Is Diamond and Graphene the Holy Grail of Quantum Computing?
Research on diamond and graphene looks very positive for quantum computing.
Researchers have produced optical qubits that work at room temperature.
The key to achieving this is finding a solid-state material with a specific type of defect, often referred to as a color center, that can reliably emit single photons (the "optical qubit") without being disrupted by thermal energy.
The Leading Candidate: Diamond NV Centers
The most famous and successful example involves defects in diamond:
Nitrogen Vacancy (NV) Centers: This is a crystal imperfection in the diamond lattice where a nitrogen atom substitutes for a carbon atom adjacent to a vacancy (a missing carbon atom).
Qubit Operation: The electronic spin state of the NV center's electrons acts as the qubit (the quantum bit). This spin state can be initialized, manipulated with microwaves, and read out using laser light (the optical component).
Room Temperature Stability: Diamond is an exceptional material because of its rigidity and high Debye temperature. This stability means the N-V center is well-isolated from the thermal vibrations of the surrounding crystal lattice, allowing the quantum properties to persist even at room temperature (and often above).
The Significance
While many quantum computing systems, such as those based on superconducting circuits, require extremely expensive and energy-intensive cryogenic cooling, diamond NV centers offer a path toward more practical, scalable quantum devices that can operate outside of laboratory conditions.
Other emerging candidates for room-temperature optical qubits include similar color centers in materials like silicon carbide (SiC) and certain rare-earth ions embedded in crystals.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Why is the speed of light so agonizingly slow?
Why is the speed of light so agonizingly slow?
In a vacuum light travels at about 186,000 miles/second.
That sounds fast until you realize it takes light about 100,000 years just to cross our galaxy, and the universe contains billions of galaxies.
So what's the problem? In other words what determines the speed of light in a vacuum. I answer that here.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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In a vacuum light travels at about 186,000 miles/second.
That sounds fast until you realize it takes light about 100,000 years just to cross our galaxy, and the universe contains billions of galaxies.
So what's the problem? In other words what determines the speed of light in a vacuum. I answer that here.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Things I will not live to see
Things I will not live to see
But my grandkids will.
1. Computers of unprecedented power
And not just Quantum Computers, but conventional computers also. Researchers have already demonstrated transistors at the atomic level. And a cubic inch of carbon contains 10^24 atoms. That's a lot of transistors!
2. Designer drugs
Not just designed specifically from your DNA, but also able to eradicate almost any condition with a simple pill. And that includes dementia and cancer.
3. AI
Not just to automate tasks, which it's already doing, but to assist leading edge research in almost every field. And yes, that even includes mathematics.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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But my grandkids will.
1. Computers of unprecedented power
And not just Quantum Computers, but conventional computers also. Researchers have already demonstrated transistors at the atomic level. And a cubic inch of carbon contains 10^24 atoms. That's a lot of transistors!
2. Designer drugs
Not just designed specifically from your DNA, but also able to eradicate almost any condition with a simple pill. And that includes dementia and cancer.
3. AI
Not just to automate tasks, which it's already doing, but to assist leading edge research in almost every field. And yes, that even includes mathematics.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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How to avoid a Paywall
How to avoid a Paywall
You go to a website to read an interesting article only to find you can't because you're not a subscriber. This is called a paywall. You need to pay to read. Or do you?
Why pay? Try this instead:
Right click on the page (with a one button mouse do ctrl-click)
Select "Save As"
In Format select "Webpage, HTML only"
Then go view the saved page.
In many cases you'll have the full page and content.
Tech Notes: This may not work in every case. Please email me details if you find a situation where it does not work.
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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You go to a website to read an interesting article only to find you can't because you're not a subscriber. This is called a paywall. You need to pay to read. Or do you?
Why pay? Try this instead:
Right click on the page (with a one button mouse do ctrl-click)
Select "Save As"
In Format select "Webpage, HTML only"
Then go view the saved page.
In many cases you'll have the full page and content.
Tech Notes: This may not work in every case. Please email me details if you find a situation where it does not work.
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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This is what I call a tree
This is what I call a tree
The Baobab tree is one of the world's most unique and iconic trees, often called the "Tree of Life" due to its incredible value to both humans and wildlife in the harsh climates where it grows.
Here are the key facts about the Baobab tree (genus Adansonia):
1. Distinctive Appearance
"Upside-Down Tree": Its most defining characteristic is its massive,bottle-like trunk and a sparse canopy of branches that, when bare during the dry season, resemble gnarled roots sticking up into the air. This gives it the famous nickname, the "Upside-Down Tree."
Size and Longevity: Baobabs can grow to enormous sizes, reaching up to 30 meters (98 feet) in height and a circumference of up to 50 meters (165 feet). They are also exceptionally long-lived, with some specimens estimated to be up to 3,000 years old.
2. Habitat and Adaptation
Habitat: Baobab trees thrive in the hot, dry savannas and arid regions of mainland Africa, Madagascar (where six of the nine species are endemic), and Australia (where they are called "boabs").
Water Storage: They are considered the world's largest succulents.
Their thick, fibrous trunks are capable of storing massive amounts of water—up to 120,000 liters (31,700 gallons)—which allows them to survive long periods of drought.
Deciduous: They shed their leaves during the dry season to conserve the water stored in their trunks.
3. "The Tree of Life" Uses
Almost every part of the baobab tree is used by local communities and wildlife:
Fruit (Monkey Bread): The fruit has a hard shell and contains a white, powdery, dry pulp and seeds. This pulp is highly nutritious, with a tart, tangy flavor, and is an excellent source of Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. It is often used to make drinks, sauces, and as a natural food supplement.
Bark: The bark is fire-resistant and is harvested to make rope, cloth, mats, and paper.
Leaves: The young leaves are edible and rich in nutrients like protein, minerals, and vitamins A and C. They are often boiled and eaten like spinach or used to flavor soups.
Trunk: Hollow trunks have historically been used as shelter, storage, burial chambers, and even as water reservoirs (cisterns).
Seeds: The seeds can be roasted and eaten as a snack, or pressed to create a valuable oil used for cosmetic purposes.
4. Ecological Importance
Baobabs are a critical resource for their ecosystem, providing food, water, and shelter for numerous animals, including elephants, monkeys, bats, and various insects and birds.
Their large, white flowers open at night and are primarily pollinated by bats and nocturnal insects.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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What Determines C - The speed of light in a vacuum
What Determines C - The speed of light in a vacuum
In physics C is often described as a "universal constant". This is not exactly true.
Theoretical models that interpret the vacuum as a very active quantum foam suggest that the speed of light is the finite value we observe because of this quantum activity, implying that in the absence of this activity, the speed would be higher and potentially infinite.
So the answer is: The speed of light is totally determined by the quantum properties of the vacuum.
So if we could modify the properties of the vacuum we would change the speed of light.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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In physics C is often described as a "universal constant". This is not exactly true.
Theoretical models that interpret the vacuum as a very active quantum foam suggest that the speed of light is the finite value we observe because of this quantum activity, implying that in the absence of this activity, the speed would be higher and potentially infinite.
So the answer is: The speed of light is totally determined by the quantum properties of the vacuum.
So if we could modify the properties of the vacuum we would change the speed of light.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Ken's SAT Math Strategy Sheet - Boost your score fast
Ken's SAT Math Strategy Sheet - Boost your score fast.
You could get an expensive SAT Math tutor.
Or you can read my SAT test taking strategy sheet. With the test taking tricks you need to boost your score fast.
Read this before doing anything else. It's just $20. I accept PayPal (abbottsystems@gmail.com) and just include your email so I can email you my strategy sheet.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
You could get an expensive SAT Math tutor.
Or you can read my SAT test taking strategy sheet. With the test taking tricks you need to boost your score fast.
Read this before doing anything else. It's just $20. I accept PayPal (abbottsystems@gmail.com) and just include your email so I can email you my strategy sheet.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Humans Can't Reproduce fast enough
Humans Can't Reproduce fast enough
No, this is not a joke.
To survive a population needs a Fertility Rate of 2.1
That's the average number of children a woman needs to have in her lifetime just to maintain the population (assuming no immigration).
Most countries have a deep problem.. with Japan and South Korea having a massive problem. Their population is vanishing. Same goes for Europe. And America.
The only place with huge success? Africa. Their Fertility Rate is over 4.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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No, this is not a joke.
To survive a population needs a Fertility Rate of 2.1
That's the average number of children a woman needs to have in her lifetime just to maintain the population (assuming no immigration).
Most countries have a deep problem.. with Japan and South Korea having a massive problem. Their population is vanishing. Same goes for Europe. And America.
The only place with huge success? Africa. Their Fertility Rate is over 4.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Ken's Carrot Recipe
Ken's Carrot Recipe
Get some carrots from a farmers market, or maybe you grew your own.
Slice them lengthwise so each carrot is two pieces. Dry them.
Now rip off a large piece of aluminum foil.
Place the carrots on the foil and curl up the sides. Add a splash of fine olive oil. Add fresh chopped garlic. Add salt and pepper. Add your favorite herb. Add a splash of white wine and a splash of chicken stock. Add a small piece of butter.
Close the aluminum foil tight. Place on a baking tray and bake at 350F for about on hour.
Serve. Eat alone or as a side dish for almost anything.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Get some carrots from a farmers market, or maybe you grew your own.
Slice them lengthwise so each carrot is two pieces. Dry them.
Now rip off a large piece of aluminum foil.
Place the carrots on the foil and curl up the sides. Add a splash of fine olive oil. Add fresh chopped garlic. Add salt and pepper. Add your favorite herb. Add a splash of white wine and a splash of chicken stock. Add a small piece of butter.
Close the aluminum foil tight. Place on a baking tray and bake at 350F for about on hour.
Serve. Eat alone or as a side dish for almost anything.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Ken's Universal Stew - For those who cannot cook
Ken's Universal Stew - For those who cannot cook
Anybody can cook this. And it's an amazing meal. Your guests will be shocked.
Oh, and it only uses one pan. Perfect for those who hate washing up.
First collect a load of fresh vegetables: onions, carrots, celery, garlic, fennel and leek. Get good stuff from a farmers market if you can. Chop them up, then dry with a kitchen towel.
Take a heavy casserole and add a few splashes of good quality olive oil. Saute the vegetables until soft and just beginning to brown. Be careful not to burn. Then add white wine, chicken stock, water and a chopped tomato. Add a few bay leaves. Add a pinch of your favorite herb. Add fresh ground pepper and a pinch of salt. Now simmer for a while so all the flavors mix together. This is your sauce. Fragrant and yummy.
Now you're almost done. Add whatever you like to this sauce: chunks of beef, or lamb, or chicken, or shrimp, or scallops, or mussels, or clams, or oysters, or chunks of white fish such as cod or halibut. If you decide to use seafood also add a can of clam broth.
Saute for a few minutes until all is cooked. Then serve.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking the quality of the ingredients is critical. Buy the best you can afford.
Want it spicy? Add Thai red curry sauce for red meat or Thai green curry sauce for seafood. Thai curry sauce can be found in most supermarkets.
Need some carbs? Just slice and add a potato.
Using red meat and want this to be like the famous French dish Beef Bourguignon? You're almost there, just add some pearl onions.
If you use red meat add a splash of red wine.
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Anybody can cook this. And it's an amazing meal. Your guests will be shocked.
Oh, and it only uses one pan. Perfect for those who hate washing up.
First collect a load of fresh vegetables: onions, carrots, celery, garlic, fennel and leek. Get good stuff from a farmers market if you can. Chop them up, then dry with a kitchen towel.
Take a heavy casserole and add a few splashes of good quality olive oil. Saute the vegetables until soft and just beginning to brown. Be careful not to burn. Then add white wine, chicken stock, water and a chopped tomato. Add a few bay leaves. Add a pinch of your favorite herb. Add fresh ground pepper and a pinch of salt. Now simmer for a while so all the flavors mix together. This is your sauce. Fragrant and yummy.
Now you're almost done. Add whatever you like to this sauce: chunks of beef, or lamb, or chicken, or shrimp, or scallops, or mussels, or clams, or oysters, or chunks of white fish such as cod or halibut. If you decide to use seafood also add a can of clam broth.
Saute for a few minutes until all is cooked. Then serve.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking the quality of the ingredients is critical. Buy the best you can afford.
Want it spicy? Add Thai red curry sauce for red meat or Thai green curry sauce for seafood. Thai curry sauce can be found in most supermarkets.
Need some carbs? Just slice and add a potato.
Using red meat and want this to be like the famous French dish Beef Bourguignon? You're almost there, just add some pearl onions.
If you use red meat add a splash of red wine.
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Optical Qubits - The latest progress
Optical Qubits - The latest progress
The "holy grail" of quantum computing. Here's the latest progress..
Yes, it is possible to make an optical qubit operating at room temperature, and significant breakthroughs have been achieved in this area.
While many types of qubits require extreme cryogenic cooling (near absolute zero) to maintain the delicate quantum state (coherence), optical qubits (which use photons or light-interacting systems) offer several paths toward room-temperature operation.
Here are the two main approaches being successfully developed:
1. Photonic Qubits (Qubits of Light)
Photons themselves are naturally robust and interact very weakly with the environment, allowing them to maintain their quantum state even at room temperature. The challenge lies in creating and manipulating them efficiently without needing to cool the entire system.
The Medium Stays Warm: In this architecture, the quantum operation chip itself (made of integrated silicon photonics or fiber-optics) can often operate at room temperature. The qubits are encoded in the properties of the photons (e.g., their path, time-of-arrival, or polarization).
The Detector Challenge: The main component that traditionally required cooling in photonic quantum computing was the single-photon detector (SPD), which needed to be superconducting to achieve high efficiency. However, research is rapidly developing:
Room-Temperature SPDs based on materials like Germanium–Silicon (GeSi) are being developed to eliminate the need for cryogenics entirely.
Some experimental systems now utilize advanced techniques to encode multiple states into a single photon (creating a "qudit" instead of a qubit), which has been demonstrated to run algorithms like Shor's algorithm on a desktop-sized setup at room temperature.
2. Solid-State Defect Qubits (Light-Interfaced Qubits)
This approach uses a defect within a crystal lattice that can be initialized and read out using light, while the defect's spin state serves as the qubit. The rigid crystal environment helps isolate the quantum state from thermal noise.
Diamond Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) Center: This is the most famous example. An NV center is a point defect in the diamond lattice (a nitrogen atom next to a vacant carbon site). The electron spin of this defect can be:
Initialized (set to a known state) using a green laser.
Manipulated using microwave pulses.
Read out optically by measuring its fluorescence intensity.
The carbon lattice is so stable that it allows the NV center to maintain coherence and perform these operations reliably at room temperature.
Silicon Carbide (SiC) Divacancy: Similar defects, such as the divacancy (missing a silicon and an adjacent carbon atom) in silicon carbide, have also shown room-temperature coherent control with an added advantage: their optical emission is in the near-infrared, which is compatible with standard fiber-optic communication systems.
The development of these room-temperature qubits is a major goal, as it would drastically reduce the size, cost, and energy consumption required for quantum computers and quantum network components.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
The "holy grail" of quantum computing. Here's the latest progress..
Yes, it is possible to make an optical qubit operating at room temperature, and significant breakthroughs have been achieved in this area.
While many types of qubits require extreme cryogenic cooling (near absolute zero) to maintain the delicate quantum state (coherence), optical qubits (which use photons or light-interacting systems) offer several paths toward room-temperature operation.
Here are the two main approaches being successfully developed:
1. Photonic Qubits (Qubits of Light)
Photons themselves are naturally robust and interact very weakly with the environment, allowing them to maintain their quantum state even at room temperature. The challenge lies in creating and manipulating them efficiently without needing to cool the entire system.
The Medium Stays Warm: In this architecture, the quantum operation chip itself (made of integrated silicon photonics or fiber-optics) can often operate at room temperature. The qubits are encoded in the properties of the photons (e.g., their path, time-of-arrival, or polarization).
The Detector Challenge: The main component that traditionally required cooling in photonic quantum computing was the single-photon detector (SPD), which needed to be superconducting to achieve high efficiency. However, research is rapidly developing:
Room-Temperature SPDs based on materials like Germanium–Silicon (GeSi) are being developed to eliminate the need for cryogenics entirely.
Some experimental systems now utilize advanced techniques to encode multiple states into a single photon (creating a "qudit" instead of a qubit), which has been demonstrated to run algorithms like Shor's algorithm on a desktop-sized setup at room temperature.
2. Solid-State Defect Qubits (Light-Interfaced Qubits)
This approach uses a defect within a crystal lattice that can be initialized and read out using light, while the defect's spin state serves as the qubit. The rigid crystal environment helps isolate the quantum state from thermal noise.
Diamond Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) Center: This is the most famous example. An NV center is a point defect in the diamond lattice (a nitrogen atom next to a vacant carbon site). The electron spin of this defect can be:
Initialized (set to a known state) using a green laser.
Manipulated using microwave pulses.
Read out optically by measuring its fluorescence intensity.
The carbon lattice is so stable that it allows the NV center to maintain coherence and perform these operations reliably at room temperature.
Silicon Carbide (SiC) Divacancy: Similar defects, such as the divacancy (missing a silicon and an adjacent carbon atom) in silicon carbide, have also shown room-temperature coherent control with an added advantage: their optical emission is in the near-infrared, which is compatible with standard fiber-optic communication systems.
The development of these room-temperature qubits is a major goal, as it would drastically reduce the size, cost, and energy consumption required for quantum computers and quantum network components.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
AI - The crash is coming
AI - The crash is coming
AI is good. But it's not that good.
Money has poured into AI like crazy, more than in any other developing technology in history. So when the crash comes it will be even more painful.
After the crash AI will continue on a normal upward trend. But only after millions have lost their shirts.
A crash is just a sudden market correction.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
AI is good. But it's not that good.
Money has poured into AI like crazy, more than in any other developing technology in history. So when the crash comes it will be even more painful.
After the crash AI will continue on a normal upward trend. But only after millions have lost their shirts.
A crash is just a sudden market correction.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
How to get insane deals
How to get insane deals
Go to Amazon
Click on "Amazon Haul"
Then click on "Crazy Low"
OMG!!!!!!
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Go to Amazon
Click on "Amazon Haul"
Then click on "Crazy Low"
OMG!!!!!!
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Popular Foods that are Poisonous
Popular Foods that are Poisonous
These food will only kill you if eaten in large quantities. But even in small quantities they can casuse enough distress to make you think you're dying.
Green or Sprouted Potatoes
Never eat green potato flesh, nor the sprouts. But if you peel the potato and there is no green underneath the skin then you should be ok.
Rhubarb Leaves
The stalks are edible, but rhubarb leaves are not. They contain oxalic acid - which can produce very nasty symptoms.
Cherry Pits
Cherry pits contain cyanide, and but the pit must be cracked open to be really dangerous.
Apple seeds
Same as cherry pits, they contain cyanide. Swallowing a few whole apple seeds should not cause any problems. But don't chew them and don't make a habit of eating these things.
Uncooked Kidney Beans
Chances are you don't want to eat uncooked Kidney Beans. But don't. Cook them first. Even a few uncooked kidney beans can cause major distress.
Elderberries
Ripe cooked elderberries are fine. But the unripe berries, the leaves, and the bark contain cyanide.
Nutmeg
A large amount of nutmeg will make you seriously ill. Symptoms include dizziness, confusion, and nausea.
Mangos
Eating the delicious flesh of a mango is no problem, but avoid eating the skin, bark, and leaves.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
These food will only kill you if eaten in large quantities. But even in small quantities they can casuse enough distress to make you think you're dying.
Green or Sprouted Potatoes
Never eat green potato flesh, nor the sprouts. But if you peel the potato and there is no green underneath the skin then you should be ok.
Rhubarb Leaves
The stalks are edible, but rhubarb leaves are not. They contain oxalic acid - which can produce very nasty symptoms.
Cherry Pits
Cherry pits contain cyanide, and but the pit must be cracked open to be really dangerous.
Apple seeds
Same as cherry pits, they contain cyanide. Swallowing a few whole apple seeds should not cause any problems. But don't chew them and don't make a habit of eating these things.
Uncooked Kidney Beans
Chances are you don't want to eat uncooked Kidney Beans. But don't. Cook them first. Even a few uncooked kidney beans can cause major distress.
Elderberries
Ripe cooked elderberries are fine. But the unripe berries, the leaves, and the bark contain cyanide.
Nutmeg
A large amount of nutmeg will make you seriously ill. Symptoms include dizziness, confusion, and nausea.
Mangos
Eating the delicious flesh of a mango is no problem, but avoid eating the skin, bark, and leaves.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as professional advice. It's for informational purposes only.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
AI Writes Middle East Peace Plan
AI Writes Middle East Peace Plan
I just asked my AI to write a 10 point peace plan for Israeli-Palestinian peace. It took 8 seconds. Here's what I got.
A Ten-Point Framework for Israeli-Palestinian Peace
This framework proposes a comprehensive, phased approach centered on the globally-recognized Two-State Solution, addressing the core issues of borders, security, Jerusalem, and refugees.
Core Principles & Ultimate Goals
Mutual Recognition and Two-State Solution: A comprehensive, permanent agreement leading to the establishment of two sovereign states: the State of Israel and the State of Palestine. Both nations must formally recognize the other's existence, legitimacy, and right to secure borders and peace.
End of Claims: The final agreement must contain a legally binding declaration that it constitutes the full and final settlement of all mutual claims related to the conflict.
Territorial and Geopolitical Issues
Borders and Land Swaps (1967 Basis): The permanent border should be drawn based on the June 4, 1967, lines, with agreed-upon, equivalent land swaps (1:1 ratio) to accommodate the maximum number of Israeli citizens living in settlement blocs adjacent to the border. The State of Palestine must be territorially contiguous in the West Bank.
Status of Jerusalem (Shared Capital): Jerusalem shall be an open, undivided city with shared municipal services, but it must be formally divided politically along negotiated lines. West Jerusalem would serve as the capital of Israel, and East Jerusalem would serve as the capital of the State of Palestine, with internationally guaranteed, free, and unhindered access to all religious sites for peoples of all faiths.
Settlement Freeze and Phased Withdrawal: Immediately enact a total freeze on all settlement construction activity outside of the agreed-upon land swap areas (point 3). All Israeli military and civilian presence from Palestinian territory outside the agreed-upon borders must be withdrawn in a phased, security-coordinated manner over an agreed timeline.
Security and Demilitarization
Israeli Security Guarantees: The State of Palestine will be a non-militarized state, prohibiting standing armies, heavy weapons, and military alliances hostile to Israel. A multi-national force (MNF), potentially led by a coalition of key Arab, European, and American partners, will be deployed to monitor borders and enforce demilitarization.
Unified Palestinian Security Sector Reform: Immediate and substantial international support for the reform and retraining of a single, unified Palestinian security force (PSF) focused solely on counter-terrorism and internal law and order across both the West Bank and Gaza, under a unified, non-militant central Palestinian government.
Humanitarian and Economic Solutions
Refugee Resolution (Compensation and Choice): Implement a just, agreed-upon, and realistic resolution for Palestinian refugees based on UN Resolution 194. This resolution will offer refugees a choice between compensation, resettlement in third-party countries, resettlement in the State of Palestine, and a limited, symbolic return to Israel based on specific, mutually agreed-upon criteria and capacity constraints.
Economic Sovereignty and Development: Grant the State of Palestine full control over its natural resources (especially water and energy) and border crossings. Simultaneously, establish an international fund to spearhead the massive reconstruction and economic revitalization of Gaza and the West Bank, focusing on high-tech and sustainable infrastructure.
Implementation and Regional Support
International Monitoring and Regional Normalization: Establish a high-level International Peace Monitoring Body (IPMB), comprising guarantor nations, to oversee the implementation of all phases of the agreement. In parallel, a full and complete normalization of diplomatic and economic relations between Israel and all members of the Arab League (as outlined in the Arab Peace Initiative) will occur immediately upon the final signing of the peace treaty.
This is a comprehensive framework that attempts to cover all the critical, long-standing issues. It’s written at a diplomatic level appropriate for a major political initiative.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as legal or financial advice. It's for informational purposes only. For advice consult an attorney.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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I just asked my AI to write a 10 point peace plan for Israeli-Palestinian peace. It took 8 seconds. Here's what I got.
A Ten-Point Framework for Israeli-Palestinian Peace
This framework proposes a comprehensive, phased approach centered on the globally-recognized Two-State Solution, addressing the core issues of borders, security, Jerusalem, and refugees.
Core Principles & Ultimate Goals
Mutual Recognition and Two-State Solution: A comprehensive, permanent agreement leading to the establishment of two sovereign states: the State of Israel and the State of Palestine. Both nations must formally recognize the other's existence, legitimacy, and right to secure borders and peace.
End of Claims: The final agreement must contain a legally binding declaration that it constitutes the full and final settlement of all mutual claims related to the conflict.
Territorial and Geopolitical Issues
Borders and Land Swaps (1967 Basis): The permanent border should be drawn based on the June 4, 1967, lines, with agreed-upon, equivalent land swaps (1:1 ratio) to accommodate the maximum number of Israeli citizens living in settlement blocs adjacent to the border. The State of Palestine must be territorially contiguous in the West Bank.
Status of Jerusalem (Shared Capital): Jerusalem shall be an open, undivided city with shared municipal services, but it must be formally divided politically along negotiated lines. West Jerusalem would serve as the capital of Israel, and East Jerusalem would serve as the capital of the State of Palestine, with internationally guaranteed, free, and unhindered access to all religious sites for peoples of all faiths.
Settlement Freeze and Phased Withdrawal: Immediately enact a total freeze on all settlement construction activity outside of the agreed-upon land swap areas (point 3). All Israeli military and civilian presence from Palestinian territory outside the agreed-upon borders must be withdrawn in a phased, security-coordinated manner over an agreed timeline.
Security and Demilitarization
Israeli Security Guarantees: The State of Palestine will be a non-militarized state, prohibiting standing armies, heavy weapons, and military alliances hostile to Israel. A multi-national force (MNF), potentially led by a coalition of key Arab, European, and American partners, will be deployed to monitor borders and enforce demilitarization.
Unified Palestinian Security Sector Reform: Immediate and substantial international support for the reform and retraining of a single, unified Palestinian security force (PSF) focused solely on counter-terrorism and internal law and order across both the West Bank and Gaza, under a unified, non-militant central Palestinian government.
Humanitarian and Economic Solutions
Refugee Resolution (Compensation and Choice): Implement a just, agreed-upon, and realistic resolution for Palestinian refugees based on UN Resolution 194. This resolution will offer refugees a choice between compensation, resettlement in third-party countries, resettlement in the State of Palestine, and a limited, symbolic return to Israel based on specific, mutually agreed-upon criteria and capacity constraints.
Economic Sovereignty and Development: Grant the State of Palestine full control over its natural resources (especially water and energy) and border crossings. Simultaneously, establish an international fund to spearhead the massive reconstruction and economic revitalization of Gaza and the West Bank, focusing on high-tech and sustainable infrastructure.
Implementation and Regional Support
International Monitoring and Regional Normalization: Establish a high-level International Peace Monitoring Body (IPMB), comprising guarantor nations, to oversee the implementation of all phases of the agreement. In parallel, a full and complete normalization of diplomatic and economic relations between Israel and all members of the Arab League (as outlined in the Arab Peace Initiative) will occur immediately upon the final signing of the peace treaty.
This is a comprehensive framework that attempts to cover all the critical, long-standing issues. It’s written at a diplomatic level appropriate for a major political initiative.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as legal or financial advice. It's for informational purposes only. For advice consult an attorney.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Sexual Reproduction - The world has a problem
Sexual Reproduction - The world has a problem
It takes a Total Fertility Rate of about 2.1 just to maintain a population.
The Total Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman has in her lifetime.
America, Europe, China, India and many other countries fall way short. So their population is doomed to decline.
But Africa rocks with a Total Fertility Rate over 4.0
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as legal or financial advice. It's for informational purposes only. For advice consult an attorney.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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It takes a Total Fertility Rate of about 2.1 just to maintain a population.
The Total Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman has in her lifetime.
America, Europe, China, India and many other countries fall way short. So their population is doomed to decline.
But Africa rocks with a Total Fertility Rate over 4.0
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as legal or financial advice. It's for informational purposes only. For advice consult an attorney.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Ken's Roast Chicken in a Casserole
Does your roast chicken turn out dry? Here's a fix that produces incredibly moist roast chicken.
Get a fresh natural chicken, preferably from a farmer's market. Don't use frozen or mass produced chicken. Clean out anything inside and dry the chicken inside and out with a paper towel.
Prop the chicken on the side of a casserole with the cavity open. Grind in some fresh pepper. Add a pinch of salt. Slice a bulb of garlic in half and add it. Add some sprigs of fresh tarragon. Now close the cavity.
Preheat oven to 350F.
Pour some fine olive oil in your hands, pick up the chicken and massage the oil all over. Wipe your your hands off on a paper towel. Add a splash of olive oil and a bit of butter to the casserole then saute the chicken on all sides until brown.
Throw some bay leaves into the casserole with plenty of sprigs of fresh tarragon, then sit the chicken on top. Grind on fresh pepper. Lightly sprinkle with Paprika, use Hungarian Paprika if you have it. Throw a handful of chopped garlic over the chicken. Add sprigs of fresh tarragon.
Cover with aluminum foil, then put the lid on the casserole and bake in the oven.
If you found anything in the cavity when you cleaned the chicken throw it in the casserole half way through cooking.
Remove, let sit for a few minutes on a carving board and then serve.
Carving board juices make a wonderful natural gravy.
The "stuffing" inside the cavity is not for eating, it's only for flavor.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
How the Ancient Egyptians raised the Pyramid blocks
How the Ancient Egyptians raised the Pyramid blocks
Lots of theories abound, but here's mine, and it's very simple..
In the center of each pyramid face they laid a wooden rail track. And on this track ran a huge wooden sled. This was the block carrier sled. It was lowered and a block was loaded. But how was the block then raised to the working level? Easy..
On the left of the sled was another sled. But this was designed for people, with lots of bench seats. And to the left of this sled was a simple staircase. The people sled was connected by rope cable to the block sled.
People ran up the staircase, jumped into the passenger sled and their combined weight raised the block.
This happened thousands of times and so the constant traffic of heavy blocks indented the pyramid face slightly.
And sure enough, detailed analysis shows this is the case. Each face of the pyramid shows a strange indentation. It's clearly visible on drone shots.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Lots of theories abound, but here's mine, and it's very simple..
In the center of each pyramid face they laid a wooden rail track. And on this track ran a huge wooden sled. This was the block carrier sled. It was lowered and a block was loaded. But how was the block then raised to the working level? Easy..
On the left of the sled was another sled. But this was designed for people, with lots of bench seats. And to the left of this sled was a simple staircase. The people sled was connected by rope cable to the block sled.
People ran up the staircase, jumped into the passenger sled and their combined weight raised the block.
This happened thousands of times and so the constant traffic of heavy blocks indented the pyramid face slightly.
And sure enough, detailed analysis shows this is the case. Each face of the pyramid shows a strange indentation. It's clearly visible on drone shots.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Irrevocable Trust - The benefits
Irrevocable Trust - The benefits
It's easy to setup an irrevocable trust and get major benefits.
You can put any asset into the trust: investment account, real estate and more.
Your trustees, which are usually your children, can take money out anytime tax free. So this is a superb way to give them their inheritance tax free.
If you ever need Medicaid you will qualify becuase you have no assets. But remember the 5 year lookback.
If the Trust generates income you can take it. No need to get permission from the trustees.
One more big benefit. In many States an irrevocable trust is a powerful tool for avoiding probate. When you place assets into an irrevocable trust, you are legally transferring ownership of those assets from yourself to the trust. Because you no longer personally own those assets at the time of your death, they do not have to go through the probate process.
Thanks to Attorney Karen Tobias (845) 876-3300 for helping me with this post. Karen is a Trust expert.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as legal or financial advice. It's for informational purposes only. For advice consult an attorney.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
It's easy to setup an irrevocable trust and get major benefits.
You can put any asset into the trust: investment account, real estate and more.
Your trustees, which are usually your children, can take money out anytime tax free. So this is a superb way to give them their inheritance tax free.
If you ever need Medicaid you will qualify becuase you have no assets. But remember the 5 year lookback.
If the Trust generates income you can take it. No need to get permission from the trustees.
One more big benefit. In many States an irrevocable trust is a powerful tool for avoiding probate. When you place assets into an irrevocable trust, you are legally transferring ownership of those assets from yourself to the trust. Because you no longer personally own those assets at the time of your death, they do not have to go through the probate process.
Thanks to Attorney Karen Tobias (845) 876-3300 for helping me with this post. Karen is a Trust expert.
Tech Notes:
Disclaimer: This is not intended as legal or financial advice. It's for informational purposes only. For advice consult an attorney.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Rare Earth Magnets - China's Ace Card
Rare Earth Magnets - China's Ace Card
These are powerful magnets used in US military systems and domestic products such as electric cars.
They are made from elements called "rare earths" on the periodic table.
China dominates the supply and refining of rare earths. So if China stopped exports of rare earths America would suffer very badly indeed.
This is a major hand in China's negotiation of tariffs with Trump.
I have a few of these magnets on my refrigerator door. Getting them off is another story.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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These are powerful magnets used in US military systems and domestic products such as electric cars.
They are made from elements called "rare earths" on the periodic table.
China dominates the supply and refining of rare earths. So if China stopped exports of rare earths America would suffer very badly indeed.
This is a major hand in China's negotiation of tariffs with Trump.
I have a few of these magnets on my refrigerator door. Getting them off is another story.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Aging - The thing that controls it
Aging - The thing that controls it
It's simple. It's called a telomere.
A telomere is a region of repetitive DNA at the end of a linear chromosome. Telomeres act like the plastic tips on shoelaces, protecting the ends of the chromosomes from damage or from fusing with other chromosomes.
Function and Importance
Telomeres are crucial for maintaining the integrity of a cell's DNA. Here's why they're so important:
Protecting Genetic Information: During cell division, the enzymes that replicate DNA cannot copy the very end of the chromosome. This is known as the "end replication problem." Without telomeres, vital genetic information would be lost with each division. Telomeres act as a buffer, ensuring that this lost DNA is just the repetitive, non-coding telomere sequence rather than important genes.
Regulating Cell Aging: With each cell division, the telomeres become slightly shorter. When they become critically short, the cell can no longer divide and enters a state called senescence (cellular aging) or undergoes programmed cell death (apoptosis). This shortening acts as a kind of biological clock, limiting the number of times a cell can divide. An enzyme called telomerase can add telomere sequences back to the ends of chromosomes, but it is typically only active in stem cells and germ cells, not most regular body cells.
Preventing Chromosome Fusion: Telomeres prevent the ends of chromosomes from being mistaken for a broken DNA strand. Without them, the cell's repair mechanisms might try to "fix" the ends by joining them to other chromosomes, leading to major genomic instability and cell death.
The shortening of telomeres is a key factor in the aging process and is also linked to various age-related diseases. Cancer cells, however, often reactivate the telomerase enzyme, allowing them to maintain telomere length and divide uncontrollably, contributing to their immortality.
So.. is there anything you can do to improve telomere heath? Yes there is.
Diet can play a significant role in supporting the health of your DNA telomeres. While no food can reverse the natural process of telomere shortening, a diet rich in certain nutrients can help protect them from damage and slow down the rate at which they shorten.
The key is to focus on foods that are rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and specific vitamins and minerals. This helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation, which are major factors in accelerating telomere shortening.
Here are some food groups and nutrients that are particularly beneficial for telomere health:
Antioxidant-Rich Fruits and Vegetables
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage DNA, including telomeres. A colorful diet is a great way to ensure a wide range of antioxidants.
Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants and polyphenols.
Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and other dark leafy greens are excellent sources of vitamins C and E, and folate (B9).
Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts contain compounds that help with DNA repair.
Other colorful produce: Oranges, bell peppers, carrots, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes are all rich in various antioxidants like carotenoids and vitamin C.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3s are powerful anti-inflammatory compounds. Chronic inflammation is known to accelerate telomere shortening.
Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, sardines, and anchovies are excellent sources of EPA and DHA, the most bioavailable forms of omega-3s.
Nuts and Seeds: Walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are rich in ALA, a plant-based omega-3. Legumes, Nuts, and Whole Grains
These foods are high in fiber, which can help manage blood sugar and insulin levels, and provide a range of B vitamins and other nutrients.
Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are good sources of folate (B9) and fiber.
Nuts: In addition to omega-3s in walnuts, nuts provide vitamin E and other minerals.
Whole Grains: Oats, brown rice, and other whole grains are a good source of fiber and B vitamins.
Foods Rich in Specific Vitamins and Minerals
Folate (Vitamin B9): Crucial for DNA synthesis and repair. Found in leafy greens, avocados, legumes, and fortified grains.
Vitamin C: A potent antioxidant found in citrus fruits, bell peppers, and broccoli.
Vitamin E: Another key antioxidant found in nuts, seeds, and leafy greens.
Vitamin D: Some studies have linked higher vitamin D levels with longer telomeres, though more research is needed. Sources include fatty fish and fortified foods like milk and cereals.
Zinc and Selenium: These minerals are important for antioxidant enzyme function and DNA repair. Found in nuts, seeds, seafood, and whole grains.
Foods to limit or avoid
Conversely, some dietary patterns and foods are associated with faster telomere shortening. These include:
Sugar-sweetened beverages and a diet high in simple sugars.
Red and processed meats.
Refined carbohydrates like white bread and pastries.
Excessive alcohol consumption
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
It's simple. It's called a telomere.
A telomere is a region of repetitive DNA at the end of a linear chromosome. Telomeres act like the plastic tips on shoelaces, protecting the ends of the chromosomes from damage or from fusing with other chromosomes.
Function and Importance
Telomeres are crucial for maintaining the integrity of a cell's DNA. Here's why they're so important:
Protecting Genetic Information: During cell division, the enzymes that replicate DNA cannot copy the very end of the chromosome. This is known as the "end replication problem." Without telomeres, vital genetic information would be lost with each division. Telomeres act as a buffer, ensuring that this lost DNA is just the repetitive, non-coding telomere sequence rather than important genes.
Regulating Cell Aging: With each cell division, the telomeres become slightly shorter. When they become critically short, the cell can no longer divide and enters a state called senescence (cellular aging) or undergoes programmed cell death (apoptosis). This shortening acts as a kind of biological clock, limiting the number of times a cell can divide. An enzyme called telomerase can add telomere sequences back to the ends of chromosomes, but it is typically only active in stem cells and germ cells, not most regular body cells.
Preventing Chromosome Fusion: Telomeres prevent the ends of chromosomes from being mistaken for a broken DNA strand. Without them, the cell's repair mechanisms might try to "fix" the ends by joining them to other chromosomes, leading to major genomic instability and cell death.
The shortening of telomeres is a key factor in the aging process and is also linked to various age-related diseases. Cancer cells, however, often reactivate the telomerase enzyme, allowing them to maintain telomere length and divide uncontrollably, contributing to their immortality.
So.. is there anything you can do to improve telomere heath? Yes there is.
Diet can play a significant role in supporting the health of your DNA telomeres. While no food can reverse the natural process of telomere shortening, a diet rich in certain nutrients can help protect them from damage and slow down the rate at which they shorten.
The key is to focus on foods that are rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and specific vitamins and minerals. This helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation, which are major factors in accelerating telomere shortening.
Here are some food groups and nutrients that are particularly beneficial for telomere health:
Antioxidant-Rich Fruits and Vegetables
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage DNA, including telomeres. A colorful diet is a great way to ensure a wide range of antioxidants.
Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants and polyphenols.
Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and other dark leafy greens are excellent sources of vitamins C and E, and folate (B9).
Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts contain compounds that help with DNA repair.
Other colorful produce: Oranges, bell peppers, carrots, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes are all rich in various antioxidants like carotenoids and vitamin C.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3s are powerful anti-inflammatory compounds. Chronic inflammation is known to accelerate telomere shortening.
Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, sardines, and anchovies are excellent sources of EPA and DHA, the most bioavailable forms of omega-3s.
Nuts and Seeds: Walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are rich in ALA, a plant-based omega-3. Legumes, Nuts, and Whole Grains
These foods are high in fiber, which can help manage blood sugar and insulin levels, and provide a range of B vitamins and other nutrients.
Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are good sources of folate (B9) and fiber.
Nuts: In addition to omega-3s in walnuts, nuts provide vitamin E and other minerals.
Whole Grains: Oats, brown rice, and other whole grains are a good source of fiber and B vitamins.
Foods Rich in Specific Vitamins and Minerals
Folate (Vitamin B9): Crucial for DNA synthesis and repair. Found in leafy greens, avocados, legumes, and fortified grains.
Vitamin C: A potent antioxidant found in citrus fruits, bell peppers, and broccoli.
Vitamin E: Another key antioxidant found in nuts, seeds, and leafy greens.
Vitamin D: Some studies have linked higher vitamin D levels with longer telomeres, though more research is needed. Sources include fatty fish and fortified foods like milk and cereals.
Zinc and Selenium: These minerals are important for antioxidant enzyme function and DNA repair. Found in nuts, seeds, seafood, and whole grains.
Foods to limit or avoid
Conversely, some dietary patterns and foods are associated with faster telomere shortening. These include:
Sugar-sweetened beverages and a diet high in simple sugars.
Red and processed meats.
Refined carbohydrates like white bread and pastries.
Excessive alcohol consumption
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Optical Computing - Recent advances
Optical Computing - Recent advances
Optical computing, which uses photons (light particles) instead of electrons to perform calculations, is experiencing a significant resurgence, driven primarily by the demands of artificial intelligence (AI) and the limitations of traditional computers. While still in the research and development phase, recent advances are bringing this technology closer to commercial viability.
With giants like Microsoft and startups like Lightmatter and Lightelligence pushing the boundaries, the field is moving rapidly. While a fully-optical digital computer is still a distant goal, hybrid optoelectronic systems are poised to make a significant impact, especially in the high-performance computing and AI acceleration sectors, likely seeing initial commercial adoption around 2027-2028.
Optical computing is also being actively explored as a technology for quantum computers where it offers the holy grail - the possibility of room temperature Qubits.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Optical computing, which uses photons (light particles) instead of electrons to perform calculations, is experiencing a significant resurgence, driven primarily by the demands of artificial intelligence (AI) and the limitations of traditional computers. While still in the research and development phase, recent advances are bringing this technology closer to commercial viability.
With giants like Microsoft and startups like Lightmatter and Lightelligence pushing the boundaries, the field is moving rapidly. While a fully-optical digital computer is still a distant goal, hybrid optoelectronic systems are poised to make a significant impact, especially in the high-performance computing and AI acceleration sectors, likely seeing initial commercial adoption around 2027-2028.
Optical computing is also being actively explored as a technology for quantum computers where it offers the holy grail - the possibility of room temperature Qubits.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Plastics - Now inside your body
Plastics - Now inside your body
We're no longer talking about plastic waste dumped in the Pacific, forming a garbage patch twice the size of Texas.
Now we're talking about plastics that have entered your body.
Here's what they can do to you..
The health risks associated with plastics are a growing area of concern for scientists and public health officials. The risks stem from both the chemical additives used to make plastics and from the physical presence of plastic particles themselves inside the body.
Here is a breakdown of the primary health risks from plastics:
1. Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) Plastics are not just a single material; they contain a wide variety of chemical additives that are not chemically bound to the polymer. These chemicals can leach out over time and enter the human body, where they can act as endocrine disruptors.
Bisphenol A (BPA): Found in hard plastics like polycarbonate (often marked with a recycling symbol #7) and the lining of some food and beverage cans. BPA can mimic the hormone estrogen, leading to concerns about its effects on brain development, reproduction, and potential links to conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Phthalates: These chemicals are used to make plastics like PVC (#3) more flexible and are found in everything from food packaging to medical tubing and children's toys. Phthalates can interfere with the body's hormonal systems, with studies linking them to adverse effects on male reproductive health, early puberty, and an increased risk of asthma and allergies.
2. Microplastics and Nanoplastics When plastics break down, they don't disappear; they fragment into smaller and smaller pieces. These tiny particles can be ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Physical Damage: Microplastics, particularly those with sharp edges, can physically irritate, inflame, and even puncture cells. They have been found in human organs, including the lungs, heart, brain, placenta, and even breast milk.
Carrier for Other Toxins: Microplastics can act as a carrier for harmful chemicals. They can attract and absorb pollutants from the environment, which are then released into the body when the plastic particle is present.
Cellular Disruption: Research on the health effects of these particles is ongoing, but studies have linked them to oxidative stress, DNA damage, and chronic inflammation. A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the presence of microplastics in blood vessels may double the risk of heart attack or stroke in people with heart disease.
3. Exposure Pathways
Plastic chemicals and particles can enter the body through several routes:
Ingestion: The most common way. Chemicals can leach from plastic containers into food and drinks, especially when heated. Microplastics are also found in drinking water, seafood, and other food products.
Inhalation: Microplastic fibers from synthetic clothing and household dust can be inhaled into the lungs, where they can cause inflammation and other respiratory problems.
Dermal Absorption: Certain chemicals, particularly from personal care products and cosmetics packaged in plastic, can be absorbed through the skin.
While the full long-term health effects of widespread plastic exposure are still being studied, the consensus among scientists is that plastics pose a significant public health risk.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
We're no longer talking about plastic waste dumped in the Pacific, forming a garbage patch twice the size of Texas.
Now we're talking about plastics that have entered your body.
Here's what they can do to you..
The health risks associated with plastics are a growing area of concern for scientists and public health officials. The risks stem from both the chemical additives used to make plastics and from the physical presence of plastic particles themselves inside the body.
Here is a breakdown of the primary health risks from plastics:
1. Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) Plastics are not just a single material; they contain a wide variety of chemical additives that are not chemically bound to the polymer. These chemicals can leach out over time and enter the human body, where they can act as endocrine disruptors.
Bisphenol A (BPA): Found in hard plastics like polycarbonate (often marked with a recycling symbol #7) and the lining of some food and beverage cans. BPA can mimic the hormone estrogen, leading to concerns about its effects on brain development, reproduction, and potential links to conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Phthalates: These chemicals are used to make plastics like PVC (#3) more flexible and are found in everything from food packaging to medical tubing and children's toys. Phthalates can interfere with the body's hormonal systems, with studies linking them to adverse effects on male reproductive health, early puberty, and an increased risk of asthma and allergies.
2. Microplastics and Nanoplastics When plastics break down, they don't disappear; they fragment into smaller and smaller pieces. These tiny particles can be ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Physical Damage: Microplastics, particularly those with sharp edges, can physically irritate, inflame, and even puncture cells. They have been found in human organs, including the lungs, heart, brain, placenta, and even breast milk.
Carrier for Other Toxins: Microplastics can act as a carrier for harmful chemicals. They can attract and absorb pollutants from the environment, which are then released into the body when the plastic particle is present.
Cellular Disruption: Research on the health effects of these particles is ongoing, but studies have linked them to oxidative stress, DNA damage, and chronic inflammation. A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the presence of microplastics in blood vessels may double the risk of heart attack or stroke in people with heart disease.
3. Exposure Pathways
Plastic chemicals and particles can enter the body through several routes:
Ingestion: The most common way. Chemicals can leach from plastic containers into food and drinks, especially when heated. Microplastics are also found in drinking water, seafood, and other food products.
Inhalation: Microplastic fibers from synthetic clothing and household dust can be inhaled into the lungs, where they can cause inflammation and other respiratory problems.
Dermal Absorption: Certain chemicals, particularly from personal care products and cosmetics packaged in plastic, can be absorbed through the skin.
While the full long-term health effects of widespread plastic exposure are still being studied, the consensus among scientists is that plastics pose a significant public health risk.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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INTEL - How the great have fallen
INTEL - How the great have fallen
Intel, once the darling of US chip makers, is now in trouble.
Companies like TSMC (Taiwan) and Samsung (South Korea) are producing far more advanced chips. And are moving quickly to even more impressive 2 nm technology.
Apple shifted its supply chain several years ago from Intel to TSMC. The reason? TSMC is one of very few fab plants on the planet that can produce the complex chips Apple needs.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Intel, once the darling of US chip makers, is now in trouble.
Companies like TSMC (Taiwan) and Samsung (South Korea) are producing far more advanced chips. And are moving quickly to even more impressive 2 nm technology.
Apple shifted its supply chain several years ago from Intel to TSMC. The reason? TSMC is one of very few fab plants on the planet that can produce the complex chips Apple needs.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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AI reads Cuneiform
AI reads Cuneiform
Cuneiform is one of the earliest known forms of writing, developed by
the ancient Sumerians of Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) around 3,200
BC.
But the vast majority of the hundreds of thousands of cuneiform tablets discovered remain untranslated due to an extremely limited number of qualified experts.
Enter AI, which can now read Cuneiform with 98% accuracy. This means the vast trove of unread tablets can be decoded in far less time and the contents made known to all.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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But the vast majority of the hundreds of thousands of cuneiform tablets discovered remain untranslated due to an extremely limited number of qualified experts.
Enter AI, which can now read Cuneiform with 98% accuracy. This means the vast trove of unread tablets can be decoded in far less time and the contents made known to all.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Hire a Mermaid
Hire a Mermaid
My friend is a professional mermaid.
She's available for everything including: ocean filming, pool parties, aquarium shows, swimming with sharks and more.
Details here.. Mermaid Linden
Tech Notes:
Why do fish (including sharks) accept her? Simple. Unlike other divers she does not have bubbles coming from her mouth. And she has a fin. So fish accept her as one of them. This means she can get photos that regular divers only dream of.
Mermaid Linden's personal best static breath hold is just over five minutes, and she has dived to a depth of 115 feet.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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My friend is a professional mermaid.
She's available for everything including: ocean filming, pool parties, aquarium shows, swimming with sharks and more.
Details here.. Mermaid Linden
Tech Notes:
Why do fish (including sharks) accept her? Simple. Unlike other divers she does not have bubbles coming from her mouth. And she has a fin. So fish accept her as one of them. This means she can get photos that regular divers only dream of.
Mermaid Linden's personal best static breath hold is just over five minutes, and she has dived to a depth of 115 feet.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Cage Free Eggs - The Reality
Cage Free Eggs - The Reality
If you buy cage free eggs you may want to look at this pic of a cage free egg production facility.
Hens are indoors their entire life, fed food pellets and have an average of about 1 sq. foot of space to roam "cage free" - if they are lucky.
If you really want tasty eggs try "organic pasture raised".
Or you could do what my sister did. She bought a few birds and build a hen house in her back garden. They roamed the garden and found their own food. The eggs tasted divine.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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If you buy cage free eggs you may want to look at this pic of a cage free egg production facility.
Hens are indoors their entire life, fed food pellets and have an average of about 1 sq. foot of space to roam "cage free" - if they are lucky.
If you really want tasty eggs try "organic pasture raised".
Or you could do what my sister did. She bought a few birds and build a hen house in her back garden. They roamed the garden and found their own food. The eggs tasted divine.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Ways to die
Ways to die
Many European countries have legalized assisted dying.
Here is a list of European countries where some form of assisted dying is legal, along with brief details on their approach:
Belgium: Legalized euthanasia and assisted suicide in 2002. The law is known for being liberal, as it allows for assisted dying for both adults and, under specific conditions, children who are in a "futile medical condition of constant and unbearable physical or mental suffering."
The Netherlands: Was the first country to legalize euthanasia in 2002. The law is similar to Belgium's, allowing for both euthanasia and assisted suicide under strict conditions of "unbearable suffering," which can include psychological suffering. The law was extended in 2023 to include children under 12.
Luxembourg: Legalized euthanasia and assisted suicide in 2009 for patients with an incurable illness who are suffering unbearably and are mentally competent.
Switzerland: Has allowed assisted suicide since 1942, but euthanasia is illegal. The law is unique in that it permits assisted suicide as long as the motive is not "selfish." This has led to the rise of organizations like Dignitas, which facilitate assisted suicides for both Swiss citizens and foreign nationals.
Spain: Passed a law in 2021 legalizing euthanasia and assisted suicide for adults with a "serious and incurable disease that causes unbearable suffering."
Austria: Its constitutional court lifted the ban on assisted suicide in 2020, and the parliament legalized it in 2022. It is legal for adults who are terminally ill or have a permanent, debilitating condition, but they must self-administer the life-ending medication.
Germany: The country's Constitutional Court ruled in 2020 that a constitutional right to "a self-determined death" exists. While a specific law to regulate this practice is still being debated, it effectively decriminalized assisted suicide under certain conditions.
Portugal: The parliament has approved a law to legalize euthanasia, but it has faced legal and political challenges and is awaiting final regulations to come into effect.
Italy: While euthanasia remains illegal, the country's Constitutional Court ruled in 2019 that assisted suicide is not always a crime when patients are able to make decisions and are in "intolerable suffering." This has led to a few documented cases, but a legislative framework is still in progress.
Tech Notes: Uruguay is just considering this. And their ruling may spread across Latin America.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Many European countries have legalized assisted dying.
Here is a list of European countries where some form of assisted dying is legal, along with brief details on their approach:
Belgium: Legalized euthanasia and assisted suicide in 2002. The law is known for being liberal, as it allows for assisted dying for both adults and, under specific conditions, children who are in a "futile medical condition of constant and unbearable physical or mental suffering."
The Netherlands: Was the first country to legalize euthanasia in 2002. The law is similar to Belgium's, allowing for both euthanasia and assisted suicide under strict conditions of "unbearable suffering," which can include psychological suffering. The law was extended in 2023 to include children under 12.
Luxembourg: Legalized euthanasia and assisted suicide in 2009 for patients with an incurable illness who are suffering unbearably and are mentally competent.
Switzerland: Has allowed assisted suicide since 1942, but euthanasia is illegal. The law is unique in that it permits assisted suicide as long as the motive is not "selfish." This has led to the rise of organizations like Dignitas, which facilitate assisted suicides for both Swiss citizens and foreign nationals.
Spain: Passed a law in 2021 legalizing euthanasia and assisted suicide for adults with a "serious and incurable disease that causes unbearable suffering."
Austria: Its constitutional court lifted the ban on assisted suicide in 2020, and the parliament legalized it in 2022. It is legal for adults who are terminally ill or have a permanent, debilitating condition, but they must self-administer the life-ending medication.
Germany: The country's Constitutional Court ruled in 2020 that a constitutional right to "a self-determined death" exists. While a specific law to regulate this practice is still being debated, it effectively decriminalized assisted suicide under certain conditions.
Portugal: The parliament has approved a law to legalize euthanasia, but it has faced legal and political challenges and is awaiting final regulations to come into effect.
Italy: While euthanasia remains illegal, the country's Constitutional Court ruled in 2019 that assisted suicide is not always a crime when patients are able to make decisions and are in "intolerable suffering." This has led to a few documented cases, but a legislative framework is still in progress.
Tech Notes: Uruguay is just considering this. And their ruling may spread across Latin America.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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How to annoy people
How to annoy people
I'm not going to ask why you might want to annoy someone. That's your business. But I'm going to tell you how to do it professionally.
Most people think that annoying someone is simply a matter of saying something direct and blatent. A brief analysis shows this does not work. Your target will respond with a couple of expletives, then call you an idiot and leave. The whole interaction is over in 15 seconds. And 15 seconds does not annoyance make. Not on my clock.
So how is it done professionally?
First you need to uncover a basic fact about your target. It can be any fact but it needs to be something they are really serious about. Don't over analyze this. One good fact is all you need. Let's take an example: suppose your target is a dog lover and specifically they own and love English Sheep Dogs. Then you begin the process with a critical opening statement..
"I love English Sheep Dogs, they are so cute. I've always wanted one but a friend of mine says they pee on your furniture".
This is a strategic opening statement and notice the key element. Indirection. It's not you making this claim, you are simply repeating what your friend said. Of course there is no friend.
Your target will get annoyed, but not with you..
"Your friend is wrong, they don't pee on furniture. Trust me I know".
You then continue as if you never heard this..
"I suppose peeing is not so bad but my friend also said they lick their fur and this causes them to throw up all over the place".
Now your target will get noticable agitated. But again they cannot attack you..
"That's crazy. Your friend has no idea what they are talking about".
You continue...
"And according to my friend they often get diarrhea and it's very messy.
Now your target is seriously annoyed..
"What does your friend do? He's a f***ing idiot".
Then you end with a clanger..
"He's a Vet. Has a huge practice in London, Kensington I think".
Tech Notes: This is just a brief outline. To learn the full details consider taking my 3 day intensive workshop. The cost for this unique workshop is just $152,000 and that includes food and accomodation. You also recieve a free copy of my award winning book, "How not to get annoyed with exorbitant workshop fees".
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
I'm not going to ask why you might want to annoy someone. That's your business. But I'm going to tell you how to do it professionally.
Most people think that annoying someone is simply a matter of saying something direct and blatent. A brief analysis shows this does not work. Your target will respond with a couple of expletives, then call you an idiot and leave. The whole interaction is over in 15 seconds. And 15 seconds does not annoyance make. Not on my clock.
So how is it done professionally?
First you need to uncover a basic fact about your target. It can be any fact but it needs to be something they are really serious about. Don't over analyze this. One good fact is all you need. Let's take an example: suppose your target is a dog lover and specifically they own and love English Sheep Dogs. Then you begin the process with a critical opening statement..
"I love English Sheep Dogs, they are so cute. I've always wanted one but a friend of mine says they pee on your furniture".
This is a strategic opening statement and notice the key element. Indirection. It's not you making this claim, you are simply repeating what your friend said. Of course there is no friend.
Your target will get annoyed, but not with you..
"Your friend is wrong, they don't pee on furniture. Trust me I know".
You then continue as if you never heard this..
"I suppose peeing is not so bad but my friend also said they lick their fur and this causes them to throw up all over the place".
Now your target will get noticable agitated. But again they cannot attack you..
"That's crazy. Your friend has no idea what they are talking about".
You continue...
"And according to my friend they often get diarrhea and it's very messy.
Now your target is seriously annoyed..
"What does your friend do? He's a f***ing idiot".
Then you end with a clanger..
"He's a Vet. Has a huge practice in London, Kensington I think".
Tech Notes: This is just a brief outline. To learn the full details consider taking my 3 day intensive workshop. The cost for this unique workshop is just $152,000 and that includes food and accomodation. You also recieve a free copy of my award winning book, "How not to get annoyed with exorbitant workshop fees".
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Ken's Marmalade on Toast
Ken's Marmalade on Toast
Wait.. you're posting a recipe for marmalade on toast? This better be good.
It is.
Toast a slice of your favorite bread, toast and then butter it lightly.
Now spread on some bitter marmalade and sprinkle it with real Stilton cheese.
Eat.
Tech Notes:
If you use regular sweet marmalade it's not the same.
If you use any old blue cheese it's not the same.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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It is.
Toast a slice of your favorite bread, toast and then butter it lightly.
Now spread on some bitter marmalade and sprinkle it with real Stilton cheese.
Eat.
Tech Notes:
If you use regular sweet marmalade it's not the same.
If you use any old blue cheese it's not the same.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Ken's Osso Buco
Ken's Osso Buco
Osso Buco is an Italian phrase that translates to "bone with a hole".
Traditionally it's made with veal shank, but you can use lamb shank or beef shank. But a shank cut is critical because this includes the bone and so you get bone marrow.
Trim excess fat off the shank. Then rub it down with salt and pepper and sear it on all sides in olive oil in a Dutch oven casserole. Remove and set on the side.
Chop some onion, carrot, celery and grate a bulb of fresh garlic (yes, an entire bulb not a clove), then add to the casserole and saute on low heat until the onions are tender.
Return the shank to the casserole along with any juices thay may have come out. Add some white wine, chicken stock, dried basil and dried oragano.
Now add a can of tomatoes. Use San Marzano for the best taste. Crush the tomatoes.
Put the lid on the casserole then place in a 350F oven and let cook for about 2 hours. Check and stir occasionally and add more liquid if needed.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking the quality of the ingredients makes a big difference. Buy the best you can afford, and that includes the olive oil.
There are lots of tomatoes that claim to be San Marzano. Genuine San Marzano tomatoes display a "DOP" seal.
To grate a bulb of garlic use a big cheese grater, not one of theose tiny garlic graters.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Traditionally it's made with veal shank, but you can use lamb shank or beef shank. But a shank cut is critical because this includes the bone and so you get bone marrow.
Trim excess fat off the shank. Then rub it down with salt and pepper and sear it on all sides in olive oil in a Dutch oven casserole. Remove and set on the side.
Chop some onion, carrot, celery and grate a bulb of fresh garlic (yes, an entire bulb not a clove), then add to the casserole and saute on low heat until the onions are tender.
Return the shank to the casserole along with any juices thay may have come out. Add some white wine, chicken stock, dried basil and dried oragano.
Now add a can of tomatoes. Use San Marzano for the best taste. Crush the tomatoes.
Put the lid on the casserole then place in a 350F oven and let cook for about 2 hours. Check and stir occasionally and add more liquid if needed.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking the quality of the ingredients makes a big difference. Buy the best you can afford, and that includes the olive oil.
There are lots of tomatoes that claim to be San Marzano. Genuine San Marzano tomatoes display a "DOP" seal.
To grate a bulb of garlic use a big cheese grater, not one of theose tiny garlic graters.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Inside an ICE Detention Center
Inside an ICE Detention Center
Yes, this is America. Surprised?
This one is in Florida with 32 people per cage.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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This one is in Florida with 32 people per cage.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Ken's Chicken Melange
Ken's Chicken Melange
This is easy, and it can serve a whole crew.
Take a large casserole dish. Rub it all over with butter.
Then clean, slice and add any vegatables you want. I use onions, carrots, mushrooms, brussel sprouts. Slice and add a few potatoes.
Take several chicken thights. Trim off almost all the skin. Dry and add to the casserole.
Grate a whole bulb of garlic (not a clove, a whole bulb). Add to the casserole, sprinkle with olive oil and mix. Add a splash of white wine and a splash of vegetable broth. Make sure the chicken thights are covered by the vegetables.
Add a few grinds of fresh pepper and a pinch of salt.
Bake at 350F until the potatoes are just brown. Serve.
Tech Notes:
To brown this before serving put the oven on broil for a few minutes. But keep an eye on things to avoid burning.
Why are the chicken thights covered by the vegetables? To keep them from drying out and make them moist.
As with all cooking the quality of the ingredients makes a huge difference. Buy the best you can afford, and that includes the olive oil.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Take a large casserole dish. Rub it all over with butter.
Then clean, slice and add any vegatables you want. I use onions, carrots, mushrooms, brussel sprouts. Slice and add a few potatoes.
Take several chicken thights. Trim off almost all the skin. Dry and add to the casserole.
Grate a whole bulb of garlic (not a clove, a whole bulb). Add to the casserole, sprinkle with olive oil and mix. Add a splash of white wine and a splash of vegetable broth. Make sure the chicken thights are covered by the vegetables.
Add a few grinds of fresh pepper and a pinch of salt.
Bake at 350F until the potatoes are just brown. Serve.
Tech Notes:
To brown this before serving put the oven on broil for a few minutes. But keep an eye on things to avoid burning.
Why are the chicken thights covered by the vegetables? To keep them from drying out and make them moist.
As with all cooking the quality of the ingredients makes a huge difference. Buy the best you can afford, and that includes the olive oil.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Ken's Garlic Shrimp
Ken's Garlic Shrimp
Fast, easy, healthy and delish.
Grate a bulb of fresh garlic (yes, an entire bulb not a clove), place in a small bowl, add just enough olive oil to cover. Then let it stand for a few hours. Stir occasionally.
Get some fresh shrimp, devein, pat dry, then fry in the garlic mixture and a small piece of butter for a couple of minutes. Stir so the shrimp cooks on both sides.
Add a splash of vegetable stock, white wine and heavy cream. Add some fresh chopped parsley (leaves only, don't use the stems). Add fresh ground pepper and a pinch of salt.
Boil the mixture for severl minutes, stirring well. Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice. Serve.
Tech Notes:
Some supermarkets will devein shrimp for you. Mine will devein one pound of shrimp for just $1 extra. A great deal.
Deveining includes removing the shell. But do you remove the tail? It's a personal decision. I don't, I just eat the crunchy tail because it contains fiber and valuable nutrients.
As with all cooking the quality of the ingredients makes a huge difference. Buy the best you can afford, and that includes the olive oil.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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Grate a bulb of fresh garlic (yes, an entire bulb not a clove), place in a small bowl, add just enough olive oil to cover. Then let it stand for a few hours. Stir occasionally.
Get some fresh shrimp, devein, pat dry, then fry in the garlic mixture and a small piece of butter for a couple of minutes. Stir so the shrimp cooks on both sides.
Add a splash of vegetable stock, white wine and heavy cream. Add some fresh chopped parsley (leaves only, don't use the stems). Add fresh ground pepper and a pinch of salt.
Boil the mixture for severl minutes, stirring well. Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice. Serve.
Tech Notes:
Some supermarkets will devein shrimp for you. Mine will devein one pound of shrimp for just $1 extra. A great deal.
Deveining includes removing the shell. But do you remove the tail? It's a personal decision. I don't, I just eat the crunchy tail because it contains fiber and valuable nutrients.
As with all cooking the quality of the ingredients makes a huge difference. Buy the best you can afford, and that includes the olive oil.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Like this post? Please share it by clicking one of the share buttons below!
Ken's Scallop Soup
Ken's Scallop Soup
Grab some fresh scallops and dry them. Take a heavy saucepan or a dutch oven and saute the them briefly in a spash of olive oil and a small piece of butter.
Add some minced fresh garlic.
Add some fresh chopped herbs, a splash of white wine, a splash of chicken stock and a can of clams.
Add half a teaspoon of Thai curry sauce. It comes in red and white. Use whichever you prefer. This will add a very gentle "kick". Of course, if you love spicy then just add more.
Add some fresh lemon juice.
Add some boiled potatoes and a splash of heavy cream. Add some slices of fresh mango.
Boil gently for 15 minutes.
Serve in bowls.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking, quality ingredients make a huge difference. Buy the best you can afford.
Also works well with shrimp.
If you want to experiment try it with cod cut into small cubes.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Grab some fresh scallops and dry them. Take a heavy saucepan or a dutch oven and saute the them briefly in a spash of olive oil and a small piece of butter.
Add some minced fresh garlic.
Add some fresh chopped herbs, a splash of white wine, a splash of chicken stock and a can of clams.
Add half a teaspoon of Thai curry sauce. It comes in red and white. Use whichever you prefer. This will add a very gentle "kick". Of course, if you love spicy then just add more.
Add some fresh lemon juice.
Add some boiled potatoes and a splash of heavy cream. Add some slices of fresh mango.
Boil gently for 15 minutes.
Serve in bowls.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking, quality ingredients make a huge difference. Buy the best you can afford.
Also works well with shrimp.
If you want to experiment try it with cod cut into small cubes.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
The Social Origin of Numbers
The Social Origin of Numbers
The Ishango bone, estimated to be about 15,000 to 25,000 years old. The scratches are on the bone. The numbers underneath are simply today's explanation.
It all comes down to a very basic social instinct: sharing.
We don't know which civilization carved the Ishango bone. Pity, because I think they were a very clever bunch. It seems they used base 60 thousands of years before the Sumarians and Babylonians made it famous.
The year is around 20,000 BCE and you're the head of your tribe. You find some valuable objects and need to share them with the tribe. But you better make sure everyone gets an equal amount, otherwise you'll have serious fighting on your hands.
So you take a keen interest in divisibilty of numbers into equal sized pieces.
Despite the fact you have 10 fingers, the number 10 is not much use. It can only be divided into equal size pieces in 2 ways.
The number 12 is quite a bit better, it can be divided into equal size pieces in 4 ways. So it's twice as good as 10.
But 60 is the prize. It can be divided into equal size pieces in 10 ways. And even today, 20,000 years after the Ishango bone featured the number 60, we have 60 seconds in a minute and 60 minutes in an hour.
But you also find something strange. Some numbers cannot be divided into equal size pieces at all. You revere these numbers. They are special. A much later civilization will call them prime numbers.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
The Ishango bone, estimated to be about 15,000 to 25,000 years old. The scratches are on the bone. The numbers underneath are simply today's explanation.
It all comes down to a very basic social instinct: sharing.
We don't know which civilization carved the Ishango bone. Pity, because I think they were a very clever bunch. It seems they used base 60 thousands of years before the Sumarians and Babylonians made it famous.
The year is around 20,000 BCE and you're the head of your tribe. You find some valuable objects and need to share them with the tribe. But you better make sure everyone gets an equal amount, otherwise you'll have serious fighting on your hands.
So you take a keen interest in divisibilty of numbers into equal sized pieces.
Despite the fact you have 10 fingers, the number 10 is not much use. It can only be divided into equal size pieces in 2 ways.
The number 12 is quite a bit better, it can be divided into equal size pieces in 4 ways. So it's twice as good as 10.
But 60 is the prize. It can be divided into equal size pieces in 10 ways. And even today, 20,000 years after the Ishango bone featured the number 60, we have 60 seconds in a minute and 60 minutes in an hour.
But you also find something strange. Some numbers cannot be divided into equal size pieces at all. You revere these numbers. They are special. A much later civilization will call them prime numbers.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Ken's Tomato Soup
Ken's Tomato Soup
Take a bowl. Slice in some tomatoes and red peppers. Then add finely chopped carrots, onions, celery and grated fresh garlic.
Mix with olive oil. Add some ground pepper and a few pinches of salt.
Place on a roasting pan and roast in the oven. Be careful not to burn.
After roasting remove the skin from the tomatoes and red peppers.
Turn out into a dutch oven or large pan. Add your favorite fresh chopped herbs (leaves only, so stalks), chicken stock, bone broth, the remainder of tha garlic bulb and a splash of white wine.
Simmer for a while. Add water as necessary. Then serve with crusty bread.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking, quality ingredients make a huge difference. Buy the best you can afford.
If you can't get really tasty tomatoes buy a can of San Marzano. But make sure it has the DOP label. These are incredibly tasty tomatoes.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Take a bowl. Slice in some tomatoes and red peppers. Then add finely chopped carrots, onions, celery and grated fresh garlic.
Mix with olive oil. Add some ground pepper and a few pinches of salt.
Place on a roasting pan and roast in the oven. Be careful not to burn.
After roasting remove the skin from the tomatoes and red peppers.
Turn out into a dutch oven or large pan. Add your favorite fresh chopped herbs (leaves only, so stalks), chicken stock, bone broth, the remainder of tha garlic bulb and a splash of white wine.
Simmer for a while. Add water as necessary. Then serve with crusty bread.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking, quality ingredients make a huge difference. Buy the best you can afford.
If you can't get really tasty tomatoes buy a can of San Marzano. But make sure it has the DOP label. These are incredibly tasty tomatoes.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Ken's Canadian Bacon Omelette
Ken's Canadian Bacon Omelette
Take a thick slice of canadian bacon and trim most (but not all) the fat off, then cut into small cubes.
Saute the cubes in their own fat. Then add onions, tomatoes, fresh chopped tarragon and asparagus tips.
When everything is cooked add the egg mixture (beaten eggs with a splash of fresh cream).
Then sprinkle on a little imported parmesan-reggiano cheese. Then some fresh ground pepper and a pinch of salt.
Let cook for 2 minutes then fold and serve with multigrain toast. Ketchup and dijon mustard on the side.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking, quality ingredients make a huge difference. Buy the best you can afford.
Some bacon is sold already cooked. Don't buy this, you need raw bacon.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Take a thick slice of canadian bacon and trim most (but not all) the fat off, then cut into small cubes.
Saute the cubes in their own fat. Then add onions, tomatoes, fresh chopped tarragon and asparagus tips.
When everything is cooked add the egg mixture (beaten eggs with a splash of fresh cream).
Then sprinkle on a little imported parmesan-reggiano cheese. Then some fresh ground pepper and a pinch of salt.
Let cook for 2 minutes then fold and serve with multigrain toast. Ketchup and dijon mustard on the side.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking, quality ingredients make a huge difference. Buy the best you can afford.
Some bacon is sold already cooked. Don't buy this, you need raw bacon.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Ken's Escarole and Bean Soup
Ken's Escarole and Bean Soup
Simple and so tasty.
Chop some white onion, carrot and celery. Saute for a few minutes in high quality olive oil.
Grate a bulb of garlic and add. Saute for another 1 or 2 minutes.
Now add chicken stock, bone broth, white wine and drained and rinsed Canellini beans.
Boil. Then add chopped escarole. Add a lot because as you press it down it will wilt.
Optional: add some chopped prosciutto, some red pepper flakes, and the rind of real imported parmigiana cheese.
Boil for a few minutes then turn off the heat.
Leave to rest. Then stir and serve.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking, quality ingredients make a huge difference.
Use first cold pressed olive oil.
Use real imported Italian parmigiana cheese.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Simple and so tasty.
Chop some white onion, carrot and celery. Saute for a few minutes in high quality olive oil.
Grate a bulb of garlic and add. Saute for another 1 or 2 minutes.
Now add chicken stock, bone broth, white wine and drained and rinsed Canellini beans.
Boil. Then add chopped escarole. Add a lot because as you press it down it will wilt.
Optional: add some chopped prosciutto, some red pepper flakes, and the rind of real imported parmigiana cheese.
Boil for a few minutes then turn off the heat.
Leave to rest. Then stir and serve.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking, quality ingredients make a huge difference.
Use first cold pressed olive oil.
Use real imported Italian parmigiana cheese.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Ken's Saute Onions
Ken's Saute Onions
Take an onion, peel and chop. How take a whole bulb of garlic and grate course. Yes, a bulb not a clove. Remove as much skin as you can.
Cut up a slice of prosciotto.
Saute the garlic, than add the onions and prosciotto. Then add a spash of white wine and a splash of chicken stock. Grind on some fresh pepper and add a pinch of salt. Add some chopped fresh parsley or your favotite herb.
Saute unti reduced to a thick consistency, don't burn.
Done.
Tech Notes:
This is a great side for burgers and hot dogs. But also a great addition to many other recipes.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Take an onion, peel and chop. How take a whole bulb of garlic and grate course. Yes, a bulb not a clove. Remove as much skin as you can.
Cut up a slice of prosciotto.
Saute the garlic, than add the onions and prosciotto. Then add a spash of white wine and a splash of chicken stock. Grind on some fresh pepper and add a pinch of salt. Add some chopped fresh parsley or your favotite herb.
Saute unti reduced to a thick consistency, don't burn.
Done.
Tech Notes:
This is a great side for burgers and hot dogs. But also a great addition to many other recipes.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Alcohol Addiction Counseling Therapist - Sara Abbott
Alcohol Addiction Counseling Therapist - Sara Abbott
This effects many people. Sara is a licensed therapist with over 30 years of experience. And she offers internet sessions so no office visit is necessary - just phone or video.
Call Sara Abbott (914) 714-2162
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
This effects many people. Sara is a licensed therapist with over 30 years of experience. And she offers internet sessions so no office visit is necessary - just phone or video.
Call Sara Abbott (914) 714-2162
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Recycling Plastic is a Joke
Recycling Plastic is a Joke
I'm sad to say I now throw it in the garbage. Because that's where most of it ends up anyway.
Less than 5% of plastic gets recycled.
We are over-consumers and "recycling" helps us mitigate our guilt. Take a look at this, it's twice the size of Texas.
Great Pacific Garbage Patch
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
I'm sad to say I now throw it in the garbage. Because that's where most of it ends up anyway.
Less than 5% of plastic gets recycled.
We are over-consumers and "recycling" helps us mitigate our guilt. Take a look at this, it's twice the size of Texas.
Great Pacific Garbage Patch
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Ken's Shepards Pie
Ken's Shepards Pie
Crush a few cloves of garlic and saute in olive oil for a couple of minutes in a heavy pan such as a dutch oven.
Add ground lamb and saute. Break up the lamb and stir. Add a pinch of salt and a grind of fresh pepper.
Add finely chopped carrots, onions and celery. Many stores sell this already prepared and that saves a lot of work. Saute for a few minutes.
Add a can of crushed tomatoes and a can of peas.
Add a pinch of dried basil and a pinch of dried oragano.
Add water, white wine, chicken stock and bone broth.
Now simmer on gentle heat for about an hour until the sauce is thick. Stir occasionally. Add more liquid if necessary to make sure nothing burns.
Boil some potatoes, add a small piece of butter and a splash of fresh cream. Then mash well.
Pour the lamb misture into a casserole dish. Spread the potatoes evenly on top and then broil for just for a few minutes to brown. Don't burn. Then serve.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking, quality ingredients make a huge difference.
Use first cold pressed olive oil.
Buy the best ground lamb you can find.
Use San Marzano tomatoes with the GOP stamp.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Crush a few cloves of garlic and saute in olive oil for a couple of minutes in a heavy pan such as a dutch oven.
Add ground lamb and saute. Break up the lamb and stir. Add a pinch of salt and a grind of fresh pepper.
Add finely chopped carrots, onions and celery. Many stores sell this already prepared and that saves a lot of work. Saute for a few minutes.
Add a can of crushed tomatoes and a can of peas.
Add a pinch of dried basil and a pinch of dried oragano.
Add water, white wine, chicken stock and bone broth.
Now simmer on gentle heat for about an hour until the sauce is thick. Stir occasionally. Add more liquid if necessary to make sure nothing burns.
Boil some potatoes, add a small piece of butter and a splash of fresh cream. Then mash well.
Pour the lamb misture into a casserole dish. Spread the potatoes evenly on top and then broil for just for a few minutes to brown. Don't burn. Then serve.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking, quality ingredients make a huge difference.
Use first cold pressed olive oil.
Buy the best ground lamb you can find.
Use San Marzano tomatoes with the GOP stamp.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Chat with Albert Einstein
Chat with Albert Einstein
This is just the beginning of AI.
1. Log into your Gmail account.
2. Go to https://gemini.google.com/
3. Enter: Pretend to be Albert Einstein.
Then you can chat with him and ask him anything. Yes, anything. I asked some technical questions about Relativity.
Tech Notes:
Not interested in Einstein? No problem, just try the name of someone else.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
This is just the beginning of AI.
1. Log into your Gmail account.
2. Go to https://gemini.google.com/
3. Enter: Pretend to be Albert Einstein.
Then you can chat with him and ask him anything. Yes, anything. I asked some technical questions about Relativity.
Tech Notes:
Not interested in Einstein? No problem, just try the name of someone else.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Ken's Minestrone Soup
Ken's Minestrone Soup
Crush a few cloves of garlic and saute in olive oil for a couple of minutes in a heavy pan such as a dutch oven.
Chop a slice of prosciutto into small pieces and add. Saute for another 30 seconds.
Add finely chopped carrots, onions and celery. Many stores sell this already prepeared and that saves a lot of work. Saute for a few minutes. Add a pinch of salt and a grind of fresh pepper.
Drain a can of Canolli beans and a can of Kidney beans. Add.
Add a can of San Marzano tomotoes. To get the real thing look for the DOP label. Crush the tomatoes.
Add a pinch of dried basil and a pinch of dried oragano.
Add water, white wine, chicken stock and bone broth.
Add some fresh spinach and some freshly chopped Swiss chard leaves.
Add a small piece of fresh parmigiana cheese.
Now simmer on gentle heat for about an hour. Stir occasionally. Add more liquid if necessary to make sure nothing burns.
Add a cup or Orzo, stir, switch onto very low heat.
You're done when the Orzo is cooked.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking, quality ingredients make a huge difference.
Use first cold pressed olive oil.
Use real imported Italian parmigiana cheese.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Crush a few cloves of garlic and saute in olive oil for a couple of minutes in a heavy pan such as a dutch oven.
Chop a slice of prosciutto into small pieces and add. Saute for another 30 seconds.
Add finely chopped carrots, onions and celery. Many stores sell this already prepeared and that saves a lot of work. Saute for a few minutes. Add a pinch of salt and a grind of fresh pepper.
Drain a can of Canolli beans and a can of Kidney beans. Add.
Add a can of San Marzano tomotoes. To get the real thing look for the DOP label. Crush the tomatoes.
Add a pinch of dried basil and a pinch of dried oragano.
Add water, white wine, chicken stock and bone broth.
Add some fresh spinach and some freshly chopped Swiss chard leaves.
Add a small piece of fresh parmigiana cheese.
Now simmer on gentle heat for about an hour. Stir occasionally. Add more liquid if necessary to make sure nothing burns.
Add a cup or Orzo, stir, switch onto very low heat.
You're done when the Orzo is cooked.
Tech Notes:
As with all cooking, quality ingredients make a huge difference.
Use first cold pressed olive oil.
Use real imported Italian parmigiana cheese.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Is Recycling Plastic a Joke?
Is Recycling Plastic a Joke?
It makes you feel good.. but it does not happen.
Only 5% of plastic is recycled. The rest ends up in a landfill or here..
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch covers an estimated surface area of 620,000 square miles. This is roughly twice the size of Texas. Here.. Great Pacific Garbage Patch
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
It makes you feel good.. but it does not happen.
Only 5% of plastic is recycled. The rest ends up in a landfill or here..
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch covers an estimated surface area of 620,000 square miles. This is roughly twice the size of Texas. Here.. Great Pacific Garbage Patch
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
In praise of the Number 3
In praise of the Number 3
Over the years I've come to suspect that 3 might be very special.
It's obviously critical for the Collatz Conjecture and also for Conway's Life Autonoma.
But things go much further. When you study elementary particle physics the number 3 keeps popping up. In fact it was 2^3 that led Gell-Mann to propose the eightfold way and thus the 3 symmetry of quarks.
In the Standard Model elementary particles are arranged in families. There are 3 families. And some deep laws of physics suggests there cannot be more than 3.
And the color force that binds quarks together to make protons has 3 charges, whimsically called R, G and B.
Of course we live in a world with 3 spatial dimensions.
Gravity between 2 objects is easy to calculate, but introduce just 1 more object and the situation becomes impossible to solve.
Our eyes use tri-color vision.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Over the years I've come to suspect that 3 might be very special.
It's obviously critical for the Collatz Conjecture and also for Conway's Life Autonoma.
But things go much further. When you study elementary particle physics the number 3 keeps popping up. In fact it was 2^3 that led Gell-Mann to propose the eightfold way and thus the 3 symmetry of quarks.
In the Standard Model elementary particles are arranged in families. There are 3 families. And some deep laws of physics suggests there cannot be more than 3.
And the color force that binds quarks together to make protons has 3 charges, whimsically called R, G and B.
Of course we live in a world with 3 spatial dimensions.
Gravity between 2 objects is easy to calculate, but introduce just 1 more object and the situation becomes impossible to solve.
Our eyes use tri-color vision.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Packaging - Where massive waste happens
Packaging - Where massive waste happens
So you've worked hard and developed a great consumer product.
Now all you have to do is get it to consumers. Which means packaging your product. Packaging matters.
Let's take a simple example: those plastic pump bottles used to dispense many things from hand soap to condiments to body lotion and more.
First it arrives in a shipping box which I need to dispose.
Then I get to the pump bottle. And the pump fails to extract all the product. So I have product that I can't get out of the bottle. It's wasted.
But there's more. I now need to dispose of the plastic bottle. Sure, I put it in recycling, but plastic is notoriously difficult and expensive to recycle. About 95% of all plastic never gets recycled, it ends up in landfills or in the ocean.
Multiply my problem by millions of bottles. This is massive waste. All because of the packaging.
We waste so much, in so many ways, and packaging is a prime cause.
Do you have another example? If so please send to me at the email below.
Tech Notes:
This is where much of your plastic ends up. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
So you've worked hard and developed a great consumer product.
Now all you have to do is get it to consumers. Which means packaging your product. Packaging matters.
Let's take a simple example: those plastic pump bottles used to dispense many things from hand soap to condiments to body lotion and more.
First it arrives in a shipping box which I need to dispose.
Then I get to the pump bottle. And the pump fails to extract all the product. So I have product that I can't get out of the bottle. It's wasted.
But there's more. I now need to dispose of the plastic bottle. Sure, I put it in recycling, but plastic is notoriously difficult and expensive to recycle. About 95% of all plastic never gets recycled, it ends up in landfills or in the ocean.
Multiply my problem by millions of bottles. This is massive waste. All because of the packaging.
We waste so much, in so many ways, and packaging is a prime cause.
Do you have another example? If so please send to me at the email below.
Tech Notes:
This is where much of your plastic ends up. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Cataract Surgery - The Amazing Details
Cataract Surgery - The Amazing Details
The main thing to know about cataract surgey is that it's a complete replacement of the lens in your eye.
The surgeon makes a tiny incision in the side of your eye. The incision is way too small to remove your natural lens. No problem.. they blast it with ultrasound and reduce it to fragments and then vacuum out the fragments.
But what about putting in the new artificial lens? Again, it's way too big to fit through the tiny incision. No problem, it's made of flexible silicone, so the surgeon can fold it, insert it, and then unfold it.
The artificial lens is custom made for your eye.
The result is incredible distance vision with no glasses or contacts. But the artificial lens cannot focus for short distances.. so you may need reading glasses.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
The main thing to know about cataract surgey is that it's a complete replacement of the lens in your eye.
The surgeon makes a tiny incision in the side of your eye. The incision is way too small to remove your natural lens. No problem.. they blast it with ultrasound and reduce it to fragments and then vacuum out the fragments.
But what about putting in the new artificial lens? Again, it's way too big to fit through the tiny incision. No problem, it's made of flexible silicone, so the surgeon can fold it, insert it, and then unfold it.
The artificial lens is custom made for your eye.
The result is incredible distance vision with no glasses or contacts. But the artificial lens cannot focus for short distances.. so you may need reading glasses.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Ken's Garlic Toast Tower
Ken's Garlic Toast Tower
Easy to make, tasty, an appetizer, or a side dish, or dunk in your soup. Plus, stack high for a conversation piece.
Take a bulb of garlic, remove all the cloves, peel and chop fine. Or simply use a cheese grater and grate the entire bulb. This is by far the fastest method.
Place chopped garlic into a small bowl, add a pinch of salt, cover with high quality olive oil then microwave until just warm, about 20 seconds. Then let sit on the counter for at least 1 hour. Stir occasionally.
Take a baking tray and wipe down with some of the olive oil. Take several slices of whole wheat or multi-grain bread. Dab the bread on both sides with the olive oil. Place on baking tray, then add the garlic evenly over all slices. Grind on some fresh pepper.
Broil in the oven until just brown. Be careful not to burn.
Take out of oven, cut into strips and assemble your tower.
Serve. Be ready for gasps and fun comments.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Easy to make, tasty, an appetizer, or a side dish, or dunk in your soup. Plus, stack high for a conversation piece.
Take a bulb of garlic, remove all the cloves, peel and chop fine. Or simply use a cheese grater and grate the entire bulb. This is by far the fastest method.
Place chopped garlic into a small bowl, add a pinch of salt, cover with high quality olive oil then microwave until just warm, about 20 seconds. Then let sit on the counter for at least 1 hour. Stir occasionally.
Take a baking tray and wipe down with some of the olive oil. Take several slices of whole wheat or multi-grain bread. Dab the bread on both sides with the olive oil. Place on baking tray, then add the garlic evenly over all slices. Grind on some fresh pepper.
Broil in the oven until just brown. Be careful not to burn.
Take out of oven, cut into strips and assemble your tower.
Serve. Be ready for gasps and fun comments.
Tech Notes:
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Ken's Paella
Ken's Paella
Originally developed as a picnic dish, it's almost impossible to get a real Paella anymore. Throw all ingredients into a paella pan, with real saffron, and then cook outdoors over an open wood fire (that's the picnic part). The subtle wood flavor is amazing. Even great Spanish Restaurants don't do this anymore.
There are two basic types of Paella : Paella Valenciana and Paella Marisco. Paella Valenciana, which some regard as the original authentic dish, uses chicken and rabbit. Paella Marisco uses seafood.
Here's my Paella Marisco.
Take a paella pan and add a few tablespoons of high quality Spanish olive oil. Add some choriso and grated garlic and briefly fry until the choriso is golden brown. Then add a finely chopped tomato and some peas. Add a pinch of paprika, pepper and salt and a sprig of fresh rosemary. Then add 1 cup of Bomba rice, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 cup of white wine and 1/2 cup of water. Sprinkle with Saffron. Make sure the rice is spread out evenly in the pan.
Reduce the heat and simmer until rice is cooked. Do not stir.
Now add any shellfish you like - mussels, shrimp, oysters, lobster. Mussels should be added after other seafood as they cook so quickly.
Squeeze on some fresh lemon juice.
Cook until the shellfish is cooked. Not long. Add a bit more liquid if needed.
Remove from the heat, cover with a kitchen towel and let stand for 5 minutes. Then serve.
Tech Notes:
-If you have a wood fired grill try cooking on this. Now you're getting closer to the real thing. But it must be completely wood fired - no gas, no electric, no brickettes. And of course you can pick the wood: oak, hickory, apple, cherry, even mesquite. I once used olive branches.
-High quality Saffron is very expensive, but you don't need much, just a few of pinches.
-Bomba Rice is considered the "king" of paella rice. It's a short, round grain that has an exceptional ability to absorb up to three times its volume in liquid while still maintaining its firm, separate texture. This makes it very forgiving for the cook and ensures the rice soaks up all the delicious flavors of the broth. Bomba retains the grain texture and doesn’t go to sludge but delivers the essential crust below the cooked paella. Bomba rice is more expensive due to its slow growth and lower yield.
-The Pan (La Paellera): The name "paella" refers to the wide, shallow, two-handled pan. This is crucial for cooking the rice in a thin layer, allowing for even cooking and the development of the "socarrat"— the delicious, crispy, toasted crust on the bottom.
-The Sofrito: This is the flavor base of the paella. It's a slow-cooked mixture of olive oil, vegetables, and spices that gives the dish its depth and color.
-The Broth: The broth is the heart of the dish. It should be rich and flavorful, as this is what the rice will absorb.
-Don't Stir. Once the rice is added and spread evenly, do not stir it. This is a key difference from risotto. Stirring prevents the "socarrat" from forming.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott with important contributions from Carole Ferguson abbottsystems@gmail.com
Originally developed as a picnic dish, it's almost impossible to get a real Paella anymore. Throw all ingredients into a paella pan, with real saffron, and then cook outdoors over an open wood fire (that's the picnic part). The subtle wood flavor is amazing. Even great Spanish Restaurants don't do this anymore.
There are two basic types of Paella : Paella Valenciana and Paella Marisco. Paella Valenciana, which some regard as the original authentic dish, uses chicken and rabbit. Paella Marisco uses seafood.
Here's my Paella Marisco.
Take a paella pan and add a few tablespoons of high quality Spanish olive oil. Add some choriso and grated garlic and briefly fry until the choriso is golden brown. Then add a finely chopped tomato and some peas. Add a pinch of paprika, pepper and salt and a sprig of fresh rosemary. Then add 1 cup of Bomba rice, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 cup of white wine and 1/2 cup of water. Sprinkle with Saffron. Make sure the rice is spread out evenly in the pan.
Reduce the heat and simmer until rice is cooked. Do not stir.
Now add any shellfish you like - mussels, shrimp, oysters, lobster. Mussels should be added after other seafood as they cook so quickly.
Squeeze on some fresh lemon juice.
Cook until the shellfish is cooked. Not long. Add a bit more liquid if needed.
Remove from the heat, cover with a kitchen towel and let stand for 5 minutes. Then serve.
Tech Notes:
-If you have a wood fired grill try cooking on this. Now you're getting closer to the real thing. But it must be completely wood fired - no gas, no electric, no brickettes. And of course you can pick the wood: oak, hickory, apple, cherry, even mesquite. I once used olive branches.
-High quality Saffron is very expensive, but you don't need much, just a few of pinches.
-Bomba Rice is considered the "king" of paella rice. It's a short, round grain that has an exceptional ability to absorb up to three times its volume in liquid while still maintaining its firm, separate texture. This makes it very forgiving for the cook and ensures the rice soaks up all the delicious flavors of the broth. Bomba retains the grain texture and doesn’t go to sludge but delivers the essential crust below the cooked paella. Bomba rice is more expensive due to its slow growth and lower yield.
-The Pan (La Paellera): The name "paella" refers to the wide, shallow, two-handled pan. This is crucial for cooking the rice in a thin layer, allowing for even cooking and the development of the "socarrat"— the delicious, crispy, toasted crust on the bottom.
-The Sofrito: This is the flavor base of the paella. It's a slow-cooked mixture of olive oil, vegetables, and spices that gives the dish its depth and color.
-The Broth: The broth is the heart of the dish. It should be rich and flavorful, as this is what the rice will absorb.
-Don't Stir. Once the rice is added and spread evenly, do not stir it. This is a key difference from risotto. Stirring prevents the "socarrat" from forming.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott with important contributions from Carole Ferguson abbottsystems@gmail.com
How to become Dictator of the United States
How to become Dictator of the United States
So you want to become Dictator of the United States? No problem. Just follow these 4 steps...
Step 1
Get control of the 4 points of power: Presidency, Senate, House, Supreme Court.
Step 2
Get control of the only people who could really stop you: the Army. In the US this is already done for you since the President is Commander in Chief.
Step 3
Install your people in all the major government posts. The qualification for this is amazingly simple: total and complete loyalty to you. They do not need to know anything about the post.
Step 4
Sit back and do whatever you feel like. And don't forget to change the term of President from 4 years to life. If you can't do that then when your term is up simply refuse to leave.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
So you want to become Dictator of the United States? No problem. Just follow these 4 steps...
Step 1
Get control of the 4 points of power: Presidency, Senate, House, Supreme Court.
Step 2
Get control of the only people who could really stop you: the Army. In the US this is already done for you since the President is Commander in Chief.
Step 3
Install your people in all the major government posts. The qualification for this is amazingly simple: total and complete loyalty to you. They do not need to know anything about the post.
Step 4
Sit back and do whatever you feel like. And don't forget to change the term of President from 4 years to life. If you can't do that then when your term is up simply refuse to leave.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Gravlax by Odette
Gravlax by Odette
Gravlax is salmon that's cured in a special mixture. The curing process gives the salmon a unique flavor and texture, making it a popular delicacy.
This recipe is from my neighbor Odette who uses her own special curing mixture that includes Lapsang Souchong Tea Leaves!! It tastes amazing.
You'll need..
Kosher Salt (2.5 Tablespoons)
Sugar (1 Tablespoon)
Lapsang Souchong Tea Leaves (2.5 Tablespoons)
Salmon Filet (about 1.5 pounds with skin on)
Bay Leaves (2)
Shallots (3, thinly sliced)
Capers (2 Tablespoons)
Canola Oil
Rinse and dry the salmon. Then combine the sugar, salt and tea leaves and rub the mixture all over the salmon.
Wrap in aluminium foil then place in refrigerator with a heavy weight on top for 24 hours.
Rinse off the mixture, slice into thin slices, then place one layer in a dish. Sprinkle with half the shallots, capers and bay leaves. Repeat with a second layer. Then cover entire fish with the canola oil and place in refrigerator overnight.
Pour off the oil and dry the salmon. Ready to serve!
Tech Notes:
I'm a big fan of smoked salmon. This is obviously not smoked, but it gets a delicate "smokey" flavor from the Lapsang Souchong tea leaves. I find it even tastier than smoked salmon.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Gravlax is salmon that's cured in a special mixture. The curing process gives the salmon a unique flavor and texture, making it a popular delicacy.
This recipe is from my neighbor Odette who uses her own special curing mixture that includes Lapsang Souchong Tea Leaves!! It tastes amazing.
You'll need..
Kosher Salt (2.5 Tablespoons)
Sugar (1 Tablespoon)
Lapsang Souchong Tea Leaves (2.5 Tablespoons)
Salmon Filet (about 1.5 pounds with skin on)
Bay Leaves (2)
Shallots (3, thinly sliced)
Capers (2 Tablespoons)
Canola Oil
Rinse and dry the salmon. Then combine the sugar, salt and tea leaves and rub the mixture all over the salmon.
Wrap in aluminium foil then place in refrigerator with a heavy weight on top for 24 hours.
Rinse off the mixture, slice into thin slices, then place one layer in a dish. Sprinkle with half the shallots, capers and bay leaves. Repeat with a second layer. Then cover entire fish with the canola oil and place in refrigerator overnight.
Pour off the oil and dry the salmon. Ready to serve!
Tech Notes:
I'm a big fan of smoked salmon. This is obviously not smoked, but it gets a delicate "smokey" flavor from the Lapsang Souchong tea leaves. I find it even tastier than smoked salmon.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Professional Poetry - How to write it
Professional Poetry - How to write it
Poetry is the Fado of the written word.
Many try their hand at poetry, but alas what comes out is amateur poetry. This is stuff that if submitted to critical review would get shredded to pieces. And that's assuming the critics would even deem to read it.
But it doesn't have to be that way.
I'm going to divulge the secret that will instantly transform amateur poetry into true professional poetry.
Take a look at this..
In Xanadu did Kubla Khan
A stately pleasure dome decree
These are the opening lines of a poem called Kubla Khan written by a guy called Samuel Taylor Coleridge. It's generally regarded to be a great poem.
But if you or I were writing this we would say..
Kubla Kahn decreed a stately pleasure dome in Xanadu.
Big mistake! This sounds like a sentence from an essay. It's direct and factual. That's not poetry, because poetry requires mystery, magic and longing, not facts.
So just move the verb to the end of the sentence!!!
Decree is at the end. Bingo, professional poetry.
Of course, I posted this partly in humor. Whoops, I mean..
"Partly in humor did this I post."
See, much better.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Poetry is the Fado of the written word.
Many try their hand at poetry, but alas what comes out is amateur poetry. This is stuff that if submitted to critical review would get shredded to pieces. And that's assuming the critics would even deem to read it.
But it doesn't have to be that way.
I'm going to divulge the secret that will instantly transform amateur poetry into true professional poetry.
Take a look at this..
In Xanadu did Kubla Khan
A stately pleasure dome decree
These are the opening lines of a poem called Kubla Khan written by a guy called Samuel Taylor Coleridge. It's generally regarded to be a great poem.
But if you or I were writing this we would say..
Kubla Kahn decreed a stately pleasure dome in Xanadu.
Big mistake! This sounds like a sentence from an essay. It's direct and factual. That's not poetry, because poetry requires mystery, magic and longing, not facts.
So just move the verb to the end of the sentence!!!
Decree is at the end. Bingo, professional poetry.
Of course, I posted this partly in humor. Whoops, I mean..
"Partly in humor did this I post."
See, much better.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
The history (and future) of the transistor
The history (and future) of the transistor
It amazes me that all our (non-quantum) computing is based on one simple logic element.. the transistor.. "Here comes a current, I'll behave just like a wire and let it pass straight through..... unless I see a voltage on this terminal.. in which case I'll block the incoming current."
When William Shockley, John Bardeen, and Walter Brattain invented the transistor at Bell Labs in 1947 they did not of course invent the logic gate.. just an amazing new way to fabricate it.
Up until then each logic gate was implemented by a vacuum tube about 5" tall. I know because I played with them. You could fit about 8 into a square foot. Shockley, Bardeen and Brattain led the way to putting billions into a square inch.
The optical transistor is exactly the same from a logic point of view. "Here comes a photon, I will be transparent and let it through..... unless I see a photon on this terminal, in which case I will turn opaque and block the incoming photon." So what's missing now is a fabrication breakthrough.
I believe optical computing will totally revolutionize computing as we know it.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
It amazes me that all our (non-quantum) computing is based on one simple logic element.. the transistor.. "Here comes a current, I'll behave just like a wire and let it pass straight through..... unless I see a voltage on this terminal.. in which case I'll block the incoming current."
When William Shockley, John Bardeen, and Walter Brattain invented the transistor at Bell Labs in 1947 they did not of course invent the logic gate.. just an amazing new way to fabricate it.
Up until then each logic gate was implemented by a vacuum tube about 5" tall. I know because I played with them. You could fit about 8 into a square foot. Shockley, Bardeen and Brattain led the way to putting billions into a square inch.
The optical transistor is exactly the same from a logic point of view. "Here comes a photon, I will be transparent and let it through..... unless I see a photon on this terminal, in which case I will turn opaque and block the incoming photon." So what's missing now is a fabrication breakthrough.
I believe optical computing will totally revolutionize computing as we know it.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Ken's Rhubarb Jam
Ken's Rhubarb Jam
Get some fresh Rhubarb. Cut off the leaves (Rhubarb leaves are poisonous).
Trim off the top and bottom of the stalks, then chop them. The finer you chop them the smoother the Jam. Chop them course if you like chunks of fruit in your Jam.
Place in a pot with enough water to cover. Add some brown sugar, a splash of white wine and some fimely chopped lemon or lime zest. Zest only. Don't add too much sugar because you can always sweeten to taste later. I like to add little sugar so the flavor of the rhubarb comes through.
Simmer with stirring as necessary until you get the right consistency.
Done.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Get some fresh Rhubarb. Cut off the leaves (Rhubarb leaves are poisonous).
Trim off the top and bottom of the stalks, then chop them. The finer you chop them the smoother the Jam. Chop them course if you like chunks of fruit in your Jam.
Place in a pot with enough water to cover. Add some brown sugar, a splash of white wine and some fimely chopped lemon or lime zest. Zest only. Don't add too much sugar because you can always sweeten to taste later. I like to add little sugar so the flavor of the rhubarb comes through.
Simmer with stirring as necessary until you get the right consistency.
Done.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Sigmund Freud - A snake oil salesman?
Sigmund Freud - A snake oil salesman?
It's nothing he did and it's nothing he wrote.
But after all these years there's still no way to quantitatively measure his theories.
So they remain outside of science and are just opinions. He carefully positioned himself outside of mainstream science and thus verification.
Was Freud an incredibly intelligent and articulate snake oil salesman?
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
It's nothing he did and it's nothing he wrote.
But after all these years there's still no way to quantitatively measure his theories.
So they remain outside of science and are just opinions. He carefully positioned himself outside of mainstream science and thus verification.
Was Freud an incredibly intelligent and articulate snake oil salesman?
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
Cooking With Garlic
Cooking With Garlic
I love Garlic. I buy it fresh from the local farmer's market whenever possible. I saute it in olive oil in one of three ways: whole cloves, chopped cloves or crushed cloves. Crushing garlic releases the oil and makes it more intense.
I don't use fancy garlic presses to crush my garlic, I just use my knife. Lay the knife blade flat on the garlic clove, then tap carefully at first to slightly crush the garlic clove and stop if from flying away, then give a firm slam to fully crush and release the oil.
But the saute method is not the only way to cook garlic. Try roasting a whole bulb in the oven. The garlic goes soft and brown with an elegant and mild nutty flavor that's totally different than saute garlic.
Or you can add a few cloves of garlic (whole, chopped or crushed) to some olive oil in a small bowl and carefully microwave. Be sure not to overcook. Again, you'll get elegant mellow garlic with a subtle nutty taste. Plus you get an added bonus - the olive oil is now garlic infused and can be used in all sorts of ways. For example: brush it on bread and toast or grill for fast superb garlic bread. Or use it for cooking, or add a tablespoon to cooked pasta for instant pasta with garlic oil.
The best garlic I ever had was from a friend who grew it himself in his garden. It had small dirty scraggly bulbs, but it was amazingly fresh and intense and oozed oil like crazy when crushed.
I also use garlic powder and granulated garlic. It's not as good, but it's fast. I never use garlic salt, it contains salt!
Ah yes, I love Garlic.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
I love Garlic. I buy it fresh from the local farmer's market whenever possible. I saute it in olive oil in one of three ways: whole cloves, chopped cloves or crushed cloves. Crushing garlic releases the oil and makes it more intense.
I don't use fancy garlic presses to crush my garlic, I just use my knife. Lay the knife blade flat on the garlic clove, then tap carefully at first to slightly crush the garlic clove and stop if from flying away, then give a firm slam to fully crush and release the oil.
But the saute method is not the only way to cook garlic. Try roasting a whole bulb in the oven. The garlic goes soft and brown with an elegant and mild nutty flavor that's totally different than saute garlic.
Or you can add a few cloves of garlic (whole, chopped or crushed) to some olive oil in a small bowl and carefully microwave. Be sure not to overcook. Again, you'll get elegant mellow garlic with a subtle nutty taste. Plus you get an added bonus - the olive oil is now garlic infused and can be used in all sorts of ways. For example: brush it on bread and toast or grill for fast superb garlic bread. Or use it for cooking, or add a tablespoon to cooked pasta for instant pasta with garlic oil.
The best garlic I ever had was from a friend who grew it himself in his garden. It had small dirty scraggly bulbs, but it was amazingly fresh and intense and oozed oil like crazy when crushed.
I also use garlic powder and granulated garlic. It's not as good, but it's fast. I never use garlic salt, it contains salt!
Ah yes, I love Garlic.
Content written and posted by Ken Abbott abbottsystems@gmail.com
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