August 2024 - Page 9 of 23

26 Aug

The long uncertainty of AI: navigating the age of excess and uncertainty

295Technology

David Wallace-Wells, a leading science writer, delves into the current complexities and uncertainties surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) in his exclusive newsletter for Times subscribers. Known for his insights into climate change and futuristic technologies, Wallace-Wells offers a critical perspective on the current state of AI, which he calls the “Age of Excess.” Not long ago, the narrative around AI was dominated by dire predictions and existential risks, with leading figures in the technology predicting dire implications for humanity. However, the conversation has changed dramatically. Recent financial analyses from major firms like Barclays and Goldman Sachs paint a grim picture of…

26 Aug

Bronfman’s proposal could keep Shari Redstone’s role at Paramount.

295Business

Edgar Bronfman Jr. has made a major offer to acquire a major stake in Global Paramount, potentially ensuring that Shari Redstone remains a key figure within the organization. A source familiar with the negotiations said Bronfman's offer includes a clause that Redstone, who currently serves as Paramount's non-executive chairman, will continue his involvement with the company. This condition is contingent on his offer being accepted by Paramount's special committee by National Amusements, the major shareholder. Bronfman reportedly secured $6 billion to outbid Skydance Media for control of National Amusements, a company originally founded by Sumner Redstone. Both Bronfman and Skydance's…

26 Aug

Setbacks in psychedelic medicine: a reality check for research integrity

295Health

It’s been a year of anticipation for Lykos Therapeutics, as they await a landmark decision from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The drugmaker had filed an application to approve MDMA as a treatment for PTSD, expecting a positive outcome that would catapult them to new heights. However, on August 9, the FDA responded with a rebuttal, culminating growing concerns about the quality of Lykos’ clinical trials. Following the decision, the journal Psychopharmacology retracted three studies related to MDMA research, citing unethical practices and making serious allegations, including sexual misconduct by an unlicensed therapist at one of the study sites.…

25 Aug

Haiti: arrest in connection with the murder of U.S. and Haitian missionaries

295Politics

In a significant development, Haitian authorities have arrested a man suspected of involvement in the murders of two American missionaries and a Haitian director of a nonprofit organization. The incident, which occurred in May, involved an armed attack that shocked many in Haiti, a nation already grappling with serious security challenges. The tragic event took place on May 23 and claimed the lives of American missionaries Davy Lloyd and his wife, Natalie Lloyd, along with Jude Montis, the Haitian national director of the nonprofit Missions in Haiti Inc., based in Claremore, Oklahoma. The violence is blamed on criminal gangs that…

25 Aug

Storied Media Group partners with artificial intelligence specialist Vitrina to improve showbiz insights

295Entertainment

In a significant development, Storied Media Group (SMG), led by former ICM literary agent Todd Hoffman, has announced a strategic partnership with Vitrina, a leader in artificial intelligence applications. The partnership is intended to provide enhanced analytics and insights into the global entertainment supply chain. Innovative platforms and intellectual property Launched in 2018, SMG’s intellectual property platform, StoryScout, has been instrumental in reshaping the way industry clients, including Sony Television, New Line and Range Media, access and consume unique content ranging from journalism to podcasts to video games. Hoffman’s extensive experience representing high-profile writers and media organizations has significantly influenced…

25 Aug

Microsoft convenes cybersecurity summit following widespread system disruptions

295News

Following a significant system failure triggered by a CrowdStrike software update, Microsoft has announced a cybersecurity summit scheduled for September. The event will focus on recent disruptions affecting global companies, including airlines, banks, and healthcare providers. On July 19, 2024, a faulty CrowdStrike antivirus update caused massive disruptions, forcing companies like Delta Airlines to cancel numerous flights and face massive financial losses, reportedly around $550 million. The glitch not only affected airlines, but also delayed shipments for logistics companies and disrupted scheduled hospital appointments. In response, Microsoft plans to host discussions at its Redmond, Washington, campus with CrowdStrike and other…

25 Aug

Noah Lyles sets conditions to compete with NFL’s Tyreek Hill: 100-meter dash must be an official event

295Sports

The rivalry between Olympic champion Noah Lyles and NFL star Tyreek Hill has escalated this week, following new comments from Lyles. Having recently secured a gold medal in the 100-meter dash at the Paris Olympics, Lyles has taken on Hill’s challenge, saying any races he runs would have to meet professional standards. Lyles expressed his openness to a race, as long as it meets certain criteria. “If there’s a sponsor for the event, if we’re running for a substantial prize pool, on a professional track, in the 100 meters, then I’m all in,” Lyles said in a Wednesday interview with…

25 Aug

Stifling progress: the impact of big tech giants on startup innovation

295Technology

In the heart of Silicon Valley, a culture of innovation has long been celebrated, with startups often emerging to challenge the status quo and introduce disruptive technologies. Historically, this dynamic environment has fostered the development of transformative technologies such as the personal computer and the smartphone. However, recent trends suggest a shift, with a few dominant technology companies increasingly maintaining their market positions by absorbing emerging competitors before they pose a real threat. Take the field of generative AI, for example. DeepMind, an early leader in AI, was quickly acquired by Google. Similarly, OpenAI, originally founded as a nonprofit to…

25 Aug

Changing collector preferences influence Monterey classic car auction results

295Business

During the iconic Monterey Car Week, auction results revealed a notable 3% decline in total sales from the previous year, reflecting a broader shift in collector preferences from classic to modern vehicles. This year, combined sales from the five major auction houses (RM Sotheby’s, Broad Arrow, Gooding & Company, Mecum and Bonhams) totaled $391.6 million, down from $403 million in 2023, according to classic car insurer Hagerty. That decline follows a 14% decline from peak sales in 2022. Of the 1,143 cars listed, only 821 found new owners, a 72% sell-through rate, slightly lower than last year. The average price…

25 Aug

20 remarks from the Democratic Convention

295Politics

As the Democratic National Convention comes to a close, it leaves behind a tapestry of memorable moments, pivotal discussions, and vibrant scenes that capture the essence of this important political gathering. Here, we delve into 20 standout observations that highlight the atmosphere, attendees, and flow of events at the convention. 1. Heterogeneous crowd The convention hall was a mosaic of America itself, with delegates from every state representing a wide spectrum of ages, races, and backgrounds. Diversity was not only visible, but vibrantly celebrated. 2. Energetic atmosphere From the first hammer blow to the closing speeches, the energy was palpable.…