Friday Sept 27th, 2024

Do not go gentle into that good night

World Events and Politics — Brinkmanship in the Middle East 

Binyamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, seemingly dismissed a U.S.-supported ceasefire proposal with Hizbullah, asserting that claims of a truce were “not true.” Israel's Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, pledged that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would persist in their operations against the Lebanese militia “until victory and the safe return of the residents of the north to their homes.” Recent strikes across the border have been the most severe since Israel's incursion into southern Lebanon in 2006. Earlier, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi informed troops that airstrikes targeting Hizbullah were aimed at “preparing the area for the possibility of your entry.”

Science and Technology — Climate Change and Ecological Grief 

Peter van Agtmael 

The phenomenon of ecological grief has emerged in response to the emotional toll of climate change, manifesting in various ways, including funerals for glaciers and mental health issues in heavily impacted regions like Central Appalachia. While rural areas often experience this grief through direct environmental degradation, urban residents face similar emotional losses when man-made infrastructures suffer damage from climate-related events. Philosophers like Glenn Albrecht have coined terms such as solastalgia and tierratrauma to describe the emotional responses to environmental changes. Urban environments, often viewed as insulated from nature, are increasingly recognized as vulnerable to climate impacts, leading to heightened awareness and grief among city dwellers. Events such as Hurricane Katrina exemplify the profound social and psychological consequences of urban climate disasters, resulting in community dislocation and long-term mental health challenges. Overall, the interplay between urbanization and ecological grief highlights a critical understanding that cities are not separate from nature but are integral parts of our ecological systems.

Business and Finance — FDA Approves Bristol Myers Squibb’s Schizophrenia Drug 

The FDA has approved Bristol Myers Squibb's Cobenfy, a groundbreaking schizophrenia treatment and the first new type of medication for the disorder in over 70 years. Cobenfy, a twice-daily pill expected to be available by late October at a cost of $1,850 per month, offers a novel mechanism of action by targeting muscarinic receptors rather than the traditional dopamine receptors, potentially reducing common side effects associated with existing antipsychotics. With nearly 3 million adults in the U.S. affected by schizophrenia, and many patients discontinuing current treatments due to side effects, Cobenfy is seen as a crucial new option. However, it may face challenges competing with lower-priced alternatives, particularly generics like Abilify. These existing schizophrenia work by directly blocking the dopamine receptorsi n the brain to generally improve symptoms in patients, but come with wideranging side effects, including excessive fatigue and weight gain. The approval is based on clinical trials demonstrating significant symptom reduction compared to placebo, and Bristol Myers Squibb plans to explore Cobenfy's potential for treating other conditions, including Alzheimer's-related psychosis and bipolar mania.

Health and Wellness — Try Sour Dough Bread Instead 

The Perfect Loaf 

Sourdough bread is generally considered healthier than supermarket bread due to its natural fermentation process, which enhances its nutritional profile and digestibility while minimizing harmful additives. Unlike many commercial breads that often contain preservatives, artificial ingredients, and added sugars, traditional sourdough is made from just flour, water, and salt, allowing for a cleaner ingredient list. The fermentation process not only breaks down phytic acid, an anti-nutrient that inhibits mineral absorption, but also increases the bioavailability of essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals, making them easier for the body to utilize. Additionally, sourdough has a lower glycemic index compared to standard breads, which helps stabilize blood sugar levels and can reduce the risk of insulin spikes. This combination of factors contributes to better digestive health and overall well-being for those who consume it regularly.

Cooking and Dining — Cinnamon Crunch Bread 

Rolled and twisted, this straightforward 8-ingredient bread dough turns into an irresistibly delicious cinnamon crunch bread. Spread the dough with a filling of butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar, then top it off with a crunchy mixture made from the same ingredients. Each bite is buttery, soft, and flaky, featuring an incredible cinnamon sugar crunch crust on top.

Song Recommendation — She’s Everything That I’ve Ever Wanted by Caleb Hearn 

Quote of the Day — Dylan Thomas 

“Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light.” - Dyland Thomas, Do not go gentle into that good night 

Dylan Marlais Thomas (October 27, 1914 – November 9, 1953) was a renowned Welsh poet and writer celebrated for his lyrical style and vivid imagery, with notable works including the poem “Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night” and the play “Under Milk Wood.” Born in Swansea, Thomas began writing poetry at a young age and gained fame for his dramatic public readings, which captivated audiences in both the UK and the United States. Despite his literary success, Thomas struggled with personal challenges, including alcoholism, and died at the age of 39 in New York City, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the most significant poets of the 20th century.

Have yourself a wonderful weekend. Enjoy your Americano!