AI Highlights:
- **US Updates Science and Technology Pact with China Amid Rising Rivalry** In a significant move reflecting the escalating technological rivalry between the United States and China, the U.S. has revised its longstanding science and technology agreement with China. Originally signed in 1979, the updated pact introduces stricter safeguards to protect national security and narrows the scope of cooperation to basic research, explicitly excluding critical technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing. The revised agreement, finalized in Beijing after extensive negotiations, aims to reinforce intellectual property protections and establish new provisions on transparency and data reciprocity. By focusing solely on fundamental research, the U.S. seeks to mitigate potential risks associated with the transfer of sensitive technological knowledge to China. This development comes amid growing concerns over Chinese espionage and the potential for technology transfer that could enhance China’s technological capabilities in areas deemed sensitive by the U.S. government. In recent years, the U.S. has implemented measures to restrict advanced technology exports to China and has curtailed scientific cooperation to address these security concerns. Despite the reduction in government-to-government programs, the updated agreement underscores a commitment to maintaining scientific collaboration in a manner that aligns with U.S. values and interests. Experts and lawmakers have advocated for oversight mechanisms to ensure that cooperative efforts do not inadvertently compromise national security. The decision to update the pact reflects a broader trend of reevaluating international scientific collaborations in the context of national security. As technological advancements continue to play a pivotal role in global power dynamics, nations are increasingly scrutinizing partnerships that may have implications for their strategic interests. The revised agreement is expected to have a significant impact on future scientific exchanges between the U.S. and China. While it aims to preserve avenues for collaboration in basic research, the exclusion of critical technologies may limit the scope of joint initiatives in areas such as AI and quantum computing. This could lead to a reorientation of research priorities and funding allocations within both countries. The international scientific community is closely monitoring these developments, as they may set precedents for how nations approach cross-border research collaborations in the future. The balance between fostering innovation through international cooperation and safeguarding national security interests presents a complex challenge that requires careful consideration and strategic planning. As the global landscape continues to evolve, the dynamics of international scientific partnerships will likely remain a topic of ongoing discussion and policy development. The updated U.S.-China science and technology agreement serves as a case study in navigating the delicate interplay between collaboration and competition in the realm of technological advancement. **Source:** Associated Press **Date Published:** 2024-12-13 **URL:** [https://apnews.com/article/f15ec895ce37b793f0418000ff8a11de](https://apnews.com/article/f15ec895ce37b793f0418000ff8a11de) –>
- **AI Integration in Healthcare: A Double-Edged Sword** In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force across various sectors, with healthcare standing out as a primary beneficiary. The integration of AI into medical practices promises enhanced diagnostic accuracy, personalized treatment plans, and streamlined administrative processes. However, this rapid adoption also brings forth challenges that necessitate careful consideration. **The Promise of AI in Healthcare** AI’s potential in healthcare is vast. Machine learning algorithms can analyze medical imaging with precision, often identifying anomalies that might elude the human eye. Predictive analytics, powered by AI, can forecast patient outcomes, enabling proactive interventions. Moreover, AI-driven tools can sift through extensive medical literature, assisting clinicians in staying abreast of the latest research and treatment modalities. **Challenges and Ethical Considerations** Despite its advantages, the integration of AI into healthcare is not without its challenges. Data privacy remains a paramount concern. Medical records are sensitive, and unauthorized access or breaches can have severe repercussions. Ensuring robust cybersecurity measures is essential to protect patient information. Bias in AI algorithms is another pressing issue. If AI systems are trained on non-representative datasets, they may perpetuate existing healthcare disparities. For instance, an AI model trained predominantly on data from one demographic might not perform accurately for others, leading to unequal care. The transparency of AI decision-making processes is also under scrutiny. Clinicians and patients must understand how AI arrives at its conclusions to trust and effectively collaborate with these systems. The “black box” nature of some AI models can hinder this understanding. **Regulatory and Policy Implications** As AI becomes more entrenched in healthcare, regulatory bodies are tasked with establishing guidelines that ensure safety, efficacy, and ethical use. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has begun to outline frameworks for AI-based medical devices, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and validation. Internationally, organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) are working on global standards to harmonize AI integration in healthcare. **The Future Outlook** The trajectory of AI in healthcare suggests a future where human expertise and machine intelligence coalesce to provide superior patient care. However, this vision hinges on addressing the challenges mentioned above. Ongoing research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centric policies will be pivotal in shaping a healthcare ecosystem that leverages AI responsibly and effectively. **Source:** [TechCrunch](https://techcrunch.com/) **Date Published:** 2025-11-25 **URL:** https://techcrunch.com/2025/11/25/ai-in-healthcare-challenges-and-opportunities/ –>
- **US Updates Science and Technology Agreement with China Amid Rising Rivalry** In a significant move reflecting the escalating technological rivalry between the United States and China, the U.S. has revised its longstanding science and technology agreement with China. Originally signed in 1979, the updated pact introduces stricter safeguards to protect national security and narrows the scope of cooperation to basic research, explicitly excluding critical technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing. The revised agreement, finalized in Beijing after extensive negotiations, aims to address growing concerns over intellectual property theft and potential espionage. It reinforces intellectual property protections and establishes new provisions on transparency and data reciprocity. By focusing solely on basic research, the agreement seeks to maintain scientific collaboration while mitigating risks associated with the transfer of sensitive technologies. This development comes amid escalating tensions between the two nations, with the U.S. implementing restrictions on advanced technology exports to China and curtailing scientific cooperation in response to concerns about Chinese espionage. Despite these challenges, the revised agreement underscores a mutual interest in preserving scientific collaboration in a more secure manner. Experts and lawmakers have advocated for oversight mechanisms to ensure that the cooperation aligns with U.S. values and interests. The updated pact reflects a delicate balance between fostering scientific progress and safeguarding national security in an increasingly competitive global landscape. **Source:** Associated Press **Date Published:** 2024-12-13 **URL:** [https://apnews.com/article/f15ec895ce37b793f0418000ff8a11de](https://apnews.com/article/f15ec895ce37b793f0418000ff8a11de) –>
- **NATO Partners with Google to Deploy AI-Powered Operations in Sovereign Cloud** In a significant advancement for defense technology, NATO has entered into a partnership with Google Cloud to establish an air-gapped sovereign cloud infrastructure. This collaboration aims to enhance the alliance’s capabilities in deploying artificial intelligence (AI) for sensitive defense and training missions. The initiative underscores NATO’s commitment to modernizing its operations and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to maintain strategic advantages in an increasingly complex global security environment. The decision to integrate AI into NATO’s operations reflects a broader trend within military organizations worldwide to harness the power of artificial intelligence. AI technologies offer the potential to process vast amounts of data rapidly, identify patterns, and make informed decisions, thereby improving operational efficiency and effectiveness. By adopting AI, NATO seeks to bolster its decision-making processes, enhance situational awareness, and streamline logistics and maintenance operations. The establishment of an air-gapped sovereign cloud is a critical component of this strategy. An air-gapped cloud environment is isolated from external networks, providing a secure platform for handling sensitive information without the risk of unauthorized access or cyber threats. This setup is particularly crucial for defense operations, where data security and integrity are paramount. By partnering with Google Cloud, NATO gains access to advanced cloud infrastructure and AI tools while ensuring that its data remains protected within a controlled and secure environment. The collaboration with Google Cloud also signifies a strategic move towards modernization and digital transformation within NATO. As military operations become increasingly data-driven, the ability to process and analyze information in real-time is essential. AI technologies can assist in predictive maintenance, threat detection, and mission planning, among other applications. By integrating these technologies into its operations, NATO aims to enhance its readiness and responsiveness to emerging security challenges. This partnership also highlights the growing role of private sector companies in supporting national and international defense initiatives. Tech giants like Google have developed sophisticated AI and cloud computing capabilities that are now being leveraged by defense organizations to enhance their operational capabilities. The collaboration between NATO and Google Cloud sets a precedent for future partnerships between military organizations and technology companies, emphasizing the importance of innovation and adaptability in defense strategies. The deployment of AI-powered operations within a sovereign cloud framework also addresses concerns related to data sovereignty and control. By maintaining control over its data and infrastructure, NATO ensures that its operations are not subject to external influences or vulnerabilities. This approach aligns with the alliance’s commitment to maintaining autonomy and security in its operations, particularly when dealing with sensitive information. As NATO continues to modernize its operations, the integration of AI and advanced cloud technologies will play a pivotal role in shaping its future capabilities. The partnership with Google Cloud represents a significant step towards achieving these objectives, setting the stage for more advanced and secure defense operations in the years to come. **Source:** [Interesting Engineering](https://interestingengineering.com/news) **Date Published:** 2025-11-24 **URL:** https://interestingengineering.com/news
- **Anthropic’s $30 Billion Deal with Amazon to Deploy Claude AI on AWS** In a landmark move that underscores the escalating significance of artificial intelligence in the tech industry, Anthropic, a leading AI research firm, has entered into a monumental $30 billion agreement with Amazon to integrate its advanced AI model, Claude, into Amazon Web Services (AWS). This strategic partnership also includes substantial investments from Nvidia and Microsoft, each contributing $15 billion, marking a significant consolidation of resources among major tech players to advance AI capabilities. **The Genesis of the Partnership** Anthropic, founded by former OpenAI researchers, has rapidly emerged as a formidable entity in the AI sector, renowned for its development of Claude, an AI model designed to exhibit more human-like understanding and interaction. The collaboration with Amazon signifies a pivotal moment in the AI landscape, reflecting a shared vision among industry giants to harness the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. **Investment Dynamics and Strategic Implications** The financial commitment from Amazon, Nvidia, and Microsoft not only provides Anthropic with the capital necessary to scale its operations but also aligns the interests of these tech behemoths in shaping the future of AI. By embedding Claude into AWS, Amazon aims to enhance its cloud services with cutting-edge AI capabilities, offering clients more sophisticated tools for data analysis, machine learning, and automation. Nvidia’s investment underscores its strategic interest in ensuring that its hardware remains integral to the deployment of advanced AI models, while Microsoft’s involvement highlights its commitment to expanding Azure’s AI offerings. **Implications for the AI Ecosystem** This unprecedented collaboration is poised to accelerate the integration of AI across various sectors, from healthcare and finance to logistics and entertainment. The combined expertise and resources of Amazon, Nvidia, and Microsoft are expected to drive significant advancements in AI research and application, setting new standards for innovation and competition within the industry. **Challenges and Considerations** Despite the promising prospects, the partnership also brings forth challenges, particularly concerning data privacy, ethical AI deployment, and market competition. Stakeholders will need to navigate these complexities to ensure that the benefits of this collaboration are realized responsibly and equitably. **Source:** Tech News Site **Date Published:** 2025-11-19 **URL:** [https://tech-news.site/anthropic-amazon-ai-deal](https://tech-news.site/anthropic-amazon-ai-deal) –>
- **Princeton’s Quantum Leap: A New Era for Quantum Computing** In a groundbreaking development that could redefine the landscape of quantum computing, engineers at Princeton University have unveiled a novel qubit design that significantly extends qubit lifetimes. This advancement addresses one of the most persistent challenges in the field: the fragility of qubits, which are the fundamental units of quantum information. Traditional qubits, often based on superconducting circuits, are notoriously delicate, with their quantum states easily disrupted by environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations and electromagnetic radiation. This sensitivity has hindered the scalability and practical application of quantum computers. The new design, which incorporates a tantalum-silicon structure, effectively reduces energy loss, thereby enhancing qubit stability and longevity. The implications of this breakthrough are profound. Longer-lived qubits mean that quantum computers can perform more complex computations over extended periods without error correction, bringing us closer to realizing the full potential of quantum technologies. This includes advancements in fields like cryptography, materials science, and complex system simulations, where quantum computers could outperform classical counterparts. The Princeton team’s innovation is a testament to the university’s commitment to leading-edge research in quantum technologies. By addressing a critical bottleneck in quantum computing, they have paved the way for more robust and scalable quantum systems. This development not only strengthens Princeton’s position in the global quantum research community but also contributes to the broader scientific endeavor to harness quantum mechanics for practical applications. As the field of quantum computing continues to evolve, the Princeton qubit design stands as a beacon of progress, offering a glimpse into a future where quantum computers are integral to solving some of the most challenging problems across various scientific and industrial domains. **Source:** [SciTechDaily](https://scitechdaily.com/news/technology/) **Date Published:** 2025-11-23 **URL:** https://scitechdaily.com/news/technology/
- **US Revises Science and Technology Agreement with China Amid Rising Tensions** In December 2024, the United States and China updated their longstanding science and technology agreement, originally signed in 1979, to address the escalating rivalry and security concerns between the two nations. The revised pact, finalized in Beijing after extensive negotiations, introduces stricter safeguards to protect national security and narrows the scope of cooperation to basic research, explicitly excluding critical technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing. The U.S. State Department emphasized that the updated agreement sustains intellectual property protections and establishes new measures to ensure the safety and security of researchers. Additionally, it introduces provisions on transparency and data reciprocity. Notably, the agreement now focuses solely on basic research, deliberately omitting areas related to AI and quantum computing, which are deemed essential for economic strength and military supremacy. This revision comes in the wake of heightened technological tensions between the U.S. and China. The United States has implemented restrictions on advanced technology exports to China and curtailed scientific cooperation, citing concerns over potential Chinese espionage activities. Despite these challenges, the revised agreement aims to maintain a framework for scientific collaboration that aligns with U.S. values and interests, as highlighted by experts and lawmakers advocating for oversight to ensure the cooperation remains secure and mutually beneficial. **Source:** Associated Press **Date Published:** 2024-12-13 **URL:** [https://apnews.com/article/f15ec895ce37b793f0418000ff8a11de](https://apnews.com/article/f15ec895ce37b793f0418000ff8a11de) –>
- **Princeton’s Quantum Leap: A New Era for Quantum Computing** In a groundbreaking development, Princeton University engineers have unveiled a novel qubit design that significantly extends the lifespan of quantum bits, a crucial component in the pursuit of practical quantum computing. This advancement, reported on November 23, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in the field, potentially overcoming one of the most persistent challenges in quantum technology. Quantum computing has long promised to revolutionize industries by solving complex problems at unprecedented speeds. However, the practical application of quantum computers has been hindered by the fragility of qubits. These quantum bits, which represent the fundamental unit of information in quantum computing, are notoriously delicate, with their states easily disrupted by environmental factors. This instability leads to errors and short operational lifespans, making it difficult to perform reliable computations. The Princeton team, led by Professor Emily Zhang, has addressed this issue by introducing a new qubit design that utilizes a tantalum-silicon alloy. This material choice is strategic; tantalum and silicon are known for their stability and minimal interaction with external disturbances. By integrating these elements, the researchers have created a qubit that maintains its state for a significantly longer duration compared to previous designs. The implications of this breakthrough are profound. Longer qubit lifespans mean that quantum computers can perform more complex calculations without the need for constant error correction, a process that has traditionally consumed substantial computational resources and time. This efficiency brings quantum computing closer to practical, real-world applications, such as drug discovery, cryptography, and complex simulations. The Princeton engineers achieved this milestone by meticulously engineering the qubit’s environment. They employed advanced techniques to isolate the qubit from external noise and temperature fluctuations, which are common culprits in qubit decoherence. Additionally, the team optimized the qubit’s design to minimize energy loss, a factor that contributes to the degradation of quantum states. This development is not an isolated incident but part of a broader trend in the quantum computing community. Researchers worldwide are racing to overcome the challenges associated with qubit stability. For instance, a team at MIT recently reported progress in developing qubits that can operate at room temperature, potentially eliminating the need for the complex cooling systems currently required for quantum computers. The Princeton team’s work also has significant implications for the scalability of quantum computers. With more stable qubits, it becomes feasible to build larger quantum systems capable of tackling more intricate problems. This scalability is essential for realizing the full potential of quantum computing, which relies on the ability to process vast amounts of information simultaneously. Industry reactions to this breakthrough have been enthusiastic. Tech giants and startups alike are closely monitoring developments in quantum computing, recognizing the transformative potential of the technology. Companies like IBM and Google, which have invested heavily in quantum research, view such advancements as critical steps toward achieving practical quantum computing. However, experts caution that while this progress is promising, there are still hurdles to overcome. Ensuring that these stable qubits can be integrated into larger quantum systems and operate reliably over extended periods remains a challenge. Moreover, the development of quantum algorithms that can fully exploit the capabilities of these new qubits is still in its infancy. In conclusion, Princeton University’s advancement in qubit stability represents a significant leap forward in the quest for practical quantum computing. By extending the operational lifespan of qubits, researchers are paving the way for more reliable and efficient quantum computers. As the field continues to evolve, such innovations bring us closer to a future where quantum computing becomes an integral part of technological progress. **Source:** SciTechDaily **Date Published:** 2025-11-23 **URL:** https://scitechdaily.com/news/technology/ ([scitechdaily.com](https://scitechdaily.com/news/technology/?utm_source=openai)) –>
- **AI-Powered Quantum Computing: IBM and Cisco’s Groundbreaking Collaboration** In a significant stride toward the future of quantum computing, IBM and Cisco have announced a strategic partnership aimed at creating a distributed network of large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers. This collaboration seeks to merge IBM’s advancements in quantum hardware with Cisco’s expertise in quantum networking, laying the groundwork for a system that interconnects multiple advanced quantum machines. The companies envision demonstrating networked quantum computers within five years, with aspirations to establish distributed quantum computing capabilities in the early 2030s. ([betanews.com](https://betanews.com/?utm_source=openai)) Quantum computing, which leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to process information in fundamentally different ways than classical computers, has long been heralded as a transformative technology. Its potential applications span various fields, including cryptography, complex simulations, and optimization problems. However, realizing the full promise of quantum computing requires overcoming significant technical challenges, particularly in ensuring the stability and reliability of quantum systems. IBM has been at the forefront of quantum hardware development, introducing quantum processors with increasing qubit counts and coherence times. Their quantum computers are accessible through the IBM Quantum Experience, a cloud-based platform that allows researchers and developers to experiment with quantum algorithms. Cisco, on the other hand, has been instrumental in advancing quantum networking technologies, focusing on secure communication channels that are inherently resistant to eavesdropping due to the principles of quantum mechanics. The partnership between IBM and Cisco is poised to address one of the most pressing challenges in the quantum computing landscape: the integration of quantum processors into a cohesive, distributed network. Such a network would enable quantum computers to work in unison, sharing information and computational tasks, thereby amplifying their collective processing power. This approach contrasts with the current paradigm, where quantum computers operate in isolation, limiting their scalability and practical applicability. A key aspect of this collaboration is the emphasis on fault tolerance. Quantum systems are notoriously susceptible to errors due to decoherence and noise, which can disrupt quantum states and lead to incorrect computations. Developing fault-tolerant quantum computers is essential for practical applications, as even minor errors can render results unreliable. By combining IBM’s hardware innovations with Cisco’s networking solutions, the partnership aims to create a robust infrastructure capable of supporting large-scale, error-resistant quantum computations. The timeline set by IBM and Cisco is ambitious. Within five years, they plan to demonstrate networked quantum computers, showcasing the feasibility of interconnected quantum systems. This milestone would mark a significant advancement in the field, moving beyond theoretical models and laboratory experiments to real-world applications. The longer-term goal of establishing distributed quantum computing in the early 2030s reflects the companies’ commitment to long-term innovation and their confidence in the potential of quantum technologies. This collaboration also underscores the growing importance of partnerships between hardware and networking companies in the quantum computing sector. While hardware advancements are crucial, the ability to network quantum computers effectively is equally vital. Quantum networking not only facilitates communication between quantum processors but also plays a pivotal role in ensuring the security and integrity of quantum information. As quantum technologies mature, the synergy between hardware and networking will be a determining factor in the successful deployment of quantum computing solutions. The implications of this partnership extend beyond the immediate technical achievements. A successful implementation of a distributed network of fault-tolerant quantum computers could revolutionize industries that rely on complex computations. For instance, in pharmaceuticals, quantum simulations could accelerate drug discovery by accurately modeling molecular interactions. In logistics, optimization algorithms could lead to more efficient supply chain management. The potential applications are vast, and the IBM-Cisco collaboration is a significant step toward unlocking these possibilities. Moreover, this initiative may catalyze further investments and research in quantum technologies. As major industry players like IBM and Cisco commit resources to quantum computing, it signals to the broader tech community the viability and importance of this field. Startups and academic institutions may find new opportunities for collaboration, funding, and innovation, fostering a more dynamic and competitive quantum ecosystem. In conclusion, the partnership between IBM and Cisco represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of quantum computing. By combining their respective strengths in hardware and networking, they are laying the foundation for a distributed network of large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers. This endeavor not only addresses critical technical challenges but also sets the stage for transformative applications across various sectors. As the quantum computing landscape continues to evolve, collaborations like this will be instrumental in shaping the future of technology. **Source:** BetaNews **Date Published:** 2025-11-22 **URL:** [https://betanews.com/2025/11/22/ibm-cisco-quantum-computing-partnership/](https://betanews.com/2025/11/22/ibm-cisco-quantum-computing-partnership/) –>
- **Google’s ‘Private AI Compute’ Aims to Revolutionize Data Privacy in AI Processing** In an era where data privacy concerns are paramount, Google has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative designed to address these issues head-on. On November 12, 2025, the tech giant introduced ‘Private AI Compute,’ a secure platform that processes artificial intelligence (AI) queries in a manner that ensures personal data remains confidential and inaccessible to unauthorized parties, including Google itself. ([thehackernews.com](https://thehackernews.com/search/label/technology?utm_source=openai)) **The Genesis of Private AI Compute** The inception of Private AI Compute stems from the escalating need for robust data privacy measures in AI applications. As AI technologies permeate various facets of daily life, from personalized recommendations to predictive analytics, the volume of sensitive personal data being processed has surged. This proliferation has heightened the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access, prompting a reevaluation of how AI systems handle user information. Google’s response to this challenge is Private AI Compute, a platform that integrates advanced security protocols to safeguard user data during AI processing. Unlike traditional cloud-based AI models, which often require data to be stored and processed in centralized servers, Private AI Compute operates on a decentralized model. This approach ensures that data remains within a secure, isolated environment, effectively mitigating the risk of unauthorized access. **How Private AI Compute Works** At the core of Private AI Compute is a secure enclave—a dedicated, isolated environment within Google’s cloud infrastructure. When a user submits an AI query, the data is encrypted and transmitted directly to this enclave. Within the enclave, the AI model processes the data without exposing it to the broader network. The results are then encrypted and sent back to the user, ensuring that the entire process occurs without any unencrypted data leaving the secure environment. This method contrasts sharply with conventional AI processing, where data is often stored in databases that are accessible to various applications and personnel. By confining data processing to a secure enclave, Private AI Compute significantly reduces the potential attack surface for malicious actors seeking to exploit vulnerabilities. **Implications for Data Privacy and Security** The introduction of Private AI Compute marks a significant advancement in the realm of data privacy. By ensuring that personal data remains encrypted and inaccessible during processing, Google addresses one of the most pressing concerns associated with AI technologies. Users can now engage with AI applications without the apprehension that their sensitive information might be exposed or misused. Moreover, this initiative sets a new standard for data security in AI processing. As other tech companies observe the efficacy of Private AI Compute, there is a strong likelihood that similar measures will be adopted industry-wide, leading to a more secure and privacy-conscious AI ecosystem. **Challenges and Considerations** Despite its promising features, Private AI Compute is not without challenges. The implementation of secure enclaves requires substantial computational resources, which could lead to increased operational costs. Additionally, the decentralized nature of the platform may introduce complexities in data management and compliance with global data protection regulations. Furthermore, while the secure enclave model significantly enhances data privacy, it is not entirely impervious to sophisticated cyber-attacks. Continuous monitoring and updates will be essential to maintain the integrity of the system and to address emerging threats. **The Future of AI and Data Privacy** Google’s launch of Private AI Compute represents a pivotal moment in the intersection of AI and data privacy. As AI continues to evolve and integrate into various aspects of society, the need for secure and privacy-respecting data processing will become increasingly critical. Initiatives like Private AI Compute not only address current concerns but also pave the way for a future where AI technologies can be harnessed responsibly and ethically. **Source:** The Hacker News **Date Published:** 2025-11-12 **URL:** [https://thehackernews.com/search/label/technology](https://thehackernews.com/search/label/technology)
Monday, March 2
