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My Family’s Brief Excitement for The Outer Worlds 2: Finding Connection Amid Disappointment

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I It was a thrilling November for the Diamond family. All My favorite sequel has finally launched! The original Outer Worlds mesmerized us with its Art Nouveau hues, engaged us with clever dialogue, and drew us into a classic puzzle-solving adventure in a world of “dwarves versus malevolent corporate overlords,” which remains my top choice since Deus Ex. While the combat wasn’t groundbreaking, that hardly mattered. It was evident that a passionate team had carefully crafted this narrative, and we all became enchanted by it.

When I say “all of us,” I refer to myself and my three kids. My wife skipped out on playing The Outer Worlds because Crash Bandicoot didn’t feature in it. But the rest of us thoroughly enjoyed it, and the kids found it especially amusing that after struggling for half a day, I fled from the final boss fight and declared, “I did it.” Pretty much summed up the gaming achievements of a father with other responsibilities.

My son completed Outer Worlds 2 first. “What did you think?” I inquired.

“You’re going to hate it,” he responded.

What? How dare he assume he knows my gaming likes! If it weren’t for me, these kids wouldn’t even be into gaming. It’s bad enough they crush me in Mario Kart. Now they might take away my potential fun. I’ve decided to prove him wrong and give The Outer Worlds 2 a shot.

Reader: I didn’t enjoy it.




Much of the dialogue is filled with complaints about bosses… The Outer Worlds 2. Photo courtesy of Obsidian Entertainment

The combat is impressive, the character skill trees shine, and the speed and fluidity (on Xbox Series) are commendable.

However, the initial hour was packed with dull factional politics that make The Phantom Menace’s opening crawl seem engaging. Most characters lament their employers and personal mistakes. Everything feels broken; people suffer, are in dire straits, and medical resources are scarce. It’s practically 2025 but set in space, and the clunky, tedious dialogue reads like a LinkedIn comment.

“I was right, wasn’t I?” my son asked triumphantly as I conceded defeat after 20 hours on the third planet I explored.

“How do you know?” I challenged.

“Since playing FIFA online, I’ve never heard so much swearing during a game.”

“How did they miss the mark, son?” I probed.

“There’s no real passion or depth. They narrated the story over the phone.”

Thus began a meaningful discussion about role-playing games. We debated what succeeds and what falls flat, and what differentiates the engaging from the tedious. We concurred that a compelling RPG hinges on the storyteller’s commitment. This genre draws on the essence of Dungeons & Dragons, where imagination fuels incredible tales. For players, it can become mere number-crunching, but for storytellers, it’s pure artistry. World-building is equally vital, as seen in the sweeping vistas of Skyrim, the shadowy streets of Deus Ex, and the technomagical dystopia of Gaia in Final Fantasy VII.

Just like in tabletop D&D, graphics aren’t paramount. Years ago, I relished a month in a chaotic post-apocalyptic saga called Shin Megami Tensei, immersed in an entire world brought to life by tiny pixels on a Game Boy Advance screen.




My weak bladder and need for sleep were the only things separating me from the inhabitants of The Witcher 3. Photo: CD Projekt RED

There are bound to be characters within that world who pique your interest. My weak bladder and unfortunate need for sleep were the only barriers between me and the characters of The Witcher 3. Yet, they all felt eerily familiar. The unnecessarily dense and dreary dialogue distracted me from engaging with the game for more than five minutes outside of combat.

In today’s chaotic world, where “truth” is dictated by the wealthiest deceivers, and fairness is increasingly elusive, striving for success feels daunting. That’s why the true meritocracy present in RPGs appeals to me. In all video games, progress can depend on skill, but RPGs allow even those lacking natural talent to level up and earn achievements through hard work. In contrast with a harsh reality, where millions lag behind while a few thrive, RPGs present a vision of what a fairer world could look like, complete with shields, armor, and ideally, fast-travel points.

The Outer Worlds 2 was a letdown for me, but instead of escaping into the enthralling RPG I had hoped for, I found solace in an enriching exchange with my son about the game. I was reminded of the profound impact games have on our lives and how they strengthen our connections. Sometimes, even lackluster dialogue in games can inspire captivating conversations in the real world.

Source: www.theguardian.com

As an Avid Introvert, I Fear AI May Diminish My Joy in Human Connection – Emma Beddington

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THe faces depression: As reported by The Cut, individuals are turning to AI to crack escape room puzzles and manipulate trivia nights. Is this not the essence of spoiling one’s enjoyment? “It’s akin to entering a corn maze with the intent of taking a straight path to the exit,” remarked a TikToker featured in the article. There are conversations with passionate readers who rely on ChatGPT to substitute book clubs and source “enlightening opinions and perspectives.” Everything was pleasant until a character’s demise disrupted the fantasy saga he was savoring (though, in truth, that seems rather grim).

Conversely, Substack appears to be filled with AI-produced essays. This New Blog platform is a vibrant hub for passionate creators to showcase their writings. Handing that off to a bot feels like peak absurdity. Will Storr, who delves into storytelling, examines this unexpected trend and its implications. In his own Substack, he discusses the phenomenon of “impersonal universalism,” wherein grand statements may sound profound but fall flat. “Insight possesses a universality akin to white noise, wrapped in an unsettling vagueness that can cloud our thoughts,” he observes.

I find it puzzling how anyone can derive pleasure from using extensive language models (LLMs) to appear vaguely “intelligent” or engage in AI-altered hobbies. Yet, I believe this isn’t an existential threat posed by AI. It is crucial that we savor our experiences. Let robots take our jobs, but they shouldn’t steal our joy. I’m not here to dictate how others should find pleasure—I’m no authority on fun. If I were to teach you, it might very well come across like an AI-generated Substack (embracing nature, chatting with strangers, enjoying moments with loved ones). Yet, I often reflect on what genuinely makes me feel alive, as I seek to engage more in those activities. It becomes a personal defense against “impersonal universality.”

First up: singing. While I wish AI could concoct melodic canons and create ethereal robot madrigals, it cannot replicate the whimsical joy of my quirky choir made up of very special individuals. We may not be the most skilled vocalists, but when we harmonize, we share a deep sense of connection (research indicates that group singing fosters bonding) quick social bonding). Occasionally, everything aligns for fleeting moments of breathtaking beauty, humbly guided by our choir director, silently matching a chef’s kiss. Regardless, it remains delightful.

Next, let’s discuss not my own but someone else’s experiences. I find endless inspiration in the unique artifacts people treasure, acquire, and eventually discard. My regular visits to York’s weekly car boot sale reveal a captivating blend of stuffed badgers, Power Rangers merchandise, fishing gear, and a ceramic mouse in Victorian attire. More noble collectibles might include the textiles featured in Renaissance paintings: garments, tapestries, and drapes. Recently, I spent an exhilarating 10 minutes at The Frick Collection in New York, immersed in an astonishingly vacant room while studying Holbein’s Portrait of Thomas More, contemplating the feel of his fur collar and red velvet sleeves, pondering his choices.

A substantial portion of my joy stems from simply being present in nature. I stroll, dig in the soil, observe wildlife (yes, that includes birds), but predominantly, as a lifelong introvert, my delight comes from people. If I had to identify my most reliable source of happiness, it would be wandering through a new city, soaking in the lives of its inhabitants. What do they wear, consume, and discuss? What triggers their anger? What kind of dogs accompany them? It’s an endless buffet of human experience, from toddler tantrums to tender moments of affection to the play of queue dynamics. Recently, I watched the documentary *I Am Martin Parr*, which showcases a photographer adept at capturing the nuances of British life, likened to a magpie, and he resonates with this sentiment. Now in his seventies, Parr is still eager to explore and document the marvelous and strange nuances of society. He declares, “I’m still thrilled to venture out and observe this chaotic world we inhabit.”

That is my secret. AI can offer a rote summary of who we are, but it mixes all our hues into a muddy shade. It cannot encapsulate the joy of something utterly unique.

Emma Beddington is a columnist for the Guardian

Source: www.theguardian.com

The Unusual Connection Between Increased Rest and Enhanced Strength, Speed, and Health

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Olympia Arnold Schwarzenegger has long emphasized the significance of sleep. “People grow when they sleep, not when they train,” he asserts. Professional athletes often adhere to meticulous sleep regimens tailored to their chronotypes (natural sleep-wake preferences) and synced with their training schedules.

For amateur athletes, the emphasis tends to be on nutrition and training protocols for optimal results. Elite coach Nick Littlehales was among the first to champion sleep as a crucial component of success, stating, “You can train as hard as you want, but without sleep, you can’t adapt. No adaptation means no progress.”

Let’s delve deeper into what occurs in your body during sleep and why it’s a vital aspect of your training regimen and performance strategy.

What occurs in your body during sleep?

Photo credit: Getty

Sleep is not merely a passive phase of training. When you exercise vigorously, your body engages in recovery during sleep. Deep (slow-wave) sleep enables your body to reset, repair, and regenerate. Cellular repair takes place as microtears from your workout are fixed through protein synthesis. If you’ve ever dealt with delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), you understand the significance of quality sleep for recovery.

During this sleep phase, human growth hormone (HGH) is released. The pituitary gland generates HGH, which facilitates muscle growth and healing. Furthermore, deep sleep enhances immune system function, reducing the risk of illness—an evident concern for anyone in the midst of a training routine.

What else is happening in our bodies while we sleep?

  • Glycogen levels are restored, and anti-inflammatory cytokines assist in muscle recovery.
  • Your heart rate decreases, blood pressure falls, allowing your cardiovascular system a chance to recuperate.
  • Quality sleep has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity. Improved glucose metabolism boosts energy levels and aids body composition.
  • Sleep also regulates significant hormones like testosterone, which is crucial for endurance and recovery.

Brain recovery process during sleep

Photo credit: Getty

Not only does physical recovery occur during sleep, but mental rejuvenation takes place as well. During REM sleep, typically experienced in the latter half of the night, your brain engages in “housework,” organizing, filing, and tidying up. Motor memory consolidation reinforces neural pathways established during training. Did you execute the perfect tennis serve today? It’ll be etched in your mind tonight.

Additionally, emotional regulation contributes to managing stress, enhancing focus, and boosting motivation—key components for achieving peak performance.

Optimize your sleep quality

Swedish bed manufacturer Hästens recognizes the significance of quality sleep. This luxury brand has been handcrafting beds since 1852, with each piece meticulously created in the Swedish town of Köning and taking up to 600 hours to complete using only natural materials.

Hästens has launched the collaborative campaign “Sleep to Perform,” teaming up with champions from both creative fields and sports, including five-time Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova. She acknowledges that success begins with prioritizing rest, stating, “No matter where you are in your career, sleep is vital for your performance. It’s not just about rest; it’s about being able to present the best version of yourself every day.”

To explore our full range of beds and accessories, and to discover the benefits of a restful night’s sleep, please visit: here.

To schedule a bed test at a sleep spa near you, use the following resources: www.hastens.com or contact your nearest authorized retailer.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

What We Know and Don’t Know About the Connection Between Painkillers and Autism

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The US government raised concerns about painkillers used during pregnancy

Solstock/Getty Images

On Monday, the US government introduced two initiatives concerning autism. One update involves labeling for paracetamol, commonly known as acetaminophen, emphasizing that its use during pregnancy could elevate the risks of autism and ADHD in children. The government also approved leucovorin for certain children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, these actions are not strongly supported by scientific evidence and may have negligible effects on autism prevalence in the United States.

This announcement followed Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s pledge, made in April, to uncover the causes of autism by the close of September. President Donald Trump later described this initiative at a press conference as “a historic step towards battling the autism crisis.”

This portrayal indicates a possible misunderstanding or distortion of existing knowledge about autism. There is no crisis as such. Autism rates began to surge rapidly since the 1980s, significantly influenced by increased awareness and recognition of its symptoms leading to more frequent diagnoses.

Evidence supporting the idea that paracetamol causes autism is limited. While several studies indicate a correlation between paracetamol use during pregnancy and an elevated risk of autism in children, causation should not be assumed. A recent investigation involving 46 studies found that 27 of them reported a significant link between paracetamol use in pregnancy and heightened risk for neurodevelopmental issues, including autism. Nevertheless, correlation does not imply causation; other underlying factors may also play a role.

Contrasting findings are evident in other studies. For instance, a 2024 evaluation analyzing around 2.5 million children determined that while those exposed to paracetamol during pregnancy faced a marginally higher autism risk, this effect diminished when comparing children exposed to painkillers with their siblings. “It wasn’t the paracetamol use, but rather family history that played a crucial role,” said Dimitrios Siasacos from University College London. “Although studies indicate a slight increase in autism outcomes related to paracetamol use during pregnancy, this tends to vanish when analyzing the more significant factors involved.”

During a press briefing, Trump advised that pregnant women should avoid taking paracetamol for pain or fever. However, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a press release stating that no causal link between paracetamol and autism has been established. Additionally, in a notification to healthcare providers, the FDA confirmed that paracetamol remains the safest and most accessible pain relief option during pregnancy. “[It] is the only over-the-counter medication that is approved for use to treat fever during pregnancy, as a high fever can pose risks to the developing fetus,” emphasizing potential fetal brain or spinal cord defects.

The FDA also announced its approval of leucovorin for individuals with cerebral folate deficiency, a condition that affects the brain’s capability to absorb vitamin B9. Studies suggest that around 40% of people with autism may be affected by this deficiency, leading to similar symptoms, including difficulties with communication and sensory processing.

Leucovorin, a form of vitamin B9, is already utilized to address deficiencies of this vitamin and to mitigate side effects from certain cancer treatments. Preliminary evidence implies that it might aid in alleviating severe autism symptoms. For instance, a 2016 study involving 25 autistic children treated with leucovorin demonstrated that 65% showed meaningful improvements in verbal communication skills compared to only 24% in the placebo group after 12 weeks.

However, existing studies on leucovorin and autism have been relatively small, often yielding only modest positive results. Larger clinical trials are in progress, with results expected next year. “Currently available evidence is tentative and not yet deemed comprehensive,” stated Monique Botha at Durham University. “While these medications might offer benefits in specific areas, there are no treatments that effectively address or eliminate autism as a whole.”

Following the announcement, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reiterated that “while promising, it’s crucial to understand that leucovorin is not a cure for ASD but may help to enhance speech-related skills in a limited group of children with the condition.”

With Trump’s backing, Kennedy is positioning the “autism epidemic” as a cornerstone of U.S. public health policy. They are both framing these policy developments as substantial milestones achieved in a brief timeframe. However, scientific evidence suggests that avoiding paracetamol during pregnancy or utilizing leucovorin is unlikely to have the significant impact on autism that Trump and Kennedy claim. Instead, the most probable outcome of these initiatives pertains to how and when to manage pain and fever safely during pregnancy.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Discovering Connection: Why Biodiversity Needs Neurodiversity

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France, Provence, a woman caressing lavender in a blooming field during summer

For many anxious individuals, the outdoors is a more manageable and calming space

westend61/getty images

Neurodivergent, essentially
Joe Harkness (Bloomsbury)

Kick off with Moth Genitalia. Joe Harkness originally intended to write a book centered on “The Benefits of Niche Nature.” Ecologists, naturalists, and conservationists often have a fondness for squirrels or even peculiar genitalia for identification purposes. However, a suggestion from his editor redirected him. What if the themes of these niche interests overlap with feelings of anxiety?

Harkness, diagnosed with ADHD, reflects that upon returning to interviewees, it’s not surprising to find that many have also been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, or other “DYS” conditions (like dyslexia, dyspraxia, or dyscalculia).

The book, Neurodivergent, essentially: Why Neurodiversity Needs Biodiversity, presents a crucial and engaging exploration of the significance of “nature” for the neurodivergent community, thoroughly examining how neurodiversity interacts with the conservation sector in the UK.

Readers are introduced to striking and unexpected contrasts. Harkness and his interviewees often describe the wild outdoors as “safe spaces” and “non-judgmental” environments where sensory stimulation can occur without overwhelming the senses. Yet, it becomes clear that many of Harkness’s subjects work in highly competitive fields characterized by high demands and low earnings. “We cannot overlook the evident exploitation that happens in this field,” he states, especially when taking into account neurological conditions.

Defining neurodivergent experiences can be a tricky and potentially foolish endeavor. Harkness opts for a more open-ended approach, stressing that the “unique neural skillset” possessed by many in conservation work often goes unrecognized and unutilized.

He highlights an intense focus, heightened sensory awareness, and a moral compass directed solely towards nature. Conversely, he also addresses the drawbacks—hyperfocus might lead to excessive literal thinking.

Harkness acknowledges the ongoing tension many neurodivergent conservationists face. “We prefer to invest our energy in safety rather than dealing with chaos. However, we need to attract these individuals for them to drive positive change.”

While the book occasionally shifts focus, particularly when addressing the challenges faced by women, youth, and individuals from ethnic minorities, it serves as a helpful reminder of how neurodiversity intertwines with a myriad of social, economic, political, and environmental issues. There are no easy resolutions here.

Harkness is a charismatic and passionate guide in familiar territories, engaging with a wide array of voices. His conversations are often exhilarating, sometimes distressing, and frequently humorous, yet there’s a desire for more personal narratives from those he interviews.

Though Harkness critiques the employment practices and workplace culture of certain conservation organizations from a neurodivergent perspective—some aspects may feel diluted later on—the work remains captivating and essential. Addressing our climate and ecological crises requires perspectives from all sides.

Richard Smith is a writer and crossword compiler for New Scientist

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Source: www.newscientist.com

A Toxic Social Connection May Be Accelerating Your Aging

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The individuals we associate with may influence our health

Rob Wilkinson/Alamy

Many people in our lives may evoke anxiety instead of happiness. Interestingly, these individuals can actually accelerate the aging process.

Psychologists have long understood that robust social connections can enhance our longevity. A study indicates that social isolation may impact mortality rates as much as obesity and inactivity.

Moreover, the quality of our relationships holds equal significance to their quantity. Research from the University of Utah in 2012 revealed that tumultuous relationships—those marked by intense highs and lows—can accelerate telomere shortening, a protective cap on chromosomes. This shortening is a natural part of aging and is linked to health issues like heart disease.

Recently, Byungkyu Lee from New York University and his team explored a more precise measure of aging, investigating how negative social connections influence small chemical changes in DNA known as methylation marks. These changes illustrate how behavior and environment can alter gene function through epigenetics. “As we age, the patterns of these marks change in predictable ways,” states Lee.

The researchers collected saliva samples for epigenetic analysis from 2,232 individuals, who described their relationships with significant members of their social circles and indicated their experiences on a scale of “Never,” “Rarely,” “Sometimes,” or “Frequently.”

Interestingly, many participants labeled these negative influences as “hustlers.” “Over half of adults report having at least one hustler among their close contacts,” notes Lee.

These people seem to have a considerable effect on an individual’s epigenetic markers, with each hustler linked to approximately a 0.5% increase in biological aging, suggesting that individuals with hustlers in their lives tend to have a biological age that is older than their chronological age.

Negative social ties can induce chronic stress responses, and Lee’s team observed elevated markers in those relationships, leading to immune system damage.

“The biological ramifications of a significant number of hustlers in one’s social network are certainly comparable to the differences seen between smokers and non-smokers,” Lee asserts.

This effect was notably pronounced among hustlers who, paradoxically, provided some form of social support. “The same person who comforts you today may criticize you tomorrow, effectively branding you as bad and causing more physiological harm than a relationship that could potentially offer more stability,” explains Lee.

Alex Haslam from the University of Queensland remarked that the findings “align with other studies exploring these dynamics and underscore the importance of social relationships in relation to health.”

He further suggested that the overall sentiment within a group may influence aging even more than specific individual relationships. “For instance, being part of a book club or a choir may mean that it’s my connection to the entire group that plays a role in my health.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Research Indicates a Connection Between Lactose Intolerance and Nightmares

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A recent study involving 1,082 students at Macewan University explored sleep quality, dietary habits, and the perceived connection between the two, revealing a notable relationship between nightmares and lactose intolerance.

Nielsen et al. The research indicates a link between lactose intolerance, dairy consumption, nightmares, and sleep deprivation. Image credit: Micya HNBS.

“The intensity of nightmares shows a strong correlation with lactose intolerance and various food allergies,” noted Dr. Torre Nielsen, a researcher at the University of Monttoriol.

“These findings suggest that modifying dietary habits for individuals with food sensitivities may help alleviate nightmare occurrences.”

“This also explains why many attribute dairy consumption to their unpleasant dreams!”

In this study, 1,082 students from Macewan University were surveyed regarding the perceived connections among sleep duration and quality, dreams, nightmares, and various food items.

Participants’ relationships between their mental and physical well-being and their diet were also examined.

About a third of the respondents reported experiencing regular nightmares. Women were noted to reminisce about their dreams more and were nearly twice as likely to report sleep deprivation and nightmares compared to men.

Roughly 40% of those surveyed admitted to eating late at night or believing certain foods might disrupt their sleep. Around 25% felt that specific foods had a negative impact on their sleep quality.

Interestingly, those who adhered to healthier eating habits tended to report more negative dreams and were less likely to remember them.

“Journalists frequently inquire, especially around food-centric holidays, about the effects of food on our dreams. Now we have some insights,” Dr. Nielsen explained.

The majority of participants who criticized certain foods for causing sleep disturbances pointed to sweets, spicy foods, or dairy products.

A relatively small segment—5.5% of participants—believed their eating habits influenced the nature of their dreams, with many citing sweets and dairy as making their dreams more vivid or bizarre.

Researchers discovered a link between lactose intolerance, gastrointestinal issues, nightmares, and poor sleep quality, comparing reports of food intolerances with reports of nightmares and sleep deprivation.

Consuming dairy products can trigger gastrointestinal problems, leading to discomfort that affects one’s dreams and quality of sleep.

“Nightmares are particularly troubling for those with lactose intolerance, especially those experiencing severe gastrointestinal symptoms that disrupt their sleep,” stated Dr. Nielsen.

“This aligns with the understanding that various physical sensations can significantly impact our dream experiences.”

“Frequent nightmares can be highly disruptive, often waking individuals in uncomfortable states.”

“This may also lead to behaviors aimed at avoiding sleep.”

“Both issues contribute to a lack of restful sleep.”

Survey results will be published in the journal Frontiers of Psychology.

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Torre Nielsen et al. 2025. More Dreams of the Rarebit Devil: Correlation between Food Sensitivity and Food in Sleep and Dreams. Frontiers in Psychology 16; doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1544475

Source: www.sci.news

Possible connection between Kansas measles case and Texas outbreak

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Last week, the measles cases in Kansas more than doubled to 20, with another outbreak in Ohio involving 10 people, as reported by local public health officials on Wednesday.

There have been several significant outbreaks in the US this year, including a large outbreak in West Texas with more than 320 cases and 40 hospitalizations. Health officials are concerned about the spread of the Texas outbreak to other areas.

More than 40 cases of measles have been reported in New Mexico, with seven identified in Oklahoma. Officials in both states have linked the infections to the Texas outbreak.

In Kansas, the virus is predominantly affecting vaccinated children in the southwest corner of the state. State health officials informed The New York Times on Wednesday that the genetic sequence suggests a connection to the outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico.

Fourteen other states reported quarantined measles cases in 2025, often linked to international travel. In Ohio, nine out of 10 cases were traced back to unvaccinated individuals who had recently traveled abroad.

Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, the director of Ohio’s Department of Health, stated, “While we are disheartened by the measles outbreaks in Texas, New Mexico, and other states, we are not surprised to see some cases here in Ohio.”

Experts are concerned that low vaccination rates across the country have made it susceptible to the resurgence of preventable diseases like measles.

Less than 93% of kindergarteners received the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine between 2023 and 2024, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Experts recommend a vaccination rate of at least 95% in the community to prevent outbreaks.

In Kansas, 90% of kindergarten children received MMR shots between 2023 and 24, according to state data.

About 89% of Ohio kindergarteners received the MMR vaccine that year.

Measles is highly contagious, spreading through coughing and sneezing when an infected person breathes.

Infected individuals can develop symptoms like high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes within weeks of exposure. A telltale rash typically appears within a few days.

While most cases resolve within a few weeks, the virus can cause complications like pneumonia, especially in children, leading to difficulty breathing. Infection can also result in brain swelling, leading to permanent damage like blindness, hearing loss, and intellectual disability. According to the CDC, for every 1,000 children with measles, one or two may die.

One child died in the Texas outbreak, marking the first measles-related death in the US in a decade. Another suspected measles-related death was reported in New Mexico.

Source: www.nytimes.com

The Connection Between Waist Size and Future Brain Health

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Have you ever measured your hip to hip ratio? Chances are, you probably haven’t. However, there is an important reason why you should start.

Recent research published in Nutrition, obesity, exercise suggests that these measurements may be linked to cognitive decline. The study found that individuals with smaller hips have a significantly lower risk compared to those with larger hips.

Feeling concerned about your numbers? Don’t worry too much just yet – researchers emphasize that your risk is not set in stone. Making healthier dietary choices can actively reduce the risk of cognitive decline and support long-term brain health.

BMI and Waist-to-Hip Ratio

While most scientists use Body Mass Index (BMI) to measure body size by comparing weight to height, this system has faced criticism for its inaccuracies. For instance, muscular individuals may be categorized as overweight even if they are not at risk for diseases like type 2 diabetes or heart disease.

Therefore, researchers are increasingly turning to alternative measurements such as waist-to-hip ratios as a more accurate indicator of health risks related to size than BMI. According to the authors of the study, this measurement is more reliable.

“We found a connection between healthier waist-to-hip ratios and better cognitive function scores,” stated Dr. Dahlia Y Jensen in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

The study, which was published recently, examined the relationship between diet, body size, and brain health over several decades. 664 British civil servants had their waists and hips measured multiple times between the 1950s and 1960s over approximately 21 years.

Comparing waist and hip sizes indicates the amount of central fat accumulation, which is associated with a higher risk of diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. – Credit: FluxFactory via Getty

Diet Evaluation and Brain Health Measurement

A group of 512 civil servants completed three dietary surveys between the ages of 48 and 60. Scientists assessed dietary quality based on various components including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, legumes, fats, sugary drinks, meat, salt, and alcohol.

When participants reached about 70 years of age, brain scans were conducted to measure cognitive performance. The findings revealed that middle-aged individuals with healthier diets and slimmer hips had better brain health later in life.

Brain imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) were used to analyze the brain structure of the participants, with a particular focus on the hippocampus.

“The hippocampus is crucial in dementia research, and numerous studies have highlighted its importance in memory and learning,” explained Jensen. While previous studies emphasized the significance of hippocampal volume, this study explored its associations with other brain regions.

“We observed a strong link between better diet, functional connectivity of the hippocampus with other brain regions, and waist-to-hip ratio,” Jensen added. Improved white matter connections associated with a slim waist indicated better communication between brain regions.

This suggests that individuals who follow healthier diets and maintain slimmer waists in middle age are at a reduced risk of cognitive decline and diseases like dementia later in life.

“If you’re looking to improve your brain health, it’s never too late to start, but the earlier, the better,” Jensen advised.

The study had some limitations, with only 20% of female participants as they were civil servants recruited in the 1980s. However, Jensen deemed the study “exciting” and believes it will aid in understanding the link between mid-age dietary health and future brain health.

Alzheimer’s Disease Association estimates that 982,000 people in the UK currently live with dementia. Jensen hopes the study will encourage a shift towards preventive healthcare.

About our experts:

Dr. Dahlia Y Jensen is a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Cognitive Neuropathy Clinic, University Medical Center Leipzig, and the Department of Neurology at Max Planck Human Brain Science Institute in Germany. She also serves as a visiting researcher at the Oxford University School of Psychiatry and is a corresponding author of the study.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Unexpected connection between gut microbiota and quality sleep

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A bad night's sleep can be caused by many things, including screen time, stress, and drinking too much alcohol. Now, there's another culprit. It's the microorganisms in your intestines.

This article is part of a special series exploring important questions about sleep. Click here for details.

It's long been known that our microbiome has a powerful influence on our health, but new research has revealed that this extends to our sleep as well. But it's a complex two-way relationship. “The microbiome influences your sleep, and sleep influences the microbiome,” he says. elizabeth holzhausen At the University of Colorado Boulder. The good news is that there are ways we can intervene.

At first glance, the connection between your stomach and sleep patterns may not be obvious, but a growing body of research is revealing how they influence each other. For example, a 2023 study of 720 people found that: Diversity of microorganisms in the gut It was associated with improved sleep quality. Similarly, researchers at King's College London (KCL) and other institutions, in collaboration with personalized nutrition company Zoe, surveyed nearly 1,000 people and found that irregular sleep patterns are associated with sleep disorders. It turned out. Increase in the number of “undesirable” bacterial species It is associated with poor health.

Furthermore, changes in the composition of the gut microbiome are associated with several sleep states. For example, rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, in which sleepers physically act out their dreams during REM sleep, Decrease in intestinal bacteria It produces the short-chain fatty acid butyrate, which causes an increase in bacteria that worsens inflammation.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Kamala Harris’ Silicon Valley connection: Exploring her tech ties in the 2024 US election

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aAbout 700 well-heeled Democrats packed San Francisco’s Fairmont Hotel on Sunday to see Kamala Harris return to the city for the first time since launching her presidential campaign. The crowd at the fundraiser, where the cheapest tickets cost $3,300 and the highest was $500,000, included tech billionaires, corporate executives, and Silicon Valley venture capitalists who are quick to endorse Vice President Harris in her bid for the White House.

The event, which raised more than $12 million, was the latest in the Harris campaign’s outreach to tech Democrats and an extension of ties to Silicon Valley elites that go back more than a decade.

Harris, a former California attorney general and then senator, has extensive ties to some of the tech industry’s most influential figures and big donors. Her campaign has yet to release detailed policy positions on issues such as tech regulation, but tech executives speculate that her track record suggests she could take a more industry-friendly approach than Joe Biden.

Democrats from the tech industry who have promoted or donated to the Harris campaign include former Facebook chief operating officer Sheryl Sandberg; LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, who attended the fundraiser in San Francisco; philanthropist Melinda French Gates; IAC Chairman Barry Diller; and Silicon Valley venture capitalist Ron Conway. Laurene Powell Jobs, the billionaire philanthropist and former wife of Apple’s Steve Jobs, is a longtime friend of Harris’ and held a fundraiser for her at her home in 2013. Netflix Chairman Reed Hastings, who publicly called on the president to drop out after his disastrous debate performance, publicly endorsed Harris for the race. Donated $7 million It funded a pro-Harris super PACac within days of her becoming the presumptive nominee.

Some of these donors have come to Harris’ campaign with their own agendas. Most notably, Hoffman and Diller have called for the removal of Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan, whose agency has aggressively regulated big tech companies, angering the industry with lawsuits against companies like Microsoft and Amazon. (Hoffman sits on the Microsoft board of directors.) Targeted of the FTC’s antitrust lawsuit.

That Hoffman and Diller are donating heavily to Harris while also calling for the removal of Khan gives the appearance of billionaire donors trying to sway policy for their own benefit. Hoffman’s denial Harris claims Hoffman’s donations were made in exchange for influence. While she has not yet commented on the donations from Khan or her critics, her campaign hosted him at an organizing event in early August after his attacks on the FTC chairman.

Harris has received public pledges of support from big-name donors as well as hundreds of venture capitalists and technology industry insiders. “VCs For Kamala” website More than 800 signatures were collected from various companies. Bloomberg reported Tech4Kamala’s open letter has garnered more than 1,200 signatures, and the two groups are planning to hold an event later this month.

Trump battles Harris to build new relationships in Silicon Valley

Harris may have more vocal tech advocates than Biden, but the industry has also seen a shift toward conservatism and embrace of far-right ideology, and she faces a host of strong opponents. Last month in San Francisco, venture capitalists David Sachs and Chamath Palihapitiya hosted a fundraiser for Donald Trump that raised about $12 million, while Silicon Valley powerhouses Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz announced plans to make large donations to the former president.

Trump’s running mate, J.D. Vance, also ran his Ohio Senate campaign with roughly $15 million in contributions from tech billionaire Peter Thiel, who was briefly employed by Thiel’s venture capital firm in 2015. Before becoming a senator, Vance worked in Silicon Valley and was connected to a wide network of wealthy conservatives in the tech industry.

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Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, has openly supported Trump while promoting attacks on Harris and the Democratic Party on his social media platform, X. Last month, Musk shared a deepfake parody video on the platform that showed manipulated footage of Harris saying, “I’m the ultimate diversity hire.” Musk’s Grok chatbot has also Spreading disinformation Harris drew condemnation from Democrats after suggesting she was ineligible to appear on the ballot in some states.

On Monday, Musk spoke with Trump in a more than two-hour interview in which he praised the president and did not refute a variety of falsehoods and baseless election conspiracy theories.

“The Trump campaign is run by self-centered rich people like Elon Musk and Trump himself who have betrayed the middle class and won’t be able to live stream in 2024,” Joseph Costello, a spokesman for the Harris campaign, said in a statement after the interview.

California’s ties to big tech companies

Harris, who served as California’s attorney general and then senator from 2010 to 2020, served during a pivotal period in the rise of Silicon Valley’s largest social networks, including Facebook. Her record on tech legislation and litigation has been praised by regulatory and privacy advocates, but she has also been criticized for not trying to rein in companies that have accumulated monopolies.

Harris, as attorney general, had close ties to the industry, and had been close to Sandberg, who was Facebook’s COO, and had worked on the PR campaign for her memoir, “Lean In.” Sandberg made the maximum legal individual contribution to Sandberg’s 2016 Senate campaign, Emails obtained by HuffPostsent Harris a message two days after the election saying, “Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!! We need your help now,” but Harris did not respond.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Connection between U.S. company demand for avocados and Mexico’s deforestation crisis

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Excavation work began on a avocado orchard in Michoacan, Mexico as seen in drone footage captured by Reuters, revealing two bulldozers clearing the ground to build a reservoir without proper permits.

The increasing demand for avocados in the United States has put pressure on Mexican growers, leading to illegal activities and environmental damage. Illegal deforestation and water resource exploitation have become common practices in the region as the avocado industry expands.

To address these issues, a lawsuit has been filed against avocado importers in the U.S., accusing them of labeling Mexican avocados as “sustainable” or “responsibly sourced” when in fact they are contributing to environmental degradation and water scarcity.

While the avocado trade brings economic growth to the region, it has also attracted criminal gangs who engage in extortion and violence. The avocado industry, known as “green gold,” is causing social and environmental crises in Mexico.

Local communities are fighting back against illegal deforestation by destroying water pumps and orchards, while activists and organizations are working to hold importers and retailers accountable for their sourcing practices.

The lawsuit seeks to ensure that avocados in the U.S. market are not produced in illegally deforested areas and are sourced responsibly. It also calls attention to the impact of the avocado industry on water scarcity and biodiversity in the region.

Efforts are being made by Michoacan state authorities to curb illegal logging and ensure transparency in the avocado supply chain. A new online platform is being developed to certify avocados from orchards that are not involved in illegal deforestation.

Despite these efforts, the actual number of illegal orchards in Michoacan is believed to be much higher than reported, highlighting the challenges in controlling the environmental and social impacts of the booming avocado industry.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Research reveals new connection between Saharan dust and tropical cyclone precipitation

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Huge Saharan dust plumes carried across the Atlantic by trade winds could influence weather in North America by suppressing the development of hurricanes at sea, but the thick dust plumes could also bring heavy rainfall from storms coming onshore, according to a new study.

Vermilion othersThey found a nonlinear, boomerang-shaped relationship between Saharan dust and tropical cyclone rainfall. Image courtesy of Enrique.

“Surprisingly, the main driver of hurricane precipitation is not sea surface temperature or atmospheric moisture, as previously thought, but rather Saharan dust,” said Dr Yuan Wang of Stanford University.

Previous studies have found that human-induced climate change could dramatically reduce Saharan dust transport and increase hurricane rainfall in the coming decades.

But uncertainties remain about questions such as how climate change will affect dust runoff from the Sahara and how much more rainfall from future hurricanes is expected to occur.

“Hurricanes are among the most destructive weather phenomena on Earth,” Dr Wang said.

“Even relatively weak hurricanes can cause heavy rainfall and flooding hundreds of miles inland.”

“I think dust hasn't received enough attention right now in traditional weather forecasting, especially hurricane forecasting.”

Dust can have opposing effects on tropical cyclones, which are classified as hurricanes in the North Atlantic, central North Pacific, and eastern North Pacific when their maximum sustained winds reach 74 miles per hour or greater.

“The dust particles can make ice clouds more efficient in the centre of the hurricane, potentially resulting in more precipitation,” Dr Wang said.

“Dust can also block solar radiation, lowering sea surface temperatures near the center of a storm and weakening tropical cyclones.”

Dr. Wang and his colleagues set out to first develop a machine learning model that could predict hurricane rainfall, and then to identify the underlying mathematical and physical relationships.

They used 19 years of weather data and hourly satellite precipitation measurements to predict the amount of rainfall from individual hurricanes.

Their findings suggest that a key predictor of rainfall is measuring dust optical thickness, or the amount of light that penetrates the dust plume.

They found a boomerang-shaped relationship in which precipitation increases between dust optical thicknesses of 0.03 and 0.06, then decreases rapidly.

In other words, at higher concentrations, dust goes from enhancing to suppressing rainfall.

“Usually, when the dust loading is low, the microphysical enhancement effect is more pronounced,” Dr Wang said.

“If the dust loading is high, it can shade the ocean surface from sunlight more efficiently, and the so-called 'radiative suppression effect' will dominate.”

a paper A paper describing the findings was published in the journal. Scientific advances.

_____

Lyin Chew others2024. The primary role of Saharan dust on tropical cyclone rainfall in the Atlantic Basin. Scientific advances 10(30); doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adn6106

This article is a version of a press release provided by Stanford University.

Source: www.sci.news

Stopping the Rise of Aggro-ism: Addressing the Issue of Misogynistic Content | The Importance of Connection

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If you’ve ever stumbled across a misogynistic video by an influencer online, you know how harmful this content can be, but did you know that more than two-thirds of boys ages 11 to 14 are exposed to this kind of harmful and damaging “manosphere” content? 70% of teachers have noticed an increase in sexist language Will it be used in classrooms in the 12 months leading up to February 2024?

The study was published earlier this year: The rise of aggroismIt depicts a boy’s gradual slide into a misogynistic mindset, which leaves him feeling lonely and sad, and negative towards his female teachers and even his own sister.

The film, produced by Vodafone and the charity Global Action Plan, depicts the impact that harmful AI-powered algorithms are having on pre-teen boys. It reflects growing concern among parents, with one in five noticing a gradual change in the language their sons use to talk about women and girls. Experts are now urging families to talk to their sons about what may be on their phones and how it’s reaching them.

Psychologist Dr Ellie Hanson says: “Social media is designed to keep you online as long as possible, so they target your emotions. They exploit emotions such as shock, fear, anxiety, paranoia, superiority, indignation and sexuality. These emotions have been found to be captivating.”

Worryingly, many boys come across this content while searching for something unrelated, such as fitness or gaming videos. Hanson says explaining how social media algorithms are designed is important because it invites kids and teens into the conversation, which is much more effective than telling them not to look.

Teenage boys often come across harmful content while searching for something else: photos with models posing. Photo: Carol Yepes/Getty Images

“Questioning things is a normal part of being a teenager,” she says, “so let’s use that tendency to encourage them to question the tools being used to manipulate them online.”

Hanson says that simply explaining that these platforms directly benefit from your engagement with their content is a strong first step. The content that attracts the most attention is often controversial and conspiratorial. This has resulted in a plethora of influencers who promote a distorted view of masculinity that is sexist, offensive and offensive. This leads to negative and disrespectful behavior towards women and girls, and also damages boys’ mental health and ability to form relationships. Two-thirds of boys They said seeing harmful and negative content online left them feeling anxious, sad and scared.

Kate Edwards, deputy director of online child safety at the NSPCC, says parents need to be aware of how quickly their children’s phones and tablets can become inundated with harmful content. “Social media is currently made up mainly of short form content – videos streamed quickly one after the other. Once you watch something in full, react to it, like or comment, the app will serve you more and more similar content. It can quickly pull you down a rabbit hole,” Edwards said.

“There are steps you can take to teach the algorithm that you don’t want to see it anymore. Look for a ‘hide’ button or a ‘I didn’t like that’ option. Explore the different settings in the app, by yourself and with your child.”

Vodafone co-designed Digital Parenting Toolkit We’ve teamed up with the NSPCC to help parents get ahead of potential risks. It’s full of conversation starters, activities and tips to help young people stay safe while using the internet, as well as advice on what to do if they come across something inappropriate.

Sir Peter Wanless (right): “This toolkit encourages families to have open conversations about their children’s mobile phone use.” Composition: Getty Images, Adrian James White

Sir Peter Wanless, chief executive of the NSPCC, says he is particularly proud of the partnership with Vodafone because it helps navigate an online world that can be overwhelming and confusing for parents as well as children. He says: “The toolkit encourages families to have open conversations about their children’s mobile use, for example discussing situations that might arise online. It also covers safety features available on phones and setting boundaries, such as enforcing screen time limits.”

But screen time rules and parental controls are only one piece of the puzzle: while parents can help stem the flow of harmful content, there is a growing belief that to break the cycle, tech companies themselves need to take action.

To appeal this, Global Action Plan has filed a petition It calls for regulators such as Ofcom to require platforms to take control away from AI-powered algorithms and enforce “safety by design”, which was a key element of the 2023 policy. Online Safety ActBut there are growing concerns that the app may get away with only having bare-bones functionality.

“Despite parents’ best efforts, children are still vulnerable to manipulative algorithms. We should do our best, but the most power lies with the tech companies and regulators,” Hanson said.

Find out more about Vodafone’s pledge to help four million people and businesses bridge the digital divide. here

Source: www.theguardian.com

Experiencing Isolation and Communication Barriers: Understanding Digital Exclusion

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Connectivity is crucial in today’s digital society, affecting our finances, social connections, job opportunities, education, and health.

However, a significant number of people in the UK lack internet access, leading to digital exclusion with serious consequences.

“Approximately two million UK households have no internet access, and many lack the digital skills needed to fully utilize technology. Equal access to connectivity, skills, and devices remains a challenge,” said Nicky Lyons, Vodafone UK’s chief corporate affairs and sustainability officer.

Regional disparities in the UK exacerbate digital poverty, with 5G “dark zones” impacting those without reliable indoor signals.

  • 800,000 (pdf): The number of people in deprived rural areas who would benefit from 5G Standalone.

  • Nearly half (46%) of rural deprived areas lack 5G coverage compared to inner-city areas.

  • 47% of small and medium-sized businesses in rural areas face connectivity issues.

  • 5G technology can save GBP 8.6 billion, benefiting businesses with increased productivity.

Vodafone is taking steps to bridge the digital gap by providing devices, connectivity, and digital skills training to those in need.

“At Vodafone, we aim to ensure no one is left behind. We have already assisted 2.6 million individuals and businesses with free connectivity, devices, and training, with a goal of reaching 4 million by 2025,” said Vodafone’s Lyons.

  • Over 2.6 million people and businesses have benefited from Vodafone’s free connectivity, devices, and training.

  • 1.3 million free SIM cards are provided by Vodafone to a national data bank in partnership with The Trussell Trust.

Learn more about Vodafone’s efforts to bridge the digital divide for four million people and businesses here

Source: www.theguardian.com

Flipping Your Phone: Transform Your Unwanted Tech and Donate Your Dongle to Make a Connection

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Many of us have a collection, known as the Shame drawer, tucked away in our homes. This dusty cavern is filled with old phones, tablets, dongles, and various knick-knacks that were once cherished but are now obsolete. While it may seem difficult to part with these items, the reality is that they are unlikely to serve any purpose in the future.

By letting go of our outdated devices, especially those with the latest iOS updates, we can give them a new lease on life. This could make a significant impact if they are passed on to individuals who can benefit from them.

Vodafone’s Great British Tech Appeal is an organization that accepts donations of used mobile phones, tablets, and laptops. Explore how these donated devices are helping to bridge the digital divide.

Reduce, reuse…reconsider?

The amount of electronic waste generated by the rapid cycle of mobile technology is staggering, especially in the UK, which is among the top producers of e-waste per capita globally. As a result, many individuals in the UK lack access to smartphones, tablets, and laptops, exacerbating the digital divide.

It’s essential to consider donating devices to extend their life and help those in need. Each device donation can make a meaningful difference to individuals who are currently on the wrong side of the digital divide.

left behind

A significant percentage of households in the UK cannot afford or choose not to subscribe to telecommunications services, preventing them from accessing the internet. This lack of connectivity impacts various demographics, including children and families in need of support.

The Great British Tech Appeal aims to address these gaps by repurposing old devices for those who require them the most, such as refugees, individuals at risk, and children in care.

Push forward

Barnardo’s is a recipient of the Great British Tech Appeal, which aims to repurpose unused devices for charitable causes. The campaign has already made a positive impact by donating thousands of devices to various organizations.

Despite the progress made, there is still a vast number of discarded devices in UK households. It’s crucial to encourage people to donate their old gadgets to support those in need and reduce electronic waste.

Clearing the Past

Recycling old tech can seem intimidating due to varying regulations and disposal methods. Initiatives like Vodafone’s Great British Tech Appeal aim to simplify the process by providing guidance on how to donate devices and ensure they are properly handled.

By following recommended steps, such as factory resetting phones and removing personal data, individuals can contribute to a sustainable recycling process that benefits those in need.

Old Phone, New Start

Vodafone’s efforts to bridge the digital divide have had a significant impact on communities in need. By donating devices and providing connectivity, the organization has supported vulnerable individuals, including refugees and children in care, during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

These donations have facilitated vital communication between separated families and provided essential support to those facing adversity. By participating in the Great British Tech Appeal, individuals can contribute to transforming lives through technology.

Answering a call

Donating old devices to initiatives like the Great British Tech Appeal is not only rewarding but also impactful. By following a simple donation process, individuals can help close the digital divide and support those in need.

Vodafone’s commitment to providing free connectivity and devices to millions of people underscores the importance of ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age. By donating and participating in such campaigns, individuals can make a significant difference in bridging the digital gap.

Learn more here about Vodafone’s pledge to help millions bridge the digital divide.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Is There a Connection Between Left-Handedness and Liberalism? 52 Years of Data Suggests So

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on the other hand

This is perhaps the most politically insightful psychological study published in the past 60 years. And maybe not.

The study of the problem is Handedness, ideology, and party preferences of state residents: Results of U.S. presidential elections over the past 60 years..

Its author, Stewart J. H. McCann, professor emeritus of psychology at Canada's Cape Breton University, looked closely at data on U.S. (not Canadian) voters from 1964 to 2016 and found that: He says he has discovered striking patterns. High state-level left-handedness was significantly associated with liberal ideology.

What does this mean? McCann distills the answer into her 46-word sentence, which gains more meaning with each dozen readings. Or it doesn't make much sense.

The sentence is as follows: “Such a relationship is speculated to be based on a hypothesized but poorly understood genetic link between handedness, personality, and political beliefs and attitudes; genetic predisposition The effect of left-handedness in the population may have a much larger impact on the correlation. blatant left handed level. ”

Feedback points out that these 46 words, and the paper as a whole, leave a lot to the imagination.

in lonely splendor

A person's individuality shines more when they are alone than when they are with friends.

That's the big reveal in a study called “.Temperament behaviors of sheep tested individually do not correlate with behaviors expressed in the presence of conspecific sheep”.

In particular, researchers from the University of Melbourne in Australia and the University of Edinburgh in the UK say that “vocalization is rare when other sheep are present, suggesting that this behavior is a response to loneliness.”

when nothing is good

James Hodges writes: “In response to your segment about doctors waiting for patients to recover on their own, it's completely part of our job.

“I'm a pediatrician. We take doing nothing very seriously. “Cat-like observation and admirable inactivity” are firmly believed in our world. It's a belief. We often admit patients with viral illnesses for which there is no cure. We watch, we support, and the child gets better.

“There are certainly times when doing nothing is the best treatment. If you have a child who is quite unwell and unstable, getting excited will make the condition worse. We often use the 'minimum response' approach.” This is a categorical way of telling your child to leave you alone. If possible, let your child sleep with your parents so they don&#39t bother you too much. Never force the needle or medicine into it. Experienced pediatric nurses are very good at this (it&#39s truly an art of medicine).

“This is not just children who are acutely unwell. Babies with colic (most of the time) do not become adolescents with colic. There are countless childhood diseases that we do not treat. Depurative purpura is a great example. There are a lot of places where we&#39re treating it, but there&#39s pretty little evidence that it&#39s changing anything.

“Children&#39s physiology is really amazing, and I often feel like a passenger, watching them fix themselves, sometimes providing reassurance and distraction. It&#39s such a great job. .”

(Feedback indicates that, with this letter being an exception, nearly all answers we receive on this question are from retired physicians.)

fresh as an onion

Dimple Devi and her colleagues have devised a way to use onions to extend the freshness of milk.

Researchers based at India&#39s Kokrajhar Central Institute of Technology,Onion peel extract as milk freshness indicator in biopolymer-based intelligent packaging filmsPublished in the magazine food and humanity. When milk spoils, the onionized packaging film changes from pale pink to colorless to brown.

When used in this way, researchers say onions have almost endless benefits. “Addition of onion peel extract to biopolymers decreased water content, water solubility, swelling index, and transparency, and significantly increased antioxidant activity and total phenolic content.'' Utilized agricultural/food processing waste that is generated in large quantities.”

The report does not address the question of how consumers would react to the idea that milk is protected despite not being flavored. – onion.

keep carrying it

As Ken Taylor peruses the ever-growing list of trivial superpowers in his feedback, he asks questions about his abilities. As a teenager, I delivered milk and could manage 6 full pint milk bottles and 10 empty milk bottles. As an adult, I was able to impress my friends by carrying four pints of beer (beer without a handle) with my fingers spread wide and wrapped around the rim. It looks pretty cool as long as you don&#39t drop it. Does this count as a superpower? It&#39s your phone. ”

Ken&#39s calm tenacity as he carries the container embodies the Carry On tradition.

Mark Abrahams hosted the Ig Nobel Prize ceremony and co-founded the magazine Annals of Improbable Research. Previously, he was working on unusual uses of computers.his website is impossible.com.

Have a story for feedback?

You can email your article to Feedback at feedback@newscientist.com. Please enter your home address. This week&#39s and past feedback can be found on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Researchers uncover connection between finance and topology

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by KII Communications Co., Ltd. December 24, 2023

Recent research reveals a new approach that exploits persistent homology to improve stock market volatility prediction. This method has improved the accuracy of various predictive models and has significantly advanced topology and financial integration. Credit: SciTechDaily.com

In a new study published in Journal of Finance and Data Scienceresearchers at Han University of Applied Sciences International School of Business in the Netherlands, have introduced topological tail dependence theory, a new methodology for predicting stock market volatility during turbulence.

“This research bridges the gap between the abstract field of topology and the real world of finance. What’s really interesting is that this combination will help us better understand and predict stock market behavior during turbulent times. “We now have a powerful tool to do this,” said Hugo Gobat-Souto, sole author of the study.

Since the difference in the average distance of normalized stock returns for two different periods is higher than the average distance in normal times than in the preceding and subsequent periods, defining a threshold to be used in normal times can help reduce the difference in periods of financial turmoil. can be used as an indicator to predict. A turbulent time. Nevertheless, a problem with this approach is the fact that the average distance of normalized price returns suffers from the curse of dimensionality and cannot detect nonlinear and complex relationships in the data. The curse of dimensionality that the average distance of normalized stock returns suffers from is that the number of dimensions (stocks in this case) tends to be infinite, so the distance between any point (say A and B) and the other The distance between points (such as A and C) approaches 1. As a result, the average distance becomes meaningless. On the other hand, his implementation of PH information via Persistent Landscape’s WD or L^n norm does not have these problems. Therefore, this is the reason for the successful introduction of PH information in recent studies and the selection of PH information in this study. Above is his 3D scatter plot from December 16, 2019 to January 16, 2020 (regular period). Credit: Hugo Gobato Souto

Enhance financial forecasting with persistent homology

By incorporating persistent homology (PH) information through empirical testing, Souto Accuracy Leveraging nonlinear and neural network models to predict stock market volatility during turbulent periods.

3D scatter plot from January 17, 2020 to February 19, 2020 (first period). Credit: Hugo Gobato Souto

“These findings signal a major shift in the world of financial forecasting, providing more reliable tools for investors, financial institutions and economists,” Sout added.

In particular, this approach avoids dimensionality barriers and is particularly useful for detecting complex correlations and nonlinear patterns that are often difficult with traditional methods.

“It was interesting to observe that forecast accuracy consistently improved, especially during the 2020 crisis,” Souto said.

3D scatter plot from February 20, 2020 to March 23, 2020 (turbulent period) Credit: Hugo Gobato Souto

Broad implications and future directions

The findings are not limited to one particular type of model. It spans a variety of models, from linear models to nonlinear models and even advanced neural network models. These discoveries open the door to improved overall financial forecasting.

“This discovery confirms the validity of the theory and encourages the scientific community to delve deeper into this exciting new intersection of mathematics and finance,” Souto concluded.

References: “Topological tail dependence: Evidence from forecasting realized volatility” by Hugo Gobato Souto, October 14, 2023. Journal of Finance and Data Science.
DOI: 10.1016/j.jfds.2023.100107

Source: scitechdaily.com

The unexpected connection between diet, diabetes, and mental well-being

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New research reveals important links between nutrition, diabetes, and mental health. Poor dietary choices can put you at risk for developing type 2 diabetes and mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. Conversely, a diet rich in essential nutrients and low in processed foods can reduce these risks. The findings highlight the importance of informed dietary choices in the management and prevention of diabetes, anxiety, and depression and have implications for public health policy and medical practice.

A new literature review by researchers at the College of Public Health provides new insights into the relationship between nutrition and mental health.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people with diabetes (diabetes mellitus) are two to three times more likely to experience depression than people without diabetes. Current treatments include therapy, medication, or both.

However, understanding of the multifaceted relationship between nutrition, mental health, and DM is relatively new in scientific discussion. Mason researchers sought to learn about the relationship between nutrition, diabetes, and mental health.

The impact of nutrition on diabetes and mental health

Two literature reviews by Associate Professor Raedeh Basiri show that malnutrition plays a dual role in contributing to both the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and mental health effects such as anxiety and depression. I am. According to the results of this study, mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety increase his risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and diabetes is also associated with an increased risk of developing depression and anxiety. Nutritional interventions can help with both of these health issues.

“Our findings highlight that dietary choices play a vital role in reducing the risks associated with both diabetes and mental health. These findings The implications of these findings extend beyond the scientific community, as they are expected to inform public health policies, medical practices, and dietary recommendations that can positively impact people. ” said Basili, lead author of the paper.

Strengthen dietary choices for health and prevention

“This research ultimately aims to enable individuals to make informed health-promoting dietary choices, which will help prevent and manage diabetes, anxiety, and depression. It serves as a proactive strategy,” Basili said.

More specifically, the research team’s findings provide a comprehensive view of the relationship between dietary patterns, health impacts, and the important role of eating behavior in the context of type 2 diabetes and mental health. Masu.

The research team found that eating foods rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products may be associated with lower risk of type 2 diabetes and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. found that it was associated with lower risk. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods has been found to have negative effects, making you more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, depression, and anxiety.

The importance of a nutritious diet

Additionally, the researchers found that although people consume energy-dense foods, they lack essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folic acid, selenium, chromium, and magnesium. I found the meals to be nutritious. It is associated with worsening of unfavorable symptoms in both mental health and the development of type 2 diabetes. This relationship highlights the importance of nutrient-dense food choices for overall health and well-being.

“Current scientific evidence highlights the potential benefits of adopting a balanced diet in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression while enhancing glycemic control in people with diabetes.” said Basili.

References: “Exploring the interrelationships of diabetes, nutrition, anxiety, and depression: Implications for treatment and prevention strategies,” by Raedeh Basiri, Blessing Seidu, and Mark Rudich, September 29, 2023. nutrients.
DOI: 10.3390/nu15194226

“Key Nutrients for Optimal Glycemic Control and Mental Health in People with Diabetes: A Review of the Evidence,” by Raedeh Basiri, Blessing Seidu, and Lawrence J. Cheskin, September 9, 2023. nutrients.
DOI: 10.3390/nu15183929

Source: scitechdaily.com