The intersection of blockchain technology and philanthropy is a rapidly evolving field with immense potential to revolutionize the way philanthropic organizations operate. Blockchain, a decentralized and immutable ledger system, offers a unique set of advantages that can enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in charitable giving.
Some of the key benefits of blockchain in charity are:
Enhanced Transparency and Accountability
Blockchain records are tamper-proof, ensuring that donations and their usage are transparent and verifiable.
Every transaction can be traced back to its source, providing donors with clear visibility into how their funds are being used. Donors can receive real-time updates on the progress of projects and the impact of their contributions. The decentralized nature of blockchain makes it difficult for fraudulent activities to occur. Smart contracts can automate processes, reducing administrative overhead and ensuring that funds are used for their intended purposes.
By demonstrating transparency and accountability, blockchain can foster trust between donors and charitable organizations.
Improved Efficiency and Impact
Smart contracts can automate tasks such as donor verification, fund distribution, and reporting, reducing administrative costs. Blockchain transactions are typically faster and more cost effective than traditional methods.
Blockchain can enable more accurate and efficient tracking of project outcomes, allowing organizations to measure their impact more effectively. By eliminating intermediaries and automating processes, can reduce the overhead costs associated with charitable giving and provide donors with a more interactive and engaging experience, allowing them to feel more connected to the causes they support.
Additionally, Blockchain can facilitate cross-border donations and support international charitable initiatives. By tokenizing social impact projects, blockchain can enable fractional ownership and crowdfunding opportunities.
Moreover, Blockchain can empower communities to have a greater say in how charitable funds are allocated and managed. It can help protect the intellectual property of charitable organizations and their beneficiaries and can be used to facilitate rapid and efficient disaster relief efforts.
Blockchain can facilitate cross-border donations and support international charitable initiatives
Some of the uses of Blockchain in Charity are as follows:
Decentralized Governance
The Giving Block is a platform that allows individuals to donate cryptocurrencies to charitable organizations. They have implemented a decentralized governance model, where token holders vote on which charities to support and how funds are allocated.
Social Impact Tokenization
Impact Market is a social impact tokenization platform that creates digital tokens representing the income of individuals living in extreme poverty. These tokens can be purchased by donors, providing a sustainable source of income for the individuals and generating returns for the investors.
Intellectual Property Protection and Challenges
The Copyright Blockchain Initiative is a non-profit organization that uses blockchain technology to protect the intellectual property rights of artists and creators. As the number of transactions on a blockchain network increases, scalability can become a challenge. Ensuring a user-friendly experience for donors and beneficiaries can be complex.
At the same time, navigating the regulatory landscape for blockchain-based charitable activities can be challenging.
Conclusion
By enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency, blockchain can help to build trust, maximize impact, and ensure that donations are used for their intended purposes. As the technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see even more innovative applications of blockchain in the charitable sector.
All good things start with good thoughts and brilliant ideas. Imagination is a great gift bestowed upon human beings, as all innovations, progress, and positive transformations are the fruit of this innate potential. Science fiction has gained a central role in current media. We cannot ignore how it has molded our society for the betterment and how the students get inspiration for deeper insights into whatever is taught about science in the academic environment.
Whether we talk of science-based novels and movies, they all serve as catalysts to enhance creative abilities and inquisitive nature. They not only make the individuals cautious about potential future challenges but also guide them toward possible solutions. Our imagination is part of our brain processes, so at times, what seems to be an out-of-the-world idea is a bridge between the past, present, and future.
Below is an elaboration of the role various science fiction novels and movies have played over the past years. They are pioneers in themselves for any contribution in the field of science, which was once predicted along with the life lessons given adding to the quality of human nature.
Sci-Fi Novels
Dune
Dune by Frank Herbert was first released in 1965. It is a science fiction, and the plot is based on the desert planet Arrakis which is the only source of a valuable substance named mélange, a spice significant for space travel, long life, and enhanced consciousness.
Dune offers deep insights into scientific progress, especially through its exploration of ecology, the relationship between technology and society, and the limitations of human control over nature and knowledge. The prime lessons of scientific progress given in the novel are awareness of sustainability and ecology, politics and science dependency on each other, genetic engineering, human influence on nature, comparison of science and intuition, and development of cautious behavior against too much reliance on technology.
The moral lessons are very rich, touching on diverse topics like leadership roles and the consequences of the actions of others. It explains how the misuse of power can lead to destruction and the leaders need to act with wisdom and their decisions have a long-lasting impact. Moreover, it elaborates on the responsibility of humans towards world protection and the use of prophetic knowledge for good.
The novel addresses the setbacks of colonialism well and promotes the lessons of self-discipline and growth. It gives a clear insight into self-sacrifice for getting good rewards rather than for personal gains. Respecting other cultures acts as an essence for moral growth as per the lessons imparted by the novel.
The Mystery of life isn’t a problem to solve but a Reality to experience. -Frank Herbert
Neuromancer
Neuromancer by William Gibson is a novel in the cyberpunk genre that was published in 1984. The story is about Case, a hacker who used to connect to cyberspace for data stealing. His nervous system was destroyed, so he may never be able to do that again. A suspicious figure, Armitage, offers a job in exchange for repairing his nervous system.
Armitage himself is an employee of an AI named Wintermute, which expects Case to merge it with another AI called Neuromancer so that the constraints of artificial intelligence may be transcended. Case is met by a high-skilled mercenary named Molly and many other figures with exceptional talents to bring Wintermute’s goals to accomplishment.
Necromancers have both direct and indirect contributions to scientific progress. It gives a vision of cyberspace and the internet, which inspired earlier technologists towards internet development and virtual reality. The novel explores advanced artificial intelligence systems addressing issues related to AI ethics. The story beautifully integrates cybernetics humans with computerized parts. The novel addresses concerns about data privacy, Tech monopolies, identity and consciousness, and the combination of the digital and physical world.
The novel brings key moral lessons into highlights, like the price of depending on technology, corporate control leading to exploitation, the concept of dehumanization via cybernetic enhancements, the ethical limits associated with AI, and questions about identity and human nature.
The future is there…looking back at us. Trying to make sense of the fiction we will have become.- William Gibson
The Left Hand of Darkness
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin was published in 1969. This science fiction novel is set on the planet Gethen which is part of a galactic federation of planets Ekumen. The story revolves around two characters Genly Ai, an inhabitant of Earth, and Estravan, a planet native. The people of Gethen are ambisexual as they are capable of playing both parts of either male and female during kemmer-a brief period of biological activity.
Otherwise, they are neither male nor female. Genly comes to Gethen with a mission to convince the leaders of Gethen to join the Ekumen-a combination of planets based on peace and cooperation, but he faces a lot of political interventions and misunderstandings. He ultimately wins after a long journey of negotiations with the leaders.
The novel contributes to scientific progress in several ways including gender studies and challenges linked, insights into anthropology, psychology, speculative biology, sociopolitical insights, and future thinking and science fiction.
The novel presents vast moral lessons encompassing empathy, friendship, loyalty, sacrifice for a big cause, dangers associated with fear and prejudice, acceptance, the ambiguous choices of morality, and the consequences of isolation.
Light is the left hand of darkness and darkness is the right hand of light- Ursula K. Le Guin.
Foundation
Foundation by Isaac Asimov was published in 1954. It investigates the rise and fall of a Galactic Empire, covering the whole galaxy, and the efforts to reduce the chaos associated. A mathematician, Hari Seldon, develops psychohistory-combination of mathematics, sociology, and history to predict the future of large populations. Seldon foresees a dark age of the Empire spanning up to 30,000 years, but he believes that through knowledge foundation, this could be reduced to 1,000 years.
Two Foundations were established at opposite ends of the galaxy which were aimed at restoration and preservation of human knowledge by a group of scientists and scholars. The novel ends on a positive note with the recovery of the Empire in various aspects, including trade and politics.
The novel covers diverse topics of scientific progress like psychohistory, predictive modeling, influence of knowledge and science, technological progress, crisis management, systems thinking, future planning, resilience, ethical questions about technology and science, and artificial intelligence with good governance.
The key moral lessons from the novel include the importance of education, resilience, limits of predictability, hope, commitment, the cyclical nature of cultures and civilizations, the active role of individuals and societies, rationality, faith, and the fruits of critical thinking.
Never let your sense of morals prevent you from doing what is right. -Isaac Asimov
Snow Crash
Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson was published in 1992. The story revolves around Hiro Protagonist who is a hacker and a sword-wielding pizza deliveryman. He unveils a huge conspiracy about a deadly digital cum biological drug named Snow Crash. Hiro, after a failed delivery of pizza to a Mafia, joins Y.T., a teenage courier who delivers packages with the aid of a futuristic skateboard. Both of them come across the Snow Crash virus, which could infect people in the real world as a drug and in the Metaverse as a digital virus.
Hiro gains knowledge about the virus to be part of the Sumerian language and religion with the ability to rewrite the human brain. This is done through the planning of L. Bob Rife, an influential industrialist, who turned the people into thoughtless individuals. He targets to control the population by controlling their brains. Hiro and Y.T. strive successfully to hinder the evil plans of Snow Crash.
Snow Crash has several scientific and technological contributions. It gives an early concept of the Metaverse and ideas for exploring cybersecurity and digital threats. Moreover, a mixture of linguistics and technology, its impact on cyberpunk and techno-culture, social dynamics, exploration of technology, and promotion of innovation in technology are well-pronounced throughout the plot.
The novel is a collection of a vast array of moral lessons like the dangers linked to technology control, the setbacks of unchecked corporate power, language as a powerful tool, the effects of virtual realities on human identity, ethical responsibilities of power, and the vital role of critical thinking.
All information looks like noise until you break the code-Hiro Protagonist
2001: A Space Odyssey
2001: A Space Odyssey by Arthur C. Clarke was published in 1968. The novel starts with scenes of prehistoric Africa, where a group of early hominids is striving for existence. They encounter an alien artifact (a monolith) that appears to influence their growth and development. The monolith activates a leap in their cognitive capacities which promotes the discovery of tools and weapons leading to human evolution.
2001: A Space Odyssey contributes to scientific progress in several key ways. It enhances the idea of promotion of space exploration, artificial intelligence, computer science, space travel, technology, evolutionary views, and philosophy.
2001: A Space Odyssey imparts prime lessons on the responsibilities of developing intelligence, the limitations of human understanding, ethics of technology use, adaption and human evolution, the quest for meaning, the search for purpose, the role of human agency, and the effects of isolation.
The more wonderful the means of communication, the more trivial, tawdry, or depressing its contents seemed to be. -Arthur C. Clarke
Hyperion
Hyperion by Dan Simmons was published in 1989. The story is about a group of seven pilgrims who recall their personal stories as they travel toward the distant world of Hyperion. The priest’s tale, the soldier’s tale, the Poet’s tale, the scholar’s tale, the detective’s tale, the Consul’s tale, and the Outcast’s Tale.
Hyperion indirectly contributes to scientific progress. It gives the readers inspiration for innovation, exploration of issues related to ethics and philosophy, public interest in science, and cultural reflections.
The novel offers a rich source of moral lessons like the complexity of human nature, the impact of technology, the search for meaning, the nature of sacrifice, the dual nature of good and evil, the consequences of power, the role of free will, and the reflection on responsibility.
Our survival may depend upon our talking to one another. -Dan Simmons
The Dispossessed
The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin was published in 1974. The novel is based on a dual planetary system. The story begins in Anarres, where the protagonist, Shevek, lives in a society based on anarcho-syndicalism. Their private property is abolished with the collective sharing of resources. Shevek explores society as having its own set of problems, such as bureaucratic inefficiencies and ideological dogmatism.
The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin contributes to scientific progress in various indirect ways. It inspires scientific inquiry, exploration of ethics related to science, critique of scientific isolationism, philosophy, and thinking about various disciplines.
The novel provides wide moral lessons like the complications of Utopias, the worth of freedom, the influence of societal structures, the ethics of scientific progress, the importance of sacrifices for bigger causes, and the connection between society and individuals.
Shoot for the top always. You know you’ll never make it, but what’s the fun if you don’t shoot for the top?-Ursula K. Le Guin.
Sci-Fi Films
Blade Runner
Blade Runner was directed by Ridley Scott in 1982. It is based on Philip K. Dick’s novel-Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? The story is based on the dystopian future of Los Angeles in the year 2019, and it gives the idea of synthetic humans being used for labor and entertainment.
The film explores scientific progress through several angles artificial intelligence, robotics, awareness of the misuse of technology, space explorations, and the dehumanization accompanying scientific progress.
The moral lessons given by the film are humanity, empathy, ethical responsibility, self-understanding, and responsibility linked to human evolution and artificial intelligence.
Dying for the right cause is the most human thing we can do-dialogue from Blade Runner.
The Matrix
The Matrix was directed by the Wachowskis in 1999. It pictures a dystopian future where humanity is trapped inside a simulated reality generated by intelligent machines. The protagonist, Neo, is a hacker who comes to know that his reality is an illusion. He gets introduced to the real world by a group of rebels led by Morpheus. He believes Neo to end the war between humans and machines.
The film adds to scientific progress through the exploration of virtual reality, artificial intelligence, machine learning, human-machine relations, and innovation in technology. The moral values added by the film are the war between good and evil, hope and courage, and forgiveness.
The Matrix pictures a dystopian future where humanity is trapped inside a simulated reality generated by intelligent machines.
The Terminator
The Terminator was directed by James Cameron in 1984. Like the ones mentioned above, it is set in a dystopian future where a superintelligent artificial intelligence (Skynet) initiates a nuclear apocalypse to end humanity. In this future, the remnants of humans get involved in a desperate war, and Terminator (cyborg) is sent to ensure success.
It contributes to scientific progress through the ideas of artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, innovation, and technological dependency. The moral lessons given by the film are the dangers of unchecked technology, the value of heroism, resilience, and hope, and the complex human nature.
This is the world now. Logged on, plugged in, all the time dialogue from the terminator
To conclude, science fiction is food for our imagination and brings deeper insights futuristic possibilities, and technological progress. It challenges societal norms through creative storytelling.
The automotive industry is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by the integration of blockchain and Artificial Intelligence (AI). These technologies are reshaping vehicle design, production, and ownership models while revolutionizing urban transportation systems. Whether you’re new to the field or an industry expert, this evolution promises to deliver smarter, more efficient, and sustainable mobility solutions.
Let’s begin with blockchain. At its core, blockchain is a decentralized digital ledger, a secure and transparent way to record transactions across a distributed network of computers. Picture it as a chain of digital blocks, each containing transaction records. Once a block is added, it’s virtually tamper-proof, ensuring a high level of security and transparency.
Blockchain in the Automotive Industry
How does blockchain apply to cars? Imagine buying a new vehicle and being able to trace its entire history from the manufacturing of individual parts to its assembly. Thanks to blockchain, this is already possible, reducing the risk of counterfeit parts and ensuring authenticity. Companies like Tesla and BMW are adopting blockchain to track vehicle components and maintenance records meticulously.
Blockchain is transforming the industry with;
Component Tracking: Every part of a vehicle can be traced from manufacturing to installation, ensuring authenticity and reducing counterfeit risks.
Tamper-proof Records: Maintenance and repair histories are securely stored on the blockchain, reducing fraud and improving resale value.
Supply ChainTransparency: Blockchain provides full visibility into the supply chain, ensuring that vehicle parts are ethically and sustainably sourced.
Beyond production lines, blockchain allows vehicle owners to securely manage all aspects of car ownership insurance, maintenance, and even parking. By creating trust in a decentralized, secure environment, blockchain eliminates intermediaries and cuts down costs.
Smart Contracts and Urban Mobility
As cities modernize, blockchain is leading the charge with smart contracts. These self-executing contracts, based on blockchain, are reshaping areas like insurance claims, ride-sharing, and fleet management.
Imagine never having to manually file an insurance claim. Using information from your car’s sensors, smart contracts may be able to automatically file and handle claims in the case of an accident. For example, if your car detects a collision, the smart contract could notify your insurance company, gather relevant data (such as location and damage estimates), and begin the claims process without you having to do anything.
Insurance Automation is a real-world application of Smart contracts, which can automate claims processing, reducing paperwork and fraud risks. Ride-sharing and Fleet Management also help in payments, service scheduling, and driver agreements can all be handled through smart contracts, and streamlining operations.
AI systems power self-driving cars by interpreting real-time data from sensors and cameras to navigate streets safely and efficiently.
Enter AI: The Power of Intelligence on the Road
Artificial intelligence refers to systems that can mimic human intelligence by learning from data and making decisions. In the automotive sector, AI is enhancing everything from design and production processes to our daily driving experiences.
For instance, AI-powered voice assistants in modern cars are becoming more intuitive. These assistants use natural language processing to understand commands but go beyond that by learning from your behavior. If you often ask for directions to your office on Monday mornings, the AI may start proactively suggesting the best route based on real-time traffic, without you even asking.
AI also plays a critical role in improving safety with Driver Monitoring Systems, using computer vision. AI can detect signs of drowsiness or distraction by analyzing facial expressions and eye movements. If the system senses danger, it can alert the driver or even take control in critical situations.
With Autonomous Driving, AI systems power self-driving cars by interpreting real-time data from sensors and cameras to navigate streets safely and efficiently.
The Synergy of Blockchain and AI
While blockchain and AI are impressive on their own, their combined power is what’s truly transformative. When combined, they have the power to completely transform transportation networks and individual cars. Picture a city where traffic flows smoothly, guided by AI algorithms that analyze real-time data shared securely through blockchain. Autonomous vehicles could communicate with smart infrastructure, optimizing routes and reducing congestion.
The fusion of AI and blockchain could reshape mobility with Optimized Traffic Systems, in which AI helps to predict and prevent congestion using real-time data. While blockchain ensures secure data sharing between vehicles and infrastructure.
Smart Ownership Models ensure fractional ownership of high-end vehicles could become a reality, with blockchain securely managing ownership rights and AI scheduling vehicle usage.
Innovative Ownership Models
Blockchain and AI enable new vehicle ownership models, such as fractional ownership. Instead of one person owning a car, several individuals could share ownership. Blockchain would securely record ownership stakes, while AI would handle scheduling and usage, ensuring fair access for all.
AI has the potential to guide traffic flows smoothly
Another exciting possibility is earning income from your autonomous vehicle when you’re not using it. AI could manage ride requests, routes, and maintenance, while blockchain securely records the trips and handles payments. This would allow vehicle owners to track earnings in real-time while contributing to more efficient urban transportation systems.
The Future of Insurance
The insurance industry is also being transformed by blockchain and AI. With tamper-proof driving records stored on the blockchain and analyzed by AI; insurance policies could become more personalized. Safe drivers could enjoy lower premiums, while risky driving behaviors could be discouraged through real-time feedback.
AI can analyze driving patterns and provide real-time feedback to help improve skills, potentially lowering insurance rates. Driving behavior stored on the blockchain ensures that insurance costs are based on how safely one drives, rather than just a demographic profile.
What’s Next?
Blockchain and AI are reshaping the automotive industry, but this transformation brings new challenges, especially around privacy and data security. As vehicles generate increasing amounts of data, balancing the benefits of efficiency with user privacy will be crucial.
The future of transportation will depend on the decisions made today by consumers, industry leaders, and policymakers. Will fully autonomous vehicles dominate the roads? How will we balance the convenience of data with the need for privacy and security?
Buckle Up for the Future
The road ahead is filled with possibilities. As blockchain and AI continue to drive innovation, we can look forward to safer roads, smarter cities, and more personalized driving experiences. The future of automotive technology is about more than just the cars we drive, it’s about reimagining mobility.
Buckle up, because the journey into a smarter, more connected future is just beginning.
Irfan Junejo, Jannat Mirza, Anum Junaid, Osamah Nasir— we are all familiar with Insta and TikTok content creators, but have you ever heard of blockchain content creators?
TBH, I have not heard of them before writing this article. Based on my research, these content creators are like Instagram and TikTok influencers yet the difference is centralization. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and others at our fingertips are centralized because we have easy access to each profile.
In contrast, you can’t visit blockchain content creators’ profiles and get all the details because they are decentralized. That’s why privacy breaches and copyright issues are not big problems there.
Blockchains’ being decentralized platforms has given new income streams to influencers, and content creators, including independent filmmakers. Such platforms allow them to craft personalized content and directly provide it to their viewers.
Although blockchain content creators are not as famous as our influencers, there are many benefits of blockchain that wannabe creators should know to decide which platform they want to pick if they want to be full-time creators.
No one can steal your content
How much of your content has been stolen by others on social media? I am sure, many influencers would nod their head.
Yet, this does not happen on blockchain platforms because this is a digital ledger and creators can record their ownership rights without any third party. Once the creator has recorded the rights, they cannot edit or manipulate it as it could be written and recorded once for one specific content, aiming to protect the intellectual property of filmmakers and creators.
You can reach your viewers directly
Artists spend billions to distribute their content, involving studios and dealers in the middle that sometimes won’t bring the profit they expect. However, blockchain saves that money by giving you a platform to distribute your content. You can earn from your targeted viewers when they buy and watch your content. You don’t need to spend extra money to reach the target audience.
Timely payment is better than fame
The digital and irreversible transactions on blockchain platforms have reduced the requirement of intermediaries to zero, leading to timely compensation to the artists and creators. The artists get direct payment from fans and can keep large royalties with them due to the peer-to-peer system.
You can sell a part of your content
People like John Harris upload content where you can pay money to watch the video and read a blog. Yet, blockchain platforms work differently. You can sell a share of your content to your viewers for cheap and earn some bitcoins from it.
Here is an example of Satoshi’s Treasure – a reality game divided into 1000 pieces. Each piece represents an NFT. If you buy one NFT, you can watch one segment or part of it.
Let’s fund together
Pitch decks and long meetings are traditional ways of getting finances for the film and content creation. Blockchain has introduced cool ways to get finances via Initial Coin Offering. They are crowdfunding methods where people can buy coins and get a share in content or sole ownership. Investors in the content pieces have a choice either to keep a coin or sell it.
You can see the example of The Happiest Place on The Earth – an upcoming movie by Greg Yaitanes and Blumhouse. They got investments through Foundation, a blockchain platform. They used the Initial NFT Offering (INO)- the film is divided into NFT-represented segments. Investors can buy an NFT to have a share in movies’ revenue.
What is the best Blockchain platform for content creators?
Like social media, there are bundles of blockchain platforms for content creators; mostly are community-based where you can share content with your followers. Yet, you need to find the right platform for yourself based on your niche because content creators do not only make reels. Some content creators are amazing writers and some are photographers. Here are a few platforms you can choose from for yourself.
Steemit is a blockchain-based social media where you can earn STEEM coins by publishing and curating content. It is a decentralized platform where users are selective about what they like, comment, and share. Yet, you can pay a small fee to make an account there.
Ta Ta Tu is an entertainment, auction, and e-commerce platform. It pays you with TTU tokens, based on the Ethereum (ETH) blockchain, for every share, like and comment. The platform also rewards your viewers with the same tokens. Ta Ta Tu has partnerships with different brands and companies, you can use its earned coins at nearby locations.
Film Chain is a platform for every Indie filmmaker who needs funding and content creators who want a platform to display their art pieces. They can use their IndieFund platform to gain funds, Community Voice to seek support in getting things done, Block Office for distribution, NFTpurge to market their work and HyreBlok to showcase their talent.
Singular DTV is a decentralized YouTube or Netflix of Blockchain world based on Operational Video On Demand or TVOD technology. With the setting of Hollywood cinema, Singular DTV will encourage the placement of user-generated content. Besides, the company produces its content, especially on science fiction.
If you are an advertiser, join Versaity – a blockchain-based advertising platform, consists of two parts: VeraViews and VeraWallet. VeraViews is an advertising ecosystem, based on Proof of View (PoV) fraud identification technology, ensuring to keep from copyright breaches. VeraWllet is a secure wallet based on a VRA token, you can buy and store.
Are Pakistani bloggers on Blockchain platforms?
Hira Sajid is a well-known blockchain content creator among several other content creators on Pakistan’s blockchain platform. A few have established themselves and others are in the learning phase – finding their way to Web3 or choosing the right platform.
Hira Sajid is a well-known blockchain content creator
Zeeshan Ahmed is an established blockchain content creator with more than 10 years of experience in the field. An engineer by profession, he got into this developing field when he acquired a Canadian client in 2021. He found his interest in it and made his way through his paid content, despite having limited resources to improve his craft and expand his knowledge.
Zeeshan informed Scientia Pakistan in an interview that there are 0.1 million blockchain content creators in Pakistan. According to him, a primary reason for fewer content creators is a lack of awareness of blockchain and its potential benefits, limited access to blockchain technology and tools, concerns about the security and privacy of blockchain platforms, and difficulty in monetizing content on the blockchain.
Expanding on the fourth point, he discussed various factors determining the earning potential on these platforms. Those factors are the type of content they create, the popularity of their content, the number of views and interactions they receive, and the value of the cryptocurrency tokens they earn.
When asked about his views of the growth of blockchain in Pakistan’s content creation world, he was hopeful that it will revolutionize the way content is created, distributed, and monetized because of the benefits of blockchain platforms that ensure transparency, censorship, increased control over content ownership and distribution, and brings new monetization opportunities.
Although Zeeshan was reluctant to share his future goals, the conversation with him highlighted the importance of choosing the right platform in the blockchain world.
Azhar Hingoro is the owner of Fujin Global – a web3-based company. While talking about his journey starting in 2010 when he bought his first Bitcoin to follow in his dad’s footsteps, he admitted that nobody could excel fast in blockchain. To explain it more, he shared his experience of losing around $17.5 million during the FTX collapse.
For early 20s and amateur content creators who want to utilize blockchain platforms, Azhar suggested 4 platforms: Twitter and Steemit for socializing, Open Sea for trading NFTs, and Binance for Crypto token exchange. Networking with fellow content creators is crucial for expanding skills and building your audience.
Blockchain is always associated with AI and computers, but it is another world like social media. You can be a cool content creator, gain expertise in your niche, and earn tokens and money. Whether you are a writer, videographer, or infographic maker, first you need to understand your niche and audience, craft unique content, be consistent in your work, and connect with others. Invest time in selecting the right platform.
Initially, join platforms that reward people who like and comment on different posts to earn from your activity. Give importance to knowledge and expertise that leads you to monetize your content.
And keep one thing in mind. You cannot become a millionaire in a day!
The internet has become a lifeline for global commerce, innovation, and communication in the digital age. However, as nations grapple with cybersecurity threats and the need for content control, many have implemented national internet firewalls equipped with Deep Packet Inspection (DPI). While these measures aim to protect and regulate, they also bring significant challenges that impact the economy, freelancers, remote workers, the information technology sector, education, research, and various industries.
National Internet Firewall and Deep Packet Inspection
National Internet Firewall serves as a digital barrier between a country’s internal network and the external global Internet. These systems are designed to monitor and control the flow of information, blocking access to certain websites, filtering content, and sometimes censoring data deemed harmful or politically sensitive. A critical component of many of these firewalls is Deep Packet Inspection (DPI).
Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) goes beyond traditional filtering methods by analyzing the actual content of data packets rather than just their headers. This allows for granular control and monitoring of internet traffic, enabling the detection of specific applications and enforcing detailed policies. While DPI can improve security and content management, it also introduces complexities that can impact various sectors.
Economic Impact in the Digital Age
National firewalls and DPI can slow down internet speeds due to increased latency and bandwidth throttling. This slowdown can affect business operations, particularly for companies reliant on real-time data and cloud-based services. The inefficiencies caused by such controls can lead to reduced productivity and higher operational costs.
The regulatory environment plays a crucial role in investment decisions for businesses, especially startups and tech firms. Stringent internet controls can deter potential investors concerned about market access and operational hurdles. This deterrence can stifle innovation and limit economic growth in sectors heavily reliant on digital infrastructure.
Impact on Freelancers and Remote Workers
Freelancers and remote workers are particularly vulnerable to the effects of internet firewalls and DPI. These professionals often rely on seamless internet access to perform tasks, communicate with clients, and collaborate on projects. Slower internet speeds and restricted access to online tools can hinder their productivity and limit their ability to secure and complete contracts.
Global Collaboration across borders is crucial for remote workers. Internet restrictions can disrupt access to international networks and platforms, affecting their ability to participate in global projects and communicate with clients or colleagues.
Freelancers and remote workers are particularly vulnerable to the effects of internet firewalls and DPI.
Effects on the Information Technology Sector
The IT sector thrives on innovation and the free flow of information. Firewalls and DPI can inhibit the development and deployment of new technologies by imposing restrictions on software and applications. The inability to access or test certain technologies can delay progress and reduce competitive advantage.
While DPI can enhance security, it can also create vulnerabilities if not properly managed. The increased complexity of network management might expose systems to new types of cyber threats, especially if DPI tools are not up to date, or correctly configured.
Implications for Education and Research
Educational institutions and researchers rely heavily on Internet resources to access academic journals, research papers, and collaborative tools. National firewalls and DPI can restrict access to essential information and databases, impeding academic research progress and limiting educational opportunities.
Moreover, more often than not, the global nature of modern research requires collaboration across borders. Restrictions on internet access can hinder collaborative projects and reduce the ability of researchers to share findings and work with international partners.
Broader Industry and Academic Impacts
Industries such as finance, media, and e-commerce heavily dependent on uninterrupted internet access can face operational difficulties and sector-specific challenges due to firewalls and DPI. Slowdowns can affect transaction times, content delivery, and overall customer experience.
In academia, access to diverse viewpoints and uncensored information is essential for robust intellectual debate and research. Restrictions on internet access can limit academic freedom and the quality of educational content.
Implementing national internet firewalls and Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) systems requires a delicate balance between enhancing security and sustaining economic vitality. While these tools offer benefits in national security and regulatory control, they also present challenges that could hinder economic growth, disrupt business operations, and affect freelancers, remote workers, and sectors reliant on the free flow of information.
Industries such as finance, media, and e-commerce are heavily dependent on uninterrupted internet access. (REUTERS/File)
Pakistan’s Firewall Misadventure and Its Consequences
Amid the global economic crisis and inflation, Pakistan is battling several wars on economic and political fronts. With universities lacking funds even for the employees’ salaries and the government seeking financial assistance from the IMF, vast amounts of money are being wasted on counterproductive initiatives.
One glaring example is the installation of an internet firewall and a Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) system. Instead of prioritizing the welfare of the people, developing human resources, or reducing national debt, billions are being funneled into projects that harm the country’s prospects.
According to the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), this firewall implementation costs an estimated 30 billion PKR and has resulted in potential losses of up to $300 million. Beyond these immediate financial losses, the decision has damaged Pakistan’s reputation, as a potential tech hub, among international clients, investors, and even its tech innovators.
Among the ongoing political crises, red tape culture, corruption, a complicated tax system, and a lack of confidence in the judiciary, Pakistan ranked lowest in global livability and ease of doing business indices. These misguided policies only exacerbate the country’s economic and technological lag.
Pakistani universities already face challenges in developing research collaborations and accessing large data for research. With the slowdown or shutdown of the internet or social media websites, our policymakers are making it even more difficult for them to collaborate with other institutions or market their work for better recognition, which could help attract research funding.
As a developing nation with a low Human Development Index, Pakistan should invest in opportunities for its people, particularly its skilled youth— at least Pakistani policymakers shouldn’t kill the opportunities that our skilled youth especially IT freelancers are creating for themselves.
In a world racing towards breakthroughs like Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), Blockchain, electric vehicles, the Internet of Things (IoT), and space exploration, Pakistan is being held back by restrictive policies, a justice system with questionable credibility, and high electricity costs due to unfavorable contracts with independent power producers (IPPs). Most troubling of all, fundamental rights and freedoms are being sidelined in the process. Without significant changes to these policies, Pakistan’s hope for a prosperous and competitive future remains bleak.
In 2013, India’s Mangalyaan mission, officially known as the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), captivated the world. Launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Mangalyaan successfully placed a satellite into Mars’ orbit on its first attempt, a feat only a few other nations achieved. This extraordinary accomplishment was realized on a modest budget of approximately $74 million, earning it the distinction of the most cost-effective Mars mission ever. Dr. K. Radhakrishnan, former chairman of ISRO, explained, “ISRO’s philosophy is cost-effectiveness. They adopted a modular approach, utilizing available hardware, and use their workhorse launch vehicle PSLV, with minimal modifications. Their schedule-driven approach prevents cost overruns.” This mission not only showcased India’s growing prowess in space technology but also demonstrated the potential for innovative, budget-conscious solutions in space exploration
Similarly, Brazil’s journey in space exploration has been marked by creativity and resilience. The Brazilian National Institute for Space Research (INPE) has focused on developing satellites that address critical environmental monitoring and communication needs. Brazil’s Amazonia-1 satellite, launched in 2021, exemplifies this focus. Designed to monitor deforestation in the Amazon rainforest, Amazonia-1 enhances Brazil’s ability to manage and protect one of the world’s most vital ecosystems. These stories from India and Brazil underscore the significant contributions of developing countries to the global space industry and highlight the importance of ingenuity and efficiency in achieving space exploration goals.
Developed Countries: Pioneers of Space Exploration
Space exploration is often synonymous with cutting-edge technology and vast financial investments in developed nations. These countries are equipped with immense budgets, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and highly skilled workforces, enabling them to pursue audacious goals and redefine the limits of human achievement.
NASA stands at the forefront of space exploration, with ambitious projects like the Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon and establish a sustainable presence there by the decade’s end. Artemis represents a new era of lunar exploration, with plans to explore more of the Moon’s surface than ever before and to develop technologies that will enable human missions to Mars. The program’s goals are supported by extensive funding, advanced research facilities, and international partnerships, including contributions from the European Space Agency (ESA), the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA).
The European Space Agency (ESA) continues to make significant strides in space science and exploration. Missions such as ExoMars, which aimed to search for signs of life on Mars, and the James Webb Space Telescope, a collaboration with NASA and the Canadian Space Agency, are designed to deepen our understanding of the universe. ESA’s programs benefit from its member states’ collective expertise and resources, allowing it to undertake complex and groundbreaking missions. However, ESA’s ExoMars mission, which aimed to search for signs of life on Mars, faced setbacks and was ultimately canceled.
The European Space Agency (ESA) continues to make significant strides in space science and exploration. The pictorial shows ESA’s science fleet of Solar System explorers. Credit: ESA
Challenges Faced by Developed Countries
Despite advantages, developed nations also face challenges in space exploration. The high costs of ambitious missions can strain budgets and require difficult trade-offs. Additionally, political shifts can impact funding and strategic priorities, sometimes leading to delays or cancellations of crucial projects. Nevertheless, these countries’ robust infrastructure and extensive experience enable them to navigate these challenges and continue to push the boundaries of space exploration.
Developing Countries: Innovation Amid Constraints
In contrast, developing countries face significant constraints yet have made remarkable strides in space exploration. These nations often grapple with limited budgets, resource constraints, and the need to prioritize immediate social and economic issues. Despite these challenges, their space programs continue to thrive through innovation, international cooperation, and strategic investments in technology.
India’s ISRO has become a symbol of frugal engineering and innovative problem-solving. The Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) is a testament to ISRO’s ability to maximize limited resources, achieving interplanetary success on a shoestring budget. Following the success of Mangalyaan, ISRO launched the Chandrayaan missions, aimed at exploring the Moon. According to the Economic Times, Chandrayaan-3 required almost 10 years of work, culminating in a successful soft landing on the lunar south pole on August 23, 2023, after its launch on July 14, 2023.
This achievement provides valuable data and reinforces India’s growing capabilities in space technology. Looking ahead, ISRO plans to launch Gaganyaan, its first crewed space mission, showcasing its ambition to join the ranks of nations capable of human spaceflight.
Meanwhile, Brazil’s INPE has focused on satellite development to address environmental monitoring and communication needs. The Amazonia-1 satellite, launched in 2021, exemplifies Brazil’s commitment to leveraging space technology for sustainable development and environmental conservation. By providing real-time data on deforestation and land use changes in the Amazon rainforest, Amazonia-1 supports efforts to protect one of the world’s most critical ecosystems. Brazil’s focus on practical applications of space technology highlights the importance of addressing pressing societal issues through innovation.
Pakistan’s SUPARCO
Despite budgetary constraints, Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) aims to enhance its space capabilities. SUPARCO focuses on satellite development for communication, weather forecasting, and agricultural monitoring, reflecting its commitment to leveraging space technology for national development. While SUPARCO’s resources and budget are more limited than ISRO’s, its efforts in fostering space research and applications are commendable. Pakistan’s space endeavors are driven by a vision to use space technology for socioeconomic development.
SUPARCO has made significant strides in space technology, beginning with commissioning its first satellite, Badr-I, in 1990. Subsequently, it developed and launched the indigenously built Badr-B satellite in 2001, marking a milestone in Pakistan’s space capabilities.
In a recent development, a small Pakistani satellite imaged the sun and moon from lunar orbit, accompanying China’s Chang’e-6 mission to sample the moon’s far side. Launched on May 3, Chang’e-6 aims to collect samples from the Apollo crater on the lunar far side and deliver them to Earth for analysis. This collaboration highlights Pakistan’s growing involvement in international space missions and its expanding role in space exploration efforts.
Paksat-1R – a communications satellite operated by the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission. Credits: SUPARCO
International Collaboration and Support
Developing countries also play a significant role in space cooperation by participating in United Nations entities such as the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). They actively support regional and international space application programs with cash and in-kind resources, contributing to a collaborative global space effort. These partnerships enable developing nations to access advanced technology, share knowledge, and participate in joint missions, thereby enhancing their capabilities and fostering a more inclusive approach to space exploration.
Future Space Missions of Developing Countries
The future holds promising prospects for space programs in developing countries. India plans to launch Gaganyaan, its first crewed space mission, demonstrating its ambition to join the ranks of nations capable of human spaceflight. Brazil is expanding its satellite capabilities with more advanced environmental monitoring systems. The UAE has made significant strides with its Mars missions, such as the successful Hope Mars Mission.
Through SUPARCO’s Space Program Vision- 2047 commenced in July 2014, Pakistan aims to launch five Geostationary orbit (GEO) satellites and six Low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites by 2047. The Program intends to replace SUPARCO’s existing satellites in orbit, develop new communication and remote sensing satellites, and conduct space science and technology research.
The space industry is a powerful indicator of a nation’s technological prowess and vision for the future. Developed countries continue to lead with ambitious projects and substantial investments, but developing countries are increasingly making their mark with innovative, cost-effective solutions. By fostering international collaboration and sharing technological advancements, the global community can promote a more inclusive and cooperative approach to space exploration, benefiting all of humanity.
According to a recent study published in Research Notes of the American Astronomical Society, a team of scientists studying “mini-moon events”, discovered a tiny asteroid headed towards Earth, during routine monitoring on August 7
Published by space researchers Carlos de la Fuente Marcos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos, the study said that the asteroid was named 2024 PT5.
The study titled ‘A Two-month Mini moon: 2024 PT5 Captured by Earth from September to November’, states: “Asteroid 2024 PT5 was discovered on August 7, 2024, by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System observing with the instrument located in Sutherland, South Africa.”
The scientists observed the peculiar dynamic properties of this asteroid from the Arjuna asteroid belt, a group of asteroids trailing the Earth and orbiting the Sun, 93 million miles away.
The asteroid 2024 PT5 will be drawn by the Earth’s gravitational pull, becoming a “mini-moon”, and will orbit the planet for about two months, from September 29 to November 25, before it returns to its home in the asteroid belt.
Photo Credit: The New York Times
Researchers predict that the 33-foot-long asteroid will make a horseshoe-shaped orbit around Earth and exit the orbit before completing a full rotation around the Earth.
The study adds that the asteroid is expected to return to the planet’s orbit in 2055. However, the mini moon will not be visible to the naked eye or with amateur telescopes, due to its small size, according to the study.
Marcos added that professional-grade telescopes with a diameter of at least 30 inches and a charge-coupled device or complementary metal oxide semiconductor detector, will be needed to view the mini-moon.
Women’s presence in non-traditional sectors like energy remains minimal. A 2018 baseline study by the Women in Energy Network of Pakistan reveals that women represent just 4 percent of the workforce across 9 power utilities in the country.
Additionally, female students make up only 25 percent of those pursuing BSc and MSc degrees. Women occupy a mere 3 percent of technical roles in the 3 Independent Power Producers examined in the study.
A recent study shows that the Water and Power Development Authority employs 6 percent of women, with only 3.3 percent in technical positions. In distribution companies, women hold just 2 percent of the jobs, while the National Transmission and Dispatch Company (NTDC) shows only 3 percent of its female staff in engineering roles.
Dr. Sara Sultan broke barriers by joining an untraditional field of energy system engineering and achieved several remarkable milestones.
In such a challenging landscape, Dr. Sara Sultan not only broke barriers by joining an untraditional field of energy system engineering but achieved several remarkable milestones.
Born and raised in Haripur, KPK, Sara completed her Master’s in Energy System Engineering from USPCASE NUST. She attended a semester exchange program at Oregon State University through a USAID project.
After graduating from USPCASE in 2017, she earned a prestigious fellowship by the U.S. Department of Energy to work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) – the world’s biggest energy lab. She joined the Bredesen Center at the University of Tennessee (UTK) to pursue a Ph.D. in Energy Science and Engineering.
During her Ph.D., Sara’s groundbreaking research on thermal energy storage garnered numerous accolades. In 2022, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) honored her as a Linda Latham Scholar. That same year, she earned a spot as an innovator in Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory’s tech-to-market accelerator program, IMPEL.
Her research also captivated audiences at various conferences, earning her multiple nominations and awards for best student papers at the Herrick Conferences at Purdue University, Duke Energy Week, and the Southeastern Energy Conference at Georgia Tech.
Sara, currently a senior staff member in the Buildings Standards Branch of the California Energy Commission (CEC), leads the Building Envelope program, overseeing compliance and rule-making for California’s building energy code.
Sara’s innovative research on integrating thermal energy storage (TES) with heat pumps revolutionized her field. She explored novel system configurations to eliminate the need for additional space and controls. Collaborating with top scientists at ORNL through DOE-funded research, Sara developed and validated the first modular integrated system through full-scale experiments, aiming to set a new standard for TES technology. Her entrepreneurial spirit further led her to develop business models and engage in initiatives like ICORPS and Jump into STEM.
In 2022, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) honored Dr Sara as a Linda Latham Scholar.
Beyond her research, Sara left a mark at the University of Tennessee through leadership and volunteer roles. As a Graduate Student Senator, she wrote legislation and advocated for initiatives including student housing and stipends, faculty-student mentoring programs, and the Office of IT Research support. She also served on the Student Advisory Council and mentored Bredesen Center students. Celebrated as a distinguished alumna, Sara delivered invited talks at the Bredesen Center and USPCASE NUST.
Dr. Sultan graduated with distinction from her Ph.D. program. In recognition of her academic and professional achievements, she was honored as the “2023 Volunteer of Distinction” by the provost. She proudly became the first Pakistani and NUST alumnus to graduate from the University of Tennessee – Oak Ridge Innovation Institute (UT-ORII).
Before joining the CEC, Sara served as a consultant to state energy efficiency councils in Rhode Island and Connecticut. She also founded SHEnergy LLC, an organization dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders, with a focus on women in STEM.
Outside of her professional pursuits as a scientist and entrepreneur, Sara channels her creativity into writing and exploring the outdoors. She enjoys exploring scenic beaches and national parks, reflecting on her adventures through cinematography and blogging. She is also a mother to a 1-year-old boy, who keeps her on her toes.
A temperature rise brings physical and mental risks. In Pakistan, the effects of heat waves on mental health are an emerging crisis.
While much attention is given to the physical dangers of heat waves, the impact on mental health is often overlooked. Emerging studies are increasingly highlighting the severe mental health risks posed by rising temperatures. A recent analysis published in Nature Climate Change reveals that heatwaves and temperature spikes are not only linked to increased hospital admissions for mental health disorders but are also associated with higher rates of substance abuse and aggressive behavior [1].
The study indicates that for every 1°C rise in temperature, there is a significant uptick in the prevalence of mood disorders and anxiety-related conditions [2]. This growing body of evidence underscores the pressing need to consider mental health as a critical aspect of climate change adaptation strategies as the psychological toll of extreme heat becomes more evident. In the sweltering heat, not just our bodies suffer—our minds are also at risk.” Heat waves can exacerbate existing mental health conditions and even trigger new ones.
Increased Anxiety and Stress
During heat waves, many people experience heightened levels of anxiety and stress. Dr. Asim Shah, a professor and executive vice chair of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Baylor College of Medicine, highlighted that prolonged sun and heat can alter serotonin levels—a neurotransmitter crucial for regulating mood, behavior, and sleep [3].
These changes in serotonin can result in mood swings, including increased feelings of anger, frustration, and irritability, as shown in previous studies. When the heat is relentless, so is the stress. The discomfort and disruption caused by extreme temperatures can lead to irritability, restlessness, and a sense of helplessness. “The suffocating heat can make life overwhelming, turning small problems into big ones.”
Aggravation of Mental Health Disorders
The Climate, Aggression, and Self-control in Humans (CLASH) model suggests that higher temperatures can undermine self-control and future planning, heightening aggression and increasing the likelihood of violent behavior [4]. Economic factors also play a significant role in this dynamic. Climate change drives more frequent extreme weather events like heatwaves, droughts, and floods, and these disasters can lead to food shortages and economic setbacks, hitting vulnerable communities the hardest.
The resulting rise in income inequality and poverty can foster feelings of resentment and dissatisfaction, potentially fueling aggressive and violent behavior. For those already living with mental health disorders, heat waves can be particularly challenging. “The heat can push those on the edge, over it.” Conditions like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder can worsen in extreme heat, leading to more severe symptoms.
“When your mind is fragile, the heat can be the final straw.” Heat can lower our tolerance for frustration, leading to more frequent and intense arguments and, in some cases, violent behavior [5]. “In the heat of the moment, the heat itself can be the trigger.”
During heat waves, many people experience heightened levels of anxiety and stress.
Vulnerable Populations
Certain groups are more susceptible to the mental health effects of heat waves. “The heat doesn’t discriminate, but some minds are more vulnerable than others.” These groups include:
The elderly; are more prone to heat-related stress and cognitive decline.
People with pre-existing mental health conditions may see their symptoms worsen.
Those living in poverty often lack access to cooling and are more exposed to the stress of heat.
Urban Heat Islands and Mental Health
The “urban heat island effect” can intensify heat waves in densely populated areas. “In the concrete jungles, the heat doesn’t just bake the streets—it bakes the mind.” The lack of green spaces and the abundance of heat-absorbing materials like asphalt can make cities much hotter than surrounding areas, exacerbating the mental health impacts[6].
Coping Strategies
“When the heat is unbearable, it’s not just about cooling down your body—it’s about cooling down your mind.” To mitigate the mental health impacts of heat waves, it’s important to:
Ensure access to cool environments through air conditioning, fans, or public cooling centers.
Dehydration can worsen mental health symptoms, so drinking plenty of water is crucial.
Social isolation can intensify the mental strain of heat waves. Keep in touch with vulnerable friends, family, and neighbors.
Future Outlook
As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of heat waves in Pakistan, the mental health impacts will likely grow. “The future is hotter—and so are the challenges for our minds.” Addressing the mental health effects of extreme heat will require a comprehensive approach that includes public health strategies, community support, and individual coping mechanisms.
As Pakistan faces rising temperatures, understanding and addressing the mental health impacts of extreme heat is crucial. “In the battle against the heat, protecting our minds is just as important as protecting our bodies.”
References
Climate change debates. Nature Climate Change, 2024. 14(8): p. 769-769.
Rony, M.K.K. and H.M. Alamgir, High temperatures on mental health: Recognizing the association and the need for proactive strategies-A perspective. Health Sci Rep, 2023. 6(12): p. e1729.
Lambert M, Jambon S, Depauw S, David-Cordonnier MH. Targeting Transcription Factors for Cancer Treatment. Molecules. 2018 Jun 19;23(6):1479. doi: 10.3390/molecules23061479. PMID: 29921764; PMCID: PMC6100431.
Van Lange, P.A.M., M.I. Rinderu, and B.J. Bushman, Aggression and violence around the world: A model of CLimate, Aggression, and Self-control in Humans (CLASH). Behav Brain Sci, 2017. 40: p. e75.
Tonnaer, F., M. Cima, and A. Arntz, Explosive Matters: Does Venting Anger Reduce or Increase Aggression? Differences in Anger Venting Effects in Violent Offenders. Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma, 2020. 29(5): p. 611-627.
Farshid, A., et al., Urban green space cooling effect in cities. Heliyon, 2019. 5(4): p. e01339.
The twenty-first century has ushered in an era of unprecedented technological advancements, transforming virtually every aspect of human life. From health sciences to social sciences, geographical sciences to space exploration, and from mathematical analysis to revolutionary technological advancements— the dimension of every science and field of knowledge has changed remarkably in many ways.
Information technology
Information Technology platforms are revolutionizing communication and cloud computing has facilitated in diverse domains. Information technology has taken over the industrial, educational, and health sectors. It has transformed the ways of communication and tasks we perform. IT has revolutionized remarkably, propelling humanity into an era of innovative technologies.1
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning have emerged as game changers and they have been recently integrated into every field of knowledge, including healthcare, finance, transportation, and industry. Artificial intelligence enables computers to mimic human intelligence. With that, the machines perform better than before, more efficiently and conveniently more or less like humans do.1
Over the past few years, AI has been trying to pave its way smoothly into our lives and we are, somehow, getting dependent upon it. For instance, programming professionals have begun using GitHub’s Copilot, an AI tool that turns natural language prompts into coding sequences to expedite the programming process. Writers are using Open AI’s GPT-3 or AI Gemini or similar autoregressive language models that use deep learning to generate human-like content.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning have emerged as game changers and they have been recently integrated into every field of knowledge, including healthcare, finance, transportation, and industry.
A few years ago, AI programs were in their infancy. Now they have matured overwhelmingly as becoming ubiquitous tools in coding and writing. Novel techniques like deep learning, can run complex AI models to solve the most difficult problems. The ones who work in technology-centric fields are quite well aware of the explosive capabilities of Artificial Intelligence, but the layman, at large is still completely unaware of the AI’s depth and potential. 2
The current state of AI
In this technology-dominated era, the maturity level of AI is far beyond control where it has been largely integrated into various industries and sectors increasing its efficacy to the next level. Companies widely incorporate AI tools for recommendation systems, fraud detection in monetary systems, predictive analysis, risk assessment, algorithmic trading, and process automation.3
Novel Technologies in Global Health
Disease Diagnostics
AI like all other fields, has also revolutionized health care and the medical industry to some extent. Disease diagnostics and drug designing have successfully incorporated viable AI tools for better efficacy and quick results.3
Huge amounts of medical data are used to identify several patterns for accurate predictions. Early detection of diseases by improving diagnostic accuracy and providing personalized treatment plans have largely become realistic and achievable goals with AI and machine learning algorithms.7
Telemedicine
Telemedicine, wearable health gadgets, body-worn sensors, and monitors can provide data about the patient to physicians at a distance of miles. This novel technology has enabled physicians to conduct their trials and procedures beyond their geographic limits.
In this situation, patients require a personal device or gadget to facilitate their audio-video communication with physicians. Assistant specialist technicians are responsible for implementing this technology on its usage and resolving any errors that may arise during check-ups or follow-ups.4
Telemedicine does not replace face-to-face consultation when needed but instead complements it.6
Advancements in biotechnology
Advances in biotechnology and genomics have led to personalized medicine, where treatments have taken a revolutionary turn. Mass production of medicine and required food products is now possible due to the use of cutting-edge technology in genetics. GM (genetically modified) crops, insulin, cancer treatment drugs, and stem cell technology are no longer a dream due to advancements in biotechnology.4
Advances in biotechnology and genomics have led to personalized medicine, where treatments have taken a revolutionary turn.
Bioprinting
Bioprinting has already set its firm ground in the biotech industry. Specialized 3D printers have made it possible to synthesize biomaterials like organs from cells or tissues. The principle of bioprinting is very similar to traditional 3D printing. Organic substances are superimposed as different layers until a three-dimensional object is created.5
Robotics and Automation in Surgeries
So far, we have an idea of robots performing multiple tasks in the corporate sector, but now, with deep machine learning and AI tools, robots have replaced direct human involvement in health care, medicine, and even surgeries. Surgical procedures are now possible with robotic-assisted technologies. Surgeons can use robots to perform delicate, minimally invasive operations with rapid recovery, reduced complications, and improved outcomes for patients.7
Advancements in Environmental Sciences
Innovations in the use of Renewable Energy like solar, wind, and other sources are reducing the use of fossil fuels, addressing good impacts on climate change.
Innovative Ideas for Renewable Energy Resources
Environmental researchers and companies strive to build more efficient solar power panels, and wind turbines, and reform existing technologies, to find new ways to harness clean energy. The prototypes of a few alternatives like bladeless wind turbines and flying wind devices are underway and the formulation of renewable technologies in hydropower, flying turbines, float Voltaics, and floating solar farms are also in consideration.8
Lithium Glass batteries
Moreover, apart from capturing renewable energy, exciting research has been made in storage technologies through the development of lithium glass batteries that will pave ways to mitigate the problem of intermittent renewable energy and propel the industry forward.8
Lithium battery. Image: Saft
Space Sciences
Space Exploration Companies are making space travel more affordable and accessible, with groundbreaking discoveries and visionary ambitions. Recently, the burst of cosmic discoveries after the incorporation of JWST (James Webb Space Telescope) has opened the wide frontiers of space research and space travel.
Quantum Computing
Quantum technology exploits the quantum properties i.e. entanglement, superposition, and teleportation exhibited by the sub-atomic particles. Quantum computing uses the principles of quantum mechanics to provide promising ways to solve complex problems that classical computers or even today’s supercomputers cannot solve. Quantum technology is also used to develop quantum navigation systems, cryptography, and communication systems. 9
Quantum computing uses the principles of quantum mechanics and is providing promising ways to solve complex problems
Blockchain Technology
Another breakthrough in streamlining monetary systems and ensuring transparent, secure, and decentralized mechanisms. This technology has gained significant importance because it offers an immutable ledger to ensure secure transactions, smart contracts, and data storage.
Formerly it was known due to its association with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Now it is widely known to navigate the proficiency of finance industries, health care, voting machinery, and supply chain to the next level by eliminating intermediaries reducing fraud, and increasing transparency.10
Technological achievements and milestones have miraculously transformed the way we live, work, and interact with the world around us. Artificial Intelligence has surpassed most of our natural capacities, the Internet of Things has removed the concept of distance, Cloud computing, Blockchain technology, and quantum mechanics have turned the world upside down, presenting new possibilities and challenges. All these advanced technologies are redefining our lives and shaping our future on a digital basis.
