Culture

Researchers Trained Seals To Sing Star Wars Theme

Published

2 years ago

August 13, 2023

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According to research from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, seals are capable of learning and imitating songs. For your information, this is someone’s job, which has goals. Wild seals are highly intelligent, curious and have good coordination, learning tricks easily in captivity. They give great insight into learning and the animal world. Because of this, researchers trained seals to sing the Star Wars theme. Of course!

The study, published in the journal Current Biology, monitored three grey seals, which were observed from birth and were taught how to mimic sounds. Some of these seals grew to be so good at imitating that they were capable of replicating human sounds. Zola, the most talented seal of the bunch, was able to aptly mimic melodies like ‘Twinkle Twinkle Little Star’ and the ‘Star Wars’ Theme.

“I was amazed how well the seals copied the model sounds we played to them. Copies were not perfect but given that these are not typical seal sounds it is pretty impressive,” said lead researcher Amanda Stansbury in an interview with BBC. “Our study really demonstrates how flexible seal vocalizations are. Previous studies just provided anecdotal evidence for this.”

Studies conducted on these type of mammals are looking to understand how vocal learning works. “Finding other mammals that use their vocal tract in the same way as us to modify sounds informs us on how vocal skills are influenced by genetics and learning and can ultimately help to develop new methods to study speech disorders,” said Professor Vincent Janik.

Janik explained that while the study is exciting, it’s impossible to tell from it if mammals could ever learn how to speak like humans. “We would have to investigate whether they are able to label objects vocally, which is a key requirement for actually talking about things.” So, while seals may soon learn how to sing Beyoncé, we would have no way of knowing if they understand the lyrics, which is ultimately the basis of human communication.

Not sure if you can get the trained seals to sing the Star Wars theme at parties yet.

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Cannabis

The Cannabis Industry Needs Luck With The DEA

Published

1 hour ago

March 17, 2025

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It will take more than Irish luck to help the cannabis industry win over the DEA.

Million of consumers are fans of cannabis, not only to chill out but for medical reasons. In fact, it has become a replacement for alcohol and spanned a movement call California sober. Aside from the thousands of mom and pop small business owners, cannabis employees over 440,000 people. Even the staid AARP has agreed it has health benefits. Over 80% of the country believe it should be legal in some form, but the cannabis industry needs luck with the DEA to move forward. Rescheduling cannabis means changing its classification under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), moving it from a more restrictive schedule (like Schedule I) to a less restrictive one (like Schedule III), acknowledging its potential medical uses while still maintaining regulatory controls.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) had scheduled hearings on the proposed rescheduling of cannabis to begin on January 21, 2025. However, these hearings were abruptly canceled by DEA Administrative Law Judge John Mulrooney following legal challenges from pro-reform witnesses. This cancellation has pushed back the rescheduling process by at least three months, with no clear timeline for when it might resume.

DEA Interim Final Rule: What Is 'Synthetically Derived THC'? — Photo by Xvision/Getty Images

The delay stems from allegations of improper communications between DEA officials and anti-rescheduling witnesses. While Judge Mulrooney rejected some key arguments from rescheduling proponents, he granted a request for leave to file an interlocutory appeal, effectively putting the entire process on hold.

The transition to the current administration has further complicated matters. On February 11, 2025, Terrance C. Cole was nominated for DEA administrator, an individual known for his opposition to cannabis reform. This nomination signals a potential shift in the DEA’s approach to marijuana policy, which could further impede rescheduling efforts.

Even if rescheduling were to move forward, it would face significant regulatory challenges. Critics argue that as a Schedule III drug, marijuana would remain under DEA regulation, requiring the approximately 15,000 cannabis dispensaries in the U.S. to register with the DEA and fulfill strict reporting requirements.

The cannabis industry eagerly awaits rescheduling, as it would bring significant benefits, including the ability to claim federal tax deductions and credits currently prohibited under 26 U.S.C. § 280E. However, the ongoing delays and potential policy shifts under the new administration have created uncertainty in the market.

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Cannabis

Cannabis Helps You Enjoy Sunday And Be Ready For Monday

Published

1 day ago

March 16, 2025

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The weekend is for fun and relaxing – then wham – Monday! Here is how to deal with the Sunday scaries.

A significant number of people experience anxiety on Sundays, anticipating the upcoming workweek, with studies indicating that a majority of professionals, including younger generations, experience “Sunday Scaries” or “Sunday Blues”. Preparing for the week ahead can be stressful, but incorporating cannabis into your Sunday evening routine might help you relax and set a positive tone for Monday. Cannabis helps you enjoy Sunday and be ready for Monday….here is how.

Start your relaxation routine by choosing the right cannabis product. For evening use, indica-dominant strains are often preferred for their calming effects. Strains like Northern Lights or Girl Scout Cookies are known for their ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation. If you’re new to cannabis or prefer a milder effect, consider a product with a balanced THC to CBD ratio.

Begin with a low dose, especially if you’re using THC-containing products. Research has shown that low doses of THC can help relieve stress, while higher doses might increase anxiety. A good starting point is around 2.5 to 5 mg of THC for most people.

As you relax, incorporate some light stretching or yoga poses. Cannabis can increase body awareness, potentially deepening your practice. However, be mindful of your balance, as cannabis can affect coordination.

Consider taking a relaxing bath infused with CBD bath products. The combination of warm water and cannabinoids can help ease muscle tension and promote overall relaxation

Find a comfortable position and slowly scan your body from toes to head, paying attention to any sensations. Cannabis may heighten your perception of bodily feelings, helping you release tension more effectively.

Use a guided imagery app or video to transport your mind to a peaceful place. The relaxing effects of cannabis can make this visualization more vivid and immersive.

Practice deep breathing exercises, counting your inhalations and exhalations. Cannabis can help quiet the mind, making it easier to maintain focus on your breath.

As you relax, take some time to mentally prepare for the week ahead with a variety of methods to empower yourself of the week without spoiling your Sunday. Make a loose plan for your Monday, but avoid getting too detailed to prevent stress. The relaxed state induced by cannabis can help you approach planning with a calmer mindset. End the weekend with some positive affirmations for the week ahead. Cannabis can promote a sense of optimism, reinforcing these positive thoughts.

By incorporating cannabis mindfully into your Sunday evening routine, you can create a relaxing transition into the new week, potentially reducing Monday anxiety and setting a positive tone for the days ahead. Start with low doses and pay attention to how different strains and consumption methods affect you. Everyone’s experience with cannabis is unique, so find what works best for you.

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Bryson DeChambeau

Golf Is Hitting A Hole In One With All Ages

Published

2 days ago

March 16, 2025

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After a rough downturn, golf is suddenly hot again – especially among a younger crowd.

Golf is hitting a hole in one with all ages and is now seeing increased participation, tourism, and innovative industry trends. Once in decline, the sport has rebounded strongly post-pandemic, becoming a global phenomenon. The pandemic played a pivotal role in golf’s revival. As a socially distanced outdoor activity, it attracted new players seeking recreation and social interaction. The surge in demand has also revitalized golf club memberships, with many clubs reporting record-breaking new member applications.

The biggest age group of on-course golfers in the US is 18-34 year olds, with an estimated 6.3 million players, followed by the 50-64 age group at 6.1 million, and the 65+ seniors at 5.4 million. In 2023 alone, 26.6 million people played on-course golf in the U.S., up from 24.2 million in 2018, while 18.4 million engaged in off-course activities like driving ranges and simulators.

Golf Is Hitting A Hole In One With All Ages

Golf tourism has emerged as a major growth driver. Destinations like Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina have expanded their offerings to accommodate rising demand, adding new courses and luxury accommodations. The U.S. golf tourism industry now generates $40 billion annually, with more than 12 million Americans traveling to play golf each year—a 20% increase over historical averages. Short courses and interactive experiences are also gaining popularity, appealing to diverse demographics such as women, couples, and families.

Technological and athletic advancements are shaping the professional game as well. Players like Bryson DeChambeau have redefined performance standards with innovations in training and equipment, pushing the boundaries of distance and power. These changes are inspiring a new generation of golfers while sparking debates about the future of classic courses.

The industry has also benefited from a market correction. After years of oversaturation, the number of golf courses has stabilized due to high construction costs and closures of underperforming facilities. This balance between supply and demand has created sustainable growth opportunities.

Looking ahead, golf’s outlook remains bright. The sport’s appeal as both a leisure activity and competitive pursuit continues to grow, supported by its adaptability to modern lifestyles and evolving consumer preferences. With its unique blend of tradition and innovation, golf is firmly reclaiming its place as a cornerstone of global sports culture.

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