Black Friday
Friday, November 22nd
World Events and Politics — ICC Issue Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu
Reuters
On November 21, 2024, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, alongside Hamas military leader Mohammed Deif, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The ICC's prosecutor, Karim Khan, had sought these warrants due to allegations that Netanyahu and Gallant employed starvation as a method of warfare and intentionally targeted civilians during military operations from October 8, 2023, to May 20, 2024. This marks the first time Israeli officials have faced indictment by an international tribunal for actions in this conflict. The warrants have drawn widespread condemnation from Israeli leaders, who labeled them as anti-Semitic, while also raising concerns about the implications for Israel's international standing and potential travel restrictions for the accused in ICC member countries. Although Israel is not a signatory to the ICC and will likely not extradite its leaders, the situation complicates diplomatic relations, particularly with nations that may feel compelled to act on the warrants.
Science and Technology — New Schizophrenia Drug Could Treat Alzheimer’s Disease
Nature.com
The recent approval of KarXT (Cobenfy), the first schizophrenia drug in decades with a novel mechanism targeting muscarinic receptors, has generated excitement in psychiatric medicine, signaling a potential shift in treatment approaches. Developed by Karuna Therapeutics, this drug combines xanomeline and trospium to enhance antipsychotic and cognitive effects while minimizing side effects compared to traditional dopamine-blocking medications. Despite the optimism surrounding KarXT, the pharmaceutical landscape remains cautious; a recent trial for another muscarinic drug, emraclidine, ended in disappointment, raising concerns about the viability of similar treatments. While researchers are hopeful that muscarinic drugs could also address conditions like Alzheimer’s and addiction, the path to successful development is fraught with challenges, as evidenced by past failures and ongoing trials that reveal both promise and uncertainty in real-world applications.
Business and Finance — Google Don’t Want To Break Up
Alphabet's shares fell 4% on November 21, 2024, after the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) proposed that Google divest its Chrome browser as part of an antitrust remedy following a federal judge's ruling that deemed the company a monopolist in online search. The DOJ's filing argues that selling Chrome would eliminate Google's control over a critical access point to the internet, fostering competition among rival search engines. This move represents the most aggressive action against a tech giant since the DOJ's case against Microsoft in 2001. Alongside the Chrome divestiture, the DOJ suggested restrictions on Google's Android operating system and exclusive agreements with third parties to ensure a level playing field for competitors. Google criticized the proposal as overly broad and harmful to consumer privacy and innovation, indicating plans to appeal the ruling, which could prolong the legal battle over its business practices.
Health and Wellness — Take a Break, Seriously
To optimize study sessions and enhance focus, it's recommended to take breaks every 50 to 90 minutes, with varying durations based on the intensity of the study. Research suggests that a 17-minute break after 52 minutes of work is particularly effective for productivity, allowing the brain to recharge and improve concentration. The Pomodoro technique advocates for shorter intervals, suggesting a 5-minute break after every 25 minutes of focused work. Additionally, taking breaks has been shown to aid memory retention and cognitive function, as the brain processes and consolidates information during rest periods. While individual needs may vary, adhering to these guidelines can help mitigate fatigue and improve overall performance during study sessions.
Pastry House — Chinese Flower Rolls with Scallion
Known as Hua Juan in Chinese, these steamed buns are a household staple and are layered with a light oily filling and often comes in a savoury taste. Making these flower rolls makes for the perfect weekend pastime activity.
Red House Spice
Song Recommendation — This is what falling in love feels like by JVKE
Quote of the Day
“I beg you take courage; the brave soul can mend even disaster” — Catherine the Great
Catherine the Great, born on May 2, 1729, in Prussia, became Empress of Russia in 1762 after orchestrating a coup against her husband, Peter III. Her reign, lasting until November 17, 1796, is noted for significant territorial expansion, educational reforms, and cultural advancements that positioned Russia as a major European power. A proponent of Enlightenment ideals, she championed the arts and education, founding the first state-funded school for women and amassing a vast art collection that laid the foundation for the Hermitage Museum.
Enjoy Black Friday shopping!!