Silicon Florist links arrangement for February 4, 2022 💐

Omicron’s molecular structure could help explain its global takeover

By comparing Omicron’s structure with that of the original version of SARS-CoV-2 and its other variants, they have begun to shed light1 on which features of the highly mutated virus have enabled it to evade the body’s immune defences, while also maintaining its ability to attack a person’s cells. And they’ve begun to unpick why Omicron seems to cause milder disease than previous variants.

The Big Mac index

The Big Mac index was invented by The Economist in 1986 as a lighthearted guide to whether currencies are at their “correct” level. It is based on the theory of purchasing-power parity (PPP), the notion that in the long run exchange rates should move towards the rate that would equalise the prices of an identical basket of goods and services (in this case, a burger) in any two countries.

Engine release 2022 Startup Agenda

The startup perspective can be often overshadowed when policymakers turn to the work of legislating and regulating in the technology space. Instead, the focus tends to fall on the industry’s largest companies. Writing rules in response to concerns about the behaviors of the largest players—without fully considering the consequences for their smaller, newer counterparts that lack longstanding relationships and immense resources—risks creating burdens that fall disproportionately on startups. If policymakers are interested in creating opportunities for innovation and boosting competition, they must ensure an open, level, and consistent playing field across the wide range of policy issues that impact the startup ecosystem.

Constellations Collaborative Art-tech Experiments At the Portland Winter Lights Festival

In January, a group of artists, technologists, and hackers gathered for a weekend of collaborative creative experiments to bring mesmerizing, quirky, whimsical, and joyful interactive, immersive creations to life. Join us on the evening of Feb 5 (4pm – 10pmish) for a thrilling show as part of the Portland Winter Light Festival. Invite family and friends.

Greater Vancouver Chamber Business POD

The Greater Vancouver Chamber is investing in the community and is excited to offer valuable assistance to business owners and entrepreneurs who live in the City of Vancouver and want to start a business. The Business POD Program is designed to empower and educate small business owners through workshops and individual and peer cohort coaching sessions.