Edition of 20 July 2026
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Daily, source-grounded news. Finite by design.
Today: 35 topics in 4 sections.
Politics
· 4 topics · Read the edition
US Continues Airstrikes on Iran Amidst Escalating Tensions
The United States announced the death of another service member as it launched more airstrikes at Iran on Sunday in response to the killing of US troops, and Iran fired missiles toward Jordan that risked widening the conflict into neighbouring Israel.
The US military stated that a service member was killed in Iraq on Saturday during the "controlled detonation" of a downed Iranian drone. This incident occurred after two US service members were killed and one went missing following an Iranian missile and drone attack in Jordan on July 17. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has reported finding unidentified remains at the Jordan attack site, with an examination process underway to authenticate them. These escalating exchanges bring the US and Iran closer to a full-scale war, especially as a provisional deal to end fighting has reportedly crumbled and shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz has largely stalled. Both sides have targeted civilian infrastructure, impacting millions of people. The US has stated its strikes target Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard in retaliation for previous attacks.
Ukraine Reports Explosions in Odesa and Zaporizhzhia Amidst Russian Airstrikes
Explosions were heard in Odesa and Zaporizhzhia on July 20, 2026, as Russia launched guided aerial bombs and missiles.
On the morning of July 20, 2026, the Odesa region was targeted by Russian guided aerial missiles, with explosions reported in the city. The Air Force had warned of tactical aviation activity in the southern direction and later confirmed guided missiles in the Black Sea. In Zaporizhzhia, an explosion occurred during an air raid alert, following prior warnings from the Air Force about air strikes. Earlier, on July 19, Russian forces had struck Zaporizhzhia with guided aerial bombs, damaging a five-story residential building and another near a nine-story building, resulting in two fatalities and at least ten injuries. This follows a larger, combined Russian attack on Ukraine on the night of July 18-19, which involved 41 missiles and 125 attack drones, with Kyiv being the primary target and suffering numerous destructions.
Sources
Lithuania Faces Waste Crisis; Prime Minister Convenes Meeting
Lithuanian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius is convening a meeting to address the ongoing waste crisis in the Vilnius region.
The waste crisis in the Vilnius region, exacerbated by a fire at a Vilnius waste sorting plant last year, has led Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius to call for an urgent meeting. The Prime Minister indicated that the situation has escalated beyond current management capabilities, potentially necessitating state intervention. A plan for managing the crisis is expected to be finalized, with the National Crisis Management Center (NKVC) reporting that cooperation among all waste sorting chain participants is crucial. If consensus is not reached, an emergency situation could be declared nationwide by Wednesday. The immediate priority is to ensure the Vilnius cogeneration power plant processes the largest possible volume of sorted waste. Declaring an emergency would allow for the diversion of waste from the Vilnius region to other sorting centers. The crisis reportedly stems from the prolonged inability to restore the normal operation of the waste sorting plant after the fire. The Vilnius Regional Waste Management Center (VAATC) has initiated legal action against the plant's operator, "Energesman," for alleged criminal activity, seeking a court order to transfer plant operations. "Energesman" has, in turn, filed a lawsuit to block VAATC's unilateral termination of the contract and its attempt to take over operations.
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Australian Politician Derryn Hinch Farewelled at State Funeral
Derryn Hinch, a journalist, broadcaster, and former senator, has been farewelled at a state funeral.
A state funeral was held for Derryn Hinch, a prominent Australian journalist, broadcaster, and politician who passed away at the age of 82 on July 10 after a prolonged illness. The funeral attracted notable figures from Melbourne's media and entertainment industries, including news presenters Ray Martin and Denis Walter, and entertainers Rhonda Burchmore and Greg Evans. Hinch, known for his outspoken nature, had documented his health struggles with his social media followers. He also served as a senator and was recognized for his past actions, including serving jail time for identifying a Catholic priest accused of child abuse before his trial.
World Economy
· 11 topics · Read the edition
Global crude oil prices surge past $90 amid escalating US-Iran tensions
Global crude oil prices surged over 3 percent, exceeding the $90-a-barrel mark on Monday.
The increase in oil prices is attributed to escalating military tensions between the United States and Iran, which has heightened fears of supply disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude rose nearly 3 percent to trade above $90 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude advanced 3.51 percent. This price rally follows renewed military exchanges between the US and Iran, with Tehran stating the ceasefire has collapsed. Market experts anticipate that crude oil prices will remain supported in the near term due to ongoing Middle East tensions and concerns over shipping routes.
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China accelerates innovation drive amidst global competition
China has prioritized science and technology, accelerating its drive for self-reliance and enhancing its global standing.
China's innovation is increasingly reaching beyond its borders, impacting artificial intelligence, new-energy vehicles, photovoltaics, energy storage, and digital infrastructure. These advancements are not only enriching global supply chains but also reducing the cost of related technologies and products. The country's large market, complete industrial system, and diverse application scenarios make it an ideal testing ground for research and development to rollout. Consequently, global companies are establishing R&D and innovation centers in China to test new ideas and refine business models before entering world markets. China is also committed to open collaboration, inviting more countries to participate in global innovation processes and share in its benefits.
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Côte d’Ivoire approves Starlink service and data center project after US state visit
The Ivorian government has granted final approval for Starlink operations and authorized a US cybersecurity company to build a national data center.
Following a state visit by US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Frank R. Garcia, Côte d’Ivoire is set to receive Starlink LEO satellite services and establish a sovereign national data center. This move is expected to expand broadband internet access to underserved areas across the country. Additionally, US cybersecurity firm Cybastion will proceed with a $170 million project, financed by the US Export-Import Bank, to construct the data center, a government digitization platform, and a smart border surveillance system. The visit also facilitated an agreement for ABD Group to undertake a $293 million healthcare infrastructure initiative in Côte d’Ivoire, expanding on a previous framework agreement.
Sources
Palestinian economy in West Bank struggles with excess cash
The Palestinian economy in the Israeli-occupied West Bank is experiencing difficulties due to an overabundance of cash.
The economic situation in the West Bank is paradoxical, with too much cash hindering growth rather than stimulating it. While specific details on the mechanisms of this economic strain are not fully elaborated in the provided text, the core issue identified is an excess of currency. This situation may point to issues with monetary policy effectiveness, inflation, or the misallocation of resources, despite a seemingly abundant supply of funds.
Sources
South Korea's Kospi index falls nearly 5% amid AI stock downturn
South Korea's benchmark Kospi index declined by nearly 5% on Monday.
The significant drop in the Kospi index was driven by a slump in some artificial intelligence (AI) stocks, while oil prices continued to climb. This divergence suggests a market rotation or sector-specific pressures influencing investor sentiment. The broader market was affected by the weakness in the AI sector, a key growth area, while energy commodities displayed strength. The performance of AI stocks could be influenced by various factors, including valuation concerns, regulatory shifts, or changing investor expectations for future growth in the sector.
Sources
Wema Bank named Nigeria's Best Digital Bank for Consumers 2026
Wema Bank has been recognized as Nigeria's Best Digital Bank for Consumers 2026 by Euromoney.
The award highlights Wema Bank's leadership in digital innovation, customer experience, and financial inclusion. Euromoney cited the bank's successful digital transformation, its continuous innovation through ALAT (Africa's first fully digital bank), and its commitment to providing simpler, smarter, and more accessible banking experiences. This recognition underscores the bank's strategic investments in technology and customer-centric approaches, solidifying its position as a leading financial institution in Nigeria.
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Orange Jordan launches new Coding Academy phase to boost youth digital skills
Orange Jordan, in partnership with the Crown Prince Foundation, has launched a new phase of its Coding Academy program.
The initiative aims to digitally empower Jordanian youth and enhance their economic participation across the Kingdom. The three-year program will train 370 youth aged 18-35 in fields such as web development, artificial intelligence, and freelance work, with a focus on life skills, entrepreneurship, and employment. This collaboration ensures nationwide reach and greater access to economic opportunities for young people. Both Orange Jordan and the Crown Prince Foundation emphasize the importance of digital skills in strengthening youth competitiveness in the labor market and creating new career pathways.
Sources
Provisur and Nothum partner to streamline food processing
Provisur Technologies and Nothum Food Processing Systems have formed a partnership to offer integrated food processing solutions.
This collaboration aims to provide a turnkey approach for chicken nugget production, covering stages from grinding and forming to battering, breading, and frying. Provisur's Weiler and Formax product lines complement Nothum's expertise in automated coating and frying systems. By combining their technologies, the companies intend to offer food processors a more coordinated and efficient production process, reducing integration challenges and improving startup readiness. This partnership is designed to simplify complex projects for food processors seeking to boost production efficiency.
Sources
India's bank deposit growth projected to reach 15% in FY27
Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Bank) or FCNR-B inflows are expected to boost India's aggregate bank deposit growth to 15 percent in FY27.
A report from SBI Research indicates that approximately $13-14 billion has already been mobilized through the FCNR-B deposit window, which is anticipated to strengthen the banking sector's deposit base. This growth is crucial as bank credit has been outpacing deposit growth since FY23, widening the credit-deposit gap. The report attributes this persistent gap to structural changes post-Covid-19, including saturated traditional deposit markets in metropolitan cities and diversification of urban household savings into market-linked instruments. The project also notes that deposit growth is increasingly shifting towards semi-urban and rural areas.
Sources
US soldier killed in Iraq during controlled detonation of Iranian drone
A US soldier was killed in Iraq during the controlled detonation of an Iranian drone.
The incident occurred during a controlled detonation of an Iranian drone in Iraq, resulting in the death of a US soldier. Details regarding the specific circumstances of the drone's presence, the nature of the controlled detonation, and its relation to ongoing regional conflicts are not extensively provided. However, the event highlights the volatile security situation in Iraq and the potential risks faced by US military personnel in the region, particularly in proximity to Iranian-made equipment or technology.
Sources
Fort Worth Mayor to speak on key city issues at Women's Policy Forum
Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker is scheduled to speak at the Women's Policy Forum luncheon on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.
Mayor Parker will provide an update on significant issues shaping Fort Worth's future, including education, workforce development, economic development, and public safety. The event, hosted by the Women's Policy Forum, aims to inform attendees about the city's progress and challenges in these critical areas. Her address is expected to cover current initiatives and future plans related to economic growth and social well-being within the city.
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Incidents & Disasters
· 8 topics · Read the edition
US Strikes Iran in Retaliation for Jordan Troop Deaths
The US military launched airstrikes targeting Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard in retaliation for the killing of American troops in Jordan.
The strikes are part of a weeklong campaign that began with a struggle over control of the Strait of Hormuz. The US has targeted bridges, electrical facilities, and other targets in Iran. Tehran has retaliated by hitting power and desalination plants in Kuwait, threatening daily life in that nation. Iran has also increased its threats to further expand the strikes, prompting a warning from the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait activated air defenses Sunday morning due to incoming Iranian drones and missiles.
Sources
Pakistan Supreme Court Acquits Three Convicted in 2014 Lynching Case
Pakistan's Supreme Court has overturned the sentences of the final three men convicted in the 2014 murder of a Christian couple.
The decision has drawn criticism from Church leaders who state that religious minorities in Pakistan are often denied justice after being targeted in violent incidents. The victims, Shahzad Masih and his pregnant wife Shama Bibi, were reportedly accused of desecrating pages of the Quran and were killed by being thrown into a brick kiln furnace. The owner of the brick kiln allegedly prevented the couple from fleeing.
Sources
Australia Tests Emergency Alert System, Raising Concerns for Domestic Violence Victims
A nationwide test of Australia's new emergency alert system, AusAlert, will sound a siren on all mobile devices on July 27.
The AusAlert system, set to replace state-based emergency alert systems by October, can be triggered on devices with a SIM card to issue warnings for natural disasters, public safety threats, and biosecurity or health concerns. However, advocates are warning that the siren may expose individuals in domestic violence situations who rely on 'safe phones' for support, as the alert will sound even when devices are on silent or 'do not disturb' mode. Women's Safety Commissioner Hannah Tonkin expressed concern for victim-survivors using hidden phones to access safety services.
Man Arrested After Car Strikes Multiple People in Skerries, Ireland
A man in his 20s has been arrested after a car struck several people during a public order incident in Skerries, Ireland.
The incident occurred on Harbour Road on Saturday night. Gardaí responded to reports of a large group of youths gathering, which led to an altercation. During the disturbance, a car hit a number of individuals. Three people, two females and one male, all in their late teens, were taken to Beaumont Hospital with injuries believed to be non-life-threatening.
Sources
Protestors Demand Highway Restoration and Deputy Chief Minister's Return to Meghalaya
Pressure groups in Meghalaya are demanding the restoration of the Shillong-Dawki National Highway, which has been collapsed near Laitlyngkot for nearly a month.
The KSU South Central East Circle, FKJGP Ri-War Mihngi Circle, and Federation of Ri-War Mihngi Local Dorbars have urged the state government and NHIDCL to expedite repairs. They have also called for Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, the Pynursla MLA, to cut short his trip to the United States and return to coordinate the restoration work, citing severe hardship to residents of the Ri-War Mihngi region.
Sources
Study Finds Kishangarh Marble Dumpyard is a Major Pollution Hotspot
Asia's largest marble waste dumping yard in Kishangarh, Rajasthan, is a pollution hotspot with PM 2.5 concentrations significantly exceeding recommended limits.
A study conducted by researchers at Central University of Rajasthan found that PM 2.5 levels in the dumpyard are 4-12 times higher than Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) limits and 20-50 times higher than World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations. This research is the first to document the hazardous effects of the dumpyard, which is also a popular tourist destination.
Sources
Activist Sonam Wangchuk's Hunger Strike Described as Politically Motivated
The Delhi BJP has alleged that activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike at Jantar Mantar was politically driven.
According to Delhi BJP president Harsh Malhotra, the protest was organized to cause disruption ahead of Parliament's Monsoon Session rather than to address concerns over the alleged NEET paper leak. Malhotra cited the appearance of senior lawyers and Members of Parliament before the Delhi High Court seeking interim relief for Wangchuk as evidence that the activist was acting as a 'political pawn' of opposition parties. The BJP stated that the Delhi Police action to remove Wangchuk was in line with High Court directions.
Sources
West Bengal Builders Hopeful for Real Estate Boom After Regime Change
Builders in West Bengal are expressing renewed hopes for growth in the real estate sector following a recent change in government.
The political shift has created optimism among developers who anticipate a more favorable environment for the real estate industry. This sentiment suggests potential new policies or a renewed focus on development that could stimulate the market in the region.
IT & AI
· 12 topics · Read the edition
AI Advice Can Reduce Accuracy While Increasing User Confidence, Study Finds
A recent study indicates that relying on AI for advice can lead to decreased accuracy in responses, paradoxically accompanied by an increase in user confidence.
This finding suggests a potential pitfall in human-AI interaction where users might become over-reliant on AI suggestions, leading to a false sense of certainty even when the information provided is incorrect. The study highlights the importance of maintaining critical thinking skills when engaging with AI tools. Such a phenomenon could have implications across various domains, from decision-making in professional settings to everyday tasks. The research points to a complex psychological interplay between human users and artificial intelligence, where the perceived authority of AI can override independent judgment. This raises questions about the design of AI interfaces and how they can be optimized to encourage critical evaluation rather than blind acceptance of AI-generated content. The study's findings underscore the need for users to remain vigilant and verify AI-provided information.
Sources
Claude Fable Discovers Counterexample to Jacobian Conjecture
The AI model Claude Fable has reportedly generated a counterexample to the Jacobian Conjecture.
The Jacobian Conjecture, proposed in 1939, posits that if a polynomial map from the complex plane to itself has a non-vanishing Jacobian determinant, then it is invertible. This problem has remained unsolved for decades, attracting significant attention from mathematicians. The development of an AI model capable of finding a counterexample, if verified, would represent a major breakthrough in abstract algebra. This achievement could signal a new era of AI-assisted mathematical discovery, where AI models not only perform computations but also contribute to theoretical advancements. The implications extend to computational mathematics and the potential for AI to tackle other long-standing unsolved problems in various scientific fields. The focus now shifts to the rigorous verification of the counterexample by the mathematical community.
Sources
Power Companies and Tech Giants Target Native American Land for Data Centers
Data center development is increasingly encroaching on Native American tribal lands, with power companies utilizing eminent domain to acquire land for these facilities.
This trend highlights a growing conflict between the demand for massive computing infrastructure, driven by AI and other technologies, and the preservation of tribal sovereignty and ancestral lands. The use of eminent domain by power companies to facilitate data center construction raises significant ethical and legal questions. These developments underscore the environmental and social impacts of the burgeoning tech industry, particularly the significant land and energy requirements of data centers. Reports indicate that these land acquisitions often occur in areas with significant cultural or historical importance to Native American tribes. The situation brings to the forefront issues of land rights, resource allocation, and the potential for marginalized communities to bear the brunt of industrial expansion driven by technological progress. This convergence of tech infrastructure needs and land acquisition strategies demands careful scrutiny and engagement with affected communities.
Netflix Acquires Ben Affleck's AI Filmmaking Startup for $587 Million
Netflix has purchased InterPositive, a startup co-founded by Ben Affleck focused on AI filmmaking, for $587 million in cash.
This acquisition signifies a significant investment by Netflix into generative AI capabilities for content creation. The substantial price tag suggests a high valuation of the startup's technology and potential. It indicates Netflix's strategic move to integrate advanced AI tools into its production pipeline, potentially for enhancing visual effects, optimizing workflows, or exploring new creative avenues. Ben Affleck's involvement adds a notable celebrity endorsement and creative leadership dimension to the acquisition. The move aligns with a broader trend in the entertainment industry to leverage AI for efficiency and innovation in content production. The focus on AI filmmaking suggests a future where artificial intelligence plays a more direct role in bringing stories to the screen, potentially impacting creative roles and the nature of filmmaking itself.
Sources
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang Seals Tech Ecosystem Deals in Japan
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang concluded a visit to Japan by securing agreements across the country's technology sector.
Huang's visit and subsequent deals suggest a strategic push by Nvidia to deepen its presence and influence within Japan's robust tech landscape. The breadth of agreements spanning the entire tech ecosystem indicates a comprehensive approach, likely involving AI development, semiconductor manufacturing, and potential collaborations on future hardware. This move could accelerate AI adoption and innovation within Japanese industries, leveraging Nvidia's GPU technology and AI platforms. The implications may include new partnerships for AI research, localized AI solutions, and strengthened supply chains. Japan's established technological base, combined with Nvidia's leadership in AI, could foster significant advancements and new market opportunities. This engagement also points to Nvidia's ongoing global strategy to embed its technologies deeply into diverse national economies.
Sources
Christopher Nolan Criticizes AI as an 'Obvious Trojan Horse'
Director Christopher Nolan has voiced strong concerns about artificial intelligence, describing it as an 'obvious Trojan horse.'
Nolan's critical stance reflects growing apprehension among some prominent figures in the creative industries regarding the unchecked proliferation and influence of AI. The 'Trojan horse' analogy suggests a perception that AI may harbor hidden dangers or intentions that are not immediately apparent, potentially undermining existing structures or values. This viewpoint highlights anxieties about AI's potential impact on creative work, authenticity, and the nature of human expression. His statement indicates a critical perspective that challenges optimistic views of AI's immediate benefits, instead emphasizing potential risks and hidden agendas. This sentiment aligns with broader societal debates about the ethical implications and long-term consequences of advancing AI technologies, particularly concerning their integration into cultural and artistic domains.
Sources
Nonprofit Current AI Aims to Build a Free, Accessible World Wide Web for AI
The nonprofit organization Current AI is working to establish a free and universally accessible 'World Wide Web of AI.'
This initiative seeks to democratize access to AI technologies and foster an open ecosystem for AI development and deployment. By building a decentralized, accessible web for AI, Current AI aims to prevent the concentration of AI power in the hands of a few entities and ensure that AI advancements benefit a wider range of cultures and individuals. Their progress across devices and AI chat interfaces suggests a multifaceted approach to creating this infrastructure. The goal of leaving no culture behind emphasizes a commitment to inclusivity and the development of AI that is sensitive to diverse global needs and contexts. This project could represent a significant counterpoint to proprietary AI platforms, promoting open standards and collaborative innovation in the AI space.
Sources
India Successfully Launches its First Privately Developed Rocket
India's first privately developed rocket has successfully reached orbit in its debut launch.
This milestone marks a significant achievement for India's burgeoning private space sector, demonstrating increasing capabilities in space exploration and launch services. The success of this privately funded mission indicates a growing private industry ecosystem that can complement government space programs. Such developments are crucial for reducing launch costs and increasing access to space for research, satellite deployment, and potentially future space-based industries. The dramatic debut launch suggests a high level of engineering and operational competence achieved by the private entity. This event positions India as a more significant player in the global commercial space race and could spur further investment and innovation in the country's aerospace industry.
Sources
Apple's Lawsuit Against OpenAI Could Impact Future Hardware Plans
The ongoing lawsuit filed by Apple against OpenAI is under discussion for its potential to derail OpenAI's highly anticipated hardware ambitions and public offerings.
This legal challenge by Apple introduces significant uncertainty for OpenAI's strategic expansion into hardware and its path toward becoming a public company. The core of Apple's suit likely relates to intellectual property, potentially trade secrets or copyrighted material used in OpenAI's AI models. Such a lawsuit could impose costly legal battles, injunctions, or significant financial penalties, diverting resources and attention from product development. If Apple prevails, it could force OpenAI to fundamentally alter its technology or business strategy, impacting its ability to launch new hardware products or pursue an IPO. The outcome of this case will be closely watched as it could set precedents for intellectual property disputes in the rapidly evolving AI industry.
Sources
New iPhone App 'Grok-iOS' Enables Remote Grok Builds
A new application named Grok-iOS has been released, allowing users to remotely build and interact with the Grok AI model from their iPhones via ACP.
This development provides mobile accessibility to Grok, a powerful AI model, enabling users to leverage its capabilities on the go. The use of ACP (likely referring to Apple's Advanced Communication Protocol or a similar remote access technology) suggests a technical approach to integrating the AI model's functionality within the iOS ecosystem. Such mobile access can enhance productivity and user engagement by making sophisticated AI tools readily available on personal devices. The existence of Grok-iOS indicates a growing trend of bringing advanced AI functionalities to mobile platforms, making them more accessible for everyday use and specialized tasks. This could expand the user base and practical applications of the Grok AI model.
Sources
Probabilistic Computer Converts Noise into Answers
The world's largest probabilistic computer is capable of transforming noise into usable answers.
This advancement in computing architecture utilizes probabilistic methods to extract meaningful information from noisy or incomplete data, a common challenge in various scientific and engineering fields. Probabilistic computing diverges from traditional deterministic approaches by embracing uncertainty and leveraging statistical methods to find solutions. The scale of this computer suggests it is designed for complex problems where traditional algorithms may struggle. Potential applications could include advanced pattern recognition, complex simulations, and novel forms of data analysis. This technology represents a significant step in developing computational systems that can more effectively process real-world data, which is often inherently noisy and unpredictable.
Sources
Minecraft Java Edition Adopts SDL3 for Graphics
Minecraft: Java Edition has updated to utilize SDL3 for its graphical rendering.
The adoption of SDL3 (Simple DirectMedia Layer 3) represents a significant technical update for Minecraft's Java Edition. SDL is a cross-platform development library designed to provide low-level access to audio, keyboard, mouse, joystick, and graphics hardware via OpenGL and Direct3D. Utilizing SDL3 likely brings performance improvements, enhanced compatibility with modern hardware, and potentially new graphical features to the game. This change affects how the game interacts with different operating systems and display hardware, offering a more streamlined and potentially more efficient rendering pipeline. The update signifies ongoing development and maintenance of the Java Edition, ensuring it stays current with underlying system technologies.
Sources
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