Pieces
Psychedelics Open Your Brain. You Might Not Like What Falls In.
This article discusses recent research into the effects of psychedelic drug therapy on the brain and neuroplasticity. It explores how psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin and MDMA have shown promising results in treating mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. The article highlights studies that suggest these drugs can promote neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections. By altering brain activity and promoting neuroplasticity, psychedelic therapy may help individuals break free from negative thought patterns and develop new perspectives. The article also addresses potential concerns and ongoing research efforts in the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy.
How I Survived a Year in ‘the Hole’ Without Losing My Mind
In this article, the author shares their personal experience of spending a year in solitary confinement, commonly referred to as "the hole." They provide an intimate and detailed account of the challenges they faced during this time and how they managed to preserve their mental well-being. The author discusses the daily routine and isolation they endured, highlighting the psychological impact and the coping mechanisms they developed to survive. They also shed light on the broader issues surrounding solitary confinement, emphasizing the detrimental effects it has on individuals and calling for reform. This gripping narrative offers a firsthand perspective on the hardships of enduring prolonged isolation and the resilience it requires.
When Will Puerto Rico Have Power?
This article discusses the challenges faced by Puerto Rico's electric grid in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in 2017. It highlights the ongoing issues with the power infrastructure and how it has affected the lives of the people living on the island. The article explores the efforts made to rebuild and modernize the grid, including the implementation of solar panels and the transition from the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) to the new private company, LUMA. It also examines the role of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in providing funding and support for the power restoration efforts. Overall, the article provides valuable insight into the complex and lengthy process of restoring and improving Puerto Rico's electric grid.
Phantom Forests
This article examines the phenomenon of "phantom forests" and the role of tree planting in combating climate change. It highlights how tree planting initiatives are often mismanaged or misguided, resulting in ineffective or even harmful outcomes. The article discusses the importance of planting the right types of trees in appropriate locations and emphasizes the need to prioritize the restoration and protection of existing forests. It also delves into the complex challenges associated with reforestation efforts, such as invasive species, lack of long-term monitoring, and the importance of considering the social, cultural, and economic aspects of tree planting projects. Overall, the article stresses the need for a more holistic and scientifically informed approach to tree planting initiatives in response to climate change.
The art behind NASA’s scientific space photos
This article discusses the image processing techniques NASA will be using to enhance and analyze the data captured by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The JWST is set to be launched in late 2021 and will provide unprecedented views into the universe. The article explains that the process of enhancing and analyzing the images captured by the JWST involves various steps, including removing noise, aligning multiple exposures, and calibrating the images. It also highlights the challenges faced in processing and interpreting the massive amount of data the telescope will produce. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of advanced image processing techniques in maximizing the scientific potential of the JWST and unraveling mysteries of the universe.
Some People Really Are Mosquito Magnets, and They’re Stuck That Way
This article discusses why some individuals seem to be more attractive to mosquitoes than others. It explains that the preference mosquitoes have for certain individuals is due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. Researchers have found that mosquitoes are drawn to people with higher body temperatures, who emit more carbon dioxide, and who produce certain chemicals and compounds through their skin. Additionally, genetics play a role in determining an individual's attractiveness to mosquitoes. The article also explains that while there are certain measures individuals can take to reduce mosquito bites, such as wearing light-colored clothing and using insect repellent, some people are simply more genetically predisposed to being mosquito magnets.
How ‘I’m Dead’ Became a Good Thing
This article delves into the origins and evolution of the phrase 'I'm dead' as a slang expression of amusement or extreme disbelief. It explores the history of similar expressions, such as 'I'm dying' or 'I'm deceased,' and traces how 'I'm dead' became a popular phrase in modern youth vernacular. The author discusses the influence of internet culture, social media, and memes in spreading and popularizing this particular slang phrase. Additionally, the article examines the broader cultural context in which such expressions arise, highlighting the role of humor and exaggeration in communication. Overall, this piece provides an insightful exploration of the linguistic and cultural origins of the phrase 'I'm dead' as a humorous slang expression.
How Do You Prove a Secret?
This article discusses the concept of zero-knowledge proofs, a cryptographic technique that allows one party to prove knowledge of a secret without revealing any information about that secret. The article explains the basics of zero-knowledge proofs, using a hypothetical scenario of a treasure hunt as an analogy. It explores the real-world applications of zero-knowledge proofs, such as secure authentication systems and privacy-preserving protocols. The article also delves into the technical aspects of zero-knowledge proofs, explaining how they work using mathematics and cryptography. Overall, it highlights the significance of zero-knowledge proofs in ensuring privacy and security in digital transactions and communications.
Doing Dishes Is the Worst
In this article, the author delves into the universally dreaded chore of doing dishes and explores why it is such an unpopular task. The author suggests that doing dishes is disliked not necessarily because of the physical act itself, but because it symbolizes monotonous and never-ending work. The article also discusses the gender dynamics associated with dishwashing and how it has historically been relegated as a women's task. Furthermore, the author examines the psychological aspects of dishwashing and how it can be seen as a form of mindfulness or an opportunity for reflection. Ultimately, the article provides an insightful perspective on why doing dishes can be seen as the worst chore.
An Open Letter to Bluey’s Parents
In this satirical open letter, the author addresses Bluey's parents, the protagonists of the popular Australian children's television show. The letter humorously points out the unrealistic standards set by Bluey's parents, who effortlessly handle various challenges of parenting while also having a perfect work-life balance. The author sarcastically asks the parents to stop making others feel inadequate by their seemingly flawless parenting skills. Through wit and humor, the letter lampoons the unrealistic expectations placed on parents in today's society.
A New Doorway to the Brain
This article discusses a newly discovered pathway to the brain that could potentially revolutionize our understanding of neurology and lead to innovative treatments for brain disorders. The article explains that scientists have identified a connection between the immune system, the lymphatic vessels, and the brain. This discovery challenges previous beliefs that the brain was separate from the immune system. The article explains how this pathway could play a crucial role in the brain's response to injury, infection, and disease. It also highlights the potential implications for treating neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, and autism. The newfound connection between the immune system and the brain opens up exciting possibilities for future research and therapeutic interventions.
The Humble Origins of the ‘Fattest Tournament on Earth’
This article discusses the annual competition called 'Fat Bear Week' held in Katmai National Park in Alaska. The competition allows people to vote for the 'fattest' brown bear in the park, as they prepare for hibernation. The article highlights the significance of Fat Bear Week in raising awareness about the conservation efforts for the brown bears and their habitat. It also explores how the competition has gained popularity and has become a way for people to appreciate the natural world and learn more about these incredible animals. The article features some of the prominent bears participating in the competition, their stories, and the challenges they face in the wild.
In California, Where Trees Are King, One Hardy Pine Has Survived for 4,800 Years
This article from The New York Times discusses the impact of a massive pine tree die-off in Bishop, California. The die-off is attributed to a combination of drought, bark beetle infestations, and fungal infections. The loss of these iconic pine trees has had a profound effect on the community, both economically and ecologically. The article highlights how the destruction of the pine forests has led to increased fire risks, changes in wildlife populations, and a decline in tourism. It also emphasizes the broader implications of the pine tree die-off, as similar patterns are being observed in other parts of the Western United States. The article underscores the urgent need to address climate change and mitigate its impact on forest ecosystems.
The Elusive Future of San Francisco’s Fog
This interactive article from The New York Times explores the unique phenomenon of fog in San Francisco. The article delves into the origins and characteristics of the city's legendary fog, which has a profound impact on the local climate and daily life. It discusses the role of ocean currents, temperature fluctuations, and wind patterns in the formation of San Francisco's fog. The article also includes stunning visuals and maps to help readers understand the complex relationship between geography, climate, and fog in the region. Ultimately, it highlights the importance of fog in shaping the city's identity and ecosystem, and how its presence influences residents' experiences.
Why the super rich are inevitable
The Pudding, an online publication, presents an interactive data visualization and analysis of yard sales in the United States. The article explores the significance of yard sales as a cultural phenomenon and examines various aspects like location, price, time, and items typically found at these sales. Through the use of interactive maps and graphs, the article provides insights into the patterns and trends of yard sales across different states and regions. It also highlights the different motivations behind hosting or attending yard sales, showcasing the diverse reasons people have for partaking in this tradition. Overall, the article sheds light on the broader social and economic implications of yard sales in American society.
A Universal Cancer Treatment?
This article discusses a potential breakthrough in cancer treatment that could be a universal solution. The author explores the work of researcher Michael Lisanti, who has been studying a toxic compound called MCT1, which is present in all types of cancer cells. Lisanti has discovered that blocking MCT1 can effectively kill cancer cells without affecting healthy cells. This research suggests the possibility of a single treatment that could be effective against all types of cancer, potentially revolutionizing cancer treatment. The article also highlights the challenges and limitations of this research and the need for further studies before this treatment can be implemented on a larger scale.
What football will look like in the future
This website is dedicated to a unique and fictional story about the future of football. Titled "17776", the story presents a vision of a far-future America where technology has made humans immortal and transformed sports into a cosmic game. The story follows three sentient space probes as they observe a football-like game taking place across thousands of years. Through humor and philosophical exploration, "17776" challenges traditional notions of sports, time, and the purpose of human existence. It offers a thought-provoking and entertaining narrative that stretches the boundaries of storytelling beyond conventional limits.
Many scientists see fusion as the future of energy – and they're betting big.
This article discusses fusion as a potential future source of energy and the investments being made in fusion research. It highlights the growing interest and optimism among scientists regarding the use of fusion to meet global energy demands. The article explains the basic principles of fusion and how it differs from current energy sources. It also explores the challenges that have hindered the development of fusion technology thus far. Despite these challenges, the article emphasizes the significant investments being made by governments and private companies in fusion research, with the hope of achieving sustainable, clean, and abundant energy. It presents fusion as a promising option for the future and highlights some of the ongoing fusion research projects and initiatives around the world.
‘Just stop buying lattes’
This article debunks the popular narrative that millennials can't afford to buy houses because they spend all their money on expensive coffee. It traces the origins of this myth back to a 2008 interview where an investment expert suggested that millennials could save money by cutting out daily coffee purchases. The article argues that blaming the housing crisis on coffee purchases oversimplifies a much larger issue: stagnant wages, rising student debt, and soaring home prices. It highlights the financial challenges millennials face and the systemic factors that contribute to their inability to enter the housing market. Ultimately, it calls for a more nuanced understanding of the millennial housing crisis and encourages addressing the underlying economic factors at play.
Becoming You
This article delves into the concept of personal identity and the question of whether we remain the same person throughout our lives. It explores the difficulties of defining and understanding the self, using examples from philosophy and psychology. The article examines the idea that our sense of self is constantly evolving and influenced by various factors such as experiences, memories, and personal narratives. It also delves into the role of memory in shaping our identity and the challenges of maintaining a consistent self-image. Overall, the article offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complex nature of personal identity.
Why America’s Railroads Refuse to Give Their Workers Paid Leave
This article discusses the current rail strike in the United States and the issues surrounding paid leave and Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR). The rail industry has been increasingly implementing PSR, a strategy that aims to optimize efficiency by reducing costs and improving productivity. However, the implementation of PSR has resulted in a reduction in workforce and changes to work schedules, including paid leave. As a result, rail workers have gone on strike to demand better working conditions and fair compensation. The article examines the reasons why railroads are resisting giving in to the demands for paid leave, including concerns over profitability and maintaining the efficiency gains achieved through PSR. It delves into the complex dynamics between labor unions, railroad companies, and government regulations in this ongoing dispute.
Physicists Rewrite a Quantum Rule That Clashes With Our Universe
This article discusses how physicists have rewritten a quantum rule that clashes with our understanding of the universe. The article focuses on a mathematical principle known as the 'Lieb-Robinson bound,' which governs how quickly quantum information can spread within a system. However, researchers have found that this bound does not align with certain physical phenomena observed in experiments. To address this discrepancy, physicists have proposed a modified version of the Lieb-Robinson bound that better matches experimental results. The article explains the implications of this revised rule and how it could lead to a deeper understanding of quantum mechanics and the behavior of complex systems.
America’s Bad Bet on Sports Gambling
This article discusses America's decision to legalize sports gambling and explores the potential consequences of this policy shift. It highlights the fact that the Supreme Court ruling in 2018 opened the door for states to legalize sports betting, despite concerns about the negative impact it could have on society. The article questions the economic benefits often associated with sports gambling and argues that the industry tends to prey on vulnerable individuals. It also raises concerns about the potential for increased gambling addiction and the influence of powerful gambling corporations. Overall, the article presents a critical perspective on America's embrace of sports gambling and raises important questions about its societal implications.
The Obsessive Pleasures of Mechanical-Keyboard Tinkerers
This article delves into the world of mechanical keyboards and the passionate community of enthusiasts who pursue the perfect typing experience. It explores the history and characteristics of mechanical keyboards, emphasizing their durability, satisfying tactile feedback, and customizable nature. The article highlights the devotion of mechanical keyboard tinkerers, who meticulously research and experiment with various keyboard components to tailor their typing experience. It also addresses the growing popularity of mechanical keyboards among gamers and programmers. Ultimately, the article showcases the passionate pursuit of these keyboard enthusiasts and the pleasure they derive from the tactile and customizable nature of mechanical keyboards.
Understanding useMemo and useCallback
This blog post introduces and explains the concepts of useMemo and useCallback hooks in React. It starts by discussing the performance optimizations that these hooks can provide by memoizing values and functions. The author then goes on to explain the syntax and usage of useMemo and useCallback, providing code examples and discussing common use cases for each hook. Additionally, the post includes tips and best practices for correctly implementing these hooks and avoiding common pitfalls. Overall, it serves as a comprehensive guide for developers looking to optimize their React applications using the useMemo and useCallback hooks.
The Big [Censored] Theory
Censorship is an interactive data analysis presented by The Pudding that explores the state of internet censorship around the world. The article dives into different forms of censorship, including website blocking, content removal, social media restrictions, and more. By leveraging data from the Open Observatory of Network Interference (OONI) and the Freedom on the Net report, the analysis provides visualizations and insights into the extent and methods of censorship in various countries. It highlights the countries with the highest levels of internet control, the targeted content types, and the technologies used to enforce censorship. By examining case studies and trends, this exploration offers a comprehensive understanding of the complex landscape of online censorship.
ranking-the-25-most-painful-lego-to-step-on
This article ranks the 25 most painful LEGO bricks to step on, providing a humorous take on a common inconvenience for LEGO enthusiasts and parents. The author describes the excruciating pain of stepping on LEGO pieces and analyzes the different types of bricks that are particularly painful. The ranking includes factors such as size, shape, and pointiness of the bricks. The article concludes with a bit of lightheartedness, acknowledging that no matter which LEGO brick is the most painful, stepping on any of them is an experience that most people would prefer to avoid.
dead-bugs-on-windshields
This article discusses the phenomenon of a decline in the number of bugs found on car windshields, commonly known as the "windshield phenomenon." It explains that this decline is believed to be caused by multiple factors, including changes in land use, habitat destruction, climate change, and increased pesticide use. The article highlights the importance of insects in ecosystems, serving as pollinators and decomposers, and raises concerns about the potential implications of their decline. It also discusses how scientists are studying this phenomenon and attempting to raise awareness about the importance of insect conservation. Overall, the article sheds light on the concerning trend of diminishing insect populations and its potential consequences for the environment.
Mathematicians Crack a Simple but Stubborn Class of Equations
This article delves into a recent mathematical research that focuses on studying number groups through the lens of ancient mathematical equations. By analyzing these equations, researchers have uncovered new insights about number patterns and connections between seemingly unrelated mathematical concepts. The article highlights the significance of this research in potentially deepening our understanding of various mathematical phenomena, such as prime numbers, algebraic structures, and number theory. By bridging the gap between modern and ancient mathematics, this work has the potential to shed light on fundamental mathematical principles and lead to further discoveries.
What if We’re Already Fighting the Third World War with Russia?
In this article from The New Yorker, the author explores the possibility that we may already be engaged in a "Third World War" with Russia, albeit in a different form than traditional warfare. The article discusses the growing tensions between the United States and Russia across various domains such as cyberattacks, information warfare, and geopolitical strategies. It highlights Russia's attempts to undermine Western democracies and the potential consequences of these actions. The author argues that this new kind of warfare, focused on technological and ideological battles, carries significant implications for global stability and poses challenges that differ from previous large-scale conflicts. The article provides a thought-provoking analysis of the evolving nature of warfare in the modern world.