Python initial release, February 20, 1991
2024-03-08
Python, a high-level programming language, was initially released February 20, 1991, by Guido van Rossum, Netherlands, It emphasizes code readability with its notable use of significant whitespace. Its standard library supports various programming paradigms, including procedural, object-oriented, and functional programming. Python 1.0 in 1994 introduced many core features. Python 2.0 in 2000 added list comprehensions and garbage collection. Ended with 2.7. Python 3.0 in 2008 was a major rewrite, not backward compatible, with changes like print function, Unicode support, and syntax alterations. Python was named after the British comedy group Monty Python. Philosophy of the Python language: By typing "import this" into a Python interpreter, you'll be presented with the "Zen of Python" by Tim Peters, which includes aphorisms such as "Beautiful is better than ugly" and "Simple is better than complex". It is widely used for a variety of applications, from web development to data analysis and artificial intelligence. Python is one of the most popular programming languages. Its popularity is due to the rise of data science, machine learning, and its role in academic and educational settings. Python's simplicity and versatility, combined with a strong community and extensive libraries, contribute to its widespread use and ongoing popularity across diverse fields. More: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Python_(programming_language) Art&Text supported by ChatGPT.
Aspirin, one of the world's most famous and widely used medications, was first registered on March 6, 1899, by the German company Bayer AG. The active ingredient, acetylsalicylic acid, was synthesized by chemist Felix Hoffmann. His motivation was personal; he sought a less irritating substitute for salicylic acid to alleviate his father's rheumatism. The history of aspirin's active ingredient dates back centuries, with salicylate-rich willow bark being used for pain relief and fever reduction in various cultures. However, it was not until the 19th century that scientists began to isolate and modify salicylic acid to reduce its side effects, leading to the creation of acetylsalicylic acid. Upon its release, aspirin quickly became a staple in medicine cabinets worldwide, renowned for its efficacy in reducing pain, fever, and inflammation. Over time, studies also revealed aspirin's role in reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes, attributing to its blood-thinning properties. Internationally, aspirin is known by various names, such as "acetylsalicylic acid" in scientific communities and "aspirina" in several Latin languages. In some countries, it is sold under different brand names, but "aspirin" remains a globally recognized term. Aspirin's name comes from "A" for acetyl, "spir" from the spirea plant (a source of salicylate), and "in," a common suffix for medications at the time. More: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspirin Art&Text supported by ChatGPT.
Chinese New Year 2024
2024-03-08
The Chinese New Year, aka Spring Festival, marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is the most significant Chinese holiday. Rooted in mythology, it's said to have originated from the ancient fight against the mythical beast Nian, with the use of firecrackers and red decorations symbolizing luck and prosperity to ward off evil spirits. It has been celebrated for over 3,500 years, evolving from sacrificial ceremonies to the gods at the year's end for good harvests. Today, it initiates with the new moon that appears between 21 January and 20 February and lasts until the full moon, encompassing generally a 15-day period filled with various rituals and festivities, culminating in the Lantern Festival. Around 1/4 of the world’s population participates. Family reunions are central to the celebrations, with millions traveling home in one of the world's largest annual human migrations, known as Chunyun. Practices include thorough house cleaning to sweep away bad fortune, decorating homes with red lanterns and couplets, exchanging red envelopes (hongbao) containing money for luck, and enjoying lavish feasts with symbolic dishes, such as fish served whole (including head and tail) symbolizing a prosperous start and finish to the year. Each year is named after an animal, believed to influence personality traits and fortune, and associated with an element. 2024 is the Year of the Wood Dragon. More: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_New_Year Art&Text supported by ChatGPT.
World Obesity Day, March 4, 2024
2024-03-08
World Obesity Day, observed on March 4th, is dedicated to promoting practical solutions to end the global obesity crisis. Obesity, a complex health condition characterized by excessive body fat, is a major risk factor for various diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers. Historically, obesity was mostly seen as a symbol of wealth and prosperity. Many of the Venus figurines, made 20,000+ years ago, are corpulent ladies and thought to symbolize fertility, health, and abundance, maybe idealizing body size in times where food scarcity was a constant threat. Ancient medical texts saw it as a health risk, but only in the 20th century research highlighted it as a medical condition. It's caused by a combination of genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors. Poor diet, lack of physical activity, and sedentary lifestyles are key contributors. Obesity affects all age groups and socioeconomic classes, over 10% of the population. However, prevalence rates vary significantly across different regions and populations. In recent years, developing countries have witnessed a rapid rise in obesity rates, a shift attributed to urbanization and changes in lifestyle and dietary habits. Obesity's toll on health, life quality, and economy is huge. World Obesity Day calls for united efforts for change, advocating for healthy lifestyles, supportive policies, and research to combat this challenge. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obesity Art&Text🫶ChatGPT.



