📰 ProPublica · 4
United StatesThe Download: AI bottleneck debates, and BCI trials take off
The article discusses recent advancements in artificial intelligence, focusing on a new transformer-based model called Subquadratic that claims to reduce computational requirements, making large language models faster and more energy-efficient. While some experts remain skeptical, the company is beginning to share details about their approach. Additionally, the article highlights the growing interest in brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), particularly through the case of Casey Harrell, an ALS patient using a brain implant to maintain independence. The piece also mentions China's approval of a BЦ
More Than 770,000 Children Are No Longer Receiving SNAP Benefits After Trump Changes Federal Food Program
A ProPublica analysis reveals that more than 770,000 children are no longer receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits following changes made under former President Donald Trump's domestic policy bill. The reforms were promoted by Republican lawmakers as measures to 'restore integrity' to the program while ensuring support for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and disabled individuals. However, data indicates a significant decline in child participation in the program.
“Digital Colonialism”: U.S. Demands to Access Africans’ Data Raise Privacy, Sovereignty Concerns
U.S. officials are requiring access to the health data of millions of Africans as a condition for providing billions of dollars in lifesaving aid. This has raised concerns among experts regarding privacy, data misuse, and sovereignty. Ugandan official Frank Ssekamwa described the situation as an 'impossible choice' between allowing data access and risking public health funding.
Why We Changed Our Code of Ethics to Address Prediction Markets
ProPublica has updated its code of ethics to prohibit employees from wagering on the outcome of news events through prediction markets. While no instances of such behavior have been found among ProPublica staff, the organization acknowledges the growing influence of prediction markets beyond sports and their increasing integration with news organizations.