The article discusses the pervasive issues of privacy and transparency in major platforms like Facebook, Google, Uber, and Amazon. It highlights the misalignment of incentives between platform owners and users, leading to a lack of trust. The author argues for a new generation of open platforms that prioritize transparency, value sharing, and collaborative governance. The piece emphasizes the need for users to demand better practices and support platforms that operate on open principles to ensure long-term benefits over short-term gains.

The study presents a method for creating 3D force atlases of embryos using fluorescence microscopy. It involves detailed scientific research and analysis by a team of authors, contributing to the field of embryo mechanics.

The article by Alex McDougall, president and CEO of Stablecorp Inc., discusses the rise and fall of cryptocurrency yields, particularly in decentralized finance (DeFi) and centralized finance (CeFi). It outlines the early days of high yields, the subsequent collapse due to the disappearance of arbitrage opportunities, and the differences in transparency and risk between DeFi and CeFi. The piece also highlights the importance of credit fundamentals, the need for improved transparency, the role of underwriting, and novel structures for managing risk. It concludes with optimism for the future of the crypto yield industry, emphasizing the potential for rebuilding with better risk management and innovative solutions.

In 2020, the open lending sector within decentralized finance (DeFi) experienced significant growth, surpassing $10 billion. Open lending platforms, both decentralized and centralized, offer flexible lending and borrowing terms using digital assets as collateral. These platforms are transparent and operate in real-time, contrasting with traditional banks' opaque and complex operations. DeFi's open lending constitutes about 45% of the market, with decentralized exchanges, derivatives, and miscellaneous segments also present. The article discusses the advantages of open lending, such as higher returns and transparent governance, and addresses the challenges and risks involved. It also highlights the maturation of the open lending industry and its potential to reshape financial services, offering improved risk-adjusted returns and liquidity for investors and borrowers willing to engage with the technology.

Alex McDougall, co-founder of Bicameral Ventures, argues that individuals who create data should be compensated for its use, similar to how landowners are compensated for natural resources. He criticizes the current model where large corporations, such as Google, Facebook, and Amazon, exploit personal data without adequate compensation to the creators. McDougall suggests that shared data is more valuable than extracted data and envisions a future where data creators participate in the value chain, leveraging shared data for benefits like mobility credits or improved internet services. He highlights initiatives like Velocia's mobility rewards platform and The Open Application Network's data-portability tools as steps towards this goal.

The Amazons delivered an energetic and well-received performance at Clwb Ifor Bach in Cardiff, with a mix of songs from their debut album and upcoming release. The band's connection to Wales and their indie rock sound, likened to Arctic Monkeys and Sundara Karma, resonated with the diverse crowd. The live show was characterized by heavy basslines, quick transitions, and an enthusiastic atmosphere, particularly during the performance of their single 'Mother' and the fan-favorite 'Junk Food Forever'.

The article discusses the potential launch of a cryptocurrency by Facebook, emphasizing the need for the company to adopt a decentralized ethos and give users control over their data. It criticizes Facebook's current data monetization practices and suggests using blockchain technology to create a more transparent and user-centric platform. The article argues that such a shift could improve Facebook's reputation and provide long-term benefits for shareholders.

Mac Demarco, a critically acclaimed multi-instrumentalist and producer, has not only made waves in the music industry but also in fashion with his distinctive hats. His 'dad hat' has become a staple of his 'indie-hipster' look, inspiring fans and contributing to a 23% increase in hat sales in the United States from 2012 to 2017. Demarco's style, characterized by loose-fitting shirts and dungarees, resonates with his audience, and his fashion influence is evident in the revenue of fashion labels.

Creating the ultimate pres playlist involves balancing well-known songs with new hits to keep the energy high and the mood enjoyable. Start with recognizable tunes, build up with classic and nostalgic tracks, and incorporate a variety of genres to maintain interest. Key artists mentioned include Rejjie Snow, Milky Chance, Loyle Carner, Arctic Monkeys, and Kendrick Lamar. The goal is to ensure everyone has a great time before heading out, with the playlist being a crucial element of the night's success.

The article reflects on the emotional experience of photographing a vigil held in memory of Brooke Slocum and her unborn child, who were murdered a year prior. The author describes the challenge of capturing such a somber event and the emotional toll it takes. The small town of Saranac, Michigan, where the vigil took place, is commended for its efforts to honor Brooke's life and to raise awareness among the youth about the dangers present in the world. The article conveys the community's collective grief and the poignant atmosphere of the vigil.

Martha Reeves brought the Motown sound to downtown Ann Arbor, kicking off the 8th season of the Sonic Lunch concert series. A lively crowd filled Liberty Street and Liberty Plaza to enjoy a wide range of hits from the 1960s performed by Martha and the Vandellas.

Skyline High School students celebrated their graduation at EMU's Convocation Center, with class speaker Nia Willis encouraging her peers to overcome challenges. The ceremony concluded with the graduates launching their caps into the air. Among the 333 graduates, 19 achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA.

The 2015 Ann Arbor Summer Festival began with cloudy skies on the University of Michigan campus. Local restaurants and artists like Dave Menzo and Stella! contributed to the atmosphere. A small relocation was made due to construction. Organizers suggested a $5 donation per person or $10 per family to maintain the festival's free status, which will run until July 5th with musical and entertainment events, including nights at the Top of the Park.

A downpour of rain mixed with color as participants in the 2015 Color Run ran through the streets of Ypsilanti Saturday morning. The 5K race began on East Cross Street and ended with a blast of color in Riverside Park.

The second annual Dave Tuck Memorial Jam at the Ann Arbor Skatepark drew hundreds of skaters to support Grind For Life and Strap In For Life, nonprofits aiding skateboarders and snowboarders affected by cancer. The event honors Ann Arbor native Dave Tuck, who died of pancreatic cancer in 2013.

Family and friends gathered at Eastern Michigan University to celebrate the first graduating class of Pathways to Success. Guest speaker Elizabeth Whittaker delivered an inspirational speech about overcoming adversity. The event concluded with students receiving their diplomas amid celebratory flashes.

Ken Bowen, a veteran, shared his emotional story of earning a Purple Heart and losing two comrades to an IED in Afghanistan during a Memorial Day event at Yankee Air Museum. The event, attended by about a hundred people, honored veterans and their sacrifices, culminating in a standing ovation for Bowen.

Eager flyers took to the sky in a refurbished B-17, the 'Yankee Lady,' on the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day at Willow Run Airport. The flight, led by crew chief Norm Ellickson and the Yankee Air Museum, offered passengers a 45-minute aerial tour of the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti areas, showcasing views from farmland to Michigan Stadium. The 'Yankee Lady' is one of only 10 flyable B-17 airframes in the world.

The fifth annual Water Hill Music Fest was held in the Water Hill neighborhood of Ann Arbor, drawing large crowds and featuring eclectic groups of musicians performing at various locations throughout the area. The event fostered a sense of community as neighbors greeted each other and celebrated 'Happy Water Hill Day!' while enjoying the music and festivities.

High Point School's prom, held at Weber's Hotel, offers special needs students and alumni in Ann Arbor a chance to experience prom, fostering community integration and social skills. The event, in its 38th year, is supported by fundraisers and praised by attendees and organizers alike.

Hundreds of volunteers participated in the annual P.R.I.D.E. Day in Ypsilanti, working in various parks despite a soggy and humid morning. Activities included trimming brush, painting picnic tables at Peninsular Park, planting flowers, spreading mulch, and preparing Rutherford Pool for the summer season.

Chelsea High School students enjoyed a casino-themed prom at the Village Conference Center dance floor at the Comfort Inn in Chelsea. The Ann Arbor News is covering proms throughout May and encourages the submission of prom photos for inclusion in their galleries. Readers can also vote for the prom they want to see featured in the print edition.

Hundreds of cats gathered at U-M's Sports Coliseum for the 40th annual All Breed Cat Show, featuring twenty-five different breeds competing for awards and points.

Victoria Cendrowski, a yoga instructor, was the first to take advantage of the Argo Canoe Livery's opening day, using a stand-up paddle board on the Huron River. U-M seniors Claire Erba and Katy Robinson also participated, seeking a break before their final exams. The livery will operate on weekends from April 18 to May 22, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Orchid enthusiasts from across Michigan attended the annual Ann Arbor Orchid Festival at U-M's Matthaei Botanical Gardens. The event, organized by the Ann Arbor Orchid Society, featured areas for orchid display judging and orchid sales. Katherine Sumbler from Okemos captured photos of intricate orchids, expressing her preference for unique varieties with fine details.

The 43rd annual Dance for Mother Earth Powwow, hosted by the Native American Student Associations at the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University, took place at Skyline High School. The event featured traditional Native American dancing and colorful outfits, celebrating life and Mother Earth while giving thanks to the Creator.

Downtown Ann Arbor hosted the 16th annual Shamrocks and Shenanigans 5K Run/Walk, featuring a kids' dash and 1K. Jon Rock won the 5K with a time of 15:19. Participants celebrated at Conor O'Neill's pub. Proceeds from the event support Save A Heart and the Congenital Heart Center at C.S. Mott Children's Hospital.

South University Avenue was closed for the 7th annual Active Against ALS Boxcar Derby hosted by the University of Michigan's Phi Delta Theta fraternity. Catherine van Lent, 8, of Team Dachshund, won the overall championship for the second consecutive year, defeating Keenan Caffelli of Team Box Your Socks Off.

Bobby Schwartz, a University of Michigan junior, founded a soccer team to provide opportunities for children in Ann Arbor with developmental disabilities. The team, which practices bi-weekly, recently hosted a tournament with over 100 youths from various universities. Schwartz, praised by team members for his coaching, aims to grow the tournament and establish an endowment for the club's sustainability.

The Russian Ballet Academy of Michigan performed 'Peter and the Wolf' at Perry Early Learning Center, led by artistic director Nikolai Morschakov. The 12-member cast has been rehearsing since September in Ypsilanti. The next performance is scheduled for March 7 at the Riverside Arts Academy in Ypsilanti, which is already sold out.

The annual Chilly Dip event at Whitmore Lake attracted about 100 onlookers as participants took a plunge into the cold waters for charity. Thomas Kabisch, also known as 'Dr. Ice,' participated for the third time, finding the experience both shocking and exhilarating. The event successfully raised $1,200 for college scholarships.

Demonstrators protested outside Hill Auditorium in Ann Arbor against Mariinsky Orchestra conductor Valery Gergiev, who has close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin and has supported controversial policies. The protest coincided with Gergiev's scheduled receipt of the Ford Honors Distinguished Artist Award from the University Musical Society. UMS President Ken Fischer stated that the award and performance were not intended as political statements but hoped to encourage discussion on political issues in Russia.

Fans of the 1970s TV show 'Little House on the Prairie' gathered at Diamonds Steak and Seafood in Howell to meet the show's star, Melissa Gilbert, during a charity brunch event. The event, which had 464 reservations, benefited Yatooma's Foundation for the Kids, supporting children who have lost one or both parents. Gilbert expressed her amazement and gratitude for the turnout and support.