Supersolid
- Recently, scientists have created the world’s first ‘Supersolid’ from Light.
- A supersolid is a unique state of matter that combines the properties of both solids (structural rigidity) and superfluids (zero viscosity and frictionless flow).
- This innovative achievement opens up new possibilities in the field of quantum computing, superconductors, and condensed-matter physics.
Surveillance capitalism
- It is an economic system where tech companies collect, analyze, and sell personal data to predict and influence human behavior for profit.
- Unlike traditional capitalism, which is based on goods and services, surveillance capitalism monetizes human experiences by tracking online and offline activities, often without explicit user consent.
- The term Surveillance Capitalism was popularized by Shoshana Zuboff in her 2018 book The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power.
Sleepmaxxing
- It is the practice of optimizing sleep quantity and quality to enhance mental and physical well-being. It emphasizes lifestyle adjustments, sleep hygiene, and strategic interventions to achieve restorative sleep.
- It involves taking melatonin supplements, using white noise generators, wearing weighted blankets, and mouth-taping to promote nasal breathing.
- While the focus on better sleep is positive, the experts warn that the obsession to over-optimize sleep can be counterproductive.
Mycelium Brick
- It is a 100% organic and biodegradable brick that is formed from agricultural waste and the mycelium of the fungus.
- The mycelium acts as a natural binder, growing around the waste and solidifying into a sturdy structure.
- Mycelium is the thin root-like fibres from fungi which run underneath the ground. When dried, it becomes lightweight, strong, and resistant to water, mould, and fire, making it a sustainable alternative to conventional bricks.
Pig Butchering Scam
- Also known as a “killing pig game”, it is a long-term financial fraud that combines elements of romance and investment fraud.
- Victims are targeted through social media, dating apps, or messaging platforms and gradually lured into investing in a fake cryptocurrency or trading scheme.
- The term “pig butchering” comes from the scammers’ practice of “fattening up” their victims by building trust over time before “slaughtering” them and stealing their money.