. Washington has said it would provide $2 million in emergency assistance.

Most of the details so far have come from Mandalay, which was near the epicenter of the earthquake, and Naypyitaw, about 270 kilometers (165 miles) north of Mandalay.

Many areas are without power, telephone or cellphone connections, and difficult to reach by road, but more reports are beginning to trickle in.

In Singu township, about 65 kilometers (40 miles) north of Mandalay, 27 gold miners were killed in a cave-in, the independent Democratic Voice of Burma reported.

!summarize #france #democracy #politics

A bipartisan group of Florida lawmakers has signed onto the legislation as co-sponsors, including Reps. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Fla., Jared Moskowitz, D-Fla., Debbie Wasserman-Schultz, D-Fla., Scott Franklin, R-Fla., Maria Salazar, R-Fla., Daniel Webster, R-Fla., Carlos Gimenez, R-Fla., Brian Mast, R-Fla., Darren Soto, D-Fla., John Rutherford, R-Fla., Cory Mills, R-Fla., and Vern Buchanan, R-Fla.

The lease on NASA headquarters in Washington, D.C., is set to expire in August 2028. Florida's congressional lawmakers are not the only ones lobbying to bring NASA back to their state, however.

A bicameral group of lawmakers from Ohio appealed to Vice President J.D. Vance, a native Ohioan, and NASA administrator nominee Jared Isaacman, sending them a letter last month to pitch Cleveland as the next site of the agency's headquarters.

Ohio Republican Reps. Max Miller, Troy Balderson, Mike Carey, Warren Davidson, Jim Jordan, Dave Joyce, Bob Latta, Michael Rulli, Dave Taylor, and Mike Turner reportedly signed the letter, as well as Democrat Rep. Marcy Kaptur. Ohio Republican Sens. Bernie Moreno and Jon Husted also signed the letter.

After being introduced, the bill was referred to the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee and has not yet emerged.

The Times report from Feb. 13 said the department was using AI to augment about 1,600 department employees who respond to questions from students and parents about department programs.

Education Department spokesperson Madi Biedermann told the Times, "The department is open to using tools and systems that would enhance the customer service, security and transparency of data for students and parents. We are evaluating all contracts to assess effectiveness relative to costs."

Much of the work involving AI at the Department of Education and other federal offices is happening under the direction of Elon Musk, who leads DOGE and has deep experience with AI systems. Many DOGE program reviewers are also experienced with using and managing AI.

"Those types of things have got to get addressed," he said.

President Donald Trump, Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency have focused on streamlining government and cutting wasteful spending and fraud.

Democrats, though, claim DOGE is trying to eliminate services that Americans receive. They cite Medicaid as being targeted in the GOP's reconciliation legislation currently being discussed.

"I'm not for cuts in Medicaid. It's people at most risk: children, families, and single moms and stuff like that," Buchanan said at the summit. "I'm going to do everything to make sure it doesn't go down that road."

"There's a lot of inefficiencies. We've got to find a way to be able to trim a lot of the cost down and do things better for less, and a lot of it … we have to get the diet right with a lot of these, especially under Medicaid, with especially kids, as I mentioned, 20% obesity."

But the conservative 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sided with Triton, agreeing that the FDA changed its standards with little warning in violation of federal law.

While mainly ruling for the FDA on Wednesday, the Supreme Court noted that the agency had said the company's marketing plan would be an important factor in evaluating its application. But it ultimately did not consider the marketing plan, Justice Samuel Alito wrote for the court.

The appeals court was ordered to consider if the failure to do so is an important mistake that might still lead to a decision in Triton's favor.

The FDA has so far not instituted changes to its polices on vaping. But on Tuesday, the FDA's top tobacco regulator, Brian King, was removed from his post amid sweeping cuts to the federal health workforce that have cleared out many of the nation's leading health experts. King oversaw hundreds of warning letters issued to companies that make, sell and distribute flavored vapes.

"To the extent this protection was ever needed, its usefulness has long since passed," said Durbin, the ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Lawmakers failed to pass most related legislation last session, despite major lobbying efforts from tech safety groups and families seeking to hold technology companies accountable for social media harms, specifically on young children.

"The damage being done every year just gets worse," Graham told The Hill. "There's more support from the public [this session]."

The forthcoming bill is "in the works," according to a spokesperson for Graham.

It marks Circle's second attempt at going public. A prior merger with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) collapsed in late 2022 amid regulatory challenges. Since then, Circle has made strategic moves to position itself closer to the heart of global finance, including the announcement last year that it would relocate its headquarters from Boston to One World Trade Center in New York.

Circle reported $1.68 billion in revenue and reserve income in 2024, up from $1.45 billion in 2023 and $772 million in 2022. The company reported net income last year of about $156 million., down from $268 million a year earlier.

A successful IPO would make Circle one of the most prominent pure-play crypto companies to list on a U.S. exchange. Coinbase went public through a direct listing in 2021 and has a market cap of about $44 billion.

Investors were expecting Tesla to report deliveries of between 360,000 and 370,000 vehicles, according to StreetAccount. Tesla's investor relations team sends a company-compiled consensus to select analysts, and said the average estimate was for around 377,590 deliveries. Prediction market company Kalshi on Tuesday released a forecast for Tesla deliveries of 352,000.

In the first quarter of 2024, Tesla reported 386,810 deliveries, and production of 433,371 vehicles.

Why was there a drop in the report?
Any known factor?

Zuckerberg has said that it is his goal for Meta to build an AI assistant with more than 1 billion users and artificial general intelligence, which is a term used to describe computers that can think and take actions comparable to humans.

"As the world undergoes significant change, as the race for AI accelerates, and as Meta prepares for its next chapter, it is time to create space for others to pursue the work," Pineau wrote. "I will be cheering from the sidelines, knowing that you have all the ingredients needed to build the best AI systems in the world, and to responsibly bring them into the lives of billions of people."

Vice President of AI Research and Head of FAIR at Meta Joelle Pineau attends a technology demonstration at the META research laboratory in Paris on February 7, 2025.

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The AGI Debate: A Critical Perspective on OpenAI and the Hype Cycle

The discussion around artificial general intelligence (AGI) and the capabilities of organizations like OpenAI has generated substantial debate among industry insiders and skeptics alike. In a recent conversation, a prominent figure voiced strong criticism regarding claims made by Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, suggesting that the organization is on the cusp of creating AGI. The commentary presented a blend of incredulity, skepticism, and a call for critical thinking regarding the narratives around AI advancements.

OpenAI and the Hyped Promise of AGI

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The speaker did not hold back, labeling Altman's statements about imminent AGI as not only overly optimistic but outright fraudulent. This critique underscores a common sentiment among critics who argue that the technology sector often inflates the potential outcomes of its innovations, primarily to sustain investment and public interest. Such proclamations can inadvertently foster unrealistic expectations about the timelines and capabilities of emerging technologies.

The Reality of AI Applications: Progress and Pitfalls

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While recognizing that OpenAI has made strides in product development—such as the practical applications of ChatGPT—the conversation turned to the sustainability of these technologies. The speaker pointed out that while AI tools, like ChatGPT, may currently offer efficiency in tasks like data synthesis and coding assistance, they serve merely as a stopgap solution. The lasting relevance of these technologies depends on their ability to enhance human productivity and creativity meaningfully.

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Yet, there’s an underlying concern that these tools could contribute to an erosion of critical thinking skills. The nature of these AI models—which generate probabilistic outputs rather than delivering concrete facts—means users are often bombarded with plausible yet potentially misleading information. This characteristic raises alarming questions about the cognitive implications of relying too heavily on AI.

The Nature of AI Learning: Brute Force vs. Understanding

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Delving deeper into the mechanics of how AI models operate, the speaker emphasized a fundamental distinction: current AI systems often 'brute force' through vast amounts of data without truly understanding or contextualizing the information. This raises important conversations about the ecological impact of energy-intensive AI computations and the risk of guiding users into 'hallucinations'—a term used to describe AI generating confident but incorrect information.

To improve the utility of such systems, the speaker suggested incorporating a confidence scoring mechanism that could inform users about the reliability of answers generated by AI. Such an advancement would leverage AI’s strength while mitigating its weaknesses, thereby maintaining human oversight and critical engagement.

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The Multiverse and Simulation Hypotheses: Untangling Complex Ideas

The conversation also veered into more abstract domains, such as the multiverse theory and simulation hypotheses. A skepticism emerged when discussing the implications of these theories, particularly regarding their falsifiability and coherence. The speaker argued that many interpretations of quantum mechanics are layered with speculative notions that complicate rather than clarify our understanding of the universe.

During the discourse, it was posited that various scientific theories must anchor back to a grounding truth for them to hold meaningful implications. Questioning the feasibility and practicality of multiverse and simulation theories exemplified the need for critical analysis in scientific discourse.

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The Implications for Philosophy and Future Inquiry

The need for inquiry into the foundational aspects of existence provoked a wider philosophical discussion. If we are indeed in a simulation, what does that imply for our understanding of free will, evolution, and the nature of reality itself? The concerns echoed throughout the conversation emphasized the infinite regress that such hypotheses can lead to, where every level of explanation raises more questions than it answers.

This reflection serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between exploring innovative scientific hypotheses and ensuring that they remain cogent and applicable to our understanding of reality.

Conclusion: A Call for Critical Engagement

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Overall, the discourse exemplified a vital call for critical thinking within the conversation surrounding AI and its potential implications for society. The juxtaposition of optimism and skepticism serves to enrich the dialogue surrounding technological advancement. As AI continues to advance, stakeholders must engage critically, ensuring that the trajectory we chart is constructive and cognizant of both the potential benefits and inherent limitations of these technologies. In a world increasingly shaped by AI, the emphasis must remain on fostering human understanding and creativity rather than exacerbating gaps in critical thought.

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Tesla's Full Self-Driving Narrative in China: An Update

As Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology continues to evolve, recent reports from various Chinese auto executives, influencers, and real-world testers paint a significantly positive picture regarding its capabilities. This article explores the growing acknowledgement of Tesla's FSD effectiveness in China and sheds light on broader implications for the autonomous driving landscape.

Rising Positive Sentiment Towards Tesla's FSD

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Day by day, Chinese influencers and auto executives are sharing their experiences with Tesla's FSD, generating interest and excitement around the technology. Videos that compare Tesla's FSD with existing models, such as Huawei's ADS, showcase the former's superior performance. One notable instance included a demonstration where Tesla's FSD adeptly navigated maneuvers that left Huawei's system struggling, further solidifying Tesla's standing in the autonomous driving community.

A Shift in Perception

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Chinese influencer Andy Lee highlighted the realities surrounding domestic intelligent driving solutions, suggesting that performance claims often oversell capabilities. His blog post critiques various AI systems, voicing that consumers prioritize the usability and safety of self-driving features. He argues that numerous shortcomings in these systems, including hesitance and poor decision-making, render them unreliable in real-life scenarios.

Lee aptly encapsulated the sentiments of users by noting that if a vehicle's autonomous driving doesn't inspire confidence, users naturally revert to manual control. This critique reflects a broader trend where users are demanding not just functionality, but also a high degree of reliability and safety in autonomous systems.

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Tesla's Confidence Shines Through

Tesla has recently initiated a free one-month trial of FSD in China, a bold move reflecting their confidence in the software's maturity. This trial differentiates Tesla from its competitors, demonstrating a willingness to expose their product to a vast audience of inexperienced testers who have not yet driven FSD. Such trials in China, a market filled with diverse driving situations, suggest a robust belief in the technology’s performance under complex conditions.

The implications of this rollout are significant. The data collected from these consumer experiences will help refine Tesla's algorithms at an unprecedented scale, not available in controlled testing environments alone.

Insights from Industry Leaders

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Aside from influencer testimonials, senior executives from major tech companies are vocalizing their respect for Tesla's advanced capabilities. An executive from Alibaba Cloud confirmed that Tesla is engaging broadly with local companies, hinting at potential partnerships to support FSD development in China. This could open new avenues for Tesla to enhance its infrastructure and bolster FSD by leveraging local resources and data.

Meanwhile, an executive from BCH Intelligent Driving Systems, a notable automotive supplier, praised Tesla for having an approach to FSD that is generationally ahead of domestic solutions. Such endorsements from influential figures within the industry underscore Tesla’s continued leadership in self-driving technology.

The Neural Network Approach

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Central to Tesla’s success is its commitment to an end-to-end neural network approach for FSD, distinguishing it from other models that rely heavily on traditional sensor systems. This strategy allows Tesla's AI to learn from immense amounts of data, refining its understanding and decision-making capabilities. Observations suggest that competing systems, including Huawei's, may falter in smart decision-making when faced with complex traffic scenarios.

Industry experts emphasize the limitations of older models, which often depend on predetermined coding to navigate while Tesla's AI evolves through experience, enabling it to handle unforeseen situations that are often encountered in real-world driving.

Looking Ahead: The Road to Robotaxis

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The groundwork is being laid for potential robotaxi services in China, supported by favorable public sentiment toward Tesla's FSD technology. Executives hint at ongoing discussions that may lead to substantial collaborations with local giants like Alibaba, further boosting Tesla's presence and capabilities within the fierce Chinese market.

This progress is steered by the growing acknowledgment that the technology is scalable and can meet the diverse needs of the Chinese marketplace, where varied driving conditions and consumer expectations demand a high-performing system.

Conclusion

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The testimonials and insights from various stakeholders highlight the significant advancements Tesla's FSD has made in regard to public perception in China. The convergence of favorable test results, influential endorsements, and robust data collection set the stage for a promising future, both in terms of market presence and technological development. As Tesla prepares to unveil broader applications including potential robotaxi services, it will be interesting to observe how the competitive landscape evolves and whether they can maintain their lead over domestic competitors.