🧠 AI model reads brains to predict teen depression

Chinese scientists developed a 'brain-reading' AI model to forecast depression risk in adolescents up to four years ahead. The research team from Shenzhen University used data from a European cohort to predict which 19-year-olds might develop depression by age 23. This study analyzed fMRI scans and questionnaires, focusing on how participants perceived facial expressions. The AI found that skewed responses to negative emotions indicated a higher likelihood of future depression. This tech could inspire future emotional-perception humanoids and advance affective computing. 🧠

📱 Redmi Note 17 Pro Max 5G lands in Japan soon

The Redmi Note 17 Pro Max 5G is confirmed to launch in Japan on August 28, according to Xiaomi Japan. The new phone features what Xiaomi calls the biggest battery capacity ever in its smartphones. The official price for the device is set to be announced on August 27. This model is heavily marketed for its durability and massive battery life. More detailed specifications are expected to be revealed before the actual launch date. 🔋

🚶 Annamalai reveals reasons for leaving BJP

Former BJP chief K Annamalai announced his departure due to 'severe disagreements' with the party's direction. Speaking at the India Today Roundtable Tamil Nadu, he cited Delhi-centric decision-making and lack of state autonomy. This followed his joining the BJP in August 2020 after leaving the IPS in 2019. Annamalai felt the national leadership wasn't hearing the aspirations of Tamil Nadu's electorate. He is now leading his grassroots movement, We the Leaders. 🚩

🤖 AI is reshaping hiring standards, not just jobs

Artificial intelligence is fundamentally altering the job market by changing the criteria for employment. This shift is impacting how companies evaluate candidates across various industries. Reports suggest that AI tools are becoming crucial in screening and shortlisting applicants starting in Q3 2024. The adoption aims to increase efficiency but raises concerns about algorithmic bias in hiring practices. Future trends indicate a need for workers to adapt quickly to AI-driven workflows.

😠 Insomniac pushes back on Wolverine hate

Insomniac Games marketing director James Stevenson spoke out against the online backlash surrounding Marvel’s Wolverine. He addressed the criticism regarding the action-adventure title on X, stating the negativity was detrimental to mental health. The backlash intensified after press members received early access and released gameplay footage. Despite some critiques about tropes, early reviews remain positive across the board. Marvel’s Wolverine is set to launch on September 15, 2026, featuring New Game+ and 60 FPS gameplay.

📋 Telangana SIR draft list out, 92 lakh to get notices

The Telangana Chief Electoral Officer released the draft list on Monday, August 17, for the Special Intensive Revision. This means 92 lakh electors will receive notices, primarily in Hyderabad. The notices target 32 lakh unmapped voters and 60 lakh electors with data anomalies as of August 17. The process involves 890 AEROs and 119 EROs handling cases, with the notice phase running until October 15. The final voter list is scheduled to be released on October 19.

😠 Kerala Minister slams VC for RSS event attendance

Kerala Minister for Higher Education Roji M. John criticized University of Kerala Vice-Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal for attending an RSS event in Thiruvananthapuram. This incident occurred on August 15, 2026, where John felt the attendance was unbecoming of his position. The Minister also alleged that Kunnummal's VC appointment was part of a political deal with the previous Left government. Additionally, the college management agreed to drop the 'year back' system after student protests. The government will also arrange to send the body of the deceased Arunachal student to his hometown. 😟

🛰️ NASA crew prepping for risky spacewalk outside ISS

NASA has scheduled its next high-risk spacewalk for tomorrow, August 18th, to replace a crucial antenna. Flight engineers Anil Menon and Sophie Adenot will conduct the six and a half hour EVA outside the ISS. This mission aims to maintain high-speed data and communication between the outpost and mission controllers. Spacewalks are dangerous due to risks like fast-moving debris, extreme temperatures, and suit failure. NASA monitors conditions closely, as previous spacewalks maintained the ISS structure before its planned deorbiting later this decade. 🚀

🔬 Gut repair switch hijacked by cancer cells

Scientists discovered a protein called ZFP36L2 that acts as a molecular switch aiding in gut cell repair. Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center studied this process, publishing their findings on August 5th in 'Nature'. The study revealed that colorectal cancer cells exploit this mechanism to spread via metastasis. Removing ZFP made cancer cells struggle to form new tumors in distant organs of mice. This research suggests targeting ZFP could inhibit cancer spread, though it is still in preclinical stages. 🔬

🎭 Ramayana designers explain costume choices amid backlash

The costume designers of 'Ramayana' addressed public criticism regarding Sai Pallavi's Sita and Lara Dutta's Kaikeyi outfits. The designers, Rimple and Harpreet Narula, stated they consciously "chose faith over authenticity" for the wardrobe. Harpreet mentioned the design aimed for global reach, referencing traditional Indian art forms for inspiration. Lara Dutta's green blouse symbolized Mother Earth, while the maroon saree showed Kaikeyi's emotional turmoil. 'Ramayana: Part 1' is set to release in theatres during Diwali 2026. 🎭

😔 Worker dies in Veligonda Project tunnel accident

A worker named Montilal, who was from Uttar Pradesh, passed away in an accident at Tunnel-2 of the Veligonda Project site. This incident occurred in the Markapuram district when he was struck by a hydraulic machine inside the tunnel. Minister for Water Resources Nimmala Ramanaidu addressed the Chief Engineer and MEIL representatives following the event. The Minister directed that all possible assistance be provided to Montilal's family and stressed top priority for worker safety. Project officials, however, did not respond to media inquiries regarding the incident.