Author: Sam Allcock

In an effort to manage the increasing backlog of applications from foreign lawyers seeking requalification, the Bar Standards Board (BSB) has decided to engage external solicitors. This move comes in response to the unexpectedly high number of applicants intending to practise in England and Wales.The BSB has been under mounting pressure to process a significant rise in applications from foreign lawyers aiming to qualify at the Bar. Until recently, it was assumed that most applicants sought the qualification as a professional accolade to enhance their practice in their home countries. However, recent evidence suggests that a majority indeed plan to…

In a fascinating discovery, scientists have found that bottlenose dolphins exhibit what appears to be a “smiling” expression when engaging in playful activities. This expression, often interpreted as a smile by humans, may serve as a communication tool between dolphins to ensure their playful interactions remain light-hearted and do not escalate into aggression. The new research, published in the journal iScience, sheds light on the intricate social behaviour of dolphins and provides fresh insights into how these marine mammals communicate during play. The Study Behind the Dolphins’ ‘Smiles’ The study was carried out by a team of researchers from institutions…

In celebration of World Mental Health Day, the Mindful Bee and Friends series has been launched, introducing a beautifully illustrated collection of children’s books designed to promote mindfulness in young readers. Aimed at children aged 3 to 6, the series offers engaging stories featuring vibrant animal characters, providing parents, grandparents, and caregivers with a fun way to incorporate mindfulness practices into daily life. Research from the National Centre for Social Research indicates that 10% of children and young people aged 5 to 16 have a clinically diagnosable mental health issue. Alarmingly, 70% of these children do not receive timely interventions.…

Deribit, a leading exchange for digital assets derivatives, has announced the launch of the US Yield Coin (USYC), an innovative yield-bearing cross-margin collateral option, available to all users from October 8, 2024. This new collateral option is designed to enhance flexibility and provide an additional risk management tool for traders on the platform. USYC is an ERC-20 token that derives its value from reverse repurchase agreements on U.S. Government Securities. This backing offers both stability and a daily yield for holders. Hashnote, the world’s premier on-chain asset manager, has ensured the security and transparency of USYC by securing the assets…

The fight against climate change took a significant leap forward this week as the world’s largest plant designed to remove planet-warming pollution from the atmosphere commenced operations in Iceland. The plant, aptly named “Mammoth,” is the latest creation from Swiss company Climeworks and marks a critical moment in the development of direct air capture (DAC) technology. Mammoth: A 10-Fold Leap Forward in Carbon Capture Mammoth is Climeworks’ second commercial direct air capture plant in Iceland, following the 2021 launch of its predecessor, Orca. But what sets Mammoth apart is its scale – the plant is ten times larger than Orca…

In the wake of their party’s worst election defeat in decades, two former ministers, Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick, have emerged as the final contenders in the race for Conservative Party leadership. Both candidates are promising to reunite the party and steer it back to its core values, setting the stage for a pivotal leadership decision as members across the nation cast their votes. Penultimate Vote Marks Turning Point On Wednesday, Conservative lawmakers cast their ballots in the penultimate round of the leadership race, narrowing the field to just two candidates. Former business and trade minister Kemi Badenoch secured 42…

AI Overhauls Continue as Google Expands its Search Engine Capabilities Google is once again pushing the boundaries of its search engine with a significant upgrade that integrates artificial intelligence (AI) more deeply into its core functions. This time, the tech giant is focusing on making it easier for users to ask voice-activated questions about images, photos, and even videos, continuing its effort to simplify how people interact with online content. AI-Driven Search to Revolutionise Queries The latest announcement, made on Thursday, signals the next phase of Google’s AI-driven evolution. Building on its initial changes introduced in May, which added AI-generated…

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has ramped up its efforts to dismantle Google’s dominance in the online search industry, proposing potential remedies that could not only weaken the tech giant’s primary profit engine but also disrupt its ambitions in artificial intelligence (AI). While any final decision on these remedies may take years, analysts have already begun weighing in on how these changes could reshape the future of Google and its competitors. Aiming at Google’s Core On Tuesday, the DOJ outlined various options aimed at curbing Google’s control over online search, including the possibility of forcing the company to divest…

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, growth is essential for companies striving to make a meaningful impact. Without sustained growth, businesses struggle to secure the resources, attract top talent, and maintain the loyal customer base necessary to drive change. However, growth needs to be strategic and thoughtful, as companies must balance rapid expansion with long-term sustainability. TechSee, a Herzeliya-based technology company, has adopted a unique approach to growth, offering invaluable lessons for startups looking to scale. Solving Real Problems: The Foundation of TechSee Many startups begin with a simple goal: solving a problem that causes personal or widespread frustration. Eitan Cohen,…

New Research Links Mental Resilience to Increased Longevity and Healthspan In the quest for a longer, healthier life, people often focus on physical factors like diet, exercise, and medical interventions. However, groundbreaking new research is highlighting another critical, yet often overlooked factor: mental resilience. According to a study published in BMJ Mental Health, individuals with high levels of psychological resilience – traits such as perseverance, optimism, and self-reliance – are significantly more likely to live longer, healthier lives. The global market for longevity products and services is booming, with the complementary and alternative medicine sector estimated at $63 billion, and…