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Tea was due on day two of the Boxing Day Test and the contest was at an absorbing pass. Australia spent the first half of the day making hay while the sun shone from a cloudless sky. On a pitch that had quickened up to a nicety overnight, there was plenty to make. Pat Cummins of Australia celebrates the wicket of KL Rahul of India Credit: Getty Images Steve Smith wound back the years as he wound up his arms, scattering the ball to all parts. He does not so much hook sixes as cast them over fine leg like a fly fisherman. This was his fifth MCG hundred; he loves the place like he loves his mum and his bat in no particular order. Pat Cummins, playing a mix of conventional and Konstas cricket, had matched him blow for robust blow in a century stand that gave Australia the running in this match. Cummins in such a vein divides sentiment, between appreciation for what he can do and mystification about why hasn’t done it more often. But he doesn’t often get this batting conditions as blissful as this. He reaped. Click here to read the story. Australian star Steve Smith has admitted he reflected on critics questioning whether his eyes and reflexes were fading by stepping forward and moving closer to the bowler. He believed batting out of his crease takes the game to the bowler but also makes it harder for him to be trapped lbw. “You’ve got to have faith, I was hitting the ball really nicely and people were saying “Is he too old? Are his eyes going?” So I thought I would go out of my crease and make my impact point closer to the bowler, so it all comes a bit quicker,” Smith told Fox Sports this morning. “I think my eyes are still there which is nice. For me, it is about keeping the faith and knowing that I’m hitting the ball well. There is a difference between being out of form and out of runs - I was just out of runs and I’ve played long enough to know that things can turn around quickly.” There could be a hint of rain later today but, otherwise, looks to be a brilliant day for cricket. Ricky Ponting has had this to say on Seven about Virat Kohli turning back to address hecklers after his dismissal at the MCG on day two. Click here to read more about Kohli’s struggles. Virat Kohli came close to an angry confrontation with the crowd after he was involved in a calamitous run out in which veteran spinner Nathan Lyon later pinned him as the guilty party. Kohli was almost out of sight from the crowd in the players’ race after his dismissal before he returned to glare at hecklers. An ICC official then placed a consolatory arm around his shoulder and shepherded him down the race. It is not clear from the video of the incident that surfaced on social media on Friday night what sparked Kohli’s backturn, and though boos were clearly audible, no racial or personal abuse could be heard. Cricket Australia and the Melbourne Cricket Club had not received a complaint from the Board of Control for Cricket in India at the time of publication. The BCCI have been contacted for comment. Click here to read the story. G’day everyone. I’m Roy Ward and welcome to our Boxing Day Test live blog. We are at day three of this match and it really feels like both this match and this series are both on the line today as Australia tries to bowl out India and the tourists aim for a mid-innings recovery after falling to 5-164 at stumps yesterday. India trails by 310 runs and have the dangerous Rishbah Pant and Ravindra Jadeja at the crease, both are capable of posting big scores. Scott Boland, Pat Cummins and the rest of the Australian attack will aim to break this partnership up early and then power through the tail. Play begins at 10.30am AEDT. Enjoy the hours to come.Broncos hire Bauer away from KCAC power with hope to invigorate offenseNEW YORK , Nov. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report on how AI is redefining market landscape - The global lithium-ion battery market size is estimated to grow by USD 448.8 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 42.93% during the forecast period. Augmented demand from consumer electronics is driving market growth, with a trend towards legislative support for battery recycling. However, growing popularity of fuel cell solutions poses a challenge.Key market players include A123 Systems LLC, AT and T Inc., BYD Co. Ltd., CLARIOS LLC, Envision Energy USA Ltd., Exide Industries Ltd., GS Yuasa International Ltd., Hitachi Ltd., Johnson Controls International Plc., LG Chem Ltd., Manz AG, Panasonic Holdings Corp., Samsung SDI Co. Ltd., Shenzhen Bak Battery Co. Ltd., SK Inc., Sony Group Corp., TDK Corp., Tesla Inc., TianJin Lishen Battery Joint Stock Co. Ltd., and Toshiba Corp.. AI-Powered Market Evolution Insights. Our comprehensive market report ready with the latest trends, growth opportunities, and strategic analysis- View Free Sample Report PDF Forecast period 2024-2028 Base Year 2023 Historic Data 2018 - 2022 Segment Covered Type (Lithium nickel manganese cobalt, Lithium titanate, Lithium iron phosphate, and Lithium cobalt oxide), Application (Automotive, Consumer electronics, and Energy storage and others), and Geography (APAC, Europe, North America, South America, and Middle East and Africa) Region Covered APAC, Europe, North America, South America, and Middle East and Africa Key companies profiled A123 Systems LLC, AT and T Inc., BYD Co. Ltd., CLARIOS LLC, Envision Energy USA Ltd., Exide Industries Ltd., GS Yuasa International Ltd., Hitachi Ltd., Johnson Controls International Plc., LG Chem Ltd., Manz AG, Panasonic Holdings Corp., Samsung SDI Co. Ltd., Shenzhen Bak Battery Co. Ltd., SK Inc., Sony Group Corp., TDK Corp., Tesla Inc., TianJin Lishen Battery Joint Stock Co. Ltd., and Toshiba Corp. The Lithium-ion battery market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) in the automobile sector and the increasing demand for rechargeable batteries in consumer electronics and renewable energy. Key components of Lithium-ion batteries include the anode (often made of graphite), cathode (typically Lithium Cobalt Oxide or Lithium Titanate), and electrolyte solution. Major market players are focusing on strategic collaborations, mergers, and innovation to meet the surging demand. EV sales are fueling the market, with lithium-ion batteries being the preferred choice due to their high energy density, long life cycle, and memory effect. The EV industry's reliance on lithium-ion batteries is expected to continue, with solid-state batteries and lithium-air flow batteries being potential future competitors. In the consumer electronics sector, lithium-ion batteries power small-sized electronic devices such as laptops and mobile phones, thanks to their high conductivity and energy efficiency. The aerospace, medical, marine, industrial, and telecommunications industries also rely on these batteries for reliable power sources. The lithium supply chain faces disruptions due to the increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries, making it crucial for companies to secure their supply of lithium insertion materials like graphite and LiCoO2. The fundamental operation of lithium-ion batteries involves the combination of the anode and cathode during charging and discharging, with the selective membrane preventing unwanted reactions. Lithium-ion batteries offer features like power density, long life cycle, and energy efficiency, making them a popular choice for various applications. However, they require an integrated protection circuit for charging and discharging, and proper management to ensure reliable performance and minimize aging. Competition in the market includes lead-acid batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-cadmium batteries. As the market evolves, companies must stay ahead by focusing on expertise, innovation, and delivering reliable battery solutions to meet the growing demand. The global shift towards sustainable transportation has gained momentum due to growing concerns over environmental issues and increasing greenhouse gas emissions. In response, numerous governments have set targets and introduced directives to phase out diesel and petrol vehicles and promote the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) instead. Notable examples include France , the UK, and the Netherlands , which plan to ban the sale of diesel vehicles by 2040, 2040, and 2030, respectively. China is also taking action by offering subsidies for EVs and restricting new ownership of diesel and petrol cars. These initiatives are expected to significantly boost the demand for lithium-ion batteries, a key component of EVs, in the automotive industry. Insights on how AI is driving innovation, efficiency, and market growth- Request Sample! • The Lithium-ion battery market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in the automobile sector and consumer electronics. However, challenges persist, including supply chain disruptions related to the EV industry's reliance on raw materials like Lithium and Cobalt. Major market players are collaborating, merging, and exploring alternative technologies like lithium-air flow batteries, solid-state batteries, and Lithium Titanate to mitigate these challenges. Anodes and cathodes, key components of Lithium-ion batteries, utilize various materials such as graphite, LiCoO2, and lithium insertion materials. The fundamental operation of these batteries involves an electrolyte solution and a selective membrane. Features like power density, life cycle, energy efficiency, and rechargeability make Lithium-ion batteries popular power sources for small-sized electronic devices, electric vehicles, renewable energy sector applications, and industries like aerospace, medical, marine, industrial, and telecommunications. Despite their advantages, challenges such as memory effect, aging, and maintenance requirements necessitate expertise in management and reliable power supply solutions. Alternatives like lead-acid, nickel-metal hydride, and nickel-cadmium batteries also compete in the commercial market, offering different features and requirements for various applications. • Lithium-ion batteries have been widely used in various industries, including automotive and material handling equipment. However, end-users face challenges with the frequent replacement or charging of these batteries, particularly in operations that run for multiple shifts. For instance, forklifts in warehouses require batteries that can last longer to avoid disruptions in logistics management. Traditional batteries, such as lead-acid and lithium-ion, have limited energy capacity and long recharging periods, necessitating frequent replacements every 2-3 years. To address these issues, more end-users are adopting fuel cell systems, which offer longer operational hours and require less frequent replacement or charging. This shift towards fuel cells is expected to impact the demand for lithium-ion batteries in these industries. Insights into how AI is reshaping industries and driving growth- Download a Sample Report This lithium-ion battery market report extensively covers market segmentation by Type 1.1 Lithium nickel manganese cobalt 1.2 Lithium titanate 1.3 Lithium iron phosphate 1.4 Lithium cobalt oxide Application 2.1 Automotive 2.2 Consumer electronics 2.3 Energy storage and others Geography 3.1 APAC 3.2 Europe 3.3 North America 3.4 South America 3.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 Lithium nickel manganese cobalt- Lithium-ion batteries with nickel, manganese, and cobalt compositions have gained significant market share due to their unique properties. Nickel and manganese combine to create spinel structures, reducing internal resistance, while nickel's large specific energy ensures stability. These batteries cater to various applications, including power tools, e-bikes, electric drivetrains, laptops, mobile phones, portable gadgets, electric vehicles, and battery storage power plants. The lithium nickel manganese cobalt segment dominated the global lithium-ion battery market in 2023 and is projected to maintain its position throughout the forecast period. Download complimentary Sample Report to gain insights into AI's impact on market dynamics, emerging trends, and future opportunities- including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 - 2022) The Lithium-ion battery market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in the automobile sector and the expanding use of electric power sources in consumer electronics and renewable energy. Lithium and cobalt are key elements in the production of these batteries, with lithium providing high energy density and cobalt enhancing conductivity. The market for lithium-ion batteries is diverse, serving the EV industry, power tools, small-sized electronic devices, and renewable energy storage. The fundamental operation of lithium-ion batteries involves the combination of lithium insertion materials, such as graphite and LiCoO2, during charging and discharging. The market is subject to supply chain disruptions due to the limited availability of raw materials and geopolitical tensions. Strategic collaborations, mergers, and innovation in materials, such as graphite-based lithium-ion batteries, are driving market growth. Lithium-ion batteries are the power sources of choice for various applications, from electric vehicles to laptops, mobile phones, and renewable energy storage systems. Their high energy density, long cycle life, and rechargeability make them an essential component of the modern world's power infrastructure. The Lithium-ion battery market is a significant segment of the energy storage industry, primarily driven by the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in the automobile sector and the increasing adoption of renewable energy in various industries. Lithium-ion batteries are preferred due to their high energy density, long cycle life, and superior power density compared to traditional lead-acid, nickel-metal hydride, and nickel-cadmium batteries. The market is also fueled by the increasing sales of electric vehicles and the expanding use of lithium-ion batteries in consumer electronics. The lithium-ion battery market consists of several types, including lithium-air flow batteries, solid-state batteries, and graphite-based lithium-ion batteries. The fundamental operation of a lithium-ion battery involves the movement of lithium ions between the anode and cathode through an electrolyte solution and a selective membrane. Lithium-ion batteries are used in various applications, including electric vehicles, power tools, small-sized electronic devices, aerospace, medical, marine, industrial, telecommunications, and more. The market is subject to supply chain disruptions due to the reliance on key raw materials like lithium and cobalt. However, strategic collaborations, mergers, and advancements in technology, such as lithium titanate and solid-state batteries, are expected to mitigate these challenges. Lithium-ion batteries offer several features, including high energy efficiency, long life cycle, and low memory effect. They are rechargeable and require minimal maintenance, making them a reliable power source for various applications. The market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for clean energy and the growing popularity of electric vehicles. 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Type Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Lithium Titanate Lithium Iron Phosphate Lithium Cobalt Oxide Application Automotive Consumer Electronics Energy Storage And Others Geography APAC Europe North America South America Middle East And Africa 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lithium-ion-battery-market-to-grow-by-usd-448-8-billion-2024-2028-as-consumer-electronics-drive-demand-report-with-ai-impact-on-market-trends---technavio-302316362.html SOURCE Technavio © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
President-elect Donald Trump asked the Supreme Court on Friday to pause the potential TikTok ban from going into effect until his administration can pursue a “political resolution” to the issue. The request came as TikTok and the Biden administration filed opposing briefs to the court, in which the company argued the court should strike down a law that could ban the platform by Jan. 19 while the government emphasized its position that the statute is needed to eliminate a national security risk. “President Trump takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute. Instead, he respectfully requests that the Court consider staying the Act’s deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025, while it considers the merits of this case,” said Trump’s amicus brief, which supported neither party in the case and was written by D. John Sauer, Trump’s choice for solicitor general. The argument submitted to the court is the latest example of Trump inserting himself in national issues before he takes office. The Republican president-elect has already begun negotiating with other countries over his plans to impose tariffs, and he intervened earlier this month in a plan to fund the federal government, calling for a bipartisan plan to be rejected and sending Republicans back to the negotiating table. Trump has also reversed his position on the popular app, having tried to ban it during his first term in office over national security concerns. He joined the app during his 2024 presidential campaign and his team used it to connect with younger voters, especially male voters, by pushing content that was often macho and aimed at going viral. He said earlier this year that he still believed there were national security risks with TikTok, but that he opposed banning it. This month, Trump met with TikTok CEO Shou Chew at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida. The filings Friday come ahead of oral arguments scheduled for Jan. 10 on whether the law, which requires TikTok to divest from its China-based parent company or face a ban, unlawfully restricts speech in violation of the First Amendment. Earlier this month, a panel of three federal judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit unanimously upheld the statute , leading TikTok to appeal the case to the Supreme Court. The brief from Trump said he opposes banning TikTok at this junction and “seeks the ability to resolve the issues at hand through political means once he takes office.” In their brief to the Supreme Court on Friday, attorneys for TikTok and its parent company ByteDance argued the federal appeals court erred in its ruling and based its decision on “alleged ‘risks’ that China could exercise control” over TikTok’s U.S. platform by pressuring its foreign affiliates. The Biden administration has argued in court that TikTok poses a national security risk due to its connections to China. Officials say Chinese authorities can compel ByteDance to hand over information on TikTok’s U.S. patrons or use the platform to spread or suppress information. But the government “concedes that it has no evidence China has ever attempted to do so,” TikTok’s legal filing said, adding that the U.S. fears are predicated on future risks. In its filing Friday, the Biden administration said because TikTok “is integrated with ByteDance and relies on its propriety engine developed and maintained in China,” its corporate structure carries with it risk. Haleluya Hadero And Michelle Price, The Associated Press
Cairns Don't miss out on the headlines from Cairns. Followed categories will be added to My News. From a monster pedophile to alleged Russian spies and the largest cocaine seizure in Australian history, the AFP’s Northern Command has stamped out record levels of crime in Queensland in 2024. Earlier this month, the AFP’s Operation Tyrrendor seized a record 2.34 tonnes of cocaine with the assistance of the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and Australian Border Force (ABF). The cocaine, worth an estimated $760 million, was found on board a boat intercepted off the Queensland coast during a night-time operation by the AFP’s elite Specialist Response Group. Two men were arrested on the vessel and another nine men and two juveniles , including the vice-president of the Brisbane chapter of the Comanchero outlaw motorcycle gang, were arrested in Bundaberg and Brisbane over their alleged involvement. The record-breaking seizure equalled nearly half of Australia’s estimated annual total of cocaine consumption. The AFP charged 11 men and two juveniles following an investigation into a transnational organised crime syndicate accused of conspiring to import 2.34 tonnes of cocaine into Australia by sea. Picture: NewsWire / John Gass AFP investigators disrupted another major criminal syndicate in April, targeting a group believed to be responsible for a botched 900kg cocaine import in late 2023 which led to bricks of the drug washing up on NSW beaches. Operation Groot was a joint AFP, QPS, ABF, Department of Home Affairs and Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) investigation which resulted in charges against 23 people for their alleged involvement in the syndicate and its activities. Those arrested included a Brisbane man, 36, who is alleged to have organised the import and is suspected of involvement in at least two others. The AFP’s Northern Command seized more than 4.6 tonnes of illicit drugs with an estimated street value of around $2 billion this year. Queensland police stopped multiple drug importation plots. AFP Assistant Commissioner Justine Gough said 2024 was a standout year for the AFP’s Northern Command. “We have seized more illicit substances and made more arrests than ever before,” Assistant Commissioner Gough said. “We’ve significantly disrupted organised crime in this state and crippled criminal groups for years to come. “Whether it is minimising the harm of illicit drugs, countering extremism, saving people from human exploitation, combating cybercrime or protecting the travelling public at our airports, the AFP is steadfast in its commitment to keep Australians safe.” Ashley Paul Griffith. A childcare sex offender who preyed on scores of young children was handed a life sentence with a non-parole period of 27 years in the Brisbane District Court late last month. Monster pedophile Ashley Paul Griffith abused 69 children at childcare centres in Queensland and Italy between 2003 and 2022. He pleaded guilty to 307 offences, including 28 counts of rape and 190 counts of indecently treating a child in his care After nearly a decade, a breakthrough was made by the AFP-led Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation’s (ACCCE) Victim Identification Unit (VIU). AFP investigators from the Queensland Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team (QLD JACET) arrested Griffith, aged 47, in 2022. QLD JACET investigators continue to provide assistance and support to the victims and their families. Russian-born Brisbane couple Igor and Kira Korolev. Picture: Facebook In July, a Russian born Brisbane couple became the first people in Australia to be charged under foreign interference laws that came into effect in 2018 . Igor and Kira Korolev were arrested by the AFP and ASIO-led Counter Foreign Interference Taskforce (CFITF) for allegedly obtaining Australian Defence Force material to share with Russian authorities. Their case remains before the courts. Meanwhile 142 people were arrested at the three Queensland airports - Brisbane, Gold Coast and Cairns - where the AFP provides aviation security and policing services. The alleged offences, included anti-social behaviour on planes and in terminals, theft, security breaches, importing illicit substances and possessing cash believed to be the proceeds of crime. Originally published as AFP’s Northern Command stamps out record levels of crime in Queensland in 2024 More related stories Cairns Man jailed for ramming his partner’s car into power pole in Weipa Mclofty Sunai, 32, has been sentenced to six years imprisonment for ramming his partner’s car into a power role in Weipa last year then punching her through the broken car window, knocking her unconscious a second time. Read more Cairns New Lillipad Cafe opens after closure of Grafton St favourite A new incarnation of an iconic Cairns city vegan and vegetarian restaurant is back by popular demand. Read more
BBC Casualty viewers fear major exit as new characters pose huge threat in series twist
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — An online spat between factions of Donald Trump's supporters over immigration and the tech industry has thrown internal divisions in his political movement into public display, previewing the fissures and contradictory views his coalition could bring to the White House. The rift laid bare the tensions between the newest flank of Trump's movement — wealthy members of the tech world including billionaire Elon Musk and fellow entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and their call for more highly skilled workers in their industry — and people in Trump's Make America Great Again base who championed his hardline immigration policies. The debate touched off this week when Laura Loomer, a right-wing provocateur with a history of racist and conspiratorial comments, criticized Trump’s selection of Sriram Krishnan as an adviser on artificial intelligence policy in his coming administration. Krishnan favors the ability to bring more skilled immigrants into the U.S. Loomer declared the stance to be “not America First policy” and said the tech executives who have aligned themselves with Trump were doing so to enrich themselves. Much of the debate played out on the social media network X, which Musk owns. Loomer's comments sparked a back-and-forth with venture capitalist and former PayPal executive David Sacks, whom Trump has tapped to be the “White House A.I. & Crypto Czar." Musk and Ramaswamy, whom Trump has tasked with finding ways to cut the federal government, weighed in, defending the tech industry's need to bring in foreign workers. It bloomed into a larger debate with more figures from the hard-right weighing in about the need to hire U.S. workers, whether values in American culture can produce the best engineers, free speech on the internet, the newfound influence tech figures have in Trump's world and what his political movement stands for. Trump has not yet weighed in on the rift. His presidential transition team did not respond to questions about positions on visas for highly skilled workers or the debate between his supporters online. Instead, his team instead sent a link to a post on X by longtime adviser and immigration hard-liner Stephen Miller that was a transcript of a speech Trump gave in 2020 at Mount Rushmore in which he praised figures and moments from American history. Musk, the world's richest man who has grown remarkably close to the president-elect, was a central figure in the debate, not only for his stature in Trump's movement but his stance on the tech industry's hiring of foreign workers. Technology companies say H-1B visas for skilled workers, used by software engineers and others in the tech industry, are critical for hard-to-fill positions. But critics have said they undercut U.S. citizens who could take those jobs. Some on the right have called for the program to be eliminated, not expanded. Born in South Africa, Musk was once on an a H-1B visa himself and defended the industry's need to bring in foreign workers. “There is a permanent shortage of excellent engineering talent," he said in a post. “It is the fundamental limiting factor in Silicon Valley.” Trump's own positions over the years have reflected the divide in his movement. His tough immigration policies, including his pledge for a mass deportation, were central to his winning presidential campaign. He has focused on immigrants who come into the U.S. illegally but he has also sought curbs on legal immigration, including family-based visas. As a presidential candidate in 2016, Trump called the H-1B visa program “very bad” and “unfair” for U.S. workers. After he became president, Trump in 2017 issued a “Buy American and Hire American” executive order, which directed Cabinet members to suggest changes to ensure H-1B visas were awarded to the highest-paid or most-skilled applicants to protect American workers. Trump's businesses, however, have hired foreign workers, including waiters and cooks at his Mar-a-Lago club, and his social media company behind his Truth Social app has used the the H-1B program for highly skilled workers. During his 2024 campaign for president, as he made immigration his signature issue, Trump said immigrants in the country illegally are “poisoning the blood of our country" and promised to carry out the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. But in a sharp departure from his usual alarmist message around immigration generally, Trump told a podcast this year that he wants to give automatic green cards to foreign students who graduate from U.S. colleges. “I think you should get automatically, as part of your diploma, a green card to be able to stay in this country," he told the “All-In" podcast with people from the venture capital and technology world. Those comments came on the cusp of Trump's budding alliance with tech industry figures, but he did not make the idea a regular part of his campaign message or detail any plans to pursue such changes.Every day millions of people share more intimate information with their accessories than they do with their spouse. Wearable technology — smartwatches, smart rings, fitness trackers and the like — monitors body-centric data such as your heart rate, steps taken and calories burned, and may record where you go along the way. Like Santa Claus, it knows when you are sleeping (and how well), it knows when you’re awake, it knows when you’ve been idle or exercising, and it keeps track of all of it. People are also sharing sensitive health information on , including online mental health and counseling programs. Some women use period tracker apps to map out their monthly cycle. These devices and services have excited consumers hoping for better insight into their health and lifestyle choices. But the lack of oversight into how body-centric data are used and shared with third parties has prompted concerns from privacy experts, who warn that the data could be sold or lost through data breaches, then used to raise insurance premiums, discriminate surreptitiously against applicants for jobs or housing, and even perform surveillance. The use of wearable technology and medical apps surged in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic, but indicates that current laws offer little protection for consumers who are often unaware just how much of their health data are being collected and shared by companies. “I’ve been studying the intersections of emerging technologies, data-driven technologies, AI and human rights and social justice for the past 15 years, and since the pandemic I’ve noticed the industry has become hyper-focused on our bodies,” said Mozilla Foundation technology fellow Júlia Keserű, who conducted the research. “That permeates into all kinds of areas of our lives and all kinds of domains within the tech industry.” The report “From Skin to Screen: Bodily Integrity in the Digital Age” recommends that existing data protection laws be clarified to encompass all forms of bodily data. It also calls for expanding national health privacy laws to cover health-related information collected from health apps and fitness trackers and making it easier for users to opt out of body-centric data collections. Researchers have been raising alarms about health data privacy for years. Data collected by companies are often sold to data brokers or groups that buy, sell and trade data from the internet to create detailed consumer profiles. Body-centric data can include information such as the fingerprints used to unlock phones, face scans from facial recognition technology, and data from fitness and fertility trackers, mental health apps and digital medical records. One of the key reasons health information has value to companies — even when the person’s name is not associated with it — is that advertisers can use the data to send targeted ads to groups of people based on certain details they share. The information contained in these consumer profiles is becoming so detailed, however, that when paired with other data sets that include location information, it could be possible to target specific individuals, Keserű said. Location data can “expose sophisticated insights about people’s health status, through their visits to places like hospitals or abortions clinics,” Mozilla’s report said, adding that “companies like Google have been reported to keep such data even after promising to delete it.” revealed that data brokers were selling sensitive data on individuals’ mental health conditions on the open market. While many brokers deleted personal identifiers, some provided names and addresses of individuals seeking mental health assistance, according to the report. In two public surveys conducted as part of the research, Keserű said, participants were outraged and felt exploited in scenarios where their health data were sold for a profit without their knowledge. “We need a new approach to our digital interactions that recognizes the fundamental rights of individuals to safeguard their bodily data, an issue that speaks directly to human autonomy and dignity,” Keserű said. “As technology continues to advance, it is critical that our laws and practices evolve to meet the unique challenges of this era.” Consumers often take part in these technologies without fully understanding the implications. Last month, that users submit X-rays, PET scans, MRIs and other medical images to Grok, the platform’s artificial intelligence chatbot, to seek diagnoses. The issue alarmed privacy experts, but many X users heeded Musk’s call and submitted health information to the chatbot. While X’s privacy policy says that the company will not sell user data to third parties, it does share some information with certain business partners. Gaps in existing laws have allowed the widespread sharing of biometric and other body-related data. Health information provided to hospitals, doctor’s offices and medical insurance companies is protected from disclosure under the , known as HIPAA, which established federal standards protecting such information from release without the patient’s consent. But health data collected by many wearable devices and health and wellness apps don’t fall under HIPAA’s umbrella, said Suzanne Bernstein, counsel at Electronic Privacy Information Center. “In the U.S. because we don’t have a comprehensive federal privacy law ... it falls to the state level,” she said. But not every state has weighed in on the issue. Washington, Nevada and Connecticut all recently passed laws to provide safeguards for consumer health data. that aimed to require tech companies to adhere to strengthened privacy provisions regarding the collection, sharing, use or sale of consumer health data. In California, the California Privacy Rights Act regulates how businesses can use certain types of sensitive information, including biometric information, and requires them to offer consumers the ability to opt out of disclosure of sensitive personal information. “This information being sold or shared with data brokers and other entities hypercharge the online profiling that we’re so used to at this point, and the more sensitive the data, the more sophisticated the profiling can be,” Bernstein said. “A lot of the sharing or selling with third parties is outside the scope of what a consumer would reasonably expect.” Health information has become a prime target for hackers seeking to extort healthcare agencies and individuals after accessing sensitive patient data. Health-related cybersecurity breaches and ransom attacks increased more than 4,000% between 2009 and 2023, targeting the booming market of body-centric data, which is expected to exceed $500 billion by 2030, according to the report. “Nonconsensual data sharing is a big issue,” Keserű said. “Even if it’s biometric data or health data, a lot of the companies are just sharing that data without you knowing, and that is causing a lot of anxiety and questions.”By GABRIELA SÁ PESSOA and MAURICIO SAVARESE, Associated Press SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazil’s federal police said Thursday they indicted former President Jair Bolsonaro and 36 other people for allegedly attempting a coup to keep him in office after his defeat in the 2022 elections. Police said their findings were being delivered Thursday to Brazil’s Supreme Court, which must decide whether to refer them to Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet, who will either formally charge Bolsonaro and put him on trial, or toss the investigation. The former right-wing president has denied all claims he tried to stay in office after his narrow electoral defeat in 2022 to his rival, leftist President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro has faced a series of legal threats since then. Police said in a brief statement that the Supreme Court had agreed to reveal the names of all 37 people who were indicted “to avoid the dissemination of incorrect news.” The 700-page police document likely will take several days for the court to review, Supreme Court justice Alexandre de Moraes said. Dozens of former and current Bolsonaro aides also were indicted, including Gen. Walter Braga Netto, who was his running mate in the 2022 campaign; former Army commander Gen. Paulo Sérgio Nogueira de Oliveira; Valdemar Costa Neto, the chairman of Bolsonaro’s Liberal Party; and his veteran former adviser, Gen. Augusto Heleno. Related Articles The investigation started last year. On Tuesday, four military men and one federal police agent were arrested as part of the same probe . Other investigations focus on Bolosnaro’s potential roles in smuggling diamond jewelry into Brazil without properly declaring them, and in directing a subordinate to falsify his and others’ COVID-19 vaccination statuses. Bolsonaro has denied any involvement in either. Another probe found that he had abused his authority to cast doubt on the country’s voting system, and judges barred him from running again until 2030. The far-reaching investigations have weakened Bolsonaro’s status as a leader of Brazil’s right wing, said Carlos Melo, a political science professor at Insper University in Sao Paulo. “Bolsonaro is already barred from running in the 2026 elections,” Melo told the The Associated Press. “And if he is convicted he could also be jailed by then. To avoid being behind bars, he will have to convince Supreme Court justices that he has nothing to do with a plot that involves dozens of his aids. That’s a very tall order,” Melo said. On Tuesday, the federal police arrested four military and a federal police officer accused of plotting to overthrow the government following the 2022 elections, including alleged plans to kill Lula and other top officials.
Donald Trump has urged the U.S. Supreme Court to pause a federal TikTok law that would ban the popular social media app or force its sale, with the Republican U.S. president-elect arguing that he should have time after taking office to pursue a "political resolution" to the issue. TikTok and its owner ByteDance are fighting to keep the popular app online in the United States after Congress voted in April to ban it unless the app's Chinese parent company sells it by Jan. 19. They have sought to have the law struck down, and the Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case. But if the court does not rule in ByteDance's favor and no divestment occurs, the app could be effectively banned in the United States on Jan. 19, one day before Trump takes office. "This case presents an unprecedented, novel, and difficult tension between free-speech rights on one side, and foreign policy and national security concerns on the other," Trump said in a filing on Friday. "Such a stay would vitally grant President Trump the opportunity to pursue a political resolution that could obviate the Court's need to decide these constitutionally significant questions," the filing added. Free speech advocates separately told the Supreme Court on Friday that the U.S. law against Chinese-owned TikTok evokes the censorship regimes put in place by the United States' authoritarian enemies. Trump indicated earlier this week that he favored allowing TikTok to keep operating in the United States for at least a little while, saying he had received billions of views on the social media platform during his presidential campaign. The U.S. Justice Department has argued that Chinese control of TikTok poses a continuing threat to national security, a position supported by most U.S. lawmakers. TikTok says the Justice Department has misstated the social media app's ties to China, arguing that its content recommendation engine and user data are stored in the United States on cloud servers operated by Oracle Corp while content moderation decisions that affect U.S. users are made in the United States as well. (Reporting by Kanishka Singh; Editing by Alistair Bell)IT’S less “Lock, Stock” and more “Crock Stock” for poor old Guy Ritchie after his new TV show was plundered by thieves – for a SECOND time. I told last week how two robbers in a Toyota Prius drove up to the London set of Paramount+ series The Associate pretending to be lost, before jumping out and making off with some loot. Now sources say the duo came back the following day to try their luck for more expensive gear. And sadly for Guy their low-life ploy paid off, as they apparently went on to swipe kit worth more than £1million. My insider told me: “These guys are scum and after the first robbery they came back and did it all over again. “The second time around they made off with camera lenses and some kit that was worth massive money. READ MORE CELEB NEWS “They’ll be making a lot of cash if they can somehow sell it on. The fact the production has been caught out twice makes a total mockery of the security firm and they have been given their marching orders. “Their contract has now ended and another firm is coming on board to tighten things up and make sure this doesn’t happen again. “The Associate is being filmed in and around city streets and naturally there are risks, but this is hugely embarrassing. “Guy is confident it won’t throw filming off but it’s been a hard lesson for everyone involved.” Most read in Bizarre After working in London for well over a decade, I know that even a flash of my crappy old phone is going to make a mugger’s fingers twinge. So leaving kit which is that expensive on the street, you might as well have erected a couple of Belisha beacons either side and a big sign saying: “Free to the man with the fastest Toyota.” Perrie’s tongue ‘n’ groove PERRIE channelled her inner rock chick in this edgy photoshoot. The former Little Mix star wore loads of dark eye make-up and stuck her tongue out for the December issue of Xmag , which ought to have been renamed Xmas given she is promoting her festive single Christmas Magic. She released the track earlier this month along with a video, starring her son Axel. After launching her solo career this year , Perrie has been working on her debut album, which is expected to come out in 2025. But it remains to be seen whether she’ll beat ex-bandmates Leigh-Anne and Jade in getting hers out first. Chesney's album: A road map for kids CHESNEY HAWKES has announced his first album in over a decade – and a reunion with 80s pop star Nik Kershaw, who wrote his hit The One And Only. The beloved British singer is to release Living Arrows – featuring songs inspired by his kids – on February 28. And last night, he put out new single Live Forever, which was penned by Nik and Jake Gosling, who has worked with Ed Sheeran and One Direction. Chesney said: “I didn’t realise straight away, when I started putting these songs together, that I was creating a sort of road map for my kids. “I had them in mind the whole time, because the messages on songs like Live Forever are to do with taking life by the horns, doing what you love and following your instincts. “You have to let them do their own things, make their own mistakes. “That’s what I was doing with this record, trying to give them good advice.” Luke's battle MOVIE hunk Luke Evans admits he beats himself up over body image issues. Despite his bulging biceps, the Beauty And The Beast actor said: “I’ve had to learn to be kinder to myself but I have terrible anxiety about feeling good enough physic-ally. I was on a beach recently and I didn’t want to take my T-shirt off.” He added to the How To Fail podcast: “I don’t want to be in that place. “I know I shouldn’t feel like that, but you know we are sensitive creatures, we’re very delicate.” Corr blimey! THE CORRS put on a spellbinding show at London’s O2 Arena on the final night of their Talk On Corners tour. Nearly 30 years on from their debut album, Forgiven, Not Forgotten, Andrea's vocals were just as sharp as the lead singer delivered some of their biggest hits. A friend of the group said: “The Corrs still have a huge fan base and this tour showed them that there is still a huge appetite for their music. “They will come back and tour again. There might even be some new music.” Fans go in-Zayn at comeback gig “IT f***ing feels amazing to be here, not going to lie,” Zayn beamed as he took to the stage at the first of two sold-out shows in the capital. “Thank you for waiting, I know I took a while but we are here, so tonight I want you guys to have an amazing night, really enjoy yourself, sing along, scream.” The crowd didn’t need telling twice, losing their minds every time he so much as smiled. Vocally Zayn was flawless, powering through a 17-song set with the pitch perfect precision of Celine Dion in her prime. But while he said he was on top of the world, at times it was hard to tell. In 2017 I was lucky enough to see his former bandmate Harry Styles play the same venue and he jumped around the stage with more energy and presence than 99 per cent of his peers. In contrast, Zayn opted for a more subdued show, sticking to the centre of the stage and letting the vocals do the talking. Beyond his debut single Pillowtalk and more recent track Sweat, things blended into one. CHER has revealed Gene Simmons told her he loved her after just one date. In Cher: The Memoir, Part One, she opens up on her romance with the KISS rocker, which lasted from 1977 to 1979 after they were introduced at a drinks party. She said they went on a date and he flirted with both her and her friend, but neither of them were interested. Then he racked up a massive phone bill calling her from Japan, when he told her of his feelings. Cher recalled: “That’s when he blurted out that he loved me. “We hadn’t even kissed. We’d only been out once before he left. What is it with these men?” Count me Elt, please SIR ELTON JOHN raised some hackles ahead of his Royal Variety Performance after failing to turn up for rehearsals. An irate backstage source told me: “I found it super disrespectful. “Everyone was bloody there doing their bit but Elton wasn’t at any rehearsal – even the final one with all the other stars.” We previously revealed that Elton was set to introduce a performance from the cast of his hit musical The Devil Wears Prada alongside the show’s star Vanessa Williams. His team denied this was the case, but shortly after our story, ITV confirmed that Elton and David Furnish would be introducing the “eye-catching” routine. On the latest claims, an ITV spokesman said last night: “Elton John was not required to attend rehearsals as he was not performing. “The same applied to others who were there introducing acts and not performing.” The annual event, hosted by Amanda Holden and Alan Carr , took place at London’s Royal Albert Hall last week and will air on ITV in December. And despite the backstage grumbles, we can assure you the show went off without a hitch. It will be well worth a watch. Dua's Cal time DUA LIPA has got her ultimate home comfort while on the road – her boyfriend. READ MORE SUN STORIES The singer was spotted with actor lover Callum Turner at the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday during a day off from her world tour in Malaysia . Meanwhile, fans in Blighty can see her recent show at London’s Royal Albert Hall on ITV1 on December 8.Global Hyaluronic Acid-based Dermal Fillers Market Set For 11.2% Growth, Reaching $7.64 Billion By 2028
President-elect Donald Trump entered the fray in a debate over immigration policy that’s dividing his supporters, telling the New York Post he favors a visa program for highly skilled workers that Elon Musk has strongly defended. Musk is among tech leaders stoking a social media storm this week over how to bring top talent to the U.S. — revealing friction between Trump’s Silicon Valley supporters and anti-immigration sentiment that helps fuel his base. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.Dad stabbed to death in argument with Kroger coworker, TN cops say. ‘My role model’
NoneIndore Collector Asheesh Singh Orders Extra Hours, Work On Holidays For Officers To Ensure Top Rank In Government Scheme Implementation
CCSC Technology International Holdings Limited Reports Financial Results for the First Six Months of Fiscal Year 2025 Ended September 30, 2024
By HALELUYA HADERO, Associated Press President-elect Donald Trump asked the Supreme Court on Friday to pause the potential TikTok ban from going into effect until his administration can pursue a “political resolution” to the issue. The request came as TikTok and the Biden administration filed opposing briefs to the court, in which the company argued the court should strike down a law that could ban the platform by Jan. 19 while the government emphasized its position that the statute is needed to eliminate a national security risk. Related Articles National Politics | An online debate over foreign workers in tech shows tensions in Trump’s political coalition National Politics | Should the U.S. increase immigration levels for highly skilled workers? National Politics | Trump threat to immigrant health care tempered by economic hopes National Politics | In states that ban abortion, social safety net programs often fail families National Politics | Court rules Georgia lawmakers can subpoena Fani Willis for information related to her Trump case “President Trump takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute. Instead, he respectfully requests that the Court consider staying the Act’s deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025, while it considers the merits of this case,” said Trump’s amicus brief, which supported neither party in the case. The filings come ahead of oral arguments scheduled for Jan. 10 on whether the law, which requires TikTok to divest from its China-based parent company or face a ban, unlawfully restricts speech in violation of the First Amendment. Earlier this month, a panel of three federal judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit unanimously upheld the statute , leading TikTok to appeal the case to the Supreme Court. The brief from Trump said he opposes banning TikTok at this junction and “seeks the ability to resolve the issues at hand through political means once he takes office.” Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Click to share on X (Opens in new window) Most Popular Get healthier in the new year with these resources in the Williamsburg area Get healthier in the new year with these resources in the Williamsburg area Chinese student’s drone got stuck in tree near Newport News Shipbuilding, leading to Espionage Act prosecution Chinese student’s drone got stuck in tree near Newport News Shipbuilding, leading to Espionage Act prosecution James City County officer, 17-year-old injured in Christmas Eve crash James City County officer, 17-year-old injured in Christmas Eve crash Longtime Phoebus Auction Gallery to close after New Year’s Day event Longtime Phoebus Auction Gallery to close after New Year’s Day event How to dispose of natural Christmas trees in Hampton Roads How to dispose of natural Christmas trees in Hampton Roads Williamsburg leaders to prioritize funding for regional Trail757 project Williamsburg leaders to prioritize funding for regional Trail757 project ‘We’re buddies now’: William & Mary students work with dementia patients as part of new program 'We're buddies now': William & Mary students work with dementia patients as part of new program Juvenile humpback whale washes ashore on Outer Banks Juvenile humpback whale washes ashore on Outer Banks New Kent administrator’s capital improvement plan has some big ticket items New Kent administrator's capital improvement plan has some big ticket items RUSSIANS, U.S. FLY SIDE-BY-SIDE RUSSIANS, U.S. FLY SIDE-BY-SIDE Trending Nationally Body found in wheel well of plane from Chicago to Maui How Diddy and Luigi Mangione spent Christmas in Brooklyn jail Massive invasive python is freed into the Palm Beach County wilderness. Here’s why ‘Baby Driver’ actor Hudson Meek dead at 16 Pregnant woman stabbed multiple times by pizza deliverer disgruntled about tip, sheriff saysSustainability Don't miss out on the headlines from Sustainability. Followed categories will be added to My News. Peter Dutton is again defending his plan to take Australia nuclear after the national science agency estimated it could cost at least twice as much as Labor’s renewables plan. In its latest modelling, the CSIRO put the cost of a regular large-scale nuclear plant operating 90 per cent of the time at $155 a megawatt hour. But that could blow out to $252 a megawatt hour if only used 53 per cent of the time, according to the findings. Asked about the modelling on Monday, the Opposition Leader lashed out at the independent government agency and accused Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen of meddling with it. “They haven’t even seen our plan yet, and yet they’re out bagging it,” he told reporters. Peter Dutton is defending his nuclear plan after the national science agency released damning findings about its cost. Picture: NewsWire / Martin Ollman “It just looks to me like there’s a heavy hand of Chris Bowen in all this, and I don’t think people want to see that. “What they know about Chris Bowen at the moment is he’s wrecking the energy system, and that’s wrecking the economy. “That’s why families are facing food inflation and higher prices when they go to the supermarket.” The CSIRO’s modelling in its latest GenCost report, which it produces in partnership with the national energy operator, estimated that wind farms would produce electricity at $56 to $96 a megawatt hour, while solar farms offered an even better result at $35 and $62 a megawatt hour. Mr Dutton has not yet provided costings for his nuclear plan despite announcing it nearly six months ago. He has promised to release the figures this week, but in the absence of a figure, third party estimations have attempted to attach a price tag. The science is in Experts agree Nuclear only getting more expensive and slower for Australiaâs energy needs pic.twitter.com/MbNEwL4XTj — Chris Bowen (@Bowenchris) December 8, 2024 The Smart Energy Council has estimated it would cost between $116n-$600bn and only provide 3.7 per cent of Australia’s energy mix in 2050, based on experiences overseas and data from the CSIRO and the energy operator. It worked out at about the same cost as delivering a near 100 per cent renewables mix by 2050. Mr Bowen said in a video on social media the latest modelling “shows that the cheapest form of new energy is renewables and the most expensive form is nuclear”. “This report is crystal clear and it shows yet again renewables, even including the cost of batteries and transmission, is the best, cheapest and fastest solution for Australia’s energy challenge,” he said. Originally published as Peter Dutton accuses CSIRO of ‘bagging’ nuclear plan after costly findings Read related topics: Climate Change Join the conversation Add your comment to this story To join the conversation, please log in. Don't have an account? Register Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout More related stories Sustainability Aussies urged to avoid $1bn Christmas trap Australia’s love of gift giving has gone too far, and the unnecessary Christmas extravagance is costing us $1bn, new research reveals. Read more Environment ‘Unreliable’: Dire blackout warning Aussies are being warned they will swelter through one of the hottest summers on record, with power blackouts on the cards due to a surprising culprit. Read moreISLAMABAD: Expressing regret over the statement of PTI founder Imran Khan’s wife Bushra Bibi, F oreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar has said that implicating Saudi Arabia for political point scoring is indicative of a desperate mindset. Responding to the comments by the spouse of the PTI founder regarding Saudi Arabia, the deputy prime minister/foreign minister said “Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are close friends and brothers. This relationship is based on mutual respect.” “We have great admiration for Saudi Arabia’s journey of development and prosperity. The Pakistani nation is proud of its close relationship with Saudi Arabia which has always stood by Pakistan through thick and thin” Ishaq Dar added. Read More: Bushra Bibi issues statement on Nov 24 protest ‘’Implicating Saudi Arabia for petty political point scoring is regrettable and indicative of a desperate mindset’’ he added. The deputy prime minister urged all political forces to desist from compromising Pakistan’s foreign policy in pursuance of their political objectives.” Earlier, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan‘s wife Bushra Bibi issued a video message regarding the party’s Nov 24 protest call, urging PTI workers and supporters to participate in the much-hyped Nov 24 protest dubbed as ‘final or do-or-die’ against the government. Creating a new controversy, she claimed that propaganda began against them following their visit to Madinah in Saudi Arabia. According to her, former Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa began receiving calls where he was told that Khan was not acceptable to them. The PTI founder’s wife went on to add the calls were followed by her character assassination and Khan being called a ‘Jewish agent.’ Meanwhile, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reiterated that no protest will be allowed in the federal capital as Belarus president along with a 65-member delegation is set for a state visit to Pakistan on November 24 and 25. During a talk with the media after appearing before the Islamabad High Court, Naqvi categorically denied the reports about ongoing talks between the federal government and PTI founder Imran Khan regarding the Nov 24 protest. The interior minister said that although he favours negotiations with the Opposition Party, however, he asserted that talks and threats do not go together.
A recent advisory from the United States Surgeon General has made it clear — parents and caregivers are burned out. In a 2023 poll of more than 3,100 American parents, nearly 50 per cent reported experiencing debilitating levels of stress most days. Other recent surveys from Canada and the U.S. also found between 20 to 30 per cent of parents are experiencing moderate to severe levels of anxiety that could warrant a clinical diagnosis. When the tasks of the holidays are piled onto this baseline stress, it’s easy to see how the “season of joy” may feel more like the “season of overwhelm.” How can both our society as a whole and parents as individuals dial back the pressure? Structural changes are essential. But scientific insights about child development can also help parents prioritize what matters most and shift how they respond to things that may otherwise trigger anxiety. Much of what is making parents stressed these days is structural in nature: things are more expensive, it’s hard to find affordable child care, parents are more isolated, work is taking up more of parents’ time and children’s engagement with ever-evolving technology brings a range of serious health and safety concerns . These factors disproportionately affect parents who experience poverty, racism, violence or trauma. Addressing them will require substantial political and cultural shifts . But there are smaller factors to tackle as well. Parents today have more access to information than ever before. It’s not just a pediatrician or family member they can turn to for advice, but endless blogs, forums and social media platforms. While online sources can build community and confidence, they can also contribute to information overload as panic headlines and contradictory advice often compound parents’ feelings of anxiety and being overwhelmed. These platforms also tend to showcase idyllic situations that lead parents to create unhelpful comparisons and unrealistic expectations, contributing to feelings of shame and guilt . To counteract these feelings, it’s helpful to remember a few things: children’s development is influenced by many things parents can’t control, there are many benefits to imperfect parenting and independent play and parent wellness matters more than most else. It’s common for people who haven’t experienced discrimination or unexpected challenges to attribute children’s behaviours and outcomes to parents’ choices and efforts. This is an example of “attribution bias,” a bias towards a particular kind of explanation . Developmental science helps dispel this bias by highlighting that children’s development is influenced by many factors other than parenting and beyond parents’ control. First among these is genetics. For example, twin studies have found that genetic factors explain 57-76 per cent of child/adolescent mental illness, 60-84 per cent of picky eating and 60-85 per cent of school achievement. Another is exposure to adverse or positive experiences , such as witnessing violence or being supported by friends and non-parental adults. These types of experiences have substantial effects on children’s physical and mental health. But they are inequitably distributed, based on factors such as income and race . There are big differences in children’s temperaments and how they respond to their environments . The same parenting strategy applied to two different children can lead to two very different outcomes, as you may have observed in siblings. This is why the next time you catch yourself feeling shame or judgment about a child’s behaviour, it’s important to remember parenting choices might not be to blame. Psychologists and pediatricians often recommend certain parenting strategies to support children’s development. But rarely do these providers suggest parents must follow their advice 100 per cent of the time to achieve the desired effects. It’s what happens most of the time that matters. Even when parenting “imperfections” happen, like breaking routines or uncharacteristically snapping at children, they can be seen as opportunities. When “rupture” is followed up by “repair” in the form of acknowledgement, apologies, explanations and/or moments for restoring connection, it can benefit the parent-child attachment relationship and help children build their emotion-regulation skills. By using repair after the overwhelming moments that often happen during the holidays, parents can transform these moments from sources of shame to reasons for pride. Over the past few decades, parents’ worries about children’s physical safety have grown , while children’s unsupervised play time has declined . Many parents are spending more time with their children , hovering or helicoptering over them rather than promoting independent play. No doubt, playing with the support of a responsive adult has many benefits for children’s learning and development . But when it comes to parent involvement in play, sometimes less is more. Research shows that unstructured play — play that isn’t organized by adults and doesn’t have defined goals — is a “ fundamental necessity ” for children’s well-being. Outdoor risky play has enormous benefits for children’s physical and mental health that outweigh many of the perceived safety risks. There are also many unique benefits of playing with peers for both academic and social skill development. With this in mind, if you are a parent who is regularly your child’s main playmate, it may be time to seek more opportunities to take a step back. The holidays can be a great time to start. News and social media feeds are full of panic headlines that can make it seem that certain foods, toys or parenting habits are what make or break children’s life outcomes. It’s easy for parents consuming this media to feel anxious or even want to change their purchases or behaviours in response to every new study. But most headlines overstate the findings of weak studies or small effects. And if following the headlines comes at the cost of parental well-being, it could be doing more harm than good. This is because one of the most consistent and strongest predictors of children’s well-being is having safe, stable and nurturing relationships with caregivers — as both the Canadian and American Pediatric Societies have stated. Children need present and responsive caregivers more than they need any specific foods, presents or new parenting fads. This is why it may be worth considering what you can do to support yourself or other parents’ well-being this year. This could mean providing practical or social support to the parents around you or just making them feel heard and understood . With high parental stress , it’s more important than ever for everyone to replace judgment with empathy and advice with real support. And for parents, let’s try to distinguish what we can and can’t control, practise self-forgiveness in tough times, allow ourselves moments to do less and focus in on what matters most. It might help us experience more moments of joy in this holiday season and through all the seasons of parenthood. Nina Sokolovic has worked in several roles at non-profit and government organizations that support the well-being of children and parents, including her current as a Senior Policy Analyst in the Ontario Public Service. She previously received funding for her research from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.