Researchers at Nagoya University have found that a specific, broadband sound, dubbed "pink noise," can reduce motion sickness symptoms. In a driving simulator experiment, participants exposed to pink noise experienced significantly less severe symptoms compared to those who listened to no sound or white noise. The study suggests that pink noise may suppress the conflict between visual and vestibular sensory information, which is believed to be the primary cause of motion sickness. This discovery could lead to new non-invasive methods for alleviating motion sickness in various situations, such as in vehicles or virtual reality environments.
Planning a cross-country bike trip requires careful preparation. Start by defining your route and timeframe, considering factors like daily mileage, terrain, and climate. Essential gear includes a reliable touring bike, panniers or bikepacking bags, camping equipment if necessary, repair tools, and appropriate clothing. Physical preparation is crucial; gradually increase your riding distance and intensity before embarking on the journey. Budgeting is key, factoring in food, lodging, gear repairs, and unexpected expenses. Finally, prioritize safety with bright clothing, lights, a helmet, and route planning that incorporates safe roads and rest stops. Staying organized with maps, GPS, and a detailed itinerary will contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
Commenters on Hacker News largely praised the article for its practicality and detailed advice, especially regarding gear choices and route planning. Several shared their own long-distance cycling experiences, offering additional tips like carrying a paper map as a backup, emphasizing the mental challenge of such a journey, and recommending against overly ambitious daily mileage goals. Some discussed alternative routes and the trade-offs between different bicycle types. A few commenters focused on the financial aspects, debating the actual cost of such a trip and suggesting ways to minimize expenses. The lightweight gear recommendations were specifically lauded, with some expressing surprise at the author's choice of a relatively inexpensive bike.
James Warner-Smith recounts his challenging yet rewarding solo canoe trip down a section of the Danube River. He describes the difficulties of navigating strong currents, portaging around dams, and contending with large barges, highlighting the importance of careful planning and river awareness. Despite the demanding conditions, he enjoyed the solitude and the unique perspective of experiencing the river from a canoe, camping wild along the banks and appreciating the beauty of the Danube's natural surroundings. He reflects on the lessons learned, emphasizing the value of self-sufficiency and the profound connection with nature fostered by such an adventure.
Commenters on Hacker News largely praised the author's adventurous spirit and the detailed, engaging writing style of the Danube canoe trip recounting. Several expressed admiration for the journey's length and the author's resourcefulness in navigating logistical challenges, like portaging around dams and finding camping spots. Some discussion revolved around the historical and cultural aspects of the Danube, with one commenter highlighting the river's significance as a historical trade route. Others shared personal anecdotes of similar trips or expressed interest in undertaking such an adventure themselves. A few practical comments touched on the permits required for such a journey and the potential dangers of river travel.
Tangier Island, a small, eroding island in Virginia's Chesapeake Bay, is home to a unique dialect preserved from the 17th century, when settlers from southwest England arrived. This dialect, with its distinctive pronunciation and vocabulary, retains echoes of Elizabethan English, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past. Islanders, largely isolated due to their geographical location and traditional fishing-based economy, have inadvertently maintained this linguistic time capsule, though the island's very existence is threatened by rising sea levels.
Hacker News commenters discuss the BBC article about Tangier Island's unique dialect. Several point out that the dialect isn't truly Elizabethan English, but rather a mix of influences including early colonial English and Cornish, shaped by the island's isolation. Some debate the level of Cornish influence and the accuracy of the "Elizabethan" label. Others discuss the impact of rising sea levels and the islanders' resistance to climate change science, attributing it to religious beliefs and economic dependence on crabbing. A few commenters share personal anecdotes or express interest in visiting. The thread also touches on linguistic preservation, the challenges faced by small island communities, and the role of dialect in shaping identity. One compelling exchange revolves around the island's uncertain future and the potential loss of this unique dialect as residents are forced to relocate.
"Subway Poker" is a silent, observational game played by mentally assigning poker hands to fellow subway passengers based on the first five visible digits of their MetroCards. Players cannot influence the cards they are "dealt" and simply observe the hands around them, comparing their imagined hands to others' to determine a winner. The game offers a discreet and engaging way to pass the time during a commute, adding a layer of amusement to the mundane act of people-watching.
Commenters on Hacker News largely enjoyed the subway poker concept, calling it "charming" and "delightful." Some discussed strategies, like focusing on suits rather than specific card values for easier memorization, or intentionally losing rounds to mislead other players. A few debated the feasibility of the game in real-world scenarios, citing crowded subways and the difficulty of maintaining eye contact. Several expressed interest in trying it themselves, while others suggested variations, like using phone apps or playing with larger groups. Some reminisced about similar silent games played in childhood. The overall sentiment was positive, with the game seen as a fun and engaging way to pass the time on public transit.
Milwaukee's General Mitchell International Airport is known for its unique "Recombobulation Area" signs, located just past the security checkpoints. These signs, pointing to restrooms, restaurants, and shops, humorously acknowledge the disorienting experience of going through airport security. While their origin is uncertain, airport director Barry Bateman suggests they were likely installed during a 2008 renovation as a lighthearted way to help travelers regain their composure and find their bearings after the stressful security process. The signs have become a beloved quirk of the airport, a popular photo opportunity, and a symbol of Milwaukee's friendly and approachable atmosphere.
Hacker News users generally found the concept of a "Recombobulation Area" amusing and appreciated its Midwestern charm. Several commenters shared similar experiences in other airports, noting designated areas for gathering oneself after security, sometimes informally referred to as the "re-shoeing area". Some debated the etymology and official vs. colloquial usage of the word "recombobulate," while others questioned the necessity of such a designated space, suggesting it might be more of a marketing gimmick than a practical need. A few questioned the overall efficiency of Milwaukee's airport layout. One commenter mentioned the term is also used at the Port Canaveral cruise terminal.
The blog post "Obscure Islands I Find Interesting" highlights a collection of remote and unusual islands, focusing on their unique characteristics. From the artificial island of Hulhumalé built on reclaimed reef in the Maldives to the volcanic and sulfurous Iwo Jima, the author explores diverse geological formations and human interventions. The list includes North Sentinel Island, known for its uncontacted indigenous population, and Diego Garcia, shrouded in controversy due to its role as a military base. Each island is briefly described, emphasizing its distinct features, whether natural or man-made, and hinting at the stories and histories embedded within these isolated landmasses.
Hacker News users generally enjoyed the linked blog post about obscure islands. Several commenters shared their own favorite lesser-known islands or archipelagos, including the Socotra archipelago, St. Kilda, and the Kerguelen Islands. Some pointed out inaccuracies or omissions in the original post, such as the inclusion of Tristan da Cunha (which some argue is relatively well-known) and the exclusion of other remote islands. A few users appreciated the author's unique criteria for "obscure" and enjoyed the overall whimsical tone of the piece. There was also a brief discussion about the challenges and benefits of living on a remote island.
The article warns against accidentally taking the Tokyo Chuo Rapid Line all the way to its terminus, Takao Station, a mountainous area with limited transportation options, especially late at night. While Takao is a pleasant hiking destination, those intending to stay in Tokyo will find themselves stranded if they miss the last train back. The article advises checking the train's destination diligently and suggests alternative routes back to central Tokyo if stuck, including local Chuo Line trains, buses to Hachioji Station, and, as a last resort, expensive taxis. It emphasizes the importance of planning ahead and being aware of the train schedule to avoid this "station of despair."
Hacker News commenters discuss the impracticalities of the article's advice for someone stranded at Takao Station, the final stop on Tokyo's Chuo Rapid Line. Several point out the lack of available lodging, especially during peak seasons like autumn leaf viewing, making the suggestion to stay overnight unrealistic. Commenters also highlight the limited dining options and late-night closures, contradicting the article's portrayal of abundant food choices. The general sentiment is that the article fails to grasp the reality of the situation, offering unhelpful and potentially misleading information to those unfamiliar with the area. Some suggest the real "despair" is the crowded train ride back during rush hour, while others share personal anecdotes of similar experiences and offer more practical advice, like checking train schedules in advance and considering alternative transportation. The lack of late-night buses is also a recurring theme, emphasizing the limited options available to stranded passengers.
The chance discovery of 20,000 Sogdian-era documents in a ruined fortress near Samarkand, Uzbekistan, has illuminated the lost history of Panjakent, a once-thriving Silk Road city. These texts, written on wood and leather, detail daily life, governance, and trade in the 7th and 8th centuries before the Arab conquest. This archival treasure trove has rewritten the understanding of Panjakent’s significance as a major Sogdian cultural and commercial center, effectively putting this forgotten city back on the historical map and providing invaluable insight into a pivotal period along the Silk Road.
Hacker News users discussed the BBC article about the Silk Road city of Tashkent, primarily focusing on its history and strategic importance. Several commenters highlighted the city's significance as a crossroads of cultures and trade routes, with one emphasizing its role as a meeting point between the East and West. The discussion also touched on the Uyghur population and their historical connection to the region, including their forced migration and cultural influence. Some users expressed their personal experiences traveling or living near the Silk Road, offering firsthand perspectives on the region's cultural richness and complexity. Finally, there was some debate about the article's portrayal of Tashkent's rediscovery, with one commenter arguing that the city was never truly "lost," but rather its significance was overshadowed by other historical narratives.
The interactive map on Subwaysheds.com visualizes how far you can travel on the New York City subway system within a 40-minute timeframe from any given station. By selecting a station, the map reveals a shaded area encompassing all reachable destinations within that time limit. This allows users to quickly grasp the relative accessibility of different parts of the city from various starting points, highlighting the subway's reach and potential travel limitations. The map demonstrates how travel times vary greatly depending on the station's location and the interconnectedness of the lines, with some stations offering access to a much wider area than others within the same 40-minute window.
Commenters on Hacker News largely praised the visualization and the technical execution of the "Subway Sheds" project, finding it both interesting and well-designed. Several appreciated the choice of 40 minutes as a relatable timeframe for commute planning. Some discussed the limitations of the visualization, noting it doesn't account for transfer time or walking to/from stations, and pointed out discrepancies with their own commute experiences. A few commenters offered suggestions for improvements, such as incorporating real-time data, displaying route options, and allowing users to input their own starting points and timeframes. Others shared anecdotal experiences of their commutes in different cities, comparing and contrasting them with the NYC subway system's reach as depicted in the visualization. A technical discussion also emerged regarding the algorithms and data used to generate the sheds, including the choice of using walking distances instead of incorporating bus routes.
"Unconventional Adventures" details the author's pursuit of unique experiences beyond typical tourist traps. Driven by a desire for authentic connection and a deeper understanding of different cultures, the author explores abandoned places, attends obscure festivals, and engages with local communities in unconventional ways. These adventures, often unplanned and spontaneous, prioritize genuine human interaction and a firsthand appreciation for the unexpected. The post emphasizes the richness and reward of embracing the unknown and stepping outside one's comfort zone to discover hidden gems and forge lasting memories.
HN commenters largely appreciated the author's adventurous spirit and unique approach to travel, contrasting it with more typical "checklist" tourism. Several praised the writing style as engaging and evocative, drawing them into the experiences described. Some identified with the author's desire for deeper, more meaningful travel, and shared their own similar experiences. A few commenters offered practical advice, such as using a satellite messenger for safety, or pointed out the potential privileges required to engage in such unconventional travel. Others questioned the safety aspects of some of the adventures and expressed concern for the author's well-being. There was also a brief discussion about the definition of "adventure," with some arguing that true adventure involves facing unknown outcomes.
Icelandic turf houses, a unique architectural tradition, utilized readily available resources like turf, stone, and wood to create well-insulated homes suited to the harsh climate. These structures, exemplified by preserved examples at Laufás and Glaumbær, feature timber frames covered with layers of turf for insulation, creating thick walls and sloping roofs. While appearing small externally, the interiors often surprise with their spaciousness and intricate woodwork, reflecting the social status of their inhabitants. Laufás showcases a grander, more aristocratic turf house, while Glaumbær offers a glimpse into a cluster of smaller, interconnected turf buildings representing a more typical farming community. Although turf houses are no longer common residences, they represent a significant part of Icelandic heritage and demonstrate a clever adaptation to the environment.
HN commenters discuss the effectiveness of turf houses as insulation, noting their similarity to earth-sheltered homes. Some express concerns about potential issues with mold and moisture in such structures, particularly given Iceland's climate. Others point out the historical and cultural significance of these buildings, and their surprisingly pleasant interiors. One commenter mentions visiting similar structures in the Faroe Islands. The thread also touches on the labor-intensive nature of maintaining turf roofs, the use of driftwood in their construction, and the evolution of these building techniques over time. Finally, the preservation efforts of organizations like the National Museum of Iceland are acknowledged.
Summary of Comments ( 80 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43740021
Hacker News users discuss the study with some skepticism, questioning the small sample size (17 participants) and lack of a placebo control. Several commenters express interest in the potential mechanism, wondering if the sound masks disturbing inner ear signals or if it simply provides a distraction. The specific frequency (100Hz) is noted, with speculation about its potential connection to bodily rhythms. Some users share personal anecdotes of using other sensory inputs like ginger or focusing on the horizon to combat motion sickness, while others mention existing solutions like scopolamine patches and wristbands that provide acupressure. A few commenters request more information about the nature of the sound, questioning if it's a pure tone or something more complex. Overall, the comments express a cautious optimism tempered by the need for more rigorous research.
The Hacker News post "A unique sound alleviates motion sickness," linking to a Nagoya University article about using amplitude-modulated white noise to reduce motion sickness, generated a moderate discussion with a few compelling threads.
Several commenters discussed their personal experiences with motion sickness and various remedies they'd tried. One user shared their positive experience with ginger, mentioning it's more effective than Dramamine for them. Another commenter mentioned the effectiveness of scopolamine patches but cautioned about potential side effects like dry mouth. This anecdotal exchange highlighted the varied responses people have to motion sickness treatments and the ongoing search for effective solutions.
A couple of commenters questioned the methodology of the study, particularly the small sample size and the reliance on subjective reporting of nausea. They expressed a desire for more robust research with larger groups and more objective measurements to validate the findings. This skepticism reflects a common sentiment on Hacker News regarding scientific studies, emphasizing the importance of rigorous methodology and replication.
One insightful comment explored the potential connection between motion sickness and the vestibular system, suggesting that the amplitude-modulated white noise might be interfering with conflicting sensory inputs. This comment offered a plausible explanation for the observed effect grounded in physiological principles. Another commenter built on this, speculating that the white noise could be acting as a form of sensory substitution, providing a consistent auditory input to override the confusing signals from the vestibular system.
The discussion also touched upon the potential applications of this technology, with some suggesting its use in virtual reality to mitigate simulator sickness. This highlights the practical implications of the research and its potential to improve user experience in emerging technologies.
Finally, a few commenters expressed interest in trying the method themselves, showcasing the practical nature of the discussion and the desire for accessible solutions to motion sickness. While hopeful, some also acknowledged the need for further research to confirm the initial findings and optimize the application of the amplitude-modulated white noise.