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Imagetwin and Proofig AI are software tools that help scientists detect manipulated or copied images in research papers. These tools automate the process of image analysis, which used to be done manually by researchers. Imagetwin, in particular, compares images in a paper to a database of 51 million images, flagging any similarities or copies. The software has been successful in identifying problematic images and has been praised by researchers. However, it is not perfect and can sometimes miss certain issues. These tools offer a chance to improve the quality of published science and have already had an impact on the rejection rates of papers in some journals. However, there are concerns about the potential for AI algorithms to fabricate both text and images in scientific studies. [Extracted from the article]

A physicist at the University of Rochester in New York, Ranga Dias, has been found to have engaged in research misconduct, according to a committee that investigated his work. Dias, who gained attention for his claims of discovering a room-temperature superconductor, has had four papers retracted in the past 18 months due to data-reliability concerns. The investigation was prompted by complaints about additional studies and concluded that Dias had engaged in research misconduct. The University of Rochester declined to provide the report, and the status of any disciplinary action against Dias is unknown. [Extracted from the article]

Increasing numbers of Americans are using various methods to avoid paying toll fares, such as using devices to hide or cover their license plates. This type of toll evasion has cost government agencies millions of dollars, prompting officials to crack down on these tactics. Toll avoidance has become more prevalent since the shift to all-electronic tolling during the Covid-19 pandemic. Some drivers have been power-washing paint off their plates or using household items to obstruct them. Authorities are exploring ways to address this issue, including increasing fines and implementing new legislation. [Extracted from the article]

Airlines, including Southwest, Delta, United, and American, are cracking down on carry-on bags in an effort to save bin space and speed up boarding. Southwest quietly implemented changes to its carry-on policy, while Delta and United agents have asked passengers to consolidate their items. This crackdown is not about bag size, but rather about the number of bags passengers have. While some passengers may try to bring all their belongings to the gate to save time and money, airlines are now more likely to make passengers consolidate items or check a bag at the gate. Southwest's recent move highlights the challenges airlines face with carry-on bags, despite having a generous two-free-checked-bag policy. The industry's efforts to solve the carry-on conundrum with bigger bins are not arriving fast enough. Passengers are advised to check their airline's website for a list of items that count towards the carry-on limit. [Extracted from the article]