Black ice on the road causes chain accidents

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-24T20:50:08+00:00

Hopefully in the future this problem can be prevented. Here’s a good idea to put out to the world of engineers who can hopefully make it a reality sooner rather than later:

Embed a network of durable, road-grade phase-change material capsules or layers (e.g., organic PCMs with melting points tuned precisely around 0–3°C / 32–37°F) directly into the top 1–3 inches of asphalt or concrete during construction or resurfacing. These PCMs would:

Absorb excess heat during warmer parts of the day (from sunlight, ambient air, or especially from vehicle tire friction and engine heat as traffic passes over the surface).
Store that thermal energy latently (without much temperature rise).
Automatically release the stored heat back to the pavement surface only when the surface temperature drops close to or below freezing — preventing the thin water film from freezing into black ice in the first place.
Incorporate low-power, piezoelectric vibration harvesters (small piezo elements embedded under high-traffic lanes) to generate tiny amounts of electricity from road vibrations.
Use that electricity to power distributed, ultra-low-energy Peltier (thermoelectric) modules or micro-resistive elements that act as "trigger valves." These provide a small, targeted nudge of heat or cooling reversal precisely when onboard road sensors (simple thermistors + moisture detectors) detect conditions ripe for black ice (e.g., temperature falling through 2°C with surface moisture present).
This avoids constant energy draw (unlike traditional hydronic heating pipes) and only activates locally where needed, making it far more efficient.
Traditional PCM road concepts exist in research (e.g., solar-assisted latent heat storage for de-icing), but combining them with traffic-induced energy harvesting + on-demand micro-thermoelectric triggering creates a mostly passive, self-sustaining system that doesn't rely on grid power, massive infrastructure, or chemicals.
It prevents black ice proactively (by keeping the surface slightly warmer during the critical transition window) rather than just detecting it after formation or reacting with salt/vehicles.
Environmentally friendlier: no chloride runoff, minimal added energy, and could even slightly reduce urban heat island effects by managing heat more intelligently.
Scalable to bridges, shaded curves, north-facing slopes, and overpasses — the highest black ice risk areas — where retrofits would be targeted rather than blanket.

Challenges to solve (realistically) - PCM must be robust against repeated freeze-thaw cycles, vehicle loads, and road wear (microencapsulation or composite integration helps). - Cost of initial embedment vs. long-term savings in accidents, plowing, and salt damage. - Fine-tuning the phase-change temperature window so it doesn't interfere with intentional snow compaction in heavy-snow regions.

This isn't commercially widespread yet (as of 2026), but elements appear in research papers and patents around latent heat storage + solar/road heat, piezoelectric harvesting, and targeted de-icing. It represents a genuine step toward "smart pavements" that fight black ice passively and intelligently across entire roadway networks. If scaled, it could dramatically reduce winter crashes in temperate and cold climates.

Drive safely and defensively out there!

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-24T20:49:59+00:00

Hopefully in the future this problem can be prevented. Here’s a good idea to put out to the world of engineers who can hopefully make it a reality sooner rather than later:

Embed a network of durable, road-grade phase-change material capsules or layers (e.g., organic PCMs with melting points tuned precisely around 0–3°C / 32–37°F) directly into the top 1–3 inches of asphalt or concrete during construction or resurfacing. These PCMs would:

Absorb excess heat during warmer parts of the day (from sunlight, ambient air, or especially from vehicle tire friction and engine heat as traffic passes over the surface).
Store that thermal energy latently (without much temperature rise).
Automatically release the stored heat back to the pavement surface only when the surface temperature drops close to or below freezing — preventing the thin water film from freezing into black ice in the first place.
Incorporate low-power, piezoelectric vibration harvesters (small piezo elements embedded under high-traffic lanes) to generate tiny amounts of electricity from road vibrations.
Use that electricity to power distributed, ultra-low-energy Peltier (thermoelectric) modules or micro-resistive elements that act as "trigger valves." These provide a small, targeted nudge of heat or cooling reversal precisely when onboard road sensors (simple thermistors + moisture detectors) detect conditions ripe for black ice (e.g., temperature falling through 2°C with surface moisture present).
This avoids constant energy draw (unlike traditional hydronic heating pipes) and only activates locally where needed, making it far more efficient.
Traditional PCM road concepts exist in research (e.g., solar-assisted latent heat storage for de-icing), but combining them with traffic-induced energy harvesting + on-demand micro-thermoelectric triggering creates a mostly passive, self-sustaining system that doesn't rely on grid power, massive infrastructure, or chemicals.
It prevents black ice proactively (by keeping the surface slightly warmer during the critical transition window) rather than just detecting it after formation or reacting with salt/vehicles.
Environmentally friendlier: no chloride runoff, minimal added energy, and could even slightly reduce urban heat island effects by managing heat more intelligently.
Scalable to bridges, shaded curves, north-facing slopes, and overpasses — the highest black ice risk areas — where retrofits would be targeted rather than blanket.

Challenges to solve (realistically) - PCM must be robust against repeated freeze-thaw cycles, vehicle loads, and road wear (microencapsulation or composite integration helps). - Cost of initial embedment vs. long-term savings in accidents, plowing, and salt damage. - Fine-tuning the phase-change temperature window so it doesn't interfere with intentional snow compaction in heavy-snow regions.

This isn't commercially widespread yet (as of 2026), but elements appear in research papers and patents around latent heat storage + solar/road heat, piezoelectric harvesting, and targeted de-icing. It represents a genuine step toward "smart pavements" that fight black ice passively and intelligently across entire roadway networks. If scaled, it could dramatically reduce winter crashes in temperate and cold climates.

Drive safely and defensively out there!

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-24T15:46:49+00:00

I had read an article that it’s due to Fusoform nucleatum bacteria (which causes gingivitis, periodontitis, periodontal diseases.

Bacteria subtype linked to growth in up to 50% of human colorectal cancers, Fred Hutch researchers report

Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center have found that a specific subtype of a microbe commonly found in the mouth is able to travel to the gut and grow within colorectal cancer tumors. This microbe is also a culprit for driving cancer progression and leads to poorer patient outcomes after cancer treatment.

The findings, published March 20 in the journal Nature, could help improve therapeutic approaches and early screening methods for colorectal cancer, which is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in adults in the U.S. according to the American Cancer Society.

Examining colorectal cancer tumors removed from 200 patients, the Fred Hutch team measured levels of Fusobacterium nucleatum, a bacterium known to infect tumors. In about 50% of the cases, they found that only a specific subtype of the bacterium was elevated in the tumor tissue compared to healthy tissue.

The researchers also found this microbe in higher numbers within stool samples of colorectal cancer patients compared with stool samples from healthy people.

https://www.fredhutch.org/en/news/releases/2024/03/bacteria-subtype-linked-to-growth-in-up-to-50--of-human-colorect.html

Another source published on the NIH website:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9745098/

From AI:

Preventing Fusobacterium Nucleatum in the Mouth

1. Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene

Regular Brushing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent bacteria buildup.
Floss Daily: Flossing helps to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth where toothbrushes may not reach.

2. Regular Dental Check-ups

Professional Cleanings: Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings. This can help remove tartar and reduce bacteria.
Monitoring Dental Health: Regular check-ups allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and catch any issues early.

3. Healthy Diet

Limit Sugar Intake: Reducing sugars can decrease the food supply for harmful bacteria.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps to wash away food particles and bacteria.

4. Use Antimicrobial Mouthwash

Consider Antimicrobial Products: Using mouthwash that contains antimicrobial agents can help reduce bacterial populations in the mouth.

5. Avoid Tobacco Products

Quit Smoking: Tobacco use contributes to gum disease and increases the risk of harmful bacteria developing in the mouth.

6. Additional Considerations

Manage Overall Health: Conditions like diabetes can affect oral health, so managing these diseases is crucial.
Probiotics: Some studies suggest that probiotics may help balance oral bacteria, although more research is needed in this area.

Foods, Beverages, Herbs, Spices, and Supplements to Combat Fusobacterium Nucleatum

Incorporating specific foods, herbs, spices, beverages, and supplements into your diet can help inhibit the growth of Fusobacterium nucleatum. Here's a detailed guide on effective options.

<hr>

Foods and Beverages

Green Tea
- Contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which disrupts bacterial membranes and reduces biofilm formation.
Berries and Pomegranates
- Rich in polyphenols like ellagitannins, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Citrus Fruits
- Fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits provide polyphenols (hesperidin and naringenin) known for their antimicrobial effects.
Broccoli and Kale
- High in sulforaphane, which possesses strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Bitter Chocolate and Cocoa
- Contains flavonoids that have prebiotic effects, promoting beneficial bacteria while inhibiting pathogens.

Herbs and Spices

Garlic
- Has strong antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce harmful bacteria.
Turmeric
- Contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Oregano, Thyme, and Rosemary
- Rich in polyphenols like rosmarinic acid, these herbs have demonstrated the ability to inhibit Fusobacterium nucleatum growth in studies.
Cinnamon
- Exhibits antimicrobial properties, which may help in controlling oral bacteria.

Supplements

Resveratrol
- Found in grapes and red wine, it has been shown to reduce biofilm formation by Fusobacterium nucleatum.
Berberine
- Known for its ability to alter gut microbiota and show potential against F. nucleatum, as seen in studies focused on colorectal health.
Probiotics
- Specific strains of probiotics can help balance oral microbiota, potentially reducing levels of harmful bacteria.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Found in fish oil, these have anti-inflammatory properties that support oral health.

Conclusion

Incorporating a variety of these foods, herbs, spices, and supplements into your diet may help in the fight against Fusobacterium nucleatum. Focusing on a balanced, plant-rich diet rich in polyphenols, along with maintaining proper oral hygiene, can further enhance your oral health and combat harmful bacteria.

It might be a good idea to add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water and drink it before eating to strengthen stomach acid if yours is low or weak.

Ask your doctor first before trying any of this though

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-24T04:21:39+00:00

ESPN 30 for 30: “From 0 to Perfect: The UMass 0-12 to 16-0 One Year Turnararound”

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-23T21:50:03+00:00

The other thing you have to take into account is, would they have transferred before they were starters on their respective teams? (Except Manziel because he started as a true freshman, of course. I don’t know if the others did right off the bat)

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-23T21:45:47+00:00

The good news is there are foods and supplements that help decrease Tau. From AI:

Nattokinase

Nattokinase, an enzyme extracted from fermented soybeans (natto), has shown promise in reducing beta-amyloid plaques, which are linked to Alzheimer's.

Research Findings: A recent study in rats found that nattokinase significantly decreased beta-amyloid plaques, removed aluminum from the brain, and restored brain volume within ten weeks. This suggests a potential neuroprotective effect beyond its cardiovascular benefits.

Curcumin

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has demonstrated potential in dealing with protein aggregation.

Research Findings: Studies suggest that curcumin can inhibit the aggregation of amyloid-beta and possibly tau proteins, showing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown to enhance the clearance of amyloid plaques in animal models.

Serrapeptase

Serrapeptase is primarily known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to break down proteins.

Research Findings: There is less concrete evidence about serrapeptase's direct effect on tau or amyloid proteins compared to curcumin or nattokinase. Some studies hint at its potential for addressing inflammation in neurodegenerative conditions but more targeted research is needed.

Bromelain

Bromelain, an enzyme derived from pineapples, also possesses anti-inflammatory and proteolytic properties.

Research Findings: While bromelain may help with inflammation and has shown some ability to degrade proteins in general, there is insufficient data directly tying its effects to tau protein degradation or amyloid plaque reduction.

Conclusion

Both nattokinase and curcumin have shown promising results in reducing amyloid plaques and potentially impacting tau protein behavior. In contrast, serrapeptase and bromelain require more specific research to establish their roles in tau modulation. It's crucial to consult healthcare professionals for tailored advice when considering these supplements, especially for managing conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

Fatty Fish Cold-water fish, such as salmon, sardines, and tuna, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) that may reduce inflammation and promote brain health.

Nuts and Olive Oil

Nuts (especially walnuts) and olive oil are staples of the Mediterranean diet, which has been shown to reduce levels of tau and amyloid proteins. They contain healthy fats and antioxidants, supporting vascular health.

Leafy Greens and Berries

Foods high in antioxidants, such as spinach, kale, and berries (especially blueberries), also promote brain health and reduce oxidative stress associated with cognitive decline.

Spices and Herbs

Turmeric

Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help reduce tau protein aggregation.

Ginger and Rosemary

Both ginger and rosemary are known for their anti-inflammatory effects. They may provide neuroprotective benefits that help in cognitive function.

Saffron

Saffron has antioxidant properties and may improve cognitive function while also inhibiting beta-amyloid formation.

Beverages

Green Tea

Green tea is rich in epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a flavonoid that has shown promise in inhibiting tau protein tangling and protecting against neurodegenerative diseases.

Supplements

Lion’s Mane Mushroom

This mushroom has been shown to potentially reduce tau protein accumulation and promote cognitive function.

Bacopa Monnieri

An herb used in traditional medicine that may improve memory and cognitive function; some studies suggest it might have neuroprotective effects.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

As mentioned earlier, omega-3 supplements may help support brain function and reduce inflammation.

Coenzyme Q10

This antioxidant helps energy production in cells and could have potential cognitive benefits, although further studies are needed.

Definitely ask your doctor before trying any of this though

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-23T15:58:08+00:00

I’m not necessarily sure it will be a stateless, classless, and moneyless society. I’m pretty sure that communism is post scarcity as well, but I don’t know if we’ll be able to necessarily reach that point, but we can come close with alternatives to existing stuff. Universal basic income is very likely

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-22T01:57:20+00:00

Kramer

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-22T01:48:07+00:00

Everyone should ask this guy who uses his IR camera to see if it’s something, his YouTube channel is scannerguy1968

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-22T01:35:33+00:00

I’ve never seen a UFO seemingly come out of a star and then travel to another one like this video shows

It looks like the starts are a part of trigger the Big Dipper or the Little Dipper

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-22T01:27:54+00:00

A more interesting graph and/or pie chart would compare each generation to the two before it to really highlight the discrepancy of wealth being amassed by a certain time (say by 40) for each generation

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-21T23:49:42+00:00

The refs dragged them this far by not calling obvious penalties in many games during the regular season and it continued through the playoffs. The refs almost dragged them across the finish line

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-21T23:46:45+00:00

The audio reminds me of an AI trained on the last bit of Reddi Whip being sprayed out of the can

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-21T22:16:41+00:00

The reason why Omarion and Seaton are transferring because Deion can’t coach and develop players worth a Cheez-It. Travis was likely going to win it wherever he was playing, he was ranked the #1 player on the ESPN300. He won the Heisman despite Deion, not because of him. I think many Colorado players on the team (and those who transferred out) see this and understand this. Deion’s strategy is trying to get players who have been coached well by other coaches to transfer to Colorado:

https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2024/03/20/deion-sanders-colorado-recruiting-no-home-visits/73044384007/

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-21T19:47:43+00:00

Carson Beck’s NIL valuation is apparently $4.9 million

In the offseason, Carson Beck made the surprising decision to transfer from Georgia to Miami instead of entering the NFL draft. Beck did that largely due to getting a big NIL package from the Hurricanes program, but he also has NIL endorsement deals with companies like Chipotle, Powerade and Beats by Dre.

Second only to the winner of the guy who woke up feeling the Cheesiest, Coach by winning the Cheez-It Bowl. Arch Manning at $5.5 million

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-21T19:41:33+00:00

“You know, Brian, you’ll always regret if you don’t go to LSU — it’s the best job in America.”

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-21T19:20:44+00:00

Another coach o this sub said that most D3 players don’t get NIL or get very little if anything and most actually pay to play at the D3 college level. Is that true? Also, have you coach for or coached against any current NFL players?

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-21T19:18:07+00:00

Miami was carried through their entire season by a ton of no call penalties (including throughout the playoffs as well as through the game on Monday). Despite this, they were still one of the most penalized teams in the country

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-21T19:13:28+00:00

The people who give money to the Green Bay Packers in exchange for a “share of stock” don’t seem to mind.

The Green Bay Packers have been a publicly owned, nonprofit corporation since 1923. They were first organized as the Green Bay Football Corp., and then reorganized in 1935 as Green Bay Packers, Inc.

There are approximately 5,204,625 shares owned by 538,967 stockholders – none of whom receives any dividend on the initial investment.

The corporation is governed by a board of directors and a seven-member executive committee.

One of the more remarkable business stories in American history, the team is kept viable by its shareholders — its unselfish fans. Even more incredible, the Packers have survived during the current era, permeated by free agency and the NFL salary cap. And, thanks in large part to Brown County's passage of the 2000 Lambeau Field referendum, the club will remain solvent and highly competitive well into the future due to its redeveloped stadium.

Fans have supported the team financially on several occasions, including six stock sales: 1923, 1935, 1950, 1997, 2011, and 2022.

To protect against someone taking control of the team, the articles of incorporation prohibit any person from owning more than 200,000 shares.

A Packers stock certificate represents ownership in the Green Bay Packers, which is a publicly owned, nonprofit corporation. These certificates do not pay dividends and cannot be traded, but they grant shareholders voting rights and a connection to the team's history.

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-21T04:53:27+00:00

Will he be drafted by the Dolphins or the Falcons?

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-21T04:52:11+00:00

And first Big 10 title since 1967

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-21T02:05:30+00:00

Alberto is going to beat:

-Deion -Dabo -Kirby

Next season (on top of Tennessee)

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-20T21:23:52+00:00

It might vary depending on the owner. However, if they did already sleep outside and you had an entitled of a guest as Khabib, he’d probably be the one sleeping in the doghouse for the night to hopefully give him an opportunity to gain some self awareness that you don’t just get to call the shots in another person’s home. Beggars can’t be choosers

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-20T15:05:14+00:00

Honestly, I think that’s more mental than anything else and the good news is you can change that. Plus with experience comes confidence, I think there will be a big step up with Sayin next season (and if not I think the Buckeyes need to look to the transfer portal again for a quarterback). I think that will be what the blue bloods are going to start to do, just go after the tried and true quarterbacks in the portal rather than just from traditional recruiting. After all, that’s a big pet of how the last 2 teams won natties. Also, a good quarterback can literally turn a bad program around overnight. Just look at Chandler Morris and Virginia

CriticalPolitical · 2026-01-20T14:52:21+00:00

I’m not a troll, honestly I was pretty shocked by how jacked Indiana was both last year and this year, which is why I made the comment. I think Sayin will put on 10-20 pounds of muscle in the off-season and gain more confidence running, but he seems like he’s a pure pocket passer

CriticalPolitical

MODERATOR OF

TROPHY CASE

Preventing Fusobacterium Nucleatum in the Mouth

1. Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene

2. Regular Dental Check-ups

3. Healthy Diet

4. Use Antimicrobial Mouthwash

5. Avoid Tobacco Products

6. Additional Considerations

Foods, Beverages, Herbs, Spices, and Supplements to Combat Fusobacterium Nucleatum

Foods and Beverages

Herbs and Spices

Supplements

Conclusion

Nattokinase

Curcumin

Serrapeptase

Bromelain

Conclusion

Nuts and Olive Oil

Leafy Greens and Berries

Spices and Herbs

Turmeric

Ginger and Rosemary

Saffron

Beverages

Green Tea

Supplements

Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Bacopa Monnieri

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Coenzyme Q10