The basic units of a quantum computer can be rearranged in 2D to solve typical design and operation challenges. Efficient quantum computing is expected to enable advancements that are impossible with classical computers. A group of scientists from Tokyo University of Science, Japan, RIKEN Centre for Emergent Matter Science, Japan, and the University of Technology, Sydney have collaborated and proposed a novel two-dimensional design that can be constructed using existing integrated circuit technology. This design solves typical problems facing the current three-dimensional packaging for scaled-up quantum computers, bringing the future one step closer.

Quantum computing is increasingly becoming the focus of scientists in fields such as physics and chemistry, and industrialists in the pharmaceutical, airplane, and automobile industries. Globally, research labs at companies like Google and IBM are spending extensive resources on improving quantum computers, and with good reason. Quantum computers use the fundamentals of quantum mechanics to process significantly greater amounts of information much faster than classical computers. It is expected that when the error-corrected and fault-tolerant quantum computation is achieved, scientific and technological advancement will occur at an unprecedented scale.

But, building quantum computers for large-scale computation is proving to be a challenge in terms of their architecture. The basic units of a quantum computer are the quantum bits or qubits. These are typically atoms, ions, photons, subatomic particles such as electrons, or even larger elements that simultaneously exist in multiple states, making it possible to obtain several potential outcomes rapidly for large volumes of data. The theoretical requirement for quantum computers is that these are arranged in two-dimensional (2D) arrays, where each qubit is both coupled with its nearest neighbor and connected to the necessary external control lines and devices. When the number of qubits in an array is increased, it becomes difficult to reach qubits in the interior of the array from the edge. The need to solve this problem has so far resulted in complex three-dimensional (3D) wiring systems across multiple planes in which many wires intersect, making their construction a significant engineering challenge. https://youtu.be/14a__swsYSU

The team of scientists led by Prof Jaw-Shen Tsai has proposed a unique solution to this qubit accessibility problem by modifying the architecture of the qubit array. Here, we solve this problem and present a modified superconducting micro-architecture that does not require any 3D external line technology and reverts to a completely planar design, they say. This study has been published in the New Journal of Physics.

The scientists began with a qubit square lattice array and stretched out each column in the 2D plane. They then folded each successive column on top of each other, forming a dual one-dimensional array called a bi-linear array. This put all qubits on the edge and simplified the arrangement of the required wiring system. The system is also completely in 2D. In this new architecture, some of the inter-qubit wiringeach qubit is also connected to all adjacent qubits in an arraydoes overlap, but because these are the only overlaps in the wiring, simple local 3D systems such as airbridges at the point of overlap are enough and the system overall remains in 2D. As you can imagine, this simplifies its construction considerably.

The scientists evaluated the feasibility of this new arrangement through numerical and experimental evaluation in which they tested how much of a signal was retained before and after it passed through an airbridge. The results of both evaluations showed that it is possible to build and run this system using existing technology and without any 3D arrangement.

The scientists experiments also showed them that their architecture solves several problems that plague the 3D structures: they are difficult to construct, there is crosstalk or signal interference between waves transmitted across two wires, and the fragile quantum states of the qubits can degrade. The novel pseudo-2D design reduces the number of times wires cross each other, thereby reducing the crosstalk and consequently increasing the efficiency of the system.

At a time when large labs worldwide are attempting to find ways to build large-scale fault-tolerant quantum computers, the findings of this exciting new study indicate that such computers can be built using existing 2D integrated circuit technology. The quantum computer is an information device expected to far exceed the capabilities of modern computers, Prof Tsai states. The research journey in this direction has only begun with this study, and Prof Tsai concludes by saying, We are planning to construct a small-scale circuit to further examine and explore the possibility.

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Wiring the Quantum Computer of the Future: Researchers from Japan and Australia propose a novel 2D design - QS WOW News

This partnership is an opportunity to leverage a unique industrial and technological expertise for the design, integration and validation of advanced quantum solutions that has been applied for more than a decade to quantum gravimeters and atomic clocks. It will speed up the development of Pasqals processors and will bring them to an unprecedented maturity level.

Muquans will supply several key technological building blocks and a technical assistance to Pasqal, that will offer an advanced computing and simulation capability towards quantum advantage for real life applications.

We have the strong belief that the neutral atoms technology developed by Pasqal has a unique potential and this agreement is a wonderful opportunity for Muquans to participate on the great adventure of quantum computing. It will also help us find new opportunities for our technologies. We expect this activity to significantly grow in the coming years and this partnership will allow us to become a key stakeholder in the supply chain of quantum computers., Bruno Desruelle, CEO Muquans

Muquans laser solutions combine extreme performance, advanced functionalities and industrial reliability. When you develop the next generation of quantum computers, you need to rely on strong bases and build trust with your partners. Being able to embed this technology in our processors will be a key factor for our company to consolidate our competitive advantage and bring quantum processors to the market., Georges-Olivier Reymond, CEO Pasqal

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Muquans and Pasqal partner to advance quantum computing - Quantaneo, the Quantum Computing Source

When you add AI and machine learning capabilities to the mix, we could potentially develop pre-warning systems that detect fraud before it even happens.

As online banking grows it is becoming a hot target for cybercriminals around the world as they become ever more adept at cracking bank security. Now, banks are looking into the technology behind quantum computing as a potential solution to this threat as well as its many other benefits. Currently, the technology is still in development but it is expected to take over from traditional computing in the next five to ten years.

What is quantum computing?

With quantum computing, the amount of processing power available is far larger than even the fastest silicon chips in existence today. Rather than using the traditional 1 and 0 method of binary computer processing, quantum computing uses qubits. Utilizing the theory of quantum superposition, these provide a way of processing 1s and 0s simultaneously, increasing the speed of the computer by several orders of magnitude.

For example, in October 2019, Google's 'Sycamore' quantum computer solved an equation in 200 seconds that would have taken a normal supercomputer 10,000 years to complete. This gives you an idea of the power that we are talking about.

So how does this help the banking sector?

1. Fraud Detection

Fraud is quickly becoming the biggest threat to online banking and data security. Customers need to feel confident that their money and their personal information is kept secure and with data leaks happening more frequently, this problem must be addressed.

Quantum computing offers significant benefits in the fight against fraud, offering enough computing power to automatically and instantly detect patterns that are commonly associated with fraudulent activity. When you add AI and machine learning capabilities to the mix, we could potentially develop pre-warning systems that detect fraud before it even happens.

2. Quantum Cryptography

Cryptography is an area of science that has recently gained popularity. The technology has proven incredibly useful in helping to secure the blockchain networks.

Quantum cryptography takes this security to an entirely new level, particularly when applied to financial data. It provides the ability to store data in a theoretical state of constant flux, making it near impossible for hackers to read or steal.

However, it could also be used to easily crack existing cryptographic security methods. Currently, the strongest 2048-bit encryption would take normal computer ages to break in to, whereas a quantum computer could do it in a matter of seconds.

3. Distributed Keys

Distributed key generation (DKG) is already being used by many online platforms for increased protection against data interception. Now, quantum technology provides a new system known as Measurement-Device Independent Quantum Key Distribution (MKI-QKD) which secures communications to a level that even quantum computers can't hack.

The technology is already being investigated by several financial institutions, notably major Dutch bank ABN-AMRO for their online and mobile banking applications.

4. Trading and Data

Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data are all new technologies that are currently being tested enthusiastically by banks. However, one of the biggest pain points with these technologies is the amount of processing power required.

According to Deltec Bank - "Quantum computing could quickly accelerate this research past the testing level and provide instant solutions to many problems currently facing the banking world. Time-consuming activities like mortgage and loan approvals would become instant and high-frequency trading could become automated and near error-proof."

Banks that are looking into quantum

Many major banks around the world are already investigating the potential benefits of quantum computing.

UK banking giant Barclays has worked in conjunction with IBM to develop a proof-of-concept that utilizes quantum computing to settle transactions. When applied to trading, the concept could successfully complete massive amounts of complex trades in seconds.

Major US bank JPMorgan has also expressed an interest in the technology for its security and data processing abilities. The bank has tasked its senior engineer with creating a 'quantum culture' in the business and meeting fortnightly with scientists to explore developments in the field.

Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria (BBVA) is working with the Spanish National Research Council (CISC) to explore various applications of quantum computing. The team believes the technology could reduce risk and improve customer service.

Quantum Computing though still in an early stage will have a significant impact on the Banking sectors in years to come.

Disclaimer: The author of this text, Robin Trehan, has an Undergraduate degree in economics, Masters in international business and finance and MBA in electronic business. Trehan is Senior VP at Deltec International http://www.deltecbank.com. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this text are solely the views of the author, and not necessarily reflecting the views of Deltec International Group, its subsidiaries and/or employees.

About Deltec Bank

Headquartered in The Bahamas, Deltec is an independent financial services group that delivers bespoke solutions to meet clients' unique needs. The Deltec group of companies includes Deltec Bank & Trust Limited, Deltec Fund Services Limited, and Deltec Investment Advisers Limited, Deltec Securities Ltd. and Long Cay Captive Management.

Media Contact

Company Name: Deltec International Group

Contact Person: Media Manager

Email: rtrehan@deltecial.com

Phone: 242 302 4100

Country: Bahamas

Website: https://www.deltecbank.com/

Source: http://www.abnewswire.com

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(C) 2020 M2 COMMUNICATIONS, source M2 PressWIRE

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Deltec Bank, Bahamas - Quantum Computing Will bring Efficiency and Effectiveness and Cost Saving in Baking Sector - marketscreener.com

A pencil shaped semiconductor, measuring only a few hundred nanometers in diameter, is what researches from the Center for Quantum Devices, Niels Bohr Institute, at University of Copenhagen, in collaboration with Microsoft Quantum researchers, have used to uncover a new route to topological superconductivity and Majorana zero modes in a study recently published in Science.

The new route that the researchers discovered uses the phase winding around the circumference of a cylindrical superconductor surrounding a semiconductor, an approach they call "a conceptual breakthrough".

"The result may provide a useful route toward the use of Majorana zero modes as a basis of protected qubits for quantum information. We do not know if these wires themselves will be useful, or if just the ideas will be useful," says Charles Marcus, Villum Kann Rasmussen Professor at the Niels Bohr Institute and Scientific Director of Microsoft Quantum Lab in Copenhagen.

"What we have found appears to be a much easier way of creating Majorana zero modes, where you can switch them on and off, and that can make a huge difference"; says postdoctoral research fellow, Saulius Vaitieknas, who was the lead experimentalist on the study.

The new research merges two already known ideas used in the world of quantum mechanics: Vortex-based topological superconductors and the one-dimensional topological superconductivity in nanowires.

"The significance of this result is that it unifies different approaches to understanding and creating topological superconductivity and Majorana zero modes", says professor Karsten Flensberg, Director of the Center for Quantum Devices.

Looking back in time, the findings can be described as an extension of a 50-year old piece of physics known as the Little-Parks effect. In the Little-Parks effect, a superconductor in the shape of a cylindrical shell adjusts to an external magnetic field, threading the cylinder by jumping to a "vortex state" where the quantum wavefunction around the cylinder carries a twist of its phase.

Charles M. Marcus, Saulius Vaitieknas, and Karsten Flensberg from the Niels Bohr Institute at the Microsoft Quantum Lab in Copenhagen.

What was needed was a special type of material that combined semiconductor nanowires and superconducting aluminum. Those materials were developed in the Center for Quantum Devices in the few years. The particular wires for this study were special in having the superconducting shell fully surround the semiconductor. These were grown by professor Peter Krogstrup, also at the Center for Quantum Devices and Scientific Director of the Microsoft Quantum Materials Lab in Lyngby.

The research is the result of the same basic scientific wondering that through history has led to many great discoveries.

"Our motivation to look at this in the first place was that it seemed interesting and we didn't know what would happen", says Charles Marcus about the experimental discovery, which was confirmed theoretically in the same publication. Nonetheless, the idea may indicate a path forward for quantum computing.

Read the original here:

New way of developing topological superconductivity discovered - Chemie.de

Inhale, pause, exhale. We are living through an unprecedented, intimidating and stressful time, but now is not the time to beat yourself up.

While the world seems at a standstill, many people have taken this time away from their normal daily duties to start new hobbies, lose weight or even learn new languages. These tasks and goals are not a reflection of yourself, nor should they be used to show off your journey through social distancing.

A 2013 study by a psychologist at the University of Michigan examined the effects of social media on peoples mental wellbeing. The study found that social media, Facebook in particular, does not facilitate beneficial social interactions.

The same, and worse, can be said in regard to many other social media platforms. For example, Instagram can be a mindless escape for some but a shame-inducing harbor for others.

Theres a constant creation of new challenges and trends coming up everyday, whether its the pushup challenge, #untiltomorrow or even celebrities singing tone deaf tunes. Or perhaps its a stream of self improvement posts and revitalized New Years goals.

Whatever is clouding your social media feed, it doesnt have to be a standard for you to live up to. This isnt a productivity competition.

Some of us might have more time on our hands, but that doesnt make things easierand some people still working or now taking care of children might not have more time. We are also still dealing with pre-existing mindsets on top of the stress of a viral global outbreak.

Dont waste this time comparing yourself to someone whos lost 10 pounds walking in circles in their driveway or to someone whos learned how to speak Italian while in quarantine.

We need to have compassion for ourselves always, but especially now. The Centers for Disease Control and Preventions COVID-19 webpage provides a section for stress and coping information. This page offers insight to stress causes and outcomes all while underscoring the importance of knowing everyone deals with stress differently.

Thus, we escape to viral social media trends for entertainment and relief.

In a recent Vox article, writer Rebecca Jennings supports the flood of Instagram challenges. She argues people should continue this outpour of personal content because it offers connections that will stay in this ephemeral time.

However, instead of cluttering a platform with more dog picture reposts or pictures of people wearing pillows as clothing that only distract from the now, we should contribute to the conversation by being honest and doing something that honors yourself and others. Let your friends on social media know how you really feelopen up, cry, laugh and inspire. If youre up for it, of course.

Dont waste this time comparing yourself to someone whos lost 10 pounds walking in circles in their driveway or to someone whos learned how to speak Italian while in quarantine. Of course, if walking in circles in your driveway while rambling in broken Italian is your thing, go for it.

Being honest with others allows for accountability. If you continue to keep up a guise of happiness when youre truly suffering inside, you wont receive the help you deserve.

Speaking up about how you feel is a challenge more people should face. You dont need to make immediate changes to improve, but you owe it to yourself to take the time you need.

Excerpt from:
Shelter-in-Place is Not a Productivity Race - The LumberJack

It seems like every second that I dont put toward building a side business, making money from a hobby, or improving myself is in some way a second wasted. Photograph: PeopleImages/Getty Images

One consequence of Covid-19 is that we are now all being urged to hustle harder than ever. Isaac Newton discovered gravity and invented calculus while in quarantine, we are told. Shakespeare allegedly wrote King Lear on lockdown.

Ive received emails urging me to use the presumed downtime I now have to learn a new language, or to take a business course to more effectively monetize my photography skills. It seems like every second that I dont put toward building a side business, making money from a hobby, or improving myself is in some way a second wasted.

The pressure is convincing. I have at various points vowed to code a new website, study for every standardized admissions test I could potentially need to take in my life, train to bike nearly 500 miles across my home state, and reach the coveted inbox zero, in addition to doing my actual job.

But then I stop myself and I wonder: who is hustle culture actually benefiting, and is this really the best way to be spending my free hours in isolation?

The language of the hustle was embedded in the pre-corona world. Back when we could travel, hotels encouraged us to be more productive on vacation. The shared workspace company WeWork instructed us: Dont stop when youre tired. According to one ad that ran in London, sleep was for the weak. Its no wonder these pressures are being felt more keenly now amid mass economic dislocation.

I dont necessarily blame the people peddling hustle culture, however the fitness influencers trying to make a sale, or the economic advisers who suggest we cash in on any skill sets we have lying around to deal with the current financial insecurity.

Glorifying the hustle is part and parcel of late capitalism, where dependable employment with benefits and a living wage feel increasingly out of reach. Many in my generation are far less likely to experience the kind of financial stability our parents did, despite working longer hours.

The concept of the hustle helps reconcile these contradictions, and can be weaponized to justify income inequality in nearly any context, promoting an illusion that if you hustle hard enough, the playing field can be equal for you, too. So while the gig economy undermines worker protections and reinforces the expectation that every free second is monetizable, we scramble to assemble a collection of small side gigs to fill in the gaps. The emotional impact is profound. We live in a political and social climate where our sense of self-worth is often reduced to our productivity.

I know all this, yet Im no stranger to the side hustle. I have a full-time job working for the United Nations World Food Programme, but I also run a photography business, work as a freelance journalist, edit books, teach English, freelance as a translator, earn money as a bhangra dancer, and do policy research to supplement my income when Im not on the clock.

Heres what I have to remind myself. Being more productive is actually made harder by the disruption in daily routines, or by having no way to escape from roommates or family. Many people have have spotty internet or cell service. And the constant barrage of confusing and overwhelming bad news can make us sick and exhausted, exacerbating underlying mental health conditions for those who have them. For women, new and unexpected childcare pressures and the new reality of having to prepare more meals at home make it harder to get work done.

Acknowledging that we are all living in an impossible era with little, if any, extra free time is an important first step in breaking free of hustle culture, especially if you can laugh at the absurdity of it all.

The next step is understanding that narratives around the wonders of constantly working primarily benefit a small group of bosses and investors who pocket the profits their workers create, rather than individual workers, no matter how productive we are. The way so many institutions and employers have treated their staff in recent weeks only adds to this impression, as companies from Instacart to Trader Joes have failed to provide employees with hazard pay or adequate protective equipment for work in high-risk conditions.

There is more to our time on this planet than just getting things done

After doing all of that? Try getting involved in a network that addresses the problems with the systems of work and value we live under, like one of the thousands of mutual aid projects that have been organized from coast to coast.

Even though hobbies may seem frivolous or non-essential at a time like this, taking space to do things that arent necessarily productive, or part of a pages-long to-do list, reminds us that there is more to our time on this planet than just getting things done.

In the last few weeks, my favorite moments have included making a batch of homemade butter for the first time and getting my violin out after years in storage.

I was reminded that in addition to a productive employee, I am also someone who loves to cook and who has a passion for music. I remembered that I am more than the economic value I generate, the perfect antidote to a lifetime of indoctrination otherwise.

Link:
Why you should ignore the pressure to be productive during lockdown - The Guardian

PETALING JAYA: Patience is not simply the ability to wait its how we behave and what we do while were waiting.

National pistol shooter Johnathan Wong (pic) is adamant that he knows exactly how and what to do during the movement control order (MCO) imposed to stem the Covid-19 pandemic in Malaysia.

For starters, Olympian Johnathan said he would remain positive and keep himself busy even if the Government decides to extend the lockdown period after May 12.

Given the situation around the world, I have learnt to expect and prepare for the MCO extension, said the 10m air pistol gold medallist at the recent President Ally T.H. Ong Championships.

I have been keeping myself occupied during my time indoors, trying to make full use of the time that I wouldnt have when I am actively training, such as doing house cleaning, catching up with movies and video gaming.

Besides that, self-reflection in this period is the best. With no other distraction and external pressure it is easier to think of ways for self-improvement.

I have been working closely with the sport psychologist from National Sports Institute (NSI) and doing physical workout regularly, making sure that I will be ready when training starts, said Johnathan.

The pandemic has obviously uprooted the 27-year-olds shooters routine as he usually trains for hours at the National Sports Council (NSC) shooting range in Bukit Jalil.

Now he can only train indoors without any shooting done. His only guide is the training programme provided by the NSI.

During this period, Johnathan has also discovered the delights of reading which will help enhance his visualisation and imagination.

Currently Im reading the Lord of the Ring series, and Ive managed to finished two of it. Generally, I prefer fantasy or detective fiction, as it spurs my imagination.

There are some things that are hard to train if you are not at the shooting range. But I have been practising visualisation so that even without being physically at the range, the memory of my technique still stays fresh in my mind.

Coaches would also check on our health from time to time.

With no action for more than a month, Johnathan, who is gunning for an Olympic wildcard spot, said the Covid-19 situation, is a lesson in learning how to adapt to the different aspects of life.

It is best that we lower our expectations now and always be prepared to face the worst. Start from the bottom again, and the results will come.

Read more here:
Patient Wong has no qualms over extending MCO - The Star Online

Being called a one-trick pony is not a compliment and yet many Australian super funds have been satisfied possessing only one core skill for almost 30 years.

Their main area of expertise is allocating long-term capital when their mandate to secure a dignified retirement for all members and minimise dependence on the Aged Pension demands so much more than that.

But Covid-19 presents a unique opportunity for the industry to pursue a different approach to managing members retirement savings.

In the same way that many Australians are using their time in quarantine to learn a new language, play an instrument and master the art of baking bread; funds must also use this crisis for self-improvement.

They should emerge with a resolve to become experts at risk management too. That requires a sharper focus on members liabilities.

The task of liability matching is fundamental to the role of trustees, but prudent risk management is not only about matching a funds long-term pension liabilities with appropriate long-term investments. It is also about understanding the liability profile of individual members.

As fiduciaries (and not mere asset owners), super fund trustees have a responsibility to give equal attention to members liabilities, and not just their financial goals and aspirations.

But this is not a pitch to return to the principles that underpin defined benefit schemes. Members liabilities are not as simple as 60 per cent of final salary. They are certainly not as straightforward as the defined contribution yardstick of CPI+.

In fact, the language of risk and liability management is problematic in its own right and reflects the technical focus and background of much of the industry (and particularly actuaries and investment professionals). It neglects the fact that the ultimate output of a superannuation fund, is an innately personal and emotional one.

Member diversity

Super fund members represent a complex web of disparate lifestyles, occupations and degrees of health and affluence, all of which are subject to continuous change.

One persons idea of a comfortable retirement will differ from anothers. Each individual member has deeply personal hopes and dreams.

Any number of uncontrollable events can see these dreams shattered, including long-term unemployment, a sudden health crisis, a major market correction and a good old-fashioned pandemic.

These are the risks that matter for the members that have placed their retirement aspirations in our care and must be appropriately managed.

Yet, the industrys approach to this dilemma has largely hinged on the asset component of this asset and liability equation, hence its myopic focus on growth and accumulation.

To bridge this gap, funds need to gain a deeper understanding of what really matters to members, understand the nature of retirement, and then use that knowledge to shape policy, drive engagement and develop solutions that address the needs of various member cohorts.

While the answers to some of these questions may be confronting, the benefits through a deeper understanding and relevance to our members are substantial. Moving away from using averages and arbitrary benchmarks like the ASFA retirement standard will demonstrate a genuine desire to understand the lifestyles and concerns of our members.

For the funds that rise to this challenge, there is an opportunity to also attract new members seeking a more personal and empathetic experience.

Implementation, however, will require an approach that coordinates the traditional silos that exist within a superannuation funds structure, and complements it with the necessary governance and focus on retirement outcomes, traversing education, advice, administration, and investment seamlessly and with a shared purpose.

Systems to capture and use member data already exist and a small number of local players already offer tailored investment solutions to match their members unique circumstances. A differentiated suite of solutions for particular segments, combined with ongoing education, advice and communication that is personalised will round this out.

Breaking free

This is a unique opportunity to lead from the front and break free from the herd.

There are challenges to navigate, from the development of an appropriate framework to monitor and assess a new business model focused on member outcomes, through to the need to collaborate with regulators and policymakers to help remove existing roadblocks and impediments to the delivery of greater personalisation.

The Financial Services Royal Commission and the Productivity Commission Superannuation Inquiry emphasised the role of trustees to help their members achieve optimal retirement outcomes. Furthermore, APRAs prudential standard (SPS 515) requires funds to regularly assess the outcomes provided to members and identify opportunities for improvement.

Fortunately, at 28 years old, Australias retirement income system is still young. It does not have the legacy problems that inhibit traditional sectors, like banking and life insurance.

There are no major impediments to cultural change.

If fund members can learn how to use Zoom and work remotely while home-schooling children and running their household, there is no good reason why their super fund cant emerge from COVID-19 with a reinvigorated roadmap for the future.

Even if their equivalent of homemade sourdough bread is only a sharper focus on members liabilities and a commitment to change for the better, it is enough to get started.

While my last columnReality bites for supers long-term theory raised the possibility of another 1-in-100 year pandemic or economic crisis lurking around the corner, Covid-19 is here and now.

Like any crisis, it is making the ordinarily difficult task of questioning the status quo easier.

Funds must act to fend off government intervention and the threat of disruption from new entrants who claim to know their members better than they do.

As Winston Churchill famously said: Never waste a good crisis.

Wade Matterson is a principal and leads the Australian practice of Milliman, a global actuarial management consultancy firm.

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Time to change or be changed - Investment Magazine

Warner Records Pop

The new song is from her upcoming album 'Good To Know'

We're just a week out from JoJo's new album Good To Know her first since 2016's Mad Love and she's continuing to build excitement with the release of another new single.

On Friday (April 24), the singer continued her self-love chronicles with "Lonely Hearts," which is centered around the question that everyone struggling with codependency should ask themselves: "How can I work on me, if I'm working on your body?" That theme of self-improvement seeps into the bridge, as JoJo asserts, "I'm liking being alone / Emotions under control / Right now is only for me ... Don't take it personally." It's a soulful slow jam that shines as bright as the highlighter on her cheek in the single's artwork.

Speaking about her new single in a press release, JoJo explained, "This song continues the journey of self-love that I've been on. Realizing that while temptation and self-doubt may arise, at the end of the day, choosing self-preservation over toxic relationships is what I'm doing in my life right now."

"Lonely Hearts" follows last month's "Man," on which the 29-year-old laid out her requirements for a partner by singing, "I need somebody who can love me like I love me." Both songs are set to appear on Good To Know, along with last year's "Joanna" and the Chika-assisted "Sabotage." The new album arrives on May 1.

For more JoJo goodness, check out the singer's recent MTV Unplugged At Home performance, during which she performed "Man," "Too Little Too Late," and more hits from the comfort of her bedroom.

2020 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. MTV and all related titles and logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

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JoJo Chooses Herself Over A Toxic Partner On 'Lonely Hearts' - MTV.com

Governor JB Prizker announced last week that schools will remain closed for the rest of the semester and the stay-at-home mandate will be extended for another 30 days due to the coronavirus. While the daily new cases in the U.S. appear to have reached a plateau, deaths are still on the rise and COVID-19 patients still occupy over a quarter of all hospital beds. Even when things reopen, weeks to months from now, the world wont be the same as what we remembered. Itll be a slow and cautious ramp-up with the possibility of returning to quarantine.

Many are already feeling the social, emotional and economic blow to our well-being and worry that the worst is yet to come. However anxious we are for things to return to normal, its important to remain calm and constructive during this time. A positive outlook not only builds mental stability, but also can be protective for our immunity and physical health, making us more resilient as we overcome these challenges.

Weve collected 10 actionable items to help you stay mentally and emotionally optimistic:

1. Prioritize and find a purpose to your day. Focusing on things within your control mitigates the stress associated with uncertainty. Make a checklist of what youd like to accomplish each day. Exercise discretion on which meetings you will call in and whats the best use of your time. Also, dont beat yourself up for not being hyper-productive. Its ok to not finish everything on your list. Allow yourself a little leeway.

2. Start your day with a positive routine. Morning routines become even more important during times of crisis. Mentally ground yourself when you wake up smile, meditate for a few minutes, think of three things to be grateful for.

3. Seek information from reliable sources. To avoid the fear and panic that misinformation can cause, get updated on whats going on from official websites and health care agencies: Coronavirus Task Force (https://www.coronavirus.gov/); The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html); The Illinois Department of Public Health (http://www.dph.illinois.gov); and Johns Hopkins University's Coronavirus Resource Center (https://coronavirus.jhu.edu).

4. Limit news intake from TV and social media. Excessive exposure to media coverage amplifies fear, doubt and anxiety. Turn off the automatic alerts on your phone. Set boundaries on your news consumption.

5. Keep in touch with family and friends. Meaningful human connections can ease the stress caused by the pandemic, especially if you or someone you know is quarantining alone. Both offering and receiving emotional support brings a sense of comfort and stability. Even though we must avoid physical interactions, plenty of digital tools allow us to have virtual happy hours for adults and playdates for kids.

6. Build in time to relax and recharge. Take regular breaks from working-from-home tasks to refresh your brain and mind. Breathe and relax. Step outside to get fresh air. Read an uplifting story or watch a funny clip to feel a momentary jolt of joy.

7. Practice self-care. Make sure you sleep, exercise, hydrate and eat a balanced diet. This ensures that your immune system stays strong and your mind is focused and clear to tackle the day. Role model self-care for your children.

8. Invest in yourself. See the extra time you have as a prime opportunity for self-improvement. Dont use all of it to binge watch Netflix! Enhance your career by working on your resume, taking online classes or studying for a certificate. Pick up a new hobby and hone a new skill.

9. Talk with your children about the outbreak. Its equally important to help children cope with stress and protect them from any coronavirus nervousness. Listen to their concerns and answer their questions. Encourage them to write and draw about their experiences and emotions. Reassure them that theyre safe.

10. Put things into perspective. Resilience means that despite something going wrong, you believe you can and will do your best to deal with the situation and move forward. It's easy to get so wrapped up in the details of an event. Zoom out and look at the big picture. Avoid catastrophizing and assess the most realistic impacts. Believe in yourself and maintain a sense of hope.

Qing Yang and Kevin Parker are a married couple and live in Springfield. Dr. Yang received her medical degree from Yale University School of Medicine and completed residency training at Massachusetts General Hospital. She is an anesthesiologist at HSHS Medical Group. Parker has helped formulate and administer public policy at various city and state governments around the country. He is formerly the group chief information officer for education with the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology. This column is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The opinions are those of the writers and do not represent the views of their employers.

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Keeping a positive outlook in the time of coronavirus - The State Journal-Register