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How Artists And Designers Can Embrace AI-Generated Images In Their Work in 2024

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Creativity in the digital age has taken a revolutionary turn with the advent of AI-generated images. Artists and designers can now harness the power of artificial intelligence to enhance their creative process and push boundaries like never before. From generating unique textures and patterns to creating hyper-realistic visuals, AI technology offers a wealth of possibilities for innovation. However, it is crucial for creators to understand the implications of using AI-generated images, including concerns around intellectual property rights and ethical considerations. By embracing this cutting-edge technology responsibly, artists and designers can unlock a new realm of artistic expression and redefine the boundaries of visual storytelling.

AI-generated images

Understanding AI-Generated Images

Little do many artists and designers know, professional artists have embraced AI art as a tool for their creative expression. To fully appreciate and integrate AI-generated images into their work, it is crucial to understand how these images are created and the technology that drives them.

Definition and types of AI image generators

ImageDetails
Style TransferApplies the style of one image to another
GANs (Generative Adversarial Networks)Use two neural networks to generate new content
Deep DreamEnhances and modifies images in a dream-like way
Pix2PixTransforms sketches into realistic images
Neural Style TransferMerges the style of one image with the content of another

After grasping the types of AI image generators available, artists and designers can choose the ones that best align with their creative vision and goals.

The technology behind AI art

Understanding the technology behind AI art is necessary for artists and designers looking to leverage AI-generated images in their work. AI-Generated images are created using complex algorithms and neural networks that can automatically generate images based on patterns and data they are trained on. These images can range from stunning pieces of art to potentially deceiving deepfakes, making it crucial for creators to have a strong understanding of the technology at play.

Integrating AI into Artistic Practices

Collaborative opportunities between AI and artists

Assuming a proactive approach, artists can explore collaborative opportunities with AI to push the boundaries of traditional art forms. By working alongside AI systems, artists can leverage the technology’s capacity for rapid generation and iteration of visual concepts, leading to innovative and unexpected outcomes.

Techniques for melding AI imagery with conventional art

On the technical side, artists can experiment with various techniques for blending AI-generated imagery with traditional art practices. An understanding of image manipulation software, machine learning algorithms, and creative coding can empower artists to seamlessly integrate AI-generated elements into their artistic creations.

With this approach, artists can create a harmonious fusion of human creativity and artificial intelligence, opening up new possibilities for artistic expression. By embracing AI-generated images in their work, artists can tap into a vast wellspring of inspiration and explore uncharted territories in visual arts.

Ethical Considerations and Intellectual Property

After How AI Will Impact Graphic Design in the Future, artists and designers are increasingly turning to AI-generated images in their creative process. However, as they probe deeper into this new technology, they must consider the ethical implications and navigate the complex landscape of intellectual property rights.

Navigating the ethical landscape of AI in art

Landscape of AI in art brings forth questions about authorship, authenticity, and the potential for exploitation. Artists must navigate these ethical considerations by being transparent about their use of AI tools, ensuring that the generated work does not infringe on the rights of others, and considering the implications of creating art that blurs the lines between human and machine creativity.

Handling copyright and ownership with AI-generated art

Copyright with AI-generated art can be a gray area, as the traditional understanding of ownership and authorship becomes muddled. Artists must be vigilant in understanding and respecting copyright laws when using AI to create images. They should also consider the implications of selling or licensing AI-generated artwork, as ownership rights and legal responsibilities may differ from traditional art.

Intellectual property rights are at the core of any artistic endeavor, and with the integration of AI in the creative process, it is crucial for artists and designers to proactively address these concerns. While AI offers exciting new possibilities for artistic expression, it also poses challenges in terms of ownership, authenticity, and ethical standards. By staying informed, respecting copyright laws, and approaching AI-generated art with integrity, artists can embrace this technology while also upholding ethical and legal standards in their work.

Preparing for the Future

Once again, it is imperative for artists and designers to stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI technology to enhance their creative processes. To probe deeper into the intersection of AI and art, check out AI in Art: Embracing Opportunities for Designers.

Adapting to evolving AI technologies

Future of art and design is intertwined with the rapid advancements in AI technologies. Artists and designers need to adapt to the changing landscape of AI-generated images to remain relevant in their fields. Staying abreast of the latest tools and techniques in AI-generated art will be crucial for leveraging the opportunities that AI presents.

Strategies for staying relevant as an artist or designer

Future technologies are reshaping the artistic landscape, presenting both challenges and opportunities. Staying relevant as an artist or designer in the age of AI requires a willingness to embrace new technologies and experiment with innovative approaches. By combining traditional artistic skills with AI-powered tools, creatives can enhance their work and expand their creative horizons.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== How Artists And Designers Can Embrace AI-Generated Images In Their Work in 2024

Drawing together the creative potentials of artificial intelligence with the vision and skills of artists and designers can lead to innovative and groundbreaking works of art. Embracing AI-generated images in their work enables artists to explore new techniques, push boundaries, and enhance their creative processes. By recognizing the collaborative potential of AI, artists and designers can unlock a world of endless possibilities, shaping the future of artistic expression in exciting ways.

Details of the state of the Norwegian king

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Newsroom
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Norway’s King Harald will stay a few more days in a hospital on the Malaysian island of Langkawi for treatment and rest before returning to Norway, the royal family said, as quoted by Reuters.

The 87-year-old monarch was on holiday in the Southeast Asian country, but it was revealed earlier this week that he had an infection.

“His Royal Highness is still recovering,” the palace said.

The country’s government yesterday asked the army to handle the king’s journey back to Norway. A medical evacuation plane arrived in Langkawi after leaving Oslo.

Crown Prince Haakon is taking over duties in his father’s absence, including the weekly meeting with the prime minister and the government, which is due to take place later today.

King Harald has held the ceremonial post in Norway since 1991 and is the oldest monarch in Europe. In recent years, he has been repeatedly hospitalized for infections and underwent heart surgery.

According to the statement, the monarch has an infection and is being treated by both Malaysian and Norwegian doctors. King Harald V, who is Europe’s oldest monarch, celebrated his 87th birthday about a week ago. The royal family previously announced that the king was planning a private trip abroad, but did not say exactly where or when.

Harald the Fifth has been on the royal throne in Norway since 1991, after inheriting the throne from his father King Olaf V. The monarch has recently had health problems and spent several times in hospital due to infections, and in 2020 he also underwent surgery for heart valve replacement. King Harald V recently said he has no plans to emulate Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II, who abdicated in January at the age of 83. Harald, who is the great-great-grandson of Britain’s Queen Victoria, has said he has no plans to abdicate and his oath to serve Norway is for life.

Photo by Gu Bra: https://www.pexels.com/photo/torn-flag-of-norway-billowing-in-the-wind-6639883/

At least one person in eight now suffers from obesity

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United Nations News
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At least one person in eight now suffers from obesity
Photo de Franki Chamaki sur Unsplash

At least one in eight people on Earth are living with obesity, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday, citing a newly released global medical study.

That’s one billion people who lived with the disease in 2022, a number that has doubled among adults and quadrupled among five to 19-year-olds since 1990, according to data from the study, published in The Lancet, a renowned United Kingdom-based medical journal.

“This new study highlights the importance of preventing and managing obesity from early life to adulthood through diet, physical activity and adequate care, as needed,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO, which contributed to the study.

Global targets to curb obesity

A complex chronic disease, obesity has become a crisis, unfolding in epidemic proportions that reflect a stark rise over the past few decades.

While the causes are well understood, as are the evidence-based interventions needed to contain the crisis, the problem is that they are not implemented, according to the UN health agency.

“Getting back on track to meet the global targets for curbing obesity will take the work of governments and communities, supported by evidence-based policies from WHO and national public health agencies,” the UN health chief said.

It also requires the cooperation of the private sector, which must be accountable for the health impacts of their products, he added.

The study’s data also showed that 43 per cent of adults were overweight in 2022.

Deadly consequences

In the Europe, overweight and obesity are among the leading causes of death and disability, with estimates suggesting they cause more than 1.2 million deaths annually, according to WHO’s regional office.

Obesity increases the risk for many noncommunicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases. Overweight people and those living with obesity have been disproportionately affected by the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, often experiencing more severe disease and other complications, the UN health agency said.

It is considered a cause of at least 13 different types of cancer, likely to be directly responsible for at least 200,000 new cancer cases annually across Europe, according to WHO.

“This new study highlights the importance of preventing and managing obesity from early life to adulthood through diet, physical activity and adequate care, as needed,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO, which contributed to the study.

Global targets to curb obesity

A complex chronic disease, obesity has become a crisis, unfolding in epidemic proportions that reflect a stark rise over the past few decades.

While the causes are well understood, as are the evidence-based interventions needed to contain the crisis, the problem is that they are not implemented, according to the UN health agency.

“Getting back on track to meet the global targets for curbing obesity will take the work of governments and communities, supported by evidence-based policies from WHO and national public health agencies,” the UN health chief said.

It also requires the cooperation of the private sector, which must be accountable for the health impacts of their products, he added.

The study’s data also showed that 43 per cent of adults were overweight in 2022.

Deadly consequences

In the Europe, overweight and obesity are among the leading causes of death and disability, with estimates suggesting they cause more than 1.2 million deaths annually, according to WHO’s regional office.

Obesity increases the risk for many noncommunicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases. Overweight people and those living with obesity have been disproportionately affected by the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, often experiencing more severe disease and other complications, the UN health agency said.

It is considered a cause of at least 13 different types of cancer, likely to be directly responsible for at least 200,000 new cancer cases annually across Europe, according to WHO.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== At least one person in eight now suffers from obesity
At least one person in eight now suffers from obesity 6

Undernutrition challenges

Malnutrition, in all its forms, includes obesity, inadequate vitamins or minerals and being overweight. It also includes undernutrition, which covers wasting, stunting and being underweight (or thinness) and is responsible for half of the deaths of children under five.

The study showed that even though the rates of undernutrition have dropped, it is still a public health challenge in many places, particularly in Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.

Countries with the highest combined rates of underweight, or thinness, and obesity in 2022 were island nations in the Pacific and the Caribbean and those in the Middle East and North Africa.

WHO’s acceleration plan

At the World Health Assembly in 2022, Member States adopted the WHO acceleration plan to stop obesity, which supports country-level action through 2030.

To date, 31 governments are now leading the way to curb the obesity epidemic by implementing the plan.

Some of the ways they are doing that include such core interventions as breastfeeding promotion and regulations on the harmful marketing of food and beverages to children.

Healthy diets for all

A healthy diet can prevent obesity.
© Unsplash/Anna Pelzer – A healthy diet can prevent obesity.

One of the co-authors of the study, Dr. Francesco Branca, Director of WHO’s Nutrition and Food Safety Department, said there are “significant challenges” in implementing policies that aim to ensure affordable access to healthy diets for all and create environments conducive to physical activity and overall healthy lifestyles.

“Countries should also ensure that health systems integrate the prevention and management of obesity into the basic package of services,” he said.

Addressing undernutrition requires action in the agriculture, social protection and health sectors to reduce food insecurity, improve access to clean water and sanitation and ensure universal access to essential nutrition interventions, according to the UN health agency.

The new study used data from 200 countries and territories, including 3,663 population-based studies with 222 million participants. WHO contributed to the data collection and analysis of the study and disseminated the full dataset through its Global Health Observatory.

New Scientology Church Lights Up Mexico City’s Skyline

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KingNewswire.com – Last March 1st, 2024, took place the unveiling of the Ideal Church of Scientology in Del Valle, Mexico City, a significant milestone for the Scientologists. This new facility boasts a Public Information Center featuring informative displays and films that delve into the beliefs and practices of Scientology and pay tribute to the legacy of Founder L. Ron Hubbard. Emphasizing the Church’s dedication to humanitarian programs and community collaboration, the Del Valle opening signifies a commitment to spiritual growth and service. Stay tuned for insights into the Church’s outreach efforts and plans for further expansion in Latin America.

Brussels, Belgium, 2nd Mar 2024 – The night sky over Colonia del Valle, a bustling neighborhood in the heart of Mexico City, was alive with celebration as the Church of Scientology inaugurated its new Ideal Org. The grand opening on Friday was a spectacle of music, lights, and fireworks, attracting thousands of attendees to witness the unveiling of the 5,116 square meters facility.

Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center and the ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, presided over the ceremony. In his address, he emphasized the significance of the new church in fulfilling the vision of Scientology’s founder. “Remember, the very essence and life force of an Ideal Org is, as our Founder envisioned, ‘An activity where people came to achieve freedom and where they had confidence they would attain it,’” Miscavige explained. 

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== New Scientology Church Lights Up Mexico City's Skyline

“That is what we celebrate today. It is the gift you are extending. And the vision made true by you, the heroes of this movement, in creating this Ideal Org.”

The event also featured speeches from several dignitaries and social leaders, including Mr. Cristian Badillo, Director of the National Consciousness for Religious Freedom Foundation. Badillo highlighted the importance of L. Ron Hubbard’s teachings in fostering unity. “To realize the Mexico we want, the truth inside The Way to Happiness must be passed on, person to person, until it stretches from Baja to the Yucatán,” he said.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== New Scientology Church Lights Up Mexico City's Skyline

“I’ve been privileged to deliver the precepts into barrios and congregations of faith. I’ve delivered them into juvenile prisons. And, just as I personally experienced, I witnessed others have their own recognition of the truth. A truth as certain as the ground beneath one’s feet. At which point, it was undeniable: L. Ron Hubbard has written a universal language. And we owe it to humanity to tell people of every background, every faith, everywhere, ‘You can discover your own way to happiness!’”

Congressman Mr. Luis Zamora Romero, an advocate for equal rights, shared his experiences in promoting human rights and his collaboration with the Church. “I searched sky and earth for ways to show people their human rights—until I discovered you,” Zamora expressed. “We share the belief that human rights are not only a right, but a duty from one person to another.”

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== New Scientology Church Lights Up Mexico City's Skyline

“That’s why we have taught both the victims and those who violate them. We even hosted a national youth day celebration with over 7,000 in attendance. Working together, we arranged 9,000 Human Rights booklets on the ground to spell out ‘Know Your Human Rights’ and thus creating the longest such sentence in history. In so doing, we not only demonstrated our collective dedication, we set a Guinness World Record! And so, united we will soon set another world record as the largest movement on Earth.”

Mr. Fabián Aranda García, an attorney and legal advisor to the National Human Rights Commission, discussed his partnership with the Church of Scientology and the Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR). “The pursuit of justice is what drove my most important challenge—and thus my partnership with the Church of Scientology and CCHR,” Aranda García revealed, emphasizing the impact of their collaborative efforts in safeguarding individual freedoms.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== New Scientology Church Lights Up Mexico City's Skyline

“If I didn’t fight this, I wasn’t a victim, I was an accomplice. With you we went straight to the National Parliament. We presented our cases and gave Mexico’s leaders the facts. And with the future of thousands—even millions in the balance—we won, and that totalitarian law was canceled!”

Father Manuel Corral, Executive Secretary of Institutional Relations of the Catholic Church in Mexico, spoke on the unity the event represented. “It’s time to no longer make any distinctions between any creeds,” Father Corral stated. 

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== New Scientology Church Lights Up Mexico City's Skyline

“We may all have different ideologies, but we must all fight as one. And by your every action you have demonstrated an authentic religious unity, and you have actually brought religions together.

“This is my dream come true. And this is your Founder’s dream come true. What’s more, you have planted a symbol of that unity in this soil—and it is an awe-inspiring wonder before our eyes. As we celebrate this glorious new Church of Scientology, let’s now dream of a better Mexico City and a brighter Mexico. And in honor of Mr. Hubbard, let’s make it a reality—together!”

The opening of the Church of Scientology Del Valle is not just an expansion of the church’s physical presence but a beacon of its commitment to social betterment and community service in Mexico City and beyond.

—

The new Ideal Church in Del Valle introduces Dianetics and Scientology to the city through its Public Information Center. With over 500 films, the displays showcase the beliefs and practices of the Scientology religion and pay tribute to Founder L. Ron Hubbard. Additionally, the Information Center provides a comprehensive overview of the Church’s humanitarian programs, such as global human rights education, extensive drug education and prevention initiatives, literacy centers worldwide, and the impactful Scientology Volunteer Minister Program. Visitors are welcome to explore the center at their convenience, from morning until night.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== New Scientology Church Lights Up Mexico City's Skyline

Within the Church’s Chapel, congregational gatherings for Scientology, including Sunday Services, Weddings, and Naming Ceremonies, are held, along with various events open to members of all faiths to promote community collaboration. The new Church also features multiple seminar rooms, classrooms, and an entire floor dedicated to Scientology auditing (spiritual counseling).

Ideal Churches embody Founder L. Ron Hubbard’s vision for the religion, offering facilities to support Scientologists on their spiritual journey and serving as a hub for the local community to engage in cooperative efforts to uplift individuals of all backgrounds.

The Grand Opening of the Ideal Church of Scientology in Del Valle marks Mexico City’s second Ideal Church. The first, the National Church, located near the Fine Arts Palace, the National Supreme Court, and the National Palace, has been a magnificent addition to the cityscape. Reflecting the rapid growth of Scientology, a future 30,656 square meters Ideal Advanced Organization is currently in progress in Las Lomas, set to cater to the 21 nations of Latin America.

Following the recent inauguration of the Church of Scientology in Austin, situated across from the University of Texas campus on The Drag, the Del Valle Grand Opening signifies another milestone in the expansion of Scientology’s presence and outreach efforts.

Greece‘s new tourist “climate tax” replaces an existing fee

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Newsroom
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This was stated by the Greek Minister of Tourism, Olga Kefaloyani

The tax to overcome the consequences of the climate crisis in tourism, which has been in force since the beginning of the year in Greece, replaces the previously existing tourist tax.

This was explained in an interview with BTA by the Minister of Tourism of Greece, Olga Kefaloyani, when asked to comment on publications in Bulgaria, that the new tax will increase the prices of vacations in Greece.

Kefaloyani informed that it is a matter of a fee, which will be in the amount of 1.50 euros per day for a room in the hotels of the more popular categories, for the rooms for rent and for the properties with short-term rentals.

Its size can reach up to 10 euros, but this applies to luxury accommodations, namely five-star hotels and private houses. The fee is more than double during the winter months.

The Greek minister said that the purpose of the measure is for tourists to participate in the protection of tourist destinations from the climate crisis and in their general development.

She highlighted the measures taken by the Greek government to support the population and the economy, and in particular the tourism sector, after the devastating fires and floods in some areas of Greece last year. Kefaloyani stated that Greek tourism has shown resilience and, despite the difficulties, recorded record results in 2023 in terms of both the number of tourists and revenue. The Greek Minister of Tourism assured that the main part of the consequences of the disasters on tourism has been overcome and the destinations throughout the country are ready to welcome their visitors again this year.

Kefaloyani also focused on the prospects for the development of cooperation between the tourism sectors in Greece and Bulgaria, especially in the context of the Program for joint actions in the field of tourism for 2024-2026, signed in November between her and the Minister of Tourism of Bulgaria, Zaritsa Dinkova.

The Greek minister highlighted the prospects for interaction in attracting tourists from distant destinations. Among the planned actions within the program, she pointed out the exchange of know-how and good practices in the fields of digitization, innovation and sustainable development. The program also provides for participation in tourist exhibitions in both countries, interaction in the creation of common tourist packages aimed primarily at non-EU countries, cooperation in investments and the qualification of personnel, joint actions within the framework of international organizations.

Minister Kefaloyani also emphasized the advantages for the tourism sector that the future accession of Bulgaria and Romania to the Schengen area would have, not only with the air and sea borders, as decided at the moment, but also with the land borders. She said that this would not only increase the tourist flow to Greece from these two countries, but also boost interest in the whole region from non-EU visitors. They would benefit from the unified visa policy, where with one Schengen visa they could visit many countries of the single space, and also from the simplified procedures when crossing the borders. This will promote the common marketing campaigns of Greek, Bulgarian and Romanian tourism, increase interest in trips that include all three countries and promote longer tourist stays and repeat visits, said Greece’s Tourism Minister Olga Kefaloyani.

Illustrative Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/low-angle-photograph-of-the-parthenon-during-daytime-164336/

What are the indispensable benefits of roasted garlic

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Newsroom
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Everyone is aware of the benefits of garlic. This vegetable protects us from the flu by strengthening our immune system. It is recommended to consume it regularly, especially during the winter months. But what do we not know about roasted garlic? Today, we will share more information about the heat-treated vegetable, hoping to be useful to you. What should we know about roasted garlic?

The power of garlic is so great that even after 24 hours the body has the ability to react to this food. Making roasted garlic is really easy. No knowledge of cooking is required.

Necessary ingredients: 6 heads of garlic, salt, black pepper, olive oil

Preparation: First remove the outer skins of the garlic heads. Remove some of the tops. Then season with salt and pepper, sprinkle with olive oil. Each head of garlic is wrapped in foil and placed in a small pan or ovenproof dish. Turn on the oven at 200 degrees to heat it up. When this happens, put the tray inside and bake for half an hour or a little more. When you remove the pan from the oven, separate each clove from the husk. Store in a glass jar. Cover the cloves with olive oil and refrigerate. Otherwise, they will not be suitable for a long time. Snack on roasted garlic as needed. The recommended daily dose is 5-6 cloves of garlic.

How does our body react to this food? Almost immediately after we swallow a few cloves of garlic, they become food for the body. During the first hour, the digestion process takes place, 4 hours later, our body begins to benefit from the benefits of garlic. Excess fluid is expelled from the body, and body fat begins to melt. 6 hours later, the antibacterial benefits of the vegetable are activated. This begins when its components pass through the bloodstream. 6 hours later, garlic begins to protect against oxidation. within a day, garlic triggers the following processes: keeps cells healthy much better athletic performance less fatigue stronger bones and nails helps remove heavy metals from the body helps regulate blood pressure helps regulate cholesterol levels -healthy immunity These are just some of the benefits we can derive after consuming roasted garlic.

Note: The article is for informational purposes only. It does not replace a doctor’s consultation or a balanced diet.

Photo by Nick Collins: https://www.pexels.com/photo/garlic-bulbs-on-brown-surface-1392585/

Climate change is a threat to antiquities

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Newsroom
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A study in Greece shows how weather events affect cultural heritage

Rising temperatures, prolonged heat and drought are affecting climate change worldwide. Now, the first study in Greece that examines the effect of climate change on the future microclimate of historical monuments and artefacts shows us how extreme weather events will also affect the country’s cultural heritage.

“Like the human body, monuments are built to withstand different temperatures. Thanks to our data, we were able to calculate the impact of the climate crisis on artifacts in museums and archaeological sites,” study author Efstatia Tringa, PhD student and researcher, told Kathimerini in Meteorology and Climatology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.

To collect the necessary data, sensors measuring temperature and humidity have been placed in the archaeological site and museum in Delphi, as well as in the archaeological museum in Thessaloniki and in the 5th century Byzantine church “Panagia Acheiropoetos”.

Overall, the findings of the study are that the combination of rising temperatures and higher humidity levels in the coming years could seriously affect the chemical composition of some materials used in construction or artefact production, thereby accelerating their decomposition or contribute to the spread of destructive molds. The challenges are even greater for outdoor monuments, which “will have to adapt to the new temperature conditions,” explains Tringa.

The study shows specifically that the likelihood of damage increases as the climate warms. “By 2099, there will be 12 percent more years at risk for monuments than in the past,” she says, pointing to current temperature trends.

Changes can also be seen inside the two museums, although they are equipped with air conditioning systems. In summer, the temperature inside them remained below 30 degrees Celsius, even when the outside temperature reached 40C. In the church, however, the internal temperature rose in line with the external temperature, sometimes reaching 35C.

“The temperature levels in the museums did not change significantly, although we saw a sudden spike in July last year during the very long heat wave,” says Tringa.

Without air conditioning, with many wooden details on the ceiling and with paintings 800 years old, the Byzantine church, on the contrary, is much more vulnerable. The equipment of such monuments with climate control systems is clearly indicated.

“What is interesting from our point of view concerns the amount of energy that museums will have to consume in the future to maintain these specific temperatures,” she adds.

Asked if there was a list of museums or monuments that should be prioritized, Tringa emphasized that “all our monuments are important. What people need to keep in mind is that by protecting the past, we are improving the future.”

Photo by Josiah Lewis: https://www.pexels.com/photo/stonewall-palace-772689/

China plans mass production of humanoid robots by 2025

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Newsroom
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China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has published an ambitious plan for the mass production of humanoid robots by 2025.

The country should have about 500 robots per 10,000 workers in just two years. That means tens of millions of manufacturing robots.

China’s ministry says that mass robotization will totally transform the manufacturing sector, and subsequently human life. Making this happen requires breakthroughs in several key technologies, as well as ensuring the safe and efficient supply of essential components.

The plan says that by 2027, humanoids should be an important new engine of economic growth in China.

The majority of companies that publicly develop humanoid robots are based in the US.

The company Agility Robotics, in which Amazon is a major investor, will this year complete the factory for the mass production of humanoids. Its capacity will be to create 10,000 robots per year.

Industries such as healthcare, home services, agriculture and logistics are likely to see an increase in the use of robots in the coming years. However, it is important for robots to take on tasks in harsh and dangerous conditions and within the industrial sector, the Chinese ministry wrote.

MIIT provides guidelines to use recent breakthroughs in AI, such as large language models, and to focus on the development of the “brain, cerebellum and limbs of humanoids”.

In August, Beijing announced a $1.4 billion robotics fund aimed at promoting the development of robotics technology in Beijing. Funds will gradually increase. The goal is for China to be a global leader in robotics by the end of the decade.

China is struggling with a rapidly shrinking population. It is projected to fall below 1 billion after the middle of this century. This portends a severe economic crisis that could destabilize the green country. Beijing sees robotics as a strategic goal to sustain its economic growth for decades to come.

Illustrative Photo by ThisIsEngineering: https://www.pexels.com/photo/prosthetic-arm-on-blue-background-3913025/

Morning coffee raises the levels of this hormone

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Newsroom
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Russian gastroenterologist Dr. Dilyara Lebedeva says that morning coffee can provoke a surge in one hormone – cortisol. Harm from Caffeine, as the doctor noted, causes stimulation of the nervous system. Such stimulation can become a problem. “This threatens a constant spike in cortisol, which can lead to chronic stress and adrenal insufficiency. Moreover, this stimulation will not last long”, explains the doctor. To “load the adrenal glands” less, Dr. Lebedeva recommends drinking coffee during the day when they are at peak activity. People with nervous disorders are better off completely giving up the drink.

The doctor adds that caffeine has a diuretic effect, i.e. promotes fluid removal. Thus, a morning cup of coffee “starts the dehydration process”. If you can’t start your morning without this drink, drink extra plain water, advises the specialist. “If you compensate for lethargy and apathy with doses of caffeine, then think about this: perhaps it is better to find the cause of this condition than to artificially invigorate the body,” says Dr. Lebedeva. Elevated levels of cortisol, which is a stress hormone, can include the following symptoms: Frequent and prolonged periods of restlessness and anxiety; Sleep problems, including insomnia and waking at night; Deterioration of mood, irritability and feeling of tension. Fatigue and a feeling of constant exhaustion. Increased appetite and desire to eat harmful foods; Digestive problems, including heartburn, constipation, or diarrhea; Deterioration of memory and concentration. Increased sensitivity to pain; Increased heart rate and increased blood pressure; Deterioration of immune function and increased susceptibility to infections.

“For those who have diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, the cardiovascular system, who suffer from hypertension, insomnia and diseases of the nervous system, the drink is not recommended. Pregnant women can drink no more than one glass a day. For people with mental disorders, the drink is harmful because it can cause anxiety, nervous agitation and even panic attacks. “There are enough alternative options, you can find something to your taste. However, in any case, before use, you should consult a doctor or study all contraindications”, says the specialist.

Green tea: This drink contains less caffeine than coffee. It is also rich in antioxidant catechins, which have a beneficial effect on the brain.

Cocoa: Just one cup of this drink can increase blood flow to the brain, facilitate solving complex mental problems and reduce fatigue.

Peppermint tea: the menthol in peppermint affects various brain receptors, has a good effect in solving complex mental problems and helps fight fatigue.

Illustrative Photo by Viktoria Alipatova: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-sitting-near-table-with-teacups-and-plates-2074130/

Important: The information is provided for reference purposes only. Consult a specialist about contraindications and side effects and in no case self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.

MEPs improve EU protection for quality agricultural products

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European Parliament
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©European Parliament - Press conference by Paolo DE CASTRO rapporteur and Norbert LINS, Chair of the Committee for Agriculture on Geographical Indications for wine, spirit drinks and agricultural product

Parliament has given its final green light to the reform of EU rules strengthening the protection of Geographical Indications for wine, spirit drinks and agricultural products.

The regulation adopted today with 520 votes in favour, 19 against and 64 abstentions protects GIs offline and online, gives more powers to their producers and simplifies the registration process of GIs.

Protection online

During negotiations with member states, MEPs insisted national authorities will have to take administrative and judicial measures to prevent or stop the illegal use of GIs not only offline but also online. Domain names using GIs illegally will be shut down or access to them disabled via geo-blocking. A domain name alert system will be set by the EU Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO).

Protection of GIs as ingredients

The new rules also define that a GI designating a product used as an ingredient may be used in the name, labelling or advertising of a related processed product only where the GI ingredient is used in sufficient quantities to confer an essential characteristic on the processed product, and no other product comparable to the GI is used. The percentage of the ingredient will have to be indicated on a label. A recognised producer group for the ingredient will have to be notified by producers of the processed product and may issue recommendations on the correct use of the GI.

More rights for GIs producers

Thanks to Parliament, the producers of GIs will be able to prevent or counter any measures or commercial practices which are detrimental to the image and value of their products, including devaluing marketing practices and lowering prices. To increase consumer transparency, MEPs also made sure that a producer name will appear in the same field of vision as the geographical indication on the packaging of all GIs.

Streamlined registration

The Commission will remain the sole scrutiniser of the GIs system, according to the updated regulation. The registration process of GIs will be simpler and a fixed deadline of six months will be set for scrutiny of new GIs.

Quote

Rapporteur Paolo De Castro (S&D, IT) said: “Thanks to Parliament, we now have a crucial regulation for our quality agrifood chains, strengthening the role of producer groups and the protection for Geographical Indications, increasing simplification, sustainability and transparency towards consumers. This is a better system, generating added value, without public funds. After the crises sparked by the pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the surge in production prices, the new GIs Regulation finally is good news for European farmers.”

A press conference with the rapporteur and Norbert Lins (EPP, DE), the Chair of the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee is scheduled for Wednesday 28 February at 13.00 CEST at Daphne Caruana Galizia press conference room (WEISS N -1/201) in Strasbourg. More information is available this press release.

Next steps

Once the Council formally adopts the regulation, it will be published in the EU Official Journal and enter into force 20 days later.

Background

GIs are defined by the World Intellectual Property Organization as signs used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. GIs guarantee intellectual property rights and their legal protection.

The EU register of GIs contains almost 3,500 entries with sales value of almost EUR 80 billion. Products carrying a geographical indication often have a sales value around double that of similar products without certification. Examples of protected products are Parmigiano Reggiano, Champagne and Polish Vodka.

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