Webtagr - Technology News Summarizer

The Oda Who Lost, and Lost, and Lost…and Won?

2025-04-17

While Oda Nobunaga struck fear into the hearts of feudal lords during Japan's Sengoku period, another Oda, Ujiharu, became infamous as the weakest daimyo. Ruling strategically important Oda Castle, he lost and regained it nine times. Despite consistently poor military decisions—often ignoring sound advice—his unwavering refusal to accept defeat earned him the moniker “The Phoenix.” His seemingly reckless charges might have been an attempt to prevent sieges and protect his people. Exceptional diplomatic skills and deep loyalty from his retainers and farmers also marked his reign. Ultimately, his refusal to swear allegiance to Toyotomi Hideyoshi cost him his lands, but he survived—a fate arguably better than that of his more famous namesake, Oda Nobunaga.

(www.tokyoweekender.com)

Misc Sengoku period Oda Ujiharu

The Art of Clowning: More Than Just Laughs

2025-04-17

Comedian Grayson Morris shares his insights into the art of clowning. He emphasizes that clowning is about pleasing the audience, utilizing one's body, genuine interaction with the audience, and bravely taking risks, even if they lead to failure. He differentiates between "cute and silly" clowns and "subversive and thought-provoking" clowns, with the former focusing on entertainment and the latter incorporating critical and philosophical elements. The article also quotes Avner the Eccentric and John Gilkey, two masters of clowning, further exploring the essence of clowning, including: storytelling through the body, audience interaction, transforming challenges into opportunities, and the core of clowning being in action rather than just costume.

(funnyhow.substack.com)

Misc clowning performing arts comedy

Bring Back Native Browser RSS Feeds!

2025-04-17

The author reminisces about the convenience of native browser RSS feed support, where clicking an RSS icon would add a subscription to the browser's bookmarks, allowing for easy access to news updates. While email clients like Thunderbird currently offer RSS support, the author finds this less than ideal due to the need to switch applications. Web-based readers require accounts, and browser extensions are viewed with distrust. The author feels current alternatives are cumbersome compared to the simplicity of native browser integration and advocates for its return.

(jetgirl.art)

Misc

The Night Keeper and the Genetically Modified Mouse

2025-04-17

A university lab animal keeper stumbles upon an extraordinary secret: a genetically modified mouse, subjected to cruel experiments, has miraculously survived and seems to possess an exceptional lifespan. He secretly rescues the mouse and keeps it at home. This secret not only concerns the fate of a single mouse but also reflects the ethical dilemmas in scientific research and the relationship between humans and animals.

(jsomers.net)

Misc animal experimentation scientific secret

Global Country Codes and OTP Verification

2025-04-17

This code snippet displays a list of country codes for most countries worldwide and integrates a simple OTP (One-Time Password) verification process. Users can select a country code and then complete authentication by entering the OTP. This is a typical process used for user registration or login, with common applications including mobile number verification.

(status.zoom.us)

Misc OTP verification

Iconic Fry's Electronics Spaceship Demolished in Burbank

2025-04-17

The iconic spaceship-shaped Fry's Electronics store in Burbank, which closed in 2021, has been demolished. While the spaceship structure itself couldn't be saved, demolition crews preserved one alien artifact from the building. The site, located on the corner of Hollywood Way and Vanowen Street, is set to become an apartment complex with around 800 units.

(www.latimes.com)

Misc Burbank Demolition

Solferino: The Unexpected Birthplace of International Law

2025-04-16

Following the Battle of Solferino in 1859, Swiss businessman Henry Dunant, witnessing the horrific aftermath, was profoundly moved. His firsthand experience in aiding the wounded led to the creation of the International Committee of the Red Cross and the subsequent Geneva Conventions, laying the groundwork for modern international law. Despite a tumultuous personal life, Dunant's contribution to international cooperation and humanitarianism remains significant, his ideals continuing to shape global peace and development.

(worldhistory.substack.com)

Misc international law Red Cross Solferino

When College Might Not Be Worth It: A Cost-Benefit Analysis

2025-04-16

A recent study by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York reveals that while a college degree typically yields a healthy 12-13% return on investment, this isn't true for everyone. Factors such as high tuition costs, extended graduation timelines, and major choice significantly impact the return. The study analyzes various scenarios, including high living expenses, lack of financial aid, and extended schooling, all of which reduce the return. Furthermore, at least a quarter of graduates don't see sufficient economic benefits from college, and major choice heavily influences income, with STEM fields generally outperforming humanities.

(libertystreeteconomics.newyorkfed.org)

Misc college education major choice

800-Year-Old Kid's Doodles: A Glimpse into Medieval Childhood

2025-04-16

Soviet archaeological excavations unearthed birch bark sketches from medieval Novgorod, circa 1250 CE, created by a schoolboy named Onfim. His whimsical drawings—horses, soldiers, self-portraits—reveal the expressive capabilities of medieval children. Contrasting this are charcoal drawings found in a French iron mine, depicting child miners, a poignant reflection of their harsh reality. These discoveries offer a unique perspective on premodern childhood, highlighting its universality and diverse experiences across time and culture.

(resobscura.substack.com)

Misc Medieval children Art history Archaeological discovery

Darwin's Family Secrets: The Untold Story of Their Drawings

2025-04-16

On the 205th anniversary of Darwin's birth, a trove of previously unseen family drawings has surfaced. These range from Darwin's meticulous botanical sketches to charming doodles by his children, and even sketches by his wife, Emma. Highlights include a child's drawing titled "The Battle of the Fruit and Vegetable Soldiers," a whimsical creation adding a playful counterpoint to Darwin's serious scientific work. These artifacts reveal intimate glimpses into the Darwin family life, adding a human dimension to the legendary naturalist and showing how family influenced his work.

(theappendix.net)

Misc drawings

Spotify Community Help: Didn't Find the Answer? Post Your Question!

2025-04-16

Couldn't find the answer to your question in Spotify? No problem! Simply add details to your question, choose the relevant category, and post it in the community. You'll receive a notification when someone responds.

(community.spotify.com)

Misc Community Support

From Audiobooks to Essays: A Writer's Journey

2025-04-16

Starting with reflections on listening to the audiobook of Gabrielle Zevin's 'Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow,' the author delves into the relationship between audiobooks and traditional reading, and their own experiences in the creative process and recording audiobooks. The essay showcases personal reflections and, based on reader feedback, the author's decision to share more directly about life, writing, and opinions. The piece also promotes a podcast and writing workshop the author is involved with.

(newsandreviews.substack.com)

Misc audiobooks

Gatsby's Muse: A Century-Old Love Story and Literary Inspiration

2025-04-16

On the 100th anniversary of the publication of "The Great Gatsby," this article revisits the love story of author F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ginevra King. Their early 1920s romance deeply influenced Fitzgerald, with Ginevra serving as the inspiration for Daisy Buchanan. The piece uses numerous historical photos to illustrate this poignant love story and its connection to the literary classic.

(www.chicagotribune.com)

Misc love story

Trader Joe's Easter Tote Bags: $2.99 to $2000 Resale Frenzy

2025-04-15

Trader Joe's pastel-colored mini canvas tote bags, released earlier this month, have created a buying frenzy. Originally priced at $2.99, these limited-edition bags are reselling for nearly $2000 online. Shoppers have even engaged in physical altercations to obtain them, highlighting their immense popularity. This isn't the first time Trader Joe's mini totes have caused a stir; last year's release also sparked a similar craze, transforming them into sought-after fashion items.

(qz.com)

Misc limited edition resale

The Toxic Lady: A Medical Mystery That Baffles Experts

2025-04-15

In 1994, the death of Gloria Ramirez, a cancer patient, led to a bizarre incident where multiple healthcare workers fell ill after exposure to her body and blood. Initially dismissed as mass hysteria, investigations suggested that Ramirez's self-administered DMSO pain relief, combined with oxygen, may have formed toxic dimethyl sulfate (DMS). This theory, while published in Forensic Science International, remains debated, leaving the incident shrouded in mystery.

(en.wikipedia.org)

Misc toxic incident

The Toxic Lady: A Medical Mystery That Baffles Experts

2025-04-15

In 1994, Gloria Ramirez, a cancer patient, triggered a bizarre incident in a hospital ER. Multiple medical staff experienced fainting, convulsions, and other symptoms after her arrival, leading to the ER's immediate lockdown. While the official investigation concluded it was mass hysteria, several staff members suffered significant organ damage, fueling skepticism. A theory suggests Ramirez's self-medication with DMSO transformed into the highly toxic dimethyl sulfate during treatment, causing the incident. However, this theory lacks definitive proof, and Ramirez's death remains a mystery, prompting reflection on medical systems and scientific explanations.

(thartribune.com)

Misc medical mystery mass hysteria

Caxton's Early Printed Romances: Paris & Vienne and Blanchardyn & Eglantine

2025-04-15

William Caxton's *Paris and Vienne* (1485) and *Blanchardyn and Eglantine* (1489) stand apart from his other printed works. Unlike adaptations of epic cycles, these are independent adventure tales popular across medieval Europe in various languages and forms. With lively characters and unique plot treatments, they offered both edification and entertainment, showcasing chivalry and courtly love. As early examples of printed chivalric romances in England, they illuminate the development of English prose, the romance genre's evolution, and precursors to the novel.

(metseditions.org)

Misc Medieval Literature William Caxton Chivalric Romance

A Sweet History: How Fruit Shaped Human Civilization

2025-04-15

From banana cultivation in New Guinea 7,000 years ago to a 15th-century manuscript depicting a variety of fruits, humanity's love affair with fruit spans millennia. Archaeologists, using seeds and pits as evidence, reveal the ingenuity of ancient peoples in utilizing fruit—for example, preserving figs in honey to survive harsh winters. Fruit provided not only sugar, nutrients, and flavor, but also enriched lives, becoming a vital and enduring food source.

(archaeology.org)

Misc fruit agricultural history

Beyond Alphabetical Order: The Weird and Wonderful Ways Ecologists Determine Authorship

2025-04-15

This blog post explores unconventional methods for determining authorship order in ecology and evolutionary biology papers. From alphabetization to basketball skills, even coin flips, rock-paper-scissors, and bake-offs have been used. The author compiled numerous examples, including croquet matches, random number generators, geographical location, practical considerations, game theory, and dice rolls to decide authorship order. A brownie bake-off stands out as the most unusual and entertaining example. The post also highlights a retracted paper due to authorship disputes, along with examples using code and other innovative approaches. The lighthearted tone reveals the creativity and challenges researchers face when ordering authors.

(dynamicecology.wordpress.com)

Misc Academic Publishing Authorship Order

Wrongful Deportation: 19-Year-Old Sent to El Salvador's Super-Prison

2025-04-15

Nineteen-year-old Merwil Gutiérrez, a Venezuelan asylum seeker, was apprehended in New York by ICE agents who admitted he wasn't their target but deported him anyway. He was sent to El Salvador's notorious CECOT prison, despite his family's claims of no gang ties or criminal record. The incident highlights concerns over ICE procedures and human rights in El Salvador, sparking outrage and calls for his return. This case underscores the harsh realities of US immigration policies and the plight of asylum seekers.

(www.newsweek.com)

Misc

Columbia Student Arrested by ICE During Citizenship Interview

2025-04-15

Mohsen Mahdawi, a Columbia University philosophy student, was abducted by ICE agents during a US citizenship interview in Vermont. The agents, masked and hooded, took him away in an unmarked car. Mahdawi, a green card holder and outspoken advocate for Palestinians, was reportedly arrested in retaliation for his activism. A judge has issued a temporary restraining order preventing his removal from Vermont or deportation. Mahdawi, a committed Buddhist, previously appeared on 60 Minutes discussing student protests against Israel's response to Hamas's October 7th attack, stating that fighting for Palestinian freedom and against antisemitism must go hand-in-hand.

(dailynous.com)

Misc

Don't Argue with Toddlers (or Their Adult Equivalents)

2025-04-15

This article argues that many apparent arguments are not genuine exchanges of ideas, but rather displays of power, attention-seeking behaviors, or playful sparring. True arguments aim for insight and a conclusion. The author suggests that a willingness to change one's own mind is crucial; if you're not changing your perspective, you're likely not engaging in a real argument. Instead of trying to win, focus on asking open-ended questions like, "What information might change your mind?" The piece concludes that deeply held beliefs tied to identity are often resistant to change through argument.

(seths.blog)

Misc rationality

Lolita at 70: A Literary Exploration of Voyeurism and Self-Reflection

2025-04-15

Claire Messud's essay in the LARB Quarterly delves into the enduring controversy surrounding Vladimir Nabokov's Lolita on its 70th anniversary. The piece revisits the initial scandal and ongoing critiques, exploring the depiction of child abuse and the complex readerly experience. Messud argues that Lolita transcends simple 'problematic' status, serving as a profound exploration of human nature and a challenge to readers' habits and moral responsibilities. By referencing real-life cases, the essay connects the novel's plot to actual instances of child sexual abuse, prompting self-reflection. Ultimately, Messud advocates for a critical engagement with Lolita, viewing it as an exploration of humanity, not a justification of crime.

(lareviewofbooks.org)

Misc Nabokov Lolita

The Cat Symphony: A Tale of Friendship and Art

2025-04-14

An Austrian painter created his *Katzensymphonie* to celebrate violinist Joseph Joachim's appointment as director of Berlin's Hochschule für Musik. The painting's origins lie in 'Die Schwarzen Katzen,' a society founded in 1862 by contralto Amalie Joachim and friends, including Johannes Brahms, Julius Otto Grimm, and Clara Schumann. Membership was based on a 'cat-like' appreciation for fine things and friendship, with the constitution even detailing punishments for un-cat-like behavior. The painting and the society's story reveal a deep friendship and shared artistic passion.

(publicdomainreview.org)

Misc Die Schwarzen Katzen

Beyond the Romantic Narrative: A Reassessment of Vietnamese Anti-Colonialism

2025-04-14

The heroic narrative of Vietnamese anti-colonial struggle, depicting a unified nation resisting foreign invaders, is widely celebrated. However, new scholarship reveals a more complex history. The first half of the 20th century saw competing nationalist ideologies vying for influence, offering diverse interpretations of Vietnamese national identity and anti-colonial strategies. The article explores the ideas of key figures like Phan Boi Chau, Phan Chau Trinh, Nguyen An Ninh, Pham Quynh, and Ho Chi Minh, highlighting their use of national shame to motivate compatriots towards anti-colonial nation-building and their differing interpretations of concepts like 'freedom' and 'democracy'. This challenges the simplistic, romanticized narrative, showcasing the complexity and diversity of Vietnamese anti-colonialism.

(aeon.co)

Misc Vietnamese history anti-colonialism

Harvard Rejects Federal Government's Attempt to Control Academic Freedom

2025-04-14

Harvard University President Alan Garber issued a letter strongly condemning the federal government's attempt to interfere with the university's academic freedom and internal governance under the guise of combating antisemitism. The government's demands go beyond addressing antisemitism, encompassing direct control over Harvard's intellectual environment, including auditing viewpoints and limiting the power of specific individuals. Harvard argues these demands violate the First Amendment, exceed the government's authority under Title VI, and refuses to comply, vowing to defend its academic independence and constitutional rights. Harvard reaffirms its commitment to fighting antisemitism while upholding academic freedom and open inquiry.

(www.harvard.edu)

Misc government intervention Harvard University

High-Rated App and its Privacy Policy

2025-04-14

An app boasts a perfect 5-star rating with two reviews. Developer Daniel Plata states the app's privacy policy includes data collection, but this data is not linked to user identity. The app supports Family Sharing; some in-app purchases (like subscriptions) can be shared with family members.

(apps.apple.com)

Misc app rating family sharing

Three-Year IRS Battle: TurboTax Error Costs $12,000

2025-04-14

A TurboTax error cost the author over $12,000 in overpaid taxes, a battle that lasted nearly three years. In March 2022, while filing taxes using TurboTax, a software duplication error related to Incentive Stock Options (ISOs) led to a significantly inflated tax bill. Despite filing an amended return, the IRS's slow processing and a missing form generated by TurboTax further delayed the refund. Only after contacting their congressional representative was the refund, plus interest, finally received in March 2025. This story serves as a cautionary tale about tax software and the challenges of resolving IRS issues, advocating for simpler tax systems and highlighting the author's eventual success after significant perseverance.

(www.mikekasberg.com)

Misc

Kezurou-kai #39: A Deep Dive into Ultra-Thin Planing

2025-04-14

I attended the 39th annual Kezurou-kai in Itoigawa, Niigata, Japan – a competition focused on creating the thinnest possible wood shavings using hand planes. Using 70mm kanna on hinoki wood, competitors aimed for sub-10 micron shavings. My team achieved decent results, but mastering sub-10 micron planing proved challenging, highlighting the crucial role of wood quality and moisture content. Beyond the competition, the event showcased various woodworking skills, tool sharpening techniques, and a passionate community. A truly inspiring experience!

(www.bigsandwoodworking.com)

Misc hand tools japanese craft

Han Dynasty More Unequal Than Roman Empire: A Surprising New Study

2025-04-14

A new study using modern economic tools to compare the economic conditions of the Han Dynasty and the Roman Empire reveals a surprising finding: the Han Dynasty exhibited higher levels of economic inequality than the Roman Empire. Researchers discovered that the top 1% in Han China earned approximately 26% of total income, compared to 19% in the Roman Empire. While average income was slightly higher in the Roman Empire, the Han Dynasty's elite class extracted a staggering 80% of the economy, far exceeding the Roman's 69%. This high extraction rate, the researchers suggest, may have contributed to the dynasty's eventual downfall. This research challenges conventional wisdom about ancient imperial economies and offers fresh insights into historical economic inequality.

(phys.org)

Misc ancient civilizations

Category: Misc