What We Know So Far, Why ALS Remains So Difficult to Treat, and What We Can Do About the Risks We Can Control

The author reflects on the contrasting experiences of childhood between the past and the present, noting that despite modern conveniences, happiness seemed more genuine in earlier times. Memories of standing in long queues, the excitement over new school supplies, and the anticipation of birthdays highlight the richness of simpler joys. Family gatherings and communal festivities created a lively environment, devoid of today's academic pressures and material excess. The author suggests that the thrill of waiting for something special has dwindled in contemporary life, yet cherished memories from the past evoke a sense of fulfillment that remains unmatched.

A Practical Guide Based on Personal Experience and Biological Science: Why Loose Skin Happens, What Biology Teaches Us About Recovery, and Practical Ways to Support Adaptation and Confidence

Photo by SHVETS production on Pexels.com Good writing is not simply you are born with. It is a skill that you develop through reading, practicing and observing. Of course, you are going to make lots of mistakes along the way but you are going to learn more than you made mistakes. If you want to master your writing, start with these few habits:

Divers in offshore fields are real-life heroes. Most Dangerous Job: 28 The Days Under Pressure Bomb disposal technicians and spacecraft crews are often the first to come to mind when we think of “the most dangerous job.” Yet, in my ten years as a Chief Engineer on a Diver Support Vessel (DSV), I watched men walk into a saturation (SAT) chamber with a cheerful demeanor, and I often wondered: How could they be so brave?

In this article, Dr. Mehmet Yildiz recounts his discovery of the CloudLibrary digital lending service, which allows public library members free access to audiobooks and ebooks. His realization began after a chance meeting with a student who borrowed several of his audiobooks through a local library, underscoring libraries' role in providing affordable access to knowledge. Yildiz encourages readers to explore their local library's digital offerings, emphasizing that public libraries connect readers with diverse content without financial barriers. He also discusses how CloudLibrary fosters collaboration among libraries, enhancing resource-sharing and accessibility for all.

Blaise Pascal's insight from the 17th century—"All of humanity's problems stem from man's inability to sit quietly in a room alone"—remains relevant today as modern technology amplifies this struggle. Our society is conditioned to avoid stillness by constantly seeking distractions, from smartphones to relentless media consumption, which serve to mask our deeper anxieties and existential concerns. This incessant diversion leads to diminished capacities for self-reflection, creativity, and emotional resilience. To reclaim the ability to be alone with our thoughts, we must intentionally practice moments of stillness, treat silence as an opportunity for self-discovery, and resist the impulse to distract ourselves constantly.

"Someone Is Breathing in the Photograph" transforms an ordinary image into a source of psychological tension, blurring the lines between memory, fear, and reality. The narrative explores themes of perception and the unsettling notion that photographs may capture more than mere moments. Small, disquieting details shift the story from the seemingly harmless to the unnervingly alive, raising questions about what lies beyond the visible. This quiet horror builds tension through atmosphere and curiosity rather than shock, compelling readers to confront their own doubts about reality. The story appeals to fans of psychological suspense and supernatural mysteries, leaving a lingering sense of unease.

The Pancawara Literary Collective is an independent group of five Indonesian writers: Adri Darmadji Woko, Bambang Widiatmoko, Kurniawan Junaedhie, Liauw Pauw Phing, and Wardjito Soeharso. Its name derives from Sanskrit, meaning a five-day cycle tied to Javanese traditions. The collective aims to merge traditional temporal cosmogonies with modern literary methods, emphasizing diverse perspectives without hierarchical authority among its members. It produces poetry, prose, and essays, valuing literary plurality and treating works as reflections of societal realities. Their friendship is a cornerstone of their creativity, culminating in shared publications while respecting individual voices and journeys.

A mythological tale from the Mahabharata tradition about greed, loyalty, betrayal and the consequences of interfering with what belongs to another.

A Personal and Hand-Picked Collection #02 by Dr Amy Gunter, Editor and Curator of ILLUMINATION Integrated Publications on Medium and Substack Dear Readers and Writers, Welcome to the second edition of my mental health curation. Continue reading for free I serve as an editor for three Illumination Publications: As an editor and curator of mental health writing, I have selected stories mainly from 

Recent happiness research indicates that the quality of life and the perception of life are often disconnected. The author reflects on his father's retirement, illustrating how external success can mask a lack of presence and fulfillment. He introduces the concept of the "Attention Ledger," emphasizing that true happiness stems from where individuals direct their attention during daily experiences rather than their circumstances. Common pitfalls include anticipatory living, comparison drift, and multitasking, which dilute one’s awareness. The solution lies in regularly assessing attention and being intentional about it, leading to richer, more meaningful experiences over time.

“She Wore September in Her Hair” by Pen & Page is a poignant poem that navigates themes of memory and loss through evocative autumn imagery. Rather than narrating a story, the poem emphasizes sensory details—like drifting leaves and quiet mornings—to convey a feeling of longing. It avoids definitive conclusions, mirroring the often unresolved nature of real memories. This small but impactful piece encourages readers to engage deeply, rewarding slow, attentive readings that reveal subtle nuances. Aimed at those who appreciate emotional expression through imagery, the poem lingers in the reader's mind, much like a fading but unforgettable scent.

In marriage, maintaining the initial spark requires ongoing effort amidst life’s demands. The author shares strategies for keeping the romance alive, such as giving sincere compliments, allowing each partner to take the lead in decision-making, and prioritizing personal growth. Supporting each other's passions is vital, with the couple coordinating healthy meals and personal time. They also emphasize the importance of late-night conversations to connect deeply. Through challenges, including postpartum depression, the husband's unwavering support reinforces their bond. Ultimately, it’s about mutual dedication and effort that keeps the spark alive, making the relationship enjoyable and fulfilling over time.

Industrial Engineering and Management is an advantage in the age of AI. Broad interdisciplinary knowledge changes how engineers recognize, evaluate, communicate, and delegate problems as execution increasingly moves to AI.

Shreyas Naphad is an AI Engineer with a master's degree in computer science and a writer on Medium, where he shares insights on technology and self-improvement. He has amassed over 10,000 followers through his engaging and well-researched articles. Shreyas values health and well-being, incorporating them into his daily routine, and he emphasizes their role in enhancing performance. He finds storytelling exhilarating and believes in delivering valuable content that educates his audience. Passionate about personal growth, Shreyas aims to inspire others while continuing to refine his writing skills. He actively engages with his readers, fostering a strong connection.

Dr. Amy Gunter introduces her first mental health curation, a collection of personal narratives from Illumination publications that emphasize authenticity and vulnerability. Selected stories reflect writers' inner experiences and allow readers to connect with the emotions conveyed. The curation does not rank the pieces but values voice, emotional tone, and vivid imagery, inviting readers to internalize the narratives. Sensitive topics like depression and self-harm are addressed, with a call for caution and support resources included for those in need. Featured stories explore themes of mental illness, personal growth, and the complexities of relationships, offering insight into the human experience.

The ILLUMINATION Author Discovery Library offers a collection of over 1,000 blog posts contributed by more than 100 active writers. Topics cover a diverse range including health, science, technology, leadership, creativity, and personal development, facilitating reader engagement without ranking authors. Each featured author has a dedicated blog page for easier access to their work. The library prioritizes discovery and sharing valuable ideas through curated articles, while performance metrics are excluded to emphasize creativity and exploration. Visitors can navigate the collection by filtering topics or author names, making it a valuable resource for enthusiasts and learners alike.

In his reflective review, Dr. Albert Jones discusses Dr. Mehmet Yildiz's book, "The LIFE Matrix Keeps the Score," emphasizing the interconnectedness of human experiences. Drawing from decades of psychiatric practice, Jones argues that individuals rarely present isolated issues; instead, they embody complex interactions of emotions, relationships, and physiological states. Yildiz's work challenges traditional categorizations in psychology and neuroscience, proposing a holistic framework that considers the influence of various systems on human experience. The book promotes understanding and compassion, encouraging readers to view themselves and others as integrated beings involved in continuous dialogues, rather than reducing them to simplistic explanations or diagnoses.

The book "How to Eliminate Loose Skin After Rapid Weight Loss" serves as a comprehensive guide exploring the biological, psychological, and practical aspects of loose skin—a common issue post-weight loss. Authored by Dr. Mehmet Yildiz, it integrates personal experiences, scientific insights, and various strategies for addressing this condition. Dr. Yildiz shares his journey through metabolic disorders and the emotional challenges faced after significant weight loss, emphasizing that loose skin is not merely a cosmetic issue but a biological adaptation. The book presents nuanced perspectives, avoids miracle claims, and encourages readers to approach their journey with patience, understanding, and self-compassion.

A Practical Guide Based on Personal Experience and Biological Science: Why Loose Skin Happens, What Biology Teaches Us About Recovery, and Practical Ways to Support Adaptation and Confidence

A Satirical Tale of a Termagant and the Sage’s Secret The Shadow of a Termagant Sharma was lost in thought, drowning in misery. He felt as though he were trapped in a long, dark tunnel with no glimmer of light. Sharma was married to Chandalika, a champion termagant. She was iron-willed and relentlessly adamant. Her primary goal in life appeared to be his utter torment.

Why good writers hate their first drafts, how revision transforms imperfect pages, and why strong writers keep writing through creative doubt. Curator’s Note: Explores why experienced writers dislike early pages. It reframes drafting as a necessary stage rather than a test of talent. It explains why revision matters and encourages writers to continue when early pages feel disappointing. Read the original essay by Pen & Page for a closer look at the writing process.

The article explores how emotional contagion can impact our biology and relationships, demonstrating how stress can be absorbed from others even without direct engagement. Research shows that individuals can experience elevated cortisol levels just by observing stress in others, leading to physiological responses like tension and exhaustion. This synchronization of stress often strains personal and professional relationships rather than fostering empathy. To mitigate these effects, the author suggests strategies such as recognizing vicarious stress, engaging in physical movement after stressful interactions, and maintaining a calm demeanor to positively influence the surrounding emotional environment.

Daily writing prompt What’s something you do completely differently from how you were raised? View all responses Something I Do Which Is Different From How I Was Raised Papa raised us to be what we want to be. In our time, the cherished professions were to become Doctors, Engineers, IAS officers, etc. Most of my friends from LFS became doctors. Though I was not forced into any profession, I ultimately became a teacher at our University. This was a respectable prog

An editor’s monthly gathering of stories to read, share, and remember - Episode #4 Curator's Note: Liauw Pauw Phing, a writer and editor, introduces the July 2026 edition of the Monthly Collection on ILLUMINATION Integrated publications. This platform highlights resonant stories across various genres, focusing on authenticity, human connection, and intellectual depth. The curated pieces, drawn from a range of publications, aim to engage readers and honor writers without declaring winners or rankings.

Photo by Scarbor Siu on Unsplash I thought I knew what good elder care looked like. I had been inside dozens of long-term care facilities as a paramedic. I knew the smells, the hallways, the residents calling out to anyone who might stop and listen. But when my own father entered the system, I learned how little I really understood.

The narrative humorously contrasts the experiences of backbenchers and front-row students in a classroom setting, highlighting the mischief and camaraderie among those who embrace their average status versus the disciplined achievers. Central characters like Ram exemplify the struggles of seeking validation, while Eashwar showcases extraordinary memory without a drive for top grades. The author reflects on the common resolution of students to improve study habits post-exams, only to be distracted by life's demands. A pivotal moment occurs with a failed pill intended to boost alertness, leading to an ironic realization of the power of sleep over sleepless nights of study.

The article explores the neurobiology of female and male orgasm, emphasizing common misconceptions about sexual health education. It addresses how many individuals lack a thorough understanding of sexual response due to inadequate education, cultural myths, and unrealistic media representations. The piece highlights the complexity of orgasm as a brain-body experience influenced by various factors including emotional safety, trust, and individual variation. It notes that both genders face pressures related to performance and intimacy, which can contribute to sexual difficulties. Additionally, it advocates for inclusive education and compassionate discussions around sexuality as essential for fostering well-being and understanding across diverse populations.

Why do some people fear mirrors? Discover the psychology, folklore, and eerie mystery behind this unusual fear and its unsettling reflections. Curator’s Note: Mirrors seem harmless until your reflection suddenly feels unfamiliar. This article explores why some people fear mirrors, looking beyond supernatural stories into psychology, self-image, childhood conditioning, folklore, and the unsettling effects of prolonged staring. A familiar face can become strangely distant when the mind begins questioning what it sees.

Talent evaluation is changing in the age of AI. Creator fingerprints and system signatures can reveal existing IP structure that followers and engagement cannot.

The post discusses the phenomenon known as the "Liking Gap," where individuals tend to underestimate how much others appreciate them after social interactions. Despite the belief that self-reflection is a sign of emotional maturity, science describes this process as a biased inner trial led by our self-critics. Research reveals that people often remember their own awkwardness while others focus on the connection formed. This misperception can harm relationships, leading to withdrawal and missed opportunities for connection. Overcoming the Liking Gap involves recognizing this bias, shifting focus to how others feel, and assuming goodwill in social interactions.

The content discusses a leadership framework for navigating the shift from digital transformation to intelligent transformation in the age of artificial intelligence. It emphasizes that effective technology leadership integrates technological capabilities with organizational purpose, culture, and governance. The book presents insights from decades of experience, advocating for a practice-informed approach rather than prescriptive formulas. It critiques the assumption that senior technology executives can operate without technical understanding, highlighting the necessity for a balance of technological literacy and strategic foresight. Ultimately, the text asserts that technology alone cannot ensure meaningful transformation; human wisdom and ethical judgment are essential for creating sustainable business value.

As a newly promoted Chief Engineer on a bulk carrier, I faced a daunting challenge during my maiden voyage to deliver iron ore. Accompanied by my wife and daughter, I was eager to prove myself despite staffing issues, including an ill Electrical Officer. As we approached the Great Bitter Lake, a steering failure threatened a collision, forcing me into a high-pressure situation requiring immediate action. The rudder was stuck, and my attempts at emergency steering failed. This crisis tested my resolve and skills, highlighting the vital importance of engine room presence during emergencies and emphasizing the challenges of maritime navigation.

Explore the connection between food, mood, memory, brain health, nutrition, gut health, emotional associations, and cognitive well-being. Curator’s Note: This article explores the overlooked relationship between food, mood, and memory, highlighting the gut-brain axis, brain-supporting nutrients, emotional associations with meals, and the value of consistent dietary patterns. Its accessible science angle makes it useful for readers interested in nutrition, mental well-being, and cognitive health.

I have 11 books published, spanning fiction and nonfiction. On top of that, I have 3 digital products in AI and health and wellness. I have not had a regular job since 2019. Let me be honest with you before this article goes any further. Most of those books have sold close to nothing. Not because they are bad. I have had readers write to me about a story of mine involving a dog that made them cry on a train.

I had watched people die for eighteen years. Then the dying person was my father. As a paramedic, I had learned how to stand beside death without letting it take me with it. There was always a boundary between the professional and the personal. The patient was someone else’s father, someone else’s husband, someone else’s whole world. That distance wasn’t indifference.

The Legend of Bhishma is an epic narrative intertwining political intrigue, honor, and destiny, comparable to modern tales like Game of Thrones. This retelling invites readers to explore ancient Indian culture, mythology, and the universal struggles of human morality. At its center is Bhishma, a character facing cosmic judgment for a moment of distraction. The epic delves into concepts of Dharma, the cycle of rebirth, and the debts of one’s actions, guiding souls toward ultimate liberation, Moksha. Through rich storytelling, it highlights the importance of ethics and the divine interplay between mortals and gods in maintaining universal balance.

"The Ghost of Forgotten Shelves" explores the concept of vellichor, the emotional atmosphere found in old bookshops. It highlights how forgotten books evoke nostalgia, memory, and curiosity through their worn covers and personal inscriptions. These secondhand bookstores are portrayed as living archives, holding traces of unknown lives and whispering stories through their pages. The piece emphasizes the contrast between the fast-paced digital world and the timelessness of old books, inviting readers to savor the connection with past owners. Ultimately, vellichor transforms a simple visit into a profound experience that links us to lives once lived within those shelves.

WWe live in an era where our smartphones remember everything—from phone numbers and daily schedules to the exact turns needed to navigate familiar streets. However, in our rush to outsource our cognitive workload to screens, our biological hardware is paying a silent, compounding price. The Outsourced Mind In my latest article, “Digital Alzheimer’s: How Offloading Our Memory to Screens Threatens Synaptic Plasticity — and How to Protect Your Brain,” I dive deep into the neurobiology of what happens when we stop using our brain’s native machinery for retention and spatial mapping.

Modern science challenges the traditional belief that a racing heart signifies anxiety, suggesting instead that this physiological response is essential for managing pressure. The sympathetic nervous system activates during high-stakes moments, releasing adrenaline to prepare the body for action. Misinterpreting these sensations as threats leads to interoceptive fear, exacerbating anxiety. Instead, viewing a racing heart as fuel—recognizing it as a physiological benefit—can enhance focus and effectiveness. By reframing the response and addressing it constructively, individuals can harness their body's natural mechanisms rather than suppressing them. The key is to embrace the surge as a source of energy in challenging situations.

Carrie Cuthbert, an Advanced Care Paramedic and storyteller from Calgary, Canada, shares her journey of blending paramedicine with storytelling and art. Over 18 years in emergency medicine shaped her understanding of people's experiences, grief, and resilience. Writing became a cathartic outlet for her reflections on life, death, and identity, moving toward an upcoming book that captures her stories and those of women in her art workshops. Cuthbert emphasizes holistic health, creativity, and meaningful connections, advocating for uncomfortable conversations in writing. She seeks to help others through her narratives while transforming her passion into a career.

The narrative describes the tense atmosphere aboard a ship preparing to set sail, highlighting the fragile balance between routine practices and potential disasters at sea. Following a thorough inspection of the ship's readiness, the author confronts issues of crew management and safety protocols. As the vessel departs with the assistance of tugs and a pilot, the Captain prepares for the journey ahead. However, a sudden crisis occurs when a steering seaman collapses, leaving the author in a state of shock and faced with urgent decisions regarding the safety of the ship and crew. The story emphasizes the importance of vigilance and preparedness in maritime operations.

In a lively conversation, authors Scarlet Ibis James and Amanda Coreishy discuss Charmaine Wilkerson’s novel Black Cake, which explores themes of family secrets, identity, and survival through two estranged siblings. Their dialogue, sparked by a birthday gift, reveals differing opinions on characters and choices within the multigenerational narrative.

The guest post discusses the interplay between Gen Z and artificial intelligence, emphasizing the need for balance between technology and authentic human experiences. It illustrates how Gen Z, raised in a digital environment, often prioritizes online representation over genuine living. The narrative highlights the importance of nature, presence, and personal connections that technology cannot replicate. While AI can enhance productivity and assist creativity, it cannot replace the emotional depth of human experiences. The article advocates for using technology judiciously, allowing for moments of silence and genuine interaction, ultimately asserting the necessity of maintaining vital human roots amidst evolving technology.

The author reflects on the tendency to prioritize urgent tasks over important ones, highlighting the detrimental effects of urgency on productivity and relationships. Urgent notifications and interruptions hijack attention, leading to wasted time on less meaningful activities. This behavior stems from a psychological bias where deadlines create an illusion of urgency, often at the expense of what truly matters, like deep conversations and focused work. Drawing from Charles Hummel's concepts and recent studies, the author emphasizes the need to proactively manage distractions, establish personal deadlines, and protect meaningful interactions, ultimately reorienting priorities to safeguard what truly matters.

The narrative centers on a poignant childhood memory of bedtime storytelling shared by the author’s aunt during a moonlit night. The story, "When God Walked a Child to School," follows Gopal, a boy fearful of crossing a jungle to attend school. His mother encourages him to call upon Lord Krishna for comfort, leading to an enchanting relationship between the two. Despite the joy of companionship, Gopal faces hardship at school due to poverty and mockery, yet draws strength from Krishna's presence. Over time, Gopal's confidence grows, altering his interactions with peers and his teacher, ultimately leading to newfound respect.

Are you constantly drained by endless meetings, digital notifications, and background noise? Most of us view silence as an empty void. Specifically, we treat it as an optional luxury reserved for introverts. However, modern neuroscience reveals a striking truth. In fact, solitude is a fundamental biological necessity for a healthy, high-performing brain. In our latest deep-dive article, we explore the intricate neurobiology of silence.

What the Brain Needs, Why We Fail, and How We Can Fix It: Practical Wisdom for Brain Health, Learning, Happiness, and Fulfillment. Revised Edition  Bibliogrpahic info: ISBNs: 9798276279022, 9780466889074, 9798276281018, ASINs: B0G47G81NH, B0FS2XCHHS, B0G65JDZRW, B0HG9T7XWD, GKEYs: 2cOaEQAAQBAJ, , AQAAAEDqLFpsoM — Official Page Purpose of the Book Drawing on decades of research in cognitive science, personal experience, and insights from expert collaborators, this book distills essential lessons about brain and cognitive health into a concise, practical, and conversational guide.

What the Brain Needs, Why We Fail, and How We Can Fix It: Practical Wisdom for Brain Health, Learning, Happiness, and Fulfillment. Revised Edition Purpose of the Book Drawing on decades of research in cognitive science, personal experience, and insights from expert collaborators, this book distills essential lessons about brain and cognitive health into a concise, practical, and conversational guide. My goal is to help you understand what the brain needs, recognize where our modern habits and environments can work against those needs, and identify practical ways to support better cognitive health, learning, and mental performance.