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lucky horse casino ‘American Idol’ Alum Caleb Kennedy Pleads Guilty, Gets 8 Years in Prison After Fatal DUI CrashAs science continues its evolution, discoveries and technologies can act like a master key that open doors leading to novel advancements. Artificial intelligence is one such key, making innovations possible by solving complex problems, automating tasks and enabling research that would have been impossible, or very time-consuming, without it. Mohammad Hosseini But do we want to do research on all topics, and shall we try the AI master key on every door? To explore this question, let’s consider the use of AI by genomics experts as an example. In recent years, genomics experts have added unbelievable depth to what we know about the world and ourselves. For example, genetics researchers have revealed facts about when certain animals and plants were domesticated. In another example, researchers used DNA from 30,000-year-old permafrost to create fertile samples of a plant called narrow-leafed campion. Importantly, genetic engineering has facilitated extraordinary advances in the treatment of complicated conditions, such as sickle-cell anemia. Thanks to AI, we are witnessing a dramatic increase in the pace and scalability of genomic exploration. But given the risks and possible consequences of AI use in science, should we rush headlong into using AI in all kinds of projects? One relevant example is research on Neanderthals, our closest relatives, who lived about 40,000 years ago. Neanderthals have been studied for several years now through genetic investigation of their fossils and their DNA. Genetic engineering can potentially use ancient DNA and genome editing methods to re-create a Neanderthal or aspects of a Neanderthal’s genetics and physiology. To do this, scientists could start by figuring out the DNA sequence of a Neanderthal by comparing it with the DNA of modern humans, because they are closely related. Then, scientists could use the gene-editing tool known as CRISPR to swap out parts of human DNA with Neanderthal DNA. This process would require a lot of trial and error and might not succeed soon. But based on what we know about genetics, if something is possible, AI can help make it happen faster, cheaper and with less effort. Scientists are excited about these developments because they could facilitate new discoveries and open up many research opportunities in genetic research. With or without AI, research on Neanderthals will proceed. But the extraordinary power of AI could give the final push to these discoveries and facilitate this kind of resurrection. At that point, the scientific community must develop norms and guidelines about how to treat these resurrected beings with dispositions very similar to humans. We would need to carefully consider their rights and well-being almost in the same way as when humans are involved and not as research subjects or artifacts of scientific curiosity. These ethical issues are discussed in more detail in a new paper published in the journal Nature Machine Intelligence. A more holistic question to consider is: Should we prioritize the use of resource-intensive AI, researchers’ time and public funds to resurrect extinct beings? Or should we invest these resources into conserving species that are critically endangered today to prevent biodiversity from more degradation? Hosseini is an assistant professor in the Department of Preventive Medicine at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. He wrote this for The Chicago Tribune . Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly!

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania conceded his reelection bid to Republican David McCormick on Thursday, as a statewide recount showed no signs of closing the gap and his campaign suffered repeated blows in court in its effort to get potentially favorable ballots counted. Casey’s concession comes more than two weeks after Election Day, as a grindingly slow ballot-counting process became a spectacle of hours-long election board meetings, social media outrage, lawsuits and accusations that some county officials were openly flouting the law. Republicans had been claiming that Democrats were trying to steal McCormick’s seat by counting “illegal votes.” Casey’s campaign had accused of Republicans of trying to block enough votes to prevent him from pulling ahead and winning. In a statement, Casey said he had just called McCormick to congratulate him. “As the first count of ballots is completed, Pennsylvanians can move forward with the knowledge that their voices were heard, whether their vote was the first to be counted or the last," Casey said. The Associated Press called the race for McCormick on Nov. 7, concluding that not enough ballots remained to be counted in areas Casey was winning for him to take the lead. As of Thursday, McCormick led by about 16,000 votes out of almost 7 million ballots counted. That was well within the 0.5% margin threshold to trigger an automatic statewide recount under Pennsylvania law. But no election official expected a recount to change more than a couple hundred votes or so, and Pennsylvania's highest court dealt him a blow when it refused entreaties to allow counties to count mail-in ballots that lacked a correct handwritten date on the return envelope. Republicans will have a 53-47 majority next year in the U.S. Senate. ___ Follow Marc Levy at twitter.com/timelywriter Marc Levy, The Associated Press

Don Lindich | Tribune News Service Home entertainment holiday specials: These offers are readily available, not a “limited quantity doorbuster.” I do not know how long the various promotions run, but the industry buzz is we will see repeats between now and Christmas so if you miss the deal first time around, keep checking. There is a good chance you will see it offered again. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max, $32.99: Normally $59.99, this streaming device is practically an entire entertainment system. In addition to streaming apps, it has an AI art mode that generates unique art by voice command. It also supports Xbox Live, so you can play Xbox games without buying an expensive console. Just add an Xbox controller, subscribe to the service and enjoy. amazon.com Apple 10.2-inch iPad, $199: The ninth-generation iPad is older but still works well. It is reduced from the $329 MSRP. apple.com Cambridge Audio AXN10/MXN10 Network Players, $399: A network player connects directly to the internet to play music and internet radio from streaming sources. They are a must-have for anyone with a component audio system, and these two players from Cambridge are best-in-class with their exquisite construction, fine sound quality and easy-to-use, comprehensive StreamMagic app. Reduced from the introductory price of $599. cambridgeaudio.com Related Articles Technology | Are you tracking your health with a device? Here’s what could happen with the data Technology | How to get started with Bluesky Technology | 23andMe, tech companies disclose hundreds of Bay Area job cuts Technology | US gathers allies to talk AI safety. Trump’s vow to undo Biden’s AI policy overshadows their work Technology | Forget driverless cars. One company wants autonomous helicopters to spray crops and fight fires Klipsch RP-600M II bookshelf speakers, $499/pair: You will not find a better speaker under $500. You will probably not find a better speaker for the $649 list price, either. The RP-600M II has received great praise from Stereophile magazine, a high-end audiophile publication that routinely tests audio products selling for $100,000 or more. After hearing the RP-600M II, I can understand why. They don’t require much power and the sound is transparent, rich, forward, lively, engaging and dynamic without coming across as over-boosted or unnatural. They dig solidly into the bass registers without a subwoofer and vividly bring any kind of music to life. Available online and in stores. klipsch.com Nebula Cosmos 4K SE projector, $999: A few weeks ago I praised this new 4K Google TV smart projector with a dual Laser-LED light source. It can throw a beautiful 4K image that rivals what you see in a good movie theater, is easy to use and the $1,299 price is a breakthrough. At $999 a lot more people should get a projector and experience how life-changing it can be for movies, sports, television and gaming. seenebula.com Samsung Q80D QLED televisions, $749-$1,749: The Q80D sale makes it possible to get a truly stunning high-end TV for little more than the cost of something ordinary. The 85-inch for $1,749 is a particular standout, a savings of $1,550. samsung.com ©2024 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

NEW DELHI: Gold prices have breached Rs 80,000 per 10 grams levels in major Indian cities, recovering from the impact of Donald Trump's expected high tariff trade policy and a firm US dollar, analysts said. A flare-up in geopolitical tensions due to the Russia-Ukraine war is bolstering the precious metal, which crossed the USD 2,700 an ounce level in global markets, they added. The uncertainty surrounding the US economy and volatile stock markets are also driving inflows into the safe-haven, however, the US Federal Reserve's (Fed) cautious attitude towards policy interest rate and strong US dollar are acting as headwinds for the bullion, analysts stated. On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), gold prices tanked Rs 6,775, or 8.5 per cent, to hit Rs 73,000 per 10 grams after Donald Trump's victory raised expectations of a restricted trade policy by the US. "Gold prices had fallen 8 per cent after the US election results. "The strengthening US dollar index which rose from USD 101 to 107.5 pressured gold immensely, while Trump's pro-cryptocurrency stance during his campaign diverted investor funds seeking higher returns," Jateen Trivedi, VP Research Analyst, Commodity and Currency at LKP Securities, said. Further, Trump's pledge to impose a 10 per cent tariff on all US imports further limits the Federal Reserve's ability to ease aggressively, adding to the downward pressure on gold, he said. However, recent missile attacks by Russia at the Ukrainian city of Dnipro heightened geopolitical tensions, bolstering the gold's appeal as safe haven investment. "Gold prices surged significantly as geopolitical tensions fuelled safe-haven demand, driven by renewed fears of nuclear risks in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict," Trivedi added. Rising global unease pushed gold higher by USD 38 on Comex, closing at USD 2,707 per ounce, and by Rs 900 on MCX, reaching Rs 77,600 on Friday. "This sharp recovery highlights gold's resilience and its role in balancing portfolios during uncertain times," he said. In spot markets, the precious metal of 99.9 per cent purity surged Rs 1,100 to hit a two-week high of Rs 80,400 per 10 grams, while the price of gold of 99.5 per cent purity soared Rs 1,100, to reclaim the Rs 80,000-mark again on Friday. Meanwhile, in futures trade on the MCX on Friday, gold contracts for December delivery rose Rs 69, or 0.09 per cent, to close at Rs 77,685 per 10 grams. Gold regained lost ground, and a bullish sentiment remains intact and the precious metal is likely to trade in a range of Rs 77,000-78,300 on the MCX, analysts said. The ongoing wedding season in India is also pushing gold buying interest by jewellers and retailers, they added. "Wedding season is pivotal for our business, with bridal or wedding jewellery constituting a significant share of our sales. During the ongoing wedding season this year, we are witnessing healthy demand for bridal jewellery across all our stores in India," M P Ahammed, Chairman at Malabar Group, said. Key macroeconomic data, such as the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting minutes, and the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index, the Fed's preferred inflation gauge, to be released next week, which will play a critical role in investor sentiment towards the bullion, traders said. Market participants will also await the US Q3 GDP data that will provide further direction for the yellow metal, they added.

Country singer Caleb Kennedy, who competed in American Idol Season 19, has been sentenced to eight years in prison following his involvement in a 2022 car crash that killed a man in Pacolet, South Carolina. Kennedy pled guilty last week to the felony charge of driving under the influence resulting in death, according to the Greenville News . He was initially sentenced to 25 years in prison and a $25,100 fine, but he had that sentence and fine reduced to eight years and $15,100, with three of those years served in home detention. He also received credit for the nearly three years he has already served. Additionally, the singer will serve five years of probation, and he is required to attend mental health and substance abuse counseling. The legal update comes nearly three years after Kennedy, then 17, struck and killed 54-year-old Larry Duane Parris while driving his Ford F-150 on February 8, 2022. Warrants alleged that Kennedy was under the influence of marijuana at the time, and he was arrested on the DUI charge on the day of the crash. Ryan Beasley, Kennedy’s attorney, told the News that the sentencing was fair. “He’s got no record, and he was a minor when this happened,” Beasley said. “This wasn’t such an egregious act that you see most of the time, where people were drinking and driving then they hit somebody at night or going the wrong way down the road. This was a weird reaction from his prescription medicine and possibly THC.” Beasley also said that Kennedy is “very remorseful” and that the sentencing “starts the healing process for everybody involved in this situation.” (The News notes that Parris’ family wanted the maximum 25-year sentence.) Kennedy made it to the Top 7 of American Idol Season 19 but withdrew from the competition after a video of him standing next to a person wearing a Ku Klux Klan-style hood resurfaced. “I was younger and did not think about the actions, but that’s not an excuse,” Kennedy said, in part, on social media at the time. “I wanna say I’m sorry to all my fans and everyone who I have let down.” More Headlines: ‘Brilliant Minds’ Scoop on ‘Terrifying’ Cliffhanger, Plus What’s Next With Carol’s Patient? Are You a ‘Final Jeopardy’ Genius? Test Your Brainpower With This Week’s Clues ‘Blue Bloods’: Vanessa Ray Teases Eddie & Jamie as a Team Will Be ‘Put to the Test’ ‘Gold Rush’: Parker, Rick & Tony Hit Big Trouble – Can They Recover? (RECAP) ‘Cross’: Ryan Eggold Talks Ed Ramsey’s Fate & Working With Aldis Hodge (VIDEO)Hospital tycoon wanted for fraud ‘has fled country’As science continues its evolution, discoveries and technologies can act like a master key that open doors leading to novel advancements. Artificial intelligence is one such key, making innovations possible by solving complex problems, automating tasks and enabling research that would have been impossible, or very time-consuming, without it. Mohammad Hosseini But do we want to do research on all topics, and shall we try the AI master key on every door? To explore this question, let’s consider the use of AI by genomics experts as an example. In recent years, genomics experts have added unbelievable depth to what we know about the world and ourselves. For example, genetics researchers have revealed facts about when certain animals and plants were domesticated. In another example, researchers used DNA from 30,000-year-old permafrost to create fertile samples of a plant called narrow-leafed campion. People are also reading... Importantly, genetic engineering has facilitated extraordinary advances in the treatment of complicated conditions, such as sickle-cell anemia. Thanks to AI, we are witnessing a dramatic increase in the pace and scalability of genomic exploration. Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts But given the risks and possible consequences of AI use in science, should we rush headlong into using AI in all kinds of projects? One relevant example is research on Neanderthals, our closest relatives, who lived about 40,000 years ago. Neanderthals have been studied for several years now through genetic investigation of their fossils and their DNA. Genetic engineering can potentially use ancient DNA and genome editing methods to re-create a Neanderthal or aspects of a Neanderthal’s genetics and physiology. To do this, scientists could start by figuring out the DNA sequence of a Neanderthal by comparing it with the DNA of modern humans, because they are closely related. Then, scientists could use the gene-editing tool known as CRISPR to swap out parts of human DNA with Neanderthal DNA. This process would require a lot of trial and error and might not succeed soon. But based on what we know about genetics, if something is possible, AI can help make it happen faster, cheaper and with less effort. Scientists are excited about these developments because they could facilitate new discoveries and open up many research opportunities in genetic research. With or without AI, research on Neanderthals will proceed. But the extraordinary power of AI could give the final push to these discoveries and facilitate this kind of resurrection. At that point, the scientific community must develop norms and guidelines about how to treat these resurrected beings with dispositions very similar to humans. We would need to carefully consider their rights and well-being almost in the same way as when humans are involved and not as research subjects or artifacts of scientific curiosity. These ethical issues are discussed in more detail in a new paper published in the journal Nature Machine Intelligence. A more holistic question to consider is: Should we prioritize the use of resource-intensive AI, researchers’ time and public funds to resurrect extinct beings? Or should we invest these resources into conserving species that are critically endangered today to prevent biodiversity from more degradation? Catch the latest in OpinionAuthored by Ryan McMaken via The Mises Institute, President-elect Donald Trump based much of his campaign on promises to crack down on immigration and carry out mass deportations. Politically, this was likely a winning issue for Trump after social media exposed millions of Americans to countless reports and videos of foreign nationals getting free cash, free housing, food allowances, and overall special treatment at taxpayer expense. Meanwhile, actual taxpaying Americans endured inflation-fueled price hikes and a worsening economy while being harangued by the smug upper classes about the need to be “welcoming.” Many voters chose to support the candidate who wasn’t in favor of importing a new taxpayer-subsidized underclass. Because of this, Trump is likely to prioritize delivering at least some of his promised immigration crackdown. However, one does not need to be an advocate of open borders to have concerns when one hears about a federal law enforcement agency engaging in a “crackdown.” Federal officials don’t exactly have a stellar record when it comes to respecting the property rights of peaceful, law-abiding Americans, even when the purported target is foreigners. The countless violations of the rights of Americans under the Patriot Act and the “war on terror” are examples of this. On the other hand, many aspects of the proposed Trump crackdown are, one might say, “no-brainers” and have no apparent downside at all. These include cutting off all funding of any kind to migrants, and deporting all foreign nationals with a known criminal record. Nonetheless, some aspects of Trump’s immigration policy have the potential for fueling further expansion of a federal police state. These include any deportation plan that involves a “drag net” and places peaceful residents under suspicion for no offense other than “looking like” a migrant. Immigration has long been subsidized in the United States in the sense that there are low barriers to new migrants benefiting from a bevy of social benefit programs. Immigrants who achieve status as refugees or asylees can access welfare programs almost immediately. Even run-of-the-mill legal migrants need only wait five years to begin living off taxpayer-funded benefits. These subsidization schemes have only grown more aggressive in recent years. It is now well known that many American cities and states—not to mention the federal government—offer “free” cash, housing, food, and more. This has done much to attract the flood of migrants that has arrived in the US in recent years. Earlier this year, for example, The New York Post reported that the mayor of New York is giving away pre-paid cash cards—each carrying “ up to $10,000 “— to foreign nationals in New York. Most of these migrants have arrived in New York with no invitation, no employment prospects, and no plan for housing. But most of them plan on staying. And why shouldn’t they? Upon arrival, thousands of them immediately went on the public dole in some way or another, relying on taxpayer-funded shelters, housing programs, and a variety of sources for “free” food. The federal government also provides free transportation to various American communities for many migrants, including 400,000 free riders in 2023 alone. Reversing this should be seen as “low-hanging fruit” by the Trump administration. Obviously, any and all access to federal dollars should be cut off immediately. This is true for both legal and illegal immigrants. Immigration needs to be a fully private-market process, not a taxpayer-subsidized activity. Any state or local government that attempts to entice more migrants with social benefits programs should lose all access to federal grants. All federal dollars should be cut off from any government schools that cater to illegal immigrants. Any NGO that attempts to funnel taxpayer dollars to immigrants should be blacklisted from any and all federal grants. These NGOs are still free to offer services to anyone they want—just not with taxpayer dollars. Many of these programs for putting immigrants on welfare are nowadays facilitated by smart-phone apps. These include the CBP One app which is designed to streamline migrants’ requests for asylum. This, of course, is an attempt to circumvent the normal immigration process and get migrants on social benefits even faster. Obviously, all of these apps should be immediately disabled. Note that none of this requires any law-enforcement contact with migrants at all. These solutions simply cut off migrants’ access to the hard-earned dollars of taxpayers. The phone apps will no longer work. The free money will no longer materialize to provide free food and housing for migrants. Those migrants who actually have jobs and contribute to the community can continue to do so. Those who relied on stealing from taxpayers will self-deport when the free ride disappears. The option of immigration—including legal immigration— to the United States must be fully privatized so it is only an option for those with the ability to support themselves economically. Note that none of this violates anyone’s property rights. No one’s right to travel is limited by cutting off free money for migrants. No one is being prevented from contracting with another private party for employment or housing. People simply are being forced to do all this with their own private property. Another key in the equation is limiting access to citizenship . Citizenship is not a property right of any kind, and there is no such thing as a natural right to citizenship in any particular place. Excluding the tiny number of migrants who are genuinely stateless, all foreign nationals arriving in the United States already enjoy the benefits of citizenship somewhere. Moreover, gaining citizenship in the United States brings with it a variety of economic benefits. It provides permanent access to the welfare state. The granting of citizenship also provides foreign nationals—few of whom renounce their citizenship in their home countries—greater access to US government institutions. The benefits of citizenship ought to be greatly limited for new immigrants, with a waiting period of at least a decade, or perhaps even twenty years. Again, this does not limit a migrant’s ability to fully exercise his or her property rights. Birthright citizenship , a “right” invented by a federal judge, should also be abolished. Ultimately, when we consider options for limiting migration, while also respecting property rights, self-deportation needs to be the focus. The alternative is to empower the federal government to track down and round up countless US residents, demand “papers, please!” and then deport those without the proper government forms. Many supporters of mass deportation plans seem to think that federal agents can, through some magical power, identify illegal immigrants on sight. The reality is that immigration status must be determined by an investigation into whether or not a resident has the proper paperwork. Now, it is true that many illegal immigrants will essentially volunteer for deportation. Such people include criminals who are convicted of real crimes. Clearly, it does not require any sort of drag net to simply deport convicts who have already attracted the attention of authorities. Similarly, in a system that denies taxpayer funded benefits to foreign nationals, immigrants who attempt to collect social benefits would be guilty of fraud, and thus volunteer themselves for deportation. The same would be true of any non-citizen who attempts to vote. But what about immigrants who remain peaceful, self-supporting, and keep to themselves? The way federal agents have generally identified these people is by harassing residents through internal checkpoints and harassment of people who “look like” immigrants. For example, one of the great overreaches of federal power—one that is blatantly unconstitutional—is the 100-mile border zone. In 1946, Congress passed the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1946. The law granted immigration agents the authority “to interrogate any alien or person believed to be an alien as to his right to be or to remain in the United States .” This power was limited to a “reasonable distance” from the US border. Originally, this “reasonable distance” was 25 miles. But it was unilaterally extended by the Department of Justice to 100 miles without any change to the statute. Given that “the border” includes both land and water borders, two-thirds of Americans live within this border zone. Entire states are included within the zone, including Florida, Michigan, and Maine. Many peaceful Americans get caught up in this bureaucratic nightmare. Thanks to the hundred-mile zone American citizens who don’t carry their passports on them at all times can be harassed and arrested by Border Patrol agents, even well inside the US border . As the New York Post describes it , “Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are arresting US citizens by mistake and holding them at detention centers for months—sometimes even years.” There is nothing shocking here. This is how government agencies work. Yet, many Trump supporters are cheering the idea that an army of government agents be let loose on American cities and towns, as if this will not affect ordinary, law-abiding citizens in any way. This is the same attitude that gave us the Patriot Act, NSA spying programs, and everything else justified by the despotic slogan of “if you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to worry about.” Indeed, there are countless ways that the federal government can harass ordinary citizens and violate their property rights. Consider, for example, how anti-immigration advocates promote despotism with programs like “ eVerify .” The activists want federal bureaucrats to determine if you have a right to work. And then there are the calls for new laws designed to prosecute private citizens who are guilty of the “crime” of using their own private property to rent apartments to immigrants or pay immigrants for services rendered. It’s one thing to build a wall, to deport convicted criminals, or end taxpayer-funded subsidies for migrants. It’s quite another thing when federal agents start asking us for our papers and telling us what we can do with our own property. A related video: Some parts of the Trump plan are no-brainers like ending all federal money for immigrants. Other stuff raises red flags, such as the prospect of mass investigations of non-violent people to determine if they have all the right gov't paperwork. I think the key here is to make... pic.twitter.com/5aLGrqeA4S

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"If you didn't know, what city would you guess you were in?" I asked my mum as we enjoyed the festive buzz of a bar at the Christmas Market, surprisingly bustling for a relatively small city. She took a moment to soak up the vibrant scene at The Cathedral Tavern and replied: "Honestly, I wouldn't even say we're in the UK. It feels like we're on the continent. This is like something they would have in Germany." On paper, Christmas markets aren't really our cup of tea: the massive crowds, the same old festive tunes and the aroma of street food can be overwhelming, turning the joy of Christmas shopping into a stressful ordeal. Our past experiences with markets elsewhere often involved stalls awkwardly squeezed onto a busy High Street or an over-the-top, almost cartoonish imitation of a traditional German market, complete with oversized beer steins and bratwursts. But when I finally gave the Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market a chance last year, it dawned on me how fortunate we are. Yes, there's music and throngs of people but it's evident that a lot of thought has been put into making it more than just a seasonal fad. There's a selection of local stalls and last year I actually managed to find some locally-made gifts there, which felt so much better than buying from big brands. This year, I wanted to convince Mrs S of the same. 'It was starting to feel like we hadn't done it right, then we went to the bar' (Image: Mary Stenson/DevonLive) Taking on events like this requires a strategic approach, and for us, grabbing something to eat beforehand made perfect sense. Battling the crowds on an empty stomach is no fun and trying to peruse gift offerings while juggling street food is hardly ideal. Mum, despite not being a big food enthusiast, was pleasantly surprised by the variety at the food stands, confirming there's something for every palate. As expected, it was the most crowded section yet service was swift — my tip to those new to Christmas markets is to dine a bit earlier to dodge the peak time rush. After enjoying the delectable fried chicken from Urban Cowboy Street Food (as scrumptious as we remembered) we set off on our present scavenger hunt. Mum had her sights set on finding quaint presents, and while there was a plentiful array of goods, the diversity left a bit to be desired. She said: "There were a lot of multiples offering the same thing. It would have been nice if there were more traditional Christmas food gifts and more unique things that would work as stocking fillers." Read More Related Articles Incredible A road runs whole length of country — but few know where it actually starts Read More Related Articles I visited city three hours from Manchester and found cows strolling through city centre Aside from a few delicious smelling candles, we left pretty much empty-handed. It wasn't that the products on offer weren't high-quality or worth buying, we just felt like there was something missing. We decided it was time to have a browse around town and to get away from the sea of people for a bit but we vowed to return later. "It was starting to feel like we hadn't done it right," Mrs S said. "But then we went to the bar." Christmas market bars are a bit like marmite. Some people love the lively, festive atmosphere, while others grumble about the prices. Faye Williams, co-owner of Barnova, who runs the two bars at the market, explained that a huge amount of money goes into organising the venues and that the company is keen to support local businesses, meaning the cost of a pint or mulled wine might be a little higher than at your local. We were apprehensive about visiting The Cathedral Tavern, worrying that the crowds might mean long waiting times and difficulty finding somewhere to sit, but we were so glad we did. "The staff were lovely and it didn't feel like you had to push your way in to order," mum observed. "The service was quick and we even found somewhere to sit." The quaint scene at Exeter Christmas Market (Image: Mary Stenson/DevonLive) The atmosphere was truly electric at the event. Observing the crowd, it was clear that enjoyment was in full swing; a brief glance revealed scarcely a single person glued to their mobile, a sight increasingly uncommon today. This vibrant scene lifted our spirits immensely after a bit of an earlier slump. Even mum found companionship, saying: "I made friends with someone's very cute dog. What's not to love? ". Those wanting to experience the festive spirit should note that a complete roster of vendors at the Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market is available. The market will continue until December 15, welcoming visitors from 10am to 7pm Monday through Wednesday, extending hours to 9pm from Thursday to Saturday, and opening from 11am to 5pm on Sundays.

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As an , I look forward to the every single year — it's when the online furniture haven brings shoppers discounts of up to 80% off everything from basics like linens and cookware to larger purchases like sofas and mattresses. Trust me, it's the perfect time to give your home a refresh, whether you're looking to renovate a bathroom soup to nuts or just in the market for a new coffee maker. Need some ideas? Try this stunning in your living room (it comes in 10 colors!) for just $293, down from $880. Don't stop there: Whip up festive fare in a new set of for $75 (that's nearly 65% off). If you're hosting guests, now's the time to snag an extra set of for just $18. I even spotted a bestselling that's down to $386 from $1,199. The has what you need for holiday decor, bedroom essentials, living room furniture, cookware and so much more. The sale runs through Dec. 1, but popular items (like the ones I've curated below) are sure to sell out, so get clicking. Oh, and bonus: there's free shipping sitewide. Mercury Row Perdue Velvet Square Arm Convertible Sofa Sealy Cool 12-Inch Medium Memory Foam Mattress North Valley Spruce Tree with Clear Lights, 7 Feet Wayfair Basics 1800 Series Sheet Set, Queen Henckels Dynamic Knife Block Set, 12-Piece For home offices, dens, or guest rooms, let your space serve double duty. This sofa converts easily into a twin bed, so you can comfortably host guests when needed, and still utilize your room wisely when it's just you and the family. The comfort of a sofa beats sitting on a bed in your spare rooms and this pretty green velvet number works perfectly for the season. Save nearly 70%. Tough layout? Swivel chairs may be your answer. A pair may be the perfect solution for a long room or tight space. Small in scale, they spin toward the TV, fireplace or conversation area — wherever your focus needs to be. This one comes in a bevy of colors, so you can find what fits your decor best. Clients of mine love this dresser for its ample drawer space as well as its sharp good looks. Mid-century style shines through the clean lines and walnut veneers on this detailed piece. It's the perfect way to amp up your bedroom or hallway storage — and on sale for nearly 65% off. This versatile table can be used anywhere you need a sturdy surface. Your kitchen dining area, your home office as a desk, or add it to the laundry room for a chic table on which to fold your laundry. The faux marble top and brass bass will give a glow up of glam, wherever you use it. Save over 50%. An etagere is a perfect complement to any room. It's lighter and airier than a bookcase, but serves the same purpose, displaying books, objet d'art and other treasures without overwhelming the space. This one is available in three finishes and has glass shelves. Save 20% and try using one in your bathroom to display towels and bath products. Upgrade your dining room this holiday season with new dining chairs. The clean lines of a parsons chair blends with any decor and the nailheads give this pair a bespoke look. This style works with most aesthetics, from modern to traditional. Save 60%! Save nearly 50% and get some much-needed storage into those unused spaces, like hallways and foyers. This hall tree provides a place to hang your hat, coats, bags and wraps. A bench seat provides a place to put on your shoes, while cubbies and flip-down storage can store shoes, gloves and other items. You can never have too much storage. With a whopping 66,000+ five-star reviews, this 1,800 thread count sheet set by Wayfair Basics leads the pack when it comes to customer favorites. And it's easy to see why: microfiber sheets are ultra-soft in addition to being hypoallergenic. And they're easy to care for, too: they're wrinkle-resistant, even right out of the linen closet. The set comes with a flat sheet, fitted sheet and two pillowcases — or four if you get it in King. A deal like this is going to go faster than prime Central Park real estate: the decadent bed frame, part of Kelly Clarkson's new NYC line, is 78% off in five colors, including this pretty white as well as black, navy, green and pink. Its channel-tufted velvet headboard is not just stunning — it's also soft enough to lean up against while watching TV or reading in bed. Nearly 6,000 Wayfair shoppers are five-star fans of this Sealy model. Want to know what all the fuss is about? You can pick up a queen size for nearly 70% off. It features Sealy's special CopperChill Technology and cooling memory foam to help keep you cool and dry while you slumber. With a medium-firm feel and added lumbar support, it's great for relieving pressure points. You don't need to pay top dollar for a quality mattress and this $158 queen is proof! Made of ventilated, cooling gel memory foam, it was designed to help hot sleepers snooze more comfortably and comes with a breathable cover. This one's on the medium side, FYI. This adjustable bed platform — complete with a wireless remote and light framework — will change your life. Raise your head while watching TV, reading, or if you're suffering from acid reflux. Elevate your feet for circulation and back support. At over 70% off, it's an absolute steal. Ideal for use with memory foam, latex, and air mattresses. A pillow that molds to your head for just the right support at night? Yes, please. This memory foam is extra soft and has a removable cover for easy machine washing. Save over 30% on this popular pillow. Need to freshen up that guest room for company? Or perhaps you need a change in your own room for the upcoming winter season. The classic, icy tones of silver and navy will spruce up any bed for the holidays and you don't have to think of a thing— this set has everything included: Euro shams, standard shams, comforter and throw pillows. It's pretty in an instant. I'll get right to the 'point' — this is a ridiculously good price for a Henckels knife set of this caliber. Buy one for yourself and one as a gift! The 21-piece block set includes an 8-inch chef’s knife, a 4-inch paring knife and six 4.5-inch steak knives. Save nearly 60%. A healthier way to cook is essential, which is why air fryers are so popular. This appliance from Cuisinart does multi-duty so you can toast, roast, dehydrate, proof, braise and fry all in one countertop appliance. At 45% off, now's the time to try this miraculous convection oven and save counter space to boot. Dishwasher and oven safe, this full set makes a great gift for starter kitchens, or buy it to update and supplement your own cookware. Nonstick makes for easy clean up and glass lids allow to view whatever you're whipping up without losing heat. And who can resist this pretty shade of aqua blue? This 14-cup pot will keep your coffee warm with its thermal carafe and warming plate. Programmable, you can ensure your coffee is ready when you are and serve a houseful of guests. Available in stainless or this sharp black. Cordless, bagless, programmable and self-teaching, a robot vacuum does all the work, so you don't have to lift a finger. If you've not switched from your upright, now's your chance to set it and forget it, and always have clean floors. Save over 50%. Make your room pop with bright hues of navy, pink and a soupçon of saffron. This traditional oriental-style rug adds a bold pattern to liven up your living room, dining room or bedroom. The low pile makes it easy for the Roomba above to clean and it fits well beneath swinging doors. The polyweave is durable enough to withstand high-traffic areas, as well as kids and pets. Plus, it's 45% off for Black Friday — you can't beat that! This antelope pattern is a more subtle way to zhuzh up your room with an animal print. The neutral colorway works with any aesthetic. The stripe effect gives your room length and it's perfectly on trend. Stunning and stain resistant, this bold pattern in moody greens and blacks exudes high style, with a low low price. A traditional Persian makes an interesting juxtaposition to modern furniture or go for a transitional vibe. The low pile makes it perfect for clearing under doorways. Save almost 65% off this washable wonder. Ideal for dining areas, living spaces and bedrooms, this rug can be tossed in the laundry when it needs a wash. The soft pattern blends with traditional, boho and farmhouse styles. I love a good collab, and this Rival Paper Co. pattern matched with the quality of Loloi rugs, is nothing short of dreamy. Another burst of springtime in these darker months will go a long way. Use this smaller size in entryways, kitchen nooks, small home offices, wherever you need a pop of happiness. Sometimes all you need is a classic Spruce replica to light up your home year after year. This pre-lit staple features hinged branches with covered green PVC tips for a fresh and authentic look without the mess. It comes in eight different sizes ranging up to 10 feet, so you can easily find the size you need. Deck your halls in a snap thanks to this 9-foot pre-lit garland. The realistic, full green bough —complete with artificial pinecones — easily drapes over doorways and looks majestic on mantels.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh passed away on Thursday, at the age of 92. The senior Congress leader was admitted to AIIMS Delhi after his health deteriorated. The former Prime Minister breathed his last at the hospital on December 26, sources informed Mint. Senior Congress leaders like Priyanka Gandhi and others visited AIIMS Delhi earlier in the evening. Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi said, "India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. Suggesting that the ex-PM left a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years, he said, "Dr Manmohan Singh served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives." Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram, Shashi Tharoor said, "It's very tragic. He was a great prime minister who served the nation. we are cancelling all our programmes and rushing back to Delhi." Reacting to ex-PM Manmohan Singh's demise, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in a post on X wrote, “Few people in politics inspire the kind of respect that Sardar Manmohan Singh ji did. His honesty will always be an inspiration for us and he will forever stand tall among those who truly love this country as someone who remained steadfast in his commitment to serve the nation despite being subjected to unfair and deeply personal attacks by his opponents." Congress MP from Wayanad further noted, "He was genuinely egalitarian, wise, strong-willed and courageous until the end. A uniquely dignified gentleman in the rough world of politics.".Should AI be used to resurrect extinct species like the Neanderthal? | Mohammad Hosseini

As science continues its evolution, discoveries and technologies can act like a master key that open doors leading to novel advancements. Artificial intelligence is one such key, making innovations possible by solving complex problems, automating tasks and enabling research that would have been impossible, or very time-consuming, without it. Mohammad Hosseini But do we want to do research on all topics, and shall we try the AI master key on every door? To explore this question, let’s consider the use of AI by genomics experts as an example. In recent years, genomics experts have added unbelievable depth to what we know about the world and ourselves. For example, genetics researchers have revealed facts about when certain animals and plants were domesticated. In another example, researchers used DNA from 30,000-year-old permafrost to create fertile samples of a plant called narrow-leafed campion. Importantly, genetic engineering has facilitated extraordinary advances in the treatment of complicated conditions, such as sickle-cell anemia. Thanks to AI, we are witnessing a dramatic increase in the pace and scalability of genomic exploration. But given the risks and possible consequences of AI use in science, should we rush headlong into using AI in all kinds of projects? One relevant example is research on Neanderthals, our closest relatives, who lived about 40,000 years ago. Neanderthals have been studied for several years now through genetic investigation of their fossils and their DNA. Genetic engineering can potentially use ancient DNA and genome editing methods to re-create a Neanderthal or aspects of a Neanderthal’s genetics and physiology. To do this, scientists could start by figuring out the DNA sequence of a Neanderthal by comparing it with the DNA of modern humans, because they are closely related. Then, scientists could use the gene-editing tool known as CRISPR to swap out parts of human DNA with Neanderthal DNA. This process would require a lot of trial and error and might not succeed soon. But based on what we know about genetics, if something is possible, AI can help make it happen faster, cheaper and with less effort. Scientists are excited about these developments because they could facilitate new discoveries and open up many research opportunities in genetic research. With or without AI, research on Neanderthals will proceed. But the extraordinary power of AI could give the final push to these discoveries and facilitate this kind of resurrection. At that point, the scientific community must develop norms and guidelines about how to treat these resurrected beings with dispositions very similar to humans. We would need to carefully consider their rights and well-being almost in the same way as when humans are involved and not as research subjects or artifacts of scientific curiosity. These ethical issues are discussed in more detail in a new paper published in the journal Nature Machine Intelligence. A more holistic question to consider is: Should we prioritize the use of resource-intensive AI, researchers’ time and public funds to resurrect extinct beings? Or should we invest these resources into conserving species that are critically endangered today to prevent biodiversity from more degradation? Hosseini is an assistant professor in the Department of Preventive Medicine at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. He wrote this for The Chicago Tribune . Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly!The people that president-elect Donald Trump has selected to lead federal health agencies in his second administration include a retired congressman, a surgeon and a former talk-show host. All of them could play pivotal roles in fulfilling a new political agenda that could change how the government goes about safeguarding Americans' health — from health care and medicines to food safety and science research. And if Congress approves, at the helm of the team as Department of Health and Human Services secretary will be prominent environmental lawyer and anti-vaccine organizer Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Recommended Videos By and large, the nominees don't have experience running large bureaucratic agencies, but they know how to talk about health on TV . Centers for Medicare and Medicaid pick Dr. Mehmet Oz hosted a talk show for 13 years and is a well-known wellness and lifestyle influencer. The pick for the Food and Drug Administration, Dr. Marty Makary, and for surgeon general, Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, are frequent Fox News contributors. Many on the list were critical of COVID-19 measures like masking and booster vaccinations for young people. Some of them have ties to Florida like many of Trump's other Cabinet nominees: CDC pick Dr. Dave Weldon represented the state in Congress for 14 years and is affiliated with a medical group on the state's Atlantic coast. Nesheiwat's brother-in-law is Rep. Mike Waltz , R-Fla., tapped by Trump as national security adviser. Here's a look at the nominees' potential role in carrying out what Kennedy says is the task to “reorganize” agencies, which have an overall $1.7 billion budget; employ 80,000 scientists, researchers, doctors and other officials; and affect the lives of all Americans. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention The Atlanta-based CDC, with a $9.2 billion core budget, is charged with protecting Americans from disease outbreaks and other public health threats. Kennedy has long attacked vaccines and criticized the CDC, repeatedly alleging corruption at the agency. He said on a 2023 podcast that there is "no vaccine that is safe and effective,” and urged people to resist the CDC's guidelines on if and when kids should get vaccinated . Decades ago, Kennedy found common ground with Weldon , the 71-year-old nominee to run the CDC who served in the Army and worked as an internal medicine doctor before he represented a central Florida congressional district from 1995 to 2009. Starting in the early 2000s, Weldon had a prominent part in a debate about whether there was a relationship between a vaccine preservative called thimerosal and autism. He was a founding member of the Congressional Autism Caucus and tried to ban thimerosal from all vaccines. Kennedy, then a senior attorney for the Natural Resources Defense Council, believed there was a tie between thimerosal and autism and also charged that the government hid documents showing the danger. Since 2001, all vaccines manufactured for the U.S. market and routinely recommended for children 6 years or younger have contained no thimerosal or only trace amounts, with the exception of inactivated influenza vaccine. Meanwhile, study after study after study found no evidence that thimerosal caused autism. Weldon's congressional voting record suggests he may go along with Republican efforts to downsize the CDC, including to eliminate the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, which works on topics like drownings, drug overdoses and shooting deaths. Weldon also voted to ban federal funding for needle-exchange programs as an approach to reduce overdoses, and the National Rifle Association gave him an “A” rating for his pro-gun rights voting record. Food and Drug Administration Kennedy is extremely critical of the FDA, which has 18,000 employees and is responsible for the safety and effectiveness of prescription drugs, vaccines and other medical products — as well as overseeing cosmetics, electronic cigarettes and most foods. Makary, Trump’s pick to run the FDA, is closely aligned with Kennedy on several topics . The professor at Johns Hopkins University who is a trained surgeon and cancer specialist has decried the overprescribing of drugs, the use of pesticides on foods and the undue influence of pharmaceutical and insurance companies over doctors and government regulators. Kennedy has suggested he'll clear our “entire” FDA departments and also recently threatened to fire FDA employees for “aggressive suppression” of a host of unsubstantiated products and therapies, including stem cells, raw milk , psychedelics and discredited COVID-era treatments like ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine. Makary's contrarian views during the COVID-19 pandemic including the need for masking and giving young kids COVID vaccine boosters. But anything Makary and Kennedy might want to do when it comes to unwinding FDA regulations or revoking long-standing vaccine and drug approvals would be challenging. The agency has lengthy requirements for removing medicines from the market, which are based on federal laws passed by Congress. Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services The agency provides health care coverage for more than 160 million people through Medicaid, Medicare and the Affordable Care Act, and also sets Medicare payment rates for hospitals, doctors and other providers. With a $1.1 trillion budget and more than 6,000 employees, Oz has a massive agency to run if confirmed — and an agency that Kennedy hasn't talked about much when it comes to his plans. While Trump tried to scrap the Affordable Care Act in his first term, Kennedy has not taken aim at it yet. But he has been critical of Medicaid and Medicare for covering expensive weight-loss drugs — though they're not widely covered by either . Trump said during his campaign that he would protect Medicare, which provides insurance for older Americans. Oz has endorsed expanding Medicare Advantage — a privately run version of Medicare that is popular but also a source of widespread fraud — in an AARP questionnaire during his failed 2022 bid for a U.S. Senate seat in Pennsylvania and in a 2020 Forbes op-ed with a former Kaiser Permanente CEO. Oz also said in a Washington Examiner op-ed with three co-writers that aging healthier and living longer could help fix the U.S. budget deficit because people would work longer and add more to the gross domestic product. Neither Trump nor Kennedy have said much about Medicaid, the insurance program for low-income Americans. Trump's first administration reshaped the program by allowing states to introduce work requirements for recipients. Surgeon general Kennedy doesn't appear to have said much publicly about what he'd like to see from surgeon general position, which is the nation's top doctor and oversees 6,000 U.S. Public Health Service Corps members. The surgeon general has little administrative power, but can be an influential government spokesperson on what counts as a public health danger and what to do about it — suggesting things like warning labels for products and issuing advisories. The current surgeon general, Vivek Murthy, declared gun violence as a public health crisis in June. Trump's pick, Nesheiwat, is employed as a New York City medical director with CityMD, a group of urgent care facilities in the New York and New Jersey area, and has been at City MD for 12 years. She also has appeared on Fox News and other TV shows, authored a book on the “transformative power of prayer” in her medical career and endorses a brand of vitamin supplements. She encouraged COVID-19 vaccines during the pandemic, calling them “a gift from God” in a February 2021 Fox News op-ed, as well as anti-viral pills like Paxlovid. In a 2019 Q&A with the Women in Medicine Legacy Foundation , Nesheiwat said she is a “firm believer in preventive medicine” and “can give a dissertation on hand-washing alone.” National Institutes of Health As of Saturday, Trump had not yet named his choice to lead the National Institutes of Health, which funds medical research through grants to researchers across the nation and conducts its own research. It has a $48 billion budget. Kennedy has said he'd pause drug development and infectious disease research to shift the focus to chronic diseases. He'd like to keep NIH funding from researchers with conflicts of interest, and criticized the agency in 2017 for what he said was not doing enough research into the role of vaccines in autism — an idea that has long been debunked . ___ Associated Press writers Amanda Seitz and Matt Perrone and AP editor Erica Hunzinger contributed to this report. ___ The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.There’s going to be a new No. 1 team in women’s college basketball. It might just be UCLA . The Bruins made their case in compelling fashion Sunday afternoon at Pauley Pavilion, dominating the nation’s top-ranked team from the game’s opening minutes. Starting with smothering defense that led to easy baskets, No. 5 UCLA thoroughly outclassed No. 1 South Carolina, 77-62 , ending the defending national champions’ 43-game winning streak. Calling it a historic victory is no overstatement. The Bruins had never previously beaten a top-ranked team, having gone 0 for 20. With the outcome long decided, UCLA students broke out an “Overrated!” chant in the final minute. A sellout crowd that included UCLA basketball luminaries Ann Meyers-Drysdale , Marques Johnson, Noelle Quinn and Natalie Nakase watched the Bruins start the celebration midway through the fourth quarter after three consecutive offensive rebounds led to a three-pointer by Angela Dugalić that gave the Bruins a 68-46 lead. The Gamecocks could not match the toughness of Bruins center Lauren Betts (11 points and 14 rebounds), the long-range shooting of guard Londynn Jones (15 points on five three-pointers) or the all-around play of guard Elina Aarnisalo (13 points, four assists and three rebounds), who displayed their talents in front of 10 WNBA scouts and executives representing six teams, including the Sparks. UCLA (5-0) never trailed and made it difficult for South Carolina to get decent shots in the early going. When Gamecocks forward Chloe Kitts got the ball in the paint, Betts suddenly materialized to smother her and rip the ball away for a steal. South Carolina (5-1) didn’t score for more than five minutes into the game. By the time Jones rose for a three-pointer to give the Bruins a 15-2 lead, the Gamecocks had missed 11 of 12 shots and committed four turnovers. A timeout by coach Dawn Staley did little to help. UCLA’s stifling defense continued into the second quarter when point guard Kiki Rice (11 points) anticipated a pass, grabbed the ball for a steal and went in for a layup in which she was fouled. Rice let out a triumphant roar as teammate Gabriela Jaquez draped an arm over her shoulder. It was all Bruins by the game’s midpoint as they held a 43-22 lead. The fun was just getting started for UCLA.