By Margherita Bassi Published December 4, 2024 | Comments (0) | An artist's rendition of a Germanic warrior taking stimulants. Stanisaw Kontny for Praehistorische Zeitschrift How would you prepare for battle? If you were a Germanic warrior from Northern Europe during the Roman period, you may have sniffed some narcotics. A team of three Polish researchers, including archaeologist Andrzej Kokowski and two biologists from Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, has suggested that Germanic people of Northern Europe living outside of the Roman Empire used stimulants during war. Their findings, detailed in a November 26 study published in the journal De Gruyter, challenges the notion that only Mediterranean civilizations used narcotics in antiquity. While both archaeological and historical sources testify that the ancient Greeks and Romans used narcotics such as opium, according to the study, there is no clear evidence to suggest that their contemporaries also engaged in this consumption (the ancient Egyptians, however, were sipping on psychedelics). This has led many scholars to conclude that Germanic tribessometimes referred to by the antiquated term barbarians (the Ancient Greek and Roman name for all foreigners)did not use stimulants besides alcohol.We therefore asked ourselves whether the consumption of stimulants in the barbarian world of the Roman period was indeed absent, the researchers wrote in the study. Since there wasnt any direct evidence, they decided to look for indirect clues. Said clues came in the form of 241 small objects attached to warriors belts in 116 Roman-period (roughly seventh century BCE to fifth century CE) archaeological sites in northern Europe, including in modern-day Germany, Scandinavia, and Poland. The objects are spoon-shaped artifacts with handles mostly between 1.57 and 2.76 inches long (40 and 70 millimeters) and small bowls or flat disks from 0.39 inches to 0.78 inches across (10 to 20 millimeters). Archaeologists unearthed them among other artifacts related to war.Consequently, archaeologist Andrzej Kokowski and his colleagues hypothesized that Germanic warriors may have used the spoon-like objects to take stimulants with the aim of increasing exertion and reducing stress before diving into battle. Essentially, just another version of liquid courage. The warriors could have used these objects to measure the right dose to produce the desired effects and to reduce the possibility of an overdose, the researchers wrote in a De Gruyter statement.To strengthen this theory, the team analyzed the possible stimulants that Germanic tribes could have accessed either locally or via trade during the Roman era. The possible list includes poppy, hemp, hops, belladonna, henbane, and numerous fungi, all of which could have been taken as a liquid or powder, and may have also been used for medicinal and/or ritualistic purposes, according to the study. The use of agitation stimulants may have been far greater than had been assumed, the researchers wrote in the study. They also suggested that Northern European people must have had significant knowledge and organizational abilities to secure and distribute the necessary substance types and quantities. Additionally, the demand for stimulants could have stimulated wartime economies (pun intended) during this time period in previously unknown ways.Ultimately, the Polish researchers put forth a captivating hypothesis about the Germanic peoples potential use of stimulants when going into battle. After all, I wouldnt say no to an extra boost if I was expected to go up against a Roman legionary soldier.Daily NewsletterYou May Also Like By Matthew Gault Published December 3, 2024 By Ed Cara Published December 2, 2024 By Matt Novak Published November 23, 2024 By Matthew Gault Published November 21, 2024 By Isaac Schultz Published November 7, 2024 By Matt Novak Published November 5, 2024

If you were hoping to score a brand new TV over this past weekend for real cheap for Black Friday, you havent run out of time just yet. Even though Black Friday and Cyber Monday are over, you can still save a ton on a TV as Amazon still has some of its Black Friday prices active. Last week, the 50 inch Amazon Fire TV 4-Seires which supports 4K resolution and HDR had its price drop to $280. As of writing this, the smart TV is still $280. Thats a 38% discount, down from $450 and saving you a whole $170 on your big holiday purchase.See at AmazonFor spending less than $300, what you get with this smart TV is pretty darn impressive. Its a full 50 inches which is pretty sizable for a lot of rooms and it can play media in 4K. Not only that, it supports vivid HDR 10 along with Dolby Digital Plus. With it, youll get a beautiful picture quality. It wont knock your socks off or anything, but it will look perfectly serviceable without anything to compare it against. So I guess just dont place an OLED TV directly next to it in your living room.As far as ports are concerned, the Amazon Fire TV 4-Series has four different HDMI ports. This gives you a ton of options so you can flip between your game consoles or cable box without replacing wires. It also supports HDMI arc so you can hook up a sound bar over HDMI if you would like. It also supports an optical connection.Alexa-EnabledThe Amazon Fire TV interface supports a wide range of your favorite apps from Netflix to Disney+ to Peacock to, of course, Prime Video. Between everything, you can enjoy access to more than 1.5 million movies and TV show episodes, plus millions of songs depending on what you are subscribed to. You can even manage your smart home of devices using the Alexa right from your TV. Start video calls, check on your Ring camera, and more right from the couch.I personally love being able to use Alexa with the remote so I can find a particular movie without having to type it in with the arrow keys into an on-screen keypad. I just say, My Cousin Vinny into my remote and the next thing I know, Im listening to Marisa Tomei yell at Joe Pesci about his pants.Right now, you can still get the Amazon Fire TV for its Black Friday price of $280 (38% off). No telling when the price will go back up so act fast before its too late.See at Amazon

Creating a Multi-Sensory Digital Shower Experience for Well-being, Relaxation, and ControlSponsored ContentSave this picture!Anthem+ - Shower environment. Image Courtesy of KohlerIncorporating technology into architecture has transformed the way we design and experience environments across various scales, spanning from urban development to interior settings. Today, the concept of "smart spaces" embodies the fusion of innovation and design to enhance well-being and quality of life in our daily activities. This is achieved through seamless technological integration, encompassing a range of functions and systems via software, digital tools, and everyday devices like smartphones. As a result, activities like showering are experiencing significant advancements, evolving into a digital multi-sensory experience that offer personalized control over environmental factors, enhancing relaxation and well-being. These innovations enhance the interaction between technology, design, and users, fostering new ways to engage with spaces and subtly enriching our routine activities.Allowing precise control over environmental elements, the Anthem+ digital control exemplifies this shift by offering a seamless, integrated system meticulously engineered to fit global plumbing standards. This sensory immersion managed via a single minimalist device and interface, enables easy customization of the showering atmosphere through an intuitive, touch-sensitive surface that can control up to 12 water outlets plus sound and light. Users have complete control and personalization over a combination of shower sprays, rain heads, showerheads, hand showers, and body sprays, allowing them to mix and match settings and program up to 9 presets for easy access. Additionally, 18 Kohler-created experiences were designed to manipulate water and steam, enhancing the user's ability to prepare for the day or promote relaxation and recovery.Save this picture!The Anthem+ digital control offers independent access to each spray and up to two temperature and flow zones, allowing users to adjust settings precisely and select individual levels of warmth for different body areas. The warm-up mode enhances the shower experience by purging cold water from the pipes and holding the hot water for up to two minutes, ensuring that no water is wasted if users take their time stepping into the shower. Customizable Water, Steam, and Sound Configurations for Wellness Among several configurations, the system creates different atmospheres by merging diverse stimuli from water-only shower settings or adding sound and steam for an enhanced well-being experience. The smart shower system offers versatility with up to 12 available water outlets when opting for the water-only shower configuration. It integrates with Statement single or multifunction rain heads, hand showers, body sprays, and showerheads, giving the flexibility to design a specific setup.Save this picture!Save this picture!When choosing the steam and sound configuration, the characteristics of the water-only setting are maintained while adding an extra layer of comfort. Anthem valving and controls work with Statement shower components, a Kohler steam generator and amplifier, and SoundTile speakers to create a more immersive, multi-sensory shower experience. Central to this setup, steam enhances relaxation and provides health benefits that water alone cannot offer. This combination of water and steam is frequently utilized in residential architecture, hotels, and resorts, where customizable features are employed to create bespoke shower spaces that seamlessly blend aesthetics with functionality.Advanced Hardware and Software for Seamless Design and Shower ControlBeyond its functions and settings, the Anthem+ ecosystem showcases innovative design and technology through its finishes, features, and connectivity. The Digital Control hardware is available in Polished Chrome, Vibrant Polished Nickel, Vibrant Brushed Nickel, Matte Black, and Vibrant Brushed Moderne Brass though some finish options may vary by region. With its clean, defined shapes, the design seamlessly integrates into diverse interior styles, offering tones ranging from cool to warm and enhancing functionality and aesthetic adaptability.Save this picture!Save this picture!Building on this versatilityparticularly through its software capabilitiesthe system integrates with the brand-dedicated app, allowing users to customize their shower experience further. Features such as remote on/off control, personalized presets, and voice command compatibility with Amazon Alexa or Google Home enhance convenience and ease of use. Additionally, the ability to set temperature limits, monitor water usage, and track shower duration promotes sustainability without compromising comfort. Regular system updates ensure continued innovation by enabling the addition of new Kohler-created experiences. Furthermore, with a continuous path for the design and projects, the company has developed Studio Kohler as a toolbox and dedicated workspace, home to regional specifying guides, a global product catalog, and technical files to streamline the design process, support customization, and enhance collaboration across various projects.Save this picture!Save this picture!To learn more about Studio Kohler and the Anthem+ digital control, visit the website. Image gallerySee allShow lessAbout this authorEnrique TovarAuthorCite: Enrique Tovar. "Creating a Multi-Sensory Digital Shower Experience for Well-being, Relaxation, and Control" 04 Dec 2024. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1023948/creating-a-multi-sensory-digital-shower-experience-for-well-being-relaxation-and-control&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! 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RIBA Awards House of the Year 2024 to Six Columns by 31/44 ArchitectsSave this picture!Six Columns House / 31/44 Architects. Image Nick DeardenSix Columns, designed by 31/44 Architects has been announced as the winner of the RIBA House of the Year 2024 award. Designed by Will Burges, Director of 31/44 Architects, for his own family, this four-bedroom residence occupies a compact urban plot in Crystal Palace, South London. The home's design, inspired by the six prominent columns that define its structure, integrates with the surrounding terraced houses while retaining a distinctive and compelling architectural identity.Save this picture!The jury appreciated the building for its apt organization on the compact plot size, accommodating the complex needs of the family. The project offers a rare example of a project designed by an architect for their own benefit, as the future user, a particularity then often leads to unique and highly personalized design decisions.Save this picture!The building also integrates complex influences, from Brutalist influences to creative flourishes, in the words of RIBA President Muyiwa Oki. The result is a house well integrated into its suburban context while retaining a distinctive and recognizable image. It maximizes a small, sloping London site, employing a local material, brisk, to create a visual connection with the neighboring houses. Related Article Radical Social Housing Project in Barcelona Wins the 2024 RIBA International Prize Inside, the building reveals more of its unique personality, blending eclectic architectural details from various sources and family travels. The design incorporates a series of intimate spaces across three floors, creating a sense of spaciousness despite the modest room sizes. Inspired by post-war American and 1950s British architecture, the house features a mix of exposed brick, spruce paneling, and concrete, balanced by warm timber joinery. The design prioritizes shared living spaces and minimizes corridors, with views extending through the kitchen and living areas into two distinct rear gardens.Save this picture! This philosophy of the home as a lifelong process might be a tricky concept in this fast-paced contractual world, however, Six Columns demonstrates an important message that we should all remember; your home is not a static slice of time, but continuously evolves with you. - RIBA House of the Year 2024 Award Chair, Je Ahn Save this picture!Established in 2013, the RIBA House of the Year award celebrates architectural excellence in new-build homes and extensions across the UK. Four other houses were shortlisted in the competition: Eavesdrop by Tom Dowdall Architects, Farmworker's House by Hugh Strange Architects, Peckham House by Surman Weston, Plas Hendy Stable Block by Studio Brassica Architects, and The Hall by Taylor Hare Architects. Previous winners of the award include Hayhurst & Co.'s 'Green House in 2023 and the Red House by David Kohn Architects in 2022.Image gallerySee allShow lessAbout this authorCite: Maria-Cristina Florian. "RIBA Awards House of the Year 2024 to Six Columns by 31/44 Architects" 04 Dec 2024. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1024357/riba-awards-house-of-the-year-2024-to-six-columns-by-31-44-architects&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

Discover how to leverage your graphic design skills and become adept in essential motion design tools like After Effects. Join Victoria Nece, principal product manager at Adobe, along with Michelle Higa Fox, group creative director of experience, and Paola Chen Le, Senior 2D animator, from award-winning animation and design studio BUCK. BUCK is known for creating lushly detailed 3D worlds for Airbnb and original content like Netflixs award-winning Love, Death & Robots.Youll learn: How to amplify your skills in Illustrator and Photoshop through the dynamic, rewarding, and in-demand field of motion designHow motion fits in with classic graphic design brand guidelinesThe big picture story of motion design and where its headed: from dynamic typography to experimental animation, organic 3D to charismatic characters and everything in betweenHow creative thinking and storytelling evolve with the addition of motionSubscribe to Adobe Creative Cloud: https://adobe.ly/48Y1QJ1 Learn more about Creative Cloud: https://adobe.ly/3RTndnp About Adobe Creative Cloud:Unlocking creative potential goes beyond tools it's about cultivating inspiration, fostering innovation, and mastering artistic expression. On the Adobe Creative Cloud YouTube channel, discover stories, concepts, and trends that ignite your creativity. We are your hub for creativity, connecting you with Adobe channels for detailed tutorials and product insights. Adobe Creative Cloud brings together everything you need to create your greatest work. One membership gives you access to all Adobe professional creative desktop applications, plus new features as soon as they're available. Cloud storage ensures file access anywhere, even on mobile, streamlining concept sharing. Cloud-based services let you build websites, mobile apps, and content for any medium/device. With Behance integration, you can publish your portfolio on your own URL and plug into the world's largest creative community to get inspired, get feedback, and find new opportunities.Connect with Adobe Creative Cloud:Twitter: https://twitter.com/creativecloud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/adobe-creative-cloud/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adobecreativecloud Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adobecreativecloud/ #Adobe #AdobeYouTube #AdobeCreativeCloud

Who says an old dog cant learn new tricks? To stay ahead of the creative curve, even renowned designer Aaron Draplin needs inspiration and an up-to-date toolkit. Come join Aaron as he entertains and delights on a journey of self-discovery and creative breakthroughs. Youll find out what it means to learn from the American graphic underbelly, explore things he uses in his day-to-day design toolkit, and hear a few tips and tricks hes learned along the way from others. On this journey, youll discover: How you can learn from old stuff and put it to work for you Design using subtraction and other mind-blowing tips Some current tips and tricks hes found on social to maintain his edge His opinions on things like AI and life Cool stuff hes madeSubscribe to Adobe Creative Cloud: https://adobe.ly/48Y1QJ1 Learn more about Creative Cloud: https://adobe.ly/3RTndnp About Adobe Creative Cloud:Unlocking creative potential goes beyond tools it's about cultivating inspiration, fostering innovation, and mastering artistic expression. On the Adobe Creative Cloud YouTube channel, discover stories, concepts, and trends that ignite your creativity. We are your hub for creativity, connecting you with Adobe channels for detailed tutorials and product insights. Adobe Creative Cloud brings together everything you need to create your greatest work. One membership gives you access to all Adobe professional creative desktop applications, plus new features as soon as they're available. Cloud storage ensures file access anywhere, even on mobile, streamlining concept sharing. Cloud-based services let you build websites, mobile apps, and content for any medium/device. With Behance integration, you can publish your portfolio on your own URL and plug into the world's largest creative community to get inspired, get feedback, and find new opportunities.Connect with Adobe Creative Cloud:Twitter: https://twitter.com/creativecloud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/adobe-creative-cloud/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adobecreativecloud Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adobecreativecloud/ #Adobe #AdobeYouTube #AdobeCreativeCloud

Discover how to leverage your graphic design skills and become adept in essential motion design tools like After Effects. Join Victoria Nece, principal product manager at Adobe, along with Michelle Higa Fox, group creative director of experience, and Paola Chen Le, Senior 2D animator, from award-winning animation and design studio BUCK. BUCK is known for creating lushly detailed 3D worlds for Airbnb and original content like Netflixs award-winning Love, Death & Robots.Youll learn: How to amplify your skills in Illustrator and Photoshop through the dynamic, rewarding, and in-demand field of motion designHow motion fits in with classic graphic design brand guidelinesThe big picture story of motion design and where its headed: from dynamic typography to experimental animation, organic 3D to charismatic characters and everything in betweenHow creative thinking and storytelling evolve with the addition of motionSubscribe to Adobe Creative Cloud: https://adobe.ly/48Y1QJ1 Learn more about Creative Cloud: https://adobe.ly/3RTndnp About Adobe Creative Cloud:Unlocking creative potential goes beyond tools it's about cultivating inspiration, fostering innovation, and mastering artistic expression. On the Adobe Creative Cloud YouTube channel, discover stories, concepts, and trends that ignite your creativity. We are your hub for creativity, connecting you with Adobe channels for detailed tutorials and product insights. Adobe Creative Cloud brings together everything you need to create your greatest work. One membership gives you access to all Adobe professional creative desktop applications, plus new features as soon as they're available. Cloud storage ensures file access anywhere, even on mobile, streamlining concept sharing. Cloud-based services let you build websites, mobile apps, and content for any medium/device. With Behance integration, you can publish your portfolio on your own URL and plug into the world's largest creative community to get inspired, get feedback, and find new opportunities.Connect with Adobe Creative Cloud:Twitter: https://twitter.com/creativecloud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/adobe-creative-cloud/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adobecreativecloud Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adobecreativecloud/ #Adobe #AdobeYouTube #AdobeCreativeCloud

Who says an old dog cant learn new tricks? To stay ahead of the creative curve, even renowned designer Aaron Draplin needs inspiration and an up-to-date toolkit. Come join Aaron as he entertains and delights on a journey of self-discovery and creative breakthroughs. Youll find out what it means to learn from the American graphic underbelly, explore things he uses in his day-to-day design toolkit, and hear a few tips and tricks hes learned along the way from others. On this journey, youll discover: How you can learn from old stuff and put it to work for you Design using subtraction and other mind-blowing tips Some current tips and tricks hes found on social to maintain his edge His opinions on things like AI and life Cool stuff hes madeSubscribe to Adobe Creative Cloud: https://adobe.ly/48Y1QJ1 Learn more about Creative Cloud: https://adobe.ly/3RTndnp About Adobe Creative Cloud:Unlocking creative potential goes beyond tools it's about cultivating inspiration, fostering innovation, and mastering artistic expression. On the Adobe Creative Cloud YouTube channel, discover stories, concepts, and trends that ignite your creativity. We are your hub for creativity, connecting you with Adobe channels for detailed tutorials and product insights. Adobe Creative Cloud brings together everything you need to create your greatest work. One membership gives you access to all Adobe professional creative desktop applications, plus new features as soon as they're available. Cloud storage ensures file access anywhere, even on mobile, streamlining concept sharing. Cloud-based services let you build websites, mobile apps, and content for any medium/device. With Behance integration, you can publish your portfolio on your own URL and plug into the world's largest creative community to get inspired, get feedback, and find new opportunities.Connect with Adobe Creative Cloud:Twitter: https://twitter.com/creativecloud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/adobe-creative-cloud/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adobecreativecloud Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adobecreativecloud/ #Adobe #AdobeYouTube #AdobeCreativeCloud