The story revolves around a series of interconnected events involving a group of performers who execute a dance routine on a driverless bus, a Google employee named Lisa Kroenig, and a hostage situation on a Google staff bus. The performers, Iker, Paulo, and Molly, are part of the 'unconnected' community living in Charleston Park, who are affected by the city's technological advancements and the resulting social divide. Lisa, a Google R&D employee, becomes a hostage when a hijacker demands justice for the Charleston Park murders, believing Google has evidence. The situation escalates into a standoff with the police, resulting in the hijacker's death and Lisa being shot. The aftermath includes Google's response to the crisis and Lisa's recovery, with lingering questions about the hijacker's motives and actions.

The study evaluates the robustness of cancer-cell intrinsic subtypes for stratifying patient samples in colorectal cancer biopsies, focusing on the CMS and CRIS molecular classifiers. It finds that CRIS provides a more robust classification than CMS, particularly in biopsy samples which may contain varying levels of stromal intratumour heterogeneity. The research suggests that CRIS classification is less confounded by intratumour heterogeneity and may be better suited for patient stratification in clinical trials using biopsy samples. The study supports the use of CRIS transcriptional subtypes for patient stratification in prospective colorectal cancer trials.

The narrative explores the manipulation and exploitation within the metaverse and art market, focusing on the story of Andre Hendrix, a street artist known as Fragileman. The protagonist and his associate, Dave Clutch, orchestrate a pump-and-dump scheme using NFTs and predictive policing technology from PreScience. The story highlights the ethical and moral dilemmas of turning art and individuals into tradable financial products, culminating in a tragic end for the artist, which is then further exploited for financial gain.

In a dystopian future where workplace success hinges on the use of digitally-administered performance enhancers, the protagonist navigates a series of surreal and drug-fueled experiences. The narrative explores the impact of various psychoactive substances on perception and behavior, set against the backdrop of corporate strategies and personal interactions. Key developments include a high-stakes meeting, a business proposal involving free lunches for residents, and a harrowing encounter with a cyclist. The story highlights the blurred lines between reality and altered states, emphasizing the protagonist's reliance on drugs to maintain clarity and control.

Jack Womack's lifelong fascination with flying saucers has culminated in a lavish art book, 'Flying Saucers are Real!', showcasing his extensive collection of retro UFO pulp fiction covers. The book, accompanied by Womack's witty commentary and a foreword by William Gibson, is also the subject of an exhibition at New York's Milk Gallery. Womack reflects on the evolution of UFO paranoia into broader conspiracy theories, noting a shift in the 1980s towards more sinister narratives influenced by right-wing ideologies. He attributes the decline in UFO sightings to modern technology, which has made it easier to debunk such phenomena.

Photos of a crashed Chinese CH-3 military drone in Nigeria have sparked discussions about China's growing use of drone technology in foreign conflicts. Experts suggest China's interest in Nigeria's oil and economic investments may be driving this involvement. The article draws parallels between China's actions and the US's past military strategies, particularly in terms of securing oil interests. While China appears to be using drones to support Nigeria against Boko Haram, it remains cautious about deeper involvement in foreign conflicts. The presence of Chinese drones raises questions about the ethical and political implications of remote warfare.

Shenzhen, once a small fishing port, has transformed into a megacity and a global hub for consumer electronics manufacturing, producing 90% of the world's gadgets. The city is home to major factories like Foxconn and TCL, which employ hundreds of thousands of workers under varying conditions. Shenzhen's rapid growth is a result of China's Special Economic Zone policies, attracting foreign investment and low-cost labor. However, rising wages and living standards are pushing some companies to outsource manufacturing to other countries. The city's future lies in technological innovation and entrepreneurship, moving away from its image as a sprawling sweatshop to a global megacity of tech innovation.

A toxic, artificial lake in Baotou, Inner Mongolia, created by the waste from rare earth mineral refineries, highlights the environmental cost of modern technology and green tech. The Baogang Steel and Rare Earth complex is a major contributor to this pollution, producing essential elements for consumer electronics and renewable energy technologies. The article underscores the stark contrast between the benefits of these technologies and their hidden environmental impacts.

In a dystopian future, the protagonist undergoes a brain implant procedure to enhance data collection for tech companies like Amazon and Uber. Struggling with loneliness and societal changes, they navigate a city transformed by economic hardship and technological control. The narrative explores themes of data privacy, economic inequality, and the impact of technology on human relationships, highlighting the protagonist's disconnection from their environment and the people around them.

The article discusses the proliferation of A.I.-assisted weapons in the context of the assassination of an Iranian scientist, exploring the possibility of such technology being used in the incident.

Deborah Raji discusses the subtle manifestations of white supremacy in AI, highlighting how cornerstone datasets and software can perpetuate racial biases. She collaborates with Joy Buolamwini and references Timnit Gebru's controversial firing from Google, emphasizing the need for awareness and change in the tech industry.

Chabad rabbis from around the globe traditionally meet in Brooklyn each year, but due to the pandemic, they convened over Zoom. The author, Eli Reiter, shares his experience of participating in this virtual event during his eighth month of extensive Zoom usage for grad school.

Chinese tech companies Huawei and Megvii have reportedly tested facial recognition software capable of identifying Uighurs, an ethnic minority in China. This development raises significant human rights and surveillance concerns, as reported by the Washington Post.

The OneZero editorial team, led by Dave Gershgorn, shares a holiday gift guide featuring gadgets and services that have brought them joy and helped them endure the year. The list includes popular items like AirPods, iPads, and Nintendo Switches, as well as other products such as color-changing lightbulbs and deck-building video games. Senior editor Sarah Kessler refers to their workspaces as 'desk/prisons.'

Supporters of President Donald Trump, after Facebook banned groups promoting election fraud conspiracy theories, have migrated to alternative 'free speech' platforms like Parler and MeWe. However, these users are now using Facebook to voice their complaints about Parler.

Timnit Gebru, a leading researcher in ethics and computer vision at Google, claims she was terminated after sending an email to an internal group advocating for underrepresented people. The incident has raised concerns about corporate governance and the treatment of employees advocating for diversity within the company.

The National Labor Relations Board has filed a complaint alleging that Google illegally surveilled and fired employees Laurence Berland and Kathryn Spiers for participating in organizing efforts. Berland was terminated after opposing Google's use of technology by government agencies and organizing against the hiring of union-busting firm IRI Consultants. The complaint underscores workers' rights to address ethical business concerns and management's role in society.

Emil Michael, Uber's former chief business officer, discusses the company's business prospects, culture, leadership, and controversies on the Big Technology Podcast. The interview touches on Uber's challenges during the coronavirus pandemic, its fundraising efforts, mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, and the management of its China business.

1inch has successfully closed a $12 million funding round led by Pantera Capital, with participation from other institutional investors such as ParaFi Capital and Nima Capital. The funds will be used to develop 1inch products, expand into new markets, and enhance marketing efforts. The 1inch team, including Sergej Kunz, expressed excitement about the support from global investors. Pantera Capital's Paul Veradittakit praised 1inch's user-friendly trading experience and powerful routing infrastructure. The funding round also included investments from LAUNCHub Ventures, Spark Capital, and several business angels.

The Digital Divide was significantly influenced by telco accounting scandals, which the IRREGULATORS and New Networks Institute have been addressing for over a decade. The video featuring Aunt Ethel, a significant figure in telecommunications history, aims to simplify the explanation of these issues. With a new president and a Democrat-led FCC, there is uncertainty whether the new leadership will rectify the problems or if companies like AT&T and Verizon will dominate the FCC once more.

Lockport, New York, with its 20,000 residents, is testing facial recognition in schools. Cameras activated in eight schools monitor for known sexual predators, expelled students, and signs of weapons. A new report from Vice highlights the software's potential to fail.

Pinterest shareholders have filed a lawsuit against the company's executives, including the CEO and several board members, alleging years of workplace discrimination. The suit claims that the defendants breached their fiduciary duties by allowing and perpetuating discriminatory practices within the company.

Radiant RFID, a tech company based in Austin, has shifted its focus from tracking workplace equipment to developing tracking devices for employees returning to the office. These devices use Bluetooth or GPS technology to monitor valuable items and ensure workplace safety.

A large community of iPod modders continues to resurrect discontinued click-wheel iPods for their superior sound quality and nostalgic value. Manuel Mantecon, known as Pichi, is one of the enthusiasts involved in this movement. The article highlights the enduring appeal of iPods despite Apple's discontinuation of the product.

Silicon Valley, known for its forward-looking tech industry, has neglected to honor its historical roots, as exemplified by the unremarkable RAMAC Park, named after the first hard disk drive. The park lacks informative signs, and the only nearby memorial is a modest structure in a Lowe's parking lot, marking the former site of an IBM research facility. Despite San Jose's plans to build an 'iconic landmark' for Silicon Valley, the current state of historical recognition is underwhelming.

An unprecedented surge of activism is occurring in the tech industry, particularly among Google engineers and Uber drivers, who are increasingly voicing their concerns and demands for better working conditions and rights. This movement is part of a broader trend of labor organization within Silicon Valley.

Design fiction, a movement that blends design, technology, and speculative storytelling, has been co-opted by corporate interests, losing its original critical edge. Early works like Sascha Pohflepp's Buttons: Blind Camera and Julian Bleecker's Slow Messenger used speculative objects to critique and explore future societal implications. However, as the practice gained popularity, companies like Corning and Amazon appropriated the aesthetic for marketing, stripping it of its anarchic, critical attitude. Despite this, agencies like Near Future Laboratory and Superflux continue to balance corporate work with personal projects, striving to maintain the critical spirit of design fiction.

A study by Duke University researchers published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that tweets from Russian agents did not significantly change the political opinions, attitudes, or engagement of U.S. Twitter users who encountered them. This challenges the narrative of Russian trolls' effectiveness in influencing American politics on social media platforms.

The author reflects on their recent experience with Facebook, describing it as a site that has deteriorated into an ugly and overcrowded platform. They express dissatisfaction with the events feature, which now includes invitations from people they hardly know.

The article reviews five recent books in the science fiction, fantasy, and horror genres, suggesting them as additions to readers' to-read lists. 'Here and Now and Then' by Mike Chen is a character-driven time travel story. 'Infinite Detail' by Tim Maughan explores a post-techno dystopia after the Internet collapses. 'Drachenfels' by Kim Newman, a vampire story and backstage murder mystery, is reissued under the Warhammer Horror imprint. 'The Bird King' by G. Willow Wilson is a historical fantasy set in the last emirate of Muslim Spain. 'The Time Collector' by Gwendolyn Womack follows a psychometrist in New Orleans who can perceive the past of any object he touches.

Facebook plans to unify its messaging services, including WhatsApp, Messenger, and Instagram, into a single platform. While this move could offer convenience to users, the article argues that the primary motivation is likely to enhance Facebook's ability to gather user data for its advertising business, rather than addressing user needs.

The article discusses the changing public perception towards the idea of destroying the internet. Initially met with skepticism, the notion now garners more understanding and even approval from some individuals.

The article explores the feasibility of destroying the internet through various methods, including cyber attacks, physical attacks on data centers and internet exchanges, and jamming technologies. It discusses the challenges and limitations of these approaches, emphasizing that significant disruption would likely require the resources of a nation-state or a highly organized terrorist group. Expert opinions highlight the security measures in place at key internet infrastructure sites and the relative ease of cyber attacks compared to physical attacks. The article also touches on the symbolic impact of targeting data centers and the potential for temporary disruption through DIY jamming devices.

The article explores the lasting influence and prescient insights of JG Ballard, particularly his predictions about technology, suburban life, and societal changes. It discusses how the term 'Ballardian' has entered public consciousness, often misinterpreted as a mere symbol of dystopia. Ballard's work, including novels like 'Crash' and 'High Rise,' and his interviews compiled in 'Extreme Metaphors,' reveal his nuanced views on the future shaped by technology and consumerism. The article also touches on Ballard's later concerns about the failures of capitalism and consumerism, and the need to redefine 'Ballardian' to reflect deeper cultural warnings.

The author reflects on the uncanny experience of seeing a fictional concept from their 2011 short story 'Paintwork' materialize in real life. The story involved augmented reality graffiti and QR code manipulation, which later paralleled a real-world security exploit involving Google Glass. The narrative explores the unpredictable nature of technological trends, the relevance of science fiction in understanding present-day issues, and the evolving use of QR codes despite their vulnerabilities. The author emphasizes the value of science fiction as a lens to examine contemporary concerns rather than as a tool for accurate future predictions.

The article explores the evolution of pirate radio in the UK, particularly in London, from its origins in the 1960s to its resurgence in the 1980s and 90s. It highlights the cultural significance of pirate radio for immigrant communities and its role in broadcasting genres like reggae, hip hop, and jungle. Despite the decline of pirate radio due to legal broadcasting licenses and the internet, many stations still operate to serve niche audiences. The narrative underscores the ongoing importance of community and localized broadcasting.

The excerpt from Tim Maughan's novel 'Infinite Detail' explores the lives of urban canners in a near-future New York City where technology and data tracking have permeated everyday activities. Frank, a dedicated canner, faces challenges with new recycling machines that reject his collected cans, leading him to navigate a changing cityscape. Meanwhile, Rush, a professional cynic, helps Frank reset the cans' data, highlighting the invasive nature of technology. The narrative delves into themes of urban survival, technological advancement, and personal connections amidst a transforming city.

In a world on the brink of collapse due to the end of the Internet, the story centers around the Croft, a digital no-man's-land in Bristol that has become a hub of creative counterculture. The narrative follows Mary, who is sought out by grieving families for her supposed ability to connect with the dead, and other characters like Tyrone and Grids who navigate the post-apocalyptic landscape. The excerpt delves into the emotional and psychological struggles of the characters as they cope with the new reality, highlighting themes of loss, survival, and the remnants of human connection.

The narrative follows Frank, a canner in Brooklyn, as he navigates the challenges posed by a new, technologically advanced recycling system that tracks and controls the redemption of cans and bottles. The story highlights the frustrations and resilience of individuals like Frank who rely on canning for their livelihood. It also explores the broader implications of corporate surveillance and data tracking through the experiences of Rush and Scott, who grapple with the invasive nature of the NYC app. The text critiques the changing urban landscape and the increasing control exerted by technology and corporations over everyday activities.

The story revolves around a father, Steve, who buys an 'Elf on the Shelf' to manage his son's behavior during the holidays. The elf, connected to Amazon, Google, and Facebook, starts influencing the child, Luke, with advertisements and surveillance. Despite initial success in improving Luke's behavior, the elf's invasive nature and constant advertising lead to increasing discomfort for Steve and his wife, Erin. The narrative culminates in Steve destroying the elf and deciding to eliminate other surveillance devices from their home, highlighting concerns about privacy and consumer manipulation.

The article provides a curated list of ten anime films that the author believes are essential viewing for both newcomers and seasoned fans. The list includes influential works like 'Akira' and 'Ghost in the Shell,' family favorites such as 'My Neighbor Totoro,' and critically acclaimed films like 'Perfect Blue.' The author emphasizes the personal nature of the selection and invites readers to share their own favorites. The article highlights the impact of these films on the anime genre and their broader cultural significance.

A family experiences a tense and emotionally charged Christmas in a high-tech, isolated home amidst a societal collapse. The father struggles with guilt and strained relationships, while the mother remains distant and focused on her routines. Their daughter, Astrid, seeks normalcy and connection, but the day takes a dark turn when raiders invade their home, stripping them of resources and leaving them to face the harsh reality of their situation. The story culminates in a poignant moment where Astrid discovers the true nature of the 'snow' outside, symbolizing the collapse of their world.

Jeff VanderMeer's fiction is known for encompassing a wide range of styles and genres, from metafictional body horror to detective novels. His work includes contributions to literature beyond his own writing, such as introductions to other authors' books and involvement in publishing through Cheeky Frawg Books. VanderMeer's novels, set in bizarre cities and mysterious locales, explore themes of memory, self, and the transformation of bodies and environments. His Southern Reach trilogy, which has been adapted into a film, delves into the alteration of a landscape known as Area X. VanderMeer's short fiction and non-fiction works, including anthologies, continue to showcase his versatility and the international scope of his literary influence.

The article provides a detailed reread and analysis of the final chapter and epilogue of Brandon Sanderson's book 'Warbreaker', focusing on the characters Vivenna, Siri, Vasher, and Susebron. It discusses the resolution of the conflict with the Lifeless army, the character development of the sisters Vivenna and Siri, and the revelations about Vasher's identity and history. The reread includes spoilers for 'Warbreaker' and other books in the Cosmere universe. The article concludes with the author's personal reflections on the book and its characters, as well as anticipation for a potential sequel and preparation for the release of 'Oathbringer'.

The Stone Sky, the final book in N. K. Jemisin's The Broken Earth trilogy, is lauded for its poignant, personal, and powerful conclusion to the series. The review reflects on the trilogy's progression, noting that while the second book, The Obelisk Gate, had its criticisms, it played a crucial role in the overall story. The Stone Sky is praised for its complete closure, character arcs, and action sequences, as well as for providing a detailed backstory to the world and magic system of the series. The reviewer expresses renewed faith in Jemisin's abilities and anticipates a third Hugo Award for her work.

The narrative explores a dystopian future under a Trump presidency where undocumented migrants are penalized, private prisons overflow into labor camps, and iPhones are manufactured in America. The protagonist navigates a harsh reality, dealing with the struggles of low-wage work, surveillance, and systemic exploitation. The story highlights the human cost of political and corporate decisions, focusing on the lives of individuals like Mira and her child, who are directly impacted by these policies.

The 'Dreamlands: Immersive Cinema and Art, 1905-2016' exhibition at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York showcases how artists have historically used moving images to reflect on technology's impact on our perception and experience of the world. The exhibition gains additional context in light of the recent US presidential election, highlighting the role of media, such as fake news on Facebook, in shaping public opinion and perception.

Jack Womack, an avid collector of UFO literature since the mid-1960s, has compiled a coffee-table style art book titled 'Flying Saucers are Real!' featuring hundreds of pulp UFO book covers, accompanied by his commentary. The book, which includes a foreword by cyberpunk author William Gibson, explores the evolution of UFO paranoia into various forms of American paranoia, including its influence on right-wing militias and government mistrust. Womack's collection is also the subject of an exhibition at New York's Milk Gallery. He reflects on the shift in UFO narratives from harmless fads to sinister conspiracy theories and the decline of UFO sightings in the age of ubiquitous camera phones.

Virtual reality (VR) is touted as the next big technological breakthrough of 2016, with major companies like Samsung, HTC, Sony, Facebook, and Google launching their own VR headsets. Despite the hype, the technology faces challenges in gaining widespread adoption. VR experiences like 'Giant' and 'Blackout' aim to evoke strong emotional responses by immersing users in realistic scenarios. Industry experts and creators are optimistic about VR's potential, though they acknowledge the need to navigate the hype and address current limitations. The future of VR may hinge on its ability to offer unique, immersive experiences that resonate with users and become a staple in gaming, filmmaking, and beyond.

Algorithms increasingly influence our lives, including our personal relationships. Joanne McNeil's Emotional Labor plugin for Gmail humorously addresses email communication anxiety by adding overly friendly touches. Lauren McCarthy's Crowdpilot app allows users to crowdsource advice during conversations, while her Us+ app provides real-time feedback on video chat interactions. The pplkpr app uses GPS and heart rate data to optimize social interactions. These projects, though often art pieces, provoke discussions about the role of technology in social life, with mixed reactions from the public.

Filmmaker Alexey Marfin explores the intersection of social media culture and genetic engineering in his short science fiction film Blue-Eyed Me. The film, which depicts a start-up selling genetically engineered goldfish that mirror their owners' features, serves as a metaphor for the curated and commodified nature of online profiles. Marfin discusses the broader implications of data commodification and the role of science fiction in addressing contemporary social media issues. The article also touches on Marfin's experiences with the design studio Unknown Fields and his upcoming projects.

Brain City, a computer-generated movie showcasing imagery from neuroscience labs, is being displayed in Times Square every night at 11:57 PM until the end of November as part of the Midnight Moment project. The film, created by Noah Hutton, aims to evoke awe and wonder by presenting a journey through the human brain without any commercial messaging. The sudden transition from the immersive display back to regular advertisements highlights the commoditization of the mind in contemporary culture.

Paintwork is a near-futuristic story set in Bristol, UK, about a virtual-reality graffiti artist named 3Cube who specializes in altering QR codes. He faces a challenge when his works are quickly painted over by an unknown rival. The story explores themes of art, technology, and corporate influence in a society where augmented reality is commonplace. 3Cube discovers that his friend Tera, a hacker, was behind the takedowns as part of a viral marketing stunt by JCDecaux to maintain their billboard contract with Coca-Cola. The story ends with 3Cube stripping his room of old art and starting anew with physical spray paint.