Holy Unknown

By Cody Andrus A troubling conflict has unfolded between President Trump and Harvard University that will likely harm the U.S. and its place in the world. This clash, particularly concerning international students, highlights a shortsighted approach that could have long-lasting, negative effects on American research, innovation, and even economic strength. The ordeal seems silly to many, including myself, yet the potential consequences are very serious. President Trump's policies have always made it harder for international students to come to the U.S. and stay after graduation. One example was the threat to revoke visas for international students whose universities moved all classes online during the pandemic. This policy, later rescinded, caused widespread confusion and concern among students and institutions alike. The idea that a student who chose to study in the U.S., investing significant time and money, could suddenly be forced to leave because of a change in university poli...

By Cody Andrus The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) revealed that Iran now possesses approximately 408.6 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60% purity, marking an astounding increase of 133.8 kilograms since the agency’s previous report in February. Uranium enriched to 60% is a very short technical step from the 90% enrichment typically considered weapons-grade. Experts estimate that this quantity, if further enriched, could theoretically be enough for roughly three nuclear weapons. The IAEA has established that 42 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% is the approximate amount needed, after further enrichment to 90%, to produce a single nuclear bomb. This news occurs against a backdrop of stalled diplomacy. The 2015 nuclear deal, known formally as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), had placed strict limits on Iran's enrichment activities in exchange for sanctions relief. The U.S. withdrew from this agreement in 2018 and reimposed sanctions. Since that time, I...

By Cody Andrus The idea of superintelligence—an artificial intelligence far more capable than the smartest human—makes many people uneasy. The concern isn’t about machines becoming evil or vengeful. It’s about what happens when something smarter than us starts making decisions without our input, or worse, with our input misunderstood. Scientists, ethicists, and tech leaders are not warning the world out of paranoia. They are warning us because the stakes are so high. One of the major concerns is control. Humans have a long history of creating things we struggle to control: nuclear weapons, pandemics, financial systems. If a machine were able to rapidly improve its own intelligence, learning and adapting without help from humans, the pace of that development might move too fast for people to follow. And once it exceeds our understanding, we may not be able to stop or even predict what it will do. The issue is not that machines will hate us, but that they may not care about us at all. On...

The Front Runner (2018)   is a biographical drama directed by Jason Reitman and written by Matt Bai and Jay Carson. The film details the 1988 presidential campaign of Senator Gary Hart (portrayed impressively by Hugh Jackman) a charismatic politician who was widely considered the Democratic front-runner. The story meticulously chronicles the week in which Hart's campaign was overcome by accusations of an extramarital affair. Initially dismissing the claims as irrelevant to his political qualifications, Hart finds his private life thrust into the public sphere by an aggressive media, spearheaded by The Miami Herald . The film delves into a candidate's right to privacy versus the public's perceived right to know, exploring themes of journalistic ethics, political ambition, and the shifting landscape of American media. 2018 • R •  1h 53m Worldwide Gross: $3.2M Rotten Tomatoes: 58% Holy Unknown Grade: B Where to Watch

Deja Vu (2006) ,  directed by Tony Scott and written by Bill Marsilii and Terry Rossio, is a fascinating high-stakes sci-fi thriller that blurs the lines between time and reality. ATF agent Doug Carlin, played outstandingly by Denzel Washington, is investigating a horrific terrorist bombing in New Orleans. When he’s recruited into a secret government program that uses surveillance to look four days into the past, he discovers that he might be able to prevent the attack entirely — and save a woman, Claire Kuchever (Paula Patton), who is connected to the event but no one knows how. As he dives deeper, Carlin must navigate a dangerous mix of technology, fate, and obsession, alongside support from characters played by Val Kilmer and Adam Goldberg. 2006 • PG-13 • 2h 6m Worldwide Gross: $180.5M Rotten Tomatoes: 55% Holy Unknown Grade: B+

Bernie (2011)   is a dark comedy directed by Richard Linklater and written by Skip Hollandsworth. The film is based on the true story of Bernie Tiede, a friendly and well-loved mortician in the small town of Carthage, Texas. Played flawlessly by Jack Black, Bernie becomes unusually close to a wealthy and controlling widow named Marjorie Nugent, played by Shirley MacLaine. Their relationship takes a dark turn when Bernie, pushed to his emotional limits, commits a shocking crime that stuns the tight-knit community. The town’s loyalty to Bernie complicates the legal process, led by the skeptical district attorney Danny Buck Davidson, played by Matthew McConaughey. The film mixes reenactments, interviews, and narrative storytelling to explore morality, charm, and justice. 2011 •  PG-13 •  1h 44m Worldwide Gross: 10M Rotten Tomatoes: 88% Holy Unknown Grade: A-

Scientists in the U.S. have made something called a black hole bomb for the first time in a lab. They used a special kind of super-cold matter to trap sound in a way that acts like a black hole, where the sound can’t escape. This experiment helps researchers study what happens in places like space where real black holes are found, without having to leave Earth. This kind of test could help us learn more about how black holes work and how energy moves in extreme places. For example, by seeing how sound gets trapped and grows stronger inside this lab-made black hole, scientists can study strange space behavior up close. It could also help with future ideas in sound technology and quantum science. New Scientist

The Fugitive (1993)  is a gripping action thriller following Dr. Richard Kimble, played skillfully by Harrison Ford, a respected Chicago surgeon wrongly convicted of murdering his wife. After a dramatic escape from a prison transport, Kimble goes on the run, determined to find the real killer and clear his name. Hot on his trail is U.S. Marshal Samuel Gerard, portrayed by Tommy Lee Jones, whose relentless pursuit adds intensity and sharp dialogue to the chase. As Kimble uncovers a deeper conspiracy, the film becomes a race between justice and survival. The Fugitive was nominated for several Oscars and won one for Best Supporting Actor (Tommy Lee Jones). R  •   2h 10m Worldwide Gross: $368M Rotten Tomatoes: 96% Holy Unknown Grade: A

By Cody Andrus Jane Austen remains an influential writer even today. Born in England in 1775, she grew up in a la rge family. She had six brothers and one sister. Jane started writing at around the age of eleven. Her father was a clergyman. Her family was well ed ucated, and l iterature played a key role in the household. This en vironment helped shape Jane's keen observations of the people around her, which later would fill her novels. During her lifetime, Austen published only a few novels anonymously. These included  Sense and Sensibility ,  Pride and Prejudice ,  Mansfield Park , and  Emma . These stories often focused on the lives of women from middle-class families in the English countryside. She wrote about their social lives, their search for suitable husbands, and the challenges they faced in a society that limited their choices. Austen's novels are known for their wit, their clever dialogue, and their insightful portrayal of human nature. She had a remarkab...

The Jerk (1979)  is a fantastic rags-to-riches comedy that follows Navin R. Johnson, a blissfully naive and optimistic man who leaves his adoptive Black family's humble shack to find his place in the world. Played by Steve Martin in one of his most iconic roles, Navin's journey takes him through odd jobs, a bizarre invention that makes him wealthy, and a romance with the quirky Marie, portrayed by Bernadette Peters . Despite his sudden fortune, Navin's innocent view of the world leads to hilarious misadventures and a fall from grace, all port rayed with slapstick timing and absurd wit. The film, directed by Carl Reiner, became a cult classic and remains a defining moment in Martin's career. 1979  •   PG-13  •   2h 10m Worldwide Gross: $73M Rotten Tomatoes: 82% Holy Unknown Grade: A

By Cody Andrus The Showtime miniseries The Comey Rule  offers a rare and elaborate look into the early days of the first Trump administration, drawing from former FBI Director James Comey's memoir, A Higher Loyalty: Truth, Lies, and Leadership. The series deals with the events surrounding the 2016 U.S. presidential election and the initial months of Trump's first term, highlighting the historic tensions between the FBI and the White House. Jeff Daniels, quite thoughtfully and elegantly, portrays James Comey, capturing the complexities of a man torn between duty and personal conviction. Brendan Glee son takes on the role of President Trump, delivering a performance that emphasizes the president's unpredictable nature and the challenges he posed to established norms. The series does not shy away from depicting controversial moments, such as Comey's decision to reopen the investigation into Hillary Clinton's emails shortly before the election and his subsequent interac...

Midnight Run (1988)  is an outstanding comedic action film directed by Martin Brest. The story follows Jack Walsh, a bounty hunter played by Robert De Niro, who is tasked with bringing an embezzling accountant, Jonathan "The Duke" Mardukas, played by Charles Grodin, back to Los Angeles. As they embark on a cross-country journey, they encounter various challenges and develop an unlikely camaraderie. The film showcases De Niro and Grodin's charismatic performances, blending humor with thrilling action sequences. 1988  •   R  •   2h 6m Worldwide Gross: $81.6M Rottten Tomatoes: 95% Holy Unknown Grade: A+

By Cody Andrus Bertrand Russell was one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century. He was a British philosopher, mathematician, and writer known for his work in logic and social justice. Born in 1872 into a noble British family, Russell grew up surrounded by ideas and debate. His grandfather had served as a prime minister, and this political background shaped much of Russell’s early thinking. Though he started studying mathematics at Cambridge, his curiosity led him deeper into philosophy and how people think about truth, belief, and knowledge. Russell helped shape a field called analytic philosophy, which focuses on breaking down thoughts and arguments clearly. He believed language and logic could help solve many philosophical problems. His 1910 book Principia Mathematica, co-written with Alfred North Whitehead, aimed to show that all of mathematics could come from basic logical ideas. This book was long and difficult, but it changed how people thought about mat...

Fair Game (2010)   is a political thriller based on the true story. Naomi Watts portrays Valerie Plame, a covert CIA operative whose identity is leaked to the press as retaliation for her husband's public criticism of the Bush administration's justification for the Iraq War. Sean Penn stars as her husband, Joseph Wilson, a former ambassador who wrote an op-ed piece exposing the false intelligence used to claim that Iraq was acquiring uranium for nuclear weapons. PG-13   •   1h 48m Worldwide Gross: $16.2M Rotten Tomatoes: 78% Holy Unknown Grade: B

The Artifice Girl (2022)   is a cerebral sci-fi drama that explores the ethical boundaries of artificial intelligence. The story follows a team of investigators who discover a highly advanced AI child named Cherry, designed to trap online predators. As the narrative unfolds, we shift through different time periods, witnessing the evolution of Cherry’s sentience and the moral dilemmas it raises. Tatum Matthews stars as Cherry, delivering a haunting and layered performance, alongside David Girard as Gareth, the AI’s creator, and Lance Henriksen as the older version of Gareth. The film’s minimalistic setting heightens the intensity of its philosophical dialogue, covering themes of personhood, control, and technological legacy. Rating: Not Rated Rotten Tomatoes: 92% Holy Unknown Grade: B+ 

Scientists reveal the Moon's past as a vast ocean of molten rock. In its early stages, the Moon underwent a transformation from a molten surface to its present state, which offers insights into the formation of planetary bodies in our solar system. This discovery sheds light on the geological evolution of celestial bodies, illustrating the dynamic processes shaping our lunar neighbor. In more specific terms, scientists explain that the Moon's molten rock ocean existed shortly after its formation, resulting from intense heat during its early years. This molten state, evidenced by geological features like lunar maria, solidified over time into the familiar lunar landscape visible today. Understanding this history not only deepens our knowledge of lunar origins but also provides a window into the broader processes that shaped the rocky planets of the inner solar system. ZME Science

The U.S. Air Force recently revealed its inaugural fleet of unmanned fighter drones, marking a significant advancement in military technology. These drones, designed for combat missions, represent a shift towards autonomous aerial capabilities, enhancing operational flexibility and reducing risks to human pilots. Equipped with cutting-edge AI and sensor technologies, they promise to redefine modern warfare by combining stealth, speed, and precision targeting. In practice, these unmanned fighters can conduct reconnaissance deep behind enemy lines without risking human lives. They excel in executing strategic strikes with unparalleled accuracy, navigating complex terrain and responding swiftly to evolving battlefield dynamics. This development underscores the Air Force's commitment to leveraging AI for national defense, ensuring a strategic edge in future conflicts. ZME Science

  Space medicine for female astronauts in the U.S. focuses on addressing unique health challenges. Astronauts face physiological changes in microgravity, impacting bone health and cardiovascular function. Female astronauts require tailored medical protocols to mitigate these effects and ensure mission success. In practice, NASA employs specialized exercise routines and dietary strategies for female astronauts. These measures aim to counteract bone density loss and maintain cardiovascular fitness during space missions. Such proactive health management ensures astronauts remain in peak physical condition despite the challenges of space travel. Interesting Engineering

Humans first spoke around 135,000 years ago, according to new genetic evidence. This finding challenges previous beliefs about the timing of human language development. Researchers analyzed ancient DNA samples from fossils to pinpoint the emergence of speech capabilities in early humans. The genetic data suggests that Homo sapiens began to communicate verbally much earlier than previously thought, contributing to a better understanding of our evolutionary timeline. For instance, genetic clues extracted from fossils found in Africa provide insights into the early linguistic abilities of ancient humans. These findings highlight the complexity and early development of speech among Homo sapiens, shedding light on the evolutionary process that led to modern human language capabilities. ZME Science

Rare earth elements valued at approximately $8 billion were discovered in the U.S., marking a significant find for domestic resources. These elements are crucial for various high-tech applications, including renewable energy technologies and defense systems. Their discovery is expected to enhance national security and reduce dependence on foreign imports, positioning the U.S. as a key player in global rare earth supply chains. In practical terms, this discovery could lead to increased production of magnets used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and other green technologies. It also supports the development of advanced weaponry and electronics critical for defense and telecommunications. By tapping into these reserves, the U.S. aims to bolster its industrial capabilities while mitigating risks associated with international trade tensions over rare earth supplies. Interesting Engineering

Atoms have been successfully bent by scientists, a feat previously thought impossible. Researchers achieved this by using a technique involving a finely tuned electron beam to manipulate the bonds between atoms in a material called graphene. This process allowed them to create a controlled curvature within the atomic structure. The implications of this breakthrough could be significant for the development of new materials with unique properties. This ability to precisely bend atoms opens up possibilities in fields like nanotechnology and materials science. Imagine creating microscopic lenses for advanced imaging, or developing new types of flexible electronics that can bend and flex without breaking. The ability to manipulate the atomic structure of materials could lead to innovations in areas like energy storage, where curved atomic layers could improve battery performance, or in the creation of ultra-strong, lightweight materials for aerospace applications. The potential to engineer ...

St. Patrick's Day is often associated with the color green, but historically, blue was the original color linked to the holiday. In ancient Ireland, blue was worn to represent St. Patrick, symbolizing the patron saint’s connection to the country. Over time, green became more dominant due to its association with Ireland’s lush landscapes and the green hills that are synonymous with the nation's identity. In the U.S., St. Patrick's Day celebrations typically feature green clothing, parades, and various festivities, reinforcing the color’s modern significance. But there was once a time when Irish kings wore blue, and even St. Patrick himself is depicted in blue robes in older representations. This historical shift is reflected in how St. Patrick's Day is celebrated today, where the color green has evolved to represent Ireland’s heritage, shamrocks, and the spirit of the holiday itself. Source

Semiconductors are being used to create next-generation displays with twisted light. Researchers have developed a way to manipulate light using nanostructured materials, allowing for more efficient and high-resolution screens. This technology could lead to brighter, more energy-efficient displays with improved color accuracy, benefiting smartphones, televisions, and augmented reality devices. By controlling the direction and shape of light waves, these displays could offer sharper images while using less power. A prototype demonstrated how twisted light enhances display performance. A team in the U.S. successfully tested a semiconductor-based system that adjusts light properties at the nanoscale, producing clearer visuals with reduced energy consumption. This breakthrough could transform screen technology, making devices more sustainable while improving user experience. With further development, this innovation may become a standard feature in consumer electronics. Interesting Engine...

Earth's first surge of oxygen occurred due to massive volcanic eruptions, releasing gases that transformed the planet's atmosphere billions of years ago. These eruptions spewed out gases like sulfur dioxide, which reacted with sunlight and water vapor to form aerosols that gradually increased the oxygen levels in the atmosphere. This pivotal event laid the groundwork for life as we know it today. Scientists believe similar volcanic activity on other planets could yield valuable insights into the evolution of atmospheres beyond Earth, potentially shedding light on the conditions necessary for life to emerge elsewhere in the universe. Study Finds

In the spotlight today is a remarkable discovery from China: a 125-million-year-old fossil of an enormous venomous scorpion. This ancient creature, unearthed in northeastern China, offers a glimpse into Earth's distant past and the astonishing diversity of prehistoric life. Scientists marvel at its size and predatory adaptations, shedding light on the evolution of arachnids and their role in ancient ecosystems. This fossilized scorpion, measuring over three feet in length, provides tangible evidence of a time when such creatures roamed the planet. Imagine encountering this formidable predator in the lush landscapes of Jurassic China, showcasing nature's ingenuity and the resilience of early arthropods. This discovery enriches our understanding of prehistoric biodiversity and underscores the enduring mysteries hidden within Earth's geological records. The Brighter Side

Darkest Hour (2017) is a more than pleasing historical drama directed by Joe Wright. Set during World War II, the film follows Winston Churchill, played by Gary Oldman, as he becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Facing the early days of the war and the threat of Nazi invasion, Churchill must rally his nation and navigate political challenges. Kristin Scott Thomas portrays Clementine Churchill, his supportive wife. Gary Oldman's performance earned him an Oscar for Best Actor , while the film was also nominated for Best Picture and Best Cinematography. Rating: PG-13 Rotten Tomatoes: 84% My Grade: B+

A quantum computer recently tackled a complex problem, marking a significant advancement in computing technology. This breakthrough showcases the machine's ability to handle tasks that traditional computers struggle with, demonstrating its potential for solving real-world challenges. This quantum computer successfully optimized the operation of a power grid, a critical infrastructure component. By swiftly calculating optimal settings, it efficiently managed energy distribution, enhancing overall grid performance. Such applications highlight the quantum computer's capability to revolutionize industries reliant on complex calculations and optimizations. Interesting Engineering

Quantum cameras could revolutionize our understanding of early embryo development, offering unprecedented insights into the beginnings of life. These advanced devices use quantum technology to capture images with exceptional clarity and detail, revealing intricate processes that were previously inaccessible to conventional cameras. By harnessing the principles of quantum mechanics, these cameras enable researchers to observe embryonic growth at a microscopic level, potentially unlocking new discoveries in biology and medicine. Quantum cameras have already been employed to track cellular movements during embryogenesis, providing scientists with precise data on cell division and tissue formation. This capability not only enhances our fundamental knowledge of embryonic development but also holds promise for improving techniques in reproductive medicine and prenatal diagnostics. By visualizing these intricate processes in real-time, researchers can better understand the factors influencin...

Twitter, now called X under Elon Musk’s ownership, has faced significant turbulence in recent years. Questions remain about whether the platform is growing or shrinking and whether it is financially viable. Since Musk acquired the company in 2022, user numbers and revenue are being scrutinized, with many wondering if the platform can remain a dominant force in social media. Some reports suggest X has lost millions of users since Musk’s takeover. Advertisers pulled back after he loosened content moderation policies, creating concerns over brand safety. Many users, frustrated with changes such as paid verification and algorithmic shifts, have looked elsewhere. Bluesky, a decentralized social network backed by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, has seen steady growth. Revenue has also been a challenge. Advertising made up the bulk of Twitter’s income before Musk’s arrival, but major brands cut spending after controversial policy changes. X has attempted to compensate by pushing p...

Line drying clothes is a simple way to reduce energy bills and carbon emissions in the U.S. This method decreases reliance on electric dryers, which consume significant energy and contribute to household expenses. By air drying clothes outdoors or indoors on racks, individuals can lower their monthly utility costs while also lessening their environmental impact. This sustainable practice aligns with eco-friendly trends and promotes energy conservation on a personal level. A typical household can save up to $100 annually by line drying their laundry instead of using a dryer. Additionally, reducing dryer usage decreases carbon dioxide emissions, contributing positively to environmental efforts. Many households across the country have adopted this practice, finding it not only economical but also beneficial for reducing their carbon footprint. Embracing line drying as an alternative to electric drying appliances underscores a practical approach to sustainable living, benefiting both the ...

The EPA has intensified its efforts to roll back environmental protections in the U.S., marking a significant shift in regulatory strategy. Policies aimed at safeguarding air and water quality, as well as limiting greenhouse gas emissions, face substantial revisions under the current administration's directives. These changes could impact industries across the country, potentially altering long-standing environmental standards and enforcement mechanisms. Proposed amendments to air quality regulations may allow higher emissions thresholds for industrial facilities, affecting communities near manufacturing hubs. Similarly, relaxations in water pollution controls could impact local ecosystems and drinking water sources. Such policy shifts reflect a broader reevaluation of environmental priorities, emphasizing economic considerations alongside ecological concerns. Ars Technica

Humor enhances scientists' likability and credibility in the U.S. A study finds that humor can make scientists more relatable and trustworthy, contributing positively to public perception. This trait is particularly valuable in fields typically viewed as serious or inaccessible. In practical terms, scientists who inject humor into their presentations or interactions are perceived as more approachable and engaging. For instance, a researcher who lightens a technical lecture with a witty anecdote or a clever remark about their findings can captivate and connect with their audience more effectively. This approach not only humanizes scientists but also fosters a more positive reception of their work among the public and peers alike. Study Finds