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Nobel Prize in Medicine goes to scientists who developed mRNA Covid vaccines

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The Nobel Prize in Medicine has been awarded to Professors Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman for their groundbreaking work in developing the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines.

This technology, which was experimental prior to the pandemic, has since been administered to millions worldwide, providing protection against severe COVID-19 cases. The Nobel Prize committee recognised their contributions to the rapid development of vaccines during a time of unprecedented global health crisis.

Traditional vaccines have historically used weakened or inactivated forms of the virus or bacterium they target. In contrast, mRNA vaccines take a novel approach. They contain genetic instructions for producing a specific viral protein, which, when injected into the body, prompts our cells to generate this protein.

The immune system identifies these foreign proteins, launching an attack and acquiring the knowledge to combat the actual virus in future encounters. This technology’s remarkable flexibility enables the swift development of vaccines for various diseases, including cancer, as long as the correct genetic instructions are known.

Professors Kariko and Weissman played pivotal roles in advancing mRNA vaccine technology. Their work harnessed the natural function of RNA in converting genetic instructions from DNA into the proteins essential for our bodies.

Overcoming challenges, they refined the technology to produce significant amounts of the target protein without causing excessive inflammation, a critical step in transitioning from animal experiments to human vaccine development.

The mRNA vaccines developed during the Covid-19 pandemic, such as Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech, represent a triumph of scientific innovation. These vaccines have been a crucial tool in combating the virus’s spread, demonstrating the potential of mRNA technology to revolutionise vaccine development.

Beyond COVID-19, mRNA technology holds promise for addressing other diseases, including cancer. Researchers are exploring methods to instruct a patient’s immune system to combat their specific cancer by analyzing tumour proteins unique to malignant cells and creating vaccines that target these abnormalities.

Professors Kariko and Weissman’s pioneering work not only contributed to one of the most significant scientific breakthroughs of our time but also exemplified the potential of mRNA technology to transform medicine. Today, they stand as laureates of the Nobel Prize in Medicine, recognised for their outstanding achievements in advancing human health.

Both laureates, now in their respective academic roles, have left an indelible mark on the field of mRNA research and vaccine development, shaping the future of healthcare.

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Pakistan declares AI chatbots to be dangers to security.

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The National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) has released a security advisory concerning the increasing utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, emphasizing potential hazards related to the exposing of private data.

The recommendation recognizes that AI chatbots, like ChatGPT, have gained significant popularity for personal and professional duties owing to their capacity to improve productivity and engagement. Nonetheless, the CERT cautions that these AI systems frequently retain sensitive information, so posing a danger of data breaches.

Engagements with AI chatbots may encompass sensitive information, such as corporate strategy, personal dialogues, or confidential correspondence, which could be compromised if inadequately safeguarded. The warning emphasizes the necessity for a comprehensive cybersecurity framework to alleviate concerns associated with AI chatbot utilization.

Users are advised against inputting critical information into AI chatbots and are encouraged to deactivate any chat-saving functionalities to mitigate the danger of unwanted data access. The CERT additionally advises performing routine system security checks and employing monitoring tools to identify any anomalous behavior from AI chatbots.

Organizations are urged to adopt rigorous security protocols to safeguard against possible data breaches resulting from AI-driven interactions.

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Unlawful VPNs: Terrorists Utilize Unregistered VPNs to Disseminate Propaganda

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Terrorists utilize illicit VPNs to disseminate propaganda and misinformation while concealing their identities.

Several accounts have been uncovered and are under investigation.

The cessation of non-registered VPNs is crucial for the nation’s economy.

The PTA is blocking illegal URLs and websites disseminating objectionable material upon verification.

Forensic investigations of websites have yielded startling results.

Disseminating erroneous information is more facile using unregistered VPNs.

Terrorists were exploiting these unverified VPNs.

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Air University Holds A Revolutionary Event For Students Focusing On Cybersecurity

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Air Marshal (R) Asad Lodhi has praised the Pakistan Cyber Security Challenge, an initiative by the Air University and Higher Education Commission that aims to train future cyber security experts and pioneers. At the opening ceremony of the two-day Pakistan Cyber Security Challenge, which took place at Air University in Islamabad, he was the chief guest.
Showdown challenges, the Ideas Cup, and the Pakistan Crypt Challenge are all part of the Pakistan Cyber Security Challenge, which lasts for two days.

Air Marshal (R) Abdul Moeed Khan, VC of Air University, made a speech praising the cyber security abilities of Pakistani youth, saying that they are among the best in the world and will help the country face cyber threats. A haven for cyber security excellence, he said, Pakistan Cyber Security Challenge 2024. Additionally, he praised the Air University for its innovative and outstanding work in this area.
At the inaugural ceremony of the Pakistan Cyber Security Challenge, Dr. Zia Ul Qayyum, executive director of the Higher Education Commission, also spoke to the crowd. He discussed how HEC has created a welcoming atmosphere and helped facilitate projects such as the Pakistan Cyber Security Challenge.
As part of the inauguration event, an MoU was also signed. Guests and participants were given souvenirs as the opening ceremony came to a close.

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