Archive context (2021): The proposed release of genetically modified mosquitoes in the Florida Keys was an attempt to reduce populations of disease-transmitting mosquitoes. The approach relies on engineered traits affecting mosquito reproduction; it should be evaluated through field monitoring, ecological oversight and disease-control outcomes. The embedded post records an … [Read more...] about Genetically modified mosquitos will be released in the Florida Keys
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European Scientists Zero In On AstraZeneca COVID-19 Vaccine Blood Clot Link : Coronavirus Updates : NPR
Medical archive note (2021): This report concerns an early investigation of a rare clotting disorder associated with adenovirus-vector COVID-19 vaccines, subsequently described as thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome. Vaccine recommendations and clinical guidance evolved after this report; this historical summary is not current medical advice. A rare blood clotting … [Read more...] about European Scientists Zero In On AstraZeneca COVID-19 Vaccine Blood Clot Link : Coronavirus Updates : NPR
Use the U.K. Magnitsky act in Russia in the Navalny case, against the Chinese officials involved in the Uighur genocide
Archive context (February 2021): The post below advocates targeted human-rights sanctions under the UK's Magnitsky-style framework. Such measures can include asset freezes and travel bans against designated individuals. The embedded statement expresses a campaigner's position at that time; it does not establish that every proposed designation was subsequently adopted. There’s a … [Read more...] about Use the U.K. Magnitsky act in Russia in the Navalny case, against the Chinese officials involved in the Uighur genocide
Just when you thought that Borrell’s trip to Russia could not get any worse
The bigger question arising from Borrell’s disaster in Moscow today is if the European Commission that claims to have geopolitical ambitions has any foreign policy.After Borrell’s debacle in Moscow & the EU’s vaccine disaster the EU needs to get serious very fast or...? https://t.co/TrVKz5ceIe— Anders Åslund (@anders_aslund) February 6, 2021 So, Borrell’s Moscow … [Read more...] about Just when you thought that Borrell’s trip to Russia could not get any worse
South Korean Chemical Tanker Seized by Iranian Autorities
Archive context (January 2021): The reported seizure of a South Korean tanker by Iran illustrated how commercial shipping can become entangled in diplomatic disputes and maritime enforcement claims. The incident occurred against a backdrop of tensions over Iranian funds held abroad and security in the Gulf. The embedded report below records the initial news; it should not be … [Read more...] about South Korean Chemical Tanker Seized by Iranian Autorities
Cash is dead, long live cash!
The usage of physical cash is rapidly coming to an end in Sweden. It will be sorely missed as it is the only means of payment that always works and never jeopardize anyone's personal privacy. According to a Swedish Central Bank director, cash may be history in just three years. It is therefore a matter of urgency to develop a digital alternative having the same features as … [Read more...] about Cash is dead, long live cash!
Laser weapons – a good example of disruptive technology evolution
This is a perfect case of disruptive technology fitting Clayton C. theory: first small low-power optical fiber lasers evolve for low-key industrial jobs, then many small systems integrated and scaled up in one large system that changes the battleground. https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/37775/how-the-once-elusive-dream-of-laser-weapons-suddenly-became-a-reality Still the … [Read more...] about Laser weapons – a good example of disruptive technology evolution
United States Charges Russian Military Intelligence Officers for Cyber Crimes
The criminal charges the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced today against six officers of the Russian General Staff Main Intelligence Directorate’s (GRU) Military Unit 74455 highlight once again Russia’s continuing disruptive, destructive, and destabilizing activities in cyberspace. As the DOJ and FBI make clear, this Russian … [Read more...] about United States Charges Russian Military Intelligence Officers for Cyber Crimes
U.S. sanctions leaders of China’s Hong Kong crackdown
The United States has imposed sanctions against Chinese Communist Party officials for their role in the crackdown on Hong Kong’s autonomy and freedoms. The U.S. Department of the Treasury issued sanctions August 7 that target Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam and 10 other senior officials, including several who helped develop or implement the Hong Kong National Security Law … [Read more...] about U.S. sanctions leaders of China’s Hong Kong crackdown
New Generation of Range Extenders for Electric Vehicles
Technology context: A range extender generates electricity on board a vehicle to supplement battery power. It can reduce charging dependence for some use cases but adds mechanical complexity, fuel use and maintenance requirements. The videos below illustrate concepts rather than verified volume-production results. Aquarius engine-generator The biggest question or tease that … [Read more...] about New Generation of Range Extenders for Electric Vehicles