Canada ban assault weapons

Canada will ban guns from the public.

Justin Trudeau, the Canadian Prime Minister, said recently that the government had approved a new regulation to prohibit purchase as well as use of gadgets for mass shooting.

The Telegraph: Canada introduces immediate ban on assault weapons in wake of its worst mass shooting

This policy was a response to a mass shooting case occurred in recent. I did not know the current situation in Canada, but it seems serious as far as reading these articles. Perhaps, Canada will be successful to change the situation compared to the US struggling for balancing between safety and liberty.

Third halving period of Bitcoin

Bitcoin faced the third halving period, just recently.

Reuters: Bitcoin goes through third 'halving', falls vs U.S. dollar

Bitcoin is produced by the miner's contribution. Minors develop the blockchain to examine the rightness of each transaction. Some Bitcoins are rewarded to miner who approved the transaction. But the reward is programmed to be halved in a particular period. And, it came for the third time since Bitcoin emerged.

Approaching the halving period is said to raise the value of Bitcoin. It is because as same as the gold is worthy. Thus, reduced production of Bitcoin positively affect the price of Bitcoin.

However, it is a theoretical explanation. In real, the value of Bitcoin is determine between need and supply, or bid and ask. The market decides it. If many people believe Bitcoin will be worthy in the future, the price increases.

And now, the price of Bitcoin is fluctuating. A couple of days ago, it was decreased by more than 5%. It is perhaps that some whales sold massive Bitcoin.

The truth is in the dark. Nobody exactly prospect the proper price of Bitcoin. It will take a long time for Bitcoin to become an alternative of a fiat with trustworthiness of its value.

Trump and Xi conflict worsening

The China government seems to strengthen pressure to Hong Kong, recently. And it made Trump present hostile comments to China.

So far, Hong Kong was resistant to China’s dominance since it was returned fro the UK to China. China persists one governor doctrine, willing to integrate Hong Kong to communist party’s ruling.

It is no doubt that the US does not like the situation. But Donald Trump did not take an action against Chinese policy. Instead, he emphasized the good relationship with Xi Jinping.

However, the latest solution of China seems to harsh for Trump to be ignored. And it is far from Trump’s affaire.

The New York Times: Trump and Xi conflict worsening China’s Hong Kong Crackdown Could Put Trump in an Unwelcome Spot

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/21/us/politics/trump-china-hong-kong.html

Perhaps, Trump in the US which is suffering from massive fatality due to COVID-19 has to make an enemy outside the US for the victory of the next Presidential campaign. But it is foolish to sacrifice diplomatic advantage for domestic support.

Yoga can reduce your pain of migraine, study found

According to a new study, yoga can mitigate the frequency of migraine. 

Politicopathy: Yoga can help half the number of headaches migraine sufferers experience, study shows

In this study, participants were divided into two groups: yoga and meditation. A half of the former group experienced mitigated headache.

Although could not adopting double blinded procedure, the outcome is somehow reliable, in my opinion, because migraine is a serious disease so that most patients try several solutions. I am not sure how yoga was effective. Perhaps, meditation or muscle relaxation itself is beneficial. Considering that some other benefits for mental health using yoga were reported, it is possible that the training set of yoga has an effect to promote mental health. The symptom of migraine is affected by patient's mental health status.

Protester's act spread COVID-19?

The US research team revealed that anti-lockdown protesters spread the COVID-19 virus, even if unintentionally.

The Guardian: US lockdown protests may have spread virus widely, cellphone data suggests

This astonishing result was derived from the mobile phone tracking data. Protesters traveled for a long distance. And their process of journey included areas in which COVID-19 had not been apparent so far. But after their meeting, patients emerged.

It is quite ironic that their claim that the lockdown was not a right way of policy was proven as wrong with their own behavior. Reckless movement such as their activity brought COVID-19 spreading. Considering their hyperactivity, this result is indeed not so surprising.

On the other hand, I was surprised that the fact that protesters' behavior was inappropriate was easily proven with a mobile technology. It is a victory of science. At the same time, our activity is easily to be tracked.

Anyway, silly activity should be hesitated. Unintentional transference can be an act of murderer. 

Child abuse relieving drug?

some researchers claim they found a new drug to reduce child abuse.

The Guardian: New drug 'cuts risk of men abusing children within weeks'

Degarelix acetate was originally developed to be a cure of prostate cancer. It reduces  user's testosterone level. Thus, researchers paid attention to its anti-aggressive effect.

According to them, only weeks of taking this drug suppressed the impulse of violent behavior.

I have not read the article of the study published in JAMA Psychiatry, a leading academic journal. If proven, it will be a historic finding, although there are several issues to be solved.

I believe many child abusers are not willing to do such an inappropriate act. The drug will be beneficial at least for persons who seek help.

Plant bottle challenge

Plastic bottle will be replaced to plants in the future.

According to the media, Avantium, a biochemical company in Netherlands is going to proceed a project to make plastics from plant sugars. It is collaborative with Carlsberg, a famous beer company.

The Guardian: The end of plastic? New plant-based bottles will degrade in a year

Plastic is easy to form and stable for a long time. But it is made from massive fossil. Since we are too much dependent on carbonate, we have to abandon plastic bottles some day.

I do not believe recycling is a decisive solution for sustainable environment. Rather, replacing scarce resources with new materials gradually is reasonable. I hope Avantium's attempt will be successful.

Chiba to ban Apple products

The relationship between the US and China seems to have become worsened unfortunately.

China is preparing to restrict the import of Apple and some American products, according to Global Times, a semiofficial paper of Communist Party of China.

Reuters: China ready to put Apple, other U.S. companies in 'unreliable entity list': Global Times

It is uncertain the news is corrected. Anyway, China is going to exclude the US industry. It is the same vice versa. I am afraid this deteriorating relationship will make no victors. Perhaps, some developing counties which introduce any nation's product will be dominant in the future.

Miyuki Noma, a charming comic writer passed away

Recently, I heard that Miyuki Noma passed away due to acute heart failure.

She was a professional comic writer. She was not world famous, but made some splendid works.

Originally, she wrote comic books for girls. But she was fond of making thriller. Then, she created “Puzzle Game High School,” a series of puzzler stories. She published dozens of books theming mystery. Actually, she was a member of Mystery Writers of Japan Inc.

I truly loved her works. She was only 59 yo. Rest in Peace.

Sleep behavior after COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our daily life a much. Some people are now suffering from psychiatric symptoms. The article below mentions sleep disorder relevant the pandemic.

The Conversation: Want to sleep like a baby during the coronavirus crisis? Here are 10 ways to do it

I have described about good sleep in this blog recurrently. From my knowledge and experience as a psychiatrist, I agree with the opinion written in this article above.

However, I do not believe COVID-19 pandemic causes us serious insomnia. Patients I meet at clinic seldom complain insomnia, unless specific situations. Rather, people take more sleeping time because of reduced work. Japanese are chronically lacking enough sleep. Perhaps after the COVID-19 pandemic, some people become healthier.

On the other hand, longitudinal effect of lockdown will be serious. Lack of exercise, financial crisis, reduced social communication, and loss of entertainment are each of risk for mental health. We should be aware of them.

Suicide dropped in this April in Japan, COVID-19 releted?

Discussing COVID-19, we psychiatrists often refer to another lethal issue: suicide.

Suicide is one of the worst cause of death. We have to prevent suicide at 100% rate ideally.

Specialists of psychiatry suggest there are three patterns about COVID-19 related suicide. First, people who took COVID-19, or families with COVID-19 patients may become desperate to commit suicide. Second, medical practitioners as well as workers responsible for management of infection are overworking to become burnout. They may be blamed when failed to manage it. And the third is the risk of financial crisis relevant lockdown. It is proven that crippled economy brings many suicides.

The last is most frequently discussed in Japan. The reason why the Japan government is hesitating to set strict policy against spreading COVID-19 is the fear of economical breakdown. 

The Japan Times: COVID-19 puts the squeeze on Japan's most vulnerable

In reality, suicide rate in Japan was significantly decreased in this April. It was declined by 20% from the previous year. In every year, Japan faces many suicide in April because the fiscal year begins in April in Japan. This year, many workers have to be alone at home. It might lead to reduced stress level of interpersonal communication, according to the media.

It is unsure what is happening. First of all, suicide statistics is not so trustworthy than other official statistics. Many Japanese hate to report their relative's suicide. Especially in this year, police officers might have difficulty to take time for adequate investigation of unexpected death.

Also, victims of suicide is always vulnerable people. A part of them might be dead relevant to COVID-19.

In contrast, it is possible that many people became hypomanic because of this serious situation. It is well known that immediately after a disaster depressive people get recovered temporarily. It is explainable with acute release of adrenergic hormones. In this case, a certain period passes, people's mental health will deteriorate.

Above all, the relationship between COVID-19 pandemic and suicide should be deliberately examined for a longitudinal view.

Sharing issue between COVID-19 and forensic mental health

A couple of months has passed since the novel corona virus became pandemic. Many cities were forced to be locked down, and some are to be reopened albeit with much anxiety.

Very recently, I heard some cases of discrimination against COVID-19 relevant people. It is not limited to infected people, but also against medical practitioners engaging in patients.

It is shameful to disrespect or avoid medical staffs. But I have to be somewhat sympathetic with the fear of  such poor people who are worrying about being infected.

Interestingly, their fear is not rational. I mean that doctors in charge of caring patients with COVID-19 are safer than other physicians in terms of the risk for transmitting virus. They wear personal precautionary equipments completely when connecting patients. Also, they are strictly watched by the team so that they never transfer the virus. On the other hand, physicians who are working at an ordinary outpatient clinic, including me, have many opportunities to touch patients potentially carrying the virus. They usually do not equip entire protecter. Since most patients are not aware of carrying the virus, they do not behave cautiously. Which is riskier do you think?

The structure of this issue is very similar to the forensic mental health. The other days, I was engaging in constructing forensic mental health wards in some regional hospitals. When I made an explanation about the plan of newly developed forensic mental health systems, many citizens were opposing to building new wards. They were afraid that dangerous people who had committed serious crimes for the reason of insanity would be in the ward. In reality, however, they did exist there! Newly developed wards were built to treat such patients with richer staffs and strict structure. Indeed, after the new scheme began, serious cases committed by mentally disordered patients seems to be decreasing, despite some disputes around it.

We are aware of overt risk. But, covert risks are often more serious. We should become aware of them with scientific view.

Mother’s love promote children’s gene?

The belief that good nurturing is essential for children is supported by several studies, while it is believed with instinct. In recent, the relationship between child development and nurturing attitude of the mother is deeply investigated.

The Star: Early love from mothers can lead to many positives later in life for kids

According to the researchers, experience in the extremely early childhood is very important. Children who was loved in this stage will be invulnerable to harsh circumstance in later age. Results of genetic studies and immunology are consistent with this idea shared by many people.

To be honest, I do not like this idea. Rather, I have to help patients who were abused in their childhood. They have failed to gain good immune systems, according to the latest studies. It is relieving that researchers suggest insufficient love can be compensated in later life. I will commit the recovery of mental health, as well as gene.

Tesla may be gone from California

Tesla is going to Texas or Nevada from California.

Financial Post.com: Amid lockdown dispute, Musk says he will move Tesla out of California

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, a huge American vehicle company, told via Twitter that he was planning to move the headquarter of the company from the current place to Texas or Nevada.

Tesla's factory is now crippled because of the lockdown order by Alameda County. The Mayor said to be collaborative with Tesla for safe restart of the factory. But Musk seems not to be affirmative to the policy.

I am not sure if Texas or Nevada is superior to California for Tesla. Anyway, if Tesla is withdrawn, California will face serious financial damage not only from decreased tax income but also employment provided by Tesla and relevant industry.

Business is merciless. Mayor will have a tough time in addition to addressing the corona pandemic.

TRPG materials available easily online

Being forced to stay home due to the corona virus pandemic, I have much time to read materials as well as play computer games.

I am fond of playing role playing game. Unfortunately, I have scarce opportunity to play table-talk role playing game in recent years because of limited time and people. Therefore, I only read rule books of TRPG system to imagine the situation of session.

DriveThruRPG, a famous online market of RPG materials offers frequently discount sales. Also, it often proposes some charity sales of mega-bundle. You can gain hundreds of materials, price of hundreds dollars, for only 20 USD. Many of the resources are provided with PDF format so you can access them easily. I got some interesting supplements through the sale.

In addition, several legendary materials such as Classic Dungeons and Dragons rulebooks are available on PDF. I also got them because I was too young to purchase them in time. It is very thankful to access them easily now.

Definite condition of the boss

If you have some subordinates, I recommend you to remember some simple things.

Every good bosses are;

- to entrust the work to the subordinate.

- to support the subordinate in a serious setting.

- to have a dream.

If your boss does always censor your work, blame you on your failure, or have no perspective in the future, I strong recommend you to change the workplace.

Fortunately, my boss adhere all the three things above. Therefore, he remains my boss.

Sudan approve to stop FGM

Very recently, Sudan's cabinet decided to amend the criminal law for banning female genital mutilation.

Bangkok Post: Women hail victory as Sudan moves to ban genital cutting

According to the media, whoever violating this rule will be sentenced up to three years imprisonment.

I respect every culture in the world. Even it seems odd or strange, each habit has its own history and therefore should be respected.

Nonetheless, I do not accept such an evil act as cutting girl's genital. It is not only violating children's right but also quite risky for victim's physical and mental health.

Therefore, I approve the policy making of Sudan government.

I am afraid, however, some outdated citizens would continue to commit this wicked habit secretly. I expect Sudan government to make efforts to perish FGM.

Baffett abandon airline companies

Warren Buffett, a worldly famous investor, sold stocks of four popular airline companies.

Axios: Warren Buffett abandons U.S. airlines with a $6B billion stock sale

He said to have sold Delta, United, American, and Southwest market stocks.

Indeed, many airline companies experienced deadly loss of profits in these months mainly because of the corona pandemic. Even if this situation is ended soon, we will have to reconsider the usage of public transport. As well, many nations are prepared for the next era in which independence from other nations will be essential.

On the other hand, Warren Buffett's policy of investment is longitudinal stance. I am not certain that airline companies will not recover their balance sheet soon.

Next Star Wars will be created by Taika Waititi

Yesterday was the day of Star Wars because it means "May the Fourth." And, it seems Taika Waititi will succeed the Star Wars saga.

Metro: Thor: Ragnarok director Taika Waititi to direct new Star Wars movie after Skywalker saga

The media reported that the director of Thor: Ragnarok would be the next director of star wars film. Star Wars series was completed with the last episode: The Rise of Skywalker, but will be rebooted, or connected with some spin-off movies such as "Han Solo."

Taika Waititi is famous as the director of Thor: Ragnarok, an amazing movie of Marvel hero. I like this film so much because it was well mixed work of a slapstick comedy and a tragic ending of Thor's story. Therefore, I expect an excellent work for him.

On the other hand, I am not so impressed to another Star Wars. The latest trilogy is infamous for these paradoxical story lines. I do not hate them, but believe they are inferior to previous series.

Not water but fruits and roots can mitigate hungover

Alcohol hungover is one of the most serious conditions at least subjectively. Therefore, there are several methods developed to prevent or mitigate the symptoms of hungover.

Many people believe dehydration is a cause of hungover. But a latest study denied this hypothesis.

Independent: Ultimate hangover cure can be made from ‘fruits, roots and leaves’, scientists claim

According to the researchers who wrote the article published in British Medical Journal, levels of water content in the body were not associated with the amount of alcohol consumption.

Instead, they prove that participants who took acerola, prickly pear, ginkgo biloba, willow and ginger root, as well as some minerals experienced mitigated symptoms of hungover such as headache. Thus, some fruit, roots, and leaves may be beneficial to counter hungover.

This conclusion is rational, or rather consistent with our daily experience. Therefore, I was not impressed to this result. Further studies are needed to develop a remedy for complete prevention of hungover.

Kim Jong un seems to be alive

Behind corona disastrous pandemic, the situation of North Korea does not attract public attention. But, there was a rumor that Kim Jong un, the leader of North, was critically ill. Since he had not appeared for several weeks, some people outside the North Korea believed Kim was dead.

However, very recently, the North media published Kim's figure in an official ceremony, denying the rumor.

The new York Times: Kim Jong-un Resurfaces, State Media Says, After Weeks of Health Rumors

Donald Trump, the President of the US, also denied the mortality of Kim. Despite the North Korea could conceal the ex-leader's death for several months, I have no doubt about the broadcast of the North media.

Rather, if Kim is dead, the North will be seriously confused because who will succeed him is undetermined. It will lead to negative impacts to several nations such as China and South Korea. It is ironic that nobody desires Kim's dictatorship will end now.

Japan extended emergency

Japan government decided to extend the declaration of emergency for approximately one month.

Abe Shinzo, the Prime Minister of Japan, stated emergency on 7th April. At that time, the duration was estimated to one month. In Japan, the first week of May is covered with several holidays, so called “Golden Week.” I guess the government wished to avoid constructing clusters of crowd in resort areas as usual.

On the other hand, the estimation that the pandemic of the novel corona virus will be terminated within one month was too optimistic. It is admitted in many people, as well as politicians. Extension of emergency is not surprising for most Japanese, I believe.

Indeed, the number of infection is not so rapidly progressive after the declaration in Japan. Avoiding going out is considerably effective to stop deteriorating pandemic.

Taiwan and New Zealand are said to be successful in controlling viral infection. South Korea was struck seriously by the epidemic, but now there is no newly developed infection.

Thus, the pandemic can be conquered at least in some local areas. Whether each nation win the battle depends on several factors. We have to learn many things from other regions.

Rakuten canceled selling of corona test kit

Rakuten Inc. decided to cancel selling a series of examination kits of the novel corona virus, according to the media.

It said that the reason was changing situation of the developer. Explanation in detail has not been done. It keeps the policy that usage of this kit by many people can contribute to stopping expansion of the COVID-19.

As I mentioned before, Rakuten's kit and its policy is extremely problematic. Japan Medical Association also made a warning of inappropriate use of this kind of examination.

This news is very relieving. But, according to Rakuten, this decision making was not influenced by medical professionals opinion. If so, Rakuten will make a mistake again, I am afraid. Delivering an examination kit of infection to everyone will no benefit us at all in the current situation.

UFO films released by Pentagon?

Pentagon declassified some records regarding UFO.

BBC: Pentagon releases UFO videos for the record

According to the media, there are three videos in which unidentifiable flying objects were seen released by the US Department of Defense. But they were already leaked by someone before.

Some people claim that the US officially admit the existence of aliens coming to the earth. I hardly understand it, however. The US never admitted UFO, but simply admitted there were some films of unidentified objects.

To be honest, I do not believe intellectual beings live outside the earth. These films may be a product of an unintended noise.

I am not sure why the US government released such a silly source recently. We are in a serious situation of the battle with corona virus. It is some kind of conspiracy theory to connect these two issues directly. On the other hand,  some people are concerned about UFO, or other occult issues, when fully anxious, of course of COVID-19. I am afraid that similar doubtful theories will emerge one by one soon.

Zoom's value is rocketing

Zoom video communications, a famous telecommunication company is rapidly increasing its market value.

Its stock price is now 165 USD, and its market value has reached 30 billion USD, by four fold higher in this half year.

Money Control: Zoom is now worth more than American Airlines, Expedia and Hilton combined

It is obviously because we have to stay home at the COVID-19 pandemic. Now people utilize video conference systems most vitally than ever before.

Zoom was criticized on its vulnerability to wiretapping. Nonetheless, its usability is admired by many people. The fact that even in the current tragic situation some companies are growing encourages us.

Home cooking due to pandemic

It is often heard that the opportunity of home cooking has been increased since the novel corona virus pandemic made us stay home. Actually, I myself take almost every meal at home now, while approximately half of them were taken outside previously.

Home cooking can be healthier than dinner in a restaurant, some researchers say.

The Conversation: Home cooking means healthier eating – there’s an opportunity to change food habits for good

In my opinion, the main advantage of home cooking is the fact that you can take much vegetable at home. Most restaurants as well as fast-food franchises offer meals with too little vegetable. Also, the meal they provide contains much fat, red meat, and dairy products. They are suspected to harm our body in a longitudinal way.

It is useful to choose some products believed as good for your health in this opportunity. Nuts, red vegetables, some fruits, olive oil are likely to be beneficial.

On the other hand, cooking at home is a serious work for non-skilled people. Relying on preserved food too much for daily meal is no more healthy. Balanced diet is essential for us to maintain our health, especially in this crisis.

Google Card coming?

Google seems to develop its own branded debit card.

TechCrunch: Leaked pics reveal Google smart debit card to rival Apple’s

Tech Crunch leaked some images of Google Card which is similar to Apple's one. If it is true, Google will expand its field of products from information technology to finance. It is not surprising because an independent payment system is crucial for an IT company with a certain size to grow up their business.

Therefore, this event will be a usual activity of Google. I do not believe Google card itself will change our daily life at all.

Dutch court accept mercy killing for demented person

Dutch supreme court accepted mercy killing for demented parsons.

Reuters: Dutch Supreme Court expands euthanasia laws for dementia patients

In this case, the doctor carried out euthanasia on a person who had severe dementia. The person is supposed to have committed a living will of welcoming mercy killing when seriously demented. However, the prosecutor accused the doctor on murder.

The court declared that a doctor can carry out an written request for euthanasia even if he is now not able to express his own will.

This verdict seems rational. If a living will is no more validated when you get demented, people can no longer decide their life after losing their competence.

I believe not a few people do not want to survive their life without their definite will. On the other hand, it is acceptable that a person want to live longer as much as possible even if depending on others. It is an issue of philosophy of life.

Therefore, leaving a living will with a entirely legal way is very important. It is horrible that a doctor who carried out euthanasia with adhering to the patient and his family's will is accused on a murder.

Amazon faces strike because of corona virus

Amazon will face a massive strike of the employees.

According to the media, the motivation of the employees planning the strike is their unsafe condition. They insist there is considerable risk of being infected by the novel corona virus.

Techxplore: Amazon workers to strike over 'unsafe' conditions amid virus

So far, Amazon was criticized for its serious working condition. Amazon.co.uk abandoned fast delivery to keep employees working after broadcasting its gigantic storage in which many workers are engaged to busy and delicate picking. Also in Japan, Sagawa, a famous delivery company, withdrew the contract with Amazon because it could no longer commit Amazon's strict demanding. After that, Amazon prepared direct deliverers on its own.

As a consumer, Amazon provides very helpful services. My life depends on Amazon a lot. But, if its quality of service sacrifices employees' health, it cannot be acceptable.

Facebook bans pseudoscience from advertisement

Facebook removed pseudoscience as a category for advertizement.

Reuters: Facebook gets rid of 'pseudoscience' ad-targeting category

This solution was a reaction to recent situation that many incorrect information about prevention from COVID-19 emerged as the WHO declared "infordemic." Similar to events occurred previously, we are often confused among massive information in a life-threatening situation. Meanwhile, not a few evil people are willing to trick citizens with introducing wrong, or even harmful solutions.

In this sense, Facebook's decision is rational and admirable. But, I am doubtful that it will contribute to get rid of incorrect information from the internet. Most providers of pseudoscience are not aware of the fact that they do not adhere to the principle of science. Objective judgment of the validity for each information is necessary to clean up the internet. Of course, however, it is extremely difficult to distinguish true things from others.

Google and other companies are eager to check the factfulness of each website. Some AI algorithms have been developed to judge them automatically. But their sensitivity and specificity are not satisfactory.

For a while, or decades, we have to be keen to develop our eye to find the truth on our own.

White roof is better for the environment?

White roof is environment friendly, according to some scientists.

Inverse: THE SCIENTIFIC REASON WHY A WHITE ROOF IS BETTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

The reason is that white is reflecting color. Some studies suggest that cities composed of many white-roofed houses are less likely to be hit by the heat island phenomenon.

This result is a little surprising. But we often experience that wearing a black jacket makes us feeling warm. It is for the heat keeping effect of black color, not only for the clothes itself. Considering that, a white city may be cool.

In real, some city governments regulate the color of roof and wall of the houses mainly to maintain the harmonious landscape. In Japan, there are few cities with such legislation. But at some areas in Kyoto, some colors destroying the atmosphere of the town are prohibited. Convenience stores in such regions decorate their wall with specific color, different from usual ones of the franchise.

In the near future, white color painting will be mandated for new housing, perhaps for mitigating global warming.

Foolish Rakuten to sell examination kit of COVID-19

Rakuten. Inc. has begun to sell handy examination kit of COVID-19 very recently.

According to the media, this kit is not a medical device. You have to scratch your mucous membrane with a cotton swab, to send it to the examination center. Then you will receive the result.

Nonsense!

Medical examination is not a definite way to determine a person's status. I guess most people believe this kind of test kit will give the answer with 100% of confidence. But, any tests have a risk of false positive as well as false negative. Even in an excellent test kit, sensitivity is up to 90%, and specificity is up to 99.9%. Furthermore, scratching the nose mucous is not an easy way. In my experience of a physician, we often fail to collect the sample, in the flu case.

I am extremely afraid if unskilled people will take this kit to check their status. If thousands of people take the test on their own regardless of the symptoms, there will be massive subjects with false positive or false negative. People of false positive will go to hospital in vein, leading to burdening medical staffs. People of false negative will go out recklessly to transfer the virus.

Rakuten's product is perhaps an excellent one. But, delivering this device to non-expert people is the worst act in the world. We should drop it immediately.

Behavior modification as a solution for COVID-19

In recent, we often hear the term "behavior modification" in the context of COVID-19. Shinzo Abe, The Prime Minister of Japan mentioned this words repeatedly in the declaration of emergency.

Behavior modification is originally a technical term of behavioral science. Our behavioral trait is formed by several factors such as biological characteristics, personality, environment in nurture, and experiences. These traits are deemed as a personality itself. For instance, reckless people often act a risky behavior.

But this behavioral tendency can be altered with some simple interventions, according to latest research. If we get rewards after a particular act, the act will be done more often. How to increase the rate of beneficial behaviors with eliminating harmful behaviors is crucially wanted answer from behavioral scientists. Thus, behavior modification is a core issue.

After corona shock, we have to keep social distance from neighbors. We should avoid crowded spaces. These acts are perhaps coerced by the government. But in Japan, there is no legislation to restrict citizen's activity directly. Therefore, the government expects citizens to modify their behaviors.

As a psychiatrist, behavior science is one of my specialty. I am glad to see the concept of behavior modification is spread to the society, though never welcoming the disaster of COVID-19.

Agricola Revised Edition released

Agricola is a popular board game whose theme is management of a farm.

It is categorized as a worker placement type game. Each players use some workers to take an action every turn. The actions occupied by others cannot be available. Therefore, you have to predict what kind of actions opponents want to do.

Also, you have to feed your workers every harvest phase. If you add workers with an action, the amount of foods needed is increased. Balancing between storing foods and develop new products is essential to win this game.

Agricola had been the best board games chosen by players all over world for a long time on the site of BoardGameGeek. Many players sought the optimized strategy for maximizing victory points.

You can play Agricola on iPad. This app is well made. I have played it many times. The AI is not so strong, but I sometimes lose the game with a hard luck.

And very recently, Revised Edition of Agricola was released. The revised edition is a newly form of Agricola. The original version included some balance-breaking cards such as "Lover (immediately add one worker)" and "Taster (you can take an action in advance of every turn)." These cards were excluded or arranged  in the revised edition.

Unfortunately, the app of revised edition has some critical flaws. Card drafting rule is not introduced. The 5-players game is not available. Also, there are some serious bugs I found. I am waiting for the update.

IT as a solution for lockdown loneliness?

In the state of lockdown, we are forced to stay home. It causes us several problems not only physically but also mentally.

Sense of loneliness has been proven as a factor of shortening life expectancy. And social isolation is no other than loneliness. Thus, we have to manage our solitude somehow to maintain our health.

Latest neuroscience has clarified the characteristics of loneliness as well as the solution for it. Cognitive therapy is beneficial to modify our sense of solitude. As well, behavioral experiment will be effective to actually decrease desperate feeling.

However, several ways of treatment are unavailable now because of behavioral restriction. We cannot talk each other directly. Gyms are closed even if you want to take physical exercise.

Therefore, robotics and other information technologies have to be utilized properly. So far, online session was deemed as inferior to direct conversation in satisfactory level and degree of mutual understanding. It may be correct. But engineers are enthusiastic to overcome the gap.

The Conversation: The neuroscience of loneliness – and how technology is helping us

In my precision, the current situation will last for months, or even years. We have to adapt this status anyway.

Exercise will prevent liver cancer

Here, another benefit of exercise is suggested.

According to a newly published study, regular exercise will stop the development of liver cancer. It had been estimated that people exercise regularly are unlikely to have liver cancer. But its biological basis was unclear. The latest study used mice which were exposed to carcinogen. The group allowed to take exercise regularly grew less percentage of liver cancer.

Independent: Exercise may directly protect against liver cancer, study suggests

This experiment is interesting. But, a dominant cause of liver cancer Hepatitis viruses. Excessive alcohol consumption also leads to liver cancer. Especially in Japan, several people are suffering from hepatitis due to blood transfusion in the past. Also, obesity rate is not high in Japan. Therefore, even if the outcome of this study is correct, it will not have an impact in Japan, I guess.

Entertainment in lockdown situation

In recent, many people are trapped in the house because of the risk of the novel corona virus infection. This situation affects our life in several ways.

Lack of physical exercise causes us many symptoms. Not only metabolism, but also mental activity can be interrupted.

There are some reports that lockdown is a risk for domestic violence. Too much close relationship in a tough and uncertain situation cause anger and hostility to our mind.

In such a case, relaxation and entertainment are essential for maintain our mental health. Fortunately, many companies are offering components which are available via the internet. For example, DriveThruRPG, a huge portal selling role-playing game tools, sells massive PDF articles for low cost. Marvel Unlimited also provides some historic comics such as Avengers for free in a limited term.

The serious situation will continue for a while. We need entertainment. Do not hesitate to enjoy something now.

Amazon lower the fee for affiliate

Amazon will cut the rate of interest of its affiliate program dramatically.

Folio: Amazon Cuts Affiliate Commission Fees for Certain Product Categories

Amazon, as well as some other e-commerce companies, offers affiliate marketing program. Thus, blogger and website organizers can get some rewards when a customer purchase Amazon's goods after clicking advertisement appeared on his web page. The late of reward was up to 8% of the sales.

But Amazon will lower the rate by 30-80% since next week. This decision will strike many bloggers relying on the income from affiliate programs.

Because of COVID-19 pandemic, many people hesitate to go out to shopping. Amazon's sales must be drastically increased in recent. I guess Amazon would like to improve its balance sheet through cutting the cost for affiliate program.

I am not familiar with the advertisement business. I have no ads on this blog. As far as I remember, Amazon lowered the rate of incentive also in the past. Thus, the reward of affiliate will never be risen.

Amazon itself will become more stable, and conservative, company. It is a rational policy for Amazon to survive the next era, I think.

Trump to suspend funding to the WHO?

The US is threatening the WHO with funding.

Donald Trump, the US president, said to suspend funding to the WHO, very recently. He blamed the WHO on its management for COVID-19.

Wirefax: Trump to suspend funding to the World health organisation

Tedros Adhanom, the director-general of the WHO, asked Trump to continue supporting financially to the WHO, emphasizing the good relationship between the US and the WHO.

The Hill: WHO chief says he has good relationship with Trump despite president's comments

Tedros has been broadly criticized that his comment were biased to the Chinese side. Taiwan, not belonging to the WHO because of the opposition of China, is also conflicting with Tedros. He was blamed on discrimination against Taiwan, as well as WHO's reluctant stance for data sharing of COVID-19 with Taiwan.

Thus, Trump's hostility to the WHO seems relevant to the national conflict between the US and China. Also, the fact the US is the nation worst seriously struck by COVID-19 is irritating him.

I believe, however, Trump will cancel his policy soon. He is altering the comments every day. It is in no ways wise for the US as well as the whole world to be against the WHO. Deriving an apology from Tedros will be advantageous for Trump in the coming Presidential election. It is his intention, I reckon.

Anyway, everyone should be collaborative against the COVID-19 crisis. Not hostility, but the fact and solution, should be shared.

Conflict between US and China badly influence on Huawei as well as COVID-19 situation

We are at war against the novel corona virus. Besides, the US and China have fighting on the field of technology for years.

In recent years, Huawei rose to be a giant in this region. Its products were as good as those by Apple and Samsung, or at least not so much inferior. Also, they were far cheap. Therefore, Huawei was recognized as a great threat of the US.

The US government has been taking several ways to ban Huawei's products from the US and global market. It is an example that installing Google's Android on Huawei's tablet became illegal.

As a result, Huawei lost many profits. But the influence was not limited to Huawei itself. International collaboration between the US and China in the industry was also damaged. Some researchers suggest that the conflict between two nations caused broadened infection of the novel corona virus in the US. According to them, if both governments had been collaborated to share the exact information about COVID-19, the current situation would have been different.

Now, the US seems not to stop the battle against China. I do not support the US policy. As a citizen, there is no good of conflict between influential nations.

The Economist: Open standards, not sanctions, are America’s best weapon against Huawei

Thailand and Malaysia weightlifters are banned from Tokyo Olympic

Some athletes of Thailand and Malaysia are banned from Tokyo Olympic games.

Hindustan Times: IWF: Thailand, Malaysia banned from weightlifting at Tokyo Olympics

The International Weightlifting Federation decided to ban Thai Amateur Weightlifting Association (TAWA) and Malaysian Weightlifting Federation (MWF) from participating. Its decision means the athletes belonging to these organization have no right to compete their skills in the coming Tokyo Olympic.

Tokyo Olympic games was postponed by one year due to the novel corona virus pandemic. Nonetheless, the possibility that they can join in the game is still desperate.

The reason of the decision was doping of the athletes, according to the media. Doping is still a major issue in athletes community. I guess there are many suspected athletes who did not take such a trick actually because the modern doping examination has considerable amount of possibility of false positive. On the other hand, it is not surprising that some persons, as well as organizations, and even nations, would like to dope for better record for the reputation and actual benefits.

As far as there are some incentives for doping, similar cases will not be perished. As a physician, doping should not be permitted for its risk to the body. It is a difficult issue to promote healthy and fair competition.

Sweden's situation and lockdown

Sweden is struck by COVID-19 seriously because of avoiding lockdown, according to the media.

Forbes: After Rejecting A Coronavirus Lockdown, Sweden Sees Rise In Deaths

Sweden was a nation which had not adopted lockdown different from EU countries. Its policy possibly have led to more victims. Indeed, the death rate in Sweden is nearly 8%.

While Sweden's situation is quite sorry, we have to learn something to overcome the crisis. Also, delicate interpretation is needed in this issue before jumping into conclusion. It is also possible that a lockdown will cause social confusion leading to more fatality.

Xerox failed to get HP

Xerox abandoned to buy Hewlett-Packard Company.

Reuters: Xerox abandons $35 billion hostile bid for HP

Xerox is a big printer maker. Xerox is representative of copy machine in Japan. It planned to gain HP with a hostile bid.

HP is also a big printer provider. It produce personal computers as well. Buying HP must be beneficial for Xerox.

However, this deal ended unsuccessful. It is said that novel corona virus  pandemic had influenced to the conflict process.

To be honest, I had not known about this news. The current situation get rid of our usual activity.

Boris returned from the ICU

Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister of the UK, seemed to have been recovered from a critical state.

France 24: UK's Johnson moved out of intensive care, 'in extremely good spirits'

According to the media, he was moved from the ICU to a general ward. A spokesman expressed he was in a good spirits. It is very relieving news.

There are some cases reported, however, of reinfected COVID-19. It is unsure why patients are infected again soon after recovering from COVID-19 in spite of ongoing immune. It could be an issue of the PCR test sensitivity. Anyway, I hope Boris will soon perfectly get recovered.

Is wearing a mask effective against corona virus?

The COVID-19 is still expanding rapidly. Very recently, Japan government declared an emergency at last. Prevention from further spread of the novel corona virus is essential to keep our community functional.

Wearing a mask is generally believed as a precaution from transmitting viruses. In Japan, many people wear a mask in winter. I myself, wear a mask not only for viruses but also for mitigating the symptoms of hay fever in early spring.

But wearing a mask was not so common in Western countries. I seldom saw people with a mask in the UK even in cold days.

Regarding COVID-19, the effectiveness of wearing a mask is still controversial. Previously, many government did not recommended people to wear a mask because of its doubtful effect of preventing transmission. Also, if many people buy surgical masks, people at high risks such as medical practitioners cannot get ones.

However, as being revealed of asymptomatic infected persons, officials had to change the policy. Now, several governments ask citizens to wear a mask when going out.

South China Morning Post: To mask or not to mask: WHO makes U-turn while US, Singapore abandon pandemic advice and tell citizens to start wearing masks

It is not easy to examine the preventing effect of a mask exactly. In my sense, wearing a mask is somehow beneficial.

On the other hand, there are not enough amount of masks to all citizens. Indeed, I never see masks sold at a drug store for these weeks. Some worrying people can monopoly the masks. Otherwise, some distribution can be crippled.

Japan government has decided to deliver a couple of reusable masks to all citizens. I believe this act is admirable, at least among some realistic solutions.

Boris Johnson moved to ICU

Boris Johnson got worse to be moved to intensive care unit.

BBC: Coronavirus: Boris Johnson moved to intensive care as symptoms worsen

Boris Jonson is the Prime Minister of the UK. He was ex-mayor of London, and claimed that the UK should leave from the EU. After the Brexit vote, he did not seat the Prime Minister soon. But Theresa May resigned the Prime Minister due to longitudinal confusion of the Parliament, Boris succeeded her. It was a little surprising for me.

Recently, Boris was infected by the novel corona virus. He was hospitalized to get the best medical treatment. But, his status looks worsening. Boris is 55 year old, not so young. I truly hope his recovery.

On the other hand, it is very important that the leader of a nation is healthy and functioning. In the era of Eastern Japan earthquake and Tsunami disaster in 2011, the Prime Minister Naoto Kan and his ally were engaged to address the difficulty. I do not think they took the best way. But, it was fortunate Naoto completed his work at least for a year.

I am afraid that the nonexistence of Boris will cause further confusion to the UK.

Let's Note QV8 here

I renovated a laptop PC from Microsoft Surface to Panasonic Let's Note recently.

Let's Note is a flagship series of Panasonic products. It is not popular not only globally, but also in Japan, mainly because of its high cost. Let's Note series were adopted as an official model PC in the Tokyo Olympic 2020, postponed to the next year unfortunately.

But, I believe its performance is supreme compared with any other laptops.

Let's Note's advantages are high performed CPU, total weight, many types of interface including VGA and LAN. The latest Let's Note equips a USB type C connector. It can be powered via type C, only in the case the adapter can provide over 65W power.

Let's Note QV8 has limited batteries. In my sense, after using it for three or four hours, the battery is expired. It is a terrible disadvantage.

Above all, this machine is cool but somewhat inconvenient. Cost effectiveness is bad, to be honest. I do not recommend to buy it unless you can take some financial support.

Internet conference rises and falls

As novel corona virus pandemic emerges, many companies have to change their business styles.

Among all, connecting with unidentified people is a great risk of infection. Refraining from using public transportation as well as conference is recommended.

However, most businesspersons need to commune to their company. Also, there are several important meetings at work as well as schooling.

Then, online conference can be a solution to keep important contacts. Fortunately, video chatting is now popular in many developed countries. Also in developing nations, not a few people use a chat with a smartphone.

Zoom is one of the most famous video chat systems. Its traffic rose by 20 times due to the pandemic, according to the media.

However, there are several cases reported recently regarding Zoom accident. For example, some strangers intruded to the chat room, to make a hate speech. These cases are called “Zoom bombing.”

Every internet tool has vulnerabilities. If an unaccustomed user recklessly present their meeting ID and password on a public space, it will be a hint for crackers. However, it is said that Zoom has flawed security management. A skilled cracker could get the password at a certain Zoom meeting with over 10% of possibility, according to some media.

If so, Zoom is responsible for exposing customers to the risk of wiretapping. The New York City government declared to ban Zoom from their school settings.

FastCompany.com: Zoom banned from New York City schools due to privacy and security flaws

Being wiretapped of a secret meeting is a great risk for some situation. While several cases were reported about Zoom bombing, most of all seems to be a silly trick, even never acceptable. Culprits may be frustrated to the current situation. Otherwise, they have waited an opportunity to present their twisted ideology. Internet and social network tend to visualize human’s malice. It is an adverse effect of convenient tools. We are tested with not only the pandemic but also infodemic.    

Brain tumor can be erased by Vitamin B3?

A research team found a possibility that niacin (Vitamin B3) would be able to cure brain tumor.

Inverse: A “REMARKABLE” FINDING LINKS A COMMON VITAMIN TO FIGHTING BRAIN CANCER

According to V. Wee Yong, a professor at the University of Calgary's Cumming School of Medicine, niacin has a role of promoting immune systems. The result of studies with mice suggested extended survival time of subjects with glioblastoma.

Glioblastoma is one of the most difficult malignant neoplasms. I hardly believe such a simple component as Vitamin B3 will be a solution, to be honest. I hope their research will be successful.

Maintaining your mental health in chronic stress

Corona virus spreading has turned into a new stage, a pandemic, unfortunately.

It can no more be completely controlled. Therefore, we have to take a defense to maintain the current situation until some innovative solution is developed.

Though different from an emergency, long lasting battle is also exhausting. Especially when we cannot know the period it will be over, we tend to feel more stressful.

It is another issue than COVID-19 that you can deteriorate your health status because of chronic lock down. You have to keep yourself clean and alert as far as possible.

There are some tips below you can do everyday.

The New Daily: The five things you can do for your mental health in coronavirus lockdown

Nature: Seven tips to manage your mental health and well-being during the COVID-19 outbreak

I completely agree with the opinion described in these articles. Regulatory life is very important. Human can bare at acute stress for a short term. But if your circadian rhythm is chronically confused, it will get rid of your vitality sooner or later.

Humor is also essential in a tough situation. Do not blame on persons who make a silly joke. They are trying to endure their sorrow. Listening to music is also an easy and cheerful habit you can enjoy now. Stretching your body is one of best practices in daily life.

The battle against COVID-19 will be continuous. We have to change our mind for an adaptive behavior.

Bitcoin after corona shock

As the world is attacked by COVID-19, cryptocurrency is also in a peril.

The price of Bitcoin fell down by a half before corona virus outbreak. After that, it is recovering gradually. But the prospect is still uncertain.

Bloomberg: While coronavirus rages, bitcoin has made a leap towards the mainstream

Previously, Bitcoin was identified as a safe haven because it was independent from any governments or authorities. However, referring recent situations, the price is following the basal currencies.

In my sense, the idea that cryptocurrencies are invulnerable to financial crises is an illusion. Actually, the price of Bitcoin is determined by marketers absolutely. Any official forces cannot create new coins, different from fiats.

However, there are some factors to influence the price of cryptocurrencies outside from its mining process.

For example, when the energy cost is increased by oil shock, many miner will have to give up their work. It leads to downgraded reputation of Bitcoin.

Also, business confidence affects the price of Bitcoin, in my sense. In the boom, many investors are willing to buy Bitcoins. In a depressive state, they would not. Their feeling is somehow influential to the price itself.

In my opinion, recent breakdown of Bitcoin price was reflected with wide-spread pessimism of the market. I do not believe someone would by Bitcoin for safety now.

Therefore, the price of cryptocurrencies will be fracturing for a while, as COVID-19 pandemic will not be terminated soon.

Gloomy April Fool

Today, I write this entry on 1st, April.

Every year, I wrote some silly joke as an idea of April Fool. But this year, I would not like to write something.

The biggest reason is COVID-19 pandemic. More and more patients emerge everyday. We cannot see the termination of growing infectious storm. This situation is quite painful.

In addition, there are some false information, such as conspiracy theories, spread to the society following the tough situation. We have to be calm, neutral, and scientific. We have to avoid the risk of believing false facts.

Furthermore, my business as a researcher is unsuccessful. Therefore, I feel a little pessimistic.

More or less, everyone are inflicted damage by this situation. We have to maintain our daily life with least sacrifice.

Huawei release flagship smartphone without Android

Huawei's newest smartphone will not equip Android, according to the media.

The Jakartapost.com: Huawei flagship phone goes Google-free

Huawei, as well as other Chinese companies, has been sanctioned by the US. Since suspecting some spywares are installed in Chinese products, the US government prohibited Google and other companies to make an alliance with Chinese companies. Therefore, Huawei cannot produce smartphones powered by Google Android. Instead, it developed an original OS for smartphone.

I personally like Huawei's product because it is the only provider releasing 8 inch tablets with an LTE module. I wonder why other companies try to release similar tablets. The withdrawal of Huawei from Android did damage to me a lot.   

Ken Shimura passed away due to corona pneumonia

Ken Shimura, a famous Japanese comedian died after being infected by COVID-19.

According to the media, Ken was hospitalized because of corona viral pneumonia. As its mortality rate is said to up to 10%, we were anxious about his prognosis. Now, the worst scenario is realized, unfortunately.

Ken was 70 yo. He was not young, but healthy before the infection. He was going to play a protagonist of a cinema movie for the first time. If he had not been infected by COVID-19, he would have been alive now.

Also, Ken delivered smiley acts every day for several decades to many Japanese. His symbolic comical acts were mimicked by many children.

I pray for Ken’s peaceful afterlife. And we have to continue to fight against this deadly virus.

AI image diagnosis is promised

Technology in medical science is very rapidly developing. Especially, AI solution is one of the most promised region.

Recently, some cases were reported in which an AI diagnosis was superior to doctor's. It is uncertain whether the machine will overwhelm human doctors completely. But, as far as limited to the issue of image diagnosis, we should properly rely on AI support.

Inverse: A NEW A.I. SYSTEM COULD MAKE SURE WE NEVER MISDIAGNOSE CANCER AGAIN

Because pattern recognition is a core element of image diagnosis. Radiologists are familiar to make a diagnosis with one snapshot. But they are not only trained to evaluate each image with a digital scale but also accustomed to distinguish some unnatural beings in a film. Their sense is similar to an instinct.

On the other hand, AI can learn something from massive number of films which were tagged as normal or abnormal. These tags are basically reliable because they had been investigated by physicians previously. Thus, AI can experience astronomical numbers of cases before facing a real patient.

Therefore, AI's sense is similar to those skilled radiologists have acquired. It does not matter whether it should be called a sense or not. It is certain that this learning process is quite rational.

Also in psychiatry, research for improving the quality of AI diagnosis is ongoing. But it will be much more tough, in my opinion. It is because each case are hardly tagged to "correct diagnosis."

A critical bug is found in Windows

Microsoft released an information of a critical bug. through the bug, a hacker could compromise the Windows PC.

Independent: MAJOR WINDOWS BUG IS LETTING HACKERS ATTACK USERS, SAYS MICROSOFT

According to Microsoft, it has started addressing this issue. But, the actual influence of the bug remains uncertain.

In recent, the share of Windows PC in the market is decreasing, not only due to rise of Mac but also the spread of smartphone. Nonetheless, when a critical bug is found in Windows, the social impact will be still high.

Air pollution reduced due to COVID-19

Accumulating evidence suggests the level of air pollution was reduced significantly in these days.

It is no doubt that the outcome is thankful to corona virus pandemic followed by the lockdown in several cities such as London and New York.  But not only urban areas but also some rural areas were given clearer air recently. It may be partially because the fact that many factories are crippled due to shortage of workers.

Evening Express: Air pollution falls as UK goes into coronavirus lockdown

Air pollution is one of the biggest problems of environmental issues. Dirty sky is estimated to take 40,000 people's life in the UK. In this sense, it is more awful than COVID-19.

Researchers say the influence of cleaned sky will not be able to be calculated exactly because many people died by COVID-19. Many victims are elder so that they might be dead by other reasons even if not infected with COVID-19.

Nonetheless, this phenomenon tells us many things. First, air pollution is without doubt caused by human activity. Second, it is reversible, and the effect of stopping activities will be gained soon.

Some regions have started to restrict air polluting activities such as driving a car in city. It is possible that temporal suspension of industrial activity such as "no NO2 week" will be a political practice in the future after overcoming the pandemic.

Loss of smell is an early symptom of COVID-19 infection

A latest study suggests a way of quick diagnosis of COVID-19.

According to the researchers, loss of smell may be a fastest symptom after you are infected by corona virus newly developed. The abnormal sense of smell emerges before the you have dry cough and fatigue, main symptoms the virus inflicts. Loss of taste also can be a hint.

Time: Why Losing Your Sense of Smell Could Be a Symptom of COVID-19

Though I did not know, it is not rare a kind of viral infection cause anosmia. Also, there are several elements the change of smell can tell us about our health status, as I wrote in the past.

My past entry: AI smells your disease
My past entry: Smell diagnosis, is it no more fantasy?

At present, PCR method is used to diagnose COVID-19 infection. But its sensitivity is only 70%. Thus, a negative result hardly guarantees your safety. It is ironic that such a primitive sense of smell is superior to a latest technology.

After all, walking is good

There are several hypotheses to improve your health status. Thousands of methods have been developed. Most of them, however, are biased or unrealistic, unfortunately.

I have to say that walking is good practice to promote your health. It is highly trustworthy, at least compared to other numerous ways. In a recent study, the effect of walking is promised regardless of your exercise level.

The guardian: Higher step counts could lower risk of early death, study finds

As the author mentioned, this study is not free from the possibility of reverse causality. Thus, it is possible that only people can walk many steps will receive the benefit of walking. Walking harder will expand your life has not been proven, theoretically.

Nonetheless, I shall say, walking is not bad. Different from other type of exercises, walking is universal, and easy to be done for most people. The more you walk, the more you become healthy, with only little exceptions.

In recent days, many people are hesitating to walk out because of afraid of corona virus. It is no good in sense of primary health care. I recommend you to go out in fresh air.

Emoji will be an evidence?

I am a forensic psychiatrist. I am often summoned to a court as an expert witness. Making a presentation to explain the defendant's psychiatric diagnosis to the judges and lay judges is an important part of my work.

There are several kind of expert witnesses in court. Among them, forensic linguist has a role to interpret the document subjected of the conflict. According to the article below, the subjects of his or her investigation is now expanded to Japanese emoji.

The Conversation: Forensic linguists explore how emojis can be used as evidence in court

Emoji was Japan original culture, and now has been spread all over the world. Apple's latest iPhone has introduced a system to create emoji referring your face.

Many people send emojis with their smartphone. Their memorandum includes several emojis. Thus, it is possible that they are picked up in an evidence in court. Indeed, I sometimes see documents with emojis in court document. So I have to estimate how the author feels when using the emoji.

Olympic game decision will be made in 4 weeks

The Olympic game in this year is now in peril.

The Guardian: Olympics postponement to 2021 on cards as IOC gives itself four-week deadline

This coming Tokyo Olympic 2020 is approaching in only some months. But Japan is now struck by deadly corona virus. Even the current situation is not so dreadful than reported by the mass media,
it is no doubt many people are hesitating to attend.

Japan Olympic committee keeps aggressive attitude to be willing to implement the whole game. Previously, the IOC also seemed optimistic. However, several nations including Germany and the US are opposing to perform the game as planned. Therefore, the IOC declared to make a decision within four weeks.

It means that the possibility of postponing has been increased. The committee will face a tough negotiation between stakeholders.

I myself am not so interested in the Olympic games. But, I understand the influence of the performance of this event on Japan as well as other nations. I expect the game will be held normally without troubles.

Gamebook conference

Recently, I attended a conference of gamebook creators.

This event was held in Tokyo. In spite of corona virus shock, there were several audience who are interested in this theme.

Gamebook, or interactive novel, was developed in 1970s and became popular in late 20th century all over the world. In Japan, several foreign gamebooks written by famous authors, such as Steve Jackson, Ian Livingstone, and Dave Morris, were translated into Japanese.

Also, many gamebooks were released in Japan. Among them, novelization of computer game softwares, especially Family Computer, a Nintendo game console, was so successful that many best-selling FamiCon gamebooks were released one after another.

One presenter in this session was a writer of many FamiCon gamebooks. He was fond of playing computer games. Therefore, he would like to express fascinating elements of computer games on a paper gamebook.

However, as computer games became popular and easy to purchase, gamebooks declined rapidly. Considering the situation changing, he dropped himself out from the publisher to change the job, said he.

Now, gamebook is a minor media, but is still surviving. It is difficult to monetize gamebook publishing business. On the other hand, Kindle Direct Publishing and other digital publication service have significantly reduced the publishing cost. Indeed, I have published some original gamebooks on Amazon.

I believe gamebook will become a little more popular again as a casual habit in the future.

3D printed valves for COVID-19 pandemic

Many researchers as well as practitioners are struggling to overcome the fear of spreading corona viral infection. Their activities are not only to develop vaccines but also produce several gadgets whose shortage is problematic.

Recently, an Italian group of volunteers successfully created valves to be connected to a ventilator using a 3D printer.

The Verge: Volunteers produce 3D-printed valves for life-saving coronavirus treatments

Many medical devices are exclusively used for one purpose. A limited number of such devices are produced in general because excessive stocks are burdening for hospitals. Therefore, a serious shortage of items occurs in the case of urgent demand such as a pandemic.

I am not sure if 3D printing architecture will meet this kind of need. Actually, 3D printing itself is a developing technology. In my sense, consumable items which do not need so strict standard are suitable for 3D printed.

Several ideas will be realized with 3D printing. I hope they will enrich our life.

iPad Pro and MacBook Air updated

Apple disclosed the information about the coming iPad Pro and MacBook Air.

According to the media, the new iPad Pro will be released on 24 March, 2020.

TechRadar: New iPad Pro 2020 release date, price, news and everything you need to know

Of course, the new iPad Pro has faster CPU than the previous model. In addition, it will equip a triplet camera on the back, which will enable an enhanced AR experience.

Apple also will release a new cover with keyboard. It will be called Magic Keyboard, same as previous ones attached with Mac family. This keyboard equips a track pad. It means the new iPad OS will support a mouse.

This improvement will help people who would like to use an iPad Pro as if it is a note PC. Their desire is reasonable. But I am doubtful if iPad should be like a PC.

In summery, the new iPad Pro is not fascinating for me so much because no innovative change has been done compared with precious models. If you have no iPad Pro, the newest one will match your curiosity.

Mushroom is useful for many ways

Do you like mushrooms? I like very much.

Mushrooms is strange species. They are categorized as fungi. they parasites other plants to survive years. And they spread massive spores to reproduce them.

Some people dislike mushroom. It is perhaps because of its unique smell. But other than eating them, mushrooms are very useful in our daily life.

Inverse: 9 MUSHROOM USES: SURPRISING USES FOR THE FUNGUS THAT IMPROVE YOUR LIFE

I knew mushrooms are utilized as a fuel material. As well, it is commonly knew that some mushrooms are used for resource of Chinese medicine. But it is surprising that mushroom can be a building material as well as alternative leather.

By the way, I will tell you that Japan is a mushroom-rich county. In Japanese "mushroom" means so-called brown mushroom popular in Western countries. But there are many kind of names suggesting mushroom, such as shimeji, shiitake, hiratake, enoki, nameko, kikurage, and so on.

Among them, Matsutake is the most luxury mushroom in Japan because it cannot be produced in an artificial environment. It is deemed as a representative cuisine in Autumn. Japanese love matsutake's smell like French people love truffle's smell.

But, in terms of taste, shimeji is superior to matsutake, as many Japanese admit. Shimeji is very cheap, but a delicious item. In traditional saying, "Kaori matustake, aji shimeji [Matsutake smells best, but shimeji tastes best.]"

Utilizing smell to good sleep

Smelling is one of the oldest senses human developed. We are usually unaware of our smell. Rather, deodorant is a modern trend in developed countries. But, once in an issue of instinct, this primitive sensor has a great role.

A recent finding suggests a lover's smell leads us to good sleep.

Mic: The scent of your partner's shirt could make you sleep better and longer

Smell is an important factor to make a couple also in human. We may identify our partner unintentionally with smell.

Also, in medical region, some researchers are eager to utilize the smell of human's tissue, or even urine, to diagnose cancer or other diseases in the early stage. According to latest paper, some bacteria can distinguish the smell of tissues produced with abnormal process.

In the modern era, sense of smell tends to be regretted. But it is possible to make use of it in an innovative way.

Stock market collapsing due to corona virus

Monday, the New York Dow recorded a historic decline.

It was due to Donald Trump’s comment to the current situation of corona virus pandemic. He expected that the outbreak would last until this August, and the US may be headed for recession.

Forbes: Dow Plunges 3,000 Points As Trump Says U.S. ‘May Be’ Headed For Recession

The magnitude of water falling in this day was approximately 13%, the worst ever seen in the history of New York Dow Johns.

Also in Japan, many people is afraid of this worsening situation. Some remember the bitter memory of Lehman Brothers shock. Bitcoin and other crypt currencies were also seriously damaged despite they were deemed as a risk-off stock.

Trump looks a little anxious about this issue. Indeed, the opinion about when the corona virus spreading will be terminated is split among experts. Corona virus is vulnerable to warm temperature. But the COVID-19 is newly emerged one. Little facts have revealed regarding this tiny foe.

Stress resilience

In the academic region of mental health, the influence of stress and how to manage it have been a core field of discussion. According to the up to date evidence, it is proven that chronic stress can do damage on you for a long time, unfortunately. Thus, when you are exposed to a tough situation which can be long-lasting, you may be inflicted considerable damage even after the stress is gone.

This fact suggest the importance of daily management. It is not a wise idea to be patient for a while. Rather, you should install several methods to mitigate the influence of stress in your daily activities.

So far, physical exercise and conversation with others are the best ways to reduce stress reaction. Also, learning new things is beneficial for not only satisfying your curiosity but also modifying your biased thought.

The Conversation: How chronic stress changes the brain – and what you can do to reverse the damage

In addition, I recommend you to maintain your regular day cycle to make you resilient to stress, though there is scarce evidence. regulatory walk is superior to occasional hard exercise. Regulated sleep rhythm should be adhered to keep your health and concentration.

Finally, stress cannot be avoidable at all while you are alive. Resilience is essential. Any experience of managing stress must make you stronger.

Olympic game issues in corona pandemic

The WHO declared pandemic of corona virus recently. It means that the virus has become uncontrollable all over world.

For avoiding the expansion of the infection, several events are forced to be cancelled or postponed. Also in Japan, there are only few events conducted in Tokyo in these weeks. I myself, had to refund the tickets of comedy show etc.

People pay attention to the decision of Olympic games. On 24th July this year, the Summer Olympic games 2020 will be held in Tokyo. Japan became enthusiastic when Tokyo won the race for the invitation. But now, we face to a difficult decision making.

Until now, the organizing committee in Japan seems not to have the idea of postpone the Olympic games. The Olympic frame torch left Greece to be brought to Tokyo.

On the other hand, some people suggest the possibility of cancelling of the Olympic games.

Forbes: A Symbol Of Hope—Japan Adamant Olympics Will Go Ahead As Flame Is Lit In Ancient Olympia

Even conducted as planned, some athletes may be absent, or cannot attend the game because of the restriction of international journey, or due to the fear of infection. In that case, the game will have to become shrunk and undervalued.

It is essential to evaluate the changing situation for proper judgment. Anyway, I hope the viral storm will terminate soon.

Financial Times in smartphone

Recently, I installed Financial Times application into my smartphone.

Since the organization I belong to has made a contract with FT, I can read any articles in FT for free. It is very helpful for some employees considering that FT provide highly qualified articles everyday.

Several years ago, I had been subscribing FT via Kindle. It took approximately 30 USD per month I remember. I tried to read leading articles every day, for improving my English skills and insight toward the world's current situation.

However, it was too difficult for me to understand the articles in FT. not only its high-graded English, but also discussion in detail in each article hindered me from easy reading.

As a result, I withdrew from FT a few month later. Few articles were read.

Now, it is the second chance for me. I am not confident, but try it again.

Psychological pain in Uygurs diaspora

There are still several issues around ethnic conflict all over world.

Even moderated than the past, many people seek their home town. Uygurs diaspora is one of the largest isses.

According to the media, these people are suffering from psychiatric symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. 

South China Morning Post: ‘Psychological torture’: Uygurs abroad face mental health crisis over plight of relatives who remain in Xinjiang

Actually, psychiatric problem occurs not limited in suffering people. But longitudinal exposure to insecure circumstance is a great risk factor to mental illnesses. A survey revealed that over 90% of the respondents in Uygurs diaspora had some mental symptoms.

Although I sense this result is a little exaggerating, it is highly likely a considerable percentage of people needs psychological help.

At the same time, shedding the light to mental status of people itself is rather pleased. In a more critical situation, mental health would not be concerned at all. I believe the situation is getting gradually better thanks to endeavor of relevant activists.

Ice wine and global warming

Do you have drunk ice wine? I have.

I had one in Germany several years ago. It was extremely delicious. Ice wine contained the sweetness of grape. Some people would not like it. But for me, as a sweet lover, it had heavenly taste, though I can drink only few amount of alcohol.

Ice wine is made from frozen grapes. Therefore, global warming is very hostile for ice wine makers. Indeed, the production of ice wine is decreasing in recent years.

On the other hand, in some regions farmers began to produce precious ice wine. The warmer the winter becomes, the more expensive the product is. Also they are engaging in keeping, further improving, the taste and flavor of the ice wine.

Reuters: Frozen harvest: German ice wine maker defies climate change

Global warming is an big issue. But it means the change of the environment. We have to adapt the changing game, besides of maintaining the current situation.

Dark Phoenix, cheap visual and thin story

I have to write about Dark Phoenix seen when I was left from blogging.

Dark Phoenix is a movie of X-Men series provided by 20th Century Fox. The series began with X-Men trilogy (X-Men, X-2, and the Last Stand), followed by the new trilogy (The First Class, Day of Future Past, and Apocalypse.) As well, Wolverine trilogy was released as a spin-off work.

Dark Phoenix was the last movie of X-Men movie by the 20th Fox because it is decided that members of X-Men will join to Marvel Cinematic Universe. Thus, this work should be a historic work.

However, the first impression of this movie for me was horrible.

First of all, the scenes are very cheap. The final battle was conducted in a locked space of a train. Even after breaking the door, the sky was so dark that I hardly saw the detail of each person's movement. Darken background is often used to save the budget since it does not cost so much.

The story also does not make sense. The core of this film is Jean's trauma that she unintentionally killed her mother with her uncontrollable power. Professor X sealed her memory to protect her from the trauma. But finally she remembered it, to make her furious.

Meanwhile, some aliens come to the earth to bring Phoenix force to restore their own planet. Phoenix force comes into Jean's body. The leader of the aliens tries to get her trust to make use of her Phoenix force.

Thus, there are two parallel themes described at the same time. Therefore, the audience have difficulty which do they concentrate on. As a result, Jean realizes Professor X's conscience all at sudden. And she realize the importance of her own emotion to defeat the aliens. These sequences are not persuasive at all.

Compared to The Last Stand, Dark Phoenix is far inferior, I sense.

By the way, I like the music in this film very much. I listen to the album frequantly.

My personal rating:2 (poor)

Low-carb diet prevent dementia?

The standard of nutrition frequently changes. Until recently, it was not recommended to eat multiple eggs in a day. But latest studies suggest that taking eggs would not contribute to increasing blood cholesterol.

As well, there is broad controversy regarding proper strategy for healthy diet. Some people recommend to reduce total amount of calories. Others emphasize the balance of carb and fat. Most researchers agree with the importance of exercise. But the magnitude of its effect is still under argument.

In recent, low-carb diet is popular for years. Many practitioners share the opinion that taking excessive carbohydrate, especially in a short time, is harmful. But why?

A recent study suggests the possibility that low-card diet reverses the aging of the brain, surprisingly.

The Guardian: Low-carb diet may reverse age-related brain deterioration, study finds

This article is written based on an academic paper published in PNAS. In this paper, the researchers claim brain deconstruction begins in late 40s. And changing diet to low-carb style will prevent the deterioration and even reverse the brain damage.

PNAS: Diet modulates brain network stability, a biomarker for brain aging, in young adults

The researchers hypothesize that brain degeneration while aging is accelerated by metabolic stress. They believe that the balance between glucose and ketone has a crucial role in brain damage.

However, they have not proven the concrete effect of low-carb diet on aging. As they mention, our dietary activity is so complex that it is difficult to make an experimental evidence.

At present, I believe the hypothesis that highly carb-dependent diet will harmful for your brain. But it is not sure how reducing carbohydrate is beneficial for cognitive function.

Daily activity should be prioritized in this situation

Japan, as well as other nations, is covered by the fear of corona viral infection. The stock price is falling down all over the world, while it is partially due to the breakdown of oil price. In Japan, Abe administration is eager to establish a law to enable a declaration of an emergent state.

In such a situation, everyone tend to lose temper. But, I have to emphasize that daily activity should be prioritized now.

In a critical state, adrenergic hormone is released excessively. It help us to move quickly, decide a courageous act, and become aggressive. On the other hand, adrenaline does damage to our health in a longitudinal view.

If you are upset, be aware to adhere your daily lifestyle. Enough sleep and regular diet are essential to maintain your health. Concentrate on your own task, not being anxious about vague things. Adequate exercise is beneficial.

I remember this matter when watching an article regarding climate change. In recent years, the degree of carbon emission is decreasing significantly, according to the media.

Independent: Carbon emissions fall at fastest rate in 30 years as electricity sector moves away from coal

Climate change is a chronic issue which we cannot forget. There are many people to be engaging in this issue even now.

Wingspan, a bird-breeding game

Last weekend, I attended an analog game meeting. Most of the members are not Japanese. I had to communicate with members in English. But I enjoyed the event perfectly.

I played Wingspan, a newly developed board game, for the first time. The theme of the game is bird-breeding. you can get several birds to hay eggs in your board. Each kind of bird has abilities to make you advantageous. You have to get food, eggs, and bird cards balanced.

BoardGameGeek: Wingspan

https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/266192/wingspan

It took two and a half hours for the five players game. But I did not feel exhausted at all. It is because of its simple rules and scarce competitive elements.

More than one-hundred types of birds are present in Wingspan. Each of them has a realistic illustration and wingspan data. for bird lovers, Wingspan is worth to possess even not playing at all, I guess.

Members were very polite and kind. Thanks to the host and all attendees.

UK ban several cigarettes

The UK will ban a variety of cigarettes on the April 2020.

The Bulletin Times: Some types of cigarettes are being banned in the UK from next month

The newly developed legislation includes many types of fruite flavored cigarettes in the subject of restriction. They have been popular in youth, according to the media.

It is no doubt that cigarettes are harmful to human health, as many studies suggest. I agree with the stricter regulation for protecting youths' health.

However, this policy will be effectively decrease the exposure to cigarettes in youth, I am afraid. In the UK, cannabis use is also forbidden. But many people freely use cannabis. As cigarette are more common, it seems difficult to ban the cigarettes entirely.

Also, youths often break a law as an expression of their courage and belonging to a gang group I guess an official inhibition will ignite the curiosity and increase the motivation of breaking a law.

As well as alcohol, tobacco is not easy to be ban from the society. I hope the government's intention will be successful.

Gamebook authoring

Recently, my hobby is to write a gamebook.

Do you know gamebook? Gamebook is also called interactive novel. It was a genre of novel. But different from other type of novels, you can choose your own story in a gamebook.

Gamebook was spread in 1980s. Steve Jackson and Ian Livingstone were legendary gamebook authors. They built a mega-hit series of gamebooks.

But, as computer games become popular, the need for gamebooks got diminished. Till the end of 20th century, gamebook providers are almost perished, unfortunately.

Recently, we can write a gamebook with some useful tools. Also, Kindle Direct Publishing, as well as E-Pub format and also PDF style, helps both reader to read the gamebook easier and authors to publish their works. Therefore, newly developed gamebooks are published one after another.

I have published some gamebooks via KDP. You have a chance to see an English gamebook written by me.

US Presidential campaign

The US Presidential campaign is approaching the turning point.

AFP: Warren, once a frontrunner, ends her US presidential campaign

Elizabeth Warren, a Massachusetts Senator, declared to abandon the seat of candidate for the US President.

Firstly, several politicians stood for the Presidential campaign in the Democratic Party. But most of them could not survive the race in the middle way. After Warren's withdrawal, there are only two candidates, Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders.

Sanders fought well with Hillary Clinton in 2016 Campaign. Finally Ms. Clinton gained the appointment, but she was defeated by Donald Trump. I guess not a few members of Democratic Party believe Sanders would have won the Presidential vote if he had been appointed.

However, Sanders is suffering from difficulty to get the poll against Biden. Biden is highly likely to be victorious, considering the current situation.

To be honest, I am afraid neither Sanders or Biden will defeat Trump. The present President is greatly advantageous in the final vote. Also, Trump grabs support of many citizens, especially who are white, middle-class, men. I dislike Trump's ideology. But it should be noted that his economic policy made America somewhat better. For more four years, the US will led by Trump, unfortunately.