Orange County, Calif. – Virgin Galactic Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: SPCE) (“Virgin Galactic” or the “Company”) recently announced the completion of its new manufacturing facility in Mesa, Arizona (Greater Phoenix area), where final assembly of its next-generation Delta spaceships is scheduled to take place starting in Q1 2025.
An initial team of Virgin Galactic technical operations and manufacturing personnel has begun preparing the facility to receive and install tooling, expected to arrive in Q4 2024. The facility will then begin to receive major subassemblies, including the wing, the fuselage, and the feathering system next year, as the team scales to build the first two ships of the Delta fleet. Once ground testing is complete, Virgin Galactic’s mothership will ferry completed spaceships to Spaceport America, New Mexico for flight test ahead of commercial operations, which are expected to begin in 2026.
The multiuse facility includes two hangars equipped with multiple bays, designed for maximum flexibility in building and testing space vehicles.
Work at the facility will be supported by the Company’s digital twin technology, which enables seamless integration between Virgin Galactic and suppliers through real-time collaboration, promoting strong governance and increased efficiency and reliability.
In May 2024, Virgin Galactic opened a ground testing facility in Southern California for Delta subsystems, including avionics, feather actuation, pneumatics, and hydraulics, using an Iron Bird test rig.
Design concept- Virgin Galactic’s MACH 3 Supersonic commercial passenger jet – a partnership with Rolls Royce (Concorde engines) could mean this design stands a real chance of being produced as well in the future.
Virgin Galactic’s Delta spaceships will seat up to six private passengers, and each is expected to be capable of flying up to eight missions per month, dramatically increasing access to space.
“The completion of our new manufacturing facility is an important milestone in the development of our fleet of next-generation spaceships, the key to our scale and profitability. Tooling will begin arriving in a matter of months to support spaceship final assembly, which we expect to commence in Q1 2025.”
Clive Smith – recording artist, composer, performer, sound designer
You might have heard him on the soundtrack for the ’80’s cult film Liquid Sky. You might have come across his name on a whole lot of session-work and collaborations. Clive Smith, often credited as the ’Fairlight Programmer’. And you can see him below on the legendary 1983 Sesame Street-episode, in which Herbie Hancock is demonstrating the Fairlight. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg…
Whether it is your typically structured mainstream music, or the more textured, experimental kind: Clive Smith morphs fluently between both realms. “I’ve always been interested in texture, as well as in structural music composition.” He started out as a trumpet player in high school, is a trained musician and has taught himself to play guitar, bass-guitar and keyboards. “Those sparked to me a lot more. The trumpet, it never really sat with me as well as the ’rock instruments’. But occasionally, I pick up the trumpet to keep my lips in shape, or to play it on some album. When I went to university, i took a multimedia-course, which was basically visual arts and sonic arts.
There was a VCS3, the ’Putney’, and I really fell in love with synths and the ability to create and craft your own sounds; to manipulate them. I was always interested in electronic sounds. Prior to the synths, I used tape. My father had an expensive tape recorder. I used to have lots of fun with it, recording all sorts of sounds, noises, trying to play it backwards.” He reckoned how John Lennon discovered that by accident. “I was very interested in those kind of things. “
Becoming the Fairlight expert
Clive came fresh out of college with a degree in musical composition. But… What to do next? ”One of my professors started this non profit organisation called Public Acces Synthesizer Studios. I started out as the associate director and later, I became director. In 1980, there was an Audio Engineering Society convention in New York City. There was this Australian company called Fairlight, showing this instrument; it was probably one of the first times it was shown in the US. Back then, it was just called the Fairlight CMI, for there were no Series II, IIx, etcetera yet. I was amazed by it. It took a little bit of doing, but the following year, we had one at PASS, on loan to us.
I fully immersed myself in it, trying to learn as much about it as I possibly could. The great thing was, there were no specific rules on how to use the instrument. I took lots of time sampling and creating my own sounds and I thoroughly enjoyed the fact that there weren’t any boundaries someone else already had defined. That was extremely satisfying. ”
“As soon as I learned everything about the Fairlight, this Russian director, Slava Tsukerman, came in at PASS, as he wanted to create the soundtrack of what later would become Liquid Sky. He realized he couldn’t operate this computer himself, so he initially hired Brenda Hutchinson, who started working on the project with him. She was called away for a job on the West coast. So I took over and did the remaining two third of the project. I think there were three or four different types of classical pieces that the director came to us with.’ They programmed that into the Fairlight. You might call that a hell of a job.
Clive: ‘It was very much like old-fashioned computer programming, using a code for every note, every change, like velocity or note durations.” At that time, there was only the Series 1. So, no easy peasy sequencing, using Page R, which was introduced into the Series II, in 1982. ”There were two types of recording. The first one was non-real time, using Musical Composition Language. The second method was called Page 9. It recorded in real time, but there were no visuals; you couldn’t really see what you were doing on the screen. When you made a mistake, you had to start all over again.”
Quick and dirty
“Slava isn’t a musician himself. But he did have musical ideas and a clear vision of what he had in mind for the soundtrack. He’d just tap a rhythm, or hum a melody, moving his arms in a particular way, saying: “I want this for that scene.” And I would just play around with some ideas. When there was something he liked he said: “OK, let’s record this.” We’d immediately be recording the ideas, right when they were fresh. Often, I wanted to do it again, for I thought it was too sloppy. I wanted to go back, perfecting it. But then he‘d say: “No, I like it. Let’s make it quick and dirty.” He liked the sort of clunkiness; the marriage between the computer high tech and the punk approach.
I had sampled lots of different percussive sounds. Some wooden, metal and glass wind chimes. I put them all together, and I think that’s what we ended up using for the creature sounds. They weren’t specifically made for the movie. I played it to Slava, he liked it. They fitted with his vision for the movie. So they ended up being part of the alien sounds.
Brenda had seen some of the footage. When I started working on it, I never saw any footage. So it was only his verbal description of things. So in a way, I wasn’t influenced at all by visuals. I was strictly translating what he was conveying to me. It wasn’t until the actual premiere that I saw how it all worked together. And it worked very well. Me and Brenda, we got the credits for composing, but it was his vision. He was coming across with moods. I only matched with what he was doing. And if he would have let me be alone with it, it would never have turned out that way.”
Rocking it on Sesame Street
Because of Liquid Sky, the US branche of the Fairlight company asked if he would work for them. He left PASS and became one of their consultants, from 1983 ’till about 1989. Clive: ”That was incredibly great. I had access to the equipment, I promoted their product doing demos, and I was doing session work on the side.” So, how did he end up with Herbie Hancock on Sesame Street? Clive: ”Alexander Williams, he did sort of what I was doing, on the West Coast. When Herbie Hancock purchased his Fairlight, he had Will training him on how to use the machine. When he wanted to capture his ideas, in a session, on the fly, Will was able to help him out with the technical side.
When Herbie visited the East Coast, I kind of did the same thing for him. Will and I knew each other, and it turned out Herbie and I had some mutual friends. So, that worked out nicely. I think, if I remember correctly, Herbie didn’t travel with his Fairlight, so he used mine for the Sesame Street-session. The show went pretty much as shown; the children were very excited about this new technology. Just like the kids are today. We didn’t do anything different. That clip was pretty much the entire take.
People were always very curious about it. And It’s very inviting; something that looked like a ‘60’s tv-screen, a bit of a retro sci-fi-look, a huge white keyboard, playing melodies with barking dogs… It looked accessible, more ‘friendly’ and less intimidating than a modular synth with patch chords, knobs and sliders.”
An early 1979 model Fairlight CMI.
“I’m really glad I got the opportunity to work with Herbie Hancock. Up until then, I never realised what an amazing musician he is. It was great to see the ideas running in his brain, coming out. Always, his first ideas were immediately great. Watching him listening to a musical piece he’d never heard before and then, coming up with this great keyboard part. Very enlightening to see. And he’s a very nice, very friendly down to earth kinda person.
You know, formally trained musicians often want to play tunes on a synth using their keyboard technique. Herbie, he was very open to coming up with interesting sounds, being Interested in things that had some internal movement on the things he was playing. I think, that’s what we have in common: having this split personality between being a trained musician, using structured forms, and being able to work with textures, creating sounds, the approach a non-musician might have. The more creative approach by just going in and thinking: ’What would i like to happen?’.
Big bam boom
In 1984, I bought my own IIx; that’s when the session work really took off. In ‘86, the series III was released and I was able to purchase one fairly early in its existence. There are certain things that are unique to the IIx, but I could do so much more on the III. It expanded on the things I wanted to do. I started using them both.” And so, he was moving around New York, carrying around two fairly heavy machines. ”I was doing a lot of session work in New York, mostly in the avant-garde music scene. I was either playing in progressive rock bands, avant-garde rock bands or free jazz and noise bands. And all of a sudden, I was called in to do sessions with very mainstream artists. There was this buzz going ‘round about the Fairlight. People were looking for that extra spice to add to their music. So, I was hired to make a few noises on the track.” Laughing: ”It felt a bit like being the odd one out.”
In 1984, he was asked to work on the Hall & Oates-record Big Bam Boom. “They were listening a lot to Sgt. Pepper’s. They wanted to take a different approach. They didn’t want to emulate The Beatles, but it was the whole idea that they needed to break out of their old approach and treat the studio in a different way, instead of archiving and capturing what they did playing live. That was essentially what it was. That’s why they brought in the Fairlight. They didn’t know exactly what it did, or what they thought it would do. But they might have thought it could be the ingredient pushing them into a new era. Of course, they did the pop music that they were known for, but in a slightly different way and I think it was successful. Their new approach did work out for them.”
“They didn’t have all the songs written yet; just some words, some of the choruses were done. A lot of things were formed in the studio. The way I worked with them was a little unorthodox. Next to the control room, in the Electric Ladyland studios, there’s the vocal booth. They took the door off that separated the booth from the control room. And they’d have me set up with the Fairlight and some speakers, letting me hear the same play-back the producer, Bob Clearmountain, was hearing.
They had me playing along with the music and every now and then they’d listen to what was coming out on my channel; what I was coming up with. When they liked it, they decided to put that on the record. I’d put something in, or Robbie Kilgore, the other keyboard player they hired. That’s how we worked for about three months. It was done very professionally, almost like a regular nine-to-five job. At 10 am, we’d come in, we’d have a short lunch break, and around 6 pm we were usually out of there. No drinking or drugs were allowed in the studio; they were very disciplined, especially Daryl. It was a very instructive experience and it got me a lot of jobs at sessions. It was a great opportunity.“
Programmer? Keyboard player?
On album credits, guys like Clive were often referred to as ’Fairlight programmer’. Which makes you think: didn’t he play some decent notes at all on all these records? Clive: “They didn’t know what to make of it, so they called it Programmer. Which was fine with me. The lesser known music I worked on was where I got to play more. On some of those, I even play the guitar. People brought me in as the Fairlight programmer, but then they learned I play keyboards and guitar as well. So often, they’d ask: ’Oh, you play guitar? Bring yours tomorrow!’ and they’d let me lay down a couple of tracks as well.
Right before the final days of the series III had arrived, before the original Fairlight company went down, I had a midi guitar. I used to bring it to sessions, so I could play the Fairlight from the midi guitar. That was great, because I was able to do things I couldn’t do on the regular keyboard. Especially when it comes to bending pitches in a particular way; that sort of thing. Each string could have a different sound to it. So with the midi guitar, in a way, you had six keyboards with different sounds attached to each string. Sometimes you ended up with some very wonderful things. I’ve used that on the more obscure records, because people were more open to try different things than they were on mainstream recordings.”
Shaping and creating
Over the past few years, Clive has worked on many, many projects, providing music, or musical textures for a dozen tv-shows, doing session work, being a sound designer for Korg… And today, he’s working on a variety of interesting collaborations. ”There’s always something going on.vAt the moment, I’m doing sounds for PARMA. They approached me, because they liked a particular piece I’ve made in the past. So they asked if I had any more material like that. I’m actually working on that at the moment. I’ve finished about 25 minutes of music for it. And it will probably be 50 minutes, so I’m halfway through.
It’s fairly textural material, but tonal at the same time. Recently, I’ve become very interested in this composer Arvo Pärt who’s been around for a long time, but I became familiar with his work just recently. Some of the things I was touching on are similar to what he’s been doing for years. It inspired me to go further down this particular path. It almost felt as if we were aligned in some way. So, that’s the direction this particular suite of pieces is going to.’
“I’ve always been interested in texture. There is something about texture in the visual realm as well as in the sonic realm that I love. Getting inside of a sound, reconstructing it. With the textured soundscapes, I feel it’s communicating more directly with your subconscious. That’s the impact of art and music combining. It reaches you in ways that are difficult to articulate. it’s just… telling you a specific story.”
One of the other things he’s been working on, is archiving some of his older Works. “I recently uncovered some recordings from the early days of the Fairlight, and I also recovered some old tapes. I’m trying to transfer them into ProTools, before I lose acces to it, not being able to play these things back. I discovered some unfinished things that I made. I might revisit them. I work on those things which strike me the most at that time, in between the session work I do.”
There’s no time like the present
Of course, there’s just one question left: does he still use his Fairlights? Clive: ”Unfortunately, my Series III is not completely operational right now. But I will probably be able to use it again very soon. My IIx on the other hand is completely functional. That is, everything except for the light pen. But, I don’t really need the light pen anyway.
Even today, when I purchase new hardware or software, it always comes down to: does it excite and inspire me in some way? Just because it’s new doesn’t mean it’s great. It has to surprise me. But, the other way around: I do have some vintage guitars and I like them. Not because they’re vintage, it’s because I have built a relationship with them over time.
I don’t want to be locked into a specific time-period. So, to me, it’s not about a specific age or about nostalgia. Having said that: the Fairlight grabbed me in a way that no other instrument did before that. And I do still love them.”
MGO, a glucose metabolite, can temporarily destroy the BRCA2 protein, reducing its levels in cells and inhibiting its tumor-preventing ability.
Via friends at epochtimes. You may have heard that sugar feeds cancer cells, and evidence supports that. However, the missing link in this narrative has been a thorough understanding of just “how” sugar feeds cancer—until now. A recent study published in Cell in April uncovers a new mechanism linking uncontrolled blood sugar and poor diet with cancer risk.
The research, performed at the National University of Singapore’s Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, and led by professor Ashok Venkitaraman and Li Ren Kong, a senior research fellow at the University of Singapore, found a chemical released when the body breaks down sugar also suppresses a gene expression that prevents the formation of tumors.
This discovery provides valuable insights into how one’s dietary habits can impact their risk of developing cancer and forges a clear path to understanding how to reverse that risk with food choices.
Methylglyoxal–A Temporary Off Switch
It was previously believed that cancer-preventing genes must be permanently deactivated before malignant tumors can form. However, this recent discovery suggests that a chemical, methylglyoxal (MGO), released whenever the body breaks down glucose, can temporarily switch off cancer-protecting mechanisms.
Mr. Kong, first author of the study, stated in a recent email: “It has been shown that diabetic and obese individuals have a higher risk of cancer, posing as a significant societal risk. Yet, the exact cause remains debatable.
“Our study now unearthed a clue that may explain the connection between cancer risk and diet, as well as common diseases like diabetes, which arise from poor diets.
“We found that an endogenously synthesized metabolite can cause faults in our DNA that are early warning signs of cancer development, by inhibiting a cancer-preventing gene (known as the BRCA2).”
BRCA2 is a gene that repairs DNA and helps make a protein that suppresses tumor growth and cancer cell proliferation. A BRCA2 gene mutation is associated primarily with a higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers, as well as other cancers. Those with a faulty copy of the BRCA2 gene are particularly susceptible to DNA damage from MGO.
However, the study showed that those without a predisposition to cancer also face an increased risk of developing the disease from elevated MGO levels. The study found that chronically elevated levels of blood sugar can result in a compounded increase in cancer risk.
“This study showcases the impact of methylglyoxal in inhibiting the function of tumour suppressor, such as BRCA2, suggesting that repeated episodes of poor diet or uncontrolled diabetes can ‘add up’ over time to increase cancer risk,” Mr. Kong wrote.
The Methylglyoxal and Cancer Relationship
MGO is a metabolite of glucose—a byproduct made when our cells break down sugar, mainly glucose and fructose, to create energy. MGO is capable of temporarily destroying the BRCA2 protein, leading to lower levels of the protein in the cells and thus inhibiting its ability to prevent tumor formation. The more sugar your body needs to break down, the higher the levels of this chemical, and the higher your risk of developing malignant tumors.
“Accumulation of methylglyoxal is found in cancer cells undergoing active metabolism,“ Mr. Kong said. ”People whose diet is poor may also experience higher than normal levels of methylglyoxal. The connection we unearthed may help to explain why diabetes, obesity, or poor diet can heighten cancer risk.”
MGO is challenging to measure on its own. Early detection of elevated levels is possible with a routine HbA1C blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months and is typically used to diagnose diabetes. This new research may provide a mechanism for detecting early warning signs of developing cancer.
“In patients with prediabetes/diabetes, high methylglyoxal levels can usually be controlled with diet, exercise and/or medicines. We are aiming to propose the same for families with high risk of cancers, such as those with BRCA2 mutation,” Mr. Kong said.
More research is needed, but the study’s findings may open the door to new methods of mitigating cancer risk.
“It is important to take note that our work was carried out in cellular models, not in patients, so it would be premature to give specific advice to reduce risk on this basis. However, the new knowledge from our study could influence the directions of future research in this area, and eventually have implications for cancer prevention,” he said.
“For instance, poor diets rich in sugar or refined carbohydrates are known to cause blood glucose levels to spike. We are now looking at larger cancer cohorts to connect these dots.”
The Diet and Cancer Connection
Dr. Graham Simpson, medical director of Opt Health, stated in an email: “It’s genes loading the gun, but your lifestyle that pulls the trigger. Every bite of food you take is really information. It’s either going to turn on your longevity genes or it’s going to turn on your killer genes. So cancer is very much in large part self-induced by the individual diet.”
A 2018 study published by Cambridge University Press found an association between higher intakes of sugar-sweetened soft drinks and an increased risk of obesity-related cancers. Research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2020 concluded that sugars may be a risk factor for cancer, breast cancer in particular. Cancer cells are ravenous for sugar, consuming it at a rate 200 times that of normal cells.
Healthy Dietary Choices for Reducing Cancer Risk
A consensus on the best dietary approach for reducing cancer risk has yet to be determined, and further research is needed. However, the new findings of the Cell study on MGO support reducing sugar intake as a means to mitigate cancer risk. A study published in January in Diabetes & Metabolism shows that a Mediterranean diet style of eating may help reduce MGO levels.
In 2023, a study published in Cell determined that a ketogenic diet may be an effective nutritional intervention for cancer patients as it helped slow the growth of cancer cells in mice—while a review published in JAMA Oncology in 2022 found that the current evidence available supports a plant-enriched diet for reducing cancer risk.
Dr. Simpson stressed the importance of real food and healthy macronutrients with a low-carb intake for the health of our cells. “The mitochondria is the most important signaling molecule and energy-producing organelle that we have in our body. [Eat] lots of vegetables, healthy proteins, and healthy fats, fish, eggs, yogurt,” he said.
“Lots of green, above-ground vegetables, some fruits, everything that is naturally grown and is not processed.” For the Silo, Jennifer Sweenie.
And all the media attention gives us a teaching moment to help illuminate the behind-the-scenes dynamics that affect international pharmaceutical markets, insurance companies, public healthcare systems and government finances. This article summarizes the various issues that have been in the spotlight and additional posts linked in the supplemental section at the end of this article will go further behind the curtain, using Ozempic as an example, to explain the interconnected and complex economic factors and government machinery that play roles in determining the supply, demand and accessibility of pharmaceutical treatments and products, as well as broader economic responses.
First, some background.
GLP-1 receptor agonists (like Ozempic) have been used for more than 16 years to treat type 2 diabetes and for weight loss for the past nine years. Ozempic is Novo Nordisk’s brand name for a semaglutide marketed and sold for treating type 2 diabetes. Other medications in the same class include Trulicity (dulaglutide, GLP-1) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide, a dual GLP-1/GIP).
While Ozempic is heavily associated with weight loss in the media, it is NOT approved by the FDA or Health Canada as a weight-loss drug.
From the globex press release: “GlobexPharma® is thrilled to announce the launch of Ozempic Chewable Gummies for Kids®, a groundbreaking prescription treatment designed to combat obesity in children aged 1 to 5 years.”
Health Canada approved it in 2018 for adult patients with type 2 diabetes, noting that there was limited information on safety and efficacy for minors or people over age 75. The FDA has authorized it for similar purposes and also includes reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes in type 2 diabetes patients with known heart disease.
Wegovy, a similar injectable medication containing higher amounts of semaglutide and made by the same company, is approved for weight loss in obese patients by the FDA and recently entered the Canadian market (it was approved in 2021, but only became available to consumers in May 2024). Saxenda (liraglutide, GLP1), is approved for weight management in obese pediatric patients over 12 years of age in Canada.
The class of medications is not new, their effectiveness for weight loss in non-obese patients, as well as their potential to improve fertility, reduce cardiac risks, and reduce the risk of kidney failure have all increased the attention and discussion of this class of medications.
Their growing weight-loss popularity has disrupted the market, and provides an opportunity to investigate many interrelated market dynamics including:
The incentives and potential for pharmaceutical companies to expand markets for existing products by finding new applications for them.
Similarly, off-label prescribing by physicians can provide patients access to treatments, even if a full-scale clinical trial has not been conducted.
Market expansion through new indications and off-label prescribing can create surges in demand that increase financial risks for public and private drug insurance plans.
Similarly, rapidly increasing demand increases the risk of drug shortages, at least until manufacturing capacity can expand to meet the new market demand.
Both shortages and financial risk for insurance companies can lead to restricting coverage and rationing supplies to prioritize particular patient groups.
The healthcare market and broader economy respond to these dynamics in sometimes unexpected or potentially counterproductive ways. For example, counterfeit or black market versions of the regulated medications, a proliferation of virtual services advertising directly to consumers that they can provide access, and patients failing to complete treatment due to costs or shortages. There is evidence of wider economic responses as well.
For example, Nestlé is launching a new line of frozen pizzas and pastas enriched with protein, iron, and calcium designed for people taking appetite suppressing drugs.
That’s our landscape. For The Silo, Rosalie Wyonch.
We asked our friends at Hagerty what defines a great sounding automotive engine. Here’s what they had to say.
When executed just right, a proper exhaust is the cherry on top of the perfect automotive sundae—it stands out in its own right, but it also completes the package. And it’s not just the sound, glorious though it may be. The visual—and sometimes the artistry—that a good set of pipes can add sometimes does more to define a car than any bit of thoughtfully penned bodywork.
We got to thinking about the sights and sounds that captivate us most, and this list was the result. We could have gone on for days, though, and we bet you have some favorites, too, so give our submissions a read, then tell us your favorite exhaust—for whatever reasons you choose—in the comments!
Ford GT40
I’m going to go with the Ford GT40’s “bundle of snakes” exhaust. When you stop to consider the precision with which such a system had to be fabricated, your mind kind of melts a bit. If you’ve never YouTubed one of these things at full honk, do yourself a favor and click play below. — Nate Petroelje
Dan Gurney, Eagle-Weslake T1G, Grand Prix of Great Britain, Silverstone, 20 July 1968.Bernard Cahier/Getty Images
The first time I ever saw a Gurney Eagle was at Gooding’s Pebble Beach auction in 2013.
The car was on display in the lobby area of the tent, and I remember being flabbergasted at the intricacies of the exhaust pipes coming out of that Gurney-Weslake V-12. I’d never seen anything like it, and all I could think of was spaghetti twirled up on a fork. — Stefan Lombard
No question, there are some lovely-to-look-at exhausts here, but I’m more moved by the sound an engine makes through that exhaust, and that’s a tough call. On several occasions I’ve been lucky enough to be at a racetrack when vintage Ferrari Formula 1 cars were making an exhibition run, and the Ferrari 412 T2’s fabric-tearing sound from its 3.0-liter V-12 is just otherworldly. But I’m picking something far less sophisticated: An exhaust note made by simple unmuffled headers fed by a 410-cubic-inch V-8 engine in an outlaw dirt sprint car. One car is loud; 24 sprint cars, representing about 21,600 horsepower, is thunder. The biggest sanctioning body for sprint cars is the World of Outlaws, which runs about 90 races a year, in a season that, in 2024, starts on February 7 and ends on November 9.
Due to local zoning laws, the WoO requires mufflers for 22 of the races. Since my hearing is shot already (Kids! Don’t do drugs, but DO wear earplugs!), I’ll take the unmuffled races, and the unmistakable smell of methanol in the evening. — Steven Cole Smith
Drag Headers
Cameron Neveu
The best exhaust systems are the ones that end after the headers.
I couldn’t have said it much better than SCS. A 410 engine belching out of unmuffled Schoenfeld headers is tops.
But a close second are drag headers. Zoomies or fenderwell are my favorite on old drag cars. That cackle. That’s the noise I’d like to hear out of the trumpets as I approach heaven’s gate. Oh, and the visual appearance of four pipes directing exhaust up and over fat slicks, or peaking around the lip of a fender. Get outta here! — Cameron Neveu
My favorite exhaust in terms of looks is the side exit exhaust of the 2003–10 Mercedes SLR McLaren, because of that insane amount of space between the front wheel and the cowl and the subtle little twin pipes peeking under that area. The flat belly pan likely made this a mandatory location, but that only adds to the appeal. But when it comes to looks and sounds, for me there’s nothing like a 1987-93 Mustang LX with its signature chrome double-barreled shotgun tailpipes, and that small block Ford rumble. I could look and listen to that exhaust all day. — Sajeev Mehta
Ford
Shelby Mustang GT350
Ford
I grew up on V-8s in a GM family.
That said, the first time I heard the idle and subsequent roar of a 289 in an early Shelby GT350, I knew Ford had done something right.
It wasn’t till I was older that I learned all about how firing order, crank design, and exhaust setup influenced the amazing sounds that come from our favorite engines. That 289 was what I remember as my earliest favorite so that’s what I picked for this response, but like Steven Cole Smith said, there are so many great sounds out there that it’s a really tough call. — Eddy Eckart
About 14 percent of Canadians aged 12 and older – approximately 4.6 million people – did not have a regular health-care provider in 2022, according to Statistics Canada. Even more alarming, about 6.6 million Canadians rely on family doctors aged 65 and over, meaning that even more people could soon find themselves adrift as their physician retires.
Canada has the highest number of general practitioners per capita among comparator countries, yet ranks worst in terms of having a doctor or a regular place for medical care (only 86.2 percent of surveyed Canadians had one in 2023).
What is happening?
Several factors are at play.
First, it’s no secret that the physician workforce, much like the rest of our population, is aging. There aren’t enough new graduates to replace retiring physicians and meet the needs of a growing population. [Canada currently has one of the highest Immigration rates in the world with rates growing steadily and currently sit at around 1.2% population increase each year. CP]
Moreover, physicians have been spending fewer hours on direct patient care. Administrative tasks, such as paperwork for insurance claims, sick notes, and duplicate form requests from different organizations, consume approximately 18.5 million hours of physician time annually in Canada, equivalent to 55.6 million patient visits. Economic and cultural factors are also steering medical trainees towards specialties rather than general family practice. Without changes, the gap between the supply and demand for family physicians will only widen.
My recent C.D. Howe Institute analysis shows that under a normal retirement scenario – where 57 percent of family physicians aged 75 and over retire – the projected supply of family physicians in 2032 will meet 90 percent of the demand. If all family physicians aged 75 and over were to retire, only 78 percent of projected demand would be met, leaving us 13,845 family physicians short.
This means that about 9.6 million Canadians could be without a family physician in the next decade. The consequences of this shortage could be dire, leading to delayed or inadequate care, increased costs, and a strain on other parts of the healthcare system.
With only about 1,550 family physicians completing residency in 2022, the current pipeline of graduates is insufficient. What needs to be done?
Increasing numbers is essential, but will not suffice to meet the demands of a growing and aging population. We need a comprehensive strategy, and five well-established strategies can help.
First, we need to increase the number of training positions for prospective family doctors and accelerate pathways for international medical graduates to enter family medicine, whether direct-to-practice or through residency positions.
Second, administrative processes need to be streamlined to reduce family physicians’ unnecessary workload, freeing more time for direct patient care.
Another strategy is to introduce payment models such as capitation or bundled payments that better support family physicians, making family practice more attractive and encouraging more patient enrolment and after-hours care.
As well, allowing other primary-care providers, such as nurse practitioners and pharmacists, to take on a broader range of responsibilities could assist with sharing the workload and improving patient access.
Finally, developing and expanding team-based models of care that bring together health-care professionals to provide comprehensive and continuous patient care could also benefit Canadians.
The good news is that some of these steps are starting in some provinces.
Nova Scotia is advancing on all fronts; creating a new designated pathway to residency for international medical graduates; committed to reducing physician red tape by 80 percent by 2024; is a leader in paying family physicians with alternate payment; introduced pharmacist-delivered primary care for 31 minor ailments; and expanded team-based care at new and existing locations. Similarly, British Columbia and Ontario have made notable advancements in several of the five strategies.
Improving primary-care access is a nationwide challenge that requires concerted efforts and innovative solutions. By learning from the policies and experiences of different provinces, Canada can develop and implement effective strategies to ensure every Canadian has access to a family physician and the primary care they need. Canada’s health-care system – and the health of its people – depends on it.
For the Silo, Tingting Zhang -Junior Policy Analyst at the C.D. Howe Institute.
SPOTLIGHT: The Casio SK series keyboards, carries great nostalgia for many of us who grew up in the 80s and 90s.
My friend got one for his birthday, and after spending an entire day at his place sampling burps, coughs and farts, I knew I was destined to become an electronic musician. If this is your story too- let us know below in the comments section.
The SK line’s distinctive design and sound evoke memories of early bedroom-made electronic music and hip-hop production, making it a sought-after collector’s item. The SK sound quality is characterized by its lo-fi charm. Everything sampled into it sounds like crap, but in a good way!
There’s a thriving community of musicians and collectors who appreciate the SK-2 , SK-5, SK-8 et al for their historical significance and cultural impact.
Used prominently on my 2008 release of AUDIOCOSM by Jarrod Barker, the SK-8 was used as a sampling beat box and also one or two of its famous presets were used in a loop to create swirling matrices of sound on a number of tracks. I found this keyboard in a thrift store in 2007 buried in the children’s electronic toys. It was $2.99 CAD and even had the battery cover. This fortuitous discovery was the spark that led to the writing and recording (on a boat no less!) of AUDIOCOSM.
The rare white version of the SK-10.
At their absolute basic, the SK line are fun keyboards and a great introduction tool to lo-fi sampling. But there is much more.
After recording a short audio sample (recorded either via the built in monophonic microphone or by plugging in an audio source using the 1/8″ female jack) you can choose from various envelopes (settings that affect how the sound starts, how long it sounds and how it ends) and also select whether to reverse or loop samples. These toy synthesizers are a treat when connected via guitar effects pedals. A good outboard effect can transform these keyboards into something much more powerful and believable. If that isn’t enough you can explore the factory preset sounds some of which sound more realistic than others but all have usefulness in the correct setting.
Most SK’s have a decent enough piano, vibraphone, flute, trumpet and clarinet sounds. There are also built-in speakers that are loud enough for mobile use such as camping or beach hang outs and of course the SK’s run on batteries. They also have line out feature which bypasses the onboard speakers allowing you to record them into your favorite DAW or standalone recording machine….an analog 4 track is a great bedfellow.
The Mod community and the SK (circuit bending)
Due to it’s relative affordability (used prices have continued to rise in the past 10 years) the SK series of keyboards have been embraced by electronic musician modifiers. Their basic construction and ease of internal access makes modifying them a lot of fun. The creativity of modders seems to be endless- everything from MIDI control to individual audio outputs to real time control of sound chips using dip switches or rotary controls.
Join that thriving community by buying this one from our friend at Tone Tweakers today! For the Silo, Jarrod Barker.
Buying a car is an exciting journey, filled with possibilities but also peppered with potential pitfalls, especially for first-time buyers. The process can seem daunting, given the vast array of options, financial considerations, and the long-term commitment to the chosen vehicle. This guide is designed to simplify the car-buying journey, offering practical tips to navigate the market, make informed decisions, and ultimately find the perfect car that meets your needs and budget. These strategies will help ensure a smoother, more enjoyable car-buying experience.
Know Your Budget
Before diving into the sea of car options, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your budget. This includes not only the purchase price but also the ongoing costs of ownership such as insurance, maintenance, and fuel. A realistic budget will narrow down your options and keep your financial health in check. For instance, opting for a used Hyundai Sonata in Saskatchewan might offer the balance of affordability, reliability, and features you’re looking for, without stretching your budget too thin.
When considering your budget, also think about financing options. If you plan to take out a loan, get pre-approved to understand how much you can afford and to streamline the buying process. This can also give you leverage during negotiations, as you’ll be seen as a serious buyer with financing already in hand.
Research Thoroughly
The importance of research cannot be overstated. Start by listing what you need in a car: size, performance, features, safety ratings, fuel efficiency, and reliability. Use online resources, consumer reports, and forums to gather information on models that fit your criteria. This is also the time to read up on common issues or recalls associated with models you’re interested in, which can save you from future headaches.
Next, explore ownership costs for your shortlisted models. Some cars may have a lower purchase price but higher maintenance costs or less favorable fuel efficiency. Websites and tools that calculate the total cost of ownership over time can provide valuable insights here, helping you make a more informed decision.
Test Drive and Inspect
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s time to get behind the wheel. Test driving is not just about seeing if you like the car; it’s about ensuring everything works as it should. Pay attention to how the car handles, brakes, accelerates, and how comfortable and intuitive the interior is. For those considering a used vehicle, such as a used Hyundai Sonata, it’s advisable to bring along a trusted mechanic for a thorough inspection. This can uncover potential issues that aren’t visible to the untrained eye.
Don’t rush this step. Spending ample time test-driving the car and inspecting can prevent buyer’s remorse and ensure you’re truly happy with your choice. It’s also a good opportunity to check if the car’s space and features meet your practical needs.
Negotiate the Best Deal
Negotiation is part and parcel of the car-buying process. Armed with your research, you’ll be in a stronger position to discuss prices. Know the market value of the car you’re interested in and don’t be afraid to negotiate based on that knowledge. For new cars, this might mean working on the price down from the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). For used cars understanding their market value can help you negotiate a fair price.
Remember, negotiation isn’t just about the sticker price. It can also involve terms of the warranty, interest rates on financing, and additional perks like free maintenance or accessories. Be clear about what you want, be prepared to walk away if your terms aren’t met, and always keep the conversation respectful and professional.
Finalizing Your Purchase
After negotiating a deal you’re happy with, it’s time to finalize the purchase. This involves reviewing and signing paperwork, including the bill of sale, warranty documents, and financing agreements. Make sure you understand all the terms and conditions before signing anything. It’s also a good opportunity to review any additional offers for extended warranties or service packages, weighing their costs against the potential benefits.
Before driving off the lot, ensure you have all necessary documents, such as the vehicle registration and proof of insurance. This is also the time to ask any last-minute questions about the vehicle’s features or maintenance requirements. Taking these final steps seriously will help ensure a smooth transition to becoming a happy car owner.
Smart Buying Leads to Happy Driving
Embarking on your car-buying journey with these tips in mind will set you up for a successful purchase. From understanding your budget to negotiating the best deal, each step is crucial in finding a car that fits your life. Whether you’re eyeing a brand-new model or a used car, the goal is to make an informed decision that you’ll be satisfied with for years to come. Remember, a little patience and a lot of research can lead to many happy miles on the road.
If you’ve spent time in rural Southern Ontario you know that there are many unique cultural identifiers. You may have noticed that things move a little slower…except for certain classic cars that continue to amaze with horsepower and style. I sure have, and it is a joy to cross paths with all of the “sweet rides” of Norfolk County nestled along the Lake Erie North Shore.
Jeff’s Gran Torino Sport is, like many classic cars, an icon.
This model of car starred in a funky 1970s show (and later a Stiller-Wilson movie) that needed a car with character. A car that would be believable chasing after a pimped out Lincoln or Caddy. And though formulaic in this simple premise of cops + cool car= fun, Starsky and Hutch just wouldn’t be the same were it not for the Gran Torino.
It is safe to say that the classic Gran Torino succeeded in showing that muscle, style and comfort catches the viewer’s eye, as well as the bad guys. Look for Jeff’s wheels in and around Port Rowan, Ontario. For the Silo, Jarrod Barker.
Supplemental- Port Dover’s Scott Misner talks about rescuing an El Camino and more-
Dalian, People’s Republic of China, June 2024 – The World Economic Forum announces today the publication of its annual Top 10 Emerging Technologies Report featuring technologies with the greatest potential to make a positive impact in the world in the next three to five years.
“Organizations make better choices when they understand the factors shaping the future. The report identifies technologies poised to significantly influence societies and economies,” said Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director, World Economic Forum and Head of the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. “It also spotlights technologies with immense potential for revolutionizing connectivity, addressing the urgent challenges of climate change and driving innovation across various fields.”
“Drawing on the expertise of Frontiers’ Chief Field Editors worldwide brings our shared commitment to transformative science into clear focus, bringing insight and clarity to breakthrough technology that has the ability to change societies, economies, and lives for the better,” said Frederick Fenter, Chief Executive Editor, Frontiers. “This is open science in action and we are delighted to partner with the World Economic Forum in bringing these technologies to the attention of business, science and political leaders across the globe.”
The Top 10 Emerging Technologies of 2024 are:
AI for scientific discovery: While artificial intelligence (AI) has been used in research for many years, advances in deep learning, generative AI and foundation models are revolutionizing the scientific discovery process. AI will enable researchers to make unprecedented connections and advancements in understanding diseases, proposing new materials, and enhancing knowledge of the human body and mind.
Privacy-enhancing technologies: Protecting personal privacy while providing new opportunities for global data sharing and collaboration, “synthetic data” is set to transform how information is handled with powerful applications in health-related research.
Reconfigurable intelligent surfaces: These innovative surfaces turn ordinary walls and surfaces into intelligent components for wireless communication while enhancing energy efficiency in wireless networks. They hold promise for numerous applications, from smart factories to vehicular networks.
High-altitude platform stations: Using aircraft, blimps and balloons, these systems can extend mobile network access to remote regions, helping bridge the digital divide for over 2.6 billion people worldwide.
Integrated sensing and communication: The advent of 6G networks facilitates simultaneous data collection (sensing) and transmission (communication). This enables environmental monitoring systems that help in smart agriculture, environmental conservation and urban planning. Integrated sensing and communication devices also promise to reduce energy and silicon consumption.
Immersive technology for the built world: Combining computing power with virtual and augmented reality, these technologies promise rapid improvements in infrastructure and daily systems. This technology allows designers and construction professionals to check for correspondence between physical and digital models, ensuring accuracy and safety and advancing sustainability.
Elastocalorics: As global temperatures rise, the need for cooling solutions is set to soar. Offering higher efficiency and lower energy use, elastocalorics release and absorb heat under mechanical stress, presenting a sustainable alternative to current technologies.
Carbon-capturing microbes: Engineered organisms convert emissions into valuable products like biofuels, providing a promising approach to mitigating climate change.
Alternative livestock feeds: protein feeds for livestock sourced from single-cell proteins, algae and food waste could offer a sustainable solution for the agricultural industry.
Genomics for transplants: The successful implantation of genetically engineered organs into a human marks a significant advancement in healthcare, offering hope to millions awaiting transplants.
About the Top 10 Emerging Technologies Report The Top 10 Emerging Technologies Report, now in its 12th edition, serves as a vital source of strategic intelligence for professionals. Drawing on insights from scientists, researchers and futurists, the report identifies 10 technologies poised to significantly influence societies and economies. In addition to promising major benefits to societies and economies, these emerging technologies must also be disruptive, attractive to investors and researchers, and expected to achieve considerable scale within five years.
This year’s edition introduced an innovative trend analysis methodology, incorporating academic literature, funding trends and patent filings, to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the selected technologies. The technologies featured in the report, produced in collaboration with Frontiers, were identified through a rigorous selection process involving over 300 world-leading academics and experts from the Forum’s Global Future Councils, the University and Research Network, the Frontiers network comprising over 2,000 chief editors worldwide from top institutions, and Mariette di Christina and Bernard Meyerson, Co-Chairs of the Emerging Technologies Steering Group.
MediaFuse.org, a leading PR platform, is excited to announce its revolutionary solution for brands and agencies seeking to effectively broadcast their announcements. With an extensive network of leading websites in various industries, MediaFuse.org delivers a comprehensive distribution system including Chainwire that maximizes exposure, enhances branding, and drives significant traction for companies.
Led by Nadav Dakner, an esteemed veteran online marketer with 15 years of industry experience, MediaFuse.org has positioned itself as a game-changer in the PR industry. The platform enables brands to reach their target audience by distributing their news announcements to renowned websites in their niche.
“MediaFuse.org is set to disrupt the PR industry by providing innovative solutions that empower brands and agencies to stand out,” said Nadav Dakner, CEO of MediaFuse.org. “Our platform offers unmatched access to a vast network of influential websites, ensuring that our clients gain the exposure they deserve.”
MediaFuse.org boasts a wide range of advantages over traditional newswire services such as PR News Wire and BusinessWire. With its unique approach, MediaFuse.org aims to revolutionize the PR landscape and address the shortcomings of existing platforms. By providing companies with direct access to their target audience through leading websites, MediaFuse.org helps them achieve their marketing goals more effectively.
In a recent interview, Nadav Dakner articulated his motivation behind creating MediaFuse.org. “After years of being an agency owner and dealing with the limitations of traditional newswire tools, I recognized the need for an innovative PR platform that truly empowers businesses,” he explained. “With MediaFuse.org, we aim to redefine the way companies distribute their news, enhancing their presence in their respective industries.”
Nadav Dakner
MediaFuse.org offers a range of services, including press release distribution, media monitoring, and analytics. Brands and agencies can leverage these services to create a tailored PR strategy and effectively engage their target audience. In addition, MediaFuse.org provides company profile pieces and interviews, contributing to its clients’ brand recognition and thought leadership positioning.
For further information on MediaFuse.org and its services, please visit https://mediafuse.org/.
More On Chainwire
Designed for cryptocurrency projects, blockchain companies, exchanges, investment firms, and PR agencies, Chainwire allows press releases to be published simultaneously across hyper-targeted media outlets.
Developed by an experienced team with long-established media connections, Chainwire gives you a direct line to your target market. Having operated on the frontlines of the crypto newswire business for years, we’ve forged links with every major publisher in the business.
How Chainwire Works
Once you submit your press release on your Chainwire app, our editorial team goes over your content and provides you with their insights. After working in the crypto & blockchain PR field for many years, we know how to help you make your PR more powerful, relevant and concise. Full integration with hyper-targeted crypto & blockchain media outlets broadcasts your message far and wide, and enables you to analyze the results in near real-time.
Why Chainwire Is Different
With Chainwire, you can focus on building your business while we circulate the news of your success. Our intuitive dashboard gives you all the tools you need to submit, monitor, and refine your news announcement campaigns. Automated distribution saves you time and effort, with Chainwire’s service putting your stories on the front page of all the media sites that matter. For the Silo, Kat Fleischman.
Sage Berryman, CEO of ALUULA Composites, has just announced that her company’s super-strong, lightweight polyethylene material is now being used to develop expandable habitats for NASA’s astronauts to live on the moon in 2026.
This small company on Canada’s west coast is playing a big role to help astronauts return to the moon in 2026.
Artemis II crew members (from left) CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Jeremy Hansen, and NASA astronauts Christina Koch, Victor Glover, and Reid Wiseman walk out of Astronaut Crew Quarters inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building to the Artemis crew transportation vehicles prior to traveling to Launch Pad 39B as part of an integrated ground systems test at Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Wednesday, Sept. 20, to test the crew timeline for launch day. photo: NASA
ALUULA Composites recently signed an agreement with Max Space, an American company, to use its innovative composite material to build space habitats on the moon. The company’s ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) laminate will be used to create a large living and working area for NASA’s astronauts when they return to the moon in September 2026.
The innovative material was selected because it has eight times the strength-to-weight ratio of steel and is extremely durable, which is ideal for space travel.
The Max Space team with their new expandable space habitat. photo: Max Space
The first Max Space inflatable space habitat is slated to launch with SpaceX in 2026. The Max Space inflatables can be delivered into space in very small packages and then unfolded and expanded to create a much larger work space. For the Silo, Paul Clarke.
Plastics that break down into particles as tiny as our DNA—small enough to be absorbed through our skin—are released into our environment at a rate of 82 million metric tons a year. These plastics, and the mix of chemicals they are made with, are now major contributors to disease, affecting the risk of afflictions ranging from cancer to hormonal issues.
Plastic pollution threatens everything from sea animals to human beings, a problem scientists, activists, business groups, and politicians are debating as they draft a global treaty to end plastic pollution. These negotiations have only highlighted the complexity of a threat that seems to pit economic growth and jobs against catastrophic damage to people and the planet.
Rapid growth in plastics didn’t begin until the 1950s, and since then, annual production has increased nearly 230-fold, according to two data sets processed by Our World in Data. More than 20 percent of plastic waste is mismanaged—ending up in our air, water, and soil.
Inescapable Problem
While plastic doesn’t biodegrade—at least not in a reasonable time frame—it does break down into ever smaller particles. We may no longer see it, but plastic constantly accumulates in our environment. These microscopic bits, known as microplastics and nanoplastics, can enter our bodies through what we eat, drink, and breathe.
Microplastics measure five millimeters or less. Nanoplastics are an invisible fraction of that size, down to one billionth of a meter or around the size of DNA.
While microplastics can be as small as a hair, they remain visible. Nanoplastics, however, are impossible to see without a microscope. (Illustration by The Epoch Times, Shutterstock)
Plastic pollution is a chemical remnant of petroleum with other chemicals added in to change the durability, elasticity, and color. PlastChem Project has cataloged more than 16,000 chemicals—4,200 considered highly hazardous, according to the initiative’s report issued in March.
The astounding level and types of plastics, many with unknown health effects, should be a wakeup call for everyone, says Erin Smith, vice president and head of plastic waste and business at the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
“Plastic pollution is absolutely everywhere,” she said. “What’s hard right now is the body of science, trying to understand what the presence of plastic inside us means from a human health perspective, is still new.”
Ms. Smith said we may be waiting for the science to reveal the full scope of plastic’s biological effects, but one thing is certain: “We know it’s not good.”
Reproductive and Neurological Issues
Newer human health studies have shown plastic has far-reaching effects.
“The research is clear: Plastics cause disease, disability, and death. They cause premature birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth as well as leukemia, lymphoma, brain cancer, liver cancer, heart disease and stroke. Infants, children, pregnant women, and plastics workers are the people at greatest risk of these harms. These diseases result in annual economic costs of $1.2 trillion,” said Dr. Phil Landrigan, pediatrician and environmental health expert, in a Beyond Plastics news release in March.
Beyond Plastics, an advocacy group for policy change, warns that new research indicates plastic could be leading to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and death.
Successive studies have found microscopic plastic particles affect every system of our bodies and at every age.
Nearly 3,600 studies indexed by the Minderoo Foundation have detailed the effects of polymers and additives like plasticizers, flame retardants, bisphenols, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The vast majority of studies indicate plastics affect endocrine and metabolic function, the reproductive system, and contribute to mental, behavioral, and neurodevelopment issues.
One study published in Environmental Science & Technology looked at plastic food packaging from five countries and found hormone-disrupting chemicals were common.
“The prevalence of estrogenic compounds in plastics raises health concerns due to their potential to disrupt the endocrine system, which can, among others, result in developmental and reproductive issues, and an elevated risk of hormone-related cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer,” the authors noted.
Data mapped by Our World in Data shows national rates of per capita plastic pollution to the oceans. American individuals add about .01 kilograms (10 grams) of plastic waste to the world’s oceans each year. At 336,500,000 people today, that amounts to 3,311 tons or 7,418,555 pounds. (The Epoch Times)
The full scope of these chemical consequences is far from known. According to Minderoo, less than 30 percent of more than 1,500 plastics chemicals have been investigated for human health impacts. That includes the “substitution” chemicals used to replace additives that were restricted after being found problematic.
“All new plastic chemicals should be tested for safety before being introduced in consumer products, with ongoing post-introduction monitoring of their levels in human biospecimens and evaluation of health effects throughout the lives of individuals and across generations,” said professor Sarah Dunlop, Minderoo Foundation’s head of plastics and human health.
Absorbed Into Arteries and Skin
The relatively recent discovery that plastic particles can make their way into the human body through multiple methods has come with other unsetting insights. Microplastics and nanoplastics in human artery wall plaque were recently linked to a 350 percent increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and death.
Plastic pollution comes in all forms, from packaging and waste that clogs the Buckingham Canal in Chennai, India to plastic pellets from petrochemical companies that litter the ground in Ecaussinnes, Belgium. (R. SATISH BABU, Kenzo TRIBOUILLARD / AFP via Getty Images)
Published March 6 in the New England Journal of Medicine, the study followed 257 patients over 34 months. Among those involved in the study, 58.4 percent had polyethylene in carotid artery plaque and 12.1 percent had polyvinyl chloride.
Polyethylene is the most common plastic found in bottles and bags, including cereal box liners. Polyvinyl chloride, better known as PVC, is another common plastic, often used in medical and construction materials.
Besides finding entry through ingestion, polymers can also make their way into the bloodstream through our skin, according to another study published in April in Environment International. The findings, based on a human skin equivalent model, add to evidence that suggests that as plastics break down, it may be impossible for us to avoid absorbing them. Microscopic plastic has been found in our soil, water supply, air, and arctic ice.
Sweaty skin was found to be especially prone to absorbing the particles.
Once inside the body, plastic can mimic hormones, collect in arteries, and contribute to one of the most common disease pathologies today—an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants known as oxidative stress.
Dr. Bradley Bale, a heart attack and stroke prevention specialist and co-author of “Beat The Heart Attack Gene,” says there’s plenty of evidence that plastic is causing oxidative stress.
“Plastics are ubiquitous on planet Earth,” Dr. Bale said. “You’re crazy to think you can eliminate your exposure to that. It would be next to impossible. But we can look at other issues that cause oxidative stress.”
Data processed by our Our World in Data shows the increase in plastic production in metric tonnes. (Illustration by The Epoch Times, Shutterstock)
Those other issues, including poor diet and other toxic exposures, may be resolved through lifestyle approaches, supplements, or avoidance.
Dr. Bale suspects future nanoplastics research will reveal a relationship between plastics exposure and early death, dementia, cancer, diabetes, and any disease impacted by oxidative stress.
How to Stop the Plastic Onslaught
Since cleaning up plastic is nearly impossible once it breaks down, advocacy groups are pushing for legislation that would reduce single-use products such as food wrappers, bottles, takeout containers, and bags—some of the most prolific and problematic plastics.
The United Nations Environment Programme, a global environmental decision-making body with representatives from all UN member states, decided in March 2022 that the plastics issue needed a coordinated response. It committed to fast-tracking a treaty meant to address the world’s growing plastic problem.
However, after holding the fourth of five sessions in late April in Canada, the group still hasn’t decided whether to identify problematic plastics or call for new plastic to be phased out or scaled back. The final meeting begins in late November with a treaty expected in 2025.
(Left) The secretariat of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to Develop an International Legally Binding Instrument on Plastic Pollution consults on the dais during the closing plenary in Ottawa on April 30, 2024; (Center) Members of Greenpeace holds up placards during the discussions in Ottawa, Canada, on April 23, 2024.; (Right) Pro-plastic messaging was seen at hotels in Ottawa during the UN INC meetings. (IISD-ENB/Kiara Worth, DAVE CHAN/AFP via Getty Images)
Meanwhile, U.S. lawmakers are on a third attempt to gain Congressional consideration of the Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act. First introduced in 2020, it remains stuck in committee. Among the act’s proposals are reducing and banning some single-use plastics, creating grants for reusable and refillable products, requiring corporations to take responsibility for plastic pollution, and temporarily banning new plastic facilities until protections are established.
The Economics of Plastics
Plastics are important for many businesses and the plastics industry itself is significant and influential. However, plastics aren’t as profitable as one may expect. New plastic facilities often get subsidies and tax breaks that make plastics artificially cheap to produce. These financial supports have increased substantially in the past three years.
In addition to direct fossil fuel subsidies, the plastics and petrochemical industries benefit from grants, tax breaks, and incentives. Because of a lack of transparency, exact figures on subsidies are hard to come by, according to the Center for International Environmental Law. The group is urging the UN to ban certain subsidies, including any that would reduce the price of raw goods used to make plastic.
Some organizations question whether these incentives are beneficial to local economies and taxpayers as a whole.
The Environmental Integrity Project issued a report in March that found 64 percent of 50 plastic plants built or expanded in the United States since 2012 received nearly $9 billion in state and local subsidies. Unexpected events were common, including violations of air pollution permits among 42 plants and more than 1,200 accidents like fires and explosions. State-modified permits at 15 plants allowed for additional emissions that were often detected beyond the property line of the plants.
A case study report published June 2023 by the Ohio River Valley Institute examined the $6 billion Shell facility built in Beaver County, Pennsylvania to produce plastic pellets.
“Since the project’s inception, industry executives and government officials alike have argued that it would spur local economic growth and renewed business investment. Yet prosperity still has not arrived. Beaver County has seen a declining population, zero growth in GDP, zero growth in jobs, lackluster progress in reducing poverty, and zero growth in businesses—even when factoring in all the temporary construction workers at the site,” the report says.
The Shell Pennsylvania Petrochemicals Complex makes plastic from “cracking” natural gas in Beaver County, near Pittsburgh, PA. (Mark Dixon/Flickr)
Conflicted Solutions for a Plastic World
The Plastics Industry Association argues that plastic “makes the world a better place”—language it wants in the plastics treaty.
The association represents more than one million workers throughout the entire supply chain. A $468 billion industry, plastics are the sixth largest U.S. manufacturer, according to the association, which did not respond to media requests for an interview.
David Zaruk, a communications professor in Belgium with a doctorate in philosophy, said opposition to plastic is largely an attack on the fossil fuel industry—part of a larger “anti-capitalist political agenda.” The value of plastic on society, he said, is frequently understated.
He pointed to a 2024 study published in Environmental Science and Technology that concludes plastic is far more “sustainable” with lower greenhouse gas emissions than alternatives like paper, glass, and aluminum—many of which it was designed to replace. Arguments often overlook the environmental impact of alternatives, the study notes, and in some cases, there are no substitutions for plastic.
“This isn’t a recent revelation either. Academic scientists have said for years that plastic serves essential functions. Speaking specifically of short-lived plastic uses, a pair of supply chain experts argued in 2019 that ’some plastic packaging is necessary to prevent food waste and protect the environment.’ By the way, food waste produces roughly double the greenhouse emissions of plastic production,” Mr. Zaruk wrote recently on the Substack blog, Firebreak.
The Plastics Industry Association heavily promotes recycling and biodegradable plastics but critics say there are inherent problems with both.
Only 4 percent of plastic is recycled in the United States, while an equal amount ends up in rivers, oceans, and soil—breaking down into microplastics and nanoplastics that experts believe will persist for centuries.
The U.S. Plastics Pact—a collaboration of more than 100 businesses, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions initiated by The Recycling Partnership and World Wildlife Fund—identified 11 problematic plastics that its members aim to voluntarily eliminate by 2025. Members include major plastics users and the products are all finished items or components of plastics that either aren’t recycled or cause problems in the recycling system and could be eliminated or replaced.
While some major companies support the pact, the Plastics Industry Association has taken a dim view of the pact, describing it as an attempt to “tell others how to run their businesses by restricting their choices.”
The association says the best way to increase recycling is through education and innovation.
Recycled Mystery Chemicals
Unfortunately, recycling isn’t a perfect solution to the plastic problem. Recycled plastics present additional hazards because they are made from a blend of products and a more uncertain chemical makeup, according to Therese Karlsson, science advisor for the International Pollutants Elimination Network, a global consortium of public interest groups.
“We’ve looked a lot at recycled plastics. There you have a lot of different plastic materials that you don’t know what they contain and you combine that into a new plastic material that you have even less information about what it contains,” Ms. Karlsson. “As a consumer, you can’t look at a piece of plastic to figure out if it’s safe or not. We just don’t know, but we know a lot of the chemicals used in plastic are toxic.”
An IPEN investigation in April found plastic pellets recovered from recycling facilities in 24 countries had hundreds of toxic chemicals—including pesticides, industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals, dyes, and fragrances.
“For our recycling technology, it just doesn’t work, and a lot of that ends up in landfills anyway,” said Ms. Smith from the WWF. “It shouldn’t require a decoder ring to decide what goes in that blue bin because everything should be designed for that system.” For the Silo, Amy Denny.
Little Changes Make a Big Difference
In the absence of government intervention, Ms. Smith said there are some easy tips consumers can take to limit their own plastic exposure:
Shop with reusable shopping bags.
Don’t use plastic in the microwave or dishwasher because heat can release additional polymers.
Buy metal or glass snack containers to replace sealable plastic bags.
Use beeswax cloth in place of plastic wrap.
Replace dryer sheets with wool balls.
Carry a refillable cup for water and coffee.
Consider reusable trash bags.
Use and carry metal straws, stir sticks, and/or reusable cutlery.
Don’t litter, and pick up trash you find outdoors.
Every so often, I engage in a particularly futile and depressing ritual—I shop for cars that I’ve foolishly let go. They’re cars that could have been feasible 10 years ago, but not today. I’ve been priced out of the market for virtually all of them. And while the market might be settling down at the moment, there are few signs of an out-and-out retreat to pre-pandemic pricing. Among cars from the 1970s through the early 1990s, there are precious few bargains. But go a little bit newer, where there’s even some depreciation yet to be done, and the picture gets more enticing. I’m talking cars from the 2000s to 2010s that are getting older, but still aren’t considered any kind of “classic” or “collectible” yet. Here are some highlights.
Fiat 500 Abarth
Fiat
The 500 Abarth is the closest thing to a real hot hatch that Fiat has ever offered in the U.S., a market that is sadly short on real hot hatches. There were more interesting varieties of the Punto and Ritmo, but those were Euro-only cars that frankly weren’t very good compared to competition from Renault, Peugeot, VW, and Ford. As for the 500 Abarth, although it first arrived here in the early 2010s, the 160-hp pocket rocket feels more like a 1990s hot hatch. It’s crude, the ride is choppy, and a 10 year-old Fiat probably wears more like a 20 year-old VW. But it’s loud, analog-feeling, and fun. Most importantly, it’s cheap. Around $8000usd to $10,000usd/ $11,000cad to $13,700cad buys one with under 50,000 miles/ 80,467kms. That’s tons of fun per us or canadian dollar in a package that offers an old school driving experience in something that’s new enough to have most contemporary features and conveniences.
MazdaSpeed3
Mazda/Guy Spangenberg
Back in the days of the Zoom Zoom tagline, Mazda fielded the incredibly entertaining MazdaSpeed3. Offered from 2007-13, it’s a four-door hatch with 263 hp and 280 lb. ft. of torque. It’s exactly the kind of car enthusiasts and auto journalists beg manufacturers for, but rarely head to a dealership and actually buy. Everyone who tested a Speed3 back in the day found the car fun, especially those of us who were entertained by the torque-steer. Car and Driver wasn’t, comparing driving the car to a game of tug-of-war. But, affordability and perfection don’t often go hand-in-hand, so for $10,000usd to $12,000usd/ $13,700cad tp $16,400cad at current prices you could do far worse than the powerful and practical Speed3.
C5 Corvette
Josh Sweeney
If hot hatches aren’t your jam, there’s always the bargain Corvette of the moment, the 1997-2004 C5. While some variants, most notably the Z06, sailed beyond true affordability in the last several years, a base manual C5 with somewhere between 75,000 and 100,000 miles/ 120,000km and 160,934km can still be had in the $13,000usd to $15,000usd range/ $17,760cad – $20,490cad. That’s a huge bargain for what was an utterly clean sheet design, one of the few in Corvette history, and more performance than almost anything in this price point. Interiors are standard 2000s GM, but livable. And the styling, over a quarter-century after it was introduced, is aging quite nicely.
2003-08 BMW Z4
BMW
The 2003-08 Z4 is a bit like the C5 Corvette in that it wasn’t universally loved when new, but is aging well. Available in 2.5- and 3.0-liter six-cylinder forms, the Z4 was larger and more practical than its predecessor, the Z3. Its odd surface detailing and Kamm-tail also look better now than they did 20 years ago. The Z4’s list of maladies is well-known at this point—the VANOS variable valve-timing system can give trouble (it’s often the solenoids), as can the cooling system. These are pricy repairs, but with nice cars available in the $9000usd to $12,000usd/ $12,300cad to $16,400cad range, if you budget $2000usd-$3000usd/ $2,730cad-$4,100cad to sort things out, these can still be a compelling deal in semi-modern convertible German sports car.
You could argue that the 2005 Mustang was the first one to really look like a Mustang since maybe 1973. The brilliant Sid Ramnarace-designed S197 Mustang managed to look the part without being foolishly retro, a hard balance to achieve. Special editions, and certainly the Shelby versions of the S197 are not cheap, but a lightly optioned V-8 coupe or convertible is still one of the best cheap V-8 pony cars out there. Being a Mustang, there are always plenty on the market to choose from at any given time, and a decent manual transmission car can be had in the $12,000usd to $14,000usd/ $16,300cad to $19,130cad range. For the Silo, Rob Sass/Hagerty.
Read enough automotive-related articles on the internet and you will be convinced the internal-combustion engine is being hunted with a fervor typically reserved for villains in Jason Statham movies.
Okay, that conclusion may be extreme—but it holds some truth. Regulations regarding emissions and engine efficiency grow stricter with each passing year and manufacturers are faced with an impossible task: Take a centuries-old design and make it endlessly better—faster, cleaner, stronger, ad infinitum. At some point, progress will plateau, and the cost of ICE experimentation will simply outweigh the incremental gains in efficiency and power. The good news? The internal-combustion engine might have one more trick up its cylinder sleeve.
Fuel, air, and spark—the three things an engine needs to run. Air is one ingredient that it makes sense to leave alone. Fuel type is essentially decided by contemporary infrastructure. (Synthetic fuels are in the works, but we’re thinking of large-scale changes in the ICE design that would extend far beyond the top echelons of motorsport to the everyman (and woman) on the street.) That leaves spark as the low-hanging fruit in this equation. If a different type of ignition could more completely burn the fuel and air mixture, it would not only reduce emissions but also increase efficiency.
Enter plasma ignition.
This is what plasma looks like compared to the sharp spark of a traditional ignition system. Transient Plasma Systems, Inc
Traditional spark ignition is very simple.
A coil transforms the 12 volts from the car’s charging system into thousands of volts that discharge quickly to jump between the electrode and the ground strap of a spark plug. This forms a sharp but small zap that lights off the chemical chain-reaction that expands the air and fuel mixture to push the piston down and thus rotate the crankshaft. In order for the fuel-and-air mixture to be lit by this type of ignition system, it needs to be fairly close to a stoichiometric mixture; right around 14.7 to 1. That ratio—14.7 grams of air to one gram of fuel—puts a ceiling on efficiency. But here’s where things get interesting.
If we were able to lean out the mixture by adding air but still getting the same in-chamber expansion, and the corresponding force exerted on the piston, efficiency would increase dramatically. A lean mixture is much harder to ignite, though. So hard that you’d need transient plasma to make it happen in any reliable fashion. Technically, the spark on a standard spark plug does create plasma when it ionizes the gasses between the electrode and ground strap; transient plasma takes that small arc and dials it up to 11. If a spark plug is a zap in the chamber, plasma ignition is a TIG welder mounted in a cylinder head.
Ionfire Ignition
This much more violent mode of ignition can regularly and predictably ignite extremely lean air/fuel mixtures. One of transient plasma’s most obvious advantages, besides a higher-efficiency combustion cycle, is that relatively low amounts of energy are used to perform a lot of electronic “work.” (The difference between energy and power, for those of you who enjoy recalling high school chemistry class.) The spark itself is not lighting a fire to burn the fuel; rather, a rapid-fire sequence of low-range electronic pulses generates a highly potent electric arc, which then breaks the bonds holding the oxygen molecules together and allows the electrons to shoot out, essentially attacking the hydrocarbons (fuel) and creating combustion. This means we are not waiting on a flame to consume the fuel and, in the amount of time between combustion and exhaust strokes, we get a more complete burn.
The most fascinating part? This technology is not new.
We traced the basic concept to patents from the 1980s, but technology has obviously come a long way since then. Outfits like Transient Plasma Systems, Inc. and Ionfire Ignition are reviving the concept and the reintroduction is timed quite nicely. (If you’ll forgive the pun.) TPS ignition systems have been tested and show a 20 percent increase in efficiency while also decreasing harmful emissions like NOx by 50 percent. Numbers like that aren’t a silver bullet in the ICE gun, but plasma ignition could keep our beloved internal combustion engines on the road longer than we’d expected. TPS claims it is working with manufacturers to integrate its ignition tech into production engines, but we are still a few years away from seeing the fruit of that collaboration.
The internal-combustion engine has undergone constant evolution for centuries, and at this point we’re extracting incremental gains. Plasma ignition could be one of the last significant improvements to be found in the ICE story. Here’s hoping that this ’80s tech, refined for the 21st century’s needs, makes its way onto the streets. For the Silo, Kyle Smith /Hagerty.
COVID Vaccination Is ‘Safe’ but Remains Clinically Untested for Pregnant Women: Health Canada
A sign is displayed in front of Health Canada headquarters in Ottawa on Jan. 3, 2014. (The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick)
Nearly four years after the launch of the massive COVID-19 vaccination campaign, which included mandates and passports, the safety of the products for pregnant women remains mostly untested clinically.
Health Canada answered a series of questions from Tory MP Colin Carrie in April about the issue.
“What specific research data supported the claims that … this product may be safely administered at any stage of pregnancy?” asked Mr. Carrie in an Inquiry of Ministry.
“Please note that the vaccine manufacturers did not seek an indication for use in pregnant and lactating women and the Product Monographs included statements about the uncertainty regarding safety and efficacy in pregnancy and lactation,” answered Health Canada, which is responsible for authorizing vaccines in Canada.
The product monographs for the widely administered COVID-19 shots from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, which describe the properties, claims, indications, and conditions of use for the drug, state the unavailability of data regarding use during pregnancy.
“No data are available yet regarding the use of COMIRNATY Omicron XBB.1.5 during pregnancy,” said Pfizer-BioNTech’s monographs, both for its updated Omicron injection and its original one.
“The safety and efficacy of SPIKEVAX XBB.1.5 in pregnant women have not yet been established,” similarly say Moderna’s monographs for its updated Omicron shots and its legacy product.
Pfizer-BioNTech’s initial clinical trial for pregnant women, announced publicly in February 2021, encountered recruitment problems.
A Pfizer Canada representative told a member of the National Advisory Committee for Immunization (NACI) in April 2022 that the trial had been stopped due to slow enrolment, according to internal emails seen by The Epoch Times.
Jelena Vojicic, vaccines medical lead at Pfizer Canada, also said “it became unreasonable/inappropriate to randomize pregnant women to placebo given the amount of observational evidence that the vaccine is safe and effective, coupled with increasing number of technical committees supporting immunization of pregnant women.”
Despite hurdles, Pfizer-BionTech submitted results for a small clinical trial with 348 participants in July 2023, according to the U.S. government website ClinicalTrials.gov.
Moderna’s observational pregnancy outcome study was terminated in the fall of 2023 due to low enrolment, with ClinicalTrials.gov noting 20 enrolled participants.
Neither Pfizer nor Moderna responded to a request for comment.
While confirming there is little to no clinical trial data, Health Canada said vaccination for pregnant women was recommended based on evidence of safety and effectiveness growing from “real-world use.”
“Analysis of the data show that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are safe for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.”
Dr. Bernard Massie, a virologist and former National Research Council acting director general of the Human Health Therapeutic Research Center, raised doubts about the reliability of data obtained outside clinical trials, calling them “very incomplete and often biased.”
“We won’t find what we’re not looking for,” noting that real-world passive surveillance of side effects can be underrepresented by a factor of 10 and up to a 100 for lax systems.
‘Off-Label’
While Health Canada authorizes vaccines, the regulator said that NACI is responsible for formulating recommendations for public use.
“This means that NACI may provide recommendations that are broader or narrower than the conditions of use approved by Health Canada, often referred to as ‘off-label’ recommendations,” said spokesperson Anna Maddison, adding such a practice by NACI is ”not uncommon.” Ms. Maddison also noted the COVID-19 vaccines are not contraindicated in pregnant or lactating women.
At the beginning of the vaccine rollout, NACI said in December 2020 that pregnant or breastfeeding mothers “should not” in most circumstances be offered the vaccine “until further evidence is available.”
The recommendation was changed in January 2021 to “may be offered” following a risk assessment.
By May 2021, NACI had updated its recommendation for pregnant women that they “should be offered” COVID-19 mRNA shots.
To back its recommendation, NACI cited a U.S. government study of 35,000 pregnant women using data from December 2020 to February 2021.
“Preliminary findings did not show obvious safety signals among pregnant persons who received mRNA Covid-19 vaccines,” said the study. It noted, however, that “more longitudinal follow-up, including follow-up of large numbers of women vaccinated earlier in pregnancy, is necessary to inform maternal, pregnancy, and infant outcomes.”
Dr. Massie questioned whether the study by government scientists was interested in finding issues with vaccination and pregnancy given that the government was promoting mass vaccination.
After the results of the study were published on April 21, 2021 in the New England Journal of Medicine, other government advisory bodies recommended COVID-19 vaccination in pregnant women.
Quebec’s government announced vaccination would be offered to pregnant women on April 27 of that year, citing a recommendation from its immunization committee which “analyzed the evolution of scientific data and recommendations in different countries.”
B.C.’s government recommendation came on May 4, 2021. “All Health Canada-approved vaccines are safe and effective, and I encourage everyone to register and receive their vaccine as soon as they are eligible. Today, this includes people who are pregnant,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer.
‘Not’ Advertising
Dr. Philip Oldfield, who has more than three decades of experience specializing in the bioanalysis of protein/nucleic acid therapeutics and regulatory affairs, raised questions about the product monographs for vaccines saying effects on pregnancy were not tested while government bodies encourage pregnant women to be vaccinated.
He also points to passive surveillance data on vaccine adverse events collected in the United States showing over 2,000 miscarriages following COVID-19 vaccination. While this data doesn’t prove causality, it is considered largely underreported.
Dr. Oldfield said Health Canada encouraging pregnant women to get vaccinated for COVID-19 could contradict “both the law with respect to false and misleading advertisements of a drug, and contradicts the safety data found on both the Moderna and Pfizer monographs.”
The Epoch Times asked Health Canada if it is allowed by law to make recommendations about the use of products for certain populations for which the products’ monographs do not indicate safety information. The Foods and Drugs Act states that “No person shall label, package, treat, process, sell or advertise any drug in a manner that is false, misleading or deceptive or is likely to create an erroneous impression regarding its character, value, quantity, composition, merit or safety.”
Health Canada spokesperson Anna Madison responded that “public health messages from a government authority that promote vaccination would not qualify as advertising of a health product.”
Despite different bodies’ recommendations for pregnant woman, NACI noted in a summer 2022 report that “uptake of COVID-19 vaccine has been lower among pregnant people compared to non-pregnant people in Canada.”
“Preliminary unpublished evidence in Ontario indicates that primary series vaccine coverage among pregnant people (71 percent) was 16 percentage points lower than in the general female population of reproductive age in Ontario by the end of 2021.”
Animal Studies
Outside of emerging real-word evidence, regulators and advisory bodies have also cited studies conducted on animals to determine the safety for pregnant women and their babies.
“Animal studies do not indicate direct or indirect harmful effects with respect to pregnancy, embryo/fetal development, parturition, or post-natal development, and human randomized clinical trials were not submitted for regulatory evaluation,” said Health Canada in responding to MP Carrie.
The NACI also cited a study conducted on rats with Pfizer’s mRNA vaccine to back its recommendation, saying no issues were encountered.
A Moderna nonclinical overview submitted to the U.S. government and obtained by legal advocacy group Judicial Watch through a lawsuit indicates the presence of “statistically significant increases” in rat offsprings with “wavy ribs and 1 or more rib nodules.”
“There were no other indicators of mRNA-1273-related developmental toxicity observed, including delayed ossification; therefore, these common skeletal variations were not considered adverse,” concluded the manufacturer.
Both Dr. Oldfield and Dr. Massie said the animal studies conducted are not proper to assess risk in humans. “Using an inappropriate species in the Developmental and Reproductive Toxicity (DART) studies would never pick up the toxic effects due to the spike protein,” said Dr. Oldfield. “The animal studies were performed using an inappropriate species (rat) which unlike humans, their ACE receptors does not bind to the vaccine generated spike protein.”
Breastfeeding
MP Carrie also raised the issue of breastfeeding in his request for information to the government, asking what specific research data there is to say that “modRNA vaccine, and consequently the spike protein, do not excrete into breast milk.”
Health Canada responded that the product monographs for authorized COVID-19 vaccines “include a statement that it is unknown whether the COVID-19 vaccine is excreted in human milk.”
“A risk to newborns/infants cannot be excluded,” it adds.
Studies have found mRNA from COVID shots does end up in breast milk, with a recent one published in the medical journal Lancet in September.
In response to previous questions, Health Canada told Mr. Carrie last year that “mRNA-encoded spike protein is only expressed transiently and at the injection site and the liver, then declines over time.”
Authors of the study published in the Lancet noted their “findings demonstrate that the COVID-19 vaccine mRNA is not confined to the injection site but spreads systemically and is packaged into [breast extracellular vesicles].”
The scientists said that since only “trace quantities” are present and a “clear translational activity is absent, we believe breastfeeding post-vaccination is safe, especially 48 h after vaccination.” They specified that since the minimum mRNA dose to elicit an immune reaction in young infants is unknown, breastfeeding mothers should consult with a health-care provider to discuss risks and benefits in the first two days after vaccination. For the Silo, Noé Chartier/Epoch Times.
Our friends at Hagerty know a thing or two about cars and really love talking about concept cars of every era, but the 1990s have a special place in their heart. Read on and tell us which one is your fav and why in the comments section below.
It was a good decade for automotive diversity, especially for enthusiasts: SUVs were emerging as a hot new segment, true, but none of them purported to be a coupe or track star. Sport sedans thrived. So did hot hatches. The Miata debuted in 1989, kicking off the roadster craze. Chrysler was, for most of that decade, just Chrysler—not some confusing multinational conglomerate with a name that no one remembers.
Even the automotive ideas that didn’t make production had pizzazz—in a few cases, as you’ll see below, perhaps a little too much pizzazz. We’ve covered ’90s concepts before, but after a spin through the treasure trove that is Alden Jewell’s catalog of car brochures on Flickr, we decided it was time to focus on the concept cars from the U. S. of A., rather than the European contingent that dominated that last list.
Step back in time with us to an era when Buick was thinking of wild sedans, Pontiac was still cool, Mercury … existed, and Dodge was high off the Viper.
1999 Buick Cielo
Flickr/Alden Jewell
If you thought Buick’s newest concept car was unorthodox, prepare yourself: The Cielo is much, much more out-of-the-box. (Despite that throwback grille texture, which is very Y-Job.) A four-door convertible, with retractable headlights and voice-operated doors? You’d never know this thing was based on a highly modified Regal GS. The top, complete with its rear glass, stowed beneath a panel at the back thanks to a cable system hidden in the two arches that frame the “roof.” Power came from a supercharged 3.8-liter V-6 making 240 horsepower.
Judging by the much tamer concept of the same name that Buick showed off the following year—and marketed as a possible limited edition—the automaker thought the convertible four-door idea had legs. In Buick’s words, the Cielo “proves just how broad and flexible and contemporary the idea of a premium family car really is.” Little did Buick know that, 15 years later, the only premium family car the people would want was an SUV …
Flickr/Alden Jewell
1997 Mercury MC4
Flickr/Alden Jewell
Motortrend got rather excited about the MC4 when it debuted in 1997: “The MC4 is for Mercury what the Viper Roadster was for Dodge nine years ago.” Yes, it was far more interesting to look at than the blob-like Mystique or the softly contoured Mountaineer … but no one knew that, 13 years later, Mercury would stop producing vehicles, its sales cannibalized by parent company Ford.
In 1997, however, Mercury’s star shone far brighter. The MC4 wore the edgy, minimalist look characteristic of Ford’s New Edge design language, initiated by the GT90 concept in 1990 and most familiar to folks on the 1999 Mustang. A trapezoidal grille and emphasized wheel arches are common to both that Mustang and the MC4, which actually started life as a V-8–powered ’96 Thunderbird. Unlike the T-Bird, the Mercury concept boasts four doors and a rear cargo area accessed by a pair of gullwing doors. It had style, space, and, of course, a healthy dose of tech that hadn’t quite been readied for production: video cameras instead of side- or rearview mirrors, nickel-chrome plate bedazzling the interior, and heated and cooled cupholders.
1997 Pontiac Rageous Concept
Flickr/Alden Jewell
In 1997, Pontiac had four-door cars, and it had V-8–powered cars, but it didn’t have any V-8–powered, four-door cars. The Rageous, with its 350-cubic-inch small-block and vestigial set of rear doors, aimed to fix that. It could carry four people, but the trunk was accessed via a top-hinged hatch, making this more of a hatchback than a sedan. The Rageous had a six-speed manual transmission and a heavily vented, pointy schnoz that put that of the contemporary Firehawk to shame.
Pontiac
1994 Dodge Venom
Flickr/Alden Jewell
If the Dodge Venom reminds you of a Neon, you’re on the right track: This 1994 concept was built on a version of the Neon’s platform. Unlike that compact, however, the Venom was rear-wheel drive. Compared to the sportiest Neon, the SRT-4, the Venom boasted an iron-block six-cylinder engine with 24, rather than 16, valves, and more power: 245 rather than 215 horses. The Venom looked like the perfect little brother to the Viper, which it honored with that side-scoop and squinty headlights atop a four-section grille. The concept even made the cover of Car and Driver‘s March 1994 issue, accompanied by the question: “Dodge’s pony car of the future?”
We wish such an affordable, spunky two-door had made production: Dodge wouldn’t have a direct competitor to the Mustang and the Camaro until the Challenger, which hit the streets 14 years later.
Flickr/Alden Jewell
1995 Chevrolet El Camino SS Concept
Flickr/Alden Jewell
It may remind GM fans of a Holden, but the El Camino SS Concept ute is a GM B-body at its core. GM’s Advanced Vehicle Development Center in North America built this ute out of a Caprice station wagon in just 16 weeks, grafting onto that people-hauler the nose of an Impala SS. Many of the steel body panels were made by hand. Power came from a 300-hp version of the LT1 V-8 found in the Corvette and the Impala SS (in different tunes) and was channeled to the rear wheels via a 4L60E Hydramatic transmission. Unfortunately, the platform that gave it birth spelled its doom: GM killed the age-old B-body at the end of 1996. RIP.
Flickr/Alden Jewell
1994 Plymouth Expresso Concept
Flickr/Alden Jewell
Would you believe us if we said this was a Plymouth? Maybe not, because the Expresso is more interesting than anything Plymouth made in the ’90s … until the Prowler arrived for the 1997 model year, at least. (That retro-mobile debuted in concept form the year before the urban runabout Expresso debuted.) The Expresso was built on the shortened frame of a Neon, to be sold under both the Dodge and Plymouth brands, and used the compact’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder to power its front wheels.
The four-door bubble would never reach production, but its name stuck around in the Plymouth lineup as a trim package on the Neon, the Voyager, and the Breeze. Be prepared to explain yourself if you mention this concept in front of a coffee snob: This weirdo’s name really is EX-presso, not Espresso. The proper pronunciation would be too … well, proper. For the Silo, Grace Houghton/Hagerty.
Every second counts when a racing team’s intellectual property is their competitive edge.
Dropbox has partnered up with McLaren Racing as an Official Technology Partner of the McLaren Formula 1 Team.
From Mission Control to Track, Formula 1 is a team effort.
The best teams, like cars, are more than the sum of their parts. They’re built for performance and continually pushing for more. Dropbox gives McLaren the tools they need to unlock an extra gear. Now they can share info instantly and collaborate on files in real time, wherever they’re racing around the world. All while being confident their IP is safe and secure.
Our track record of fast, efficient, and easy-to-use products makes Dropbox a perfect partner for the McLaren Formula 1 Team. And our newest products push beyond storage, to support teams the way they work today. We help teams get the best results across the finish line. Dropbox is the one tool they rely on to stay organized and share info while safeguarding their business-critical content.
A team’s intellectual property is their competitive edge. The McLaren Formula 1 Team trusts Dropbox to keep their most important content protected. With features like advanced sharing permissions and access management, we help keep McLaren’s confidential information private and secure, so they can focus on pushing for more podiums. Stay secure
In a race against time, McLaren counts on Dropbox. Organization is key to unlocking optimal performance. With shared workspaces and folders, Dropbox makes it easy for the McLaren Formula 1 Team to stay in sync, and spend more time on the work that matters. Staying organized helps teams move faster, and that’s a huge advantage when every second counts. Get organized
The record time to change four tires is 1.8 seconds. The McLaren Formula 1 Team set that record last year. Their success depends on everyone working together in perfect sync. And Dropbox enables easy, efficient collaboration across the team. Now they can: Quickly and safely share large, high-res files with internal or external stakeholders. Track sent files to see who’s opened them and what they’ve viewed. Review creative assets or race footage in real-time, even when the team is all around the world
Spring means fresh flowers and sunny days, but it also brings seasonal health issues as the weather gets warmer: from Rosacea to Lyme disease.
Most likely, you or someone you know has been affected by Lyme disease, the most common tick-borne illness in North America with more than 300,000 cases diagnosed each year. In a timely new book, Conquering Lyme Disease(Columbia University Press), Columbia University Medical Center physicians Brian A. Fallon and Jennifer Sotsky reveal that despite the challenges to find a cure for this complex, debilitating disease, precision medicine and biotechnology are accelerating the discovery of new tools with which doctors will be able to diagnose it and treat patients.
“Through rapid genetic sequencing, scientists can identify many different strains of Borrelia burgdorferi as well as new tick-borne microbial infections, such as Borrelia miyamotoi, Borrelia mayonii, and the Heartland virus.” — Brian Fallon
Could groundbreaking technologies that rapidly increase our understanding and open up new pathways mean a cure for Lyme disease one day soon? The Global Search for Education is pleased to welcome Dr. Brian Fallon to find out how tech is tackling the ticks.
“Modern technology using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) allows one to discover with great rapidity all microbes that may be present within a sample of fluid.” — Brian Fallon
Brian, how has technology improved the research process for tick borne diseases?
Consider the difference in price of genome sequencing between 20 years ago and today. In 2003, it had taken the Human Genome Project about 4 years and costs estimated between $500 million to 1 billion…by 2006 the cost for sequencing a single human genome had dropped to 14 million……today a whole human genome can be sequenced within days for less than $1,000. This is a tremendous advance.
Why is genome sequencing so important? Let’s look at human tick-borne diseases. When two different people are infected with Borrelia burgdorferi (the microbe that causes Lyme disease), one will resolve the disease quickly after a course of antibiotics while the other may develop a chronic relapsing remitting illness. Why? Because one person might have gotten a more persistent strain, while the other received a less invasive strain that stays localized to the skin. Additionally, the genetic differences in the human determines how the immune system responds to the invading microbe. Understanding the genetics of the infection and of the human host allows scientists to unravel the mysteries of tick-borne illnesses.
Through rapid genetic sequencing, scientists can identify many different strains of Borrelia burgdorferi as well as new tick-borne microbial infections, such as Borrelia miyamotoi, Borrelia mayonii, and the Heartland virus. When the genome of a microbe is sequenced, it provides a starting point for the study of pathogenesis, vaccine development, and treatment. Discovery of these new microbes inside ticks has been enormously helpful. A patient who has had typical symptoms of Lyme disease after a tick bite but has tested negative on the blood tests for Lyme disease might puzzle clinicians. They may criticize the insensitivity of the Lyme disease tests. However, when this same patient is tested for the newly discovered tick-borne infection, Borrelia miyamotoi, the diagnosis is then clear. Yes, the patient had a Lyme-like illness, but it wasn’t Lyme disease: it was Borrelia Miyamotoi disease.
Modern technology using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) allows one to discover with great rapidity all microbes that may be present within a sample of fluid. This “discovery based” approach using “unbiased next generation sequencing” enabled a 14 year old boy to be rescued from a fatal infection within 48 hours (Wilson et al, NEJM, 2014). This boy had endured 3 hospitalizations over 4 months, had over 100 diagnostic tests, spent 44 days in an ICU for encephalitis of unknown etiology, had a brain biopsy, and had to be put into a medically induced coma to prevent damage from his ongoing seizures.
Eventually Dr. Charles Chiu at U.C.S.F. employed NGS analysis of more than 8 million sequences with a bioinformatics pipeline (SURPI) for the detection of all known pathogens. The cause of the boy’s meningoencephalitis was revealed as Leptospira santarosai. He had likely acquired it in Puerto Rico, as it is not present in the continental United States. He received the appropriate antibiotics and was discharged 2 weeks later to rehab. This same approach is especially useful for uncommon infections as they might not be suspected; for example, rare tick-borne viruses such as Powassan Virus or Heartland Virus can be rapidly detected using this discovery approach.
DNA Double Helix
How has big data impacted the way advocacy groups support research?
A patient-generated source of Big Data is LymeDisease.org. This California based organization developed a survey called “My Lyme Data” that patients could fill out on the web about their clinical history and lab tests and treatments. In a short period of time, they had data on 10,000 patients whom they track over time. With this information, they provide a more comprehensive clinical view of the bulk of patients who are diagnosed with persistent symptoms despite treatment for Lyme Disease (aka Chronic Lyme Disease).
“In geographic areas where medical professionals are scarce, AI technologies will play an increasing role in improving patient care by allowing differential diagnoses to be generated and treatment options suggested through AI-based systems accessed through the internet.” — Brian Fallon
Jobs in all professions are being automated. Do you believe AI technologies will only assist doctors or will they replace physicians in some tasks? What does this mean for doctors, nurses, and the future of medicine?
Borrelia
While AI technologies will go a long way to assist health care providers to provide better care, its application to medical care is still just beginning. One can anticipate, however, that in geographic areas where medical professionals are scarce, AI technologies will play an increasing role in improving patient care by allowing differential diagnoses to be generated and treatment options suggested through AI-based systems accessed through the internet.
The general public has more access to information than ever before about Lyme disease from websites, medical organizations, articles and social media. Everyone can be their own “expert” or even their own “doctor.” Can you speak about the pros and cons of online health data in the era of fake news?
This obviously is a huge area of concern. Individuals used to turn to their physician or to the medical information books, such as the Merck Manual. Now, they turn to the web.
In a recent survey of patients who used the web to obtain health information (Doherty-Torstrick 2016), we learned that more than half of the 730 patients reported they experienced increased distress as a result of checking the web. We also learned from this survey that individuals who did not have a health education were more likely to spend more time on the web and were thus prone to develop more anxiety than those who were better educated from a health perspective. While some of the information they find may be accurate, other information may be well-intentioned but ill-informed, misleading, and even harmful.
“Researchers can rapidly screen thousands of drugs to determine which agents have the strongest ability to kill Borrelia spirochetes. This is possible because of the development of high throughput assays, which have proven more effective than the standard agents in eradicating both the stationary phase Borrelia and its more drug-tolerant persister-forms.” — Brian Fallon
Look into the future. What are the technologies you are most excited about in terms of helping to find cures for Lyme disease and improve patients quality of life?
Researchers can rapidly screen thousands of drugs to determine which agents have the strongest ability to kill Borrelia spirochetes (Feng 2014). This is possible because of the development of high throughput assays, which have identified new antibiotics that have proven more effective than the standard agents (doxycycline, amoxicillin) in eradicating both the stationary phase Borrelia and its more drug-tolerant persister-forms. While it cannot be assumed that what is true in the lab setting will translate to efficacy in humans, biotechnology advances have enabled the identification of new therapeutic agents, offering much hope for a wider array of treatment options for patients in the future.
Another major advance is “big data” conducted by biomedical information engineers trained in biostatistics and computer science. Internet search engine queries are being monitored to predict outbreaks of infectious disease. Unanticipated side effects of drugs and their interactions can be detected through analyzing millions of digital medical records from patients who have taken a particular drug. One can examine whether patients given an antibiotic did better when treated for longer or shorter periods, or whether patients with a pre-existing autoimmune disease are more likely to develop complications from a new onset Tick-borne infection than those without a history of autoimmune problems.
2005 James Gathany; William Nicholson The blacklegged ticks, I. pacificus, (depicted here), and I. scapularis, are known vectors for the zoonotic spirochetal bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, which is the pathogenic bacteria responsible for causing Lyme disease. The ticks, inoculated with the bacterium when they bite infected mice, squirrels and other small animals, subsequently pass the pathogens to their human victims when they obtain a blood meal.B. burgdorferi bacteria can infect several parts of the body, producing different symptoms at different times. Not all patients with Lyme disease will have all symptoms, and many of the symptoms can occur with other diseases as well. If you believe you may have Lyme disease, it is important that you consult your health care provider for proper diagnosis. The first sign of infection is usually a circular rash called “erythema migrans”, or EM. This rash occurs in approximately 70-80% of infected persons and begins at the site of a tick bite after a delay of 3-30 days. A distinctive feature of the rash is that it gradually expands over a period of several days, reaching up to 12 inches (30 cm) across. The center of the rash may clear as it enlarges, resulting in a bull’s-eye appearance. It may be warm but is not usually painful. Some patients develop additional EM lesions in other areas of the body after several days. Patients also experience symptoms of fatigue, chills, fever, headache, and muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes. In some cases, these may be the only symptoms of infection.
Our Lyme and Tick-borne Diseases Research Center, located at the Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC) in New York City, is right next door to an international data resource. CUIMC is the coordinating center of a public health information initiative which includes medical records from approximately 400 million people drawn from eighty health-care organizations from around the world. This represents a unique opportunity to ask questions, generate hypotheses and get answers about Tick-borne diseases. When discovery is optimized, medical care is enhanced.
Brian Fallon, MD, MPH is the Director of the Lyme and Tick-Borne Diseases Research Center at the Columbia University Irving Medical Center and the author with Jennifer Sotsky of Conquering Lyme Disease: Science Bridges the Great Divide, published in 2018 by Columbia University Press.
“Digital Domestic Dialogues” stages a near future in which technology has acquired an emotional and sensitive intelligence: it is capable of exciting itself and others through everyday gestures as an analog and primordial archive of human communication, culture and social dynamics.
Robots and users interact with a range of seemingly familiar objects through simple and natural gestures, triggering scenarios of everyday wonder. The collection, born out of a design exploration within the Habits Design Studio team, is a reflection on the poetic role of technology in the digital evolution of the domestic scenario. Technical Partners: Laminam, Giovanardi
COSMO
“Cosmo” is a lamp born from the desire to infuse new life into the act of lighting; the idea is to return to the primordial concept of fire, which through propagating from one body to another expands the quantity and at the same time transfers the luminous qualities of the flame.
“Cosmo” is able to learn the characteristics of the light source placed below it, detecting its intensity, color, movement, returning the effect to the environment and creating dynamic light scenarios.
The user is called upon to create the desired atmosphere himself by experimenting with direct sources, such as a candle flame or telephone flashlight; or by showing the lamp a video of a sunset, or another special moment he can evoke a light scenario. Turning it on thus becomes once again an exciting moment of awe and wonder.
The design of the lamp draws inspiration from scientific representations of black holes, the only phenomenon found in nature able to absorb light radiation. The captured light, is then returned to the environment dynamically and three-dimensionally by the spherical diffuser, allowing the creation of a 360° light scene, similar to HDRI images used in digital rendering software.
“Cosmo” redefines the boundaries of properties normally attributed to lighting fixtures with its ability to learn, imitate and stage emotions through light. Project by Selma Antonellini, Habits Design
RITO
The coat rack, a familiar but often overlooked object, is the subject of this project, which offers a contemporary reinterpretation of it with the product “Rito”; no longer just a support point, but an active companion that enriches the daily routine and transforms the experience of entering the home.
Thanks to artificial intelligence, “Rito”reacts to the presence of inhabitants, and recognizes when clothes and objects are hung or removed, interpreting the situation and animating the entrance area with dynamic projections on the wall.
The name “Rito” stems from a reflection on the fact that moments of entry and return home, though fleeting and temporary, are precious fragments of our lives, each with its own unique meaning and value. While some may be more ordinary and repetitive, such as returning after a day’s work or a morning walk with the dog, others can be more special and emotional, like returning after a long journey.
Regardless of the nature of the return, “Rito” aims to transform every entry and departure from home into a moment of warmth and hospitality. Its projections bring the wall to life, animating it with contextual content.
Before leaving the dwelling, “Rito” transforms the wall into a dynamic and inspiring space, offering motivational content, helpful tips, and personalized reminders. Upon return, it welcomes with tailor-made evocative scenarios, reigniting the surrounding environment and making the return even more pleasant and familiar. Project by Ilaria Tarozzi and Ilaria Vitali, Habits Design
VISIONARIA
VISIONARIA is a digital device that combines literary tradition with artificial intelligence, offering an innovative reading experience. Digital integration enhances the potential of printed material and opens up new imaginative horizons, transforming reading into a visual and artistic experience.
By swiping across the lines of a page in a book, similarly to how we would underline a beloved or noteworthy phrase, VISIONARIA recognizes the text. The selected phrase is then instantly input as a prompt into a dedicated AI generator, aiming to create an image of the book scene that can be viewed in real-time.
This mode of consumption, aided by the product’s pencil-like shape, introduces a new dimension to the reading experience, encouraging increased engagement that can be intimate and profound or shared on larger devices such as smartphones, TVs, and more, ensuring flexibility depending on the context – be it at home for relaxation and entertainment, in education, enhancing the consumption of educational content, or in public settings, stimulating imagination in artistic installations.
With VISIONARIA, literature evolves and broadens the spectrum of an age-old activity through an extremely accessible mode, towards unexplored scenarios in the world of culture and entertainment. Project by Alberto Milano, Michele Poggi, Marco Rissetto, Habits Design
1g1lm
1g1lm represents the unusual marriage of two seemingly incompatible units of measurement: “g” for weight in grams and “lm” for luminous flux in lumens. This lamp was born from a simple but fascinating question, “What would be the effect if light had a tangible weight?”
To visualize the weight, the lamp uses an elastic fabric on top. By placing an object on top of it, the fabric deforms, generating a unique and unrepeatable aesthetic because it is shaped directly by the weight, not predetermined by the designer. In addition, as the deformation increases, so does the intensity of light. Due to the light diffusion of the fabric, the light seems to take shape and weight. In the act of placing and taking objects, an impossible interaction with the very essence of light is realized, made solid and tangible for a moment.
1g1lm writes a new equation between light and matter, giving birth to a new ritual rich in poetry and at the same time exploring new alternative scenarios: proposing, in contrast to the digitization of the real, to make, through technology, concrete experiences that were once ephemeral and intangible.
Habits Design
Habits is a multidisciplinary industrial design studio, founded in 2004 by Innocenzo Rifino and Diego Rossi in Milan. The work of the studio is focused on technological and interactive projects of international relevance, partnering with companies to design timeless products and experiences.
The team is composed of industrial designers, electronic and mechanical engineers, model makers, interaction and visual designers, and interior designers with a global point of view. Recognizing the unique Asian technological know-how, Habits started a branch in Bangkok in 2021.With over 20 years of experience in a wide range of industries, today Habits mainly covers digital products, home appliances, automation, lighting, UX/UI, and phygital interfaces.
The team awarded more than 180 international design prizes such as Red Dot, IF, Compasso d’Oro, Design Plus, Good Design, and German Design Award. “We study science and art. We design new habits. Prototyping our ideas, embedding electronics, we reduce the gap between physical and digital.”
Laminam
Pioneers since the beginning.
Laminam was born in the early 2000s, following the invention of production technologies to create ultra- thin ceramic surfaces of large dimensions. A pioneering company, it was the first to revolutionize the ceramics market, giving new impetus to a mature sector, betting on the intuition of creating large architectural surfaces and launching innovative sizes and thicknesses on the market. Over the years, the company has developed a production process characterized by innovative methods and highly automated technologies typical of Industry 4.0 such as digital decoration systems, dry cutting systems and internal logistics managed by automatic laser-guided vehicles. These are methods and technologies that increase energy efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
Today Laminam produces and offers a range of eclectic and versatile large ceramic surfaces used in many applications – from traditional and advanced architecture to furniture and design – distributed in over 100 countries worldwide. Over the years, the series have been enriched with new textures and finishes to enhance the creativity of designers, architects and anyone who wants to give a new connotation to their spaces.
Giovanardi
Giovanardi designs, industrializes and manufactures supports for in-store communication (displays, merchandising, shop windows, shop in shop, technical packaging) and for art.
Giovanardi’s history began in 1919 as a manufacturer of plaques and dials: today Giovanardi SpA is an advanced, certified company, structured to process projects of increasing complexity, according to up-to-date technologies, with a network of accredited partners and an attentive, flexible, punctual client-service. For 100 years it has been shaping ideas.For the Silo, Elena Assante.
The Reinvention of Coley’s Toxins by Donald H. MacAdam is a fascinating read. If you are expecting a dry and brooding book you are in for a treat because MacAdam has a dynamic flair for presenting facts and characters in an enjoyable story telling fashion.
The history leading up to the formation of MBVax is remarkable and includes robotics, human genome sequencing and electronics distribution. The twists and turns that ultimately lead to the reinvention and production of modern day Coley’s Toxins makes for a satisfying journey- one which not only parallels the experimental nature of scientific discovery but also its necessity for serendipity.
Coley’s Toxins were invented in 1893 by Dr. William Coley when he was 29 years old. In the following 43 years Dr. Coley treated about one thousand inoperable (incurable) cancer patients with better results than would be expected for a comparable group of patients today.
Until the last pharmaceutical manufacturer ceased production in 1951, Coley’s Toxins was a mainstream cancer therapy with thousands of physicians treating many tens of thousands of patients. Outcomes were respectable but not as good as achieved by Dr. Coley.
Dr. Coley’s patients fared better than those treated by other physicians because Coley’s Toxins prepared for Dr. Coley’s personal use were more effective than the commercially available formulations.
Beginning back in 2006, the small Canadian company MBVax Bioscience produced a modern version of the formulation used by Dr. Coley and provided it free of charge to physicians anywhere in the world who could legally import the product and administer treatment.
Clinical results included complete regressions (cures) of inoperable and/or metastatic breast cancer, lymphoma, melanoma, lung cancer, esophageal cancer and stomach cancer. I worked for a time alongside Mr. MacAdam at MBVax Bioscience and based on the visits of patients being treated and planning on being treated via our vaccine, I can attest to its genuinity and appreciation.
In spite of the clinical results and the support of leading cancer researchers- medical regulators in Canada, Europe and the U.S. denied permission to commence clinical trials.
As we get older we get wiser. It’s just part of the deal. We have all heard the expression that knowledge is power, but power can also be corrupting. Sometimes, it’s good to get a reminder that as smart or as knowledgeable as we think we might be there is always something new to learn.
I had one of those moments recently when I looked closely at a computer called the “Super Brain” that has been sitting out at a computer museum. I had never really spent much time with this machine but when I did I found out that it had a “Here Is” key. It’s enough to make you do a double-take. At first I thought it was a joke.
The most common keyboard joke in existence is the one about the “Any” key. Back in the days when computers ran text only operating environments (like DOS) it was common practice to put a message such as “Press Any Key To Continue” while waiting for the user to finish reading. The joke is that some people would literally spend time looking on their keyboard for a key marked “Any” rather than just literally pressing any key on the keyboard.
I had to do research on this key and discover what it is used for. It turns out that it is used for radio teletype identification. The key transmits a code 22 characters long that identifies to another teletype machine just which machine is sending a message. In other words, this old computer has a key that means only something in the context of a technology that is even older than itself.
Speaking of bizarre keyboards- what do you think of the layout on this vintage example of Orange Computers Inc keyboard? Makes me sort of hungry for starburst candy. A teletype (or more accurately a teleprinter) in case you don’t know or don’t remember is an electromechanical typewriter that can be used to send messages from point to point. They were used at the beginning of the twentieth century for many purposes ranging from spreading news to stock information and more. Variants were (and still are) used as telecommunications for the deaf and the aviation industry still have them around in small numbers.
The joy for me was that the day I discovered the “Here Is” key was a great reminder of how wonderful it is to learn something new. It’s almost self proclaiming (if only it were a “Here It Is!” key) and now, most likely, you too have learned something new today. For the Silo, Syd Bolton.
Happiness…..I popped the pink pill into my mouth and waited for the expected feelings of ecstasy. No, the pill wasn’t the drug XTC, but rather a legal and safe “hacking” alternative. Then I put on my trans-cranial stimulation device, known as “The Thync,” and waited to see what happened. Wow! After five minutes, it felt like my brain was flooding me with endorphins. Finally, I placed the scalp stimulator known as the Tingler on my head. When I did this, an orgasmic wave of intense pleasure rippled through my entire body.
After a few minutes of this euphoria, I took off the devices and went about my day. Having just been catapulted into sweet ecstasy, my day became both incredibly productive and happy.
This is not a future scenario.
This is how I like to start my mornings. Nowadays, there are new and improved ways to feel good-even ecstatic-that most people don’t know anything about. In an age when depression is rampant and dangerous drug use is epidemic, amazing new ways to feel peaceful, euphoric, and just plain happy are popping up all over the place. However, people miss out on these amazing methods because they simply don’t know about them. From safe drugs to “happy apps,” to high tech brain stimulation devices, a whole new world of ways to feel good is blossoming.
We live in an age where everything is shifting and accelerating. Yet, most people still pursue an ancient path for finding happiness. Their formula for being happy is to try to control all the external events and people in their lives to be exactly the way they want. This is a tiresome activity at best, and there are always some events and people that we can’t control. However, there is a new model for finding more joy and peace of mind: find it within your self. Of course, this is a not a new idea. Everyone from the Buddha to Jesus has said that heaven can be found within, but now there are cutting edge and more efficient ways to tap into this magical inner kingdom.
As invited to talk to Google employees about “The Future of Happiness.” I described new ways to control their minds and emotions that were more effective than trying to be happy by controlling all the events in their life. The reaction was intense. Everyone wanted to know what some of these innovative ways to “hack happiness” were, and how they could get them. That led me to write a book on the subject.
In my research I learned that different things work for different people.
For example, there are a lot of supplements known as “cognitive enhancers” that can dramatically increase your focus, energy, and mood. Yet, you have to try out many of them in order to find the one or two that really rock your world. I also learned that people define happiness in unique ways. Some people want a gadget that increases their pleasure, while other folks want a tool that improves their relationships or makes them feel totally peaceful.
Gary Numan “Complex” from The Pleasure Principle
As with all technologies, “inner” tech keeps getting better. In fact, some of them are so good that it’s possible to get addicted to them. Ultimately, one has to discern whether a given gadget is truly a friend that helps them find the joy within–or is just another WMD-Widget of Mass Distraction. Since there are many tools that do different things, there’s no simple answer as to whether something is beneficial to you.
For example, people become addicted and dependent on coffee. Yet, on the other hand, caffeine can prevent many types of cancer, and helps people feel good and be productive. So, is coffee a “good” thing? It’s up to you to decide…
In my own case, I decide if a specific technology is truly my friend by asking myself two questions. First I ask myself, “Does this tool lead me to being dependent on it?” It’s always better when technology acts like “training wheels” on a bike-meaning that the tool exists so that you can eventually do without it. If instead a gadget fosters a sense of dependence, then that’s a warning sign it may ultimately not be worth it.
The second question is, “Does this technology help teach me how to better connect with a sense of peace, love, or joy within?” Even the Dalai Lama has reportedly said that if there were a pill that duplicated Buddha’s awakening, he would take it immediately and prescribe it for all living beings. If a tool helps me learn how to get to a more peaceful, loving place more efficiently, I think that’s a good thing.
It’s hard to say exactly what the future holds, though Steve Jobs was seemingly pretty good at predicting it. In 1972 I had the unusual opportunity to be in a computer class with Steve Jobs. Of course, at the time he was just a nerdy teen and I was four years his junior. He and I would vie to play Tic-tac-toe on a 500 pound “computer” that our High School had recently purchased. Steve was obsessed with this machine. One day I asked Steve why he was so fixated on this refrigerator sized computer. He turned to me and said in an intense manner, “Don’t you see? This machine is going to change everything! It’s going to change the world!”
It turns out Steve Jobs was right.
Well, nowadays it may not seem like the latest brain supplement, neuro-stimulator, or mood enhancing app is going to change the world, but technology has a way of discreetly slipping into our lives. This “technology of joy” will only accelerate until the entire way we pursue happiness is transformed in the next few years. I’ve seen that when people try out enough of these new gadgets, apps, and supplements, they inevitably find something that feels good–and is even good for them. When that happens, their lives are never the same. For the Silo,Jonathan Robinson.
Monaco, April 2024 The American company Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab), a strategic partner of the Monegasque Venturi Group, has been awarded a NASA contract to support the development of Artemis campaign’s lunar terrain vehicle. Its rover, known as FLEX, is equipped with batteries and wheels developed by Gildo Pastor’s teams in Monaco and Switzerland.
Gildo Pastor is no stranger to specialized high-performance vehicles- here with Bugatti EB110 he drove to win the world record for fastest car on ice in 1995.
Astrolab is one of three teams to win contract awards. Astrolab’s contract is worth up to $1.9 billion usd / $2.56 billion cad. Collectively the three contract winners may be awarded task orders over the next 13 years with a total potential value of $4.6 billion usd/ $6.2 billion cad over the life of the program. The contracts allow for two additional years for the completion of services.
With this announcement, and after two decades dedicated to high-performance terrestrial electric vehicles, Venturi is taking another major step forward. Indeed, the industrial Group led by its President Gildo Pastor designs and manufactures the lunar vehicle’s wheels and batteries.The hyper-deformable wheels, developed and manufactured by the Venturi’s Swiss entity in collaboration with Astrolab, were presented at the Paris Air Show in June 2023. As for the batteries, these will be manufactured in Monaco in specifically designed facilities at the heart of the Venturi’s historic headquarters.
SpaceX’s Starship launch and landing system will deliver FLEX to the lunar surface in mid-2026.
Astrolab first revealed the full-scale working prototypefor its Flexible Logistics and Exploration (FLEX) rover in March of 2022. In the years since, Astrolab, has conducted thousands of hours of laboratory and field testing that has led to numerous design improvements. The improvements to the wheels and batteries came as a result of tests Astrolab conducted together with Venturi’s engineers.
As required by NASA, FLEX can carry two suited astronauts, accommodate a robotic arm to support science exploration, perform robotic cargo logistics, and survive the extreme temperatures at the lunar South Pole, which is a technological challenge, particularly for the hyper-deformable wheels and batteries. FLEX can be operated remotely from Earth even when astronauts are not present, or it can be operated by suited astronauts.
Once FLEX arrives on the lunar surface, Astrolab expects that FLEX will become the largest and most capable rover to ever travel to the Moon. With a maximum combined rover and cargo mass of more than two tons, the FLEX rover is nearly three times the mass of its largest predecessor. This increased capacity provides significantly more opportunities to conduct scientific experiments and commercial endeavors on the lunar surface.
“Through our strategic partnership with Astrolab, I am proud to see the Venturi Group’s know-how validated by NASA. After 20 years of innovation and world speed records in the field of terrestrial electric vehicles, we are now involved in an adventure that will go down in the history books: when Man returns to the Moon! When I see this rover, equipped with our wheels and batteries, operating up there I will have made my greatest dream come true“. – Gildo Pastor, President of the Venturi Group.
“Astrolab is honored to have its FLEX rover selected by NASA to participate in the development of creating a Lunar Terrain Vehicle for the Artemis Campaign. Our entire team, together with our business partners, including our strategic partner Venturi Group, are committed to delivering to NASA an LTV that serves as a critical tool in the agency’s efforts to establish a long-term human presence on the Moon.” – Jaret Matthews, founder & CEO, Astrolab.
The world needs to cut carbon emissions and fight climate change. This need has caused a huge change in the car industry. Electric vehicles (EVs) are at the forefront. This shift toward electrification is a technological and economic revolution that is changing the way we think about transportation in addition to being an environmental need.
The head-turning Solo EV single seat electric vehicle. Fun and fast.
History of Electric Vehicles
Contrary to popular belief, the idea of electric automobiles is not very new. The origins of electric vehicles (EVs) may be traced to the early 1800s when European and American inventors started experimenting with battery-powered cars. The 1890s saw the introduction of the first useful electric vehicles.
1909 Babcock Electrics – Model 10 Coupé; Price, $ 2,200. – Babcock Electric Carriage Company, Buffalo, New York.
They were competitive with gasoline-powered cars up until the 1920s because of their silent operation and lack of harmful exhaust fumes. But, electric cars started to lose to gasoline cars. This was due to the mass production of gasoline cars, a movement ignited by Henry Ford’s Model T and the discovery of big oil deposits. Meanwhile, the conversation around modern advancements and regulatory changes in various sectors, including automotive and sports, continues to evolve.
A pertinent example of such evolution is the shift in the sports betting landscape, as detailed in insightful sources like this legal sports betting blog.
Henry Ford in 1921 with his Model T.
The Rise of Modern Electric Vehicles
Concerns over pollution, climate change, and the depletion of fossil fuels drove the late 20th and early 21st century interest in electric automobiles. Battery technology today has greatly improved. This is especially true for lithium-ion batteries. They have greatly increased the range of electric vehicles (EVs). It has also reduced the time required to charge them. This has positioned EVs as a viable alternative to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars.
Benefits of Electric Vehicles
Environmental Impact
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is the primary advantage of electric cars (EVs). Air pollution is significantly decreased by EVs because they produce no exhaust emissions, in contrast to ICE cars. Furthermore, when renewable energy sources are incorporated into the electrical grid, the overall environmental impact of electric vehicles will decrease, making the system greener overall.
Economic Advantages
Individuals and the overall economy can both profit financially from electric vehicles. For a given distance, the cost of charging an electric vehicle is typically less than that of gasoline. Additionally, EVs require less maintenance because they have fewer moving components than ICE cars. In macroeconomics, switching to electric cars can improve energy security. It does so by reducing reliance on imported oil.
Technological Innovation
With cutting-edge technologies like regenerative braking, which recovers energy lost during braking, electric vehicles are frequently at the forefront of automotive technology. The cars have sophisticated entertainment systems. They connect with smart gadgets. They are more connected than regular cars.
Challenges Facing Electric Vehicles
Charging Infrastructure
Infrastructure for charging EVs is convenient and readily available, which is one of the biggest obstacles to their adoption. Although there has been a lot of development, each location has a very different density of charging stations. Cities are better connected than rural areas. This can cause “range anxiety” in people considering electric vehicles.
Battery Technology and Range
Even with the tremendous advancements in battery technology, many consumers are still concerned about range. The best electric cars can go as far as gas cars. But, the average user may not afford the expensive long-range versions. Also, a vehicle’s range and resale value may drop. This may happen because the battery’s performance worsens over time.
Initial Cost
Even though EVs have reduced running expenses, they may cost more to buy initially than equivalent ICE cars. Although prices have been continuously declining, the high cost of batteries is the main cause of this pricing disparity.
The Integration of Electric Vehicles into Smart Grids
With the increasing number of electric vehicles on the road, integrating them into smart grids offers a revolutionary way to improve energy efficiency and lower transportation’s carbon footprint. Smart grids provide a dynamic framework for the integration of EVs into the larger energy ecosystem by using digital technology to monitor and control the transportation of power from all sources of generation to satisfy the various electrical demands of end-users.
Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Technology
V2G technology lets electric vehicles talk to the power grid. They use it to absorb and return electricity. V2G is crucial to this integration. This feature allows EV owners to sell extra energy from their car’s battery to the grid during peak hours. They can also charge their vehicles during off-peak hours. Power demand is lower then and rates are lower. This two-way energy exchange can help stabilize the grid. It is especially useful as the use of renewable energy grows. Renewable energy sources are often intermittent.
Enhanced Energy Storage
For grid operators, electric vehicles can serve as a useful resource by effectively serving as mobile energy storage units. Utilities can boost the use of renewable energy sources, decrease the need for peaking power plants, and better manage supply and demand by utilizing the combined storage capacity of thousands of electric vehicles. This increases the electrical grid’s efficiency and makes EVs more sustainable by tying their operation more tightly to renewable energy sources.
Smart Charging
The capacity to regulate how long an electric car takes to charge depends on a number of variables, including the owner’s needs, the condition of the grid at the time, and the availability of renewable energy sources. This process is known as smart charging. Smart charging can help by ensuring that vehicles charge at the best times for the grid and the consumer. It can reduce the impact of rising EV demand on the grid.
The Future of Electric Vehicles
There are a lot of exciting developments in store for electric cars shortly. Battery technology is advancing. This progress should make EVs cheaper and available to more people. In addition, electric vehicles will be more practical for daily usage. This is due to the growth of the charging infrastructure. It is being driven by both public and private investment.
Around the world, governments are putting in place policies to help the shift to electric vehicles. These policies include investments in infrastructure for charging, incentives for EV purchases, and tighter pollution standards for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. The EV industry will grow fast. It will be fueled by these rules and by growing consumer knowledge and concern for the environment.
Also, nearly every big automaker has announced plans to increase the number of electric vehicles in their lineup. This shows how much the industry is embracing electrification. Customers will gain from this competition’s increased innovation and cost-cutting measures.
In summary, electric cars promise a cleaner, more sustainable transportation future, marking a significant turning point in the history of the automobile industry. Even though there are still obstacles, the future is clear. Electric vehicles (EVs) will be crucial. They are key to the global effort to fight climate change and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Electric vehicles will play an even bigger role in our lives as technology develops and the globe shifts more toward renewable energy sources, changing not only the way we drive but also the way we live.
There’s nothing quite like the sleek side profile of a vehicle with a long hood, a fast roof, and a smooth decklid. But there is more to our shared love of cars, because, we should also consider the smooth, singular sideline of a minivan. While that isn’t an answer one would expect when asking about the most appealing vehicle silhouettes, a minivan is indeed one of the many candidates our friends at Hagerty received here in their latest installment of our According to You series.
So what other vehicles deserve a mention here? Have a look below and tell us what you think in the comments!
Porsche 928 GT
The original series 928 was clean and wonderfully well balanced and was striking from every angle but take a look at this silhouette and marvel that this design is almost fifty years old.
Shelby Daytona Coupe
1965 Shelby Daytona Coupe ReplicaMecum
@DUB6: Hard to beat an early 911 in my book, but really, I’m voting for the Shelby Daytona Coupe. It has some of the muscle of the Cobras built in, with the sloped down nose for aero, the long, sleek roofline, and then that striking rear spoiler and chopped-off tail.
It may not be the most beautiful, but to me, it’s the most striking silhouette out there.
Chevrolet Corvette
GM
@Bernard: The first few years of the C3 Corvette. I wasn’t around to see them new, but the C3 has always stood out in the school of cool, IMO, especially the silhouette. I think the crash bumpers and other stuff of the later years softened them up too much, but the silhouettes of the early ones could’ve been used as scalpels.
@Tony: I’d say any modern Corvette. They’re all designed in the wind tunnel these days so they’re all aero-efficient, but the later C4s with the rounded ends I think look great.
@Dave Massie: C3 Corvettes—especially the ’80–82 models.
@C: I agree. I am partial to my 1973 Corvette coupe. It’s a one-year-only design and looks great in silhouette.
@Paul: 1984–90 C4 Corvette. The concave rear bumper is just cool. On the other hand, the convex 1990 ZR-1 bumper and its use on the 1991–96 models are strong candidates. In my C4-centric world, the Corvettes nailed the Silhouette Sweepstakes.
Jaguar XKE
Mecum
@Ken_L: I am partial to my C3 Corvette, but I must say the Jaguar XKE coupe has been my favorite since I was very young.
@Howard: And its “top-down” sibling, the XKE droptop roadster … great road car.
@Doug: Hands down, Jaguar E -ype coupe (XKE)
@Jeff: Had a ’68 XKE roadster. I was about to cast my vote for it, but you astutely beat me to it!
@Lew: The first Jag E-Types with the worthless bumpers and glassed headlights.
Jaguar XK-120
Mecum
@Gayle: In ’56, my uncle bought a ’53 Jaguar XK-120 FHC and I have been enamored with that gorgeous profile ever since, especially with the disc wheels and the spats (skirts)!
1963 Riviera
Buick
@Snailish: ’63 Riviera … Not sure what got us there, but for decades after, so many vehicles owed it a debt. It would likely still be a cutting-edge design if evolved to today’s construction methods/rules. But it’s also amazing from several directions, not just the side.
Lamborghini Countach
Alpine Electronics, Inc.
@Shiven: Lamborghini Countach! It absolutely accentuates the ’70s and ’80s realm of excess!
Toyota Previa
Toyota
@ap41563: Toyota Previa! Turn the lights off and illuminate it from behind and the egg shape still looks fresh today, even at 30 years old.
Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Hyundai
@Colton: For the more modern, cheaper cars, I’d say the first generation of the Hyundai Genesis Coupe. The car itself was a mixed bag (I owned one for eight years), but the side profile, especially in low light, just highlighted how well that body was sculpted.
MG TF
Mecum
@T.J.: Without a doubt, my 1954 MG TF is a constant head turner with classic vehicle lines (running boards, smooth curvature in fenders, spoked wheel on the exterior of the gas tank, etc.). A timeless beauty.
@Espo70: Third-gen Firebird/Formula/Trans Am. One of the best designs to come out of GM. Still looks exotic today.
Aston Martin Project Vantage
Aston Martin
@George: I might be biased, but the Aston Martin Project Vantage Concept—which became the Vanquish—is the most cohesive and accomplished shape of all time.
1958 Chevrolet Impala
Mecum
@Don: How about the 1958 Chevy Impala 2-door hardtop? My wife’s uncle thought it looked like a water buffalo!
GMC Motorhome
Hemmings
@Chuck: For oversize vehicles, the 1973–78 GMC Motorhome. Ahead of its time when new, smooth and sleek (compared to other coaches), and has aged gracefully.
@Kent: Still a very sought-after vehicle after all these decades. Would love to have one!
Ferrari 250 GTO
Amalgam Models
@David: One of the most recognizable, and possibly the most desirable profiles of them all: The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO by Scaglietti.
Fiat 500
Stellantis
@Alex: 2012–19 FIAT 500: Totally unique and unmistakable. You would never confuse it for any other car from any other marker.
1966 Oldsmobile Toronado
Oldsmobile
@John: Without question for me it is the 1966 (and only the 1966) Oldsmobile Toronado.
@Tom: So many Ferraris—the Dino, 250 GTO, 275 GTB, La Ferrari, etc., as well as the GT40, Miura, E-Type, and numerous British Roadsters of the ’50s and ’60s. But the granddaddy of all side silhouettes has to be the Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic.
2003–08 Mazda Mazda6
Mazda
@Mike: From a basic sedan point of view I’ve always loved the 2007 Mazda 6 profile with the spoiler.
1956–57 Continental Mark II
Continental/Ford
@Jeff: The 1956 Continental Mark II is still the most elegant and beautiful production American car.
1984–86 Pontiac Fiero
GM
@Jack: 1984–86 Pontiac Fiero notchback. Best-looking shape of the 1970s and ’80s wedge cars.
Flintstones Car
Mecum
@Greg: The log car that Barney Rubble drove on The Flintstones … feet and all!
The meeting and event planning industry is experiencing a significant transformation amid an era where the vintage charm of wine meets the cutting-edge sharpness of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This renaissance, characterized by a blend of tradition with technology, is reshaping the essence of event-driven wine selection, moving away from the notion that tech seeks to replace tradition. Instead, it introduces a paradigm of harmonious enhancement, where data-driven precision and the sommelier’s artistry converge, creating a personalized wine journey for every guest’s palate as detailed in the narrative below.
To discuss AI’s impact on the meeting and events industry, I would love to connect you with Angel or Arsalan Vossough, CEO and CTO of BetterAI, develooper of the “VinoVoss” AI Sommelier — a wine search engine and recommendation system revolutionizing the $39B usd/ $53B cad wine sector.
The days when the sommelier’s intuition, refined through years of experience and sensory development, solely guided wine selection are evolving. AI, with its vast collection of data and analytical capabilities, steps into the domain as a digital sommelier, marking a critical shift from purely tradition-led approaches. This integration signifies a future where wine recommendations are enhanced by data analytics, achieving a level of personalization and precision once thought impossible.
This shift from traditional expertise to technological innovation in wine selection is reflective of a broader transformation within event planning. AI’s role extends beyond wine selection, revolutionizing aspects from operational logistics to enhancing guest experiences. By leveraging predictive analytics, AI provides planners with deep insights into guest preferences, optimizes inventory management, and significantly cuts waste. This ability to personalize wine lists to the individual tastes of attendees, a feature once reserved for high-end, exclusive gatherings, is now accessible on a larger scale. This transition not only ensures that each wine selection deeply resonates with attendees’ unique preferences but also illustrates the industry’s wider adoption of innovation, prioritizing customization and quality in every aspect of event planning.
The AI-Driven Transformation in Wine Selection
Crafting Personalized Wine Journeys
At the heart of Artificial Intelligence (AI)’s transformative influence within the event planning sphere is its unparalleled ability in providing wine recommendations to align perfectly with individual preferences. This capability is not just about selection but about creating a narrative for each event that is as unique as the guests themselves. By meticulously analyzing vast datasets that include a wide range of variables—from individual guest tastes profile and detailed consumption patterns to the dynamic ups and downs of emerging wine trends—AI crafts wine selections that resonate deeply with the event’s demographic profile. Each recommendation is more than a suggestion; it’s a reflection of the event’s ethos, designed to enhance the dining experience profoundly.
Predictive Analytics: Looking into the Wine Future
Positioned at the forefront of wine selection, AI leverages the power of predictive analytics to cast a visionary gaze into the future of guest expectations and wine trends. This innovative approach advances traditional selection methods by empowering event planners with the ability to not just respond to current tastes but to anticipate and shape them. By using sophisticated algorithms, AI scans through historical data and current market analyses to predict which wines will captivate and delight attendees, opening the way for the introduction of emerging varietals and regions. This strategic approach allows for a level of exploration and discovery that enhances the event experience, inviting guests on a wine journey that is both educational and experiential.
Furthermore, the scope of predictive analytics in wine selection extends beyond individual choices to provide a broader understanding of global shifts in the wine industry. From climate change impacts on vineyard yields to innovations in winemaking techniques, AI’s predictive capabilities offer event planners a curated window into the wine world’s future. This comprehensive approach ensures that wine lists are not just reflective of contemporary tastes but are also forward-thinking, positioning events at the cutting edge of culinary innovation and offering guests a taste of the future, today. In doing so, AI doesn’t simply predict preferences; it helps define them, crafting personalized wine journeys that are as visionary as they are satisfying.
Operational Efficiency Through AI
Streamlining Inventory, Embracing Sustainability
In the world of event planning, the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has catalyzed a revolution in operational efficiency, particularly in the domain of inventory management. By utilizing AI’s advanced predictive capabilities, event planners can now make sure that wine orders are carefully aligned with the anticipated demand of each unique event. This precision in forecasting addresses one of the industry’s major challenges—excess inventory and waste—head-on. AI’s ability to analyze past event data, current consumption trends, and even guests’ preferences means that every bottle ordered has a purpose, significantly reducing the likelihood of surplus stock that contributes to waste.
This strategic reduction in waste not only demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability but also translates directly into notable cost savings for event organizers. By purchasing only what is needed, events can operate more leanly and efficiently, passing on the benefits of reduced costs to clients while also contributing positively to the planet. This dual advantage spotlights the pivotal role AI plays in driving forward an event planning paradigm that is both economically viable and ecologically responsible.
Moreover, AI’s analytical insights extend beyond just numbers, offering event planners guidance on selecting wines from vineyards and producers committed to sustainable practices. This approach enables events to not only offer of a curated wine selection that is exceptional and environmentally friendly but also aligns with the growing societal demand for responsible consumption. By aligning wine selections with sustainable practices, AI allows event planners to contribute to a larger narrative of environmental responsibility, setting a new standard for the industry.
Synergy Between AI and Human Expertise
Elevating the Sommelier’s Craft
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the process of wine selection marks not the end but a significant transformation in the role of the sommelier. This evolution is characterized by the seamless merging of AI’s analytical strengths with the sommelier’s deep understanding of wine, culture, and personal guest interactions. AI’s entry into this domain provides sommeliers with a suite of tools that enrich their ability to tailor wine selections to the precise preferences and tastes of attendees. By accessing AI-generated insights into guest preferences, historical consumption data, and predictive trends, sommeliers are empowered to provide wine experiences that are deeply personalized, enhancing the dining experience in a way that was previously unimaginable.
This synergy between AI and human expertise allows sommeliers to transcend traditional boundaries, enabling them to craft compelling narratives around each bottle. These stories, woven from the rich history of the wine’s heritage, its journey from grape to glass, and its unique flavor profile, transform each tasting into a memorable experience. The collaboration between AI and sommeliers ensures that the human element of wine selection—the personal touch that elevates a meal into an experience—remains intact, blending the precision of technology with the irreplaceable warmth and authenticity of human interaction.
Balancing the Algorithmic with the Authentic
In the delicate dance between leveraging AI and maintaining the authenticity of wine service, the art of sommeliership shines brighter than ever. While AI provides a powerful platform for enhancing operational efficiency and delivering exceptional personalization in wine selection, it is the sommelier who infuses these recommendations with life. The sommelier’s role shifts from mere selection to that of a storyteller, an educator, and a bridge between the guest and the intricate world of wines. This balance between the algorithmic accuracy of AI and the authentic, personal touch of the sommelier ensures that wine selection remains an art form—a deeply human endeavor that connects, enchants, and leaves a lasting impression on guests.
The collaborative relationship between AI and sommeliers doesn’t dilute the human aspect of wine service but rather enhances it, ensuring that each recommendation carries with it a story worth telling. This unique partnership introduces a new chapter in wine selection, one where technology and tradition combine to create experiences that are not only personalized but deeply resonant. The future of wine service, thus, lies in this harmonious blend, where AI opens the door to possibilities that were previously unexplored, and sommeliers guide guests through a journey that is as enriching as it is delightful, marking each event with the signature of unforgettable excellence.
Navigating the Challenges
The Ethical Aspects of Data Use
In the quest to utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) for enhancing wine selection processes, the ethical handling of data stands as a crucial concern. As AI systems delve deep into personal preferences and consumption patterns to deliver personalized wine recommendations, the need to protect guest privacy increases. This requires not only the implementation of robust data protection measures but also the development of ethical frameworks that govern the use of such data. The goal is to develop a trust-based relationship with guests, reassuring them that their personal information is handled with the highest care and respect. This foundational commitment to privacy and ethical data usage is vital in maintaining the integrity of the digital transformation in wine selection. It’s about ensuring that the technological advancement enhances the guest experience without damaging the trust that is essential to the hospitality industry.
Overcoming Technological and Cultural Barriers
The integration of AI into the traditional art of wine selection introduces a complex set of technological and cultural hurdles. Technological challenges such as system compatibility, data integration, and the seamless operation of AI within existing event planning infrastructures present tangible obstacles. Concurrently, cultural challenges emerge, rooted in skepticism towards the role of technology in an area traditionally dominated by human expertise. Overcoming these barriers necessitates a multifaceted approach:
Education is key in demystifying AI and showcasing its value as a tool for enhancing rather than replacing the sommelier’s role.
Transparent communication plays a crucial role in addressing concerns and setting realistic expectations about what AI can and cannot do.
A focus on AI as an enhancer of human expertise rather than a competitor is essential in shifting perceptions and creating a culture of acceptance.
Together, these strategies form the foundation of a successful transition to AI-enhanced wine curation, bridging the gap between technological innovation and the timeless tradition of personalized wine selection. By addressing these challenges head-on, the event planning industry can fully embrace the benefits of AI, ensuring a future where technology and tradition coexist in harmony to create enriched, personalized wine experiences.
Envisioning the Future
The Next Frontier in Wine Recommendation
As machine learning algorithms become increasingly sophisticated, the future of wine recommendation looks promising. AI’s ability to analyze complex patterns and preferences suggests a horizon where every wine selection is not just personalized but also, anticipating guests’ desires before they even articulate them. This is not just about enhancing the event experience but about reimagining the possibilities of personalization.
The implications of AI in wine curation hint at a broader transformation in event planning. From menu customization to entertainment selection, AI’s potential to personalize every aspect of the event experience is vast. This future, where every detail is personalized to the guest’s tastes, brings a new era of event planning, characterized by a high level of customization and engagement.
The fusion of technology and tradition in wine selection represents more than a shift in methodology; it signifies a fundamental change in how we approach the planning of and execute event planning. As AI continues to weave its narrative through the tapestry of event planning, its promise extends beyond operational efficiency or personalized recommendations. It offers a glimpse into a future where every event is a reflection of the guests’ deepest preferences, a celebration not just of the occasion but of the individuality of each attendee. In this future, tech meets tannins, not as adversaries but as allies, crafting experiences that connect on a personal level, setting a new standard for what events can aspire to be. For the Silo, Arsalan Vossough.
Arsalan Vossough, CTO and Co-Founder of BetterAI, specializes in advanced AI technologies, including Machine Learning and NLP. Solutions include “VinoVoss” (www.VinoVoss.com ), a semantic search and recommendation system creating a virtual wine sommelier. The Silicon Valley-headquartered BetterAI excels in developing cutting-edge AI solutions, and is aptly leveraging leading edge technologies like AI, Machine Learning, Generative AI, Natural Language Processing, and Computer Vision to hone transformative solutions. It’s VinoVoss platform empowers users to make highly-informed decisions about their wine selections, explore new varietals, find new favorites and even rediscover old gems quicker and easier than ever before. With a background in quantitative finance and teaching, Arsalan has a Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering, an MBA from Corvinus University, and a Data Science Master’s from UC Berkeley, graduating with honors. Connect with Arsalan at www.BetterAI.io.
There you have it… from Dr. Peter Vincent Pry himself, director of the EMP Task Force on National and Homeland Security… An electromagnetic pulse (EMP for short) would literally send an entire country back in the 1800’s in a matter of seconds, by frying everyone’s electronics and leaving us in the dark.
Here’s Ben Carson explaining EMPs…
Mainstream media has been silent about this for the last decade. And now folks are finally starting to see the truth…I believe an electromagnetic pulse is imminent and I want to show you how to make this cheap set-up that can shield any device against an EMP.
Let me give you a few shocking stats and facts that have scared the daylights out of some top US politicians.
Wired Magazine said there was a 12% chance the Sun would blast a Coronal Mass Ejection (or CME) at 300 miles per second towards Earth by 20201.
Now as far as we know 😉 that didn’t happen. But it seems mathematically certain to happen in the very near future.
A Space Weather study quoted by Gizmodo2 estimates it would cost the US $41.5bn / day, and it would take months if not years for the power grid to be replaced and for things to get back to some sort of normal.
Given that it produces an average of 3 CMEs EVERY SINGLE DAY3, the Sun is nothing but a ticking time bomb waiting to “explode”, destroy the grid and any device that’s plugged in, and ultimately paralyze society…
Then you’ve got nations such as Russia, China, North Korea and Iran, playing with high-altitude HEMP bombs, which can be even MORE devastating, because they can even fry electronics that are not connected to the grid, such as phones and flashlights.
In fact, Russia sold such devices to North Korea in 2014 4 5 and here’s why:
If you’re still skeptical about N. Korea’s abilities, keep in mind that they now have two satellites orbiting the Earth at low altitude, the KMS-3 launched in 2012 and the KMS-4 launched in 2016.6
…and guess what? They both hover over the United States7!
And let’s not forget ISIS, who’ve been planning grid attacks for a long time, are extremely self-motivated.
So what happens if any of these scenarios come true? Total collapse.
The large power transformers (that are keeping the power grid alive) will be completely fried, turning entire countries into a veritable electronics graveyard. Trucks will come to a screeching halt, and will stop delivering food, water, and medicine to stores across the nation.
People will be hungry and scared, turning against their fellow men in desperate attempts to feed their families. Looting will be the new national sport, and disease the new biggest killer… That’s when the real “fun” starts…
Law enforcement will be paralyzed and unable to communicate to keep things under control. And what will you eat when all of this happens?
EMP rehearsals
I like to call blackouts “EMP rehearsals”… because they too can leave entire cities in the dark for days or even weeks on end, and scare millions of people…Like this woman, for instance… who got trapped in an elevator during a blackout. If that were an EMP, she’d most likely experience a deadly free fall:
The aging US power grid is hit every FOUR DAYS on average by either a cyber or a physical ATTACK9… 225,000 Ukrainian households were left in the dark in 2015, after the power grid was hacked10.
The number of power outages doubles every 5 years11, mostly because of our increased energy needs, but also due to storms, earthquakes, tornadoes and even heat waves. And what will happen when millions of electric cars owners will plug their vehicles into the grid every night, all at once, and let them charge over night for 8 or 9 hours?
Look no further than 3rd world countries such as India to see what that would look like. In 2002, 700 MILLION souls were left in the dark… It was horrible… According to The Guardian13, “electric crematoriums stopped operating, some with bodies left half burnt before wood was brought in to stoke the furnaces”…
In 2014, the entire country of Yemen was left without power for an entire week after al-Qaeda attacked it14. It wasn’t the first time, either…
Still, it’s hard to imagine what happens when an electromagnetic tsunami completely fries the aging power grid, phones, laptops, medical equipment such as pacemakers, fridges (keeping anything from food to insulin cold), and even some cars. The cost of replacing everything is unimaginable. Plus, even if your car does survive, remember gas pumps also run on electricity…
So what can you do to protect your electronics? All you need is this one weird box you can make at home called a “Faraday cage”, with simple materials lying around in your kitchen or garage right now that, if done right, will guarantee that all the electronics inside will survive.
“If done right” is key here, because there’s a lot of confusion on making them… Many folks are convinced that things like cars and microwaves will work, but they’re completely wrong.
I cringe every time I hear this, because I know that if the shield is not fully enclosed, the electromagnetic pulse will go right through and fry everything inside… Many Faraday cages have holes in them14 and are useless in front of a powerful EMP. What you need is a fully-enclosed shield.
There’s a simple 30 second test you can do right now, to see for yourself. Place your phone and a portable radio inside a microwave, trashcan, or anything else you think would work as a shield. Turn both devices on, and make sure your radio is tuned in to an AM station.
Now try calling your phone. Is it ringing? What about your radio, are you getting anything? If the answer to any of these questions is “yes”, then that is not a Faraday shield and it will fail you.
Why does the test work? Because EMP pulses hit on a very wide frequency range that those used by cell phones and radios.
Now, to make a real Faraday cage, there are two simple rules you need to follow…
Rule #1: the gadgets inside should not touch the outer metal casing…
And rule #2, the metal container must not have any holes or cracks in it, no matter how small.
A box full of working gadgets won’t cover your basic survival needs, so it’s critical that you get over your addiction to electricity. Just like a drug, you’re dependent on it because it makes everything so much easier… And when it’s gone, when you can’t use your phone or laptop, you feel totally helpless.
You gotta learn to live without it, because most people won’t…
Modern life made everyone soft, people can’t even change a tire these days. They can’t fix their house, cook on an open fire or grow their own food, heck, most can’t even change a tire…
The other thing we need to talk about is generating your own electricity post-EMP with parts kept safe inside these Faraday cages. You’ll then be able to run electric tools and appliances such as chainsaws, pressure cookers and washing machines. This is actually something you can do today to slash your electric bill…
To recap, the 3 layers of EMP preparedness are:
Layer #1: Faraday shields
Layer #2: living without electricity
and Layer #3: free energy…
Don’t worry, though, because we’ve already done all the hard work for you. Me and my amazing prepper writers at Survival Sullivan have once again outdone ourselves and came up with hands-down the best course for surviving blackouts and EMPs anyone ever made:
*This product is digital. The image is for information purposes.
We call it: “EMP Protocol”
…and I’m excited to give you a taste of what’s inside:
● Step-by-step videos and pictures on how to make these 3 Faraday boxes types that will protect your devices against even the strongest EMP. You don’t have to pay $30,000 for a copper chamber, or even $30 for Faraday cages advertised on various websites. We’ll show you how to make them for less than $5usd each… You get the exact materials for every type of box, plus step-by-step instructions. Plus, one of these types of cages is small and light enough to fit in your bug out bag…
● What to do the moment an EMP happens. Whether you live in the city or on a farm, whether you’re bugging in or out, we’ll tell you how to move fast, stay safe and protect yourself and your family.
● The 3 best ways to safely generate electricity post-collapse. Just keep the spare parts in Faraday shields, and you’ll have light for years to come.
● 12 electronics you need to salvage in Faraday cages. Yes, flashlights and emergency radios are on the list, but if you truly want to be prepared for a long-term disaster, you definitely need the others.
● How to hide the fact that you have electricity… If someone sees light in your window, or if your kid is playing outside with a flashlight, they’ll instantly know you have it. These stealth tactics are what you need to make sure no neighbor or even the law enforcement will take your devices.
● How to prepare your vehicle for an EMP. Plus, a list of cars models that are sure to survive it.
● How to make bug out bags, get home bags and everyday carry kits for you and your family, that work not just in EMPs, but in any kind of emergency. We’re going deep down the rabbit hole, covering every possible aspect, making sure all the items inside are protected against shocks, water, puncturing by sharp objects, and even theft.
● How to bug out on foot. If your car won’t work, you’ll have no choice but to leave it behind. The roads could be dangerous, but fear not because we’ll tell you how to get to your bug out location safely and in record time.
● Last but not least, we’re going to have a conversation about how to survive without electricity in the long hard years following an EMP event. Nothing is left out, including food and water procurement, hygiene and sanitation, alternative communication methods, and even things that are often overlooked such as home schooling
We really went out of our way to weed out the bad information about EMPs. Best of all, these things will help you survive and thrive in almost any other disaster or emergency, such as social unrest, hurricanes and an economic collapse. Click here to receive your EMP Survival guide. For the Silo, Dan F. Sullivan.
It’s hard to say exactly what the future holds, though Steve Jobs was seemingly pretty good at predicting it. In 1972 I had the unusual opportunity to be in a computer class with Steve Jobs. Of course, at the time he was just a nerdy teen and I was four years his junior. He and I would vie to play Tic-tac-toe on a 500 pound “computer” that our High School had recently purchased. Steve was obsessed with this machine. One day I asked Steve why he was so fixated on this refrigerator sized computer. He turned to me and said in an intense manner, “Don’t you see? This machine is going to change everything! It’s going to change the world!” 
