Veteran CNN newsman Aaron Brown, known for 9/11 coverage, dies at 76

Aaron Brown, a renowned television news anchor, known for his coverage of the September 11, 2001, attacks, has passed away at 76. Starting his career in radio, he made a significant mark at CNN with his award-winning reporting. Post-CNN, he contributed to journalism as a professor and hosted PBS' 'Wide Angle.'

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Bihar exam stir intensifies as protesters block trains, roads

Protests intensify across Bihar demanding cancellation of BPSC prelims, alleging corruption. Demonstrators halt trains and block roads, with political parties and student groups joining in. Chief secretary meets aspirants, but no official statement yet from CM. Police action criticized by political leaders; support offered by various political figures. Protests continue with threats of indefinite hunger strike.

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Paul vs. McGregor: Wankhede stadium gears up for a $250mln fight

Conor McGregor and Logan Paul are set to compete in a significant boxing match in 2025, with each fighter potentially earning $250 million. The event, organized by the Ambani family and part of India's tourism campaign, will be held at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. Jake Paul, Logan's brother, seeks involvement in the negotiations, adding complexity to the arrangements.

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Underwater Krishna-Godavari basin landslide can trigger tsunami: Scientists

A massive underwater landslide, found in the Krishna-Godavari basin between 950m and 1.1km below the ocean surface, poses a significant risk to underwater structures and coastal inhabitants. The landslide, caused by events like Cyclone Helen and earthquakes, moved around 11 cubic km of sediments, potentially triggering a tsunami.

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BB 18: Sara Arfeen Khan gets eliminated, show gets top 10 contestants

Sara Arfeen Khan was evicted from Bigg Boss 18 after a heated altercation with Karan Veer Mehra, reducing the contestant pool to ten. The eviction stirred significant reactions, further accompanied by a contentious debate between Kashish Kapoor and Avinash Mishra, which host Salman Khan addressed.

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CPM ex-MLA held guilty in 2019 Kerala political murders case

A CBI court in Kochi convicted 14 people, including former CPM MLA KV Kunhiraman, in the 2019 murder of Youth Congress members Kripesh and Sarath Lal. Ten of the 24 accused were acquitted. The court will announce sentences on Jan 3. Families of the victims and opposition parties have called for an appeal against the acquittals.

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'Romeo and Juliet' star Olivia Hussey dies of cancer at age 73

Olivia Hussey, known for her role in Franco Zeffirelli's 1968 film "Romeo and Juliet," passed away at 73. She and co-star Leonard Whiting had recently sued the studio over a controversial nude scene. The suit was dismissed. Hussey is remembered for her remarkable career and is survived by her husband, three children, and a grandchild.

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Taylor Swift’s Stella McCartney blazer in spotlight during date with Travis

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce were spotted on a date night in New York City, with both sporting coordinated outfits. Taylor plans to relocate to Nashville to be closer to Travis and her mother. Travis is expected to stay in NYC for New Year's before returning for the NFL playoffs.

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Elon Musk: Mars will be called ... just as America was in past centuries

Elon Musk proposes renaming Mars as 'New World' and emphasizes the importance of establishing a self-sustaining human settlement on the planet for humanity's long-term survival.

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‘Indian Sikh family charged with masquerading as Afghans to claim asylum in Britain’

A Sikh Indian family is accused of pretending to be Afghans fleeing the Taliban to enter the UK and claim asylum after two failed UK visa applications. The family faces multiple immigration charges and has pleaded not guilty to all counts, with a trial set for January 2.

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India’s development agenda shaped MMS foreign policy

Manmohan Singh prioritized India's development in shaping foreign policy, leveraging ties with the US for the civil nuclear deal and initiatives like iCET, focused on stable global relationships, regional cooperation, and values-based diplomacy. Singh advanced relations with China, ASEAN, and initiated India’s Look West Policy.

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In 2012, Manmohan underwent operations, never quite recovered physically

Mani Shankar Aiyar reveals in his book how Dr. Manmohan Singh, after undergoing multiple coronary bypasses in 2012, never fully recovered, affecting his governance. Aiyar suggests that Pranab Mukherjee should have taken over as PM, with Singh elevated to President in 2012. Singh's key achievements include MGNREGA, RTI Act, and National Food Security Act.

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Kabul claims Pak airstrikes killed 46 civilians in Afghanistan

46 civilians, mostly women and children, are reported killed in airstrikes by Pakistani jets in Afghanistan's Paktika province. The strikes targeted alleged TTP camps, with Kabul condemning them as barbaric aggression. Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan are likely to worsen following the incident.

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'Speak in united voice': NDA leaders meet over Congress' Ambedkar attack

Leaders of the National Democratic Alliance, including Amit Shah and Chandrababu Naidu, met in Delhi to counter Congress' criticism of Shah's Ambedkar remark. They emphasized good governance and people's welfare, reaffirmed unity in upcoming elections, and discussed Vajpayee's legacy and future strategies.

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Katra ropeway project: Sangarsh Samiti starts 72hr shutdown, 20 protesters detained

Life in Katra, Jammu, gets disrupted as Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti leads a 72-hour shutdown, protesting the proposed ropeway project. The agitators argue that the project threatens local livelihoods and traditional pilgrimage practices. Despite police intervention and detentions, the strike continues, with support from BJP and Congress factions.

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Know why NFL on Netflix is disaster in making

Netflix's exclusive streaming of NFL matches, including the anticipated Chiefs vs. Steelers game, is off to a disastrous start with significant technical issues even before kickoff. Fans faced audio problems and program interruptions, reminiscent of previous streaming failures. Despite earlier reassurances from Netflix, their handling remains problematic, leading to widespread frustration.

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50+ Merry Christmas wishes and greetings to share joy and cheer of the season

Merry Christmas Wishes: Christmas is a time for joy, love, and celebration. It is celebrated on December 25th as the birthday of Jesus Christ. Christmas represents hope, peace, and love. The article offers a collection of over 50 Christmas wishes, messages, greetings, and quotes. These expressions aim to help people share the spirit of Christmas with loved ones.

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'Pretend world of Mossad': How Israel weaponized devices in plot against Hezbollah

Israeli intelligence agents revealed a decade-long operation involving booby-trapped pagers and walkie-talkies supplied to Hezbollah. Detonated in September 2024, the devices killed approximately 30 militants and wounded many more, creating widespread fear and demonstrating Israel's reach. The operation unfolded amidst escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah following the Hamas attack in October 2023.

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Keanu Reeves response to rumor that Ravens offered him a chance at quarterback

Keanu Reeves's portrayal of quarterback Shane Falco in "The Replacements" sparked a rumor about a Baltimore Ravens tryout. Reeves denied the rumor in an interview, though acknowledged the fun speculation. The film, loosely inspired by the 1987 NFL strike, achieved moderate box office success.

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Dell CEO to employees overworking: 'I learned long time ago that ...'

Michael Dell, CEO of Dell Technologies, advocates for a balanced work approach. He emphasizes working smarter, not harder, prioritising sleep and incorporating humor into the workplace.

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7 Indians among those injured in Christmas market car attack in Germany

A car attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, left five dead and over 60 injured, including nearly seven Indian nationals. Three of the injured Indians have been discharged. A 50-year-old Saudi doctor is under investigation. Saudi Arabia expressed solidarity with Germany and condemned the violence.

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Rajasthan tragedy: Man in flames walked 600m seeking help, but people just recorded videos

A Jaipur mechanic, Radheyshyam Choudhary, became a victim of a horrific gas tanker explosion. Engulfed in flames, he stumbled 600 meters, crying for help while bystanders filmed. Despite recounting the ordeal to his brother, he succumbed to 85% burns at SMS Hospital.

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All the Taylor Swift songs which hint at a Travis Kelce reference

Taylor Swift's new album, 'The Tortured Poets Department,' features songs referencing her relationship with Travis Kelce. Lyrics in songs like 'The Alchemy' and 'So High School' allude to football, Kelce's attempts to connect with her, and their budding romance. Even a lyric change in 'Karma' during a concert highlighted Kelce's presence, confirming Swift's new love interest.

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India's no.1 chess player faces US visa trouble

Indian chess prodigy Arjun Erigaisi urgently appeals for his passport's return after visa processing delays. He needs it to travel to New York City for the World Rapid & Blitz Championships, starting December 26th. The prestigious tournament boasts a $1.5 million prize pool and a revamped format, attracting top players like Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura.

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Man brings Rs 80,000 in coins to court to pay as interim alimony in TN

A Coimbatore resident paid ₹80,000 in ₹1 and ₹2 coins towards interim alimony ordered by the additional family court. The court directed him to pay the amount in notes. He complied the next day and was further directed to pay the remaining ₹1.2 lakh soon.

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Mahomes' $100K Christmas: Rolexes, Louis Vuitton, and lavish gifts for chiefs O-line

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes gifted his offensive line lavish Christmas presents, including Rolex watches, Oakley sunglasses, Lucchese boots, and Yeti coolers. This generous gesture, costing a reported $100,000, highlights Mahomes' appreciation for his teammates and commitment to the Chiefs. Fans praised Mahomes' thoughtfulness, particularly the unique Rolex Sky Dweller watches.

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Horoscope: Read your today's astrological predictions

Horoscope Today: Read daily horoscope predictions for December 19, 2024. Know all about the astrological events and influences that will be affecting each of the 12 zodiac signs. Our astrologer has analyzed the movements of the planets and the alignment of the stars to bring you the most accurate and up-to-date horoscope predictions for the day ahead. Get ready to discover what the stars have in store for you today.

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Scientists Develop New Approach to Capture Gravitational Wave Memory from Supernovae

A study published in Physical Review Letters explores a new approach to detecting the gravitational wave memory effect, a phenomenon predicted by Einstein's general relativity. This effect refers to the permanent alteration in the distance between cosmic objects caused by a passing gravitational wave. Scientists suggest that existing gravitational wave observatories could capture this elusive signature, specifically from core-collapse supernovae (CCSN), which occur when massive stars over ten times the Sun's mass collapse and explode.

Core-collapse supernovae generate gravitational waves with unique characteristics due to their changing quadrupole moments during collapse. According to reports, while the amplitude of these waves is lower compared to signals from black hole or neutron star mergers, they provide critical insights into stellar interiors. Unlike electromagnetic signals, which originate from a supernova's surface, gravitational waves emerge from deep within, offering a rare glimpse into the dynamics of a collapsing star.

Challenges of Detecting Supernova Gravitational Waves

Detection of gravitational waves from CCSN has proven difficult due to their lower amplitudes, shorter durations, and complex signatures. Reports state that these waves fall below the sensitivity range of current high-frequency detectors such as advanced LIGO. However, the study indicates that low-frequency gravitational waves from CCSN exhibit a "memory" effect. This effect arises from anisotropic neutrino emissions and matter movement during collapse, leaving a non-zero gravitational disturbance.

As per reports, the research team, led by Colter J. Richardson from the University of Tennessee, analysed three-dimensional simulations of non-rotating CCSN with masses up to 25 solar masses using the CHIMERA model. Their findings revealed a distinct ramp-up in gravitational wave signals characteristic of memory with matched filtering techniques, the team concluded that signals from a 25 solar mass supernova could be detected up to 10 kiloparsecs away, a range accessible by existing observatories.

Potential for Future Research

Richardson highlighted, as per sources, the significance of exploring low-frequency gravitational waves and encouraged further investigations using the study's methodology. Future research may focus on common merger events or improvements in detector sensitivity to refine the detection of memory signals.

 

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Taiwanese artist creates a gun that transforms her tears into 'ice bullets'

Yi Fei Chen, a Taiwanese artist, invented a unique tear gun. The gun freezes tears into ice bullets. Chen built the gun after an argument with her professor. The tear gun uses carbon dioxide to freeze the tears in 20 seconds. A spring mechanism launches the frozen tears. The tear gun is still being perfected. Netizens praised Chen's creativity.

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NASA’s InSight Mars Lander Captured with Dust Layers by Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter

NASA's retired InSight Mars lander was recently spotted by the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) in an image taken on October 23, 2024, using its High-Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE) camera. The image shows dust build-up on the lander's solar panels, which now match the reddish-brown colour of the Martian surface. Reports suggest this observation continues to provide insights into the movement of dust and wind patterns on Mars.

InSight's Mission and Retirement

The InSight lander, which touched down in November 2018, was central to detecting Marsquakes and studying the planet's crust, mantle, and core. NASA officially ended the mission in December 2022 after the lander stopped communicating due to excessive dust accumulation on its solar panels. Engineers from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in California continued to monitor the lander for any signs of reactivation, hoping Martian winds might clear its panels. However, as per reports, no signals have been received, and listening operations will conclude by the end of this year.

Tracking Dust Movement

The new HiRISE images were captured to monitor how dust and wind alter the Martian surface over time. Ingrid Daubar, a science team member at Brown University, told sources that the images of InSight's location offer crucial data on how dust accumulates and shifts. This information helps researchers understand the Martian dust cycle and wind dynamics, which are vital for future missions.

Surface Changes and Impact Studies

Dust movement not only impacts solar-powered missions but also helps scientists study surface ageing processes. Blast marks left by InSight's landing thrusters, once dark and prominent in 2018, have faded significantly, indicating dust deposition over time. This phenomenon also aids researchers in estimating the age of craters and surface features, as dust gradually erodes their visibility.

Ongoing Role of Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter

The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter continues to play a key role in observing Mars' surface changes. It monitors both active missions, such as the Perseverance and Curiosity rovers, and inactive ones, including Spirit, Opportunity, and the Phoenix lander. Managed by JPL for NASA's Science Mission Directorate, the orbiter's HiRISE camera remains a vital tool for long-term studies of the Martian environment.

 

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‘565 children injured or killed by bombs used by activists in Bengal since 1996’

A BBC documentary, "Children of the Bombs," exposes the devastating impact of crude bombs in West Bengal politics. Since 1996, at least 565 children have been killed or injured, often mistaking bombs for toys. The film features heartbreaking accounts from survivors like Puchi and Poulami, who lost limbs in explosions.

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Trump terms Assad’s fall in Syria ‘unfriendly takeover’ by Turkey

President-elect Trump called Turkey's ousting of Syrian leader Assad an "unfriendly takeover" but also "very smart." He warned of consequences if hostages in Gaza aren't returned by January 20th and expressed his intent to negotiate a deal between Russia and Ukraine. Trump reiterated his opposition to vaccine mandates while supporting specific vaccines like polio and defended his proposed tariffs.

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US envoy: Bangladesh minorities must be protected

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Giannis Antetokounmpo channels his inner Kobe Bryant after advancing to NBA Cup finals

Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Milwaukee Bucks to the NBA Cup finals after defeating the Atlanta Hawks, echoing Kobe Bryant's famous "job's not finished" mentality. They will face Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder on December 18th, with each player on the winning team receiving over $500,000.

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WWE Universe support of inaugural women’s US champion Chelsea Green

Chelsea Green's victory over Michin for the inaugural WWE Women's United States Championship at Saturday Night's Main Event has garnered widespread fan support. Social media erupted with praise, calling the win "well-deserved" and celebrating Green's journey since her Royal Rumble return. Fans even designed concept championship belts in her honor.

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Spelling Bee faces backlash over inclusion of ‘Womyn’ as an acceptable spelling

The Scripps National Spelling Bee is facing criticism for including "womyn" as an acceptable spelling of "women" in its third-grade study list. Critics argue this reflects a political agenda, while Scripps defends its decision, citing Merriam-Webster's recognition of the term.

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Earth’s Inner Core Might Be Slowing Down and Changing Shape, New Study Reveals

Research indicates that Earth's solid inner core, a metal sphere encased within the molten outer core, could be undergoing changes in both rotation and surface structure. Studies involving seismic waves from earthquakes have revealed that the core's rotation may have slowed, paused or even reversed relative to Earth's surface approximately 15 years ago. New findings presented by John Vidale, a geophysicist at the University of Southern California, during a meeting of the American Geophysical Union suggest that additional changes to the inner core's surface could also be occurring.

Earthquake Waves Reveal Inner Core Dynamics

Insights into the inner core rely on seismic waves generated by earthquakes, as no instrument can directly access Earth's core. According to reports, geophysicists often examine seismic waves originating from the South Sandwich Islands near Antarctica. These waves traverse the Earth, passing through its layers and arriving at recording stations such as those in Alaska. Waveform discrepancies between similar earthquakes occurring at different times indicate changes within the inner core.

Surface Changes and Deformation Hypotheses

Reportedly, Vidale and his team analysed seismic data from around 200 earthquake pairs recorded between 1991 and 2024. Discrepancies in waveforms were observed in recordings from Yellowknife, Canada but not from Fairbanks, Alaska. Vidale attributed these differences to possible deformation of the inner core's outer surface. According to reports, the entire core might be subtly reshaping or localised regions could be swelling or contracting. These changes might be influenced by gravitational interactions with the mantle or material flow within the outer core.

Diverse Perspectives on Core Behavior

The interpretations remain debated. Lianxing Wen, a geophysicist from Stony Brook University, has suggested in a statement that surface changes alone, without rotational differences, might explain these observations. Meanwhile, Xiaodong Song of Peking University emphasised in his statement that both rotational and surface changes could be contributing factors.

Current findings remain limited in their implications for Earth's surface, as stated in reports. Until further research clarifies the processes, the potential impact remains uncertain.

 

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Elon Musk's mother shares story of the $99 suit Musk wore to his bank job daily

Elon Musk became the first person to reach a net worth of $400 billion. His mother shared a story about his early struggles. He wore a single $99 suit for his bank job. Musk's political influence is growing. He donated to Donald Trump's campaign. He co-leads a government efficiency department. This raises questions about potential conflicts of interest.

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Selena Gomez engaged to Benny Blanco: Shows off pricey marquise diamond ring

Singer Selena Gomez recently announced her engagement to music producer Benny Blanco, leaving fans buzzing with excitement. The spotlight, however, quickly turned to her dazzling engagement ring, a 4-carat marquise-cut diamond that has captivated audiences on the internet. A diamond expert shared fascinating insights about the ring’s design and significance.

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Mars Dust Storms May Be Predictable Based on Surface Heating Patterns

New research has indicated a strong connection between warm, sunny days on Mars and the occurrence of dust storms, with nearly 78 percent of storms preceded by increased solar heating, according to a study presented at the annual meeting of the American Geophysical Union in Washington, D.C. The study, led by Heshani Pieris and Paul Hayne of the University of Colorado, Boulder, analysed data from NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, revealing patterns that could help predict these atmospheric phenomena.

Insights into Dust Storm Patterns

The researchers investigated data spanning eight Martian years—approximately 15 Earth years—collected by the Mars Climate Sounder instrument. Observations focused on two types of dust storms, categorised as "A" and "C" storms, which primarily originate in the planet's northern hemisphere and travel through Acidalia Planitia and Utopia Planitia. The study found a direct correlation between prolonged surface heating and the emergence of these storms.

In a statement, Pieris highlighted the significant impact dust storms have on Mars missions, noting their tendency to coat solar panels with fine particles, which can disrupt operations. This was exemplified by NASA's Opportunity rover, which was rendered inoperable during a global dust storm.

Potential for Forecasting Dust Storms

Pieris and Hayne's research suggests the possibility of predicting Martian dust storms based on patterns of surface heating. An algorithm developed during the study has shown a 64% confidence level in forecasting "A" and "C" storms, offering a potential tool for managing the risks posed to future crewed missions.

While the study marks progress, as per reports, Hayne pointed out that fundamental questions about dust storm formation remain unanswered, including the factors that allow localised storms to grow into global events. Data from NASA's deactivated Mars Global Surveyor supports the findings, showing that imbalances in solar energy absorption during warmer periods can fuel storm activity.

 

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Taliban minister killed in Kabul suicide bombing in ministry

Taliban's acting refugee minister, Khalil-ur-Rehman Haqqani, and four others were killed in a Kabul suicide bombing on Wednesday. A suicide bomber, disguised as a visitor, detonated the bomb inside the ministry building. No group immediately claimed responsibility, but the Taliban blamed "infidels." Haqqani, a key figure in the Haqqani network, played a significant role in the Taliban's takeover.

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Musk shares video of Tesla's Optimus Robot achieving another 'feat'. Watch

Tesla's Optimus robot successfully navigated uneven, mulched terrain using neural networks, even while "blindfolded" without video input. Elon Musk and Milan Kovac shared videos demonstrating this progress, highlighting the robot's balance and adaptation abilities.

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INDIA bloc to move SC over EVMs 'manipulation' in Maharashtra polls

Maharashtra's opposition INDIA bloc will challenge the recent assembly election results in the Supreme Court, alleging EVM manipulation. Following a meeting with Arvind Kejriwal and Abhishek Singhvi, NCP leader Prashant Jagtap announced the decision. This comes after over 20 losing opposition candidates questioned the EVMs' integrity, citing discrepancies between polled votes and declared results.

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China launches investigation into US' biggest and most-valuable chip company

China's market regulator is investigating Nvidia for potential anti-monopoly violations, possibly in retaliation for recent US semiconductor restrictions. The investigation centers around Nvidia's 2020 acquisition of Mellanox Technologies and alleged breaches of agreed-upon conditions.

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Milwaukee Bucks vs Brooklyn Nets (12/8): How to watch, and more

The Milwaukee Bucks are set to clash with the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on December 8, 2024, at 3:30 pm ET. With a formidable lineup featuring Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, the Bucks are favored to win. However, the Nets, led by Cameron Johnson and Dennis Schroder, will be fighting hard.

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Girl found with hands & feet tied in Sandeshkhali pond, protest erupts

An 18-year-old tribal girl was found dead in a pond in Sandeshkhali, three days after going missing. Her hands and legs were tied, her mouth gagged, and a brick was attached to her waist. Protests erupted as family alleged rape and murder. Police are investigating, focusing on a motorcyclist seen with the girl before her disappearance.

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China Unveils $553M Spaceport with Successful Long March-12 Rocket Launch

China has reportedly launched its latest Long March-12 rocket from the newly established Wenchang Commercial Space Launch Site, marking a significant milestone in its commercial space ambitions. The launch occurred on November 30, 2024, propelling two experimental satellites into orbit. The 62.6-metre rocket is designed to support a growing surge in commercial satellite deployments, as reported by Chinese state media.

Key Features of Long March-12

As per a report by China state media, the two-stage Long March-12 rocket uses advanced kerosene and liquid hydrogen fuels, replacing older hypergolic propellants. According to the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, the vehicle can transport 10 tons to low-Earth orbit or six tons to a sun-synchronous orbit at 700 kilometers. In an interview with China Daily, Xie Li, Senior Designer of Long March-12, explained that the rocket is equipped with an automatic ignition-malfunction detection system, which ensures safer launches by performing real-time checks and calculating alternative trajectories in case of anomalies.

With a diameter of 3.8 metres, the rocket's design accommodates four engines for greater fuel storage and payload capacity. Xie Li also noted that the structural material used is 15 percent lighter and 28 percent stronger than alloys in earlier Long March variants.

Significance of Wenchang Commercial Spaceport

As per reports, constructed at a cost of 553 million dollars, the Wenchang Commercial Space Launch Site is strategically located on Hainan Island near the equator, allowing for reduced fuel consumption and increased payload capabilities. Reports indicate the spaceport, operated by Hainan International Commercial Aerospace Launch Co., Ltd., will support up to 16 launches annually per pad.

The coastal location facilitates easier transportation of large rockets by sea and enables efficient recovery of reusable rocket stages from the South China Sea. The site is expected to play a key role in China's plans for commercial megaconstellations, including the Qianfan and Guowang satellite networks.

 

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Travis Kelce plans to make beau Taylor Swift's 35th birthday 'extra special'

Travis Kelce is planning an "extra special" 35th birthday celebration for his girlfriend, Taylor Swift, on December 13. He's been shopping for months, selecting gifts from her wish list. Despite his game schedule, Kelce is determined to celebrate both her birthday and Christmas with her. Their relationship has been a public spectacle, with mutual support at games and concerts.

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Bill Belichick's transition from NFL to college football could end career

Former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick is reportedly eyeing a move to college football, potentially replacing the recently fired Mack Brown at North Carolina. Brown's dismissal just before the regular-season finale surprised many, given his esteemed coaching history. Belichick's unexpected career shift follows a disappointing final NFL season and a brief stint as an analyst.

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Elon Musk's one of the biggest 'corporate enemy' breaks silence on him

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman downplayed concerns about Elon Musk potentially using political influence to harm competitors. Despite an ongoing lawsuit and Musk's close ties with Donald Trump, Altman expressed confidence that Musk wouldn't leverage a proposed government role for personal gain, calling such actions "profoundly un-American." He believes Musk's values would prevent such behavior.

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Oppo's 2024 Run Includes Return to the Premium Segment With Find X8, AI, and More

For Oppo, 2024 has been a dream run, with the brand registering the highest growth amongst the top five brands in Q3 2024. As per IDC, Oppo led with launches like A3x, K12x and Reno 12 series in the quarter. After securing the second spot in the top smartphone manufacturers list and beating the likes of Realme, Xiaomi, and Motorola, Oppo has made a comeback to the premium segment. The all-new Find X8 series - Find X8 and Find X8 Pro - attempts to be the feather in the hat for Oppo. Gadgets 360 got to talk to Savio D'Souza, Head of Product Communications, Oppo India, to discuss the new launch and much more.

Smartphone premiumisation in India

We wanted to jump straight to the new Find X8 series, which is a return for Oppo in the premium smartphone segment in India. D'Souza explained how the premiumisation trend has entered the smartphone space with increasing ASP (average selling price).

"Indian consumers increasingly seek top-tier smartphones for communication, productivity, entertainment, and payments. A recent IDC report highlights that the premium segment registered the highest growth of 86% in the July-Sept 2024 quarter. The Find X8 Series addresses this demand with cutting-edge features like AI Summary, AI Reflection Remover, AI LinkBoost, a flagship quad-camera system, and a sleek, lightweight design. The timing couldn't be better for the Find X series to return, as premium innovation is now the need of the hour," he said.

With new launches in the premium segment, the market is becoming aggressive. How does Oppo's new Find X8 series fit into the entire premium price range, where iPhones and Samsungs dominate the segment? "With the Find X8 series, we are redefining what smartphones can achieve. The smartphone combines the best from industry leaders—MediaTek, Google, Hasselblad, and Dolby Vision. The Dimensity 9400 chipset powers exceptional performance, while Google Gemini enhances AI personalisation. Hasselblad Imaging provides pro-level photography, and Dolby Vision delivers stunning display quality. Oppo's proprietary HyperTone Image Engine further optimises photo quality," D'Souza said.

"With Oppo's engineering prowess, we have packed all these powerful aspects into a lightweight and sleek device. Together, these technologies create a smartphone that seamlessly blends innovation, performance, and user-centric features, making the Find X8 Series a standout flagship," he added.

AI to enhance user experience?

When asked about Oppo's AI ambitions, D'Souza said that the company has a strategy set for consumer needs. "This year, we have integrated generative AI across our lineup—features typically reserved for flagship devices. By the end of 2024, we aim to deliver 50 million AI-powered smartphones globally," he said.

Find X8 and Find X8 Pro come with the same camera hardware

 

On being asked about whether AI alone will be the enabler for consumers to make the switch. D'Souza said, "I believe it's the coming together of hardware, software, and AI that delivers a superior smartphone experience. A good device needs a powerful processor to function efficiently, and AI compliments and, at times, supplements their efforts to elevate the performance."

Giving the Find X8 series example, D'Souza further explained, "The Find X8 Series is engineered by Oppo for high performance, and it integrates exceptional AI-based functionalities across its camera, productivity, and connectivity systems, all optimised by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chipset." But he stressed that Oppo has ensured that they are offering the best camera experience, too.

"The Find X8 Series features a path-breaking quad-camera system with dual telephoto cameras and the AI Telescope Zoom further adds to the camera capabilities. It uses powerful AI algorithms with generative AI models to help users zoom into subjects while preserving clarity and accuracy, even at extreme zoom levels such as up to 120x," he added.

After-sales support

The after-sales is the backbone of the smartphone business in India. When asked about the updates on service centres from Oppo and if there is any new offering to be announced for Find X8 series support, D'Souza said, "We are a customer-first brand and believe that a strong after-sales support network is central to delivering a premium user experience. We have revamped our after-sales service model with new-generation service centres. Additionally, the digitally led Oppo Self-Help Assistant, aligned with the Indian Government's 'Right to Repair' framework, enables customers to resolve their smartphone issues without visiting a service centre. A strong validation of our efforts is reflected in the recent Counterpoint Research survey, where Oppo India earned the Number 1 position in customer satisfaction for after-sales."

For the Find X8 series, Oppo announced a host of benefits, like an additional warranty of 365 days on pre-booking till December 2, 2024. The company also introduced 'Refresh Service', where customers can replace screen guards and protective cases twice within the warranty tenure and even get them delivered to their homes.

Oppo is also among a handful of brands that offer an International Warranty Service, which means customers can also get maintenance, repairs, and software upgrades in countries where the device is officially available.

2025 - What's in store?

When asked about Oppo's 2025 plans, and we are in the last month, D'Souza promised some exciting products in the lineup without sharing many details.

"2024 has been a landmark year for Oppo in terms of AI-driven product innovation with the Reno 12 Series, F Series, and now the Find X8 Series. We will continue to introduce new products and technologies to enable 'AI for All'. There is a strong focus on bringing Gen AI features across photography, productivity, and performance parameters, and over 5800 AI-related patents have already been filed by Oppo for image processing, computer vision, speech technology, natural language processing, machine learning, etc. There are exciting launches planned in 2025, and you will hear from us at the right time," he added.

Oppo Find X8 and X8 Pro are now available in India via online and offline channels.

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'Should I call Bishnoi?':Man detained near Salman's shooting location

A suspicious man was detained near Salman Khan's shooting location in Dadar, Mumbai on Wednesday night. The superstar was shooting for his film near the railway line at Matunga. According to police sources, Salman Khan was at the site when crew members noticed an unidentified man who allegedly mentioned gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, with whom Salman has a long-standing feud.

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'Shot twice, targeted attack': What police said on killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson

UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, 50, was fatally shot outside the New York Hilton Midtown Wednesday morning in what police describe as a targeted attack. The masked gunman, who appeared to be lying in wait, shot Thompson twice before fleeing on an e-bike. Thompson later died at a nearby hospital.

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Jamal Adams shares why joining a team dominating everyone was an easy decision

Jamal Adams, a versatile safety, joins the Detroit Lions' practice squad after being released by the Titans. He is excited for the opportunity to contribute to the Lions' dominant season. Despite limited games due to injuries, Adams aims to bring his playmaking skills to help the team during their playoff push.

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Indian Ocean Study Reveals Bay of Bengal Defies Ekman’s Wind-Driven Current Theory

A study published in Science Advances has identified a significant anomaly to Vagn Walfrid Ekman's widely-accepted theory on wind-driven ocean currents. Conducted by a team of researchers from NOAA, the Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services and the University of Zagreb, the study focused on the Bay of Bengal in the Indian Ocean. Data spanning several years from a buoy stationed off India's eastern coast was examined, revealing that ocean currents in this region deflect leftward, contradicting the theory's predictions for the Northern Hemisphere.

Ekman's Theory and Its Longstanding Influence

The Ekman theory, developed in 1905 by Swedish oceanographer Vagn Walfrid Ekman, asserts that surface ocean currents are deflected 45 degrees to the right of wind direction in the Northern Hemisphere due to the Coriolis force. Successive layers beneath the surface exhibit similar patterns, forming the Ekman spiral. This mechanism, though robust, assumes idealised conditions, including uniform ocean depth and density. Variations such as those observed in the Bay of Bengal highlight its limitations.

Findings from the Bay of Bengal

As per the study, according to data collected over several years, currents in the Bay of Bengal were found to veer leftward despite prevailing winds, defying Ekman's predictions. This anomaly underscores the need to reassess assumptions about global oceanic patterns. The researchers suggested that local factors, including unique regional wind patterns and oceanic dynamics, could play a significant role.

Implications for Climate Models

It was noted in a statement by the researchers that the findings could influence future climate modelling efforts. If exceptions to Ekman's theory exist in the Bay of Bengal, others might also occur globally, underscoring the need for more detailed oceanographic studies. Discussions have also highlighted the potential deployment of a NASA satellite system to monitor wind and surface currents comprehensively.

This study has brought attention to gaps in understanding wind-driven currents, stressing the importance of revisiting established models as global warming continues to impact ocean behaviour.

 

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Israel contract: How Google may have been warned about a 'controversial’ project

Google faced significant internal concerns over its cloud computing contract with Israel, fearing potential human rights violations. Despite potential revenue and strategic significance, employee activism has challenged the project, recalling the company's previous military contract controversies. Google remains firm, emphasizing compliance and denying its technology's implications in conflicts.

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Can EC be powerless to disqualify a foreigner getting elected, asks SC

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John Cena featuring WWE elimination chamber 2025 poster drop sparks fan frenzy

WWE has announced Elimination Chamber 2025 at Toronto's Rogers Centre on March 1, featuring stars like CM Punk and John Cena. The event promises thrilling matches, with Cena possibly chasing the world heavyweight championship. Fans reacted enthusiastically online, expressing excitement over the star-studded lineup and the return to the iconic venue.

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Musk backs call for transparency after Kash Patel's appointment

President-elect Donald Trump appoints Kash Patel as FBI Director, prompting social media calls for the declassification of contentious documents such as the 'Epstein list' and 'Diddy list.' Elon Musk supports the push for transparency, aligning with Patel's advocacy for revealing sensitive information for public accountability.

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