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"Whether you're tech-savvy or just trying to find the right home for your thermostat, placement matters. Placing it near direct sunlight, drafts, or a heat source can throw off temperature readings, leading to unnecessary heating or cooling. The ideal spot is on an interior wall, away from these factors, ideally between 52 to 60 inches from the floor. Optimal placement ensures accurate readings and efficient energy use, boosting comfort and saving money."

ZDNET's recommendations are based on extensive research and testing, gathering data from various sources to ensure accurate and unbiased product reviews. Affiliates earn commissions from clicks but this doesn't impact coverage or product prices. The editorial team focuses on delivering reliable advice to help readers make informed tech decisions, with strict guidelines and fact-checking to maintain credibility.

The article describes a coordinated social media campaign by the CIA targeting Chinese officials, featuring fictional scenes of disillusionment with the CCP and instructions for leaking secrets via Tor browser. The campaign's purpose is to recruit assets for intelligence gathering, with Desmond Shum calling it "aggressive" and the Chinese embassy expressing disapproval.

As global demand for electric vehicles wanes, Panasonic Holdings has decided not to rush into expanding its battery production capacity. CEO Yuki Kusumi highlighted this strategy as a response to slower market growth. The company already operates lithium-ion batteries for Tesla and has a Nevada facility since 2017. Additionally, with factories in the U.S., Panasonic benefits from reducing reliance on Chinese manufacturers due to tariffs and incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act. While competitors like Honda and Hyundai are expanding their U.S. battery production, Panasonic remains ahead of them with its strategic positioning.

A U.S. F-18 fighter jet went missing in the Red Sea after failing to stop properly during landing on the Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier, leading to the ejection of two crew members who were recovered by a rescue helicopter; another F-18 incident occurred last week while assisting in Yemen's Houthi fighters' strikes, and the Navy is investigating both incidents without immediate response; such rare events have raised scrutiny of the carrier's safety standards and operational practices.

Joel Cauchi's fatal stabbing at Westfield Bondi Junction in 2024 sparked questions about the mental health treatment he received before the incident. Joel's psychiatrist discharged him from long-term care due to concerns about relapse, despite him not being prescribed medication for schizophrenia and wishing to be monitored. Experts raised alarms over his potential lack of adherence to medication and worsening mental health symptoms, which may have contributed to his tragic death. The case underscores the risks associated with leaving untreated schizophrenia unmanaged, including possible relapse or severe cognitive decline, which could worsen someone's situation.

The long-awaited antitrust trial between Meta and the Federal Trade Commission began April 14th under Chief Judge James Boasberg, focusing on whether Meta, which owns Facebook, formed a personal social networking monopoly through its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp. The FTC initially filed the case late 2020, but it was dismissed after the judge found insufficient evidence; however, an amended complaint was approved when the government detailed its antitrust claims more thoroughly. The FTC is now pushing for potential spin-offs, such as Instagram and WhatsApp, to be spun off if deemed necessary by the court to break up Meta's monopoly.

Thor Pedersen’s decade-long journey without flying taught him profound lessons about life, human connection, and the world. Strangers’ kindness, hidden natural wonders, and cultural ties revealed unexpected cooperation and fulfillment beyond material gains. He learned to distinguish between wants and needs, formed cross-cultural bonds through gestures, and found the world’s vastness by slowing down, gaining deeper insights into cultures, himself, and life’s true meaning.

Hungary's campaign against EU membership features posters with leaders like Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Ursula von der Leyen, advocating for national sovereignty over EU rules. The government opposes EU membership, citing concerns about job losses from cheaper Ukrainian labor and health risks from unvaccinated public events. The MEPs aim to pressure Orbán through Article 7 or a Pride ban, while analysts warn of strategic moves to keep him in power despite ongoing unfair elections.

Paris Saint-Germain secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Arsenal in the Champions League semifinal, thanks to Ousmane Dembele’s early goal off the post. Despite struggling defensively and missing an equalizer throughVAR, Arsenal showed promise but ultimately fell short. If PSG wins their next home game, they could face either Inter Milan or Barcelona, aiming for a first European title in years. However, their defensive lapses remain a concern as they look to build on this win in the competition.

Our immune system's mast cells are typically our allies in defending against invaders like viruses and bacteria. Yet, when their sensitivity peaks, they can trigger severe allergic reactions such as irritable bowel syndrome, asthma, chronic itching, and migraines. Thanks to a novel compound developed by researchers, which inhibits mast cell activity through interference with the MRGPRX2 receptor—without involving antibodies—it holds promise in reducing these symptoms and lowering fatality risk. While early tests and human models show positive results, further animal studies are crucial before it could be approved as a medical treatment.

A powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck near Ecuador on Friday morning, approximately 12 miles northeast of Esmeraldas. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the tremor, noting that while its magnitude is significant, the shake intensity is classified as light by their scale, though parts beyond the mapped areas may still experience noticeable tremors. Seismologists are reviewing data and could adjust the earthquake's magnitude or revise the shake-severity map based on additional information collected.

Qatar’s investment终于让巴黎圣日耳曼（PSG）在欧洲冠军联赛（CL）中迎来了14年的首个冠军奖杯。尽管球迷们习惯了“金”球队，但这次胜利展现了年轻球员和新帅埃里克·维拉的团结与决心。尽管没有Kylian Mbappé，但内马尔等年轻球员出色表现帮助球队淘汰了英超、意甲和德甲冠军，包括拜仁慕尼黑。巴黎圣日耳曼的胜利不仅标志着欧洲冠军的 restored glory，也展示了年轻球队崛起的可能性。球迷们用欢呼声为这场史诗般对决喝彩，而维拉的T恤上还印着与埃莱娜·卡斯特罗共事时的身影，这是一支真正想要夺冠的球队。

The Last of Us Season Two continues with Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and Dina (Isabela Merced) on a high-stakes road trip to find Abby, the mysterious figure behind Joel’s murder. Despite her usual sarcastic nature, Ellie is driven by Joel’s memory and a desire for justice, leading them to Seattle. Their mission is complicated by a new faction of hatted hares (the Washington Liberation Front), whose leader Abby could be. Meanwhile, Ellie’s plan to take on the town council backfires when it gets voted down by eight to three. The episode ends with the group making their long journey from Wyoming to Seattle and hinting at an upcoming antagonist in the form of Isaac, the WLF leader.

The explosion at Iran’s Shahid Rajaee port on Saturday claimed at least five lives and injured over 700 people, with officials attributing it to a likely fire from chemicals in containers. Authorities dismissed sabotage or deliberate attacks as the cause. President Masoud Pezeshkian dispatched interior minister lame-sock to the scene for an investigation, expressing deep sympathies for the loss.

Zhang, who will be a senior in the fall, is among a growing cohort of students at Pomona College who are trying to alter how technology affects campus life. These Pomona students and professors are hardly unique in reacting to a new reality. At the same time, Pomona is better suited than most institutions to scale back technology’s place in campus life. Still, she said, for many college students, going off TikTok and Instagram seems like social death, because their main source of social capital is online. Elijah Quetin, a visiting instructor in physics and astronomy at Pomona, told me about a creative low-tech experiment that he already has planned.

Charl Kleinhaus, a white Afrikaner from South Africa who had been granted refugee status by the U.S. despite admitting posting what he said was an error on social media related to medication, sparked concern over the use of his online activity in immigration decisions. Now running a mining company in South Africa, Kleinhaus told the New York Times he wasn’t antisemitic and that the post in question was mistakenly shared. However, U.S. authorities have increasingly targeted pro-Palestinian activists using claims of antisemitism as grounds for deportation, while Kleinhaus’s case highlights how personal online behavior could be misused in immigration processes.

A massive effort to relocate endangered species, including lions, crocodiles, elephants, tigers, and exotic birds, was undertaken amid theSinaloa drug cartel's violence-ridden heartland. The operation, dubbed "21st-century Noah's Ark," aims to provide a safer haven for these animals, despite leaving behind stolen trucks and equipment that posed security risks. This relocation underscores the ongoing insecurity caused by cartel conflicts, which have claimed over 1,200 lives and left 1,400 missing since September. The new sanctuary in Mazatlán symbolically highlights the harsh reality of life for animals caught in this lawless region.

The criticism of Labor's proposed tax changes on superannuation systems risks undermining needed reforms to make the system more equitable and sustainable. Experts support some aspects, like simplifying the system or improving equity, but warn against unintended consequences such as targeting wealthier individuals or forcing farmers to sell assets to pay extra taxes. The plan could raise $2bn in revenue but is controversial due to its potential impact on different groups and its imperfect design.

The season finale of *Saturday Night Live* paid homage to a infamous 2005 televised moment involving Kanye West and Mike Myers during Hurricane Katrina, with the sketch playing out 15 years later through a humorous revisit of their interaction. In the parody, Myers reprises his role while Ye, now known as Kenan Thompson’s character, adds a modern twist by admitting he once joined the KKK and makes jokes about nitrous oxide abuse and his new single "Cousins." The sketch concludes with an unexpected twist, leaving Myers looking awkwardly out of place.

The article highlights the dual challenges and progress in Abidjan's infrastructure as African investors face U.S.-African relations shifting under President Trump, who reversed foreign aid commitments. An overpass near the airport handles 120,000 vehicles daily despite funding cuts due to a billboard revealing its origin being removed. Meanwhile, the U.S. has prioritized trade, announcing new economic partnerships like agricultural technologies and border monitoring systems while Aid funding for Africa plummets.

Tonight on *SNL*, Walton Goggins delivered a hilarious turn as a constitutional amendment倡导者, challenging delegates over adding "Guns" to the second amendment in a satirical sketch from the Constitutional Convention. His character, played by Goggins, sparked comical debates with other delegates, who humorously debated whether carrying firearms should be explicitly mentioned in the document. The sketch escalates into tragedy when Goggins' character is accidentally shot minutes after leaving the room, adding an unexpected twist to what was otherwise a raucous and absurd debate.

IGN's 404 error for "Another Quote" humorously references Commander Shepard's iconic line, "I'm Commander Shepard, and this my favorite store on the citadel," suggesting the quote became a cultural touchstone after the site couldn't locate it. The incident underscores how even minor internet mishaps can turn into viral moments, especially when tied to beloved quotes from popular culture.

In a chilling act of bias, Cody Balmer allegedly attempted to burn down Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s home, driven by anti-Semitic views targeting Shapiro for his pro-Palestinian stance and criticism of Israel. Despite Shapiro’s vocal opposition to Israeli policies and support for Palestinian statehood, he faced intense backlash during his VP consideration, particularly from progressives who wrongly accused him of being pro-Israel due to his Jewish identity. This incident underscores how societal biases can manifest in extreme acts, often reflecting broader prejudices, and highlights the urgent need to address anti-Semitic narratives in public discourse to prevent further harm.

The wealthiest 10 percent of the world’s people are responsible for two-thirds of the global warming since 1990, according to researchers. This is the first study to quantify the impact of concentrated private wealth on extreme climate events. “Our study shows that extreme climate impacts are not just the result of abstract global emissions. Earlier research has shown that taxing asset-related emissions is more equitable than broad carbon taxes, which tend to burden those with lower incomes. According to the antipoverty NGO Oxfam, the richest 1 percent have accumulated $42 trillion in new wealth over the past decade.

The Swedish government’s spring amendment budget includes significant allocations to road maintenance, mental health funding, and increased security in schools. A temporary ROT tax reduction will be boosted from 30% to 50% for part-time workers until the end of the year, though its impact on individual wallets remains limited. The budget also funds defense spending and climate initiatives, with plans to revise unemployment benefits and support regional sustainability efforts. Collaboration with the Sweden Democrats aims to address pressing societal issues while maintaining public services' funding integrity.

Tension flares as Australia pushes President Trump to abandon his controversial tariff policies after a US court ruled his "liberation day" tariffs unconstitutional, emphasizing that Congress alone can regulate international trade. The Manhattan-based court found Trump exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), which requires congressional approval for tariffs. Australia will closely monitor the ruling and advocate for changes to Trump's administration, while Trump's White House is set to file an appeal.

The Nest Thermostats, first and second generations, are becoming obsolete as Google phases out their support on October 25, 2025, leaving users reliant on outdated hardware for connectivity and updates. However, third-generation devices remain unaffected, making now the best time to upgrade to a newer model like the fourth generation or Nest Learning Thermostat.

European regulators have launched formal probes into several adult platforms accused of allowing minors to access adult content. The investigation targets Pornhub, Stripchat, XNXX, and XVideos for failing to implement measures that protect minors from accessing adult material. This action could be seen as an escalation in enforcement under the Digital Services Act, highlighting a broader push to safeguard young users online.

The National Endowment for the Arts has canceled grants to numerous film festivals, including True/False, CIFF, and Frameline, citing President Trump’s prioritization of certain cultural initiatives over diversity, equity, and inclusion. These cancellations come as other festivals scramble to use their remaining funds before facing uncertainty about future support. The administration’s sudden shift in mission statements has raised concerns about ideological control over the arts, leaving many in the industry questioning how appeals will be handled.

The article highlights the alarming number of animals being subjected to emergency euthanasia after transport to Australian export abattoirs, citing an average 10.8-hour inspection delay that significantly increased the risk of such deaths. It also reveals a robust regulatory framework was in place but faced criticism for chronic under staffing and delayed reporting of welfare issues by state regulators. Researchers emphasized the severe impact on animal welfare during transport, which led to thousands being culled and suggested necessary reforms to improve oversight and inspection processes.

In a bold call to action, Somali official Ali Jeyte Osman has demanded the federal government expel the wives and children of al Shabaab militants from Mogadishu, accusing them of living peacefully in the capital while the group carries out deadly attacks. Jeyte, a former governor and leader of the Macawiisley militia, argued that allowing the relatives to remain in the city sends the wrong message, calling for their removal as a form of psychological pressure on the militants. He emphasized the need for a clear separation between areas controlled by al Shabaab and Mogadishu, urging the government to take strong action against the group's families.

Tehran has denounced the US travel ban on Iranians and citizens of 11 other mostly Middle Eastern and African countries, saying Washington’s decision was a sign of a “racist mentality”. Donald Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday reviving sweeping restrictions that echo the US president’s first-term travel ban, justified on national security grounds after a firebomb attack at a pro-Israel rally in Colorado. Apart from Iran, the US ban targets nationals of Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. The foreign ministry official said the ban was discriminatory and would “entail international responsibility for the US government”, without elaborating. According to figures from Tehran’s foreign ministry, in 2020 there were about 1.5 million Iranians in the US.

Michael Bolton, at 72, shared his unyielding spirit against brain cancer after recent surgery. He called himself "Ain't Going Down Without a Fight," reflecting his determination post-diagnosis in late 2023. Following surgery and subsequent treatments—including radiation and chemotherapy—Bolton’s tumor was successfully removed without recurrence. However, he remains vigilant due to the high risk of relapse. Despite physical challenges like memory and mobility issues, Bolton remains active through golf, meditation, exercise, and vocal therapy. He opts for hope over a prognosis, emphasizing life appreciation and personal growth from his experience.

Bono captivated audiences with a heartfelt, intimate solo acoustic performance at New York’s Beacon Theatre, eschewing his usual rock band lineup for an opportunity to reflect on his life journey. Sharing anecdotes from *Surrender*, his autobiography, he revisited his heart scare, musical rise, and post-Live Aid charity efforts, alongside reflections on his faith and relationships with his mother, Iris, and father, Bob Hewson—whose death from cancer left a profound emotional impact. The performance, delivered with humility and vulnerability, showcased Bono’s ability to humanize himself even as he acknowledged his immense success and influence in the music world.

If you're considering purchasing a new gadget, your wallet might get a hit from Trump's tariffs. A report by the Consumer Technology Association warns that these tariffs could cause prices for smartphones, laptops, TVs, and gaming consoles to rise significantly—like up 31% for smartphones or nearly $428 for video game consoles. Additionally, the impact extends beyond electronics, potentially boosting costs for semiconductors and other supplies used in manufacturing. These changes could strain budgets and affect the broader economy.

The Motorola Razr smartphone's May 15 launch has been pushed back to May 22 for Verizon and select carriers, with a potential customer noting its absence at that date. A Verizon blog post was updated to reflect the new release date, and company officials confirmed ongoing discussions about the delay, though no specific reason was provided.

The social media accounts of some Chinese state media were blocked inside India on Wednesday, after Indian officials accused the outlets of spreading Pakistani propaganda and misinformation. The X accounts of China’s official state news agency Xinhua, and a state-backed nationalistic tabloid, the Global Times, were inaccessible inside India on Wednesday. On Thursday, the Global Times account was restored, reportedly after a legal request. India has targeted thousands of social media accounts in the last week, including a number of reputable media outlets and reporters, sparking criticism from press freedom groups. It’s not known if the blocking of the Global Times, Xinhua, and TRT are part of the same crackdown.

Utsunomiya Brex clinched a historic record-breaking third B. League championship by defeating Ryukyu Golden Kings in Game 3 of the best-of-three finals at Yokohama Arena. The victory, marking their first title since returning to the league after three seasons, capped off a remarkable comeback that saw the team rally from deficits with strong inside scoring and clutch shooting in the final quarter. American guard Scottie James Newbill was named Most Valuable Player for the finals.

Honai Precision Industry has agreed to supply Mitsubishi Motors with an electric vehicle to be manufactured in Taiwan and sold in Australia and New Zealand by the end of 2026. The car will be developed by Foxtron Vehicle Technologies, a subsidiary of Honai, and produced by Yulon Motor in Taiwan. This deal marks Mitsubishi's first major contract for Honai's fledgling EV manufacturing business, signaling significant growth and strategic importance for the company.

A shocking new report highlights that 35% of local government officials in Japan have faced workplace harassment through unreasonable demands or unpleasant behavior, significantly higher than the 10.8% rate among private-sector employees. The disparity likely stems from administrative services requiring equitable and equal service delivery. The survey also reveals that nearly 72% of harassment cases originate from frustration among local residents or contractors, while a similar number involve officials during customer service interactions. Additionally, power harassment was observed in 15.7% of cases, with individuals in their 40s experiencing the highest rate at 19.3%.

The Tohoku Local Finance Bureau has issued a business improvement order to Iwaki Shinkumi Bank after uncovering decades of fraudulent practices involving former executives, including embezzlement by a key employee. The bank improperly influenced funds through depositors' accounts and used public funds in 2012 for its operations. As part of the measures, the bank's leader is set to resign, though they previously admitted to misconduct. The government is also seeking a business improvement plan from the lender.

Ollie Bearman and Kimi Antonelli discuss what it is like racing against veterans like Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton. (0:52)Open Extended ReactionsFormula 1 rookies Andrea Kimi Antonelli and Oliver Bearman are the living embodiment of the sport's new generation: fun, focused and living the dream. Oliver Bearman, left, and Andrea Kimi Antonelli have become close friends as they've risen through the ranks on the road to F1. play 0:58 Antonelli's ridiculous photographic memory for lap times wows Bearman Kimi Antonelli wows fellow rookie Ollie Bearman with his ability to recall his lap times. At just 18 years old, Andrea Kimi Antonelli is adjusting to life in F1 while still completing his studies.

Elden Ring Nightreign, a remake/remix of the original, surprisingly doesn't hit 60 FPS on consoles and lacks PS5 Pro support. The game's tech falls short compared to its predecessor, making it less performant in quality mode than expected, with frame rates averaging below 40 FPS across all platforms.

Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Day at 88, left a legacy marked by his commitment to peace and acceptance as the first non-European and Latin American pope. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he became a cardinal under Pope John Paul II and was elected pope in 2013. Known for his advocacy of interfaith dialogue and his historic visit to the Arabian Peninsula, Francis was celebrated for his compassion and service to all.

Larsa Pippen and her boyfriend Jeff Coby made headlines after sharing a passionate kiss inside their car following a romantic dinner at Craig’s in West Hollywood. The couple, who began dating exclusively since January after meeting at David Alexander’s DBC Fitness event, confirmed their engagement to fans in May though it’s unclear if the rumors were true. Pippen previously dated Marcus, the son of basketball legend Michael Jordan.

The article highlights four standout defensive backs, each excelling in critical areas of their games. Chandler Rivers dominated with a league-low pass completion percentage and impactful plays, while Daylen Everette earned an MVP award and demonstrated versatility through interceptions and breakups. Michael Taaffe showed consistent reliability with numerous tackles, and KJ Bolden stood out for his speed and effectiveness at safety. The ranking emphasizes players who combine immediate impact with long-term potential.

Eddie Mutwe's abduction in Uganda serves as a chilling reflection of the country's deteriorating rule of law under General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, with the military threatening violent repression against anyone seeking his return. As opposition leader Bobi Wine calls for a "protest vote" amid accusations of Eddie's capture near Kampala, the military's harsh tactics mirror internal tensions within the government. This situation underscores the state's struggle to maintain stability and autonomy, while raising concerns about broader efforts targeting dissent in a context already marked by growing international skepticism over Uganda's democracy and human rights record.

As wildfires sweep across parts of Canada and the U.S., concerns grow over the impact on air quality in regions like the Upper Midwest, where smoke from Prairie fires has led to air quality warnings. In 2023 alone, fires near Quebec caused New York skies to turn vivid orange due to particulates in the atmosphere. Health advisories have been issued for vulnerable groups across affected areas, urging residents to limit outdoor activities and monitor their well-being closely.

Regional rail services in Germany's Saarland region are set to be disrupted for over a week starting June 4th through the 13th, causing significant delays. Long-distance trains between Saarbrücken and Mannheim will halt during this period, with high-speed ICE and TGV services diverted via Karlsruhe and Strasbourg. Additionally, key long-distance lines such as the S-Bahn, S1, S44, RB6, RB56, and RB45 will be canceled or altered in the affected area. Passengers are advised to check their timetables on the DB app or website for the latest updates before traveling.