Monday, March 26, 2018
Deadly hay fever
Still dreadful. I fell into bed today due to serious fatigue and peripheral symptoms.
Thursday, March 22, 2018
Facebook scandal on Presidential campaign
Facebook faces a serious situation. Mark Zuckerberg has made an apology in every media about this issue. I believe he is not so entirely responsible for this maladaptation of consumers' data usability. But some people still seriously blaming him.
Think: After the Cambridge Analytica Facebook scandal, here's what Mark Zuckerberg must do to save his company
Its stock price fell by 20% in the short term.
Monday, March 12, 2018
Microsoft Surface LTE model connected to the internet
To be honest, this machine has several failures. They may be due to bugs on Windows 10. I was disappointed to Microsoft.
Saturday, March 10, 2018
Does realized conversation between Trump and Kim Jong Un?
Kim Jong Un says North Korea will abandon nuclear weapons if his monarch is sustainable. He is willing to make a conversation with Trump, as far as interpreting his superficial attitude.
It is possible that the US and other nation's sanction to North Korea got rid of its capacity to continue developing nuclear weapons. If so, it is very delightful. I should keep an eye on the situation.
Saturday, March 31, 2018
Friday, March 30, 2018
Trade war and intellectual rights
Donald Trump declared to increase the tariff to China, condemning its intellectual property theft.
His policy ignited the fear of trade war, bringing world suppression of the stock price. In Japan, the mean price of dominant company value decreased by up to 5% in a day.
Intellectual property is now one of the strongest incomes for the US. It is rational for Trump to be stuck to protect its benefit.
On the other hand, China market is too big to be crashed by the US and its allies. Even if China is violating international legislation of copyright, it is difficult to exclude China from the counterparts of the trade. Investors know this inconvenient fact well.
Therefore, people in the center of business industry, like Tim Cook, are critical to Trump's aggressive policy.
Independent: Apple boss Tim Cook calls for 'calm heads' amid fears of US and China trade war
But, it is also ironic that big American companies are struggling to keep their advantages on intellectual rights against China, Korea, and Asian countries. It is not limited to IT industry but also adapted to the medicine. Pharmaceutical companies are eager to prohibit Indian companies from mimicking their recipe.
His policy ignited the fear of trade war, bringing world suppression of the stock price. In Japan, the mean price of dominant company value decreased by up to 5% in a day.
Intellectual property is now one of the strongest incomes for the US. It is rational for Trump to be stuck to protect its benefit.
On the other hand, China market is too big to be crashed by the US and its allies. Even if China is violating international legislation of copyright, it is difficult to exclude China from the counterparts of the trade. Investors know this inconvenient fact well.
Therefore, people in the center of business industry, like Tim Cook, are critical to Trump's aggressive policy.
Independent: Apple boss Tim Cook calls for 'calm heads' amid fears of US and China trade war
But, it is also ironic that big American companies are struggling to keep their advantages on intellectual rights against China, Korea, and Asian countries. It is not limited to IT industry but also adapted to the medicine. Pharmaceutical companies are eager to prohibit Indian companies from mimicking their recipe.
Thursday, March 29, 2018
Change your small policy
We are obeying rules often unconsciously which have been established in our mind. These rules are usually proper for maintaining our daily life effectively.
However, there are some opportunities to change the rule deliberately. The reasons are various; in some cases the rule is outdated. Otherwise, you can no more adhere the rule.
For example, I wait five minutes before calling the counterpart when he or she does not appear at the meeting point. The five minutes rule is common, I believe. In most cases, I need not ring or email because they are delayed for only a couple of minutes.
But, in some cases, the few minutes become critical. Also, there is a possibility that I misunderstand the meeting time or place. In such an occasion, the faster I start to reschedule, the less the meeting time will be wasted.
Then, I have changed my rule: when I miss the counterpart, I will take a call immediately.
Maybe it is a small change. But the life is a pile of small changes.
However, there are some opportunities to change the rule deliberately. The reasons are various; in some cases the rule is outdated. Otherwise, you can no more adhere the rule.
For example, I wait five minutes before calling the counterpart when he or she does not appear at the meeting point. The five minutes rule is common, I believe. In most cases, I need not ring or email because they are delayed for only a couple of minutes.
But, in some cases, the few minutes become critical. Also, there is a possibility that I misunderstand the meeting time or place. In such an occasion, the faster I start to reschedule, the less the meeting time will be wasted.
Then, I have changed my rule: when I miss the counterpart, I will take a call immediately.
Maybe it is a small change. But the life is a pile of small changes.
Wednesday, March 28, 2018
White house refuses transgenders from military
The White House is said to decide to ban transgender people from the military.
CNN: White House announces policy to ban most transgender people from serving in military
According to the CNN, the US military will exclude conscripts unless their mental states are proven to be stable.
I hardly understand the policy of Trump through reading this article above. First of all, gender identity is not associated with the ability to contribute to the military force. Of course, men have stronger physical power than women. But there are several excellent troops composed of women.
Furthermore, the symptoms of gender identity disorder suffer the patients, not others. If a candidate has schizophrenia which has not properly treated and he has a serious delusion, it is difficult to accept this candidate to the troop. But once well controlled, some patients with schizophrenia will perform well in the army. I hardly understand gender identity is notably excluded.
I think this Trump's policy is not only obviously discriminatory to gender minorities but also no more efficacious to enhance the army. Perhaps, he has another intention. But I cannot guess it.
CNN: White House announces policy to ban most transgender people from serving in military
According to the CNN, the US military will exclude conscripts unless their mental states are proven to be stable.
I hardly understand the policy of Trump through reading this article above. First of all, gender identity is not associated with the ability to contribute to the military force. Of course, men have stronger physical power than women. But there are several excellent troops composed of women.
Furthermore, the symptoms of gender identity disorder suffer the patients, not others. If a candidate has schizophrenia which has not properly treated and he has a serious delusion, it is difficult to accept this candidate to the troop. But once well controlled, some patients with schizophrenia will perform well in the army. I hardly understand gender identity is notably excluded.
I think this Trump's policy is not only obviously discriminatory to gender minorities but also no more efficacious to enhance the army. Perhaps, he has another intention. But I cannot guess it.
Tuesday, March 27, 2018
Automatic calory calculator
I introduced a gadget which can measure the calory of any meals.
My past entry: DietSensor change your diet style?
Before I tried this "Diet Sensor," more innovative gadgets have been launched.
A wristband. It can calculate your intake automatically according to the food you eat. This gadget is said to monitor the blood sugar in your vessels.
GoBe, and Airo are wearable devices to measure how much your body gains calory continuously. You need not note, or even take photos of your meal to know the amount of intake.
Consumers' comments are splitting. Some admire their accuracy while others suggest they are erroneous. And both devices look not so cool, unfortunately.
I dare not to buy one now because their performance is yet to be improved. But I believe this kind of gadgets will become dominant in athletic activities within a few years.
My past entry: DietSensor change your diet style?
Before I tried this "Diet Sensor," more innovative gadgets have been launched.
A wristband. It can calculate your intake automatically according to the food you eat. This gadget is said to monitor the blood sugar in your vessels.
GoBe, and Airo are wearable devices to measure how much your body gains calory continuously. You need not note, or even take photos of your meal to know the amount of intake.
Consumers' comments are splitting. Some admire their accuracy while others suggest they are erroneous. And both devices look not so cool, unfortunately.
I dare not to buy one now because their performance is yet to be improved. But I believe this kind of gadgets will become dominant in athletic activities within a few years.
Monday, March 26, 2018
Deadly hay fever
I am too sick from hay fever to continue working today.
It is sunny and warmer than last week. Therefore, there is a larger amount of pollen in the air, I believe.
I try many anti-allergic medicines every year, but nothing is satisfactory.
I received a couple of face masks which was released recently. Its advertisement tells that it can change pollens into the water. Nonsense! Does a cotton mask make a fusion reaction?
So, I broke my body and brain down. I will be nonfunctional for a few weeks.
It is sunny and warmer than last week. Therefore, there is a larger amount of pollen in the air, I believe.
I try many anti-allergic medicines every year, but nothing is satisfactory.
I received a couple of face masks which was released recently. Its advertisement tells that it can change pollens into the water. Nonsense! Does a cotton mask make a fusion reaction?
So, I broke my body and brain down. I will be nonfunctional for a few weeks.
Sunday, March 25, 2018
EU tightens the rule for cloud services
The EU is willing to strengthen the regulation of consumer protection against cloud services.
Reuters: EU plans tougher consumer laws for Facebook, Gmail
In the new legislation, companies which gather personal information for free online services have to adhere tightened rules. They include the duty of disclosure and a guarantee of 14-days cancellation.
Also, violating the law will be penalized. The EU has been said to have loose sanction for breaching the regulation so far.
This amendment is obviously originated from recent Facebook scandal. As well, it seems the EU is cautious about US-based companies invading European market.
In recent years, the EU set USB type-C as the standard of the connector of smartphones, intending to counter iPhone. The so-called Anti-Amazon law is another example.
It is unsure that, however, this new regulation will protect consumers in reality.
Reuters: EU plans tougher consumer laws for Facebook, Gmail
In the new legislation, companies which gather personal information for free online services have to adhere tightened rules. They include the duty of disclosure and a guarantee of 14-days cancellation.
Also, violating the law will be penalized. The EU has been said to have loose sanction for breaching the regulation so far.
This amendment is obviously originated from recent Facebook scandal. As well, it seems the EU is cautious about US-based companies invading European market.
In recent years, the EU set USB type-C as the standard of the connector of smartphones, intending to counter iPhone. The so-called Anti-Amazon law is another example.
It is unsure that, however, this new regulation will protect consumers in reality.
Saturday, March 24, 2018
Norway plans to introduce electric airplanes
Norway is going to buy electric planes next year, according to the media.
Reuters: Norway plans to buy electric planes, mimicking green car success
Norway is one of the nations which have been decarbonized the most. Approximately a half of the cars in Norway are hybrid or electricity-driven. Its attempt for sustainability is well respected.
However, utilizing electric planes is still challenging. First of all the capacity of a battery is limited. The power per weight is inferior to petrol. And the weight of fuel is a critical issue for a plane.
Second, charging electricity is not free. Regardless electric plane is environment-friendly, it is pointless to burn massive oil for making the plane fly. It is even worse because converting the heat into electricity produce considerable waste of energy.
The authorities in Norway seem to understand these issues. They will deliberately estimate the feasibility of electric airplanes. Mini planes which fly a short range is possible to be administered with electricity. Innovation in the future may enhance the usability of electric planes.
Reuters: Norway plans to buy electric planes, mimicking green car success
Norway is one of the nations which have been decarbonized the most. Approximately a half of the cars in Norway are hybrid or electricity-driven. Its attempt for sustainability is well respected.
However, utilizing electric planes is still challenging. First of all the capacity of a battery is limited. The power per weight is inferior to petrol. And the weight of fuel is a critical issue for a plane.
Second, charging electricity is not free. Regardless electric plane is environment-friendly, it is pointless to burn massive oil for making the plane fly. It is even worse because converting the heat into electricity produce considerable waste of energy.
The authorities in Norway seem to understand these issues. They will deliberately estimate the feasibility of electric airplanes. Mini planes which fly a short range is possible to be administered with electricity. Innovation in the future may enhance the usability of electric planes.
Friday, March 23, 2018
Singapore's anti fake news law
Singapore is going to develop legislation against fake news.
It is now under discussion and attracts public attention. Google and Facebook, the internet giants, sent a statement to oppose the establishment of this law to the parliament.
Rappler: Facebook, Google warn Singapore against 'fake news' law
Now Singapore media are highly controlled by the government, according to this article above. Google and Facebook concern the possibility of excessive censorship by the legislation.
I think their anxiety is understandable. It is an issue who decides each news is fake. It is difficult to prove a thing as incorrect. If so, the provider would be banned from the society. More important is to provide valuable contents many more.
Singapore is a hybrid society. Its official language is English and Chinese. Despite several achievements, the nation faces challenges such as scarce resource and logistic risk. I wonder where this nation to go.
It is now under discussion and attracts public attention. Google and Facebook, the internet giants, sent a statement to oppose the establishment of this law to the parliament.
Rappler: Facebook, Google warn Singapore against 'fake news' law
Now Singapore media are highly controlled by the government, according to this article above. Google and Facebook concern the possibility of excessive censorship by the legislation.
I think their anxiety is understandable. It is an issue who decides each news is fake. It is difficult to prove a thing as incorrect. If so, the provider would be banned from the society. More important is to provide valuable contents many more.
Singapore is a hybrid society. Its official language is English and Chinese. Despite several achievements, the nation faces challenges such as scarce resource and logistic risk. I wonder where this nation to go.
Thursday, March 22, 2018
Facebook scandal on Presidential campaign
It was revealed that massive user data of Facebook were improperly used for the Presidential campaign.
According to the media, Cambridge Analytica, a consulting company, got millions of the demographic data of Facebook users without their consent. They were transferred from Aleksandr Kogan who posted a psychological quiz on Facebook. Cambridge Analytica utilized the data for Donald Trump's victory in the Presidential vote. Thus, users who intended to take a psychological test got stolen their personal data for political usage.
The New York Times: Facebook Faces Growing Pressure Over Data and Privacy Inquiries
After a couple of days, Mark Zuckerberg officially admitted this incident, mentioning that it was a mistake occurred on Facebook to be fixed.
Independent: Mark Zuckerberg speaks on Cambridge Analytica data controversy: 'We made mistakes'
Not surprisingly, the stock price of Facebook rapidly fell.
This kind of incident is often reported also in other social network services. Deliberate people never try suspicious web questionnaires. But it is noteworthy that Facebook, the largest SNS in the world, is trickly utilized, and the founder of the service is blamed.
It is obvious Cambridge Analytica is responsible for this scandal. Facebook will sue this company, I guess. But the damage inflicted to Facebook is serious.
It is not easy to answer the question that internet service providers are responsible for the offenses occurred on the internet. This incident has the same point of issue, I believe. In my personal opinion, the provider cannot take responsibility for all of the incidents. Otherwise, there is nobody to manage the services. But Zuckerburg will be blamed on this issue for a while, I am afraid.
According to the media, Cambridge Analytica, a consulting company, got millions of the demographic data of Facebook users without their consent. They were transferred from Aleksandr Kogan who posted a psychological quiz on Facebook. Cambridge Analytica utilized the data for Donald Trump's victory in the Presidential vote. Thus, users who intended to take a psychological test got stolen their personal data for political usage.
The New York Times: Facebook Faces Growing Pressure Over Data and Privacy Inquiries
After a couple of days, Mark Zuckerberg officially admitted this incident, mentioning that it was a mistake occurred on Facebook to be fixed.
Independent: Mark Zuckerberg speaks on Cambridge Analytica data controversy: 'We made mistakes'
Not surprisingly, the stock price of Facebook rapidly fell.
This kind of incident is often reported also in other social network services. Deliberate people never try suspicious web questionnaires. But it is noteworthy that Facebook, the largest SNS in the world, is trickly utilized, and the founder of the service is blamed.
It is obvious Cambridge Analytica is responsible for this scandal. Facebook will sue this company, I guess. But the damage inflicted to Facebook is serious.
It is not easy to answer the question that internet service providers are responsible for the offenses occurred on the internet. This incident has the same point of issue, I believe. In my personal opinion, the provider cannot take responsibility for all of the incidents. Otherwise, there is nobody to manage the services. But Zuckerburg will be blamed on this issue for a while, I am afraid.
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
Homeopathy is banned from leading hospital in the UK
The UK seems to have decided to dismiss homeopathy, at last.
The Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine (RHLIM), formerly the Royal London Homeopathic Hospital, which has been the largest public-funded homeopathy provider will no more support homeopathy.
Independent: NHS stops funding for homeopathy at UK's largest alternative medicine hospital
Homeopathy is a representative of so-called pseudoscience. Its effect has not been proven so far. On the contrary, well-structured studies suggest that homeopathy is no more beneficial.
Furthermore, homeopathy is likely to indirectly harmful to the health. Homeopathy lovers often reject ordinary medicines, leading to deterioration of the diseases which are curable. There are fatal cases reported due to biased treatment policy.
Also in Japan, some people are fond of utilizing homeopathy. I never support them.
But NHS had been providing financial support to homeopathy-relevant organizations despite the evidence. I felt disappointed to the policy underestimating clinical evidence. Therefore, the present news is relieving.
There may be some medical treatments beyond our imagination. We should be openminded to the miracles. However, homeopathy is not the one, according to our best knowledge.
The Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine (RHLIM), formerly the Royal London Homeopathic Hospital, which has been the largest public-funded homeopathy provider will no more support homeopathy.
Independent: NHS stops funding for homeopathy at UK's largest alternative medicine hospital
Homeopathy is a representative of so-called pseudoscience. Its effect has not been proven so far. On the contrary, well-structured studies suggest that homeopathy is no more beneficial.
Furthermore, homeopathy is likely to indirectly harmful to the health. Homeopathy lovers often reject ordinary medicines, leading to deterioration of the diseases which are curable. There are fatal cases reported due to biased treatment policy.
Also in Japan, some people are fond of utilizing homeopathy. I never support them.
But NHS had been providing financial support to homeopathy-relevant organizations despite the evidence. I felt disappointed to the policy underestimating clinical evidence. Therefore, the present news is relieving.
There may be some medical treatments beyond our imagination. We should be openminded to the miracles. However, homeopathy is not the one, according to our best knowledge.
Tuesday, March 20, 2018
Uber's self-driving car killed pedestrian
An autonomous driving car caused a traffic accident, leading to the death of a pedestrian.
Tech Crunch: Uber self-driving test car involved in accident resulting in pedestrian death
The car belonged to Uber, a newly developed transportation company. Uber was eager to establish car sharing as well as the spread of self-driving car. This is the first case that self-driving vehicle kills a pedestrian's life. A few years ago, a self-driving car managed by Tesla crashed into a rolly which took the driver's death.
Not surprisingly, Uber stopped the experiment of self-driving cars operation.
BBC: Uber halts self-driving car tests after death
This case suggests that self-driving car is not perfect. However, it is a common sense that there is no technology without flaw.
It is important to know why this accident could not be avoided. If there is an obvious error in the algorithm, it should be fixed immediately. But, it will be difficult to identify the cause of the crash, I guess.
Afterall, the issue is whether is safer, the human driver, or machine. The answer is the machine, even now, I believe. If every car is operated by the machine, the rate of incidents will be reduced. Thus, there are many drivers whose driving skill is inferior to the machine.
I wonder how we can proceed auto-driving technology into reality. There is no zero-risk society. Even recognizing this fact, nobody wants to be hit by an auto-driving car. The machine never makes an apology.
Tech Crunch: Uber self-driving test car involved in accident resulting in pedestrian death
The car belonged to Uber, a newly developed transportation company. Uber was eager to establish car sharing as well as the spread of self-driving car. This is the first case that self-driving vehicle kills a pedestrian's life. A few years ago, a self-driving car managed by Tesla crashed into a rolly which took the driver's death.
Not surprisingly, Uber stopped the experiment of self-driving cars operation.
BBC: Uber halts self-driving car tests after death
This case suggests that self-driving car is not perfect. However, it is a common sense that there is no technology without flaw.
It is important to know why this accident could not be avoided. If there is an obvious error in the algorithm, it should be fixed immediately. But, it will be difficult to identify the cause of the crash, I guess.
Afterall, the issue is whether is safer, the human driver, or machine. The answer is the machine, even now, I believe. If every car is operated by the machine, the rate of incidents will be reduced. Thus, there are many drivers whose driving skill is inferior to the machine.
I wonder how we can proceed auto-driving technology into reality. There is no zero-risk society. Even recognizing this fact, nobody wants to be hit by an auto-driving car. The machine never makes an apology.
Monday, March 19, 2018
Air India on sale, Singapore Airline to bid
Air India has been suffering from a large amount of debt. The Indian government is planning to sell this company to the private sector.
Singapore Airline seems to be one of the candidates. It is openminded to get this national airline company, according to a general manager.
Reuters: Singapore Airlines has open mind on making initial bid for Air India
Singapore Airline is popular for its highly qualified service. Its fiscal status may be good, though I am not sure. Since Singapore is functional as a hub of many big cities, getting Air India will be advantageous for Singapore Airline.
In recent years, airline companies are restructuring themselves one another. In Japan, Skymark was bankrupted in spite of its aggressive marketing. Not limited to LCCs, some flagship airlines are in peril. Who will be the new owner of Alitalia Airline is still under discussion.
Singapore Airline seems to be one of the candidates. It is openminded to get this national airline company, according to a general manager.
Reuters: Singapore Airlines has open mind on making initial bid for Air India
Singapore Airline is popular for its highly qualified service. Its fiscal status may be good, though I am not sure. Since Singapore is functional as a hub of many big cities, getting Air India will be advantageous for Singapore Airline.
In recent years, airline companies are restructuring themselves one another. In Japan, Skymark was bankrupted in spite of its aggressive marketing. Not limited to LCCs, some flagship airlines are in peril. Who will be the new owner of Alitalia Airline is still under discussion.
Sunday, March 18, 2018
Deadpool, not s dark hero
I watched Deadpool for the first time. This film was released a couple of years ago, but I had missed it. Because of his strange character, I had not been eager to see Deadpool on cinema.
Wade Wilson was a veteran. After the retirement from a special force, he was engaged in troubleshooting jobs. One day, he met Vanessa, to fall in love. But he fell due to cancer soon after promising the marriage. At last, he decided to get an operation offered by Ajax. Ajax successfully modified Wade's body into immortal, though his face became burned. Knowing Ajax' intention to make him a slave, Wade ran out from Ajax' institution. After that, Wade began to seek Ajax for revenge as well as getting his face restored.
Deadpool is different from other Marvel superheroes. Wade had been strong enough to match villains before changing into Deadpool. Also, his personality was originally twisted, perhaps due to his miserable childhood and traumatic experiences during troop.
As well, Deadpool has no conflict in his mind. Most heroes suffer from inner conflicts such as a dilemma between their instinct and heroic ideology. Deadpool's motivation is no other than the revenge to Ajax.
Therefore, this film is quite easy-watching. The audience never guesses the hero's thought. We have to simply enjoy the actions and bad languages of heroes.
I prospected that Vanessa had some intentions to contact to Wade. And also I wondered why Colossus was eager to inviting Deadpool to X-Men. But, this movie is not to consider such thoughts.
The scenes were not splendid. No monsters, no machines, no laser blades. I did not want to see this film on 3D cinema.
Personal Rating: 2 (poor)
Wade Wilson was a veteran. After the retirement from a special force, he was engaged in troubleshooting jobs. One day, he met Vanessa, to fall in love. But he fell due to cancer soon after promising the marriage. At last, he decided to get an operation offered by Ajax. Ajax successfully modified Wade's body into immortal, though his face became burned. Knowing Ajax' intention to make him a slave, Wade ran out from Ajax' institution. After that, Wade began to seek Ajax for revenge as well as getting his face restored.
Deadpool is different from other Marvel superheroes. Wade had been strong enough to match villains before changing into Deadpool. Also, his personality was originally twisted, perhaps due to his miserable childhood and traumatic experiences during troop.
As well, Deadpool has no conflict in his mind. Most heroes suffer from inner conflicts such as a dilemma between their instinct and heroic ideology. Deadpool's motivation is no other than the revenge to Ajax.
Therefore, this film is quite easy-watching. The audience never guesses the hero's thought. We have to simply enjoy the actions and bad languages of heroes.
I prospected that Vanessa had some intentions to contact to Wade. And also I wondered why Colossus was eager to inviting Deadpool to X-Men. But, this movie is not to consider such thoughts.
The scenes were not splendid. No monsters, no machines, no laser blades. I did not want to see this film on 3D cinema.
Personal Rating: 2 (poor)
Saturday, March 17, 2018
Strawberry picking
Today, I went to Toke for strawberry picking.
Strawberry is one of the most popular fruits in Japan. Most Japanese like strawberry because of its sweetness. Strawberry is used in cakes and other desserts. But eating raw strawberry is the best way to enjoy its taste.
In early spring, some farms conduct strawberry picking tour. Customers can pick and eat strawberries as many as you wish for a particular cost.
Today, I visited Nakamura farm in Toke located in Chiba prefecture. I ate approximately 50 strawberries in the 30 minutes.
There are several brands of strawberry in Japan. Tochiotome, Benihoppe, Yotsuboshi, Ohkimi, and some other type of strawberries are available on this farm. Each type varies in their taste. I enjoy them.
Strawberry is one of the most popular fruits in Japan. Most Japanese like strawberry because of its sweetness. Strawberry is used in cakes and other desserts. But eating raw strawberry is the best way to enjoy its taste.
In early spring, some farms conduct strawberry picking tour. Customers can pick and eat strawberries as many as you wish for a particular cost.
Today, I visited Nakamura farm in Toke located in Chiba prefecture. I ate approximately 50 strawberries in the 30 minutes.
There are several brands of strawberry in Japan. Tochiotome, Benihoppe, Yotsuboshi, Ohkimi, and some other type of strawberries are available on this farm. Each type varies in their taste. I enjoy them.
Friday, March 16, 2018
Google bans the advertisement of cryptocurrency
Following Facebook, Google also decided to forbid advertisement of cryptocurrency as its policy change.
The Guardian: Google bans bitcoin adverts in cryptocurrency crackdown
Google explained the policy as for improving ads experience across the web with removing harmful or intrusive ads.
Indeed, there are many fraud cases using ICO reported recently. The Japan government published the policy to prohibit citizens from participating foreign ICOs recently. If a customer is tricked through an advertisement on Google, Google might be sued for supporting illegal activities. I understand that Google is concerned about the risk since advertisement is still the main source of income for Google.
On the other hand, Google prohibits not only any advertisement of ICO but also those of cryptocurrency exchanges and wallets. This inclusive prohibition policy looks excessive. Cryptocurrency itself is an innovation in modern IT industry. If Google does not commit it at all, it will be left behind the modern era. What is expected for Google to judge the quality of service any advertisements suggest.
The Guardian: Google bans bitcoin adverts in cryptocurrency crackdown
Google explained the policy as for improving ads experience across the web with removing harmful or intrusive ads.
Indeed, there are many fraud cases using ICO reported recently. The Japan government published the policy to prohibit citizens from participating foreign ICOs recently. If a customer is tricked through an advertisement on Google, Google might be sued for supporting illegal activities. I understand that Google is concerned about the risk since advertisement is still the main source of income for Google.
On the other hand, Google prohibits not only any advertisement of ICO but also those of cryptocurrency exchanges and wallets. This inclusive prohibition policy looks excessive. Cryptocurrency itself is an innovation in modern IT industry. If Google does not commit it at all, it will be left behind the modern era. What is expected for Google to judge the quality of service any advertisements suggest.
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Rex Tillerson is fired from Trump administration
Donald Trump, the President of the US, finally dismissed Rex Tillerson, Secretary of States. Mike Pompeo, the CIA Director, will replace him.
NEWS.com.au: Donald Trump fires Secretary of State Rex Tillerson
So far, Tillerson had been critical to Trump. They were unfriendly in every political issue. Last October, he was reported to have called Trump moron.
Dealing with North Korea, Tillerson was relatively temperate so that he was willing to take a negotiation, while Trump was resolute. However, Trump recently changed his attitude to become ready to make a conversation with Kim Joun Un.
In Tillerson's last speech, he mentioned Russia as a nation to be carefully watched.
The Strait Times: Outgoing US Secretary of State Tillerson warns about Russia's behaviour
The Trump administration seems to have excluded persons who are opposing to him. It also means that the US has lost the diversity, I am afraid.
NEWS.com.au: Donald Trump fires Secretary of State Rex Tillerson
So far, Tillerson had been critical to Trump. They were unfriendly in every political issue. Last October, he was reported to have called Trump moron.
Dealing with North Korea, Tillerson was relatively temperate so that he was willing to take a negotiation, while Trump was resolute. However, Trump recently changed his attitude to become ready to make a conversation with Kim Joun Un.
In Tillerson's last speech, he mentioned Russia as a nation to be carefully watched.
The Strait Times: Outgoing US Secretary of State Tillerson warns about Russia's behaviour
The Trump administration seems to have excluded persons who are opposing to him. It also means that the US has lost the diversity, I am afraid.
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Is fruit sugar not harmful than sugar?
The nutrition is an immature science. Every year, a new hypothesis emerges. For example, eating multiple eggs in a day was deemed to be harmful, the other day. But, recent studies suggested an opposite result. Following the evidence, the WHO permitted eating eggs.
The sugar has been a villain, however, for several decades. Excessive sugar taking is highly likely to be harmful to your health.
On the other hand, fruits are said to be healthy. But, fruits contain several types of sugar. How do you consider this paradox?
A possible answer is written in the article below.
The Conversation: If sugar is so bad for us, why is the sugar in fruit OK?
Thus, fruits contain rich fiber. Therefore, you cannot take an excessive amount of sugar from fruits.
It is noteworthy that the sugar in the fruit is not different from free sugar. Thus, if you take an extreme amount of fruits, it would be harmful. There are no ultimate foods.
The sugar has been a villain, however, for several decades. Excessive sugar taking is highly likely to be harmful to your health.
On the other hand, fruits are said to be healthy. But, fruits contain several types of sugar. How do you consider this paradox?
A possible answer is written in the article below.
The Conversation: If sugar is so bad for us, why is the sugar in fruit OK?
Thus, fruits contain rich fiber. Therefore, you cannot take an excessive amount of sugar from fruits.
It is noteworthy that the sugar in the fruit is not different from free sugar. Thus, if you take an extreme amount of fruits, it would be harmful. There are no ultimate foods.
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Korea bans an early exposure to English
Nowadays, English skills are essential for pursuing a better job for almost everyone. Therefore, how to learn the English language is a crucial issue for non-native speakers.
And there are many English teaching schools in those countries. In Japan, as well as some people consider to go to Philippine for entering an English school there, as well as domestic ways of learning English.
In Japan, elementary schools began to teach English several years ago. I was not taught English before entering a junior high school. Instead, I went to a private English school for a couple of years. But it was not effective for me to improve my English skills, to be honest.
Meanwhile, the South Korean government decided to ban English class from the first and second grade in the elementary school. The reason is early exposure to English class can get rid of proficiency of Korean language and culture, according to the media.
Aljazeera: South Korea bans English education for first and second graders
This issue is still under broad argument, as far as I know. Some people claim that acquiring the mother tongue at the early stage of life is indispensable for children to develop their brain and personality. According to them, bilingual is a myth, and learning two languages at the same time has adverse effects.
It sounds rational, considering the fact that I think everything in Japanese. If I had poor Japanese vocabulary, the ability of logical thinking and expression might be limited.
On the other hand, there are some people who use several languages without any troubles. We are jealous of them. And some parents want their children to be such a person. The result is early exposure because the learning speed in childhood is higher than that in adulthood.
When should we begin to learn the second language? This question is not easy to make a correct answer. Conducting a social experiment is not feasible. The figure in the future in Korea will be a proof of this issue.
And there are many English teaching schools in those countries. In Japan, as well as some people consider to go to Philippine for entering an English school there, as well as domestic ways of learning English.
In Japan, elementary schools began to teach English several years ago. I was not taught English before entering a junior high school. Instead, I went to a private English school for a couple of years. But it was not effective for me to improve my English skills, to be honest.
Meanwhile, the South Korean government decided to ban English class from the first and second grade in the elementary school. The reason is early exposure to English class can get rid of proficiency of Korean language and culture, according to the media.
Aljazeera: South Korea bans English education for first and second graders
This issue is still under broad argument, as far as I know. Some people claim that acquiring the mother tongue at the early stage of life is indispensable for children to develop their brain and personality. According to them, bilingual is a myth, and learning two languages at the same time has adverse effects.
It sounds rational, considering the fact that I think everything in Japanese. If I had poor Japanese vocabulary, the ability of logical thinking and expression might be limited.
On the other hand, there are some people who use several languages without any troubles. We are jealous of them. And some parents want their children to be such a person. The result is early exposure because the learning speed in childhood is higher than that in adulthood.
When should we begin to learn the second language? This question is not easy to make a correct answer. Conducting a social experiment is not feasible. The figure in the future in Korea will be a proof of this issue.
Monday, March 12, 2018
Microsoft Surface LTE model connected to the internet
I got a new Microsoft Surface Pro. It equips an LTE module. Thus, it can connect to the internet independently.
To activate this function, I made a contract with a cellular company to get a SIM card. Although Surface Pro LTE model has both a nano-SIM slot and embedded SIM device. But I cannot utilize embedded SIM.
I inserted the SIM card into my Surface, and I inputted the username and password suggested by the internet service provider. However, it did not work. The machine requested a retry after re-inputting an APN.
I challenged the error several times. But it remained silent. On the internet, several similar troubles were reported. Some users altered the registry contents to fix the bug. I was disappointed with silly Microsoft.
But finally, the solution was detected at a website administered by Microsoft itself.
I set the option as "Internet and the attach," instead of "Internet." That was all I changed.
Microsoft Community
This modification made me exhausted. In addition, there is another issue. Microsoft frequently sends data to update Windows. It takes a massive volume of bytes. I modified the configuration not to receive the update data automatically.
I am doubtful Microsoft is sincerely eager to introduce Windows PC always connecting to the internet. Hoo.
To activate this function, I made a contract with a cellular company to get a SIM card. Although Surface Pro LTE model has both a nano-SIM slot and embedded SIM device. But I cannot utilize embedded SIM.
I inserted the SIM card into my Surface, and I inputted the username and password suggested by the internet service provider. However, it did not work. The machine requested a retry after re-inputting an APN.
I challenged the error several times. But it remained silent. On the internet, several similar troubles were reported. Some users altered the registry contents to fix the bug. I was disappointed with silly Microsoft.
But finally, the solution was detected at a website administered by Microsoft itself.
I set the option as "Internet and the attach," instead of "Internet." That was all I changed.
Microsoft Community
This modification made me exhausted. In addition, there is another issue. Microsoft frequently sends data to update Windows. It takes a massive volume of bytes. I modified the configuration not to receive the update data automatically.
I am doubtful Microsoft is sincerely eager to introduce Windows PC always connecting to the internet. Hoo.
Sunday, March 11, 2018
Smartphone case measures your blood pressure
Hypertension is one of the commonest diseases of the world. And it takes millions of the life every year through cardiovascular diseases.
Regular measurement is important to prevent disastrous results. But it is difficult for many people to take a minute to stay with their arm in the cuff.
Recently, researchers in the US were reported to have developed a prototype device to measure the blood pressure readings using a smartphone case. It can record the real-time data, according to the media.
ABC net: Blood pressure reading at your fingertip with smartphone prototype device
In real, blood pressure is easy to measure. A skilled physician can guess the value immediately after touching the vessel of the patient. But it costs quite high to reproduce such an expert's ability with a sensor.
Blood pressure measuring case will be realized in a couple of years. On the other hand, I expect this sensor will be equipped with a smartwatch. I believe the watch is more suitable than the cellphone because it can always be attached to a wrist. In the future, blood sugar, O2 saturation will be recorded with a smartwatch. This device will be able to send an emergency signal to an ambulance. Such future is approaching fast.
Regular measurement is important to prevent disastrous results. But it is difficult for many people to take a minute to stay with their arm in the cuff.
Recently, researchers in the US were reported to have developed a prototype device to measure the blood pressure readings using a smartphone case. It can record the real-time data, according to the media.
ABC net: Blood pressure reading at your fingertip with smartphone prototype device
In real, blood pressure is easy to measure. A skilled physician can guess the value immediately after touching the vessel of the patient. But it costs quite high to reproduce such an expert's ability with a sensor.
Blood pressure measuring case will be realized in a couple of years. On the other hand, I expect this sensor will be equipped with a smartwatch. I believe the watch is more suitable than the cellphone because it can always be attached to a wrist. In the future, blood sugar, O2 saturation will be recorded with a smartwatch. This device will be able to send an emergency signal to an ambulance. Such future is approaching fast.
Saturday, March 10, 2018
Does realized conversation between Trump and Kim Jong Un?
Donald Trump, the US President, is willing to take a meeting with Kim Jong Un, the North Korean dictator. If realized, it will be a historic deal.
The Straits Times: Donald Trump's historic bet on Kim Jong Un summit shatters decades of orthodoxy
The US has been refusing to talk with North Korea because it is continuously provocating with developing nuclear weapons. In recent years, the tension between the two nation became the strongest ever before. If North Korea accomplished the development of IBCM, the US would face the risk of nuclear war. Some people expect the US attack North Korea before this risk is realized.
On the other hand, North Korea loosed the attitude in these months. Some important persons were sent to the opening ceremony of Pyonchang Olympic games. And Kim Jong Un said that the North was ready to abandon nuclear weapons if the US changes the attitude to the North.
The South Korean President, Moon Jae-in has been relatively friendly to North Korea. He is willing to improve the relationship between two countries. South Korea is in a difficult position between North Korea and the US. It relies on the power of the US army. But the more it is cooperative with the US, the more North Korea will be hostile. If Trump becomes friendly to the North, Moon will support his policy, I guess.
Japan is also deeply concerned about Trump's mood. If the US accepts North Korea's policy, Japan will be exposed directly to the threat of North Korea. Therefore, Shinzo Abe, the Prime Minister of Japan, is willing to request Trump not loosening the sanction level to the North.
In my sense, on the other hand, North Korea may be suffering from money shortage. It is an opportunity to change the international relationship with the North for each nation. I wonder who will be the winner of this diplomatic battle.
The Straits Times: Donald Trump's historic bet on Kim Jong Un summit shatters decades of orthodoxy
The US has been refusing to talk with North Korea because it is continuously provocating with developing nuclear weapons. In recent years, the tension between the two nation became the strongest ever before. If North Korea accomplished the development of IBCM, the US would face the risk of nuclear war. Some people expect the US attack North Korea before this risk is realized.
On the other hand, North Korea loosed the attitude in these months. Some important persons were sent to the opening ceremony of Pyonchang Olympic games. And Kim Jong Un said that the North was ready to abandon nuclear weapons if the US changes the attitude to the North.
The South Korean President, Moon Jae-in has been relatively friendly to North Korea. He is willing to improve the relationship between two countries. South Korea is in a difficult position between North Korea and the US. It relies on the power of the US army. But the more it is cooperative with the US, the more North Korea will be hostile. If Trump becomes friendly to the North, Moon will support his policy, I guess.
Japan is also deeply concerned about Trump's mood. If the US accepts North Korea's policy, Japan will be exposed directly to the threat of North Korea. Therefore, Shinzo Abe, the Prime Minister of Japan, is willing to request Trump not loosening the sanction level to the North.
In my sense, on the other hand, North Korea may be suffering from money shortage. It is an opportunity to change the international relationship with the North for each nation. I wonder who will be the winner of this diplomatic battle.
Friday, March 9, 2018
General election in Italy made the hung parliament
On March 5th, the result of Italian general election was revealed. The outcome was that no major parties won the majority.
Five Star Movement (FSM), a newly rising party gained the largest vote. But its share remained 32%. FSM led by Luigi Di Maio gained public support using populism.
Also, League led by Matteo Salvini is an extreme-right party. If these two parties make a coalition, Italy is going to be a nationalists' nation. However, it is uncertain whether Salvini will bow to younger Di Maio.
On the other hand, Forza Italia led by Silvio Berlusconi and Democratic Party by Matteo Renzi made a serious defeat. They won previous elections each other. But the citizens seem to be disappointed with their ability of administration.
The Guardian: Italian elections 2018 - full results
I think, however, it is quite doubtful that FSM and League will take leadership. There are little particular differences in their ideology. Populism party will collapse as the time passed.
Public attention is focused on the next Prime Minister. If no particular coalition is established, the parliament will be completely stuck. In Germany, through long struggling, Merkel developed a coalition. I wonder who can be equal to her in the political sense in Italy.
Five Star Movement (FSM), a newly rising party gained the largest vote. But its share remained 32%. FSM led by Luigi Di Maio gained public support using populism.
Also, League led by Matteo Salvini is an extreme-right party. If these two parties make a coalition, Italy is going to be a nationalists' nation. However, it is uncertain whether Salvini will bow to younger Di Maio.
On the other hand, Forza Italia led by Silvio Berlusconi and Democratic Party by Matteo Renzi made a serious defeat. They won previous elections each other. But the citizens seem to be disappointed with their ability of administration.
The Guardian: Italian elections 2018 - full results
I think, however, it is quite doubtful that FSM and League will take leadership. There are little particular differences in their ideology. Populism party will collapse as the time passed.
Public attention is focused on the next Prime Minister. If no particular coalition is established, the parliament will be completely stuck. In Germany, through long struggling, Merkel developed a coalition. I wonder who can be equal to her in the political sense in Italy.
Thursday, March 8, 2018
Current issues around Bitcoin regulation in Japan
The price of Bitcoin is seesawing.
After the catastrophe occurred in January, the price has not touched a higher range. The line of 10,000 USD is vulnerable. On the other hand, the fear that the price of Bitcoin falls through the zone miners cannot gain the reward to compensate the mining cost (around 7,000 USD) is decreasing.
Recently, CoinCheck, a famous Japanese trading post of cryptocurrency was cracked and billions of NEM were stolen. The perpetrators were not arrested. It is said that stolen NEMs is tracked. Someone says they were sent to other trading posts. It causes fear to buy dirty NEM accidentally, leading to the fall of the value of NEM.
Financial Service Agency of Japan took administrative guidance to some trading companies, yesterday. FSHO and BitStation were given a business suspension order. Also, Techbureau, GMO Coin, Bicrements, Mr. Exchange, CoinCheck were given an order for business improvement.
FSA had been investigating all organizations registered as a cryptocurrency trader. Subjects of administrative guidance will lose the trust of customers.
Also, FSA commented to prohibit Japanese from taking a role of ICO in foreign nations. ICO was spread as an easy way of gaining cash for startups. But there are many tricky or malicious invitations to ICO. Although all investments should be done by yourself, many people claim the necessity of some regulation for ICO.
I believe FSA is struggling to establish safe and effective dealing of cryptocurrency for the prosperity of Japan. Japan is proceeding on this issue. I hope a constructive decision will be made.
After the catastrophe occurred in January, the price has not touched a higher range. The line of 10,000 USD is vulnerable. On the other hand, the fear that the price of Bitcoin falls through the zone miners cannot gain the reward to compensate the mining cost (around 7,000 USD) is decreasing.
Recently, CoinCheck, a famous Japanese trading post of cryptocurrency was cracked and billions of NEM were stolen. The perpetrators were not arrested. It is said that stolen NEMs is tracked. Someone says they were sent to other trading posts. It causes fear to buy dirty NEM accidentally, leading to the fall of the value of NEM.
Financial Service Agency of Japan took administrative guidance to some trading companies, yesterday. FSHO and BitStation were given a business suspension order. Also, Techbureau, GMO Coin, Bicrements, Mr. Exchange, CoinCheck were given an order for business improvement.
FSA had been investigating all organizations registered as a cryptocurrency trader. Subjects of administrative guidance will lose the trust of customers.
Also, FSA commented to prohibit Japanese from taking a role of ICO in foreign nations. ICO was spread as an easy way of gaining cash for startups. But there are many tricky or malicious invitations to ICO. Although all investments should be done by yourself, many people claim the necessity of some regulation for ICO.
I believe FSA is struggling to establish safe and effective dealing of cryptocurrency for the prosperity of Japan. Japan is proceeding on this issue. I hope a constructive decision will be made.
Wednesday, March 7, 2018
First contact with alien
Whether there are any intelligent beings living on other planets than the earth is a question yet to be answered. Some people believe them.
So far, many Sci-Fi writers have accomplished amazing novels regarding aliens from outer planets. They travel for a long time approaching the earth. Some of the works describe a utopia in which the human culture and alien's one are well combined. Other believe aliens are willing to conquer us. If they exist, will be the first contact a happy event?
Michael Varnum, an assistant professor in Arizona State University, claims that the majority will be happy when they meet an alien. His specialty is psychology, not astronomy.
Independent: Humans will be happy if aliens invade Earth, scientists find
According to Varnum, in most articles he investigated, people who saw things suspected as an alien looked excited and joyful. But, we should not jump to the conclusion. It is quite natural that people who believe to have seen an alien are excited about their experience. They are those who willing to see and to report such events. In contrast, people who believe contact with an alien will be a tragedy would not report their experience if they actually see the alien. Otherwise, they do not believe the things they saw. It is a typical "selection bias."
Varnum made another experiment, however. He made a group of volunteers into two subgroups. In this experiment, members of one group were offered the media explaining aliens, while the other group was exposed to the media regarding the history of life. As a result, members belonging to the former group were more excited than the latter.
However, it is difficult to believe this experiment without a doubt. In general, the topic of alien is interesting than that of evolution. Thus, this experiment proved only the difference of the interest level between the two materials. Also, it is doubtful that participants who were exposed to the media regarding alien believed the existence of aliens. They might enjoy the media as a fiction.
After all, it is difficult to estimate the impact when we encounter an external life. In my opinion, an exclusive policy will rise when meeting with aliens, considering the recent trend in the world.
So far, many Sci-Fi writers have accomplished amazing novels regarding aliens from outer planets. They travel for a long time approaching the earth. Some of the works describe a utopia in which the human culture and alien's one are well combined. Other believe aliens are willing to conquer us. If they exist, will be the first contact a happy event?
Michael Varnum, an assistant professor in Arizona State University, claims that the majority will be happy when they meet an alien. His specialty is psychology, not astronomy.
Independent: Humans will be happy if aliens invade Earth, scientists find
According to Varnum, in most articles he investigated, people who saw things suspected as an alien looked excited and joyful. But, we should not jump to the conclusion. It is quite natural that people who believe to have seen an alien are excited about their experience. They are those who willing to see and to report such events. In contrast, people who believe contact with an alien will be a tragedy would not report their experience if they actually see the alien. Otherwise, they do not believe the things they saw. It is a typical "selection bias."
Varnum made another experiment, however. He made a group of volunteers into two subgroups. In this experiment, members of one group were offered the media explaining aliens, while the other group was exposed to the media regarding the history of life. As a result, members belonging to the former group were more excited than the latter.
However, it is difficult to believe this experiment without a doubt. In general, the topic of alien is interesting than that of evolution. Thus, this experiment proved only the difference of the interest level between the two materials. Also, it is doubtful that participants who were exposed to the media regarding alien believed the existence of aliens. They might enjoy the media as a fiction.
After all, it is difficult to estimate the impact when we encounter an external life. In my opinion, an exclusive policy will rise when meeting with aliens, considering the recent trend in the world.
Tuesday, March 6, 2018
Online bullying
Nowadays, online bullying has been a serious problem. Mostly occurring in children, cyberbullying may also emerge in adult society. And the consequence is often not less catastrophic than the abuse in real.
Considering this issue, you should be aware that it is rare online bullying occurs independently. When you find a child bullied on the internet, he may also be bullied at school or other community. Considering this fact, cyberpolice itself is not an entire help for the victims. Discussing the whole issues with the child, parents, school teachers, and whoever concerned is essential.
The Conversation: What should I do if my child is a cyberbully?
To avoid online bullying, the only thing you should do is to turn off the switch of your smartphone. But it may cause another, and sometimes more serious, problem. For many people, especially in younglings, online activity is indispensable for daily life. It is one of the complexities in addressing this issue, as well as internet addiction.
Based on my personal experience, people who are bullying someone seldom recognize the meaning of their behavior. Parents and teachers should take responsibility for teaching it to them. But it is not easy to modify their behavior because they do not understand their acts are unacceptable.
Therefore, for a quick solution, I would advise victims to run away, instead of waiting for the change of the situation, to a safer place. Usually, there are some elements to establish and maintain the bullying situation. They may be dullness of the victim or an atmosphere that bullying is justified. But in another place, people bullied would be a hero, or it is undesirable, a bullier.
Nonetheless, moving place, as well as calling for help, is often difficult for people continuously bullied. Watching children with empathy is necessary for preventing the issue worsens.
Considering this issue, you should be aware that it is rare online bullying occurs independently. When you find a child bullied on the internet, he may also be bullied at school or other community. Considering this fact, cyberpolice itself is not an entire help for the victims. Discussing the whole issues with the child, parents, school teachers, and whoever concerned is essential.
The Conversation: What should I do if my child is a cyberbully?
To avoid online bullying, the only thing you should do is to turn off the switch of your smartphone. But it may cause another, and sometimes more serious, problem. For many people, especially in younglings, online activity is indispensable for daily life. It is one of the complexities in addressing this issue, as well as internet addiction.
Based on my personal experience, people who are bullying someone seldom recognize the meaning of their behavior. Parents and teachers should take responsibility for teaching it to them. But it is not easy to modify their behavior because they do not understand their acts are unacceptable.
Therefore, for a quick solution, I would advise victims to run away, instead of waiting for the change of the situation, to a safer place. Usually, there are some elements to establish and maintain the bullying situation. They may be dullness of the victim or an atmosphere that bullying is justified. But in another place, people bullied would be a hero, or it is undesirable, a bullier.
Nonetheless, moving place, as well as calling for help, is often difficult for people continuously bullied. Watching children with empathy is necessary for preventing the issue worsens.
Monday, March 5, 2018
Black Panther: An African story of succession
I saw "Black Panther," on cinema.
Black Panther is a hero in Marvel Comics. He appeared in "Captain America 3: Civil War" for the first time in Marvel Cinematic Universe. But, in this firm, any other heroes in Marvel did not appear except after the end credit. Thus, Black Panther was described as a grand-hero leading the whole storyline.
Black Panther, named T'Challa, was a prince of Wakanda, a nation in Africa. Wakanda was deemed as a developing country whose dominant industrial source was farming. But, Wakanda had been mining massive Vibranium, a fictional mysterious metal in Marvel world, for thousands of years, and had established a splendid level of civilization. The kings of Wakanda had a duty to keep this fact secret successively.
Wikipedia: Black Panther (film)
T'Challa's father was killed in a terror attack. Challa attempted to revenge the suspect, Winter Soldier, in Civil War. At last, it was revealed that Winter Soldier was not relevant to the attack and the perpetrator was arrested in that film.
And after this event, Challa is going to accomplish the ritual of succession. He talks to his deceased father in a dream caused by the magical herb. He feels anxious about the ruling Wakanda. His father encourages him.
However, the father has a great secret which suffers Challa very much. Challa has to decide whether to protect traditional Wakanda, or bring it into the new age.
The storyline is a little similar to "Lion King." The atmosphere of African field and exotic music also reminded me Lion King.
The story is well constructed. Challa's confuse between father's behavior and his ideology was properly described. This kind of dilemma is necessary to develop a story of succession.
The Panther Suit absorbs any physical power. It looks invincible. But, in this film, how to overwhelm the wearer was described.
And, it is noteworthy that almost all casts are black in this film. There is a US agent casting an important role. But the US itself is no more appealing to the plot. The main theme of this film is What Wakanda should do for the world. The leaders of each folk in Wakanda were strong. This film successfully described the potential of Black people, I believe.
On the other hand, the action scenes were not so attractive. Black Panther and the villain are human-size persons. They do not use any ranged weapons. Compared to Thor: Ragnarok or Civil War, lairy directions are missing.
Also, I felt unrealistic that Wakanda had concealed its real figure for many years. Any betrayers would easily leak Wakanda's secret to other nations.
Personal Rating: 3 (fair)
Black Panther is a hero in Marvel Comics. He appeared in "Captain America 3: Civil War" for the first time in Marvel Cinematic Universe. But, in this firm, any other heroes in Marvel did not appear except after the end credit. Thus, Black Panther was described as a grand-hero leading the whole storyline.
Black Panther, named T'Challa, was a prince of Wakanda, a nation in Africa. Wakanda was deemed as a developing country whose dominant industrial source was farming. But, Wakanda had been mining massive Vibranium, a fictional mysterious metal in Marvel world, for thousands of years, and had established a splendid level of civilization. The kings of Wakanda had a duty to keep this fact secret successively.
Wikipedia: Black Panther (film)
T'Challa's father was killed in a terror attack. Challa attempted to revenge the suspect, Winter Soldier, in Civil War. At last, it was revealed that Winter Soldier was not relevant to the attack and the perpetrator was arrested in that film.
And after this event, Challa is going to accomplish the ritual of succession. He talks to his deceased father in a dream caused by the magical herb. He feels anxious about the ruling Wakanda. His father encourages him.
However, the father has a great secret which suffers Challa very much. Challa has to decide whether to protect traditional Wakanda, or bring it into the new age.
The storyline is a little similar to "Lion King." The atmosphere of African field and exotic music also reminded me Lion King.
The story is well constructed. Challa's confuse between father's behavior and his ideology was properly described. This kind of dilemma is necessary to develop a story of succession.
The Panther Suit absorbs any physical power. It looks invincible. But, in this film, how to overwhelm the wearer was described.
And, it is noteworthy that almost all casts are black in this film. There is a US agent casting an important role. But the US itself is no more appealing to the plot. The main theme of this film is What Wakanda should do for the world. The leaders of each folk in Wakanda were strong. This film successfully described the potential of Black people, I believe.
On the other hand, the action scenes were not so attractive. Black Panther and the villain are human-size persons. They do not use any ranged weapons. Compared to Thor: Ragnarok or Civil War, lairy directions are missing.
Also, I felt unrealistic that Wakanda had concealed its real figure for many years. Any betrayers would easily leak Wakanda's secret to other nations.
Personal Rating: 3 (fair)
Sunday, March 4, 2018
Daily work of professors
For citizens, how do professors work hard is not well known. Generally speaking, it seems that professors are deemed having too much time in the US. This article below describes the counter generals statement of easygoing professors.
The Atlantic: How Hard Do Professors Actually Work?
Actually, some professor does work very hard. In this article, Philip Guo says that he works more than 60 hours in a week. The content of his work is spread from teaching students to writing academic papers.
The situation is also similar in Japan. But there are some unique characters in professors in Japan.
First, since the budget for education is limited compared to other developed countries, professors are struggling for keeping the time to teach students. We have to get grants for continuing research. And Japanese universities and sponsors do not evaluate the achievement of education. It is an irony that the more eager to teach students, the less they are admitted by the director in Japan.
Second, there are many post-doctoral researchers who are suffering from the lack of stable posts. It is the same in the US, but in Japan, they have to deal with several tasks in a university as a temporal lecturer.
There are differences, however, in the situation among the academic departments. Medical doctors are relatively fortunate in gaining an academic post, compared to other medical staffs such as psychologists. Instead, many of them are extremely busy. Japanese professors of medicine are usually engaged in both clinical work and research, as well as education for medical students.
Anyway, academic posts are shrinking despite increasing persons with a doctorial degree. It is a global tendency. I do not think it is miserable, though. It is simply preferable that many researchers are growing.
The Atlantic: How Hard Do Professors Actually Work?
Actually, some professor does work very hard. In this article, Philip Guo says that he works more than 60 hours in a week. The content of his work is spread from teaching students to writing academic papers.
The situation is also similar in Japan. But there are some unique characters in professors in Japan.
First, since the budget for education is limited compared to other developed countries, professors are struggling for keeping the time to teach students. We have to get grants for continuing research. And Japanese universities and sponsors do not evaluate the achievement of education. It is an irony that the more eager to teach students, the less they are admitted by the director in Japan.
Second, there are many post-doctoral researchers who are suffering from the lack of stable posts. It is the same in the US, but in Japan, they have to deal with several tasks in a university as a temporal lecturer.
There are differences, however, in the situation among the academic departments. Medical doctors are relatively fortunate in gaining an academic post, compared to other medical staffs such as psychologists. Instead, many of them are extremely busy. Japanese professors of medicine are usually engaged in both clinical work and research, as well as education for medical students.
Anyway, academic posts are shrinking despite increasing persons with a doctorial degree. It is a global tendency. I do not think it is miserable, though. It is simply preferable that many researchers are growing.
Saturday, March 3, 2018
Geostorm, an unrealistic disastrous movie
I watched Geostorm in the airplane recently. It was one I expected to see in the cinema.
The hero of this film is Jake Lawson, an engineer who was the leader of the team to create a large climate satellite. The satellite "Dutch Boy" was constructed by an international group to fix the world-class climate changes. However, Jake was expelled from the team because of his frank and aggressive behaviors. Jake's brother replaces him.
One day, Dutch Boy is compromised by someone, and several disasters occur. Jake's brother is ordered to make Jake return to the team. Jake accepts the offer and goes to the satellite. In the satellite base, Jake encounters an accident, smelling someone's conspiracy. He suspects there is a villain in the US. Concurrently, Dutch Boy is no more controllable, and "geostorm," the world catastrophe is coming soon.
The plot is well constructed. Who has caused the dysfunction of the satellite is the main mystery. The conclusion was rational I felt.
On the other hand, description of several disasters is terrible. They are unrealistic at all. For example, The waves approaching the seashore become frozen in a second. It is no more a natural disaster, but an illusion!
Why do we fear as well as worship nature? It may be due to nature's massive power and rath. This movie has failed to describe the greatness of nature. Instead, merely fantastic scenes are featured.
If there were no satellite in this film, the storyline would be the same. It is the most significant flaw in this film.
Personal Rating: 2 (poor)
The hero of this film is Jake Lawson, an engineer who was the leader of the team to create a large climate satellite. The satellite "Dutch Boy" was constructed by an international group to fix the world-class climate changes. However, Jake was expelled from the team because of his frank and aggressive behaviors. Jake's brother replaces him.
One day, Dutch Boy is compromised by someone, and several disasters occur. Jake's brother is ordered to make Jake return to the team. Jake accepts the offer and goes to the satellite. In the satellite base, Jake encounters an accident, smelling someone's conspiracy. He suspects there is a villain in the US. Concurrently, Dutch Boy is no more controllable, and "geostorm," the world catastrophe is coming soon.
The plot is well constructed. Who has caused the dysfunction of the satellite is the main mystery. The conclusion was rational I felt.
On the other hand, description of several disasters is terrible. They are unrealistic at all. For example, The waves approaching the seashore become frozen in a second. It is no more a natural disaster, but an illusion!
Why do we fear as well as worship nature? It may be due to nature's massive power and rath. This movie has failed to describe the greatness of nature. Instead, merely fantastic scenes are featured.
If there were no satellite in this film, the storyline would be the same. It is the most significant flaw in this film.
Personal Rating: 2 (poor)
Friday, March 2, 2018
True effect of mild exercise
It is a well-known fact that physical exercise is beneficial for your health. But how hard you should act is still under discussion.
In recent years, the hypothesis that even mild exercise without sweating is also advantageous for prolonging your life looks dominant.
My past entry: Single exercise protects you from heart attack
Researchers at University College London claim that they need not take moderate or intense exercise to keep their health, based on their latest cohort study.
Hindustan Times: Senior citizens, take note. Even light, no-sweat exercise can prolong life
If mild exercise is also beneficial in reality, we would be happy. And who believe this idea would take mild exercise regularly, as well as watching their condition. These activities will lead to maintaining their health well. It is so-called self-realizing prophecy.
Therefore, the exact effect of mild exercise is hardly examined. To begin with, there are few people never taking exercise at all. Going out for daily commodities once a week is an exercise. Afterall, we should move for checking our status, as well as enjoying the life.
In recent years, the hypothesis that even mild exercise without sweating is also advantageous for prolonging your life looks dominant.
My past entry: Single exercise protects you from heart attack
Researchers at University College London claim that they need not take moderate or intense exercise to keep their health, based on their latest cohort study.
Hindustan Times: Senior citizens, take note. Even light, no-sweat exercise can prolong life
If mild exercise is also beneficial in reality, we would be happy. And who believe this idea would take mild exercise regularly, as well as watching their condition. These activities will lead to maintaining their health well. It is so-called self-realizing prophecy.
Therefore, the exact effect of mild exercise is hardly examined. To begin with, there are few people never taking exercise at all. Going out for daily commodities once a week is an exercise. Afterall, we should move for checking our status, as well as enjoying the life.
Thursday, March 1, 2018
Taiwan for the third time
I visited Taiwan for the third time.
My past entry: Journey in Taiwan
My past entry: Taiwan visiting for the second time
This trip was private. So, I fulfilled my curiosity very well.
It was just after the Lunar New Year. There are many monuments describing dogs, dragons, and cranes.
At Shifen, I saw several lanterns flowing in the sky.
I enjoyed dinner at Din Tai Fung, a world-famous xiaolongbao restaurant. There were so many people waiting for the seat that it took an hour to take the seat. The food was very delicious.
I went to Houtong, so-called "cat village."
It was a rural area in eastern Taiwan.And there were many cats in the village.
Then, I visited Jiufen. It was also a small village initially developed as a miners' town. It is said that Hayao Miyazaki, a famous anime-movie director, visited Jiufen to construct the landscape of his work "Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi [Spirited Away]." Although Miyazaki denied this idea, Jiufen became popular as a sanctuary of Miyazaki animation. Indeed, it was extremely crowded.
Taipei's figure reminded me an old Japanese city. I respect Taiwanese for developing this country with cheer.
My past entry: Journey in Taiwan
My past entry: Taiwan visiting for the second time
This trip was private. So, I fulfilled my curiosity very well.
It was just after the Lunar New Year. There are many monuments describing dogs, dragons, and cranes.
At Shifen, I saw several lanterns flowing in the sky.
I enjoyed dinner at Din Tai Fung, a world-famous xiaolongbao restaurant. There were so many people waiting for the seat that it took an hour to take the seat. The food was very delicious.
I went to Houtong, so-called "cat village."
It was a rural area in eastern Taiwan.And there were many cats in the village.
Then, I visited Jiufen. It was also a small village initially developed as a miners' town. It is said that Hayao Miyazaki, a famous anime-movie director, visited Jiufen to construct the landscape of his work "Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi [Spirited Away]." Although Miyazaki denied this idea, Jiufen became popular as a sanctuary of Miyazaki animation. Indeed, it was extremely crowded.
Taipei's figure reminded me an old Japanese city. I respect Taiwanese for developing this country with cheer.
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