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The Letter That Arrived Late
The letter arrived on a quiet Tuesday morning. It was slipped under Adam’s door, mixed with newspapers and advertisements. At first, he didn’t notice it. The envelope was plain, slightly yellowed, with his name written in careful handwriting. No return address.
By Sudais Zakwan7 days ago in Humans
China Central Bank Keeps Buying Gold as Bull Run Hits Brakes. AI-Generated.
Beijing’s steady accumulation of bullion underscores a long-term strategy to diversify reserves, hedge geopolitical risk, and bolster confidence in the yuan—even as global gold prices cool after a historic rally.
By Sadaqat Ali7 days ago in Journal
The Bench Near the Window
Nora lived a fast life. Every day felt rushed, filled with tasks, messages, and plans. Even when she sat still, her mind kept moving. She believed that staying busy meant staying important. Slowing down felt uncomfortable, almost like wasting time. She rarely allowed herself moments of pause.
By Sudais Zakwan7 days ago in Lifehack
Build Your Fields Before Your Barns
“First plant your fields; then build your barn.” (Proverbs 24:27, MSG) This is one of my favorite scriptures from the Great Book. It is simple, direct, and incredibly practical. It speaks to order, patience, and wisdom, especially when it comes to how we manage our finances. It reminds us that there is a sequence to building a stable life, and that skipping steps often comes with consequences.
By Destiny S. Harris7 days ago in Trader
Psychiatrist Says Kennedy Was ‘Not Accurate’ in Discussing His Keto Studies. AI-Generated.
A prominent psychiatrist has publicly challenged recent claims made by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. regarding his research into the ketogenic diet, saying Kennedy’s statements about the findings were “not accurate” and risk misleading the public about the science behind nutrition and mental health. The dispute centers on Kennedy’s comments in a recent interview in which he cited his own studies to argue that the ketogenic diet could dramatically improve mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. While Kennedy described the results as groundbreaking, a psychiatrist involved in reviewing the research said his interpretation overstated the evidence and simplified complex findings. Scientific Concerns Raised Dr. Alan Mercer, a psychiatrist and clinical researcher who examined the data referenced by Kennedy, said the conclusions presented to the public did not fully reflect what the studies actually showed. “The results were preliminary and limited,” Mercer said in a statement. “Mr. Kennedy portrayed them as definitive proof that keto diets can treat psychiatric disorders. That is simply not accurate.” Mercer emphasized that the studies involved small sample sizes and short observation periods, making them insufficient to support broad claims about mental health treatment. He warned that presenting early-stage research as settled science could encourage vulnerable individuals to abandon established medical care. What Kennedy Claimed Kennedy, a long-time advocate of alternative health approaches, said in interviews and public appearances that ketogenic diets had produced “remarkable improvements” in mental well-being among participants in his studies. He suggested that shifting the brain’s energy source from glucose to ketones could stabilize mood and reduce symptoms of mental illness. He also implied that pharmaceutical treatments for mental health were often unnecessary if patients adopted dietary changes. These remarks quickly drew criticism from medical professionals who argued that such claims require far stronger clinical evidence. A spokesperson for Kennedy responded by saying that he never intended to replace professional medical advice and that his remarks were meant to highlight “promising avenues for further research.” The Keto Diet and Mental Health The ketogenic diet, which is high in fat and extremely low in carbohydrates, has long been used to treat epilepsy in children and is increasingly popular for weight loss. In recent years, researchers have explored whether it might have benefits for certain neurological and psychiatric conditions. Some small studies suggest potential improvements in mood and cognitive function, but experts stress that these findings remain experimental. Larger, controlled trials are still needed before keto can be recommended as a mental health therapy. “Nutrition absolutely plays a role in brain health,” said Dr. Leila Harmon, a nutrition psychiatrist not involved in the dispute. “But claiming a single diet can replace therapy or medication is dangerous and misleading.” Risk of Public Misinformation Health experts worry that Kennedy’s statements could spread confusion at a time when misinformation about diet and medicine already circulates widely online. Social media platforms amplified his comments, with some users promoting keto as a cure-all for mental illness. “This kind of messaging can be harmful,” Mercer said. “People struggling with depression or bipolar disorder might stop taking their medication because they believe diet alone will fix everything. That puts lives at risk.” Mental health organizations echoed those concerns, urging the public to consult licensed professionals before making drastic changes to treatment plans. Political and Cultural Context Kennedy’s remarks also carry political weight, as he remains a controversial public figure whose statements often blur the line between science and advocacy. Critics argue that his influence gives his health claims greater reach than those of ordinary researchers. “This is not just a scientific disagreement,” said one public health analyst. “It’s about responsibility when speaking to millions of people.” Supporters, however, argue that Kennedy is encouraging innovation and questioning entrenched medical practices. They accuse mainstream psychiatry of being resistant to new ideas and overly dependent on pharmaceutical solutions. Call for Clearer Communication The psychiatrist who criticized Kennedy said the issue is not about silencing debate but about presenting research honestly. “There’s nothing wrong with saying, ‘We’re exploring this and the results are interesting,’” Mercer explained. “The problem comes when those results are portrayed as proven therapies.” Medical associations are now calling for clearer guidelines on how preliminary health research should be discussed in public forums. Some experts suggest that journalists and influencers should be more careful when translating complex scientific findings for mass audiences. What Comes Next Further studies on ketogenic diets and mental health are underway at several universities, but researchers say it will take years before firm conclusions can be drawn. Until then, doctors recommend that patients treat such claims cautiously. For now, the controversy highlights a familiar tension between scientific rigor and popular health messaging. As diets and wellness trends gain attention, the line between hope and hype becomes increasingly thin. “The science is evolving,” Mercer said. “But accuracy matters. People deserve facts, not exaggerated promises.” As debate continues, one point remains clear: while nutrition may play a supportive role in mental health, experts agree it should complement — not replace — professional psychiatric care.
By Fiaz Ahmed 7 days ago in Longevity
A Quandary in Quarantine
Chapter Fourteen By the time the Stay At Home Order went into effect on Wednesday, people in Elsewhere seemed pretty used to the idea. I think that could be directly attributed to the fact that Wisconsinites were used to basically not leaving their houses for months at a time over the winter. They were like bears, hibernating for the winter.
By Erin Lorandos7 days ago in Fiction
The Question of Breakfast . Content Warning.
The Question of Breakfast The kettle whistled, the low, polite sound it made every time the cycle completed. Tea was every afternoon at four. George didn’t have to look at the clock. The television paced their days. The advert breaks gave him just enough time to put the kettle on. The steam hitting the tile was his reminder, like a trusty timepiece.
By Claire McAllen7 days ago in Fiction
US and Iran Say ‘Good’ Start Made in Talks Over Nuclear Programme. AI-Generated.
After years of animosity, intermittent negotiations and escalating threats, the United States and Iran took a tentative step toward reviving diplomatic engagement this week — with both sides describing indirect talks over Tehran’s nuclear programme as a “good start.” The discussions, held in Muscat, Oman, were the first substantive engagement on the contentious issue since high tensions erupted following U.S. and allied military actions and deep mistrust between the two governments. Mediated by the government of Oman, the opening round of indirect talks brought together senior Iranian and U.S. representatives in an effort to find common ground on one of the most polarising security issues in the Middle East: Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told state media that the engagement was a positive beginning and agreed that both sides should continue dialogue, with further consultations to be planned in their respective capitals. A Fragile Diplomatic Start The discussions in Muscat did not produce a breakthrough agreement, but the language used by both sides reflected cautious optimism about keeping diplomatic channels open. Araghchi described the indirect talks, mediated by Oman’s foreign minister, as a “very good start” and said that there was an understanding to continue negotiations following further consultations in Tehran and Washington. The emphasis remained on resuming a process that has been stalled for months. The National Crucially, Tehran insisted that the dialogue must be conducted in a calm environment free from threats and pressure, and that the process should focus strictly on the nuclear programme — not on other contentious issues such as its ballistic missile capabilities, regional influence or human rights matters. Araghchi emphasised that Iran would not widen the agenda to include these broader elements. Apa.az The U.S. delegation, which included special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior advisers, underscored its interest in re-engaging diplomatically, even as it continued to apply economic and political pressure through sanctions. Western diplomats have said that willingness to talk, even indirectly, may help avert the risk of renewed military confrontation in a region long marked by volatility and sparked by confrontations last year. Reuters Points of Contention and Red Lines While both sides welcomed the resumption of diplomacy, serious disagreements remain. Washington has repeatedly expressed a desire to address not only nuclear issues but also Iran’s ballistic missile development and support for allied groups across the Middle East. These issues, championed by U.S. lawmakers and regional partners such as Israel and Gulf states, have complicated negotiations because Tehran considers them matters of sovereignty and defence rather than subjects for compromise. Khaleej Times In Muscat, Iranian officials underlined that discussions would remain narrowly focused. Araghchi reiterated Iran’s stance that the nuclear question is central and that framing talks around other security concerns could undermine progress. This reflects Tehran’s longstanding view that its right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes, as recognised under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), is non-negotiable — even if Washington and its allies remain sceptical about Iran’s intentions. The National Despite these differences, both delegations acknowledged that the current atmosphere of distrust poses a major challenge. Araghchi highlighted the need to overcome this mistrust before substantive agreement — or even a formal framework — can be reached. Further consultations in respective capitals are expected to sharpen positions ahead of subsequent rounds. Apa.az Context of Escalation and Sanctions Pressure The Oman talks occur against a backdrop of heightened regional tension. Relations deteriorated significantly last year following U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, which led to retaliatory missile strikes and raised fears of wider conflict. In response to ongoing tensions, Washington has maintained a stepped-up military presence in the Gulf and continued to impose sanctions targeting Iranian petroleum exports and entities linked to illicit trade. The National The U.S. sanctions regime was expanded even as diplomats met, with announcements targeting shadow-fleet vessels and business networks linked to Iranian oil — a clear signal of America’s dual strategy of pressure alongside diplomatic engagement. These measures aim to limit Iran’s financial ability to sustain its nuclear and military programmes, even as negotiators work toward a possible negotiated outcome. Khaleej Times International Responses and Future Prospects Regional leaders and foreign governments have watched the Muscat talks closely, with many expressing cautious support for renewed dialogue — albeit with reservations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reported to be scheduling discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump to coordinate policy toward Iran, particularly regarding nuclear caps and the missile threat. European and Gulf partners have also urged restraint and continued diplomacy as the most viable path to prevent another conflagration in the oil-rich region. Reuters Oman’s role as mediator underscores its longstanding position as a neutral facilitator of such engagements, and officials described the negotiations as “very serious,” with plans to reconvene after careful consideration by both Tehran and Washington. The National A Cautious Outlook For now, both sides appear committed to building on the “good start,” even if significant skepticism surrounds the likelihood of a comprehensive deal. Deep mistrust, entrenched policy differences, and ongoing sanctions make progress uncertain. But the resumption of dialogue — however tentative — marks a notable shift from months of diplomatic silence. The coming weeks will test whether this affable beginning can evolve into sustained negotiations capable of addressing the core nuclear dispute, reducing regional tensions, and possibly easing economic hardship in Iran — or whether it will remain a brief diplomatic reprieve in an otherwise fraught geopolitical landscape. abc.net.au
By Fiaz Ahmed 7 days ago in The Swamp
A Quandary in Quarantine
Chapter Thirteen It was a very good thing that I had worked so hard to get our virtual reference services going as quickly as I had. It seemed we would be using it for the foreseeable future, at least. It was the Monday after our first full week of working from home. The state’s Stay At Home Order was scheduled to go into effect on Wednesday. Our town published a paraphrased versions of Governor Evers’ executive order on the town’s website:
By Erin Lorandos7 days ago in Fiction
A Quandary in Quarantine
Chapter Twelve The ‘authorities’ did not seem to be in much of a rush, though. Deputy Drew finally arrived about twenty minutes later. I supposed it was not really a real emergency, but still - in a town the size of Elsewhere, it’s not like there was a lot of other police matters taking up his time. When Deputy James did pull up, it sounded like he had parked in my driveway - rather than Luce’s. Odd. Sure enough, moments later I heard my own doorbell chime and there he was standing on my front stoop.
By Erin Lorandos7 days ago in Fiction
A Quandary in Quarantine
Chapter Eleven I arrived back home in record time, contrary to the attempt of the slushy streets to waylay me. As I pulled into my driveway, I looked over to the front window of the house Luce and her mother shared next to me. I saw Luce’s face through the curtains. I was sure by now Annie Bea would also have returned home from her Meals on Wheels delivery route, and Luce and I would have the chance to call Carson’s cousin, Stephanie about my theory, but Luce’s face looked worried through the window glass and I could feel my heart beat faster like it does when I get an inclining that something bad has happened. I quickly pulled out my phone and called Luce.
By Erin Lorandos7 days ago in Fiction
