Paradise News

Blog

  • How do we learn something new? Study reveals how our brain learns

    How does the brain encode new information, like job tasks or song lyrics? Scientists at the University of California, San Diego, have uncovered groundbreaking insights into how learning reorganizes the brain. Their study reveals that neurons follow multiple rules to adapt during learning, offering insights with potential applications in medicine and artificial intelligence.

    Learning triggers changes across trillions of synapses, where neurons communicate with each other. This process, known as synaptic plasticity, enables the strengthening and weakening of specific synapses.

    Previously, scientists believed that synaptic changes followed a single set of rules; however, the new study reveals that neurons apply different rules across various regions.

    Using two-photon imaging to observe individual synapses in mice, researchers discovered that neurons perform distinct computations in parallel. The new images show that neurons follow multiple rules during learning, challenging the earlier belief that they operate under a single set of rules. This challenges traditional views and sheds light on the “credit assignment problem,” where synapses work locally but collectively shape new behaviors, much like ants in a colony.

    The findings could advance treatments for disorders like addiction, PTSD, Alzheimer’s, and autism by improving understanding of brain function and dysfunction. In AI, these insights may inspire more sophisticated neural networks by mimicking the brain’s ability to apply multiple rules simultaneously.

    “This work is laying a foundation to understand both normal brain function better and what goes wrong in diseases,” said Dr. William “Jake” Wright, the study’s first author.

    The research opens new paths for studying how neurons benefit from applying diverse learning rules and what this means for brain health and beyond.

    Journal Reference:

    1. William Wright, Nathan Hedrick, et al. Distinct synaptic plasticity rules operate across dendritic compartments in vivo during learning. Science. DOI: 10.1126/science.ads4706

    Source: Tech Explorist

  • Kaduna Governor Calls For Unity, Prayers As Christians Mark Easter

    Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has congratulated Christians in the state and across the country on Easter, urging them to use the celebration to pray for his administration and that of President Bola Tinubu.

    The governor made the call in a statement released on his verified Facebook handle on Saturday to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a symbol of sacrifice, renewal, hope, and joy.

    According to Governor Sani, “This season calls us to embrace the core Christian values of love, sacrifice, and forgiveness. As we draw inspiration from these ideals, let us work hand in hand to build a more harmonious, peaceful, and inclusive society.”

    He emphasised that his administration remains committed to service above self, ensuring that every policy, project, and programme is designed with the welfare of citizens as the primary objective.

    The governor’s commitment to the people of Kaduna State is evident in his administration’s efforts to drive transformation in rural areas, upgrade urban infrastructure, strengthen security, revitalise the economy, and invest in human capital.

    “Our youth and women empowerment initiatives are designed to lift everyone, regardless of ethnicity or creed, because our vision is clear about a Kaduna State where all communities live and thrive together in harmony,” he said.

    Governor Sani’s administration has been working tirelessly to ensure that every community in the state gets its share of infrastructure upgrades, health clinics, schools, and economic opportunities.

    “From the highlands of Zangon Kataf to the plains of Birnin Gwari, from Kaduna metropolis to the boundaries of Jema’a, our commitment is unwavering,” he stated.

    The governor also urged citizens to join hands in acts of charity, sharing meals, offering counsel, and extending helping hands to the less fortunate, vulnerable, and displaced.

    “In the true spirit of Easter, which is associated with compassion and generosity, let us not forget those who are less fortunate,” he said.

    As Christians celebrate Easter, Governor Sani called on them to pray for his administration and that of President Tinubu, noting that the president needs the prayers, understanding, and support of citizens as he navigates economic, social, and political challenges on the path to national renewal.

    “As we rejoice this Easter, let our unity be our anthem and our diversity our strength. May the blessings of peace, progress, and sustainable development abound in our dear state, Kaduna, and our nation, Nigeria,” the governor said.

    Our correspondent reports that the governor’s message is a call to action for all citizens to work together towards building a more harmonious and inclusive society.

    As Kaduna State continues to grow and develop, it is clear that the governor’s administration is committed to ensuring that every citizen benefits from the state’s progress.

    Kaduna Governor Calls For Unity, Prayers As Christians Mark Easter is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

    Source: The Whistler

  • 6 players in Marvel vs. Capcom on-screen at once may sound crazy, but there’s precedent for this mode being included in the future











    The Marvel vs. Capcom franchise is well known for its wild and crazy gameplay, but some people were surprised to hear that the developers once considered letting 6 players compete at once in Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3, but decided against it because of networking concerns.






    The thing is, there’s actually some precedent for Capcom including such a mode that has everyone on-screen at one time, as they’ve done so previously in some of their major fighting games, and netcode has vastly improved since the February 2011 release of Marvel vs. Capcom 3.









    In terms of Capcom fighting games, the first place many people saw this feature was in 1995 with Street Fighter Alpha, where two players controlling Ryu and Ken could take on M. Bison, which was a call back to the animated movie that had come out the prior year.


    This feature would once again return in Street Fighter Alpha 2 Gold, and Street Fighter Alpha 3, but in all of these instances, this mode involved a CPU controlled opponent battling against two human players.


    However, in 2012, Street Fighter X Tekken had a Scramble Mode included in the game, which let 4 people play at one time. Fast forward more than a decade later, and you’d assume that with technology and netcode advances, Capcom’s ability to do a 6 fighter on-screen battle at once would be possible — but potentially need some additional system mechanics to make it all work.


    There are concerns, especially with the over the top gameplay in the Marvel vs. Capcom series, that such a mode may make it extremely difficult to keep up with the action, and the gameplay screen might need to be zoomed out, and how the camera follows the characters may also need to change a bit.


    Also, it might be possible to lock down the opposition with a flurry of offensive moves, so it’s possible a new defensive mechanic that allows players to evade pressure may also be in order, outside of pushblocking.


    It’s also possible this mode would only allow two people to control the on-screen action at one time, so the other players would have to wait their turns or be tagged in. This would be less of a Scramble/Dramatic Battle at that point, and would play much more like a traditional Marvel vs. Capcom title, but with some added flair.


    The bottom line is that the Marvel vs. Capcom franchise is well known for its unorthodox and crazy gameplay, so a feature like this making its debut in the next Marvel game could be a reality.


    After all, it’s not uncommon for Capcom to revisit previously cut features or characters and add them into the next game.


    While a new Marvel vs. Capcom game hasn’t been announced yet, the recent sales boost may mean it’s only a matter of time before we hear about the next entry in this outstanding series.







    Source: Event Hubs

  • Social Media Manager / Graphic Designer at LD&D Consulting April, 2025

    Click Here To Apply

  • Adviser AIFA: Relationship Banking (FAIS) at Absa Group Limited (Absa) April, 2025

    Never pay for any CBT, test or assessment as part of any recruitment process. When in doubt, contact us

    Job Summary

    • To follow the six steps of financial planning in executing the role of a FAIS licensed financial adviser. A professional introduction must be made to introduce the adviser and the services offered by the adviser. Upon client approval the adviser may conduct a Financial Needs Analysis (FNA) in the disciplines of Investment, Life Insurance and Estate planning. Based on the concluded FNA to make recommendations to address single or multiple needs identified on behalf of the client. Advice recommendations will must be presented under the license categories for which the adviser is accredited Absa approved product(s) that are deemed will meet the needs of the client. On client acceptance of all or part of the advice, the adviser is required to implement the accepted advice through Absa’s new business processes. The adviser must conduct regularly review of the client needs to assess continued suitability of implemented solutions. In these reviews, new needs may be addressed and changes to existing plans be proposed to ensure continued solutioning of client needs. Adviser must continue to ensure ongoing Fit and Proper status to enable them to offer services under an Absa advice license.

    Job Description

    Accountability: To establish and maintain a professional relationship with all stakeholders (Client, Bank personnel, product providers and Adviser Support staff)

    • Participate in reciprocal leads activities and sales/pipeline meetings to identify opportunities for new or repeat business, and fully utilising Absa’s bancassurance structure.

    • Assess client’s needs through use of recommended needs analysis tools, ensuring that the client is aware of the full value proposition offered by AIFA.

    • Prepare recommendation and quote for appropriate risk and investment solutions based on the client’s individual needs and profile.

    • Present recommendation to clients, ensuring that all FAIS regulations are followed regarding advice given.

    • Follow all the steps in the designated client engagement process as specified by Absa Advisers.

    • Provide regular feedback to the Regional Manager on actions taken to progress the lead to business.

    • Network, on an ongoing basis, with all stakeholders in Everyday Banking (PGM’s and Regional Managers) and elsewhere by attending their meetings and social gatherings to position the Absa Advisers’ value proposition to the Bank and to the clients

    Accountability: Meet sales and/or growth targets

    • Do activity planning by identifying the clients to be approached/contacted during a particular period in conjunction with Everyday Advice Executive.

    • Using the leads information provided by the source and or Regional Manager listings, as well as leads sourced through own prospecting activities and determine the client’s financial needs.

    • Make exclusive use of Absa’s Financial Needs Analysis tool (Avalon from Aug 2024 onwards) to conduct a comprehensive Financial Needs Analysis for the client.

    • Obtain the client’s consent to access his/her existing policy information by getting him/her to sign the relevant documents to get a comprehensive view of the client’s financial needs.

    • Discuss various possible solutions and options available with the client and thereafter recommend the most appropriate products and or solution(s) to address financial needs.

    • Generate and discuss a formal recommendation including product quote(s) for the client.

    • On acceptance of part or all the advice recommendations, complete the necessary product application forms and ensure that the client signs the forms to indicate his/her consent to engage in a transaction(s).

    • Gather, generate, and complete all the necessary compliance documentation (e.g., Client Advice Record, copy of ID, Financial Needs Analysis, FICA).

    • Submit the proposal forms to the relevant product providers for processing.

    • Ensure that the issued policy aligns to the recommended product.

    • Review the client’s portfolio at a minimum of once a year and contact the client based on the adviser and client agreed contact strategy to maintain a healthy client relationship.

    • Provide a report back to the Regional Manager and Everyday Banking stakeholders on the strike rate (i.e., the number of leads provided that were converted to business) where applicable.

    • Seek business opportunities from external sources as necessary to grow the book of business and reciprocate leads to Regional Managers and PGM’s.

    Accountability: Manage own commission earnings

    • Capture the correct Policy Relevant Information (PRI) number on the Commission system.

    • On a monthly basis, check the accuracy of the commission statements received from the Broker Commissions department.  Verify that all the PRI numbers reconcile to the commission paid and reflected on the statements Keep the client database up to date by ensuring that new clients are added to the database.

    • Follow up on unpaid premiums and lapses by contacting the clients to establish the reasons for the problems Manage the suspense account timeously by clearing it on the system at month end.

    Accountability: Practice Management

    • Ensure that staff members (Adviser Assistants) have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities within the adviser practice.

    • Arrange for staff members to receive the relevant training (Absa programs for the Interns) e.g., systems training, product training and operational training.

    • Provide coaching and mentoring to assistant(s) with regards to facilitate knowledge and skills development.

    • Participate performance development (PD) discussions as required by the Absa performance management standards.

    • Take the necessary corrective actions in cases of underperformance in consultation with the Regional Manager. Implement controls with regards to compliant record keeping in accordance with minimum Absa business standards (i.e. FAIS, FICA, FSB and)

    • Liaise with  Provincial Operations Office) with regards to maintenance of systems and equipment and provision of other services

    • Complete all the required compliance exams in the specified timeframes (e.g. Anti-Money Laundering, Sanctions, BCM, Basic Financial Crime Concepts).

    • Remain fit and proper as required for FAIS flagged roles.

    • Provide monthly feedback to the branch, and Business Bank, regarding non-interest income (seat costs) and cross-selling opportunities

    • Segment the client base according to profile, income potential and commission income.

    • Engage with business development strategies with the support of the Regional Manager and our practice management subject matter experts to maximise the sustainability of the adviser practice

    Accountability: Personal Development

    • Attend all the required training to attain accreditation to market Absa approved products.

    • Attend all the requisite internal training (i.e FAIS-related programs/courses).

    • Attain the required FAIS credits in order to attain Fit and Proper status

    • Ensure that Fit and Proper status is maintained (honesty, integrity, financial solvency)

    Education

    • Bachelor`s Degrees and Advanced Diplomas: Accounting, National Senior Certificate/ Matric (Grade 12)

    Click Here To Apply

  • Tinubu shouldn’t seek re-election if he’s smart- former VP-candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed

    The Vice-Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has asked President Bola Tinubu to ditch any plans to seek re-election come 2027.

     

    Baba-Ahmed said this as a guest on ‘Prime Time’, an Arise Television programme, on Friday, April 18. The politician said he believes Tinubu’s “time is up,” adding that the signs of an electoral loss for the former Lagos governor could not have been clearer.

     

    “I expect Tinubu to throw in the towel if he is that smart politician. I’m not praising him at all. It’s not good to be what he is that I don’t want to say. He skipped 2007 and jokingly made Atiku (presidential) candidate, made Buhari in 2015, Buhari won, and then skipped 2019 and they stole 2023. If he is that smart, everything is there for him that he’s going to lose 2027. There are two possible candidates that I cannot mention, and they are the nemesis of Tinubu.

    Tinubu’s time has come.”he said

     

    Baba-Ahmed said the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is a lie, adding that former president Muhammadu Buhari did not develop Nigeria and did not provide security.

     

    “Buhari did not fight corruption. Neither will Tinubu ever do this. So going forward, I see APC losing this election. I see Nigerians somehow uniting. Listening to what someone like me is saying that, look, if you cannot practise this democracy, it’s not for you. And then Nigerians will decide to come out and practise democracy for the first time.

    And then bad leadership will begin to have no hiding place in Nigeria.

    And then gradually, we’ll begin to heal our land, we’ll begin to recover, we’ll begin to unite and take each other as fellow Nigerians, brothers and sisters. Their time is up.” he said

    Source: Linda Ikeji

  • Here Are All Google Pixel Phones That Will Get Android 16

    The best part about joining Team Pixel is that you get to enjoy the latest Android flavors as soon as they are released, whereas your pals are still stuck with previous versions. Since Android 16 is coming out early this year, you may be wondering if your Pixel is eligible for this mid-cycle update. Fear not, just take a look at this list of all Google Pixel devices that will receive Android 16.

    Android 16: List of Supported Google Pixel Phones

    Google is currently testing the public beta of Android 16 on all supported devices, and they have also extended the update cycle for Pixel 6 and 7 series devices back in December. This means your Pixel will likely get the update. Just to be sure, cross-check your phone with the list of supported devices:

    • Pixel 9a
    • Pixel 9 Pro Fold
    • Pixel 9 Pro XL
    • Pixel 9 Pro
    • Pixel 9
    • Pixel 8a
    • Pixel 8 Pro
    • Pixel 8
    • Pixel Tablet
    • Pixel Fold
    • Pixel 7a
    • Pixel 7 Pro
    • Pixel 7
    • Pixel 6a
    • Pixel 6 Pro
    • Pixel 6

    What’s New in Android 16?

    Image Credit: Beebom

    Android 16 brings several useful and quality-of-life changes to your existing Google Pixel phones. Most of what’s new is under the hood, or will arrive later with QPR builds and Pixel Drops. However, some highlight features include Live updates like iOS, Bluetooth audio sharing, resizable windows for larger screens, and predictive back gesture in third-party apps.

    Android 16: Potential Release Timeline

    The update should be rolling out to your device somewhere around May or early June, as it has already received its possibly final beta. If you don’t want to wait for the final release, then you can learn how to install Android 16 beta and get the update right away.

    That’s all we had for this list. Hopefully, your Pixel cut this year is eligible to receive the upcoming update. It is honestly quite good on Google’s part to not only honor the updates, but to extend them further for older devices.

    Anshuman Jain

    As a tech journalist, I dive into the ever-evolving tech landscape with a particular interest for smartphones, apps, and gaming. With a passion for sharing insights, my articles blend expertise with a friendly touch—think of me as your friendly neighborhood tech support.


    Source: Beebom

  • Microsoft Makes Copilot Vision Free in Edge Browser

    Microsoft has announced a new feature, Copilot Vision. It’s an addition to its artificial intelligence assistant, Copilot, and is currently free to utilize in the Microsoft Edge browser. This feature goes way beyond what a typical voice assistant can do. It has the ability to read what appears on your screen and respond to voice commands in real time.

    What Can Copilot Vision Do

    Copilot Vision makes it easier for users to talk to their browser. You can communicate with it by tapping on the microphone icon in Edge. The assistant, once activated, listens and acts on what you can see on your screen.

    For example, if you are reading a recipe online, Copilot is able to list out the ingredients or walk you through each step. If you’re looking at a job posting, it’s able to offer tips or walk you through an interview. This is helpful to get the information you need without having to click over and re-search.

    However, Microsoft does not recommend the use of the feature to review sensitive documents, including résumés. It’s better to verify them by hand to avoid errors or privacy violations.

    Free Features vs. Pro Access

    Copilot Vision’s basic version at no cost is offered to every Edge user. It comes with voice interaction and screen scanning. When you activate the feature, the browser visually signals and beeps. It lets you know it’s listening. The assistant is turned off when the browser is closed or when you close the session.

    For higher-end functionality, Copilot Pro can be upgraded to by users. Copilot Pro is not only available within Edge but also within apps like Photoshop, video editing, and even videogames like Minecraft. It possesses more advanced integration and more AI-enabled tools.

    A New Way to Browse

    Copilot Vision speeds up and streamlines web browsing. It turns your screen into an interactive space where you can ask for help, get answers, or navigate yourself—just with voice.

    It’s available to use. You just need Microsoft Edge. Have you tried it yet? Leave your feedback!

    Disclaimer: We may be compensated by some of the companies whose products we talk about, but our articles and reviews are always our honest opinions. For more details, you can check out our editorial guidelines and learn about how we use affiliate links.Follow Gizchina.com on Google News for news and updates in the technology sector.

    Source: Giz China

  • Meta woos Microsoft, Amazon to help fund development of its Llama models

    Tech giant Meta allegedly asked Microsoft, Amazon, and other companies to contribute to the development and dissemination of their open-source large language model, LLaMA (Large Language Model Meta AI).

    Meta’s larger plan to build an ecosystem around LLaMA that can compete with the supremacy of OpenAI models—which Microsoft strongly supports—and other proprietary AI systems includes this approach.

    The possible need for shared financial support from partners is directly supported by the construction of massive and intricate models like Llama 4 Behemoth, which require a great deal of processing power and sophisticated engineering.

    This financing appeal takes place in tandem with Meta’s plan to manage additional expenses from thorough safety tuning and possible legal data concerns while integrating Llama technology broadly across its platforms.

    Meta has dedicated resources to tuning Llama 4 for specific outputs and safety. The company publicly stated its goal was countering perceived political biases in LLMs, noting, “It’s well-known that all leading LLMs have had issues with bias—specifically, they historically have leaned left when it comes to debated political and social topics… This is due to the types of training data available on the internet.”

    Source: Ripples Nigeria

  • Wolves missing 5 stars for Manchester United clash


    Image Credits: Getty Images

    Wolverhampton Wanderers could be without five players for Sunday’s Premier League trip to Old Trafford to take on Manchester United.

    With just six league games left of the league season, both teams will hope to ensure they start their finish to the season strongly.

    After a brief relegation scare, Wolves have stabilised since the appointment of Portuguese coach Vitor Pereira.

    With a 14-point buffer to 18th-placed Ipswich Town, who face Arsenal on Sunday, the West Midlands club could secure Premier League safety this weekend with a win.

    Victory at Old Trafford would also mark the club’s fifth straight top-flight win, a feat they have not achieved since 1970.

    Following a chaotic Europa League quarter-final win on Thursday, Manchester United could leapfrog Everton into 13th place if they win, but attention may already have shifted to a semi-final first leg against Athletic Bilbao in May.

    Wolves could go level on points with the Red Devils on Sunday, but could be without five players for the trip to Manchester, according to Pereira.

    “(Jean-Ricner) Bellegarde, (Matt) Doherty and Hee Chan [Hwang], they are trying to come back”, Pereira told the media.

    “They don’t have serious injuries, but they are trying to come back to help us in the game, and we’ll see. We have one more training tomorrow and I must decide and make those decisions tomorrow.”

    Sam Johnstone and Pedro Lima will also be missing after struggling with injury issues, the coach confirmed.

    Manchester United target Matheus Cunha is likely to come into the starting line-up to replace Bellegarde, should the Frenchman not be available.

    The Brazilian forward scored against Tottenham Hotspur off the bench last week, in a rout that saw Wolves put four goals past Spurs keeper Guglielmo Vicario.

    In-form striker Jorgen Strand Larsen is set to continue up front, after scoring four goals in his last three appearances.

    CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

    Source: Centred Devils