Author: OMN AI

Evacuations Ordered for Coastal AreasHurricane Erin has prompted both residents and tourists to leave North Carolina’s Outer Banks, despite forecasts suggesting the storm will remain offshore. The hurricane brought heavy rain and strong winds to parts of the Caribbean on Monday before approaching the U.S. coast. Officials issued evacuation notices for Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island, warning that waves could reach 15 feet (4.6 meters) and dangerous rip currents could form. Long queues of vehicles formed at Ocracoke Island’s ferry terminal, the main way to exit besides air travel. Storm Strength and TrajectoryForecasters expect Erin to veer north, away from…

An international team led by Prof. David Salt uncovered how microbes affect cocoa bean fermentation and chocolate flavor. Nine Key Microbes Identified Beans from Santander and Huila gained fruity and floral notes. Antioquia beans lacked these flavors, linked to different microbes. Microbial Influence on Flavor Researchers identified nine core microbes shaping citrus, fruit, and floral flavors. Fermenting sterile beans with these microbes enhanced flavor and reduced bitterness. Impact on Cocoa Farming Salt says farmers can promote these microbes to produce higher-quality cocoa. This could lower costs and create new chocolate flavors—a “secret sauce” for chocolate’s future.

Google and NASA developed the “Crew Medical Officer Digital Assistant” to help astronauts and Earth-based teams diagnose and treat symptoms in real time. The tool equips flight surgeons with predictive analytics and essential data to make precise decisions during missions. Early testing produced accurate diagnoses, and doctors continue to refine the model. The assistant also offers treatment options when astronauts cannot maintain constant contact with Earth, a critical need as NASA explores deeper space. Google emphasized that the system demonstrates how AI can deliver vital care in extreme and remote environments, not just space. Preparing for Long-Duration Missions NASA prepares…

A US senator has launched an inquiry into Meta. A leaked internal document reportedly revealed the company’s artificial intelligence allowed “sensual” and “romantic” conversations with children. Leaked paper fuels concern Reuters reported the document was titled “GenAI: Content Risk Standards.” Republican Senator Josh Hawley described its content as “reprehensible and outrageous.” He demanded access to the full document and details of affected products. Meta rejected the allegations. A spokesperson said: “The examples and notes in question were erroneous and inconsistent with our policies.” They stressed Meta had “clear rules” for chatbot responses. These rules “prohibit content that sexualizes children and…