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Finding Hope Through the Lens: How Photography Transformed a Teenager’s Cancer Journey

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In 2016, LJ was just 19 years old and on the brink of a transformative journey. After graduating from college with commendable grades, he was excited to explore the world. However, he soon discovered what seemed like a harmless lump on his neck.

“I remember finding a large lump on my neck,” he recalls. “I felt exhausted all the time. It started to interfere with my life.”

Despite visiting the doctor, LJ was convinced it was “just an infection” and delayed follow-up appointments until he was urgently called back for test results. “The doctor told me, ‘This is leukemia,’” LJ reflects. “I couldn’t believe it—cancer at my age? I didn’t even know what leukemia was back then.”

We spoke with LJ about his inspiring cancer journey, how photography became a vital coping tool during a year of intensive treatment, and how Macmillan Cancer Support played a crucial role in guiding him through pivotal decisions in his life.

LJ’s Story: A Life-Altering Diagnosis

In 2016, LJ received a diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic lymphoma, an aggressive cancer necessitating immediate action. Instead of diving into student life, he faced grueling hospital stays with a bleak prognosis of only a 5% survival rate.

“I was stuck in a hospital bed undergoing chemotherapy, surgeries, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplants… it was overwhelming,” LJ shares. “I endured numerous procedures and constant needles…”

“The hardest part is hearing that treatments aren’t effective,” he continues. “Chemotherapy fails, radiotherapy fails, surgery fails. There’s a lot of chaos and distress. Despite your hopes and beliefs, things might not go as planned.”

LJ and his tutor Margot: discovering a passion for photography during treatment

Finding Freedom in Photography

Before his diagnosis, LJ was a typical teenager, exploring creativity, traveling, skateboarding, and enjoying time with friends in London. Suddenly, he found himself “isolated in a room or a ward”, painfully aware that days felt like they had no end.

As the walls of his physical environment closed in, LJ discovered that photography and videography opened a new world for him. By documenting his experiences through photos and videos, he created a much-needed escape: a creative outlet and a way to process his reality.

“I had a little Canon PowerShot G7 camera at the time,” he shares. “Taking photos helped me express my feelings without leaving the hospital. I could capture my emotions and enjoy the creative process. It was incredibly fulfilling.”

Macmillan’s guidance empowered LJ to make important decisions during critical moments

Macmillan Support During a Crucial Time

During this challenging treatment phase, LJ came across vital information from Macmillan Cancer Support in the form of a pamphlet, which provided essential guidance for his future. “I received a leaflet from Macmillan about cancer and fertility,” he states.

“After multiple surgeries, fertility can be affected, and I learned that I might not be able to have children,” he reveals. “The insights in that pamphlet helped me comprehend my situation significantly.”

Now, a decade after his diagnosis and in remission, the support from Macmillan has made a lasting impact on LJ’s life. “Without that booklet, I would have likely made decisions I’d regret,” he states.

Gifts in wills fund over a third of Macmillan’s services, including the resources that aided LJ, ensuring continued access to trusted cancer support, from helplines to informational booklets and community support across the UK. Having clear guidance and support from Macmillan was pivotal for LJ in making informed decisions about sperm storage at a critical time.

Thanks to Macmillan’s support, LJ is dedicated to raising awareness about cancer in young men

Why Consider Leaving a Gift to Macmillan Cancer Support in Your Will?

As LJ approaches a decade since his diagnosis, he has transformed his life, establishing himself as a skilled fashion and event photographer. You can view his remarkable portfolio here. Additionally, he is involved with Macmillan, helping to spread cancer awareness among young men.

“Macmillan helped me share my story and be heard. If my experience inspires someone to keep fighting, then I feel fulfilled,” he adds.

In the UK, someone is diagnosed with cancer every 90 seconds. LJ understands the importance of having Macmillan’s support when it matters most, and he has a special message for those contemplating leaving a legacy gift.

“Each day, many people receive a cancer diagnosis. While no one can fully understand your feelings, having someone who can clarify information about your cancer is invaluable. That’s the kind of support Macmillan offers.”

Thanks to Macmillan’s guidance, LJ was able to better understand his situation while focusing on his passions. Your legacy gift will empower Macmillan to provide essential care to more individuals facing cancer, regardless of their background. For more information on how to leave a gift in your Will to Macmillan Cancer Support, request our free Gifting in a Will guide.


© Macmillan Cancer Support, a charity registered in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also active in Northern Ireland. A company by guarantee registered in England and Wales (company number 2400969). Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT number: 668265007

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

How Australian Teens Are Finding Ways to Navigate Social Media Bans

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Australia will restrict social media use for individuals under 16 starting December 10th.

Mick Tsikas/Australian Associated Press/Alamy

A historic initiative to prohibit all children under 16 from accessing social media is about to unfold in Australia, but teens are already pushing back.

Initially announced last November, this prohibition, proposed by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, will commence on December 10th. On this date, all underaged users of platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and Snapchat will have their accounts removed.

Companies operating social media platforms may incur fines up to A$49.5 million (£25 million) if they do not comply by expelling underage users. Nonetheless, neither parents nor children face penalties.

This regulation is garnering global attention. The European Commission is considering a similar rule. So far, discussions have centered on implementation methods, potential age verification technologies, and the possible adverse effects on teens who depend on social media to engage with their peers.

As the deadline approaches, teens preparations are underway to defy these restrictions. A significant illustration is of two 15-year-old boys from New South Wales, Noah Jones and Macy Neyland, who are challenging the social media ban in the nation’s highest court.

“The truth is, kids have been devising ways to bypass this ban for months, but the media is only catching on now that the countdown has begun,” Jones remarked.

“I know kids who stash their family’s old devices in lockers at school. They transferred the account to a parent or older sibling years ago and verified it using an adult ID without their parents knowing. We understand algorithms, so we follow groups with older demographics like gardening or walking for those over 50. We engage in professional discussions to avoid detection.”

Jones and Neyland first sought an injunction to postpone the ban but opted instead to present their opposition as a specific constitutional challenge.

On December 4, they secured a crucial victory as the High Court of Australia agreed to hear their case as early as February. Their primary argument contends that the ban imposes an undue burden on their implied freedom of political speech. They argue this policy would compromise “significant zones of expression and engagement in social media interactions for 13- to 15-year-olds.”

Supported by the Digital Freedom Project, led by New South Wales politician John Ruddick, the duo is rallying for their cause. “I’ve got an 11-year-old and a 13-year-old, and they’ve been mentioning for months that it’s a hot topic on the playground. They’re all active on social media, reaping its benefits,” Ruddick shared.

Ruddick noted that children are already brainstorming methods to circumvent the ban, exploring options like virtual private networks (VPNs), new social media platforms, and tactics to outsmart age verification processes.

Katherine Page Jeffrey, a researcher at the University of Sydney, mentioned that the impending ban is starting to feel tangible for teenagers. “Up until now, it seems young people hadn’t quite believed that this was actually happening,” she commented.

She adds that her children have already begun discussing alternatives with peers. Her younger daughter has downloaded another social media app called Yope, which is not listed on the government’s watch list yet, unlike several others like Coverstar and Lemon8 that have been warned to self-regulate.

Lisa Given, a researcher at RMIT University in Melbourne, believes that as children drift to newer, less known social media platforms, parents will struggle to monitor their children’s online activities. She speculated that many parents may even assist their children in passing age verification hurdles.

Susan McLean, a foremost cybersecurity expert in Australia, argued that this situation will lead to a “whack-a-mole” scenario as new apps emerge, kids flock to them, and the government continually adds them to the banned list. She insists that rather than taking social media away from teenagers, governments should compel large companies to rectify algorithms that expose children to inappropriate content.

“The government’s logic is deeply flawed,” she pointed out. “You can’t prohibit a pathway to safety unless you ban all communications platforms for kids.”

McLean shared a poignant quote from a teenager who remarked, “If the aim of this ban is to protect children from harmful adults, why should I have to leave while those harmful adults remain?”

Noah Jones, one of the teen complainants, stated it bluntly: “There’s no greater news source than what you can find in just 10 minutes on Instagram,” he insisted. “Yet, we faced bans while perpetrators went unpunished.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

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

If You Feel Out of Place: Science-Backed Tips for Finding Your Fit

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“Individuals who feel a lack of belonging are significantly more prone to experience impostor syndrome.”

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As September draws near, a new academic year begins. Many students, including one of my readers, are transitioning from the comfort of their family homes to university life. She is the first in her family to pursue higher education and is anxious about fitting in.

In recent decades, psychologists have identified various reasons why individuals may feel disconnected. Attribution can impact their happiness. Thankfully, research presents multiple strategies to help mitigate these feelings—methods that could be helpful for those battling impostor syndrome, where one feels unworthy of their achievements.

First, it’s essential to recognize that emotions can be quite variable. Studies suggest that those lacking a sense of belonging often grapple with impostor syndrome. One moment you may feel like you’ve found your place; the next, you may question your abilities after receiving negative feedback.

To delve into this, psychologists encourage individuals to evaluate statements such as: Individuals with a sense of belonging—especially ethnic minorities, girls and women pursuing STEM fields, and first-generation students—yield significant findings. People with these challenges may find themselves less motivated with deteriorating exam performance, and heightened stress levels could negatively affect their physical health, leading to more frequent doctor visits.

Stanford University’s Gregory Walton has explored various strategies aimed at bolstering students’ sense of belonging. One intervention involves sharing narratives from past students, highlighting their anxieties and how they managed to overcomes them. Participants are then asked to articulate their own concerns and the steps they take to foster a sense of home. Positive outcomes can be observed both in the short and long term, boosting grades and overall well-being over time.

As Walton discusses in his book Normal Magic, we can all apply these insights. A valuable first step is identifying experiences that challenge our sense of belonging. Then, it’s important to articulate those feelings to others without self-judgment, followed by considering alternative perspectives.

For example, if you feel socially ignored, you might speculate that it stems from elitism about your background. However, it’s equally plausible that the individual who snubbed you is merely having a poor day, or could even be possessing a difficult personality. Ultimately, their behavior is not reflective of everyone’s opinion around you.

As you build your confidence, you can enhance your involvement with the community in question.

David Robson is a celebrated science writer and author of Laws of Connection: 13 Social Strategies that Change Your Life

Alongside exploring the psychology of attribution, Gregory Walton’s famed work, Normal Magic: The Science of How to Achieve Great Change in Small Acts, offers actionable strategies to overcome mental hindrances in both our personal and professional spheres.

For more projects, please visit newscientist.com/maker

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How Nearly a Century of Happiness Research Unveiled a Key Finding

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When Lyubomirsky joined Stanford’s Graduate School of Social Psychology in 1989, the study of happiness was just beginning to earn respectability in academia. Ed Diener, a psychologist at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, would later gain recognition for his contributions to the field. Despite his long-standing interest in happiness, he chose to wait until he achieved tenure before diving into the subject. Similarly, Lyubomirsky was hesitant to specialize in happiness; as a serious scientist, she felt that topics related to “emotion” were often regarded as less rigorous. However, after an engaging discussion with her advisor on her first day at Stanford, she resolved to make happiness her primary focus.

Lyubomirsky began by exploring the fundamental question of why some individuals experience greater happiness than others. A few years prior, Diener had published a survey that examined existing research, highlighting the types of behaviors often associated with happy individuals. However, the studies often yielded conflicting results, leading to a lack of definitive answers. Lyubomirsky’s own findings indicated that mindset plays a significant role; happy individuals tended to avoid comparing themselves to others, held positive views of those around them, made fulfilling choices, and did not dwell on negativity.

Yet, Lyubomirsky recognized the complexity of cause and effect. Did a happy disposition foster a healthy mindset, or did adopting a positive outlook lead to increased happiness? Were people inherently predisposed to a certain level of happiness, much like mothers clustering together? She pondered whether it was possible to shift one’s mindset, noting that such changes often required extensive time—many people spend years in therapy attempting to achieve this, often without success. This prompted her to investigate whether simpler, quicker actions could enhance well-being.

To this end, Lyubomirsky researched various habits and practices thought to uplift mood, such as random acts of kindness and expressions of gratitude. Over six weeks, she instructed students to perform five acts of kindness each week—like donating blood or assisting peers with assignments. By the end of the study, these students reported higher levels of happiness compared to a control group. Another group reflected weekly on things they were grateful for, such as “My Mother” and “AOL Instant Messenger,” and similarly experienced an increase in happiness. Although the changes were modest, Lyubomirsky found it intriguing that small, low-cost interventions could enhance students’ quality of life. In 2005, she published a paper asserting that individuals possess significant control over their happiness.

Lyubomirsky’s research emerged during a time when psychology was reevaluating its objectives and focus. When Martin Seligman, a psychologist from the University of Pennsylvania, took leadership of the American Psychological Association in 1998, he and his colleagues noted that the field had overly concentrated on dysfunction, neglecting the promotion of life satisfaction. He urged his peers to explore themes such as “optimism, courage, work ethic, resilience, interpersonal skills, pleasure, insight, and social responsibility,” advocating a return to making life more fulfilling and productive for everyone.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Why Finding Alien Life is Becoming More Likely

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Are we alone in space? It is a question that scientists have been seeking for centuries. And it has not been answered for a long time, but new discoveries can ultimately release the secrets of aliens.

Thanks to OSIRIS-REX, a NASA spacecraft that landed on an asteroid more than 60 million kilometers (40 million miles) away in 2018. However, Osiris did not just land on the asteroid. He also collected Bennu samples and returned them to Earth in 2023.

This is not just an engineering feat, but scientists “1 /1 million” asteroid. That’s because Bennu is not just a mere cosmic rock, but because its carbon composition is abundant and close to Earth, it is virtually early solar time capsules.

So what did the researchers learn accurately? According to two recently released papers – one in the journal Natural Astronomy and one in Nature – the survey results may be forced to rewrite the story of how life began.

What did you find in Bennu?

The headline discovery was that the important building blocks of life were found in the Bennu sample.

Thousands of organic molecular compounds confirmed the presence of 14 of the 20 protein amino acids existing on Earth. In addition, 19 non-protein amino acids and five biological nucleic acids were found.

Other asteroid samples that have fallen to Earth contain some of these materials, but this is the richest sample seen so far.

From Bennu, the team discovered Gailsite, Villyya Umite, Tantalty, and Torona specimens.

But that’s not all. Evidence that salt minerals were once present in the sample indicated the potential existence of water combined with important amino acids raises questions about the possibility of life outside Earth.

“We often talk about the building blocks of life. These essential building blocks seem to have been created on Earth. What about the extraterrestrial ones?” Sean McMahon, the co-director of the British Space Biology Center, said in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Dating app set to unveil AI capabilities to assist users in finding the perfect match

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Feeling exhausted from writing dating profiles or swiping endlessly on dating apps? Wondering if dating apps are even worth it? Let a digital buddy handle the work for you.

As user fatigue becomes apparent with a noticeable decline in user numbers, the world’s largest online dating company is fighting back with artificial intelligence that promises to “revolutionize” online dating. Introducing an intelligent assistant.

Match Group, the tech company holding the biggest dating platform portfolio globally, recently announced a heightened investment in AI for new products launching in March 2025.

The upcoming AI assistant will take on essential dating tasks like selecting photos to maximize responses, suggesting prompts and profile information, and assisting users in finding their ideal match.

Through audio interviews, the AI will understand users’ dating objectives and recommend messages to send to matches based on shared interests.

Additionally, the AI will offer coaching for struggling users and provide tips on how to enhance profile visibility for those facing challenges in getting attention from matches.

Match Group CEO Bernard Kim expressed to investors that the company’s focus on AI signifies the start of a new phase known as the “AI transformation.”

Last month’s Ofcom report suggested a decrease in subscribers for Tinder and Hinge, the primary apps under Match Group, indicating a drop in app usage compared to the previous year.

Gary Swidler, Match Group’s president and CFO, emphasized the ongoing investment in AI technology to streamline the dating experience and highlighted the forthcoming benefits for investors and users.

However, critics like Anastasia Babas raise concerns about the potential negative impact of increased reliance on AI in dating, highlighting issues around personal agency, data privacy, and bias elimination.

Tinder CEO Faye Iosotaluno acknowledged the cautious approach towards AI data processing while committed to integrating it into the mainstream to transform user interactions thoughtfully.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Finding solutions to global issues demands a blend of hope and caution.

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This year, from the first civilian moon landing (see “Elon Musk-led private missions boom, space is on sale in 2024”) to the first pig kidney transplant into a living human. It will be remembered for many pioneering events. Unfortunately, another dark first looms in 2024. Although the numbers will not be officially confirmed until next month, it is very likely that this will be the first year in which the totemic climate goal of 1.5 degrees Celsius of global warming is exceeded. (see “For the first time in 2024 reached 1.5°C, accelerating climate disruption.”)

Let’s clarify what this means. This number is generally considered to refer to a 20-year average, so it does not violate the 2015 Paris Agreement, the world’s most important climate change treaty. Under the agreement, each country commits to limiting long-term temperature rise to below 1.5°C. Nor is this a sign that the world is doomed and that we should give up all hope of combating climate change. Because if we lower temperatures even a little bit, billions of people will be better off than they would be if we didn’t do so. But reaching this level of warming, even in just one year (so far), is undoubtedly a global failure.

Breaking through 1.5°C also comes as the world enters a new and uncertain phase of climate change. As we have reported throughout the year, extreme warming in 2024 (which will only be matched by 2023) has scientists increasingly concerned about changes in major ocean currents, leading to unexplained levels of warming. They are desperately trying to understand what’s going on with the decline of Antarctic sea ice.

If you start the new year with a feeling of anxiety, you will inevitably feel pessimistic, but that may not be a bad thing. Next year will mark 10 years since the Paris Agreement came into force, and even then it was clear that the 1.5°C target had reached its achievable limits. As we wrote in our year-end leader at the time: “An odd call to action. The goal of capping global warming at 1.5°C looks almost completely unattainable.” In fact, greenhouse gas emissions Reshaping the modern world to stop and achieve net-zero emissions is the most ambitious goal ever set by humanity.

You can’t take good photos if you’re pessimistic. Ask, “What happens if I fail?” “What if we’re wrong?”

Given the scale of the challenges we face, such ambition is essential, but it is not sufficient. It’s easy to set ambitious and optimistic goals like the Paris Agreement, and politicians can line up to take pictures, smile and shake hands. It feels warm and fluffy.

However, to achieve such a goal, pessimism must prevail. You can’t take good photos if you’re pessimistic. The question is, “What happens if we fail?” and “What if we are wrong?” – Issues to be addressed include grappling with deep uncertainties in the green transition, whether technological, social or economic. Failure to do so will lead to failure.

There are lessons to be learned from success in 2024. Space engineers and surgeons alike tend to assume mistakes when considering the complexity of moon landings and complex surgeries. To alleviate this, they use a simple tool: the Humble Checklist. By identifying points of failure and taking steps to avoid them, you greatly increase your chances of success.

Although it makes less sense to have a “climate checklist” given that we are talking about ongoing global processes rather than a single operation or space mission, the underlying spirit still applies. Masu. One of the major failings is the annual United Nations climate change talks. At the 29th COP Summit held in Azerbaijan this year, organizers hailed fossil fuels as “God’s gift.”

COP30, scheduled to be held in Belem, Brazil next November, will be an opportunity to reset attitudes. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is already making noise in this direction, promising a “COP to change direction,” but will he be able to make it happen? Perhaps the most powerful message he can send is to take to the stage, stand aside unsmiling world leaders with clear plans to do better, and publicly acknowledge the failures of the COP process so far. That’s probably true. However, Santa doesn’t necessarily grant your wishes.

A degree of repentance and pessimism could also help with another problem that is quietly brewing in 2024: the imminent threat of an avian influenza pandemic. ). The H5N1 virus has spread to U.S. dairy herds despite minimal surveillance and mitigation efforts by U.S. health officials. As a result, the number of people infected there has also increased, reaching more than 50 people at the time of our reporting.

The virus has not yet adapted well to humans and is not known to be transmitted from person to person so far, but random mutations may change the situation with each new infection. increases. Optimistically rolling the dice and hoping for a double six is ​​not good health policy. In an ideal world, the United States would already be planning for the possibility of a pandemic and sit back and watch it never materialize. We do not live in an ideal world as President-elect Donald Trump endorses vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Secretary of Health and Human Services. That means other countries will need to come up with their own plans. This is the only rational response to uncertainty.

Obviously, this pessimism doesn’t stem from any particular holiday spirit. However, through these two issues, new scientist From the science of believing in Santa (see ‘Believing in Santa Claus doesn’t guarantee children will behave well at Christmas’) to the quest for the world’s largest snowflake (see ‘The plan to create the world’s snowflake’), there lies a world of festive feasts. The biggest snowflake was humbled by nature”).

Looking ahead to next year, I’d like to thank researchers and companies who are developing new ways to tackle climate change, from sucking carbon dioxide out of the air to genetically modifying food to make it more environmentally friendly. Raise a glass of water too. For more information, see the next issue’s 2025 preview). And we hope that the uncertainty caused by this year’s climate news will be a catalyst for change.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Uncovering the Root Cause of Bloating and Finding Effective Solutions

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Many people experience uncomfortable sensations like abdominal bloating or pressure.

You may notice your stomach feeling bloated or tighter than usual, hear strange noises, or feel the need to pass gas more often. While bloating is usually harmless, it can be unpleasant.

There are numerous causes of abdominal bloating, from dietary habits to underlying medical conditions. Excess gas in the digestive tract, which occurs when air is swallowed along with food or drink, is a common cause.

Moreover, certain foods and beverages can lead to gas formation during digestion, such as carbonated drinks, beans, broccoli, sprouts, and cabbage. This gas accumulation in the digestive system can result in bloating, exacerbated by factors like chewing gum, sweeteners, alcohol, caffeine, and protein supplements.

Digestive issues like constipation or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can also contribute to abdominal bloating. When stool becomes trapped in the colon, it can cause discomfort and bloating. Similarly, individuals with IBS may experience bloating in conjunction with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation.

To address bloating, start by identifying trigger foods through a food diary and eliminating them from your diet. Opt for a fiber-rich diet consisting of whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir can aid digestion and reduce gas.

In addition to dietary changes, consider incorporating herbs and spices like ginger, peppermint, and fennel to alleviate bloating. Lifestyle adjustments such as eating smaller meals, chewing food slowly, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular exercise can also help combat bloating.

If bloating persists, especially with accompanying symptoms, it is advisable to consult a doctor as it could rarely indicate ovarian cancer, particularly in women over 50.

Written by Natasha Reid of Lincoln, this article addresses the question of why individuals may feel bloated.

For any inquiries, please reach out via the provided email address. For more information: Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (include your name and location).

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Finding Joy in Life Without Technology: John Cooper Clarke on Writing Poems by Candlelight with a Quill

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B
Oh, back then I felt a certain amount of sympathy for people who were forced to become computer savvy. They were often seen on the streets struggling home, carrying rucksacks full of technology and ruining the lines of their Hugo Boss suits. It looked like a ball and chain to me. So I stayed away. Every time someone mentioned a computer, I said: “What do you need a computer for?” I’m a poet. ”

Then, when cell phones came out, I was sitting next to two girls on public transportation. That’s when I heard one of the girls’ girlfriends say to the other one: “Her boss just bought her a new cell phone,” I thought. I’m sure he does. If he put an iron collar around your neck, would you be happy about it?

The proliferation of cell phones may have been the moment I truly distanced myself from technology. At first, people were saying they were admiring me, as if it were some kind of principled position I was taking. I thought they were praising me now, but in the future they would be like, “Who the hell do you think you are without a cell phone?” And it was proven. Their love quickly turned to hatred.

The last piece of technology I worked on was the DVD player. From then on, I decided that I didn’t need any more machines in my life. I write all my poems using a quill (a beautiful one with a calligrapher’s nib) and parchment by candlelight. The quill was originally a prop for a photo shoot I was doing, but I decided to keep it with the pot of ink. I don’t have a typewriter, computer, or cell phone, so I can’t send email. If anyone needs me, please call my landline. I’m usually at home anyway, but I’m not living off-grid.

As a teenager, I really liked the idea of ​​becoming the next Mickey Spillane, the great American crime writer. But I had to abandon that idea. If I tried to write a detective story set in modern times, people would say, “What’s he running there for?” Why didn’t he text? Why didn’t he go into a phone booth? Why didn’t he Google his Skype?

Not all changes are for the better. Progress is great, but it’s often tempting to say, “I can stop there.” That’s the nature of progress, isn’t it? It always lasts longer than necessary. Who the hell asked for touch-sensitive controls for everything?

The best place to listen to music is in your car, so I now put most of my music on cassette tapes. There is a ghetto blaster in every room of the house. The storage room also has a television, VHS player, and a spare VHS player. I have three large chests of drawers that contain all the videos I’ve recorded and a few I forgot to record. In 1989, he returned to blockbuster films such as “The Terminator''.

Moving away from technological development was never a political or even conscious decision. I am not convinced that I made the right choice because I receive thousands of punishments every day from the analog community. Every day, it’s “Visit our app!” or “Visit our website!” In my day and age, you have to interact with medical institutions on a regular basis, and you just have to talk to a real person – and a flesh-and-blood person. That’s not possible.

I don’t like a “cashless society” either. I spent 40 years trying to make money with this poem lark, and the moment I got the money, suddenly no one wanted it anymore. Even my bank has moved to another town. To earn my own money I have to take a taxi which costs £70 round trip. But I don’t do online banking. We often hear horror stories about large sums of money going missing. Once you have the money, it should be the end of your worries, not the beginning of new and worst worries.

I hate that some people run away with the idea that I’m some kind of social justice warrior, but technology seems to be having a negative impact on people who are struggling in society. For example, how does it affect mendicants? If no one has spare change, how will an ordinary person living in a cardboard box get by?

Another thing I don’t want to see is Tesco cashier workers losing their jobs over do-it-yourself cashiers. People talk about the speed of technology, but how fast has it really become? Once upon a time, if you were on your way to work and there was a queue at a newsagent’s, you could pick up a newspaper and I was able to run to the front of the queue and leave my ninepence on the counter. “Daily Guardian, hey there. Now you have to queue while someone takes 20 minutes to self-scan every item. I’m glad people live longer these days. Because there are so many things you have to waste your time on.

For me, it was always about computers or career. Work will never get done! I know this because my daughter has a computer. I didn’t want to give it to her, but at the same time she doesn’t want to impose her own prejudices on her child. She would have been the only one in her school class without her.

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Photo: Alicia Kanter/The Guardian

Anyway, when she got this computer, she said, “You should get one too, Dad, he’ll love it. ” I said, “I know you do, but that’s the problem.” She wanted to see how good they really were, so she said to her, “Can you bring in Dion and the Belmonts?” Let’s see how long it takes. After 3 seconds, Runaround Sue will play. That’s why I can’t own a computer. It’s easy to get distracted. Six weeks later, he was found dead, buried under a pile of pizza boxes.

I don’t like TV. To be honest, I’ve never been a big fan of television. We have Freeview, which has about 800 channels. I like shows like “Bangers & Cash” and “Wheeler Dealers.” And I like Portillo’s Great British Railroad Journey and Great American Railroad Journey. You’ll learn more in 30 minutes with that guy than you would in 10 years at school. (An amazing reinvention of the man Portillo.)

I’ve heard that some people are paying a lot of money to go “off the grid” these days. I imagine it as some kind of retreat with a religious, Zen-Buddhist vibe. A step into another dimension for a while. i haven’t. For example, I’m a big fan of electricity. I enjoy brief power outages just to remind gung-ho environmentalists what life is like without electricity. If we abolish electricity, millions of people will die immediately. Therefore, what he does for 10 minutes without power will be a healthy lesson for everyone. There’s a lot more to like about the modern world. They had just discovered streptomycin when I was a sick child with tuberculosis. When I was young, I loved electric guitars. I played bass in a band. So, I’m not the kind of person who wishes he had lived 200 years ago.

People’s natural abilities are beginning to shrink due to technology. People ask me, “What would you do if you left home without your cell phone and got lost?” I don’t get lost. As long as you have a tongue in your head, you will find a way. People stopped talking to other people. Anyway, the only time I leave the house alone is to ride my bike. Even that is old, a 1959 Hercules. I go to the bookstore by bicycle. There’s a lot of technology involved in gambling these days, but I prefer the old days. I prefer the days when it was knee-deep in cigarette butts and full of losers. My first job was as a runner for a bookmaker, so I was exposed to the world of depraved gamblers from an early age. I think that’s what kept me from doing that.

It’s a technology issue. You stop interacting with the real world. It removes what we used to call social life. Knock on people’s doors. An encounter at a pub. We talk a lot about responsible drinking now, but it used to be enforced in your local pub. Your father’s friend will be there and say, “You drank too much, brace yourself. There’s still three hours until closing time.” It’s those subtle things, the low-level checks that keep you from having a nervous breakdown and turning into a housebound drunkard sitting alone drinking a very strong cheap lager in front of a porn movie. People worry about technology in grand science fiction terms and think it could end the world. But there’s no point in looking toward a dystopian future. Take a look around. The nightmare is already upon us.

As told by Tim Jones.

Lo and behold, John Cooper Clarke’s new poetry collection is now on sale, priced at £16.99 (Picador). To support the Guardian and Observer, order your copy here: guardianbookshop.com. Shipping charges may apply. Cooper Clarke tours his new show ‘Get Him While He’s Still Alive’ Running across the UK from March 5th to June 28th.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Finding Spirituality in Technology: A Warning Against Misuse for Personal Gain

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TikTok’s tarot card reader looks at me through the screen and draws a card.

“If you’re watching this, this is made for you,” she said. And in a way, she’s right. But it wasn’t fate that brought me here, it was an algorithm.

spirituality and mysticism, Found a home online for a long timeBut with the rise of generative AI and personalized content recommendation systems, it’s easier than ever to project a sense of magic into technology.

As Arthur C. Clarke said, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” Anyone who has been offered content that feels eerily tailored to them will appreciate the mysticism of algorithms. You may have wondered about omnipotence. And while there is nothing inherently wrong with experiencing a sense of wonder in the face of technological advances, or using digital technology to enhance spiritual practices, it is important to note that there is nothing inherently wrong with experiencing a sense of wonder in the face of technological advances, or using digital technology to enhance spiritual practices, but when magic and technology collapse Doing so can be dangerous.

Many religious and spiritual spin-off chatbots have emerged leveraging OpenAI’s large-scale language model GPT-4. Get BibleGPT to write personalized Christian verses, use the Jesus AI to have “meaningful conversations with Jesus Christ,” as the website claims, or talk to him about paganism. You can chat with WitchGPT.

“Welcome to the Void” invites the latest chatbot feature from popular astrology app CoStar, encouraging users to seek generated guidance for a fee of about $1 per question. Choose from a list of suggested prompts to “Ask the Stars” if they have a secret fan. “no,” That tells me (rude).

In true CoStar fashion (the app is notoriously cheeky), it scolds you for even asking the question in the first place and suggests that you should instead find gratitude for what you already have.

These examples are a little silly at best, and probably harmless. At worst, it exposes scammers who exploit the human tendency to anthropomorphize technology or gamify social media engagement algorithms to make money by fabricating a sense of insight and enlightenment.

However, there are also people among the chavs who form genuine spiritual communities and engage in witchcraft, etc. sacred traditions online. Like many subcultures, social media can be both a blessing and a curse. Group to connectHowever, it can also lead to the reduction and impurity of cultural practices.

Feminist anthropologist Dr. Emma Quilty, whose forthcoming book on magic and technology, describes a “neoliberal spirituality” that aligns with its collective focus and hyper-individualistic ideas of self-improvement. It distinguishes between things that promote

This is uncomfortably close to commercialized self-care. severed from its black radical feminist roots and was redirected to Capitalist health choices. Kirti believes that trends promoted by social media are resulting in customs becoming disconnected from the (usually Eastern) religious traditions and cultures from which they are imported, and in some cases creating an unsustainable market for products such as crystals and quartz. It emphasizes that this could lead to increased demand. white sage smudging stick.

This is not to say that it is impossible to develop meaningful spiritual communities and practices online, or that it is impossible to have deep experiences using digital tools.

I’m not interested in denying where and how people derive meaning. However, it’s important to remember that technologies such as large-scale language models and personalized recommender systems are ultimately designed to generate value from users.

Deep experience from these tools comes from us humans, not the tools. Mr Quilty said: “Sometimes something can be positive, helpful, or empowering on an individual level, but it can still be harmful at a broader societal level due to the underlying interests and obligations of those who build and implement the technology.” There is a possibility.”

In fact, mistakenly attributing magic to technology can quickly lead us into dangerous waters. It surprises us with its glossy user interface and smooth convenience, and makes us want to peek from behind the curtain at the grumpy old man holding things together with bombastic marketing language and the usual profit-driven old data extractions. It falls directly into the hands of companies that do not.

Magical thinking about technology can be dangerous when it extends to the level of policymaking. Governments and businesses alike are often quick to turn to technology as a silver bullet to complex social problems. And when the true limits and consequences of technology are ignored, e.g. Automation could worsen social inequalityor how ChatGPT did not work without stealing copyrighted material. Automated content moderation relies on exploited invisible workers – that we adopt policies that fail to cure technology’s worst woes, relegating more complex but necessary policy interventions to the background, and all eclipsed by the magical allure of technology; It will be.

Technology is not a panacea to solve social problems and, like magic, can cause great harm when misused for personal gain.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Improved EV Tax Credits are on the Horizon, but Finding Them is Becoming More Difficult

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The federal tax credit for electric vehicles is about to change in certain ways that will make them much more attractive to buyers. Starting January 1, rebates of up to $7,500 on eligible new vehicles and up to $4,000 on eligible used EVs will be available. when buying a caras opposed to what you have to claim when filing your taxes.

Even better, Over 7,000 car dealers Companies representing nearly half of the country’s new car dealerships have already registered to ensure they can offer in-store rebates.

However, there is a catch. Not many cars may be eligible to receive the full $7,500 credit in the new year, as new restrictions take effect on the components that make up these zero-emission vehicles.

This is the result of these credits being reconsidered as part of President Biden’s anti-inflation law. This process involved a lot of negotiation, particularly with U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, over the ultimate purpose of the credits. Should they be the lubricant for the sale of zero-emission vehicles to help fight climate change, or a tool to help build an electric vehicle supply chain to North America?

As is often the case, the answer was somewhere in the vague middle. The credit was effectively split in two. If the automaker follows certain guidelines regarding the sourcing of battery materials, the vehicle will receive his $3,500 credit, and if it follows similar rules for battery parts, he will receive an additional $3,500 credit. given. (Beyond that, vehicles must be manufactured in North America to qualify.) Starting in 2024, these sourcing requirements will become even more stringent.

As a result, General Motors stated: Only this week That Chevrolet Volt will be fully tax deductible starting January 1st. Does not apply to the more expensive Cadillac Lyriq and brand new Chevrolet Blazer. GM, the country’s largest automaker, said it must accelerate plans to replace two minor parts in the Blazer and Lyriq to bring them into compliance with new regulations.

Meanwhile, Ford said only its F-150 Lightning is eligible for the full $7,500 credit. The Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring SUV is eligible for half the credit, but the Mustang Mach-E, Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring Plug-in Hybrid, and E-Transit van are not.

Even Tesla, a company particularly good at identifying and qualifying for clean energy credits and subsidies, initially said its long-range and rear-wheel drive Model 3 variants would lose half of their credits. A few days later In fact, they full credit. Tesla also signaled Model Y may be similarly ineligible.

As the new year approaches, more automakers are likely to share which electric vehicles are or are likely to be ineligible for the credit, and ultimately the Treasury Department will create a list on its website.

All of this uncertainty speaks to the level of complexity involved in manufacturing electric vehicles in a world where the majority of the supply chain remains in and around China. But it also highlights the guidelines’ somewhat troubling motivations.

Source: techcrunch.com

Lucy spacecraft makes a new asteroid discovery, finding another one beyond asteroid Dinkinesh

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Asteroid Dinkinesh and its orbiting asteroids

NASA/Goddard/SwRI/Johns Hopkins University APL/NOAO

NASA’s Lucy spacecraft passed the first asteroid and discovered a second asteroid at the same time. Lucy passed the small asteroid Dinkinesh on November 1, and images sent back to Earth show that Dinkinesh has an even smaller space rock orbiting it, the smallest main-belt asteroid ever observed up close. It became clear that there was.

This finding was not entirely surprising. As Lucy approached Dinkinesh over the past few weeks, the asteroid’s brightness appeared to oscillate over time, often indicating the presence of some type of satellite. But Dinkinesh’s diameter is only about 790 meters (790 meters), making it impossible to spot the satellite from Earth, and until November 1, even spacecraft were too far away to see it clearly.

During a flyby on November 1, Lucy flew just 430 kilometers (430 kilometers) from Dinkinesh at speeds of about 16,000 kilometers per hour, taking photos as it passed. These photos reveal a second, smaller asteroid in the Dinkinesh binary, this one only about 220 meters in diameter.

“We knew this would be the smallest main-belt asteroid ever seen up close.” Keith Knoll at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland. statement. “The fact that it’s two makes it even more exciting. In some ways, these asteroids are similar to near-Earth asteroids. Binary Didymus and Dimorpho [NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test mission] However, there are some very interesting differences that we will explore further. ”

The main purpose of the flyby was to test Lucy’s scientific equipment, especially the system that keeps it on target as it passes by at high speed, and the fact that nothing is visible in these first images suggests that the tracking system is not properly aligned. It shows that it is functioning. The remaining data from the encounter will be transmitted to Earth over the next week or so for more thorough examination by the mission’s scientists and engineers.

Now that Lucy has passed Dinkinesh and its partner asteroid, its next target is asteroid 52246 Donald Johansson, where it plans to visit in 2025 before accelerating toward Jupiter’s Trojan asteroids. The Trojan horse travels in front of and behind Jupiter as it orbits around the sun, and because it is likely a remnant left over from the formation of the solar system, it provides valuable insight into how the planet formed and evolved over time. May hold insights. Lucy she will reach the Trojans in 2027.

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Source: www.newscientist.com