เดือน: กันยายน 2023

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Discover What’s New in iPhone Features with the iOS 17 Release

Calling all iPhone users: the day has arrived for you to dive into a world of exciting new features as Apple releases iOS 17. This latest operating system is set to redefine the iPhone experience, promising to make it more personal and intuitive than ever before.

Back in June, Apple offered a tantalizing glimpse of iOS 17 at the Worldwide Developer Conference, sharing the spotlight with its groundbreaking Vision Pro mixed-reality headset. However, amid the whirlwind of innovation, some of the remarkable details about iOS 17 may have slipped by unnoticed.

Starting today, iPhone users can update to iOS 17 with a simple trip to the Software Update section in their phone’s Settings app. While many are eager to embrace the latest technological advancements, some prefer to exercise caution by backing up their critical data before embracing the new software. If you’re concerned about potential bugs, you might also choose to wait for the second version of iOS 17, expected to roll out in the coming weeks.

Now, let’s delve into some of the standout features that iOS 17 has in store for you.

Live Voicemail and Enhanced FaceTime

One of the most talked-about additions is the Live Voicemail feature. This game-changing feature transcribes incoming voicemail messages in real-time, granting users the ability to decide whether to answer the call while the caller is still leaving their message. When the “Silence Unknown Callers” setting is activated, unknown numbers are automatically directed to Live Voicemail.

Furthermore, FaceTime receives a significant facelift with the introduction of video messages for when someone misses a video call. iOS 17 also introduces a range of expressive reactions, including hearts, balloons, fireworks, and more, all of which can be triggered through simple gestures during FaceTime calls.

“Hey Siri” Becomes Simply “Siri”

Prepare to adapt your vocal commands as saying “Siri” will now suffice to activate Apple’s voice assistant, eliminating the need for the “Hey Siri” prefix. This change aims to make interactions with Siri feel more natural. Additionally, Siri will become more adept at handling consecutive requests once activated, streamlining your interactions.

NameDrop Feature for Contact Sharing

iOS 17 introduces the NameDrop feature, simplifying the process of sharing contact information with new acquaintances. iPhone users can bring their devices close to each other, similar to AirDrop, to exchange names and Contact Posters. The Contact Poster update allows users to design a custom image that appears during calls, creating a consistent caller ID photo.

Personalization is key, with the ability to customize your contact card “poster” with a photo or memoji of your choice.

Revamped Autocorrect

Autocorrect gets a major upgrade with the integration of a transformer language model, enhancing word prediction and providing sentence-level autocorrections that address a wider range of grammatical errors. Predictive text recommendations now appear in-line as you type, simplifying the process of adding entire words or completing sentences.

The iOS keyboard becomes more intuitive over time, learning your typing habits, and adapting to words you commonly misspell, even those you intentionally want to type.

New Standby Mode, Journal App, and More

iOS 17 also introduces StandBy, a full-screen experience that offers glanceable information when your iPhone is on its side and charging. Customize the display with a clock, favorite photos, or frequently used widgets, perfect for your nightstand or desk.

In the pipeline, Apple’s Journal app aims to promote reflection and gratitude through daily journaling, enhancing your overall well-being.

In conclusion, iOS 17 brings a host of exciting features and improvements to the iPhone ecosystem. Whether it’s the real-time transcription of Live Voicemail, the revamped Siri experience, or the intuitive NameDrop feature, iOS 17 is designed to elevate your iPhone experience to new heights. So, get ready to update your device and explore the future of mobile technology.

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Archaeologists have unearthed a 2000-year-old children’s shoe.

Archaeologists, conducting investigations at the Georgenberg Mine in Dürrnberg near Salzburg, have made a remarkable discovery—a well-preserved, 2000-year-old children’s shoe. This archaeological endeavor has been a collaborative effort between the German Mining Museum Bochum and the Leibniz Research Museum for Georesources since 2001.

Dürrnberg has been a site of mining activity for millennia, primarily for its abundant rock salt deposits. Previous studies in this region have unveiled artifacts and evidence of tribal settlements dating back to the Early Iron Age.

In recent excavations at the Georgenberg Mine, the team unearthed an impeccably preserved children’s shoe dating back two millennia. The exceptional preservation of this shoe can be attributed to the high salt levels in the mine, which inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. Professor Dr. Thomas Stoellner, head of the research department, remarked, “The condition of the discovered shoe is truly exceptional.”

Crafted from leather, the shoe still retains traces of lacing made from flax or linen. Based on its design typology, it is likely that this shoe was manufactured during the 2nd century BC.

While leather shoes have been previously found in Dürrnberg, the presence of a child’s shoe in the mines suggests that children were involved in underground activities during ancient mining operations. Furthermore, excavations revealed a fragment of a wooden shovel and remnants of fur with accompanying lacing, which researchers believe may have belonged to a fur hood.

This exploration of Iron Age salt mining in Dürrnberg is part of a long-term research project generously supported by Salinen Austria AG and Salinen Tourismus, in collaboration with the Institute for Archaeological Sciences at Ruhr University Bochum. Dr. Stoellner reflected on the significance of these discoveries, noting, “Organic materials typically deteriorate over time. Finds such as this child’s shoe, as well as textile remnants and even excrement discovered in Dürrnberg, provide an exceptionally rare glimpse into the lives of Iron Age miners.”

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Study Finds COVID-19 Pandemic Linked to Delayed Early Childhood Development

In a study recently published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, the COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching effects on society, including its impact on the development of young children. A recent cohort study conducted in Japan has revealed alarming findings regarding the association between the pandemic and early childhood development.

The study, which involved 447 children aged 1 to 3 years and 440 children aged 3 to 5 years, aimed to examine the relationship between the COVID-19 pandemic and early childhood development. The research was conducted in accredited nursery centers in a Japanese municipality, with baseline surveys conducted between 2017 and 2019, followed by a two-year period of observation during the pandemic.

The key findings of the study were as follows:

Delayed Development at Age 5: Children who were exposed to the pandemic during their early years were found to be significantly behind in their development compared to those who were not exposed. Specifically, these children were 4.39 months behind in development by the time they reached age 5.

Widening Developmental Variations: The study noted that variations in development were more pronounced during the pandemic, irrespective of the children’s age. This indicates that the pandemic’s impact on development affected children across the board.

Quality of Nursery Care: The quality of care provided at nursery centers was identified as a significant factor. Higher-quality care was associated with more positive development outcomes, especially in children aged 3 years during the pandemic.

Parental Depression: The study found that parental depression appeared to amplify the negative association between the pandemic and delayed development at age 5. This suggests that children with parents experiencing depression were particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of the pandemic on their development.

The study’s results highlight the profound and lasting impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on early childhood development. While previous research has examined the pandemic’s effect on school-aged children, this study emphasizes the importance of considering younger children as well.

Researchers stressed the need to identify children who may have been affected by the pandemic’s disruptions and to provide them with appropriate support. This support should encompass various aspects of child development, including learning, socialization, physical and mental health, and family support.

The findings from this study underscore the importance of recognizing the challenges faced by young children and their families during the pandemic and the necessity of implementing interventions to mitigate the negative consequences on their development. As the world continues to navigate the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, these insights are critical in ensuring the well-being and future prospects of our youngest generation.

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Ten Behaviors for Lowering the Risk of Depression

Depression is a common and serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While factors like genetics and brain chemistry play a role, there are several behaviors individuals can adopt to reduce their risk of developing depression. In this article, we’ll explore ten behaviors that can contribute to better mental well-being and help mitigate the risk of depression.

Regular Exercise

Physical activity has been proven to have a profound impact on mental health. Engaging in regular exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week to reduce the risk of depression.

Healthy Diet

A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids can positively influence brain health and reduce the risk of depression. Avoid excessive consumption of sugary and processed foods, as they can have a negative impact on mood.

Quality Sleep

Adequate sleep is crucial for maintaining good mental health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help regulate mood and reduce the risk of depression. Establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a comfortable sleep environment can be beneficial.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can contribute to depression. Developing effective stress management techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help lower stress levels and reduce the risk of depression.

Social Connection

Maintaining strong social connections and a support system is vital for mental well-being. Engage in meaningful relationships, spend time with friends and family, and seek support when needed. Isolation can increase the risk of depression, so stay connected.

Avoid Substance Abuse

Excessive alcohol or drug use can exacerbate feelings of depression. Limit or avoid these substances to reduce the risk of depression. Seek help if you’re struggling with substance abuse issues.

Set Realistic Goals

Setting achievable goals and expectations for yourself can improve self-esteem and reduce the risk of depression. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps and celebrate your accomplishments along the way.

Seek Professional Help

If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression or have a family history of depression, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Therapy, counseling, and medication can be effective treatments for depression and can help reduce the risk of more severe episodes.

Engage in Hobbies and Interests

Pursuing hobbies and interests that bring joy and fulfillment can have a protective effect against depression. Engage in activities that you’re passionate about, as they can boost your mood and self-esteem.

Practice Self-Compassion

Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion. Avoid self-criticism and negative self-talk. Acknowledge your strengths and embrace self-care practices that promote mental well-being.

Conclusion

While depression is a complex condition with various contributing factors, adopting these behaviors can significantly reduce the risk of developing depression. Remember that seeking professional help is essential if you or someone you know is struggling with depression. By prioritizing mental health and making positive lifestyle choices, individuals can lead happier and healthier lives while mitigating the risk of depressure disease.

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Snacking on Health: The Crucial Choice You Might Be Overlooking

If you’ve been diligently focusing on healthier meals, you’re on the right track to improving your overall health. However, have you considered what you snack on? A recent study suggests that a significant portion of us may be negating the benefits of our nutritious meals by indulging in ultra-processed and sugary snacks. The findings reveal that 1 in 4 individuals may be undermining their healthy eating efforts. In this article, we’ll explore the implications of snacking choices and how making the right decisions can significantly impact your well-being.

The Snacking Dilemma

“Considering 95% of us snack, and that nearly a quarter of our calories come from snacks, swapping unhealthy snacks such as cookies, crisps, and cakes to healthy snacks like fruit and nuts is a really simple way to improve your health,” emphasized senior author Sarah Berry, a researcher at King’s College London. With over 90% of adults in the United States reporting that they consume one or more snacks daily, and similar trends in the United Kingdom, the significance of snack choices cannot be overstated.

The Study Findings

The study, conducted in collaboration between Tufts University, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and nutrition researchers across Europe, analyzed the snacking habits of 854 participants. The results were alarming. More than 25% of study participants reported eating healthy main meals but indulged in highly processed and sugary snacks. This pattern was associated with higher body mass index (BMI), increased visceral fat mass, and elevated postprandial triglyceride concentrations—markers linked to metabolic diseases like stroke, cardiovascular disease, and obesity.

Timing Matters

It’s not just about what you snack on but also when you do it. The study highlighted that snacking after 9 p.m. often led to the consumption of calorie-dense foods high in fat and sugar. Late-night snacking was linked to worse blood markers that increase the risk of chronic diseases when compared to those who snacked earlier in the day.

Healthy Snacking: A Smart Choice

The study’s silver lining emphasizes that not all snacking is detrimental to health. Participants who frequently opted for high-quality snacks like nuts and fresh fruits were more likely to maintain a healthy weight compared to non-snackers or those who chose unhealthy options.

Expert Advice

Renowned specialist in preventive and lifestyle medicine and nutrition, Dr. David Katz, encourages a proactive approach to snacking. He suggests treating the food environment like we do the weather—protecting ourselves against it. Just as we carry a coat when it’s cold or an umbrella when it rains, we should equip ourselves with convenient, nutritious snacks to ensure that we make wise choices even when on the go.

Conclusion

Your snacking choices can have a significant impact on your overall health. As we continue to prioritize healthier meals, let’s not forget the importance of making mindful decisions about what we snack on and when. By swapping out unhealthy options for nutritious alternatives like nuts and fresh fruits, we can take a simple yet effective step toward a healthier and happier life. So, invest in an insulated snack pack, keep your favorite nutritious foods handy, and take control of your snacking habits. Your well-being depends on it.

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An independent consortium of experts and scientists has published a comprehensive 33-page report on Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs).

An independent report has suggested that NASA could play a vital role in gathering more data on UFOs, officially referred to as unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP). The report, created by a group of experts and scientists in 2022, aimed to provide a roadmap for NASA to assist in researching UAP and scientifically examining these mysterious occurrences. The group did not find concrete evidence that UAPs were linked to intelligent alien life.

The report recommends that NASA utilize satellites and other instruments to gather additional information about these phenomena. In response to these findings, NASA has announced the appointment of its first director of UAP research. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson emphasized that this marks the first time NASA is taking significant steps to investigate UAP, approaching the matter without preconceived notions.

The report, spanning 33 pages and based on unclassified data, clarifies that while aliens are a possibility, they are not the only or the most likely explanation for UAP. It acknowledges that credible witnesses, including military aviators, have reported unexplained objects in U.S. airspace. While most of these incidents have been explained, a few remain unidentified as known human-made or natural phenomena.

The report suggests that NASA can enhance its efforts using existing technology and potentially employ artificial intelligence to analyze vast datasets for answers. It also underscores the need to combat biases and preconceived skepticism among UAP witnesses.

The report emphasizes the importance of a rigorous, evidence-based, data-driven scientific approach to understanding UAP. It cites the need for extraordinary evidence to support extraordinary claims, invoking Thomas Jefferson’s perspective on unexplained phenomena.

NASA’s assistant deputy associate administrator for research mentioned that NASA would not publicly release the name of the new UAP research director due to concerns about potential harassment, highlighting the harassment faced by those involved in the independent study.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson clarified that while NASA actively explores the possibility of extraterrestrial life, UAP may not necessarily be evidence of such life. He stressed the need to shift the conversation about UAP from sensationalism to science.

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The Potential of AI as a Game-Changing Tool in Addressing Male Infertility

A team of researchers led by Dr. Steven Vasilescu from the University of Technology Sydney has developed an AI software called SpermSearch to assist in solving male infertility. The AI can rapidly identify viable sperm in samples taken from severely infertile men, doing so 1,000 times faster than a highly trained human observer. This technology is particularly beneficial for men with a condition called non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), where they have no sperm in their ejaculate. Traditionally, embryologists manually search for healthy sperm in surgically removed testes tissue, a time-consuming and labor-intensive process.

SpermSearch significantly speeds up this process by analyzing photographs of tissue samples and instantly identifying viable sperm. The AI was trained using thousands of images of complex tissue samples to achieve this remarkable speed. While SpermSearch is not intended to replace embryologists, it acts as an assistive tool, saving critical time in identifying viable sperm for fertilization.

The ability to quickly find viable sperm is crucial in fertility treatments, as there is a limited time window for fertilization once eggs are collected. Male infertility has become a growing concern, with factors such as pollution, smoking, poor diets, lack of exercise, and stress contributing to a decline in sperm counts.

Other researchers are also exploring AI applications in addressing male infertility. For instance, another technique tracks the speed and movement of sperm tails to assess their health, while a different approach identifies DNA damage in individual sperm cells.

While these AI developments are promising, they are still in the proof-of-concept stage and will require further clinical trials before becoming commercially available. Nonetheless, such advancements offer hope for men facing infertility issues, potentially increasing their chances of fathering biological children. The University of Technology Sydney team is currently preparing for clinical trials, with the ultimate goal of achieving a live pregnancy using their AI technology.

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iPhone 15 Abandons Lightning Charger Following EU Directive

Apple has confirmed that the upcoming iPhone 15 will no longer have its proprietary lightning charging port, instead opting for a USB-C cable as the new standard, following a directive from the European Union. Alongside this announcement, a new Apple Watch series with advanced features was unveiled. Some experts expressed concerns that these updates may not be sufficiently groundbreaking. Apple also introduced a USB-C-to-lightning port adapter for users with existing accessories. This move is aimed at making charging standards more uniform, reducing e-waste, and saving consumers money. However, critics argue it may lead to discarded cables. In response, Apple pledged environmental initiatives, such as carbon neutrality and increased use of recycled materials. The iPhone 15 offers brighter screens and improved cameras, with the Pro models featuring a titanium frame and customizable “action button.” The new Apple Watch incorporates gesture control. Some experts questioned whether consumers would be willing to pay high prices for devices that may not represent major advancements. The iPhone 15 starts at $998, and the Pro model at $1249 in the US. Despite recent challenges, Apple’s smartphone shipments experienced a relatively small decline compared to other major manufacturers in the global smartphone market.

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A recent study demonstrates that the sense of purpose diminishes following a dementia diagnosis.

A new study reveals that a person’s sense of purpose tends to decline both before and after a diagnosis of dementia or cognitive decline. The study, led by Dr. Angelina Sutin, emphasizes that having a sense of purpose in life is crucial for overall well-being and health. Previous research has indicated that individuals with a stronger sense of purpose are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. This study, however, explored the relationship between cognitive impairment and a sense of purpose.

The research, based on data from over 30,000 participants across two studies, examined cognitive impairment and feelings of purpose over several years. It found that while there was some decrease in the sense of purpose leading up to cognitive impairment, the decline became more rapid after the diagnosis.

The findings suggest that maintaining a sense of purpose is important, particularly for individuals facing cognitive impairment, as it can help prevent apathy and maintain a higher quality of life. Caregivers, whether professionals or loved ones, play a crucial role in helping individuals with cognitive impairment stay engaged and maintain their sense of purpose. Striking a balance between assistance and independence is key to providing effective support.

The study highlights the need for individualized care that doesn’t reduce individuals to just their disease but acknowledges their unique identity and life experiences. Caregivers should take the time to learn about the person’s interests, career, and hobbies to help maintain their sense of self and engage them in meaningful activities. Connecting with existing friends and loved ones can also be crucial in providing support for those with cognitive impairment. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the importance of preserving a sense of purpose throughout life and provides insights into how caregivers and support systems can help individuals with cognitive impairment maintain their well-being and quality of life.

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ครอบครัวของจอร์จ ลินเดมันน์ชาวอเมริกันผู้ล่วงลับยินยอมส่งคืนโบราณวัตถุที่ถูกขโมยไปกลับคืนสู่ประเทศกัมพูชา

ครอบครัวของนักธุรกิจท่อส่งก๊าซผู้มั่งคั่งชาวอเมริกันที่ชื่อ จอร์จ ลินเดมันน์ จะนำโบราณวัตถุที่ถูกขโมยไปจำนวน 33 ชิ้นกลับคืนสู่ประเทศกัมพูชา ตามการยืนยันของสำนักงานอัยการสหรัฐฯ ความเคลื่อนไหวนี้ถูกมองว่าเป็นสิ่งที่มีความสำคัญต่อชาวกัมพูชา โดยประเทศกัมพูชาพยายามเรียกคืนโบราณวัตถุที่ถูกขโมยมานานหลายปี ซึ่งประกอบด้วยรูปปั้นเทพเจ้า เทวดา และรูปปั้นปีศาจที่มีอายุตั้งแต่ศตวรรษที่ 10 และ ศตวรรษที่ 12 จากสถานที่สำคัญของกัมพูชา เช่น เกาะเคอร์และนครวัด มรดกทางโบราณคดีของกัมพูชาถูกขโมยและลักลอบไปอย่างกว้างขวางในช่วงความขัดแย้งกลางเมืองระหว่างทศวรรษ 1960 ถึง 1990 และรัฐบาลกำลังพยายามหาทางนำโบราณวัตถุเหล่านี้กลับคืน ซึ่งบางส่วนเชื่อกันว่ายังอยู่ในพิพิธภัณฑ์ของอเมริกา

การตัดสินใจของครอบครัวลินเดมันน์ในการคืนโบราณวัตถุเหล่านี้เป็นไปโดยความสมัครใจ และในส่วนทนายความของครอบครัวก็ยังไม่ได้ให้ความเห็นเกี่ยวกับเรื่องนี้ คาดว่าสิ่งประดิษฐ์ที่เป็นโบราณวัตถุเหล่านี้จะถูกส่งกลับประเทศกัมพูชาในปลายปี 2023 นี้ และมีรายงานว่าครอบครัวลินเดอมันน์ได้จ่ายเงินมากกว่า 20 ล้านดอลลาร์เพื่อซื้อสิ่งเหล่านี้มา ด้านกระทรวงวัฒนธรรมและวิจิตรศิลป์ในประเทศกัมพูชาได้กล่าวชื่นชมการตัดสินใจของครอบครัวลินเดอมันน์ ว่าการพิจารณาตัดสินใจนี้เป็นตัวอย่างเชิงบวกสำหรับพิพิธภัณฑ์อื่นๆ และผู้ที่ชื่นชอบการสะสมโบราณวัตถุ

ในช่วงไม่กี่ปีมานี้ สหรัฐฯ ได้ร่วมมือกับกัมพูชาเพื่อส่งคืนวัตถุโบราณที่ถูกขโมยกลับประเทศ โดยในปี 2021 ได้คืนไปแล้ว 27 ชิ้น และจำนวน 30 ชิ้นในปีก่อนหน้านั้น รวมถึงบางส่วนที่มีอายุมากกว่า 1,000 ปีด้วย กัมพูชามองว่าโบราณวัตถุที่ได้รับการฟื้นฟูกลับคืนเหล่านี้ไม่ใช่เป็นเพียงแค่โบราณวัตถุทางประวัติศาสตร์เท่านั้น แต่ยังเป็นองค์ประกอบสำคัญแห่งมรดกทางวัฒนธรรม ซึ่งสะท้อนถึงอัตลักษณ์ความเป็นตัวตนและจิตวิญญาณของชาวกัมพูชา.