Finally the cause of the collapse of Mayan civilization was revealed

The puzzle of causing the collapse of Mayan civilization slowly encountered a bright spot. Recent research reveals that social instability, war, and political crisis are the triggers. The findings are based on a radiocarbon dating test at one of the largest sites of the Mayan at Ceibal, Guatemala.

Mayan's ancient settlement at Ceibal, Guatemala. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2DzS05t)

Known, there are two eras of Mayan civilization era. The first destruction is known as classical destruction, occurring in the 9th century. The second or pre-classic destruction occurred in the 2nd century. During this time, because both collapse is still mysterious. Now, scientists find the cause of both the same.

"We found the same pattern in both cases of Mayan civilization destruction, and, this is not just a simple ruin, but it consists of a wave of destruction," said Takeshi Inomata, a researcher from the University of Arizona.

"Firstly, there was a wave of minor destruction that preceded, associated with war and some political instability, and then a major destruction in which many centers of Mayan civilization were abandoned," Inomata said.

Recovery ever had occurred, but again destroyed.

This finding is an important milestone after a decade of research. The results of this research provide a clearer picture of the process of the occurrence of destruction.

"We have reached a point when we can see the social patterns of Mayan civilization with the exact radiocarbon dating," Inomata said. The findings are published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TRIBUNNEWS]

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Two-headed sedan made in Bandung

Not a little money that was poured to modify Toyota Vios Limo sedan in 2012 to be two-headed. Some time ago this car was viral when ticketed by police in Sukajadi Street, Bandung.

And the owner claimed to have predicted it and he was resigned when ticketed by the police. Roni Gunawan (71) as the car owner also claimed to spend up to Rp. 200 million to realize his crazy idea.

2 unit of Toyota Vios Limo sedans belonging to Roni Gunawan (71) which modified to become a two-headed sedan in his workshop, Babakan Cibeureum Street, Bandung. (Picture from: TribunNews)

"If the total amount of car modifications funds alone reached Rp.180 million for two cars and for two-headed car modification spent around Rp.60 million," said Roni when met at his workshop at Babakan Cibeureum Street, Bandung on Thursday, January 17, 2018.

Roni said the manufacturing process done by Gemah Ripah Taxi mechanics who is well acquainted with these Toyota Vios Limo sedan. The car modifications take up to three months.

2 unit of Toyota Vios Limo sedans belonging to Roni Gunawan (71) which modified to become a two-headed sedan in his workshop, Babakan Cibeureum Street, Bandung. (Picture from: TheSun)

"When the process of modification, engine vehicles and the interior is removed and cleaned, leaving only the car body alone, the engine was first removed to facilitate the merging of two car heads," said Roni. 

The process of making it astonishing because the car body cut is actually done manually by welding specialist mechanics. And according to him, two cars cut in the middle by way of weld and combined again by using welding.

"The combined process must be done careful so that the precision and the pieces are neat and the same height, not to the high side, for this process takes up to two months," said Roni. So, where did the idea of ​​such peculiar and unique modifications begin? Roni just call a fad only.

"At first it was fun, the idea came out in a dreamy day in the bathroom, so there are two idle cars that are not used, so they are hesitant because they were afraid to fail , after they were given time, they tried and found they could, "Roni said. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TRIBUNNEWS | THESUN ]

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Guest Post: The Best High-Tech Cars of 2017

2017 has been a year of various tech improvements across several industries, including car manufacturing. Vehicles unveiled this year have been competing with one another via navigation features, cruise control settings, parking assistance and audio systems. 

Cars are not only getting safer and easier to drive but also more comfortable and user-friendly. We have handpicked the best high-tech cars of 2017 that got the best reviews and were in the news for months.

1. Tesla Model 3

The much anticipated and awaited Model 3 from Tesla does not seem to have disappointed customers. The car has a more affordable price point than the previous models and boasts a range of approximately 215 miles. This is a roomy midsize sedan that did not sacrifice comfort for the aesthetics. The standard battery starts at $35,000 and has a top speed of 130 mph. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The long range battery starts at $44,000 and will offer a range of approximately 310 miles. The top speed for this option is 140 mph, with the car being able to go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds.

Tesla S electric car. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2k9xkbA)

The Model 3 has onboard maps and navigation and comes fully equipped with Wi-fi internet connectivity. It incorporates Bluetooth streaming and calling. It also comprises power adjustable side mirrors, a 12-volt power outlet and voice activated controls. Drivers can use remote climate control and keyless entry via the Tesla app. The vehicle is equipped with 12 ultrasonic sensors responsible for safety such as automatic braking and collision avoidance. 

2. BMW 5 Series

The newest BMW is a midsize sedan thatwill sport a brand new cruise control system which boasts highly accurate precision. In addition, it will also comprise blind spot detection, autopilot mode, assist control for lane centering an integral active steering and side sonar function that allows for long distance driving with the driver keeping their hands on the wheels lightly. The new generation of BMW vehicles will have carbon fiber reinforcements.

3. Chevrolet Equinox

The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox sports a 1.5 liter turbocharged 4 cylinder engine and a 6 speed automatic transmission. A stylish crossover SUV, the Equinox is fuel efficient and super roomy. The new model is lighter than any of its predecessors by approximately 400 pounds (or roughly 10%). The vehicle has the ability to tow 3,500 pounds as opposed to the 2,000 that others in its class can handle.

Optional safety features for the new Chevvy include lane assist and departure warning, blind spot alert, vibrating seat for the driver, forward collision warning and rear cross traffic alert. The Equinox surprises customers with high tech features such as 80inch LCDs, Android Auto and Wi-fi hotspot available for multi-users.

4.Toyota Prius

Widely known for its impressive fuel economy, Toyota Prius 2017 comprises more safety technologies and the safety suite for driver assistance. The vehicle offers impressive cargo room and is super comfortable to drive and ride. The Safety Sense that cost almost $2,000 in 2016 is now standard with the Toyota Prius 2017. The suite incorporates forward collision warning that includes auto emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure alert that helps you stay in your lane and an adaptive cruise control system that automatically keeps the distance between your car and the vehicle driving in front of you.

The Toyota Prius 2017 boasts 50 MPG on the highway and 54 MPG in the city. The hybrid is available for $25,000 and guarantees dependability, fuel economy and high tech features. The rearview camera and the top tier crash test scores make the vehicle a safe choice if you are interested in buying a hybrid. The vehicle might not have high end aesthetics that other 2017 cars can boast, but it can be improved with customized lights or bulbs. 

5. Audi A4

The performance and features galore of the 2017 Audi A4 don’t come cheap. The tech features boasted by the A4 situate the vehicle far above other competitors. The car comprises the MMI infotainment system (Audi Multimedia Interface) that has a 7 inch screen and incorporates support for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The price for the Audi A4 2017 starts at $35,000. The high price point can be explained by the multitude of tech features, the perfect balance between comfort and performance, the luxurious interior and the roomy rear seat space.

Both the aesthetics and the feel of the A4 are luxurious. The car has a seven speed auto transmission and a four-cylinder engine. It boasts 24-27 MPG in the city and 31-37 MPG on the highway.

In Conclusion

When buying a car, one of the most important aspects to pay attention to is technology. Whether it’s an electric or a hybrid car, each vehicle has its advantages and disadvantages when it comes to infotainment interfaces, connectivity and apps, audio, navigation and safety features. It’s up to you to decide which car model best suits your needs both from a practical and aesthetical perspective. *** [By: JOHN STUART | EDITOR : EKA]

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About the Author

John Stuart works on behalf of stanley-r-harris.co.uk in outreach and content creation. He creates engaging content that help businesses connect with their audience and stand out from the crowd. 

A Mysterious ancient city found in the middle of the sea

Historians and archaeologists are overwhelmed with the discovery of an ancient and mysterious city found in a remote place. The reason, the city was built in the middle of the ocean. Scientists themselves are surprised at this finding. As quoted from the Independent page on Tuesday, November 7, 2017, the settlement was finally found after nearly 100 years since the first search.

One of ancient structures at Nan Madol, located just off the main island of Pohnpei in Micronesia. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2B2dC4P)

Interest in this mysterious island was initially triggered by a satellite image. Those satellite imagery has revealed the area of ​​the location. And now, this mysterious discovery becomes the subject of further research. Nan Madol's virtual image almost uninhabitable, located just off the main island of Pohnpei in Micronesia.

A surprising fact about this mysterious place, a settlement estimated to be built there in the 1st or 2nd century. Nan Madol itself has the meaning of 'intermediate space'. As quoted of the Independent again, this place is mentioned as 8 Wonders of the World by a number of European explorers. There are 97 geometric shaped blocks, separated by water channels that are not too wide.

The location sketch of the ancient building structures in Nan Madol. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2B2dC4P)

Until this news is published, there is no comprehensive record to explain the basis or structure. But this mysterious place has also been discussed in 'What on Earth?' What on Earth? itself is a documentary series that tells the exploration of a number of researchers on various phenomena on our Earth.

This mysterious island was initially triggered by a satellite image. (Picture from: https://ind.pn/2ze4AB5)

These findings leave serious questions. In the documentary series, Patrick Hunt is an archaeologist wondering. "Why would someone build a city in the middle of the ocean ?, Why here, so far from another known civilization?" he said.

Mark McCoy of Southern Methodist University-who is leader of the research team on the mysterious island, later replied by commenting. McCoy said that the mysterious site is likely to be a burial place for elders. This site may also be a place for religious ceremonies and political power. This is because there is a stone wall that is about 7.6 meters high with a thickness of 5.2 meters in place.

Nan Madol is surrounded by a giant wall that is estimated to be composed of 250 million stones. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2B2dC4P)

These findings sparked much speculation. Again, some compare this place with the island of Atlantis which is thought to have been lost under the sea. It was reported that locals near the mysterious place would not approach the empty 'haunted town'.

The first beginnings of this place began in the early part of the 20th century. When further explored, it was found a variety of surprising facts about Nan Madol. As quoted from the University of Oregon Anthropology Department, the city was formerly the capital of the Saudeleur dynasty until about 1628. The Saudeleur dynasty, the period of King Deleur was the first ruler to unite the inhabitants of Pohnpei Island.

The structure of the building in this place is built from a number of monolithic rocks weighing 5 to 50 tons. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2B2dC4P)

Now, Nan Madol is located in Madelenihmw district, Micronesia Federation. Nan Madol is thought to have been the center of ceremonies and politics of the Saudeleur Dynasty. There is a unique story behind this city. Predicted, residents in this city number more than a thousand people. But it could be less than that.

Its population consists of a number of leaders and ordinary people. But what is surprising is the unfolding function of Nan Madol itself. Rulers have a way of organizing and controlling the number of people who are potentially their competitors. Strategy, the person is required to live in the city, not in their respective areas that are difficult to control.

"How do they arranged the giant rocks in the middle of an artificial land located in the middle of the sea?" It remains a mystery to this day. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2B2dC4P)

Nan Madol is surrounded by a giant wall that is estimated to be composed of 250 million stones. The structure of the building in this place is built from a number of monolithic rocks weighing 5 to 50 tons. There is a possibility, the stones are imported from various islands that are around. Then the question is, "How do they arranged the giant rocks in the middle of an artificial land located in the middle of the sea?"

Archaeologists then try to reconstruct the construction of these stone buildings with various methods of transportation. However, no method works. Each method tried only to move a stone weighing not more than a few tons. Until now, can not be explained more details about the mysterious building structure in place. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | INDEPENDENT]

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Guest Post: Aston Martin DB5

Aston Martin DB5 was one of the first cars, that become famous movie stars. You’ve heard right, that is the deal here – Aston Martin’s appearance in Goldfinger, one of the most well known James Bond flicks, wouldn’t be the same without this beautiful car.

Aston Martin DB5
In this movie, DB5 is agent’s 007 car. Goldfinger by many is seen as a ground-breaking movie for a whole franchise, it had much more style, and details such as DB5 certainly helped to show the right direction of these movies.

This classic car had a lot of gadgets, such as tyre-slices, that few times helped 007 to win over through street races and shake off a chase of his shoulder. It had revolving number plates, which helped to be more anonymous during the mission, as your plates couldn’t be identified cause Bond could change them any time he wanted with just a button click – still though, it is highly possible, that Aston Martin DB5 stand out so much, that even changing number couldn’t help that much, but it’s movie logic, don’t have to be all that perfect. It even shoot oil and smoke, to make road slippery and blur the vision of any drivers behind it, had radar navigation screen – sort of 60’s GPS, passenger ejection button, and even machine guns on sides. Interestingly, this car was lately auctioned and sold for $3.000.000.

Aston Martin DB5 was one of the first cars, that become famous movie stars. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2z6pQZy)

Surely, all these gadgets don’t really work all that great, machine guns obviously are fake, but tire slicer could to a lot of damage just like in the movie, that is no joke. That is an astonishing sum, for such amount of money, you could buy yourself few Buggati Veyron’s or brand new Maybach limousines, but certainly – collectors value for most famous James Bond car ever, is just priceless. There is no other car like that, it’s absolutely unique and one in a kind. Of course, it cannot rivalry with DeLorean from “Back to the Future” trilogy for an award for most famous car in history of cinema, but certainly it has a case for a second place. Worth to notice, that in latest James Bond movie, “Skyfall” starring Daniel Craig, we get to see a comeback of Aston Martin DB5, and it wasn’t the second time we get to see it on screen.

Beside two already mentioned flicks, “Goldfiinger and Skyfall”, it can be also seen in other Bond movies like “Casino Royale”, “Tomorrow Never Dies”, “GoldenEye”, “The World Is Not Enough”. It is for sure most recognised cinematic James Bond car.

That of course is from where whole world know Aston Martin DB5, but certainly the car itself is extraordinary as well. It would very hard to find a list of most beautiful cars in the world, no matter in what magazine or website, without Aston Martin DB5 there, or even: without it in one of the top places. It is design is timeless, and we can safely say that it would be as impressive today, as It was fifty years ago – that is how you recognize a car, that is perfectly designed. How many modern cars, that rock the market today, will accomplish such feat?

Could you point one car, that we can predict will be as well regarded as DB5 in fifty years? Hard to tell, even some supercars like Aventador can be easily eclipsed by more modern supercars, yet DB5 always will be remembered and well respected. It is also worth to say, that this was highly innovative and luxurious car for its time. It had electric windows, reclining seats, wool pile carpets, oil cooler, magnesium-alley body, full leather trim – how many modern cars have such amazing offer to their clients? Not man that’s for sure, and imagine it had to impress people back then, that thee is a car that has all those gimmicks and options build in standard version. Classy, luxurious interior, also very comfortable (at least for two people, cause if you would like to travel with more company, that would be highly uncomfortable), was one of the main reasons people went crazy for this car, but lets not forget about performance. So, how this legend of automotive industry actually performed on the road?

Aston Martin DB5 and James Bond’s – Skyfall
With top speed up to 143 mph, 315 hp you could expect great things. In the other hand though, it accelerated to 60mph in 8 seconds, which is for sure not all that impressive, you could expect more from that car judging by the fact how powerful engine it had. Still though, it is fast enough to call it sports car, and driving it can be a lot of fun, also to those who associate fun behind the wheel mostly with speed and acceleration. Those who rather seek for easy and comfortable driving also can count on DB5, though surely it will take some time for you to accustom to this car, especially if never drove classic old-school vehicles from 60’s.

Aston Martin DB5 is more than an automotive legend – it is also a popculture icon. One of the most famous, and also most stylish, cars ever produced. *** [By: DAVID LIEBERMAN | EDITOR : EKA]
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About the author:

My name is David Lieberman. I work as the president of Bestforacar.com. As one of the founding members of Bestforacar.com, I have helped the company from its initial concept into the leading digital automotive marketplace. Also, I am a technology investor and advisor, helping companies and entrepreneurs with their projects and sites. 

Honda Sports Vision GT was born to express a sporty aura

The Vision GT program that has been initiated by the famous racing games named GranTurismo on the Playstation console, continues to attract interest from car manufacturers worldwide.

The latest Honda Sports Vision GT. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2iIlGQN)

And the latest who interest in this program is the Japanese auto giant, Honda, which recently released a visualization of the Honda Sports Vision Gran Turismo which has also been confirmed will be present in the latest GT Sport game for PS4 game console.

Right side view of Honda Sports Vision GT. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2iIlGQN)

Honda looks serious in the development of its virtual sportscar because the company invites all of its design houses to create a car that became the symbol of the sportsmanship of Honda cars. And the winner is a Honda designer from California, who presents a car with a cursory look similar to the 'junior' NSX, along with a more compact size of Honda's latest supercar.

Rear side view of Honda Sports Vision GT. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2iIlGQN)

Amazingly, Honda Sports Vision GT is really developed in the Honda's R & D center in Tochigi, Japan, as if this virtual car will actually run on the streets. In fact, rumors of real size  Honda Sports Vision GT model was made and tested in the wind tunnel in order to test the level of its aerodynamic effectiveness.

And then circulated rumors, if many requests, Honda Sports Vision GT could have been produced, by using carbon fiber chassis to be very light weight, with only 900 kg. While a 2.0-liter turbo engine from Honda Civic Type-R is placed behind the driver and coupled with an 8-speed double-clutch automatic transmission. Wow, are you able to imagine this car performance? *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ROADANDTRACK]

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