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A five-year $3 million clinical trial grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), widely considered the gold standard for biomedical and public health research funding, tells us something unique is again happening at the FAAST Center and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Lab at UCF.
"Both the scientific findings and, more importantly, the feedback from the families of children using AAC and their service-providers, have shown us the incredible power assistive technology can hold for children with significant speech impairments when combined with customized language therapy," says Jennifer Kent-Walsh, founder of UCF's Assistive Technology Center and a Pegasus Professor in the College of Health Professions and Sciences. "This new round of NIH funding means we can expand our work to provide clinicians with more evidence-based assessment and intervention options to help children develop language skills through use of AAC technologies."
The NIH can clearly see from data that children with significant speech impairments and genetic conditions like Down syndrome and cerebral palsy are communicating at higher levels. They can also look at the flurry of activity and engagement among the children, families, service providers, UCF students, community clinicians, caregivers and researchers at the center. Thousands of people have come for workshops, individualized training and therapy, and to borrow assistive technologies to help those struggling with language development, communication and a wide range of other needs.
"We are fortunate to have had support at UCF to align the critical stakeholder groups required to simultaneously advance science and practice — community, clinical, academic, research, industry, and the next generation of speech-language pathologists and related service-providers," Kent-Walsh says. "Two key aspects of the study this new funding will support relate to the critical need to design interventions that are implementable in real-life contexts for clinicians and accessible to as many children as possible for sustained periods of time in community settings."
Kent-Walsh argues that engineering great technologies and even designing effective interventions can still miss the mark of meaningful scientific advancement in healthcare without implementation. This new funding will allow Kent-Walsh's team to focus on validating interventions that are designed with and for clinicians supporting children using assistive technology to communicate. The fact that the NIH is funding this work is a sign of the significant and practical progress that's been two decades in the making.
Kent-Walsh is the cornerstone of this classic from-the-ground-up story. She came to UCF as an assistant professor of communication sciences and disorders in 2003. As a teacher and speech-language pathologist in Canada and England, she had witnessed first-hand the life setbacks that speech and language disorders can cause for children. At UCF, she would have the freedom to explore meaningful solutions, including technology-based ideas, to address these challenges. "The university always had an openness for innovation – particularly in areas relating to engineering and technology," she says. "For me, it was exciting to have the opportunity to develop a program of assistive technology research in an environment already primed for technology development and with an emerging focus on health and wellness."
"Communication is a basic human right which can, and must, be supported for all."
During her time at UCF, Kent-Walsh has secured millions of dollars in funding from local, state and federal sources to expand research and optimize assistive technology service-delivery. In 2023, after being named a Pegasus Professor, Kent-Walsh saw a banner hung in her honor with the words that have driven her from day one:
"Communication is a basic human right which can, and must, be supported for all," Kent-Walsh says.
When any of this is brought up — the research, the scientific findings and the successes — Kent-Walsh shifts the focus to the power of people working together.
"We have been able to learn and accomplish as much as we have to this point through true team science," she says.
Cathy Binger at the University of New Mexico (UNM) has been Kent-Walsh's primary research collaborator for the past two decades and she serves as the other principal investigator for this new grant. Their decades long partnership has afforded invaluable cross-institutional learning and funded training experiences for both UCF and UNM students through clinical trial investigations like this one. Professor John Heilman, from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, recently joined the research team as a language measurement expert. Other key team members include Professor Debbie Hahs-Vaughn from UCF's College of Community Innovation and Education, who serves as biostatistician for the project, and associate clinical instructor Nancy Harrington who serves as project director for this multi-site clinical trial investigation. And then there is the project team — with additional clinical and academic connections for the project facilitated by the broader village of collaborators in the FAAST Center and AAC Lab, including associate clinical instructor Carolyn Buchanan and clinical instructor Punam Desormes.
"When we involve students and our community at large, the network of advocates expands to ensure that any child can gain access to assistive technology services," Kent-Walsh says. "They know, and NIH knows, that there is a growing body of findings indicating that the use of AAC technologies, combined with tailored language intervention, is where the magic happens."
The team's overall goal is to reach as many children as possible in as many healthcare settings as possible, and ultimately, to improve lives. |
2nd Magnitude 5-plus Earthquake in a Week Strikes Japan
Japan's side of the "Ring of Fire" seems to be getting quite active these days. The country has received another 5.7 magnitude earthquake on Tuesday, a week after it experienced a tremor with the same intensity.
The 5.7-magnitude Tuesday temblor struck off the eastern Honshu coastline at 04:10 am local time (0040 IST). The area is located 25 kilometres (16 miles) from the city of Toba and 37 kilometres from the city of Ise, seismologists from the US Geological Survey said.
It had a depth of 332 kilometres.
"[It] seems the ring of fire is getting active, [and it] might be another big shocker coming [soon]; make sure you have an emergency kit and some sort of plan," a reader named StormR told Japan Today.
The "Ring of Fire" is a series of seismic fault lines enclosing the Pacific Ocean which create frequent seismic and volcanic activity.
On Nov 10, a 5.5-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Japan. The temblor, lasting 30 seconds, rocked buildings in Tokyo. Many people reported having felt it, despite its shallow depth of 59 kilometres. Coincidentally, the crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant is located in eastern Japan.
Monitoring earthquakes big and small have become a major concern for Japan, ever since the devastating 9.0-magnitude sub-sea earthquake in March 2011. That particular temblor triggered a massive tsunami that ripped Japan's northeast coast, killing more than 18,000 people and leaving 25,000 others still missing.
The worst hit by the tsunami was the Fukushima nuclear power plant. The reactors faced meltdown, forcing tens of thousands of people to flee.
On Monday, Tokyo Electric Power Co. (Tepco), the operator of Fukushima nuclear plant, has began moving fuel rods from a reactor building. This signals the start of the long and hazardous process of decommissioning the facility. Authorities will also start removing 400 tonnes of highly irradiated spent fuel from that reactor.
"We will continue with the work from tomorrow and proceed, paying close attention to safety," Tepco said in a statement. The operator targets to complete the task in a year, a timeframe, which experts say, is highly ambitious. |
Poland is a country that is often overlooked when it comes to natural beauty, but it is home to some of the most stunning lakes in Europe. From the picturesque Mazury region with over a thousand lakes to the breathtaking beauty of Lake Bledzk, Poland is a hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In this blog post, we will take a deep dive into the majestic Wielkopolska Lake District, unveil the hidden gem of Lake Czorsztyn, and witness the natural wonders at Lake Wigry. Whether you are a fan of water sports, hiking, or simply love admiring beautiful landscapes, Poland's lakes have something for everyone. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the stunning lakes of Poland and all the beauty they have to offer.
Mazury: The Land of Over a Thousand Lakes
Mazury, located in northeastern Poland, is a region characterized by its stunning natural beauty and abundance of crystal clear lakes. With over a thousand lakes scattered throughout the area, Mazury is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the most famous lakes in Mazury is Lake Sniardwy, the largest lake in Poland. Its serene waters and picturesque surroundings make it a popular destination for sailing, fishing, and kayaking. The region also boasts the stunning Lake Niegocin, which is surrounded by lush green forests and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Visitors to Mazury can also explore the historic towns and charming villages that dot the region. From the bustling town of Mikolajki to the quaint village of Wegorzewo, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the rich culture and heritage of Mazury.
Whether you're looking to relax on the shores of a tranquil lake or embark on an adventure through the unspoiled wilderness, Mazury has something to offer for every type of traveler.
Breathtaking Beauty of Lake Bledzk
Located in the heart of Poland, Lake Bledzk is a true hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, this picturesque lake offers a sense of tranquility and natural beauty that is unmatched. As you stand on the shores of Lake Bledzk, you can't help but be in awe of the crystal-clear water and the peaceful atmosphere that envelops you.
One of the most unique aspects of Lake Bledzk is its diverse ecosystem. Home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, the lake provides a habitat for countless species of plants and animals. From colorful wildflowers to majestic birds, there is always something new and fascinating to discover as you explore the area around the lake.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Bledzk offers a myriad of activities to enjoy. Whether you're interested in hiking, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water, there is something for everyone to appreciate. The serene surroundings and natural wonders make it the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Whether you're visiting Lake Bledzk for a day trip or planning a longer stay, the breathtaking beauty of this hidden gem is sure to leave a lasting impression. So make sure to add Lake Bledzk to your list of must-visit destinations and immerse yourself in the tranquil charm of this enchanting location.
Exploring the Majestic Wielkopolska Lake District
The Wielkopolska Lake District is a region in western Poland known for its picturesque landscapes and abundance of natural beauty. It is home to over a hundred stunning lakes, each with its own unique charm and appeal. The area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and bird watching.
One of the most famous lakes in the Wielkopolska Lake District is Lake Wielkopolskie, which is the largest lake in the region and a hub for water-based recreational activities. Visitors can rent kayaks or paddleboats to explore the tranquil waters or simply relax on the shores and soak in the breathtaking views. The area surrounding the lake is also perfect for picnics and nature walks.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Wielkopolska Lake District is dotted with charming villages and towns, each offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture. Visitors can explore traditional wooden cottages, local crafts, and delicious regional cuisine that reflects the area's unique heritage.
Exploring the Wielkopolska Lake District is a truly immersive experience that allows visitors to connect with nature, discover hidden gems, and embrace the local way of life. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply want to unwind in a serene setting, this majestic region has something to offer for everyone.
Unveiling the Hidden Gem – Lake Czorsztyn
Lake Czorsztyn is a hidden gem located in the southern part of Poland, near the border with Slovakia. Surrounded by the stunning Pieniny Mountains, this picturesque lake offers visitors a tranquil and idyllic retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The clear, turquoise waters of Lake Czorsztyn are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The peaceful atmosphere and unspoiled natural beauty of the area make it a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the crowds and reconnect with nature.
One of the most striking features of Lake Czorsztyn is the historic Niedzica Castle, which sits on a hill overlooking the lake. Dating back to the 14th century, this medieval fortress offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history and is a popular attraction for tourists. The castle grounds provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for taking in the beauty of Lake Czorsztyn from above.
For those interested in exploring the area further, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails that wind their way through the Pieniny Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding countryside. Additionally, the nearby town of Niedzica offers charming cafes and restaurants where visitors can sample delicious local cuisine and relax after a day of adventure.
Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature, soak up some history, or simply find a peaceful place to unwind, Lake Czorsztyn has something to offer every kind of traveler. With its natural beauty, rich history, and array of outdoor activities, this hidden gem is not to be missed for anyone visiting the region.
Witnessing Natural Wonders at Lake Wigry
Lake Wigry is a true natural wonder, nestled in the beautiful Wigry National Park in Poland. This serene lake is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the most striking features of Lake Wigry is its crystal-clear waters, which reflect the surrounding dense forests and hills, creating a picture-perfect setting that is nothing short of breathtaking. The tranquil atmosphere and unspoiled beauty of the area make it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Visitors to Lake Wigry can explore the area by hiking along the scenic trails that wind through the national park, offering stunning views of the lake and its surroundings. The park also offers opportunities for birdwatching, with a variety of bird species making their home in the area.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the natural wonders of Lake Wigry, camping and fishing are popular activities, allowing visitors to fully experience the peaceful and pristine environment of this hidden gem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Mazury in Poland special?
Mazury, also known as the Land of Over a Thousand Lakes, is special for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of lakes, making it a paradise for nature lovers and water enthusiasts.
What is the highlight of Lake Bledzk in Poland?
The highlight of Lake Bledzk is its breathtaking beauty, with clear blue waters surrounded by lush greenery, creating a picturesque and tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy.
What can visitors expect when exploring the Wielkopolska Lake District in Poland?
Visitors can expect to explore the majestic Wielkopolska Lake District, known for its diverse landscapes, charming villages, and numerous lakes offering various water activities and scenic views.
What makes Lake Czorsztyn a hidden gem in Poland?
Lake Czorsztyn is considered a hidden gem due to its peaceful and unspoiled surroundings, historical attractions, and opportunities for outdoor adventures such as hiking, sailing, and castle exploration.
What natural wonders can be witnessed at Lake Wigry in Poland?
Visitors can witness natural wonders at Lake Wigry, including its serene atmosphere, diverse flora and fauna, and the Wigry National Park, offering opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and nature photography. |
IMGW alerts against storms are in force on Sunday in parts of Lower Silesia and the Opole region. For the Warmińsko-Mazurskie and Podlaskie voivodships, the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management announced warnings against dense fog for the next night and Monday morning.
Forecasters of the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) issued weather warnings. They can pose a threat storms and thick fogs.
IMGW alerts – storms
First degree thunderstorm warnings are in effect in the following provinces:
– Lower Silesiain the counties of: Zgorzelec, Lubań, Lwówek, Złotoryja, Karkonosze, Jelenia GoraKamienna Góra, Jawor, Świdnica, Wałbrzych, WałbrzychDzierżoniów, Kłodzko, Ząbkowice;
– Opolein the districts of: Nysa, Prudnik, Głubczyce.
Thunderstorms are forecast, which in places will be accompanied by rainfall from 15 to 25 liters of water per square meter and wind gusts up to 60 kilometers per hour. Small hail is possible locally.
The warnings will be in effect until 8 p.m. Saturday.
IMGW alerts – dense fog
It can get foggy in parts of the country. First degree warnings against dense fog have been issued for the province. warmińsko-mazurskie and Podlaskie.
Dense fog is expected, within which visibility may be from 100 to 200 meters in places.
Alerts will go into effect at 23 on Sunday and will expire at 8 on Monday.
What is the first degree IMGW meteorological warning
The first degree warning provides for conditions conducive to the occurrence of dangerous meteorological phenomena that may cause material damage and threat to health and life. Running a business in conditions of exposure to these factors is difficult and dangerous. Expect difficulties resulting from activities in the area where the threat occurs, including delays caused by traffic obstructions, disruptions in the course of outdoor events or the possibility of their cancellation. Caution recommended, the need to follow messages and weather developments.
Main photo source: Piotr Błoński/tvn24.pl |
Common academic assignments like definition essays call for students to give a precise and succinct explanation of a certain subject or phrase. These works evaluate a student's capacity to comprehend, analyze, and explain the meaning of a certain topic. However, being an expert paper writer can be difficult. This article will provide you a thorough tutorial on how to create outstanding papers that fascinate readers and highlight your analytical abilities.
Thorough research, critical thinking, and strong communication abilities are necessary while writing a definition essay that is appealing. Remember to keep your writing clear, employ succinct language.
Choosing an interesting topic is the first stage in creating a definition essay. Choose a term or notion that is both wide enough to allow for a variety of interpretations and specific enough to be defined in your essay. Selecting words with simple definitions should be avoided since they could make it more difficult for you to offer a thorough analysis.
Once you have a topic in mind for your definition essay, do a lot of study to comprehend the term or concept completely. Use trustworthy resources, such as academic journals, books, and trustworthy websites. Investigate alternative definitions and interpretations, taking note of any opposing or contrasting opinions. This research will act as the basis for your essay and give you the knowledge you need to present a thoughtful perspective.
Your definition essay's thesis statement serves as its central argument. It should make it obvious what position you take on the term or topic you are defining and give a synopsis of the key ideas you will cover. A compelling thesis statement acts as a road map for your paper and supports coherence and emphasis throughout.
Give a standard definition of the phrase or subject you are examining at the outset of your essay. You can find this term in a credible dictionary or scholarly work. Give a brief explanation of the term's meaning, emphasizing its key features or components.
Give the accepted definition of the phrase before offering your own. The main body of your definition essay is where you may demonstrate your analytical abilities. Explore the term's meaning from a variety of perspectives while taking into account any historical, cultural, or contextual influences. Using examples and evidence, such as anecdotes, drawings, or citations from pertinent literature, you can support your perspective.
Present competing viewpoints or alternate meanings to prove your understanding of the term in its entirety. Draw attention to contrasting opinions or readings from academics or industry professionals. Examine these viewpoints objectively, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each. This strategy gives your essay more depth and demonstrates your capacity to evaluate many points of view objectively.
Clarity and concision are critical components of definition essays. To ensure that your readers can understand the meaning you are trying to convey, use clear, uncomplicated language. Unless absolutely necessary, avoid using jargon or technical phrases; if you do, clarify them in detail. Avoid being overly verbose or repeating yourself by attempting to strike a balance between being informative and interesting.
Use a logical framework to improve your essay's readability and consistency. Start out by introducing your thesis statement and providing background in an interesting introduction. When writing your body paragraphs, make sure each one focuses on a different facet or subtopic and explores and supports your primary ideas. Finally, wrap up your key points and support your thesis statement in your essay's conclusion.
Spend some time revising and editing your essay after you've finished the first draft. Check the material's cohesion, logic, and clarity. Make sure your definitions are exact and that your arguments are solid. Pay close attention to grammar, punctuation, and spelling mistakes, and think about asking classmates or teachers for feedback to get their diverse viewpoints on your writing. |
Thursday, 16 May 2024
During hydrographic work, unknown objects were discovered lying on the bottom of the Vistula Lagoon. They are believed to be wrecks of German vehicles from the Second World War. Most likely, they belonged to the 4th Field Army and were sunk in the winter of 1945. It was then that the evacuation of the German population of East Prussia took place. The case was investigated by archaeologists from the Polish Maritime Museum in Gdańsk.
As always in similar cases, a team of marine archaeologists will carry out a reconnaissance and compile full documentation. This will help to identify and assess the value of the finds, as well as determine the current condition of the objects. The value of the data collected is important as no similar research has ever been carried out in this area before.
Iwona Pomian, head of the Underwater Research Department at the CMM, says that only after thorough research will it be possible to decide what to do with the find. If the researchers' speculations are confirmed, a decision may be made to excavate the vehicles and place them in the Gdańsk Museum of the Second World War.
As is usual with this type of finds, the details of the exact location are kept strictly confidential. However, we found out that the wrecks are buried at a depth of 3-4m between Tolkmicko and Krynica Morska. The exact location is known only to the employees of the Maritime Office in Gdynia.
In the winter of 1945, almost half a million refugees from East Prussia tried to get to the coastal harbours and on to the Third Reich to escape the oncoming offensive of the Bolshevik army. Columns of Germans crossing the frozen lagoon were shelled and bombed. It is most likely in such circumstances that the units found arrived at their final resting place. It has not yet been established whether these were military or civilian vehicles.
Source: PAP
Photo: Polish Maritime Museum
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3 Questions
What is one potential use of generative AI in white-collar work?
Automating website creation and management
What is one potential downside of the rise of generative AI?
Difficulty differentiating between real and fake content
What is one potential use of AI in online education?
Creating personalized courses
Study Notes
8 Predictions on How Generative AI Will Change Our Lives
- Synthetic media generated by AI will become the norm, with most content on our screens being created by AI rather than humans.
- The impersonation of people using generative AI will become more prevalent, making it difficult to differentiate between what's real and what's fake.
- Generative AI will prove to be very useful in white-collar work, with almost all productivity apps using it in the future.
- Google and Microsoft are integrating AI into their search engines, allowing users to get instant answers to queries via chatbots.
- AI will automate website creation and management, freeing up time for other business activities.
- AI will be used to fake social media photos, making it difficult to tell real from fake.
- Generative AI will be used in online education and game development, creating personalized courses and speeding up the development of games.
- Chatbot integration will become more widespread in messaging apps, online shopping platforms, and navigation apps.
- AI is a tool, and how we use it will determine the outcome, with the need for strict regulations and laws in place to mitigate the dangers of the tech.
- The rise of generative AI will bring both benefits and downsides.
- AI will be used for inspiration, helping developers create game assets and artwork.
- Asking chatbots simple queries will become the norm, but in-depth research should still be conducted for accuracy.
Take this quiz to test your knowledge on the potential effects of generative AI on our lives. From synthetic media to chatbots, explore the ways that AI will impact our online experiences, work productivity, and even our ability to discern what's real and what's fake. Learn about the benefits and downsides of this emerging technology and discover how it will change the way we live, work, and learn. With 8 predictions to explore, this quiz will challenge your understanding of the future of AI.
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on Industrial Competition |
By: | Alain de Fontenay (CITI, Columbia University); Christiaan Hogendorn (Economics Department, Wesleyan University) |
Abstract: | We formalize and extend George Stigler's famous article "The division of labor is limited by the extent of the market." We emphasize economies of scale in intermediate goods production as a determinant of firm boundaries and vertical control. We show that there are potential coordination failures which may prevent efficient vertical disintegration, and we discuss how these might be either overcome or used to the advantage of incumbent firms. |
Keywords: | entry, vertical integration, specialization |
Date: | 2005–12 |
URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wes:weswpa:2005-010&r=com |
By: | Bonroy, Olivier; Larue, Bruno |
Abstract: | Assuming a fixed-proportion downstream production technology, partial forward integration by an upstream monopolist may be observed whether the monopolist is advantaged or disadvantaged cost-wise relative to fringe firms in the downstream market. Integration need not induce cost predation and the fringe firms' margin may even increase. The output price falls and welfare unambiguously rises. |
Keywords: | Vertical integration; cost predation; cost asymmetries. |
Date: | 2006–09 |
URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:65&r=com |
By: | Cugno, Franco; Ottoz, Elisabetta |
Abstract: | A common argument against compulsory licensing of intellectual property maintains that it facilitates the entry of inefficient producers, which may reduce social welfare independently of any effects on R&D incentives. We study the issue in a model where the innovative firm, under the threat of compulsory licensing, react strategically by choosing between quantity and price competition. We show that the risk of a reduction in static welfare due to the entry of highly inefficient firms is avoided if licensing entails a royalty per unit of output and zero fixed fee. The rationale behind this result lies in the fact that compulsory licensing threat works as a disciplining device to improve static social welfare, even when the applicant is a high cost inefficient firm. |
Keywords: | compulsory licensing, essential facilities, entry, welfare |
Date: | 2006–11 |
URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:uca:ucapdv:73&r=com |
By: | Willem H Boshoff (Department of Economics, University of Stellenbosch) |
Abstract: | The paper focuses on the delineation of geographic markets in competition analysis, investigating the use of both quantitative and qualitative evaluation in the market definition exercise. To this end, the first part is devoted to a conceptual framework for market definition (adopted from Haldrup (2003)). Thereafter, a variety of price tests are explored that can be applied within the quantitative part of the framework. Similar to Forni (2004), the paper emphasizes the use of stationarity tests (that is, tests for the existence of unit roots) – illustrating their application to a recent competition investigation in South Africa. |
Keywords: | Market definition, Delineation, Quantitative, Stationarity tests, Prices, Geographic, SSNIP, Hypothetical monopolist, Competition, Unit root, Price ratio, Antitrust |
Date: | 2006 |
URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:sza:wpaper:wpapers31&r=com |
By: | Claudio R. Lucinda; Arthur Barrionuevo Filho |
Date: | 2006 |
URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:anp:en2006:125&r=com |
By: | Christiaan Hogendorn (Economics Department, Wesleyan University) |
Abstract: | We document entry and capacity expansion in US long-distance fiber-optic networks before and during the "telecom boom." We disentangle the many swaps and leases between networks in order to measure owned route miles versus route miles shared with other carriers. Entry appears much more moderate when these shared miles are not counted. Strategic behavior can lead to excessive entry, and we find evidence of such behavior regarding total miles (including swaps and leases) but not regarding owned miles. We conclude that entry was excessive only with regard to swaps and leases, but not with regard to the physical building of the networks. |
Keywords: | telecommunications, investment, preemption |
Date: | 2006–01 |
URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wes:weswpa:2006-001&r=com |
By: | Sosay, Gül; Zenginobuz, Unal |
Abstract: | While the diffusion of independent regulatory agencies (IRAs) across economically advanced countries has attracted much scholarly attention in recent years, systematic work on their spread across developing countries is still scarce. In an effort to address this gap in literature, this paper aims to analyze the diffusion of regulatory agencies in emerging economies in Latin America, Asia, and Central and Eastern Europe. At this early stage of our research, we aim to emprically map out regulatory agencies in economic regulation sectors (e.g. competition, finance, and utilities/infrastructure) enjoying some degree of autonomy or independence in emerging economies, rather than limiting our focus solely on those that meet all the criteria for independence in the strictest definition of the term. Such exploratory analysis constitutes the first step towards studying processes of diffusion in general and the mechanisms that lead to the creation of regulatory agencies in these economies in particular. The second objective of this paper is to examine the mechanisms which we expect to be at work in the spread of IRAs in the selected emerging economies. We argue that despite the creation of a number of agencies in the countries concerned before 1990, diffusion has become evident and "interdependent", as opposed to spurious in the 1990s. |
Keywords: | independent regulatory agencies; emerging economies |
Date: | 2005–09–05 |
URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:380&r=com |
By: | Marina Moreira da Gama; Marco Antônio Ribas Cavalieri |
Date: | 2006 |
URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:anp:en2006:176&r=com |
By: | Zheng, Jianghuai; Jiang, Jing |
Abstract: | For sake of actualizing anti-trade barrier and changing the situation of price war after China's taking part in WTO, Jiangsu laver association was founded. By using the Bayesian Cournot model, this paper analyzes the basis of trade association's foundation is the ability of improving product quality and technique which is distributed heterogeneously in the firm of the industry. The paper defines this kind of ability as industrial specific resources which are formed during the process of industrial competition and development. Actually they are potential rents and laver firms can acquire them selectively by laver association's enforcement of transaction rules in laver exchange office. It changes the industrial competition from reducing quality and price to upgrading quality and price and forms the basis of association's existence. Whether the function is strong or not depends on association's understanding of industrial specific resources and incentive benefits which is given to the member firms. It is not that association comes into being by the appearance of industrial specific resources and dies because of disappearance of industrial specific resources, but that association uses industrial specific resource into firms and it can reach a kind of separated equilibrium during the competition of improving quality and raising price. Association improves the quality of transaction governance continually and keeps the separated equilibrium maintained steadily. It makes the whole industry in good development order. |
Keywords: | trade association; industrial specific resources; selective incentive |
Date: | 2006–08 |
URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:200&r=com |
By: | Jurdziak, Leszek |
Abstract: | THE INFLUENCE OF OWNERSHIP AND ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE ON OPERATION OF BILATERAL MONOPOLY OF LIGNITE MINE AND POWER PLANT Lignite mine & power plant can operate as two separate entities (having the same or different owners), two entities operating in one holding (with joint owner) or as one vertically integrated energy producer. Each of these solutions has the influence on operation of this body including realization of its parts and the whole entity objectives, price negotiation etc. In the paper an attempt has been made to show these problems from the point of view of economic effectiveness. |
Keywords: | bilateral monopoly; price negotiation; lignite price; Pareto optimal production; Pareto suboptimal solution; co-operation; rivalry; lignite minel power plant |
Date: | 2006–10–23 |
URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:533&r=com | |
Have you ever encountered the need to convert time string to seconds? The process may seem daunting, especially for those who are not well-versed in programming or math. But fret not! This article serves as a simple guide that will help you understand how to do it with ease.
First and foremost, why would you need to convert time string to seconds? There are several reasons, including calculations involving time intervals, sorting and filtering data based on time, and formatting outputs to display time in a consistent manner. Whatever your reason may be, knowing how to convert time string to seconds is a valuable skill that can come in handy in various situations.
Now, let's get to the actual conversion process. In essence, it involves breaking down the time string into its components, such as hours, minutes, and seconds, and then converting each component to seconds. Once you have calculated the total number of seconds, you can use it for your desired purposes. The good news is that there are plenty of online tools and programming libraries that can simplify this process for you.
So, if you want to learn more about how to convert time string to seconds and make the most out of this skill, keep on reading! We'll provide you with step-by-step instructions, sample code snippets, and useful tips and tricks that will help you master this conversion process in no time. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your knowledge and skills!
"How To Convert A Time String To Seconds?" ~ bbaz
Time is an essential factor in our daily routine. Converting time from string to seconds can be daunting, especially for beginners. To calculate the duration between two time values or find out the duration of a task, you need to know how to convert time string to seconds. In this article, we will discuss various ways to convert time string to seconds.
The Need for Time String Conversion
Calculating complex tasks where the duration needs to be analyzed requires the conversion of time string to seconds. Time string to seconds conversion provides a uniform way of representing time that's easy to understand and can be manipulated according to the requirements of the desired task.
Ways to Convert Time String to Seconds
There are various ways to convert time string to seconds. Here are some popular ways:
Method 1: Using Python Programming Language
Python is a popular language for data analysis with built-in functions to perform various operations. One such function is 'datetime.timedelta'. It allows us to represent a duration in terms of days, seconds, and microseconds.
Method 2: Using Excel Functionality
Excel provides an easy and efficient way of converting time string to seconds by using the formula '=time(m,h,s)*86400' or '=second(time)' depending on the time format.
Method 3: Using Online Converters
Various online converters are available that can convert time string to seconds with a single click. These converters require you to input the time format, time string, and time zone (if applicable).
Comparison Table
Here's a comparison table to compare the pros and cons of different methods of converting time string to seconds:
Method | Pros | Cons |
Python Programming Language | – Can handle complex time formats – Provides additional functionalities to manipulate data – Free and open-source |
– Requires programming knowledge – Needs installation of Python |
Excel Functionality | – Easy to use – Built-in formula available – Provides other functionalities besides converting time string to seconds |
– Limited functionality – Can only handle specific time formats – Paid software |
Online Converters | – Requires no installation – Can handle various time formats – Free to use |
– May not provide additional functionalities – Requires internet connectivity |
Converting time string to seconds can be done using various methods based on the complexity and requirements of the task at hand. The choice of the method depends on factors such as required functionality, the format of time data, and availability of resources. Regardless of the method used, it is important to ensure accuracy in data collected, analyzed, and represented.
Opinion: Best Method for Converting Time String to Seconds
Based on my personal experience, Python programming language is the best method for converting time string to seconds. Although it requires some level of programming knowledge, the language's capabilities and added functionalities for data manipulation stand it out over other methods. However, Excel functionality and online converters serve a vital purpose for simple tasks and outputting results in tabular form for better visualization and analysis.
Thank you for taking the time to read our article on how to convert time string to seconds. We hope that you found this guide informative and easy to follow.
By converting time string to seconds, you can perform various operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with time values. This can be particularly beneficial when dealing with large datasets or when performing time-based calculations.
We understand that this topic may seem daunting at first, but with practice and patience, you will become proficient in converting time values to seconds. If you have any questions or comments on the topic, please feel free to leave them below. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to hearing from you!
People also ask about Convert Time String to Seconds: A Simple Guide:
- What is a time string?
- Why do I need to convert a time string to seconds?
- How do I convert a time string to seconds?
- What are some common time string formats?
- Are there any libraries or tools available to help with time string conversion?
A time string is a string that represents a duration of time in a specific format, such as 1 hour and 30 minutes or 2 days and 5 hours.
Converting a time string to seconds can be useful for performing calculations or comparisons with other time values. It can also be helpful for formatting or displaying time values in a consistent way.
To convert a time string to seconds, you will need to parse the string into its individual components (hours, minutes, seconds, etc.) and then perform the appropriate calculations to determine the total number of seconds.
Some common time string formats include hh:mm:ss, h:mm:ss AM/PM, hh:mm, h:mm AM/PM, X hours Y minutes Z seconds, and X days Y hours Z minutes.
Yes, there are many libraries and tools available in different programming languages to help with time string conversion. Some examples include the datetime module in Python, the moment.js library in JavaScript, and the Joda-Time library in Java. |
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Drop-off program for children ages 4 & 5. Space Limited.
The Early Learners Academy (ELA) is a 6-week series of classes incorporating S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, art and math) elements and utilizing components of the engaging Creative Curriculum. ELA is an early learning experience designed to boost school readiness, social connections and skill development. This 6-week cycle will provide children learning experiences aligned with Indiana's Early Learning Foundations. These Foundations include acquiring: language and communication skills; early reading and writing skills; math, science & social studies skills; social/emotional skills; Creative Art and Play and Learning experiences and Physical Health and Growth targets. Each class is developed and led by our trained Education Coordinator in partnership with Building Blocks and funded by Welborn Baptist Foundation.
Program Dates: Tuesdays, July 25 - August 29
Time: 9:30 AM - 11 AM
Theme: Planes, Trains, and Other Wonderful Wheels
Weekly classes are free and include admission to the Museum. Deadline for registration is July 21
Download PDF |
By USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory
In recognition of Volcano Awareness Month (January 2013), this column explores some of the most scientifically important eruptions to have occurred in Hawai`i since HVO's founding in 1912. Last week, we discussed the 30-year-long (and still going strong) Pu`u `O`o eruption. This week's focus is on the 1984 eruption of Mauna Loa.
The eruption began at about 1:30 a.m., HST, on March 25, 1984, after only a few hours of precursory seismic activity. The initial curtain of fire occupied the entire summit caldera and eventually migrated into the upper southwest rift zone. Within a few hours, however, the activity made a U-turn—magma began migrating into the northeast rift zone. By 5:00 a.m., the northeast rift zone vents had become the focus of eruptive activity. The eruption lasted for three weeks, feeding lava flows that reached within 6.5 km (4 mi) of the outskirts of Hilo.
The 1984 activity was the first (and, so far, the only) Mauna Loa eruption to have been well monitored scientifically (which is why it is the only Mauna Loa eruption that we will cover in this month's series of articles). HVO scientists were able to reach the northeast rift zone vents within hours of the eruption's onset and collected detailed observations of lava flow activity over the ensuing three weeks. The work was motivated by the need to assess the threat to Hilo but resulted in a wealth of scientific insights and a better understanding of how lava flows work.
Mauna Loa eruptions differ from those of Kilauea because they are usually much more vigorous. The eruption rate of lava during typical Mauna Loa eruptions is generally several times that of a typical Kilauea eruption. In fact, the amount of lava emitted during Mauna Loa's 22-day-long eruption was equivalent to about two years of output from Kilauea!
During the eruption, HVO and collaborating scientists made repeated observations at points along the lava channels that fed the flows moving toward Hilo. Data collected included lava velocity, temperature, density, chemical composition, eruption rate, channel width, and, most importantly, changes in these parameters over time. In fact, volcanologists from all over the world descended on the Big Island to study the eruption (lots of tourists showed up too!).
What resulted from this intensive study was an understanding of how channelized lava flows grow and what factors control flow morphology, including the transition from pahoehoe to `a`a. In fact, the comprehensive data collected from lava flows during the 1984 Mauna Loa eruption and the resulting insights into the behavior of `a`a flows, especially, have been used to construct models that forecast how long a lava flow will extend and what path it will follow. The 1984 Mauna Loa lava flows now serve as a standard for the interpretation of older flows and for the development of flow models. It seems fitting that an eruption that posed such a significant threat to Hilo now provides the data needed to help better evaluate—and protect against—lava flow threats in Hawai`i and elsewhere around the world.
Next week, in the third part of our series on scientifically important eruptions in Hawai`i, we will focus our attention the 1969–1974 eruption of Mauna Ulu, on Kilauea's east rift zone.
Meanwhile, check out the Volcano Awareness Month activities that HVO has scheduled for this week by visiting our Web site (http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov) or by calling 808-967-8844. |
Prediction Method Research of Aerodynamic Noise for Engine Intake Manifold
摘要: 为更加准确预测发动机进气噪声,发展了采用瞬态边界计算进气歧管流场的方法,并联合声学软件进行声场预测。从一维仿真模型获得可靠的压力和速度边界用于流场计算;采用大涡模拟(LES)和分离涡模拟(DES)两种求解算法模拟歧管内的流场;通过声学有限元方法计算进气口辐射的气动噪声。LES和DES两种方法的流场结果对比表明,DES结果与LES非常接近,同时耗时更少;声场结果与实验结果吻合较好,证明了本文预测方法的准确性;模拟结果和压力边界频谱图的对比分析使空滤器和进气歧管设计更具针对性。Abstract: In order to predict the engine intake noise accurately, transient analysis is used in aero-acoustics calculations of intake manifold flow, and the acoustics field distribution is simulated in acoustics software. Establish a one-dimensional engine model which is calibrated by experimental data to output reliable pressure and velocity results for flow field calculation. Two turbulence models, the large eddy simulation (LES) and detached eddy simulation (DES) methods are used separately to simulate the flow field in the manifold accurately. The aerodynamics noise is calculated by acoustic FEM method using surface pressure distribution. Comparisons between two algorithms indicate that DES can get results of similar accuracy with LES while DES using less time. The results are compared with NVH test data and the accuracy of simulation method is verified. The spectrum analysis between simulation results and pressure boundary in frequency domain make the design of vacuum filter and intake manifold more specific.
Key words:
- intake noise /
- transient analysis /
- turbulence models
[1] Suzuki T, Kayaba F. The analysis and mechanism of engine 'Intake Rumbling Noise'[J]. SAE Transactions, 1990:2059-2067 [2] Davies P O A L, Holland K R. I.C. Engine intake and exhaust noise assessment[J]. Journal of Sound and Vibration, 1999,223(3):425-444 [3] 孙济美,牟永泉,董愚,等.发动机模型进气道内气体流场的模拟和实验研究[J].内燃机学报,1989,7(2):117-123 Sun J M, Mu Y Q, Dong Y, et al. An investigation of the flow field in the model intake port of engine with simulation and experimental methods[J]. Transactions of CSICE, 1989,7(2):117-123(in Chinese) [4] Low S C, Feng M. Prediction of pressure fluctuation in the inlet and exhaust system of engine using a real gas model[R]. SAE Technical Papers, 2001 [5] Kim J, Kang K T, Yeo S D. A study on mechanism of intake rumble noise and optimization of intake manifold[C]//Proceedings of INTER-NOISE and NOISE-CON Congress and Conference Proceedings. The Hague, The Netherlands:Institute of Noise Control Engineering, 2001:1231-1234 [6] 刘亚茹.车用涡轮增压器噪声机理研究[D].北京:北京理工大学,2015 Liu Y R. Research on noise mechanism of vehicle turbocharger[D]. Beijing:Beijing Institute of Technology, 2015(in Chinese) [7] 梁志成.用分离涡方法对梢涡流动的数值模拟[D].上海:上海交通大学,2012 Liang Z C. Detached-eddy simulation of wing-tip vortex[D]. Shanghai:Shanghai Jiaotong University, 2012(in Chinese) [8] Spalart P R, Jou W H, Strelets M, et al. Comments on the feasibility of LES for wings, and on a hybrid RANS/LES approach[C]//Proceedings of the 1st AFOSR International Conference on DES/LES. Columbus, OH:Greyden Press, 1997 [9] 朱远征,左言言,华敏相,等.虚拟激励法的汽车气动噪声研究[J].机械科学与技术,2017,36(4):626-631 Zhu Y Z, Zuo Y Y, Hua M X, et al. Study on automobile aerodynamic noise based on pseudo-excitation method[J]. Mechanical Science and Technology for Aerospace Engineering, 2017,36(4):626-631(in Chinese) [10] Spalart P R, Deck S, Shur M L, et al. A new version of detached-eddy simulation, resistant to ambiguous grid densities[J]. Theoretical and Computational Fluid Dynamics, 2006,20(3):181-195 [11] Shur M L, Spalart P R, Strelets M K, et al. A hybrid RANS-LES approach with delayed-DES and wall-modelled LES capabilities[J]. International Journal of Heat and Fluid Flow, 2008,29(6):1638-1649 [12] Williams J E F, Hawkings D L. Sound generation by turbulence and surfaces in arbitrary motion[J]. Philosophical Transactions for the Royal Society A:Mathematical and Physical Sciences, 1969,264(1151):321-342 [13] 徐俊伟,吴亚锋,陈耿.气动噪声数值计算方法的比较与应用[J].噪声与振动控制,2012,32(4):6-10 Xu J W, Wu Y F, Chen G. Comparison and application on the aero-acoustics numerical computing methods[J]. Noise and Vibration Control, 2012,32(4):6-10(in Chinese) [14] 徐红梅,郝志勇,郭磊.阶次分析在发动机进气噪声研究中的应用[J].小型内燃机与摩托车,2008,37(1):83-86 Xu H M, Hao Z Y, Guo L. Application of order analysis in intake noise research of engine[J]. Small Internal Combustion Engine and Motorcycle, 2008,37(1):83-86(in Chinese) [15] 岳贵平,卢炳武,刘英杰,等.发动机进气系统声学元件设计方法研究[J].汽车技术,2009,(10):12-15 Yue G P, Lu B Q, Liu Y J, et al. Study of design method of acoustic components of engine's intake systems[J]. Automobile Technology, 2009,(10):12-15(in Chinese)
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New York City 4K - Hudson Yards - Driving Downtown - USA
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Michel Rigo: From combinatorial games to shape-symmetric morphisms
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The World's Tallest Timber Buildings
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SHM - 16/01/15 - Constructivismes en mathématiques - Alain Herreman
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ALL >> Games >> View Article
Uncovering The Similarities Between Solving Crossword Puzzles And Playing Chess
Crossword puzzles and chess are both renowned activities that require strategic thinking and mental agility. In this article, we explore the intriguing parallels between solving crossword puzzles and playing chess, highlighting the shared elements that make these pursuits engaging and intellectually stimulating.
Table of Contents:
1. Strategy and Planning
a. Identifying Patterns and Possibilities
b. Formulating a Game Plan
2. Mental Flexibility and Adaptability
a. Adjusting Tactics on the Fly
b. Embracing New Perspectives
3. Pattern Recognition and Problem-Solving
a. Recognizing Common Themes and Structures
b. Analyzing Positions and Clues
4. Critical Thinking and Decision Making
a. Weighing Multiple Options
b. Evaluating Consequences
5. Practice and Improvement
a. Enhancing Skills through Experience
b. Continual Learning and Growth
6. The Thrill ...
... of Success
a. The "Aha!" Moment
b. Celebrating Triumphs
7. Conclusion
Strategy and Planning:
a. Identifying Patterns and Possibilities:
Both crossword puzzles and chess involve recognizing patterns and possibilities.
In chess, players anticipate opponents' moves and consider various outcomes.
Similarly, crossword solvers discern word patterns and potential answers based on clues and intersecting letters.
b. Formulating a Game Plan:
Chess players plan ahead, strategizing their moves to achieve specific goals.
Crossword solvers devise a plan of attack, starting with easier clues and gradually progressing.
In both activities, a well-thought-out plan increases the chances of success.
Mental Flexibility and Adaptability:
a. Adjusting Tactics on the Fly:
Chess players need to adapt their strategies based on opponents' moves and changing board positions.
Crossword solvers must adjust their approach when initial answers don't align with intersecting entries.
b. Embracing New Perspectives:
Both chess and crossword enthusiasts must consider alternative perspectives to uncover hidden possibilities.
Being open to fresh ideas and different angles is crucial for success in both activities.
Pattern Recognition and Problem-Solving:
a. Recognizing Common Themes and Structures:
Chess players identify recurring patterns and openings to gain an advantage.
Crossword solvers learn common crossword clues, themes, and wordplay techniques to solve puzzles efficiently.
b. Analyzing Positions and Clues:
Chess players analyze the position of pieces, potential attacks, and vulnerabilities.
Crossword solvers dissect clue wording, search for subtle hints, and analyze letter patterns to find solutions.
Critical Thinking and Decision Making:
a. Weighing Multiple Options:
Chess players consider multiple moves and their consequences before making a decision.
Crossword solvers evaluate various potential answers, eliminating unlikely choices through deductive reasoning.
b. Evaluating Consequences:
Both chess players and crossword solvers assess the potential outcomes of their decisions, weighing risks and rewards.
Practice and Improvement:
a. Enhancing Skills through Experience:
Chess players improve by playing against opponents of varying skill levels and analyzing their games.
Crossword solvers sharpen their abilities by solving puzzles regularly, becoming familiar with different clue styles and vocabulary.
b. Continual Learning and Growth:
Both chess and crossword enthusiasts seek new strategies, study techniques, and solve increasingly challenging puzzles.
There is always room for improvement and expansion of knowledge in both activities.
The Thrill of Success:
a. The "Aha!" Moment:
Both chess players and crossword solvers experience moments of epiphany and satisfaction when a solution becomes clear.
The "Aha!" moment in chess is often when a winning move or strategy is realized.
Crossword solvers feel a sense of accomplishment when a challenging clue is cracked, leading to the completion of a section or the entire puzzle.
b. Celebrating Triumphs:
Chess players celebrate victories, whether it's a hard-fought match or a successful tournament performance.
Crossword solvers revel in completing a difficult puzzle, finding joy in overcoming obstacles, and cracking the final clue.
Solving crossword puzzles and playing chess share numerous similarities that contribute to their appeal and intellectual stimulation. Both activities require strategic thinking, adaptability, pattern recognition, critical analysis, and the pursuit of continual improvement. The joy of discovering solutions and the satisfaction of overcoming challenges are universal experiences shared by enthusiasts of crossword puzzles and chess. So whether you're maneuvering your chess pieces on a checkered board or unraveling clues in a grid of letters, embrace the mental workout and relish the rewarding journey that awaits.
LA Times Crossword Answers
Nyt Crossword Answers
Daily Themed Crossword Answers
WordScapes Answers | WordScapes Cheats
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- Short selling refers to a trading strategy that allows investors to bet that the price of a stock or security will fall.
- In the last two weeks, members of the WallStreetBets online forum encouraged the bidding up of shares that hedge funds have shorted, resulting in a surge in some stock prices and losses for those funds.
- Analysts say its unlikely something similar would happen in mainland China given tight regulation and online censorship.
BEIJING — The recent short selling frenzy on Wall Street will not likely come to China, where there are many more market restrictions.
Short selling refers to a trading strategy that allows investors to bet that the price of a stock or security will fall.
To short a stock, investors borrow shares and sell them, then ideally buy them back at a lower price later, and pocket the profits made. If the share price does not drop, the short seller will try to minimize losses by buying back the stock, which now costs more.
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Investors in mainland China have a limited ability to short stocks — a sign that the local markets are still immature. Tight regulation and online censorship in China also contribute to different investor behavior versus that of the U.S.
Since last month, millions of individual investors have piled into the WallStreetBets forum on Reddit, encouraging one another to bid up shares of stocks that hedge funds have shorted, or bet would fall in price.
Money Report
A rush of trades through stock brokers like the free Robinhood app caused shares of heavily shorted stocks like GameStop, a video game retailer, to surge 400% in a week.
Shares of GameStop and others that were targeted by the Reddit community have since fallen drastically — but not before some funds betting against them lost billions of dollars.
Why Chinese stock markets are different
Here's why analysts say something similar won't likely happen in China:
First, the concept of short selling is relatively new and limited in scope in the country, where authorities are on high alert for controlling risks.
Regulators only started to allow short selling about 10 years ago and it remains well below 1% of the total market value.
The process is essentially the same as the U.S. Traders profit by borrowing shares, selling them and then buying them back after prices drop.
But one difference in China is that regulators only allow investors to short a portion of stocks traded on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges.
The list of stocks — roughly 1,600 or more of them — changes regularly and typically only includes companies with good fundamentals, according to Bruce Pang, head of macro and strategy research at China Renaissance.
That contrasts with the short selling environment in the U.S., where dedicated funds typically pick companies like GameStop for perceived weaknesses in their businesses.
Limited ability to short Chinese stocks and caps of 10% or 20% on daily price moves gives speculators more incentive to pursue different money-making strategies, such as driving prices up before selling.
In the U.S., trading of individual stocks might be paused for excessive volatility, but prices can ultimately soar or plunge – like GameStop's surge of more than 130% one day and a 44% plunge the next.
Stability at all costs
Chinese regulators prioritize stability when forming economic and financial policies — even if they would like to improve the business environment by attracting more foreign investors and increasing the role of stock markets in financing Chinese companies.
That mentality has affected local stock investors, who tend to assume implicit government support means Chinese stocks will only rise. Local interpretation of official signals have also spurred bouts of speculation in the mainland stock market, causing many to nickname it a "casino."
But with millions of ordinary individuals, rather than institutions, dominating Chinese stock trading, regulators are keen to prevent widespread losses as a way of ensuring stability.
That means authorities will take extra precautions to control markets, and it would be very difficult for a large group of retail investors to incite the frenzy seen recently in U.S. markets.
All short trades and online discussion of stocks are closely monitored, Pang said. So in a sense, protection of investors in China is greater than that of more developed markets, he added. |
BPM R-750Z Common Problems and Troubleshooting
If you own a BPM R-750Z Electric Bike, you may encounter common problems during your rides. In this article, we will explore these issues and provide troubleshooting solutions specific to this model. Whether you're navigating challenging terrains or dealing with battery concerns, we've got you covered with expert guidance.
BPM R-750Z Overview
The BPM R-750Z is a versatile electric bike designed for various outdoor adventures. Here's a brief overview of this remarkable electric bike:
Product Details | Features |
Rickshaw Fat Tire Electric Tricycle With Rear Seat | Fully Loaded Edition |
R-750X Rickshaw Tricycle | Full Electric Range: Up to 51 Miles |
HEAVY DUTY FAT TIRE | Pedal Assist Range: Up to 57 Miles |
750W 48V 21AH Samsung Battery | Rickshaw weight: 110 pounds |
Product Details
- Adjustable Seat: perfect for any size rider.
- Maximum Rider Weight: 400lbs
- Designed for All Terrains
- Battery: 48V*21AH Samsung Lithium Ion
- Charge Time: 4-6 Hours
- Battery Life Est: 1000 Charges
- Motor: BaFang 750W Front Drive
- Motor Power< Fixed Output Power: 750W
- 5 Power Levels
- Quick Charger: US 110v Standard Smart Charger
- Throttle Type: Variable Speed Control – 1/2 Thumb Throttle
Hardware Details
- Frame: Aluminium-Alloy – heavy duty for off-roading
- Fork: Steel Tig Welding
- Handlebar: Aluminum
- Seat Post: Aluminum
- Saddle Seat: Leather
- Chain: Rust Resistant Chain
- Pedals: Aluminum
- Tire Front: Kenda 24" X 4.0" Fat Tire
- Tire Back: Kenda 20" X 4.0" Fat Tire
- Brakes: Alloy Aluminum Front and Rear Disc
- Headlight: LED
Causes of Common Problems with the BPM R-750Z
Before diving into specific problems and their solutions, let's briefly introduce the common issues you might encounter with the BPM R-750Z Electric Bike. In the following sections, we'll provide detailed troubleshooting guidance for each of these problems.
Common Problems with the BPM R-750Z
1. Battery Not Charging
Description: One of the most common issues with the BPM R-750Z is when the battery fails to charge, leading to a bike that won't operate.
Cause of the Problem: This problem can occur due to a faulty charger, a loose connection, or issues with the battery itself.
- First, ensure that the charger is securely plugged into a functioning power outlet.
- Check for any loose connections between the charger and the bike's battery port.
- If the charger and connections are fine, the battery might be the issue. Contact customer support for a battery replacement.
2. Loss of Power During Rides
Description: Some BPM R-750Z owners experience sudden power loss while riding, which can be frustrating and potentially dangerous.
Cause of the Problem: This issue can result from various factors, including overheating, a malfunctioning motor, or an exhausted battery.
- Allow the bike to cool down if it has been used extensively. Overheating can lead to power loss. Consider shorter rides in high-temperature conditions.
- If the problem persists, check the motor for any visible damage or unusual noises. A damaged motor may need replacement or repair.
- Ensure that the battery is adequately charged before each ride. Low battery levels can cause power loss. Invest in a reliable battery monitor.
3. Inconsistent Pedal Assist
Description: Some users report that the pedal assist feature on the BPM R-750Z doesn't always work as expected, leading to inconsistent support during pedaling.
Cause of the Problem: Inconsistent pedal assist can occur due to sensor issues, wiring problems, or a malfunctioning controller.
- Check the pedal assist sensors for dirt or damage. Clean or replace them as needed.
- Inspect the wiring and connections related to the pedal assist system. Make sure all wires are properly connected and not frayed.
- If the problem persists, contact customer support for a controller diagnosis and potential replacement.
4. Brakes Not Responsive
Description: Unresponsive brakes can pose a serious safety concern for BPM R-750Z riders.
Cause of the Problem: Brake issues may result from worn brake pads, brake fluid leaks, or improper adjustment.
- Inspect the brake pads for wear and tear. Replace them if they are excessively worn.
- Check for any signs of brake fluid leaks. If you notice any, consult a professional for brake system repair.
- If the brakes feel loose or unresponsive, adjust them according to the bike's user manual instructions.
5. Display Error Codes
Description: The BPM R-750Z features a display screen that may occasionally show error codes, causing confusion for riders.
Cause of the Problem: Error codes can indicate various issues, such as sensor malfunctions, electrical problems, or software glitches.
- Refer to the user manual for a list of error codes and their meanings. This can provide insights into the specific issue.
- If the error code persists, try restarting the bike by turning it off and on again. Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve software-related errors.
- If the problem remains unresolved, contact customer support and provide them with the error code for further assistance.
6. Chain Slippage
Description: Riders may encounter issues with the bike's chain slipping off the gears, disrupting their ride.
Cause of the Problem: Chain slippage can result from loose or improperly adjusted chain tension, damaged sprockets, or a misaligned derailleur.
- Inspect the chain's tension. If it's too loose, tighten it according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Examine the sprockets for any signs of wear or damage. Replace them if necessary.
- Ensure the derailleur is properly aligned and adjusted. Make necessary adjustments following the bike's manual.
7. Tire Punctures
Description: Punctured tires are a common issue that can leave riders stranded during their journey.
Cause of the Problem: Tire punctures are typically caused by sharp objects on the road, such as nails, glass shards, or thorns.
- Carry a tire repair kit with you during rides, including patches and a pump, to address minor punctures on the spot.
- If the puncture is severe, replace the inner tube or the tire itself. Follow the bike's manual for guidance on tire replacement.
- Consider using puncture-resistant tires or tire liners to reduce the likelihood of future punctures.
8. Loose Bolts and Nuts
Description: Over time, vibrations from riding can cause bolts and nuts on the bike to loosen, potentially affecting its stability.
Cause of the Problem: The constant motion and vibrations while riding can gradually loosen bolts and nuts throughout the bike's frame.
- Regularly inspect the bike's components for loose bolts and nuts. Use a torque wrench to ensure they are properly tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Apply a thread locker or a locking nut to critical components to prevent them from loosening during rides.
- Consider adding nylon lock nuts or spring washers to areas prone to vibration-induced loosening.
9. Display Screen Issues
Description: Problems with the bike's display screen, such as flickering or malfunctioning buttons, can be frustrating for riders.
Cause of the Problem: Display screen issues may result from electrical issues, loose connections, or software glitches.
- Check the display screen's connections to ensure they are securely attached. Re-seat any loose cables if necessary.
- Restart the bike to see if the issue resolves itself. Sometimes, temporary glitches can be fixed with a reboot.
- If the problem persists, contact customer support for guidance on potential software updates or hardware repairs.
10. Noise from the Motor
Description: Unusual noises coming from the motor can be a sign of a mechanical issue that requires attention.
Cause of the Problem: Motor noise can result from loose components, worn bearings, or internal damage to the motor assembly.
- Inspect the motor for visible damage or loose parts. Tighten any loose components and replace damaged parts as needed.
- Lubricate motor bearings according to the manufacturer's recommendations to reduce friction and noise.
- If the noise persists, consult a professional technician or contact customer support for motor diagnostics and potential repairs.
11. Shifting Gears Issues
Description: Riders may experience difficulties in shifting gears smoothly, affecting their ride experience.
Cause of the Problem: Gear shifting problems can arise from cable tension issues, misaligned derailleurs, or worn-out gear components.
- Check cable tension and adjust it if necessary to ensure smooth gear changes.
- Inspect the alignment of the derailleurs and make appropriate adjustments according to the bike's manual.
- If gears continue to shift poorly, consider replacing worn gear components, such as chainrings or cassettes.
12. Uneven Tire Wear
Description: Uneven tire wear can lead to reduced traction and an unstable ride on the BPM R-750Z.
Cause of the Problem: Tire wear can be uneven due to improper inflation, misaligned wheels, or unbalanced loads.
- Maintain proper tire inflation based on the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure even wear.
- Regularly inspect the alignment of the wheels and make necessary adjustments to prevent uneven tire wear.
- Distribute loads evenly on the bike to avoid excess weight on one side, which can cause uneven wear on specific tires.
13. Frequent Chain Slippage
Description: Some riders may face persistent issues with the bike's chain slipping off the gears, disrupting their ride frequently.
Cause of the Problem: Frequent chain slippage can be caused by ongoing issues with chain tension, damaged gear teeth, or worn-out components.
- Regularly inspect and maintain chain tension to prevent frequent slippage. Adjust as needed.
- Examine the gear teeth for wear or damage and replace them if necessary.
- If chain slippage persists despite adjustments, consider upgrading to a higher-quality chain or consulting a bike technician.
14. Overheating Motor
Description: An overheating motor can lead to reduced performance and potential long-term damage to the BPM R-750Z.
Cause of the Problem: Overheating may occur due to extended use at high speeds, insufficient cooling, or motor overload.
- Monitor your riding habits and avoid extended periods of high-speed usage, which can contribute to motor overheating.
- Ensure that the motor has adequate ventilation and cooling to dissipate heat effectively.
- If overheating becomes a recurring issue, consult a professional for motor inspection and potential upgrades.
15. Loss of Pedal Assist Functionality
Description: Some riders may encounter issues where the pedal assist functionality stops working, impacting the bike's overall performance.
Cause of the Problem: Loss of pedal assist can result from sensor malfunctions, electrical connectivity problems, or controller issues.
- Inspect the pedal assist sensors for any damage or disconnection. Replace or reattach as needed.
- Check the wiring and electrical connections related to the pedal assist system, ensuring they are securely connected.
- If pedal assist problems persist, contact customer support for a thorough diagnosis and potential replacement of components.
16. Braking System Noise
Description: Riders may notice unusual noises coming from the braking system when applying the brakes.
Cause of the Problem: Brake noise can be caused by contamination of brake pads, misalignment of brake components, or worn brake pads.
- Inspect the brake pads for contamination or wear. Clean or replace them if necessary.
- Check for any misalignment in the brake components and adjust them according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
- If the noise persists, consider upgrading to quieter, high-quality brake pads for a smoother ride.
17. Loose Handlebars
Description: Loose handlebars can affect control and rider safety while operating the BPM R-750Z.
Cause of the Problem: Handlebar issues can result from loose stem bolts, worn grips, or improper assembly.
- Regularly check the stem bolts for tightness and ensure they are properly torqued to specification.
- Inspect the handlebar grips for wear or damage and replace them if they are in poor condition.
- If the handlebars continue to feel loose, consult a bike technician for a thorough inspection and repair.
18. Inaccurate Battery Level Reading
Description: Some riders may experience discrepancies in the battery level reading displayed on the bike's screen.
Cause of the Problem: Inaccurate battery level readings can be due to sensor issues, software glitches, or aging batteries.
- Restart the bike to see if the battery level reading corrects itself. Temporary glitches can sometimes lead to inaccurate readings.
- Check for loose or damaged battery connectors. Secure or replace them if necessary.
- If the problem persists, consider replacing the battery with a new one to ensure accurate readings.
19. Unresponsive Pedal Assist Levels
Description: Riders may encounter issues with unresponsive pedal assist levels, making it challenging to control the bike's assistance.
Cause of the Problem: Unresponsive pedal assist levels can result from controller malfunctions, wiring problems, or software issues.
- Inspect the wiring and connections related to the pedal assist system to ensure they are securely attached.
- Check for any signs of damage to the controller. If it appears damaged, consider replacing it with a new one.
- If the pedal assist levels remain unresponsive, consult the bike's manufacturer or customer support for software updates or further assistance.
20. Rust on Frame Components
Description: Over time, rust can develop on the frame components of the BPM R-750Z, affecting both aesthetics and structural integrity.
Cause of the Problem: Rust can occur due to exposure to moisture, humidity, or neglecting proper frame maintenance.
- Regularly clean and dry the bike after rides, paying attention to areas prone to rust, such as the frame and bolts.
- If rust is present, gently remove it using a rust remover or fine-grade steel wool, followed by applying a protective coating to prevent further rusting.
- Consider applying a layer of bicycle-specific frame protection or wax to shield the frame from moisture and corrosion.
21. Acceleration Delay
Description: Some riders may notice a delay in acceleration when they start pedaling, impacting the bike's responsiveness.
Cause of the Problem: Acceleration delay can result from sensor calibration issues, controller malfunctions, or software glitches.
- Check if the sensor calibration is correct according to the bike's manual. Recalibrate if necessary.
- Inspect the controller for any signs of damage or loose connections. Replace or secure as needed.
- If acceleration delay persists, consult the manufacturer or customer support for potential software updates or repairs.
22. Handlebar Vibration
Description: Excessive handlebar vibration can make rides uncomfortable and affect overall control.
Cause of the Problem: Handlebar vibration may be caused by unbalanced wheels, improperly inflated tires, or worn-out grips.
- Ensure that the wheels are properly balanced to reduce vibration. Adjust as needed.
- Maintain correct tire pressure based on the manufacturer's recommendations to minimize vibrations.
- Inspect and replace worn-out handlebar grips to improve grip and reduce discomfort during rides.
23. Headlight Malfunction
Description: The bike's headlight may malfunction, impacting visibility during night rides.
Cause of the Problem: Headlight issues can result from wiring problems, a faulty bulb, or a malfunctioning switch.
- Check the wiring connections for the headlight and ensure they are securely attached and free from damage.
- If the headlight bulb is dim or not working, replace it with a new bulb suitable for the BPM R-750Z.
- If the headlight still doesn't function, investigate the switch and wiring for possible defects or contact customer support for assistance.
24. Unpredictable Motor Assistance
Description: Riders may experience unpredictable motor assistance levels, making it challenging to control the bike's speed.
Cause of the Problem: This issue can arise from controller problems, intermittent electrical connections, or software glitches.
- Inspect the controller for any visible damage or loose wiring. Address any issues you find.
- Check all electrical connections related to the motor system, ensuring they are secure and free from corrosion.
- If motor assistance remains unpredictable, consider updating the bike's software or consulting the manufacturer for guidance.
25. Wobbly Wheels
Description: Wobbly wheels can affect stability and ride quality, potentially leading to accidents.
Cause of the Problem: Wheel wobbling can be caused by loose spokes, unbalanced rims, or a damaged wheel hub.
- Regularly check and tighten loose spokes to ensure wheel stability.
- Balance the rims or wheels as needed to reduce wobbling. Professional balancing may be required.
- If the wobbling persists, inspect the wheel hub for damage and replace it if necessary. Consult a bike technician for assistance.
BPM R-750Z Electric Bike User Reviews
When considering a purchase as significant as an electric bike like the BPM R-750Z, it's invaluable to hear from users who have experienced it firsthand. Below, we summarize both positive and negative user reviews found on Walmart, giving you a comprehensive understanding of what BPM R-750Z Electric Bike owners have to say.
Positive Reviews from BPM R-750Z Electric Bike Users
- Some users were satisfied with the comfortable and adjustable seat, making long rides enjoyable without discomfort.
- Many users praised the impressive battery life of the BPM R-750Z, allowing for extended rides on a single charge.
- Several riders highlighted the powerful motor and pedal assist functionality, which provided an extra boost when tackling challenging terrains or hills.
- Users appreciated the sturdy and durable frame construction, offering confidence in the bike's longevity and performance.
- Positive remarks were made about the fat tires, providing excellent traction and stability, especially when riding on rough or uneven surfaces.
Overall, the majority of BPM R-750Z Electric Bike users shared positive feedback about various aspects of the bike, including its comfort, battery life, motor power, durability, and tire performance. These positive reviews indicate that the BPM R-750Z is generally well-received by riders.
Negative User Reviews of the BPM R-750Z Electric Bike
- Some users were not satisfied with occasional issues related to brake squeaking, which affected the overall riding experience.
- A few riders reported difficulties with the bike's gear shifting, mentioning occasional misalignment and delays in changing gears.
- Several users expressed concerns about the weight of the BPM R-750Z, stating that it can be challenging to maneuver, especially when navigating tight spaces.
- Occasional instances of loose bolts and nuts were mentioned, requiring frequent checks and maintenance to prevent components from coming undone.
- Some riders noted that while the battery life was generally good, it tended to degrade over time, resulting in shorter rides after prolonged use.
Despite some negative feedback regarding brake squeaking, gear shifting, weight, maintenance, and battery life degradation, it's important to note that these issues appear to affect a smaller subset of BPM R-750Z Electric Bike users. The majority of users seem to have a positive experience with the bike, emphasizing its benefits and overall performance.
BPM R-750Z Electric Bike Manual
If you're looking for the detailed operating instructions for your BPM R-750Z Electric Bike, you can find the official manual on the manufacturer's website. Visit the manufacturer's site to access the comprehensive manual, which includes important information on setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
BPM R-750Z Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I properly charge the BPM R-750Z's battery?
A: To charge the battery, connect the charger to the bike's battery port and plug it into a standard power outlet. Ensure that the charger is securely connected and follow the recommended charging time mentioned in the manual.
Q: What is the maximum weight capacity for the BPM R-750Z Electric Bike?
A: The BPM R-750Z is designed to support a maximum rider weight of 400 pounds. Exceeding this weight limit may affect the bike's performance and safety.
Q: How can I troubleshoot pedal assist issues?
A: If you encounter problems with the pedal assist function, start by checking the pedal assist sensors for dirt or damage. Ensure all wiring and connections related to the pedal assist system are secure. If the issue persists, contact customer service for further assistance.
Q: What should I do if I experience a loss of power during a ride?
A: If you encounter a sudden loss of power while riding, first allow the bike to cool down if it has been used extensively. Check the motor for damage or unusual noises. Ensure the battery is adequately charged before each ride. If the problem continues, consult the manual for troubleshooting or contact customer support.
Q: Can I replace the brake pads myself if they wear out?
A: Yes, you can replace the brake pads yourself. Inspect the brake pads for wear and tear and replace them if they are excessively worn. The process is typically straightforward and outlined in the manual.
In case you encounter any problems with your BPM R-750Z Electric Bike, it's essential to refer to the manual, reach out to customer service, or visit an authorized service center. These resources can provide you with the guidance and support you need to keep your bike in optimal condition and address any issues that may arise.
BPM F-15X Common Problems
BPM TSX-900 Common Problems
BPM F-15RS Common Problems |
Introduction: Retirement is a transitional event, experienced by middle-aged individuals, and its consequences can interfere with their health status. Changing family structures are also changing patterns and experiences related to retirement. When both members of the couple are going through this transition, it may also be necessary to redefine the relationship as identities, patterns, roles, and expectations change. Objective: To analyze the relationship between the experience of adaptation to retirement and the Marital Enrichment and Development, Communication and Happiness of Portuguese recent retirees. Methods: A descriptive and quantitative study was carried out with occasionally selected middle-aged couples in family health units. Upon informed consent, the Enrichment and Marital Development, Communication and Happiness Inventory (ENRICH) was applied, and data were analyzed using IBM® SPSS27. All ethical and formal procedures were followed. Results: The 32 couples who responded to the questionnaire and Inventory had a mean age of 61.31 (SD=5.08) years. The sample presented values of enrichment, marital development, communication and happiness within median parameters, and the conjugality was positively influenced by the retirement variable. Conclusion: Newly retired people place enormous importance on family, particularly their spouse. When spouses affect the other member of the couple's decision making, they influence their satisfaction with their new status. There is a need to promote family health in a systemic way at this stage of the life cycle.
Translated title of the contribution | Desenvolvimento conjugal, comunicação e felicidade em recém aposentados portugueses= Desarrollo conyugal, comunicación y felicidad en los recién jubilados portugueses |
Original language | Multiple languages |
Article number | e28045 |
Journal | Millenium: Journal of Education, Technologies, and Health |
Volume | 2 |
Issue number | 21 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 28 Mar 2023 |
- aging
- communication
- family
- happiness
- retirement
- spouses |
Most people tend to overlook a significant indicator of one's health state - nails and changes in their appearance. Our fingernails have a vital role in our everyday tasks and can indicate specific health issues.
One of the most common nail changes that can pinpoint health trouble is called Beau's nails. This nail deformation is characterized by the interruption of nail growth at the nail matrix (the point where the nail emerges from the finger).
Beau's lines are the medical name for horizontal ridges or indentations growing across the fingernails. These ridges usually develop straight across your nail. You can have one or multiple Beau's lines on one or more of your fingernails. Different kinds of health conditions can affect the nails and develop these horizontal ridges.
Another type of horizontal ridge in nails is splinter hemorrhage. These lines are usually black and related to local trauma, such as having your finger stuck in a door. Alternatively, the cause of splinter hemorrhage can be a medical condition like psoriasis or endocarditis.
Horizontal ridges in nails can also be brown or black, and this condition is known as melanonychia. They usually represent a harmless nail coloration, but in some cases, they may be a sign of an infection or trauma.
Vertical lines on nails stretch from the cuticle to the tip of your nail. As you age, changes occur in the cell turnover within your nail. Therefore, numerous and prominent vertical nail ridges are a common sign of aging.
Finding some lines extending from the cuticle to the top of the nail is usually not a cause of concern. Many healthy middle-aged women have some form of longitudinal ridging as a normal part of the process of nail aging.
Apart from aging, vertical or longitudinal ridges on the fingernails commonly occur in healthy individuals due to improper nutrition and hydration. In fact, middle-aged and older people experience this condition due to the reduced capacity of aging nails to absorb nutrients.
The cause for Beau's lines often lies in common injuries or environmental factors like getting a manicure, picking or biting your cuticles, and getting a nail infection around its edge. However, if you notice these ridges on more than one nail, that is likely a sign of a serious disease or prolonged exposure to harmful environmental factors.
Below, we have listed a few potential causes of Beau's lines.
When Beau's nails are accompanied by other symptoms like confusion, lethargy, and urination issues, they may be the result of acute kidney failure. Acute kidney failure refers to the rapid shutdown of the kidneys' function over a short period (usually around two days). This is a severe condition that requires urgent medical attention.
Thyroid disease is an umbrella term for health issues relating to the production of hormones in the thyroid gland. These hormones have an essential role in regulating many functions in the human body, such as metabolism and growth. Beau's lines can develop as a result of various thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and Hashimoto's disease.
Diabetes can interrupt nail growth and cause nail changes like Beau's lines. This is a serious disorder that requires regular monitoring of your blood sugar levels and administration of insulin. Excessive blood sugar levels can lead to various complications, such as heart disease and nerve damage.
A common side effect of chemotherapy is interrupting proper nail growth from the nail matrix. This can lead to the development of Beau's lines.
Subungual melanoma is one of the rarest and most severe causes of nail growth impairment. This disease usually leads to nail discoloration with brown stripes or sections.
Beau's lines can be a sign that you consume insufficient amounts of zinc or proteins. Zinc is an essential mineral found in oysters, beans, and many other healthy foods. Incorporating these foods into your diet can resume normal nail growth.
Beau's lines in toenails are characterized by horizontal depressions or ridges that appear on the surface of the nail. These lines are typically caused by a disruption in the growth of the nail at the nail matrix, which is where the nail starts to form. There are several factors that can contribute to the development of Beau's lines in toenails.
Common factors leading to Beau's lines in toenails include systemic illnesses like uncontrolled diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and circulatory issues. Trauma to the toe or foot, severe illness, malnutrition, chemotherapy, and certain medications can also cause these lines to appear.
Depending on the underlying cause, individuals may also experience other symptoms related to their overall health condition. In some cases, individuals may experience recurrent episodes of Beau's lines in their toenails. This may be due to ongoing or chronic health conditions that continue to disrupt the growth of the nails. In these cases, ongoing management and treatment of the underlying condition is necessary to prevent the recurrence of Beau's lines.
Diagnosing Beau's lines in toenails involves a thorough examination of the affected nails and a comprehensive review of the individual's medical history to identify any potential underlying causes. In some cases, additional tests or blood work may be necessary to determine if there are any systemic conditions contributing to the development of Beau's lines.
The treatment for Beau's lines in toenails focuses on addressing the underlying cause. It is important to manage systemic conditions such as diabetes or vascular disease in order to improve the health of the nails. Proper foot care, including regular trimming and moisturizing of the nails, can also help prevent further damage.
Beau's lines in fingernails, similar to those in toenails, are characterized by transverse depressions or ridges on the nail plate of the fingers. It is important to understand the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for Beau's lines in fingernails in order to effectively manage this condition.
The causes of Beau's lines in fingernails are similar to those in toenails and can include systemic illnesses like diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, severe infections, malnutrition, chemotherapy, and certain medications. Trauma to the fingers or hands can also contribute to the development of Beau's lines.
Individuals with Beau's lines in fingernails may observe visible horizontal depressions or ridges on their nails. Depending on the underlying cause, additional symptoms related to associated health conditions may also be present. In some cases, the ridges or depressions caused by Beau's lines may gradually grow out as the nails continue to grow. Therefore, it may take several months for the nails to fully recover and for the ridges to disappear.
Diagnosing Beau's lines in fingernails involves a thorough examination of the affected nails and a comprehensive review of the individual's medical history to identify potential underlying causes. Healthcare providers may perform additional tests or blood work to assess for systemic conditions that may be contributing to the development of Beau's lines.
Treatment for Beau's lines in fingernails focuses on addressing the underlying cause. Managing systemic conditions such as diabetes or vascular disease is crucial for improving nail health. Proper hand and nail care, including regular trimming and moisturizing of the nails, can also help prevent further damage.
Fortunately, Beau's lines are usually harmless and tend to resolve on their own once the underlying cause is addressed. For instance, if the lines are a result of an injury to the nail bed, such as a crush injury or a severe manicure, they may fade away as the nail grows out and regenerates. Similarly, if the lines are caused by a temporary ailment like a high fever, nutritional deficiency, or a systemic illness, they may disappear as the body recovers.
However, it is important to pay attention to any changes in the nails and seek medical advice if there are concerns about underlying health conditions. In some cases, Beau's lines can be a sign of more serious issues, such as malnutrition, thyroid disorders, diabetes, or certain autoimmune diseases. Therefore, if the lines persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other symptoms like discoloration, pain, or swelling, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
If Beau's lines appear suddenly and cover a large area, it is important to seek medical advice. Other symptoms like changes in nail color, shape, or texture should also be taken into consideration. If there is a history of chronic illnesses or ongoing medical treatments, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. They can evaluate the situation thoroughly and provide appropriate management if necessary.
A healthcare provider will conduct a comprehensive assessment, which may include a physical examination, medical history review, and possibly additional diagnostic tests. Based on the findings, they can provide appropriate guidance and treatment options if necessary. This may involve addressing the underlying health issue, adjusting medications, or recommending lifestyle changes to promote overall well-being.
Beau's lines are unlikely to go away on their own. They will only go away when the affected part of the nail grows out completely. As the nails continue to grow, the lines will gradually move toward the edge of the nail and eventually be trimmed off during regular nail maintenance. It is important to address the underlying cause of Beau's lines to prevent them from coming back.
The main focus in managing Beau's lines is to address the conditions that caused them. For instance, if someone had a severe illness or injury that led to Beau's lines, once they recover, new nail growth should be healthy and free from these lines. If malnutrition or certain diseases are responsible for Beau's lines, seeking medical treatment and following a proper care routine can help improve nail health over time.
In addition to addressing the underlying cause, it is important to maintain good nail hygiene and overall health. Keeping the nails clean and dry, avoiding nail injuries, and having a balanced diet with essential nutrients can promote healthy nail growth and reduce the occurrence of Beau's lines.
Changes in the appearance of our nails can say a lot about our health. Beau's lines are a critical nail issue that you should not disregard, as they may be a sign of various health problems. |
OECD Territorial Reviews: Gotland, Sweden
Gotland is Sweden's largest island and the largest island in the Baltic Sea. While Sweden has numerous Islands, Gotland's development trajectory is unique in Sweden. It is the smallest region in the country in population size and economic base, and it is located the furthest from the mainland (90 km). As an island economy, it must overcome a number of development challenges including its small critical mass, remoteness to larger markets, vulnerability to climate change and limited administrative capacity. Nonetheless, it has a number of important assets, such as being an attractive destination, having a high potential for bio- and circular economy, a university providing research and education, very good broadband connectivity, and a strong local identity and vibrant civil society. This Territorial Review benchmark's Gotland's economic performance against comparable OECD regions to identify areas of untapped potential and develops recommendations in three main areas to help improve the quality of life for residents and support more efficient use of public resources. The first focuses on improving infrastructure planning, investments and delivery. The second on supporting the business environment and innovation eco-system and the third, on improving administrative and financing capacity to deliver quality services throughout the territory.
This Territorial Review of Gotland, Sweden, highlights Gotland's particularities as an island region and provides recommendations to help improve quality of life for residents and support more efficient use of public resources. |
March 2024
New data, collected by Angus Reid Institute and think tank Cardus, shows that three-in-five Canadians believe in some form of life after death, and that many couple this belief with religious faith. The proportion has been fairly stable since the 1960s, fluctuating between 60 percent and 66 percent.
Although the remaining 40 percent of Canadians don't believe in an afterlife, only 13 percent, or one in eight, "definitely" rule out that possibility.
Among those with a religious affiliation, Jews are the least convinced of life after death. A majority among (60 percent) believe physical death is the end. Conversely, a full 92 percent of evangelical Christians do believe life extends beyond mortal death, as do 67 percent of Roman Catholics, 87 percent of Muslims and 71 percent of Hindus.
Geographically, the highest proportion of believers in an afterlife is found in the prairies and the lowest on the coast, particularly in the province of Quebec, where secularism is more widespread than elsewhere in Canada.
Unsurprisingly, those who define themselves as non-religious or non-spiritual show the highest proportion of people who don't believe in life after death, 92 percent. The "spiritually uncertain", who make up 43 percent of the Canadian population, show the most equal split, with a slight inclination (56 percent) towards belief in some sort of afterlife.
The survey also asked if people believe Jesus' resurrection actually took place. "Yes", say 36 percent; "no", say 38 percent. While the majority of evangelical Christians unsurprisingly think it did occur, 30 percent of them think the resurrection wasn't a real historic event.
Anders Bolling |
PORTLAND, Ore. – Drug delivery researchers at Oregon State University have developed a device with the potential to improve gene therapy for patients with inherited lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis.
In cell culture and mouse models, scientists in the OSU College of Pharmacy demonstrated a novel technique for the aerosolization of inhalable nanoparticles that can be used to carry messenger RNA, the technology underpinning COVID-19 vaccines, to patients' lungs.
The findings are important because the current nebulization method for nanoparticles subjects them to shear stress, hindering their ability to encapsulate the genetic material and causing them to aggregate in certain areas of the lungs rather than spread out evenly, the researchers said.
The study led by Gaurav Sahay, a professor of pharmaceutical sciences, was published in ACS Nano.
Sahay's lab studies lipid nanoparticles, or LNPs, as a gene delivery vehicle with a focus on cystic fibrosis, a progressive genetic disorder that results in persistent lung infection and affects 30,000 people in the U.S., with about 1,000 new cases identified every year.
One faulty gene – the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, or CFTR – causes the disease, which is characterized by lung dehydration and mucus buildup that blocks the airway.
Lipids are organic compounds containing fatty tails and are found in many natural oils and waxes, and nanoparticles are tiny pieces of material ranging in size from one- to 100-billionths of a meter. Messenger RNA delivers instructions to cells for making a particular protein.
With the coronavirus vaccines, the mRNA carried by the lipid nanoparticles instructs cells to make a harmless piece of the virus' spike protein, which triggers an immune response from the body. As a therapy for cystic fibrosis, the genetic material would fix the flaw in patients' CFTR gene.
"We utilized a novel microfluidic chip that helps in generation of plumes that carry nanoparticles and does not cause any shear stress," Sahay said. "This device is based on the similar idea of an ink-jet cartridge that generates plumes to print words on paper."
Four years ago, Sahay said, an Oregon-based startup called Rare Air Health Inc. contacted him about the prospect of using microfluidic technology for the aerosolization and delivery of lipid nanoparticles.
Microfluidics is the study of how fluids behave as they travel through or are confined in microminiaturized devices equipped with channels and chambers. Surface forces as opposed to volumetric forces dominate fluids at the microscale, meaning fluids act much differently there than what is observed in everyday life.
"When Rare Air came to me, I thought the device might work great for our purposes, and what followed were extensive studies that demonstrated the superiority of this device in generating aerosolized nanoparticles as compared to clinically used vibrating mesh nebulizers," Sahay said. "The device does not let the nanoparticles aggregate and can deliver mRNA with higher precision than existing tech. The additional cool thing is that this device can be digitally controlled, and Rare Air is developing prototypes for human use."
In addition to Sahay, the other Oregon State researchers on the study were Yulia Eygeris, Jeonghwan Kim, Antony Jozić and Elissa Bloom. Scientists from Funai Microfluidic Systems of Lexington, Kentucky, were also part of the collaboration.
"Funai focuses on inkjet tech and building these chips at scale; they worked closely to enable the device to be suitable for aerosolization," said Sahay, who in addition to his role at OSU serves as an advisor and consultant to Rare Air. "This study demonstrates a marriage between new devices and formulation science that might hugely impact human health."
Funding from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and Rare Air supported the study.
About the OSU College of Pharmacy: The College of Pharmacy prepares students of today to be the pharmacy practitioners and pharmaceutical sciences researchers of tomorrow by contributing to improved health, advancing patient care and the discovery and understanding of medicines.
Steve Lundeberg, 541-737-4039
[email protected]
Gaurav Sahay, 503-346-4698
[email protected]
Click photos to see a full-size version. Right click and save image to download. |
Forecasting sea surface temperatures several months in advance is challenging. To give us insights into what might happen around Aotearoa New Zealand in the months to come, NIWA scientists have combined predictions from eight different climate models from institutes around the world.
Amid a changing climate, global sea surface temperatures are increasing. This will be associated with more frequent and intense marine heatwave events, which are defined as as being an extended period of extremely warm ocean temperatures that can extend up to thousands of kilometres. In late November and early December 2021, a marine heatwave developed around the North Island. By the end of the year, it reached record levels in the northern North Island and at least matched the previous record event of 2017-18 in the east and west of the North Island. By early January 2022, it had expanded into the north and east of the South Island.
The images below, which are updated once a month, provide an indication on the possible sea surface temperature conditions over the coming months.
NIWA's forecasting models
The current forecasting computer models have a low resolution of about 110 x 110km, which means they cover large areas such as the Cook strait but not places like the Sounds.
"Pelorus Sound is where half of Aotearoa New Zealand's aquaculture occurs, so it is a very important area to include in our forecasts", says NIWA hydrodynamics scientist David Plew. "What we do know from the current models is that the Cook Strait near the entrance to the Sound increases from October through to January every year, with a most likely increase ranging between +0.8 and +1.0˚C at its peak in January. But the aquaculture industry needs access to more localised forecasts."
That is precisely why NIWA scientists are now comparing sea surface temperatures measured at many locations within regions that aren't covered in the current models with those in wider regions. Long-range forecasts also become less certain further into the future, so keep an eye on the predictions as summer develops and will be producing a monthly NIWA forecast and posting updates on this page.
This work is funded through NIWA's Strategic Science Investment Fund from the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment.
Forecast Cook Strait SST anomalies (˚C) over the next 6 months
Month | 25th percentile | 50th percentile | 75th percentile |
October 2021 | 0.34 | 0.45 | 0.48 |
November 2021 | 0.43 | 0.54 | 0.60 |
December 2021 | 0.70 | 0.89 | 0.90 |
January 2022 | 0.82 | 0.97 | 0.98 |
February 2022 | 0.70 | 0.86 | 0.95 |
March 2022 | 0.61 | 0.83 | 0.87 |
Disclaimer: The forecasts offered in this page draw upon modified Copernicus Climate Change Service Information [2022](C3S, https://climate.Copernicus.eu). There is inherent uncertainty in forecasting sea surface temperature and neither NIWA nor the licensors of the C3S products (being the European Union represented by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts) make any representations or warranties as to the information and figures on this page. Neither NIWA nor the licensor of the Copernicus products accept any liability for any loss or damage incurred by anyone from use or reliance on the information or figures.
This work is funded through NIWA's Strategic Science Investment Fund from the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment. |
Opinions expressed by Digital Journal contributors are their own.
Among the pioneers of the modern digital age, Alexander "Sasha" Galitsky holds a unique place. Known for his groundbreaking work in Wi-Fi and Virtual Private Network (VPN) technologies, Galitsky's journey from a defense scientist in the Soviet space industry to a successful entrepreneur and venture capitalist is a testament to his remarkable contributions to the world of technology.
Early years and education
Born on February 9, 1955, in Zarechany, Zhytomyr Region, Ukrainian SSR, Galitsky's journey began in a modest village setting. Excelling academically, he graduated from high school with honors and went on to attend the Moscow Institute of Electronic Technology (MIET). At MIET, his interests in theoretical physics and computer calculations deepened, leading him to practical work at the Zelenograd Scientific Research Institute of Microdevices. Galitsky's early forays into technology culminated in obtaining a diploma in 1979, followed by a PhD in Technical Cybernetics from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.
From scientist to entrepreneur: The ELVIS journey
During his tenure at the Soviet Space Agency, Galitsky's work at the Scientific Research Institute of Microdevices, part of the ELAS research and production association, was crucial. This leading center developed key technologies such as satellites for Earth remote sensing and computer systems for the Mir orbital station. The reorganization of scientific institutes during Perestroika led Galitsky to head the newly formed "ELVIS" (electronic computer information systems) center, managing around 400 employees. Under his leadership, ELVIS focused on cutting-edge technological development.
Galitsky's vision expanded globally in 1990 when Bill Joy and John Gage of Sun Microsystems visited the USSR. Impressed by Galitsky's developments, including a superior 22-layer polyamide PCB and an advanced IP-based data transmission system for spy satellites, they recognized the untapped potential of Soviet technology. Galitsky's subsequent trip to Silicon Valley in 1991 marked the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey in the West, aiming to promote Soviet technological innovations and attract venture capital from US investors.
ELVIS+ and the rise of Wi-Fi
In collaboration with Sun Microsystems, ELVIS+ embarked on a project to create a low-orbit satellite communications system. However, due to funding constraints and export restrictions, the project was curtailed. This setback did not deter Galitsky and his team; instead, they shifted their focus to implementing the 802.11 protocol, which later evolved into what we now know as Wi-Fi.
ELVIS+ developed a PCMCIA-compatible device for integrating mobile computers into a wireless network. By 1993, ELVIS+ had surpassed other Sun contractors, including Motorola, in developing this technology. Recognizing the significance of their work, Sun Microsystems bought a 10% stake in ELVIS+ for $1 million. The world's first Wi-Fi module for laptops was a product of this venture, although it initially found little demand in the early 1990s market. Ultimately, ELVIS+ sold its wireless technology to the US government.
Ventures in VPN and telecommunications
In 1996, ELVIS+ took a significant leap by developing the first-ever VPN for Windows operating systems. This innovation used a cracked Microsoft network driver, showcasing ELVIS+'s technical prowess. Sun Microsystems recognized this achievement and acquired an OEM license for the product's worldwide distribution for Windows 3.11 and Windows 95 platforms. The product even received certification from the state technical commission under the President of the Russian Federation. However, its complexity led to US authorities initiating an investigation by the National Security Agency, questioning whether a Russian company could independently develop such advanced technology.
ELVIS+ also made strides in telecommunications. In 1992, it launched Russia's first fax gateway (FoIP) and began providing Internet fax services. By 1993, it became one of the first Internet providers in Russia. The establishment of Elvis Telecom in 1996 further expanded their footprint in the telecommunications sector, serving thousands of customers in Moscow by 2000.
Further innovations and recognition
Galitsky continued to innovate in VPN management with TrustWorks, founded in the Netherlands in 1998. TrustWorks, developing solutions based on the IPsec protocols from ELVIS+, received significant acclaim. In 2000, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, TrustWorks was awarded for its innovative technology, marking Galitsky as a pioneer in the field.
Additionally, in 2001, Galitsky founded EzWim in Amsterdam, offering SaaS solutions for managing corporate telephone expenses. This venture further demonstrated his versatility and foresight in technology.
Venture capital and global impact
In 2003, Galitsky founded AV Galitsky Holdings in the Netherlands, marking his entry into the world of venture capitalism. As an active VC investor, he made a series of successful private investments in companies such as NavMaps (sold to TeleAtlas), Magnifire (sold to F5), SJLabs (sold to magicJack VocalTec), PGP (sold to Symantec), Parallels (sold to Corel), Acronis and EverNote (sold to Bending Spoons).His investments and guidance have played a considerable role in the success of these technology companies. Later Alexander also invested directly or via SPVs to ClickHouse, ShapesXR, Element Energy and few others.
Galitsky's entrepreneurial and venture capital endeavors led him to co-found Almaz Capital, an international venture fund with offices in Portola Valley, California, and Berlin, Germany. Established in 2008, Almaz Capital focuses on early-stage, capital-efficient technology companies in high-growth sectors. The fund's impressive portfolio includes Yandex (IPO NASDAQ), QIK (sold to Skype), Sensity Systems (sold to Verizon Communications), Acumatica (sold to EQT), Xometry (IPO NASDAQ), and many others.
Recognitions and awards
Alexander Galitsky's contributions to the world of technology and venture capital have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades and recognitions, including the EY Entrepreneur Award, where he was honored as Entrepreneur of the Year in Russia in 2013. He was also nominated for the best venture capitalist of the last decade in Europe in 2012 by Investor AllStars and named a "Technology Pioneer" at the World Economic Forum in Davos in 2000.
A visionary leader
Alexander "Sasha" Galitsky's journey from a Soviet scientist to a tech visionary, entrepreneur, and venture capitalist exemplifies the transformative power of innovation, entrepreneurship, and perseverance. His contributions to Wi-Fi and VPN technologies have left an indelible mark on the world, shaping how we connect and communicate in the digital age. Galitsky's impact extends beyond technology; he has also played a crucial role in fostering entrepreneurship and venture capital in CIS and Eastern Europe, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come. His story is not just a testament to personal achievement but a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating how vision and determination can forge paths that transform our digital world. |
5 Tips for Conducting Better Risk Assessments for a Pandemic
In earlier sections, we discussed the need for a risk-based approach and outlined 6 New Business Risks to consider when preparing your business for coronavirus. The Covid-19 pandemic and recession will affect every business, but to what extent will vary based on industry, geography, company size and a myriad of other factors. By creating a pandemic response plan, businesses can reduce the negative impacts of this virus and future outbreaks and manage your risk exposure during this pandemic.
Coronavirus Business Preparation Examples
The initiatives your business puts together in response to the coronavirus outbreak will be, likely, wide ranging, depending on your unique business needs. For example, these steps might include activities like shifting budgeting from fixed spending to variable spending to provide flexibility in times of uncertainty. Additional pandemic response measures should include investments to enable working from home, guidelines for provisioning of personal protective equipment, and changes to workforce regulations. Shifting advertising spending towards digital channels and ecommerce sales can help lessen the financial impact of stay at home orders, or a loss of in-person traffic; but be sure to test these systems and workflows for high volume traffic.
Organizations may also supplement their product offering and business model by introducing new products and services better aligned with shifting economic forecasts.
Next Steps
Below are some the most important steps a business can take when planning their pandemic risk management strategy.
5 Pandemic Response Strategies You Can't Afford to Ignore
Tip 1: Conduct Regular Threat Assessments
A readiness evaluation is a terrific place to start when businesses don't understand what their business continuity program should comprise. Industry and role readiness templates and pandemic-specific templates let an employer test their business continuity program versus best practice to help identify any gaps that may exist. These readiness templates compress requirements and high-quality practices into actionable pieces so that companies can measure progress and compliance.
Tip 2: Update Risk Assessment Plan
All groups should conduct a risk assessment on their core business procedures to uncover and prioritize any new risks or gaps in their current controls. You should update these assessments to include new risks like pandemics, recession and geopolitical conditions. When conducting risk assessments for coronavirus stakeholders should be presented with the known risks and work together to determine how each of these eventualities will affect their areas of responsibility.
Tip 3: Conduct a Business Impact Analysis (BIA)
An organization should not handle all threats the same. A business impact analysis enables companies to anticipate which parts of the enterprise are essential to its operations. Use the outcomes of the BIA to determine which elements of the business to prioritize in a Continuity Plan.
Tip 4: Policy Management
As the pandemic evolves and new data becomes available, be sure to revisit, update and communicate new guidelines and processes throughout the organization. For example, revising a work from home policy might only be useful if the infrastructure and processes for dissemination, governance and adoption already exist.
Tip 5: Integrate Incident Management
Incident management is, often by design, an incredibly siloed activity embedded inside another process. In times of economic turmoil, a unified company-wide approach is necessary as an input to assess the effectiveness of mitigation and coverage activities and to help manage expectations.
In Summary
If you took a survey of business owners, even 6 months ago, it would be clear that pandemic response planning was not a priority. Prior to 2020 no one had ever done risk assessments for coronavirus. Businesses must be vigilant to not only current threats but future and emerging trends. Many business owners struggle to fully grasp the myriad risks they face. That's why we've built a framework that teaches businesses how to anticipate and navigate risk before it becomes a crisis.
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Growth & Customers
What do non-executive directors bring to the table?
What types of businesses would benefit from taking on non-executive directors? Learn about what they can offer and how to hire them.
While only certain companies are obliged to appoint non-executive directors, for a variety of others, it's seen as good practice.
Should your company consider such a step?
This article discusses what to think about regarding a non-executive director.
Here's what we cover:
- What is a non-executive director and what can they bring to the table?
- Key attributes of a non-executive director
- Advantages of appointing a non-executive director
- Disadvantages of appointing a non-executive director
- What type of company would benefit?
- How to recruit a non-executive director
- Final thoughts
What is a non-executive director and what can they bring to the table?
The Corporate Enforcement Authority outlines that non-executive directors are not involved in the day-to-day management of the company and are external appointees.
The rationale for this is that they can bring an independent voice and perspective to the board and should be willing to challenge board discussions and decisions when necessary.
Non-executive directors are also chosen because they:
- Have a breadth of experience
- Have specific skills
- Can bring specialist knowledge to the board.
As such, a non-executive director is a key player in corporate governance and most importantly has the same significant responsibilities and duties as an executive director, as outlined in Section 228 of the Companies Act 2014.
Also, while all directors are expected to practise good governance, a non-executive director is often held to a higher standard.
Key attributes of a non-executive director
While your company may have a very specific skill set in mind for a non-executive director, there are also general guidelines to look out for.
For instance, Chartered Accountants Ireland lays out a key list of essential skills for a non-executive director.
These are:
- Independent mindset, objectivity and integrity
- Diplomacy, tact, and negotiation skills
- Commercial and business understanding and insight
- High level interpersonal, communication and listening skills
- Strategic thinking and analytical capabilities
- Curiosity with the ability to challenge and seek clarity
- Governance and regulatory knowledge.
Advantages of appointing a non-executive director
Níall Fitzgerald has extensive experience of working on boards.
He is head of ethics and governance at Chartered Accountants Ireland, a board member and board committee chair for the charity Age Action, and a member of several global advisory committees for other professional bodies.
He also co-founded Chapter Zero Ireland, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that aims to build a community of non-executive directors knowledgeable about the impacts of climate change.
Níall points out that non-executive directors can be invaluable to oversight and decision making around the board table, filling gaps in knowledge and complementing the abilities of the management team.
He says: "The skills, experience, and expertise they bring can enable the organisation to be more informed, responsive, and better directed in the context of strategic choices, meeting stakeholder expectations, compliance, fostering a healthy organisational culture, defining and delivering on the organisation's purpose, and ensuring the sustainable success of the organisation."
He further adds that a company can also benefit from a non-executive director's network of contacts, existing stakeholder relationships and established good reputation.
Disadvantages of appointing a non-executive director
It is imperative that the chosen non-executive director is the right fit for your company.
Niall says: "Many of the negatives can arise if the appointed non-executive director is not a good fit for the organisation.
"This may not be a bad reflection on the individual or the company, but rather the skills, expertise and/or experience does not complement the purpose, strategic objectives or current challenges the organisation is facing."
He outlines some potential stumbling blocks.
Niall says: "For example, appointing a family member or a close friend of the CEO as a non-executive director may have certain benefits, but can give rise to negative issues such as a lack of objectivity driven by shared biases or over familiarity, and conflicts of interest arising when friendship is tested in the boardroom.
"Negative consequences may also arise if appointing an independent and very experienced former CEO from a different industry, if that individual has a dominating presence on the board, is less open to alternative ways of doing things and lacks skills or willingness to learn in relation to emerging risks such as artificial intelligence, sustainability, or geopolitical uncertainty, etc."
He also says a good induction programme can help avoid many negative issues, such as unconstructive tensions between the appointee and other board members and management.
An induction programme can help avoid insufficient level of buy-in by the appointee in terms of the organisation's purpose and strategic aims, and ensure that the appointee understands the business or industry.
What type of company would benefit?
While certain companies such as listed companies, state companies and charities are required to have a non-executive director, there are lots of other companies that may also opt for a non-executive director.
For instance, external investors often require startups to appoint a non-executive director.
Family run businesses can also benefit, as there can be a degree of groupthink within them and in particular, conflict can be difficult to resolve in such companies.
Another example can be a company that's about to undergo significant change, such as perhaps exporting to new markets. In addition, a company facing an existential challenge, such as a print media company may also benefit.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can also benefit.
Niall says: "SMEs often have limited resources and may not have access to the same level of expertise and experience as larger companies. Having a non-executive director on the board can also enhance the credibility and reputation of the company and can help improve governance and accountability."
How to recruit a non-executive director
It's a big decision to decide to appoint a non-executive director and your company will need to do a cost/benefit analysis. There is also a huge variability in fees, depending on the size of your company, sector and level of commitment required.
Also, bear in mind, some appointees aren't paid, such as in the charity sector.
However, if you've made the decision to appoint a director, where do you find one?
Ireland is a small place and many appointments are based on word-of-mouth or a recommendation.
However, this may not necessarily be the best way to find an individual and there are numerous organisations that can help in the search. Here are some examples:
- Recruitment agencies often offer non-executive search services, as do many accountancy and solicitor practices.
- Boardmatch.ie is a good starting point for charity appointments and state companies recruit through stateboards.ie, which is operated by the Public Appointments Service.
- Chartered Accountants Ireland also offers a non-executive search service for organisations seeking financial, audit, corporate reporting and corporate finance skills for their board.
Final thoughts
The world of business is becoming increasingly uncertain and beset by challenges such as disrupted supply chains, inflation and geopolitical conflict.
Appointing a non-executive director could help your company navigate these difficulties with a fresh eye, while also ensuring you keep an eye on your long-term strategic goals.
It's definitely worth considering. |
Sustainable supply chains have risen to prominence as an indispensable realm of focus for companies dedicated to realizing transformative sustainability outcomes. These supply chains play a pivotal role in addressing climate change, promoting social justice, and fostering economic development. As integral parts of the global value chain, Vietnamese businesses are directly impacted by evolving global regulations and trends. Therefore, it is vital for these businesses to comply with sustainability regulations and meet the demands of environmentally conscious consumers in order to maintain market access and competitiveness.
Vietnam's Commitment to Sustainability
Vietnam has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by pledging to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in 2021. This pledge showcases Vietnam's dedication to combatting climate change and has spurred significant steps towards decarbonization. Noteworthy examples include the implementation of Decree 06/2022/ND-CP, which focuses on mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, protecting the ozone layer, and establishing a domestic carbon market. Moreover, the release of Decision 01/2022/QD-TTg mandates the development and submission of greenhouse gas inventories by specified sectors and establishments to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE). Additionally, Circular 01/2022/TT-BTNMT provides comprehensive guidelines for implementing the Law on Environmental Protection, with a specific emphasis on climate change and the newly enacted Law on Environmental Protection's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations. These regulations offer detailed guidance on environmental protection measures, particularly in addressing climate change. Developing sustainable supply chains is paramount to fulfilling Vietnam's commitment and reducing the environmental impact of Vietnamese companies. By integrating sustainable practices into their supply chains, these companies can contribute to the country's climate change targets.
Impact of Global Trading Regulations and Trends
The impact of global trading regulations and trends is a complex challenge faced by businesses worldwide, including Vietnamese businesses. As the global trade landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for Vietnamese businesses to stay abreast of the latest regulations and trends to remain competitive and compliant. One prominent example is the European Union's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), which mandates comprehensive disclosure of a company's environmental and social sustainability performance. Vietnamese businesses are now under scrutiny and must demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices to maintain their EU market access. Furthermore, regulations such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and Extended Single Producer Responsibility (ESPR) pose additional challenges for Vietnamese businesses. These regulations aim to minimize environmental impact by internalizing the true cost of carbon emissions and ensuring responsible waste management. Compliance with these standards is indispensable for Vietnamese businesses to sustain their competitiveness in the global market.
In line with these efforts, the United States is also contemplating stricter regulations that require companies to conduct thorough due diligence on their supply chains to ensure adherence to human rights and environmental standards. This shift in regulatory focus underscores the importance of ethical sourcing practices for Vietnamese businesses aiming to retain their market share in the US. The ever-evolving global regulatory landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for Vietnamese businesses. Those businesses that can adapt to these changes will be well-positioned for success in the years to come.
Shifting Consumer Preferences
Shifting consumer preferences exert a significant influence on Vietnamese companies, as global trade trends and market preferences evolve. With sustainability gaining prominence as a mainstream concern, consumers increasingly favor environmentally friendly and socially responsible products. Vietnamese companies must therefore adjust their practices and supply chains to meet these evolving demands and embed sustainability throughout their operations.
Proactive Response for Competitiveness and Compliance
To remain competitive and compliant, Vietnamese companies cannot operate in isolation from global trading regulations and trends, given their interconnectedness with partners and customers worldwide. Proactively responding to these dynamics becomes crucial for these companies. Embracing sustainable supply chain management enables them to meet market requirements, reduce their environmental impact, and position themselves as leaders in sustainability.
In this context, companies need to ask themselves five key questions:
How we can help
Each company has its own unique supply chain challenges depending on the nature and location of their business. This is important to keep in mind because there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to supply chain sustainability.
KPMG offers a number of different sustainable supply chain solutions. These solutions include:
Sustainable Procurement: This involves embedding sustainability criteria into the decision-making process of the procurement function. KPMG can help companies to identify critical sustainability issues for procurement purposes, conduct gap assessments, and develop recommendations for improvement.
Sustainable Supply Chain: KPMG can help companies to develop a roadmap for transitioning to a more sustainable supply chain. This roadmap would include a detailed assessment of the company's current supply chain, identification of opportunities for improvement, and a plan for implementation.
Value Chain Decarbonization: This solution helps companies to reduce their carbon emissions across all three scopes (Scope 1: direct emissions from owned or controlled sources; Scope 2: indirect emissions from the purchase of electricity, heat, or steam; Scope 3: all other indirect emissions, such as those from upstream and downstream activities). KPMG can help companies to conduct baseline assessments of their carbon emissions, develop decarbonization strategies and targets, and implement emissions measuring and reporting systems.
Circular Economy: KPMG can help companies to transition to a circular economy, which is a model of production and consumption that aims to eliminate waste and pollution. This would involve developing circular business models, implementing effective measurement systems to track and steer circularity, and driving supply chain transformation.
Our holistic approach
We will take a holistic approach to address all of your company's needs. Our approach considers the entire transformation journey, including value chain decarbonization and circularity operations. We will customize our approach to align with your unique vision and strategy. |
1. How do engineers play a role in promoting sustainable transportation in the field of architecture?
Engineers play a crucial role in promoting sustainable transportation in the field of architecture. They are responsible for designing and constructing transportation infrastructure and systems that minimize negative environmental impacts, reduce energy consumption, and promote alternative modes of transportation.
Below are some specific roles that engineers can play in promoting sustainable transportation in architecture:
1. Designing Green Buildings: Engineers can incorporate sustainable design practices into the construction of buildings, such as using materials that have a low environmental impact and designing buildings to be energy-efficient. This helps to reduce the need for transportation by creating eco-friendly environments where people can live, work, and play.
2. Planning Sustainable Communities: Engineers can also work closely with urban planners to design sustainable communities. This involves designing streets and neighborhoods with pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, bike lanes, and public transportation options to reduce reliance on personal vehicles.
3. Developing Efficient Public Transportation Systems: Engineers can help develop efficient public transportation systems such as buses, trains, subways, or light rail networks. These systems reduce carbon emissions from cars and provide a more sustainable mode of travel for both short and long distances.
4. Utilizing Smart Technologies: With the advancement of technology, engineers can use smart technologies such as traffic management systems or intelligent lighting to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion on roads. This reduces the time people spend commuting in their vehicles, thereby reducing carbon emissions.
5. Incorporating Renewable Energy: Engineers can incorporate renewable energy sources into transport infrastructure design such as solar-powered streetlights or electric vehicle charging stations. This not only promotes sustainability but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional energy sources.
6. Conducting Life Cycle Assessments (LCA): Life cycle assessments involve evaluating the environmental impact of a project from start to finish. Engineers can conduct LCAs to identify areas where they can reduce carbon emissions or improve sustainability in their designs.
Overall, engineers have a critical role to play in promoting sustainable transportation in architecture by integrating environmentally friendly practices into their designs and projects. This not only reduces the environmental impact of transportation but also creates more livable and sustainable communities for people to thrive in.
2. What specific design considerations do engineers have to take into account when planning sustainable transportation systems?
1. Energy Efficiency: Engineers must design transportation systems that minimize energy consumption by utilizing sustainable energy sources such as electricity, biofuels, or hydrogen fuel cells. This could also involve incorporating regenerative braking and improved aerodynamics in vehicles.
2. Multimodality: Sustainable transportation systems should offer multimodal options such as cycling, walking, public transit, and car-sharing to reduce dependence on personal vehicles.
3. Land Use Planning: Engineers must consider the impact of the transportation system on land use and ensure efficient land use planning to minimize urban sprawl and promote compact development.
4. Access and Connectivity: The transportation system should be designed to provide easy access to different modes of transportation and connectivity between different regions to reduce travel time and distance.
5. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA): Sustainable transportation systems must undergo a comprehensive LCA to evaluate their environmental impact throughout their entire life cycle, including raw material extraction, manufacturing, use, maintenance, and disposal.
6. Environmental Impact Mitigation: Engineers also have to take measures to minimize the environmental impact of transportation infrastructure during construction by reducing emissions from construction equipment and minimizing destruction of natural habitats.
7. Safety: Safety is a critical consideration in sustainable transportation planning and design. Engineers must incorporate safety features such as dedicated bike lanes, traffic calming measures, safe pedestrian crossings, and advanced vehicle safety technologies.
8. Accessibility for All: Transportation systems should be designed with accessibility in mind for people of all ages and abilities.
9. Integration with Digital Technologies: To increase efficiency and convenience, engineers should integrate digital technologies into sustainable transportation systems such as real-time tracking of vehicles, integrated ticketing systems for different modes of transport, and smart traffic management systems.
10. Stakeholder Engagement: Finally, engineers need to involve stakeholders in the planning process to understand their needs and concerns better when designing sustainable transportation systems that serve the community effectively.
3. In your opinion, what innovative technologies are currently being developed by engineers to improve sustainable transportation?
Some innovative technologies currently being developed by engineers to improve sustainable transportation are:
1. Electric and hybrid engine technologies: These vehicles use electric motors or a combination of electric and combustion engines, resulting in lower emissions and improved fuel efficiency.
2. Autonomous driving: Self-driving cars can optimize routes and reduce traffic congestion, leading to improved fuel efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
3. Advanced vehicle-to-infrastructure communication systems: These systems enable vehicles to communicate with traffic signals, reducing idling time and improving traffic flow.
4. Biofuels: Researchers are working on developing biofuels from renewable sources such as algae, which can decrease the reliance on fossil fuels.
5. Lightweight materials: Engineers are using lighter materials like carbon fiber, aluminum, and composites in vehicle design to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency.
6. Alternative modes of transportation: Engineers are also looking at other modes of transportation such as high-speed rail systems, magnetic levitation trains, and even flying cars to reduce reliance on traditional vehicles.
7. Intelligent transportation systems (ITS): These systems use data from sensors, cameras, and other devices to manage traffic flow more efficiently, resulting in reduced commute times and emissions.
8. Solar-powered vehicles: The use of solar panels on vehicles is being explored as a way to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels for energy.
9. Sustainable infrastructure design: Engineers are actively working on designing efficient roadways with better drainage systems that reduce runoff pollution into water bodies.
10. Blockchain technology: This technology has potential applications in areas like car-sharing services and payment systems for public transportation that could make these services more sustainable.
4. How do architects and engineers work together to incorporate sustainable transportation infrastructure into building designs?
1. Early Collaboration: Architects and engineers need to collaborate early on in the design process to incorporate sustainable transportation infrastructure into building designs. This allows for a holistic approach and ensures that the design of the building and its transportation systems are integrated seamlessly.
2. Site Analysis: Architects can work with engineers to conduct a site analysis to understand how the existing transportation infrastructure and patterns may affect the building's design and vice versa. This analysis can help identify opportunities for incorporating sustainable transportation elements, such as bike lanes or pedestrian pathways.
3. Utilizing Green Technologies: Engineers can suggest green technologies, such as electric vehicle charging stations, bicycle storage facilities, or smart traffic management systems, that can be incorporated into the building's design to promote sustainable transportation.
4. Designing for Accessibility: Together, architects and engineers can ensure that accessibility is considered in the design of sustainable transportation infrastructure within the building's vicinity. This could include designing ramps, elevators or curb cuts for wheelchair access, as well as designated drop-off areas for ride-sharing services.
5. Prioritizing Walkability: Architects and engineers can work together to create a walkable site plan that connects the building to nearby public transport hubs, amenities, and other destinations within walking distance. This encourages people to use alternative modes of transport instead of relying on cars.
6. Implementing Sustainable Materials: Engineers can recommend using sustainable materials in constructing transportation infrastructure elements such as bike racks, bus shelters or pedestrian bridges. These materials have a lower environmental impact compared to traditional materials.
7. Designing for Bicycles: Architects can consider incorporating bike-friendly features such as secure storage facilities, showers or changing rooms within the building for people who choose to bike to work.
8. Employing Energy-Efficient Techniques: By incorporating energy-efficient techniques such as solar panels or rainwater harvesting systems into the building's design, architects and engineers can contribute towards reducing carbon emissions associated with transportation infrastructures.
9. Prioritizing Safety: Architects and engineers must ensure that any sustainable transportation infrastructure elements incorporated into the building's design prioritize the safety of users, including pedestrians, cyclists and public transport users.
10. Monitoring and Maintenance: Architects and engineers need to work together to design sustainable transportation infrastructure that is low maintenance and can be easily monitored for any necessary repairs or updates to maintain its effectiveness over time.
5. Can you provide an example of a successful collaboration between architects and engineers in implementing sustainable transportation solutions?
One example of a successful collaboration between architects and engineers in implementing sustainable transportation solutions is the Transbay Transit Center in San Francisco, California. This project was a joint effort between architect firm Pelli Clarke Pelli and engineering firm Arup.
The goal of this project was to create a central hub for public transportation in downtown San Francisco that would also serve as an iconic landmark for the city. The architects focused on creating a visually appealing design that would enhance the urban environment, while the engineers worked on innovative solutions to make the transit center sustainable and energy-efficient.
Together, they incorporated several sustainable transportation features into the design of the center. These included:
1. A rooftop park: The transit center's rooftop includes a 5.4-acre green space with gardens, walking paths, and open spaces for community events. This not only enhances the aesthetics of the building but also helps to reduce urban heat island effect and encourages alternative forms of transportation such as biking or walking.
2. Public transportation integration: The transit center serves as a central hub for numerous public transportation options, including buses, trains, and future high-speed trains. This reduces reliance on individual cars and promotes sustainable modes of transport.
3. Solar panels: The building's roof is covered with solar panels which generate electricity to power the center's operations, reducing its carbon footprint.
4. Rainwater harvesting: Rainwater collected from the rooftop is used to irrigate plants in the rooftop garden as well as flush toilets, reducing water consumption.
5. Energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems: The engineers collaborated with architects to integrate energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems into the building design to reduce energy consumption.
The successful collaboration between architects' focus on aesthetics and engineers' focus on sustainability resulted in an award-winning project that serves as a model for future sustainable transportation solutions.
6. What challenges do architects face in implementing sustainable transportation solutions, and how do engineers help address these challenges?
1. Lack of government support and policies: Architects may face difficulty in implementing sustainable transportation solutions due to a lack of government support and clear policies that prioritize sustainability in transportation infrastructure. Without proper guidelines and incentives, it can be challenging to incorporate sustainable practices into their designs.
Engineers can help by advocating for policy changes and working closely with government agencies to develop clear guidelines and regulations for sustainable transportation design. They can also provide technical expertise in designing energy-efficient and eco-friendly transportation systems.
2. Cost implications: Building sustainably can be more expensive upfront, which can be a barrier for some architects. Sustainable materials, technologies, and construction methods may have a higher initial cost, making it challenging to convince clients or developers to invest in them.
Engineers can help by providing cost-benefit analyses that show the long-term savings and benefits of sustainable transportation solutions. They can also work on finding cost-effective solutions that still meet sustainability goals.
3. Limited space and existing infrastructure: Retrofitting existing structures or incorporating sustainable solutions in densely developed areas with limited space can be a challenge for architects. Infrastructure designed without sustainability considerations may not have enough room or flexibility to accommodate alternative modes of transportation.
Engineers can assist by coming up with innovative designs that optimize the use of limited space while incorporating sustainable features. This could include the use of green roofs, vertical gardens, or underground tunnels for walking or biking paths.
4. Resistance to change: The implementation of new transportation systems often involves changing people's behaviors and routines. This change management process could face resistance from various stakeholders such as commuters, communities, or businesses who fear potential disruptions, inconvenience, or added costs.
Engineers can help address these challenges by involving all stakeholders early on in the design process and conducting thorough impact assessments to identify potential concerns before implementing any changes. Engineers can also collaborate with architects to design user-friendly forms of sustainable transportation that are attractive, convenient, and easily accessible.
5. Lack of public awareness and education: Many people may not fully understand the benefits of sustainable transportation or may be resistant to change due to a lack of knowledge and awareness. This can make it difficult for architects to convince clients or developers to invest in sustainable transportation solutions.
Engineers can address this challenge by working together with architects to educate the public about the benefits of sustainable transportation and also on how individuals can contribute towards more sustainable practices, such as carpooling or using public transit.
6. Integration of multiple systems: Sustainable transportation solutions often involve the integration of different systems, such as energy, water, waste management, and various modes of transportation like walking, cycling, and public transit. Coordinating all these systems and ensuring they work seamlessly together can be complex and challenging for architects.
Engineers can assist by providing interdisciplinary expertise in designing integrated systems that are efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. They can also help develop new technologies or tools that improve the integration and management of multiple sustainable transportation systems.
7. How does the concept of "green building" tie into sustainable transportation from an engineer's perspective?
The concept of "green building" is closely tied to sustainable transportation from an engineer's perspective because they both aim to reduce the negative environmental impacts of human activities. Green buildings are designed and constructed to be environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout their life cycle, including their design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and demolition. This includes using sustainable materials, reducing energy consumption through efficient design and renewable energy sources, conserving water by using low-flow fixtures and rainwater harvesting systems, and improving indoor air quality.
Sustainable transportation also aims to reduce the environmental impact of transportation by promoting alternative modes of transportation that produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions, such as walking, biking, public transit, and electric vehicles. As engineers play a critical role in designing transportation systems and infrastructure, they have the responsibility to incorporate sustainable practices into their designs. This can include designing roads with bike lanes and sidewalks for pedestrians, implementing intelligent transportation systems to reduce traffic congestion and improve fuel efficiency, and integrating public transit options into urban developments.
By incorporating green building principles into the design of transportation infrastructure and promoting sustainable modes of transportation, engineers can help create more sustainable communities that prioritize the health of individuals and the environment. This also has long-term benefits for reducing carbon emissions, mitigating climate change impacts, conserving natural resources, and creating more livable cities.
8. In terms of future developments, what advancements can we expect to see in the intersection of engineering and sustainable transportation in architecture?
1. Electric and autonomous vehicles: With the rise of electric cars and advances in autonomous technology, we can expect to see more sustainable transportation options integrated into architecture. This could include charging stations for electric vehicles, dedicated lanes for self-driving cars, and design elements that accommodate these new modes of transportation.
2. Smart transportation systems: The integration of smart technologies, like sensors and data analytics, into transportation systems will allow for more efficient and sustainable use of resources. This could include intelligent traffic signals, dynamic routing based on real-time data, and optimized public transit networks.
3. Integration with renewable energy sources: As sustainable energy becomes more prevalent, we can expect to see buildings designed with integrated renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines to power transportation systems.
4. Bike-friendly infrastructure: With the push towards greener modes of transportation, cities are becoming more bike-friendly. Architects will need to incorporate bike lanes and storage facilities into their designs to encourage cycling as a viable means of transportation.
5. Multi-modal hubs: Instead of relying solely on one mode of transportation, future developments may incorporate multi-modal hubs that provide convenient access to different forms of sustainable transport such as buses, trains, bikeshares, and ride-sharing services.
6. Designing for walkability: Sustainable architecture also means creating livable spaces that encourage walking instead of driving. Future developments may prioritize pedestrian-friendly design elements like wide sidewalks, green spaces, and safe crossing points.
7. Use of green materials: The increasing concern for environmental sustainability has led to the development of environmentally friendly building materials that reduce carbon emissions and minimize waste during construction. We can expect to see more use of these materials in architectural designs for sustainable transportation systems.
8. Integration with shared mobility services: As on-demand ridesharing services become more popular, architects will need to consider designing buildings with designated pick-up/drop-off areas or incorporating technology that allows users to summon a vehicle to the building's location.
9. Emphasis on user experience: Sustainable transportation systems must also be user-friendly, convenient, and efficient for people to adopt them. Hence, future developments might include advanced technology that improves the overall user experience and makes sustainable transportation more accessible to everyone.
10. Use of green roofs: Integrating gardens or green roofs into architecture can help mitigate the urban heat island effect while also providing an alternative mode of transportation through pedestrian paths and bike lanes. This can create a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to mobility within cities.
9. How are engineers using data and analytics to optimize the efficiency and sustainability of transportation systems in architectural projects?
Engineers are using data and analytics in various ways to optimize the efficiency and sustainability of transportation systems in architectural projects. Some of the key ways include:
1. Traffic Flow Analysis: Engineers use data from sensors, cameras, and other sources to analyze the flow of traffic at different points in a transportation system. This helps them identify bottlenecks, congestion hotspots, and other areas that can be improved for better efficiency.
2. Route Optimization: By analyzing traffic patterns and travel times, engineers can determine the most efficient routes for vehicles to take in a transportation system. This not only saves time for drivers but also reduces fuel consumption and emissions.
3. Eco-Driving Systems: With the help of data collected from vehicles, engineers can develop eco-driving systems that provide real-time feedback to drivers on how their driving habits affect fuel efficiency and emissions. This encourages more sustainable driving practices.
4. Predictive Maintenance: Using data from sensors installed in vehicles or infrastructure, engineers can predict maintenance needs for transportation systems before they become major issues. This allows for proactive maintenance planning and reduces downtime of the system.
5. Energy Management: Through data analysis, engineers can optimize energy usage in transportation systems by identifying peak demand periods and reducing energy consumption during these times.
6. Environmental Impact Assessment: Engineers use data to assess the environmental impact of transportation systems during planning stages of architectural projects. This helps them identify potential environmental hazards and come up with measures to mitigate them.
7. Real-Time Monitoring: Data analytics allows for real-time monitoring of transportation systems, providing engineers with immediate insights into performance and allowing them to make quick adjustments if needed.
8. Simulation Modeling: Engineers use simulation models based on data to test out different scenarios for a transportation system before implementation. This helps identify potential issues and find solutions before construction begins.
9. Continuous Improvement: By continuously collecting and analyzing data on the performance of a transportation system, engineers can identify areas that need improvement and implement changes to optimize efficiency and sustainability over time.
10. What are some practical ways that engineers incorporate alternative modes of transportation, such as biking or public transit, into their designs for buildings and communities?
1. Designated bike lanes and paths: Engineers can collaborate with urban planners to design bike lanes and paths that are integrated into the road network within a community.
2. Bike parking facilities: Engineers can include secure bike parking facilities in building designs, such as covered racks or bike lockers, making it convenient for people to use bikes for transportation.
3. Pedestrian and cyclist-friendly street design: By designing streets that prioritize the safety of pedestrians and cyclists, engineers can encourage more people to use alternative modes of transportation. This can include features like wider sidewalks, raised crosswalks, and traffic calming measures.
4. Transit-oriented development: By designing buildings and communities near public transit stations, engineers can promote the use of public transportation as a viable option for commuting.
5. Multi-modal transportation hubs: Engineers can design multi-modal transportation hubs that centralize various forms of transportation (bus, train, biking) to make it easier for people to switch between modes of transportation.
6. Incorporation of electric vehicle infrastructure: As electric vehicles become increasingly popular, engineers can incorporate charging stations and other infrastructure into their designs to support sustainable transportation options.
7. Improved accessibility: By incorporating universal design principles into their designs for buildings and communities, engineers can make sure that alternative modes of transportation are accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities.
8. Smart growth planning: Engineers can work with planners to create communities with mixed land uses, ensuring that essential services such as grocery stores and schools are within walking or biking distance from homes.
9. Encouragement of car sharing programs: Engineers can design buildings with dedicated areas for car sharing programs or incorporate car share services into their plans for community developments.
10. Promotion of green spaces: By incorporating green spaces like parks and trails into their designs, engineers create recreational opportunities that encourage walking and cycling in communities.
11. From an engineering standpoint, what are some key considerations when building or retrofitting structures to support electric vehicles and other low-emission forms of transport?
1. Charging infrastructure: One of the major considerations in building or retrofitting structures for electric vehicles is to install adequate and convenient charging infrastructure. This involves installing charging stations (Level 1, Level 2, or DC fast charging), setting up power distribution systems, and integrating with building management systems.
2. Power supply: Electric vehicles require significant amounts of power to charge their batteries. As such, the building's electrical system must be designed to handle high-power demands and ensure a stable electricity supply to meet the charging needs of multiple vehicles simultaneously.
3. Structural reinforcement: Electric vehicles are typically heavier than traditional gas-powered cars due to the battery weight. Therefore, structures need to be reinforced to support the added weight when EVs are parked or charged within them.
4. Capacity planning: Building engineers must determine the power capacity needed to accommodate both existing and future EV owners' charging needs without overloading or affecting other building operations. This involves calculating energy requirements based on projected demand, types of chargers required, and available grid capacity.
5. Cable management: Buildings should have designated cable routing paths for EV chargers, whether it is overhead or underground installations. Adequate cable management ensures safety, minimizes tripping hazards and facilitates easy installation/maintenance.
6. Ventilation: EV batteries can generate considerable heat while charging, making proper ventilation a necessary consideration when designing structures for electric vehicle charging.
7. Safety measures: Buildings should comply with relevant safety standards for EV charging equipment installation, including grounding protection, leakage current detection devices, and surge protection devices to avoid electrical hazards.
8. Accessibility: Another critical consideration is ensuring that EV chargers are accessible for all users regardless of mobility challenges or disabilities by complying with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements.
9 . Scalability and adaptability: With more people expected to transition to electric transportation in the future, buildings should be built or retrofitted with scalable infrastructure that can accommodate the expected increase in the number of users and charging needs.
10. Maintenance and serviceability: Regular maintenance and servicing will be required for EV charging infrastructure to ensure optimum performance and extend its lifespan. Buildings should, therefore, be designed to facilitate easy access for maintenance and upgrades.
11. Integration with renewable energy sources: To promote sustainable low-carbon transportation, buildings can integrate renewable energy systems such as solar or wind power to supply electricity for EV charging. This requires advanced planning of electrical systems to enable efficient integration with renewable energy sources.
12. Are there any specific regulations or guidelines that engineers must follow when designing for sustainable transportation in architectural projects?
One potential set of regulations and guidelines that engineers may need to follow when designing for sustainable transportation in architectural projects is the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system. This green building certification program includes specific criteria for transportation-related features, such as providing bike racks and showers for bike commuters, implementing alternative transportation options like carpooling or public transit, and reducing parking spaces to discourage reliance on single-occupancy vehicles. Additionally, engineers may need to adhere to local zoning ordinances and building codes that promote sustainable transportation infrastructure, such as dedicated bike lanes and sidewalks, pedestrian-friendly street design, and stormwater management measures that prioritize green infrastructure over traditional grey infrastructure.
13. How have recent advances in renewable energy impacted the development and implementation of sustainable transportation systems by engineers?
Recent advances in renewable energy have had a significant impact on the development and implementation of sustainable transportation systems by engineers. These advancements have provided engineers with new, cleaner, and more efficient sources of energy to power transportation systems. This has led to the development of sustainable transportation solutions that are more cost-effective, environmentally-friendly, and provide longer-term sustainability.
One major impact is the increased use of electric and hybrid vehicles. With improvements in battery technology and the availability of renewable electricity sources such as solar and wind power, engineers have been able to design and produce electric vehicles that can travel longer distances without needing to be recharged. This has significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions from transportation and decreased reliance on fossil fuels.
Another impact is the development of alternative fuel options for traditional gasoline or diesel-powered vehicles. Engineers have been able to utilize biofuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel, which are produced from renewable sources like corn, sugarcane, or vegetable oil. These fuels emit fewer pollutants compared to traditional fuels, making them a more sustainable option for transportation.
Renewable energy has also enabled engineers to design and implement sustainable public transport systems. Electric trains, buses, and trams powered by renewable energy are becoming increasingly common in many cities around the world. These modes of transportation are not only more environmentally-friendly but also provide a cost-effective option for commuters.
Additionally, advancements in renewable energy technology have allowed for the development of innovative transportation solutions such as solar-powered cars or hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. These technologies offer promising opportunities for future sustainable transportation systems.
In summary, recent advances in renewable energy have greatly influenced the work of engineers in developing sustainable transportation systems. Their use has helped reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions while promoting long-term sustainability in the transport sector. It is expected that further advancements in renewable energy will continue to drive changes in the way we think about and approach sustainable transportation design and implementation.
14. How does climate change factor into the design process for architects and engineers working on sustainable transportation solutions?
Climate change is a major factor in the design process for architects and engineers working on sustainable transportation solutions. This is because transportation is responsible for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change. In order to mitigate these impacts, architects and engineers must consider the environmental impact of their designs and prioritize low-carbon and renewable energy sources.One key aspect of addressing climate change in transportation design is the use of sustainable materials. This includes reducing reliance on carbon-intensive materials like concrete and steel, which have a high carbon footprint during production. Instead, alternative materials such as recycled or locally sourced materials can be used.
Another important consideration is energy use. Architects and engineers must look for ways to reduce energy consumption in transportation systems, such as through efficient building design or incorporating renewable energy sources into infrastructure.
In addition, designing low-carbon or zero-emission modes of transportation, such as electric vehicles or public transit systems, can greatly contribute to mitigating climate change. Sustainable transportation solutions that encourage the use of these modes over fossil fuel-powered vehicles can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Ultimately, considering the impact on climate change throughout the entire design process is crucial for creating truly sustainable transportation solutions that support a more resilient and sustainable future.
15. Can you discuss any current or proposed infrastructure projects that prioritize sustainability principles, particularly in terms of transportation systems?
There are multiple current and proposed infrastructure projects that prioritize sustainability principles, particularly in terms of transportation systems. Some examples include:
1. High-Speed Rail Projects: Several cities and countries around the world have invested in high-speed rail projects, which involve building new rail lines or upgrading existing ones to allow for faster train travel. These projects help reduce air pollution by encouraging people to switch from cars or airplanes to trains, which are more energy-efficient.
2. Electric Vehicle Infrastructure: Many cities and governments have started investing in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in response to the global shift towards electric cars. This infrastructure includes EV charging stations at public places like airports, parking lots, and shopping centers, as well as on-street charging points. This helps make electric vehicles a more viable alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars.
3. Bike Sharing Programs: Many cities have implemented bike-sharing programs where residents can rent bikes for short periods of time to get around the city. These programs encourage sustainable transportation by reducing the number of cars on the road and promoting physical activity.
4. Smart Traffic Management Systems: Some cities are implementing smart traffic management systems that use technology and data analytics to improve the flow of traffic and reduce congestion. These systems can also adjust traffic signals based on real-time data, improving commute times and reducing emissions from idling vehicles.
5. Green Buildings: In addition to transportation systems, sustainable infrastructure also includes buildings that are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Some infrastructure projects involve constructing green buildings that use renewable energy sources like solar panels and incorporate other sustainable features such as rainwater harvesting systems and green roofs.
6. Transit-Oriented Development Projects: Transit-oriented development (TOD) refers to building communities around public transportation hubs like train stations or bus stops with a mix of residential spaces, commercial areas, and public spaces all within walking distance of each other. TOD projects aim to reduce dependence on personal vehicles by providing easy access to public transportation.
7. Use of Recycled Materials: Many infrastructure projects are also incorporating the use of recycled and sustainable materials in their construction. For example, some roads and bridges are now being built with recycled plastic or rubber, reducing the use of non-renewable resources like asphalt.
These are just a few examples of current and proposed infrastructure projects that prioritize sustainability principles in terms of transportation systems. As awareness about the importance of sustainability grows, we can expect to see even more innovative projects focused on creating efficient, eco-friendly transportation systems in the future.
16. From a third person's view point, how would you describe the role of civil engineering in promoting accessible and equitable sustainable mobility solutions within communities?
Civil engineering plays a crucial role in promoting accessible and equitable sustainable mobility solutions within communities. Civil engineers are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the physical infrastructure that allows people to move from one place to another, such as roads, bridges, and public transportation systems.
One of the main goals of civil engineering is to create safe and efficient transportation networks that connect different areas within a community. This includes providing access to public transportation options, building sidewalks and bike lanes for pedestrians and bicyclists, and integrating affordable transportation options for those who cannot afford private cars.
Moreover, civil engineers also play a key role in assessing the needs of different communities and designing transportation solutions that address their specific needs. This can include optimizing public transport routes to better serve low-income neighborhoods or implementing wheelchair-friendly designs for sidewalks and buildings.
In addition to creating physical infrastructure, civil engineers also use technology and data analysis to improve mobility within communities. They use computer simulations to predict traffic flow patterns and identify bottlenecks, which helps in planning more effective transportation systems.
Overall, the role of civil engineering in promoting accessible and equitable sustainable mobility solutions is crucial as it not only improves the quality of life for individuals within a community but also leads to economic growth by connecting people with job opportunities and essential services.
17. Are there any potential conflicts between traditional methods of urban planning and the sustainable transportation goals of architects and engineers?
Yes, there can be potential conflicts between traditional methods of urban planning and the sustainable transportation goals of architects and engineers. Some examples include:
1. Car-centric planning: Traditional urban planning often prioritizes the use of cars, resulting in sprawling developments with wide roads and ample parking. This leads to increased reliance on cars and less walkability or access to public transportation.
2. Lack of mixed-use development: Traditional urban planning may separate residential areas from commercial and recreational areas, making it difficult for people to access essential services without using a car.
3. Neglecting alternative modes of transportation: Traditional planning may not take into account the needs and infrastructure for cycling or walking, resulting in a lack of safe and accessible options for sustainable transportation.
4. Resistance to change: Many traditional planners may be resistant to new ideas or approaches to transportation, fearing that it will disrupt established patterns or be too costly to implement.
5. Limited funding: Sustainable transportation solutions can require significant investment in infrastructure, such as bike lanes or public transit systems. Traditional planners may prioritize projects that have more immediate returns on investment, leading to a neglect of sustainable transportation options.
Overall, conflicts between traditional methods of urban planning and sustainable transportation goals can arise due to different priorities, approaches, and values. However, collaboration between planners, architects, and engineers is necessary to find solutions that are both sustainable and conducive to creating livable communities.
18. In your opinion, what are the most promising new technologies or strategies being used by engineers to increase the sustainability of transportation systems in architecture?
Some of the most promising new technologies and strategies being used by engineers to increase sustainability in transportation systems in architecture include:
1. Electric Vehicles: The increased use of electric vehicles can significantly reduce emissions and dependency on fossil fuels.
2. Alternative Fuels: The development of alternative fuel sources, such as biofuels or hydrogen fuel cells, can reduce the environmental impact of transportation systems.
3. Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS): Utilizing ITS technologies, such as real-time traffic monitoring and adaptive traffic signals, can help optimize traffic flow and reduce travel time, thus reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
4. Active Transportation Options: Encouraging and implementing alternate means of transportation like walking, biking, and public transit can reduce the number of vehicles on the road and decrease carbon emissions.
5. Internet of Things (IoT): The use of IoT sensors in vehicles can collect data on driving patterns and optimize routes for improved efficiency, reducing fuel consumption.
6. Sustainable Materials: The use of sustainable materials in vehicle design can reduce their weight and improve fuel economy.
7. Green Infrastructure: The incorporation of green infrastructure into transportation systems, such as bioswales or rain gardens along roadways, can help manage stormwater runoff and improve air quality.
8. Smart Parking Systems: Implementing smart parking systems that utilize technology to efficiently guide drivers to available parking spots can reduce congestion and emissions from circling for a spot.
9. Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV): Incorporating BIPV into architectural designs can generate clean energy from sunlight while providing shade for parked cars or charging stations for electric vehicles.
10. Car sharing/Ride-sharing Platforms: Promoting car sharing or ride-sharing platforms can reduce the need for individual car ownership, consequently reducing associated emissions and congestion on roads.
19. How do engineers approach balancing the need for efficient transportation with reducing carbon emissions in their designs for architectural projects?
Engineers approach balancing the need for efficient transportation with reducing carbon emissions in their designs for architectural projects by considering various factors and implementing sustainable practices. This includes:
1. Designing compact and walkable communities: By creating compact communities with mixed-use developments, engineers can reduce the need for long-distance commutes, thereby promoting efficient transportation.
2. Integrating public transport systems: Engineers can design buildings and communities that are easily accessible via public transport systems such as buses, trains, or subways. This reduces the reliance on personal vehicles, leading to a decrease in carbon emissions.
3. Promoting active transportation: Engineers can incorporate pedestrian-friendly infrastructure like sidewalks and bike lanes, encouraging people to walk or cycle to their destinations instead of using cars.
4. Implementing green transportation solutions: This includes incorporating electric vehicle charging stations, encouraging car-sharing services, and promoting alternative fuel sources like biofuel or hydrogen-powered vehicles within the community.
5. Utilizing smart design strategies: By implementing smart design strategies such as building orientation based on solar patterns, engineers can reduce energy consumption while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.
6. Using sustainable materials and construction techniques: Engineers can select eco-friendly materials and adopt construction techniques that minimize waste production and energy consumption during the construction process.
7. Incorporating green roofs and vertical gardens: These features can help reduce heat island effect in dense urban areas while enhancing air quality and providing habitats for wildlife.
8. Monitoring and optimizing energy usage: Engineers use advanced technology like sensors, meters, and automation systems to monitor energy consumption within buildings and optimize it accordingly.
By considering these strategies in their designs, engineers strive to strike a balance between efficient transportation options and reducing carbon emissions in architectural projects.
20. Can you discuss any examples of successful retrofitting or redesigning projects where architects and engineers have improved the sustainability of existing transportation infrastructure?
One example is the Seattle's Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement project. The existing viaduct, built in the 1950s, was a major roadway and an important transportation artery for the city. However, it had serious seismic vulnerabilities and was at risk of collapsing during an earthquake. The city decided to replace the viaduct with a tunnel that not only addressed the safety concerns but also improved sustainability.
The new tunnel incorporates several features that reduce its environmental impact. It is designed to allow more natural light inside, reducing the need for artificial lighting and saving energy. It also has a state-of-the-art ventilation system that uses jet fans instead of traditional exhaust fans, dramatically reducing energy consumption. Additionally, the tunnel is equipped with a water recirculation system, capturing and treating rainwater runoff that can then be used to wash vehicles.
Another example is the retrofitting of the San Francisco Bay Bridge. When it was first built in 1936, it lacked accommodations for non-motorized transportation like bikes and pedestrians. However, in recent years, there has been a growing demand for alternative modes of transportation in the city. As part of a seismic retrofit project on the bridge, architects and engineers incorporated a new bike path and pedestrian walkway that connects San Francisco to Treasure Island. This not only promotes sustainability by encouraging walking and biking as forms of transportation but also provides stunning views of the bay.
In New York City, there are several ongoing projects aimed at improving sustainability while revitalizing aging infrastructure. One noteworthy example is the transformation of an abandoned elevated rail line into a public park known as "The High Line". This unique project by architects and landscape designers repurposed an obsolete section of railway tracks into a beautiful green space filled with native plants, public art installations, and seating areas for visitors to enjoy while providing critical habitat for wildlife.
These examples demonstrate how architects and engineers can successfully retrofit or redesign existing transportation infrastructure to improve sustainability and address the changing needs of communities. By incorporating green technologies, promoting alternative modes of transportation, and repurposing obsolete structures, they not only enhance the functionality and safety of these spaces but also contribute to a more sustainable future. |
In an increasingly interconnected world, the movement of people across borders has become a cornerstone of societal and economic progress. Immigrant visas play a pivotal role in shaping the future by enabling talented individuals to contribute their skills, knowledge, and experiences to new communities. By embracing immigration and facilitating the issuance of immigrant visas, societies can empower the next generation and ensure a bright future for all. Immigrant visas represent more than just a pathway to citizenship they are a testament to the belief that diversity strengthens societies. Each visa granted signifies an opportunity for innovation, cultural enrichment, and economic growth. Whether through employment-based visas for highly skilled workers or family-based visas for reunification, immigrant visas pave the way for individuals to pursue their dreams and build a better life for themselves and their families. One of the most significant contributions of immigrant visas lies in their ability to drive innovation and economic prosperity. By attracting top talent from around the globe, immigrant visas fuel entrepreneurship, research, and technological advancement, ultimately driving job creation and economic growth.
Moreover, immigrant visas play a vital role in addressing demographic challenges and filling labor gaps. As populations age and birth rates decline in many countries, immigrants inject vitality into aging societies, replenishing the workforce and sustaining essential services such as healthcare and eldercare. Immigrant entrepreneurs also create new businesses, revitalizing local economies and contributing to community development. Beyond economic benefits, immigrant visas promote cultural exchange and understanding, enriching the fabric of society. Immigrants bring with them diverse perspectives, traditions, and customs, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and promoting tolerance and acceptance. In an era marked by globalization, the ability to navigate cultural diversity is an essential skill, and immigrant visas provide individuals with the opportunity to develop this skill firsthand. Furthermore, immigrant visas play a crucial role in promoting family unity and strengthening social bonds. Family-based visas enable individuals to reunite with their loved ones, fostering emotional support networks and preserving familial ties across borders. These visas recognize the inherent value of family and ensure that individuals can remain connected to their roots while pursuing opportunities abroad.
Immigration policies are subject to shifting political winds and can be influenced by factors such as national security concerns, economic fluctuations, and public sentiment. Additionally, bureaucratic inefficiencies and lengthy processing times can create barriers for individuals seeking to obtain immigrant visas, delaying their ability to contribute to society and realize their full potential. To fully harness the potential of immigrant visas and empower the next generation, policymakers must adopt a balanced approach that prioritizes both security and inclusivity. This entails streamlining visa processes, reducing administrative burdens, and implementing fair and transparent immigration policies and go here. Moreover, investing in integration programs and support services can facilitate the successful integration of immigrants into their new communities, enabling them to thrive and contribute fully to society. Immigrant visas are a cornerstone of a bright and prosperous future, enabling individuals to pursue opportunities, build bridges across cultures, and strengthen communities. By embracing immigration and ensuring the accessibility of immigrant visas, societies can unlock the full potential of talented individuals and empower the next generation to shape a better world for all. |
The ability of all pathogens to survive within the host is key to their success in establishing disease. Environmental conditions that affect the growth of a pathogen in the host include nutrient status, environmental pH, oxygen availability, and host defences. Studying the response of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) exposed to these relevant host conditions in vitro will further increase our understanding of how these environments have an impact on the molecular mechanisms M. tuberculosis adopts to combat the effects of external influences such as antimycobacterials. The methods presented here are used to investigate the effect of environmental factors on the development of drug-resistant M. tuberculosis. Cultures grown under controlled conditions in continuous culture are sampled and the frequency with which resistant mutants develop are determined. These studies provide data that aid our understanding of the complex interaction between the host environment and invading bacterium that allow resistant strains to develop and continue to cause disease.
Original language | English |
Pages (from-to) | 123-140 |
Number of pages | 18 |
Journal | Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.) |
Volume | 642 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2010 |
Bibliographical note
Copyright:This record is sourced from MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine |
The Western Governors' Association keeps you updated on the latest news in the West. Here are the top stories for the week starting July 18, 2022. (Photos courtesy of Unsplash and Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute)
Suicide rates in the U.S. are the highest since World War II, and workforce shortages coupled with a lack of resources, especially in rural areas, have exacerbated the crisis. In response, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) launched the 988 Lifeline, a three-digit crisis number that individuals experiencing behavioral health crises can call or text for help.
The 988 Lifeline came to fruition after the bipartisan National Suicide Hotline Designation Act passed in 2020, which allocated $105 million for crisis call centers. "988 is more than a number, it is a message: we're there for you," HHS Secretary, Xavier Becerra, said, who will give a keynote address at WGA's 2022 Annual Meeting in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on July 26-28.
The Federal Communications Commission required all telephone and text providers in states and major territories to activate 988 by July 16. 1-800-273-TALK, the previous National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number, will still connect callers to help. Additionally, the new line offers an option to connect veterans with the Veterans Crisis Line. Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Denis McDonough, will also provide a keynote speech at WGA's upcoming Annual Meeting.
Following the launch of 988, Wyoming expanded services to offer full-time, state-based coverage. New Mexico is increasing access to care in frontier, rural, and tribal communities by forming crisis teams and crisis receiving models to break down barriers to treatment.
Having received 10,000 crisis calls annually, Montana is investing $400,000 to meet call center staffing demand. Kansas, which has a higher than average national suicide rate, will increase funding for the crisis line by $10 million. "Just as every American knows to call 911 in times of emergency, every American and every Kansan will soon know to call 988 when they or a loved one is facing a mental health or substance abuse crisis," Gov. Laura Kelly, said. To ensure consistent funding long into the future, Washington, which is one of 21 states that passed 988 legislation prior to the national launch, established a telecom tax to fund the line. Ahead of 988, California's Department of Health Care Services also set aside $20 million to prepare call centers for the launch.
988, however, is not the only resource states are deploying to combat behavioral and mental health issues. California is investing $4.1 billion in 'community schools' that address mental health crises and drug use that's spiked throughout COVID-19. The schools meet students' needs through health care, mental health resources, tutoring, and childcare. Another county in California opened a 24/7 urgent care facility for walk-ins and created a text line that helps students apprehensive about seeking help. Kansas created the School Mental Health Advisory Council, which informs the state Board of Education how to address students' mental health with input from parents, providers, and legislators. Colorado is using Medicaid to fund school-based behavioral health services, including telehealth.
On the higher education side, the University of Texas Board of Regents approved a $16.5 million investment to improve behavioral health that funds the Thrive at UT mobile app, which helps students establish new routines to improve mental health. Clovis Community College in New Mexico received a $50,000 grant to support mental health presentations, increased services, and additional resources.
Learn more about efforts to address mental and behavioral health in the West by reading WGA policy resolution Physical and Behavioral Health Care in Western States or by listening to WGA's 'Out West' podcast episode, On the Mind: Youth Behavioral Health Care Access, which delves into strategies Washington and Wyoming have employed to help provide resources to youth amid workforce shortages.
E.V. Battery Factory: Panasonic announced that it will open a $4 billion electric vehicle battery factory in Kansas that will create 4,000 jobs. Gov. Laura Kelly and state legislators worked across the aisle to secure the deal that established the state's largest subsidy program ever to recruit business. "This project will be transformative for the Kansas economy, providing high-quality, high-tech jobs while bringing a new industry to the state that is forging a more sustainable future," said Gov. Kelly. "This is a significant milestone for Kansas that is sure to drive economic growth and development."
A Carbon Capture First: Red Trail Energy recently opened North Dakota's first carbon capture and storage project, which can capture and store up to 180,000 tons of carbon each year. "By capturing and storing the carbon from ethanol production, Red Trail Energy is helping to pave the way for the long-term viability of current energy sources in North Dakota with innovation and environmental stewardship," Gov. Doug Burgum said. Read about Western Governors' support for a diversified energy economy in WGA policy resolution, Energy in the West.
Rare Squid Alert: Scientists with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute in California captured ultra-rare footage of a mother Bathyteuthis squid carrying eggs. There are only 12 recorded sightings of the squid, and this is only the second time that researchers have seen the species exhibit this behavior. The first time was in 2005 at Monterey Bay when scientists recorded a mother Bathyteuthis with 360 eggs.
Homefield Advantage: The 2022 World Outdoor Track and Field Championship is underway in Portland, Oregon. Last Sunday (July 17), the U.S. won nine gold medals — the single best medal day for any country in the history of the event. Brooke Andersen from California won gold in the hammer throw; two-time Olympic champion Ryan Crouser of Oregon won gold in shot put; Fred Kerley of Texas, who won silver at the 2020 Summer Olympics, led the U.S. to a podium sweep of the 100M — the first time since 1991. Of the 2,000 athletes competing, 30 are competing on home turf in the Pacific Northwest, including Cooper Teare from Eugene. "When you hear your name called and that roar that some other people don't get, it's definitely a confidence booster on the line," Teare said. "So, I'm looking forward to it and just having the world in my backyard." |
When you reach State Pension age, you will be eligible to receive the new State Pension if you are:
If you were born before, these rules do not apply. Instead, you'll get the basic State Pension. You may also get Additional State Pension.
The new State Pension is a regular payment from the government that most people can claim in later life. It offers a stable income in retirement, helping individuals maintain their living standards. To be eligible for the new State Pension, you must meet specific criteria related to your age, National Insurance record, and residency status.
Eligibility Requirements
The new State Pension is available to individuals who meet the following conditions:
- Age: You must have reached State Pension age. This age varies depending on your gender and date of birth. Currently, the State Pension age for men is 66, and for women, it is 65. However, it is gradually increasing to 67 for both genders by 2028.
- National Insurance Record: You need at least 10 qualifying years on your National Insurance record. A qualifying year is one in which you were either working and paying National Insurance contributions, receiving National Insurance credits for reasons like unemployment or illness, or making voluntary National Insurance contributions.
- Residency: You must have lived or worked in the UK for a specific period. If you have not met this requirement, you may still be eligible for a reduced State Pension.
Amount of the New State Pension
The amount of new State Pension you receive depends on your National Insurance record. The full rate of the new State Pension is currently £190.50 per week. However, your individual amount may vary depending on the following factors:
- Contracted Out Status: If you were contracted out of the Additional State Pension before 2016, your State Pension may be lower.
- Number of Qualifying Years: The more qualifying years you have on your National Insurance record, the higher your State Pension will be.
- Additional State Pension Contributions: If you paid into the Additional State Pension before 2016, you may receive a top-up payment on top of the full rate of the new State Pension.
Checking Your State Pension Forecast
To get a personalized estimate of your new State Pension amount, you can check your State Pension forecast on the government website. This forecast will show you your projected State Pension based on your current National Insurance record and any future contributions you are expected to make.
The new State Pension provides a valuable source of income for individuals in retirement. Understanding the eligibility requirements and factors affecting the amount of the new State Pension can help you plan for your future and ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to. Remember to check your State Pension forecast regularly to stay informed about your projected retirement income.
Your National Insurance record
To be eligible for any new State Pension, you must have ten qualifying years on your National Insurance record.
A qualifying year is one in which you were:
The years of eligibility listed on your National Insurance record determine the amount of your State Pension. To find out what you might receive when you reach State Pension age, check your State Pension forecast.
Your spouse or civil partner's pension
Usually, your own National Insurance record will serve as the basis for your new State Pension. You may receive a State Pension by inheritance or through a spouse or civil partner in certain situations.
Financial Adviser Explains – The New State Pension (UK)
What's the difference between the basic state pension and the new state pension?
How much is state pension in the US?
Table 10. Median benefit for persons age 65 and older with income from private pensions and annuities, public pensions, and veterans benefits
Type of pension benefit
Median benefit, 2022
Private pensions and annuities
Federal government pension
State or local government pension
What counts as a qualifying year for state pension?
What is the basic state pension?
The basic State Pension is usually paid every 4 weeks into an account of your choice. You're paid 'in arrears', which means you're paid for the last 4 weeks, not for the coming 4 weeks. There are different rules if you live abroad. The basic State Pension increases every year by whichever is the highest of the following:
When is my state pension age?
You can claim state pension when you reach the state pension age. For men and women, this is currently 66. The state pension age is scheduled to rise to 67 between 2026 and 2028. The age at which you're eligible for the state pension is set to increase again to age 68 between 2037 and 2039, although the revised timetable hasn't been confirmed.
How many years NI contributions for pension?
You usually need a total of 30 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions or credits to get the full basic State Pension. This means that for 30 years, one or more of the following applied to you: you were getting National Insurance Credits, for example you were unemployed, sick, or a parent or carer
What is the new pension scheme?
What is New Pension Scheme (NPS)? National Pension Scheme (NPS) is a social security initiative launched by the central government for government employees. The new pension system is a mandatory contribution for the employees of public, private and even unorganized sectors except the armed forces on or after January 1, 2004. |
For animals, what I'd like to do next is tell you a short story/summary about my previous attempts to debate with animal rights people and vegans. Does that sound OK as a way to steer the conversation?
Hmm, I don't know. I know there are often irrational takes in this field, so I think it'd be distracting to recount the sometimes not so good arguments you've seen (I'm sure there are plenty !)
I'd prefer to get into the gist of it and understand why you think animals do not suffer despite the presence of stress and nociceptors and screams and stuff like that.
I think AG and CB are both caught up in problematic dynamics related to how the sides fight with each other. Productive activism should find other approaches which don't cause lots of fighting and offend and alienate many people.
Yeah,you're right - which is why I usually tend to do that. But with most people there is some initial common ground in the sense that they tend to at least acknowledge that some animals suffer, which can be a starting point.
From my experience, the "animal can't suffer" claim is quite uncommon, especially when extended to cats and dogs. Most of the time, it's invoked by people who didn't really think much into the topic, but use it as a defense to justify their current meat consumption.
Which is why I have trouble seeing this claim as a well-though argument that came after a lot of deliberation, because this usually isn't the case - most of the time meat consumption comes first, justification comes later. We're very good at rationalizing, after all: doing stuff first (because of how we were raised, our culture, who surrounds us), then finding reasons afterward.
So I felt a bit like the need to land a more outlandish question to "test" the solidity of this assumption. Not the wisest tactic, I get that.
My position is compatible with the society we live in. That is, my claim (that animals can't suffer) doesn't imply our current society is bad or needs major changes. On the other hand, CB's position implies that large changes to society are needed, which would potentially have large negative impacts on humans.
Of course, you will agree that just because our society does it means it's good. So yeah, there's plenty of important changes our society could do to improve, the same way most societies in history could have improved in major ways that were seen as ok at the time (getting rid of slavery comes to mind).
As an side note, you will also agree that while the "society could help with major changes" stance is ambitious, the other position, "our society is doing ok on that point", is highly vulnerable to the statu quo bias, where beliefs that do not require any changes are preferred.
But yes, when I'm reading about factory farming, I find that terrifying. Most people do (in France, 88% of people say they oppose factory farming). What's even more terrifying is that many good people, some of who really try to do good, many of whom I really like as humans, support something that does tremendous harm. Without even realizing it or thinking about it (much less than 88% of French actively avoid stuff from factory farming). I don't think the problem would have ever arised if people actually saw the way meat is produced when actually buying it.
Please note, however, that while I'd like to see major change in the way we do thing, this doesn't mean I think promoting major change as the best way to attain that goal. The "go vegan" message is pretty ineffective. Whereas I see, say, corporate reform as a much more promising pathway.
Note: I think we should not get into the debate of whether extensive farming, with much lower meat consumption but well-raised animals, like it was done 2 centuries ago, is bad. I personally think it's rather unrealistic to think we can get rid of that, and even so I think most animals lives are overall worth living in this setting, so I don't really oppose it.
I'd prefer we focus on factory farming.
Finally, I'd like to point out that I'm not sure getting rid of factory farming would have such a negative impact on humans. Excessive meat consumption by people in wealthier countries uses a lot of land, so we could feed many more people if less meat was eaten. It has a very high water consumption. Taste is a common worry, but from experience we adapt to changes in diet rather quickly - it's just much harder when everyone else around you is not doing that. High meat consumption has a negative impact on health. Guilt is another negative impact.
A French book by a researcher in economics recently came out and made the calculation that getting rid of factory farming would be beneficial economically, given all the negatives impacts I mentioned above.
Not sure we want to focus the debate on that, but I feel it's important. |
Using Cover Crops as Fall Forage August 30, 2019 | Posted in Grazing Source: Madison Capital Journal The 2019 growing season has been challenging to say the least, especially when it came to planting and harvesting forages for winter feeding. The wet conditions didn't allow for entry into fields on time or even for planting crops in some fields. But there are fall-forage options available to plant to extend winter and early-spring feed supply.Read More
Seven Steps When Prevent Planting Cover Crops July 3, 2019 | Posted in Seeding Practices Source: Grassland Oregon press release This article from Grassland Oregon discusses important considerations to keep in mind when prevent planting cover crops to get the most out of your efforts. Cover crops can be used as high quality feed, controlling erosion, weed suppression and to feed soil biology with added biomass.Read More
Hairy Vetch, Triticale & Other Alternatives to Cereal Rye This week we're going to hear from USDA research agronomist Jose Franco as he discusses alternatives to only using cereal rye as a winter cover crop in the Upper Midwest. Some of these alternatives include triticale, hairy vetch and winter camelina. Here's what Franco and his team of researchers are looking for with those trials. |
Publications by Dr. Perryman
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/11274/11193
Browsing Publications by Dr. Perryman by Subject "Bibliometrics"
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Item Does a social network based model of journal metrics improve ranking?(University of Alberta, 2007) Perryman, Carol L.A Review of: Bollen, J., Van de Sompel, H., Smith, J.A., & Luce, R. (2005). Toward alternative metrics of journal impact: A comparison of download and citation data. Information Processing and Management, 41:1419-1440. Objective: To test a new model for measuring journal impact by using principles of social networking. Research questions are as follows: Can valid networks of journal relationships be derived from reader article download patterns registered in a digital library's server logs? Can social network metrics of journal impact validly be calculated from the structure of such networks? If so, how do the resulting journal impact rankings relate to the ISI impact factor (IF)? Design: Bibliometric, social network centrality analysis Setting: Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), New Mexico Subjects: 40,847 full-text articles downloaded from a large digital library by 1,858 unique users over a 6 month period. Methods: Full-text article downloads from a large digital library for a six-month period were examined using social networking analysis methods. ISSNs for journals in which the retrieved articles were published were paired based upon the proximity of use by the same user, based on the supposition that proximal downloads are related in some way. Reader-Generated Networks (RGNs) were then tested for small-world characteristics. The resulting RGN data were then compared with Author-Generated Networks (AGNs) for the same journals indexed in the Institute of Scientific Information (ISI) annual impact factor (IF) rankings, in the Journal Citation Reports (JCR) database. Next, a sample of the AGN-derived pairings was examined by a team of 22 scientists, who were asked to rate the strength of relationships between journals on a five-point scale. Centrality ratings were calculated for the AGN and RGN sets of journals, as well as for the ISI IF. Main results: Closeness and centrality rankings for the ISI IF and the AGN metrics were low, but significant, suggesting that centrality metrics are an acceptable impact metric. Comparison between the RGN and ISI IF data found marked differences, with RGN mirroring local population needs to a much higher degree, and with a non-significant correlation between the ISI IF and RGN ranking, while AGN and RGN centrality rankings show significant centrality and closeness and betweenness correlations. RGN network ranking identified highly localized foci of interest for the LANL, as well as "interest-bridging" subject areas pointing to possible emerging interests among the scientists. Conclusion: The study results appear to successfully demonstrate an alternative to existing journal impact ranking that can more validly and accurately reflect the practices of a local community. The authors suggest that the social network-derived methodology for identification of impact rankings avoids biases intrinsic to ISI IF as a result of frequentist metrics collected from a global user group. Although the authors resist the idea of generalizability due to the local nature of their data, they suggest that the methodology can be successfully used in other settings, and for a more global community. Finally, the authors propose the automated creation of an open-source RGN whose data could be localized for smaller communities, with potentially large implications for the existing publishing industry.Item Thematic categorization and analysis of peer reviewed articles in the LISA database, 2004-2005(University of Alberta, 2009) Perryman, Carol L.A Review of: Gonzalez-Alcaide, Gregorio, Lourdes Castello-Cogolles, Carolina Navarro-Molina, et al. "Library and Information Science Research Areas: Analysis of Journal Articles in LISA." Journal of the American Society for Information Science and Technology 59.1 (2008): 150-4. Objective – To provide an updated categorization of Library and Information Science (LIS) publications and to identify trends in LIS research. Design – Bibliometric study. Setting – The Library and Information Science Abstracts (LISA) database via the CSA Illumina interface. Subjects – 11,273 item records published from 2004-2005 and indexed in LISA. Methods – First, a search was set up to retrieve all records from 2004-2005, limited to peer review items (called "arbitrated works" by the authors (150)) and excluding book reviews. Second, thematic descriptor terms used for the records were identified. Frequency counts for descriptor term occurrence were compiled using Microsoft Access and Pajek software programs. From the results of this search, the top terms were analyzed using the Kamada-Kawai algorithm in order to eliminate descriptor term co-occurrence frequencies under 30. A cluster analysis was used to depict thematic foci for the remaining records, providing a co-word network that visually identified topic areas of most frequent publication. Conclusions were drawn from these findings, and recommendations for further research were provided. Main Results – The authors identified 18 "thematic research core fields" (152) clustered around three large categories, "World Wide Web", "Education", and "Libraries", plus 12 additional peripheral categories, and provided a schematic of field interrelationships. Conclusion – Domains of greatest focus for research "continue to be of practical and applied nature," (153) but include increased emphasis on the World Wide Web and communications technologies, as well as on user studies. A table of the most frequently occurring areas of research along with their top three descriptor terms is provided (Table 1, 152) (e.g., "World Wide Web" as the top area of research, with "online information retrieval" (268 occurrences), "searching" (132 occurrences), and "web sites" (115 occurrences)).Item Tracking theory building and use trends in selected LIS journals: More research is needed(University of Alberta, 2007) Perryman, Carol L.Objective - The authors measure theory incidents occurring in four LIS journals between 1984-2003 in order to examine their number and quality and to analyze them by topic. A third objective, only identified later in the text of the study, was to compare theory development and use between Korean and international journals. Research questions asked include whether LIS has its own theoretical base as a discipline, and what characteristics the theoretical framework has. Design – Bibliometric study. Setting – Journal issues selected from four LIS journals for the time span from 1984 - 2003. Subjects – Two international journals, Journal of the American Society for Information Science and Technology (JASIST) and Library and Information Science Research (LISR) were selected based on their high ranking in the Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI) impact factors. Two Korean journals, Journal of the Korean Society for Information Management (JKSIM) and Journal of the Korean Society for Library and Information Science (JKSLIS) were selected. Methods - After having determined a definition of theory, and identifying different levels of theory, the authors set up rules for the identification of theory incidents, which are defined as "events in which the author contributed to the development or the use of theory in his/her own paper" (550). Content analysis of 1661 research articles was performed to measure theory incidents according to working definitions. Interrater reliability was ensured by conducting independent coding for "subfield classification, identification of theory incidents, and quality measurement" (555), using a sample of 199 articles (random selection not specified), achieving 94-97% interrater reliability. Incidents, once identified, were evaluated for quality using Dubin's "efficiency of law" criteria, involving measures of relatedness, directionality, co-variation, rate of change, and "profundity," defined as the depth to which theory is incorporated into the research study. Main Results - 21.79% (n=362) of the articles contained theory incidents that were analyzed and evaluated. Trend measurement indicated an overall increase, although a slight decrease was shown in the year range 1993-2003. International journals accounted for 61.33% of theory incidents, compared to 38.67% for the Korean journals. T-testing showed that differences in means between Korean and international journals were not statistically significant. Topical theory areas were ranked by frequency. The top five areas were shown to be nearly identical between Korean and international journals. ANOVA was performed with significant results in the difference between efficiency ratings. Conclusion – The authors find that the overall proportion of theory incidents including both theory development and use increased through the 20-year time span examined, and that LIS has established its own theoretical framework based upon the frequency of incidents. |
IPA: dˈɑdeɪɪzʌm
- The cultural movement of Dada.
- Alternative form of dadaism [The cultural movement of Dada.]
Examples of "dadaism" in Sentences
- Dadaism aims to destroy by ridicule...
- Dadaism was more a world view rather than a style.
- His influences include both dadaism and expressionism.
- His works belong to Dadaism and Surrealism of the modern art.
- Their lyrics are often absurd showing a reminiscence of Dadaism.
- Post irony exists in the aesthetic lineage of Dadaism and Surrealism.
- Similarly, pop art was both an extension and a repudiation of Dadaism.
- I am interested in religion, dadaism, outsider musicians, and pop culture.
- One problem I have is the mention of Dadaism without the mention of Surrealism.
- Dadaism and surrealism were historically linked yet also opposed to each other. |
On the morning of June 5, 1893, Gandhi set off to find Albert Weir [A.W.] Baker, a local attorney in Pretoria, Transvaal. Their mutual client, Dada Abdulla, was a wealthy Muslim trader who was suing a former business partner there. Gandhi and Abdulla were from the same home town back in India, and their shared native tongue would improve communication with the legal team.
At A.W. Baker's law office, Gandhi was pleased to discover that, unlike many other whites in Durban, he was "free from colour prejudice." An enthusiastic Christian, Baker set his sights on converting Gandhi to what he considered the only true religion. He grilled Gandhi on his beliefs. "I am a Hindu by birth," Gandhi responded, "I intend to make a careful study of my own religion and… of other religions as well."
Baker was pleased by the candor and religious tolerance of the young man. Thirteen years older, the second generation South African would become something of a minor mentor to Gandhi. Not just a lawyer, Baker was also a magazine publisher and a driven lay preacher who gave sermons at a church that he had built. His messages of Christianity among the Africans earned him converts, although Gandhi would never be counted among those ranks. He did absorb many of Baker's other disciplines. In the coming years, Gandhi would use profits from his law office to start the first of several newspapers designed to uplift, encourage, and inspire his countrymen, Indian Opinion.
For now, Baker told Gandhi, there wouldn't be much legal work for him. A higher priority was finding more permanent lodgings that would be cheaper than the Johnston Family Hotel. Dada Abdulla had cautioned Gandhi against boarding with any local Indians; they would certainly have some ties with the defendant in the lawsuit. "A fearful amount of colour prejudice" made it difficult to find a white family, but Baker knew "a poor woman," a baker's wife, who might rent him a room, and they set off to meet her. After private consultation with Baker, she agreed to accept Gandhi as a boarder.
According to biographer Ramchandra Guha, Baker "vigorously promoted temperance." This makes it somewhat surprising that when Gandhi spoke about the household in 1927, he revealed that alcohol had a grip on domestic life there. Gandhi described the husband as a "drunkard" who ruled over his wife as "lord and master," yet was subservient in turn to his drinking addiction. She struggled to make ends meet while he spent his paycheck on booze, and was "always in dread" of his nightly return. In describing the anguish of the baker's wife, Gandhi doesn't relate if physical abuse occurred in the household. It certainly seems possible that it did, and that the young man was aware of it.
Gandhi's year in Pretoria was a formative one that advanced his beliefs in religious tolerance and temperance.
Who would you define as a "minor mentor" in your life? |
BPS District Social Studies Standards Book
Completion requirements
9-12 Grade Levels
In High School, your child will be studying about .... A high-quality Social Studies program is essential for all students. It provides a foundation for intelligent and precise thinking. Social Studies should also prepare every student to contribute to society as an informed citizen. To be a responsible and productive member of today's society, a student needs to have a broad, connected, and useful knowledge of Social Studies.
SST-HS.C Civics Domain
SST-HS.C.01 Explain the historical and philosophical foundations of government.
Evaluate the thoughts of major political philosophers. - SST-HS.C.01.2
Explain the influence of British and colonial history on early America. - SST-HS.C.01.3
Evaluate the creation and impact of primary sources on political thought in the United States.
SST-HS.C.02 Analyze the structures and functions of governments.
Differentiate/compare forms and origins of governments. - SST-HS.C.02.2
Examine the role and purposes of government. - SST-HS.C.02.3
Analyze the structure, principles, and interpretation of the Constitution of the United States. - SST-HS.C.02.4
Explain the relationship among federal, state, tribal, and local governmental powers. - SST-HS.C.02.5
Explain the purposes, organization, powers, and processes of tribal and local governments.
SST-HS.C.03 Describe the rights and liberties of individuals.
Describe and examine the amendments to the United States Constitution and their application in the United States. - SST-HS.C.03.2
Describe the impact of court cases on rights and liberties of individuals.
SST-HS.C.04 Investigate the role and responsibilities of citizenship in society.
Explain how citizens can influence government. - SST-HS.C.04.2
Describe and evaluate the criteria and process for naturalization in the United States. - SST-HS.C.04.3
Explain how citizens' personal and civic responsibilities are important to the preservation and improvement of United States constitutional republic. - SST-HS.C.04.4
Identify bias and evaluate its role in media sources. - SST-HS.C.04.5
Demonstrate active participation in civic life.
SST-HS.E Economics Domain
SST-HS.E.01 Analyze the concept of scarcity when making economic decisions.
Analyze the basic concepts of economic thinking. - SST-HS.E.01.2
Describe the difference between a command/centrally planned economy and market economy.
SST-HS.E.02 Compare and contrast how varying economic systems impact a nation and its citizens.
Describe the difference between a command/centrally planned economy and market economy.
SST-HS.E.03 Analyze how supply and demand impact the allocation of goods and services.
Explain the law of supply and demand. - SST-HS.E.03.2
Compare and contrast perfect and imperfect competition. - SST-HS.E.03.3
Analyze the impact of the supply and demand on prices.
SST-HS.E.04 Analyze the various institutions that drive and support the market economy.
Explain the role of businesses and financial institutions in a market economy. - SST-HS.E.04.2
Evaluate the role of government in a market economy. - SST-HS.E.04.3
Explain the functions and role of money.
SST-HS.E.05 Evaluate the various macroeconomic measurements available to determine an economy's size and strength.
Describe various measurements of macroeconomics.
SST-HS.E.06 Analyze how globalization has impacted various aspects of economies around the world.
Describe how trade generates economic development and interdependence. - SST-HS.E.06.2
Analyze the benefits and costs for individuals, producers, and governments in international trade.
SST-HS.E.07 Evaluate the elements of responsible personal finance.
Evaluate career choices and the effect on the standard of living. - SST-HS.E.07.2
Evaluate the effect of taxes and other factors on income.
Develop short- and long-term financial goals. - SST-HS.E.07.4
Analyze the cost and benefits of different types of credit and debt; and the rights and responsibilities of borrowers. - SST-HS.E.07.5
Develop strategies to avoid and manage debt effectively.
SST-HS.G Geography Domain
SST-MS.G.01 Describe the physical processes that shape the Earth's surface and how these affect the lives of people who live there.
Describe the physical processes that shape the Earth's surface. - SST-HS.G.01.2
Explain the factors that cause different types of climates and ecosystems, and their latitudes/locations. - SST-HS.G.01.3
Identify how major ecosystems provide raw materials. - SST-HS.G.01.4
Analyze the physical and human characteristics of a place. - SST-HS.G.01.5
Describe how combinations of human decisions and natural forces can lead to (or help people avoid) a natural disaster.
SST-HS.G.02 Analyze the movement of people, goods, ideas, technology, etc. throughout the world.
Explain how movement of goods, information, and population are affected by technology. - SST-HS.G.02.1
Describe patterns of settlement and explain why people settle where they do and how they make their living. - SST-HS.G.02.1
Explain the patterns, causes, and consequences of major human migrations.
SST-HS.G.03 Analyze the unifying physical and human characteristics of a region and their formal and informal boundaries.
Describe the differences and similarities among cultures around the world. - SST-HS.G.03.2
Analyze the physical and human characteristics of a region. - SST-HS.G.03.3
Interpret how culture and experience influence people's perception of places and regions. - SST-HS.G.03.4
Identify factors that contribute to conflict and cooperation between cultural groups from multiple perspectives.
SST-HS.G.04 Use geographic tools to locate both the absolute and relative location of places and regions around the world.
Explain and use a variety of geographic tools to study the world on global, regional, and local scales and draw conclusions. - SST-HS.G.04.2
Apply the skills of geographic inquiry to analyze a geographic problem or issue.
SST-HS.G.05 Analyze how human beings are dependent upon, adapt to, and modify their environment to meet their needs.
Explain how people have modified the environment and used technology to make places more suitable for humans. - SST-HS.G.05.2
Analyze how human changes to the environment in one region or place can affect another.
SST-HS.H High School History Domain
SST-HS.WH World History History
SST-HS.WH_a World History Anchor Domain
- SST-HS.WH_a.01 Analyze primary and secondary sources with attention to reliability, impact, and purpose.
- SST-HS.WH_a.02 Examine the impact of multiple perspectives on social, political, and cultural development.
- SST-HS.WH_a.03 Explain the relationship of events focusing on the link(s) between cause and effect.
- SST-HS.WH_a.04 Compare how historical elements change over time.
- SST-HS.WH_a.05 Analyze the significant contributions of people and policy, and the influence on an era.
- SST-HS.WH_a.06 Connect the past to the present using current events.
SST-HS.WH_e1.b Era 1: Emergence of Civilizations and Religions Around the Globe.
- SST-HS.WH_e1.b1 Explain multiple achievements of civilizations and connect them to the present.
- SST-HS.WH_e1.b2 Describe the belief systems or religions of early civilizations.
- SST-HS.WH_e1.b3 Explain the impact of the development of agriculture on the social, cultural, and economic lives of individuals.
- SST-HS.WH_e1.b4 Explain how political systems impacted the people in Greece and Rome and how those political systems connect to the present.
SST-HS.WH_e2.b Era 2: Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
- SST-HS.WH_e2.b1 Explain the causes and effects of Medieval social structures using primary and secondary sources.
- SST-HS.WH_e2.b2 Explain how the relationship between religious and political bodies impacted the social, cultural, or economic developments of individuals.
- SST-HS.WH_e2.b3 Explain the emergence of cultural interaction between Europe and other civilizations..
SST-HS.WH_e3.b Era 3: Age of Revolutions.
- SST-HS.WH_e3.b1 Explain the causes and global effects of religious division.
- SST-HS.WH_e3.b2 Explain the global connections developed during this era because of exploration.
- SST-HS.WH_e3.b3 Examine and explain the influence of revolutions on social and political aspects of individuals' lives.
- SST-HS.WH_e3.b4 Explain advancements related to science and technology and the global impact of these advancements..
SST-HS.WH_e4.b Era 4: Age of Global War and Globalization.
- SST-HS.WH_e4.b1 Analyze the causes and global effects of the world wars.
- SST-HS.WH_e4.b2 Explain how political or social ideologies shaped the 20th century.
- SST-HS.WH_e4.b3 Explain the social, cultural, or economic changes influenced by globalization..
SST-HS.US United States History
SST-HS.US_a US History Anchor Domain
- SST-HS.US_a.01 Analyze primary and secondary sources with attention to reliability, impact, and purpose.
- SST-HS.US_a.02 Examine the impact of multiple perspectives on social, political, and cultural development.
- SST-HS.US_a.03 Explain the relationship of events focusing on the link(s) between cause and effect.
- SST-HS.US_a.04 Compare how historical elements change over time.
- SST-HS.US_a.05 Analyze the significant contributions of people and policy, and the influence on an era.
- SST-HS.US_a.06 Connect the past to the present using current events.
SST-HS.US_e3.b (1877-1941) Era3:
- SST-HS.US_e3.b1 - Explain the causes and consequences of the Industrial Revolution on American society.
- SST-HS.US_e3.b2 - Explain the social, cultural, and economic impact of local, state, and federal government policy on American people.
- SST-HS.US_e3.b3 - Explain the impact of the United States' transformation into an imperialist power.
- SST-HS.US_e3.b4 - Explain the causes and effects of the United States' entrance into World War I.
- SST-HS.US_e3.b5 - Explain the political, social and economic changes of the 1920s.
- SST-HS.US_e3.b6 - Explain the political, social and economic events of the 1930s.
SST-HS.US_e4.b (1941-2001) Era 4:
- SST-HS.US_e4.b1 - Explain the causes and consequences of U.S. involvement in World War II.
- SST-HS.US_e4.b2 - Explain the economic and/or social issues of the era and their long-lasting effects.
- SST-HS.US_e4.b3 - Explain the United States' reactions toward the growth of communism.
- SST-HS.US_e4.b4 - Explain the impact of rapid technological change on society.
- SST-HS.US_e4.b5 - Compare and contrast how different groups competed for equality and the effectiveness of various movements.
- SST-HS.US_e4.b6 - Identify and explain how domestic issues changed United States' perceptions of government.
SST-HS.US_e5.b (2001 - Present) Era 5:
- SST-HS.US_e5.b1 - Connect the changing political and social climate to United States' involvement as a global superpower.
- SST-HS.US_e5.b2 - Explain the social, cultural, and economic impact of changes because of technology.
- SST-HS.US_e5.b3 - Explain the social, political, and cultural influences on government policies regarding global immigration.
SST-HS.ND North Dakota History
SST-HS.ND.01 Examine the physical and human geography of North Dakota and how it has changed.
- SST-HS.ND.01.1 Identify the three landscape regions of North Dakota and describe the major features of the regions and the forces that formed them.
- SST-HS.ND.01.2 Explain the human settlement patterns in North Dakota.
- SST-HS.ND.01.3 Interpret current thematic maps to identify where people live and work, and how land is used.
SST-HS.ND.02 Explain the development and functions of North Dakota's state and local governments, tribal governments and the role of citizens.
- SST-HS.ND.02.1 Describe the structure, role, and formation of tribal governments, both present and past, in North Dakota.
- SST-HS.ND.02.2 Describe the formation, structure, and modern role of the territorial, state, county, and local government of North Dakota.
- SST-HS.ND.02.3 Explain the impact of political organizations and individual citizens on the political systems and institutions of North Dakota.
SST-HS.ND.03 Evaluate the major industries and economic activities in North Dakota.
- SST-HS.ND.03.1 Describe the early economic activities of our state prior to 1900 and how they developed into North Dakota's modern economy.
- SST-HS.ND.03.2 Identify the current economic activities in the state of North Dakota and evaluate their positive and negative impact.
SST-HS.ND.04 Analyze the historical and current events and their impact on the development of North Dakota.
- SST-HS.ND.04.1 Identify the Native American groups in North Dakota before European contact and describe their culture.
- SST-HS.ND.04.2 Analyze European exploration and early settlement of North Dakota and its impact on Native American groups.
- SST-HS.ND.04.3 Describe the major factors that brought settlers to North Dakota.
- SST-HS.ND.04.4 Analyze the effect of government policy, both historical and modern, toward Native American groups in North Dakota.
- SST-HS.ND.04.5 Evaluate the growth and struggles of the modernization of North Dakota and the role the state has played in modern America.
- SST-HS.ND.04.6 Use various primary and secondary resources to acquire, analyze, and evaluate information. |
The age at which a woman's periods stop in the UK is called the menopause. Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 years old, marking the end of a woman's reproductive years.
When Does Menopause Usually Occur?
In the UK, the average age for a woman to reach menopause is 51 years old. However, menopause can occur at different ages, ranging anywhere from early 40s to late 50s. Here is an overview of when menopause commonly occurs:
- Early menopause – Before age 45
- Average age – Between 45-55 years old
- Late menopause – After age 55
While 51 is the average, every woman's experience is different. The timing of menopause is believed to be largely genetic, meaning it tends to occur around the same age for women within the same family. Lifestyle factors like smoking may cause menopause to occur slightly earlier.
Stages Leading up to Menopause
Menopause does not happen all at once. It is a gradual biological process that typically takes place over 4-5 years. This transition time is known medically as perimenopause. Perimenopause involves three main stages:
- Early perimenopause – Periods become irregular. This stage typically begins in the mid-40s but can start as early as the late 30s.
- Mid-perimenopause – Estrogen levels continue declining and ovulation becomes infrequent. This causes symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep problems.
- Late perimenopause – Menstruation ends completely. At this point, a woman has gone 12 months without a period and has reached menopause.
Perimenopause lasts up until a woman has gone 12 straight months without a menstrual cycle. Once she reaches this milestone, she has officially entered menopause.
When Periods Completely Stop
During perimenopause, cycles become increasingly irregular. A woman may go several months with a normal period followed by several months of missed periods. This unpredictability is caused by hormonal fluctuations. Eventually, menstruation stops completely once perimenopause has ended.
On average, most women in the UK reach this milestone of having their final menstrual period somewhere around age 51. However, thisvaries significantly:
- 5% of women reach menopause before age 45
- 20% of women reach menopause between ages 45-49
- 45% of women reach menopause between ages 50-54
- 30% of women reach menopause between ages 55-59
As you can see from the numbers, menopause can happen earlier or later than the average age. The onset of menopause is considered "early" if it occurs before 45. Reaching menopause after age 55 is considered "late menopause."
Changes That Lead Up To Menopause
What causes periods to eventually stop in the years before menopause? Hormonal changes are the main driver. Here's an overview of what's happening internally:
- Ovarian follicle count drops – Women are born with a finite number of eggs/ovarian follicles. This decline accelerates near menopause.
- Less estrogen and progesterone – With fewer follicles, the ovaries produce lower levels of these key hormones.
- Increased FSH levels – The pituitary gland releases more follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in an attempt to induce ovulation.
- No follicular development – Despite high FSH, the ovaries do not produce mature follicles, so ovulation ceases.
- Menstruation stops – Without mature eggs and ovulating, the menstrual cycle ends.
It's the interplay between declining ovarian follicles, hormones, and the pituitary gland that causes periods to eventually completely stop by the time menopause arrives.
Common Signs of Approaching Menopause
Most women begin experiencing both physical and emotional symptoms as they approach menopause and their hormone levels change. Here are some of the most common signs:
- Irregular periods – Cycles become harder to predict, with inconsistencies in flow, length, and timing.
- Hot flashes – Sudden sensation of intense warmth in the face/upper body that can cause sweating and flushing.
- Night sweats – Episodes of severe sweating at nighttime that can interfere with sleep.
- Vaginal dryness – Declining estrogen leads to thinner, drier vaginal tissues.
- Mood changes – Anxiety, irritability, and depression may increase due to hormone fluctuations.
- Difficulty concentrating – Many women report memory lapses and trouble focusing.
- Skin/hair changes – Collagen loss can make skin drier and more prone to wrinkles. Hair may thin.
- Changing cholesterol – Declining estrogen is associated with higher LDL (bad) cholesterol and lower HDL (good) cholesterol.
Keep in mind that not all women experience severe symptoms. Some may sail through perimenopause without much difficulty. Monitoring symptoms and staying on top of health screenings can help minimize disruptions during this transitional time.
Premature Ovarian Failure
In rare cases, periods can stop much earlier than normal due to a condition called premature ovarian failure or primary ovarian insufficiency. This affects approximately 1% of women under age 40.
The criteria for premature ovarian failure include:
- Periods stop before age 40
- Menopausal FSH levels
- Estrogen deficiency symptoms
With this condition, the ovaries lose function due to autoimmunity, genetics, or unknown factors. Women with premature ovarian failure require hormone therapy until the typical age of menopause (around age 50) to protect bone health and reduce risk of early cardiovascular disease.
Surgical Menopause
Some women experience induced menopause following surgery to remove either the uterus or both ovaries. Common reasons this may be performed include:
- Fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Uterine or ovarian cancer
- Pelvic organ prolapse
Surgical removal of both ovaries causes immediate menopause, regardless of the woman's age. Having a hysterectomy (removing just the uterus) typically induces menopause if done after age 45.
Women who undergo surgical menopause before age 45 are at higher risk for health issues like osteoporosis and heart disease if hormone therapy is not used to treat estrogen deficiency until the natural age of menopause.
Medical Treatments That Can Cause Early Menopause
There are some medical and chemotherapy treatments that damage the ovaries, leading to premature menopause:
- Radiation to the pelvic region
- Chemotherapy using agents like cyclophosphamide
- Stem cell transplants
The onset of menopause depends on the woman's age, type of treatment, and dosage of the medications or radiation used. Younger women are more likely to experience ovarian failure and early menopause from these cancer and transplantation therapies.
Factors That Delay Menopause
While genetics largely determines when menopause occurs, certain factors are associated with reaching menopause at an older age:
- Being overweight – having higher BMI
- Being a nonsmoker
- Having given birth to children
- Being of Japanese or Hispanic ethnicity
The mechanisms behind how these factors influence menopausal timing are not fully understood. But researchers have consistently observed these correlations between demographics/lifestyle habits and later onset menopause.
In summary, menopause normally occurs between the ages of 45-55 for women in the UK, with the average age being 51. Periods become irregular and eventually stop completely when a woman reaches 12 months of amenorrhea, marking the end of her reproductive years. While menopause timing is largely genetic, factors like smoking, surgery, or cancer treatment can sometimes cause periods to cease earlier than normal. Understanding the bodily changes involved and managing symptoms are key to navigating this major transition gracefully. |
- Resume Examples
- Advertising
10 Advertising Resume Examples & Writing Guide
10 real advertising resumes to inspire you, plus a complete writing guide. Learn the key parts of an advertising resume and get expert tips to make yours stand out to hiring managers. Includes resumes for various roles and experience levels in the ad industry. See how to showcase your skills and achievements to get more interviews.
An advertising resume is your ticket to landing an interview and getting hired in this exciting field. But with many people applying for each open role, how can you make sure your resume gets noticed? It's not about fancy designs or gimmicks. The key is to clearly showcase your relevant skills, experience, and achievements.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of putting together a winning advertising resume. We'll cover what sections to include, how to highlight your strongest selling points, and common mistakes to avoid. Plus, we've included 10 real-world examples from successful advertising professionals, so you can see best practices in action.
Whether you're an experienced ad executive or just breaking into the industry, you'll find plenty of actionable advice to take your resume to the next level. By the end, you'll have all the tools you need to create a resume that grabs hiring managers' attention and positions you for the advertising job of your dreams. Let's get started!
Common Responsibilities Listed on Advertising Resumes
- Developing and executing advertising campaigns
- Conducting market research and analyzing consumer data
- Creating and managing advertising budgets
- Collaborating with creative teams to develop compelling ad concepts
- Selecting appropriate advertising channels and media outlets
- Negotiating advertising rates and placements with vendors
- Monitoring and analyzing campaign performance metrics
- Optimizing campaigns for better results and return on investment
- Staying up-to-date with advertising industry trends and best practices
- Managing relationships with clients and understanding their marketing goals
- Ensuring compliance with advertising regulations and guidelines
- Overseeing social media advertising and digital marketing efforts
- Coordinating with internal teams, such as sales and product development
- Presenting campaign results and recommendations to clients or management
How to write a Resume Summary
Mastering the art of crafting a summary or objective section on your resume is key to capturing the attention of potential employers and making a lasting first impression. This short yet essential part of your resume is the initial platform where you can skillfully communicate your qualifications, experience, and skills to recruiters. It can plot a path that directs them to understand your career aspirations, ability, and suitability for a position.
Importance of a Summary Section
Regardless of the career stage you are currently in, be it entry-level or a seasoned professional, the summary section is foundational to illustrating who you are. More than just a summary, it's a stage that allows prospective employers to see your expertise, specialty, and the industry-specific skills they need. Imagine this as your chance to personally converse with recruiters, and impart to them in brief, concise terms about your professional accomplishment, qualities you present as an employee,or value you would bring to the company.
Key Components of an Effectiv Summary
Summarizing an entire professional history in a few lines is no small feat. To make it efficient:
1. Highlight your Professional Title and/or Experience at the Start
Starting off with your professional title can be an instant way to indicate your existing profession to the reader. Sharing your experience immediately after is a good way to showcase your length of familiarity in the field.
2. Emphasize Key Soft and Hard Skills
Every industry cherishes specific skills, which they consider valuable. Recognize these skills, and include them in your summary to reflect alignement with the needs of the industry's landscape.
3. Include Notable Achievements and Metrics
Adding pertinent professional achievements can quickly show that you add value or make an impact. Enhance these achievements by including quantifiable outcomes or metrics to cement your claims.
4. Adapt It to the Job Description
Tailor your resume to match the job description of the position you're applying for. This step shows your commitment and seriousness and increases your chances of being considered as it directly corresponds to the job position.
Understand the Difference between a Summary and an Objective
Confusion often arises when deciding whether a resume summary or objective is more suitable. For an advertising professional like you:
A summary is sensible if you have a wealth of experience and expertise to demonstrate and you wish to highlight your accomplishments and capabilities right off the bat.
An objective statement serves you better if you are a newcomer to the advertising field. This concise intro will help you convey your career aspirations and what you intend to bring to the role, despite lacking relevant work experience.
Crafting a professional and persuasive summary or objective for your resume takes thought and practice. Remember, this is the doorstep to your professional journey, a starting point that persuasively communicates you are the right candidate to open up to more in-depth exploration within your resume. You are more than words on a page, and your summary or objective should echo that truth.
Strong Summaries
- A seasoned Advertising Professional with 10+ years of experience in creating and implementing successful advertising campaigns. Proven track record of increasing brand visibility and boosting sales.
- Detail-oriented Advertising Specialist with a proven ability to create compelling ad copy that drives customer engagement and conversions. Recognized for crafting innovative multi-platform campaigns.
- Dynamic Advertising Executive with 5 years experience managing high-profile client accounts. Excellent problem solver and communicator with a passion for the creative process and its impact on consumer behavior.
- Dedicated Advertising Strategist skilled at identifying market trends and tailoring advertising efforts to meet customer demands. Known for developing effective, award-winning campaigns on time and within budget.
Why these are strong?
These examples are good because they highlight relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments unique to advertising. They include specific details that give a clearer picture of what the individual has achieved, such as '10+ years of experience', 'increasing brand visibility and boosting sales', and 'crafting innovative multi-platform campaigns'. This makes a strong first impression, showing that the candidate is competent and results-driven. Using industry-specific jargon also shows their knowledge and expertise. Lastly, the use of adjectives like 'seasoned', 'detail-oriented', 'dynamic', and 'dedicated' add impact to their summary, further establishing their professional identity.
Weak Summaries
- Highly experienced advertising professional. I have worked in advertising for many years and know the ins and outs of the industry.
- An advertising expert who has worked with some big names and produced great results. Looking to bring my skills and experience to a new challenge.
- I have a background in advertising and a portfolio of successful campaigns. I am a creative thinker, a problem solver, and a dedicated professional.
- I am a highly impactful professional with a wide array of experiences in the advertising sector.
- Experienced professional in advertising. I have many years of experience and have always gotten results.
Why these are weak?
The above examples suffer from vagueness and lack of specificity. They are filled with cliches and buzzwords that don't really tell much about the candidate's capabilities. Instead of saying 'highly experienced' or 'worked with big names', it would be more effective to specify the number of years of experience, the big names worked with, or even the results obtained from previous campaigns. Furthermore, the statements are too broad with no concrete evidence to substantiate their claims which do not appeal to potential employers. Good summaries should precisely convey what sets the candidate apart from others.
Showcase your Work Experience
Creating an excellent Work Experience section for your resume, specifically when you're in advertising, hinges on the balance of relevant details, brevity and clarity. This section represents your professional narrative, showcasing what you've successfully achieved in your career, and how your past experiences have equipped you with unique skills, unearthing your value for the potential employer. Though the temptation might arise to list every experience and accomplishment throughout your career, keeping information pertinent to the applied position improves the efficiency of your resume. This approach helps recruiters understand how you might also contribute to their organizations based on past victories.
Showcase Varied Experience
If you've dabbled in different facets of the advertising industry, this is the spotlight moment for your dynamic career. From PPC campaigns to branding initiatives to innovative ad designs you've worked on – these aspects paint a multifaceted picture of your expertise. This variety often draws recruiters' attention because varied experiences translate to a wider skill-set and an ability to tackle diverse challenges.
Distinguish Results
Employers are results-oriented. While stating roles and responsibilities is essential, highlighting your results and accomplishments delivers a more significant impact. Speak measurements, figures, and concrete results wherever possible. If a campaign you worked on increased lead generation by 30% or a branding project resulted in a 20% increase in company awareness – do underscore these achievements.
Quantify your achievements and impact using concrete numbers, metrics, and percentages to demonstrate the value you brought to your previous roles.
Prioritize Relevance
While it's essential to detail varied experiences, maintaining the relevance to the job you're applying to is key. Curate your work experiences to reflect directly on you being an excellent fit for the potential job. Avoid generic descriptions to maintain uniqueness. Work responsibilities between two agencies might be similar, but the challenges faced and how they were overcome would be entirely different – this is where you'll be unique.
Emphasize Soft and Hard Skills
The blend of soft and hard skills sets successful advertising professionals apart. In your Work Experience section, highlight instances where you leveraged these skills. For hard skills, discuss your knowledge of SEO, Google Analytics or content management. For soft skills, speak about team management, creativity, or leadership.
Keep in mind a resume isn't just a static summary of your career; it is dynamic, evolving with each job application, personalized to show your value most appealingly and convincingly. (restrictions: no explicit language, no imagery)
Strong Experiences
- Managed a diverse team of copywriters and graphic designers to deliver high-quality ad campaigns on tight deadlines.
- Coordinated a major product launch, utilizing various advertising channels such as social media, TV, and press releases.
- Contributed to an increase in brand awareness by 20% through the successful implementation of targeted ad campaigns.
- Optimized client's SEO strategy to drive organic web traffic, improving overall visibility and brand recognition.
- Developed a marketing plan, from conception to execution, that resulted in a 25% increase in sales over a six-month period.
- Negotiated cost-effective contracts with advertising vendors, saving the company over 15% in advertising expenses.
Why these are strong?
These examples show specificity and quantify achievements wherever possible. They show not only what the role holder did but also the impact of their actions, which is critical in demonstrating value to prospective employers. For instance, the exact figures on sales increase, cost savings, or growth in brand awareness show tangible results. Moreover, the usage of vocabulary related to the industry (SEO, ad campaigns, etc.) underlines a comprehension of important processes and tactics. This makes them good bullet points for an advertising resume.
Weak Experiences
- Worked at ABC Advertisers...did lots of stuff.
- Did advertising things for XYZ Corporation.
- Assisted in..., participated in..., helped with... (and other vague phrases)
- Was employed at DEF Ad Agency (with no explanation of the role or accomplishments)
- I sold things. I also made ads.
- Ran advertising operations for GHI Agency (any detail?).
- Something about meeting deadlines, working with others, etc.
- Handled advertisements (too broad).
Why these are weak?
These are examples of bad bullet point contents in a resume's work experience section for an Advertising role. They're all highly vague, lack appropriate details, and don't explain the candidate's specific role or accomplishments at their former jobs. Employers need to know exactly what you did, and these bullet points don't communicate that. The usage of repetitive and non-descriptive phrases makes it difficult to understand the applicant's skills and experience in advertising which is a critical factor during hiring. These examples are a bad practice because they show lack of effort or attention to detail in personal branding, and could likely result in missed opportunities for interviews or job offers.
Skills, Keywords & ATS Tips
Your resume is the first step towards successfully landing a job interview. Its main purpose? To attract potential employers. And, the skills section plays a crucial role in this process, especially in the advertising field where both hard and soft skills are crucial. But, how can we make sure that our skills section shines? Understanding the connection between keywords, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and matching skills is key.
What are hard & soft skills?
Hard skills are technical abilities that you can learn and improve over time. In advertising, this could be anything from Adobe Creative Suite proficiency to campaign management. These are skills that are more tangible and measurable, which makes them easier to include in your resume.
On the other hand, we have soft skills. These are less technical and more related to your personality and how you work with others. Problem-solving, communication, or work ethic are examples of soft skills. They aren't less important than hard skills. In fact, they're often what differentiates one candidate from another.
###Why are Both Hard and Soft Skills Important in an Advertising Resume?
It's easy to understand why hard skills are needed – you need to have the necessary technical ability to do the job. But why are soft skills equally important? Because advertising is a team sport. Communication, problem-solving and creativity are all soft skills that are essential in an advertising team. They show your potential employer that not only do you have the technical skills to do the job, but you also have the ability to work well within their team. So, it is essential to have both hard and soft skills on your advertising resume.
What's the Connection Between Keywords, ATS and Matching Skills?
Many companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan and sort applications. This software looks for specific keywords and phrases in your resume to determine if you're a good match for the job. That's why it's important to include these keywords and phrases in your skills section.
One easy way to find out what keywords an employer might be looking for is to carefully read the job description. Often, you can find specific skills and responsibilities mentioned there. These are the skills and experiences you should be matching on your resume.
Try to use the same language to describe your skills and experiences as they have used in the job description. If they talk about needing someone with 'creative problem-solving skills', it's a good idea to use that term in your resume as well. This will help your resume pass through the system and reach the hiring manager's desk.
To put it simply, your resume should speak the employer's language to increase the chances of it matching with the job requirements and passing the ATS screening.
Ensuring that your resume highlights both hard and soft skills and carefully aligns with the keywords specified in the job description can significantly boost your chances of securing an interview. Remember, your resume is not just a list of your skills. It's an evidence of your abilities, showing employers just what they would gain by hiring you.
Top Hard & Soft Skills for Full Stack Developers
Hard Skills
Soft Skills
Top Action Verbs
Use action verbs to highlight achievements and responsibilities on your resume.
Education & Certifications
Incorporating your educational achievements and certificates into your resume requires a precise strategy. Start by creating a dedicated "Education" section, this is usually located towards the bottom of your resume. There, list your highest degree first, followed by lower credentials in reverse-chronological order. Include the institution's name, location, your degree or certificate, and graduation date. For advertising, specific certificates or courses conducted should also be highlighted, as they showcase your specialized knowledge in the field and strengthen your professional credibility. Keep it simple yet informative, giving potential employers clear insight into your educational background.
Some of the most important certifications for Advertisings
Demonstrate your expertise in Google Ads by getting certified in Google Ads.
Get certified in Facebook advertising to showcase your skills in using Facebook's ad platform.
Learn inbound marketing techniques and get certified by HubSpot.
Become a certified social media marketer with Hootsuite's certification program.
Resume FAQs for Advertisings
What is the ideal length for an advertising resume?
The ideal length for an advertising resume is typically one page. However, if you have extensive relevant experience, it can be up to two pages. The key is to be concise and highlight only the most relevant information.
What format should I use for my advertising resume?
The most commonly recommended format for an advertising resume is the reverse-chronological format. This format lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, with your most recent job first. It's a clear and straightforward way to showcase your career progression.
How can I make my advertising resume stand out?
To make your advertising resume stand out, focus on quantifying your achievements and using industry-specific keywords. Highlight successful campaigns or projects you've worked on, and use metrics to demonstrate your impact. Additionally, tailor your resume to each specific job you're applying for.
Should I include a portfolio or samples with my advertising resume?
Yes, it's highly recommended to include a portfolio or samples of your work with your advertising resume. This allows potential employers to see your creativity, design skills, and successful campaigns. You can include a link to your online portfolio or attach a few samples as PDF files.
How can I highlight my advertising skills on my resume?
To highlight your advertising skills on your resume, use specific keywords and phrases related to the industry, such as 'campaign strategy,' 'market analysis,' 'copywriting,' 'digital marketing,' 'brand management,' and so on. Additionally, provide concrete examples of successful campaigns or projects you've worked on, and quantify your achievements whenever possible.
In advertising roles, professionals are responsible for conceptualizing and executing creative campaigns across various media channels to promote products or services. Key duties include conducting market research, brainstorming ideas, developing ad content, managing budgets, and analyzing campaign performance. When crafting an advertising resume, highlight your creative prowess, strategic thinking abilities, and experience with advertising platforms and analytics tools. Tailor each resume to the specific job requirements, using powerful action verbs to detail achievements like "Developed award-winning ad campaign that boosted sales by 25%." Quantify successes, showcase cross-functional collaboration, and ensure your resume is visually appealing and error-free. Emphasize skills like copywriting, design, market analysis, and customer relationship management.
Jennie Morrison is a creative and results-driven advertising professional with over 8 years of experience in crafting compelling campaigns for top brands. With a proven track record of developing innovative strategies that drive brand awareness and sales, Jennie is known for her ability to connect with target audiences and deliver measurable results.
- Led the development and execution of multi-channel advertising campaigns for Fortune 500 clients, resulting in an average 25% increase in brand awareness and 15% increase in sales.
- Spearheaded the agency's digital transformation initiative, integrating data-driven insights and advanced analytics to optimize campaign performance and ROI.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop compelling creative concepts and ensure seamless execution across all touchpoints.
- Managed a team of 12 advertising professionals, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
- Won multiple industry awards for groundbreaking campaigns, including a Cannes Lions Award and an Effie Award.
- Managed high-profile accounts in the automotive and consumer goods industries, delivering campaigns that exceeded client expectations and drove significant business results.
- Led the pitch process for new business opportunities, securing multi-million dollar contracts and expanding the agency's client portfolio.
- Developed and implemented innovative social media strategies that increased follower engagement by 200% and generated viral content with millions of views.
- Mentored and coached junior team members, helping them develop their skills and advance their careers within the agency.
- Presented campaign results and insights to senior client stakeholders, building strong relationships and establishing the agency as a trusted strategic partner.
- Supported the development and execution of advertising campaigns for a diverse range of clients in the technology, entertainment, and fashion industries.
- Conducted market research and consumer insights analysis to inform campaign strategy and creative development.
- Assisted in the production of TV commercials, print ads, and digital content, ensuring high quality and timely delivery.
- Managed project timelines, budgets, and resources, ensuring seamless coordination between internal teams and external partners.
- Contributed to new business efforts, participating in the development of pitch decks and presentations that helped secure new clients for the agency.
For an advertising agency role, tailor your resume to showcase creative prowess and strategic marketing experience. Detail successful ad campaigns highlighting skills like branding, copywriting, and analyzing metrics. Emphasize collaboration and ideation talents. Include a standout portfolio demonstrating your ability to conceptualize and execute impactful, data-driven ad campaigns across media.
Creative and driven advertising professional with a proven track record of developing innovative and effective marketing campaigns. Skilled in market research, brand strategy, and client relations. Passionate about crafting compelling narratives that resonate with target audiences and drive business growth.
- Led the development and execution of integrated marketing campaigns for high-profile clients, resulting in an average revenue increase of 25% year-over-year.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to create data-driven strategies that optimized campaign performance and maximized ROI.
- Managed client relationships, ensuring clear communication, timely deliverables, and exceptional service that fostered long-term partnerships.
- Mentored and coached junior team members, promoting a culture of creativity, collaboration, and professional growth.
- Presented campaign results and insights to executive leadership and clients, showcasing the value of our advertising initiatives.
- Supported the development and implementation of creative advertising campaigns for diverse clients across various industries.
- Conducted market research and consumer insights analysis to inform campaign strategies and messaging.
- Assisted in the creation of pitch decks and presentations, contributing to the agency's success in securing new business.
- Coordinated with internal teams and external vendors to ensure seamless campaign execution and on-time delivery.
- Monitored campaign performance metrics and prepared reports for clients and senior leadership.
- Assisted in the planning and execution of marketing initiatives, including digital campaigns, events, and product launches.
- Managed project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure efficient and effective campaign delivery.
- Conducted competitive analysis and market research to identify trends and opportunities for client brands.
- Supported the development of creative briefs, working closely with the creative team to align campaign concepts with client objectives.
- Maintained organized client files and documentation, ensuring accurate record-keeping and easy access to key information.
Digital Advertising professionals are the driving force behind impactful online campaigns. They strategize, execute, and optimize ad initiatives across platforms to maximize reach and ROI. To craft a standout resume, highlight your data-driven mindset, expertise in tools like Google Ads, and ability to create compelling visuals and copy. Quantify your achievements, demonstrating how your analytical prowess translated into measurable success. A concise yet compelling resume can set you apart in this dynamic field.
Dynamic and results-driven Digital Advertising professional with a proven track record of developing and executing innovative digital marketing strategies that drive brand awareness, engage target audiences, and generate measurable results. Skilled in leveraging data analytics to optimize campaigns and maximize ROI across various digital channels. Collaborative team player with exceptional communication and project management abilities.
- Spearheaded the development and execution of multi-channel digital advertising campaigns for key clients, resulting in a 35% increase in lead generation and a 25% boost in conversion rates.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to create compelling ad content and landing pages, improving user engagement and reducing bounce rates by 30%.
- Conducted in-depth market research and competitor analysis to identify new opportunities and refine targeting strategies, leading to a 20% increase in campaign ROI.
- Managed a monthly digital advertising budget of $500,000, ensuring optimal allocation of resources and timely delivery of campaigns.
- Mentored and trained junior team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development within the department.
- Developed and implemented data-driven digital advertising strategies across Google Ads, Facebook, and LinkedIn, resulting in a 40% increase in qualified leads and a 20% reduction in cost per acquisition.
- Analyzed campaign performance data to identify optimization opportunities, leading to a 15% improvement in click-through rates and a 10% increase in conversion rates.
- Collaborated with the creative team to develop engaging ad copy and visuals, ensuring alignment with brand guidelines and campaign objectives.
- Conducted A/B testing to optimize ad performance, landing pages, and user experience, resulting in a 25% increase in overall campaign effectiveness.
- Prepared comprehensive reports on campaign performance, providing actionable insights and recommendations to senior management and clients.
- Assisted in the development and execution of digital advertising campaigns across various platforms, including Google Ads, Bing Ads, and social media channels.
- Monitored campaign performance, identifying trends and opportunities for optimization to improve ROI and drive better results.
- Conducted keyword research and competitive analysis to inform campaign strategy and targeting decisions.
- Collaborated with the creative team to ensure ad content was compelling, on-brand, and optimized for each digital channel.
- Supported the team in preparing client presentations and reports, communicating campaign results and strategic recommendations.
An Advertising Director oversees the strategic planning, development, and execution of advertising campaigns to promote a company's products or services. This role requires a creative and analytical mindset to conceptualize effective marketing strategies that resonate with target audiences. When crafting a resume for an Advertising Director position, highlight your extensive experience in leading successful advertising campaigns from inception to completion. Demonstrate your ability to manage cross-functional creative teams and collaborate with various stakeholders. Quantify your achievements by showcasing campaigns that resulted in increased sales, brand awareness, or customer engagement. Emphasize your strong leadership skills, strategic thinking, and ability to stay updated with industry trends and emerging advertising platforms. Include relevant academic qualifications such as a degree in marketing, advertising, or a related field.
Dynamic and results-driven Advertising Director with over 15 years of experience in developing and executing innovative advertising strategies for Fortune 500 companies. Proven track record of building strong client relationships, leading high-performing teams, and consistently exceeding revenue targets. Passionate about leveraging data-driven insights to create impactful campaigns that resonate with target audiences and drive brand growth.
- Spearheaded the development and execution of multi-channel advertising campaigns for key clients, resulting in an average 25% increase in brand awareness and 15% growth in sales.
- Led a team of 20 creative professionals, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment that consistently delivered exceptional work.
- Implemented a data-driven approach to campaign optimization, leveraging advanced analytics and A/B testing to improve ROI by 30%.
- Secured new business wins worth over $50 million annually by presenting compelling pitches and cultivating strong relationships with prospective clients.
- Developed and launched a highly successful digital advertising campaign for a major automotive client, resulting in a 40% increase in website traffic and a 20% boost in lead generation.
- Managed a portfolio of high-profile accounts, overseeing the planning, execution, and optimization of integrated advertising campaigns.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop innovative creative concepts that aligned with client objectives and resonated with target audiences.
- Implemented a programmatic advertising strategy that improved campaign efficiency by 25% and increased conversions by 15%.
- Led the successful rebranding initiative for a major CPG client, resulting in a 20% increase in brand preference and a 10% boost in market share.
- Mentored and coached junior team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
- Managed the development and execution of advertising campaigns for key accounts in the technology and entertainment sectors.
- Conducted in-depth market research and consumer insights analysis to inform campaign strategy and creative direction.
- Collaborated with media planning teams to optimize channel mix and maximize campaign reach and impact.
- Developed and implemented a social media advertising strategy that increased follower engagement by 200% and drove a 30% increase in website traffic.
- Played a key role in winning new business pitches, contributing to the agency's 15% year-over-year growth.
An Advertising Sales professional is responsible for selling advertising space and services to potential clients across various media platforms. To write an effective resume, clearly outline your sales experience, highlighting achievements like consistently exceeding sales targets. Emphasize skills essential for the role, such as relationship-building, negotiation, and delivering persuasive presentations. Provide specific examples that demonstrate your ability to understand client needs and offer tailored advertising solutions. While an educational background directly related to advertising or marketing is beneficial, quantifiable sales success is more crucial. Craft a compelling summary that showcases your track record of driving revenue growth through strategic advertising campaigns.
Results-driven and highly motivated Advertising Sales professional with a proven track record of driving revenue growth and building lasting client relationships. Skilled in developing innovative sales strategies and leveraging market trends to exceed targets consistently. Passionate about collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver outstanding results and contribute to company success.
- Consistently exceeded quarterly sales targets by an average of 25% through strategic prospecting and account management.
- Developed and implemented a new sales process that increased team efficiency by 30% and reduced sales cycle time.
- Secured high-value contracts with major clients, resulting in a 40% increase in annual revenue for the company.
- Mentored and trained a team of 5 junior sales executives, contributing to their professional development and success.
- Collaborated with marketing and creative teams to develop compelling sales materials and presentations, enhancing client engagement.
- Led a team of 8 sales representatives, consistently achieving 110% of quarterly sales goals.
- Implemented a data-driven approach to sales, utilizing market research and analytics to identify high-potential prospects.
- Developed and nurtured relationships with key decision-makers at top-tier clients, resulting in a 25% increase in account retention.
- Collaborated with product development teams to create customized advertising solutions for clients, driving a 20% increase in upsell revenue.
- Streamlined sales processes and reporting, resulting in a 15% improvement in team productivity.
- Consistently achieved 120% of individual sales targets, contributing to team success and company growth.
- Prospected and secured new business accounts, expanding the company's client base by 20%.
- Developed compelling sales presentations and proposals, showcasing the value of advertising solutions to potential clients.
- Collaborated with account management teams to ensure smooth onboarding and exceptional client service.
- Participated in industry events and conferences to stay current on market trends and network with potential clients.
An Advertising Manager plans, executes, and oversees advertising campaigns to promote products and services effectively. For the resume, emphasize experience strategizing impactful campaigns, analyzing data to optimize efforts, and collaborating with creative teams. Highlight strong communication, creative thinking, and budgeting skills while tailoring your background to the role's specific requirements.
Dynamic and results-driven Advertising Manager with a proven track record of developing and executing innovative advertising strategies that drive brand awareness, engagement, and sales. Adept at collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver compelling campaigns across various media channels. Passionate about leveraging data-driven insights to optimize campaign performance and maximize ROI.
- Spearheaded the development and execution of multi-channel advertising campaigns for a diverse portfolio of clients, resulting in an average 25% increase in brand awareness and a 15% boost in sales.
- Collaborated with creative teams to develop compelling ad content, ensuring alignment with brand guidelines and campaign objectives.
- Leveraged data analytics to monitor campaign performance, identify optimization opportunities, and make data-driven decisions to enhance ROI.
- Managed a team of 5 advertising specialists, fostering a culture of creativity, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Successfully pitched and won new business, contributing to a 20% increase in the agency's client base and revenue.
- Played a key role in developing and executing advertising campaigns for high-profile clients in the automotive and consumer goods industries.
- Conducted market research and consumer insights analysis to inform campaign strategy and messaging.
- Collaborated with media planning teams to optimize media buys and ensure maximum reach and impact.
- Monitored campaign performance metrics and prepared comprehensive reports for clients and senior management.
- Mentored junior team members, providing guidance and support to foster their professional development.
- Supported the development and implementation of advertising campaigns for clients in the technology and entertainment sectors.
- Assisted in the creation of campaign briefs, timelines, and budgets, ensuring projects stayed on track and within scope.
- Coordinated with internal teams and external partners to ensure seamless execution of campaign elements.
- Maintained organized project documentation and asset libraries, facilitating easy access and collaboration.
- Contributed to the ideation and pitching process for new business opportunities.
An entry-level advertising role involves assisting with market research, creating ad campaigns, and tracking analytics. Qualifications include a bachelor's degree in marketing/advertising, creativity, strong writing and organizational abilities. When crafting your resume, highlight relevant coursework, internships, and skills like copywriting and graphic design. Keep the content clean, concise, and tailor it specifically for each role you apply to in order to demonstrate your fit.
Creative and driven advertising professional with a passion for crafting compelling campaigns that captivate audiences. Skilled in market research, copywriting, and visual design, with a keen eye for emerging trends. Adept at collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative solutions that drive brand awareness and engagement.
- Assisted in the development and execution of advertising campaigns for various clients, contributing to a 15% increase in brand awareness.
- Conducted market research to identify target audiences and consumer trends, informing campaign strategies and resulting in a 20% improvement in campaign effectiveness.
- Collaborated with the creative team to develop engaging ad copy and visuals, ensuring brand consistency and message clarity across all platforms.
- Monitored campaign performance and generated reports, providing valuable insights for optimization and future campaign planning.
- Participated in client meetings and presentations, effectively communicating campaign progress and addressing client concerns.
- Supported the marketing team in the development and implementation of social media campaigns, contributing to a 25% increase in follower engagement.
- Assisted in the creation of marketing collateral, including brochures, flyers, and presentations, ensuring brand consistency and visual appeal.
- Conducted competitor analysis and market research, providing valuable insights for campaign planning and strategy development.
- Participated in brainstorming sessions and contributed creative ideas for client campaigns, with several ideas being incorporated into final campaign concepts.
- Managed the company's social media calendar, ensuring timely and relevant content posting across all platforms.
- Designed visually appealing and effective marketing materials for various clients, including logos, brochures, and social media graphics.
- Collaborated with clients to understand their brand identity and design preferences, delivering customized solutions that met their unique needs.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction.
- Continuously updated skills and knowledge of design trends and software to provide cutting-edge solutions for clients.
- Built a strong network of satisfied clients, leading to a 30% increase in referral business.
Advertising Account Managers cultivate client relationships, supervise marketing campaigns, and bridge clients with agency teams. For the resume, emphasize account management experience, excellent communication skills, and proficiency in advertising software. Demonstrate success through quantified achievements like increased sales or brand exposure from campaigns you spearheaded.
Dynamic and results-driven Advertising Account Manager with a proven track record of driving client success and fostering long-term partnerships. Skilled in developing innovative strategies, managing cross-functional teams, and delivering campaigns that exceed expectations. Passionate about staying ahead of industry trends and leveraging data-driven insights to optimize performance.
- Spearheaded the development and execution of multi-channel advertising campaigns for key accounts, resulting in an average ROI increase of 25%.
- Successfully onboarded and managed 5 new high-profile clients, contributing to a 15% growth in annual revenue.
- Collaborated with creative teams to develop award-winning campaigns, earning recognition at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.
- Implemented data-driven optimization strategies, improving click-through rates by 30% and conversion rates by 20%.
- Mentored and trained a team of 7 junior account managers, fostering a culture of excellence and professional development.
- Managed a portfolio of 8 accounts, ensuring timely delivery of campaigns and maintaining strong client relationships.
- Developed and executed a highly successful social media campaign for a major CPG brand, increasing engagement by 50% and sales by 10%.
- Collaborated with media planning teams to optimize media buys, reducing cost per acquisition by 15%.
- Created comprehensive client reports and presentations, effectively communicating campaign performance and insights.
- Participated in new business pitches, contributing to the agency's 25% growth in new client acquisitions.
- Supported senior account managers in the development and execution of advertising campaigns for 6 key accounts.
- Conducted market research and competitive analysis to inform campaign strategies and identify new opportunities.
- Assisted in the creation of client presentations and reports, ensuring accuracy and visual appeal.
- Coordinated with internal teams to ensure seamless campaign execution and timely delivery of assets.
- Contributed to the successful launch of a new product line for a major technology client, exceeding sales targets by 20%.
As an Advertising Specialist, you'll bring brands to life through captivating campaigns that resonate with target audiences. From ideation to execution, you'll craft compelling ad strategies, write persuasive copy, and select the perfect media mix. To land this creative role, craft a resume that showcases your ability to drive results. Highlight successful campaigns with quantifiable metrics, awards, and examples demonstrating your strategic thinking, creativity, and communication prowess. A well-rounded education and relevant certifications can further elevate your candidacy.
Creative and results-driven Advertising Specialist with a proven track record of developing and executing successful integrated marketing campaigns across various industries. Skilled in market research, brand strategy, and digital advertising. Committed to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and leveraging data-driven insights to drive brand awareness, engagement, and conversions.
- Developed and implemented a multi-channel advertising campaign for a leading e-commerce client, resulting in a 35% increase in website traffic and a 20% boost in sales within the first quarter.
- Collaborated with the creative team to conceptualize and execute innovative digital ad formats, including interactive rich media banners and video ads, improving overall ad engagement by 45%.
- Conducted thorough market research and competitor analysis to identify key target audiences and optimize ad placements, resulting in a 30% reduction in cost per acquisition.
- Managed a monthly advertising budget of $500,000, consistently meeting and exceeding ROI targets for multiple clients across various industries.
- Led the development of a comprehensive brand guidelines document for a new product launch, ensuring consistent messaging and visual identity across all advertising touchpoints.
- Assisted in the planning and execution of digital advertising campaigns for a diverse portfolio of clients, contributing to an average year-over-year growth of 25% in digital ad revenue.
- Monitored and analyzed campaign performance using tools such as Google Analytics and Adobe Analytics, providing regular reports and recommendations for optimization to senior management.
- Coordinated with external partners and vendors to ensure timely delivery of creative assets and smooth implementation of advertising campaigns across various platforms.
- Contributed to the development of a comprehensive social media advertising strategy for a major fashion brand, resulting in a 50% increase in social media followers and a 25% uplift in online sales.
- Participated in client pitch meetings and supported the development of compelling presentations, aiding in the acquisition of three new high-value accounts.
- Supported the marketing team in the development and execution of advertising campaigns for Amazon's proprietary products, including Amazon Echo and Fire TV.
- Conducted market research to identify key consumer insights and trends, contributing to the development of data-driven advertising strategies.
- Assisted in the creation of ad copy and visual assets for digital and print campaigns, ensuring adherence to brand guidelines and best practices.
- Monitored and reported on the performance of advertising campaigns across various channels, providing valuable insights for optimization and future planning.
- Participated in cross-functional team meetings and collaborated with various stakeholders to ensure seamless execution of marketing initiatives.
An Ad Operations Specialist is the technical linchpin ensuring flawless delivery of advertising campaigns across platforms. Beyond implementing and optimizing ads, they're skilled troubleshooters resolving discrepancies and streamlining processes. For your resume, showcase expertise in ad servers, trafficking systems, and strong analytical abilities. Highlight success collaborating cross-functionally with sales, marketing, and engineering teams. Above all, demonstrate your invaluable role in maximizing ad revenue while providing a seamless user experience.
Results-driven Ad Operations Specialist with a proven track record of optimizing digital advertising campaigns for maximum ROI. Skilled in leveraging industry-leading tools and platforms to deliver targeted, high-impact ads across various channels. Passionate about staying up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in the fast-paced world of digital advertising.
- Managed ad operations for a portfolio of high-profile clients, driving a 25% increase in overall campaign performance.
- Developed and implemented innovative targeting strategies, resulting in a 30% reduction in cost per acquisition.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to create seamless, integrated campaigns that delivered measurable results.
- Proactively monitored and optimized campaigns in real-time, ensuring maximum efficiency and effectiveness.
- Provided strategic insights and recommendations to clients, helping them achieve their business objectives through digital advertising.
- Executed and monitored digital advertising campaigns across multiple platforms, including Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and LinkedIn Ads.
- Conducted thorough quality assurance checks to ensure ads met client specifications and adhered to best practices.
- Analyzed campaign performance data and generated insightful reports for clients and internal stakeholders.
- Identified opportunities for improvement and implemented optimization strategies to enhance campaign effectiveness.
- Stayed up-to-date with the latest industry trends and platform updates, sharing knowledge with the team.
- Assisted in the setup, tracking, and optimization of digital advertising campaigns across various ad platforms.
- Monitored campaign performance and identified areas for improvement, implementing changes as needed.
- Collaborated with account managers and creative teams to ensure campaigns aligned with client objectives.
- Conducted research on industry trends and competitor activities to inform campaign strategies.
- Participated in regular training sessions to expand knowledge and skills in ad operations and digital marketing. |
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio Pancreatography (ERCP)
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio Pancreatography (ERCP) is an endoscopic procedure to examine the bile duct and pancreas duct. It involves a long thin flexible endoscope being inserted through the mouth, past the stomach into the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). From the duodenum, a catheter and guidewire are placed into the bile duct. Dye is injected into the bile duct, and X-rays are taken to show bile duct stones, or narrowings of the bile duct. Stones can be removed, and stents can be placed into the bile duct.
For this procedure to be successful, your stomach needs to be empty
Do not have anything to eat or drink 6 hours before the procedure
Please make arrangements for someone to collect you from the unit and care for you for 24 hours after the procedure. This is for your own safety and protection. The anaesthetic makes you forgetful and can impair your judgment and reflexes
Even if you feel alert after the procedure you must not do any of the following for 24 hours:
- Drive a car
- Operate machinery
- Drink alcohol
- Sign any legal document or
- Ride on public transplant alone.
What should I expect:
Intravenous fluids may be started before the ERCP. A diclofenac suppository (anti-inflammatory) is given to reduce the risk of pancreatitis. The procedure will be performed in an operating theatre with an X-ray machine present, with you lying on your front. . An anaesthetist will be making you deeply asleep. A mouthguard is often inserted as you are drifting off to sleep. The procedure can take 10-60 minutes.
After your ERCP procedure you may have a sore throat which can last for up to 24 hours. Your stomach may also feel bloated from air in the stomach during the procedure. This will settle over the next few hours as you pass wind naturally
Depending on how difficult the procedure is, you may drink fluids after till 5pm, then have a light dinner. The next day you may eat and drink normally.
The main risk of ERCP is pancreatitis – inflammation of the pancreas at 5%. Most of the time if this happens, it is mild, requiring hospital admission for 3-7 days. Serious cases of pancreatitis can result in long hospital admissions – for months, often requiring further surgical or radiology procedures, and extremely rarely resulting in death.
1-3% of patients can develop bleeding or bowel perforation. This may require further procedures, and very rarely surgery. Other problems can include incomplete removal of stones requiring further ERCP, or bile duct infection requiring antibiotics
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Although high levels of blood sugar is known to be one of the main causes for people with type 2 diabetes developing complications from their condition, a new study in Germany has claimed that lowering these levels to normal may not offer the expected health benefits.
It was previously believed that if blood sugar is controlled so that it returns to normal levels quickly, this would prevent most of the problems from high glucose levels. However, the research by the German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Healthcare, which assessed the findings from seven surveys involving around 28,000 people, monitored the effect of drastic reductions in high blood sugar levels.
It was found that in extreme cases, including heart attacks, strokes, blindness and the latter stages of renal disease, there was no benefit from reducing high blood sugar levels.
The study found that the only difference was that patients whose high blood sugar levels were lowered drastically were more likely to have hypoglycemic episodes more often, which is not good for diabetics as it could lead on to other health complications.
Although more research needs to be carried out to better understand the findings, it was claimed that because the drastic reduction of high blood sugar does not alter the reasons for death for patients with type 2 diabetes, then this treatment may not be the best alternative or be specific enough in each case.
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Czech Republic as a Centre of Nature Conservation in Europe
Nature and Biodiversity Directors Meeting – regular meeting of leading nature conservation agencies of the European Union was organised in the Czech Republic.
Read moreNature and Biodiversity Directors Meeting – regular meeting of leading nature conservation agencies of the European Union was organised in the Czech Republic.
Read more AboutCzech Republic as a Centre of Nature Conservation in EuropeTotal of 61 ground squirrels from captivity has been released from the beginning of July and other 20 will follow soon.
Read more AboutEuropean Ground Squirrels Repatriation Organised also this YearThe Czech Republic took over its already second presidency in the Council of European Union on July 1, 2022.
Read more AboutCzech Presidency to the Council of the EUThe new interpretation trail called Tok as the name of the highest hill (865 m) in this newest Protected Landscape Area – PLA (IUCN category V) is 8 km long and provides information on harsh conditions on the slopes of the Tok.
Read more AboutNew interpretation trail in Brdy Protected Landscape AreaNature Conservation Agency of the Czech Republic supported statement of world protected areas to global leaders at climate summit in Glasgow. The organisations in charge of some of the largest tracts of protected landscapes and marine environments across the world have come together for the first time to call on world leaders to support their work at the vanguard of the fight against Climate Change and Biodiversity loss. Orchestrated by National Parks UK, as host nation for COP26.
Read more AboutFirst Ever Joint Statement on Climate Change and BiodiversityFive representatives of the Republic of Armenia Ministry of Environment visited several protected areas in the Czech Republic in the second week of October. The goal of the visit was to get familiar with nature conservation approach in the Czech Republic and with approximation of the European Union's directives on protection of species and habitats.
Read more AboutArmenian experts visit Czech RepublicStarting today, the Czech Republic has the first natural site beeing awarded as the mankind heritage.
Read more AboutCzech Republic Has its First Natural Site in UNESCOA special project focusing on protecting valuable and unique Armenian nature was launched last week.
Read more AboutCzech Republic and Finland assist in biodiversity conservation in ArmeniaFor twenty-first time in a row.
Read more AboutPeregrine Falcons Have Started Their Nesting Period in the Jeseníky MountainsAlthough milder weather is not yet here to stay.
Read more AboutGround Squirrels are a Sign of a Spring Approaching |
According to a report from the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA), almost 8.86% of the 612,000 total bridges in the USA are structurally deficient and rapidly approaching their design service life limit. The conditions in Canada are even worse; out of about 75,000 highway bridges, almost one-fourth have structural or functional deficiencies, and about 40% of the bridges are under operation more than the designed life because of the lack of resources. Therefore, an inspection of such bridges requires a crew of professionals, heavy machinery with lifts, people rappelling from dangerous heights, resulting in each inspection taking a few days. Generally speaking, infrastructure inspection, which can include bridges, pipelines, electrical grids and other facilities, is crucial for structure usage and safety, yet it is expensive, time-consuming and dangerous.
In recent years, with the advances in UAV (Unmanned aerial vehicles) technologies, the new possibilities of using UAVs for civil infrastructure inspections are opened. UAVs are becoming an integral part of infrastructure inspection practice. Today's professional drones are agile, cost-effective and can perform tasks that have proven to be too dangerous for humans to do. It is more efficient and safer to inspect tall structures like electric towers (typically between 15 to 55 meters tall) and wind turbines (usually 113 meters tall) with UAVs than sending workers up the tall and potentially unstable structures.
Cabook Solutionology Inc. develops intelligent drones with extended autonomous functionality to recognize abnormalities by integrating advanced computer vision and machine learning techniques. We are a group of mechanical, aerospace and structural engineers with a strong background in identifying mechanical and structural failures.
Cabook Solutionology Inc. is proud to claim that its unique solutions will improve infrastructures inspection job safety. Our proposed solutions save costs during construction and inspection times and decrease downtime and liability insurance costs. Furthermore, we are trying to move forward and decrease drones flight time and cost; therefore, companies will be able to inspect their structure more regularly, which translates into early detection of potential problems.
In Cabook, we archive the digital footprint of your asset's life history and come along with you to track the asset's health status periodically. |
This study identified the factors associated with adequate knowledge, attitude, and practice of exclusively breastfeeding women who visit maternity healthcare clinics in Palestine. This study was conducted in a cross-sectional design. A pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect the data. The women were recruited from different maternity care and primary healthcare clinics. In this study, 51 (51.0%) of the exclusively breastfeeding women reported that they did not receive counseling on breastfeeding from healthcare providers on the last visit to the maternity clinic before delivery, and 43 (43.0%) of the women reported that they did not receive counseling on breastfeeding from healthcare providers after delivery. Of the exclusively breastfeeding women, 36 (36.0%) reported facing challenges while breastfeeding the last child. Exclusively breastfeeding women who had a male last-child, pregnancy of ≥ 37 weeks, received counseling on breastfeeding from healthcare providers in the last visit to the clinic before delivery, experienced sore/cracked nipples, and planned for another pregnancy were 5.55-fold (95% CI: 1.10-28.14), 6.51-fold (95% CI: 1.09-38.94), 7.08-fold (95% CI: 1.42-35.26), 7.26-fold (95% CI: 1.46-36.12), and 9.36-fold (95% CI: 1.93-45.55) more likely to score ≥ 60% in the knowledge and attitudes test. Women who believed breastfeeding changed their body shape were 3.87-fold (95% CI: 1.12-13.44) more likely to score ≥ 80% on the practice items. Most Palestinian women who practiced exclusive breastfeeding had good knowledge and positive attitudes toward breastfeeding. However, women reported less than optimal counseling by healthcare providers during their visits to the maternity healthcare clinics before and after delivery. Healthcare providers should counsel women about the benefits and good practices of breastfeeding, notably those whose last child is a female, had a short pregnancy period, and did not plan for another pregnancy. Larger studies are still needed to investigate the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding among Palestinian women. Additionally, more studies are still needed to investigate the effect of support from husbands and families on practicing exclusive breastfeeding among Palestinian women.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Recommended Citation
Shawahna, Ramzi; Jaber, Mohammad A.; Hijaz, Hatim; Haj-Yehia, Loaa; Nserat, Nashwa; Bana, Nour; and Maqboul, Iyad
"Factors associated with knowledge, attitude, and practice of exclusively breastfeeding Palestinian women: A cross-sectional study,"
Palestinian Medical and Pharmaceutical Journal: Vol. 9
, Article 7.
Available at: https://doi.org/10.59049/2790-0231.1121
Included in
Health Services Administration Commons, Maternal, Child Health and Neonatal Nursing Commons, Women's Health Commons |
Mastering the Art of Cake Frosting and Decoration
Ah, the sweet world of cake decorating – where creativity and confection collide in the most delectable of ways! As the owner of Jax Cake Shop in the heart of San Jose, I've had the privilege of witnessing the pure joy that a beautifully decorated cake can bring to people's lives. Whether it's a special birthday, a wedding celebration, or simply a "just because" moment, the right frosting and decor can truly transform a cake into a work of edible art.
But let's be honest, cake decorating can also be a bit, well, intimidating. With all the piping techniques, fondant sculpting, and intricate designs out there, it's enough to make even the most seasoned baker want to throw in the towel (or the piping bag, in this case). That's why I'm here to share my go-to frosting and decor tips, gleaned from years of experience and a whole lot of trial and error.
So, grab a spatula and get ready to dive into the world of cake mastery. Trust me, by the time you're done reading, you'll be whipping up Instagram-worthy masterpieces in no time.
Frosting Fundamentals: Achieving the Perfect Consistency
Let's start with the foundation of any stunning cake – the frosting. Now, I know what you're thinking: "How hard can it be to slather some buttercream on a cake?" But trust me, there's a whole science behind getting that silky-smooth, perfectly spreadable frosting.
One of the most common issues I see with homemade frosting is the consistency. It's either too thick and stiff, making it nearly impossible to spread, or too thin and runny, resulting in a messy, drippy disaster. But fear not, my fellow cake enthusiasts, I've got the perfect solution.
The key to achieving the perfect frosting consistency lies in the ratio of fat to sugar. Too much fat, and your frosting will be dense and heavy. Too much sugar, and it'll be thin and watery. It's all about finding that sweet spot (pun intended) where the two work in harmony, creating a frosting that's smooth, creamy, and easy to work with.
To illustrate this point, let's take a look at a classic American buttercream recipe:
Ingredient | Typical Ratio |
Unsalted Butter | 1 cup |
Powdered Sugar | 3-4 cups |
Heavy Cream or Milk | 2-4 tablespoons |
As you can see, the ratio of butter to sugar is crucial. If you use too much butter, your frosting will be greasy and difficult to spread. But if you go overboard on the powdered sugar, it'll be stiff and dry, making it nearly impossible to achieve that silky-smooth texture.
The addition of heavy cream or milk is also key, as it helps to loosen up the frosting and give it a creamy, spreadable consistency. The amount you use will depend on the desired thickness – start with 2 tablespoons and add more as needed, mixing well after each addition.
Another important tip for frosting perfection? Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This helps them blend together seamlessly, creating a cohesive, lump-free frosting.
Alright, now that we've got the fundamentals down, let's dive into some next-level frosting techniques, shall we?
Beyond Buttercream: Exploring Alternative Frosting Options
While buttercream will always hold a special place in my heart (and on my cakes), there are so many other delightful frosting options out there that are worth exploring. After all, variety is the spice of life, and the same can be said for the sweet world of cake decorating.
One of my personal favorites is the silky-smooth, velvety goodness of Swiss meringue buttercream. Unlike traditional buttercream, which can be a bit heavy and rich, Swiss meringue is light, airy, and oh-so-spreadable. The secret lies in the meticulously whipped egg whites, which give the frosting a luscious, cloud-like texture.
But don't just take my word for it – let's dive into the numbers. When compared to classic American buttercream, Swiss meringue buttercream typically contains a higher ratio of egg whites to butter, resulting in a frosting that's less dense and greasy. This makes it the perfect choice for intricate cake designs, as it holds its shape beautifully and doesn't weigh down the cake.
Of course, if you're looking for something a little more unique, there's always Italian meringue buttercream. This decadent frosting is made by whipping hot sugar syrup into egg whites, creating a silky-smooth, ultra-stable frosting that's perfect for complex cake decorations. It's a bit more involved to make, but trust me, the end result is well worth the effort.
And let's not forget about the ever-popular cream cheese frosting. With its tangy richness and creamy texture, cream cheese frosting is a prime choice for carrot cakes, red velvet, and other flavor-forward confections. Plus, it's a great alternative for those who aren't big fans of the classic buttercream.
Ultimately, the choice of frosting comes down to personal preference and the needs of your specific cake project. Whether you're going for a light and airy Swiss meringue or a rich and tangy cream cheese, the key is to experiment and find the frosting that best suits your style and taste buds.
But wait, there's more! Frosting is just the beginning when it comes to elevating your cake game. Let's dive into the world of cake decorations, shall we?
Decking Out Your Cakes: Decorating Techniques to Impress
Ah, the joys of cake decorating – where the line between culinary masterpiece and works of art become deliciously blurred. As a seasoned cake artist, I've seen it all, from the simple yet elegant to the downright dazzling. But fear not, my fellow cake enthusiasts, with a few tricks up your sleeve, you too can transform a humble cake into a showstopping centerpiece.
One of the most versatile and eye-catching decorating techniques has to be the trusty old piping bag. Whether you're crafting intricate floral designs, elegant ruffles, or simply adding a professional-looking finish to your frosting, mastering the art of piping is a game-changer. And the best part? It's actually not as hard as it might seem.
The key is to start with the right tools. Invest in a set of high-quality piping tips, in a variety of shapes and sizes, as well as a sturdy reusable piping bag. This will give you the flexibility to create a wide range of decorative elements, from delicate rosettes to bold, swirling borders.
But don't stop there – get creative with the types of frostings and fillings you use. For example, try tinting your buttercream with vibrant food coloring, or layer your cake with different flavors like raspberry jam or lemon curd. This not only adds a delightful burst of flavor, but it also allows you to play with color and texture for a truly one-of-a-kind cake.
And speaking of color, let's talk about the magic of fondant. This pliable, sugar-based dough is a cake decorator's best friend, allowing you to create everything from intricate 3D toppers to seamless, smooth finishes. Plus, with the endless array of colors and patterns available, the possibilities are truly endless.
Now, I know what you're thinking: "Fondant? Isn't that the stuff that tastes like Play-Doh?" Well, my friends, that's where you'd be mistaken. With the right recipe and a little bit of practice, fondant can actually be delicious, adding a silky-smooth texture and a touch of sweetness to your cakes.
But don't just take my word for it – let's dive into a real-life example. Remember that stunning, 5-tier wedding cake I created for Samantha and Michael last summer? The cascading floral design, the elegant ruffles, the intricate monogram – all of it was made possible thanks to the versatility of fondant. And the best part? Samantha and her guests raved about how amazing it tasted, too.
So, there you have it, my fellow cake enthusiasts. From mastering the art of frosting to unleashing your inner cake decorator, the world of custom cakes is your oyster. And if you're ever in the San Jose area, be sure to stop by Jax Cake Shop – I'd be more than happy to help you bring your cake dreams to life. Happy baking! |
The Duality of Life: Why We Juggle Bills and Entertainment
Life is a delicate balance between responsibilities and pleasures. We all have to juggle work, family, and other commitments, but we also need to make time for relaxation and enjoyment. This balance can be difficult to achieve, but it is essential for our overall well-being.
Bills are a necessary part of life.
We need to pay for housing, food, transportation, and other essential expenses. These expenses can be a burden, but they are also what allow us to live comfortable and fulfilling lives.
Entertainment is just as important as bills.
It allows us to relax and de-stress, and it can also provide us with enjoyment and inspiration. Entertainment can come in many forms, such as watching movies, reading books, listening to music, or spending time with loved ones.
How can we find a balance between bills and entertainment?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best way to find a balance is to experiment and find what works for you. Here are a few tips:
- Create a budget.
- Set aside time for entertainment.
- Find free or low-cost entertainment options.
- Don't be afraid to say no.
Finding a balance between bills and entertainment is important for our physical and mental health. When we are stressed and overworked, we are more likely to get sick. We are also more likely to make poor decisions, such as overspending or indulging in unhealthy habits.
Stress may be lessened and our general wellbeing can be enhanced by making time for enjoyment and relaxation. It may also enable us to work more efficiently and creatively.
Life is a journey, not a destination. It is important to enjoy the ride and make the most of every moment. By finding a balance between bills and entertainment, we can create a life that is both fulfilling and enjoyable. |
Articles + –
China sees strong growth potential for cheese snacks
In recent years, cheese has taken off in China with a double-digit growth showing very strong potential. After years of exposure to cheese and gaining some familiarity, consumers have gradually accepted it as a nutritious and tasty food with many applications. Despite the growth, cheese remains niche compared to other dairy categories in China. It is perceived as a Western food and 24% of Chinese consumers say they know how to eat cheese, but it does not fit within their diet. As many Chinese consumers are not used to the taste of natural cheese, processed cheese is dominant in the category. From 2020-21, 86% of new cheese launches in China are processed cheese launches. Cheese products in China mainly target kids at the age of 5 – 12 years old. This does not slow down the fast growth of the overall cheese snacks market.
Encourage Chinese consumers to expand their cheese consumption occasions with snackable cheese
The soaring interest of cheese products from Chinese consumers is, however, not demonstrated by their consumption behaviors. In China, cheese consumption occasions are dominated by cheese on bread, toast or in a burger for adults, which is quite limited. There lies the opportunity for cheese brands. Many Chinese consumers still lack knowledge of cheese types and they are not familiar with various uses of cheese. Mintel data shows, even if some of the Chinese consumers know how to eat cheese, they find it is difficult to make cheese fit within Chinese cuisine in their daily diet. There has been no significant change in Chinese consumers' cheese consumption occasions over the past few years
Target on-the-go with novel flavour and formats
To appeal to adults in the dynamic snacking category, cheese brands can target either on-the-go occasions with portion-controlled, flavour-driven offers, or at-home occasions. 95% of Chinese consumers are interested in trying new varieties or flavours of snacks; therefore, cheese brands can entice consumers with novel flavours and textures. Natori, a major cheese brand in Japan, launched snackable puffed & soft cheese and squid-ink-flavoured cheese string in 2021. Both products offer consumers novelty and fun textural experiences.
Why is cheese a category with huge potential to grow?
The cheese market is expected to maintain a double digit growth in the China market in the next 5 years, albeit from a smaller base. International and domestic players have enjoyed a good sales performance of cheese products and are determined to further invest in this category. Despite the fact that there are more Chinese consumers starting to accept cheese and try to eat cheese in their diet, cheese is expanding to more categories and consumption occasions which becomes a major driver for this category to grow further. In short, cheese has found its way to embrace Chinese food culture which makes it exert huge potential.
Cheese have a positive image among consumers
Sale volume wise, cheese is relatively a niche category compared to other dairy categories, such as milk or yogurt. The nutrition value of cheese is widely accepted among Chinese consumers. Cheese is perceived as high in protein and calcium by Chinese consumers. Over half Chinese consumers think cheese is a better source of protein than milk.
Cheese is a star/ viral ingredient in many food and drink categories
Cheese is shifting from a pure western food to a trendy ingredient that Chinese consumers are familiar with. Various food and drink products use cheese as a star ingredient to upgrade their products or leverage cheese's influence to spread on social media. According to Mintel GNPD, cheese flavor is among the fastest growing flavors in multiple categories, such as snacks, bakery, dessert, etc.
Exposure to cheese in foodservice is gradually building user base and knowledge
Although cheese has, until now, been commonly seen as an exotic ingredient, and one that was rarely considered for use in cooking Chinese dishes, modern restaurants are creating new fusion dishes by incorporating Western ingredients. The exposure of cheese related products have contributed to build consumers' knowledge and perception around cheese.
Explore opportunities in paring
There is potential in developing different cheese pairing occasions, which is popular and synonymous with cheese in many global markets. Cheese brands in China could educate consumers in the pairing of cheese with crackers, fruits and alcohol. This is a niche occasion, but certainly one that should evolve as Chinese consumers become more familiar with cheese and are more keen to explore the taste experiences to be had when trying new varieties.
Finding a way into adults' snacking repertoire is key. Brands can expand the formats of cheese to place it in competition with the broadening snack category and target more adult consumers, rather than focusing purely on its nutritional value.
Novel flavour or texture of snackable cheese entices consumers who seek fun
Chinese consumers are interested in trying new varieties or flavours of snacks, therefore, cheese brands can entice consumers with novel flavours and textures. Cheese brands in China could take inspiration from Natori, a major cheese brand in Japan. Natori launched snackable puffed & soft cheese and squid-ink-flavoured cheese string in 2021. Both products offer consumers novelty and fun textural experiences.
Snackable format makes cheese an ideal snack
Cubes, chips and strings are popular snacking formats that are liked by Chinese consumers. Snackable cheese needs to embrace Chinese consumers' snacking habit to win them over. Yili Dairy, the leading Chinese dairy company, has done an excellent job by turning cheese into a snacking format that Chinese consumers are familiar with.
Cheese mixed with other snacks to enhance its snacking appeal
Cheese mixed with other popular snacks could not only offer consumers choices of taste variety and even appeal to consumers with a comprehensive nutrition. Having comprehensive and balanced nutrition through a daily diet is highly valued by Chinese consumers.
Daisy is an Associate Director with the Mintel Food & Drink team, speciliasing in the China market. She monitors and reports on the latest innovation and trends impacting the Chinese food and drink market.
Market Research on Dairy Consumption Trends in ChinaDiscover the growing cheese market in China and understand Chinese consumers' attitudes towards dairy products such as cheese...Explore this Research
Mintel LeapMintel Leap is a revolutionary new AI-powered platform that will transform your research process....Book a demo |
Monday, May 13, 2024 By Scout Nelson North Dakota State University Extension, in collaboration with state agencies and the NDSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, presents a training on emergency response preparedness for animal diseases and livestock mortalities in North Dakota. The aim is to empower local responders with essential skills and resources for effective crisis management. This hands-on professional development opportunity targets Extension agents, emergency managers, veterinarians, and veterinary technicians. Participants will receive personal protective equipment kits for safe farm visits. Topics include disease overview, biosecurity planning, personal protective equipment, incident command systems, humane endings, carcass disposal, stress management, and effective communication. The training combines classroom sessions with practical demonstrations and a response simulation exercise. Seats are available for up to 200 participants, with two dates offered at the NDSU Carrington Research Extension Center: June 11-12 or Sept. 10-11. Continuing education credits are available. Register at ndsu.ag/diseasetraining by June.1 or Sept.1. Registration fee is $35 per person for meal count purposes. Photo Credit -north-dakota-state-university Rapid DNA test for herbicide-resistant weeds Rapid DNA test for herbicide-resistant weeds North Dakota mental health awareness North Dakota mental health awareness Categories: North Dakota, Education, Livestock |
Optimism is defined by the Cambridge dictionary as "the quality of being full of hope and emphasizing the good parts of a situation; or a belief that something good will happen.â€
We can foster and model how to be optimistic and view situations that have unexpected outcomes as opportunities to learn and think out of the box; it is all a matter of how we interpret events.
Modeling optimistic language and welcoming situations that might tilt the scale, e.g., sadness or frustration, turning them into opportunities of self-assessment and improvement, can teach resilience, confidence and start creating a mindset to face challenges.
So how can we help?
As caretakers and parents we can encourage our kids to make optimism a habit; the following are some strategies:
Be a positive role model. Model being optimistic. Look for and point out the good side of events and experiences, instead of emphasizing what didn't go as expected.
Interpret unexpected outcomes as opportunities. Unexpected outcomes or "failure†are a natural part of learning that help us see and understand what we don't know or what we are not able to do yet. Ask: What will you do differently next time?, and help kids self-evaluate: What went well?, What would you change if you could?
Challenge negative explanations. Encourage and propose different explanations for a situation, especially if the first one tends to be a pessimistic one; this will open the opportunity to explore change and improvement, and will allow the possibility to move forward.
Resumen: Podemos fomentar y modelar cómo ser optimistas y ver las situaciones que tienen resultados inesperados como oportunidades para aprender y pensar de manera creativa. Todo es cuestión de cómo interpretamos los eventos.Â
Entonces, ¿cómo podemos ayudar?
Como cuidadores y padres podemos alentar a nuestros hijos a que conviertan el optimismo en un hábito, aquà |
- How can I buy a crypto token?
- Token vs. Coin: The Difference
- Upgrade Your Blockchain Skills with 101 Blockchains
- Crypto tokens vs. crypto coins—what's the difference?
- Cryptocurrency coins vs. tokens: an in-depth look
- What Are Blockchain Bridges & How Do They Function?
- What are Crypto Tokens and how do they differ from Cryptocurrencies?
The innovative feature of crypto tokens is they don't need a privately managed bank ledger to keep track of how much you have in your account. This is why cryptocurrencies are referred to as "decentralized" payment systems. ", and looked at how crypto tokens work, but why are they so important? Crypto tokens can be used to represent almost any asset in the world in digitized form, logging all the transactions involving that asset on the blockchain. This is a new and important way of recording ownership and creating transparency, which is only just beginning to be explored. To understand tokens, you need to first understand the blockchain.
Crypto tokens are digital assets that are built on another cryptocurrency's blockchain. It may seem like some of these terms are interchangeable, but they actually all refer to different types of cryptocurrency. In this guide, we'll explain what crypto tokens are and what sets them apart. To use a real-world example, crypto tokens are more like coupons or vouchers, while crypto coins are like dollars and cents. You can get a clear overview of the factors which drive the value of crypto tokens.
How can I buy a crypto token?
Available ad units and high-level information about the Brave Ads platform. Many users rely on private browsers to keep their Internet habits away from prying eyes. But with so many options out there, what's the best private browser for you? What truly defines a word or changes its definition is its usage. When you read or hear crypto-speak being slung around, pay attention to the context in which terms are used. As with any other emerging technology, crypto will eventually mature to the point where we'll agree on a common language.
A crypto token is an asset based on the blockchain of another asset, which is called a coin. Part of the definition of tokens is that they do not run on their own blockchains — a key distinction in clearing up the token vs. coin confusion. Tokens and currencies are very similar , but they differ significantly when it comes to their structure.
Token vs. Coin: The Difference
Since they represent ownership of a financial security, these assets are regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission . They are different from NFTs and value tokens because they are fungible. CoinDesk is an independent operating subsidiary of Digital Currency Group, which invests in cryptocurrencies and blockchain startups.
Another thing to note is that coins usually are used for 1 thing , while tokens have various use cases, which can include payments but also other things. For instance, when comparing a coin https://xcritical.com/ or cryptocurrency vs. utility token, utility tokens are used to access a product or service. Do crypto tokens have value," they are practically the next big thing in the crypto landscape.
Upgrade Your Blockchain Skills with 101 Blockchains
For example, the Bitcoin network's native cryptocurrency is bitcoin , Ethereum's is ether , and Solana's is solana . If crypto coin transactions are handled by blockchain, then tokens rely on smart contracts. They're an array of codes that facilitate trades or payments between users. Cryptocurrency includes every cryptocurrency on the market, which means altcoins and crypto tokens both fall into this category. And since altcoins include every cryptocurrency outside of Bitcoin, crypto tokens all fall into the altcoin category as well.
A token is a cryptocurrency or crypto asset that runs on another cryptocurrency's blockchain. An example of a cryptocurrency token is USD Coin , a fiat-backed stablecoin that runs on the Ethereum blockchain. An example of a crypto asset token is a non-fungible token . Most NFTs run on blockchains built on the Ethereum network. When a token is spent, it physically moves from one place to another. A great example of this is the trading of NFTs (non-fungible tokens.) They are one-of-a-kind items, so a change in ownership must be manually handled.
Crypto tokens vs. crypto coins—what's the difference?
A stablecoin is a cryptocurrency with a value pegged to another asset's price. If functioning correctly, a stablecoin pegged to the U.S. dollar should always be valued at $1. The definition of an altcoin had evolved since the early days of cryptocurrency when only a handful of crypto assets existed.
- In the case of some networks, you can copy the code of a smart contract from a software development platform's depository (e.g. Github).
- Crypto tokens are created using various token standards, most of which exist on Ethereum's blockchain.
- The majority of the tokens built on the Ethereum blockchain are ERC-20 tokens, or ERC-721 tokens if they are nonfungible tokens, or NFTs.
- Some of the most commonly found tokens across various blockchains are NFTs and utility tokens.
- As a result, there are at least two main contrasting theories on their functionalities and applications.
Instead, they operate on other crypto coins' blockchains, such as Ethereum. Some of the most commonly seen tokens on Ethereum include BAT, BNT, Tether, and various stablecoins like the USDC. Non-Fungible Tokens, or NFTs, have become extremely popular in the crypto world.
Cryptocurrency coins vs. tokens: an in-depth look
Crypto tokens can not only serve as vital tools for procuring initial investments for new decentralized projects but also for fostering user and developer communities. At the same time, crypto tokens can also serve as incentives for developers to improve decentralized projects cryptocurrencies VS tokens with complementary products. New crypto tokens would be the definition of crypto tokens. What are crypto tokens, and how are they different from cryptocurrencies? The important highlight of crypto tokens is that they come with a fixed supply or a transparent supply schedule.
What Are Blockchain Bridges & How Do They Function?
Unlike coins, tokens do not have their own blockchain and are issued on top of existing networks. Unlike coins, tokens are not mined in the process of transaction validation. The total number of tokens minted depends on different conditions set by the issuing project. |
When Joseph Brockbank was born on 15 September 1859, in Salt Lake City, Salt Lake, Utah, United States, his father, Isaac Brockbank Sr, was 54 and his mother, Sarah Brown, was 41. He married Emma Jane McKell on 17 December 1885, in Logan, Cache, Utah, United States. They were the parents of at least 5 sons and 3 daughters. He lived in Spanish Fork, Utah, Utah, United States for about 70 years. He died on 4 March 1941, in Provo, Utah, Utah, United States, at the age of 81, and was buried in Spanish Fork City Cemetery, Spanish Fork, Utah, Utah, United States.
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Abraham Lincoln issues Emancipation Proclamation, declaring slaves in Confederate states to be free.
The Battle of Gettysburg involved the largest number of casualties of the entire Civil war and is often described as the war's turning point. Between 46,000 and 51,000 soldiers lost their lives during the three-day Battle. To honor the fallen soldiers, President Abraham Lincoln read his historic Gettysburg Address and helped those listening by redefining the purpose of the war.
Garfield was shot twice by Charles J. Guitea at Railroad Station in Washington, D.C. on July 2, 1881. After eleven weeks of intensive and other care Garfield died in Elberon, New Jersey, the second of four presidents to be assassinated, following Abraham Lincoln.
English: topographic name from Middle English brok(e) 'stream, brook' + bank(e) 'ridge, slope, bank', for someone who lived by the bank of a brook. The name may have been confused with Brocklebank .
Dictionary of American Family Names © Patrick Hanks 2003, 2006.
Possible Related NamesBirth: 29 Nov 1819, Harefield, Middlesex, England Death: 2 Apr 1888, Spanish Fork, Utah, Utah Parents: William Brown & Sarah Ford Pioneer: 3 Sep 1852, Abraham O. Smoot Company Wagon Train Spouse: Isaa …
As a nonprofit, we offer free help to those looking to learn the details of their family story. |
A digital tool was defined as any device, software, or web-based application designed for monitoring, diagnosis, or treatment of PAD. A sensitive search strategy adapted from the Cochrane Collaboration was constructed to identify all available studies regardless of publication status e.g. in-press or ahead of print. Major databases were searched from inception to January 2016. These included MEDLINE (using the OVID interface), EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. All titles and/or abstracts identified from the initial search strategy were independently reviewed by two authors. If no abstract was available, or if necessary, the entire manuscript was reviewed. After exclusion of clearly irrelevant studies, full texts of the remaining articles were retrieved and independently reviewed by two authors. Information was gathered into evidence tables detailing the intervention and results of each study. Due to heterogeneity in outcomes and studies, it was not feasible to perform a quantitative synthesis of evidence and qualitatively summarising results would not adequately represent the diversity of digital interventions. RP and RB were involved in all stages of the systematic review and any disagreements were resolved by consensus.
Chronic disease is now the most important global healthcare challenge. Among chronic maladies, peripheral arterial disease (PAD) separates itself from most as an interesting yet little understood area for potential improvement. Though its momentum is increasing, digital health innovation has not historically been a strong point for PAD. By describing current evidence of PAD digital health and the potential for future interventions, the goal of this review is to provide a comprehensive landscape of the use of digital tools in PAD.
Benefits of Digital Health in Monitoring Peripheral Arterial Disease
RPM services were initially aimed at patients with diabetes and heart failure, but it has now been shown to be useful in a diverse variety of health conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and postoperative monitoring. In the case of PAD patients, RPM would allow continuous monitoring of their ABI without the need for follow-ups. Should a patient with PAD undergo treatment that may result in transient worsening of their condition, this can be monitored through the change in ABI if RPM services allowed the automatic recording of ABI data from the ABI devices. This would be particularly useful for patients with intermittent claudication who may struggle walking to health facilities and further save time in more severe cases of CLI where there are impending risks to the patient's limb.
Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is a digital healthcare service that enables patients to monitor, record, and share their own health indicators. At some point in time, this was in the form of self-written or recorded data. In recent years, there is an emerging trend to use RPM tools, such as Bluetooth-enabled electronic devices, for the transferring and sending of health indicators to healthcare providers. This allows for continuous monitoring, which aims to reduce or substitute for time-consuming face-to-face monitoring of chronic health conditions. It is estimated that by the year 2018, 70 percent of healthcare providers in the United States will implement an RPM program.
Remote Patient Monitoring
With recent advancements in Bluetooth blood pressure and heart rate monitors for home use, these vital signs can be recorded and transmitted to a central database or directly to healthcare providers quite easily. Wireless monitoring systems can constantly collect and transmit data such as a patient's weight, blood pressure, and walking duration without patient initiation. This provides a large amount of data on the patient's health status and allows for the detection of long-term trends. Both methods are superior to data collected at infrequent office visits and rely on self-reporting by the patient. Although no studies have been done for PAD patients using these specific methods, it has been shown that frequent monitoring of vital signs in diabetic patients can result in early detection and treatment of adverse conditions. This has potentially large implications for PAD patients considering the high rate of coexistence between the two diseases.
Remote patient monitoring (RPM) of chronic diseases has been shown to be an effective means of improving patient care. By continuously tracking patient vital signs and other health indicators, heart failure readmission rates and all-cause mortality can be reduced. Similarly, for PAD patients, RPM can better inform clinicians of the status of their patients and allow for earlier detection and treatment of deteriorating limb ischemia. This can, in turn, reduce the need for invasive treatment or amputation and lower healthcare costs. RPM covers a wide variety of techniques, including the measuring of blood pressure and heart rate over the telephone or internet, wireless monitoring of vital signs, and self-recording of symptoms or health status. Telephone support has been shown to be effective in reducing PAD patient cardiovascular events and improving exercise capacity.
Real-Time Data Collection
An approach utilizing comprehensive data collection and analysis techniques has exciting potential to improve our understanding of disease progression and the response to treatment in PAD. Traditional measures of symptomatic PAD such as walking distance, quality of life, and time to an endpoint are relatively blunt tools, and the heterogeneity of patient response restricts the power of randomized controlled trials to detect meaningful differences between treatment groups. Comprehensive data collection, in which symptom status and daily activity are correlated with objective evidence of disease severity, may allow stratification of PAD into different 'phenotypes' and identify surrogate endpoints for clinical trials. This, in turn, may permit targeted treatments matched to disease severity and better assessment of new treatments in early phase studies.
Continuous digital monitoring of physiological parameters such as heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and activity allows the collection of substantial volumes of data on the PAD patient. Over the course of a day and in different environmental or activity situations, such 'ambulatory' data can be collected over short or prolonged periods using automatic, non-invasive, and minimally intrusive methods. In comparison with unsupervised hospital stress testing or circulatory studies, such data is more representative of the patient's usual functional capacity and symptom status. Since those with intermittent claudication may have a poor understanding of the relationship between their symptoms and objective evidence of functional impairment, real-time data may uncover important insights into the natural history of PAD and the relationship between transient ischemia and functional decline.
Early Detection of Complications
Digital health can greatly assist in the early detection and treatment of complications of PAD. Disease progression is often subclinical. Identification and characterization of early disease states can provide an opportunity to modify the natural history of PAD. Up to 50% of patients with PAD demonstrate limb hemodynamic deterioration in the form of decreased ankle pressures or claudication reproducibility. Unfortunately, only a small proportion of these patients seek medical help based on these symptoms. Many patients dismiss newly acquired claudication as a normal part of aging and the general public tends to underestimate the seriousness of claudication. In the absence of routine surveillance, aneurysmal disease, a limb and life-threatening condition, is often first diagnosed after rupture or acute limb ischemia. Traditional physical examination and auscultation for a femoral bruit has poor sensitivity and specificity for detection of stenosis. Segmental blood pressure measurements and pulse volume recordings are more accurate but are underutilized and unfamiliar to many clinicians. Duplex ultrasound and arterial imaging is costly to repeat frequently and has yet to be proven to alter disease morbidity. By identifying deviations from usual patterns of activity before the onset of overt symptoms, REM and real-time monitoring can provide an early warning system for acute events and limb-threatening ischemia. The strong association between changes in gait and posture with lower extremity strength and blood flow suggest that wearable monitoring devices, gait analysis, and posture recognition software may be a useful tool to assess limb function and to monitor patients for functional decline.
Challenges and Limitations of Digital Health in Managing Peripheral Arterial Disease
The usage of digital health in managing PAD may be impeded by a number of challenges and limitations. Devices and technology which are currently available may be too expensive for the average person or be too difficult for people to have access to. A significant limitation will be in the accessibility and affordability of mobile technology and wireless networks. The cost of mobile devices may prevent some patients from being able to access these tools, and the cost of wireless connectivity, though decreasing, may still be too expensive for many. This may result in an exacerbation of the digital divide in healthcare, where the poor and underprivileged have decreased access to the latest and best forms of healthcare management. This issue of the digital divide is especially relevant in the developed world, where there is an aging population with increasing prevalence of PAD. In contrast, feasibility may not be an issue in the developing world, where there is a younger population with increasing access to mobile technology, but where the burden of PAD is not as high. If mobile health tools are to be used for monitoring the health status of patients with PAD and for self-management of their condition, it is essential that the data which is collected remains secure. This is of particular importance if the devices are to be used in a healthcare system with information exchange between patients and healthcare providers. However, security is not always guaranteed with the use of mobile health technology. A recent review on the use of mobile devices in healthcare found that there is a notable lack of security in the apps which are currently available, with 61% of free apps and 41% of paid apps lacking any form of privacy policy. Apps which act as medical devices are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, but the regulation is not always adhered to, and the security of other health apps is variable. It was also identified in the review that the data which is transmitted between a mobile device and a healthcare provider is not secure. Measures will need to be taken to ensure that the data from mobile health devices used by PAD patients is stored securely, and that there are policies in place to prevent data breaches. This is also relevant to the protection of the patient's privacy.
Accessibility and Affordability
While the use of mobile health apps provides a useful method of recording patient data, it has been argued that digital health may not be an accessible option for lower socioeconomic groups. This can further increase health disparities as those who need it most may not be able to afford or have access to digital health technologies. There has been increasing use of mobile phones, especially in third world countries, to bypass the problem of limited access to infrastructure such as telephone lines and computers. The "mHealth" movement has great potential to progress health care in these areas, however still excludes the poorest members of society, as it relies on the availability of an expensive smartphone and mobile data plan. In developed countries, while smartphone usage is prevalent, older technology users are less likely to possess a smartphone and utilize mobile health apps. This demographic is largely comprised of PAD patients, as it is a condition of older age. Smartphone applications are often developed for newer operating systems and phones and may not be compatible with older phones. An American survey reported only 18% of adults aged 65 and older own a smartphone, making it difficult to ensure these technologies are inclusive for all age groups.
Data Security and Privacy Concerns
In accordance with these goals, further research has been funded by the US National Institutes of Health to define standards and guidelines for the development of secure and private mobile health applications. The Health on the Net Foundation Code of Conduct (HONcode) certifies medical and health websites as reliable and trustworthy sources of information. To date, over 800 sites from 56 countries have received HONcode certification. Establishing that the HONcode and similar certification processes are relevant and feasible for mobile health will help to ensure the integrity of health information and protection of patient data in the mobile environment.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) created data security and privacy standards to protect patients' medical records and other personal health information. However, our current understanding of how HIPAA applies to mobile health and how it will be enforced remain unclear. Most consumer-grade mobile devices do not contain security features to protect data that are similar to those on personal computers and may be easily lost or stolen. Adequate security standards for mobile health applications must be established and enforced, and patients should be made aware of the security measures that their health care providers and application developers are employing. With data security standards in place, the migration of paper-based medical records to mobile platforms may actually enhance the security of patient data by reducing illegible notes, the risk of lost paperwork, and the storage of sensitive information in personal dwellings.
Mobile health applications and web-based monitoring systems for PAD rely heavily on the collection and transmission of patient data from the home setting to the physician. While these data can greatly inform treatment decisions and provide real-time feedback to patients, it is imperative that such data be securely transmitted and stored. Unsecured data can be intercepted and read during transmission or while stored on a server, leading to patient identity theft, the altering of patient records, and in some countries, the denial of medical services through breaches in stored financial data.
User Acceptance and Engagement
Users' acceptance and engagement is the first step to improving healthcare and health outcomes for all patients.
This contrasts patients who are not technologically savvy, do not have smartphones, patients who are elderly, and those living in more rural areas without mobile internet connections. It is likely that the aforementioned mobile health applications are not appropriate for the latter group of patients, thus development and implementation of these technologies to the former group should not be guided by if they can, but if they should.
By understanding users' attitudes towards a technology before offering it, the chances of a successful implementation can be greatly improved. In the case of digital health technologies, this means there may be less emphasis on a one-size-fits-all paradigm. For example, mobile health applications have been shown to be beneficial in certain subsets of patients with chronic diseases. These include patients with frequent exacerbations of illness requiring emergency department visits or hospital admission, patients with complex medication regimens, and patients who act as informal caregivers to others with chronic diseases.
The aforementioned study could have reached a different outcome if the investigators had queried the patients on their perception of the exercise program and the use of the accelerometers at the conclusion of the study, thus providing valuable information on what they could do to make the intervention more effective for the patients in the future.
Adherence and effectiveness of the prescribed therapy in a RCT, on the other hand, is a common problem among many different trials and treatments, but similar to the pedometer study, the first step to resolving these problems is identifying the challenges and limitations faced. User acceptance will vary among different technologies and the perceived usefulness of the technology in its impact on their lives and the lives of others.
One recent example of this is a study comparing two methods of home-based walking exercise programs in patients with intermittent claudication. Even though the study was designed to test an exercise intervention, many patients perceived it as a pedometer study, where the more high-tech pedometer (an accelerometer measuring steps per day) was compared to the lower-tech pedometer (a written activity log). Since patients were not keen to use the accelerometers and adherence to their prescribed exercise was poor, there were no differences seen in the outcomes measured by the two groups.
In the modern world of rapidly expanding technology, it may be difficult to keep up with the latest devices and trends in digital health. All of these wireless technologies have the potential to offer inexpensive and easy-to-use methods to monitor and manage PAD, but they are no good if the intended users are not willing to use them.
Future Directions and Opportunities for Digital Health in Peripheral Arterial Disease Management
AI can also be used to tailor medical treatment to individual patients. One study has suggested the use of AI to optimize antiplatelet therapy by weighing the cardiovascular benefit against the risk of bleeding for each individual patient. Customized decision support tools such as this could be used to maximize the effectiveness of medical treatment while minimizing the risk of adverse events.
For example, a recent study employed machine learning techniques to construct a prediction score for the chance of PAD in a high-risk population that outperformed existing methods. In the future, similar predictive models would be used to identify patients most at risk of developing symptomatic disease or suffering adverse events, allowing for earlier intervention and thus preventing disease progression.
Artificial intelligence (AI), an area of computer science that allows technology to mimic intelligent human behavior and thought patterns, has the potential to revolutionize the management of PAD. As a starting point, data collected from previous and current patients can be used to create AI applications that assist clinicians in making diagnoses and treatment plans. This would subsequently advance to the use of AI as a means of disease prediction and risk assessment.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
By using supervised learning methods and features including clinical symptoms, functional status, and various non-invasive testing results, we could create a predictive model which provides the probability of IC versus CLI and ultimately improves clinical outcomes by ensuring that patients are getting the right treatment for the right disease state.
Another area of promise would be to use machine learning to build predictive models which optimize the classification of intermittent claudication versus critical limb ischemia at the initial presentation. While we have made significant progress in understanding the pathophysiology between these two PAD phenotypes, clinical distinction between the two can be difficult and may lead to misclassification of one or the other. This is an important distinction to make as the clinical outcomes and treatment strategies for IC and CLI are quite different.
For example, by using longitudinal data on a large cohort of PAD patients across North Carolina, we were able to develop a natural language processing and machine learning pipeline to identify PAD patients who are at high risk for lower extremity amputation. This pipeline takes advantage of various free text data within the electronic medical record to identify the presence of infection, non-healing ulcer, and other limb-threatening events and has shown to have high precision and area under the receiver operator characteristic curve. By identifying high-risk patients, we can then deploy preventive measures to decrease amputation rates in these patients.
Harnessing the potential of health information, data, clinical knowledge, and recent advances in machine learning and AI could enable the prediction of clinical events and progression in PAD patients. By understanding patterns in patient risk factors, environmental factors, and genetics on the development and progression of PAD, we might be able to identify high-risk patients in early stages and implement strategies to prevent disease progression.
Wearable Devices and Sensors
More advanced mobile gait robots and body-worn sensors seem promising but are not yet widely available for clinical or home use. With continued technological advancement and reduced costs, the use of wearable technology is likely to become more widespread and provide valuable objective measures of habitual activity and specific activities such as walking. This, in turn, will aid the assessment and monitoring of interventions to improve walking ability in PAD.
Most data on wearable device use in PAD relates to treadmill function. A recent systematic review showed that accelerometry data from wearable devices can accurately assess walking intensity in patients with PAD, and moderate and/or vigorous walking intensity has been associated with reduced leg symptoms and improved walking ability.
One large scalable example is the UK Biobank study, in which 100,000 subjects were recruited between 2006 and 2010 with the aim to examine the genetic and environmental determinants of disease in middle to late age. A subset of 500,000 participants (including original recruits) will use wrist-worn accelerometers with a 7-day wear protocol to follow up health outcomes.
Wearable devices are becoming increasingly utilized in the realm of cardiovascular health, particularly in the monitoring of physical activity. Current technologies include simple pedometers, accelerometers, and advanced multisensory devices capturing real-time data on intensity, duration, and type of activity.
Telemedicine and Virtual Care
If telehealth and virtual care can become established in PAD management, the potential benefits are substantial and far-reaching for both patients and healthcare systems. The nature of PAD as atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds and a marker for systemic atherosclerosis makes these patients particularly well-suited for telemedicine visits using a risk factor-based approach for cardiovascular primary prevention. They often have concomitant cardiovascular risk factor management issues and other atherothrombotic disease states requiring frequent visits to multiple specialists. A coordinated approach with a 'one-stop-shop' telemedicine encounter can potentially reduce the burden of multiple visits to different specialty clinics. Global availability of specialist care in PAD is limited in some regions, and disparities in rural or socioeconomically disadvantaged populations with poor access to vascular specialists often result in suboptimal medical and preventive therapy. Telemedicine visits for these patients, including 'e-visits' organized through their primary care physician, could improve access to PAD specialists and allow monitoring of adherence to antiplatelet and statin therapy. The improvement of symptom or quality of life-based telehealth encounters in comparison to office visits has the potential to aid earlier detection of limb threat and prevent delay in treatment resulting in less limb loss. Lastly, virtual care using smartphone apps and messaging systems may improve care coordination between primary care physicians and various specialty providers in a fashion similar to clinical care pathways discussed previously.
Telemedicine (or telehealth) can be broadly defined as the use of electronic communications and software to provide clinical services to patients without an in-person visit. It was previously considered a future alternative to conventional medical practice, but the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the rapid adoption of telehealth and virtual care as traditional doctor's office visits and outpatient clinic appointments are no longer feasible. However, the implementation of telemedicine is not an easy task as it demands a shift in the culture of healthcare practice and acceptance by patients and healthcare providers. Reimbursement structures for telehealth services have been a significant barrier but are likely to change with the increased pressure to decrease healthcare spending and modernize care delivery. Sustained efforts to prove the effectiveness and cost-savings with new evidence and guidelines that endorse telehealth options for specific conditions like PAD are required. |
Impactscommons.wikimedia.org How California's drought upended a powerful farming district For years, Westlands Water District fought for endless supplies of water — until the water started running out.
Impactscommons.wikimedia.org Untapped groundwater could help African nations endure worsening drought Largely untapped groundwater supplies could allow most African countries to endure more than 50 years of drought, according to a new report from WaterAid UK and the British Geological Society.
Good News Small coffee farmers lay their chips on smart agriculture to overcome climate crisis in the Cerrado biome The strategies adopted for more resilient crops include agroforestry, connected landscapes, and water resource management.
Solutions www.fastcompany.com The EU is launching the world's greenest coronavirus recovery plan The proposal would invest 750 billion euros in energy-efficient renovations, clean transportation, and renewable energy. |
Analysis of ionized cluster beam thin film deposition
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Ionized cluster beam (ICB) deposition has received considerable attention since its introduction in 1972 by Takagi et al. at Kyoto University because of its potential for low temperature film growth. The Kyoto University group has conducted three major experiments that indicated the presence of large clusters in varying concentrations. These three experiments form the basis for all subsequent ICB research and are supplemented by a body of indirect evidence of film formation effects that have been attributed to the presence of large clusters. Many other groups have tried to corroborate these cluster size experiments with only a few suggesting the presence of large clusters. While further investigation of many aspects of ICB deposition is warranted, it is first necessary to determine with some certainty whether large clusters are being produced. A complete analysis of the Eaton ICB source involving computer calculation of the potential fields and computer simulation of the electrons and ions as they react to and influence these fields provides an in depth understanding of the dynamics that influence the final beam characteristics. A high resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometer was developed to investigate the most important parameter, the cluster size distribution. Great effort was put toward developing a system that could detect even the smallest concentrations of large clusters and computer simulation of all aspects was done to assure the accuracy of the spectrometer. No evidence of large clusters was found down to a level more than two orders of magnitude below what the Kyoto University group has claimed. This motivated a review of the primary evidence for large clusters. A computer analysis of the three Kyoto University cluster size experiments has identified severe problems with each of the three experiments where the potential fields in the ionization areas are critically distorted by either space-charge effects or design flaws, both of which are serious enough to invalidate the experiments. The two highest resolution experiments, the one presented here and a laser ionized time-of-flight experiment, have turned up absolutely no evidence for the existence of large clusters. The theory behind large cluster production and the body of indirect evidence attributed to the presence of large clusters are not convincing by themselves. It is therefore concluded that a Takagi-type source does not produce large clusters in quantities capable of affecting film growth. |
Project Description
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Actions: Its antioxidant properties make it hepatoprotective (protective for the liver) (Raskovic et al). Other actions are antifungal, circulatory stimulant, carminative, anti-spasmodic, anti-depressive, antiseptic and anti-microbial.
Dose: 15-30 mL/week (1:2 liquid) or 1.5 to 3.0 g/day (tablet)
Rosemary is a favourite choice when treating Lyme patients for those affected by candida and mould.
Studies have shown it to be a valuable anti-microbial herb against Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative bacteria (Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli), and antifungal against Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger (Jiang Y et al, 2011).
Recent studies state carnosic acid in rosemary can protect the brain from free radical damage that has been linked to stroke, early onset dementia and Alzheimer's disease (Liu J et al, 2016).
History tells us the ancient Greeks used rosemary for memory and used to wear it in wreaths when studying for an exam. This herb can also work wonders for tension headaches.
I use Rosemary regularly for Lyme and mould affected 'brain fog' symptoms, to improve concentration and mental performance as well as to enhance phase 2 liver detoxification.
Traced as far back as far as 500 BC, documents suggest this herb had been used to treat the nervous system for neuralgia and sciatica.
Rosemary can be used topically for wound healing and hair loss and current cancer studies are proving rosemary to be a very useful antioxidant. |
Is it possible to find a job in UK for foreigners
The UK continues to be a popular destination for job seekers around the world, with approximately 331,233 work-related visas granted in the year ending June 2022.
How hard is it to get a job in the UK
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the overall unemployment rate in the UK was 3.9% in May 2020. This is the lowest it has been for 40 years.
Which jobs are in demand in UK for foreigners
Topics Covered:Programmers and Software Developers.Cyber Security Specialists.Health Services and Residential Care.Architects.Graphic Designers.Physical Scientists.Sales Assistant.Operations Manager.
Is it easy to get a job in us
Indians can get many job opportunities in the USA
If you are searching for how to get a job in the USA (for Indians), you should know that having the right career strategy and preparation is always a good way to start. Finding in-demand jobs abroad is the aim of all aspiring candidates looking to work abroad.
Can I go UK for job without job offer
In practice, this means that you can come to the UK without a job offer on an HPI visa and find a job within the 2 or 3-year period granted before making the switch to another work visa type.
Is it easy to get a job in the UK visa
Is it difficult to get a UK work visa Some UK work visas are more difficult to obtain than others, with different route-specific requirements. In many cases, the applicant will need to have the offer of a job meeting minimum skill and salary requirements from a licensed sponsor.
Which part of UK is easy to get job
Oxfordshire has been revealed as the easiest place to get a local job in the UK, according to new data from job site Indeed.
Is UK better than US for job opportunities
If you are looking for opportunities, you may want to consider the UK, because the opportunities are more plentiful. In America, people are encouraged to work hard and achieve success. In the UK, people are expected to work long hours and be dedicated to their jobs but not attain a high level of personal success.
What is the biggest skills shortage in UK
Human health and social work had the highest number of vacancies in September-November 2022 with 208,000, 3.9 vacancies for every 100 employee jobs. Accommodation and food services had the most vacancies per 100 employee jobs, with 6.7 vacancies for every 100 jobs.
How do I get employed in the UK
How to get a job in the UK. In the UK you can apply for most jobs online by sending a CV and cover letter or by filling out an application form. Where possible, CVs should be no longer than two sides of A4 and cover letters no more than a page. Learn more about writing CVs and cover letters.
How can I find a job in the UK
Choose which ways suit you best and find more opportunities.Job boards. Job boards are websites that list job vacancies.Sign up for alerts.Search for jobs online.Check an employer's website.Recruitment agencies.Networking sites.Local council websites.Hidden job market.
Is it hard to get a work visa in the UK
Some UK work visas are more difficult to obtain than others, with different route-specific requirements. In many cases, the applicant will need to have the offer of a job meeting minimum skill and salary requirements from a licensed sponsor.
Can you move to the UK as a freelancer
Under the current UK immigration rules, there is no self-employed visa route for overseas 'freelancers' who wish to come to the UK and work without an offer of sponsorship from a UK employer.
Is UK visa interview difficult
Interviews are conducted via video link to the UK and usually take place at your local Visa Application Centre. UKVI will use your interview to check that you are a genuine student. The interview is nothing to be concerned about – all you have to do is be confident, honest, and tell the truth.
Can UK work visa be rejected
There is a risk UKVI will issue a refusal of your application if you provide incorrect or insufficient information. It may be that you have provided incorrect details on your application form, missed out questions, or not providing evidence when requested to do so.
Is UK better than USA for jobs
If you are looking for opportunities, you may want to consider the UK, because the opportunities are more plentiful. In America, people are encouraged to work hard and achieve success. In the UK, people are expected to work long hours and be dedicated to their jobs but not attain a high level of personal success.
Where in the UK is it hardest to find a job
Competition for jobs varies greatly across the UK
Highest competition for jobs | ||
Rank | City | Local CVs per job posting |
1 | Middlesbrough | 3.3 |
2 | Sunderland | 2.6 |
3 | Luton | 2.1 |
Is it cheaper to live in UK or US
According to a report by Numbeo in 2021, the cost of living index in the UK is 7.73% lower than that of the US. This is due to a number of factors, such as lower healthcare costs, lower transportation costs, and lower overall living expenses.
Should I settle in UK or USA
Quality of Life in the UK vs USA
Aspect | UK | USA |
Housing cost | High | Varies by location |
Crime rate | Low | Varies by location |
Work-life balance | Good | Long work hours and limited vacation time |
Diversity | More ethnically diverse | More racially diverse |
Where in UK has most job opportunities
Top cities in the UK for job opportunitiesMilton Keynes, Oxford, York, St Albans, and Norwich are the top five cities for job opportunities, with high average salaries, good business density, and strong employment rate growth.Oxford is the best UK city for employment rate growth, up 16.4% from 2021 to 2022.
Is UK a low skill economy
In fact, companies in the UK were even able to import cheaper labour instead of investing in a skilled workforce to increase productivity. The lack of encompassing collective wage agreements is certainly one important reason why the British economy can be described as a "low-wage, low-skill, low-productivity economy".
What is the fastest way to get a job in UK
How to find a job quicklyFind jobs that fit your qualifications. Don't rely on your existing CV.Tailor your cover letter and CV. With a tall stack of CVs to go through, hiring managers may scan yours for all of a few seconds.Ask for help from your network.Consider a temporary role.
Why international graduates are not getting jobs in UK
Lack of work experience
There are just too many needed skills that working gives you. And hiring managers weed out applicants that don't list it. With most international graduates now only having academic experience, this is a significant reason why international graduates are not getting jobs in the UK.
How can I immigrate to UK without a job offer
Visas you can apply for without a job offerBritish National (Overseas) visa.Graduate visa.Youth Mobility Scheme visa.India Young Professionals Scheme visa.Apply for the Global Talent visa.UK Ancestry visa.High Potential Individual (HPI) visa.
Can I migrate to UK without job offer
The best part – you don't need a sponsor or a job offer to apply. UK's Young Professionals Scheme will allow degree-holding Indian nationals in the age group 18-30 years to live and work in Britain for up to two years. The UK-India Young Professionals Scheme will offer 3,000 places annually. |
Heard diplomats or analysts using a new turn of phrase only to wonder, "What does that mean?" Today we ask …
What is "ASEAN centrality"?
ASEAN envisages itself as Southeast Asia's primary platform to address regional challenges and engage with external powers. As one scholar points out, "ASEAN Centrality" rests on the assumption that the Southeast Asian regional organisation should be the driver behind "the evolving regional architecture of the Asia Pacific".
At the turn of the 21st century, ASEAN expanded from its original five members to ten, adding Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. This created a need for ASEAN to set a new framework for intra-ASEAN relations and ASEAN's relations with the world. The 2008 ASEAN Charter marked the first occasion the term "ASEAN centrality" was used. The Charter explains that ASEAN should be the primary driving force for members to deal with external partners.
Does the world observe ASEAN centrality?
In a White House statement following American Vice President Kamala Harris' visit to Jakarta to attend the 2023 ASEAN Summit, the term "ASEAN centrality" was used twice, with Washington declaring its commitment to the principle. The Americans were not alone. For several years, it has been a cliché for ASEAN partners, such as the European Union, to declare their support for ASEAN Centrality.
On the surface, this suggests that the concept of ASEAN Centrality has been accepted by major and middle powers. Furthermore, the plethora of ASEAN initiatives to engage external powers, such as the East Asia Summit and ASEAN Regional Forum, are evidence of ASEAN's convening power to contribute to shaping the regional order.
Is ASEAN in fact united?
For ASEAN Centrality to operate optimally, its members must be united and serve each other's interests. Yet, ASEAN's unity is questionable, and it is easy for observers to argue that ASEAN members serve the interests of external powers more than ASEAN itself.
In 2012, ASEAN failed to issue a joint communiqué for the first time in its history as tensions over maritime disputes involving China and four ASEAN members – Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam – peaked. For some, Cambodia and Laos were perceived to be acting in China's interests rather than those of ASEAN, and there were calls for their expulsion.
The ongoing negotiations with China over a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea is another issue that challenges ASEAN's unity. Several ASEAN officials involved in the negotiations have privately expressed their concern that some ASEAN members are not taking the negotiations seriously as their country does not have a direct stake in the South China Sea issue.
ASEAN's inability to deal with the South China Sea issue could explain why the Philippines, one of ASEAN's founding members, seeks closer defence cooperation with the United States and other external powers to defend its legitimate maritime claims against Chinese encroachment. Yet Manila's moves to attract external support are met with quiet discontentment and criticism from some ASEAN members.
What are ASEAN's limits, and how can they be overcome?
This lack of unity and support for a member state facing intimidation by an external power signals ASEAN's limitations in acting as the primary Southeast Asian platform to address regional challenges. This situation compels ASEAN members such as the Philippines to turn to external partners, thus undermining ASEAN Centrality.
If ASEAN cannot even defend the interests of its members, how can external powers see it as a serious actor in regional affairs? There are still many issues and obstacles for ASEAN members to consider and overcome before the term ASEAN Centrality evolves from an aspiration to a reality.
ASEAN knows its limitations and the need to reform. In January, ASEAN convened a Track 2 Workshop involving Southeast Asian researchers to review its norms and practices. The objective was to maintain ASEAN's relevance as the regional security environment evolves. However, any reform to ASEAN's practices and norms will be a long process. In the meantime, ASEAN can look at the many declarations of support for ASEAN Centrality as a small achievement. |
Vitamin B-12 is a crucial B vitamin. It is needed for nerve tissue health, brain function, and the production of red blood cells. Cobalamin is another name for vitamin B-12.
Deficiency can result when levels of vitamin B-12 are too low. This can lead to irreversible neurological symptoms. In the United States (U.S.), between 1.5 and 15 percent of the population are currently diagnosed with vitamin B-12 deficiency.
This article will explore the functions of vitamin B-12, how a person would know they are not consuming enough vitamin B-12, and where to source more.
Fast facts on vitamin B-12
- Vitamin B-12 is important for brain function the synthesis of red blood cells.
- Deficiency of vitamin B-12 can lead to neurological difficulties and anemia.
- People over the age of 14 should consume more than 2.4 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin B-12 daily.
- Vitamin B-12 is naturally available in meats, but people who do not eat meat, such as vegans, can obtain vitamin B-12 in supplement form.Vitamin B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin, like all other B-vitamins.This means it can dissolve in water and travel through the bloodstream. The human body can store vitamin B-12 for up to four years. Any excess or unwanted vitamin B-12 is excreted in the urine.
Vitamin B-12 is the largest and most structurally complicated vitamin. It occurs naturally in meat products and can only be industrially produced through bacterial fermentation synthesis.
BenefitsVitamin B-12 is crucial to the normal function of the brain and the nervous system. It is also involved in the formation of red blood cells and helps to create and regulate DNA.
The metabolism of every cell in the body depends on vitamin B-12, as it plays a part in the synthesis of fatty acids and energy production. Vitamin B-12 enables the release of energy by helping the human body absorb folic acid.
The human body produces millions of red blood cells every minute. These cells cannot multiply properly without vitamin B-12. The production of red blood cells reduces if vitamin B-12 levels are too low. Anemia can occur if the red blood cell count drops.
Intake requirements
In the U.S., the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommend that teens and adults over the age of 14 years should consume 2.4 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin B-12 a day. Pregnant women should be sure to consume 2.6 mcg, and lactating women 2.8 mcg.
Excessive intake of vitamin B-12 has not demonstrated toxic or harmful qualities. However, people are always advised to speak with their physician before starting to take supplements.
Some medications may interact with vitamin B-12. These include metformin, proton pump inhibitors, and h2 receptor agonists, often used for peptic ulcer disease. All of these drugs may interfere with vitamin B-12 absorption. The antibiotic chloramphenicol, or chloromycetin, may also interfere with red blood cell production in people taking supplements.
Deficiency symptomsVitamin B-12 deficiency occurs when the body does not receive enough vitamin B-12.
It can result in irreversible and potentially severe damage, especially to the nervous system and brain.
Even slightly lower-than-normal levels of vitamin B-12 can trigger deficiency symptoms, such as depression, confusion, memory problems, and fatigue. However, these symptoms alone are not specific enough to diagnose vitamin B-12 deficiency.
Other symptoms of vitamin B-12 deficiency include constipation, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
Once symptoms escalate, they can include neurological changes, such as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. Some people may have difficulty maintaining balance.
Infants who lack vitamin B-12 may demonstrate unusual movements, such as face tremors, as well as reflex problems, feeding difficulties, irritation, and eventual growth problems if the deficiency is left untreated.
Vitamin B-12 deficiency carries a serious risk of permanent nerve and brain damage. Some people with insufficient vitamin B-12 have a higher risk of developing psychosis, mania, and dementia.
Insufficient vitamin B-12 can also lead to anemia. The most common symptoms of anemia are fatigue, shortness of breath, and an irregular heartbeat. People with anemia might also experience:
- a sore mouth or tongue
- weight loss
- pale or yellowing skin
- diarrhea
- menstrual problems
Vitamin B-12 deficiency also leaves people more susceptible to the effects of infections |
Exploring the realm of real estate mortgages can be complex, but you're not alone in this journey. Leveraging credit partners can be a strategic move for you, as it opens avenues to larger mortgages and spreads your financial risk. By partnering with individuals or institutions with a healthy financial standing, you can bridge financial gaps and bolster your borrowing potential. But how do you find these partners? What's the best way to approach them? And more importantly, how do you manage the inherent risks in these partnerships? Let's discuss.
Understanding Credit Partnerships
To utilize credit partnerships effectively in real estate mortgages, you must first grasp the fundamental concept and workings of these partnerships. A credit partner is an individual or entity that you involve in your real estate venture primarily because of their good credit history or rating. You're basically utilizing their creditworthiness to secure real estate mortgages that you may not qualify for on your own.
Also Read: Amplify your business success through funding partnerships
Now, you might wonder, why would someone want to be a credit partner? Well, usually, credit partners are compensated. They're either given a share of the profits from the real estate investment or paid a fee.
However, it's not all about the money. Credit partners for real estate mortgages also need to be involved in the management of the venture to an extent. They can't just be passive investors. This is because the law stipulates that a credit partner must have an 'active and substantial' role in the business to avoid being classified as a mere loan guarantor.
Benefits of Using Credit Partners
Having understood the concept and workings of credit partnerships, let's now look at the benefits you stand to gain when you leverage credit partners in your real estate ventures.
In addition, credit partners can provide the financial muscle you need to secure larger mortgages. If you're short on funds, they can bridge the gap, eliminating the need to forfeit attractive investment opportunities due to financial constraints. Furthermore, having a credit partner can enhance your borrowing potential. They can boost your credit profile, making it easier for you to access loans.
Additionally, using a credit partner can spread your risk. Instead of shouldering all the financial burden yourself, you'll share it with someone else. This shared responsibility can provide a safety net, shielding you from devastating losses in case the investment doesn't pan out as expected.
Identifying Potential Credit Partners
Now that you're familiar with the benefits, it's important to learn how to identify potential credit partners for your real estate ventures. This process isn't as challenging as it might seem, and with a few tips, you'll be able to find the right partners to help you succeed.
Firstly, look for individuals or institutions with a strong financial standing. These could be banks, private lenders, or individuals with a high net worth. They should have the capacity to invest in your projects and the ability to assume potential risks.
Next, consider the reputation of potential partners. Do they have a history of successful partnerships? Are they known for their integrity and transparency? Online reviews and referrals from trusted sources can provide valuable insights.
Another important factor is their understanding of, and experience in, the real estate market. Partners who are familiar with the industry can offer not just financial support but also invaluable advice and guidance.
Approaching a Prospective Credit Partner
Once you've identified your potential credit partners, it's important to approach them with a well-planned strategy that highlights your real estate proposition's strengths. Start with a clear, detailed proposal that outlines your business plans, market analysis, and expected returns. You're not just asking for a loan; you're offering an opportunity for investment.
Your communication should be professional and concise. It's essential to understand your potential partners' interests and concerns. This understanding will allow you to tailor your pitch to fit their needs and expectations. Emphasize how your partnership can benefit them financially, but don't forget to highlight other potential advantages like networking opportunities or expanding their investment portfolios.
Remember, you're building a relationship. It's not just about getting the money. Show them you're reliable, transparent, and committed. Be prepared to answer their questions and address their concerns promptly and thoroughly. It's also important to demonstrate your competence and expertise in the real estate market. Make them confident that their money will be in good hands.
Approaching a credit partner may seem challenging, but with careful preparation and clear communication, you'll increase your chances of forming a profitable partnership.
Legal Aspects of Credit Partnerships
Understanding the legal landscape of credit partnerships is essential to safeguard both your investment and your relationship with your credit partner. It's not just about shaking hands and splitting profits. You're entering a legal agreement, and you need to comprehend what that entails.
First, it's vital that you and your credit partner establish a clear, written agreement. This document should outline each party's responsibilities, the division of profits and losses, and the procedure for resolving disputes. It's not something you should rush, so take your time, and consider hiring a lawyer to make sure all bases are covered.
You also need to understand your liability. Most credit partnerships are structured as Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), protecting individual partners from personal liability. However, certain actions, such as personally guaranteeing a loan, can expose you to personal risk.
Lastly, keep in mind the potential tax implications. In most partnerships, profits and losses pass through to individual partners, affecting your personal tax return. So, consult with a tax advisor to understand how this partnership may impact your taxes.
Managing Risk in Credit Partnerships
When diving into a credit partnership, it's essential to effectively manage risks to protect your investments and maintain a smooth relationship with your partner. You can't predict every hurdle, but you can prepare to minimize potential damages.
Also Read: Funding partnership strategies for business expansion (2024 guide)
Start by thoroughly vetting your potential partner. Check their credit history, business track record, and ask for references. You're not just looking for a financially sound partner, but also someone who shares your business ethics and values.
Always draft a clear, detailed partnership agreement. This document should lay out responsibilities, profit sharing, and exit strategies. It's your roadmap to a successful partnership and a shield against possible disputes.
Diversify your investment portfolio to reduce risk exposure. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. By spreading your investments across different properties or sectors, you'll better weather financial storms.
Leveraging credit partners can greatly enhance your real estate investment potential. By identifying the right partners, strategically presenting your proposal, and managing risks effectively, you can secure larger mortgages and bridge financial gaps. Remember, clear agreements and shared values are key to a successful partnership. So, don't hesitate to take this step, it's a game-changer in the real estate world. Always consult with a legal advisor to understand all aspects of credit partnerships. |
"A person who wishes to influence the decisions of governments, organizations, and companies must learn to speak in numbers. Experts do their best to translate ideas into numbers."
-Yuval Harari, Sapiens.
One of the reasons VCs are trusted with capital to invest in companies is due to their strong decision-making engine. In this regard, the book by Yuval plays a crucial role, as it offers valuable insights that form the foundation of their decision-making process.
This book also holds a significant place in the hilarious VC starter kit, an offer to help people breaking into VC, along with a Patagonia vest and Allbirds shoes. Those guys are marketing genius!
Anyway, VCs' decision-making engine is designed to identify promising startups that not primarily have the potential to change/save the world but rather the potential to become category leaders.
Changing/saving the world is more of a collateral benefit.
As I've written before, pitching always comes as a promise: if you invest in my company, you'll generate unlimited returns.
Photo de Womanizer Toys sur Unsplash
I'll give you time to check How To Start Being Good At Pitching Investors Part 1 & Part 2. I'm not going anywhere.
Now you're ready for the final part! So the challenge here is to translate into numbers the fact that:
you have built a promising startup
you have the potential to become a category leader.
Investors tend to make the most money when they invest early in a company that becomes a leader in a new category. This is particularly true in the Tech industry, where markets often consolidate around a single company holding the majority of market share.
Once an investor understands that a new category leader in a large market will emerge, the challenge is to invest in the company that is the best positioned to win this large market. In other words, the most promising startup.
I've written before that "Startup" is one of these words that is the most open to interpretation, carrying different meanings for different people. Ask 10 people about their definition of a startup, and you will likely get 10 different responses.
While fundraising, your personal definition of a startup becomes irrelevant, only the investors' viewpoint matters.
For investors, a startup is a company designed to grow fast thanks to:
a differentiated product that is meaningful to a critical mass of customers,
an innovative way to address and serve every single person among this critical mass of customers.
In assessing the most promising startups, their compass for decision-making is based on tangible growth.
A differentiated product that is meaningful to a critical mass of customers
By setting the context in Part 2, you have already demonstrated that you are positioned to win a market composed of a critical mass of customers.
However, most founders need to pay more attention to basic marketing principles when communicating the value of their startups to investors.
When investors evaluate startups, they consider more than just a product with superior features.
They look for distinct features that hold value for a substantial customer base.
That's why I'm not a fan of these types of slides because they position your startup based on similarities rather than differences.
The kind of startup positioning I use to make
When you compare yourself based on similarities, it inadvertently conveys that you're building an undifferentiated commodity business.
The kind of startup positioning I am now making
This slide type is significantly more effective in communicating how you stand out.
Furthermore, the evidence that these distinct features matters to customers can be seen in your tangible and actual growth.
Investors call it product-market fit (PMF). While having a PMF is beneficial, it is insufficient, as a significant portion of the PMF is a fit with the early adopters, as stated by Marc Andreessen.
The issue with early adopters' product-market fit is that early adopters constitute only a tiny percentage of the entire market.
If you stays with early adopters, you will capture only 5% of the market, leaving the remaining 95% to someone else.
From an investor's perspective, moving beyond the initial product-market fit is becoming increasingly challenging for startups with the breakthrough of GenAI.
An innovative way to address and serve every single person among this critical mass of customers.
To highlight this escalating challenge faced by startups, let me tell you how investors are evaluating a business using three fundamental elements:
Creating a product
Acquiring customers to buy this product
Distribution that product
Before the Internet, companies distinguished themselves by efficiently distributing products through physical stores or agencies. However, the advent of the Internet disrupted this paradigm by reducing the cost of distributing digital products to zero.
Before the breakthrough of GenAI, companies distinguished themselves based on the quality and/or quantity of the digital products they produced, such as software code and content.
However, with the advent of GenAI tools, a new era of automated content creation has emerged, effectively reducing the cost of developing digital products to zero.
Transitioning to the investor's perspective, this breakthrough signifies a significant acceleration in the commoditization of products.
In the world of venture capital, it's well-known that if a particular product proves successful, you can expect to encounter numerous VC-backed competitors replicating the same approach.
So the only room left for companies to truly set themselves apart is customer acquisition.
For instance, let's consider ChatGPT. What truly amazes Tech investors is not merely the technological breakthrough; instead, it stands out as one of the absolute best customer acquisition growth hacks they've witnessed in a long time.
ChatGPT is estimated to have reached 100 million monthly active users just two months after launch, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. To give you perspectives, it took TikTok about 9 months after its global launch to reach 100 million users and Instagram 2–1/2 years!
When determining which startups are best positioned to become new category leaders, customer acquisition will serve as a distinct and impactful arena for evaluation. This means the journey from startup to category leader will rely on a robust and distinct marketing growth engine.
A marketing growth engine is a highly effective, reliable, and scalable system designed to generate significant and sustainable sales growth.
Simply put, a marketing growth engine aims to develop a repeatable strategy where a company can invest $X's into marketing and confidently expect a return in sales of $Y's. A robust marketing growth engine usually follows this logic:
"if we can spend $X to acquire a customer that will spend $Y then its worth it as long as $X < $Y."
Sustaining a low $X requires implementing cutting-edge customer acquisition strategies. Simply relying on digital marketing with an archaic growth-at-all-cost mentality falls short in the GenAI era, where competitors can easily replicate your product.
Maintaining a high $Y relies on creating stickiness. Stickiness can be achieved through structural advantages, such as long-term contracts or optimizing the customer experience. Customers remain loyal when you offer the best products that consistently improve rapidly. That's where investing in R&D and product development makes sense for an investor.
The make-or-break moment lies in investors' conviction whether customers will stick around long enough for $Y to exceed $X.
This is the most sensible breaking point as it requires meticulous attention to detail. A misstep in calculating CAC, LTV, Payback, or failing to align customer cohorts with LTV and Payback will breach trust irreparably, leading to an irrecoverable situation.
So be prepared! |
Authors: Giuseppe Scarcella, CNR and Simone Libralato, OGS
A food web model was developed by the OGS and CNR team for the GFCM Geographical Sub Areas (GSA) 17 and 18 to support ecosystem-based fisheries management (EBFM). The Adriatic Sea is a semienclosed basin characterised by high productivity due to important freshwater inputs and a very extended shelf, which has been heavily trawled for decades. The six countries on the Adriatic sea shores host fisheries with different degrees of development, capacity and history of exploitation that is carried out through a wide series of gears and targeting several fish species.
The food web model describes the ecosystem, which covers an area of approximately 120,000 km2 from shore to 800m depth, through 73 functional groups that describe the priority species (in age classes), other species with commercial importance, species of ecological importance, plus all other components of the ecosystem from plankton to top predators.
The Adriatic fisheries are described through 33 fishing fleets that result from a combination of gear, and segments based on the vessel's length overall (LOA) and countries.
Data for the years 2004-2006 are used to develop the Ecopath steady-state network model whose realism and accuracy were tested using comparison with stable isotope results as well as checking the consistency of parameters across the trophic level with ecological rules (Prebal).
The time dynamic module Ecosim was run from 2000 to 2020 using as bottom-up drivers of phytoplankton (diatoms, dinoflagellates), zooplankton (micro-, meso and macro-zooplankton), bacterioplankton and detritus groups (suspended detritus and bottom detritus) biomass obtained from the 3D biogeochemical model for the Mediterranean (MedBFM). The top-down forcing used was the fishing effort dynamics over the 2000-2022 reconstructed combining different sources of data, including VMS for Croatia and Italy by gear and fleet segment. The resulting dynamics were calibrated for the years 2000-2018 using fishery-independent data from MEDITS and SOLEMON trawl surveys and results from SAC-GFCM stock assessments.
Within the EU-funded project EcoScope, the calibrated Adriatic model will be used to test uncertainty on bottom-up and top-down forces on ecosystem dynamics, indicators and management actions. This will allow us to better disentangle the role of historical changes in productivity and effort on the dynamics of renewable resources at sea. Moreover, the model will be used to test fisheries management alternatives by running the model up to 2050 under alternative management and climate scenarios. Results are expected to provide spatiotemporal information on the effects of management and might be used to support policymakers.
Focus on regional EcoScope models
Within EcoScope, eight case-study areas are identified: The Bay of Biscay, The Aegean Sea, The North Sea, The Israeli EEZ, The Black Sea, The Balearic Islands, The Western Baltic Sea, and The Adriatic Sea. |
Brainspotting is an innovative therapy using aspects of EMDR, mindfulness, and brain and body-based therapies. Brainspotting is based on the belief that certain eye positions can evoke emotions, sensations, and memories because they access specific 'brainspots' where traumatic memories are stored.1,2,3,4,5 Brainspotting therapy involves one to three sessions of eye position, mind-body awareness, and mindfulness exercises to help clients overcome issues, like PTSD, depression, and anxiety.2,3,4
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What Is Brainspotting?
Brainspotting is a form of therapy that aims to help clients process difficult emotions or traumatic experiences. In brainspotting, different eye positions help identify "brainspots" linked to certain experiences, emotions, or sources of distress.2,3,4,5 Once identified, brainspotting therapists use mindfulness techniques to help the client access, experience, and process the thoughts and feelings stored in this brainspot.1,2,4,7
How Does Brainspotting Work?
Researchers don't fully understand exactly why or how brainspotting can help people heal from trauma. However, there are some theories. The developer of brainspotting, Dr. David Grand, believes that eye position and movement correlate to 'spots' in the brain that store traumatic memories.1,5,7 Each person's brainspot may differ, so the therapist must first identify the spot by using a set of eye movement exercises with each client.2
It's possible that therapies like brainspotting help to access parts of the brain that are difficult to reach through conventional therapy methods. For example, some researchers believe that traumatic memories are stored in the midbrain, a region of the brain that lies beneath the areas related to language and conscious thoughts.4,5,7 While eye position is used to access the traumatic memory, brainspotting also involves using mindful awareness to process these memories and emotions in the body.2,3,8,9
How Is Brainspotting Different From EMDR?
While brainspotting originated from eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR), it is considered a separate practice. For both brainspotting and EMDR, the eye is used as the access point for trauma and difficult emotions. Dr. David Grand developed brainspotting during an EMDR session in which he noticed his client's trauma emerged when their eye position was fixed in a specific position. Curious, Dr. Grand looked for this pattern with other EMDR clients and found that each patient had a spot where they could fix their eyes and more easily access traumatic memories and emotions.1,2
Some of the differences between brainspotting and EMDR include:2,3,5
- Brainspotting involves keeping the eye in a fixed position to focus on one spot of the brain, while EMDR involves side-to-side eye movement to stimulate both sides of the brain
- Brainspotting is a newer therapy and has less research than EMDR to prove it is effective, but some recent studies comparing the two showed similar rates of improvement for adults with PTSD symptoms
- EMDR and brainspotting are both effective short-term therapies (1-3 sessions) for trauma, but one study found brainspotting treated clients improved on their own in 6 month period after their final session
- There are more EMDR-trained therapists (since brainspotting is a newer type of trauma therapy), making it easier to find EMDR treatment
What Can Brainspotting Help With?
Originally, brainspotting was developed as a trauma treatment but has since been expanded to be used for depression and anxiety disorders.2,6 More research is necessary to help therapists understand the benefits and uses of brainspotting therapy.
Brainspotting techniques may help in the treatment of:1,2,3,5,6
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or complex trauma
- Attachment issues stemming from childhood trauma
- Dissociative disorders
- Emotion regulation problems, including anger issues or mood swings
- Symptoms of depression or sadness
- Anxiety disorders or specific phobias
- Substance use disorders or addictions
Are There Side Effects of Brainspotting?
There are no major risks associated with brainspotting. Unlike medications, brainspotting is unlikely to cause any adverse effects on your body, brain, or mental health. The main risk of brainspotting is that, during sessions, you will likely experience intense, difficult, and unpleasant emotions related to traumatic memories or experiences.2
Is Brainspotting Effective?
Alternative mind and body trauma therapies like EMDR, EFT, somatic experiencing, and brainspotting were once viewed as "fringe." However, some research suggests these treatments are effective, listing many as "Evidence-Based Practices" for trauma by the APA. Still, there isn't enough research about brainspotting to include this therapy on this list.8,9
Brainspotting was developed in 2003, so more research is still needed to fully understand its effectiveness in treating trauma and other mental health disorders.1,2 Early studies have found that brainspotting is as effective as EMDR in treating PTSD and can help some people struggling with anxiety or depression.1,3,4,5
Studies have also found that clients with these disorders can significantly improve symptoms between one and three brainspotting sessions, similar to EMDR.3 Other proven trauma therapies like cognitive processing therapy (CPT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and prolonged exposure therapy involve 12 or more sessions.3,8 Also, one study found that people with PTSD who received three brainspotting sessions continued to improve in a 6-month follow-up period, suggesting long-term benefits.3
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What To Expect in a Brainspotting Session
Usually, brainspotting therapy is a short-term treatment that involves up to three 60-90 minute sessions that last approximately.2,3 Some brainspotting therapists may combine brainspotting techniques with other types of therapy or offer to continue long-term talk therapy after brainspotting is completed.2 Still, a brainspotting session with a therapist differs from a 'traditional' talk therapy session.
Below is a breakdown of what to expect during a brainspotting therapy appointment.1,2,4
1. The Therapist Will Build Rapport With You
Therapists trained in brainspotting are always encouraged to spend time 'attuning' to their clients to develop a sense of trust and safety. This may involve talking for the first session to get to know you better, answer your questions, and help you feel more at ease.
2. The Therapist May Use Relaxation Techniques or Guided Imagery
Many brainspotting therapists use relaxation techniques, like guided imagery or meditations, before beginning brainspotting. These exercises help you feel more at ease and prepared for the challenging thoughts, feelings, and memories that may arise during the session.
3. You Will Be Asked to Talk About Something That Upsets You
While brainspotting uses mind-body interventions, you still need to discuss traumas and topics that upset you. Doing so allows you and the therapist to focus on a particular problem, issue, or traumatic event you want to resolve.
4. The Therapist Will Ask You to "Find" the Feelings in Your Body
Mind-body therapies like brainspotting enhance the mind-body connection by helping clients become more aware of how their bodies respond to certain memories. Expect a brainspotting therapist to ask you to 'locate' different emotions in your body, explain how they feel, and track these inner sensations during the session.
5. The Therapist May Use a Pointer to Help You Find Your Brainspot
The next step in brainspotting therapy is often finding your brainspot using a pointer, pencil, or similar object. The therapist moves the pointer slowly, asking you to track the object with your eyes. As you do, they will ask you to stop when you notice a strong emotion or difficult memory.
6. You Will Be Asked to Hold Your Eyes at This Spot & Focus Inward
Once you find a specific eye position or direction that evokes a strong emotional response or traumatic memory, you will be asked to hold your eyes in that spot. The therapist will ask you to again focus inward on your bodily sensations, emotions, thoughts, and memories that arise. You can hold the position with your eyes open or closed, and the therapist may instruct you to do both.
7. You Will Be Encouraged to Accept, Allow, & Observe What Comes Up
Brainspotting involves mindfulness, which means bringing your full awareness to what you're experiencing in the present moment, even when it's uncomfortable. The therapist may coach you through this by asking you to open up, make space, or allow these thoughts and feelings to come up.
8. You Will Be Encouraged to Let Your Body Process the Trauma
Once you find and fixate on a brainspot, it's normal to experience distress, discomfort, and sensations in your body. A brainspotting therapist will encourage and coach you to fully experience these sensations and feelings, as this is how they believe the trauma can be processed.
9. The Therapist Will Help You Process the Thoughts & Feelings That Come Up
Many brainspotting therapists reserve time near the end of the session to talk about the thoughts, feelings, and memories that came up. This time can be used to integrate and make sense of what happened in the session, including any shifts in how you feel or think about the traumatic or upsetting event you processed.
10. You & The Therapist Will Discuss Further Treatment (If Needed)
Since brainspotting therapy usually only involves a few sessions, many brainspotting therapists end sessions by discussing the next steps. They may recommend another brainspotting session or not. Either way, you should advocate for what you want. In some instances, treatment will stop after brainspotting. For others, brainspotting may continue with the same or a different therapist.
How to Find a Therapist Who Practices Brainspotting
According to the official Brainspotting Training Institute, there are currently 13,000 therapists who are trained in brainspotting techniques. Still, finding a therapist specializing in this kind of treatment may be difficult. Using an online therapist directory to search for therapists with this training can be a good way to start your search.
The Brainspotting Training Institute also has a free directory service to help link people to trained brainspotting credentialed therapists. These providers have received official training to become certified in this technique.2 The cost of sessions varies depending on where you live and the particular costs of the provider, but some therapists will accept insurance to cover some of the costs of brainspotting.
Questions to Ask a Brainspotting Therapist Before Scheduling an Appointment
If you're interested in brainspotting therapy, finding a trained or credentialed brainspotting therapist is important. It is also essential that the therapist is a good match for you. Most therapists offer free consultation calls or will answer questions via email before scheduling a first appointment, offering an excellent opportunity to ask questions and get more information to determine if they suit your needs.
Some questions you may consider asking a brainspotting therapist include:
- What kind of training or credentialing have you received in brainspotting?
- Do you think brainspotting would be effective for my particular issue or problem?
- Do you integrate other kinds of therapeutic approaches besides brainspotting?
- How many sessions are typically needed and what is the cost (including insurance coverage, if applicable)?
- Do you offer long-term therapy as well after completing brainspotting?
Final Thoughts
Compared to other trauma therapies, brainspotting is a relatively new mind-body trauma treatment that focuses on eye movement and position, similar to EMDR.1,2,4 Early studies have shown promising results in treating symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression.2,3,5 One major advantage to brainspotting is that treatment is much shorter than other types of therapy used to treat trauma.2
Additional Resources
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For Further Reading
What Is Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy?
ERP therapy alters OCD's pattern by addressing both obsessions and compulsions. In ERP, an individual is encouraged to confront the stimuli that trigger distress related to their obsessions while also resisting the urge to perform compulsions in an attempt to reduce their distress.
Why is ERP So Expensive?
There are hundreds of OCD tests and "OCD quizzes" online. Some aim to help people self-diagnose; others turn obsessive-compulsive disorder into a joke. Either way, a vast majority of these are not helpful and probably create more problems than solutions. |
Response paper to Karl Marx and Frederick Engels, (1848) 'The Communist Manifesto' 'The Communist Manifesto' was written by Karl Marx and Frederick Engels. Hence, Karl Marx is known as a father of communism. According to English Oxford Living Dictionaries, the word 'Manifest' means to make a strong political statement . In general, the style of book is political and philosophical. This book is famous not as academic book, but rather as a strong political book. It says about important things that are moving people. Marx gives the image of preferable and free society without class antagonism. 'The history of all hitherto existing society is the history of class struggles.' The reader starts to disclose 'The Communist Manifesto' with this awesome quote. The content of this quote changes person's view about the history. Usually, history is about the different wars. Whereas, the author says actually wars are more about class struggles (dominator and dominated) rather than between states. Consequently, the purpose of this book is to promote the communism and call for revolution. …show more content…
separation of society into Bourgeoisie and Proletariat .The 'Historical material dialectics' is the dilemma that Communism wish(es) to solve. This process means the clash of opposites i.e. A fight with B and as a result C is created. However, the most interesting and surprising thing is that authors actually appreciate what Bourgeoisie did. Bourgeoisie changed the world, values and ideas that humans had. Thanks to capitalism there is no more laziness. It forces all to work, because 'to work' equals 'to live'. Capitalism broke(s) the system of Middle Ages and even more developed industrialization. Industry makes people's job easier and number of produced stuffs has increased. Some may ask' why they call for revolution, if the bourgeoisie is not
The "history of class struggles" would not stop with the Industrial Revolution; the struggle between classes
Karl Marx discusses in the first section of the The Communist Manifesto about how history mainly consists of class struggles. He explains how there will always be an oppressor and oppressed, where there is an ongoing battle that always ends in ruins or in revolt. He also claims that if there continues to be different classes, the wealthy and ones in poverty, there will never been an end to this conflict over power. Marx believes that if were no classes, there will no longer be strife and everyone would share equal power and wealth. In this prompt, Marx uses allusion, periodic sentences, and cause and effect to support his claim and to apply emphasis to the points he uses.
The idea behind this according to Marx is that history is a series of stages, defined by their mode of production and the struggle between classes: "The history of all hitherto existing society is the history of class struggles. " According to Marx, the current historical stage is the capitalist historical stage. This is the conflict between the bourgeoisie (middle class) and the proletariat (working class). This theory is supported by the historical stages preceding the capitalist historical stage which can easily be defined by their modes of production and class struggle, or lack thereof.
The economic conditions did not leave much job mobility or choice. The options were either work in horrible condition in a job that required practically no skill or go without necessities. There was no option outside of the factory. Because of this, workers were not only the "slaves of the bourgeois class, and of the bourgeois State" but they were "daily and hourly enslaved by the machine, by the onlooker, and, above all, by the individual bourgeois manufacturer himself" (16). According to the communist position, the worker was worse off because of the innovation and use of
It was written by Karl Marx, assisted by his fellow countryman Friedrich Engels. The work was published on February 21 1848, by German based revolutionary socialists known as the Communist League. The political pamphlet had a great influence on its society and asserted "the history of all hitherto existing society is the history of class struggles" (Part I) and that the proletariat, the working class, would put an end to all classes in society. The two influential philosophers, Marx and Engels, strived to enforce communism with the use of propaganda in hopes of Europe adopting Communism. Marx was able to instill fear in the people who opposed communism by starting off with ''A spectre is haunting Europe–the spectre of communism.''
To begin with, Marx mentioned "The history of all hitherto existing society is the history of class struggles." (Marx, 1978, p. 473). Marx understood the history of mankind as a chain of different eras brought about
The Communist Manifesto reflects an attempt to clarify the goals of Communism, as well as the theory causal to this movement. It argues that class struggles, or the exploitation of one class by another (Bourgeoisie and Proletariat), are the driving force behind all historical developments. Class relationships are well-defined by an era's means of production. However, ultimately these relationships cease to be compatible with the developing forces of production. At this point, a revolution occurs and a new class comes forth as the ruling one.
On the day of February 21, 1848, The Communist Manifesto, was published in the city of London by a group of German-born revolutionary socialists that were apart of the Communist League. The Communist Manifesto itself was written a man named Karl Marx with the help of a man named of Friedrich Engels. The political pamphlet(which is arguably the most influential piece of paper in history) stated that "the history of all hitherto existing society is the history of class struggles." It also described how the unavoidable victory of the proletariats (working class) would put an end to all societies with classes. It was originally published in German as the Manifest der Kommunistischen Partei (which means: "Manifesto of the Communist Party" in English).
In this brief article by Karl Marks, it is consisting of four chapters that I will analyze, summaries and give a full in-depth review of the "Communist Manifesto". The "Communist Manifesto" was written by my favorite, the great sociologist and philosopher Karl Marks. Nevertheless, from reading one of the most influential books in history, "the communist manifesto", I can conclude that it is one of the historical document that's we can see unfold each and every day in our lives, especially during this current time and season during the electoral process. Nevertheless, the communist manifesto is a brief publication that was originally written in 1847 by Karl Marks and Friedrich Engels that declares the arguments of the communist party.
Karl Marx was a German philosopher and economist in the 18th century. He is known for his book the Communist Manifesto that was published in 1848. Marx believed that a revolution of the working classes would over throw the capitalist order and creates a classless society. The Industrial Revolutions led to the proletarianization; his partner Friedrich Engels explained why the changes created by the proletarianization of the worker would develop into a huge problem for industrial societies. I do believe that Karl Marx's vision of communism in the Communist Manifesto could re-emerge as a popular and workable philosophy of social, economic, and political organization.
The Communist Manifesto explains the goals of communism. It argues that class struggles are the motivating force behind all historical developments. "The Communist Manifesto has four sections. In the first section, it explains the Communists theory of history and the relationship between proletariat and bourgeoisie. The second section explains the relationship between the Communists and the proletarians.
In the excerpt from Anti-Duhring titled "Theoretical," Engels approaches the idea of social order and production through a historical materialistic standpoint. Engels identifies the fundamental contradiction in the capitalist mode of production and utilizes it to flow a series of other conflicts and a possible solution through collective action. Engels attempts to uncover the conflict between the mode of production and mode of exchange and how the proletariat's can leap from the realm of necessity to the realm of freedom (310) while still integrated in the capitalist mode of production. In this essay I will display the key concept of the historical materialism approach, the fundamental contradiction that arises in capitalism, and what Engels
The three main ideas from it that i will discuss are: The struggles of class, The abolishment of private property and Alienation. -Struggle with Class "The history of all hitherto societies has been the history of class struggles", this is the famous opening to Marx's Communist Manifesto. He goes on to describe the past and existing classes of society and the system of hierarchy. A system of higher and lower classes has always existed.
Marx's theory of history is based on the idea that social inequality and economics are the driving forces of the changes that have occurred in history. These changes are motivated by the human actors that become conscious as a class who then revolt against the owners of the means of production and establish a new set of norms for society (The Communist Manifesto 166). The human actors spurred by their agency that dictate what the new economic system will be based on their needs and in Capitalism's case, profit and greed. As stated earlier in the paper, I explained how the feudal stage transformed into the Capitalist stage. The merchants in the feudal society disrupted the social norms and economics of their society by transplanting themselves as the new owners over the means of production (164).
In the Communist manifesto, a well known quote of Marx, "the history of all hitherto existing society is the history of class struggles." This is introductory to the first part of the pamphlet and a conclusion to Marx's theory about class struggle. Marx's highly structured on how the class struggle emerges and affects the development of a society. The development of a society from the old and from the new is the result of the conflict of classes in the society. |
Who Should Be Responsible for Our Old People
Essay by Joe 07 • April 25, 2018 • Essay • 419 Words (2 Pages) • 1,318 Views
In Britain, when someone gets old, they often go to live in a home with other old people where there are nurses to look after them. Sometimes the government has to pay for this care. Who should be responsible for our old people? Give reasons.
Ageing is part of nature, someday we will all be old and pass away. As people grow old, they deteriorate both physically and mentally, therefor we can all agree that there should be people looking after them when they get in the latter stages of their lives. Some older people feel like they are strong enough to keep living on their own, others just are not capable of doing that anymore. Wives lose their husbands, husbands lose their wives and both are left struck by the reality of not having their partners around. They start feeling lonely and they become sad. Some can rely on family and friends for support and company and others are left by themselves without any family. Older people that want to go to a home, or are placed in a home for their own benefit should be able to rely on someone to pay the expenses.
First of all, being able to look after yourself is not always possible as in some cases people become ill and need constant treatment or people to look after them. Older people that move to a home should be able to rely on someone to pay the expenses. It might be themselves, it might be their children or relatives. If the elder person that moves into a home because they were not able to live at their own house is not able to afford their accommodation at these homes, the government should provide these elders with the needed funds.
Also, some lonely older people can't rely on family because the family simply does not have the financial funds or does not want to pay up or they do not have the time to look after their elders. These people also need guidance and care and can't be left out in the dark. Because all elders need to be looked after especially after they become lonely or ill or both.
To conclude, old people that move to a home and can rely on the support of their family or have enough financial capabilities to pay for their own stay at said homes should pay for their stay. Elders that cannot rely on friends or family for financial support should be financially backed by the government. |
BD Institute for Medication Management Excellence
PUBLISHED: Jun 24, 2019
Dennis A. Tribble, PharmD, FASHP, Director, Clinical Innovation, Medical Affairs at BD
Aryana Sepassi, PharmD, Senior Analyst, Health Economics Outcomes Research, BD
Shortages of drugs have become a chronic condition in health-system pharmacies over the last five to seven years, and are a critical issue for both US1,2,3 and European4,5 health-system pharmacies. Excess costs for health systems are generated by higher costs of shorted medications and the extra labor required to manage shortages. Incurred costs vary by hospital and inventory size,2 although markups for shorted medications have been noted to be as high as 3000%.6 Incremental labor costs have been estimated to be between $25,000 and $49,000 annually per hospital, which extends to a national increase in labor cost of $216 million annually.2
Drug shortages have been shown to drive up drug costs. Increased drug costs at five VA sites studied ranged from $150,000 to $750,000 annually1, however, this did not include costs for procedures that had to be deferred or canceled because required drugs were not available. Roughly 70% of health systems nationwide report a delay in treatment due to drug shortages.7
Within the VA system, the impact of drug shortages is uneven, and some researchers have proposed that more centralized shortage management could leverage that disparity to move shortage medications to where they're most needed, as well as reduce the effort expended at each facility.1
Audience participation comments at a presentation on managing shortages at the June 2018 Summer Meeting of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP)8,9 further described management of shortages as a "daily crisis", and decried the lack of a more systematic way to handle shortages. Most reported using spreadsheets as tools to keep track of the shortages they manage.
Both the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)10 and ASHP11 maintain listings of known drug shortages. Both databases require the user to specify the products they are looking for, which means that they can assist providers dealing with a currently known product. They may help to determine the scope and timeline of shortages a pharmacist encounters, but may be less useful in learning about new shortages because the user must log into these lists and scan them to determine what new items are on shortage.12,13 Because the methods and editorial practices for these lists are different, their contents differ as well—to be better informed, pharmacists must monitor both, adding complexity to a health-system pharmacy's management of drug shortages.
The processes by which shortages occur are complex and beyond the ability of pharmacists to address directly.14
In our experience as hospital pharmacists, there are few tools available to manage shortages once they reach the pharmacy and most are inadequate.13 Pharmacist participants at the ASHP Summer Meeting session on drug shortages8 described that pharmacists often find themselves reacting to shortages as they're detected in ordering and receiving, requiring them to print reports and/or inquire of multiple systems to locate the information they need to manage the shortage. Additionally, once a shortage has been detected, substantial communications are required between pharmacists, nurses and physicians to change existing treatments of patients, and plan for future treatments, in order to compensate for shorted medications.14
As a result of these shortcomings, pharmacy buyers need to dedicate more time each day to investigate other purchasing options for shorted medications, while pharmacy technicians may need to spend additional time compounding medications that are shorted. The result can be that all such management is urgent and labor-intensive. Not surprisingly, hospital pharmacies generally have to dedicate staff to shortage management that could be otherwise deployed to pharmaceutical care.2 Tools that have the potential to reduce both the effort to become prospectively aware of shortages and the effort to capture the data necessary to manage the shortages may provide immediate relief.
The future of drug shortage management will require robust data and more effective tools 16 with the potential to:
Drug shortage is now a chronic problem that creates cost to healthcare in terms of increased labor, increased medication cost13, increased opportunity for medication error, and lost revenue from canceled or deferred procedures.15
Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are primarily tasked with dealing with drug shortages on the fly, the number, mix and frequency of which is high—and has remained so over a period of years.8,9
Pharmacists tend to deal with shortages at a facility level, meaning that efforts are often replicated across each facility in a health system.14
Tools for anticipating and dealing with shortages are lacking,13 resulting in a reactive response that increases urgency and minimizes the opportunity to plan. Tools are needed that allow pharmacists to be better informed about the current and potential impact of shortages and require less effort to manage. In our opinion, such tools can be envisioned, and need to be built for use by pharmacists.
Each month on the BD Institute for Medication Management Excellence blog, thought leaders explore topics of critical importance to medication management, and provide additional ways to learn.
Now that you've read about drug shortage management tools, explore the challenges of patient-specific medication management. |
GA Business Facts
Georgia is one of the ten most populous states in America and the largest state east of the Mississippi River. Atlanta, Georgia's thriving capital, is a beacon of culture and opportunity with affordable real estate, a healthy economy, and a temperate southern climate. Georgia is home to more than 700,000 registered establishments. Recently, American Express ranked Georgia 5th among all states with the most number of companies owned or managed by women.
Major Companies Headquartered in Georgia
Georgia is the headquarters of major companies including UPS, The Home Depot, The Coca-Cola Company, Hansen Beverage, Cox Media Group, and Delta Air Lines.
Georgia Business Environment
Georgia is a great place for small businesses with 99.8% of its nearly 300,000 companies with employees categorized as small. Atlanta ranks among America's top 25 regions considered to be the best in tech and was recently named number one in the US as the best state for business by Site Selection Magazine.
November 6, 2019: For the seventh consecutive year, Site Selection Magazine has named Georgia as the state with the Top Business Climate.
Steps on How to Start a Business in Georgia
Before starting a business in Georgia, there are some essential steps to complete.
There are 3 basic options: a DBA, a Corporation, or an LLC. Click here to learn more about business entities.
Choosing a business name is easier said than done – many legal and business problems can arise from choosing the wrong name (you can change it later, but it's easier in the long run if you don't). In Step 3 we'll show you how to search for the name in Georgia, but we highly recommend you do the following before searching Georgia state databases:
TIP: search misspellings, plurals, variations of spelling, sound-alikes, and other versions of your chosen name to be sure it's not already registered.
Note: Familiarize yourself with the Georgia naming guidelines. LLC entity names need to contain the words Limited Liability Company or the abbreviation LLC, and certain words are restricted or prohibited.
Restrictions on Georgia Business Name & Business Purpose
The Secretary of State may limit the use, required consent, or further information before using an entity name.
Each state has its own requirements for registering a business. Now that you've chosen a business structure and picked your business name, here are the requirements to register your business in Georgia.
How to form an LLC in Georgia
How to Incorporate in Georgia
Note: When registering a new company the Secretary of State can take several weeks to file the paperwork. You can expedite the process by hand delivering the documents directly to them or one of their field offices and paying an additional fee.
TIP: Check our order form to see how long Georgia is currently taking to process regular and expedited orders.
How to File a DBA in Georgia
Georgia DBAS are filed with the county. You'll want to contact your local Clerk of the Superior Court in the county where your company does business to find out exactly what forms to submit and what their submission process is. You can find the local Clerk of the Superior Court office by searching "YOURCOUNTY Clerk of the Superior Court."
Considerations when registering a Georgia business
Hire a professional Registered Agent. Many people list their home or business address on the Articles of Organization or Incorporation. This can cause issues because it becomes a public record (you'll get lots of junk mail). A professional Registered Agent will provide their address and forward any important documents to you, this is also convenient if you have to move (you don't have to file forms or pay fees, just update your address with your agent).
Ready to register a business in Georgia?
Sure, you could do all the steps above or you could spend 5-10 minutes on our order form and let us take care of it while you work on more important things.
Your EIN is like your Social Security Number for your company. It's required for Corporations and LLCs and optional for DBA's (if you don't have any employees, then it's required). However, if you are a DBA and don't obtain an EIN you will be forced to use your Social Security Number on many documents so it's typically recommended you obtain the EIN to prevent identity theft.
To obtain an EIN you can apply online with the IRS or via IRS Form SS-4.
TIP: We will obtain your EIN for you if we form your company.
To keep business and personal expenses separate, you should open a separate account for your business. In addition, getting business credit cards is how you begin to build a company credit profile (corporation or LLC required) and can later qualify for larger loans and lines of credit. To open the account simply call your chosen bank and ask the steps to open a business bank account. Typically you'll need a) your filed paperwork b) your EIN c) a company resolution authorizing your company to open the account (signed by the owners, members, officers or directors, etc.).
Top Business Banks in Georgia
Click here to view a list of our recommended banks in our Vendor Network.
TIP: Our business formation service includes a free banking resolution for your use.
Setup your Accounting and Record-keeping system and learn about the taxes your new company is responsible for paying.
Company documents generally are required to be kept for 3 years, including a list of all owners and addresses, copies of all formation documents, financial statements, annual reports, amendments, or changes to the company. All Tax and Corporate Filings should be kept for at least 3 years. View our "Accounting & Financial Management" section for help with setting up an accounting system and purchasing accounting software.
Review our list of Accountants, Accounting Software, and Bookkeepers in our Vendor Network.
Now that you've registered your business name you might need to obtain a business license for your company. This authorizes your company to do business in your city or county. Typically this also involves registering for state taxes and permits (the city may require them as part of the business licensing process). In Georgia, some small-business owners must apply for a business license that corresponds with the type of business they operate such as a restaurant or bar that sells alcoholic beverages.
TIP: We work with a company that can obtain and prepare business licenses and permits for you. Click here to learn more.
If you intend to hire yourself or others as a full or part-time employee of your company, then you may have to register with the appropriate State Agencies or obtain Workers Compensation Insurance or Unemployment Insurance (or both). View our "Employees & Payroll" section for help with hiring employees and processing payroll.
Review our list of recommended Payroll Providers in our Vendor Network.
There are many types of insurance for businesses but they are usually packaged as "General Business Insurance" or a "Business Owner's Policy". This can cover everything from product liability to company vehicles. A decent policy can run as little as $300/year and offers a great extra level of protection.
Click here to view our list of insurance providers in our Vendor Network.
Prepare the business as if someone needed to take it over and run it for you. This means having a method to process orders, pay bills, pay employees, pay taxes, maintain your permits, etc. Basically, try to make the operational aspect of the business as automated and efficient as possible so you can concentrate on growing your business. View our "Manage Your Company" section for help with systemizing and automating your business.
Now that you've set up the company for success, you need to get the word out. Create a marketing plan for your products and services that targets your ideal customer. View our "Marketing & Sales" section for help for more information.
DBA: Your Fictitious Business Name should be valid for 5 years (unless you change the company name or other information listed on the FBN) at which point you'll need to renew it with your county Clerk of the Superior Court.
LLC: Georgia LLCs are required to file an Annual Registration with the Georgia Secretary of State each year by March 31.
Corporation: Georgia corporations are required to file an Annual Registration with the Georgia Secretary of State each year by March 31. For-Profit LLCs and Corporations will pay a filing cost of $50. Non-Profit Corporations will pay $25.
Click here to view our MyCompanyWorks Premium™ service which can automate most of your ongoing compliance tasks.
Georgia Secretary of State
Georgia Corporations Division (for Corporation and LLC filings)
2 MLK, Jr. Dr. Suite 313
Floyd West Tower
Atlanta, GA 30334
Phone: 404-656-2817
Georgia Taxation Departments
Georgia Labor and Employment Departments
Georgia Startup Resources
3. Georgia Legal Statutes
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7. Georgia Business News
8. Georgia Small Business Development
Georgia Department of Economic Development
Copyright © 2001-2024 MyCompanyWorks, Inc. |
What is Light for Kids?
Searching for a book for kids to teach them "What is light for kids?". You are on right place!
In this science book, you will learn answers to many questions in a simple and fun way.
Do you know the answers of: What is light? What is a light wave? How does light travel? What are transparent, translucent and opaque objects? Can light bend? What is refraction? and What is light energy for kids? What is a light wave for kids?
All these questions and some more will be answered in this fun little book. At the end there are some very interesting facts about lights.
Read this little Children's Science Reader Book which is full of beautiful images and big learning for little brains.
Read More
Find answers about What is light energy for kids? and What is a light wave for kids? in this beautiful, simple and yet informative reader.
Light is an essential part of life, and children learn early on how it shapes their day-to-day lives. To little ones, light can be mysterious and magical. It helps them to stay awake during the day, henceforth play outdoors in the warm sunshine. They can see every corner of their bedroom at night.
Exploring the science of light through hands-on activities therefore is a fun way to learn. It also creates ways for children to gain an understanding of how it works. Children can learn how light travels in straight lines and reflects off surfaces, why objects appear differently under lighting. With a few simple supplies, parents and teachers can introduce science of light in an engaging way.
Want to know about "Where Does Energy Come From?". Follow the link to read this book. |
Key Achievements
- 53 million people living in the vicinity of the Abidjan-Lagos trade and transport corridor benefited from reduced travel times and easier movement of people and goods along the corridor between 2010 and 2018.
- 1.5 million people in Nigeria gained access to an all-season road within 2 kilometers (km), between 2008 and 2016, resulting in improved access to markets and services, and enabling farmers to sell their produce at higher prices.
- Nearly 100,000 rural residents in South Sudan, 48 percent of whom were women, gained all-season access to key services and markets between 2012 and 2016.
- The border crossing time at the Raxaul-Birgunj border post between India and Nepal was reduced by 62 percent from 2.3 days to 0.87 days between 2013 and 2021.
- Costs for trucks operating on the Osh-Batken-Isfana road corridor between the Kyrgyz Republic and Tajikistan decreased by 20 percent between 2014 and 2019.
As of 2023, progress toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2, Zero Hunger, was significantly off track, with more than 250 million people estimated to be facing food crises. The cost of transport is a significant factor impacting food prices and food security, particularly in the world's poorest countries, where food expenses can reach 70 percent of household budgets. In some parts of Africa transport prices at the local level can make up as much as 50 percent of the price of food. In many developing countries, inadequate infrastructure along the supply chain and inefficient transport services lead to high transportation costs and delays, food price volatility, shortages, and post-harvest losses. For example, according to the World Resources Institute, in sub-Saharan Africa, the value of post-harvest losses registered each year for grains alone exceeds the value of food aid received over the past decade and is equivalent to the annual value of cereal imports.
Additionally, supply chain disruptions such as those caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts, and the effects of climate change, can lead to a complex set of challenges that increase the cost of transporting food products, affecting the entire food supply chain from producers to consumers even at a global scale. Russia's invasion of Ukraine in early 2022 exacerbated food supply pressures that had been triggered by the pandemic. The invasion halted Ukraine's grain exports for some time and led to a search for alternative arrangements to reconnect to global markets for grains in particular. The combined effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine led to an increase of 56 percent in real terms in the Food and Agriculture Organization Food Price Index between February 2020 and March 2022, when it reached a peak. The index has since receded from this high point, but in February 2024 it was still 10 percent higher than it was in February 2020, in real terms.
World Bank-funded transport projects focus on improving access to agricultural inputs and food products, reducing transport costs, decreasing cross-border trade time and costs, and facilitating the transportation of food and agricultural inputs within and between countries and regions. The projects are designed to help countries maintain and enhance connections to local and international markets, which is crucial for providing access to inputs, ensuring food availability, stabilizing prices, minimizing post-harvest losses, and addressing deprivation during shortages or significant disruptions to food systems.
World Bank support enables countries to expand their transportation infrastructure creating resilient networks in rural areas and at regional levels. Transport operations are tailored to the needs of each context typically combining infrastructure (ports, roads, railways, airports, and border crossings) and policy and regulatory reforms. This approach aims to ensure that farmers have better access to agricultural inputs, and people enjoy increased food security through better access to fresh, diverse, and affordable food options. Reduced transport costs also lead to less food waste and support economic development in general. |
Children's rights at risk under the Milei government in Argentina
March 2024
The measures taken by the Milei government have worsened the human rights and especially children's rights crisis. Constant collective political reflection is therefore necessary.
The hunger of thousands of children and adolescents in our country, the increase in poverty and destitution are unavoidable issues that must be addressed urgently. In this regard, we need to propose frameworks for analysis and action that are comprehensive and forward-looking.
Setting the scene
The second half of the twentieth century saw a long period of consolidation of human, civil, social and environmental rights, historic conquests that were the result of the struggle of popular sectors, not only in Argentina but also worldwide.
This is reflected in the national Constitution and international treaties, in particular in UN Convention on the Rights of the Child , as well as in national and provincial regulations drawn up in accordance with this humanist perspective.
They are not minor, since they aim to guarantee a floor of rights based on the main premise of the preamble of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: "recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world". The following paragraph warns that "disregard and contempt for human rights have resulted in barbarous acts which have outraged the conscience of mankind".
Law No. 26.061 on the Comprehensive Protection of Children's Rights is the articulating axis of the System for the Promotion and Protection of Rights, alongside other regulations addressing specific issues such as health, education, and labour.A system is therefore established that involves a diversity of actors, not only from the state sphere, to address children's rights universally whilst overcoming welfare focused approaches. This is undertaken from a comprehensive perspective and within the framework of co-responsibility, reflecting the cross-cutting commitment to the welfare and progress of societies.
The establishment and consolidation of systems for the promotion and protection of human rights at national, provincial and local levels has demonstrated progress, albeit not always linear, since the first laws were enacted in accordance with this new rights-based approach. However, the actions and orientation of the current national government call into question the very existence of the System for the Promotion and Protection of Rights.
This government's policies exhibit a pronounced tendency towards defunding the System for the Promotion and Protection of Children's Rights in Argentina. This represents an attack on the perspective of rights and progressiveness, and will have a fundamental long-term implications that will require many years to reverse.
The focus on promoting and protecting rights clashes with the implementation of neoliberal policies that priortise the market without considering social justice. These policies have intensified since Milei and his government came to power. This approach is constantly challenged by the governement's discursive framework, which promotes the reinforcement of neoliberal measures and rejects common sense to build consensus around them.
The discourse and actions of the current national government focus on attacking the social state whilst bolstering the police state, in order to guarantee a blatant transfer of resources from the poorest sectors of the population to the wealthiest in the name of market freedom. The libertarian onslaught, however, extendsbeyond the stateto erode all forms of solidarity and communal life that we have built as a society.
In defence of the inherent dignity and equality of all people from the moment they enter this world.
Understanding human rights is fundamental to being able to exercise them, respect and defend them.
Foro por la Niñez Defence for Children International
Argentina DCI-Argentina |
When it comes to foam materials, two of the most popular options are EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) and Polyurethane. Both materials are widely used in various industries due to their unique properties and applications. In this technical article, we will compare EVA and Polyurethane foam in terms of their composition, properties, and applications.
EVA foam is a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate. The ratio of these two components can be adjusted to achieve different properties. On the other hand, Polyurethane foam is a polymer composed of organic units joined by carbamate (urethane) links. It is typically produced by reacting polyols with diisocyanates or polymeric isocyanates in the presence of suitable catalysts and additives.
Both EVA and Polyurethane foam have unique properties that make them suitable for different applications.
a. Flexibility: EVA foam is known for its good flexibility and elasticity, making it ideal for applications where cushioning and impact absorption are important. Polyurethane foam, on the other hand, can range from soft and flexible to rigid and sturdy, depending on the formulation.
b. Durability: Both EVA and Polyurethane foam are durable materials that can withstand repeated use and abuse. However, Polyurethane foam tends to have better resistance to compression set and fatigue, making it more suitable for long-term load-bearing applications.
c. Chemical Resistance: EVA foam has good chemical resistance and is resistant to many solvents and chemicals. Polyurethane foam, on the other hand, can be formulated to have excellent resistance to oil, grease, and other chemicals, making it suitable for demanding industrial applications.
d. Temperature Resistance: EVA foam has good low-temperature flexibility and can maintain its properties in cold environments. Polyurethane foam, depending on the formulation, can be designed to withstand high temperatures without significant degradation.
EVA foam finds applications in various industries such as footwear, packaging, automotive, and sports equipment due to its cushioning and impact absorption properties. It is also used in medical devices and prosthetics where flexibility and comfort are essential. |
I IMPORTANT: We are 100% Independent resource and all published Educational materials and Reviews are without affiliate to prove that our Educations and Reviews are 100% neutral and independent without any affiliate financial benefit. So let's start with "Growth Stocks Investing – How to Invest in Growth Stocks?" Educational Guide.
Don't forget also to subscribe us because some brokers send us promotionals and welcome bonuses to new members so if you will be in subscriber list you will receive all promotionals to your mailbox to start investing without need to spend own money.
Investing in growth stocks can be a great way to increase your wealth over the long term. But this strategy also comes with greater risks than investing in more stable securities. Let's take a look at what growth stocks are and how you can smartly invest in them.
A growth stock is stock in a company that is performing high above the average industry returns. The company is growing rapidly, and its cash flow, revenue and earnings are expected to outpace the competition. Usually the company has some sort of lock on a market, whether that be radical innovation or a strong patent on an in-demand product.
Not all growing companies qualify as growth stocks. While there is no one formula to determine what qualifies as a growth stock, there are general terms. Growth stock companies are generally expected to:
Sound like the perfect investment, right? Who doesn't want something that is growing quickly and bringing in the big bucks in their stock portfolio?
Here's the fine print on growth stocks. Growth stock companies generally do not pay dividends, because the companies are primarily reinvesting their earnings into new or better products. They're trying to maintain a clear advantage in the market, so they take their money and use it to fuel their growth.
This means that investors don't make money from dividend payments, but rather only from the sale of the stock. Timing when that sale should happen is a tricky process. Sell too early and you'll lose money on future growth. Sell too late and you'll lose money due to declining profits. And don't forget, no matter when you sell your stock, you have to pay capital gains tax.
The most direct comparison to growth stocks can be made with value stocks. Value stocks are stocks that trade at a lower value than their competitors, and they pay dividends. The idea behind being a value stock investor is to purchase a valuable stock while its shares are priced low so that as the stock grows in value, your dividends and overall value of stock grow.
Growth stocks differ from index funds in a few key ways as well. First, growth stock purchases are individual stock purchases. When you buy an index fund, you're buying into every company in the index, which means your purchase is automatically diversified. You now own small parts of all the companies in the index rather than a large amount of one company.
With growth stocks, you aren't buying an index. You're buying only one company. If that company does well, you'll reap more of a reward than if you owned an index-fund–sized share. If that company doesn't do well, you can lose more than if you owned an index fund.
Index funds may be a combination of growth and value stocks, which appeals to some people. Rather than having to choose one type of investment style with your money, you could potentially buy into an index that already has both in it.
As we mentioned above, you may find growth stocks in an index or mutual fund. Beyond that, you'll have to identify which stocks are growth stocks with financial magazines like The Wall Street Journal or Barron's Magazine. You can also consult with investing companies such as Zackstrade or Fisher Investments.
Before you purchase any growth stocks, you'll have to determine what qualifies as a growth stock to you. Keep these criteria in mind as you start your research:
From there, you will begin to build a list of growth stocks that you might be interested in buying. Make sure to really do your research! Listen to what experts have to say, but make sure your purchases are in alignment with your own financial plan.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you make any growth stock purchases.
Answering these questions before you buy anything will give you a good idea of what you're stepping into and how you want to handle it. Combining thorough research with a clear personal investing plan should yield a plan that makes sense for your financial future.
Growth stocks offer a chance for people to invest in individual stocks and round out their portfolios. They can offer a chance at a very profitable stock sale. However, keep in mind that most of them don't pay dividends, and there's always the risk that you'll buy into a stock that you can't sell for more down the road, meaning that you never really make any money with them.
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What is Wet Rot?
Wet rot is a parasite that can be found in wet timber. It twists the timber, triggering swelling and fibre separation; leading to loss of structural strength and crumbling. Wet rot causes wood decay and loss of structural integrity, making the timber disintegrate. Wet rot in structural wood is due to increased exposure to moisture. This could be from the 'wet' side of the structure, through faulty plumbing or penetrating damp. Wet Rot is a fungus and will spread to neighbouring timbers, which in turn suffer damage.
What is the Difference Between Dry Rot and Wet Rot?
Dry rot triggers quick and extensive damage to structural timber as it spreads through the affected property. Meanwhile wet rot, despite being a more common occurrence, causes less damage; decay is typically restricted to the areas that remain wet on the timber. It is possible to differentiate between dry and wet rot by associating the extent of damage as well as the colour of the timber with the development of either type of rot.
What causes Wet Rot?
Certain environmental conditions influence the emergence of wet rot spores. The major cause of wet rot is moist timber. Moisture plays a major role in the appearance and progression of wet rot. Consequently, signs of damage become visible on the decaying timber.
The Dangers of Wet Rot in Orpington
Wet rot is a serious issue to deal with. It can destroy your property and reduce its value. If you have wet rot, it needs to be treated quickly, or it will continue to infect your house. A survey conducted on 2,038 property owners in London asked if they had ever had to deal with wet rot, where the affected area was, and if they were able to successfully prevent a recurrence.
Damp Proofing Can Help Prevent
- Rising / Penetrating Damp
- Ingress of Water
- Salt Crystallization
- Plaster Breakdown
- Damp Staining
- Wet Rot / Dry Rot
What are the Warning Signs of Wet Rot?
Signs of wet rot in timber, or the conditions necessary to accommodate the growth of the fungus, can vary depending on the cause and type of moisture it is exposed to. Common signs include a malfunctioning central heating boiler, musty smell, peeling wallpaper, and cookers not working properly. Some of the common areas where wet rot can be found include roof spaces and attics, underneath the kitchen sink, and along the external walls. It commonly affects older houses which have been built with timber frames and not modern timber species such as Sapele or Meranti. Timber from beneath the ground level up to one-floor level is also commonly affected by wet rot. The first step towards managing wet or dry rot is identifying it. If you believe that your house suffers from a wet rot infestation, then you should carry out a damp survey immediately.
Contact Southern Damp Proofing Now to Speak With an Expert
How and When Should I Look for Wood Rot?
It should be an annual task, similar to spring cleaning to search your home for signs of damp or wood rot, and a good time to do it is during your pre-winter weatherproofing activities. You will need a decent flashlight and a screwdriver, preferably one with a long handle.
Using the flashlight to detect discolouration around the perimeter wood plate that lies directly on the top of the concrete basement wall, inspect the wood members in a basement or crawl room (sill plate). With the screwdriver, inspect any discoloured regions. Inspect the floors and walls around baths/tubs, under sinks, and the water heater for any sign of discolouration or water leakage.
How do we identify wet rot?
- Localised fungal growth on timber
- The soft, spongy feel of timber; the affected area appears darker than the surrounding timber.
- The soft and spongy texture of rotting timber; the affected region often looks darker than the other parts.
- That spongy, soft feel timber gets when affected by wet rot; the affected parts are darker than the other areas.
- The spongy, soft texture of rotten timber; the infested area is darker than the other parts.
- The springy feeling that is an indicator of wet rot; the affected area is often darker than others around it.
- Crumbling of affected dry timber into particles.
- Dry timber crumbling into particles.
- The crumbling of infested timber into dry particles.
- Dried-out timber disintegrating into particles.
- The disintegration of rot-eaten timber into particles.
- Shrinking timber
- Bleaching wood in window and door frames
- Flaky or damaged paint
- A musty, damp smell
What to Do After You Detect Wet Rot?
You need to engage the help of a damp expert when you notice wet rot. The source of moisture must be identified and blocked to avoid similar cases in the future. For more information on treating wet rot, call 020 7971 1329 today to speak to our damp proofing experts.
Wet Rot and Damp Proofing in Orpington
Your search for wet rot treatment and damp proofing services ends here! Call Southern Damp Proofing if you see signs of damp or wet rot, fixing the problem immediately is crucial to avoiding the health risks and costly repair work which would be necessary if the damage is left to spread unchecked. Our professional surveyors will identify the root of the issue and recommend ways to eliminate it.
Contact Southern Damp Proofing Now to Speak With an Expert
Wet Rot Treatment Specialists in Orpington
With 20 years of experience offering damp proofing solutions, we are among Orpington's premier wet rot experts, providing free, no-obligation surveys and cost estimates to domestic homeowners and commercial property owners. Our team of experts will visit your property and investigate the source of the wet rot and provide advice on the next steps to take to get rid of it. Our experts apply advanced methods to tackle the progression of different types of wet rot in buildings.
Wet Rot Treatment in Orpington
Wet rot commonly attacks areas that remain damp due to constant exposure to moisture. However, when we treat wet rot, we do not just fix the damage caused by it. The problem must be treated at its source. We eliminate the possibility of facing similar issues by identifying exactly how the moisture reaches the timber and blocking off all the access points. Treating rot should be left to expert professionals who can deliver a holistic solution. Delay in treatment results in pricey repair work down the line. When you observe the development of fungi growth or hyphae strands, you are best off to engage the services of a specialist team of experts, such as Southern Damp Proofing. We have the skills to get rid of wet rot. Southern Damp Proofing can help you save your timber, we quickly investigate the source of the humidity and which areas are under threat of decay. Don't wait till the timber starts falling off, call 020 7971 1329 today or fill our contact form and we will reach out to you.
Our Wet Rot Treatment Process in Orpington
The same with other property-related repairs, the longer you wait, the worse it gets. Treatment might only be required for a small area if you can detect the signs of fungal rot early enough. Severe cases where the rot has advanced across the breadth of timber could mean you will need major repair work or replacements for the timber beams. Wet rot treatment involves several steps. The treatment process begins with an assessment of the source of the problem and eliminating exposure of the timber to moisture. We locate the source of water leakage, whether in the form of poor guttering or condensation among others and take the appropriate action to fix it. Builders and contractors without sufficient expertise in the matter tend to replace the decayed wood. This is usually followed by applying chemical preservatives to the damaged area. This can only fail. If you are having problems with wet rot in your building, contact Southern Damp Proofing today. We can help you eliminate the problem.
What happens to Wet Rot if left untreated?
Leaving wet rot to grow unchecked will lead to the weakening of the structural timber which could affect the safety of the residents. When the rot settles in the timber, it becomes spongy and falls in if you poke it with a knife or screwdriver. The final result is that the timber becomes less structurally sound, and the worst-case scenario could see your building condemned if it continues to spread. Call Southern Damp Proofing 020 7971 1329 and discuss your project with one of our wet rot treatment experts today.
Contact Southern Damp Proofing Now to Speak With an Expert
What is the cost of Wet Rot Treatment in Orpington?
Rot can cause extensive damage to any property. Repair and damp proofing costs will be different for each project based on the type and level of damage inflicted on the wood. However, don't let it deter you. With our team of professionals available to help, you will quickly realise that wet rot treatment in Orpington can be affordable. We are dedicated to providing the right solutions to help you keep your home rot-free.
How to prevent wet rot?
Wood must be ideally kept dry and treated to prevent the timber from decaying. Wood hardeners are an effective way of protecting timber that is at risk of being infested by wet rot. The wood becomes stronger as the hardener soaks into it. The most vulnerable areas in a building are the window boxes and sills, including timber beams that haven't been damp proofed and stand close to brickwork.
Talk to Our Wet Rot Treatment Experts Today!
If you seek further information to help you select the treatment of wood rot that would best serve your needs, don't hesitate and call 020 7971 1329 to talk to a Wet Rot advisor at Southern Damp Proofing.
Is there a DIY treatment solution?
Can Wet Rot Cause Health Problems?
Is Wet Rot Capable of Spreading?
For Top Quality Damp Surveys & Treatments
Other Areas We Cover
- Wet Rot Treatment in Morden, London
- Wet Rot Treatment in New-Malden, London
- Wet Rot Treatment in Newham, London
- Wet Rot Treatment in Northolt, London
- Wet Rot Treatment in Northwood, London
- Wet Rot Treatment in Paddington, London
- Wet Rot Treatment in Penge, London
- Wet Rot Treatment in Pinner, London
- Wet Rot Treatment in Poplar, London
- Wet Rot Treatment in Purley, London |
Article by Sucharita Desu
Sleep is essential to our health. When we don't have enough sleep or if it's regularly disturbed, it can negatively affect our life. But, why do you struggle to get a full night's rest? Or maybe, why do you struggle to stay awake during the day? The answer(s) to these questions all relate to sleep neurology.
Sleep neurology is a multidisciplinary field of study that combines neurology with sleep medicine. Professionals in the field diagnose and treat conditions related specifically to sleep disturbances. These disturbances may be the result of neurological sleep disorders (e.g., central sleep apnea, narcolepsy, REM sleep behvaiour disorder, sleepwalking, etc.) or other neurological conditions (e.g., epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke, etc.).
Now, for a little more detail. Sleep-related disorders are a group of illnesses that affect one's quality of life and functional ability. These disorders are categorized and diagnosed based on 3 cardinal symptoms: inability to fall asleep or sleep through the night, excessive daytime sleepiness, and sleep-related movement phenomena. It is important to accurately diagnose the disorders as effective treatments vary from condition to condition. For example, if you're suffering from a primary sleep disorder like insomnia, you may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy whereas you may need drug treatment for secondary sleep disorders. Keep in mind that drug use should only be short-term as you may develop tolerance and dependence on the drugs. This also means that treatments must address the underlying condition; you shouldn't rely on sleeping pills. In addition, a proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing secondary diseases and the worsening of existing conditions.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome
One of the classifications of sleep disorders is sleep-related breathing disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). It is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder and causes you to repeatedly stop and start breathing as you sleep.
OSAS occurs because your throat muscles intermittently relax and block your airway during sleep, hampering breathing for 10 or more seconds, lowering oxygen levels, and causing a buildup of carbon dioxide. Your brain senses the impaired breathing and briefly wakes you up to reopen your airway (however, you may not remember these awakenings). You may also wake up out of breath, making a snorting, choking, or gasping sound as you try to recover your breathing. This can repeat from five to 30 times every hour, all night long.
Risk factors of OSAS include excess weight, older age, a naturally narrowed airway, high blood pressure, chronic nasal congestion, smoking, diabetes, and asthma. In addition to these risk factors, there are some complications associated with OSAS, such as cardiovascular problems, eye problems (i.e., glaucoma), memory issues, mood swings, depression, complications with medications and surgery, and more.
IMPORTANT NOTE: OSAS is a risk factor for COVID-19, it increases the chance of developing a severe form of the virus and needing hospital treatment. If you contract the virus, please be sure to follow the precautionary measures advised by your local government to ensure the safety of everyone.
Some of the symptoms of OSAS include excessive daytime sleepiness as a result of interrupted sleep during the night, morning headaches, high blood pressure, mood changes (i.e., depression or irritability), and awakening with a dry mouth or sore throat. While snoring is normal, loud snoring (especially if it's interrupted by periods of silence) may be a sign of OSAS.
If you experience any of the symptoms or notice that you are pausing your breathing during sleep, or waking up gasping or choking, be sure to check it out with your doctor. You can also ask your doctor about other problems with those symptoms as many sleep disorders have overlapping indicators.
Continuing on, another category of sleep disorders is central disorders of hypersomnolence. An example of a disorder in this category is narcolepsy, a chronic sleep disorder that causes overwhelming daytime drowsiness and sudden attacks of sleep. People with this disorder find it hard to stay awake for long periods of time, which causes serious disruptions in their daily routines.
Narcolepsy comes in two types. Type 1 narcolepsy is accompanied by a loss of muscle tone called cataplexy and is triggered by strong emotions. Type 2 narcolepsy is not accompanied by cataplexy.
Although the exact cause of narcolepsy is unknown, it is suspected that type 1 narcolepsy may be a result of low levels of the chemical hypocretin. Hypocretin is an important neurochemical in the brain that is responsible for regulating wakefulness and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. The reason for these low levels of this chemical and the loss of its production cells is thought to be related to an autoimmune reaction of some sort. In addition, narcolepsy has a slight chance (about 1%) of being passed down genetically. There is also suspicion that the development of the disorder is associated with exposure to the swine flu virus and a certain form of vaccine administered in Europe, however, it is unclear as to why this is the case.
Risk factors of narcolepsy are age (narcolepsy starts between ages 10 and 30) and family history. There are also some complications with the disorder including public misunderstanding of the condition, interference with intimate relationships, physical harm (to others and yourself), and obesity.
Symptoms of narcolepsy are excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy (sudden loss of muscle tone), sleep paralysis, changes in REM sleep, and hallucinations. In addition to these symptoms, those with narcolepsy may also have other sleep disorders such as restless legs syndrome, OSAS, and insomnia.
Interestingly enough, during a sleep attack, those with narcolepsy experience automatic behaviour. For example, even if they fall asleep while performing a task (i.e., writing, typing, and driving) they continue to perform that task. When they wake up again, they may have no memory of the action.
If you experience any of these symptoms and find that your drowsiness is affecting your personal and/or professional life, it is highly recommended to see a doctor. Although there isn't a cure, symptoms can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes. Plus, it is beneficial to have support from others to help cope with the disorder.
Keep in mind, there are other categories of sleep disorders, such as insomnias like chronic insomnia, parasomnias like somnambulism (sleepwalking), sleep-related movement disorders like restless legs syndrome, and circadian rhythm sleep disorders like jet lag. As always, this article is only a brief introduction to these disorders, therefore it is highly encouraged that you do more research. Here are some sites to get you started: |
Bosco Arte Stenico
A Trentino experience for everyone
In Trentino, land art is for everyone.
Bosco Arte Stenico is a totally accessible nature and art trail organised to accommodate people with motor disabilities as well as the blind and visually impaired.
Moving without barriers
Bosco Arte Stenico has no architectural barriers and anyone can visit it: families with children and trekking buggies, the elderly and people with disabilities.
The path is circular, with no differences in level and no bottlenecks or passage difficulties. At several points along the trail there are tables, benches, toilets and drinking fountains accessible to wheelchair users.
The surface of the path is not asphalted but is smooth and a person in a wheelchair can walk along it independently. There are no steps or ramps that would make the walk difficult to use.
Even the viewpoint, which overlooks Stenico Castle, can be reached safely by everyone.
Moreover, every 150 metres there is a bench that can offer a moment of refreshment for those who need to rest during the walk.
To admire the interweaving of art and woodland, simply drive to the car park that overlooks the entrance reserved for people with motor disabilities. From there, the adventure begins, whether you travel independently or not, alone or accompanied.
Hearing and "feeling" the installations
Bosco Arte Stenico is also designed to accommodate blind and visually impaired people who, accompanied by guides, can touch the installations to recognise form and texture.
In these situations, the presence of a guide is obligatory both to move around safely and to listen to the history and characteristics of the works.
The maps you encounter along the way are carved in wood. They do not have Braille inscriptions, but can be touched and give tactile information on how the route unfolds.
It is not essential to see the works to know them. Here, art has found other ways to reach everyone.
How to access Bosco Arte Stenico
You can visit the path independently, but it is compulsory to book.
Up to five people, the trail is free with an offer: above five people, however, there is an obligation to take a guided tour.
Where borders thin out
In Trentino, art and nature intertwine.
Bosco Arte Stenico is an example of land art in which there is no real separation between the works and the landscape: along a path of about 2 kilometres through pines, larches and beeches, you can admire over a hundred art installations.
Statues and installations sprout from the grass, embrace trunks, cling to branches. They dialogue with the elements of the forest and, at the same time, with you who walk through it.
The works themselves arise from nature, like an extension of it.
The wood they are made of comes from cleaning larch, lime, pine, oak and spruce trees. It is all recycled material: each artist chooses only what the forest no longer needs, respecting its space and balance.
It is as if the forest itself decides which branches and roots to grant to art.
The life of the works also adapts to natural rhythms. The installations and statues are not maintained. They are born in the forest and in the forest they die. They absorb rain, snow, they experience the passing of the seasons like trees, like birds' nests.
In this path, there is no separation between what art constructs and what forms spontaneously in nature. The sun filtering through the leaves seems to change the shape of the works minute by minute, the trickling of the fountain gives rhythm to the path.
Respect for nature, respect for people
Bosco Arte Stenico is a place where everything lives in a delicate balance with the elements around it. Like every work of art and nature, it requires care and great attention. It is a place that welcomes everyone, a sensitive place where the story that art and the forest tell is made of wood and the scent of resin. |
Cove light ceilings are a unique and beautiful way to add a special touch to any room. They are a type of indirect lighting that is installed along the intersection of wall and ceiling, creating a soft, ambient glow throughout the entire space. Cove light ceilings can be used to highlight architectural features, draw attention to artwork, or just add a bit of extra warmth to the atmosphere. If you're considering adding a cove light ceiling to your home or office, here's what you need to know.
What is a Cove Light Ceiling?
A cove light ceiling is a type of indirect lighting that is usually installed along the intersection of the wall and the ceiling. It can also be used to enhance the look of a room and to create a soft, ambient glow. Cove light ceilings are composed of individual fixtures that are placed along the wall-ceiling joint, and they may be installed either flush with the ceiling or slightly lower, depending on the desired look.
Advantages of Cove Light Ceilings
Cove light ceilings offer several advantages over other types of lighting. They are versatile and can be used to create a variety of different looks, from subtle and ambient to bold and eye-catching. They can also be used to highlight architectural features or artwork, and they create a soft, warm light that can make any room feel more inviting. Additionally, cove light ceilings are relatively low-maintenance and do not require a lot of upkeep or replacement.
Types of Cove Light Ceilings
Cove light ceilings come in a variety of different styles, materials, and finishes. LED cove lights are a popular option, as they produce a bright and efficient light. They are also available in a range of different colors, including white, red, blue, and green. Cove lights may also be made of stainless steel, brass, or copper, depending on the desired look. Additionally, cove lights can be flush-mounted or recessed into the ceiling for a more subtle look.
Installing a Cove Light Ceiling
Installing a cove light ceiling can be a relatively straightforward process, though it is always a good idea to consult a professional electrician if you are unsure about any part of the process. The first step is to measure the area and determine the size and shape of the cove light ceiling. Next, the fixtures should be placed along the wall-ceiling joint and wired up to the power source. Finally, the fixtures should be tested for safety and operation.
Cove light ceilings are a great way to add a unique and beautiful touch to any room. They offer a variety of different looks and can be used to highlight architectural features or artwork, as well as create a warm, inviting atmosphere. With a wide range of styles, materials, and finishes available, there is sure to be a cove light ceiling to suit any space. Additionally, installing a cove light ceiling is relatively straightforward and does not require extensive maintenance. |
I suggest to the people I see in my practice that they go at least a couple of days a week without alcohol, or that they take a break from alcohol for periods of time, as a reality check to make sure they are not becoming dependent on it. You need to be cautious not
You may again seek out the people and situations that support your alcohol use. Some people who move from a controlled and protective setting find themselves awash in the environmental cues that lead to their drinking. Medical detoxification helps to manage the physical symptoms of alcohol and drug withdrawal safely. While emotionally sober people may
"There are a lot of reasons for this," explains HEAL-funded clinical psychologist Aaron Hogue, Ph.D., of the New York City-based Partnership to End Addiction. As part of the Consortium on Addiction Recovery Science, two HEAL-funded research teams are laying the groundwork for current and future science-based community https://www.smileyguydesigns.com/2011/12/index.html participation in recovery research. We do not
Even among those who do perceive a need for treatment, less than half (40%) make any effort to get it (SAMHSA, 2019a). Although reducing practical barriers to treatment is essential, evidence suggests that these barriers do not fully account for low rates of treatment utilization. Instead, the literature indicates that most people with SUD do |
From Hobby to Hustle: How to Turn Your Passion into a Profitable Business
Many people have a passion or hobby that brings them joy and fulfillment. Whether it's painting, gardening, or baking, these activities offer a sense of escape from the pressures of everyday life. But what if you could turn your hobby into a profitable business? This article will guide you through the steps to transform your passion into a successful venture.
Finding Your Passion
H2: Identifying your true passion
Before you can turn your hobby into a business, it's crucial to identify your true passion. Ask yourself what activity ignites a fire within you and keeps you motivated. Reflect on your interests, skills, and talents, and choose a niche that aligns with your passions.
H2: Validating your hobby as a business idea
Once you've identified your passion, it's important to validate it as a viable business idea. Research the market, analyze competitors, and assess the demand for your product or service. Conduct surveys, collect feedback, and test the waters to ensure there is a market for your hobby-turned-business.
Creating a Business Plan
H2: Defining your target audience
To run a successful business, you need to know who your target audience is. Determine the demographics, interests, and needs of your potential customers. This knowledge will help you tailor your products or services to meet their specific requirements.
H2: Crafting a unique value proposition
Differentiate yourself from the competition by creating a unique value proposition. Identify what sets your business apart and how your products or services solve the problems or fulfill the desires of your target audience. Highlight these unique selling points in your marketing efforts.
Building an Online Presence
H2: Creating a professional website
In today's digital age, having a professional website is essential for any business. Invest in a visually appealing and user-friendly website that showcases your products or services. Optimize it for search engines, ensuring it ranks high in relevant searches and attracts organic traffic.
H2: Leveraging social media platforms
Social media platforms provide a powerful tool for promoting your business and engaging with potential customers. Define which platforms your target audience frequents and create compelling content to build a loyal following. Interact with your audience, respond to feedback, and use social media analytics to refine your marketing strategy.
Establishing Your Brand
H2: Developing a brand identity
Creating a strong brand identity is crucial for business success. Define your brand's mission, values, and personality. Design a memorable logo, choose consistent brand colors and fonts, and develop a compelling brand story. Ensure that every touchpoint reflects your brand's identity and resonates with your target audience.
H2: Cultivating a loyal customer base
Customer loyalty is the backbone of a profitable business. Offer exceptional customer service, provide incentives for repeat purchases, and implement a robust loyalty program. Engage with your customers through personalized communication and address any concerns promptly. A loyal customer base will lead to positive word-of-mouth and sustainable growth.
Monetizing Your Hobby
H2: Pricing your products or services
Determining the right pricing strategy is essential for a profitable business. Consider factors such as production costs, market demand, and your target audience's willingness to pay. Conduct market research to analyze your competitors' pricing and find the sweet spot that maximizes revenue without discouraging potential customers.
H2: Diversifying your income streams
Explore opportunities to diversify your income streams to ensure financial stability. Offer additional products or services that complement your main offerings. Consider creating digital products, offering workshops or courses, or providing consulting services related to your passion. Diversification allows you to tap into different revenue streams and reach a wider customer base.
Turning your passion into a profitable business requires careful planning, dedication, and a solid strategy. By identifying your true passion, creating a business plan, establishing an online presence, building your brand, and monetizing your hobby wisely, you can make the leap from hobbyist to successful entrepreneur. Embrace the challenges and enjoy the journey of turning your passion into a sustainable and fulfilling business.
H2: 1. How long does it take to turn a hobby into a profitable business?
The timeline for turning a hobby into a profitable business varies depending on various factors such as market demand, competition, and personal dedication. It could take several months to years to establish a successful and profitable venture.
H2: 2. Do I need formal business education to start?
While formal business education can be beneficial, it is not a prerequisite for starting a business. With self-education, research, and learning from real-life experiences, you can develop the necessary skills to run a successful business.
H2: 3. How do I manage the transition from hobby to business?
The transition from hobby to business requires careful planning and organization. Start by setting clear goals, creating a business plan, and gradually allocating more time and resources to your hobby-turned-business. Seek mentorship or guidance from experienced entrepreneurs to navigate the transition successfully.
H2: 4. Is it possible to maintain the joy and passion when it becomes a business?
While running a business can be challenging, it is possible to maintain the joy and passion that initially sparked your hobby. Stay connected to the reasons why you started and find ways to keep your passion alive, whether through continuous learning, networking with like-minded individuals, or regularly taking time off to enjoy your hobby.
H2: 5. How can I finance my hobby-turned-business?
There are various funding options available to finance your hobby-turned-business. You can self-fund using your personal savings, secure a business loan from banks or financial institutions, seek investments from family and friends, or explore crowdfunding platforms.
H2: 6. How do I market my hobby-turned-business?
Marketing is key to the success of any business. Utilize social media platforms, create engaging content, collaborate with influencers, and optimize your website for search engines. Leverage email marketing, attend relevant events, and explore partnerships to expand your reach and attract customers.
H2: 7. What if my hobby is already a saturated market?
If your hobby is in a saturated market, it's important to find a unique angle or niche that sets you apart. Identify gaps or unmet needs within the market and tailor your products or services to meet those demands. Focus on developing a strong brand and offering exceptional customer service to differentiate yourself from the competition.
- Entrepreneur: How to Turn Your Hobby Into a Successful Business
- Forbes: How to Turn Your Hobby Into a Business
- Business News Daily: How to Turn Your Hobby Into a Business
Closing Thoughts
Transforming your passion into a profitable business is a fulfilling journey that requires dedication, creativity, and perseverance. Embrace the challenges, continually learn and adapt, and never lose sight of the joy that your hobby brings. With the right strategy and mindset, you can turn your passion into a thriving business and create a life you love. |
Replacing a timing belt is a crucial task in maintaining your vehicle's engine. Follow these nine essential tips for a successful DIY timing belt replacement.
A worn-out timing belt can cause significant damage to your engine, so it's important to replace it before it fails. By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and efficient timing belt replacement. Whether you're a seasoned DIY mechanic or a first-timer, these guidelines will help you tackle the job with confidence.
Keep reading to learn the key steps and precautions to take when replacing your timing belt.
1. Preparing For The Timing Belt Replacement
Before diving into the DIY timing belt replacement, it's crucial to properly prepare. This phase sets the stage for a smooth and successful project.
Gathering The Necessary Tools And Parts
Begin by gathering all the necessary tools and parts for the timing belt replacement to ensure you have everything at hand. This includes a new timing belt, tensioner, idler pulley, water pump, gaskets, and any other components specific to your vehicle's make and model.
Clearing The Workspace
Next, it's essential to clear your workspace of any clutter and ensure you have ample room to work efficiently. This involves removing any obstructions and organizing the area to have easy access to the engine bay.
2. Understanding The Timing Belt System
2. Understanding the Timing Belt System
A crucial part of a DIY timing belt replacement is understanding the timing belt system. This system is responsible for synchronizing the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring the proper timing of the engine's valves. Without this synchronization, the engine can suffer significant damage.
2.1 What Is A Timing Belt And Why Is It Important?
A timing belt is a crucial component in an internal combustion engine that connects the crankshaft to the camshaft, ensuring that the valves open and close at the right times. It plays a vital role in the engine's functionality, and a properly functioning timing belt is essential for the smooth operation of the engine.
2.2 Signs Of A Failing Timing Belt
Recognizing the signs of a failing timing belt is essential for preemptive action. Some common signs include noticeable engine misfires, the engine not turning over, or a ticking noise coming from the engine. Ignoring these signs can lead to severe engine damage, so it's important to address them promptly.
3. Safety Precautions
When it comes to replacing the timing belt in your car, safety should always be your top priority. By taking the necessary safety precautions, you can ensure that the entire process goes smoothly and without any accidents. Here are some essential safety measures to keep in mind:
3.1 Wear Protective Gear
Before you begin working on your car's timing belt, make sure to wear the necessary protective gear to keep yourself safe from any potential harm. This includes:
- Protective gloves to shield your hands from sharp edges or chemicals.
- Safety goggles to protect your eyes from debris or any flying particles.
- A dust mask to prevent you from inhaling any harmful particles or fumes.
3.2 Disconnect The Battery
Prior to starting the timing belt replacement process, it is crucial to disconnect the battery. This will prevent any accidental electrical shorts, which can be dangerous and cause further damage to your vehicle. Simply locate the battery in your car and disconnect the negative terminal using a wrench or socket set.
3.3 Release The Tensioner
Releasing the tensioner is a critical step in replacing the timing belt. To do this safely, follow the steps below:
- Using a wrench or socket, locate the tensioner pulley and insert the appropriate tool.
- Apply pressure in the opposite direction of the belt tension, allowing it to detension.
- Carefully release the tensioner while keeping firm control over the tool.
- Once the tensioner is fully released, secure it in the retracted position using a suitable tool or locking mechanism.
By strictly adhering to these safety precautions, you can minimize any potential risks and perform your DIY timing belt replacement job with confidence. Remember, safety always comes first!
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4. Removing The Old Timing Belt
Before proceeding, it's crucial to carefully remove the old timing belt. This process requires precision and attention to detail to prevent damage to the engine.
4.1 Locate Timing Belt Components
Identify the key parts of the engine to access the timing belt. This includes components such as the crankshaft and camshaft pulleys.
4.2 Loosen And Remove The Components
- Begin by loosening the tensioner pulley to release the tension on the belt.
- Remove any necessary accessories that obstruct the belt removal process.
- Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for removing specific components.
4.3 Take Note Of Belt Routing
- Document the belt's routing by either drawing a diagram or taking clear photographs.
- Ensure each component is correctly aligned as per the routing diagram.
- Pay attention to the alignment marks to avoid mistakes during the replacement.
5. Installing The New Timing Belt
5. Installing the New Timing Belt
When it's time to install the new timing belt yourself, following the correct steps is crucial for the engine's proper functioning.
5.1 Align The Timing Marks
Before moving forward, ensure the timing marks on the camshaft and crankshaft are correctly aligned.
5.2 Install The New Timing Belt
Carefully place the new timing belt around the pulleys and gears according to manufacturer specifications.
5.3 Adjust The Tensioner
Correctly adjust the tensioner to ensure the right amount of tension on the timing belt.
6. Double Checking And Testing
Now that you have successfully replaced the timing belt, it is crucial to double-check and test everything to ensure that the job has been done correctly. Skipping this step can lead to potential engine damage and costly repairs down the line. Here are three essential steps to follow in the double-checking and testing process.
6.1 Verify Alignment Of Marks
Start by verifying the alignment of the timing marks. These marks indicate the correct positioning of the crankshaft and camshaft. Incorrect alignment can cause serious engine problems, so it's important to ensure everything is in the right place. Here's how you can do it:
- Refer to your vehicle's manual or service guide to locate the timing marks.
- Using a flashlight or a bright light source, inspect the marks for proper alignment.
- If any marks appear misaligned or off, it may indicate an error in the installation process.
- Double-check the placement of the belt and align the marks accordingly, making sure not to force anything.
6.2 Reassemble Components
Once the timing marks are properly aligned, it's time to reassemble the components you removed during the replacement process. This includes reconnecting any disconnected wires, hoses, or sensors. Follow these steps:
- Refer to the pictures or notes you took during the disassembly stage to ensure everything is put back in the correct order.
- Tighten all bolts and screws securely but avoid overtightening, as it can damage the parts.
- Inspect visually if there are any loose or forgotten components and reattach them.
6.3 Start The Engine And Check For Proper Operation
Once you've reassembled all the components, it's time to start the engine and check for proper operation. Here's how you can do it:
- Turn the key in the ignition and start the engine.
- Listen for any abnormal noises or vibrations that could indicate a problem.
- Observe the engine's behavior, such as idling smoothly and responding well to throttle input.
- Monitor for any warning lights on the dashboard that could suggest an issue.
- If everything appears to be working as it should, congratulations on a successful timing belt replacement!
By following these double-checking and testing steps, you can ensure that your DIY timing belt replacement has been completed accurately, giving you peace of mind and keeping your engine running smoothly.
7. Tips And Troubleshooting
When it comes to DIY timing belt replacement, it's crucial to be well-prepared. Tips and Troubleshooting play a vital role in the successful completion of this task. Here are some essential tips and troubleshooting techniques to ensure a smooth timing belt replacement process.
7.1 Use A Torque Wrench
Using a torque wrench is vital during timing belt replacement to ensure that bolts are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications. This prevents over-tightening, which can lead to damage, or under-tightening, which can cause components to loosen and lead to failures.
7.2 Common Issues And Troubleshooting
Common issues that may arise during timing belt replacement include misalignment, tensioner problems, or water pump issues. If you encounter any of these problems, it's important to troubleshoot them immediately to avoid potential damage to the engine. Make sure to consult the vehicle's manual or seek professional advice if you encounter any difficulties.
7.3 Proper Maintenance After Replacement
Once the timing belt replacement is complete, it's essential to perform proper maintenance. Check for proper tension, alignment, and any signs of leaks. It's also important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule to ensure the longevity of the new timing belt and associated components.
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8. Final Thoughts
DIY timing belt replacement can be a rewarding and cost-effective endeavor. However, it's essential to approach this task with caution and precision. Prioritize safety at all times and be prepared to invest the necessary time and effort. Here are some key factors to consider as you embark on your timing belt replacement journey.
8.1 Importance Of Diy Timing Belt Replacement
Undertaking a DIY timing belt replacement provides a great opportunity to enhance your mechanical skills and gain a deeper understanding of your vehicle's engine system. It also allows for the use of high-quality parts, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
8.2 Taking It To A Professional
While DIY replacement has its advantages, entrusting this task to a professional mechanic guarantees precision and expertise. Choosing a reputable professional ensures that the job is carried out accurately, reducing the risk of potential malfunctions and damages.
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Frequently Asked Questions Of 9 Essential Tips For Diy Timing Belt Replacement
What Are The Tips For Timing Belt?
To maintain your timing belt, follow these tips: 1. Get it inspected regularly and replace it as recommended by the manufacturer. 2. Keep an eye out for signs of wear or damage, such as cracking or fraying. 3. Avoid excessive strain on the belt by preventing abrupt acceleration or sudden braking.
4. Change the water pump when replacing the timing belt to avoid future damage. 5. Consult your vehicle's manual for specific instructions and intervals.
What Else Should You Do When Replacing Timing Belt?
Inspect and replace the water pump, tensioner, and pulleys. Check for oil leaks and repair them. Ensure proper alignment.
Is It Easy To Replace A Timing Belt Yourself?
Replacing a timing belt yourself requires advanced mechanical skills and specialized tools. Seek professional help for safety and accuracy.
What Are The Steps To Replacing A Timing Belt?
To replace a timing belt, follow these steps: 1. Consult your vehicle's manual for specific instructions and parts needed. 2. Disconnect the negative battery cable. 3. Remove any necessary components blocking access to the timing belt. 4. Loosen the tensioner and remove the old belt.
5. Install the new timing belt, ensuring proper alignment and tension.
Replacing a timing belt may seem daunting, but with the right tips and proper knowledge, it can be a successful DIY project. By following these essential tips, you can ensure a smooth and efficient timing belt replacement process. Remember to thoroughly research your specific car model, use the right tools, and pay attention to all the necessary steps.
With patience, caution, and these expert guidelines, you'll be able to successfully replace your timing belt and safeguard the longevity of your engine. |
Determinants of Investment Attractiveness of Polish Special Economic Zones
Objective: The objective of this article is to explain why some Special Economic Zones in Poland have attracted more foreign and domestic investment than others.
Research Design & Methods: Referring to the OLI paradigm, we identified 25 variables which might impact the stock of investment in each individual SEZ. They were divided into three groups: zone's investment climate, investors' opinions and region-level factors. We used correlation and regression analyses to check dependencies.
Findings: The investment climate mattered most. Regional level characteristics were the least important. Foreign investors were more concerned than domestic ones about the location factors we considered. There is clearly a closer correlation between SEZ reputation and the number rather than the value of investment projects. It may mean that small investors pay more attention to the opinions which circulate in business circles and that big companies probably rely on their own evaluation of a SEZ's investment climate.
Implications & Recommendations: Special Economic Zones in less developed parts of Poland can successfully compete for capital if they are well managed. Tax reliefs are secondary for choosing a particular zone. Supply factors count much more. The most important factors for attracting FDI were: outlays on the provision and moderni-sation of zone infrastructure, the number of towns and cities, overall investment attractiveness of voivodeships, as well as labour resources and costs.
Contribution & Value Added: Location advantages and their significance for domestic and foreign investors were rarely examined at the SEZ level.
special economic zones, foreign and domestic investors, location premises, investment attractiveness, investment policy tools, state aid
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Ship management refers to the comprehensive administration and operation of a ship on behalf of its owner. It is an essential aspect of the shipping industry across the globe and it involves a range of activities and responsibilities aimed at ensuring the smooth and efficient functioning of a vessel throughout its lifecycle. Ship management companies, also known as ship managers, are hired by ship owners to oversee the various aspects of ship operation.
Technical management involves the maintenance, repair, and overall upkeep of the ship, including its machinery, equipment, and hull. This includes managing inspections, dry-docking, crewing, and ensuring compliance with international maritime regulations and safety standards. Technical managers are responsible for ensuring that the ship remains seaworthy and operates efficiently.
Commercial management focuses on the business aspects of ship operation. This includes chartering, marketing, and negotiating contracts for the vessel's use. The ship manager may be responsible for securing cargo for the ship, arranging for the vessel's employment, and managing financial matters such as budgeting, accounting, and cost control.
Ship managers also handle crew management, including recruitment, training, and crew welfare. They ensure that the ship is properly manned by qualified seafarers who are knowledgeable about safety procedures and proficient in their respective roles.
The ship management company manages ships for the owner and pays him the yearly amount, which is settled between the owner and the ship management company.
Moreover, the ship's owner signs a contract and leases the ship to the ship management company for a defined duration. The ship owner may continue with the same company or approach another if he is not satisfied with the performance of that company. The owner can ultimately lease the ship, or he can render some of the services such companies provide.
Hiring a ship management company can be advantageous for shipowners without prior experience in the field or those who might not have the time and capacity to undertake the task. It saves time and resources for the owner while also earning significant profits.
Ship Management Companies
Some of the biggest ship-management companies include the V-Group, Schulte Group, OSM group and Thome Group. These companies manage various assets, including tankers, gas carriers, passenger vessels, cargo ships, cruise vessels etc. Through efficient crew recruitment, they have built a substantial onshore team with relevant experience in providing technical services to meet the ship's or fleet's specific needs.
Their success is attributed to transparency, service quality provided to the clients, catering to their high standards and individual preferences.
The services offered can be divided into three categories- technical management, commercial management and crewing management. Many shipowners often outsource such services from companies based in Singapore, Connecticut, Rotterdam etc.
Managing ships is not an easy task because it includes several functions to be carried out before, during and after the vessel's operation. The first and foremost thing is to get the ship approved. Many approvals need to be taken from different classification societies. However, the company can operate various types of vessels or concentrate on any one type. E.g. MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Corporation) deals with only container vessels, whereas companies like V ships and Anglo-Eastern manage all types of ships.
Suppose a management company wants to enter a new field by operating different vessels but is operating the vessel type for the first time. In that case, approval for operation is given for six months, and their performance is evaluated, which decides any further approval.
Services Provided
Following are the services that a ship management company is entitled to provide:
1. The company should supervise the maintenance of machinery onboard the ship. The process should also include different surveys and repair works. It should arrange and manage dry dockings and overlook the whole process. It has to arrange for sampling and testing of bunkers.
2. It should ensure that the ship complies with Flag State's requirements and the classification society's recommendations.
3. It should also comply with the ISM and ISPS Code.
4. The company should provide a good crew for manning the ship. It also undertakes crew training, career development, and everything related to its payrolls, insurance and other employee benefits.
5. It should arrange for the loading and unloading of the cargo.
6. It can hire the ship on behalf of the ship owner.
7. The company should negotiate the contracts for bunker and lube oil.
8. The company pays the expenses on behalf of the owner.
9. It should arrange the ship's entry into the P&I (Protection and Indemnity) association.
10. The company also deals with various claims related to insurance, salvage etc.
11. The ship management company should arrange for the insurance concerning the ship.
12. The ship management company's services include arrangements for providing victualling and stores for the crew.
Overall, ship management aims to optimize the ship's performance, minimize downtime, ensure regulatory compliance, and maximize profitability for the ship owner. It involves a wide range of tasks and requires expertise in various disciplines, including technical operations, maritime law, finance, and personnel management.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What do you mean by ship management?
It includes the registration and management of ships or fleets owned by a company or an independent owner.
2. What is the responsibility of management companies?
Management firms have to oversee the ship repair, its maintenance, organize surveys, hire vessel crew and so on.
3. What is the role of shipping managers?
Shipping managers are responsible for overseeing packaging, verifying the contents of the cargo, ordering supplies and leading and managing the crew members.
4. How are ships managed?
All aspects of ships are managed by an independent company on behalf of the shipowner.
5. Which shipping company owns the largest fleet of ships?
A.P Moller Maersk operates a total of 708 vessels, making it the largest integrated shipping company in the world. |
Fifty years ago today — December 4, 1959 — the "Little Joe-2" rocket launched from Wallops Flight Facility, Virginia, with a very special passenger: the rhesus monkey "Sam."
(Rhesus monkey "Sam" in fiberglass protective shell. NASA image from Wikimedia Commons.)
Sam reached an altitude of over 50 miles and traveled nearly 200 miles downrange before landing in the Atlantic Ocean. The US Navy recovered Sam and the boilerplate Mercury capsule; here's a link to a post-flight photo of Sam.
Lucky space monkey . . . . |
In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, the concept of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) has emerged as a crucial framework for evaluating the sustainability and societal impact of companies. ESG considerations go beyond traditional financial metrics to encompass a broader spectrum of factors that influence corporate behavior and performance.
Environmental Factors
Environmental sustainability is a key component of ESG, focusing on the impact of business activities on the natural world. Companies are increasingly under pressure to minimize their carbon footprint, reduce waste generation, and adopt renewable energy sources. Sustainability initiatives such as carbon offset programs, waste reduction strategies, and eco-friendly product designs are becoming standard practices for businesses committed to ESG principles.
Social Factors
Social responsibility within the ESG framework encompasses various aspects of how companies interact with stakeholders, including employees, customers, and the communities in which they operate. Prioritizing employee welfare, fostering diversity and inclusion, and promoting ethical labor practices are essential components of a socially responsible business. Moreover, active engagement in community development projects and philanthropic initiatives demonstrates a company's commitment to social well-being beyond profit generation.
Governance Factors
Corporate governance refers to the systems and processes by which companies are directed and controlled. Strong governance practices ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making within an organization. Effective governance structures, including independent board oversight, robust internal controls, and clear lines of communication, are fundamental to building trust among investors and stakeholders.
ESG Integration in Investment Decisions
As awareness of ESG issues grows, investors are increasingly considering these factors in their investment decisions. ESG integration involves analyzing a company's performance in environmental, social, and governance areas alongside traditional financial metrics. Companies that demonstrate strong ESG performance are viewed as more sustainable and resilient, making them attractive investment opportunities for socially conscious investors.
ESG Reporting Standards
Standardized ESG reporting frameworks, such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), provide guidelines for companies to disclose their ESG performance transparently. Adopting these reporting standards not only enhances accountability but also enables investors and stakeholders to compare companies' ESG performance consistently.
Benefits of ESG Integration
Embracing ESG principles can yield numerous benefits for companies, including long-term value creation, improved risk management, and enhanced brand reputation. By addressing environmental and social challenges proactively, companies can mitigate risks associated with regulatory non-compliance, supply chain disruptions, and reputational damage, thereby safeguarding their bottom line.
Challenges of ESG Implementation
Despite the compelling benefits, implementing ESG practices poses several challenges for businesses. Balancing financial objectives with ESG priorities, collecting reliable data for performance measurement, and navigating complex regulatory landscapes are among the key hurdles that companies must overcome. Moreover, the subjective nature of ESG criteria and the lack of standardized metrics can make it challenging to assess and compare ESG performance accurately.
Examples of ESG Success Stories
Several companies have successfully integrated ESG principles into their business strategies, driving positive outcomes for both shareholders and society. From renewable energy pioneers to companies championing diversity and inclusion, these success stories demonstrate the tangible impact of ESG on corporate performance and reputation.
Future Trends in ESG
Looking ahead, the evolution of ESG criteria is expected to continue, with a greater emphasis on holistic sustainability and societal impact. As stakeholders demand greater transparency and accountability, companies will need to adapt their ESG strategies to remain competitive and resilient in an evolving marketplace.
Role of Technology in ESG
Technological innovations play a pivotal role in advancing ESG initiatives, enabling companies to monitor, measure, and report their ESG performance more effectively. From data analytics platforms to blockchain solutions, technology offers powerful tools for enhancing transparency, traceability, and stakeholder engagement in ESG efforts.
Regulatory Environment
Governments worldwide are increasingly enacting regulations aimed at promoting ESG practices and holding companies accountable for their social and environmental impacts. Compliance with ESG-related regulations is not only a legal requirement but also a strategic imperative for businesses seeking to maintain their license to operate and build trust with stakeholders.
ESG and Corporate Culture
Embedding ESG principles into corporate culture is essential for fostering a sustainable and socially responsible organization. By aligning ESG goals with core values and employee behaviors, companies can create a culture of accountability, innovation, and purpose-driven decision-making that drives long-term success.
Measuring ESG Performance
Measuring ESG performance requires a comprehensive set of key performance indicators (KPIs) tailored to the unique characteristics of each business and industry. Benchmarking against peers and industry standards enables companies to track their progress, identify areas for improvement, and demonstrate their commitment to ESG excellence to investors and stakeholders.
In conclusion, ESG has emerged as a pivotal framework for guiding corporate behavior and investment decisions in the modern era. By prioritizing environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and sound governance practices, companies can create value for shareholders while contributing positively to society and the planet. Embracing ESG is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic imperative for businesses seeking to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
- What does ESG stand for?
- ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance, representing the three key pillars of sustainable and responsible business practices.
- Why is ESG important for investors?
- ESG factors provide valuable insights into a company's long-term sustainability and resilience, helping investors assess risks and opportunities more comprehensively.
- How can companies measure their ESG performance?
- Companies can measure their ESG performance using a combination of qualitative and quantitative metrics, including key performance indicators (KPIs) related to environmental impact, social responsibility, and corporate governance.
- What are some examples of ESG initiatives?
- Examples of ESG initiatives include reducing carbon emissions, promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace, enhancing board diversity and independence, and adopting sustainable business practices throughout the supply chain.
- Is ESG integration only relevant for large corporations?
- No, ESG integration is relevant for companies of all sizes and industries. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can also benefit from embracing ESG principles to enhance their competitiveness, attract investors, and build stronger relationships with stakeholders. |
Sikhs believe in one God. He is the same for all people of all religions. Sikhism teaches equality of all people. Sikhism preaches that people of different races, religions, or sex are all equal in the eyes of God. Sikhism teaches the full equality of men and women.
Sikhism emphasizes daily devotion to the remembrance of God. One should remember God at all times.
Sikhism teaches religious freedom. All people have the right to follow their own path to God without condemnation or coercion from others.
Sikhism emphasizes a moral and ethical life. A Sikh should represent moral responsibility and righteousness.
Sikhism rejects all forms of rituals such as idol worship, pilgrimages, fasting, and superstitions.
Sikhism teaches service to others. The primary task in life should be to help the poor, needy, and oppressed. The Sikhs have a long heritage of speaking out against injustice and for standing up for the defenseless.
Sikhs are supposed to be saints, scholars, and soldiers.
The word Sikh means disciple or student. Sikhs are the disciples of God who follow the writings and teachings of the ten Sikh Gurus.
Three Principles of Sikhism
– Kirat Karo – Work hard and honestly
– Wand Ke Chhako – Share what you have with the needy
– Naam Jappo – Always remember God throughout the day
Facts about Sikhism
– Sikhism is the fifth largest religion in the world.
– It is a distinct religion with its own unique, divine scriptures and beliefs.
– The Sikh religion originated in the Punjab region of India in the 15th century by Guru Nanak Dev.
– Sikhism is a monotheistic religion.
– Sikhism advocates equality for men and women of every race and religion.
– Many Sikhs throughout history are respected for having sacrificed their own lives, so that people of other religions may have freedom to worship in the manner of their choice.
– There are over 30 million Sikhs worldwide.
– Sikhs live in just about every major country around the world.
– The vast majority of Sikhs live in the Punjab, a part of northern India.
– There are over one million Sikhs in the United States and Canada. Sikhs have lived in North America for over 100 years.
– About a half million Sikhs are estimated to live in the United Kingdom.
– The first Sikh migration to the United Kingdom was in the 1950s.
– Sikh men and women cover their heads at all times as an expression of respect to their Gurus.
– The Sikh turban symbolizes discipline, integrity, humility, and spirituality. The turban is a mandatory part of Sikh faith, not a social custom, or a hat that can be easily taken on or off.
– The universal symbol of Sikhism is the khanda, the double-edged sword flanked by two daggers (representing worldly and spiritual powers, bound by the oneness of God).
– The traditional greeting used by Sikhs is "Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh" which means "The Khalsa belongs to God, Victory belongs to God". Another traditional greeting is "Sat Sri Akal" which means "Immortal God is Truth".
Five Sikh Symbols
The Five Ks are the five items of dress and physical appearance given to Sikhs by Guru Gobind Singh when he gathered together the first members of the Khalsa on Vaisakhi day in 1699. These symbols give Sikhs a unique identity signifying discipline and spirituality. However, these items cannot be reduced to just symbols and must be worn in their full form.
– Uncut hair, which is kept covered by a turban, or dastaar.
– Kesh are a traditional symbol of holiness in India, and the turban is a symbol of leadership.
– The dastaar is worn by men and some women to cover their long hair.
– A ceremonial sword, symbolizing readiness to protect the weak, and defend against injustice and persecution.
– The kirpan is normally worn with a cloth shoulder strap called a gatra.
– The kirpan exemplifies the warrior character of a Sikh.
– A steel bracelet, symbolizing strength and integrity.
– Steel is symbolic of strength yet resilient under stress. In the same way, the human soul must become as strong and unbreakable as steel which has been tempered in the furnace.
– A small wooden comb, symbolizing cleanliness and order.
– The kangha is used to keep the hair clean and is normally tucked neatly in one's uncut hair.
– As a Sikh combs their hair daily, he or she should also comb their mind with the Guru's wisdom.
– Cotton boxer shorts, symbolizing self-control and chastity; prohibition of adultery.
The Oneness of God
Like the people of ancient times, the common people of Guru Nanak's day paid tribute to a large number of minor gods and goddesses which were then known to Hinduism. They were attached to these in superstitious bondage and fear evolved over the centuries, and which had no relation at all to religion as such. Instead of deriving comfort, therefore, such adherents suffered more from fear and worry. Superstitious ceremonies were encouraged by Brahmin priests and astrologers who made handsome profits out of the gullibility of the people. It was to exterminate these practices and to counteract these evil influences that Guru Nanak emphasized strict monotheism in his teachings. He, therefore, composed the Mool Mantra and taught it to all his followers:
There is one God
His Name is Truth
The All-pervading Creator,
Without fear, without hatred
Immortal, unborn, self-existent,
By grace, the Enlightener.
True in the beginning, true throughout the ages,
True even now, Nanak, and forever shall be true. (Japji, Mool Mantra)
His devoted follower, Lehna, who was destined to become the second Guru, took this verse seriously to heart. Lehna, on becoming Guru Angad, propagated this thesis, and said that it was intended to be learned and understood and repeated by all Sikhs in order to remind them of God's One-ness and of His other most important attributes. God is Everything to the Sikh: His attributes are endless and all goodness, mercy and love are contained in Him. He has created all things and remains enshrined within them as both mind and matter. He is immanent. He is also transcendent; for He can and does exist without creation, above and beyond everything. He is All-powerful; nothing exists or happens without His knowledge or without His permission; He sees into all things and directs even the smallest affairs of His creatures. God is the Divine Father who cares for His children, bestows upon them all the manifold blessings of this world and listens to their prayers. He knows the most secret desires of every heart and is the essence of love and forgiveness. God is directly accessible to everybody and man's soul itself is a part of the Immortal One.
The way to salvation is a twofold path: the path of love or simran, and the path of seva, or service to mankind. Love means little until it is exposed in action, so the Sikh cannot rightly remain inactive, but of necessity, he must engage himself in the affairs of the world, while also following the path of earnest meditation. He is expected to seize every opportunity of helping his fellow-beings and of serving them in any way he can, without expecting rewards. To do this, therefore, he must have no selfish desires; his mind must be free of greed and attachment to power or riches, and he must have a truly humble heart.
"The Fatherland of God and the brotherhood of man" is one of the main themes of Guru Nanak's message. All are welcomed into the fold of Sikhism without regard of caste, class, color, race, sex, or creed; all are treated on equal terms. Nobody is, therefore, favored simply because of superior birth or secular influence. One of the main complaints of the Hindus against Guru Gobind Singh, the Tenth Guru, was that by creating the Khalsa, he was destroying the caste system. It is to be remembered that since Guru Nanak's day, it had been customary for all visitors to the Guru's court to eat together at the communal free kitchen (langar) provided; and it was the Guru's rule that no one be looked down upon or refused. There is no priestly class or religious hierarchy amongst the Sikhs, and any Sikh man or woman may take part in the religious ceremonies, as well as officiate at these. These principles Guru Gobind Singh maintained.
No man can inspire to reach God if his own heart is full of pride and egotism. Man must always beware of the pitfalls of assumed or false humility. Even deliberate self-abasement can be a form of pride, since it arises out of egotism and self-esteem. True humility lies in being aware of one's own abilities and shortcomings; it lies in the knowledge that God alone is the Doer of all actions; He alone is the Giver of all gifts; it is only by His favor that we enjoy riches, honor and achievement in this world. |
This past Friday, a magnitude 4.8 earthquake struck Lebanon Township, New Jersey, sending shockwaves across the East Coast.
The earthquake itself may have found its physical center in New Jersey, but its figurative one rested somewhere else: New York City. At least, that's the way it appeared on X.
There was a point in time when many thought that with Elon Musk's purchase of X, the site would become a defunct social media site people used to get some news and hear about what was happening.
And while many still mourn what used to be, events like last week's earthquake reactions prove that while the site has changed, the core of its appeal — an easy-to-access community — still exists and is thriving.
The response to the earthquake on X — which seemed to come primarily from concerned New Yorkers — was literally automatic. The earthquake started around 10:23 a.m., and X erupted with posts within the next few minutes. Even the Empire State Building got in on the action just a minute after the initial earthquake started, posting a quick reassurance at 10:24 a.m.: "I AM FINE."
The earthquake was so short and harmless that many New Yorkers thought it was the aftershock of a train passing by — even those who don't live directly near or under any trains. And for New Jersey's citizens at the epicenter, while the shock of the earthquake was more intense, little damage was caused.
The earthquake itself might have been short and essentially harmless, but the aftershocks — the internet kind, not the physical kind — left an impression on me.
An earthquake isn't the end of the world. The one in New Jersey this past weekend was quite small scale — some West Coast earthquake veterans made sure to point that out.
Most reasonable internet users understood that the earthquake was not a complete cause for panic or a signal of the end of the world. But for the brief moment in which those fears might have arisen, it's telling that so many people quickly turned to the internet.
It makes it hard not to question the obvious — when catastrophe does strike, where will most turn first? To their neighbors, or social media?
Maybe, those two things are now one and the same. The internet is now as much of a community as our neighborhoods and schools — we have blurred the lines between them all, morphing each into one conglomerated void where we can spew our thoughts.
That's the actual beauty of social media — it is a never-ending place of opportunity to do the one thing our hearts desire: worry.
With the doom of several concerns encroaching upon our lives — climate change, inflation, a housing crisis — it feels like helplessness is unavoidable. And even though social media and the internet often contribute to some of that helplessness, moments like those that followed the earthquake remind us of its original purpose.
Even when that connection is found in fear or uncertainty, it's a connection nonetheless, the one thing we all crave in times of uncertainty.
Social media — for all its faults — provides us with a forum to expel those fears and to find community in people who deal with uncertainty like we do. It's also a glimpse into our possible future.
Because even when the end of the world does come, it seems like we'll at least have a place to joke about it. |
- coarse fragrance
- грубый запах
English-Russian perfumery & beauty care dictionary. 2014.
English-Russian perfumery & beauty care dictionary. 2014.
wine — I (New American Roget s College Thesaurus) n. the grape; drink, liquor; drinking, intoxication; stimulant, alcohol; nectar. II (Roget s IV) modif. Syn. wine colored, maroon, dark red, grape; see red . n. Varieties of wine include: fine, sparkling … English dictionary for students
Ittar — or Attar or itr is a natural perfumes extracted from the juices of flowers like the jasmine, rose or sandal, herbs, spices, barks in to base oil such as Sandalwood oil. Sandalwood oil is used as base in making Attar while western perfumes, are… … Wikipedia
List of Pokémon (141-160) — At the core of the multi billion dollarcite web|url=http://sev.prnewswire.com/entertainment/20051004/LATU06404102005 1.html|title=Pokémon Franchise Approaches 150 Million Games Sold|publisher=PR Newswire|accessdate=] Pokémon media franchise of… … Wikipedia
Rosales — ▪ plant order Introduction the rose order of dicotyledonous flowering plants, containing 9 families, 261 genera, and more than 7,700 species. Rosales, which is in the Rosid I group among the core eudicots, is related to other orders with members … Universalium
Oatmeal — For other uses, see Oatmeal (disambiguation). Rolled oats, a type of oatmeal Oatmeal is ground oat groats (i.e., oat meal, cf. cornmeal, peasemeal, etc.), or a porridge made from oats (also called oatmeal cereal or stirabout … Wikipedia
Magnoliales — ▪ plant order Introduction the magnolia order of flowering plants, consisting of 5 families, 154 genera, and about 3,000 species. Members of Magnoliales include woody shrubs, climbers, and trees. Along with the orders Laurales, Piperales, and… … Universalium
Essential oil — A glass vial containing sandalwood oil An essential oil is a concentrated hydrophobic liquid containing volatile aroma compounds from plants. Essential oils are also known as volatile oils, ethereal oils or aetherolea, or simply as the oil of the … Wikipedia
Cuisine of Malaysia — Malaysian cuisine reflects the multi racial aspects of Malaysia. Various ethnic groups in Malaysia have their dishes but many dishes in Malaysia are derived from multiple ethnic influences. Ingredientstaple foodsRice tends to be a staple food in… … Wikipedia
Pu-erh tea — Pu erh, Pu er tea, Puer tea or Bolay tea is a type of tea made from a large leaf variety of the tea plant Camellia sinensis and named after Pu er county near Simao, Yunnan, China. Pu erh tea can be purchased as either raw/green (sheng) or… … Wikipedia
Rousong — Chinese name Traditional Chinese 肉 … Wikipedia
environment — environmental, adj. environmentally, adv. /en vuy reuhn meuhnt, vuy euhrn /, n. 1. the aggregate of surrounding things, conditions, or influences; surroundings; milieu. 2. Ecol. the air, water, minerals, organisms, and all other external factors… … Universalium |
On today's latest Panel Borders, Britain's only on-air regular radio show about comics, host Alex Fitch talks to comic creators about multimedia engagement with their sequential art.
Chinese cartoonist Chihoi chats about his comic The Train, which is currently on display in the riverside window of the the Royal Festival Hall, London, and at Graphic Brighton, audio producer Lance Dann and graphic novelist Hannah Berry discuss a comic and podcast called The Rez, which is a science-fiction title about kindness aimed at a young audience.
Running until 19th June, "The Train" is a free slideshow of selected artworks from Hong Kong artist Chihoi's eponymous graphic novel published in 2014 in English by Conundrum Press, based on a story written by Taiwanese poet Hung Hung, evokes a dreamlike train journey.
The story is about a long-haul train that runs day and night around the island. It has many carriages which separate and reconnect. People lose family and loved ones during the journey, and the protagonist seems to have been continuously searching in vain for a lost loved one.
In the short sequence on display at the South Bank, a curated selection of the artwork by Chihoi is presented on a loop, reflecting the continuous nature of the train journey in the story.
The Rez is a sci-fi podcast adventure for 9–11 year-olds, also told through a comic book and a game-based website.
Set in a future where happiness is just another download, our young heroes start to wonder what's missing in their 'perfect' lives, and reach back to the children of the 2020s for help building meaningful relationships and defeating an AI that wants to keep them under its control.
Hannah Berry developed a story that is wild, silly, and exciting alongside a team of writers and psychologists, including Robin Banerjee, Professor of Kindness (yes, there is such a thing). The Rez's heroes are played by Karl Queensborough (Hamilton in the UK production of Hamilton) and Emily Burnett (last year's Children's BAFTA award winner). Juliet Aubrey (BAFTA winner for Best Actress) plays JEF the malevolent AI.
• Panel Borders: Multimedia Comics airs today, 5.30pm, Wednesday 1st June 2022, repeat broadcast 11.00am, Sunday 5th June 2022, Resonance 104.4 FM + DAB (London) / broadcast streamed at www.resonancefm.com / Resonance Replay stream on mixcloud.com / podcast after broadcast at www.panelborders.wordpress.com
The founder of downthetubes, which he established in 1998. John works as a comics and magazine editor, writer, and on promotional work for the Lakes International Comic Art Festival. He is currently editor of Star Trek Explorer, published by Titan – his third tour of duty on the title originally titled Star Trek Magazine.
Working in British comics publishing since the 1980s, his credits include editor of titles such as Doctor Who Magazine, Babylon 5 Magazine, and more. He also edited the comics anthology STRIP Magazine and edited several audio comics for ROK Comics. He has also edited several comic collections, including volumes of "Charley's War" and "Dan Dare".
He's the writer of "Pilgrim: Secrets and Lies" for B7 Comics; "Crucible", a creator-owned project with 2000AD artist Smuzz; and "Death Duty" and "Skow Dogs" with Dave Hailwood.
Categories: Audio, Comics, Creating Comics, Digital Media, downthetubes Comics News, downthetubes News, Other Worlds |
MIAMI BEACH — Music mogul Emilio Estefan could easily spend his days collecting lifetime achievement awards and tallying royalty earnings from movies and albums. As an alternative, Estefan has joined an ambitious and quintessential American cause: constructing a monument on The Mall in Washington, D.C.
Estefan is a trustee of the proposed $1 billion Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino. He is an element of an 18-member, star-studded board that features political and business leaders, in addition to actresses Eva Longoria and Sofia Vergara. Their task is to boost $500 million from private donors that may then be matched by Congress.
"That is the largest tribute to the American Dream, to showcase that we live in an incredible country," Estefan said during an interview last month on the L'ATTITUDES Latino conference, where the museum enterprise was featured on the agenda. "I'm so pleased with the Latinos, the immigrants, and the following generations. They will and have achieved so many beautiful things."
The Smithsonian ode to Latinos and their immigrant experience in America requires substantial money from Capitol Hill at a crossroads juncture in U.S. politics. The leading Republican candidate, former President Donald Trump, has ratcheted up his rhetoric demanding stricter immigration enforcement by labeling people crossing the U.S. Southern border as "terrorists" coming from prisons and insane asylums and bringing untold diseases with them. He also employed phrasing that critics claim parallels Nazi wording by saying, "It's poisoning the blood of our country."
That may be a sharp contrast from the previous standard bearer for GOP politics, Ronald Reagan, who signed amnesty laws. In his last remarks as president in January 1989, Reagan lauded immigration because the source of "American uniqueness," noting the country draws "immigrants from every corner of the world." Those "waves of recent arrivals," he said, enriched the country, kept it "without end young" with "latest ideas."
Estefan believes the museum is essential to acknowledge not only the "talent" that U.S. Latino stars have demonstrated, but the general success of the varied Hispanic communities in America. Despite "a variety of ups and downs" faced by generations of immigrants from this hemisphere, he said, they and their descendants have endured, overcome, and succeeded.
So, the triumphs value telling go far beyond the stories of those that have risen to executive corner offices or develop into cultural icons or sports heroes, Estefan emphasized. In addition they include the achievements of an enormous variety of Latinos who're a part of the day-to-day lifeblood of America – running businesses, raising families, and leaving their legacies of civic contributions.
"There's nothing higher than to inform their history," he said. "These stories should be told. And I feel persons are going to be blown away by them."
The present plans for the National Museum of the American Latino envision a 350,000 square-foot facility with 125,000 square feet of gallery space – barely greater than the 105,000 square feet within the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Congress approved laws to push the project ahead in December 2020, tasking the board with the fundraising goal and giving them the green light to scout sites on The Mall.
It also created the position of founding director to spearhead the enterprise. The post was filled in February 2022 by Jorge Zamanillo, an archaeologist by training and former executive director and CEO of HistoryMiami Museum.
Zamanillo, who was born in Latest York but grew up in Miami, said the goal is to bring the project to completion within the early 2030s.
"It represents who we're and all the things it means to be a Latino in the USA," Zamanillo said. "For the primary time, we can have physical space on the National Mall, and that is really vital for us."
The to-do list immediately is lengthy, because the project has to rent architects, designers, consultants, and curators, he said.
Crucial work, he added, is to gather artifacts in the sphere in addition to oral histories to inform the Latino story of the past and present in a wide range of areas, from the military to history to culture to art.
"We wish to speak about struggles and resiliency and the way we came in 500 years of history on this nation," said Zamanillo, who's of Spanish and Cuban ancestry. "But we also need to tell stories about our achievements and our legacies and where we're today and the way we came."
Zamanillo echoed Estefan's call to inform the story of people who the final U.S. population doesn't all the time hear about. To that end, Zamanillo told an anecdote from his days at HistoryMiami, which he joined in 2000.
Zamanillo got here across a wallet with a person's identification card and a photograph of a young girl. The items had been retrieved from an unoccupied Cuban refugee raft that had washed up on U.S. shores greater than a decade before. Intrigued, Zamanillo probed and located the wallet's erstwhile owner, who was living in Miami.
The Cuban refugee told Zamanillo how he had painstakingly built the raft while working at an auto body shop within the vicinity of Havana, discreetly taking home every day a component needed for the craft's assembly.
Once finished, the person and a few others got down to sea, only to have the makeshift vessel's engine fail.
Eventually, the group was rescued by a Scandinavian freighter and delivered to the USA. The wallet had been left behind on the raft, tucked in a corner, from where it was found and stored on the Miami museum. In a short while, Zamanillo came upon, the person had not only began his own automotive business in Miami but had been joined by his family, including his daughter, the young girl within the photo.
"That is only one easy story about how one little wallet can really make such a robust connection and tell such a robust story about what we try to do," Zamanillo said. "We try to inform these powerful stories about being an American Latino, being in the USA, sharing experiences, things that bring us together and things that unite us."
The Estefans told their very own success story, which required enduring hardship but a commitment to "stay true to who you might be," Gloria said.
The singer and actress recalled the early days of her group, the Miami Sound Machine, and the struggles they encountered as radio stations would not play their songs and producers sought to change their beat.
"They tried to water us down one million times," she said. "They thought if we watered down who we were, then we might appeal to more people, when it was the alternative. We stood out because people were hearing something fresh. We were giving people something that they hadn't heard before."
Emilio Estefan told an analogous anecdote that took place even after he, Gloria, and the group were megastars – the dismissive attitude within the music industry when he first pitched a network about airing an awards show solely within the Latin genre.
"They told me that may never occur," Estefan recalls when he tried to elucidate why an awards show that distinguished excellence in salsa, merengue, and other Latin musical genres could be a success.
Estefan said the network would only carry the show if he and others financed it. They got here up with the cash, and the Latin Grammys were born.
"Now, today, you have got double the rankings for the Latin Grammys," he said, noting that Latin music sales will top $2 billion this 12 months.
But more vital than all of this, he said, is the hug he got from a grandson.
Yes, Estefan said his clothes, glasses, and musical instruments are on the Smithsonian museum. That recognition helps balm difficult memories of "very hard times" he and Gloria endured of their music profession, including not having money for Christmas gifts for his or her children.
"But when my grandson told me he was pleased with me, that was a fantastic thing, a fantastic moment," he said. "You're employed your whole life and you must leave a legacy to your kids. That is a typical story. That is what unites us. That is why those stories must be told. They encourage people." |
Flow and Solute Transport in Unsaturated Porous Media with Variable Water Content
Dongxiao Zhang, Los Alamos National Laboratory
Thomas Harter, University of California, Davis
Mathematical models of flow and contaminant transport in highly heterogeneous (variable) sediments, while mathematically complicated, are greatly simplifying nature's complexities. Yet they are extremely powerful:
- These mathematical models provide a tool to predict the certainty or uncertainty of predictions in future groundwater flows and future groundwater contamination. Because we can never know the exact geologic properties of an aquifer at each and all locations, predictions of groundwater flow and contaminant transport are necessarily associated with uncertainty. By mathematically or statistically describing the character or type of heterogeneity in aquifers or soils, we can say something about the degree of certainty with which we can make predictions.
This particular project specifically investigates water flow and contaminant transport from the land surface to the water table, where pores are only partly filled with water. (Hence the name 'unsaturated' flow and transport). Depending on whether sediments are tight or fairly coarse, water content in these pores can change quickly. Unlike previous models, the mathematical model that we developed takes into account that water content can be highly variable. In our research paper, we describe the mathematical model and demonstrate how important it is to include a measure for variable water content, particularly when evaluating water flow and contaminant transport in relatively dry soils (where flow and transport happens only over long periods of time, that is, months or years).
Harter, T., and D. Zhang, Water flow and solute spreading in heterogeneous soils with spatially variable water content, Water Resour. Res., 35(2), 415-426, 1999.
Harter, T., T.C.J. Yeh, Flow in unsaturated random porous media, nonlinear numerical analysis, and comparison to analytic stochastic models, Adv. in Water Resour., 22(3), 257-272, 1998.
Harter, T., T.C.J. Yeh, 1996, Stochastic analysis of solute transport in heterogeneous, variably saturated
porous media, Water Resour. Res.,20, 1585-1595
Harter, T., T.C.J. Yeh, 1996, Conditional stochastic analysis of solute transport in heterogeneous,
variably saturated soils, Water Resour. Res., 20, 1597 - 1609.
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The spread of multidrug resistant organisms (MDRO) is a global healthcare challenge. Nosocomial outbreaks caused by MDRO are an important contributor to this threat. Computer-based applications facilitating outbreak detection can be essential to address this issue. To allow application reusability across institutions, the various heterogeneous microbiology data representations needs to be transformed into standardised, unambiguous data models. In this work, we present a multi-centric standardisation approach by using openEHR as modelling standard. Data models have been consented in a multicentre and international approach. Participating sites integrated microbiology reports from primary source systems into an openEHR-based data platform. For evaluation, we implemented a prototypical application, compared the transformed data with original reports and conducted automated data quality checks. We were able to develop standardised and interoperable microbiology data models. The publicly available data models can be used across institutions to transform real-life microbiology reports into standardised representations. The implementation of a proof-of-principle and quality control application demonstrated that the new formats as well as the integration processes are feasible. Holistic transformation of microbiological data into standardised openEHR based formats is feasible in a real-life multicentre setting and lays the foundation for developing cross-institutional, automated outbreak detection systems.
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Spread of multidrug resistant organisms (MDRO), for instance Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae, can be driven by nosocomial transmission within hospitals and even between different hospitals1. The emergence of MDRO may be caused by sporadic transmission events or in the context of a nosocomial outbreak involving several patients2,3,4. When (nosocomial) infections are caused by MDRO, timely and appropriate anti-infective therapy is a challenge and patient mortality can be increased5. Thus, it is crucial to prevent spread (transmission) of MDRO in hospitals. Looking at surveillance systems one pivotal and well accepted criterion is the timely detection of relevant events such as a single highly relevant transmission event or a beginning nosocomial cluster to timely implement control measures6. The tracing of patients with MDRO and susceptible bacteria in hospitals for infection control reasons is time-consuming and complex since numerous microbiology data sets have to be monitored often manually for a certain period of time.
In times of emerging digitalization in healthcare, it seems obvious to develop data-driven algorithms that are able to automatically detect nosocomial clusters7,8. Thus, relevant information can be provided for the clinical staff at the right time and clusters can be stopped before developing outbreaks. Such approaches require availability and accessibility of data in a high quality manner. In particular, for outbreak control, the synthesis of both clinical microbiologic laboratory data and fine granular patient movement data is crucial to detect, analyse and finally interrupt transmission pathways. However, although the overall amount of data is increasing, harmonizing these data sets (which are often generated in various hospital information systems and applications without any interconnections, standardized definitions and open interfaces) remains challenging9.
In the HiGHmed Infection Control project, which is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research within the German Medical Informatics Initiative10, we aim at developing an automated, algorithm-based and open source application called Smart Infection Control System (SmICS) for prospective outbreak detection in hospitals11. This tool shall be used for supporting infection control specialists in daily decision-making regarding infection control. In principle, such system can then be used for monitoring MDRO, susceptible bacteria as well as viruses (such as influenza or SARS-CoV-2). We strive for designing such application to operate cross-institutional on a national and international level. Therefore, we first need to standardize and harmonize the required data, such as the microbiology findings, to reach unambiguous and consented data models across local contexts.
As this is a matter of particular interest beyond the described Infection Control use case, the overall goal of HiGHmed as a nationwide data infrastructure project is the establishment of an interoperable and open health data platform that will enable the efficient reuse of routine data from research and clinical care to foster cross-institutional data access, analytics and sharing9. To make data interoperable, traceable, accessible and reusable in such a platform, data need to be clearly defined, modelled and integrated in close cooperation between computer scientists and clinical experts using a standardized, internationally accepted modelling approach. In HiGHmed, openEHR12 is used as standard for semantic data modelling, enriched by the use of international terminologies such as LOINC13 and SNOMED CT14.
In this work, we present the results on transforming microbiology data from commercial primary source systems into standardized, consented data models by using openEHR. Furthermore, to demonstrate the reusability potentials of these newly represented and standardized microbiology data sets, we present an openEHR based application as proof-of-principle. This work will lay the foundations for developing further standardized and interoperable applications such as the above mentioned SmICS.
Clinical information modelling using OpenEHR
We adopt the openEHR approach for semantic modelling as openEHR relies on a reference model clearly separating technical and domain content12. This multi-level modelling is realized by providing a reference model that defines the technical-driven aspects of developing databases, application systems or electronic health records, and a formal but domain-driven definition of concepts in the form of so-called archetypes. Archetypes allow the strict and unambiguous description of clinical concepts such as a laboratory test or a blood pressure measurement. Each archetype is an extensive collection of attributes that in the end form a maximum set of relevant data in any conceivable use case in need of this concept. Although archetypes are designed in close cooperation with clinical experts and without consideration of the technical implementation of the underlying persistence layer, they are subject to a formal description language called Archetype Definition Language (ADL)15. First, the general purpose of an archetype need to be specified by setting the archetype class to COMPOSITION, OBSERVATION, INSTRUCTION, ACTION, or CLUSTER. Each class comes with different features and delivers a so-called 'data' feature allowing the representation of the key information on the clinical model, e.g. the systolic and diastolic values of a blood pressure measurement. However, for some classes there are specific features available, e.g. the OBSERVATION class contains a 'state' feature able to capture any further data that is needed for the correct interpretation of the content. An example is the position of the patient (e.g. lying, sitting) during a blood pressure measurement. Furthermore, e. g. the ACTION class contains a 'pathway' feature to identify the state of the action as a part of a clinical process (e.g. therapy started, therapy ended).
Each archetype item is identified by a unique path that can be accessed to retrieve data from this archetype. For querying data, these paths are used within the dedicated query language called Archetype Query Language (AQL)16. AQL is a query language that acts upon the archetype and not the database level meaning that each AQL query is executable in any openEHR based data repository as long as the same archetypes are used. To ensure semantic enrichment of the models, archetypes can be bound to external terminologies17. It is possible to bind terminologies such as LOINC or SNOMED-CT at the level of the concept (e.g. blood pressure bound to SNOMED CT: 75367002 | Blood pressure (observable entity)), at the level of data elements (e.g. systolic value bound to SNOMED-CT: 271649006 | Systolic blood pressure (observable entity)), or at the level of values (e.g. raised blood pressure bound to SNOMED CT: 260399008 | Raised (qualifier value)). Furthermore, it is possible to define coded value lists for an archetype item by using local terms. For designing archetypes, various modelling tools are available18. In our project, we used the Archetype Editor and Template Designer (by Ocean Informatics in London, UK and Chatswood, AU) as well as the ADL Designer (by Better d.o.o. in Ljubljana, SL).
Archetypes are modelled in various projects all over the world which is why an international archetype repository was set up to maintain the international archetype creation. The international Clinical Knowledge Manager (CKM)19 as a web-based tool that is freely accessible and openly available is used to upload, review, govern, maintain and publish archetypes internationally to enable reuse of existing archetypes. However, some local instances of the CKM are also available such as our HiGHmed CKM20. In our project, we use the HiGHmed CKM because although the archetypes are managed in the international CKM, they can be referenced through a direct link. Thus, we can work with our local archetypes and the international models in the same tool. Each archetype carries a publication status according to its version such as draft, under review or published. A published archetype is at least in version 1.0; however, it only reaches this status after going through several so-called review rounds. All publication states are visible in the CKM.
To represent specific use cases, for example discharge letters or laboratory reports, archetypes can be composed to define so called templates. Hereby, archetypes can be nested through the use of so-called 'slots' and can also be constrained: items that are not relevant in the specific context can be hidden, cardinalities can be restricted, and allowed values can be bound to a coded value list or a restricted terminology subset.
The use of standardized models that are enriched with terminologies is considered as important prerequisite for successful integration of data into an open health data platform. Various implementations of the openEHR reference model are available that can be used as openEHR based data repository to store the harmonized, standardized and integrated data21,22,23,24. For our project, we use the better platform by Better25.
Clinical knowledge governance
All models that need to be designed must be jointly developed and agreed between computer scientists and clinical (domain) experts in predefined modelling and review processes. For HiGHmed, we developed a Clinical Knowledge Governance Framework defining modelling workflows, roles and responsibilities, and IT tools. The core modelling process (see Fig. 1) consists of the following steps.
In cooperation with clinical experts, a minimal data set was defined. Data were organized into categories and mapped onto archetype classes. To promote archetype sharing beyond HiGHmed, existing archetypes from international archetype repositories such as the international CKM were reused. For any non-existing concept, archetypes were designed from scratch. To be able to design new archetypes, research in the context of MDRO, interviews with medical experts and observations of the routine processes in infection control and MDRO monitoring in different institutions have been carried out. Review rounds with domain experts have been conducted by dedicated persons called data stewards to achieve consensus on the content and translation of archetypes. Accepted archetypes can be used for data integration, and will be returned to the global community. Our modelling group for the Infection Control project consists of five data stewards and eight domain experts from six university hospitals in Germany. For further details on the Clinical Knowledge Governance Framework, we refer to Wulff et al.26,27.
Medical Data Integration Centres and HiGHmed platform
The interoperable health data platform evolving within the HiGHmed project is realized by establishing so-called medical data integration centres (MeDIC) at each participating university medical centre. In HiGHmed, data from clinical routine, clinical research and external data sources are harmonized and integrated into data repositories provided by these local MeDICs9. Patient-related data such as movement data, laboratory data or other parameters (e.g. outcome parameters such as death) which are electronically accessible can be integrated as soon as consented, standardized data models are available.
Currently, eight sites from Germany participate in the HiGHmed project and set up such a MeDIC. Six of these sites contribute to the Infection Control use case of this project (there are also other use cases, e.g. from Cardiology and Oncology) and transform German microbiology data from their primary source systems into their local data repository (using the same consented, in this paper presented, data model for representation of microbiology reports, amongst others). The MeDICs are based on a generic architecture that follows the basic principles of open service interfaces, information models and system specifications. The scalable framework architecture of the MeDICs is based on open and well-defined standards to enable reliable processing of data in local and distributed contexts. This ensures the integration of new data sets as well as new institutions in the long term. Extracted data from care and research remain in the respective institution or MeDIC, but are made accessible cross-institutionally with respects to data protection and security regulations9. This creates a consistent platform for the development of clinical application and research systems based on harmonized data sets from health care and research, which can be used across institutions and can retrieve data from other sites in accordance with data protection regulations. Consequently, if participating institutions decide to do so, it will be possible to exchange data between different institutions/clinics (national and international) in a standardised way.
The primary source systems relevant for the Infection Control project vary between the participating institutions; e.g. for the Hannover Medical School, M/Lab (Dorner, Müllheim, Germany) is used as documentation system for microbiology results (laboratory information system). In Hannover, we used extraction, transformation and load (ETL) tools and approaches that were used for similar research projects before28,29. Although the integration process will differ between the institutions, in the end, all data sets will be available at every local site in an openEHR based data repository in the same format preserving the semantic meaning of the data.
We evaluate the correctness and quality of the transformed microbiology data sets by (1) comparing ten microbiology reports, transformed into the new standardized format and visualized in the openEHR based proof-of-principle application, with the original reports from the primary source system, and by (2) automatically calculating simple statistics on two years data sets by using an openEHR based data quality tool.
Ten reports with different complexity were selected independently by two infection control experts. For each report, pre-defined items, e.g. the total number of pathogens found or the detailed antibiogram of the bacteria (see Supplementary Information, Supplementary Data 1) were defined by the infection control experts as ground truth by using the non-transformed, original microbiology reports. In parallel, and without knowing the experts' results, the selected reports were queried and visualised in the transformed and standardized format from the new data repository by using the proof-of-principle application. The results were compared per report. Discrepancies were discussed and documented.
Data quality check
To evaluate whether the data integration process is successful even for larger data sets, we integrated the microbiology reports (bacteriology) from two years at one participating centre. By using an openEHR based data quality tool, openCQA30, we were able to gain an overview of the amount and the validity even of a large set of integrated data. We specified the data of interest as AQL queries in openCQA, which retrieved the data from standardized interfaces of the HiGHmed platform and automatically generated so-called measurement methods. These measurement methods are adaptable R-scripts31 each generating certain information about the quality and validity of the data set, e.g. statistical measures or plots describing the data. Using openCQA, we applied these R-scripts on the transformed microbiology data set. We checked whether the results matched the expectations for valid data (so called ground truth). The ground truth results for the statistical calculations were available from regular elaborate manual data analysis carried out by other domain experts responsible for hygiene and microbiology controlling. In particular, we defined three tasks that should be solved with the tool including:
Proportion of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA): Percentage of MRSA among all Staphylococcus aureus isolates.
Proportion of Meropenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae: Percentage of Meropenem-resistant strains among all Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates.
Quantitative analysis: Distribution of bacterial counts in positive urine samples with Escherichia coli as the sole pathogen.
Ethics approval
The project was approved by the local ethics committees of the participating sites [Ethics Committee of the Hannover Medical School, no. 9245_BO_K_2020]. All research presented in this manuscript was performed in accordance with applicable relevant guidelines and/or regulation.
Consent to participate
Informed consent was waived by the ethics committee and the data commissioner [Ethics Committee of the Hannover Medical School, no. 9245_BO_K_2020]. Informed consent is not needed because the study is based on the German Infection Protection Act ('Infektionsschutzgesetz', IfSG; German) and the national hygiene regulations ('Landeshygieneverordnungen'; German).
Minimal data set
As a first step, a set of data items required to represent a microbiology report was defined collaboratively between all participating institutions (minimal data set). In this paper, we focus on the modelling and integration of the microbiology data. However, also a minimal data set for general patient data and the representation of movement data (e. g. patient admission, discharge and all locations the patient visited during a hospital stay) were defined for the future work towards the SmICS application.
In our minimal data set for microbiology data, the microbiology report contains different sections on
the report metadata,
the specimen,
the bacteria found or not found, and
the antibiogram of the bacteria identified.
Data models: archetypes
In total, nine archetypes were used to represent all data items from the minimal data set for microbiology. We decided to use archetypes that are available in the international CKM. However, we needed to model three archetypes from scratch in collaboration with medical experts from the participating institutions because no international concept was available. There were no archetypes available to represent pathogen details, (laboratory) locations and case identification of the patient's hospital stay (episode of care). Consequently, our reusability rate can be reported as 67%. All archetypes used are listed in Table 1 and can be found in the CKM.
Each archetype carries a publication status. From the reused archetypes, five of our selected archetypes are internationally published and one is still under review. We managed to get two of our three self-modelled archetypes published locally. In total, we conducted 16 content review rounds with 150 reviewers from the participating university medical centres and 254 reviews (see Fig. 2). For the translation of reused archetypes, 95 translation reviews by 51 reviewers were conducted in 18 review rounds.
Data models: template
The above-mentioned archetypes were combined and nested to represent a microbiology report. The structure of the template can be described as follows. The COMPOSITION.report-result acts as the container of all relevant data of the microbiology examination. Furthermore, some metadata such as the report identification, the state of the report (final or preliminary) and the associated case number of the patient's hospital stay are described within the result report. Each report carries one laboratory finding represented as the OBSERVATION.laboratory_test_result archetype. The archetype slot specimen detail is filled with a specimen description (CLUSTER.specimen), including the specimen type, laboratory specimen identifiers, timestamps of when the specimen was collected and received, comments of the collector and the anatomical location from where the specimen was taken. For the latter, the CLUSTER.anatomical_location is nested within the corresponding slot. The overall laboratory test result archetype also carries the detailed test result by nesting the archetype CLUSTER.laboratory_test_panel within the test result slot. The laboratory test panel records all microorganism findings together in a panel structure. For representing each microorganism finding individually, the archetype CLUSTER.laboratory_test_analyte is used. For each microorganism, the complete subtree will be filled with data.. In our data model, the term 'analyte' in a microbiology report is interpreted as 'growth of any bacteria' or 'no growth of no bacteria'. Only in some cases (e.g. screening for MDRO), a specific microorganism is searched for. In any case, the overall test request name is recorded within the protocol section of the OBSERVATION.laboratory_test_result archetype (e.g. test requested: MRSA). Furthermore, here, the details of the requesting and the receiving laboratory are captured.
For each bacterium identified, the presence or absence attribute is filled together with the strain's concrete name, the isolate number and further comments. By using our self-modelled archetype CLUSTER.pathogen_details, we are also able to represent the sub type of the bacterium together with potential virulence factors, resistance characteristics and its MDRO class if applicable (e.g. MRSA). Furthermore, if available, the bacterial count (quantitative and semi-quantitative) can be stored. For capturing the details of an available antibiogram, we again reused the CLUSTER.laboratory_test_panel archetype together with the CLUSTER.laboratory_test_analyte archetypes to represent the collection of all antibiotics evaluated against the bacteria identified. For each antibiotic substance, the name, the minimal inhibitory concentration, the susceptibility defined e.g. by EUCAST (European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing) and some additional comments can be filled. The representation of the susceptibility is not restricted to a specific definition such as EUCAST but can include different definitions. The definition used will be stored together with the concrete values of the resistance pattern to assure interpretability. The structure of the template is presented in Fig. 3.
Data models: terminologies and value lists
To assure a broad reuse of archetypes, it is recommended to set terminology bindings at template level. Usage of terminologies enables future advanced, machine-based evaluations. SNOMED CT in particular is built upon a foundation of description logic resulting in rich computer-processable definitions and hierarchies. Once information is represented via SNOMED CT, these structures facilitate the aggregation of similar entries and the discovery of related concepts. In terms of infection control, these features can improve outbreak detection by recognizing pathogens as part of the same cluster even though they are represented with slight discrepancies, e.g. in different granularities.
In total, we defined 12 value sets from which seven were mapped to international terminologies such as SNOMED CT. Some of the defined value lists are not final and not standardized instances are still allowed. This is due to the fact that, at first, only instances defined as mandatory in the minimal data set discussions, needed to be standardized across the participating institutions. However, a further enhancement is aspired. The Supplementary Information, Supplementary Data 2 shows the consented value lists and selected terminologies.
To outsource the complexity of terminology interaction from within applications, the HiGHmed consortium decided to license a terminology server: Ontoserver by CSIRO32 which is based on the emerging FHIR standard33 and enables various valuable functions. Coding systems and value sets needed are agreed upon in the use case infection control and uploaded to the Ontoserver as FHIR resources. Afterwards, these can be accessed (amongst others) to validate data used in applications, to automatically map local, proprietary codes to standardized terminologies and—as described above—to query advanced content and relations.
Data integration
All participating sites transformed original data available in different relational representations into the consented openEHR template based representation. For example, in Hannover, we decided to evaluate our local data integration approach by integrating all bacteriologic reports from two years that are available in a commercial laboratory information system for microbiology results (here M/LAB). 260.084 reports from 51.947 patients were successfully transferred to the openEHR based representation. As another example of data integration, Göttingen successfully integrated 3.5 million retrospective microbiological data sets (from three years) and 382 real time microbiological data sets (from one month) into an openEHR repository using the same consented data models.
Applications and data queries
Based on the standardized data repository many different data queries can be tailored and interoperable applications29 can be developed demonstrating the manifold possibilities of reusing the transformed data.
Based on the platform specification, we designed an openEHR based application for microbiology data ('openMibi') relying on querying relevant data from the standardized repository by AQL queries (see Supplementary Information, Supplementary Data 3). The application was created with Angular, version 9.0.0. Queries to the openEHR platform are done via REST using AQL. It also offers a prototypical graphical user interface for linking clinical and administrative data (e. g. patient hospital stays and microbiological findings). A patient can be found by entering a unique identifier called EHR-ID (electronic health record identifier) that is linked with the unique patient identifier at the hospital. All encounters, for which microbiological findings exist, can be selected from a dropdown list. If an encounter is selected, the corresponding microbiological findings are displayed. Associated specimens, bacteria and antibiograms are displayed step-by-step depending on selection (see Fig. 4). At each step, a new AQL based query is sent to the platform, whereby the query parameters are dynamically modified depending on what was selected in the previous step (see Supplementary Information, Supplementary Data 4).
To illustrate some of the other possibilities for querying and analysing the platforms' data as well, we prepared three instructive step-by-step examples, which can be found in the Supplementary Information: (i) using AQL to identify blood culture samples with more than one bacterial species (see Supplementary Data 5), (ii) using the 'openMibi' application with a query builder tool to browse through all Klebsiella pneumoniae results that are resistant to Ciprofloxacin (see Supplementary Data 6) and (iii) using another self-developed application called 'openCQA' to visualise the distribution of minimal inhibitory concentrations in a given sample of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates (see Supplementary Data 7).
Comparison of microbiology reports
This part of the evaluation comprised the comparison of ten transformed microbiology reports with the original reports, including all their relevant entries such as microorganisms (here bacteria), samples and antibiograms. By using the openMibi application, technical experts visualised all transformed data entries related to a pre-defined list (see an example in the Supplementary Information, Supplementary Data 1). The results were compared to the original data sets from the primary source system by clinical experts. By this, the feasibility of the transformation process into a standardized openEHR based representation and its accuracy from a qualitative perspective can be evaluated.
The only discrepancies found within the comparison between the openEHR based representation in the openMibi application and the experts' documentations were:
In three out of ten reports, body sites (e.g. right shoulder) seemed to be missing.
In one out of ten transformed reports, the report state value was incorrect ('final' instead of 'pre-final').
These aspects were identified as transformation problems which were successfully solved afterwards:
The body site element was not included in the extraction process because it was not queried from the original database. The item is included and mapped to the corresponding archetype element now.
A wrong mapping between specific abbreviations of entries describing the state of the report in the primary source system (e.g. 'F' for final) caused issues. The mapping was corrected.
Data quality check
The Supplementary Information, Supplementary Data 8–10 shows some selected general numbers as well as the answers to the pre-defined questions calculated based on the integrated Hannover data sets from two years and the openCQA tool. Overall, our quality check shows that we are not only able of transferring the original data sets into an interoperable format but also that these data sets are correct from a domain expert perspective when looking at some statistics automatically calculated based on these newly formatted data sets.
In this work, we presented an approach for transforming microbiology data from commercial primary source systems into standardized, consented data models by using openEHR and international terminologies. We were able to develop robust, fully open, standardised and, thus, interoperable data models for microbiology data. The publicly available data models can be used across institutions to reliably transform real-life heterogeneous microbiology reports into standardised representations. The implementation of a proof-of-principle application and the evaluation of correctness and data quality demonstrated that the new formats as well as the integration processes are feasible. Thereby, we laid the foundation for developing cross-institutional, automated outbreak detection systems such as the smart infection control system (SmICS). Moreover, our approach allows that every single patient with the associated bacterial species, including the antimicrobial resistance profiles, remains traceable during data analysis and does not get lost in aggregated epidemiologic data.
Computerized and automated infection control efforts have been increasingly described in the recent years for the surveillance of healthcare-associated infections or monitoring of clusters/outbreaks using for instance the WHONET software34,35,36. Leclère et al. systematically reviewed different methods and algorithms for the detection of hospital outbreaks37. The authors conclude that valid epidemiological reference standards are necessary to compare different approaches; however they do believe that these novel tools can be useful for infection control professionals to make decisions37. The availability of such tools is of enormous importance as nosocomial transmissions in hospitals are an important contributor to the epidemic of MDRO1. Schröder et al. analysed different mathematical algorithms for automated outbreak detection and compared the findings with the results of their manual outbreak detection protocol. They succeeded promising results for outbreaks with sporadic bacteria but stress that that further work is necessary when focusing on endemic, i.e. more common, bacteria7.
Since detailed standardized data models for the microbiology area are rarely available, the openEHR modelling of an entire microbiology report required great efforts. It took over 250 content review rounds of about 150 international and national reviewers to form the microbiology openEHR data models. Since this was a very time-consuming task, the data models are highly valuable now: as presented in this publication, we are now able to transfer data from its relational and technology-dependent representation into an interoperable, standardized and open data representation, enriched with existing terminologies such as SNOMED CT. Furthermore, this model is of high importance because it is the consented representation of microbiology reports decided by various domain experts from different university medical centres in Germany which joined forces.
We successfully demonstrated the feasibility of designing open, interoperable applications based on this new representation of microbiology data. The graphical representation of the integrated reports allows a quick and comfortable look into the integrated data. By this, errors that may have occurred during the data integration could be revealed immediately. The openMibi app fully relies on the aforementioned standardized data models, value sets and terminology bindings so that all institutions using the same data definitions will be able to reuse this application. Consequently, it can serve as a prototype for a future advanced automatic detection system called smart infection control system (SmICS). Such application will need to take data from other source systems such as administrative and movement data (e. g. admission, discharge, patient's location during the hospital stay) into account. The focus of this paper were set on the microbiology content needed, however, data models for these categories also have been consented already. Also, the presented openMibi app already includes prototypical functions for querying and integrating both, the administrative and microbiology data, from the same data repository. However, these data models and algorithms are in need of more review rounds before being able to implement them in a fully SmICS application.
The modelling process is a collaborative and cross-institutional task, whereas the data integration workflow depends on the local primary source systems and their database structure. In this publication, we exemplary demonstrated the data integration processes in Hannover. Here, we experienced some yet unknown challenges, e.g. some items for the susceptibility result were not covered in the consented value sets of the microbiology template. Here, close cooperation between clinicians/microbiologists and scientists/data stewards is needed to define a correct mapping to the value sets of the final model. These are typical issues each institution might face in various depths. It is always recommended trying to map the local data sets to the items of the openEHR template before modifying the template to fit the local use case. Sometimes this could not be avoided because currently not all value sets are fully standardised, e.g. the list of microorganisms mapped to standardised terminologies is restricted to a well-known and important list. However, some local terms might not be available in this set, so that it has to be integrated in its current shape without further standardization to assure that nothing will get lost. As soon as these items will get some standardisation, e.g. a SNOMED CT code, it is recommended to update the integrated data sets.
In terms of the evaluation results, we found some discrepancies, which were solved quickly, e.g. a wrong mapping of the original report state values to the defined list (pre-final, final report) or missing entries for the body site from which the specimen was taken. Overall, our quality check shows that we are not only able of transferring the original data sets into an interoperable format but also that these data sets are correct from a domain expert perspective. However, we would like to underline that initial and continuous quality control procedures need to be implemented in the routine workflow to capture potential discrepancies. One reason for a new inconsistency during the routine workflow might be a change in the primary laboratory information system. In fact, the involved data stewards and clinical microbiologists need to be in close contact when system changes or updates take place. These controls can be supported from the technical perspective by storing the original content of each specific data item within the transformed data set. Therefore, we use the so called 'feeder audit' class of the openEHR reference model38.This feature allows the original content item itself to be directly included or pointed to so that both values can be easily compared.
Furthermore, to enable the quality checks, it is possible to establish a loop that transforms integrated data back into the original representation. Currently, we are working on this procedure and already evaluated it successfully in other settings39.
It is essential to establish repeated controls of selected microbiology reports by clinical microbiologists in cooperation with the data stewards. Two of such quality control procedures are described in our manuscript: (1) comparing the raw and the transformed microbiology reports by experts and (2) comparing known (historic) analyses (e.g. antimicrobial resistance statistics or infection statistics) for a given patient population with the analysis results and statistics calculated based on the transformed data sets. Looking at the proportion of MRSA and Meropenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strains in the dataset analysed we found that the results were to some extent higher when comparing to the 'official' in-house historic counts for that time period. This might be caused by not implementing copy strain elimination or stratification (e.g. clinical specimens versus screening specimens) yet at this stage. However, algorithms and rules for copy strain elimination will be part of the SmICS application and can be customized to meet local definitions and needs. Furthermore, we experienced that the resistance of an isolate found is not always reported in a separate antibiogram but sometimes in a text block (either relating to another related isolate with an antibiogram or formulating the resistance characteristics in text). Currently, we are not able to access these text blocks so that this also affects our statistics. Nonetheless, the results are quite in the same range on the 'official' in-house counts which demonstrates a robust and general feasibility. In terms of the general numbers, we identified a wide range of microbiology reports per patient. For most patients only few microbiology reports are generated, whereas for some a considerably higher amount is available. The maximum of 350 is not a single outlier.
One major challenge is that highly relevant information in the microbiologic results are represented in additional text blocks, e.g. the MDRO class or specific resistance attributes (such as the detection of carbapenemases in Gram-negative bacteria). In the direct future work, we will focus on integrating these text blocks into standardized pattern so that they can be assessed properly. Here, natural language processing (NLP) algorithms can be integrated40. In fact, this will be crucial for the outbreak detection as additional relevant information for cluster detection is documented here.
As mentioned above, some models and value list are still highly discussed because no (inter)national concerted models are available up to now. The optimization of these resources is ongoing work, e.g. a request already was made to SNOMED International to add codes for the missing concepts of bacteria we identified. Indeed, there have already been two requests, one for bacteria/organisms and one for specimen concepts. Seven concepts (3 organisms, 1 finding, 3 specimens) were added so far. Two of the requested specimen concepts are already part of the international version of July 2020.
In future, we will roll out some small applications, e.g. openMibi and openCQA, to the other institutions following the openEHR approach and using the defined models to demonstrate the cross-institutional reuse of such open systems in the microbiology area. Afterwards, we will implement and roll out the full SmICS application.
Automated clinical decision-support systems for infection control promise to be very helpful for nosocomial outbreak detection and may explicitly support infection control professionals in their daily working routine. This is of even higher importance in time of infection control staff shortage. Holistic standardisation of microbiological data is crucial for such systems when operating in a cross-institutional setting and is feasible using an open source approach with openEHR and international terminologies in a real-life multicentre setting.
Data availability
The datasets supporting the conclusions of this article are included within the article and its additional files. All data models used can be found at https://ckm.highmed.org/ckm.
Archetype Query Language
Archetype Definition Language
Clinical Decision-Support System
Clinical Knowledge Manager
Extraction, Transformation, Load
- SmICS:
Smart Infection Control System
- MeDIC:
Medical Data Integration Centre
Multidrug resistant organisms
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Vancoymcin resistant enterococci
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We would like to warmly thank the HiGHmed Use Case Infection Control Study group for its continuous dedication to this project. Moreover, we want to thank all domain experts and data stewards for their engagement and support in data modelling and archetype reviewing.
Open Access funding enabled and organized by Projekt DEAL. This work was supported by the Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung BMBF (DLR), Germany (FundRef https://doi.org/10.13039/501100002347), Grant Number 01ZZ1802A - 01ZZ1802X (2018–2021).
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Authors and Affiliations
All authors including the study group members contributed to the manuscript according to the ICMJE (International Committee of Medical Journal Editors) recommendations. All authors were involved in data acquisition, analysis and interpretation, and manuscript reviewing. A.W. and C.B. were equally responsible for organizing the drafting process and manuscript writing. K.K.S. developed the openMibi and E.T. implemented the openCQA application. S.B. and A.S. are the leads for data modelling. C.D. was primarily responsible for terminology bindings and value set creation. M.K. provided clinical expertise and supported data modelling. The infection control study group includes all researchers participating in HiGHmed infection control use case discussions of data models, terminologies and data integration. D.S., S.S.C. and M.M. provided microbiological data and evaluation. S.S.C. and M.M. supervised and guided the project. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
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Wulff, A., Baier, C., Ballout, S. et al. Transformation of microbiology data into a standardised data representation using OpenEHR. Sci Rep 11, 10556 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-89796-y
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-89796-y
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Towards interoperability in infection control: a standard data model for microbiology
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OTRAG AND THE ELON MUSK OF THE 1970s
I knew when I opened the email from M.D. with the header "Founder of OTRAG the Elon Musk of the 70s" that I'd be blogging about this article, with our deep thanks to M.D. for spotting it and sharing it. The article adds much to the story of OTRAG, the firm Orbital Transport Raketen Aktiengesellschaft, the strange 1970s West German company that set up shop in Zaire to develop cheap private rocket launch capabilities. I've written about this firm in my books, and here it is necessary to note a few things.
The firm, as I noted years ago, was first brought to the attention of the world by none other than Mikhail Gorbachev in the waning days of the Cold War. Mr. Gorbachev was crystal clear in his accusations, for he accused the West German government of essentially operating its own private "Area 51" in Zaire, and developing not only a range of rocket programs, including not only the development of cruise missiles, but also bio-weapons programs, and so on. We'll get back to all this in a moment, because according to the article that M.D. spotted, OTRAG was about nothing more than just the development of cheap, private, space launch vehicles, and its founder, Lutz Kayser, was simply an Elon Musk long before its time:
Now of course, the view of OTRAG proffered by Mr. Gorbachev, and by me in my books, was much more sinister than the view proffered in the article, wherein the founder of OTRAG, Lutz Kayser, is portrayed as nothing more than a pioneer engineer and businessman with a novel idea that was way ahead of its time; according to the article
The key to holding down the rocket's cost lay in three simple design principles, some of which have been rediscovered by the current crop of "NewSpace" companies. The first principle was rooted in the modular platform architecture itself. Building a whole family of launch vehicles around the same tank-and-engine modules simplified the vehicle configuration and saved millions in development costs. It also meant lots of tanks and engines in production, generating both economies of scale and lower prices. SpaceX applies the same design philosophy today: its main rocket, the Falcon 9, employs nine identical engines (plus another one to power the second stage), while the Falcon Heavy uses 27 units of the same engine. This creates a virtuous cycle whereby the operating model helps drive the business model: being the cheapest launch provider in the market translates into a greater number of launch contracts, which in turn drives higher volumes and scale efficiencies. Once this flywheel is in motion, it becomes easier to run the business as it continues to operate.
The second design principle was to use mass produced, commercially available components instead of expensive "space grade" equipment from government contractors. The tank units, for example, were made of long pipeline tubes that were manufactured by the German steelmaker Krupp. Amusingly, a Volkswagen windshield-wiper motor was used to open and close the valves that controlled the propellant flow to the engines. Complex and trouble-prone components, like turbopumps or gimbals, were avoided altogether. Instead, the fuel tanks were partially filled with compressed air that forced the propellant into the engines, and the rocket was steered by throttling back individual engines on the side where less thrust was desired. SpaceX would later use components from existing supply chains as well: The Falcon 1 used readily available car wash valves with modified seals to feed propellant into the engine, while the first Dragon spacecraft utilized a modified bathroom stall latch for securing the cargo lockers.
The third design principle was a simplified rocket engine that could run on extremely low-cost fuels.
So far, so good, but then we learn the following about the company:
The company had another major hurdle to overcome: the 1954 Treaty of Brussels prohibited the launch of long-range missiles on German territory. Kayser began looking for a large, sparsely populated launch site along the equator where the earth's spin would make it easier to place rockets into orbit. He negotiated with several countries, including Brazil and Indonesia, before eventually settling on a country that could hardly be called politically stable: the Republic of Zaire. In a stunning deal with Zaire's dictator Mobutu, OTRAG received the exclusive right to lease a vast area of 100,000 km2 (38,000 mi2) for up to 25 years. The territory, on the plateau of Shaba, was roughly the size of the former East Germany (!) and rent-free until the firm became profitable. Zaire's neighbors immediately rose in an angry chorus, criticizing the deal as a new act of colonization. Their protests were echoed by the Soviet Union, which circulated the unsubstantiated claim that West Germany was using OTRAG as a cover to develop military missiles in Africa. (Emphasis added)
Here things get interesting, for the accusation made by Mr. Gorbachev was much more specific than simply developing "military missiles" in Africa, but rather, that OTRAG was at the center of a covert weapons development including cruise missiles and bio-weapons. Even the article here hints at something more sinister, and that something sinister is indicated by the basic design concept of Kayser's commercial rocket business plan:
The idea was as simple as it was revolutionary: it involved the parallel clustering of many standard fuel tank and engine modules (Bündelrakete). The smallest flight-worthy rocket module consisted of four clustered tank units and four identical engines. Bigger, more powerful boosters could be constructed by bundling together larger quantities of these tank-and-engine modules.
As I've pointed out in my books on the subject of all-things-Nazi, the idea of Buendelrakete actually stems from the World War Two Nazi rocket program, and was in fact a concept invented to create a crash program of long-range rockets capable of bombardment of strategic targets in Russia and as a basis of an ultra-long range Amerikaraket.
There are other clues that more was going on with OTRAG than simply an innocent attempt to make space launch capability a private - and affordable - affair, for as I've pointed out in my books, OTRAG eventually was able to recruit none other than Dr. Kurt Debus as a member of its board. The article says this:
To bolster his credibility, he recruited Kurt Debus, the former director of NASA's Kennedy Space Center and a long-time associate of Wernher von Braun, as chairman of the board. The space community remained doubtful, though, and joked that "asparagus can't fly."
What the article is not telling you about Dr. Debus is well known to readers of my books and blogs, namely, that Dr. Debus was the flight director for the Apollo Moon landings, and, much more significantly, was not a rocket scientist or engineer at all, but a plasma physicist who worked on the Nazi Bell project, had been vetted twice by US Army counter-intelligence for his pro-Nazis activities and sympathies, and that, prior to his retirement from NASA, was also the head of NASA's UFO desk, which puts his involvement with OTRAG more in the "Gorbachev" category of presumed activities than it does the "innocent credibility booster" for Lutz Kayser.
There's yet another mention in the article that is worth pondering:
The man behind the rocket-building adventure in the jungle was Lutz Kayser, a German aerospace engineer who was something of a 20th-century Elon Musk. Kayser began pursuing his dream of a low-cost rocket launcher in the 1960s. As a student of rocket pioneer Eugen Sänger, he experimented with new propulsion systems using industrially available components and low-cost fuels. The initial work with Sänger carried over into Kayser's first startup, Technology Research Ltd., which he founded in 1970. The company received several million Deutschmark in research grants and was hired by the West German government to explore a low-cost alternative to the ailing Europa II rocket program. (Emphasis added)
Now, in case you may not know who Eugen Saenger was - and you would not glean much information from what little is said about him in the article! - Saenger was the man who proposed an orbital rocket space-plane bombardment platform that could, literally, bomb any place in the world, after being launched from, and returning to, Germany. The idea was to launch a rocket-plane which would ascend into the very upper atmosphere, and then literally skip - like a rock skipping on water - on the denser layers of atmosphere beneath it until it reached its target, released its bombs, and then re-entered the atmosphere on its return flight to Germany.
Oh... did I mention, that Saenger proposed this idea to the Nazi leadership during World War Two, submitted a basic design for his "rocket-plane space shuttle" and even had wind-tunnel test mockup models built for testing in the super-sonic wind tunnels the Nazis had built for such tests?
In other words, with the mention of Debus and Saenger, we have indicators that perhaps, just perhaps, Mr. Gorbachev was right to be warning about the ultimate purposes of the OTRAG venture. And with the Swedish-German Taurus cruise missile that's been in the news lately in the context of the proxy war with Russia through the Ukraine, one has to wonder just where, when, and how those two countries developed such cruise missile technology. While there's absolutely no evidence, I'm smelling a potential OTRAG connection.
So what do we have with the article, and the documentary it is reporting on? I'll just spit it out: what we have is a whitewash, and narrative control...
See you on the flip side...
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5 common mattress myths you thought were true
The most common mattress myths that could be ruining your sleep
Knowing what are facts and what are mattress myths could make a big difference to your quality of sleep. When it comes to choosing the best mattress for your sleeping requirements, you don't want to end up with the wrong bed due to some outdated myths.
Mattresses have moved on from the 'one size fits all' innersprings of our childhoods (although there are still some wonderful and luxurious innerspring mattresses on the market). Nowadays you can also choose from a variety of memory foam and hybrid mattresses, many of which arrived boxed, and still be assured of the same high quality you get in a traditional mattress.
5 mattress myths debunked
We're looking at some of the most common mattress myths here, which range from those surrounding the mattress you should be buying to how you should care and look after your mattress from day to day. When it comes to choosing a mattress you want to be sure you've picked the right choice for you – good sleep underpins our health and wellbeing and you want to give your body the best chance of getting it.
Here are the six mattress myths you should be aware of, along with our experts' comments setting the record straight.
1. A mattress should be a perfect fit from day one
Sometimes you can feel immediately at home on a brand new mattress. But more often than not, it takes time for your body to adjust. Dr Mark Aloia is the Head of Sleep and Behavioural Sciences, SleepIQ Health at Sleep Number, a company specializing in smart beds which adapt to an individual's sleep. He explains more about getting used to a new mattress.
'Even our smart beds need time to 'learn' and adapt to the sleeper for at least a month. Give it more time and the bed learns to become your perfect fit – but it doesn't happen right away on day one. We experience a lot of changes throughout our lives and as we get older, which means that the way in which we sleep might also change as we change. For example, you could start off sleeping on your stomach but switch to being a side sleeper later on in life. Or if you or your partner are pregnant, it's likely that you'll change your sleeping positions over the course of those nine months. And if you go from sleeping alone to sleeping with a partner (or even your kids here and there), it might take time for you to find a position that's comfortable for you and get used to a bed that's a little more crowded than usual.'
Russell Jelinek, Vice President of Product Development at Casper, points out that most mattresses take time to 'break in', 'Your mattress will get better over time. It's typical for mattresses to have a break-in period of 30–90 days as your body adjusts to the new support. That's why at Casper, we give you a generous 100-day trial period with a hassle-free return process, ensuring you have ample time to experience the comfort and support our mattresses offer.' If you're keen to speed up the process, then it's worth learning how to break in a mattress at home.
Dr. Mark Aloia is the Head of Sleep and Behavioural Sciences, SleepIQ Health at Sleep Number, where he oversees sleep science research, partnerships and collaborations with the world's leading physicians, researchers and institutions, as well as the development of health-focused innovations. As a distinguished sleep specialist, Mark serves as a valuable resource for Sleep Number's NFL partners, providing in-depth consultations to teams and individual players to help them gain insight into how their sleep can affect their on-field performance, recovery and overall health and wellbeing, as well as how to optimize their sleep when traveling across time zones for games.
2. A high quality mattress should last forever
It's increasingly common to find mattresses with lifetime warranties, but the truth is that no mattress will last forever. A long mattress warranty will certainly provide piece of mind however different types of mattresses will have fairly fixed lifespans. Knowing how long a mattress should last will help you know when to replace it. As a rough guide, innerspring mattresses will last between five and seven years, with memory foam and hybrid mattresses giving you up to a decade of use. Latex mattresses are the most durable, with some lasting up to 20 years.
Memory foam
A memory foam mattress is made to bear your weight and contour to the curves of your body. The Emma Original Mattress offers exceptional motion isolation and above-average edge support, ideal for light sleepers and couples who share a bed.
You can find more detail in our Emma Mattress review.
A hybrid mattress combines the plush comfort of memory foam with the airflow and support of an innerspring to suit every sleeper. For cooling comfort and zoned support to stand the test of time, I recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress: our expert tester raves about it.
You can find more detail in our Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress review.
A latex mattress is the best bet for hot sleepers, stomach sleepers, and eco-conscious shoppers alike. The PlushBeds Botanical Bliss Organic Latex Mattress is breathable, durable, and made to bear your weight, then spring right back into shape.
You can find more detail in our PlushBeds Botanical Bliss Organic Latex Mattress review.
3. A firm mattress is best for back pain
For years, accepted wisdom was that a firm mattress was the only solution for back pain. But in fact the best mattresses for back pain depend on your sleeping style. Lightweight and side sleepers will need more cushioning across pressure points such as the shoulders, hips and knees than a firm mattress can provide. However, heavier and stomach sleepers, along with those suffering from lower back or neck pain could benefit from one of the best firm mattresses on the market.
Dr Aloia expounds further, 'The idea that a hard mattress is good for back pain is a concept that has been reinforced over time by medical advice and cultural practices. Sometimes, a firmer bed can help with spinal alignment, but spinal alignment is not the only factor that can lead to back pain. Also, each person's definition of 'firm' can be different. While having both spinal alignment and comfort is the best option, having a firmer bed may not be the best option in some cases.'
'For example, if you are recovering from muscle soreness or overuse, and if there is a specific area of tenderness, you might want to try a softer bed instead of a firm one as they help with pressure relief. This is another reason why adjustable smart beds are great options – they allow you to customize settings to your liking. The key is to determine which bed is best suited for you and your bed partner if you have one. If in doubt, consult with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized recommendations.'
Russell Jelinek, the Vice President of Product Development at Casper, leads the entire mattress engineering team and guides the creation of Casper's award-winning product portfolio from concept to market success.
Pressure relief
If you sleep on your side, or you suffer from chronic pain, then you'll appreciate a mattress with a little bit of give to support your neck, knees, hips, and shoulders. The Zinus Cooling Gel Mattress does all that as it works to dissipate heat and wick moisture.
You can find more detail in our Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress review.
Spinal alignment
If you still have your heart set on the best firm mattress, then the Naturepedic Chorus Mattress is your best bet. Filled with supportive steel coils for breathability and bounce, then topped with organic cotton and wool for comfort, the Naturepedic Chorus Mattress is ideal for back and stomach sleepers.
You can find more detail in our Naturepedic Chorus Mattress review.
An adjustable bed won't come cheap, but it could prove worth its weight in gold for sleepers who suffer from muscle soreness. Each sleeper can select their ideal comfort and firmness levels for each side of the mattress. There's even an option to adjust the head and foot of the bed base to reach your ideal sleep position.
4. You need to flip your mattress every few months to keep it in top condition
Back when every mattress was an innerspring, mattresses could be flipped to help extend their lifespan. 'Flipping mattresses to keep them in ideal condition is actually a thing of the past but rotating them around still makes sense,' says Russell Jelinek.
'Unless the manufacturer specifies against it, it's likely safe to rotate your mattress. By rotating your mattress, you can avoid signs of wear and extend its longevity. This includes preventing lumps and bumps, stopping sagging, and minimizing dust build-up, all of which contribute to a healthier and more comfortable sleep environment.'
You should always check the instructions for your own particular mattress, but our guide on how often you should rotate a mattress will help get you started.
5. The more you pay for a mattress, the better it is
Although there are many luxury mattresses on the market worth paying for (such as our number one mattress choice, the Saatva Classic), the cheaper costs associated with making mattresses in a box mean that there are plenty of cheaper choices that will still provide you with an exceptional night's sleep. For example, the Emma Original mattress is often on offer with up to 50% off, but will still provide you with a soft and supportive night's sleep.
Best budget
The Siena Mattress is almost always discounted in the mattress sales. Right now, you can bag a Queen bed for less than $400. When you take advantage of the Siena bedding offer, you can pick up a mattress protector, a sheet set, and a cooling pillow, too, for just $99.
You can find more detail in our Siena Mattress review.
Founded on a supportive base for stability, lined with a transition layer to optimize motion isolation, and topped with two inches of therapeutic gel memory foam, the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress alleviates aches and pains for just $649 for a Queen.
You can find more detail in our Nectar Memory Foam Mattress review.
Best luxury
Retailing at around $2,000 for a Queen, the Birch Luxe Natural Mattress is on the more expensive side, but that's the price you pay for the best luxury mattress. Filled with natural latex, topped with plush cashmere, and covered with organic cotton, the Birch Luxe Natural Mattress is a great option for eco-conscious shoppers.
You can find more detail in our Birch Luxe Natural Mattress review.
With the explosion of new mattresses onto the bed market in the last decade, sleepers now have a far wider choice to choose from. And with this choice come updated facts and outdated myths. This guide should help you avoid any pitfalls and help you to pick your dream mattress when the time comes to replace your existing bed.
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Jo Plumridge is a freelance writer and photographer with over 20 years of experience writing for a variety of magazines, websites and books. She writes, perhaps unsurprisingly, about photography, but also on all things interior design and sleep-related, alongside reviews of home and tech products. Jo loves exploring the latest design trends, although she's yet to find a carpet that doesn't show up the cat hair from the cats she and her husband foster.
There's up to 60% off Pottery Barn Teen bedding – here's what you need for the perfect dorm room setup
Save on sheets, shams, quilts, comforters, and everything else you need to style your (or your kid's) dorm room in the Pottery Barn Teen bedding sales
By Emilia Hitching Published
Should you buy vintage lighting? These are the things to consider, according to interior designers
Interiors that mix old and new are all the rage, but should you buy vintage lighting? According to interior designers, you absolutely should!
By Molly Malsom Published |
Introduction: Understanding Mynah Birds
Mynah birds are known for their beautiful plumage, intelligence, and ability to mimic human speech. These birds are native to Asia and are popular as pets due to their social nature and playful behavior. However, one common issue that pet owners of mynah birds face is feather ripping. Feather ripping is a serious concern because it not only affects the bird's physical appearance but also poses a risk to their health. In this article, we will explore the possible causes of feather ripping in mynah birds, treatment options, and ways to prevent this behavior.
Feather Ripping: A Common Behavior in Mynah Birds
Feather ripping is a behavior where mynah birds pull out their feathers, leaving bare patches of skin. This behavior can be a result of medical issues, psychological problems, or environmental factors. Feather ripping can occur in any part of the body, including the wings, back, neck, and tail. If left untreated, feather ripping can lead to infections, self-mutilation, and even death.
Possible Causes of Feather Ripping in Mynah Birds
Feather ripping in mynah birds can be caused by various factors, including medical, psychological, and environmental issues. Medical reasons for feather ripping may include mites, infections, allergies, and hormonal imbalances. Psychological reasons may include stress, boredom, anxiety, and depression. Environmental factors that may contribute to feather ripping include poor diet, inadequate housing, and lack of social interaction.
Medical Reasons for Feather Ripping in Mynah Birds
Mynah birds may rip out their feathers due to medical issues such as skin infections, external parasites, and internal diseases. These conditions can cause itching, pain, and discomfort, leading to feather plucking. Hormonal imbalances can also cause feather plucking, especially during breeding season. An avian veterinarian can conduct tests and examinations to determine the underlying medical condition and prescribe appropriate treatment.
Psychological Reasons for Feather Ripping in Mynah Birds
Psychological issues such as stress, boredom, anxiety, and depression can also cause feather ripping in mynah birds. These birds are highly social and require mental stimulation and social interaction to thrive. Lack of attention, inadequate housing, and improper diet can lead to psychological stress that may result in feather plucking. Providing a stimulating and enriching environment, social interaction, and a balanced diet can help prevent psychological issues.
Environmental Factors that Affect Feather Ripping in Mynah Birds
Environmental factors such as poor diet, inadequate housing, and lack of social interaction can contribute to feather plucking in mynah birds. A diet lacking in essential nutrients can lead to feather loss, dry skin, and itching. An unsuitable living environment with inadequate space, poor ventilation, and improper lighting can also cause stress and boredom. Providing a spacious and stimulating living environment with a balanced diet can help prevent environmental issues.
How to Prevent Feather Ripping in Pet Mynah Birds
Preventing feather ripping in mynah birds requires providing a healthy and stimulating living environment. This includes a balanced diet, adequate space, proper lighting, and social interaction. Toys and perches can also provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom. Regular visits to an avian veterinarian can help detect and treat underlying medical conditions that may contribute to feather plucking.
Treatment Options for Feather Ripping in Mynah Birds
Treatment for feather ripping in mynah birds depends on the underlying cause. If the behavior is due to medical issues, the avian veterinarian may prescribe medication or surgery. For psychological causes, behavioral modification techniques such as positive reinforcement and environmental enrichment can help. In severe cases, an avian behaviorist may be consulted to develop a treatment plan.
Importance of Early Intervention for Feather Ripping in Mynah Birds
Early intervention is crucial for preventing severe feather ripping in mynah birds. Feather plucking can lead to infections, self-mutilation, and even death if left untreated. Owners should seek veterinary care as soon as they notice any feather ripping behavior. Early intervention can help detect the underlying cause and prevent further damage.
Conclusion: Caring for Your Mynah Bird's Feathers
Feather ripping is a serious concern for pet owners of mynah birds. Understanding the possible causes and treatment options can help prevent this behavior and ensure the health and well-being of your pet. Providing a healthy and stimulating living environment, regular veterinary care, and early intervention are essential for preventing feather plucking in mynah birds. Caring for your mynah bird's feathers can help ensure a long and healthy life for your beloved pet. |
The Agbada, a majestic traditional attire worn across West Africa, is not merely an outfit but a symbol of heritage, identity, and style.
While its essence remains consistent, the Agbada undergoes fascinating transformations as it travels across different regions, each infusing its own unique flair and cultural significance.
Lets delve into the diverse regional variations of the Agbada, exploring how geography, history, and local customs shape its distinct manifestations.
Northern Nigeria:
Regal Elegance In the northern regions of Nigeria, the Agbada takes on a regal and majestic aura, reflecting the grandeur of the Hausa and Fulani cultures. Here, the Agbada is characterized by its voluminous, flowing robes, often adorned with intricate embroidery and embellishments.
The fabric choices lean towards luxurious materials like brocade, damask, or silk, adding to the outfit's appearance.
This variation of the Agbada is typically worn by nobility and dignitaries during special occasions such as weddings, festivals, and royal ceremonies. The northern Agbada exudes an air of sophistication and prestige, embodying the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Yoruba Land:
In Yoruba-speaking regions, particularly in Nigeria and Benin, the Agbada reflects the vibrant and colorful traditions of the people. Here, bold and bright hues dominate the fabric choices, with intricate patterns and motifs adorning the outfit.
The Yoruba Agbada is often accompanied by matching accessories such as hats (fila) and shoes, creating a coordinated ensemble known as "Aso-ebi." Each color and pattern holds symbolic significance, conveying messages of joy, prosperity, or cultural identity.
Whether worn during festive celebrations like weddings or cultural ceremonies such as the annual Olojo festival, the Yoruba Agbada is a visual feast that celebrates the rich heritage of the Yoruba people.
Ghanaian Influence:
Elegant Simplicity In Ghana, the Agbada takes on a more understated yet equally elegant form. Known locally as "Batakari" or "Babban Riga," the Ghanaian Agbada is characterized by its simplicity and versatility. The outfit is often made from handwoven cotton or linen fabrics, reflecting the country's rich textile traditions. While the silhouette remains similar to its counterparts in Nigeria, the Ghanaian Agbada is distinguished by its earthy tones and minimalistic embellishments. It is commonly worn for formal occasions such as traditional weddings, enstoolment ceremonies, and state functions, accompanying a sense of dignity and pride in Ghanaian culture.
Cross-Cultural Influences: Fusion of Styles Beyond its traditional strongholds, the Agbada has also influenced fashion trends across the globe, thanks to its timeless appeal and versatility. In recent years, designers and fashion enthusiasts have embraced the Agbada, incorporating elements of its design into contemporary clothing styles. From runway showcases to red carpet events, the Agbada has made its mark on the global fashion scene, showcasing the richness and diversity of African heritage.
The Yoruba Agbada: Casual and Ceremonial Styles
The Yoruba Agbada has a long history dating back to the 15th century when it was worn by Yoruba rulers and chiefs. It was a symbol of power and authority and was only worn by the elite class. Over time, the Agbada became more accessible to the masses and was worn by people of all social classes. Today, it is a popular attire for weddings, funerals, and other traditional events.
At Fitted, the Agbada comes in different styles and designs, but there are two main types – the casual and ceremonial styles. The casual Agbada is usually made from lighter fabrics such as cotton or linen and is worn for everyday events. It is less elaborate than the ceremonial Agbada and is often worn without the cap.
The ceremonial Agbada is the more elaborate of the two and is made from richer fabrics such as brocade or silk. It is heavily embroidered with intricate designs that are symbolic of the occasion. The cap is an essential part of the ceremonial Agbada, and it is also heavily embroidered to match the robe.
Fashion shoppers looking to add the Yoruba Agbada to their collection should consider their style and the occasion they intend to wear it for. The casual Agbada is a great option for those who want to wear it for everyday events, while the ceremonial Agbada is perfect for traditional events such as weddings, funerals, and other cultural ceremonies.
When choosing an Agbada, it is essential to consider the fabric, design, and fit. The fabric should be of high quality and comfortable to wear, while the design should be intricate and symbolic of the occasion. The fit should also be comfortable and not too tight, as the Agbada is meant to be loose-fitting and flowing.
The Agbada is more than just an outfit; it is a testament to the diversity and richness of West African culture. From the regal elegance of northern Nigeria to the colorful heritage of Yoruba land and the understated simplicity of Ghana, each regional variation of the Agbada tells a unique story. As the outfit continues to evolve and transcend boundaries, it remains a powerful symbol of identity, pride, and tradition for generations to come. |
If you're travelling to Japan, you're probably pondering Japan safety tips and whether the country is safe. Here's a rundown of Japan travel safety and all you need to know, along with a few pointers for your time here.
Is Japan safe?
Japan is generally a pretty safe place to be. In fact, on the Safe Cities Index 2019 by the Economist Intelligence Unit, Tokyo topped the list for overall safety worldwide, with Osaka not far behind in third place. So, whether you're flying solo or with mates, there are some handy Japan safety tips to keep in mind.
Crime rates in Japan are among the lowest globally, and they're still dropping. Lately, the most common crimes have been online scams and billing fraud. Scammers often target older folks, pretending to be relatives over the phone to trick them into sending money.
Japan Safety Tips for Public Transportation
Most people in Japan commute by trains, and you probably will too while you're here.
You'll notice that folks tend to keep to themselves on all forms of public transport. Train carriages and buses are usually pretty quiet, with most people glued to their phones and barely interacting with others.
Due to its high population density, train stations and trains can get seriously packed, especially during rush hours. Japan boasts 23 of the busiest train stations globally, with a whopping 14 of them in Tokyo alone. Every day, millions of locals and tourists pass through these stations. During peak times, you might feel seriously overwhelmed and bewildered.
Shibuya and Shinjuku take the top spots as the world's busiest stations, and you're likely to find yourself in these bustling areas. You may have seen online videos of folks crammed onto trains or station staff packing commuters in like sardines – and yeah, that's true for some stations at certain times.
If you're not keen on dealing with big crowds, it's best to steer clear of public transport during rush hours. For your Japan safety tips, keep an eye on your surroundings and move swiftly to avoid collisions.
The peak of rush hour is typically around 7:00-8:30 and 17:30-18:30 on weekdays. If you're looking for a more comfortable ride and the chance of snagging a seat, it's best to hop on the train between 10:00-16:00 on weekdays.
Commuting by train is generally safe, but it's important to be aware of Japan safety tips, especially regarding the issue of chikan, or molestation, which remains a significant problem. Chikan incidents are most common on crowded trains. In Japanese society, there's often pressure to maintain harmony, so victims may hesitate to speak out. To address this issue, some trains offer women-only carriages, though these are only designated as such until 9:30am.
Having lived in Japan for over six years, I've been fortunate enough not to experience such incidents personally. However, I know people who have had unpleasant encounters on public transport. It's been reported that young girls in school uniforms and office ladies are often targeted in chikan cases.
There have been some recent debates about whether "women-only carriages" should be abolished, with concerns raised about perceived inequality by men. However, with over 70% of women strongly supporting the importance of these carriages for their safety, it's unlikely they'll be removed anytime soon.
If you encounter or witness chikan (molestation) on public transport, it's crucial to report it to the train conductor. They're there to assist you and will involve the police if necessary. Such incidents can be shocking, so if you're unsure how to react, it's okay to disembark at the next stop and gather your thoughts.
Overnight Buses
Overnight buses are an option for long commutes in Japan. They're known for being some of the cleanest and most comfortable rides you'll ever experience. While there are many women-only overnight buses available, the regular ones are equally safe and comfy.
For those wondering about the safety of taxis, rest assured, they're perfectly safe. Taxi drivers in Japan are known for their politeness and professionalism. They typically keep to themselves and won't engage in conversation, unlike the more talkative drivers you might encounter in other countries.
Even if you've been out drinking and find yourself feeling a bit (or very) drunk, taxi drivers are accustomed to it and will still take you without hesitation. If you start feeling unwell during the ride, don't worry—taxi drivers usually have plastic bags on hand for such situations, or you can simply ask them to pull over. And even if you're travelling alone, you're likely to be perfectly safe in the taxi.
Japan Safety Tips for Navigating the Streets Safely After Dark
When it comes to walking around at night for your Japan safety tips, it's pretty common to see people out and about at all hours. With many shops and restaurants staying open 24/7 or until the wee hours, especially convenience stores, you'll find plenty of company.
In the city, you'll likely encounter other folks around, thanks to the bright city lights keeping the streets well-lit and safe. However, if you venture into neighbourhood areas or back alleys, things can get a bit darker and quieter. Just stay vigilant and keep an eye on your surroundings, and you should be fine.
If you ever feel followed, approached, or uneasy in any way, head to one of the many police boxes or stations nearby and ask for assistance. Not sure where to find one? Look for a 24-hour convenience store—they're always bustling, and with security cameras in place, you should feel relatively secure.
While cases of stalking in Japan do exist, they're rare, so it's not something to be overly worried about. Just remember, trains don't run all night in Japan, so make sure not to miss your last train, or you might end up stranded or facing a pricey taxi ride.
Japan Safety Tips for Avoiding Pickpocketing and Theft
Japan is probably one of the countries where you can forget your phone somewhere, come back hours later and still find it sitting there, and no one touched it. If you were to forget something somewhere and go to lost and found, you will probably get it back.
In Japan, it's one of the few countries where you can forget your phone somewhere and return hours later to find it still there, untouched. Or, if someone has picked it up, they've probably turned it in to lost and found centres. In Japan, it's extremely likely you will retrieve your lost items.
There have been several personal cases where I've left my phone or bag in trains, restaurants, convenience stores and, after realizing this and coming back to look for them, I have been lucky to be able to retrieve them.
This is not to say you should leave your things just anywhere in public. If you were to leave something behind on trains or buses, if it was handed in, you usually have to travel to the lost and found centre and that could be a hassle.
If you lose something in Japan and are unsure what to do, here is a blog that tells you what you need to do, what you need to say, and where you need to go in this case.
Is Sleeping on the Streets in Japan Safe?
Japan is so safe that you could pass out on the streets and wake up with your wallet, phone, and other belongings still in your pockets.
If you've been in the Shibuya or Shinjuku area during the nighttime, you have probably seen drunk Japanese people sleeping on the streets. There are also people sleeping on public transportation, in restaurants, cafes, and all kinds of places. You will often see people with their bags lying around, phones, and wallets hanging out of their pockets.
If you've heard of the "Shibuya meltdown", what I have described here is the phenomenon, and you can find a lot of funny photos for your entertainment.
Areas in Japan Where You Should Exercise Caution
When considering Japan safety tips, Kabukicho in Shinjuku often springs to mind as the red-light district of Tokyo, boasting numerous restaurants and bars. It's generally a safe area for a stroll and exploring different spots, but there are some points to keep in mind.
As you wander the streets of Kabukicho, you'll encounter many "information centres". These aren't your typical tourist spots but rather venues offering escort services and prostitution.
Should you venture into one of these establishments, bear in mind it's not merely a browsing experience – they'll likely encourage you to stay and spend money. It's best to steer clear of such places.
Kabukicho also hosts numerous host and hostess clubs, where patrons pay seating fees for premium drinks and the company of hosts or hostesses. While the system is usually transparent, costs can escalate quickly, especially as the drinks flow and time passes.
As you stroll Kabukicho's streets, you may be approached by staff from various clubs, bars, and services, touting their offerings. It's advisable not to follow them, as there have been instances of patrons being coerced into paying hefty sums for undisclosed services, often operating in legal grey areas or outright illegal.
Roppongi is another area warranting caution. While it boasts vibrant nightlife, some establishments operate in grey areas. Instances of spiked drinks, overcharging, or targeting intoxicated individuals have been reported.
On Roppongi's streets, you may encounter individuals peddling drugs or sex services. In such situations, it's best to ignore them and swiftly move on, avoiding entry to these establishments.
Similar to Kabukicho, Roppongi's streets attract workers who target intoxicated individuals. Stay vigilant, keep an eye on your drinks, and frequent establishments you trust in these areas.
By remaining aware of these factors, you're sure to have a great time.
Japan Safety Tips for Dealing with the Dreaded 'Nanpa'
While most Japanese people tend to be relatively quiet and reserved, there are certain situations where they become more vocal and confident, particularly when they're intoxicated.
It's common to see men approaching women on the streets, especially at night. Often, you'll observe a man inviting a woman for tea, coffee, or a drink together. If they're turned down or ignored, the man will likely move on to find a new target. This is known as nanpa, the act of hitting on someone.
Particularly after trains have stopped running on weekends, you'll find groups of male friends mingling and chatting with girls. In most cases, they don't mean any harm and are simply looking for a friendly conversation. However, if you ever feel unsafe or threatened, don't hesitate to seek help from the police box.
Japan Safety Overview
Japan is indeed a safe country, offering travellers a welcoming and secure environment. Whether you're planning your trip for next week or next year, it's essential to consider various aspects of safety to ensure a memorable and secure journey. By staying informed about local customs, being mindful of potential risks, and taking appropriate precautions, you can fully enjoy all that Japan has to offer while staying safe and secure throughout your adventure.
Stay tuned for more information about Japan travel, Japanese culture, moving to Japan, living in Japan, Japanese language, Japanese culture, and more. |
Looking for business debt relief services? Visit Delancey Street.
Business Debt Settlement: An Overview
Dealing with business debt can be overwhelming. Unpaid bills pile up, creditors call nonstop, and you feel like you're drowning with no relief in sight. But there are solutions available to find your way out of debt, restore your financial health, and save your business. Business debt settlement is one potential path forward when facing unmanageable business debts.
What is Business Debt Settlement?
Business debt settlement, also called business debt negotiation or settlement, is the process of negotiating with creditors to pay off debts for less than what is actually owed. It involves working with a settlement company to act on the business's behalf to negotiate deals with creditors.The goal is to settle accounts for a fraction of the outstanding balance – often between 40-60%. This allows the business to resolve what they owe at a discounted amount they can realistically afford to pay. It helps them avoid bankruptcy or other more drastic measures.
When Should a Business Consider Debt Settlement?
There are a few key signs that a business may benefit from debt settlement services:
- The business is struggling with high, unmanageable debts exceeding $10,000 across multiple accounts
- Loan and interest payments are becoming very difficult to stay current on
- Creditors are calling about late or missed payments
- Business revenue has taken a hit and making even minimum payments is a stretch
- Bankruptcy feels imminent without relief
Essentially, debt settlement is most useful for businesses overloaded with debt compared to actual income and facing collections calls or legal action. It's about finding an affordable way out when all other options have been exhausted.
The Debt Settlement Process Step-By-Step
If a business determines their debt load has become unworkable, debt settlement provides a light at the end of the tunnel. Here is an overview of the typical settlement process from start to finish:
1. Initial Consultation
The first step is to have an initial consultation with a settlement firm. This involves:
- Thorough review of the business's finances and all outstanding debts
- Open discussion about the struggles with debt and desire to avoid bankruptcy
- Learning about the settlement process in detail
This allows the settlement company to assess the situation, understand the goals, and determine if settlement is the right debt relief option.
2. Retainer Agreement
Once the business decides to move forward with settlement services, they sign a retainer agreement outlining the relationship, fees, and scope of services. This contract legally establishes the business/client and settlement company connection.
3. Open Dedicated Account
A dedicated settlement account will be opened in the business's name at an FDIC-insured bank. All settlement money from the client will be deposited into this account. Funds are used strictly for negotiated debt payments to creditors.
4. Cease Payments to Creditors
With guidance from their settlement representative, the business stops making direct payments to creditors. This is a strategic step to being settlement negotiations from a position of hardship.
5. Documentation Gathering
Next, statements, bills, notices, and other documentation gets gathered from creditors to determine:
- All outstanding debts and who is owed
- Total amounts due
- Terms, interest rates, fees for each account
Having a complete picture of the debt landscape is essential for the negotiation process.
6. Settlement Negotiations
This is the heart of the program – direct negotiations with creditors to settle debts. The settlement company leverages their expertise and proven techniques to secure discounted payoff offers of 40-60% from creditors.It is a back and forth discussion requiring strategic offers and counter-offers. The final goal is reaching mutual settlement agreements with each creditor at reduced repayment levels the business can manage.
7. Settlement Payments
As negotiations wrap up and settlement deals get formalized, the business begins drawing from their dedicated settlement account to make the agreed-upon payments to creditors. This satisfies debts at the reduced balances negotiated by the settlement firm.
8. Debt Free Future
Within 24-48 months in most cases, the business has paid off all formerly unmanageable debts at settled amounts through the program. This wipes the slate clean and allows focusing on future growth and prosperity without the debt burden.
Why Does Debt Settlement Work?
There are a few key reasons why creditors are often open to accepting discounted payoffs through debt settlement programs:
- Creditors recoup something – Accepting 40 or 50 cents on the dollar is more beneficial than letting accounts linger unpaid. It brings in at least some money.
- High risk of default – Creditors recognize very delinquent accounts are at high risk of never getting paid back. Settlement locks in guaranteed money.
- Cost savings – Settling avoids costly internal collection efforts and legal processes like lawsuits to obtain court ordered judgments.
- Win-win outcome – Settlement allows creditors to recover a portion of bad debts while giving businesses a second chance at financial stability.
So in many cases, settlement provides a mutually beneficial result for creditors and indebted business owners alike.
What Debts Can Be Settled?
Many types of unsecured business debts are commonly settled as part of these programs, such as:
- Business credit cards – This may include both major bank cards and store credit lines.
- Business lines of credit – Unpaid balances on LOC accounts are eligible for settlement.
- Accounts receivable financing – Settlement helps with these short-term cash flow loans.
- Equipment financing agreements – Loans for vehicles, machinery, etc can be negotiated.
- Business bank loans – Term loans, SBA loans, HELOCs and more may qualify.
- Unpaid vendor bills – Outstanding invoices from suppliers and contractors can be settled.
- Commercial leases – Negotiations can cover rent arrears and remaining lease terms.
- Unpaid taxes – Certain business tax debts may be addressed through settlement.
Getting started is as easy as reaching out to discuss your unique situation. Our team can advise if your specific debts can be included in a settlement program.
What Does It Cost?
Legitimate settlement companies do not charge any upfront fees. Rather, they work on a contingency basis, only collecting if settlements are secured. Fees are based on a percentage of enrolled debt amounts, often ranging from 15-25% on average.These fees become due only as each account gets successfully settled. And many firms offer financing options so fees can be paid gradually from funds set aside in dedicated accounts rather than in one lump sum.When factoring the substantial savings – settling $100K in debt for $50K means saving $50K – settlement fees are very reasonable for this life raft service.
Benefits of Business Debt Settlement
Deciding if settlement aligns with your debt relief objectives means weighing the key potential benefits:
Affordable Debt Elimination The number one advantage is settling debt you cannot afford to pay in full at a significantly reduced cost you can manage. This brings unbearable debt back within reach of elimination.
Avoid Bankruptcy Settlement allows businesses to resolve debt out of court and skip filing business bankruptcy. This sidesteps legal processes and extensive public records that can cripple future access to financing.
Stop Collection Calls & Lawsuits The harassment from creditors and collectors stops once accounts get enrolled into a settlement program. Ongoing collection calls and the threat of lawsuits fade away.
Improve Cash Flow Without the burden of unaffordable monthly payments, cash flow stabilizes. More working capital can go toward business growth priorities rather than just treading water on debt payments.
Tax Benefits Certain settled debt amounts may qualify as tax deductible business losses, providing additional financial relief.
Focus on Future Most importantly, settlement enables getting out from under the weight of oppressive debt. Owners regain hope and control to rebuild their business.
What Are The Drawbacks?
While settlement facilitates eliminating debt, the process is not without some downsides to consider as well:
Credit Score Impacts
When accounts get lumped into settlement, this usually means defaulting on what is owed. Missed payments often show up as late payments, collections, and defaults – all damaging to business credit scores.
Tax Liabilities
If settled debt amounts exceed $600, creditors may issue a 1099-C tax form reporting cancelled debts as taxable income. So tax obligations could follow settlement agreements.
Limited Options
Settlement bars businesses from utilizing certain other forms of debt relief. For example, settled accounts cannot subsequently file bankruptcy or utilize other legal protections.
Despite the affordability compared to total savings, settlement services do come at a cost. And it may take 2-4 years dedicating monthly deposits before completing settlement agreements.
Is Business Debt Settlement Right For You?
There are no guarantees when it comes to something as emotionally and financially complex as debt relief. Getting out of debt requires both financial discipline and utilizing the right resolution approach aligned with your goals.While debt settlement facilitates eliminating what is owed at a discount, it also comes with drawbacks like credit damage and tax risks. There is no one size fits all solution.The best path forward depends entirely on your unique situation and priorities:
- How quickly do you need debt relief?
- How important is saving your business credit score?
- What level of monthly deposits can you commit to?
- How important is confidentiality regarding financial struggles?
Carefully considering questions like these helps determine if settlement or other options like business debt consolidation loans, credit counseling, or bankruptcy make the most sense.
Our Settlement Services
If you determine business debt settlement may be your ticket to financial freedom from unmanageable debt, we can help. With over 15 years of experience, our business debt settlement team knows this process inside and out. We have worked with business owners across every industry and successfully settled over $250 million in business debt.
Our 4 Step Process Includes:
- Strategic Evaluation – We thoroughly review your situation to understand the full scope of debt owed and factors driving financial hardship. This allows us to make specific settlement suitability recommendations tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Aggressive Negotiations – Leveraging our expertise, we negotiate with your creditors on your behalf to secure heavily discounted debt repayment offers. We leverage everything from hardship arguments to legal leverage when viable.
- Ongoing Support – From enrollment to final settlement, we walk with you each step of the way. This includes help opening your settlement account, making monthly deposits, disbursing settlements, and more. You have a dedicated point person to answer all your questions.
- Debt Free Future Focus – Our number one priority is putting you in the best position to not only get debt free but stay that way long term. We provide resources and guidance for rebuilding credit, avoiding repeat debt traps, and setting up healthy financial habits.
Let's Talk!
The first step is having an honest conversation and evaluating if settlement could be the light at the end of the tunnel for your business – just as it has been for countless others we have helped settle over $48 million.Schedule a free, no obligation consultation today to discuss your situation and debt relief goals. There are always options, and we can help find your path forward!
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When you think of welding, you might envision towering skyscrapers, intricate machinery, or robust industrial structures. But did you ever wonder: Do welders make jewelry?
It turns out that the world of welding is as versatile as the metals it joins, and yes, welders do indeed make jewelry. Let's take a fascinating journey into this artistic and unexpected side of welding.
The Fusion of Art and Craft
Jewelry making is an ancient art, dating back thousands of years. Traditionally, jewelry makers have worked with precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum. However, contemporary jewelry artists have expanded their horizons, embracing the unique possibilities that welding offers.
Welders who create jewelry often find themselves at the intersection of art and craft. They use their welding skills to transform raw metals into stunning adornments that are as much about self-expression as they are about craftsmanship.
Welding Techniques in Jewelry Making
Welders who venture into jewelry making employ various welding techniques to bring their creations to life. Here are a few examples:
1. TIG Welding (Tungsten Inert Gas)
TIG welding is a precise and controlled welding method that uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and inert gas shielding. It's a favorite among jewelry makers for its ability to weld fine details and create intricate designs on small pieces of metal.
2. Laser Welding
Laser welding is a high-precision welding technique used in jewelry making to join metals with minimal heat distortion. It's ideal for delicate and intricate work, such as repairing fine jewelry or creating filigree designs.
3. Spot Welding
Spot welding involves joining two pieces of metal by applying pressure and an electric current at specific points. It's often used in jewelry making to create strong connections without excessive heat, preserving the metal's integrity.
The Artistry of Welded Jewelry
Welded jewelry isn't just about joining metals; it's about storytelling, symbolism, and personal expression. Welders who make jewelry infuse their creations with meaning, whether it's a custom engagement ring, a pendant with a heartfelt message, or a unique statement piece.
I had the privilege of speaking with Sarah Carter, a talented welder and jewelry artist, about her journey into this captivating world:
"For me, welding jewelry is about combining my love for art and welding into wearable pieces of self-expression. Each piece I create carries a story, and I enjoy the process of transforming raw materials into something beautiful and meaningful."
Finding Inspiration in Unexpected Places
Welders turned jewelry makers find inspiration in the most unexpected places. A scrap of metal from an old project can become the centerpiece of a unique necklace. A discarded bolt can be reborn as an eye-catching bracelet charm. The beauty of welded jewelry lies in its ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Exploring the Possibilities
So, do welders make jewelry? Absolutely. They bring their welding expertise to a realm where precision and creativity merge, crafting pieces that adorn and inspire.
Whether you're a welder curious about expanding your skills or someone in search of a one-of-a-kind piece, the world of welded jewelry invites you to explore its fascinating and artistic possibilities.
It's a reminder that in the world of welding, there's always room for creativity and the unexpected.
Let's delve into some common questions about welders and their remarkable journey into the world of jewelry making:
How did the idea of welding and jewelry making come together?
The fusion of welding and jewelry making emerged as a result of welders seeking creative outlets for their skills. Many welders found that their expertise in working with metals could be applied to crafting unique and personalized jewelry pieces.
What types of metals are commonly used in welded jewelry?
Jewelry welders often work with a range of metals, including traditional choices like gold and silver, as well as non-traditional metals such as stainless steel and titanium. The choice of metal depends on the desired design and the wearer's preferences.
Are there safety considerations when welding jewelry?
Safety is paramount when welding, even on a small scale. Welders turned jewelry makers should wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection and gloves, and work in a well-ventilated area to ensure safety while creating their pieces.
Can welding techniques be scaled down for jewelry making?
Yes, welding techniques can be scaled down to suit the intricacy and size of jewelry pieces. Methods like TIG welding, laser welding, and spot welding are adapted for creating fine details and delicate connections in jewelry.
Is it possible to customize jewelry through welding?
Absolutely. One of the significant advantages of welding in jewelry making is the ability to create highly personalized pieces. Welders can collaborate with clients to bring their unique visions to life, whether it's a custom engagement ring or a meaningful pendant.
How does welded jewelry differ from traditional jewelry making techniques?
Welded jewelry often features a distinct aesthetic characterized by clean lines, bold forms, and a contemporary feel. While traditional jewelry making methods like casting and soldering have their place, welded jewelry showcases the welds themselves as design elements.
Are welded jewelry pieces more durable than traditionally made jewelry?
Welded jewelry can be exceptionally durable due to the strength of the welded joints. However, the durability also depends on the quality of craftsmanship and the choice of metals. Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity of any jewelry piece.
Can anyone learn to make welded jewelry, or is it a specialized skill?
While welding jewelry does require welding skills, it's a craft that can be learned and honed with practice. Many welders transition into jewelry making as a way to expand their skill set, and there are resources and classes available for those interested in exploring this art form.
Are there specific design styles associated with welded jewelry?
Welded jewelry is incredibly versatile, and design styles can vary widely, from minimalist and contemporary to bold and sculptural. The style often reflects the artistic vision of the jeweler and the preferences of the wearer.
Where can one find welded jewelry and commissioned pieces?
Welded jewelry can be found at craft fairs, art galleries, and online marketplaces where independent jewelry artists showcase their work. Additionally, many jewelry makers offer custom commissions, allowing clients to collaborate on unique pieces tailored to their preferences.
See Also …
The fusion of welding and jewelry making is a testament to the creative and versatile nature of the welding craft.
Welders who turn their skills toward jewelry bring a unique blend of precision and artistry to the world of adornments, offering personalized and meaningful pieces that stand as both art and craftsmanship.
Whether you're a welder with a desire to explore this artistic avenue or someone seeking a distinctive jewelry piece, the world of welded jewelry invites you to discover its exceptional and creative possibilities.
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Articles & Studies
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We found out who the largest in business are in Slovakia
More than 500 companies filled out the questionnaire for the Largest in Business yearbook. This article, as well as the yearbook, provides information not only about the largest companies in 50 categories but also specifies which sectors were successful during the pandemic and which companies were able to grow in challenging conditions. In this article, the names of all top-ranked companies are published. The detailed results with comprehensive information about all listed companies as well as the names of their head representatives are available in the Largest in Business yearbook.
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Do the bosses want us in the office again?
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The Amrop Talent Observatory
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The Keys to High Performance. Digitization on Boards 4th Edition
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It's no secret that Bitcoin is often compared to gold. They're both scarce resources that are used as a store of value and a hedge against inflation. But is Bitcoin actually based on gold?
The answer is a bit complicated. On the one hand, there are similarities between the two assets.
Both are decentralized, global, and scarce. And both have a fixed supply that can't be increased (although Bitcoin's supply can be decreased).
On the other hand, there are also differences between the two assets. For example, gold is a physical commodity that has been used as money for thousands of years, while Bitcoin is a digital asset that only started to be used as money in 2009.
Gold is also primarily used as a store of value, while Bitcoin is primarily used as a means of payment.
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