
In addition to the excitement surrounding the team building event, fans are also eagerly anticipating the new season of Overwatch, which promises to bring a slew of updates, balance changes, and new content to the game. With each new season, players have the opportunity to test their skills, adapt to the evolving meta, and strive for new heights of achievement.
Former US President Jimmy Carter dies at 100, Atlanta Journal-Constitution reportsAmazon is rolling out great deals on two of its latest Kindle e-readers which makes it the perfect time if you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for the holiday season. The all-new Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition and the Kindle Paperwhite are both available at record low prices , and showcase the best of what Amazon has to offer in e-reading technology. The Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition is priced at $154, down from its list price of $199 (a 23% discount) . This model stands out as Amazon’s fastest Kindle yet with a generous 32 GB of storage so that you can to store thousands of books without worrying about running out of space. One of the most notable features of this edition is its auto-adjusting front light which optimizes brightness based on your environment. With weeks of battery life on a single charge, this Kindle is perfect for avid readers who enjoy long reading sessions without interruption. See Kindle Paperwhite Signature at Amazon On the other hand, the Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB) is available for $129, reduced from $159 . This model also boasts impressive features including a 7-inch glare-free display that makes reading outdoors a breeze. The 16 GB storage capacity is ample for most users and allows you to carry an extensive library in your hands. Like the Signature Edition, this Kindle offers weeks of battery life and is designed with comfort in mind. See Kindle Paperwhite at Amazon Both models are part of Amazon’s commitment to providing readers with high-quality devices that enhance their reading experience. Moreover, Amazon offers a best price guarantee during this promotional period: if the price drops further after your purchase, they will refund you the difference. This means there’s no reason to wait—buying now ensures you get the best deal possible. Additionally, Amazon has extended its return policy until January 31, 2025, which is particularly advantageous for holiday shopping. This extended timeframe allows gift recipients ample opportunity to test their new e-readers and return them if necessary, providing peace of mind during the busy holiday season. Best in Class E-Readers While both models share some core features—such as exceptional battery life and glare-free displays—there are key differences that cater to different types of readers. The Signature Edition is ideal for those who want the best technology available and enjoy features like wireless charging and an adaptive front light that adjusts automatically. Conversely, the standard Kindle Paperwhite is perfect for those who want a high-quality reading experience without all the bells and whistles. It provides excellent functionality at a more accessible price point which is appreciated by casual readers or those new to e-readers. Its lighter weight and compact design make it easy to carry around, making it suitable for both commuting and leisure reading. With these record low prices and Amazon’s generous return policy during Black Friday , now is undoubtedly the best time to elevate your reading experience or surprise someone special with a thoughtful gift this holiday season. See Kindle Paperwhite Signature at Amazon See Kindle Paperwhite at Amazon
Manchester City, one of the powerhouses of English football, finds itself embroiled in a deepening crisis as accusations from the Premier League regarding financial irregularities continue to mount. The club, affectionately known as the Sky Blues or the Citizens, has been at the center of controversy for several years now, with ongoing investigations into alleged breaches of financial fair play regulations.S&P/TSX composite index ticks lower, U.S. stock markets rise(The Center Square) – The U.S. Government Accountability Office says leadership is needed to fully define quantum threat mitigation strategy. A new report released by the agency emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive federal leadership to address the emerging cybersecurity risks posed by quantum computing, warning that without prompt and coordinated action, adversarial nations might exploit quantum technology to undermine national security. "It is important for the Office of the National Cyber Director to act on our recommendation now for several reasons," Marisol Cruz Cain, director with GAO's Information Technology and Cybersecurity team, wrote in an email to The Center Square. "Adversaries could copy data protected by cryptography today and store it with the intention of accessing it later once a cryptographically relevant quantum computer is developed." The director is also the lead author of The Future of Cybersecurity. "The key to successful migrations is to start planning now and not wait until a CRQC is on the horizon," Cain wrote. "A fully comprehensive strategy will provide agencies with more clarity on their responsibilities and the common outcomes they are aiming to achieve. It will also provide the nation a better-defined roadmap for allocating and managing resources and holding participants accountable for achieving results." A cryptographically relevant quantum computer is a quantum computer that can run algorithms to crack or weaken existing cryptography. Quantum computing is a rapidly advancing technology that has the potential to solve complex problems at an unprecedented speed, which also poses significant risks in today's cybersecurity. The report says various documents have been developed over the past eight years that have contributed to an emerging U.S. national quantum computing cybersecurity strategy. The Government Accountability Office has identified three goals moving forward. The first goal is to standardize post-quantum cryptography, the second would be to migrate federal systems to that cryptography, and the third would encourage all sectors of the economy to prepare for the threat. The report identifies gaps in federal agency preparedness and a lack of clear leadership to oversee the transition to quantum-safe systems, as "No single federal organization is responsible for the U.S. strategy’s coordination." While agencies like the National Institute of Standards and Technology have taken necessary steps to develop quantum-resistant cryptographic standards, the report found inconsistencies in how federal agencies implement recommendations. The Government Accountability Office says national strategies should ideally contain six characteristics: • Purpose, scope, and methodology. • Problem definition and risk assessment. • Objectives, activities, milestones, and performance measures. • Resources, investments, and risk management. • Organizational roles, responsibilities, and coordination. • Implementation and integration. According to the report, the accountability office was asked to investigate the federal government's strategy for addressing threats posed by quantum computers to the nation's cryptography. The current encryption methods are designed to secure sensitive data, but unfortunately, could potentially become vulnerable to future efforts of quantum-enabled decryption in the future. The report also stresses that the federal government will need to act swiftly to implement quantum-resistant cryptography in order to ensure that those critical systems would remain secure. According to the report, "some experts predict that a quantum computer capable of breaking certain cryptography – referred to as a cryptographically relevant quantum computer – may be developed in the next 10 to 20 years." The agency also identified challenges in workforce development and noted a shortage of professionals with expertise in quantum computing and cybersecurity, suggesting federal agencies invest in training programs and collaborate with private sector leaders to ensure a skilled future workforce that is ready to tackle any quantum-related threats. The report serves as a roadmap for quantum threat mitigation and outlines ways the federal government could appoint a centralized leadership body to oversee the implementation of quantum-safe measures. The report also calls for increased funding for quantum research and development and stronger public-private partnerships to address other vulnerabilities while also emphasizing that proactive leadership is critical to ensuring the United States remains at the forefront of cybersecurity in the quantum era.
As the regular season unfolds and teams jockey for playoff positioning, the CBA remains a premier destination for basketball enthusiasts and fans of the sport. With each game, players have the chance to make their mark and leave a lasting impact on the league, solidifying their place among the best in Chinese basketball.
Barcelona, led by their talisman Lionel Messi, started the season in dominant fashion, stringing together impressive victories and showcasing their trademark attacking flair. However, a recent dip in form coupled with injuries to key players has seen their lead at the top of the table diminish rapidly. The Catalans have faltered in crucial matches, dropping points against lower-ranked teams and failing to capitalize on opportunities to extend their lead.
Are you ready to take on the trials that await in the world of "Black Myth: Wukong"? Get ready to embark on an adventure like no other, where your skills, wits, and bravery will be put to the ultimate test. Get ready to unleash the power of the legendary Monkey King and discover the true essence of "Black Myth: Wukong".No. 23 Arkansas will close its nonconference schedule Monday night by hosting Oakland in Fayetteville, Ark., in the final tune-up before beginning Southeastern Conference play. With Arkansas (10-2) rotating just nine players due to injuries, coach John Calipari wants Jonas Aidoo, a second-team All-SEC selection for Tennessee last season, to go all out on the court as he continues to rehab an offseason injury. "(His presence) makes us different," Calipari said after the 6-foot-11 Aidoo's strong showing in a 95-67 win over North Carolina A&T on Dec. 21. "Going for three, four minutes at a time, in that time, he has a huge impact on the game." Aidoo produced season-high totals in points (17), rebounds (11) and blocks (three) to go with two assists. When healthy, Aidoo provides good size for the Razorbacks and creates a three-man rotation with Trevon Brazile and Zvonimir Ivisic that allows Calipari to put two big men on the court at once -- though Ivisic is nursing an ankle injury. Aidoo said he was glad to see electric guard Boogie Fland achieve a double-double with 12 points and 11 assists against NC A&T. "A five-star guard, really young ... his mind is just racing," Aidoo said after Arkansas won for the fifth straight time. "Definitely great to play with a player like that. He's a special player, for sure." Fourth in the SEC in field-goal percentage at 50.8 percent, Arkansas leans on forward Adou Thiero, who leads with 17.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. Fland and fellow guard D.J. Wagner score 15.3 and 10.1 per game, respectively. As a No. 14 seed last March, Oakland stunned third-seeded Kentucky and Calipari 80-76 in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament, but the current version of Oakland (4-9) is very much different. In the middle of December as his team prepared to face in-state foe Michigan State, coach Greg Kampe admitted he had plenty of thinking and decisions to make regarding his Golden Grizzlies' offense. With his team sputtering with the ball -- it scored 50 points in a loss to Youngstown State on Dec. 7 -- Kampe, the longest-tenured coach in the NCAA with 41 seasons, said he had hard decisions to make. "By the time you are (10 games in), you should have a pretty good idea of your personnel and what's going to happen," said Kampe, whose first season at the Horizon League school was 1984-85. "I've got to make some decisions on playing times and minutes. "I've got to figure out what can we do offensively to have success ... (because) it's not successful." However, he may have something offensively in reserve Malcolm Christie, who has scored in double digits in five straight games and set a season high in points (27) in a 73-70 overtime loss to Hawaii in the Diamond Head Classic's third-place matchup on Christmas night. Christie, a senior from Fredericton, New Brunswick, made 7 of 22 shots from distance. During his streak, he has canned 26 of 70 (37.1 percent) from beyond the arc, but Oakland is 1-5 since losing to Youngstown State. Joining Christie (11.2) in double-figure scoring this season are leader Allen Mukeba (13.1), DQ Cole (11.4) and Buru Naivalurua (11.3). --Field Level MediaAs we marvel at Gu Ailing's accomplishments, let us also reflect on our own pursuits and endeavors. Are we giving our all to our passions and dreams, while also honoring our responsibilities and commitments? Gu Ailing's example reminds us that true greatness is not just about winning medals or accolades but about living a life that is purposeful, meaningful, and fulfilling.
Fang Shuo, a skilled guard from the Shenzhen Aviators, also earned a spot in the best lineup for round 15 with his outstanding performance. Known for his sharpshooting and playmaking abilities, Fang Shuo orchestrated the Aviators' offense with precision and efficiency. His leadership on the court, combined with his scoring prowess and defensive tenacity, was instrumental in guiding the Aviators to success in a hard-fought battle against a formidable opponent.In today's digital age, personal information security has become a primary concern for many individuals. Recently, a man has found himself in a puzzling situation as his phone number seems to have been misused, leading to a barrage of credit inquiry messages. This alarming incident has prompted the man to seek assistance from Waterdrop Credit, a leading platform for credit verification and protection services.
Has a waltz written by composer Frederic Chopin been discovered in an NYC museum?
VANCOUVER — Online predators are becoming increasingly resourceful in trolling media platforms where children gravitate, prompting an explosion in police case loads, said an officer who works for the RCMP Integrated Child Exploitation Unit in British Columbia. Data show the problem spiked during COVID-19 when children began spending more time online — but rates did not wane as police anticipated after lockdowns ended. In B.C., they soared, almost quadrupling from 2021 to 2023. Const. Solana Pare is now warning exploitation of children is likely here to stay, as a technological race between police and predators gains momentum. “Technology is becoming more and more available, and online platforms and social media sites are being used by children younger and younger, which provides an opportunity for predators to connect with them,” Pare said in an interview. Police say child exploitation cases in B.C. went from about 4,600 in 2021 to 9,600 in 2022 to 15,920 reports last year. The upwards trend is seen nationally, too. Statistics Canada says the rate of online child sexual exploitation reported to police rose by 58 per cent from 2019 to 2022, and police data show cases have continued to rise. The RCMP’s National Child Exploitation Crime Centre reported that from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, it received 118,162 reports of suspected online child sexual exploitation offences — a 15 per cent increase compared with the previous year. Online child sexual exploitation, Pare explained, includes offences such as sextortion, child luring and the creation or distribution of sexually explicit images of a minor. “We don’t see these types of reports going away,” Pare said. “We only see them increasing because the use of electronic devices and social media, and kids being online earlier and earlier is becoming more common. There’s going to be more opportunity for predators to target children online.” Monique St. Germain, general counsel for the Canadian Centre for Child Protection, said the most common type of child luring is communicating with a youth online in order get them to produce sexual abuse material. She said “the pandemic accelerated those types of cases, and it hasn’t slowed down.” “The tools (Canadian authorities) have to deal with this type of behaviour are inadequate for the scope and the scale of what’s going on,” she said. THE RISE OF ‘SEXTORTION’ Online exploitation gained international attention in 2015 in the case of Port Coquitlam, B.C., teenager, Amanda Todd, who died by suicide after being blackmailed and harassed online by a man for years, starting when she was 12. The month before the 15-year-old died, she uploaded a nine-minute video using a series of flash cards detailing the abuse she experienced by the stranger and how it had affected her life. It’s been viewed millions of times. Dutch national Aydin Coban was extradited to Canada for trial and, in October 2022, he was convicted of charges including the extortion and harassment of Todd. Since then, the term “sextortion” has made its way into the vernacular as more cases come to light. Among them was Carson Cleland, a 12-year-old Prince George, B.C., boy who died by suicide in October 2023 after falling victim to the crime. In New Brunswick that same month, 16-year-old William Doiron took his own life after falling victim to a global sextortion scheme. Mounties across Canada have issued news releases warning of increased cases in their communities, noting that the consequences for the victims can include self-harm and suicide. St. Germain said technology, such as artificial intelligence, is also becoming more user-friendly. “The existence of that technology and its ease of use and ready accessibility is a problem, and it is going to be an increasingly large problem as we move forward,” she said. Pare said police are also adapting to technological advancements in order to keep up with the ever-changing online landscape. “Police are constantly obtaining training on digital technologies to increase our knowledge and understanding of all the intricacies involving their use and how to capture any digital evidence,” she said. Pare said the true rates of the crime are impossible to determine, but pointed to increased social awareness and legislation across North America around mandatory reporting of child abuse material from social media companies as a potential reason for the increase. It’s not going undetected any longer, she said. “Additionally, there’s been a lot of use in artificial intelligence to detect child exploitation materials within those platforms.” Pare said “it’s up to each individual platform” to ensure there is no child sexual abuse material on their sites or apps. “With mandatory reporting, it’s putting the onus back on the electronic service providers to ensure they have measures in place to prevent this from happening, and if it is happening that it is being reported,” she said. “That being said, there are times when things don’t get located.” That is why the Canadian Centre for Child Protection has been advocating for the adoption of the Online Harms Bill that the federal government introduced in February, St. Germain said. “It’s shocking that up until now, we’ve relied on companies to self regulate, meaning we’ve just relied on them to do the right thing,” she said. “What we are seeing in terms of the number of offences and in terms of all the harm that is happening in society as a result of online platforms is completely tied to the decision not to regulate. We need to have rules in any sector, and this sector is no different.” ‘CANADA IS REALLY BEHIND’ The Online Harms Bill covers seven types of harms, from non-consensual sharing of intimate images to content that can be used to bully a child. Earlier this month, Justice Minister Arif Virani announced the Liberal government will split the bill into two parts: dealing with keeping children safe online, and combating predators and issues related to revenge pornography. “We are putting our emphasis and prioritization and our time and efforts on the first portion of the bill,” Virani told reporters on Dec. 5. Such measures would include a new Digital Safety Commission of Canada, which would compel social media companies to outline how they plan to reduce the risks their platforms pose to users, particularly minors. It would have the power to levy fines and evaluate companies’ digital safety plans. St. Germain said such a split “makes sense,” noting that most objections to the bill are related to changes to the Criminal Code and not measures around curbing harms to children. “There obviously are differences of opinion in terms of what is the best way forward, and what kind of regulatory approach makes sense, and who should the regulator be, but there does seem to be consensus on the idea that we need to do more in terms of protecting children online,” she said, adding that the organization is still in support of the second half of the bill. She said the United Kingdom previously passed its own Online Safety Act that will come into effect in 2025, which includes requiring social media firms to protect children from content such as self-harm material, pornography and violent content. Failure to do so will result in fines. “Canada is really behind,” she said. “The amount of information that has come out of the U.K., the amount of time and care and attention that their legislatures have paid to this issue is really quite remarkable, and we really hope that Canada steps up and does something for Canadian children soon.” In the absence of national legislation, province’s have filled the void. In January, B.C. enacted the Intimate Images Protection Act, providing a path for victims to have online photos, videos or deep fakes expeditiously removed. Individuals are fined up to $500 per day and websites up to $5,000 a day if they don’t comply with orders to stop distributing images that are posted without consent. B.C.’s Ministry of the Attorney General said that as of Dec. 11, the Civil Resolution Tribunal had received a total of 199 disputes under the Intimate Images Protection Act. It said the Intimate Images Protection Service had served more than 240 clients impacted by the non-consensual distribution of intimate images, adding that four awards of $5,000 each and one for $3,000 had been supplied as of mid-December. Nova Scotia, Manitoba, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Alberta and Saskatchewan have also enacted legislation targeting unauthorized distribution of intimate images. St. Germain said the use of provincial powers is also necessary, but it’s not enough. “A piece of provincial legislation is going to be very difficult to be effective against multiple actors in multiple countries,” she said, noting that the online crime is borderless. “We need something bigger — more comprehensive. We need to use all tools in the tool box.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 29, 2024. Brieanna Charlebois, The Canadian PressThe annual Pioneer List of HarmonyOS will be unveiled in 2024, promising a range of exciting upgrades and surprises for users. This highly anticipated event showcases the latest advancements in native HarmonyOS technology, highlighting the most innovative and cutting-edge products and features that users can look forward to in the coming year.
President Yoon Suk-yeol's inclusion on the arrest warrant list comes as a significant blow to his presidency, which had promised to clean up corruption and restore faith in the government. The allegations against him range from bribery to abuse of power, and have sparked widespread outrage among the Korean public.In an era where automotive innovation continues to redefine our expectations of luxury and performance, the upcoming release of the Deep Blue S09 in 2025 has captured the attention of car enthusiasts worldwide. With its official unveiling through a series of stunning official images, the Deep Blue S09 promises to set a new standard for large SUVs, blending cutting-edge technology with sophisticated design.Wells Fargo & Company Reiterates “Equal Weight” Rating for Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN)Aaron Rodgers pulled from game by New York Jets after penalty left referee laughing
A routine flight turned into a nightmare for passengers on China Eastern Airlines when a passenger suddenly fell ill mid-air, leading to his untimely death despite frantic efforts to save him. The tragic incident unfolded on a flight bound for Dunhuang Airport, as the aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing due to the deteriorating health of the passenger.
In conclusion, the Three-Dimensional World low-code platform represents a new paradigm in software development, empowering users to unleash their creativity and accelerate their digital transformation journey. With its user-friendly interface, robust customization options, and unwavering commitment to security, the platform sets a new standard for what a low-code platform can achieve. As we look towards the future of technology, Three-Dimensional World stands poised to lead the way, shaping the three-dimensional world of possibilities for developers and businesses alike.China's First AIGC Director Co-creation Program University Tour Kicked Off, "Ke Ling AI" Driving New Trends in Film and Television Creation
The federal government will try once again to push through its housing laws in an effort to help address Australia’s housing crisis after the Greens rejected proposed legislation. On Sunday, Senator Murray Watt said the government will aim to ambitiously pass about 30 pieces of legislation in its final sitting week for 2024, including the maligned Help to Buy shared ownership scheme which was road blocked by the Greens and Coalition. Under the policy, 40,000 homeowners would be able to buy a property with the government owning an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new builds, and 30 per cent for existing homes. If passed, the proposed legislation would likely unlock tens of thousands of new rental homes, providing greater options for struggling renters. However, the Greens have said the policy could push up the cost of homes amid a housing supply and argue it would only help a small number of prospective homeowners. In September, the minor party delayed a vote on the Bill in order to further negotiate, however it’s understood it has yet to reach a deal with Labor. Housing minister Clare O’Neil called on the Greens to stop with the delaying tactics and work with the government on meaningful legislation. “This continuous charade from the Greens has to stop,” Ms O’Neil said. “Consistently throughout this parliament, the Greens have blocked and delayed action on the housing crisis, looking for every excuse to vote down legislation which is clearly good for the country. “You get the distinct impression the Greens want Australians to continue to be in housing distress, so Adam Bandt can try to harvest those grievances into votes. “It’s the crassest form of politics there is, straight out of the Peter Dutton playbook.”BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Robert Lewandowski converted a first-half penalty kick to become the third player to score 100 goals or more in the Champions League, behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Lewandowski calmly sent a low shot into the net from the spot in the 10th minute to give Barcelona a 1-0 lead against Brest. He scored his 101st goal from inside the area in second-half stoppage time to seal the Catalan's club 3-0 victory. Lewandowski trails the 129 goals of Messi and the 140 of Ronaldo, according to UEFA. Lewandowski needed 125 games to reach his milestone — two more games than Messi and 12 fewer than Ronaldo, who also scored once in the qualifying round. “I'm delighted, it's a nice number,” Lewandowski said. “In the past I didn’t think I could score more than 100 goals in the Champions League." Story continues below video It was Lewandowski's sixth and seventh Champions League goals this season. It's the ninth season in which the Poland striker has scored six or more goals. The 36-year-old Lewandowski is having a standout campaign, having scored 22 goals for Barcelona in 19 appearances. He is the Spanish league’s scoring leader with 15 goals from 14 matches. AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer