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Malibu-area beaches impacted by street closures; beach advisory … – Los Angeles Times

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

Feb. 17, 2017, 3:17 p.m.

Several road closures were impacting Malibu-area beaches Friday afternoon as a massive rainstorm slammed into Southern California.

The entrance to Point Dume State Beach was closed, as was the Pacific Coast Highway underpass to Zuma Beach, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department's Lifeguard Division. The ZumaBeach exit to Westward Beach Road was closed, as was Escondido Access Way at Pacific Coast Highway, officials said.

The county Department of Beaches and Harbors was distributing free filled sandbags Friday afternoon, at a limit of 10 per person, at multiple locations , including Will Rogers State Beach (near the Temescal Canyon entrance), three locations near Venice Beach, Dockweiler Beach, Manhattan Beach and Torrance Beach.

Health officials issued a beach-use advisory for all L.A. County beaches. Coastal visitors were cautioned to be careful when swimming, surfing and playing in ocean waters near discharging storm drains, creeks and rivers.

"Bacteria, debris, trash and other public health hazards from city streets and mountain areas are likely to enter ocean waters through these outlets," Jeffrey Gunzenhauser, the county's interim health officer, said in a statement .

Beach areas that were not near discharging storm drains, creeks and rivers are exempt from the advisory, which will be in effect until at least 2 p.m. Monday.

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Malibu-area beaches impacted by street closures; beach advisory ... - Los Angeles Times

Plastic ‘nurdles’ found littering UK beaches – BBC News

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

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Plastic 'nurdles' found littering UK beaches
BBC News
A search of 279 beaches around the UK has found that almost three-quarters of them were littered with tiny plastic "nurdles". Volunteers signed up to search their local shoreline, ranging between Shetland and the Scilly Isles, for the lentil-sized ...
Tiny Plastic 'Nurdles' Are Invading the Shores of British BeachesSeeker
Tiny plastic pellets found on 73% of UK beaches | Environment | The ...The Guardian
Harmful plastic pellets found on three quarters of British beachesTelegraph.co.uk
The Times (subscription) -Exeter Express and Echo -The Great Nurdle Hunt
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Thousands of dead fish wash up on Costa Rica beaches – NTD.TV – New Tang Dynasty Television

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

Thousands of dead fish have washed up on the shores of Costa Ricas Gulf of Nacoya on the Pacific, covering beaches and dotting the coastline of beaches.

According to officials, sardine species at Abangaritos Beach in Puntarenas have mostly been affected but no exact cause has yet been determined. The bodies of the fish cover approximately two kilometres (1.2 miles) of the coastline.

Costa Ricas coast guard have taken samples of the water to determine the cause of the incident.

Most probably it was a natural phenomenon that caused this, that resulted in an increase in algae, and this caused a release of excess oxygen, and given that the fish are here in great quantities they could not breathe. That is what could have happened, given what we have to go off now. But it could also be pollution. Eight days after the samples are taken, we will know if theres another theory, said marine biologist for Costa Ricas coast guard, Fredy Campos.

Authorities have urged locals not to eat the sardines.

(REUTERS)

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Thousands of dead fish wash up on Costa Rica beaches - NTD.TV - New Tang Dynasty Television

Thailand Government Plans to Build a Coal Plant Near Popular Tourist Beaches – Skift

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

A government committee has approved construction of an 800-megawatt coal power plant near pristine beaches on the Andaman Sea, Thailands prime minister said Friday.

The plant and an accompanying dock are slated to be built next to an existing oil plant on the coast in Krabi, a province whose sandy shores, aqua-blue waters, and soaring limestone cliffs that plunge dramatically into the Andaman Sea make it a world-famous tourist destination.

The announcement by Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha that the National Energy Policy Committee has given the go-ahead to the project was criticized by activists who worry the plant will pollute local waters and spoil scenery. They say it will damage tourism and fishing, and that eco-friendly alternatives should be considered instead.

The Energy Ministry says southern Thailands power grid falls hundreds of megawatts short during peak demand, requiring electrical backup from Malaysia or provinces further north. But environmentalists argued in a report submitted to the ministry last year that biomass, wind, or other renewable energy sources could make up the shortfall.

The proposal will be reviewed to meet environmental standards before being forwarded to the Cabinet. Prayuth, who heads a military government, chaired the committee and in announcing its approval said the project was necessary to avoid future shortages and was safe.

Several hundred demonstrators traveled overnight from Krabi to stage a sit-in at the gates outside the prime ministers office compound, waving green flags emblazoned with NO COAL under skulls and crossbones. Some scuffled with police guards after the decision was announced.

Its not right, Akradej Chakjinda, leader of activist group Save Krabi, said of the decision. Hes not listening to the local people. Hes listening just to members of the energy ministry, to his friends.

Activists say the plant and its pollution will wreck Krabis tourist trade and hurt fishermen, damaging two of the largest industries in the province. Tourism made up 17.7 percent of Thailands economy in 2016, according to official statistics.

Krabi is very famous for its nature, people come for nature, but now you destroy nature. said Ponwarin Kanantai, 20, a college student whose parents run a hotel in a beachside town in Krabi. Its not our generation you have think of the next generation, how will they be impacted by coal.

Officials say the plant will adhere to high cleanliness standards and will burn premium-grade coal imported from Australia to cut down on emissions. They point out it will be built next to an already-existing power station hidden behind trees not, they say, on pristine grounds.

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Thailand Government Plans to Build a Coal Plant Near Popular Tourist Beaches - Skift

Walton Commission tweaks beach ordinance regulations – The Northwest Florida Daily News

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

By Deborah Wheeler | 315-4432 | @WaltonSunDeb | dwheeler@waltonsun.com

Walton county commissioners held a public hearing last week to solidify rules and regulations regarding beach vendors and activities for the coming year.

Despite some opposition, the 15-foot buffer for vendors will remain from the toe of the dune, and that is a universal rule due to Customary Use ordinance that will go into effect April 1.

The Beach Activities Ordinance now prohibits vending of tents larger than six cubic feet, and rows of chair setups must have an aisle down the middle going to the water.

Assistant County Attorney Sydney Noyes said that no food and beverage vendors are currently allowed on any Walton County beaches, but commissioners voted to allow resorts with private beaches such as Sandestin to provide food for their guests on their beach as they are in control of it.

This leaves vendors prohibited from cooking on the county's public beaches for special events.

Although District 4 Commissioner Sara Comander said the days are long gone for cooking on the beach, District 5 Commissioner Tony Anderson said he likes to celebrate his birthday each year on the beach and cooks with a gas grill.

"I hate to see that taken away," he said.

Noyes assured him that the BCC is only addressing vendors.

However, Walton County's Director of Beach Operations Brian Kellenberger stated that it is unlawful to ignite an open flame without a permit on the beach, although enforcement is at an officer's discretion.

Fees and fines for violations were raised from $500 to $750 and in the case of catered special events, the vendor would be the one fined, not the person who hired them.

For catered special events, the vendor must have a parking plan for guests.

Also new this year will be the space that must be given a marked sea turtle nest. The rule in the past was no event set ups within 50 feet of a nest.

Valerie Lofton with South Walton Turtle Watch told commissioners that South Walton's beaches is nesting habitat for four of the world's seven sea turtle species, and they are endangered.

"When they hatch, they get disoriented on a lighted beach," she said.

South Walton Turtle Watch's Matt Magera told commissioners that even 100 feet away from a nest that could hatch is not nearly enough.

"It should be 200," he said. "You are putting an endangered species at risk."

Turtle walker Tom King of Rosemary Beach agreed.

"It's a sacred thing," he said. "We have a responsibility to take care of the turtles."

Commissioners voted to increase the turtles' space to 100 feet.

Storms Taking Toll on Cape Cod Beaches | NECN – NECN

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

NEWSLETTERS Receive the latest new-england updates in your inbox

Two storms in one week took a toll on Cape Cod beaches.

"There were three of four cycles of pushing the tide in and just taking chunks of beach away," said John Defoe, roads and trails supervisor of Cape Cod National Seashore.

In Provincetown at Herring Cove Beach, erosion further crumbled a parking lot.

"It's heartbreaking to see, when you pull up to check on the stairs and they're gone," said Defoe.

Some stairs to Marconi Beach in Wellfleet were destroyed. The cost to replace them could be as much as $175,000.

"The massive amount of erosion that's happening out here, it's really kind of discouraging," said Janet Golan of Eastham.

"We have seen the stairs go away like every year for the last couple of years," said Mike Golan of Eastham.

Beaches along the Cape typically lose two to three feet a year in erosion, but at Nauset Light, it's 12 to 15 feet a year.

"What seems to be happening is that there is no offshore sandbar, so the waves break directly on the beach instead of a sandbar, said Karst Hoogeboom, chief of facilities and maintenance of Cape Cod National Seashore.

The stairs are off limits again now. The Park Service Hopes to repair them. But for now, the bluffs here are very unstable.

Published at 5:34 PM EST on Feb 17, 2017

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Storms Taking Toll on Cape Cod Beaches | NECN - NECN

We asked a Duke astronomy professor about Duke alum Kyrie Irving saying the Earth is flat – For The Win

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

NBA champion Kyrie Irving shocked a lot of people when he revealed that he believes the Earth is flaton theRoad Trippin podcastthat released on Friday morning.Then, on Friday night at NBA All-Star weekend, Irving doubled down on his comments.

For The Winwas able to get in touch with Mark Kruse, who is a physics professor at Duke University, which is Irvings alma mater (he only played 11 games for the Blue Devils, but it counts). We asked him what he thinks about the Cavs point guards beliefs in a phone call on Saturday morning.

Kruse is the perfect person to talk to about this.He has taught at Duke since 2001 and is currently teaching an introduction to astronomy undergraduate course. Additionally, hes doing research in elementary particle physicsat The Large Hadron Collider (a facility in Switzerland), where he spends a great deal of time. He said that hes thinking about the fundamental nature of the universe all the time.

Kruses responses have been shortened for length.

Irving said the following to ESPNabout his the Earth is flat comments:

I think people should do their own research, man. Then, hopefully, theyll either back my belief or throw it in the water, but I think its interesting for people to find out on their own. Ive seen a lot of things that my educational system said was real and turned out to be completely fake. I dont mind going against the grain in terms of my thoughts and what I believe.

To that, Kruse said that he actually thinks its good that Irving is questioning things, but that questioning if the Earth is flat isnt exactly productive.

Theres a lot of misinformation out there. In some things, its good that hes questioning established theories but this is one that is somewhat undeniable, so he probably shouldnt go there Things like the nature of time, the nature of space, the nature of fundamental particles, and theres a lot of information more recently that even questions the possible relation of these things to our consciousness, so I think there are deeper things he could question rather than the shape of the Earth

If its really just a metaphor for questioning established models, then thats great. People should question established models. Of course, if you come up with an alternative theory, its got to be able to explain a lot of the observations that weve made that have established the theories we have.

On the Road Trippin podcast, Irving said this:

For what Ive known for as many years and what Ive been taught is that the Earth is round, but I mean, if you really think about it from a landscape of the way we travel, the way we move and the fact that can you really think of us rotating around the sun and all planets aligned, rotating in specific dates being perpendicular with whats going on with these planets and stuff like this It doesnt come back. There is no concrete information except for the information that theyre giving us.

I read that quote to Kruse word-for-word, and after a slight pause and a chuckle, he replied:

Yeah, theres a lot in that. It is true that we send space projects to space and they dont come back, but theyre sending signals back. They send signals back and information about what theyre observing while they are in space. But also our theory of gravity very beautifully explains how planetary systems are formed, how they orbit stars, for example, our own solar system, how our own planets in our solar system orbit our sun, and that theory is well established. There are no observations that contradict that, so maybe he needs to learn a little bit more about basic physics.

But hes saying if you just observe the landscape, well, if you go back a couple thousand years ago, people did think the Earth was flat because they looked at their landscape and they saw it was flat. But, of course, since then theres a lot of evidence now, as scientific knowledge improves over several hundred years, you cant just dismiss all that other evidence You cant dismiss all the experiments that have happened and all the knowledge that has been accrued over the last several hundred years that all point to the fact that the Earth is spherical.

Here Id like to note that toward the beginning of the interview, Kruse said that hed like to give Irving the benefit of the doubt, saying, Perhaps he was using it (the Earth is flat) as a metaphor for just generally questioning established models of the universe, which in a sense is great.

So when Kruse said that hed like to welcome Irving to his class, he wasnt saying it in a way to mock the point guard. He wasgenuine. The professor would actually love to welcomethe NBA star to sit in on one of his classes.Kruse said of Irving:

He should go and really try to understand the theories behind what we really do understand about gravity and the orbits of the planets, and the things like that. Hes obviously asking questions and is curious about these things, and so he should do his own research and come up with his own conclusions.

If you come up with an alternative model, of course its got to be able to explain all the things that we do observe, and a flat Earth theory is not going to be able to do that, so he has to think about it. He should read some astronomy books or take an astronomy course, even online, or come back to Duke, sit in on my class.

Another option is to have Kruse phone in as a guest on the Road Trippin podcast, and he and the NBA champ could simply have a conversation, which I think would be fascinating.

As for us here at FTW, I guess well go call up a Michigan State professor next.

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We asked a Duke astronomy professor about Duke alum Kyrie Irving saying the Earth is flat - For The Win

Classes offered for astronomy enthusiasts – WZZM13.com

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

Mackenzie Thaden, WZZM 7:57 AM. EST February 18, 2017

Credit: Getty Images/ Vikrant Agarwal / EyeEm (Photo: Vikrant Agarwal / EyeEm, Vikrant)

GRAND RAPIDS, MICH. - The Grand Rapids Public Museum and the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association are teaming up to give people in West Michigan an opportunity to learn more about astronomy.

They are offering free introductory classes to teach people how to best use a telescope and what to look for in the sky.

The classes are held at Schuler Books and Music at 2660 28th Street, Grand Rapids.

On February 18 participants will learn about recommended telescopes, guide books, star charts, and online resources that will help guide them as they learn more about the night sky.

On March 18th participants will learn where to go and what to do during a total eclipse of the sun taking place this summer.

Following both classes there will also be a telescope tune-up clinic for amateur astronomers to adjust personal telescopes.

The classes begin at 10 a.m. both days. They are free to the public and family friendly.

On March 1, Meteorologist George Lessons will join GRAAA president Dave DeBruynfor a presentation about August's solar eclipse.

That will take place at the Grand Rapids Public Museum at 7:30 p.m.

Mackenzie Thaden is a Producer at WZZM 13. Have a news tip? Email news@wzzm13.com or go on our Facebook page or Twitter.

Makeit easy to keep up to date with more stories like this.Download theWZZM13 app now.

( 2017WZZM)

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Classes offered for astronomy enthusiasts - WZZM13.com

Science center brings astronomy to Lake Stevens school – The Daily Herald

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

LAKE STEVENS Visitors from the Pacific Science Center surprised students at Highland Elementary School with a trip to space Thursday.

The centers Science on Wheels program brings high-energy activities to schools. Thursdays event at Highland included an assembly, in-class lessons and interactive exhibits set up all over the campus.

For kindergarten through second grade, the morning kicked off with an assembly. A couple hundred students sat on the floor for an introduction to astronomy. They struggled to keep quiet as Janice Crew, Kate Wellens and Mike Sweeney from the Pacific Science Center launched into their Space Odyssey.

Crew told the kids she wants to go to space and thought she was all prepared, with a green backpack of supplies and an orange bicycle helmet. That made Liliahna Hall-Rogers, 7, laugh because she already knew a bicycle helmet wouldnt be much help in space.

Wellens explained the vacuum of space and demonstrated by putting a pink balloon with a smiley face representative of Crews head if she didnt wear a proper space suit in a clear container and using a machine to suck out the air. The balloon swelled, then popped. In the audience, kids eyes went wide and some jaws dropped, though Liliahna had suspected it would end badly for the pink balloon.

The Pacific Science Center team also talked about the distance from Earth to the moon, and the sun and the next nearest star. They explained how far a light year is and how fast light moves by asking first-grade student Ava Aguero to run as fast as she could in one second. They found that one Ava second measures about 10 feet. At that speed, Ava could circle the Earth twice in one year. In comparison, the speed of light is fast enough to circle the Earth more than seven times in one second.

After the assembly, students headed to classrooms, the gym and the library. In the gym, activities included connecting star maps into constellations, piecing together a puzzle of the galaxy and standing on scales that told them how much they would weigh on different planets due to the varying gravity.

Ayden Guarino-Rice, in fourth grade, liked the scales. He found out he would weigh 155 pounds on Jupiter, he said. Thats a lot more than the 10-year-old weighs on Earth.

Fourth-grade teacher Lela Hoover wanted students to understand how important science is, and that their teachers care about them and want them to have fun while they learn.

I hope they feel empowered to research on their own if theyre interested, she said.

The science day was planned by teachers, who work in teams on projects for the school. Bailey Abdo, a second-grade teacher, helped coordinate. After students left school Wednesday, staff set up areas for exhibits and decorated for the surprise space lessons. Teachers and other employees wore costumes Thursday, with Principal Ryan Henderson wearing a white space suit and helmet and folks in the front office answering the telephones as mission control.

I hope that the students are inspired to learn more about science and space, Abdo said. I hope that theyre engaged in all their learning today because some of it is very high rigor for their grade level. And I just hope they really enjoy school today.

Justice Michaud, 7, is in Abdos class with Liliahna. Their class made space helmets out of paper bags.

Justice thinks it would be fun to go to space. Hed like to find aliens.

Liliahna isnt interested in leaving Earth.

Theres dangerous things there, she said. Im staying at home.

The Science on Wheels team is set to visit Jackson, Forest View and Hawthorne elementaries in Everett next week, according to the science center. Topics vary. At Jackson and Hawthorne, they plan to talk about engineering.

The Science on Wheels program started during the energy crisis in the 1970s, when schools and families couldnt afford to transport kids to the science center in Seattle. Staff from the center started loading exhibits and lesson supplies into station wagons so they could bring science to kids. Over the past 10 years, the science center estimates the program has reached more than 1.5 million children and adults.

Kari Bray: 425-339-3439; kbray@heraldnet.com.

Highland Elementary School first-graders (from left) Cheyenne Hampton, Addison Vaule and Alden Jordan enjoy viewing photographic transparencies taken from space at one of many displays brought into the school Thursday by Pacific Science Centers Science on Wheels program. (Dan Bates / The Herald)

Dressed for a big day of space exploration, Highland Elementary principal Ryan Henderson enlists (from left) third-grader Harmony Piffath, second-grader Camrie Ingram and third-grader Makayla Goshorn to help lead the pledge. (Dan Bates / The Herald)

First-grader Sawyer Jensen demonstrates how a gyroscope works for his classmates Thursday during Pacific Science Centers Science on Wheels event at Highland Elementary School in Lake Stevens. (Dan Bates / The Herald)

Entertaining educators from Pacific Science Center, Janice Crew (left) Kate Wellens and Mike Sweeney get a lot of small hands at the end of their presentation to all the second-graders at Highland Elementary in Lake Stevens on Thursday. (Dan Bates / The Herald)

Containers of props, which could just as easily be marked curiosity encouraged, sit near the staging area where the Science on Wheels program is setting up a space show at Highland Elementary School in Lake Stevens on Thursday. (Dan Bates / The Herald)

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Science center brings astronomy to Lake Stevens school - The Daily Herald

Banco Santander Invests in Artificial Intelligence Startups – Fortune

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

When learning becomes cognition. Photograph by Agliolo Mike Getty Images/Photo Researchers RM

Spanish lender Banco Santander SA has invested in two artificial-intelligence companies, part of the financial industry's increased focus on technology smart enough to mimic human thinking, sources familiar with the deals told Reuters.

The bank's venture arm, Santander InnoVentures, bought stakes in Personetics Technologies, which provides automated customer service, and Gridspace, whose software can learn and interpret language the way a person would, the sources said.

The size of the investments could not be determined and the sources asked not to be named because they were not allowed to disclose the information publicly.

Get Data Sheet , Fortunes technology newsletter.

The deals underscore how lenders have become more interested in using artificial intelligence for a wide variety of tasks, including hiring, spotting fraud, improving call centers and recommending products for customers.

Personetics, which has offices in New York, London and Tel Aviv, creates "chatbots" that can respond to customer questions through popular messaging platforms like Facebook's ( fb ) Messenger. French bank Societe Generale, for instance, is using Personetics to answer queries about equity funds in its Romanian banking unit.

San Francisco-based Gridspace's technology can be used by banks to monitor conversations between customers and employees at call centers to improve service.

Its Time to Hire a Chief AI Officer

Santander ( san ) set up its London-based InnoVentures group in 2014 to invest in young financial-technology companies that can improve its digital offerings. The division was initially allocated $100 million to invest but was given an extra $100 million in July.

It has backed more than a dozen companies so far, including automated wealth manager SigFig, Swedish payments company iZettle and Digital Asset Holdings, which develops blockchain software and is led by former JPMorgan Chase & Co ( jpm ) commodities chief Blythe Masters.

Other global banks have venture units with similar remits. Santander InnoVentures was among the most active bank-owned investors in fintech companies last year, alongside Goldman Sachs Group ( gs ) and Citigroup ( c ) , according to data by CB Insights.

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Banco Santander Invests in Artificial Intelligence Startups - Fortune

Artificial Intelligence & Bias – Huffington Post

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

By Jackson Grigsby, Harvard Class of 2020

On Thursday, February 16th, the JFK Jr. Forum at the Harvard Institute of Politics hosted a conversation on the past, present, and future of Artificial Intelligence with Harvard Kennedy School Professor of Public Policy Iris Bohnet, Harvard College Gordon McKay Professor of Computer Science Cynthia Dwork, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology Professor Alex Sandy Pentland.

Moderated by Sheila Jasanoff, Kennedy School Pforzheimer Professor of Science and Technology Studies, the conversation focused on the potential benefits of Artificial Intelligence as well as some of the major ethical dilemmas that these experts predicted. While Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to eliminate inherent human bias in decision-making, the panel agreed that in the near future, there are ethical boundaries that society and governments must explore as Artificial Intelligence expands into the realms of medicine, governance, and even self-driving cars.

Some major takeaways from the event were:

1. Artificial Intelligence offers an incredible opportunity to eliminate human biases in decision-making

In the future, Artificial Intelligence can be utilized to eliminate inherent human biases that often influence important decisions surrounding employment, government policy, and even policing. At the event, Professor Iris Bohnet stated that every person has biases that inform their decisions. These biases can affect whether a candidate for a job is chosen or not. As a result, Bohnet suggested that by using algorithms, employers could choose the best candidates by using AI to focus on the candidates qualifications rather than by basing decisions on gender, race, age or other variables. However, the panel also discussed the fact that even algorithms can have bias. For example, the algorithm that is used to match medical students with residency hospitals can either be biased in favor of the hospitals preferences or the students. It is up to humans to control bias in the algorithms that they use.

2. Society must begin having conversations surrounding the ethics of Artificial Intelligence

Due to the fact that Artificial Intelligence is becoming more popularly utilized, society and governments must continue to have conversations addressing ethics and Artificial Intelligence. Professors Alex Pentland and Cynthia Dwork stated that as Artificial Intelligence proliferates, moral conflicts can surface. Pentland emphasized that citizens must ask themselves is this something that is performing in a way that we as a society want? Pentland noted that our society must continue a dialogue around ethics and determine what is right.

3. Although Artificial Intelligence is growing, there are still tasks that only humans should do

In the end, the experts agreed, there are tasks and decisions that only humans can make. At the same time, there are some tasks and decisions that could be executed by machines, but ultimately should be done by humans. Professor Bohnet emphasized this point by reaffirming humanitys position, concluding, There are jobs that cannot be done by machines.

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Artificial Intelligence & Bias - Huffington Post

The new IQ test: Technologists assess the potential of artificial intelligence – SC Magazine

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

AI may still seem like a far-flung concept, but in cybersecurity its already a reality.

Rather than focus on attack signatures, these AI solutions look for anomalous network behavior, flagging when a machine goes rogue or if user activity or traffic patterns appear unusual. A really simple example is someone with high privilege who attempts to get onto a system at a time of day or night that they never normally log in and potentially from a geolocation or a machine that they don't log in from, said Kelley.

Another example would be a really rapid transfer of a lot of data, especially if that data consists of the corporate crown jewels.

Such red-flags allow admins to quickly catch high-priority malware infections and network compromises before they can cause irreparable damage.

IBM calls this kind of machine learning cognitive with a little c' which the company was already practicing prior to Watson. Despite its diminutive designation, little c can have some big benefits for one's network.

A network really in its simplest form, is a data set, one that changes with every millisecond, said Justin Fier, director of cyber intelligence and analysis at U.K.-based cybersecurity company Darktrace, whose network threat detection solution was created by mathematicians and machine-learning specialists from the University of Cambridge. With machine learning, we can analyze that data in a more efficient way.

We're not looking for malicious behavior, we're looking for anomalous behavior, Fier continued, in an interview with SC Media. And that can sometimes turn into malicious behavior and intent, or it can turn into configuration errors or it could just be vulnerable protocols. But we're looking for the things that just stand out.

An advantage of these kinds of AI solutions is that they often run on unsupervised learning models meaning they do not need to be fed scores of data in advance to help its algorithms define what constitutes a true threat. Rather, they tend to self-learn through observation, making note of which machines are defying typical patterns a process that Fier said is the AI determining its own sense of self on the network.

While Fier said that basic compliance failures are the most commonly detected issue, he recalled one particular client that used biometric fingerprint scanners for security access, only to discover through anomaly detection that one of these devices had been connected to the Internet and subsequently breached.

To cover up his activity, the perpetrator modified and deleted various log files, but this unusual behavior was discovered as well. The solution even found irregularities in the network server that suggested the culprit moved fingerprint data from the biometric device to a company database, perhaps to establish an alibi. My belief is that somebody on the inside was probably getting get help from somebody on the outside, said Fier, noting that it was a significant find because insider threats are one of the hardest things to catch.

Another client, Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County, an affiliate of CatholicCharities USA that helps 54,000 local clients per year, used anomaly detection to thwart an attempted ransomware attack only weeks after commencing a test of the technology. The solution immediately flagged the event, after a receptionist opened a malicious email with a fake invoice attachment. I was able to respond right away, and disconnected the targeted device to prevent any further encryption or financial cost, saidWill Bailey, director of IT at the social services organization.

Little c's benefits extend beyond the network as well. Kelley cited the advent of application scanning tools that seek out problematic lines of code in websites and mobile software that could result in exploitation. And Fier noted a current Darktrace endeavor called Project Turing, whereby researchers are using AI to model how security analysts and investigators work in order to make their jobs more efficient.

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The new IQ test: Technologists assess the potential of artificial intelligence - SC Magazine

Artificial Intelligence In Schools Is Closer Than You Think – Forbes

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

Artificial Intelligence In Schools Is Closer Than You Think
Forbes
Education stands to benefit from rapid developments in artificial intelligence. But historically, adaptive learning software has been programmed in a top-down fashion. It asks a question, and if the child provides a particular answer, a set of prompts ...

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Artificial Intelligence In Schools Is Closer Than You Think - Forbes

Maser Consulting, Pulse Aerospace Announce Partnership | 2017 … – POB

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

Maser Consulting P.A., a nationwide consulting engineering company, is teaming with Pulse Aerospace, a developer of helicopter unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in the U.S. The two will work together to integrate Pulses UAS flight control, payload and endurance capabilities technology into high-value UAS solutions.

Pulse Aerospace is the clear leader in UAS technology and we see their platforms being instrumental in our development of quantifiable UAS sensor technology workflows, says Mark Pitchford, national director of UAS technologies for Maser Consulting. Their value proposition in flight control software, flight time, payload flexibility and stability are critical for advanced UAS sensor deployment. Pulses willingness to adapt pricing models to meet the needs of both industry and public agencies puts advanced UAS sensor technology within reach for many organizations.

Maser Consulting recently expanded its expertise in measurement technologies, including terrestrial and mobile LiDAR, into UAS-based measurement solutions. The combination of Maser Consulting as solution provider with Pulses UAS technology is expected to fill a void between understanding customer needs and the development of customized UAS technology solutions for Masers customers.

Maser Consulting currently provides survey and measurement support for construction, transportation and development support, primarily across the U.S. By adding UAS technology, Maser Consulting is able to provide measurement solutions specifically designed for the power utility, oil and gas, environmental, and emergency response markets. The Maser Consulting UAS team has thousands of UAS flight hours and more than 100 years of combined engineering consulting expertise.

Pulse Aerospace designs and manufactures the VAPOR family of UAV aircraft. For over a decade, Pulse has been working with a broad array of industries and UAS users including agriculture, mining, survey (geospatial), emergency management, energy, university, military and non-military government agencies. The companys VAPOR systems carry a wide array of sensors, gamma, magtometers, and both spectral and infrared cameras. This state-of-the-art technology is designed to help customers collect data quickly and efficiently to make actionable decisions.

Its the commitment to drive sensor integration and UAS hardware that makes Pulse Aerospace the ideal partner for Maser Consulting, says Aaron Lessig, Pulse Aerospace CEO. Our capabilities in payload, flight time and mission precision are the perfect complement to the high value workflows Maser Consulting has been developing.

About Maser Consulting

Maser Consulting offers advanced survey services to rail customers nationwide through the use of GPS, geospatial survey including mobile LiDAR and the AMBERG GRP system. The firm employs standard and creative solutions for capturing comprehensive track geometry and corridor data in the unique rail and tunnel environments backed by a full range of engineering and design services.

About Pulse Aerospace

Pulse Aerospace products are designed with flight time, payload and precise flight control in mind. Pulse Aerospace is a commercial unmanned aircraft system (UAS) developer for users in several industries including emergency management, telecom, energy and agriculture.

Karnataka inks pact with French institute for aerospace training centre – Hindu Business Line

Posted on February 18, 2017 by Danzig

Bengaluru, Feb 18:

The Karnataka Government has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Institut Aeronautique et Spatial (IAS), a non-profit organisation based in Toulouse, France, which is engaged in designing and implementing training solutions for professionals in the aeronautic and space sector.

The government engagement with IAS will ensure development of relevant and high quality skills through the Centre of Excellence. Karnataka is the leader in aerospace and defence attracting 65 per cent of the investments in the country.

Karnataka Minister for IT, BT and Tourism, Priyank Kharge, said, Bengaluru is a globally recognised technology hub. The endeavour of the state government is to further strengthen its position through the Centre of Excellence in aerospace and defence sectors.

There is an acute shortage of skilled engineers and professionals in the aerospace and defence sector. The Centre of Excellence will act as a catalyst of growth by making world-class skilled professionals available for the aerospace and defence sector, he added.

Expressing enthusiasm at the announcement, Samson Khaou, Managing Director-India, Dassault Systemes said, We are extremely delighted to partner with Karnataka government in setting up the Centre of Excellence in Aerospace and Defence. Dassault Systemes would draw upon its expertise and experience in ensuring that the training imparted in the Centre of Excellence is of a high standard.

Pierre Valenti, MD of IAS, Toulouse, said We are happy to engage with the Karnataka government in developing the proposed Centre of Excellence into a world-class institution for the aerospace and defence sector.

Skill development through the Centre of Excellence will strengthen Karnataka as a hub for the aerospace and defence sector with several companies and organisations such as HAL, ISRO, BEL, ADA, DRDO Labs, Airbus, Safran, Mahindra Aerospace, Tata Power SED, Tata Advance Material, Quest and Bombardier having operations here.

(This article was published on February 18, 2017)

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Karnataka inks pact with French institute for aerospace training centre - Hindu Business Line

Zimbabwe: A Crisis Unfolding – New Zimbabwe.com – New Zimbabwe.com

Posted on February 17, 2017 by Danzig

ZIMBABWE is facing an imminent crisis that will require an international humanitarian response in the near to medium-term future, with appropriate security measures for humanitarian workers.

The dire economic situation precipitated, according to economists, by disastrous indigenisation policies that have choked foreign investment, the exhaustion of Foreign Exchange reserves and a collapse in commodity prices, combined with an estimated 80% unemployment rate, the worst drought in 35 years and outbreaks of communicable diseases paint a bleak future for Zimbabweans. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) predicts that 4.4 million Zimbabweans may not have enough food to eat this year. Humanitarian assistance will be the only hope for millions but will involve considerable operational difficulties.

Security

Robert Mugabe, President since 1985, is now 93 and in failing health. With no nominated successor, political jostling and infighting have broken out in his ZANU-PF party ahead of the presidential elections planned for 2018. A familiar pattern of ZANU buying votes with gifts of land and food to the party faithful has started, with a ban on demonstrations in Harare. Of greater concern, the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) is divided; since independence, the ZNA has been the primary agent to maintain order and civil stability. As its grip on power splits, the prospect of escalating civil disturbances and a potential military coup become more likely.

There are signs of change: social media campaigns have highlighted Zimbabweans dissatisfaction with the government, while Church groups have voiced their concerns; NGO contact with such groups is likely to come under scrutiny, so discretion should be exercised. Government crackdowns are underway, and the detention and mistreatment of activists have increased 50% this year. A social media law has been passed that allows the state to seize smartphones, laptops or other devices that allow Zimbabweans to communicate.

NGOs in Zimbabwe must be aware that communications may be monitored, and IT equipment may attract attention from the authorities. Informers report any social media activity deemed anti-ZANU to the government. NGOs should make contingency plans for the detention of staff, but should also prepare for a rapid deterioration in national security. NGO workers in Zimbabwe have also reported that South African border guards will now only issue five day stays for travellers from Zimbabwe, rather than official visas, and furthermore, long delays at border crossings are the norm. This should be factored into any plans relating to evacuation by road.

Health

The World Health Organisation (WHO) stated in 1985 that Zimbabwes health system was amongst the best in the developing world. 30 years later, healthcare in Zimbabwe has broken down. Healthcare facilities are running below 30% of their capability, with chronic shortages of drugs and medical staff. The prohibitive price of medicines from private suppliers means that: 64% of Zimbabweans are unable to access healthcare and curable ailments are often fatal. Accessing the cash to pay for drugs is difficult.

Running water is only available in urban areas for one or two days per week; families have taken to storing 20 and 50 litresof uncovered containers of water, increasing the risk of water- and mosquito-borne diseases in towns. Authorities have issued typhoid and cholera alerts. Experts predict that with the arrival of the rainy season this situation will worsen, as drinking water becomes contaminated. In 2008, 100,000 Zimbabweans were affected by an outbreak of cholera with 4,000 recorded deaths; if this reoccurs, the crippled healthcare system will collapse.

Organisations intending to work in Zimbabwe should ensure that they have supplies of medicines at their disposal, as these will be hard to access in-country. These should include analgesics, water purification tablets, antibiotics and rehydration kits. With an estimated 15% HIV infection rate, PEP kits should be kept for use both by international and local staff. Plans for medical evacuation to South Africa should be made for more serious illnesses.

Finance

Withdrawing money from banks involves queuing for several days (people sleep on the streets to save their places), and when banks do hold cash, withdrawals are strictly rationed to US$ 200 per day for organisations and US$ 50 per day for individuals. Informants have reported the theft of forex directly from their organisations accounts by the authorities. To mitigate this, exact amounts of forex to cover specific costs should be made from overseas, and the money transferred to the recipients as quickly as possible. In such economic conditions, organisations have strengthened their standard operating procedures (SOPs) for handling cash, due to the added risks of crime.

With the price of commodities falling in international markets, the government finds itself backed into a corner. ZANU abandoned the Zim$ for the US$ in 2009 to counter the effects of hyperinflation. However, Foreign Exchange reserves have been exhausted paying the salaries of civil servants and the security forces; in July the government was unable to pay employees and a general strike paralysed the country.

In November 2016, the government issued Bond Notes to replace the foreign currency in everyday transactions. This has already sparked further demonstrations and social unrest given that the effects of hyperinflation are still fresh in the populations memories. Journalists are already reporting a rise in extra-judicial detentions and the torture of detainees.

Police are now reduced to extorting money from drivers at roadblocks by imposing fines to buy food or to contribute towards the payment of their colleagues salaries. Organisations have advised that to avoid fines being imposed at roadblocks, ensure that vehicles are fully serviced and compliant with traffic regulations (e.g. carrying required equipment). While this may work in some instances, organisations will need to discuss their policy towards corruption and put the relevant SOPs in place.

Fuel and Logistics

The situation is rapidly deteriorating and in February 2016 the government declared a national state of disaster. The cost of food is rising due to the drought while fuel supplies are dwindling and shortages of petrol make transport difficult. NGOs have found that purchasing fuel coupons that guarantee access to reserved supplies is the only way to guarantee to be able to operate. These coupons are also used as an unofficial second currency as foreign exchange bank notes become scarcer. Humanitarians operating in Zimbabwe should be aware of the logistical challenges posed by roadblocks and fuel shortages that make operating in more inaccessible areas such as Matabele Land (where much humanitarian activity is concentrated), much more difficult. Aid workers should be aware of the logistical limitations when working in remote areas and factor this into their planning.

Diaspora

Since 2008, an estimated 5,000 Zimbabweans have left the country each day. There are approximately four million Zimbabweans living abroad, most illegally in surrounding countries where their presence is creating socio-economic pressures on, and tensions with, local communities. The majority work in the informal, low-wage sector. Their financial remittances are low and have had little effect in bolstering Zimbabwes economy while pressuring the economies of its neighbours. Host governments have now started to expel Zimbabwean migrants.

If large numbers of migrants return to a country unable to support them, then the stage appears to be set for a humanitarian crisis with the potential to destabilise both Zimbabwe and its neighbours. At the moment, there is no incentive for Zimbabwean diaspora to return to Zimbabwe. However, if forced repatriations increase, then the potential for social instability, combined with the increased pressure on limited resources, may well lead to civil disturbance in many areas of the country. This should be factored into any evacuation or crisis response plans.

Zimbabwes position appears grim. Zimbabwe has become internationally isolated due to its internal and external policies and has burnt its bridges with agencies such as the International Monetary Fund, that could have offered possible lifelines. The humanitarian community should prepare to intervene and operate should Zimbabwes fragile systems finally collapse, in what will be a challenging and difficult environment to operate in.

Originally posted here:

Zimbabwe: A Crisis Unfolding - New Zimbabwe.com - New Zimbabwe.com

Duterte’s ‘war on drugs’ in the Philippines – Deutsche Welle

Posted on February 17, 2017 by Danzig

Deutsche Welle

Duterte's 'war on drugs' in the Philippines
Deutsche Welle
More than 7,000 people have been killed since summer 2017 when President Rodrigo Duterte launched his campaign to wipe out drug dealers and users. The rule of law has in effect been suspended. Police and vigilantes have carte blanche.
A man of God in the Philippines is helping document a bloody war on drugsColumbia Journalism Review
Children and Duterte's drug war: Lessons from the pastAljazeera.com
Human Rights Watch: Japan should condemn Duterte's drug warPhilippine Star
Human Rights Watch -The Wire -Asian Correspondent
all 185 news articles »

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Duterte's 'war on drugs' in the Philippines - Deutsche Welle

Online Casino USA Friendly Online Casinos for 2017

Posted on February 17, 2017 by Danzig

Play with confidence by exploring our 2017 list of the best online casinos before you place a bet. Our ratings take the work out of deciding where to play by providing current information about our recommended online casinos. Read our reviews and ratings about each casino to make an informed decision. We help you learn about each casinos software safety, available welcome bonuses, incentives, payout percent, banking options, game selection, customer service and other details.

* The Casinos listed here accept new customers from United States, USA & other countries.

Playing your favorite games online can be more cost-efficient, less hassle and provide a better atmosphere for winning than gambling in a traditional casino. Even if you have a casino nearby, you will put wear and tear on your car, pay for gas, and may need to spring for meals or a hotel room. Before you know it, you may spend several hundred dollars that you would have preferred to use playing games.

Additionally, your personal comfort can impact your concentration and gambling decisions. Imagine the noise at a traditional casino or interacting with a disgruntled player at your table. If you do not smoke, you may find the odor of smoke disturbing. When you have money on the line, you do not need distractions. You want to make decisions that maximize your winnings.

Your attire and disposition can also adversely affect your play. Uncomfortable shoes can take your mind away from a gaming decision, and hours in the same chair can make you grumpy. Stretch your legs at home without losing your seat at a hot table.

Most online casinos offer odds or incentives that surpass those of traditional casinos. Unlike brick and mortar casinos, online gaming establishments have minimal operating expenses. They do not need janitorial services to clean ashes and debris from the casinos. There are no heat, electric and water bills. In essence, there are few employees needed to maintain an online casino or monitor the games. Therefore, online casinos are in the unique position to entice players with more giveaways and incentives than standard casinos.

Have you ever gone to a traditional casino and decided not to play your favorite game because the minimum was too high? Since online casinos do not have operating costs of traditional casinos, you can usually choose the amount you wish to bet without meeting minimums. The advantages of online casinos are likely to heighten your enjoyment.

Online casinos allow you to partake in tournaments, set up games with friends, compete internationally and enjoy individual games. The variety of options can satisfy anyones preference.

Why Our Rating System is Beneficial

We carefully investigate online casinos to provide players with accessible information. Each casino offers its own benefits. Your style of play, game choice, your reason for playing, and other personal factors may make some online casinos a better fit for you. For example, if you are not a seasoned player, you may want an online casino that offers plenty of free or practice games that you can intersperse with betting games. You can become comfortable betting and playing without investing a large sum of money. Some players may place a priority on customer service or online casinos that have little or no software glitches. Enjoying hours of uninterrupted play or convenient customer service that may help minimize distractions and keep you focused. Only you can decide which perks make a particular online casino the right choice for your playing pleasure. Some players like to join new online casinos to take advantage of perks and bonuses for new registrants. Others like to frequent their favorite casinos and enjoy loyalty programs. Our organized ratings and information make it effortless to identify your favorite casino.

Choosing an online casino can be tricky because there are many casinos competing for your business. Our picks for 2015 are Silver Oak, Cool Cat, Palace of Chance, SlotoCash & a couple of others. All of our reviewed casinos welcome players from America and other countries. The minimum rating is 99.1, but most of our top choices have a rating of more than 99.5.

Our user-friendly material is a breeze to access. Our format allows you to compare bonus offerings and ratings without leaving our website. The basic information appears in a list without the need to read reviews or visit the online casinos.

Access our review to find information pertaining to play options, software, loyalty programs and advice about accessing bonuses. Our reviews let you know whether a particular online casino keeps their games fresh by adding new options and games. We also highlight details that make some online casinos more preferable than others depending on your concerns. Our reviews identify which casinos excel at offering exciting graphics, excellent safety, convenient banking choices, 24-hour customer support, VIP programs, practice games, no wager gaming and other benefits that may be appealing.

While our ratings share the advantages of each online gaming establishment, they also alert players to problems. Reading our reviews can help inform you about difficulties withdrawing money or customer service issues. Nevertheless, readers should be aware that online casinos try to improve, and any complaints may not be indicative of your experience.

Our list would be incomplete without providing our viewers with access to the casinos we rate. Investigate each casino to decide whether it meets your needs and has your favorite games. Read about their offerings and policies.

We offer information to enhance your playing pleasure and hope that you have a positive experience. In addition to online casino recommendations, read our information about specific games to learn helpful gaming strategies. Whether you choose to practice games to perfect your skills or play for cash immediately, online casinos can enable you to have instant fun without traveling. Try the games on this site to get started.

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Online Casino USA Friendly Online Casinos for 2017

Washington State Gambling Commission

Posted on February 17, 2017 by Danzig

Breaking News

New License Fee Evaluation webpage

House Bill 1016 - Commission Position Statement

Economic Market Study by Spectrum Gaming Group - Report - Presentation

Valve Corporation Update (updated October 18, 2016)

Valve Corporation Update (updated October 17, 2016)

Valve Corporation Told to Stop Facilitating Gambling (updated October 5, 2016)

Group 12 Amusement Game Information

Order Denying Petitioner's Motion for Show Cause and Enjoinment of Enforcement

In an effort to "go green," beginning with the July 14th Gambling Commission meeting, hard copies of the commission packets will no longer be provided at meetings. Hard copies of the agendas will still be available. Materials will be available on our website about one week prior to the meetings for download.

For more information on meeting times, locations and agendas please call 360-486-3453 or write to Julie Anderson.

Effective mid- June 2016, we are no longer sending paper renewals or activity reports to any licensees unless you have signed up for a waiver (WAC 230-06-124 and WAC 230-06-125). All renewals and activity reports will be emailed to the address listed in My Account or for Individuals, the email address that you have provided.

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Washington State Gambling Commission

Tim Simona faces NRL deregistration after alleged breaches of gambling rules – The Sydney Morning Herald

Posted on February 17, 2017 by Danzig

TimSimonawill have to front the NRL integrity unit to salvagehis careerafter the Tigers centre allegedly made numerous bets onrugby league matches.

Fairfax Media understands Simona, who has been shopped around to rival clubs for the past month and had been linked with a move to the Gold Coast, is believed to have made multiple minor bets on NRL games, some of which involved the Wests Tigers.

The NRL has issued the 25-year-old with a notice of intention to cancel his registration, givingSimonathe chance to front integrity unit boss Nick Weeks to plead his case.

It is understoodSimona'salleged infringements are considered isolated incidents and not related to the match-fixing investigation that was announced last year.

The magnitude of the indiscretion was described as "very serious" by a source close to the matter.

Under the NRL's betting code, "No NRL employee, NRL club employee, player, player manager or game official is allowed to participate, or be directly or indirectly involved in any way, in gambling in relation to rugby league.

"Or be involved directly or indirectly, in the provision of information not already in the public domain that might assist another person to gamble in relation to rugby league."

The Tigers were unaware of the NRL's investigation into the centre, only informed of their findings on Thursday.

It is understood the NRL received a tip-off informing them ofSimona'sbetting activity.

"The NRL today issued a notice of intention to cancel the registration of Wests Tigers player TimSimona," an NRL statement issued on Friday afternoon said.

"The notice relates to alleged breaches of the rules relating to gambling on NRL matches.Simonawill now be prohibited from training or playing with the club until the matter is finalised.

The Tigers centre has five business days to respond to the notice.

The last high-profile player to bebanned for betting on matches is former Origin and Australian international, David Williams.

The Manly winger was banned for half the season and struggled to revive his career after he was found to have betted on several NRL matches, including games he was involved in for the Sea Eagles.

He was one of five players caught by the NRL, including Ethan Lowe,Cody Nelson,HymelHunt and Slade Griffin who were stood down for breaching the code's rules.

The news ofSimona'spotential contract termination comes a day after Tigers forward Kyle Lovett fronted the club board afterbeing charged with possession of cocaine in December.

The Tigersback-rower, whowas given a six-month good behaviour bond after fronting court, is likely to survive the axe given he has no prior infringements to his name.

In an interview with Fairfax Media this week,Simonaaddressed the question marks over his future at the Tigers as the club looked to offload him elsewhere.

"I'm just concentrating on good footy here at the Tigers,"Simonasaid on Monday.

"The rest is my manager's job that's what he gets paid for. I'm just focusing on playing good footy. I've obviously heard a few rumours going around but I'm still signed here and concentrating on playing good footy.Obviously what we do is a business but I'm not too worried at the moment."

Tigers chief executive Justin Pascoe said: "It is everyone's responsibility to uphold the integrity of the game. As a club, our focus is on the welfare and wellbeing of Tim."

Original post:

Tim Simona faces NRL deregistration after alleged breaches of gambling rules - The Sydney Morning Herald

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