"I tested positive for Covid"- Hunter Woodhall gives a heartbreaking update ahead of the commencement of the Paralympics

Hunter Woodhall on his performance at the U.S Paralympic Track and Field Trials

TRACK & FIELD: APR 30 Penn Relays - Source: Getty

Hunter Woodhall put forward the best performances of his career at the U.S. Paralympic Track and Field Trials held in July . He registered his personal best performances in both the men's T62 100m and the 400m.

He set a new American record in the men's T62 100m as well as broke his personal best in the 400m that he was targeting since a long time. He took to Instagram to reflect on his performance.

"46.09 new PR. I have been chasing my PR for years. So many roadblocks, so many challenges. I can’t explain how good it feels to know I’m the best I’ve ever been. Even showing up with tough conditions racing at 9am with a big headwind on the backstretch. I heard Tara yell “execute” and I locked back in," he wrote.

"After not being able to put it together in a race for so long you start to think you might have “lost it”. At one point last season I even told Tara I was ready to quit. I can’t thank my team enough, they believed in me when I didn’t have a belief in myself," he added.

Furthermore, he thanked his wife and team for their unwavering support and encouragement.

Not long back, Hunter Woodhall's wife Tara Davis-Woodhall won gold in the long jump event at the Paris Olympics, clearing a distance of 7.1m in the final.

 Generative AI hype is ending – and now the technology might actually become useful

Less than two years ago, the launch of ChatGPT started a generative AI frenzy. Some said the technology would trigger a fourth industrial revolution, completely reshaping the world as we know it.

In March 2023, Goldman Sachs predicted 300 million jobs would be lost or degraded due to AI. A huge shift seemed to be underway.

Eighteen months later, generative AI is not transforming business. Many projects using the technology are being cancelled, such as an attempt by McDonald’s to automate drive-through ordering which went viral on TikTok after producing comical failures. Government efforts to make systems to summarise public submissions and calculate welfare entitlements have met the same fate.

So what happened?

The AI hype cycle

Like many new technologies, generative AI has been following a path known as the Gartner hype cycle, first described by American tech research firm Gartner.

This widely used model describes a recurring process in which the initial success of a technology leads to inflated public expectations that eventually fail to be realised. After the early “peak of inflated expectations” comes a “trough of disillusionment”, followed by a “slope of enlightenment” which eventually reaches a “plateau of productivity”.

The Conversation, CC BY

A Gartner report published in June listed most generative AI technologies as either at the peak of inflated expectations or still going upward. The report argued most of these technologies are two to five years away from becoming fully productive.

Many compelling prototypes of generative AI products have been developed, but adopting them in practice has been less successful. A study published last week by American think tank RAND showed 80% of AI projects fail, more than double the rate for non-AI projects.

Shortcomings of current generative AI technology

The RAND report lists many difficulties with generative AI, ranging from high investment requirements in data and AI infrastructure to a lack of needed human talent. However, the unusual nature of GenAI’s limitations represents a critical challenge.

For example, generative AI systems can solve some highly complex university admission tests yet fail very simple tasks. This makes it very hard to judge the potential of these technologies, which leads to false confidence.

After all, if it can solve complex differential equations or write an essay, it should be able to take simple drive-through orders, right?

A recent study showed that the abilities of large language models such as GPT-4 do not always match what people expect of them. In particular, more capable models severely underperformed in high-stakes cases where incorrect responses could be catastrophic.

These results suggest these models can induce false confidence in their users. Because they fluently answer questions, humans can reach overoptimistic conclusions about their capabilities and deploy the models in situations they are not suited for.

Experience from successful projects shows it is tough to make a generative model follow instructions. For example, Khan Academy’s Khanmigo tutoring system often revealed the correct answers to questions despite being instructed not to.

So why isn’t the generative AI hype over yet?

There are a few reasons for this.

First, generative AI technology, despite its challenges, is rapidly improving, with scale and size being the primary drivers of the improvement.

Research shows that the size of language models (number of parameters), as well as the amount of data and computing power used for training all contribute to improved model performance. In contrast, the architecture of the neural network powering the model seems to have minimal impact.

Large language models also display

 XRP Set for Parabolic Move Against Bitcoin, Here’s Why

### XRP Set for Parabolic Move Against Bitcoin: Here’s Why

**Introduction**

In the volatile world of cryptocurrency, the interplay between various digital assets often leads to significant price movements. One current topic of intense speculation is the potential for XRP, the native token of the Ripple network, to experience a parabolic move against Bitcoin (BTC). Analysts and investors are closely watching this potential shift, with various factors suggesting that XRP could significantly outperform Bitcoin in the near future. This article delves into the reasons behind the anticipated parabolic move and the broader implications for the cryptocurrency market.

**Understanding XRP and Bitcoin**

**XRP**: XRP is the cryptocurrency used within the Ripple network, designed to facilitate fast and cost-effective cross-border transactions. Ripple’s technology aims to improve the efficiency of financial transactions by leveraging blockchain and digital assets. XRP's use case and technological framework set it apart from many other cryptocurrencies, positioning it as a strong contender in the digital payment space.

**Bitcoin (BTC)**: Bitcoin, the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, serves primarily as a store of value and a digital alternative to traditional currencies. Its decentralized nature, security features, and widespread adoption have made it the dominant player in the cryptocurrency market. Bitcoin’s price movements often set the tone for the broader market, influencing other cryptocurrencies' performance.

**Factors Driving XRP’s Potential Parabolic Move**

1. **Regulatory Developments**

   Regulatory clarity is a major factor influencing XRP’s price performance. Ripple has been engaged in a high-profile legal battle with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) over whether XRP should be classified as a security. Recent developments in this case have shown promising signs for Ripple, with favorable court rulings potentially paving the way for greater adoption and legitimacy.

   If Ripple secures a positive outcome, it could result in a surge of institutional investment and broader market acceptance for XRP. Regulatory clarity would alleviate uncertainty and could lead to a significant price appreciation, making XRP a more attractive investment relative to Bitcoin.

2. **Technological Advancements and Partnerships**

   Ripple’s ongoing technological advancements and strategic partnerships enhance its appeal. Ripple has established numerous partnerships with financial institutions and payment providers worldwide. These partnerships aim to integrate XRP into various financial systems, increasing its utility and adoption.

   Ripple’s technology also boasts faster transaction times and lower costs compared to Bitcoin’s network. As Ripple continues to innovate and expand its partnerships, XRP’s value proposition grows stronger, potentially driving a parabolic move against Bitcoin.

3. **Market Sentiment and Investor Behavior**

   Market sentiment plays a crucial role in cryptocurrency price movements. Positive news about Ripple’s technology, regulatory progress, or institutional adoption can drive investor enthusiasm and lead to substantial price increases. XRP’s recent performance has shown signs of increasing interest and investment, with growing trading volumes and heightened market activity.

   Additionally, investor behavior often reflects trends and patterns seen in other cryptocurrencies. If XRP demonstrates strong price momentum and outperforms Bitcoin, it could attract speculative interest and drive further gains, creating a parabolic effect.

4. **Institutional Investment**

   Institutional investment is becoming increasingly influential in the cryptocurrency market. As institutions explore and invest in digital assets, their focus on specific cryptocurrencies can impact market dynamics. Ripple’s efforts to position XRP as a bridge currency for cross-border transactions could appeal to institutional investors seeking innovative solutions for global payments.

   Institutional support for XRP could drive significant capital inflows, contributing to a parabolic move against Bitcoin. The increased presence of institutional investors also lends credibility to XRP, further enhancing its attractiveness as an investment.

5. **Technological Limitations of Bitcoin**

   While Bitcoin remains the leading cryptocurrency, its technological limitations, such as scalability and high transaction fees, have led to the development of alternative digital assets with more advanced features. XRP’s ability to address some of these limitations—such as faster transaction processing and lower fees—gives it a competitive edge.

   As the cryptocurrency market evolves, investors may shift their focus towards assets that offer superior technology and efficiency. XRP’s strengths in these areas could lead to a growing divergence from Bitcoin, resulting in a parabolic move in XRP’s favor.

**Potential Risks and Considerations**

Despite the optimistic outlook for XRP, several risks and considerations could impact its potential move against Bitcoin:

- **Regulatory Risks**: While recent legal developments have been favorable for Ripple, regulatory uncertainties remain. Any adverse regulatory decisions could negatively impact XRP’s price and market perception.

- **Market Volatility**: The cryptocurrency market is inherently volatile, and price movements can be unpredictable. XRP’s potential for a parabolic move could be influenced by broader market conditions and external factors.

- **Competitive Landscape**: The cryptocurrency space is highly competitive, with numerous projects vying for market share. XRP faces competition from other digital assets and blockchain technologies that may impact its relative performance.

**Conclusion**

XRP’s potential for a parabolic move against Bitcoin is driven by a combination of regulatory developments, technological advancements, market sentiment, institutional investment, and Bitcoin’s technological limitations. While the factors supporting XRP’s rise are promising, investors should remain mindful of the inherent risks and uncertainties in the cryptocurrency market. As the situation evolves, continued monitoring of Ripple’s progress and broader market trends will be crucial in assessing XRP’s trajectory and its potential impact on Bitcoin and the wider cryptocurrency ecosystem.

 Two women dead after being swept away during ‘historic’ flooding in CT that prompts state of emergency

### Historic Flooding in Connecticut: Tragic Losses and State of Emergency

**Introduction**

Connecticut has been grappling with unprecedented flooding, a situation that has prompted a state of emergency and cast a somber shadow over the state. In a tragic turn of events, two women have lost their lives after being swept away by the intense floodwaters. The flooding, described as historic due to its severity and impact, has led to widespread devastation and prompted urgent response measures from state and local authorities.

**Overview of the Flooding**

The recent flooding in Connecticut has been described as one of the most severe in the state's history. Triggered by a combination of heavy rainfall and saturated ground conditions, the flooding has overwhelmed waterways and drainage systems, resulting in significant property damage, road closures, and disruptions to daily life.

Meteorologists attribute the extreme weather to a convergence of factors, including a slow-moving low-pressure system and an unusually high amount of precipitation. The storms that brought about this flooding were not just intense but persistent, leading to prolonged rainfall that exacerbated the situation.

**Tragic Losses**

Among the most heartbreaking outcomes of this disaster were the deaths of two women who were swept away by the floodwaters. Their tragic loss underscores the severity of the flooding and the risks posed by such extreme weather conditions. The women were reportedly trying to navigate through the flood-affected areas when they were overtaken by the swift-moving waters.

Emergency services and first responders worked tirelessly to locate and rescue individuals caught in the floods. Despite their best efforts, the two women could not be saved. Their families and communities are grieving, and their loss has added a deeply personal dimension to the widespread devastation.

**State of Emergency**

In response to the historic flooding, Connecticut Governor [Governor’s Name] declared a state of emergency, activating state resources and coordinating with federal agencies to manage the crisis. The declaration allows for the mobilization of additional resources and personnel, facilitates the provision of emergency assistance, and enables the allocation of funding for recovery and repair efforts.

The state of emergency declaration has also led to the implementation of temporary measures aimed at mitigating the impact of the flooding. These measures include curfews in affected areas, temporary road closures, and restrictions on travel to ensure the safety of residents and allow emergency responders to operate effectively.

**Impact on Communities**

The flooding has had a profound impact on communities across Connecticut. Numerous homes and businesses have been inundated, with significant damage reported to properties and infrastructure. Local rivers and streams have overflowed their banks, causing extensive damage to both residential and commercial areas.

Public transportation has been disrupted, with several routes closed due to water damage and hazardous conditions. Power outages have affected thousands of residents, further complicating the situation and adding to the challenges faced by emergency responders and recovery teams.

In addition to physical damage, the flooding has also raised concerns about public health and safety. Standing water presents risks of contamination and the spread of waterborne diseases, prompting additional efforts to ensure clean drinking water and sanitary conditions in affected areas.

**Response and Recovery Efforts**

The response to the historic flooding has involved a coordinated effort from various agencies and organizations. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been working closely with state and local authorities to provide support and resources for recovery efforts.

Emergency responders have been involved in search and rescue operations, while cleanup crews work to remove debris and restore affected areas. Volunteers and community organizations have also played a crucial role in providing assistance to those in need, offering shelter, food, and support to displaced individuals.

Recovery efforts will be ongoing, with a focus on assessing the full extent of the damage, restoring essential services, and providing aid to those affected by the flooding. Long-term recovery plans will likely include infrastructure repairs, financial assistance for affected families, and measures to prevent and mitigate future flooding.

**Lessons Learned and Future Preparedness**

The historic flooding in Connecticut serves as a stark reminder of the growing challenges posed by extreme weather events. The severity of this flooding has prompted discussions about the need for enhanced preparedness and resilience measures.

Lessons learned from this disaster will likely lead to a reevaluation of flood management strategies, infrastructure improvements, and emergency response protocols. Increased investment in weather monitoring and early warning systems may also be considered to better anticipate and respond to future extreme weather events.

**Conclusion**

The tragic loss of two lives and the extensive damage caused by the historic flooding in Connecticut highlight the urgent need for effective response and recovery measures. The state of emergency has mobilized resources and support for affected communities, but the road to recovery will be long and challenging. As Connecticut navigates this crisis, the focus will be on supporting those affected, addressing immediate needs, and planning for future resilience in the face of extreme weather.