PIVOT Vol.9 Some Interesting Research Papers

This article was generated by translation software. For the accurate meaning, please refer to the Chinese version. If there are any parts that are unclear or grammatical errors, please let me know in the comments section.

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The Climate of Middle Earth

In 2013, Radagast the Brown from the University of Bristol published a climate report on Middle Earth. Yes, the same Middle Earth from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. The main conclusions of the study include:

  • The climate distribution of Middle Earth is similar to that of Western Europe and North Africa.
  • Even without Sauron’s influence, Mordor’s climate is harsh: hot, dry, and nearly devoid of vegetation.
  • Due to the prevailing winds in Middle Earth, ships bound for the Undying Lands to the west can only set sail from the Grey Havens.
  • If not for the disruptions caused by dragons, orcs, and wizards, much of Middle Earth should have been covered in dense forests.
  • The year-round climate of Lincolnshire or Leicestershire in the UK, or near Dunedin on New Zealand’s South Island, is very similar to the Shire.
  • The year-round climate in Los Angeles, California, western Texas, or Alice Springs in Australia, bears a strong resemblance to Mordor.
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Parachute use tåo prevent death and major trauma when jumping from aircraft: randomized controlled trial | The BMJ

This study evaluates the effectiveness of parachute use in preventing death or major trauma during aircraft jumps. The trial was conducted between September 2017 and August 2018, screening 92 participants, with 23 being randomized to either parachute use or an empty backpack during their jump. The primary outcome was the occurrence of death or major trauma upon jumping. The results showed no significant difference between the two groups, with no severe outcomes in either.

When I began to wonder how this was possible, I saw the image… Ah, that’s how they jumped.

So, the use of parachutes did not reduce the risk of death or serious injury, primarily due to the low-risk environment—the stationary aircraft and the low jump height. The authors caution that the results should be interpreted carefully as they may not be applicable to jumps from higher altitudes.

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No time to die: An in-depth analysis of James Bond’s exposure to infectious agents – ScienceDirect

Global travelers, whether tourists or secret agents, are at risk of exposure to infectious pathogens. This article explores the health risks that James Bond (007) faced during his international missions from 1962 to 2021.

  • The authors suggest that Bond’s reckless behavior could be due to a Toxoplasmosis infection.
  • The risks of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) resulting from his excessive and chaotic sexual behavior are noteworthy—some STD-related infections can increase sexual desire in individuals.
  • Bond has never applied sunscreen, exposing him to the risk of skin-related diseases.
  • His typical choice of attire is often unsuitable for hot climates, and he frequently engages in extreme physical activities in warm weather, increasing his risk of heatstroke.
  • Excessive smoking and alcohol consumption.
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The case of the disappearing teaspoons: longitudinal cohort study of the displacement of teaspoons in an Australian research institute – PMC

A longitudinal cohort study on the displacement or loss of teaspoons at an Australian research institute. A total of 70 numbered teaspoons were monitored, and results showed that 80% of the teaspoons disappeared, with a half-life of 81 days. Teaspoons left in communal tea rooms disappeared faster than those in specific rooms, yet the value of the teaspoon did not affect the rate of loss. The overall loss rate was calculated to be 360.62 events per 100 teaspoon-years, implying that around 250 teaspoons need to be replaced annually to maintain adequate supply. A follow-up questionnaire revealed that 38% of staff admitted to stealing a teaspoon, but none admitted to permanently taking one from the institute. The authors proposed some amusing theories, such as the idea that the teaspoons migrated to a spoon planet.

‘It’s a Small Little Pub, but Everybody Knew Everybody’: Pub Culture, Belonging and Social Change – Thomas Thurnell-Read, 2024

This paper explores the transformation of the role of public houses (pubs) in the UK, emphasizing their significance as social hubs amidst the changing socio-dynamics. The article uncovers the perceptions of participants regarding shifts in pub culture over the past few decades, linking these changes to broader societal transformations.

Historically, pubs have fulfilled various social, cultural, and economic functions, but their numbers have decreased in recent decades, and the nature of their operation has also changed. Factors such as the rise of the night-time economy, changes in gender dynamics, and the growing importance of food provision have all altered the pub landscape.

Participants generally expressed nostalgia for the past, reflecting on the loss of the community cohesion and social interaction traditionally cultivated by pubs. Although some positive views of modern pubs were noted, many also voiced concerns over the decline in social ties and the impacts of gentrification on local communities. The article concludes that pubs are witnesses to social change and a sense of belonging, highlighting the emotional connections people have with these spaces.

Last month, I also wrote a blog about pubs: Academia, Pubs, Drunkenness

Looks and longevity: Do prettier people live longer? – ScienceDirect

This research explores the direct and indirect connections between physical attractiveness and health, suggesting that attractiveness may reflect underlying health traits.

Basically, people who look more attractive might live longer. But there are significant flaws in the study—take it with a grain of salt.

Get me off Your Fucking Mailing List

The entire text consists of Get me off Your Fucking Mailing List.

Such deep frustration here.

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「BMJ Christmas issue」

The deadline for the BMJ Christmas special issue for 2024 is July 31, 2024, and August 31, 2024. The deadline for 2025 will likely be similar, so readers should prepare early—this may be your closest chance to submit to BMJ.

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