Indian-Origin Student Solves Century-Old Math Problem, Boosting Wind Energy Efficiency

A recent analysis by Professor Benjamin E. Goldsmith of the University of Sydney raises alarms about the stability of American democracy following Donald Trump's re-election. Goldsmith argues that the erosion of political culture and the acceptance of illiberal principles among U.S. elites may lead to the fatal decline of liberal democracy within the next five years. He posits that Trump, backed by allies like Russell Voight’s Project 2025, is poised to transform the political landscape into an electoral democracy that undermines fundamental democratic values, potentially establishing a regime akin to those in non-democratic powers such as China and Russia. In his article, Goldsmith indicates that the undermining of institutions like the free press and the rule of law could intensify, citing parallels between Trump’s tactics and historical authoritarian regimes in Russia and Ukraine. He emphasizes that Trump’s political maneuvers, including manipulation of media narratives and an aggressive stance against opponents, signify threats to free and fair elections in the U.S. The implications extend beyond domestic politics, with Goldsmith suggesting a significant shift in international relations towards a more nationalistic and authoritarian framework.

NASA has announced that a massive asteroid, designated 2014 TN17 and approximately 540 feet in diameter, is on a trajectory towards Earth. The asteroid is particularly notable as it is twice the size of the Taj Mahal and belongs to the Apollo group of near-Earth objects, making it a potentially hazardous asteroid. The space agency reports that 2014 TN17 is traveling at an impressive speed of 77,282 kilometers per hour and is expected to make its closest approach to Earth on March 26, 2025, at 5:04 PM IST. At that time, it will come within 5 million kilometers of our planet—more than 13 times the distance from Earth to the Moon. While the asteroid currently poses no threat, its classification as a potentially hazardous object means it will be monitored closely. NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies emphasizes the importance of tracking such asteroids due to their potential risk of collision with Earth, which could unleash energy equivalent to hundreds of nuclear bombs, potentially causing widespread devastation.

Jessica Hoff, 47, has been arrested in Colorado after her pack of over 50 dogs allegedly killed her 76-year-old mother, LaVonne Hoff, who suffered from dementia and required constant care. According to the Pueblo County sheriff's office, the incident occurred on February 3, when Jessica Hoff left her mother alone at their home in Colorado City to run errands. Upon returning, deputies found LaVonne unconscious and several dogs roaming the property. A subsequent search revealed a total of 54 dogs, alongside birds kept in unsanitary conditions. Authorities reported that many of the animals were in poor health and subsequently seized by animal control. Jessica Hoff is currently in custody and is scheduled to appear in court. While prosecutors have not yet filed formal charges, her case is being handled by a public defender, whose office has declined to comment. The sheriff’s office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.