December 14, 2023 - Thursday

[WORLD] Delegates at UN climate talks have agreed to move away from fossil fuels for the first time in decades, though the deal has limitations.

Nearly 200 countries have made a pledge to transition away from fossil fuels at the UN climate talks. The agreement is stronger than the initial draft, but does not call for a complete phasing out of oil, gas, and coal. It gives nations flexibility in their transition away from these fuels. While some praise the agreement, critics argue that it still falls short in addressing the urgent need to combat climate change.

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[NATION] Judge pauses Trump's 2020 election interference case while he appeals immunity claim, potentially delaying trial.

A federal judge has temporarily halted the proceedings in Donald Trump's election interference case while he continues to appeal his claim of immunity from prosecution. The decision by U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan could potentially delay Trump's trial, currently scheduled for March 4. The appeals court has expedited consideration of Trump's appeal, but no argument date has been set yet. The outcome of this appeal is crucial, as a ruling in Trump's favor could derail the case, potentially benefiting his bid to reclaim the White House in the next election.

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[BUSINESS] The Federal Reserve maintained its benchmark interest rate but signaled it will likely cut rates by 0.75% in the year ahead.

The Federal Reserve announced that it will keep its benchmark interest rate steady at 5.25%-5.50%, the highest in 22 years. However, the central bank indicated that it expects to cut rates by a total of 0.75% in the coming year. The Fed's projections include a decrease in inflation to 2.4% next year and 2.2% by 2025. The policy statement also suggested a bias against further interest rate increases. This marks the third consecutive meeting where rates have been held at current levels.

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[TECHNOLOGY] Google launches AI Studio, an easy-to-use tool for developing apps and chatbots based on its Gemini model.

Google has introduced AI Studio, a web-based tool for developers that allows them to develop prompts and chatbots based on their Gemini model. Developers using the tool can quickly iterate on ideas with a generous free quota of up to 60 requests per second. Google plans to launch a paid version of AI Studio next year. Additionally, Google has launched Gemini Pro for developers and enterprises, with features like function calling and custom knowledge grounding.

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[SPORTS] Draymond Green has been suspended indefinitely by the NBA after swinging at Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkić. This is Green's second suspension this season.

Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors has been suspended indefinitely by the NBA after being ejected from a game for swinging at Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkić. This is Green's second suspension this season, with the league emphasizing his history of unsportsmanlike behavior. The specifics of the suspension and its duration are unclear, but Green is expected to meet with team officials to discuss counseling and help moving forward. The incident occurred during a game when Green hit Nurkić in the face, prompting his ejection.

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[SCIENCE] The annual Geminids meteor shower is set to peak this week, with the possibility of seeing up to 120 shooting stars per hour.

The Geminids meteor shower, considered one of the best and most reliable meteor showers of the year, is set to reach its peak on Wednesday night into Thursday. Skywatchers may have the opportunity to witness around 120 shooting stars per hour, as long as weather conditions are clear and there is minimal moonlight. The Geminids are known for appearing bright and fast, with colors ranging from yellow to green, red, and blue. The spectacle can be observed anywhere in the world and is best viewed at night and in the early morning hours.

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[HEALTH] Scientists have discovered that a hormone produced by the fetus is responsible for causing morning sickness during pregnancy, raising hopes for a potential cure.

A new study has found that the hormone GDF15, produced by the fetus, triggers nausea and vomiting in pregnant women. Women with naturally low levels of this hormone before pregnancy tend to be more sensitive to its surge in the first trimester, leading to more severe morning sickness. This discovery raises hopes of finding a cure for morning sickness and providing better treatment options. Researchers believe that addressing the root cause of morning sickness can alleviate symptoms and improve the health and quality of life for pregnant women.

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[ENTERTAINMENT] The cast of Brooklyn Nine-Nine is grieving the loss of Andre Braugher, who passed away at the age of 61 after a recent illness.

Andre Braugher, known for his role as Capt. Raymond Holt in Brooklyn Nine-Nine, has died at the age of 61. The cast of the show, including Marc Evan Jackson, Chelsea Peretti, and Terry Crews, paid tribute to Braugher and expressed their sadness at his untimely passing. Braugher was remembered for his immense talent as an actor, his sense of humor, and the joy he brought to those around him. The loss of Braugher is deeply felt by the Brooklyn Nine-Nine family and fans.

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