World Views

Please try to avoid religious or political subjects in this forum.
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: SAImon Sez (Social AI)

New opportunity for in-person theme gatherings where AI is explored, cussed, discussed, even worshiped (relatively speaking).
AI doesn't have to be the gathering's theme - just theme-nurturing participant. Ultimately, such gatherings help people adapt
to AI's rapidly increasing presence while providing a new type of social interaction with innumerable themes/purposes.


(Perplexity) "SAImon Sez (Social AI) is an innovative concept for in-person theme gatherings that incorporate AI as a key participant
in exploring, discussing, and even celebrating artificial intelligence. These events offer a unique opportunity for people to adapt
to AI's growing presence while enjoying a new form of social interaction with diverse themes and purposes.

Key Features of SAImon Sez Gatherings

- AI-Generated Themes: Utilize AI to create unique and engaging party themes, ensuring each gathering is fresh and exciting.
- Interactive AI Experiences: Incorporate AI-powered activities, such as generative art creation or AI-assisted mixology,
to provide hands-on engagement with AI technologies.
- Discussion Forums: Facilitate conversations about AI's impact on various aspects of life, from ethics to practical applications.
- Adaptive Planning: Use AI to analyze attendee preferences and feedback, continuously improving the event experience.

Benefits of SAImon Sez Gatherings

- Education: Attendees learn about AI in a fun, interactive environment.
- Socialization: Provides new context for social interactions, bringing together people with shared interests in technology, innovation.
- Adaptation: Helps individuals become more comfortable with AI's increasing presence in daily life.
- Innovation: Encourages creative thinking about AI applications and potential future developments.

By combining the social aspects of themed gatherings with the exploration of AI, SAImon Sez events offer a unique
and timely approach to community engagement and technological adaptation."

Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.reuters.com/breakingviews/f ... 025-03-28/
"Fake chocolate is a sweeter bet than plant burgers"

:? "Fake nutrition" keeps associating with lab-developed foods
... where "fake health" has long been an oxymoron. :roll:

Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/yourmoney/c ... house.html
"Why Americans have turned their backs on pricy meals at once-dominant steakhouse" :o

"Instead of dining at one of the (Outback) Australian-themed chain's hundreds of locations across the US,
they are heading to Texas Roadhouse or LongHorn instead for a filet or a sirloin."

:hithere Texas' budget-minded customers still prefer the traditional definition of "outback":
In the back yard ... where tariffs apply only if BYOB is required. :roll:

Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://discernreport.com/they-want-to- ... es-larger/
"They Want to Create 'Spare Human Bodies' " :o


Q: Online news: "Pluripotent stem cells, one of the earliest cell types to form during development, can give rise
to every type of cell in the adult body." Do these cells have potential to create an embryo, thus human body?


(Perplexity) "Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) have the remarkable ability to differentiate into all cell types of the adult body, including those derived from the three germ layers: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. However, they lack the capacity to independently form a complete human embryo or body. This limitation arises because PSCs cannot generate extraembryonic tissues, such as the placenta, which are essential for supporting embryonic development in vivo.

In contrast, totipotent cells - present at the earliest stages of embryonic development - can give rise to both embryonic and extraembryonic tissues, making them capable of forming a complete organism under appropriate conditions. While PSCs can simulate early stages of human embryogenesis in vitro by forming 3D structures resembling blastocysts or gastrulae, these models do not fully replicate the complexity or developmental potential of a natural embryo.

Recent advances in biotechnology have explored using PSCs to create "bodyoids," structures that mimic human bodies but lack sentience. These developments involve combining PSC-derived tissues with artificial uterus technologies to produce functional organs or tissues for medical applications. However, these constructs are not capable of developing into full human bodies due to genetic modifications and the absence of neural components.

Thus, while PSCs hold immense potential for regenerative medicine and research,
they cannot independently create a complete human embryo or body.
"


Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

:roll: Who can tell :?:

Q: Is promotion of digital currencies a goal of this worldwide economic turbulence caused by new tariffs?

(Perplexity) "While the promotion of digital currencies does not appear to be an intentional outcome of current economic turbulence,
these conditions have undeniably accelerated their adoption as individuals and institutions seek alternatives to traditional financial systems.
This trend reflects both the vulnerabilities of fiat currencies during crises and the growing appeal of decentralized financial tools."

Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/arti ... ancer.html
"The 'healthy' foods that could be driving unexplained surge in cancer" :o

"Omega-6s, though, generally come in the form of vegetable oils used in cooking, processed foods, and fast food,
and Americans consume a lot of them. The Western diet is packed with an omega-6 called linoleic acid, which has
been linked to higher levels of inflammation and cancer growth."

:idea: A few problems with this headline: Processed food and fast food are not considered "healthy food" ...
and Omega-3 oils (not Omega-6) are promoted in healthy diets! The recent increase in cancers is thought
to be caused by that which degrades the natural immune system faster than unhealthy foods. :roll:

Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

:idea: When AI opines on international tariffs ...

Q: The variables suggest that tariffs against one country are also meant to promote better competition advantage
against other countries selling similar products. Tariffs are considered an accepted equalizer in international trade
- not economic/political punishment.


(Perplexity) "Yes, that's correct - tariffs are often designed as tools to manage competition and protect domestic industries
rather than as outright economic or political punishment
. While they can sometimes be used strategically in trade disputes
or geopolitical conflicts, their primary function in international commerce is to act as an equalizer, addressing disparities
in production costs, labor standards, and market access
. Here's a deeper analysis of how tariffs serve this purpose:

Tariffs as a Competitive Equalizer

Protecting Domestic Industries

Tariffs are frequently imposed on imported goods to shield domestic industries from foreign competition. For example,
countries with higher labor costs may use tariffs to level the playing field against imports from nations with cheaper production costs.
This protection allows local businesses time to grow, innovate, and compete globally without being overwhelmed by foreign producers.

Encouraging Fair Competition

Tariffs can prevent market flooding by low-cost producers, ensuring that domestic and international players compete on more equal terms.
For instance, anti-dumping tariffs are imposed when foreign companies sell products below market value to undercut competitors.
By regulating prices through tariffs, governments aim to maintain fair competition and prevent monopolistic practices.

Promoting Economic Diversification

Tariffs can incentivize countries to develop industries that would otherwise struggle against cheaper imports. For example,
agricultural tariffs might encourage investment in local farming rather than relying on imported food products.

Tariffs Are Not Always Punitive

While tariffs can sometimes be perceived as punitive - especially during trade wars or political disputes -
their primary role is economic rather than retaliatory:

- Strategic Trade Balancing: Countries use tariffs to address imbalances in trade relationships, ensuring that their markets
are not overly reliant on imports while fostering domestic production.
- Negotiation Tool: Tariffs can be part of broader trade agreements where countries negotiate access to each other's markets.
Temporary tariff hikes may be used as leverage but are typically resolved diplomatically.

Tariffs and Global Competition

Regional Advantage:

Tariffs often reflect regional priorities. For instance, countries with strong agricultural sectors may impose higher tariffs
on imported food products to protect local farmers while lowering tariffs on industrial goods they lack.
This approach ensures that nations focus on their competitive advantages while safeguarding vulnerable sectors.

Encouraging Innovation:

By imposing tariffs on certain imports, governments push domestic industries to innovate and improve productivity
to compete effectively in both local and global markets.

Limitations of Tariffs as Equalizers

While tariffs aim to level the playing field, they are not always perfect:

- Risk of Retaliation: High tariffs can provoke retaliatory measures from trading partners, leading to trade wars that harm both sides.
- Global Supply Chains: In an interconnected economy, tariffs can disrupt supply chains and make production less efficient.
- Consumer Impact: Tariffs often raise prices for consumers by increasing the cost of imported goods.

Conclusion

Tariffs primarily serve as tools for managing competition and fostering economic balance rather than as instruments of punishment.
They reflect each country's efforts to protect its interests while navigating the complexities of international commerce. However,
their effectiveness depends on careful calibration
- too high or too targeted tariffs can lead to unintended consequences
like strained diplomatic relations or economic inefficiencies."

Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.wsj.com/world/uk/u-k-suprem ... n-0db68e3a

"Today the (UK Supreme Court) judges have said what we always believed to be the case, that women are protected by their biological sex,
that sex is real and that women can now feel that services and spaces designated for women are for women"

:idea: Apparently, trans rights need to be defined with less association to biological anatomy
since this biology is often obvious in those services and places. :roll:

Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/18/health/f ... index.html
"New FDA chief offers support for Kennedy on autism claims"

"I think it is the cumulative burden of all of these exposures,
environmental and dietary, that alter the microbiome"

:idea: That the human microbiome supports good health
(when the microbiome is healthy and robust)
is the important point of this discussion :!:

Thus, whatever degrades the microbiome
is the probable cause of a health issue
or at least part of the problem. ;)

Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.naturalnews.com/2025-04-21- ... nated.html
"UCSF study reveals vaccinated 6x more likely to be hospitalized than unvaccinated" :o

:idea: Skip the ongoing controversy about this vaccination and just note that
"unvaccinated people who recovered" alludes to a good immune system,
suggesting we need be cautious of anything that degrades it ...
and stay focused on natural things that nurture it. ;)

Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: Considering that current AI "knows" a lot about what's shared on the internet ...


Q: Was Pope Francis knowledgeable about other religious books, including the more recent Urantia Book (published 1955)?

(Perplexity) "Pope Francis demonstrated a broad engagement with theological and social issues, including openness to dialogue with diverse perspectives. While there is no official confirmation from Vatican sources about his familiarity with The Urantia Book, a 2015 forum post on the Urantia Association website claimed that "Argentinian readers tell me Francis has read the UB, and many of his statements seem to affirm that he believes it". However, this remains an unverified assertion from a non-authoritative source, as no direct evidence from papal writings, speeches, or interviews substantiates this claim.

Key points from available information:

- General openness: Francis frequently emphasized discernment, dialogue, and finding truth in diverse contexts, aligning with Jesuit principles of engaging with "polar tensions" in theology. His approach to atheists and non-Catholics - stressing God’s mercy over rigid doctrine - shows a willingness to reinterpret traditional boundaries.

- Urantia Book context: Published in 1955, The Urantia Book claims to offer a "Fifth Epochal Revelation," blending science, philosophy, and religion. Some Catholic commentators have criticized it as a syncretic New Age text incompatible with orthodox teaching, while others argue for its alignment with Christian ideals.

- Francis’s theological priorities: His documented focus remained on reforming church governance, environmental ethics (Laudato Si’), and economic justice, with no direct engagement with channeled texts like The Urantia Book in his encyclicals or major addresses.

In summary, while Francis’s inclusive approach might theoretically accommodate interest in alternative spiritual works, no credible evidence confirms his specific knowledge of or engagement with The Urantia Book. Claims to the contrary appear speculative and lack official validation."


Q): Has Pope Francis ever mentioned the Urantia Book in any of his teachings?

(P) "There is no evidence that Pope Francis has ever directly mentioned The Urantia Book in his official teachings, encyclicals, or public addresses. However, some observers have noted thematic parallels between his statements and concepts found in the text, leading to speculation among Urantia adherents:

- Evolution and Creation: In 2014, Pope Francis stated that evolution and the Big Bang align with Catholic teachings on creation. A Urantia Book reader interpreted this as vindication of the text’s similar claims about evolutionary creation, though Francis never referenced the book itself.

- Universality of Salvation: Francis’s emphasis on God’s mercy - such as his assurance to a child about an atheist parent’s salvation - resonates with The Urantia Book’s rejection of hell and emphasis on free-will spiritual growth. However, this reflects broader theological trends rather than direct influence.

- Truth, Beauty, and Goodness: Urantia proponents highlight Francis’s 2015 speech linking beauty, truth, and goodness to God, which aligns with the book’s metaphysical framework. Again, no explicit connection is made.

While no verified sources confirm Francis’s engagement with The Urantia Book, its readers often interpret his inclusive language and reformist theology as indirectly validating its teachings. The Vatican has never acknowledged the text, and Francis’s documented works focus on traditional Catholic doctrine and social justice. Claims of his familiarity remain speculative."


Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: About the rhetorical device "apophasis" (from Greek apophasis 'denial'),
apparently used by many social/political leaders worldwide ...


Q: Online news (U.S. president's quote)

"Inflation is basically down and interest rates came down despite the fact that I have a Fed person
who’s not really doing a good job, but I won’t say that"

Is there a name for such public statement where the point is made,
then supposedly withdrawn yet remains the intended point?



(Perplexity) "The rhetorical device at play in Trump's statement is "apophasis" (from Greek apophasis "denial"), where a speaker emphasizes something by ostensibly denying or refusing to discuss it. This technique allows the speaker to introduce a critical point while pretending to dismiss it, ensuring the audience still absorbs the intended message. In this case, Trump criticizes the Federal Reserve chair ("Fed person") by claiming he won't criticize them, thereby amplifying the critique through apparent restraint.

Key elements of the statement:

- False demurral: The phrase "but I won’t say that" pretends to withhold criticism while delivering it.
- Strategic emphasis: By framing the critique as something he’s choosing not to voice, Trump ensures the criticism becomes the focal point.
- Plausible deniability: The structure allows Trump to later claim he "didn’t directly criticize" the Fed, even though the implication is clear."

:idea: First thought: This device can be used by any one who wants to make a point without it being
so unpleasantly "in-your-face", but such device as habit undermines social/political leadership. :roll:


Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.technologyreview.com/2025/0 ... -for-food/
"The US has approved CRISPR pigs for food" :o

No, not how to cook them. :roll:

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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: Good example of modern AI assistance ...

Q: Is Cardinal Pizzaballa's name a combination of "pizza" and "ball"?

(Perplexity) "Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa's name is not a playful combination of 'pizza' and 'ball.' His surname, Pizzaballa, is an authentic Italian family name specific to the Bergamo region in northern Italy and is unrelated to pizza. One source suggests that the name derives from an archaic term in the Lombard dialect meaning 'someone who is talkative' or 'sparks discussions' rather than anything to do with pizza.

His Christian first name, Pierbattista, is a combination of the names Piero (Peter) and Battista (Baptist), reflecting traditional Italian naming rather than any culinary reference. Although some humor and wordplay around his name have circulated informally, especially online, the name itself is genuine and rooted in Italian heritage, not a combination of 'pizza' and 'ball'."

Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/ms-13- ... rant-crime
"MS-13, Tren de Aragua targeted for death blow in new GOP bill aimed at migrant crime"

:idea: See photo "The U.S. Capitol Dec. 12, 2024, in Washington D.C."

While this new bill is not yet a law, this D.C. sky reflects change already on the way
(and not just in the U.S.)! So, what is it? "Don't ask! Don't tell!" (they say). :roll:

Re: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgw_yprN_-w
A happy tune to hum when you ride these trails. :D

"Who cares about the clouds when we're together?"
'It's the way you ride the trails that counts!"

:hithere Whatever they're called, these clouds are associated
with jet plane emissions, perhaps governments' Happy Trails
bon voyages during their promotion of this travel. 8)

Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: This AI opines on the invest risks of memecoin, bitcoin, and man-made islands ...
suggesting "Buy low! Sell high!" (at least, higher than sea level). :roll:


Q: Online news: "Investors are pouring money into Fartcoin that offers no real-world utility, no intrinsic value, and no meaningful purpose.
Unlike Bitcoin, which has established itself as a legitimate asset, Fartcoin thrives purely on speculation and internet hype."

Isn't this still true of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies whose value is still primarily supported by investment speculation,
albeit Bitcoin has considerable longevity in this speculation?



(Perplexity) "The observation that Fartcoin "offers no real-world utility, no intrinsic value, and no meaningful purpose" and thrives purely on speculation and hype is accurate for many meme coins and speculative tokens. However, your question raises whether this is fundamentally different from Bitcoin and other major cryptocurrencies, whose value is also largely supported by investor speculation.

Aspect: Fartcoin (vs) Bitcoin

Utility: Primarily a meme coin with no real-world utility; value driven by internet hype and community memes.
(vs) Used as a decentralized digital currency, store of value, and sometimes as a medium of exchange;
recognized by some institutions and governments.

Intrinsic Value: No intrinsic value or underlying asset; price is set by speculative trading and hype.
(vs) No traditional intrinsic value (like cash flow or physical backing), but some argue its scarcity, decentralization,
and security provide a unique form of value.

Longevity & Trust: Recently launched; limited track record and high volatility.
(vs) Over a decade of existence; established network effects, higher liquidity, and more robust security.

Market Perception: Seen as a gamble or speculative play; often compared to gambling rather than investing.
(vs) Increasingly considered a "legitimate asset" by some investors and institutions, though still highly speculative.

The Role of Speculation

Fartcoin: Its price is almost entirely driven by speculative trading, viral marketing, and community hype,
with no underlying utility or value proposition beyond entertainment and meme culture.

Bitcoin: While speculation is a major driver of price, Bitcoin has developed a broader narrative as "digital gold," a hedge against inflation, and a decentralized alternative to fiat currencies. Its value is still not anchored to cash flows or physical assets, but its longevity, security, and adoption have given it a degree of legitimacy and perceived value beyond pure speculation.

"(Fartcoin) A meme coin with no intrinsic value, no real-world utility, and no meaningful purpose has achieved a market cap
greater than 40% of all listed US companies ... But this is an illusion! It’s not real wealth! This is not investing - It’s gambling!"

Is Bitcoin "Different"?

Yes, in degree and narrative: Bitcoin's decade-plus history, widespread adoption, and recognition as a store of value set it apart
from newer meme coins like Fartcoin. It has achieved a level of trust, liquidity, and integration into financial systems that meme coins lack.

No, in fundamental mechanism: Both Bitcoin and Fartcoin lack intrinsic value in the traditional sense (such as cash flow or utility).
Their prices are set by what people are willing to pay, which is ultimately driven by collective belief, narrative, and speculation.


Conclusion

While Bitcoin and Fartcoin both rely heavily on speculation for their value, Bitcoin's longevity, network effects, and growing institutional acceptance have given it a unique position in the market. It is widely viewed as more "legitimate" than meme coins, but its value is still not based on intrinsic utility or cash flows. The difference is one of degree, perception, and narrative-not of fundamental economic structure.


Q: Assuming potential long-term investment in a popular and currently stable cryptocurrency or in a vacation resort constructed
on a man-made island, would the risks be comparable? Even suggesting that dividing the investment for both might be wise?



(P) "Risk Comparison

Investing in a popular, currently stable cryptocurrency and investing in a vacation resort on a man-made island
both involve significant but distinct risks. Here’s how they compare:

Cryptocurrency Risks

Extreme Volatility: Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile, with values prone to rapid and unpredictable swings
based on market sentiment, regulatory news, technological changes, and macroeconomic factors.

Speculative Nature: Much of their value is driven by perception, narrative, and speculation rather than intrinsic utility or cash flows.

Regulatory Uncertainty: Changes in government policy or regulatory crackdowns can have immediate and dramatic effects on value.

Security Concerns: While blockchain technology is secure, exchanges and wallets can be hacked, leading to potential loss of funds.

Potential for Total Loss: Many cryptocurrencies have become worthless over time, and abrupt declines in confidence can wipe out value .

Man-Made Island Resort Risks

Environmental Vulnerability: Resorts on artificial islands are exposed to rising sea levels, erosion, extreme weather,
and ecological damage, which can threaten their long-term viability.

High Maintenance and Insurance Costs: The cost to maintain and insure such properties can be substantial
and may rise over time, especially as insurers reassess risk or withdraw coverage.

Geopolitical and Regulatory Risks: Projects can be affected by shifting political priorities, regulatory changes, or international disputes.

Physical Asset Stability: While real estate is tangible and less likely to lose all value overnight, catastrophic events (natural disasters,
infrastructure failure) can still cause significant or total loss.

Market Demand Fluctuations: The value of a resort depends on continued tourist interest and economic stability,
both of which can change.

Are the Risks Comparable?

Both investments are exposed to risks that can result in substantial or total loss, but the nature of those risks differs.

Cryptocurrency risk is primarily financial and psychological, driven by sentiment, regulation, and technology.

Man-made island resort risk is primarily physical and environmental, though also subject to financial and regulatory pressures.

Real estate (even on artificial islands) tends to be less volatile and more predictable, but is not immune to catastrophic loss,
especially in vulnerable locations.

Cryptocurrencies can lose value much faster and more completely, but are highly liquid and accessible.

Diversification: A Sensible Approach?

Yes, dividing your investment between both asset types could reduce risk. Diversification allows you to balance the high-return, high-volatility potential of cryptocurrency with the more stable, tangible (but still risky) nature of real estate. This approach can help hedge against the unique risks of each asset class, potentially smoothing returns over time.

Savvy investors might consider holding both types of assets. Real estate can stabilize a portfolio, providing a hedge against inflation and economic volatility, while a smaller allocation in cryptocurrency could potentially enhance overall returns due to its rapid growth capabilities."

Conclusion:

While the risks of investing in a popular cryptocurrency and a man-made island resort are not identical, both are substantial and rooted in vulnerability to sudden change-whether in perception or physical environment. Diversifying between them may provide a more balanced risk profile, but neither should be considered low-risk or guaranteed for long-term stability."


Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

:bana: Re: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdypgkOmbjk
(a viewer comment) "one of the BEST interviews Dane has ever done!"

:idea: Too controversial to even mention the topic,
but learn from an expert researcher. ;)

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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/east-as ... ng-5136286
"China's humanoid robots will not replace human workers" :o

"When it's nighttime and humans need rest, machines could keep working,
giving us better, cheaper and more user-friendly products."

:scratch: So, machines that can do the work of humans (better and cheaper)
will not replace humans? Apparently, government regulation will monitor
and control such machine employment. :roll:

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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/arti ... ening.html

"Cruise was filmed calling out a fan for eating all his popcorn
before the movie started!" :o

:idea: Then there are those who prefer to give their full attention
to the movie and not be gobblin' and slurpin' (along with noise
that disrupts other viewers' movie pleasure). :roll:

Then there are those who just gobble and slurp at home
with whatever's on their big (or little) screen. :D

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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/yourmoney/a ... oblem.html

"One cent coins will stop entering circulation next year. After more than two centuries
the US government has finally decided to kill the penny. The Treasury Department
will stop minting new pennies and putting them in circulation by early next year." :o

:idea: This article's concern about more nickels hints that digital money
will soon be the ultimate solution to expensive coin production. :roll:

:scratch: Who can tell :?: :!:
A large bag of pennies may become a "pot of gold"
several decades after pennies no longer circulate.

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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/art ... 02562.html
"People Are Sharing The Moment They Realized They Were Dating A Total Idiot"

"My boyfriend asked me if they speak British in Britain."

:idea: Actually, since British accent is obvious with some word differences
between British English and American English, his question was correct
... if he was referring to British English.

Then there's Texas English, Boston English, Southern English
and even, like, Millennials' and Generation Z's English. :lol:

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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

:lol: Humor (or not) in the news ...

Re: https://x.com/toobaffled/status/1927514993534058554

(paraphrased) "No building with so much structural steel - anywhere -
has ever collapsed with freefall speed because of impact or fire." :o

:scratch: Best guess: Since disclosure of what happened is a national
(international?) secret, it's time to blame these three collapses
on a UFO event (more international secrets). :roll:

(Perplexity) "no other steel-framed high-rise has ever collapsed
in a manner similar to WTC 7 as a result of fire alone."

:scratch: Best guess: WTC 7 had exceptionally incendiary records
stored within its steel-frame structure. :roll:

Analysis: Blame UFOs - new investigations will not help!

Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

:sunflower: Q: What health practices like diet, exercise and rest promote good antibody
and T-cell activation for better virus protection?


(Perplexity) "Several health practices are consistently shown to promote strong antibody
and T-cell activation, upporting overall immune function:

- Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, whole grains, and fish.

- Limit ultra-processed foods, refined carbohydrates, added sugars, and unhealthy fats.

- Mediterranean and whole food plant-based diets are particularly effective, being rich in fiber, antioxidants,
and healthy fats, and low in pro-inflammatory foods.

- Engage in regular physical activity, following national or international guidelines. Both moderate and acute exercise
are linked to improved immune surveillance and competence, and lower systemic inflammation.

- Ensure adequate, high-quality sleep, as sleep deprivation weakens immune responses. Good sleep supports
both antibody production and T-cell function.

- Maintain a healthy weight, as obesity is linked to chronic inflammation and impaired immune function.

- Manage stress, since chronic stress can suppress immune responses.

- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as both negatively impact immune markers and increase inflammation.

Practice ~ Immune Benefit

Healthy diet ~ Lowers inflammation, supports antibody/T-cell function.
Regular exercise ~ Enhances immunosurveillance, reduces inflammation.
Adequate sleep ~ Strengthens antibody and T-cell responses.
Healthy weight ~ Reduces chronic inflammation, supports immune health.
Stress management ~ Prevents immune suppression.
Avoid tobacco/alcohol ~ Reduces immune dysfunction and inflammation.

Adopting these healthy lifestyle habits together provides the strongest support for optimal immune responses,
including robust antibody and T-cell activation."


:idea: Observation: Current marketing of foods and lifestyle behaviors
does not often promote such optimal immune responses. :roll:

Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Re: https://www.yahoo.com/news/exercise-may ... 00217.html

"Exercise may benefit colon cancer patients as much as some drugs" :o


Q: How does exercise improve the body's cancer control? Better blood circulation?

(Perplexity) "Exercise lowers levels of sex hormones (such as estrogen) and growth factors that are linked to the development and progression of certain cancers, including breast and colon cancers. It reduces insulin levels, which can otherwise stimulate the growth of cancer cells.

Physical activity helps decrease chronic inflammation, a process that can lead to tissue damage and increase cancer risk. Exercise supports a healthy immune system, potentially enhancing the body’s ability to detect and destroy abnormal cells before they become cancerous.

Yes, exercise promotes better blood circulation, which enhances the delivery of immune system components - including various immune cells - to tissues throughout the body, including areas where cancer may be developing. During and immediately after exercise, there is a significant increase in the number of immune cells such as natural killer (NK) cells, cytotoxic T cells, and other leukocytes circulating in the bloodstream. This mobilization is linked to increased blood flow and heart rate, helping immune cells reach/patrol tissues more efficiently."


Rod :)
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Re: World Views

Post by Amigoo »

Q: Online news: "Italy’s Mt. Etna erupts, sending huge plume of ash and rock into air"

Historically, have dormant volcanoes been attractive locations for development of major population centers?



(Perplexity) "This pattern is well-documented across the globe and is driven by several factors:

Volcanic soils are among the most fertile in the world, rich in nutrients such as iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus, making them highly desirable for agriculture and supporting dense populations. Volcanic regions often offer other natural resources, such as geothermal energy and mineral deposits, further incentivizing settlement.

The ancient city of Pompeii was a thriving urban center before being destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Today, more than 3 million people live in the vicinity of Vesuvius, indicating continued attraction to the area despite known risks.

The expansion of Mexico City has encompassed several volcanic fields, including dormant or long-quiet volcanoes. Population density is highest within 20–40 km of Holocene (recently active) volcanoes, and people often live closer to volcanoes without historical eruptions than to those with recent activity.

The city of Pozzuoli and other urban areas are built within the caldera of the Phlegraean Fields, a region with a complex volcanic history, demonstrating high urbanization in a dormant volcanic landscape.

Mount Fuji, a dormant volcano, is surrounded by densely populated areas and is a major cultural and economic landmark. The city contains several extinct or dormant volcanic cones within its boundaries, such as Mount Tabor, which became a public park and reservoir site before its volcanic nature was widely recognized.

Globally, nearly 9% of the world’s population (as of 1990) lived within 100 km of a historically active volcano, and 12% within 100 km of a volcano active in the last 10,000 years. Population density generally decreases with distance from volcanoes, but in tropical regions and certain countries (e.g., Southeast Asia, Central America), higher densities are found closer to volcanoes.

Volcanic regions are among the most densely populated geologic terrains on Earth, with some volcanoes having more than a million people living within a 100 km radius.

Besides fertile soils and resources, volcanoes often provide strategic advantages, such as defensible terrain, access to water, and, in some cases, unique cultural or religious significance. In some cases, the volcanic hazard was not recognized or remembered by the population, as with Pompeii, or was underestimated due to long periods of dormancy.

Conclusion

This trend continues today, with hundreds of millions of people living near volcanoes that could potentially erupt again." :roll:


"Such a life on such a planet!" (UB, 111:7.5) ;)

Rod :)
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