Johnny Dang

The Download: Google's AI energy expenditure, and handing over DNA data to the police

In a first, Google has released data on how much energy an AI prompt uses

A recent report highlights the varying energy usage of the Gemini AI model, as illustrated by Dean, who notes that complex tasks, such as generating detailed synopses from multiple books, demand significantly more energy than typical prompts. In particular, reasoning tasks may also have a higher energy requirement due to their multi-step process. This report […]

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The Download: Ukraine’s Starlink repair shop, and predicting solar storms

Starlink has become an important communication tool for Ukraine, facilitating connectivity for troops in battle zones, enabling drone operations, and allowing soldiers to maintain contact with their families. The future of Starlink’s availability in Ukraine has raised concerns, particularly due to potential policy shifts from former President Donald Trump and reports that Elon Musk might

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The Rare Mutation That Makes People Immune to Viruses

Researchers have discovered that a rare genetic mutation provides certain individuals with immunity to various viruses. This finding has led to the development of an experimental mRNA therapy aimed at replicating this effect, which showed success in preventing influenza and COVID-19 in animal trials. The study was published on August 13 in *Science Translational Medicine*.

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I gave the police access to my DNA—and maybe some of yours

Forensic investigative genetic genealogy (FIGG) has emerged as a significant tool in solving various violent crimes, including murders and sexual assaults. This investigative method utilizes data from a combination of private laboratories and unregulated websites like FamilyTree, which allow users to opt into or out of police searches. Currently, around 1.5 million DNA profiles are

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$5 Breakout Looms, But A Viral L2 Altcoin Is Stealing The Spotlight

Ripple’s XRP has seen significant activity recently, reaching an all-time high of $3.67 in July 2025. As of August 22, 2025, the price is recorded at $2.86. Market analysts speculate that the next target for XRP could be $5, although recent market corrections may delay this ascent. In parallel, a new cryptocurrency called Layer Brett

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Blue badge holders should not pay airport drop-off fees, charity says

A disability charity in the UK is advocating for an end to drop-off fees for blue badge holders at airports. Following a recent report, it has come to light that over half of the busiest airports have increased their drop-off charges, labeled as “kiss-and-fly” fees, to as much as £7. While some airports waive these

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The case against humans in space

Mary-Jane Rubenstein, a religion scholar at Wesleyan University, examines the implications of humanity’s venture into space in her 2022 book, Astrotopia: The Dangerous Religion of the Corporate Space Race, which was released in paperback in 2024. She traces this endeavor back to the book of Genesis, suggesting that the biblical narrative of dominion over Earth

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Viral: Gym-themed croissant café in Shanghai has netizens amazed with the concept

A unique café named NUDAKE has opened in Shanghai, merging elements of a gym with a dining experience focused on croissants. Located within the Haus Nowhere store of eyewear label Gentle Monster, the café features design elements reminiscent of a gym, including weights and treadmills made entirely from croissants. Customers can engage with these croissant-themed

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North Korean leader oversees new missile test, state media says

North Korean state media reported that two new air defense missiles were launched during a test overseen by leader Kim Jong Un. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) described the missiles as possessing “superior combat capability” and utilizing “unique technology,” although no specific details were provided. The test confirmed that the projectiles are deemed effective

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Male ‘sexually stimulated’ to avoid inbreeding

At Marineland Antibes in France, a male killer whale named Keijo is undergoing sexual stimulation by trainers to prevent inbreeding with his mother, Wikie. Marineland closed in January, amid a lack of agreement between facility managers, the French government, and animal rights activists on a suitable relocation plan for the orcas. This situation is further

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Johnny Bang