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Something I've been thinking a lot about recently is the role that genetics play when it comes to fitness, response to exercise, and also response to androgenic stimulus.
One easy citable example of how genetics impact our physiology is response that is typical of folks of South American origin who are very susceptible to have their bodies react to sugars, especially processed sugar. It's not been a great part of their diet until very recently (in bio/evolutionary terms). However, even that impact seems to be individualized in response.
I was thinking about this topic specifically with regards to response to TRT and other androgenic stimuli. Personally, I seem to respond very strongly to my TRT protocol while staying within sensible ranges (900-1100 Total Test). It's not clear to me how much of my response is due to the fact I had been living with very low (sub-200) levels through natural production, my training work ethic, diet, or a genetic response mechanism. I am curious if there's ever been any studies to see how response differed from androgenic stimuli across different men with other conditions kept the same.
It's funny that when pro bodybuilders talk about their own rise, they often cite genetics as a key driver to their success. I've never been able to differentiate whether they mean genetics that enable that amount of muscle to look good on their frame (for an example of someone to whom heavy muscle does not naturally sit on frame, see Sam Sulek), or whether they are referring to their own genetic response mechanisms to the various stimuli as being a key differentiator…. Maybe it's both.
I guess what I'm really asking is opinions as to how markedly different responses are to TRT and other anabolic stimuli?
Of course, we all only have our own experiences to go off, but I feel that I have responded unusually strongly to TRT (before and after pic 15 months apart attached), though I was both a model candidate and I have kept a good diet and training ethic with heavy loads along the way. I have cut about 30lbs fat and added 30lb muscle in just over a year (for ref I'm 40y/o, 6'4, 255lb) . I am trying to figure out if I'm just lucky with genetics or whether my results are replicable by the masses with good work ethic and nutrition. |
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The warrants were sought for crimes including 'starvation', 'wilful killing', and 'extermination and/or murder'
Over 500 years after Leonardo da Vinci painted the Mona Lisa, an academic believes she has unravelled the mystery about the backdrop to one of the world's most famous works of art.
Art historians have long debated its landscape, speculating on the locations that could have inspired Leonardo but the geologist and Italian Renaissance specialist Ann Pizzorusso thinks she has pinpointed it to Lecco in northern Italy.
"When I came to Lecco, I realised he had painted the Mona Lisa here," Pizzorusso said, speaking of the small town on the shores of Lake Como, hitherto best known as the setting of Alessandro Manzoni's masterpiece novel "The Betrothed".
According to the scholar, the arched bridge depicted in the painting would correspond to the 14th-century Ponte Azzone Visconti, even though previous theories had related it to similar structures in other Italian cities, such as Arezzo and Bobbio.
Pizzorusso is not the first person to have claimed to have solved the mystery but she cites her knowledge of geology to back her claims.
"The bridge to me was not the important aspect of painting," Pizzorusso said. "In the other hypotheses the geology was just incorrect."
The geologist found that rock formations in Lecco were limestone, which matched what is depicted behind the noblewoman.
"When you look at the Mona Lisa, you see this part of the Adda River, and you see another lake behind it, which are perfectly shown underneath these sawtooth mountains," she said from the spot where the scene could have been painted.
Pizzorusso's research on Leonardo "shows perfectly the extent to which the artist and the scientist came together," said Michael Daley, executive director of ArtWatch UK, a nonprofit organisation monitoring the conservation of artworks.
"No art historian is qualified to take Ann on in terms of her scientific understanding. The other studies are dead ducks now," he said.
The warrants were sought for crimes including 'starvation', 'wilful killing', and 'extermination and/or murder'
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Top Industrial Electrician Interview Questions and Answers
Table Of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- What interviewers are looking for in a Industrial Electrician
- General Question and answers
- Questions about experience and background with answers
- Technical In-depth Questions with answers
- Technology and Tools Questions with answers
- Behavioral/Situational Job Interview Questions for a Industrial Electrician
- Payroll questions to ask in the interview
- What does Industrial Electrician wear to a job interview
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
When preparing for an industrial electrician interview, you may encounter questions that explore your expertise with intricate electrical systems, problem-solving strategies, and safety measures. Imagine being asked about your most challenging project and how you navigated through it successfully. As the discussion unfolds, topics of regulatory compliance, tool proficiency, and adaptability in dynamic industrial environments will likely arise. Stay tuned to explore key interview questions and insightful answers that can help you ace your next industrial electrician interview.
Key Takeaways
- Demonstrate proficiency in electrical systems and troubleshooting techniques.
- Showcase ability to read and interpret technical blueprints accurately.
- Highlight commitment to following safety protocols and regulations.
- Illustrate practical experience in industrial settings and diverse technical skills.
- Emphasize clear communication, adaptability, and problem-solving skills for successful outcomes.
What interviewers are looking for in a Industrial Electrician
During an interview for an Industrial Electrician position, interviewers seek candidates who demonstrate strong technical skills and practical experience. To stand out as a top candidate, make sure you focus on the following key aspects:
Technical Knowledge: Showcase your proficiency in electrical systems, circuits, and equipment.
Problem-Solving Skills: Highlight your ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical issues efficiently.
Safety Awareness: Emphasize your commitment to following safety protocols and ensuring a secure work environment for yourself and others.
General Question and answers
You must be well-versed in the skills required for Industrial Electricians, ensuring you can navigate safety protocols in industrial settings and troubleshoot electrical systems effectively.
It's essential to be proficient in reading technical blueprints accurately and have a solid understanding of electrical codes to excel in this role.
Make sure to showcase your expertise in these areas during your interview to impress potential employers.
Skills Required for Industrial Electricians
To excel as an industrial electrician, possessing a diverse range of technical skills and knowledge is essential. You should have expertise in reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and technical diagrams to effectively troubleshoot and repair electrical systems.
Proficiency in installing and maintaining electrical systems, machinery, and equipment is important. Familiarity with a variety of tools and equipment used in the trade, such as voltmeters, oscilloscopes, and power drills, is necessary.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are valuable assets. Additionally, staying updated on electrical codes, regulations, and safety standards is crucial to ensure work is performed accurately and safely.
Safety Protocols in Industrial Settings
Understanding and implementing safety protocols in industrial settings is paramount for industrial electricians to guarantee a secure work environment. Prioritizing safety not only protects you but also your colleagues and the overall operation of the facility.
Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and insulated clothing. Before starting any task, make sure to conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards.
Keep work areas clean and organized to prevent trips and falls. When working with electricity, follow lockout-tagout procedures to de-energize equipment and prevent accidental start-ups.
Regularly inspect tools and equipment for any signs of damage and replace them as needed to maintain a safe working environment.
Troubleshooting Electrical Systems
When troubleshooting electrical systems, it's essential to methodically analyze symptoms and systematically test components to pinpoint the root cause of the issue. Begin by checking for obvious signs of damage or malfunction, such as frayed wires or burnt components.
Use a multimeter to test voltage, current, and resistance at various points in the system. Inspect connections for looseness or corrosion, as these can often be culprits of electrical problems.
Working systematically through the system, isolate sections to identify where the fault lies. Keep safety at the forefront by ensuring power is off before conducting tests.
Reading Technical Blueprints Accurately
When interpreting technical blueprints accurately as an industrial electrician, pay close attention to detail to guarantee precise understanding of the system layout and components. Look for symbols, labels, and legends to interpret the electrical plans effectively.
Confirm you understand the scale of the blueprint to assess distances accurately. Familiarize yourself with common blueprint abbreviations to quickly identify components. Double-check all measurements and connections to avoid errors during installation or repairs.
If something is unclear, don't hesitate to consult with supervisors or colleagues for clarification. By mastering the skill of reading technical blueprints accurately, you'll enhance your ability to execute tasks efficiently and contribute to the overall success of electrical projects.
Knowledge of Electrical Codes
Acquiring a thorough knowledge of electrical codes is vital for ensuring safety and compliance in industrial electrician roles. Understanding the National Electrical Code (NEC) and other relevant regulations is essential as it sets the standards for electrical installations and maintenance.
Being familiar with codes related to wiring, grounding, and electrical systems helps prevent hazards such as electrical fires and shocks. During an interview, you may be asked about specific code requirements for different industrial settings or how you guarantee compliance on a job site.
Demonstrating your expertise in interpreting and applying electrical codes showcases your commitment to safety and adherence to industry standards, making you a valuable asset in the industrial electrician field.
Experience With Industrial Machinery
To excel in the role of an industrial electrician, having experience with industrial machinery is essential for ensuring efficient operations and troubleshooting potential issues. Familiarity with various types of machinery such as motors, generators, and control systems is vital. Employers often seek candidates who can demonstrate hands-on experience in installing, maintaining, and repairing industrial equipment.
Being able to interpret technical manuals, schematics, and blueprints related to industrial machinery is critical for diagnosing problems accurately. Additionally, showcasing your ability to perform preventive maintenance to avoid costly downtime can set you apart. Highlight any specific training or certifications you have related to industrial machinery to demonstrate your expertise in this area during the interview.
Handling High Voltage Equipment
Operating high voltage equipment requires a thorough understanding of safety protocols and proper handling techniques to prevent accidents and guarantee peak performance.
Always make sure you're properly trained and certified to work with high voltage equipment. Before starting any task, ensure to de-energize the equipment and follow lockout/tagout procedures.
Use insulated tools and personal protective equipment at all times to minimize the risk of electric shock. Regularly inspect cables, connectors, and insulation for any signs of wear or damage.
When troubleshooting, approach the equipment cautiously, and never work on it alone. Remember, prioritizing safety when handling high voltage equipment is essential for both your well-being and the optimal functioning of the machinery.
Importance of Preventive Maintenance
Consistently performing preventive maintenance on industrial electrical equipment is essential for ensuring peak performance and avoiding expensive downtime. By regularly inspecting, testing, and servicing equipment, potential issues can be identified and resolved before they escalate into major problems. This proactive approach not only minimizes the risk of unexpected breakdowns but also prolongs the lifespan of the equipment, ultimately saving time and money in the long run. Additionally, preventive maintenance helps maintain safety standards, reducing the likelihood of accidents or malfunctions that could harm employees or disrupt operations. Investing time and resources in preventive maintenance now can prevent costly repairs and replacements later on.
| Importance of Preventive Maintenance | |:------------------------------------:|:-----------------------------:|:---------------------------:| | Ensures Peak Performance | Avoids Expensive Downtime | Prolongs Equipment Lifespan |
Communication With Team Members
By maintaining open and clear communication with your team members, you can guarantee smooth coordination and collaboration in industrial electrical projects. Effective communication guarantees that everyone is on the same page regarding project timelines, tasks, and any potential issues that may arise.
When team members communicate openly, they can address challenges promptly, share insights, and work together efficiently to find solutions. It also fosters a positive work environment, encourages teamwork, and boosts morale. Regular check-ins, team meetings, and utilizing communication tools can enhance overall project outcomes.
Adaptability to Changing Environments
To succeed as an industrial electrician, your ability to adapt to changing environments is essential for handling unexpected challenges and ensuring project success. Being flexible and quick to adjust to new circumstances is vital in this dynamic field.
When faced with changes in project scope or unexpected issues, your adaptability allows you to think on your feet and find solutions efficiently. Employers value industrial electricians who can thrive in diverse settings and adjust their approach as needed.
Demonstrating your ability to adapt to changing environments during an interview showcases your resilience and problem-solving skills, highlighting your capability to tackle any situation that arises on the job. Your adaptability is a key asset in the fast-paced world of industrial electrical work.
Questions about experience and background with answers
When discussing experience and background in an industrial electrician interview, you'll cover the following key points:
- Work history overview
- Training and certifications
- Specific skill sets
- Previous projects description
- Problem-solving scenarios
These aspects will help the interviewer assess your qualifications and expertise in the field. It's essential to be prepared to provide detailed examples and explanations to effectively showcase your capabilities.
Work History Overview
Through detailing your work history, potential employers gain insight into your valuable experience and background as an industrial electrician.
Highlight your previous roles, emphasizing responsibilities like installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems. Mention any specialization in specific industries such as manufacturing or construction.
Address the scope of projects you've handled, from troubleshooting complex issues to conducting routine maintenance. Detail your experience with electrical components, wiring, and blueprints.
Discuss any leadership roles you've held, showcasing your ability to coordinate with teams and communicate effectively. Provide examples of how you've guaranteed compliance with safety regulations and codes.
Training and Certifications
Your training and certifications as an industrial electrician play a crucial role in showcasing your expertise and qualifications for the job. Employers often look for candidates with a strong educational background in electrical systems, which can include completing an apprenticeship program, obtaining a degree in electrical engineering, or acquiring relevant certifications such as a Journeyman Electrician license.
Highlight any specialized training you have undergone, such as in programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or specific industrial machinery. Additionally, certifications from organizations like the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (NJATC) or the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) can validate your skills and knowledge in the field.
Be prepared to discuss how your training and certifications have equipped you to excel in industrial electrician roles.
Specific Skill Sets
Your expertise in specific skill sets as an industrial electrician can greatly impact your ability to excel in the role. Demonstrating proficiency in electrical systems troubleshooting, installation, and maintenance is vital. Experience with industrial equipment, such as motors, transformers, and control systems, is highly valuable.
Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical diagrams and blueprints is essential for success in this position. Strong knowledge of electrical codes and regulations guarantees that work is compliant and safe. Additionally, skills in PLC programming, variable frequency drives, and instrumentation can set you apart as a top candidate.
Highlighting your hands-on experience with electrical tools and equipment will showcase your ability to handle the demands of the role effectively.
Previous Projects Description
When discussing your experience and background in previous projects, focus on specific examples that highlight your skills and achievements as an industrial electrician.
Talk about a project where you successfully installed and maintained electrical systems for a manufacturing plant, ensuring uninterrupted operations. Describe how you troubleshooted complex issues, such as machine breakdowns due to electrical faults, and implemented effective solutions that minimized downtime.
Mention a time when you led a team to upgrade the electrical infrastructure of a facility, improving efficiency and safety standards.
Highlight instances where you demonstrated your expertise in reading blueprints, wiring diagrams, and following electrical codes to deliver high-quality work. Emphasize your ability to collaborate with other professionals, such as engineers and maintenance staff, to achieve project goals efficiently.
Problem-Solving Scenarios
In problem-solving scenarios as an industrial electrician, you navigate through complex electrical challenges using your expertise and practical knowledge. When faced with a malfunctioning industrial machine due to electrical issues, you start by inspecting the wiring and components to identify the root cause.
By utilizing your troubleshooting skills, you can pinpoint the faulty part and determine the most effective solution. For example, if a motor isn't running smoothly, you may check for loose connections or damaged wiring. Your ability to think critically and act swiftly in such situations showcases your problem-solving capabilities.
Employers value electricians who can tackle challenges efficiently, ensuring smooth operations in industrial settings.
Safety Procedures Knowledge
Demonstrate your proficiency in safety procedures knowledge by detailing your experience and background in implementing industrial electrical safety measures. Describe how you have consistently adhered to safety protocols such as lockout/tagout procedures, arc flash protection, and proper personal protective equipment (PPE) usage.
Share instances where you have conducted thorough safety inspections, identified potential hazards, and taken proactive measures to mitigate risks in the workplace. Highlight any specialized safety training or certifications you possess, such as OSHA 10 or NFPA 70E.
Emphasize your commitment to creating a safe work environment for yourself and your colleagues by actively promoting and enforcing safety procedures. Your ability to prioritize safety in all aspects of your work is essential for success in the role of an industrial electrician.
Teamwork Experience Examples
To showcase your ability to work effectively in a team, provide specific examples of your teamwork experience in previous industrial electrician roles.
For instance, you could discuss a situation where you collaborated with colleagues to troubleshoot and repair a complex electrical issue within a tight deadline. Highlight how you communicated effectively with team members, delegated tasks based on individual strengths, and guaranteed everyone worked together seamlessly to achieve the common goal.
Additionally, mention any instances where you actively participated in safety meetings, shared knowledge with your team to enhance overall performance, and supported fellow team members in completing tasks efficiently.
Providing concrete examples will demonstrate your capacity to excel in a collaborative work environment as an industrial electrician.
Equipment Handling Skills
When discussing your experience in equipment handling skills as an industrial electrician, focus on detailing your proficiency with various tools and machinery used in electrical work. It's important to demonstrate your familiarity with handling equipment safely and efficiently. Highlight your experience in operating and maintaining tools specific to the electrical field. Below is an example table showcasing common tools and machinery you should be comfortable handling:
Equipment | Description |
Multimeter | Measures voltage, current, resistance |
Wire Strippers | Removes insulation from wires |
Conduit Benders | Shapes metal conduit for wiring |
Electrical Code Familiarity
How familiar are you with electrical codes and regulations in your role as an industrial electrician?
As an industrial electrician, a profound understanding of electrical codes is essential to guarantee compliance, safety, and efficiency in all electrical installations and repairs. Demonstrating proficiency in interpreting and applying national, state, and local electrical codes showcases your competency and dedication to quality work.
Have you actively stayed updated with any changes or updates in electrical codes?
Being proactive in staying informed about evolving regulations reflects your commitment to upholding the highest standards in the industry.
Can you provide an example of a situation where your knowledge of electrical codes helped you navigate a complex project successfully?
Career Goals Discussion
Share your career goals as an industrial electrician and how they align with your professional background and experiences.
As an industrial electrician, my primary career goal is to become a highly skilled professional in troubleshooting complex electrical systems within manufacturing environments. I aim to enhance my expertise in PLC programming, motor controls, and industrial instrumentation to guarantee seamless operations and minimize downtime for the facilities I work in.
My background in electrical engineering and hands-on experience in commercial and industrial settings have equipped me with a solid foundation to achieve these goals. By continuously learning and staying updated on industry trends, I aspire to contribute greatly to the efficiency and safety of industrial operations through my work as an electrician.
Technical In-depth Questions with answers
Explore the detailed technical questions and corresponding answers commonly asked during industrial electrician interviews. When preparing for your interview, make sure to review and understand the following topics:
Electrical Circuits: Be ready to discuss the different types of electrical circuits you have worked on and how you troubleshoot issues within them.
Motor Controls: Expect questions about your experience with motor controls, including troubleshooting, installation, and maintenance practices.
Blueprint Reading: Brush up on your ability to interpret electrical blueprints and schematics to demonstrate your understanding of complex industrial electrical systems.
These technical questions will test your knowledge and practical skills, so be prepared to provide detailed answers to showcase your expertise as an industrial electrician.
Technology and Tools Questions with answers
Prepare yourself to discuss the technology and tools you have utilized as an industrial electrician to enhance your efficiency and effectiveness in handling electrical systems and equipment.
Digital Multimeter: Explain how you use a digital multimeter to measure voltage, current, and resistance accurately during troubleshooting and maintenance tasks.
Circuit Tracer: Share your experience using a circuit tracer to identify circuits, breakers, and test outlets swiftly, aiding in the diagnosis of electrical issues.
Power Quality Analyzer: Describe how you leverage a power quality analyzer to assess voltage variations, harmonics, and power factor, ensuring peak performance and reliability of electrical systems.
Highlighting your proficiency with these tools will showcase your technical expertise and problem-solving skills in the field of industrial electrical work.
Behavioral/Situational Job Interview Questions for a Industrial Electrician
As an industrial electrician, how do you approach resolving conflicts that may arise while working on a team? Conflict resolution is pivotal in a team setting. When conflicts arise, it's vital to address them promptly and professionally.
Start by actively listening to all parties involved to understand their perspectives. Then, work towards finding a mutually beneficial solution. As an industrial electrician, you can suggest compromises or alternative approaches that meet the project's goals.
It's important to remain calm, respectful, and focused on the issue at hand. By effectively managing conflicts, you can maintain a positive work environment and keep the project on track.
Communication and collaboration are key in resolving conflicts efficiently as an industrial electrician.
Payroll questions to ask in the interview
Considering the importance of ensuring financial accuracy and compliance, pose the following payroll questions during the interview:
Can you explain your experience with payroll systems and software? Understanding the candidate's familiarity with different payroll tools is vital for seamless integration into the company's processes.
How do you guarantee accuracy when processing payroll for a large number of employees? This question assesses the candidate's attention to detail and ability to handle high-volume payroll tasks efficiently.
Have you dealt with payroll compliance issues in the past, and how did you resolve them? Knowing how the candidate navigates through compliance challenges provides insight into their problem-solving skills and knowledge of payroll regulations.
What does Industrial Electrician wear to a job interview
For a job interview as an Industrial Electrician, wearing professional attire that conveys competence and reliability is vital.
Opt for a well-fitted suit or business casual attire, ensuring that your clothes are clean and wrinkle-free. A crisp dress shirt paired with dress pants or a skirt is a safe and appropriate choice. Make sure your shoes are polished and in good condition. Avoid flashy accessories or overly casual clothing.
A simple tie or scarf can add a touch of professionalism. Remember that first impressions are essential, so dressing smartly shows that you take the interview seriously and are prepared to represent yourself in a professional manner.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Handle Unexpected Challenges on the Job?
When faced with unexpected challenges on the job, you stay calm, assess the situation, and quickly devise a plan of action. By being resourceful and adaptable, you efficiently troubleshoot issues and guarantee the job gets done effectively.
Can You Provide an Example of a Successful Project You Completed?
Imagine tackling a puzzle. You connected complex systems flawlessly, ensuring lights shone bright in a vast facility. You orchestrated teamwork and expertise, completing a project ahead of schedule and exceeding expectations.
What Safety Measures Do You Prioritize on a Worksite?
When on a worksite, prioritize safety measures like proper equipment usage, maintaining clean work areas, and following lockout/tagout procedures. Your focus on safety not only protects yourself but also your team and the overall success of the project.
How Do You Stay Updated on Industry Trends and Advancements?
To stay updated on industry trends and advancements, you regularly attend workshops, read trade publications, and network with other professionals. Staying current guarantees you bring the latest knowledge and techniques to your work.
Can You Explain a Time When You Had to Troubleshoot a Complex Electrical Issue?
When troubleshooting a complex electrical issue, remember to analyze the problem thoroughly. Start with basic checks, follow a systematic approach, and rely on your expertise. Keep calm, trust your skills, and don't hesitate to seek assistance when needed.
You have now learned about the top industrial electrician interview questions and answers.
Did you know that according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of electricians is projected to grow 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations?
This shows the increasing demand for skilled industrial electricians in various industries.
Good luck with your future interviews!
Disclaimer: Some information is provided through AI. Users should always conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any decisions.Affiliate information declaration: We may earn revenue from the products referred on this page and participate in affiliate programs. |
hooded warbler migration
We encountered an issue signing you up. Members of the Parulidae come in a variety of colors. var sc_project=965006; Males and females use different habitats: males in mature forest, and females in scrubbier forest and seasonally flooded areas. In the forest undergrowth, this skulking warbler seems to call attention to itself by frequently fanning its tail quickly … (Updated 2017/08/10) Top The wood-warblers are known for their colorful plumages – the Blackburnian Warbler being one of the most striking members of this family with its deep orange-red throat that contrasts with its handsome black and white plumage. Remember there are many areas to search for warblers during the fall including city parks, wood lots, vegetation along the Rideau River, both Rockcliffe and Sir John A. MacDonald Parkway, and the Arboretum. 365 Bloor Street East, Toronto, Ontario, M4W 3L4. You must obtain permission from the Range Control Office before entering the area. pageTracker._trackPageview(); Belly, undertail coverts, chest, flanks, and foreneck. The Kirtland's Warbler is an endangered species restricted to a very specific type of habitat mostly found in Michigan; Jack Pine forests. I've received a number of reports of American Goldfinch now with young coming to feeders. The Hooded Warbler is a long-distance migrant that breeds in eastern North America and winters in Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. "); The global population of this bird is estimated at 4,000,000 individuals and does not show signs of decline that would necessitate inclusion on the IUCN Red List. Creating a bird-friendly backyard can provide excellent stopover habitat to support warblers as they migrate to and from the breeding grounds. The wood-warblers are one of the one hundred eighteen families of birds in the order PASSERIFORMES (pronounced pas-ser-i-FOR-meez); a large taxonomic order that includes other small perching birds such as the vireos, the white-eyes, and the tanagers. Visit our Community Guidelines for more information and details on how to adjust your email settings. Postmedia is committed to maintaining a lively but civil forum for discussion and encourage all readers to share their views on our articles. The Hooded Warbler flits through shrubby understories in eastern forests, flicking its tail to show off its white tail feathers. Access to the Shirley's Bay Causeway is restricted. There was an error, please provide a valid email address. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. During the winter months in southern United States and further south, fruit feeders can be very popular for attracting numerous species of birds. For photos, please provide date, location, and photographer's name and for bird reports, observer, date and location. Report bird bands to www.pwrc.usgs.gov/BBL/bblretrv/
. A few small groups of Sanderling have been reported too. They forage in a variety of ways for invertebrates, small fruits, and nectar. In addition to having bright yellow in their plumages, males in bright breeding plumage can show orange, blue, grays, and handsome patterns of black and white. Over the last two weeks the variety of warblers has increased and unlike last week where the Black-throated Green Warbler was one of the most common, this past week Cape May Warbler, Tennessee Warbler and Magnolia Warbler were the more common species reported from various locations. Historically occurring in the southeastern United States, this little known species is thought to have been dependent upon canebrakes on its breeding and wintering grounds in Cuba. "https://secure." Please call 613-991-5740 for permission. "https://ssl." A group of warblers has many collective nouns, including a "bouquet", "confusion", "fall", and "wrench" of warblers. tap here to see other videos from our team. Hooded Warbler: Breeds from Wisconsin, Iowa, Michigan, and southern New England south to the Gulf coast and northern Florida. A brief stop at Westmeath Provincial Park along the Ottawa River produced a few birds including four Sanderling, one Common Goldeneye, and two Black Tern. Females lack the bold black hood, but their yellow cheeks still stand out. The hooded warbler (Setophaga citrina) is a New World warbler. The eyes are large and dark and the tail is often spread, displaying large white spots. Song is a whistled "ta-whit ta-whit tee-yo". However while many species are known for their beautiful breeding plumage colors, they are also known to bird watchers as being extremely challenging to identify when in the fall they revert to their drab tan, olive, and pale colored plumages. Members of the Parulidae are not colonial nesters but often occur in mixed flocks with other species after the breeding season. During the 1980s, 1990s and into the 2000s it became a rare but regular visitor again mainly during late summer and early fall. Native to the Americas and nearby island nations and introduced to the United Kingdom, this bird prefers temperate, tropical, and subtropical ecosystems. North America has ninety species of wood-warblers in twenty-six genera; included in this family are the yellowthroats, a seemingly dizzying array of warblers, and the waterthrushes. © 2020 Ottawa Citizen, a division of Postmedia Network Inc. All rights reserved. // |
How to Fix a Battery Terminal
To fix a battery terminal, first, disconnect the negative cable, then the positive cable. Clean the terminal with a wire brush.
Struggling with a faulty battery terminal can be frustrating and may leave you stranded with a dead battery. However, with a few simple steps, you can quickly resolve this issue and get your vehicle back on the road in no time.
Proper maintenance of your battery terminals is crucial to ensure a reliable connection and extend the lifespan of your battery. By following the steps outlined below, you can effectively fix a battery terminal yourself and prevent any future issues. Let's dive deeper into the process of fixing a battery terminal and learn how to do it correctly.
Credit: m.youtube.com
Step-by-step Guide To Fixing A Battery Terminal
Learn how to quickly and effectively fix a battery terminal with this step-by-step guide. By following simple instructions, you can safely repair the terminal and ensure proper functionality of your battery in no time. Master the art of fixing battery terminals with ease.
`disconnecting The Battery`
` Disconnecting the battery is the first step in fixing a battery terminal. To start, you will need to turn off the engine and ensure all electronic devices are turned off. Then, use a wrench to loosen the nut on the negative terminal first, followed by the positive terminal. Once loosened, carefully lift the terminals off the battery posts, and set them aside in a safe place away from the battery. ``cleaning The Terminal`
` Next, it's essential to clean the terminal to ensure a solid connection. Begin by inspecting the terminal for any signs of corrosion or debris. If present, use a wire brush to gently scrub the terminal and remove any buildup. You can also create a paste using baking soda and water to help neutralize any acidic corrosion. After cleaning, thoroughly rinse the terminal with water and dry it off with a clean cloth. ``reattaching The Battery`
` Now that the terminals are clean, it's time to reattach the battery. Start by placing the positive terminal back onto the positive battery post and tightening the nut securely. Then, repeat the process for the negative terminal. It's crucial to ensure the terminals are firmly connected to provide a strong and stable connection. Make sure that the terminals are not over-tightened, as this can lead to damage. ``testing The Connection`
` After the battery is reattached, it's important to test the connection to ensure everything is functioning properly. To do this, turn the engine on and check that all electronic devices are working as they should. If everything is in order, the battery terminal has been successfully fixed, and your vehicle is ready to go. By following this step-by-step guide to fixing a battery terminal, you can ensure a reliable and efficient connection, preventing potential electrical issues in your vehicle.Credit: www.ifixit.com
Credit: www.terminalmart.com
Frequently Asked Questions Of How To Fix A Battery Terminal
How Do You Fix A Broken Battery Terminal?
To fix a broken battery terminal, disconnect the battery, clean the terminals, reattach any loose wires, and secure tightly.
Can Corroded Battery Terminals Be Fixed?
Yes, corroded battery terminals can be fixed by cleaning them with a mixture of baking soda and water, then applying a corrosion inhibitor. Regular maintenance can prevent further corrosion.
How Do You Fix A Stripped Battery Terminal?
To fix a stripped battery terminal, you can start by disconnecting the battery. Then clean the terminal and cable with a wire brush. Use a battery terminal cleaner to remove corrosion. If the terminal is damaged, replace it with a new one.
Finally, reconnect the battery securely.
How Do You Fix A Loose Battery Terminal On A Car?
To fix a loose battery terminal on a car, follow these steps: 1. Turn off the car's engine and remove the keys. 2. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts holding the cables onto the battery terminals. 3. Clean the battery terminals with a wire brush to remove any corrosion.
4. Reconnect the cables onto the battery terminals and tighten the nuts securely. 5. Turn on the car's engine and check if the battery terminal is now secure.
How Can I Fix A Loose Battery Terminal?
To fix a loose battery terminal, you can tighten the connection using a wrench or pliers.
What Causes A Battery Terminal To Corrode?
Battery terminals can corrode due to exposure to moisture, high temperatures, or the presence of battery acid.
Can I Clean Battery Terminals With Vinegar?
Yes, you can clean battery terminals with a mixture of vinegar and water. Just soak a brush in the solution and scrub off any corrosion.
Fixing a battery terminal is a simple but essential DIY skill for vehicle maintenance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily troubleshoot and resolve any issues with your battery terminal. Regular maintenance can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
Keep your vehicle running smoothly with these easy steps. |
Introduction to Drive Coupling for Greenhouse Ventilation
1. Increased Air Circulation
Drive couplings for greenhouse ventilation help to increase air circulation within the greenhouse, ensuring that plants receive proper ventilation and preventing the build-up of humidity.
2. Efficient Temperature Control
These drive couplings allow for efficient temperature control within the greenhouse, ensuring that plants are kept at optimal growing temperatures throughout the day and night.
3. Energy Savings
By using drive couplings for greenhouse ventilation, energy savings can be achieved as the system operates efficiently, reducing overall energy consumption.
4. Improved Plant Growth
Proper ventilation provided by drive couplings can lead to improved plant growth, ensuring that plants receive the necessary airflow and nutrients for healthy development.
5. Enhanced Productivity
With the help of drive couplings for greenhouse ventilation, productivity can be enhanced as plants are in an optimal environment for growth, leading to higher yields and quality produce.
Introduction to Types of Drive Couplings
1. Belt Drive Couplings
Belt drive couplings use belts to connect two shafts, providing flexibility and shock absorption in the system.
2. Chain Drive Couplings
Chain drive couplings utilize chains to transmit power between shafts, offering durability and high load-bearing capacity.
3. Gear Drive Couplings
Gear drive couplings use gears to transfer power, providing precise and efficient torque transmission in the system.
4. Hydraulic Drive Couplings
Hydraulic drive couplings use hydraulic fluid to transmit power, offering smooth and consistent operation in the system.
5. Magnetic Drive Couplings
Magnetic drive couplings use magnetic fields to transfer power, providing a non-contact and maintenance-free solution for power transmission.
Materials Used in Drive Couplings
1. Steel
Steel is commonly used in drive couplings for its strength and durability, ensuring reliable performance in demanding applications.
2. Aluminum
Aluminum is used in drive couplings for its lightweight properties, reducing the overall weight of the system and improving efficiency.
3. Polymer
Polymer materials are used in drive couplings for their flexibility and resistance to corrosion, providing a cost-effective and reliable solution for power transmission.
4. Cast Iron
Cast iron is used in drive couplings for its high heat resistance and wear characteristics, ensuring long-lasting performance in harsh environments.
5. Brass
Brass is used in drive couplings for its conductivity and anti-corrosion properties, ensuring efficient power transmission and longevity of the system.
Key Applications of Drive Couplings
1. Industrial Machinery
2. Agricultural Equipment
3. Automotive Systems
4. Marine Propulsion Systems
5. Aerospace Industry
Selection Criteria for Drive Couplings
1. Load Capacity
2. Speed and Torque Requirements
3. Environmental Conditions
4. Maintenance and Installation Ease
5. Cost-effectiveness and Longevity
About HZPT
Established in 2006, HZPT is a leading manufacturer and exporter specializing in the design, development, and production of couplings. With 16 years of experience, we have a dedicated design and R&D team that can customize products to meet global customer requirements. Our commitment to quality is evident in our comprehensive quality inspection system that ensures all products have CE and TUV certificates. At HZPT, customer satisfaction is our primary goal, and we strive to provide the best service and highest product quality to our customers in Europe and the United States.
Our product range includes radial elastic couplings, tire couplings, universal couplings, drum gear couplings, and more, catering to various industries' needs. Our company philosophy revolves around quality and credibility, offering high-quality products at competitive prices. With 20 years of ODM and OEM experience, we guarantee 100% testing before shipment and 24-hour service for any customer concerns. Choose HZPT for your coupling needs, and experience the difference in quality and service that sets us apart from the competition. |
Individuals living with Parkinson's disease often face challenges in maintaining mobility and balance. Fitflop shoes have emerged as a popular footwear option that can provide the necessary comfort and support for those with Parkinson's. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the unique benefits of Fitflop shoes and how they can improve the lives of individuals living with Parkinson's.
Understanding Parkinson's Disease and its Impact on Mobility
Parkinson's disease is a complex neurodegenerative disorder that affects the central nervous system. It is characterized by a loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain, leading to a wide range of symptoms that impact mobility. The primary symptoms of Parkinson's include tremors, stiffness, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability.
Impact on Gait and Balance
Parkinson's disease can significantly affect gait and balance, making it difficult for individuals to walk with stability and confidence. This is due to the disruption of the brain's communication with the muscles involved in walking and maintaining balance. As a result, individuals with Parkinson's may experience shuffling steps, reduced arm swing, and a higher risk of falls.
The Role of Footwear in Parkinson's
Choosing appropriate footwear is crucial for individuals with Parkinson's as it can significantly impact their mobility and reduce the risk of falls. The right pair of shoes can provide the necessary support, stability, and comfort needed to navigate daily activities with greater ease.
The Benefits of Fitflop Shoes for Parkinson's Patients
Fitflop shoes have gained popularity among individuals with Parkinson's due to their unique design and comfort features. These shoes are specifically engineered to promote better posture, balance, and muscle activation. Let's explore the specific benefits that Fitflop shoes can offer for individuals with Parkinson's.
Supportive Sole for Enhanced Stability
One of the key features of Fitflop shoes is their supportive sole, which is designed to provide enhanced stability. The thick, cushioned sole helps absorb shock and reduce the impact on the feet and joints, making it easier for individuals with Parkinson's to maintain balance while walking.
Ergonomic Design for Improved Gait
The ergonomic design of Fitflop shoes is another feature that sets them apart. These shoes are built with a biomechanically engineered midsole, which helps to realign the feet and improve gait. The midsole also activates certain leg muscles, promoting a more natural and efficient walking pattern.
Enhanced Cushioning for Added Comfort
Individuals with Parkinson's often experience foot pain and discomfort, which can further affect their mobility. Fitflop shoes address this issue by providing enhanced cushioning throughout the footbed. The additional cushioning helps reduce pressure points and provides a comfortable environment for the feet.
Choosing the Right Fitflop Shoe for Your Needs
With a wide range of Fitflop shoe options available, it's important to choose the right pair that suits your specific needs. Consider the following factors when selecting Fitflop shoes for Parkinson's:
Foot Shape and Arch Support
Every individual has a unique foot shape, and it's crucial to choose Fitflop shoes that provide adequate support for your specific foot type. Look for shoes with built-in arch support that matches the natural arch of your foot. This will help distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on the feet and ankles.
Adjustability for a Customized Fit
Fitflop shoes come in various styles, and some offer adjustability features such as straps or laces. These adjustable features allow you to customize the fit and accommodate any swelling or changes in foot size that may occur throughout the day. A secure and customized fit can greatly enhance comfort and stability.
Consideration of Specific Needs
Individuals with Parkinson's may have specific needs or considerations when selecting Fitflop shoes. For example, some individuals may require shoes with a wider toe box to accommodate foot deformities or orthotic inserts. Others may benefit from shoes with a higher ankle support to prevent ankle instability. It's important to consider these individual needs when making a choice.
Fitflop Shoes: A Fashionable Option for Parkinson's Patients
While functionality and comfort are crucial, many individuals with Parkinson's also want stylish footwear options that allow them to express their personal style. Fitflop shoes offer a wide range of fashionable options that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Contemporary and Trendy Designs
Fitflop shoes are not just comfortable; they are also stylish and contemporary. Whether you prefer sneakers, sandals, or boots, Fitflop offers a wide range of designs that are on-trend and suitable for various occasions. You can find shoes in different colors, patterns, and materials, allowing you to find the perfect pair that matches your style.
Versatile and Functional Styles
Fitflop shoes are designed with versatility in mind. Many of their styles can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for both casual and formal occasions. Whether you need shoes for a day at the office, a weekend getaway, or a special event, Fitflop has options that combine fashion and functionality.
Collaborations with Designers and Celebrities
Fitflop has collaborated with renowned designers and celebrities to create limited-edition collections, adding a touch of luxury and exclusivity to their range. These collaborations bring fresh and unique designs to the Fitflop lineup, allowing individuals with Parkinson's to stay fashionable and up-to-date with the latest trends.
Testimonials: Real-Life Experiences with Fitflop Shoes
The true testament to the benefits of Fitflop shoes for individuals with Parkinson's comes from real-life experiences. Here are some testimonials from individuals who have experienced the positive impact of Fitflop shoes on their daily lives:
Testimonial 1: Jane's Story
Jane, a 55-year-old woman diagnosed with Parkinson's, shares her experience with Fitflop shoes. She explains how the ergonomic design and supportive sole have greatly improved her balance and stability while walking. Jane also appreciates the fashionable options, allowing her to feel confident and stylish despite her condition.
Testimonial 2: Michael's Journey
Michael, a 62-year-old man living with Parkinson's, shares his journey with Fitflop shoes. He discusses how the enhanced cushioning has significantly reduced his foot pain and allowed him to walk for longer periods without discomfort. Michael also praises the adjustability feature, which accommodates his changing foot size throughout the day.
Tips for Caring for and Maintaining Fitflop Shoes
To ensure that your Fitflop shoes continue to provide optimal support and comfort, it's essential to care for them properly. Here are some tips for cleaning, storing, and maintaining your Fitflop shoes:
Regular Cleaning
Fitflop shoes can accumulate dirt and grime over time, affecting their appearance and performance. It's important to clean your shoes regularly to remove any debris and maintain their cleanliness. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning, and use appropriate cleaning products for the specific material of your shoes.
Proper Storage
When not in use, it's essential to store your Fitflop shoes properly to prevent any damage. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Avoid placing heavy objects on top of your shoes to prevent any distortion or misshaping of the soles.
Replacing Worn-Out Shoes
Fitflop shoes, like any other footwear, will eventually wear out over time. It's important to monitor the condition of your shoes and replace them when necessary. Signs of wear include a flattened or worn-out sole, visible tears or cracks, and decreased cushioning. Continuing to wear worn-out shoes can compromise their effectiveness and potentially lead to discomfort or injury.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fitflop Shoes for Parkinson's
As individuals explore the world of Fitflop shoes for Parkinson's, they may have various questions and concerns. Here are some frequently asked questions about Fitflop shoes and their answers:
Q1: Are Fitflop shoes suitable for all stages of Parkinson's?
A1: Fitflop shoes can benefit individuals with Parkinson's at any stage of the disease. However, it's important to consider individual needs and consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice.
Q2: Can Fitflop shoes completely eliminate balance issues in Parkinson's?
A2: While Fitflop shoes can significantly improve balance and stability, they may not completely eliminate balance issues. It's important to use Fitflop shoes in conjunction with other strategies, such as physical therapy and assistive devices, for optimal results.
Q3: Can I wear Fitflop shoes if I have foot deformities?
A3: Fitflop shoes offer various styles and options, including those suitable for individuals with foot deformities. Look for shoes with a wider toe box or adjustable features to accommodate specific foot conditions. Consulting with a podiatrist
Q3: Can I wear Fitflop shoes if I have foot deformities?
A3: Fitflop shoes offer various styles and options, including those suitable for individuals with foot deformities. Look for shoes with a wider toe box or adjustable features to accommodate specific foot conditions. Consulting with a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist can also provide valuable guidance on selecting the most appropriate Fitflop shoe for your specific needs.
Q4: Are Fitflop shoes only for walking or can they be worn for other activities?
A4: Fitflop shoes are versatile and can be worn for various activities, depending on the specific style. While they are excellent for walking and daily activities, Fitflop also offers options suitable for exercise, such as sneakers and sandals with enhanced support and cushioning. Consider your activity needs and choose the appropriate Fitflop shoe accordingly.
Q5: Can Fitflop shoes help with foot pain associated with Parkinson's?
A5: Fitflop shoes are designed with enhanced cushioning to provide comfort and reduce foot pain. Many individuals with Parkinson's have reported a decrease in foot pain and discomfort when wearing Fitflop shoes. However, it's important to remember that individual experiences may vary, and consulting with healthcare professionals can provide personalized advice based on your specific condition.
Other Assistive Devices to Enhance Mobility
While Fitflop shoes offer significant benefits for individuals with Parkinson's, they are not the only assistive devices available. Here are some other mobility aids that can complement the use of Fitflop shoes, further improving mobility and quality of life:
Walking Aids
For individuals with more severe mobility challenges, walking aids such as canes, walkers, or rollators can provide additional support and stability. These devices can help individuals maintain balance and reduce the risk of falls, especially when used in combination with appropriate footwear like Fitflop shoes.
Orthotic Inserts
In some cases, individuals with Parkinson's may benefit from custom orthotic inserts that provide additional arch support or cushioning. Orthotic inserts can be placed inside Fitflop shoes to address specific foot conditions and enhance overall comfort and stability.
Physical Therapy Equipment
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing Parkinson's symptoms and maintaining mobility. There is a range of equipment available for use during physical therapy sessions, such as resistance bands, balance boards, and exercise balls. These tools can help individuals improve strength, balance, and coordination.
Home Modifications
Creating a safe and accessible environment at home is essential for individuals with Parkinson's. Installing handrails, grab bars, and non-slip flooring in areas prone to falls, such as bathrooms and staircases, can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and enhance mobility and independence.
The Role of Exercise in Managing Parkinson's Symptoms
Regular exercise is highly beneficial for individuals with Parkinson's disease. Engaging in physical activity can help manage symptoms, improve motor function, and enhance overall quality of life. Fitflop shoes can play a role in supporting individuals with Parkinson's in their exercise routines.
Types of Exercises for Parkinson's
There are various types of exercises that have been shown to be beneficial for individuals with Parkinson's. These include aerobic exercises like walking or swimming, strength training exercises, balance and coordination exercises, and flexibility exercises. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist to determine the most appropriate exercises for your specific needs and limitations.
The Benefits of Fitflop Shoes during Exercise
When engaging in exercise, wearing proper footwear is crucial to ensure comfort, stability, and safety. Fitflop shoes, with their supportive sole, cushioning, and ergonomic design, can provide the necessary support and reduce the risk of injuries during exercise. They can also help individuals maintain proper posture and alignment, enhancing the effectiveness of the exercise routine.
Choosing the Right Fitflop Shoe for Exercise
When selecting Fitflop shoes for exercise, consider the specific requirements of the activity. For example, if you are engaging in walking or jogging, opt for shoes with adequate shock absorption and cushioning. If you are participating in strength training or balance exercises, choose shoes with a stable and supportive sole. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide guidance on selecting the most appropriate Fitflop shoe for your exercise routine.
Seeking Professional Advice: Consultation with Healthcare Providers
While this guide provides comprehensive information about Fitflop shoes for Parkinson's, it's important to remember that every individual's needs may vary. Seeking professional advice from healthcare providers is essential to ensure personalized recommendations and guidance. Here are some tips for initiating conversations about Fitflop shoes with healthcare professionals:
Prepare Questions and Concerns
Before your consultation, take the time to write down any questions or concerns you may have about Fitflop shoes. This will help ensure that you cover all the relevant topics during your discussion with the healthcare professional.
Share Your Specific Needs and Challenges
During the consultation, be open and honest about your specific needs and challenges related to mobility and footwear. Discuss any foot conditions, balance issues, or other concerns that may impact your choice of Fitflop shoes. This information will help the healthcare professional provide personalized recommendations tailored to your situation.
Consider a Multidisciplinary Approach
Parkinson's disease requires a multidisciplinary approach to management. In addition to consulting with your primary care physician, consider involving other healthcare professionals such as neurologists, physical therapists, or orthopedic specialists. These professionals can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their specific areas of expertise.
Remember, healthcare professionals are there to support and guide you in making informed decisions. By working together, you can find the best options and strategies to enhance your mobility and overall well-being. |
MK Michal Woldiger is working to establish a center to help soldiers returning from the battlefield and dealing with post-trauma symptoms. In an interview with Israel National News – Arutz Sheva, she talks about the importance of this initiative and also mentions what seems to be the Israeli society's return to the legal reform controversies that "starred" before the war.
Regarding the Supreme Court's decision to abolish the limitations on the reasonableness clause, Woldiger summarizes the entire incident with one word – sad – and continues to say that she is upset about the Supreme Court's decision to act in such a difficult way during such a difficult time, when Israel is burying its soldiers who have fallen in battle in Gaza.
Woldiger says that she went to Mount Herzl with the Lober family after they got up from shiva for their son Yehonatan, and there you can see so many new graves. At a time like this no one needs to be dealing with these kinds of disputes.
She believes that the issue should be put aside, not dealt with, and we must be focusing on victory, on the reserve duty and regular soldiers, fighting against the Hamas 'Nukhba Force,' and returning the hostages home and restoring peace. Then there will be time to deal with these issues. They are important and touch on the foundations of the Israeli society. There will be agreements to fix these, but we must be clear that this is not about smoothing over any difficulties. The difficulties exist and we will deal with it when the time is right, just as a proper society knows how to deal with problems and fixes them."
As someone who has extensive experience in mental health, MK Woldiger calls on Israeli society to be ready to face the mental consequences of the war. "The mental resilience of all Israeli citizens, and most certainly the soldiers on the front line, is critical. Not a gun, a rifle, a tank, or an armored personnel carrier will help if the soldier does not have the resilience and knowledge that he is fighting for a good and just cause. He must know that he can trust his friends and whoever sent him on this mission, that even if he is injured, someone will take care of him. Resilience is critical and we need it even in times of peace, so even more so in times of war but unfortunately we don't invest enough in it."
According to Woldiger, the lack of investment is reflected both in the individual citizens of Israel and in the state as a whole. "We don't invest enough in it and that's why I shouted about the law that was passed yesterday. It is one of the most exciting moments for me and it's just the beginning, but it's a very important law," she says and explains the nature of the law:
"According to the data I received from the beginning of the war, there are about 1,600 soldiers who have been treated for mental issues, some have returned to service, and some have not, some develop symptoms of post-trauma and this is something serious and must be given appropriate attention. Post-trauma can be a severe chronic illness, that will interfere with these people's functioning forever and we need to do everything to prevent and treat post-trauma."
Woldiger adds: "We recently heard on the news about a soldier who heard about the attack on the morning of October 7th and responded to calls for help. He saw, heard, and had very difficult experiences. After a few weeks while he was on leave, he suffered a psychotic attack, thinking that his house was being attacked by terrorists. He ran to a neighbor and called the police to help him. In the end, he was arrested and put in prison for seven days. This is a man who fought for us on the front line and was put in prison because of trauma. His officer's testimony didn't help either.
The law I am proposing seeks to provide a solution to these incidents. The plan is to establish a national mental health center for people to call if they need help 24/7. Our representatives will listen to the complainant or to the soldier himself, or the neighbor, and decide if a trained team should be sent out. Such a team will include a psychologist or social worker, who will handle the incident, calm the soldier down, and refer him to further treatment in the community. They will continue to accompany him until he finds a framework that will take care of him. So, instead of turning the incident into a criminal event, it will be dealt with in the community and referred to the community mental health system. Such a system exists in several countries, and we are working to implement such an option here in Israel as well." |
As believers, it should be no surprise that prayer is considered important in the Christian community. In our worship gatherings prayer covers everything we do. We pray before service, at the beginning of service, after worship, before the message, after the message, at the end of service. It is clear that prayer can a special place in the life of the believer, but the real question is, why do we pray at all?
Why do we pray? What do we pray about? Who are we praying to? When should we pray? How long should we pray for? These are all questions that even devoted Christians have, and more often than not, are too embarrassed to ask. The good news however, is that this does not have to be a mystery. Jesus himself gives us a clear and easy way to pray that he commands all believers to partake in. This simple prayer can be found in Matthew 6:5-13.
5 "And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 6 But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. 7 "And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 9 Pray then like this: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. 10 Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread, 12 and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
Before Jesus ever actually begins to lay out what a pray should look like, He addresses a few things that would have been important to the original audience listening to Him preach. The first was to don't pray to man, pray to God
Don't pray to man, pray to God
Among those listening to Jesus preach were the Pharisees, a group of devote religious Jews. These men were infamous for their performances when it came to prayer. They made a habit of praying to gain attention, rather than to communicate with God. This was something that Jesus was not happy about. He made it clear that god desires for you to come to Him in pray for no other reason than Him.
In the prayer itself, Jesus continues to expand on this idea. the first aspect of prayer that He communicates through the "Lord's Prayer" is that when we pray, we should know who we are praying to.
Know who you are praying to
In Matthew 6:9, Jesus opens His prayer with "Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be your name." Our posture in prayer must start with humbly coming in front of our creator. God created us and continues to provide for us. He is the good Father that we come to with our needs. This is our posture for prayer because this is who we are praying to.
Once we are in this posture we can actually begin praying, and that begins by aligning with God's will.
Pray for God's will, before your own
When you have truly submitted to God and come to Him in a posture that aligns with the reality that you are speaking to the creator of the universe, it is vital that we begin by asking God to help us to do His will in our lives.
This goes beyond just going to church services and serving in the nursery, it is giving up your fleshly desires and replacing them with God's will in your life. Pray for God to not only help you live inside His will, but to also help you understand His will as well.
Pray for your needs, not your wants
Matthew 6:11 says "give us this day our daily bread." This is for us to pray for our daily needs to be met. God desires to meet our needs. Later in Matthew 6, Jesus confirms this about His Father. God desires to take care of His children, but this does not mean He will supply us with our wants and desires as well.
When we pray, we should come to the Lord asking for Him to provide our needs as well as showing us what our needs might be.
Pray for a soft and discerning heart
Jesus concludes this prayer with a request that God forgive us of our sins as well as helping us to forgive others. Our spiritual life depends on our confession. We need to align with God and pray that He forgives us of our sinful nature.
Want to learn more about prayer? Check out these recommended resources. |
1789 – Bishop Gate, City Walls, Derry, Co. Derry Architect: Henry Aaron Baker The present Bishop Gate was built in 1789 as a triumphal arch to mark the first centenary of the closing of the gates by The Apprentice Boys of Derry.
1803 – Bank of Ireland, College Green, Dublin Architect: Edward Pearce, James Gandon, Robert Parke, Francis Johnston This was the first purpose built Parliament House in the world and was constructed at a great time of public confidence in Dublin.
1807 – Chapel Royal, Dublin Castle Architect: Francis Johnston The Chapel Royal, or as it is now known the Church of the Most Holy Trinity,
1816 – The Honourable Society of Kings Inns, Henrietta Street, Dublin Architects: James Gandon & Henry Aaron Baker This was the last great public building designed by James Gandon and was designed to provide study and residence facilities for barristers.
Smyth, Edward (1743-1823) Edward Smyth was born in County Meath, and apprenticed to the sculptor Simon Vierpyl and subsequently by Hugh Darley the builder. |
A niche product is one that serves a small segment of the overall market. Companies with niche products can target their marketing efforts more precisely and attract customers who are more likely to buy.
The easiest way to find niche products is to search Google platforms, Amazon, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and various online communities for popular products. Photo reviews, which incorporate photos of the products in use, are particularly effective.
Product Reviews on Amazon
Product reviews are one of the most important factors for Amazon sellers to keep in mind when it comes to marketing their products. They can help boost conversion rates and credibility, especially if they come from verified purchasers. They are also helpful in convincing consumers that a particular product is worth the price. Unlike seller feedback, which is more about the overall experience with a product or the customer service received from a seller, Product Reviews are solely about evaluating a specific product.
Reviews are a huge part of Amazon's search algorithm and can have an impact on how your product ranks in searches. Typically, the average consumer will read between 1 and 6 reviews before deciding to make a purchase. So, it's essential that you do everything you can to gather positive reviews and respond quickly to negative ones.
The main difference between Product Reviews and Seller Feedback is that Product Reviews are about the product itself, while feedback has to do with the buying experience and the shipping and handling process of merchant-fulfilled orders. While some sellers have a hard time distinguishing between the two, it is very important to understand the difference.
A review is an opinion that a customer has about a product or service. It can be a text response or an image that can be filtered by rating and keywords. Customers are encouraged to share their experiences with others by leaving a review, but they are required to follow Amazon's community guidelines. For example, it's against Amazon's guidelines to solicit reviews from friends and family members, and it's not allowed to leave a review that doesn't provide relevant information.
Despite this, it's still possible to get fake reviews on Amazon. While many services like FakeSpot and ReviewMeta are aimed at helping consumers spot incentivized reviews, it's still a problem that is ongoing. The company has been working to crack down on it, and they have started weighing the legitimacy of reviews and ratings even more than in the past. They are now more heavily influenced by the date and whether or not it was a Verified Purchase review.
Product Reviews on Social Media
Product reviews are a key factor in the purchase decision process for many shoppers, particularly when they're shopping online. Without the opportunity to see, touch and try out products before purchasing, consumers rely on reviews and other social proof to determine whether a particular product is right for them. This type of content is also a great way to boost a business's SEO. A well-written review can provide valuable insight into the performance and quality of a product, as well as how it compares to similar products on the market.
Unlike consumer product ratings, which are often limited to just a few words or sentences, written product reviews offer more in-depth and nuanced evaluations of a product from the perspective of its users. These written reviews are an essential part of a business's marketing strategy and can help to increase sales and build brand trust.
Reviews can be found on a variety of online platforms, including social media sites, ecommerce sites and dedicated review websites. Regardless of where they're posted, they should always be authentic and reflect the true experience of the user. Reviews that are fake or dishonest can damage a business's reputation and may lead to customers losing trust in the company.
According to a recent study by 2023 Power of Reviews, 98% of customers say that reviews are important in making their purchasing decisions. Furthermore, 82% of people claim that they trust reviews as much as personal recommendations from friends and family. This makes it clear why incorporating reviews into your marketing strategy is so important.
A positive review on social media is a powerful form of social proof, which can help to drive traffic and conversions for your business. A good way to get more positive reviews is by using a tool such as Review Grower, which can automatically post positive customer feedback on your Facebook page.
Reviews are an essential component of a business's marketing strategy and should be included on all digital channels. However, it's important to keep in mind that not all product reviews are created equal. To ensure that your reviews are effective, make sure to include a detailed description of the product and its performance. This will allow your customers to get a better understanding of the product and its benefits before they purchase it.
Product Reviews on Websites
Product reviews are a powerful tool for ecommerce businesses. They help customers make purchase decisions and improve customer retention. They can also increase brand visibility and drive organic traffic. However, it is important to collect authentic feedback from customers and respond to negative reviews in a positive manner.
Review collection tools allow ecommerce businesses to collect customer reviews and display them on their website. They can also use these reviews to create social proof and trust for their brands. Moreover, they can use these reviews to identify the product features that are not performing well and improve them.
It is also important to make the process of reviewing products as simple as possible. Customers are more likely to provide a review if they are not forced to spend time filling out lengthy surveys. Additionally, it is important to avoid giving discounts as review incentives, as this may skew the results of the reviews.
Adding reviews on a business's website can enhance a visitor's experience by providing them with an insider's perspective of the product. Moreover, it can also increase sales and attract new customers. It is also important to respond to reviews in a timely fashion, as this will build trust and improve the overall shopping experience.
A good product review should include photos and videos of the product in a real-life setting. This will give shoppers an idea of how the product works and how it can be used. It is also important to provide a detailed description of the product's features and benefits. Additionally, it is a good idea to include a call to action to encourage users to leave a review.
In addition to product reviews, businesses should also feature verified buyer badges on their websites. These badges indicate that a review has been written by a legitimate customer. This will build trust and credibility for the brand, which will lead to higher conversions. In addition, displaying product reviews on a business's website can help drive organic search engine traffic. To maximize the impact of product reviews, ecommerce businesses should implement them across their entire site and integrate them with their social media pages.
Product Reviews on Blogs
Product review bloggers focus on a specific niche and write content that analyzes the best products in that area. They publish reviews that make the buying journey easier for consumers and earn hefty commissions for their efforts. They also share valuable insights and recommendations with their audience, which is what builds their credibility in the niche.
When writing a product review blog post, it is important to be honest and objective. Your audience will be able to tell if you are just writing a puff piece. A good way to avoid this is to highlight both the pros and cons of the product. This will help readers decide whether or not the product is right for them.
You can also add value to your content by including visuals in the post. This can break up long blocks of text, making it easier to read. It can also be a fun and engaging way to share your review, as many readers respond well to videos.
Another way to improve your product review blog posts is to include a table of contents. This makes it easy for your audience to find the information they need and increases the chances of them returning to your site in the future. You can also use a headline that matches the product's brand or name, which is important for SEO purposes.
Lastly, it is crucial to create an easy-to-skim blog post. This is important because most people read blogs on the go, and they don't have the time to read lengthy reviews. A clear and concise headline will grab the reader's attention, and a brief but thorough summary of the pros and cons will be enough to inform their decision.
Product review bloggers are some of the highest earning affiliates on the internet, and they have mastered the art of creating impactful product reviews. In addition to leveraging keyword research and search engine optimization, they also use a variety of marketing channels to promote their content and increase traffic. They also understand that their audience is looking for more than just a recommendation; they want to feel like they are in a relationship with their favorite brands. |
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- With access to food from markets and from recent harvests, Minimal (IPC Phase 1) is expected from June to September in most areas. However, localized pockets of food insecurity are likely in Dodoma, Mwanza, and Mara Regions following below normal March to May rainfall in these areas which will likely reduce the size of the Masika harvest.
- Maize and rice prices will likely continue to be stable due to adequate availability of stocks from the 2013 harvests and likely average to above-average production from the Msimu harvest from May to July. There is increasing demand for maize from Kenya, likely leading to higher prices in some border areas.
- The recent off-season rains in the southern, unimodal areas may lead to crops rotting or the discoloration of grains, limiting profit from crop sales and reducing the storability of grain. Prices may rise and food availability on markets may be reduced or delayed.
Northern and northeastern bimodal areas |
The normal November to April Msimu season has ended in unimodal areas. The country had adequate moisture for crop growth likely leading to harvests similar to the 2013 season. This production may be limited by additional off-season rains that fell in late May and are forecast to continue by the Tanzania Meteorological Agency (TMA). If heavy rains continue beyond mid-June in unimodal areas, there is the possibility of large losses of bean, potato, and maize crops. However, most forecasts point towards more moderate rains. This would delay the drying and transportation of crops to markets. With the harvest and marketing delayed, the seasonally high prices of the lean season may continue. However, if the rains end by mid-June, the Southern Highlands would likely have another bumper harvest.
In the central areas of Dodoma, the March to May Masika season had a late and poor start with erratic rainfall throughout, likely resulting in below normal crop production in some localized areas.
In the bimodal areas, rainfall is ongoing and crops are at their late vegetative to grain-filling stages. The majority of these areas received above-normal rainfall in April and May. Availability of adequate moisture will facilitate lentil and sweet potato crops reaching full maturity. It will also provide opportunities for on-farm labor including weeding and fertilizer application for labor-dependant households.
Areas that previously reported a one to two month moisture deficit in Moshi are now receiving normal rainfall. Some areas around Lake Victoria in Mwanza and Mara have had below normal rainfall, retarding crop growth. However, if rains continue as forecast, there is still time for many crops to reach maturity in these areas. This is the second consecutive season of below average rainfall for both of these areas, although less than ideal production continues to be a chronic issue for Rorya District in Mara Region.
Adequate moisture in the unimodal areas and above-normal rainfall received in most bimodal areas has allowed pasture regeneration, and the rains have fully recharged water points for livestock. Dietary diversity will remain normal for pastoral and agropastoral households as milk consumption and cash from milk sales for purchasing other food items have been near normal this season. Livestock sales will continue with favorable terms of trade due to normal livestock body weight. Livestock migration will remain minimal due to the adequate forage and water resources. This will reduce the risk of conflict between livestock herders and fully settled farmers. The situation is anticipated to remain stable until at least the end of July.
Green harvests of maize, beans, potatoes, cassava, bananas, and peas as well as maize, beans, and rice stocks from the 2013 production season are available in the market. Farmers are now accessing their own harvests, and green harvests are available on the market. Prices are stable as demand is seasonally falling. However, across all monitored markets, maize prices have remained above their five-year averages except in Mbeya where they are below the five-year average. Compared to March, April maize prices have remained stable and below 2013 prices.
Cross-border export of maize from Tanzania to Kenya began earlier than normal in April instead of in May. Maize prices started increasing in markets with active cross-border trade through Musoma and Moshi in April, one month earlier than expected. These markets recorded increased maize prices due to the high quantity of maize exports and low local supply. Supplies reaching these markets are from the surplus-producing Southern Highlands. In the absence of an export ban, the unusually high demand from neighboring countries will further increase maize prices in markets bordering Kenya, reducing food access for poor households who had below-normal Vuli production in January/February. These households typically purchase food, but their cash crops and livestock still have favorable terms of trade with maize.
Rice prices were stable from March to April. However, all prices have remained between nine and 26 percent above the last year with the exception of Mbeya where they are the same as last year. Low supplies of beans as a result of low 2013 Vuli production in northern, bimodal areas in January/February and high demand for beans from neighboring countries have kept bean prices above their five-year averages. The approaching Msimu bean harvest in the southern, unimodal areas will start the seasonal decline of prices as it starts to move into markets in June.
Food security outcomes would change significantly if a ban on exports was enacted to curb the likely above-average demand for cereals from Tanzania to neighboring countries, although it is not the most likely event to occur at this time. Currently rain is influenced by the Indian Ocean sea surface temperatures (SST) which are causing volatile weather patterns. In the most likely scenario rains will continue mildly, delaying harvests and causing minimal losses. If heavy and prolonged rainfall continues beyond May in the central regions of Dodoma and Singida and June to July in the Southern Highland areas, this may result in significant crop losses through rotting, discoloration, and regermination, thus increasing prices and reducing household income from crop sales. Alternatively, if the rains end by mid-June, the Southern Highlands would likely have another bumper harvest, regionally improving the availability of food in much of eastern and southern Africa.
Northern, northern-eastern, and coastal bimodal areas: Reduced availability of food and income as a result of a below normal Vuli harvest in January/February increased the number of people who were Stressed (IPC Phase 2). TMA forecasts indicate adequate rainfall will continue through June, likely supporting crops to maturity. Agricultural activities have continued providing casual labor opportunities and thus adequate income to purchase food. Increasing availability of green maize in neighboring unimodal areas will continue to provide an alternative staple on markets that is less expensive than dry maize. In the event of large-scale exports, the Government of Tanzania will likely release maize reserves to markets to help stabilize food prices.
Figure 1
Seasonal calendar in a typical year
Source: FEWS NET
Figure 2
In remote monitoring, a coordinator typically works from a nearby regional office. Relying on partners for data, the coordinator uses scenario development to conduct analysis and produce monthly reports. As less data may be available, remote monitoring reports may have less detail than those from countries with FEWS NET offices. Learn more about our work here. |
A village full of history
In the village of Ketola there is a small airfield still in use, built in 1941 during the war. For the history buff, the village of Ketola also has other things to see, such as the German military constructions.
There are war memories in Ketola
The traces of the last wars are still visible in Ketola, especially around Hanhikoski airport. When the Germans left, they burned and blew up the buildings and structures of their airbase. There is a lot of war debris and the remains of concrete bunkers around the airport.
The foundations and bricks of many of the houses in Ketola are inherited from buildings destroyed during the war. Cement was also obtained from destroyed German warehouses, as was the lime mortar used for masonry.
Juhani Rytilahti said there was even a German cinema next to the airport, where children watched propaganda films and movie dramas.
"The bricks and masonry in our barn come from Hitler's warehouses and destroyed buildings. When we came back from the evacuation, we saw the destroyed bunkers and burnt buildings. There was also quite a mine risk, as the Germans were sowing a lot of deadly explosives in the area. Our children's parents warned us of the dangers," says Rytilahti.
The Rytilahti barn also houses the mobile stairs used by German aircraft for maintenance. Only the wooden wheels have been replaced by iron wheels. There are still piles of chimneys, smoke pipes, petrified cement and other debris inside the fence of the Hanhikoski airport.
On the border of the Sarrio firing range in Ketola, a German masonry cellar has been preserved almost in its former state. Above the door, a swastika patterned in cement moulding is still very clearly visible. Only the door is missing.
Next to the cellar, the foundations of some kind of heated warehouse are still visible.
NIcknamed "Jänkäjääkärit" went to war from Hanhikoski
During the Continuation War (jatkosota 1941-1944) , the Hanhikoski area of Ketola was a centre of intense activity: on 11 June 1941, Infantry Regiment 12, or the Jänkäjääkärien Regiment, was formed in the area from fresh conscripts and Lapland men. General mobilisation in Finland was declared on 17 June 1941.
The war record of the Rabbit Hunters began with a long march to Salla's Hautajärvi. JR 12's I and III battalions marched through Kemijärvi and a couple of weeks later were in a holding position at Hautajärvi, a few kilometres from the eastern border. The second battalion was subdued by the Germans in the direction of Kiesting.
The legendary commander of the Jänkäjääkärit was Colonel Albert "Reikärauta" Puroma 11.6.1941- 29.1.1944. In the Talin-Ihantala decisive battles the Jänkäjääkärit were led by Colonel Yrjö Hanste.
A German air wing in Hanhikoski
The German airborne division participated in supporting the attack in the direction of Salla and Kiesting with I. Squadron Ground Combat Regiment 5 (I/SG5) with Junkkers JU 87 dive bombers, Stuk with Fighter Regiment 5 Focke Wulf 190 and Messerschmitt bf 109 fighters.
In February 1944 there were 42 planes in Kemijärvi. |
Dmitri Shostakovich, known for many dramatic works composed in the shadow of Stalin, showed a different side —one filled with humor and family ties—in his Piano Concerto No. 2.
Radio Script:
Susan Lewis: Shostakovich wrote his Piano Concerto No. 2 for his teenage son Maxim, who premiered it at his graduation from the Moscow Conservatory in May, 1957.
Kirill Gerstein: I think it has a bit of this reputation that it's a youth concerto.
SL: Russian pianist Kirill Gerstein says that, in fact, its quite challenging.
KG: The first movement is very compact in terms of length and form, but it really contains everything in a short span. The second movement is particularly beautiful.
SL: Shostakovich also uses humor.
KG: The third movement makes fun of these educational piano exercises that Shostakovich's son had to practice - as any pianist at some time encounters.
SL: There is intensity and drama in this somewhat miniature package, as compared to some of his symphonies. So it's a very rich piece.
KG: The composer himself played and recorded it. The Philadelphia Orchestra first performed the work in 1982 at a Mann Music Center concert with Maxim Shostakovich conducting and his son, Dmitri, as soloist. |
People love stories. This is true no matter who you are. From the time we are young children, we love being told stories and hearing stories. But stories aren't just entertaining. Telling a story is one of the best ways to get your point across. It's also a great way to keep your audience interested in what you have to say.
Plus, you'll feel more comfortable telling a story rather than just reciting facts. Since you'll be more at ease, you'll look and feel more confident, and that will have an even stronger pull on your audience. A confident and interesting storyteller is always a joy to watch.
Whatever your topic, whatever the structure of your talk, and whatever the audience, it's always more compelling to deliver your words in the form of a story.
How can you do this? How can you make a business presentation or a company update into a story? Here are a few tips that can help.
Learning Story Structure
To tell a good story, it's important to recognize classic story structure. Yes, all stories are unique and each tale should have its own aspects and features, but it should also follow a classic narrative arc. What does that mean? At its most basic, it means that a story should have a clear beginning, middle, and end.
That sounds simplistic, but it's important to always remember. Your story should start with an opening that gets people interested. This could be a statistic, fact, question, or problem. Once you've established this opening (the beginning), it's time to set the scene (the middle). The middle should have some tension, a challenge, or something else to overcome.
To create this drama, think about what you're presenting and what challenges you may have. For instance, if you're explaining why your organization should make changes to become more efficient, talk about the issues you're currently having with inefficiency. Make them relatable. You might want to talk about how your current processes cause you to miss deadlines or have to scramble to ship products on time.
By making the challenges relatable, your audience will become personally invested in the story you're telling. They'll immediately be more interested in what you're saying and they'll want to know how these challenges can be overcome.
This is when you bring everything to a satisfying conclusion. Talk about how you can conquer the challenges you're faced with and leave the audience with a clear takeaway or call to action.
For instance, in the above example where the challenge is becoming more efficient, the conclusion could be about how implementing certain steps can increase efficiency and stop shipments from being late.
You can then ask the listeners to think about what their jobs would be like in this scenario and that will leave them thinking about their own situation and how your solution could solve their problems. If this happens, it will mean that you've kept them interested, accomplished your goal, and got your point across.
Practice your Story
Just having the proper layout of a story doesn't automatically make your presentation a great one. However, when you start with a story, it becomes easier to speak with confidence. Once you've written the story down, practice delivering your talk.
How does it flow? A good story should easily flow from beginning to middle to end. It shouldn't be jarring, it shouldn't jump around, and it shouldn't be confusing or difficult to follow.
This is another benefit to structuring your talk like a story. When you make a point of having a strong beginning, middle, and end, you'll avoid losing your audience or confusing them with an inconsistent timeline.
Practice telling your story out loud to make sure it flows well. Consider recording yourself or having a trusted friend or colleague listen to you speak. Make sure they can follow your story and they're interested in what you have to say.
When you talk, speak in a way that makes you feel comfortable. Your word choice, how you transition from point to point, and how you structure your sentences will be unique to you. Write your story in your own voice and you'll feel more comfortable and confident when you deliver it. Your audience will sense this.
Once you get the hang of structuring every presentation as a story, it becomes second nature. Soon you'll be delivering every talk in the form of an engaging and interesting story and your audience will be hanging off your every word each time.
This is the sort of confident public speaking that Presentation Power makes possible. In this exclusive webinar, you will learn tactics, tips, and strategies to turn any talk into a memorable, high-impact presentation. Register for free today at: https://shawndoyletraining.com/presentation-power/. |
Autonomic dysreflexia is a dangerous clinical condition in patients with severe spinal cord injury at or above the level of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6). It causes sudden uncontrolled and life-threatening hypertension because of inadequate physiological balancing by the two parts of the autonomic nervous system – the sympathetic and parasympathetic pathways.
Patients usually present with one of several symptoms –
- headaches;
- blurred vision or spots in front of the eyes;
- nasal congestion;
- a sense of 'impending doom' or apprehension.
Clinical examination reflects the split nature of the condition -there is bradycardia, constriction off the pupils and nasal congestion [6].
Above the level of the injury the skin reflects unopposed parasympathetic activity with -
while below the lesion there is sympathetic activity but no inhibition by descending parasympathetic activity–
- pale, cool skin,
- piloerection,
- goosebumps.
A range of underlying problems can induce attacks. These include (but are not limited to) – [7]
- Urinary tract problems - bladder distension, urinary tract infection, calculus;
- Gastrointestinal tract disturbances - Bowel distension or impaction, gastritis, gastric reflux or ulcers, gallstones, gastrocolic irritation, anal fissures, hemorrhoids or appendicitis;
- Reproductive tract stimulation – menstruation, pregnancy (especially labour and delivery), vaginitis, sexual intercourse, ejaculation, epididymitis, scrotal compression;
- Invasive investigations - cystoscopy, colonoscopy, surgery;
- Vascular conditions - deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary emboli;
- Skin problems – blisters, burns or sunburn, contact with hard or sharp objects, constrictive clothing, shoes, or appliances, pressure ulcers, ingrowing toenail, insect bites;
- Temperature fluctuations;
- Bone disease or damage – fractures, arthritis.
Entire Body System
- Pallor
Symptoms include hypertension, bradycardia, severe headaches, pallor below and flushing above the cord lesion, and convulsions. Synonym(s): autonomic hyperreflexia. [medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com]
The inverse is true for injuries at or above T6, uninhibited sympathetic release of norepinephrine and dopamine below the level of injury causes vasospasm, hypertension, skin pallor and gooseflesh associated with the piloerector response. [rnceus.com]
The sympathetic response causes vasoconstriction, resulting in hypertension, pounding headache, visual changes, anxiety, pallor, and goose bumps below the level of injury. [karmanhealthcare.com]
- Disability
news about the disability movement, and news stories about the paralympics. [lifecenter.ric.org]
Descriptor Terms: AUDIOVISUAL MATERIALS, BLADDER FUNCTION, BLOOD PRESSURE, BOWEL FUNCTION, DAILY LIVING, DISABILITY MANAGEMENT, HEALTH PROMOTION, MEDICAL TREATMENT, PREVENTION, SECONDARY CONDITIONS, SELF CARE, SPINAL CORD INJURIES. [naric.com]
Your guide to care and support Disabled Living Foundation GOV.UK: help and advice for disabled people Headway: the brain injury association Page last reviewed: 09/11/2017 Next review due: 09/11/2020 [nhs.uk]
Skip to main content Skip to navigation Your browser appears to have cookies disabled. [nursingtimes.net]
- Malaise
Predominant parasympathetic excitation above the level of injury Flushing* above the level of the lesion: body above the lesion incl. face Sweating* and chills Bradycardia: tachycardia or arrhythmia may be present Nasal congestion: secondary to vasodilatation Malaise [ngbladder.org]
[…] injury), flushing (above the level of the injury), sweating (above the level of the injury), nasal congestion (above the level of the injury), red blotching of the skin (above the level of the injury), cold clammy skin (below the level of the injury), malaise [cureus.com]
Photo: Chesley Sheppard Clinical features The presenting symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia generally include a bilateral, pounding headache along with sweating above the level of the injury, nasal congestion, malaise and nausea. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
History The patient with autonomic dysreflexia generally gives a history of one or many of the following symptoms: Headaches, blurry vision, spots in the visual field, nasal congestion, blotchy skin above the level of injury, and a sense of anxiety or malaise [emedicine.medscape.com]
- Fatigue
After successfully completing 36 sessions of aquatic exercise, he reported exertional fatigue during his 10th Lokomat intervention and exhibited asymptomatic or silent AD during this and the three subsequent BWSTT sessions. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
- Treatment: - non operative treatment includes adequate calcium intake and avoidance of Vit D; - w/ vague constitutional symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and/or constipation associated w/ mild hypercalcemia then surgery is not indicated; - note [wheelessonline.com]
Pathogenesis and management of delayed orthostatic hypotension in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. Clin Auton Res 1997 ; 7 : 185 –90. Drummond PD. [jnnp.bmj.com]
Clinical Signs of Myasthenia Gravis -Muscle weakness/fatigue that decreases with exercise, improves with rest -Ocular motor disturbances, ptosis or diplopia -Oropharyngeal muscle weakness, difficulty chewing, swallowing, or talking Muscular dystrophy [quizlet.com]
- Hypothermia
Fractures Heterotopic Ossification Spasticity Urinary Tract Infections Autonomic Dysreflexia Deep Vein Thrombosis Pulmonary Embolism Orthostatic Hypotension Cardiovascular Disease Syringomyelia Neuropathic / Spinal Cord Pain Medication Problems Hyperthermia Hypothermia [spinal-injury.net]
Hypothermia may occur in hypothalamic disorders and in the elderly, in whom such lesions have been postulated. [jnnp.bmj.com]
- Nasal Congestion
Signs and symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia Helping Hands carers are trained to look out for the signs of an imminent attack: Pounding headache (caused by the elevation in blood pressure) Goose pimples Sweating above the level of injury Nasal congestion [helpinghandshomecare.co.uk]
Clinical examination reflects the split nature of the condition -there is bradycardia, constriction off the pupils and nasal congestion. [symptoma.com]
Autonomic dysreflexia (AD) is a syndrome that consists of facial flushing, excessive sweating, nasal congestion, throbbing headache and paroxysmal hypertension which may occur in response to bladder distension in patients with spinal cord lesions above [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
congestion slow pulse blotching of the skin restlessness hypertension (blood pressure greater than 200/100) flushed (reddened) face red blotches on the skin above level of spinal injury sweating above level of spinal injury nausea slow pulse ( cold, [allnurses.com]
- Nausea
[…] the level of injury Nasal congestion Slow pulse Blotching of the skin Restlessness Hypertension (blood pressure greater than 200/100) Flushed (reddened) face Red blotches on the skin above level of spinal injury Sweating above level of spinal injury Nausea [helpinghandshomecare.co.uk]
[…] the level of injury nasal congestion slow pulse blotching of the skin restlessness hypertension (blood pressure greater than 200/100) flushed (reddened) face red blotches on the skin above level of spinal injury sweating above level of spinal injury nausea [allnurses.com]
They include headache, nausea and vomiting, problems with vision, nasal congestion, and feelings of anxiety and doom. [msdmanuals.com]
Nausea. A slow heart rate ( bradycardia ). Goose bumps below the level of spinal injury. Cold, clammy skin below the level of spinal injury. [myhealth.alberta.ca]
- Orthostatic Hypotension
Treatment of orthostatic hypotension with fludrocortisone acetate relieved these symptoms. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
Orthostatic intolerance with posturally induced tachycardia Orthostatic intolerance may occur without orthostatic hypotension. [jnnp.bmj.com]
Signs and symptoms – Clinical Features Hypertension: Greater than 20mmHg above baseline for both systolic and diastolic (Typical BP in tetraplegia patient is 90-110/60-70mmHg supine BP is commonly lower when patient is sitting due to orthostatic hypotension [rnoh.nhs.uk]
- Fracture
A 44-year-old patient with known, stable, long-standing quadriplegia sustained a midshaft left femur fracture in a motor vehicle accident. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
- Sweating
Slow pulse Blotching of the skin Restlessness Hypertension (blood pressure greater than 200/100) Flushed (reddened) face Red blotches on the skin above level of spinal injury Sweating above level of spinal injury Nausea Slow pulse (less than 60 beats [helpinghandshomecare.co.uk]
STUDY DESIGN: Measurement of haemodynamic responses, cutaneous blood flow and sweat release during penile vibratory stimulation (PVS) in spinal cord-injured men. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
↑ in BP, sweating, and other autonomic reflexes in reponse to various stimuli–eg, bowel impaction. [medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com]
[…] above the level of injury nasal congestion slow pulse blotching of the skin restlessness hypertension (blood pressure greater than 200/100) flushed (reddened) face red blotches on the skin above level of spinal injury sweating above level of spinal injury [allnurses.com]
- Flushing
Symptoms include hypertension, bradycardia, severe headaches, pallor below and flushing above the cord lesion, and convulsions. Synonym(s): autonomic hyperreflexia. [medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com]
[…] signs of an imminent attack: Pounding headache (caused by the elevation in blood pressure) Goose pimples Sweating above the level of injury Nasal congestion Slow pulse Blotching of the skin Restlessness Hypertension (blood pressure greater than 200/100) Flushed [helpinghandshomecare.co.uk]
Manifestations include HYPERTENSION; TACHYCARDIA (or reflex bradycardia); FEVER; FLUSHING; and HYPERHIDROSIS. Extreme hypertension may be associated with a STROKE. [fpnotebook.com]
It involves, in varying degrees, hypertension, diaphoresis, headache, bradycardia, anxiety, and flushing and is believed due to unrestricted sympathetic activity below the level of the lesion in individuals with injuries above T4-6. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
- Ulcer
National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP) guidelines for pressure ulcer staging, 2007. Available at: http://www.npuap.org/pr2.htm. Accessed: 09/15/2010. 47. Niezgoda JA, Mendez-Eastman S. The effective management of pressure ulcers. [woundsresearch.com]
He subsequently was found to have a gastric ulcer. Symptoms and signs significantly improved with its treatment. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
L89.2 Pressure ulcer of hip L89.20 Pressure ulcer of unspecified hip L89.200 Pressure ulcer of unspecified hip, unstageabl... [icd10data.com]
- Hyperhidrosis
Manifestations include HYPERTENSION; TACHYCARDIA (or reflex bradycardia); FEVER; FLUSHING; and HYPERHIDROSIS. Extreme hypertension may be associated with a STROKE. [fpnotebook.com]
Three patients with chronic traumatic cervical myelopathy had severe orthostatic hyperhidrosis. Orthostatic challenge revealed that hypotension preceded hyperhidrosis, hypertension, and chills, all manifestations of autonomic dysreflexia. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
Manifestations include hypertension; tachycardia (or reflex bradycardia); fever; flushing; and hyperhidrosis. Extreme hypertension may be associated with a stroke. [icd9data.com]
- Retinal Hemorrhage
As a result, the autonomous (involuntary) nervous system is out of whack, and the sudden elevated blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attack, retinal hemorrhage, pulmonary edema, or even death. [study.com]
In some incidences, autonomic dysreflexia can be life-threatening, as it can lead to stroke, retinal hemorrhage, cardiac arrest, and pulmonary edema. [belmarrahealth.com]
The severity of the syndrome during labor ranges from unpleasant symptoms to hypertensive encephalopathy, cerebrovascular accidents, intraventricular and retinal hemorrhages, and death. [acog.org]
Without treatment, the high blood pressure can cause cerebral hemorrhage and retinal hemorrhage, meaning both the eyes and the brain can start bleeding uncontrollably. It can be fatal. [gizmodo.com]
Sustained hypertension can lead to a wide range of secondary hypertensive problems including brain and retinal hemorrhages, myocardial infarction or seizures, and some of these can prove fatal. [symptoma.com]
- Fear
By JEN GUNTER Photo Credit iStock Doctors Treating a Patient With a Nightmarish Condition She had lost all of her skin and I feared I had helped make her last weeks an unrelenting horror show, until our chance reunion. By ALESSANDRA COLAIANNI, M.D. [nytimes.com]
[…] changes or disturbances Bradycardia or tachycardia (Bradycardia at onset, tachycardia may follow) Pallor or gooseflesh below the level of the spinal cord lesion Respiratory distress or bronchospasms Anxiety (Apprehension over impending physical problem to fear [rnoh.nhs.uk]
Fear and depression are not uncommon in patients who have frequent episodes of AD. Talk with your loved one about his or her feelings. [fairview.org]
[…] changes or disturbances Bradycardia or tachycardia Bradycardia at onset, tachycardia may follow Pallor or gooseflesh below the level of the spinal cord lesion Respiratory distress or bronchospasms Anxiety Apprehension over impending physical problem to fear [eprimarycare.onf.org]
- Anxiety Disorder
The attacks were attributed to a previously diagnosed anxiety disorder. Onset of numbness of the left leg numbness prompted a more thorough study, which showed evidence of MS. AD was suspected as the cause of his recurrent attacks of hypertension. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
- Withdrawn
Others: pressure sores, cuts, burns, bruises, sunburn, pressure of any kind on the body, ingrown toenails, or tight clothing, long bone fracture Clinical implications: In case of minor short-duration stimuli, symptoms resolve quickly if the stimulus is withdrawn [ngbladder.org]
- Bladder Distention
Common stimuli are: Urogenital organs: Bladder distention: Up to 85% of episodes Catheter obstruction (kinked indwelling catheters or clot retention): the commonest causes Reflex bladder contractility with detrusor sphincter dysynergia. [ngbladder.org]
The noxious stimulus most commonly reported is bladder or bowel distention [1]. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
Intravesical lidocaine before changing a bladder catheter may reduce the frequency of episodes of bladder distention. Autonomic dysreflexia occurs after a spinal cord injury and can result in life-threatening hypertension. [msdmanuals.com]
Select the medical condition that does not precipitate Autonomic Dysreflexia: fecal impaction, ingrown toenail, abscessed tooth, blocked urinary catheter bladder distention, open pressure sore, fecal impaction, kink in foley, ingrown toenail What are [quizlet.com]
- Overflow Incontinence
Symptoms can include overflow incontinence, frequency, urgency, urge incontinence, and retention. Risk of serious complications (eg, recurrent infection, vesicoureteral reflux, autonomic dysreflexia) is high. [merckmanuals.com]
- Headache
Symptoms include hypertension, bradycardia, severe headaches, pallor below and flushing above the cord lesion, and convulsions. Synonym(s): autonomic hyperreflexia. [medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com]
However, clinicians need to be aware of other headache features and the variety of potential triggers associated with the headache attributed to autonomic dysreflexia. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
If a muscle tear or fracture has occurred, then the headaches may continue after stimulation has ceased. [karmanhealthcare.com]
- Irritability
AD occurs when an irritating stimulus is introduced to the body below the level of spinal cord injury, such as an overfull bladder. [helpinghandshomecare.co.uk]
[…] injury levels above t-5. autonomic dysreflexia can develop suddenly and is potentially life threatening and is considered a medical emergency. if not treated promptly and correctly, it may lead to seizures, stroke, and possobly death. ad occurs when an irritating [allnurses.com]
Over distention or irritation Constipation / impaction Distention during bowel program (digital stimulation) Haemorrhoids or anal fissures Infection or irritation (eg. appendicitis) Skin-related Disorders Any direct irritant below the level of injury [karmanhealthcare.com]
- Seizure
Two of our four patients who have experienced seizures have since died. [nature.com]
Seizures are a little-recognized component of the syndrome of autonomic dysreflexia. Three patients who exhibited seizures during episodes of dysreflexia independent of intracerebral pathology are described. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
- Intracranial Hemorrhage
It can precipitate severe acute hypertension, acute myocardial failure or intracranial hemorrhage. We reviewed clinical features, etiologies, pathophysiology, treatment and prophylaxis. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
Hypertension may result in hypertensive crisis, with pulmonary edema, intracranial hemorrhage, seizures, retinal detachment, myocardial infarction, and death. [msdmanuals.com]
Spinal cord injury leading to intracranial hemorrhage. Crit Care Med 1988; 16 : 911–912. 14 Eltorai I, Kim R, Vulpe M, Kasravi H, Ho W. Fatal cerebral hemorrhage due to autonomic dysreflexia in a tetraplegic patient: case report and review. [nature.com]
- Dysautonomia
Nopea haku ICD-10 Tautiluokituksen Alku> Jakso VI> G90-G99> G90 Sponsored ads G90.0 - Idiopaattinen autonomisten ääreishermojen sairaus G90.1 - Suvuittainen dysautonomia (Riley-Day) G90.2 - Hornerin oireyhtymä G90.3 - Usean järjestelmän rappeuma G90.4 [icd-codes.info]
Alimentary system Reduced salivation and a dry mouth (xerostomia) may occur in autonomic disease, especially in acute dysautonomias and in pure cholinergic dysautonomia. It may result in dysphagia when eating dry food. [jnnp.bmj.com]
[…] related pain (acute) (chronic) G89.4 Chronic pain syndrome G90 Disorders of autonomic nervous system G90.0 Idiopathic peripheral autonomic neuropathy G90.01 Carotid sinus syncope G90.09 Other idiopathic peripheral autonomic neuropathy G90.1 Familial dysautonomia [icd10data.com]
Clinical examination should identify the distribution of skin signs;
Blood pressure rise above baseline will be significant in both systolic and diastolic – more than 20mm Hg systolic and more than 10 mm Hg diastolic. This will be associated with bradycardia.
- Bowel Distention
Although the majority of cases are known to be induced by either bladder or bowel distention. there does exist a small number of cases in which the inciting stimulus is more obscure. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
Background: Although any painful, irritating, or strong stimulus below the level of injury may cause increased blood pressure, the most common causes are bladder or bowel distention. [aapmr.org]
His symptoms are triggered by bowel distention, excitement, a bumpy car ride, or a simple turning of the neck to the left. Physical examination and laboratory studies ruled out other possible differentials (e.g., migraines, pheochromocytoma). [cureus.com]
The second most common cause of autonomic dysreflexia is bowel distention, usually due to fecal impaction. [emedicine.medscape.com]
Treatment depends on early diagnosis of the condition by all those involved with the patient, including the family, to enable ots prompt implementation.
Patients should never be left alone since this is a medical emergency.
Elevate the patient's head, lower his/her feet to reduce the blood pressure and loosen clothing.
Correction relies upon prompt removal of the underlying cause – ask the patients for their suggestion as to the cause.
Short-acting antihypertensive drugs may be administered but care must be taken onrecent or intercurrent administration of medication for erectile dysfunction e.g. (Viagra), Vardenafil (Levitra) or Tadalafal (Cialis) [8].
Oral mediations may include glyceryl trinitrate or (spray or tablets) or nifedipine (Adalat) tablets.
Parenteral agents may be used in an appropriate hospital setting potentially with adequate analgesia (e.g morphine) or local epidural anaesthesia.
The severity of the underlying spinal lesion makes autonomic dysreflexia a constant threat to such patients. Sustained hypertension can lead to a wide range of secondary hypertensive problems including brain and retinal hemorrhages, myocardial infarction or seizures, and some of these can prove fatal [5].
Autonomic dysreflexia is caused by a lesion in the spinal cord at, or above, the level of the thoracic vertebra 6 (T6) that affects neural pathway and the flow of impulses to and from the brain. This means that the sympathetic nervous system is dominant below the level of the spinal and neurological injury while the parasympathetic system is dominant above it. Trauma is the most likely cause of such an injury [2].
The autonomic nervous system is that part of the peripheral nervous system which carries motor information to the visceral organs and glands of the body. Its sympathetic fibres control the body's 'fight-or-flight' response by increasing bronchodilation and blood flow to skeletal muscles and the lungs while diverting blood flow away from the less important gastrointestinal tract and skin. It also increases the heart rate and the contractility of cardiac muscle. Conversely the parasympathetic fibres (mainly through cranial nerves X - the vagus nerve - and sacral nerves S1, S2 and S3) act in opposition to the sympathetic system through a negative feedback control. The parasympathetic action is the preservation of energy and recovery from 'fight-or-flight'. Mechanisms include reducing heart rate and blood pressure, encouraging digestion and absorption of food and excreting waste products [3].
The level of T6 is of great significance because the great splanchnic vasculature derives its innervation from T5 – T9. Lesions below T6 usually allow enough descending parasympathetic pathways to exert adequate inhibition of the sympathetic activity.
With autonomic dysreflexia, the body's physiological response is not balanced correctly. A strong input from sensory nerves originating below the spinal lesion will enter the spinal cord and rise towards the brain. However, passage beyond the site of the spinal injury is limited or non-existent. As a result the influence of the sympathetic reflex is far greater than any counterbalance by the parasympathetic part of the system. Common sources of this sensory input are the bladder or the bowels.
The pathophysiology of autonomic dysreflexia has not been fully identified yet. It has been suggested that peripheral alpha-adrenergic receptors develop increased responsivity below the spinal lesion and that this is linked with a low basal catecholamine levels as a result of the spinal injury. These receptors potentially have a lowered threshold for adrenergic stimulation, as well.
Large sensory input stimulates a massive reflex discharge in the thoracolumbar sympathetic nervous system and the paraspinal sympathetic ganglia. This results in direct vasoconstriction by nerve stimulation of perivascular receptors and indirect vasoconstriction by the epinephrine and norepinephrine released into circulation by the adrenal medulla. This in turn results in widespread vasoconstriction, mainly in the splanchnic (subdiaphragmatic) vasculature. The result is hypertension mainly through peripheral and splanchnic vasoconstriction [4].
Baroreceptors in the neck detect the pressure changes and transmit information to the brain through the glossopharyngeal and vagal nerves (cranial nerves IX and X). In response, the brain carries out two activities:
- it sends descending inhibitory impulses to shut down the sympathetic surge;
- it attempts to reduce peripheral blood pressure by slowing the heart rate via the vagus nerve.
In autonomic dysreflexia, the spinal lesion prevents all, or most, brain impulses from reaching the sympathetic outflow levels. In this situation the compensatory bradycardia alone is inadequate to reduce the hypertension.
The absence of spinal cord integrity means that hypertension remains uncontrolled.
All those involved with the patient, including the patient and family, should be trained in the importance of effective management to prevent development of underlying causes, especially constipation or bladder distension [9].
Care of the patient is critical to preventing episodes of this condition. Correct bladder and bowel care is most important to prevent faecal impaction or distension of the bladder. In general, strict hygiene must be maintained during regular bladder routines whether using intermittent catheterisation or in-dwelling Foley catheters. Routines should include regular urological follow-up to monitor the status of the bladder.
Similarly, a routine to maintain appropriate and adequate bowel activity should be developed to prevent constipation.
The prophylactic use of local anaesthetic creams and gels, e.g. dibucaine or lidocaine, for any catheterisation or ano-rectal procedures will reduce the likelihood of autonomic dysreflexia episodes [10].
Autonomic dysreflexia is a medical emergency that affects a large percentage of patients with a spinal cord injury at the level of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6) or above. The more extensive the injury the more likely the patient is to suffer from episodes of this condition [1].
Episodes occur because of the inability of the two components of the autonomic nervous system - the sympathetic and parasympathetic – to act together as they should. The sympathetic dominates and creates chronic hypertension that leads to potentially severe results such as myocardial infarcts and brain hemorrhages.
Patient Information
Definition: Acute hypertension in patients suffering from aspinal cord lesion at the level of thoracic vertebra 6 or above, due to the inability of the body's autonomic nervous system to work effectively because of the spinal lesion itself.
Cause: Normally the sympathetic and parasympathetic parts of the autonomic nervous system work in tandem in a balanced system. A lesion in the spinal cord at T6 or above creates a massive spinal reflex activity by the sympathetic pathways but prevents instruction from the brain through the parasympathetic system from counteracting them. The net result is major vasoconstriction of the splanchnic vessels and massive hypertension.
Symptoms: The symptoms in a patient already experiencing the problems of a damaged spinal cord are commonly headaches, blurred vision or spots before the eyes with constricted pupils, nasal congestion, a feeling of impending doom or apprehension, bradycardia and associated skin changes. Above the level of the spinal lesion the skin is sweating and blotchy, while below it the skin is cool and pale with piloerection and goosebumps. There is an inevitable clinical problem causing an overload of sensory input from the lower half of the body, most commonly from bladder distension or bowel overload.
The blood pressure is significantly raised above baseline levels in both systolic and diastolic phases.
Diagnosis: Diagnosis is primarily based on the patients having a spinal cord lesion and showing the relevant changes in blood pressure and other signs of sympathetic and parasympathetic imbalance, with sweating and blotchy skin above the lesion and pale, cold skin with piloerection and goosebumps below it.
Treatment: Effective treatment requires removal of the underlying cause, e.g distension of the bladder or bowel. Medication may be needed to lower the hypertension but care must be taken to prevent any adverse effects with concomitant medications.
Prevention: Autonomic dysreflexia is prevented by having a well-practised routines for control of potential causes such as impairment of urine or fecal flow and the prevention of pain or discomfort such as ulcers, insect bites, sunburn or infections. All investigations and procedures should be carried out with strict asepsis and adequate analgesia. Labour and childbirth are highly likely to induce episodes of the condition and so adequate preventative measures should be implemented.
- Cormier CM, Mukhida K, Walker G, Marsh DR. Development of autonomic dysreflexia after spinal cord injury is associated with a lack of serotonergic axons in the intermediolateral cell column. J Neurotrauma. Oct 2010;27(10):1805-18.
- Teasell RW, Arnold JM, Krassioukov A, Delaney GA. Cardiovascular consequences of loss of supraspinal control of the sympathetic nervous system after spinal cord injury. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. Apr 2000;81(4):506-16.
- Cardenas DD, Hoffman JM, Kirshblum S, McKinley W. Etiology and incidence of rehospitalization after traumatic spinal cord injury: a multicenter analysis. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2004; 85:1757.
- Roatta S, Farina D. Sympathetic actions on the skeletal muscle. Exerc Sport Sci Rev. Jan 2010;38(1):31-5.
- Kirshblum SC, Priebe MM, Ho CH, et al. Spinal cord injury medicine. 3. Rehabilitation phase after acute spinal cord injury. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2007; 88:S62.
- Lindan R, Joiner F, Freechafer A, Hazel C. Incidence and clinical features of autonomic dysreflexia in patients with spinal cord injury. Paraplegia. 1980;18:285-292.
- Wan D, Krassioukov AV. Life-threatening outcomes associated with autonomic dysreflexia: a clinical review.J Spinal Cord Med. Jan 2014;37(1):2-10
- McMahon D, Tutt M, Cook AM. Pharmacological management of hemodynamic complications following spinal cord injury. Orthopedics. May 2009;32(5):331.
- Glickman S, Kamm MA. Bowel dysfunction in spinal-cord-injury patients. Lancet 1996; 347:1651.
- Chiodo AE, Scelza WM, Kirshblum SC, et al. Spinal cord injury medicine. 5. Long-term medical issues and health maintenance. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2007; 88:S76. |
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Thomas Paine The Crisis Analysis
Thomas Paine The Crisis Analysis
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"Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph" (Paine 160). This quote is from Thomas Paine's The Crisis, which is more or less one long rallying cry against staying a British colony. It is one of the numerous different stories written and published in this time period that fired up the Americans and persuaded them to rebel against Great Britain. Overly biased stories helped to persuade, motivate, and convince the people of the time to revolt, keep fighting, and eventually led to defeating which was at the time the most powerful empire in the world in Great Britain. The persuasive writings and speeches by the likes of Jefferson, Paine, and Henry
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Propaganda and pro-revolution literature were very successful against Great Britain. "They tell us, sir, that we are weak – unable to cope with so formidable an adversary. But when shall we be stronger? Will it be the next week, or the next year? Will it be when we are totally disarmed, and when a British guard shall be stationed in every house? (Henry 189)." This statement got people who were on the fence to join the rebel fight. They helped to persuade people to fight and turn things in their favor. Colonists who were neutral in wanting to secede and even some pro-British supporters changed their minds after reading or listening to what these colonists had to say. Helping to increase numbers of both supporters and soldiers in the army were very beneficial when trying to break free from the British rule. I think it's fair to say that the colonists might not have been able to do it without the pro-revolutionary
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In today's fast-paced retail and restaurant industries, the role of Point of Sale (POS) systems in streamlining operations and enhancing customer experience is more crucial than ever. To stay ahead in the competitive market landscape, businesses are turning to innovative POS solutions that offer comprehensive features and seamless integrations. In this ultimate POS system reviews guide, we delve into the top-rated POS software tailored for retail and restaurants. From cloud-based systems to iPad POS solutions, we analyze key features, pricing structures, user-friendliness, and customer reviews to help you make informed decisions for your business.
Introduction to Point of Sale Systems
Introduction to Point of Sale Systems
At the heart of every retail store and restaurant lies the Point of Sale (POS) system, a pivotal tool that simplifies transactions, inventory management, and customer interactions. POS systems have revolutionized how businesses operate, offering real-time data insights that boost efficiency and profitability. With a variety of solutions available in the market, such as cloud-based and iPad POS systems, businesses can choose the system that best fits their needs.
"POS systems are not just about processing payments; they are about enhancing the overall customer experience," says industry expert John Smith. From small businesses to large enterprises, POS systems have become essential for streamlining daily operations and improving customer service. In this digital age, where convenience and speed are paramount, a reliable POS system can make all the difference in driving business success.
Benefits of Using POS Systems in Retail
Implementing a POS system in retail establishments brings a multitude of benefits that can significantly enhance operational efficiency. These systems streamline the checkout process, reducing waiting times and improving customer satisfaction. By providing real-time inventory tracking and sales data analytics, retailers gain valuable insights into their business performance. POS systems also facilitate accurate pricing, promotions, and discounts, reducing errors and minimizing revenue loss. Integration with accounting and CRM software simplifies bookkeeping and customer relationship management tasks. Moreover, the ability to accept various payment methods, including mobile payments, increases convenience for customers and boosts sales. Overall, a comprehensive POS solution tailored for retail not only improves productivity but also fosters growth and profitability for businesses of all sizes.
Benefits of Using POS Systems in Restaurants
Implementing a Point of Sale (POS) system in restaurants can bring a multitude of benefits to the table. These systems streamline the ordering process, allowing servers to input orders directly to the kitchen or bar, reducing errors and enhancing efficiency. POS systems also provide real-time data on sales and inventory levels, enabling restaurant owners to make informed decisions to optimize operations. Integration with reservation systems and loyalty programs enhances customer experience and fosters customer retention. Furthermore, POS systems offer detailed analytics, enabling restaurants to track sales trends, popular menu items, and peak hours to strategize for growth. With the right POS system, restaurants can improve staff productivity, reduce operational costs, and ultimately enhance overall profitability.
Top Features to Look for in a Retail POS System
When selecting a retail POS system, several key features can greatly impact the efficiency and profitability of your business. Integration capabilities are crucial, allowing seamless communication between inventory management, sales, and customer data. User-friendly interfaces are essential for quick training and smooth daily operations, while mobile POS options can enhance customer service by enabling sales anywhere in-store. Advanced reporting and analytics provide valuable insights into sales trends and inventory management, optimizing decision-making processes. Security features such as encryption and data backup are non-negotiable to protect sensitive customer information. Scalability is also important, allowing the system to grow with your business needs. As you compare different retail POS systems, evaluate these features carefully to ensure you choose the best solution that aligns with your business goals.
Top Features to Look for in a Restaurant POS System
When selecting a restaurant POS system, several key features can significantly impact operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Look for a system that offers robust inventory management capabilities to track ingredients and supplies in real-time, aiding in reducing waste and optimizing stock levels. Integration with online ordering platforms and reservation systems streamlines the ordering process and enhances customer convenience. Table management features are essential for efficient seating arrangements and tracking table turnover rates during peak hours. User-friendly interfaces and customizable layouts ensure quick staff training and smooth order processing. Secure payment processing with EMV compliance and data encryption safeguards customer payment information. Additionally, the ability to generate detailed sales reports and analyze performance metrics provides valuable insights for making informed business decisions. Prioritize functionalities that cater to the specific needs of your restaurant to maximize the benefits of your chosen POS system.
AI technology has revolutionized various industries, including marketing, healthcare, and finance. As businesses continue to integrate AI solutions into their operations, the demand for skilled AI professionals also rises. To attract top talent, many companies are offering lucrative incentives. For example, some tech firms are currently offering a See $5000 Signing Bonus Promotion to entice qualified candidates to join their teams. This trend highlights the competitive landscape of the AI job market, where skilled professionals are highly sought after and in a strong position to negotiate favorable employment terms.
Comparison of Cloud-based vs. Traditional POS Systems
When deciding between cloud-based and traditional POS systems, businesses must weigh the advantages and limitations of each option. Cloud-based POS systems offer flexibility, scalability, and remote access, making them ideal for businesses seeking mobility and real-time data tracking. On the other hand, traditional POS systems provide robust offline functionality and may be preferred by businesses with limited internet connectivity or specific hardware requirements. While cloud-based systems require a reliable internet connection and ongoing subscription fees, traditional systems often entail higher upfront costs for hardware and maintenance. The choice between the two depends on factors such as business size, budget, and operational needs. Ultimately, businesses should conduct a thorough analysis based on their requirements to determine whether a cloud-based or traditional POS system would best suit their operations.
POS System Integration Solutions for Retail and Restaurants
POS system integration plays a vital role in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of operations for both retail outlets and restaurants. Seamless integration allows data to flow effortlessly between different systems, such as inventory management, customer relationship management (CRM), and accounting software. By integrating these systems, businesses can streamline processes, reduce manual errors, and gain valuable insights into their operations. Retailers can benefit from real-time inventory updates and sales data, enabling them to make informed decisions on restocking and sales strategies. Restaurants, on the other hand, can improve order accuracy and customer service by integrating POS systems with kitchen displays and online ordering platforms. Choosing a POS system with robust integration solutions is key to maximizing the potential of your business and staying ahead in the competitive market.
Customer Reviews and Ratings of Popular POS Systems
When considering a new POS system for your retail or restaurant business, customer reviews and ratings play a vital role in the decision-making process. Customers who have firsthand experience with a particular POS system can provide valuable insights into its performance, reliability, and ease of use. Reading reviews can help you gauge the level of customer satisfaction, identify common pain points, and understand the overall reputation of the POS software provider. Look out for reviews mentioning key features like user-friendliness, integration capabilities, and customer support quality. By analyzing customer feedback on popular POS systems, such as cloud-based solutions or iPad POS software, you can make a more informed choice that aligns with your business needs and budget constraints. Additionally, customer reviews can highlight any potential drawbacks or limitations of a POS system that may impact its suitability for your specific industry or operational requirements.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right POS System for Your Business
When it comes to choosing the right POS system for your business, conducting thorough research and considering key factors is essential. Start by evaluating your specific needs and budget constraints. Look for features that cater to your industry, such as robust inventory management for retail or tableside ordering for restaurants. Check Top POS System Ratings and POS Software Reviews to get insights into system performance and customer satisfaction. Consider Cloud-based POS System Reviews for scalability and flexibility. Explore POS System Integration Reviews to ensure seamless compatibility with existing systems. Ultimately, prioritize User-Friendly POS System Reviews to guarantee smooth operations for your staff and customers. Compare POS System Prices and features to find the balance between affordability and functionality. By carefully reviewing these aspects and analyzing customer feedback, you can confidently select the best POS solution to support and elevate your business.
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Why you should stay away from these 'dirty dozen' skincare ingredients
Your skincare routine is a regular practice that helps you to take care of your skin while also improving your look. But what if we told you that your favorite skincare products have potentially harmful ingredients that may be causing more harm than good? In the world of skincare, knowledge is power, and it's vital to understand what goes into the products you use. This comprehensive guide will shed light on the "Dirty Dozen" skincare components to avoid if you want healthy, glowing skin.
The skin is the largest and most significant organ in our bodies. It performs a variety of key functions in the body, including protecting other vital bones, organs, muscles, nerves, and ligaments. So it's obvious that we should be cautious about what we put on our skin.
Aluminum is almost present in every personal care product, specifically antiperspirant deodorants. These toxic chemicals can mimic estrogen in human bodies and can interfere with the endocrine system's normal functioning.
2. Diethanolamine (DEA), monoethanolamine (MEA), and triethanolamine (TEA).
These harmful liquids are clear, colorless, and viscous, with ammonia-like scents.
Usually present in foamy products like face wash and soaps. They can also be present in eye makeup, fragrances, hair care products, and sunscreens.
3. UREA (Imidazolidinyl) & DMDM HYDANTOIN
These preservatives frequently emit formaldehyde, which can cause skin allergies, joint pains, insomnia, and headaches. It is commonly found in skincare, cosmetics, shampoos, detergents, and conditioners.
A petroleum by-product that, coats the skin and clogs its pores just like plastic. This is extremely dangerous since it interferes with the skin's capacity to clear toxins, increasing the probability of acne and other problems. You can find mineral oil in creams, lotions, cosmetics, and ointments.
5. PARABENS (Propyl, Methyl, Ethyl, and Butyl)
They are not always labeled, instead, they are used as preservatives and can contribute to hormonal disbalance. They are almost everywhere, including skin care items like deodorants and moisturizers.
6. Polyethylene glycol (PEG)
PEG is an ingredient with the capacity to organically adjust and reduce the skin's moisture factor. It thickens and affects the temperature at the melting point of objects and that's the reason it is widely used to dissolve grease and oil in cleansers.
Phthalates are not often stated as constituents in the product, they are used to boost the strength and flexibility of plastics. Typically present in fragrance oils and classified as "fragrance".
Gaseous hydrocarbons that operate as a "surfactant" in liquid form. They penetrate the skin quickly and can damage protein and cell structure.
The two types of sodium lauryl sulfate are used in detergent that causes products to froth, bubble, and lather. Typically present in 90% of foaming personal-care products.
Any type of synthetic should be avoided at all costs. These are made up of hundreds to thousands of different ingredients that aren't listed on the label, so you never know what you're getting exposed to. Typically found in cosmetic and skincare goods, but also in a variety of household items such as candles, air fresheners, and scented garbage bags.
A synthetic antibacterial agent that degrades into a form of dioxin, a chemical class linked to a wide range of harms, including cancer. Typically found in soaps, shaving cream, mouthwash, toothpaste, deodorants, and other personal care products.
Look for components with the suffixes "-siloxane" or "-methicone". Cyclotetrasiloxane is a suspected endocrine disruptor and reproductive toxin that can cause harm to fish and other creatures.
Some elements in personal care products can cause skin sensitivity, irritation, or a more severe allergy along with harm to overall health.
The symptoms are:
- Skin irritation
- Stinging and burning bumps
- Blisters with scaling roughness
Some elements are related to more serious issues, such as:
- Cancer
- Coronary artery disease
- Concerns with development
- Hormone imbalance
What are the alternatives?
Natural alternatives may not last as long as chemical alternatives, but they are better for us.
Tea Tree
An essential oil found in skin care products, shampoos, first aid kits, and hand sanitizers. Few studies claim that tree tea essential oil helps to disinfect hands when used in hand sanitizer, could help in wound healing, and also reduces pimples.
Glycerin is a humectant with fewer side adverse effects than PEG's this substance is used to retain moisture.
According to a study products containing glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and Centella Asiatica (gotu kola), could improve moisture & hydration.
Coconut Oil
The fleshy section of coconut is used to extract oil, also known as Cocus nucifera. It provides hydration and helps decrease mold formation in the skin.
A survey conducted in 2022 shows using a coconut oil serum mixed with deer antler stem cell extract for 14 days could smoothen skin, decrease wrinkles and fine lines, and enhance collagen density.
Elderberry Extract
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra extract) which is widely found in creams and serums gives "numerous benefits for our skin." It has antimicrobial effects as well as high quantities of vitamin C. According to a 2019 study, Elderberry Extract is taken as a dietary supplement, possessing anti-aging benefits.
Willow Bark Extract
Willow bark (Salix nigra extract) is an exquisite source of skin preservation, thanks to its antibacterial properties. It also contains a salicin ingredient that has exfoliating characteristics to reduce skin surface oil and cleanse pores.
According to a 2019 study, willow bark extract has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The Clean Beauty Movement
Clean beauty is more than just a trending term; it is a dedication to healthier, safer, and more environmentally responsible beauty products. The primary purpose of the Clean Beauty movement is to eliminate or minimize the use of hazardous ingredients in skincare, cosmetics, and self-care products.
Here's everything you need to know:
1. Choosing Safe Substances: Clean beauty companies carefully pick their products to eliminate compounds that have previously raised health concerns, such as parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. They prefer natural or scientifically verified safe alternatives.
2. Transparency and ethics: Clean beauty brands are frequently forthcoming about their products and sourcing methods. As more people become worried about the environment, they pledge to use cruelty-free and environmentally friendly practices. This ethical approach is consistent with the values of conscious customers seeking to make a difference.
3. Holistic Wellness: Clean beauty extends beyond the surface. It focuses on overall well-being and considers the long-term effects of skincare and cosmetic products in terms of personal care and environmental well-being.
Look out for Labels
The ability to read product labels is the first step towards becoming a mindful consumer. Here's a step-by-step guide to navigating the sometimes-complicated language of skincare and cosmetic labels:
1. Read Ingredient List: Keep an eye out for the "Dirty Dozen" and other potentially dangerous drugs listed above. The ingredient list of a product is the first hint as to what it contains. The components are normally given in descending order of concentration, with the components with the highest concentration stated first.
2. Know the Scientific Names: Some components may be listed by their scientific names. A fast online search might assist you in identifying them and determining their safety.
3. Be skeptical of marketing claims: While a product may claim to be "natural" or "organic," these labels might be deceptive. Examine the ingredient list rather than the marketing tactics.
4. Look for certificates: Some products, especially those in the clean beauty area, may bear certificates such as "USDA Organic" or "Cruelty-Free." These labels can provide further assurance about the quality of a product.
5. Know the Brand and Product: Before making a purchase, do research about the brand and product. Look out for online reviews, forums, and social media they can provide insight into the experiences of other customers.
6. Patch Testing: Perform a patch test on a tiny portion of the skin before applying a new product to your face or body to check for adverse reactions.
7. Seek expert advice: If you have specific skin concerns or conditions, you should seek the advice of a dermatologist or skincare specialist. They can make recommendations based on your skincare requirements.
When you buy skin care products, you're investing in your body's greatest organ. However, some components may be harmful to the skin or your overall health. With this information, we encourage readers to prioritize their health and make informed choices when it comes to skincare products.
A dermatologist is the best person to advise on the best and safest products and substances for your skin and general health. |
St. John's Wort oil is a beneficial oil derived from natural herbs, particularly valuable for hair health. It provides nourishment to the scalp, strengthens the hair, and can be effective against various hair problems. St. John's Wort oil supports the health of your hair through its antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins, helping it to look more vibrant.
If you are exploring the benefits of St. John's Wort oil for hair, you can find information on how to use it and its effects on hair in the remainder of this article. This oil adds natural shine and health to your hair, enhancing your natural beauty.
Benefits of St. John's Wort Oil for Hair Health
St. John's wort oil is an excellent natural product for hair care and can be used to treat various hair problems . Here are the benefits of St. John's wort oil for hair:
- Nourish hair follicles and scalp: St. John's wort oil penetrates deeply into the hair follicles and helps the hair grow healthier.
- Moisturizing effect: Moisturizes dry and damaged hair and restores the natural softness and shine of the hair.
- Promotes blood circulation: It increases blood circulation in the scalp, allowing hair to grow faster and healthier.
- Alleviates scalp problems: It is effective in reducing dandruff, itching and scalp irritations.
- Strengthens hair strands: It reduces the rate of hair breakage and loss and contributes to making hair stronger.
Hair Application Method of St. John's Wort Oil
How to use St. John's wort oil in hair care? Here are the step-by-step application instructions:
- Wash Your Hair: Before applying the oil, wash your hair thoroughly and leave it damp.
- Choose the Right Oil: Be careful to use pure St. John's wort oil that is suitable for your hair type.
- Apply: Take some oil in your palm and apply it by massaging the hair, starting from the roots to the ends.
- Massage: Massage the scalp with circular movements to ensure deep penetration of the oil.
- Leave it: Leave the oil on your hair for at least half an hour or an hour. This time maximizes the effect of the oil on your hair.
- Rinse: Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water and wash it once more with shampoo. This helps remove excess oil from the hair.
- Dry and Style: After drying your hair slightly, you can style it as you wish.
Regular Use: You can support your hair health by using St. John's wort oil regularly 1-2 times a week. However, excessive use can cause oiliness in your hair, so keep the amount balanced.
Correct and regular use is essential to benefit from the tremendous benefits of St. John's wort oil for hair. In case of any allergy or side effects, stop use and consult a specialist.
How Often Should St. John's Wort Oil Be Applied to Hair?
It is important to use St. John's Wort oil at the right frequency to obtain effective results in hair care. The frequency of application of this oil may vary depending on your hair type and hair needs. Usually, applying it a few times a week will be sufficient.
If your hair is very dry or damaged , you can apply it every day or every other day to benefit from the moisturizing and repairing properties of the oil more frequently . This provides your hair with necessary moisture and nutrients and reduces damage.
However, for people with oily hair types or an oily scalp, the use of this oil should be less frequent . In this case, applying once a week will usually be sufficient. Because applying oil too frequently can make the hair look oilier.
When applying St. John's Wort oil to your hair, you can adjust the frequency of application according to your personal needs by observing the reactions of your hair and evaluating how your hair feels . You can find the most suitable frequency for your hair by trial and error.
Things to Consider When Applying St. John's Wort Oil to Hair
You should consider some important points to maximize the benefits of St. John's Wort oil on hair and to protect against its possible harms. Here are things you should consider before including this oil in your hair care routine:
- Do an Allergy Test: Before using St. John's Wort oil for the first time, apply a small amount to a small area of your skin and wait a few hours to prevent any allergic reactions. If you observe an adverse reaction such as redness, itching, or irritation, avoid using this oil.
- Pay Attention to Product Quality: Make sure that the St. John's wort oil you apply to your hair is pure and natural. Choose organic certified products that do not contain chemical additives. This will ensure that the oil acts better on your hair and does not harm your health.
- Adjust the Amount Correctly: When applying St. John's wort oil to your hair, avoid using excessive amounts. Usually a few drops are enough. Excess oil can make hair feel heavy and appear greasy.
- Be Careful During Application: When applying the oil to your scalp and strands, avoid contact with your eyes or other sensitive areas of your face. If oil splashes on these areas, clean them immediately and rinse with water.
- Adjust the Holding Time: Be careful to leave St. John's wort oil in your hair for at least 30 minutes. During this time, it will allow the oil to penetrate thoroughly into your scalp and roots, so you can benefit from all the benefits of the oil at the maximum level. Leaving it for longer may increase its effects.
- Cleanse Properly: To remove St. John's wort oil from your hair, wash it thoroughly using a gentle and effective shampoo. Make sure the oil is completely removed by rinsing your hair well. This prevents the oil from weighing down the hair or leaving residue.
Application Frequency and Results: Apply St. John's Wort oil at regular intervals according to your hair type and needs. While more frequent use may be appropriate for dry and damaged hair, people with oily hair type may be satisfied with less frequent applications. Determine the most appropriate application frequency by observing the reactions of your hair.
What Hair Types Is St. John's Wort Oil Suitable For?
St. John's wort oil offers different benefits depending on hair types and can provide specific solutions to various hair problems. Here is a detailed explanation of how this oil is applied to which hair types:
- Dry Hair : St. John's Wort oil is perfect for meeting the moisture needs of dry hair . When applied to the hair ends and skin, it deeply moisturizes the hair and reduces dryness, making the hair look softer and brighter.
- Damaged Hair : Ideal for repairing damaged hair strands . By nourishing the building blocks of the hair, it minimizes wear and breakage and improves the overall health of the hair.
- Hair Prone to Loss : St. John's wort oil can help prevent hair loss . By strengthening hair follicles and nourishing the scalp, it reduces hair loss and contributes to a thicker hair appearance.
- Sensitive Scalp : This oil is effective in soothing scalp irritation and itching . It creates a soothing effect on sensitive skin and can reduce inflammation on the scalp.
- Normal Hair : For those with normal hair type, St. John's wort oil can be used to support the general health of the hair and increase its natural shine. It nourishes the hair and gives it a shiny, healthy appearance.
St. John's Wort Oil Usage Recommendations
When applying St. John's Wort oil to your hair, it is important to act according to a specific plan, taking into account your hair type and hair needs. For example, it can be applied 2-3 times a week for dry and damaged hair , and less frequently for oily hair . You can adjust the frequency of application by observing how your hair and scalp react with each use.
St. John's wort oil can have an important place in your hair care routine as a natural support. However, appropriate use for your hair type and application at the right frequency will help you maximize the benefits of this oil.
Frequently Asked Questions for the Use of Centron Oil
Does St. John's wort oil make hair oily?
St. John's wort oil does not make the hair excessively oily when used in the right amounts. However, it is important to adjust the application frequency according to your hair type.
How to make a hair mask with St. John's wort oil?
You can use St. John's wort oil as a hair mask by mixing it with other oils such as olive or coconut oil. Apply the mixture to your hair, leave it for an hour and wash it.
Does St. John's wort oil prevent hair loss?
Yes, St. John's Wort oil can reduce hair loss by strengthening hair follicles and helps hair grow healthier.
Does St. John's wort oil help hair growth?
St. John's wort oil supports the healthy growth of hair by nourishing the hair follicles.
Can St. John's wort oil treat scalp problems?
St. John's wort oil can relieve problems such as scalp irritation, dandruff and inflammation, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
How often should hair care be done with St. John's wort oil?
Depending on your hair type and needs, you can care for your hair with St. John's wort oil 1-2 times a week.
What should be done to remove St. John's wort oil from hair?
To remove St. John's wort oil from the hair, you can wash your hair with warm water and a gentle shampoo.
In what cases should St. John's wort oil not be used for hair?
If you are allergic to St. John's wort oil or have a negative reaction on the skin, you should avoid using it. You should not apply oil if you have open wounds on your scalp. |
Dan Armstrong was one of the music instrument industry's true originals. Most players only know him for the iconic, clear Plexiglas-bodied guitars he designed for Ampeg in the late '60s, played by Keith Richards, Joe Perry, Greg Ginn, and others, but the man was a fearless innovator who pioneered a number of ingenious guitar, pickup, amp, and effects designs over the course of his four decades in the industry. Amongst his greatest achievements—at least in the eyes of effects enthusiasts—is the line of guitar effects he designed for Musitronics, AKA Mu-Tron, in the 1970s. Musitronics was experiencing significant success with its original designs, but not making a great deal of money, as the Mu-Tron line was rather complex and expensive to manufacture. Dan Armstrong's small, economical, and cleverly named effects devices plugged right into the instrument jack (or amp, with some simple wiring modifications), and were deemed to be the perfect solution to the company's financial woes. Unfortunately Musitronics went under not too long after beginning manufacturing of Armstrong's designs, and as such, the manufacturing rights to these designs changed hands a number of times over the years, likely limiting their popularity. However, these tiny boxes have nonetheless developed a strong following in the guitar effects community due to their unique appearance and functionality, as well as their cool tones. Let's take a moment and examine some of effects designs of Dan Armstrong.
Orange Squeezer
Perhaps Armstrong's most well known and beloved effect, the Orange Squeezer is a compressor that has appeared on countless records by Dire Straits, Steely Dan, and others, with Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits being an especially enthusiastic proponent of this tiny orange box. The Squeezer has but one control, a switch to turn the effect on or off, but its simplicity and warm, musical compression are the keys to its success. Its pre-set compression characteristics are fairly modest (which seems like a wise choice for an effect with no parameter controls), so it doesn't offer the endless sustain and vicious squash of some modern compressors. The Orange Squeezer has a relatively subtle attack and smooth, blooming sustain, and unlike a lot of similar effects, it's relatively quiet. Because it's fairly well known and pretty awesome, the Squeezer's circuit has been cloned by a handful of modern effect builders in a much more convenient pedal form.
Blue Clipper
This pedal is another one that is well known in the effects nerd community, and its circuit is reportedly quite similar to the MXR Distortion Plus, with Armstrong himself stating that the Distortion Plus was MXR's attempt at making a version of his effect. This may or may not be true, but there are notable similarities between the pedals, both in circuit design and tone. That being said, the Clipper's full, somewhat dark sounding distortion qualities are quite distinct. Like the Squeezer, its only control is an on/off switch, but its permanent setting is a good one, and its fat, snarling grind sustains beautifully and responds quite well to the guitar's volume knob. Mark Mothersbaugh of Devo used to famously affix the Clipper directly to his guitar with tape.
Green Ringer
This miniature green box combined a low-gain fuzz tone with a cool octave-up, sounding not unlike an Octavia with single notes, but attaining a more ring modulator-like sound when given more than one note at a time. According to Armstrong, the Green Ringer was an improved version of the Ampeg Scrambler, which a co-worker had given him when he was working for Ampeg. He liked the effect, but felt he could improve upon it and make its octave component a bit more stable and predictable. After tweaking and experimenting with the circuit, The Green Ringer was put into production, becoming the first effect in Armstrong's guitar effects line. Its rather bright, cutting tone works best with neck pickups, like many other octave-fuzz effects, and it pairs beautifully with other Armstrong units, especially the Clipper and the Squeezer. For DIY'ers, BYOC even offers a kit that combines the Ringer and the Squeezer into one convenient pedal.
Red Ranger
Inspired by the Electro-Harmonix LPB-1, Dan Armstrong's Red Ranger was designed to give the guitar output a boost going into the amplifier, in order to enhance weak, low-output pickups, or to just give the amp's front end a push into overdrive. Armstrong took great pains to improve upon the LPB-1 concept, and in doing so, made his Red Ranger both quieter than its competition, as well as more versatile. The Red Ranger featured three modes, selectable via a small toggle switch, which was the unit's only control. The "Full" mode was a 13dB clean boost of the guitar's full frequency spectrum, while the "Treble" mode added another 12dB of treble boost on top of that. "Bass" mode punched up the low end by a total of 22dB, all without attenuating any treble or midrange frequencies. Robin Trower famously used the Red Ranger in Treble mode, typically towards the beginning of his signal chain, prior to his wah and fuzz pedals.
Purple Peaker
This effect was inspired by Armstrong's early experimentation with graphic and parametric equalization. In his experiments he noticed that, in many cases, boosts in specific frequency ranges tended to enhance the sound of an electric guitar, adding power and clarity. The original Peaker had three modes, with the "HI" mode offering a 12dB boost between 4000 and 5000 Hz for more presence and bite, while its "HI + LO" mode added an additional 7dB of boost around 200 to 400 Hz to add punch. The third mode, "OFF," was not quite all the way off, as it still added a slight overall bump in output, but without affecting specific frequency ranges. The tiny toggle to switch between these modes was the Peaker's only control.
Yellow Humper
This one has the funniest name of all of Dan Armstrong's effects, but regardless of that, it was originally designed as the bass version of the Purple Peaker, offering a little extra "hump" in the frequencies that tend to make the bass guitar sound nicer. Thus, its peak frequencies were around 100 Hz for the "LO" setting, giving the bass player 7dB of extra bottom and thump, and 2000 Hz in the "LO + HI" setting, giving an additional 10dB of presence and definition on top of the extra low-end beef. As with the Peaker, the Yellow Humper still offered a bit of flat boost and general signal enhancement when in the "OFF" position.
Dan Armstrong's unique effects designs have been reissued by a handful of companies over the years, as the manufacturing rights have changed hands more than a few times, but typically these reissues have been both overpriced and underwhelming. Vintage units are still available, but they often go for upwards of 200 dollars, and the jack plug design is less than practical for most players. Perhaps the best way for today's guitarist to get a taste of these effects is via the DIY pedal community, who have decoded most of the circuits and made schematics available online in various places. The circuits have also been cloned by a handful of boutique companies, who typically add some handy controls and put them in standard, modern pedal enclosures, which makes these fine effects much easier to use and enjoy. |
In this paper, we explore the use of quintic splines for more sophisticated robot pathing in FTC. Traditionally, FTC robot autonomous motion consists of a series of linear movements (including holonomic drive strafing) and point turns. Although these simple path primitives generally suffice, they are not time-optimal under reasonable kinematic constraints, especially for nonholonomic (e.g., tank/differential) drivetrains. That is, the fastest route between two poses in general is not two point turns and a line.1 To address this, we propose the use of quintic splines to achieve quick, smooth motion on the field.
In the first part of the paper, we will describe the problem in depth and give motivation for splines. In the second half, we explore some of the mathematics behind quintic splines (and parametric curves more generally) including interpolation, reparametrization, and heading computation.
In FTC, it's standard to have a sequence a poses that you want the
robot to follow in autonomous (although pre-planned motions can also be
utilized in TeleOp). For example, in the Relic Recovery game, a common
movement task may be moving from one pose on the balancing stone to
another in front of the cryptobox. This is traditionally handled with a
series of straight lines and turns that are executed with 1D position
PID controllers and potentially motor-based velocity PID (e.g.,
For many game tasks and teams, this is a perfectly viable approach. However, in scenarios where speed is desirable (such as the effectively unlimited scoring potential in Relic Recovery autonomous), conventional methods tend to become less effective. Higher speeds usually lead to greater wheel accelerations and slippage, hindering odometry. Additionally, the feedback controllers may have more chaotic transient behavior or decreased steady-state performance.
In this case, motion profiling can be used to achieve higher speeds without sacrificing accuracy by observing the robot's physical constraints (e.g., maximum velocity, acceleration).2. However, this is only part of the solution; in fact, motion profiling amplifies the discontinuities between the elements of a conventional pose-to-pose path. Each transition between rotation and translations demands a full deceleration-acceleration cycle.
To eliminate this unnecessary pause, we seek to combine the rotation and translation into a single smooth curve. Although many curves suffice, splines are typically employed for this purpose. For simplicity, this paper only considers polynomial splines3. Quintic splines in particular were selected for their balance between continuity and curvature although the methods described can be easily extended to polynomials of arbitrary odd degree.
Before constructing paths, it is imperative to define a consistent coordinate system. With this coordinate frame, points on the field can be uniquely described. This allows for the specification of robot poses which consist of the position and a heading direction. This heading is typically encoded as angle from the \(x\)-axis. [fig:coordinate_system] shows a sample coordinate system for the Relic Recovery field. When determining a coordinate system, it is advantageous to choose axes around the symmetries of the environment. For the standard square FTC field, this comprises putting the origin at the center and placing the planar axes perpendicular to the field walls.
To fully understand the following mathematics, it helps to grasp a little vector calculus (don't be scared — only basic knowledge of single-variable calculus is required). Recall that a Euclidean vector \(\mathbf{v}\) in \(n\) dimensions (\(\mathbf{v} \in \mathbb{R}^n\)) uniquely encodes a single point in the space (commonly represented as an arrow from the origin to the point). This vector can be decomposed into \(n\) components: \[\mathbf{v} = (x_1, x_2, \ldots, x_n)\] The length of a vector is given by its norm: \[\lvert \mathbf{v} \rvert = \sqrt{x_1^2 + x_2^2 + \ldots + x_n^2}\]
Aside from vector addition and scalar multiplication, two additional operations are commonly defined between Euclidean vectors. First, the dot product is defined as the scalar sum of the element-wise products of two vectors: \[\mathbf{v} \cdot \mathbf{w} = v_1w_1 + v_2w_2 + ... + v_nw_n\] Note that the norm can be alternatively expressed as \(\lvert \mathbf{v} \rvert = \sqrt{\mathbf{v} \cdot \mathbf{v}}\). Second, the cross product is defined for three-dimensional vectors as the pseudo-determinant of this quasi-matrix: \[\mathbf{v} \times \mathbf{w} = \begin{vmatrix} \hat{\imath} & \hat{\jmath} & \hat{k}\\[4pt] v_1 & v_2 & v_3\\[4pt] w_1 & w_2 & w_3 \end{vmatrix}\]
Two-dimensional curves can be represented as graphs of one-dimensional functions (\(y = f(x)\)). However, this puts unnecessary constraints on the set of possible curves (e.g., no two points on the curve can share the same x-value, no self-intersections, no vertical tangents), especially in higher dimensions. Instead, we will represent curves as a series of vectors that trace out the shape. This is analogous to a parametric curve \(\mathbf{r}(t)\) which maps a single real parameter \(t\) to the corresponding path vector (\(\mathbf{r}:\mathbb R\to\mathbb R^n\)). Intuitively, \(\mathbf{r}(t)\) can be thought of as the trajectory of a fly located at \(\mathbf{r}(t_0)\) in the instant \(t=t_0\).
Parametric curves can be represented as a vector of single-variable functions: \[\mathbf{v}(t) = (x_1(t), x_2(t), \ldots, x_n(t))\] As one might expect, \(\mathbf{r}(t)\) can be differentiated component-by-component: \[\mathbf{v}'(t) = (x_1'(t), x_2'(t), \ldots, x_n'(t))\] Derivatives of dot products and cross products can also be computed: \[\begin{split} \frac{d}{dt} \Big[\ \mathbf{r}_1(t) \cdot \mathbf{r}_2(t)\ \Big] &= \mathbf{r}_1(t) \cdot \mathbf{r}_2'(t) +\mathbf{r}_1'(t) \cdot \mathbf{r}_2(t) \\ \frac{d}{dt} \Big[\ \mathbf{r}_1(t) \times \mathbf{r}_2(t)\ \Big] &= \mathbf{r}_1(t) \times \mathbf{r}_2'(t) +\mathbf{r}_1'(t) \times \mathbf{r}_2(t) \end{split}\]
A parametric curve is said to be \(C^n\) if its nth-order derivatives are defined and continuous everywhere on its domain (\(n\) here is distinct from the \(n\) in \(\mathbb R^n\)). For the rest of the paper, we will restrict our attention to two-dimensional parametric curves \(\mathbf{r}(t)=(x(t), y(t))\).
Quintic splines consist of a series of segments assembled together into a single piecewise curve. Each of the segments is a parametric curve with a quintic polynomial for each component. The ith segment of a two-dimensional quintic spline of \(n\) segments can be represented as the following: \[\begin{cases} x^{(i)}(t) = a^{(i)}_xt^5 + b^{(i)}_xt^4 + c^{(i)}_xt^3 + d^{(i)}_xt^2 + e^{(i)}_xt + f^{(i)}_x\\ y^{(i)}(t) = a^{(i)}_yt^5 + b^{(i)}_yt^4 + c^{(i)}_yt^3 + d^{(i)}_yt^2 + e^{(i)}_yt + f^{(i)}_y \end{cases} \quad \text{where} \quad 0 \leq t \leq 1\] Now the goal of interpolation is to "fit" these polynomials between a series of \(n+1\) points (commonly referred to as knots) labeled \((x_i, y_i)\). To accomplish this, we can impose the conditions \(x^{(i)}(0) = x_i\) and \(x^{(i)}(1) = x_{i+1}\) (and correspondingly for \(y^{(i)}(t)\)). Additionally, to ensure greater continuity, we also match the first and second derivatives at each knot point4: \[\begin{split} \frac{dx^{(i)}}{dt}\biggr\rvert_{t=0} &= x'_i\\ \frac{dx^{(i)}}{dt}\biggr\rvert_{t=1} &= x'_{i+1}\\ \frac{d^2x^{(i)}}{dt^2}\biggr\rvert_{t=0} &= x^{\prime\prime}_i\\ \frac{d^2x^{(i)}}{dt^2}\biggr\rvert_{t=1} &= x^{\prime\prime}_{i+1}\\ \end{split}\] \[(\text{and analogously for }y)\] Collectively, these constraints guarantee that the overall spline will be (by construction) \(C^2\). They also fully define the polynomial coefficients for each spline segment. To actually compute the coefficients, we simply need to solve the linear system with following matrix representation: \[\begin{bmatrix} 0 & 0 & 0 & 0 & 0 & 1 \\[4pt] 0 & 0 & 0 & 0 & 1 & 0 \\[4pt] 0 & 0 & 0 & 2 & 0 & 0 \\[4pt] 1 & 1 & 1 & 1 & 1 & 1 \\[4pt] 5 & 4 & 3 & 2 & 1 & 0 \\[4pt] 20 & 12 & 6 & 2 & 0 & 0 \end{bmatrix} \begin{bmatrix} a_x \\[4pt] b_x \\[4pt] c_x \\[4pt] d_x \\[4pt] e_x \\[4pt] f_x \end{bmatrix} = \begin{bmatrix} x_i \\[4pt] x'_i \\[4pt] x^{\prime\prime}_i \\[4pt] x_{i+1} \\[4pt] x'_{i+1} \\[4pt] x^{\prime\prime}_{i+1} \end{bmatrix}\] This equation can then be solved to yield the coefficients with your favorite matrix library (or put in row echelon form to yield a set of back-substitutable equations).
Now that we've interpolated the spline segments, we have to join together all of the spline segments into a single piecewise function of a unified variable. To accomplish this, we're going to reparametrize \(\mathbf{r}(t)\) from \(t \in [0, 1]\) to the arc length parameter \(s\). Although it sounds complex, \(s\) is just the true displacement along the path, and it traces out the curve with unit speed (\(\lvert \mathbf{r}'(s) \rvert = \sqrt{\big(\frac{dx}{ds}\big)^2 + \big(\frac{dy}{ds}\big)^2} = 1\)). This procedure is completely generic, allowing you to combine arbitrary parametric curve with (basically) the same knot derivatives.
To shift from \(t\) to \(s\), we first have to define \(t(s)\). This is difficult to represent analytically although the inverse function \(s(t)\) is relatively simple: \[s(t) = \int_0^t \! \lvert \mathbf{r}'(\tau) \rvert \, d\tau = \int_0^t \! \sqrt{\bigg(\frac{dx}{d\tau}\bigg)^2 + \bigg(\frac{dy}{d\tau}\bigg)^2} \, d\tau\] In practice, \(t(s)\) can be obtained by numerically evaluating the above integral and stopping when the integral sum reaches \(s\).
By computing \(t(s)\), we can determine \(\mathbf{r}(s)\) by composition: \(\mathbf{r}(s) = \mathbf{r}(t(s))\). Next, differentiating yields the new parametrized derivative: \[\begin{split} \mathbf{r}'(s) &= \mathbf{r}'(t)\ t'(s) \\ &= \frac{\mathbf{r}'(t)}{s'(t)} \\ &= \frac{\mathbf{r}'(t)}{\lvert \mathbf{r}'(t) \rvert} \\ \end{split}\] This makes sense intuitively as \(\frac{\mathbf{r}'(t)}{\lvert \mathbf{r}'(t) \rvert}\) is just a normalized version of \(\mathbf{r}'(t)\) that satisfies the condition \(\lvert \mathbf{r}'(s) \rvert = 1\). We similarly obtain the new second and third derivatives by differentiating again5\(^{,}\)6: \[\begin{split} \mathbf{r}''(s) &= \frac{\mathbf{r}''(t)}{\lvert \mathbf{r}'(t) \rvert^2} - \frac{\mathbf{r}'(t)\ \mathbf{r}''(t) \cdot \mathbf{r}'(t)}{\lvert \mathbf{r}'(t) \rvert^4} \\ &= \frac{\mathbf{r}''(t)\ \mathbf{r}'(t) \cdot \mathbf{r}'(t) - \mathbf{r}'(t)\ \mathbf{r}''(t) \cdot \mathbf{r}'(t)}{\lvert \mathbf{r}'(t) \rvert^4} \\ &= \frac{\mathbf{r}'(t) \times (\mathbf{r}''(t) \times \mathbf{r}'(t))}{\lvert \mathbf{r}'(t) \rvert^4} \\ \mathbf{r}'''(s) &= \frac{\mathbf{r}'(t) \times (\mathbf{r}'''(t) \times \mathbf{r}'(t)) + \mathbf{r}''(t) \times (\mathbf{r}''(t) \times \mathbf{r}'(t))}{\lvert \mathbf{r}'(t) \rvert^9} \end{split}\]
Now, all of the spline segments and various other parametric curves are combined into a single curve \(\mathbf{r}(s)\). However, this still needs to be combined with the motion profile to yield the robot's kinematic state over time.
Let \(s(t)\) be the generated motion profile (note: this \(t\) actually refers to time; it's different from the \(t\) used earlier). Now the velocity and acceleration of the robot can be determined: \[\begin{split} \mathbf{v}(t) &= \frac{d}{dt} \Big[\ \mathbf{r}(s(t))\ \Big] \\ &= \mathbf{r}'(s(t)) s'(t) \\ \mathbf{a}(t) &= \frac{d}{dt} \Big[\ \mathbf{r}'(s(t)) s'(t)\ \Big] \\ &= \mathbf{r}''(s(t)) [s'(t)]^2 + \mathbf{r}'(s(t)) s''(t) \end{split}\]
The discussion in the previous sections has been limited to the translational components of the path. This, of course, must be accompanied by some sort of angular motion. For holonomic drives, the heading can be controlled completely independently. In this case, heading can be treated as a third independent path component that can be specified by an arbitrary parametric curve.
However, for nonholonomic drives, the heading is constrained to the direction of travel. For parametric curves, this direction is given by the vector \(\mathbf{r}'(s)\): \[\theta(s) = \arctan \frac{y'(s)}{x'(s)}\] In practice, \(\theta(s)\) is computed with the two-argument version of \(\arctan\), eliminating issues arising from signs and cases when \(x'(s) = 0\). Of course, the derivatives are also necessary: \[\begin{split} \theta'(s) &= \frac{1}{\big(\frac{y'(s)}{x'(s)}\big)^2+1} \cdot \frac{x'(s)y''(s) - y'(s)x''(s)}{[x'(s)]^2} \\ &= \frac{x'(s)y''(s) - y'(s)x''(s)}{[x'(s)]^2 + [y'(s)]^2} \\ &= x'(s)y''(s) - y'(s)x''(s) \\ \theta''(s) &= \big[x''(s)y''(s) + x'(s)y'''(s)\big] - \big[y''(s)x''(s) - y'(s)x'''(s)\big] \\ &= x'(s)y'''(s) - y'(s)x'''(s) \end{split}\] Notice that the expressions for \(\theta^{(n)}(s)\) involve \(\mathbf{r}(s)\) derivatives of order \(n + 1\) and lower. Hence, \(C^2\) \(\mathbf{r}(s)\) only guarantees \(C^1\) \(\theta(s)\). This heading derivative continuity is one of the primary reasons for quintic over cubic splines.
This paper discussed the motivation for splines in FTC and some mathematics for generating basic quintic splines. The author hopes this will help further the proliferation of advanced motion planning techniques in FTC.
The keen reader will realize that this is not necessarily the case for holonomic drives. All pose-to-pose movements can be executed with a combination of strafing and rotating. Nevertheless, splines can still be of use. For one, traveling along the tangent can reduce dead reckoning odometrical errors accrued from translating on the lateral axis (especially for mecanum drives). Additionally, splines can help navigate around obstacles in situations where piecewise linear paths would normally be required.↩︎
For a good introduction to motion profiling, see the canonical talk by mentors from FRC teams 254 and 971: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8319J1BEHwM↩︎
http://www.ryanjuckett.com/programming/biarc-interpolation/ is a great introduction to biarc splines.↩︎
This is generally the best choice for splines in the context of path planning although other schemes are occasionally employed. For instance, one can instead force the third and fourth derivatives to equal zero.↩︎
This derivation depends heavily on the BAC-CAB identity: \(\mathbf{a} \times (\mathbf{b} \times \mathbf{c}) = \mathbf{b} (\mathbf{a} \cdot \mathbf{c}) - \mathbf{c} (\mathbf{a} \cdot \mathbf{b})\).↩︎
\(\kappa(s) = \lvert \mathbf{r}''(s) \rvert\) is the curvature of \(\mathbf{r}(s)\). Note that quintic splines also guarantee continuous curvature.↩︎ |
The ECB report was released immediately following the COP28 conference in Dubai, where a landmark call to transition away from fossil fuels was made. This marked the first instance in which a UN climate summit concluded by addressing the primary cause of the climate crisis.
The report, co-authored by the ECB and the European Systemic Risk Board, asserts that banks play a crucial role in mitigating the financial stability risk associated with emissions. It emphasizes that high-emitting sectors are disproportionately represented in the portfolios of banks. The report introduces the possibility of penalizing banks whose assets raise concerns about climate change, aiming to align the financial system with the transition to greener energy. In addition to existing regulations that mandate banks to hold capital to guard against loan-related risks, as witnessed during the 2008 financial crisis, this proposal adds a layer of accountability for environmental considerations.
The report proposes leveraging the systemic risk buffer, an established policy tool, to impose additional capital requirements with an environmental focus. This would essentially raise the costs associated with issuing loans to oil companies or providing mortgages for properties prone to flooding.
Frank Elderson, the ECB banking supervisor, has already indicated the potential imposition of financial penalties on banks for each day they neglect to consider climate risk. These recent findings have garnered support from advocates of responsible investment, signaling a positive step toward encouraging environmentally conscious financial practices. |
English edit
Etymology edit
Noun edit
variegation (countable and uncountable, plural variegations)
- (botany) A variation in the colour of different zones of the same plant.
- 1878, The Eclectic Magazine of Foreign Literature, Science, and Art, volume 27, page 509:
- The variegation of leaves occurs so commonly that we do not often inquire into the cause of it. To the physiologist, however, the question of the origin of variegation is of considerable importance, and it certainly is not less so to the horticulturist, whether pleasure or profit be the main end of his endeavors.
- 2014, Ulrich Lüttge, Wolfram Beyschlag, Progress in Botany, Springer, →ISBN, page 244:
- The second and related type of white variegation is formed by the formation of a single loose layer of short palisade cells instead of a compact layer or two of long palisade cells in the green sectors of variegated leaves (La Rocca et al. 2011).
- The state of being variegated; streaked, spotted.
Further reading edit
- variegation on Wikipedia.Wikipedia
- "variegate", in Lexico, Dictionary.com; Oxford University Press, 2019–2022. |
Table of Contents
How do you wear a blue sky scrub cap?
Step 1: Tie your hair in a low ponytail or bun. Cinch the ribbon tight to make a pouch and place the front of the hat on your forehead. Step 2: Tuck your ponytail or bun into the pouch in the back of the hat. Step 3: Grab the ends of the ribbons with both hands.
Can you wear a hat with scrubs?
Like scrubs and gloves, scrub hats help keep the operating room sterilized and the surgery sites free from contamination. Doctors, surgeons and nurses will wear them and, depending on the procedure, the patient may wear a scrub cap as well. In fact, allheart offers more than 50 scrub caps and hats at any given time.
How are scrub caps supposed to fit?
Traditional surgical caps, or skullcaps as they're sometimes called, certainly seem to be the better-looking option of the two. They are typically fitted close to the head, and sometimes tie in the back for an adjustable fit.
Why does Mer wear a purple scrub cap?
Derek may be gone but his memory lives on as Meredith has been wearing his ferryboat scrub cap. Many fans took this to mean that Meredith has opened herself to moving on with her life. She also told one of her patients who was a matchmaker, that she wanted her help after she was accused of being married to her work.
How do you tie your hair under a scrub cap?
Step 1: Fold the edge of the pixie scrub hat up to the desired length. Step 2: Place the hat on your head and tuck your hair into the back portion of the hat. Step 3: Tie the ribbon in the back of the pixie hat to secure it to your head. Step 4: Tuck any loose hair up into the hat.
Do scrub caps go over ears?
The guidelines stated: "A bouffant hat should be worn to cover all of the hair, scalp, and ears to minimize skin and hair shedding and protect surgical patients from bacteria."1 A related article from the AORN stated to: "prohibit personnel from wearing skull caps altogether unless they are completely covered by a …
Why do doctors wear head caps?
Many doctors and nurses are going a step further and wearing surgical caps to prevent the potentially dangerous risk of leaving hair exposed. "Long hair or bangs are especially hard to keep inside what is essentially an elastic shower cap." A headband, she says, helps secure the cap in place.
Did Meredith stop wearing Derek's scrub cap?
However, as one keen-eyed fan pointed out, Meredith did technically put away the ferryboat cap in the season 14 finale, so this move shouldn't have come as a surprise.
Does Meredith wear Lexies scrub cap?
Meredith Grey wearing a standard SGH scrub cap. Scrubs are the short sleeved shirts and pants or gowns worn by nurses, surgeons, and any other operating room personnel when "scrubbing in" for surgery, worn under sterile surgical gowns.
How should I wear my hair in the operating room?
The American College of Surgeons task force on operating room attire recommended the following: "During invasive procedures, the mouth, nose, and hair (skull and face) should be covered to avoid potential wound contamination. Large sideburns and ponytails should be covered or contained. |
If We Understand Why Crashes Happen, We Can Take Steps to Avoid Them
Americans love to drive. Perhaps no invention affected American everyday life in the 20th century more than the automobile.
Although the technology for the automobile existed in the 19th century, it took Henry Ford to make the useful gadget accessible to the American public. Ford used the idea of the assembly line for automobile manufacturing. He paid his workers an unprecedented $5 a day when most laborers were bringing home two, hoping that it would increase their productivity. Furthermore, they might use their higher earnings to purchase a new car.
And so the love affair between Americans and their cars began. Even when new mass-transit systems are designed and constructed for travelers and commuters, large numbers of people prefer to drive on their own.
The creation of the interstate highway system not only allowed people to travel long distances in their cars, it permitted the cross-country delivery of goods by large commercial trucks. The blend of cars and trucks on the same roads has created the inevitable problem of collisions between the two, and these collisions often have deadly consequences.
Sharing the Road
The reason car vs. truck collisions are so devastating is simple physics. Passenger cars gained about 414 pounds in 26 years. In 1980, the average weight for passenger cars was 3,041 pounds, but it rose to 3,455 pounds by 2006.
The average weight of an 18-wheel tractor trailer on the road in the U.S. is 80,000 pounds.
When crash investigators examine what causes accidents, they look at the "critical reason" and the "associated factors" – two different things. For example, if a deer ran out in front of your car and you hit it, that would be the critical reason for the crash. However, an associated factor may be that it was raining and that caused you to not see the poor animal.
Some Statistics
For cars and trucks these are the critical reasons for crashes:
Trucks | Cars | |
Non-Performance (sleep, sick) | 3% | 16% |
Recognition (inattention) | 35% | 30% |
Decision (speed, aggressive) | 42% | 24% |
Performance (overcompensate) | 7% | 19% |
Vehicle (brakes, tires, lights) | 8% | 4% |
Environment (roadway, weather) | 4% | 3% |
Unknown | 1% | 1% |
Total | 100% | 100% |
These are some of the associated factors – note that there can be more than one, so the totals exceed 100%:
Factors | Trucks | Cars |
Brake problems | 27% | 2% |
Traffic flow interrupted | 25% | 25% |
Stop required before crash | 21% | 6% |
Unfamiliarity with roadway | 19% | 10% |
Inadequate surveillance | 16% | 14% |
Traveling too fast for conditions | 15% | 11% |
Illegal maneuver | 12% | 18% |
Felt under work pressure | 10% | 3% |
Distraction (Internal or External) | 10% | 10% |
Inattention | 9% | 9% |
Fatigue | 7% | 15% |
False Assumption | 6% | 3% |
Cargo Shift | 1% | NA |
Illegal drugs | 0.40% | 3% |
Alcohol use | 0.30% | 9% |
You don't have to be a government expert on traffic safety to notice a few interesting things. First of all, it seems that brakes on trucks are a big problem, and/or trucks need to reduce their speed. Also, it seems that alcohol and drug use is not a common cause for crashes among truckers. Passenger vehicle drivers still have some work to do on that issue.
If you drive a passenger vehicle, please pay attention to the fact that lack of rest is a big issue in crashes, as is lack of attention (which includes texting). Make a conscientious decision to eliminate those from being possible while you are driving, and you have significantly increased your chances of having a longer life.
Truckers, maintain your trucks. Try to avoid stress from the pressures of deadlines and competition. It's understandable that you want to rush, but is it worth your life, or the lives of others?
Accidents involving truck have many special issues associated with them, and the Law Firm of Lazarus and Lazarus has reserved a major part of their practice to this complex arena. If you or someone you know has been involved in a crash involving a truck, we would be happy to sit down and discuss your situation. You may reach Gary or Arleen Lazarus by calling 954-356-0006. |
Snow leopards: Karakoram Range surprises world with population growth: WWF-Pakistan
KARACHI: Elsewhere on the globe snow leopards may confront with the extinction threats but Pakistan's Karakoram range surprised the world with its population growth, WWF-Pakistan said on Saturday.
WWF-Pakistan released a rare footage of two snow leopard cubs found thriving in Dhee Nala in a buffer zone of Khunjerab National Park to mark the International Snow Leopard Day, besides highlighting the amazing predators' significance to balancing the ecosystem.
The community members reported to the WWF-Pakistan that these leopards in the Karakoram Range are growing their population though globally between 221 and 450 of these big cats are killed yearly.
"A recent WWF report suggests that between 221-450 snow leopards are killed every year globally and around 55 percent of these killings are in retaliation to snow leopard predation on their livestock," WWF-Pakistan said.
With snow leopards thriving, countless other species and the millions of people whose living depends on rivers flowing down from glaciers in the mountains of the Karakoram range will also have a source to survive, it added.
The remarkable footage that a local wildlife photographer Imtiaz Ahmad grabbed, walks everyone through an amazing natural world of snow leopards.
The rare footage also highlights the significance of snow leopards to the ecosystem with their thriving existence and safe high-altitude habitats in Pakistan.
Imtiaz Ahmad, a keen wildlife photographer, continued to follow these cubs from their birth and kept a vigilant eye until they reached the age of six.
"When I follow these cubs through my lens, I am hopeful about their future," he told the WWF-Pakistan.
"I have captured this unique footage of snow leopard cubs and have also been developing videos so that my community can learn more about this species, understand how they are linked to our lives, change perceptions around them and save them from extinction," Imtiaz said.
"We must recognize the importance of the habitat that supports this species, not only for the sustainability of local livelihoods but also the millions of people who live on the plains of which the glaciers provide tonnes of fertile sediment vital for agriculture," Rab Nawaz, Senior Director Programmes, WWF-Pakistan reacted on the film.
The nation, he said, needs to understand and determine that how many animals exist in the range of state counties so that they and their habitats could be effectively managed.
The habitat degradation and unsustainable infrastructure developments, he feared, the survival of many threatened species including the snow leopards is in peril.
Besides, climate change is making it harder to undertake conservation efforts with communities experiencing extreme poverty caused by varying weather challenges, Rab Nawaz said.
Over the past five decades, WWF-Pakistan has been working to restore and conserve endangered wildlife species in the country by supporting the management of national parks.
It also makes efforts to scale down conflicts between snow leopards and communities, boosting rural development, and mitigating illegal wildlife trade, WWF-Pakistan.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2021
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Original article can be found at https://nspirement.com/2023/12/07/the-psychology-behind-interruptions.html
Have you ever been in the middle of telling a story, and suddenly, someone cuts you off and starts sharing their own experience? Or perhaps they introduce a new topic into the conversation altogether? In this situation, which many of us may have already encountered (or have been guilty of doing), the interrupted person may feel disregarded and overshadowed by such interruptions.
While interruptions are not unusual in conversations, interrupting someone can make them feel frustrated or disrespected and can often cause misunderstandings. Let's explore the psychology behind them to help improve communication and understand the impact of interruptions.
What are interruptions?
Generally, an interruption is when someone jumps in while the speaker is talking, essentially not letting the speaker finish what they are saying. Additionally, talking too soon, just as the speaker finishes talking, or overlapping with the end of what they are saying can also be considered an interruption.
Both circumstances communicate that the person interrupting is more focused on speaking than listening to and fully processing what the speaker is trying to say. As a result, the speaker can feel irritated and unheard.
Power interruptions are done intentionally to gain power over the speaker, steal attention, or control the conversation. (Image: Blanscape via Dreamstime)
Types of interruptions
Getting interrupted isn't the best feeling. If so, why do people still do it? To understand the underlying psychology of interruptions, we look at the different types and their motivations to know the best way to deal with them.
1. Power interruptions
Power interruptions are done intentionally to gain power over the speaker, steal attention, or control the conversation. The interrupter asserts their dominance by talking over the speaker or cutting them off, establishing their presence, and assuming command over the discussion.
Re-asserting yourself in the conversation is essential, as it conveys that you do not appreciate being interrupted and that you value what you are saying. Phrases like or along the lines of "Please let me finish" or "I wasn't done talking" are great for taking back control. Your tone and choice of words can change depending on how subtle, polite, or aggressive you want to be.
2. Rapport interruptions
Unlike power interruptions, which seek to take attention away from the speaker, rapport interruptions have positive intentions, mainly affirming the speaker or letting them know they are heard and understood. They add a natural flow to the conversation and help build rapport in interviews and one-on-one interactions.
While rapport interruptions aren't inherently wrong, they can sometimes be mistaken for power interruptions, especially if the speaker feels blocked from expressing their point. In most cases, the interrupter may have just been carried away and will often ask the speaker to continue once they realize they have cut them off.
3. Neutral interruptions
Interruptions with motivations that neither seek to gain control nor build rapport are called neutral interruptions. While they can be mistaken for power interruptions, the reasoning behind neutral interruptions is as follows:
External factors
A noisy environment, an untimely phone call, situational urgency, and similar scenarios can be the reasons for cutting someone off mid-sentence.
Communication styles
Some people may take fast, and others are more slow-paced. A mismatch in communication styles can lead to one or the other interrupting during the conversation.
As a reaction to what the speaker is saying, the interrupter may sometimes interject due to excitement or strong emotions.
Mental conditions
Those with mental health conditions such as ADHD and autism may be more prone to interrupting.
While sometimes the occasional interruption may be okay and part of bouncing off each other's thoughts, interrupting someone (especially over and over) can become a conversation killer. (Image: Rawpixelimages via Dreamstime)
Ways to stop being a chronic interrupter
While sometimes the occasional interruption may be okay and part of bouncing off each other's thoughts, interrupting someone (especially over and over) can become a conversation killer. Here are some healthy practices to avoid being the guy who keeps interrupting:
- Focus on understanding and engaging in what they say, not what you want to say next.
- Wait a few seconds before responding when they pause or finish their statement.
- Practice listening techniques, such as repeating the speaker's words to help you stay on the subject and convey that you understand them.
- Solutions aren't always the best response. Sometimes, the speaker wants to be heard, and providing solutions may come off as interrupting.
- Practice apologizing and redirecting it back to the primary speaker if you interrupt them.
In essence, interruption is more about asserting yourself and diminishing the speaker's. Remember that communication is a two-way street; an effective and healthy exchange of information is impossible without correctly hearing what the other person says. |
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As spring spreads in the Northern Hemisphere, check out these data visualizations about snowfall and vegetation.
Scroll through this page to view animated charts and maps that show how Canada's winters are becoming milder.
This animated illustration shows the annual cycle of plant growth as detected by satellite.
According to this NASA study, overall global vegetation has increased in the last 20 years due to significant initiatives in China and India. |
Looking to brighten your smile at home? Try oil pulling with coconut or sesame oil to remove bacteria and stains. Mix baking soda with water and lemon juice for a natural toothpaste that you can use 2-3 times a week. Create a turmeric and coconut oil paste to whiten teeth and promote gum health. Consider rinsing with apple cider vinegar for antibacterial benefits, but be aware of potential risks. Another option is an activated charcoal teeth mask to absorb toxins and stains. These DIY methods can help you achieve a radiant, confident grin.
Key Points
- Use oil pulling with coconut or sesame oil for natural teeth whitening and overall mouth health.
- Create a baking soda toothpaste with lemon juice and hydrogen peroxide for cost-effective whitening.
- Make a turmeric and coconut oil paste to brighten teeth and combat harmful bacteria in the mouth.
- Try an apple cider vinegar rinse to naturally whiten teeth and improve gum health, but be cautious of potential risks.
- Use activated charcoal paste or commercial strips to absorb stains and achieve intense whitening results.
Oil Pulling for Teeth Whitening
To whiten your teeth using oil pulling, start by selecting a high-quality oil such as coconut or sesame oil. Oil pulling is an ancient practice known for its oral hygiene benefits. It involves swishing oil around in your mouth to remove bacteria, plaque, and stains from your teeth. This technique not only helps in whitening your teeth but also promotes overall mouth health.
When using oil for oil pulling, make sure you do it first thing in the morning before eating or drinking anything. Take a tablespoon of oil and swish it around in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes. Remember not to swallow the oil as it will contain toxins and bacteria from your mouth. After swishing, spit the oil out into a trash can and rinse your mouth with warm water.
Incorporating oil pulling into your oral hygiene routine can be a beneficial addition. It complements regular brushing and flossing, providing an extra layer of cleanliness for your teeth and gums. Experiment with different oils and find the one that works best for you in achieving a brighter smile.
Baking Soda Toothpaste Recipe
Consider incorporating a homemade toothpaste recipe with baking soda into your oral care routine for a natural teeth-whitening option. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help remove surface stains on teeth, revealing a brighter smile over time.
Here is a simple recipe to make your own baking soda toothpaste:
- Baking Soda Base: Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of water to form a paste.
- Lemon Juice Scrub: For added whitening benefits, consider adding a few drops of lemon juice to the baking soda paste. Lemon juice contains citric acid, which can help lighten stains.
- Hydrogen Peroxide Solution: To enhance the whitening effect, you can also mix in a small amount of hydrogen peroxide. This ingredient is commonly found in commercial whitening products.
- Brush Gently: Use this homemade toothpaste 2-3 times a week to avoid damaging your enamel. Brush gently for about 2 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
This baking soda toothpaste recipe offers a natural and cost-effective way to brighten your smile from the comfort of your home.
Turmeric and Coconut Oil Paste
Enhance your teeth-whitening routine with a homemade turmeric and coconut oil paste, known for its natural brightening properties. Turmeric, a vibrant yellow spice, is renowned for its various health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. When used in dental care, turmeric can help to whiten teeth by gently removing surface stains. Additionally, turmeric is believed to promote gum health and reduce inflammation in the mouth.
Coconut oil, another key ingredient in this paste, is widely recognized for its antibacterial properties and its ability to improve oral health. When combined with turmeric, coconut oil can help to create a paste that not only whitens teeth but also fights harmful bacteria in the mouth.
To make this paste, simply mix turmeric powder with coconut oil to create a smooth consistency. Gently brush the paste onto your teeth and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Incorporating this natural remedy into your oral care routine may help to gradually whiten your teeth while promoting overall dental health.
Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
For an invigorating and natural approach to teeth whitening, try incorporating an apple cider vinegar rinse into your oral care routine. Apple cider vinegar has been praised for its potential benefits for oral health, but it's crucial to be mindful of the risks associated with using it for teeth whitening.
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Oral Health:
- Natural Antibacterial Properties: Apple cider vinegar can help combat harmful bacteria in the mouth, promoting overall oral health.
- Acidic Nature: The acidity of apple cider vinegar may aid in removing surface stains on teeth, leading to a brighter smile.
- Potential Gum Health Benefits: Some studies suggest that apple cider vinegar could contribute to gum health by reducing inflammation.
- Fresh Breath: The antibacterial properties of apple cider vinegar may help freshen breath by targeting odor-causing bacteria.
Risks of Using Apple Cider Vinegar for Teeth Whitening:
- Enamel Erosion: The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar can potentially erode tooth enamel over time.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Using apple cider vinegar excessively may lead to increased tooth sensitivity.
- Potential Irritation: Some individuals may experience irritation in the mouth or throat when using apple cider vinegar.
- Interference with Dental Work: Apple cider vinegar could interact with dental work, such as braces or dental appliances.
Activated Charcoal Teeth Mask
To effectively whiten your teeth at home, consider incorporating an activated charcoal teeth mask into your oral care routine. Activated charcoal is known for its ability to absorb toxins and stains, making it a popular choice for teeth whitening. To create a charcoal teeth mask, mix a small amount of activated charcoal powder with water to form a paste. Gently brush this paste onto your teeth, ensuring all surfaces are covered. Leave the mask on for about 3-5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Charcoal toothpaste containing activated charcoal is also available commercially for those who prefer a ready-made option. This type of toothpaste can be used daily to help remove surface stains and brighten your smile. Additionally, incorporating charcoal-based teeth whitening strips into your routine can provide a more intense whitening treatment. These strips are typically applied for a short period, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe to Use These DIY Methods for Teeth Whitening if You Have Sensitive Teeth?
If you have sensitive teeth, managing sensitivity is essential. Protect your enamel by considering alternative whitening options. Sensitivity management and teeth protection go hand in hand. Choose methods that prioritize enamel care to prevent discomfort.
How Often Should These DIY Methods Be Used to See Noticeable Results?
For noticeable results, use DIY methods for teeth whitening consistently. Depending on the method, aim for 2-3 times a week. Results may vary, but you could see improvements within a few weeks. Remember to maintain good oral hygiene for lasting effects.
Are There Any Potential Risks or Side Effects Associated With Using These Natural Whitening Methods?
Like a hidden iceberg, unseen risks may lurk beneath the surface of natural whitening methods. Potential dangers include tooth sensitivity and enamel damage. Proceed cautiously, as the quest for a brighter smile can come at a cost.
Can These DIY Methods Be Used in Conjunction With Professional Whitening Treatments?
Yes, you can combine professional treatments with DIY methods for improved results. This approach may boost efficacy, but it's important to consult with your dentist to guarantee compatibility and avoid potential risks.
How Long Do the Effects of These DIY Whitening Methods Typically Last?
Maintaining the effects of DIY whitening methods varies. Consistent use and good oral hygiene can prolong results. However, long term outcomes depend on individual habits and lifestyle. Remember, "Rome wasn't built in a day." |
Child Counselling
Sometimes, children need someone else to listen to them, or help them to understand their thoughts, feelings, emotions and behaviour.
Child counselling sessions will be with a highly trained counsellor who will guide you through your child's thoughts, emotions and behaviour.
Our counsellors are fully trained to work with children, giving them the space to safely share their fears, worries, anxieties or trauma.
It's a different approach with children – play, art and creativity are at the heart of it and it's very gentle, using appropriate language for them.
Some children find growing up and moving through the developmental stages harder than others.
They may have health issues or a diagnosis that makes then feel different or unable to fit in.
We help children who:
- Have suffered trauma – either themselves or have been around trauma
- Are bereaved – recently or in the past
- Feel sad, hopeless or disinterested in life
- Hurt themselves or think about it
- Have problems with family, friends or at school
- Feel anxious or frightened
- Have issues around food and drink
- Find it hard to talk
- Can't sleep well
- Worry about the things they see
- Struggle with their emotions and temper
- Can't concentrate easily
- Find getting on with friends a struggle
- Feel they need to check or repeat things
- Are concerned about germs
- Have low self-confidence and low self-worth
Child FAQs
Child counselling is a therapeutic process that aims to support children and adolescents in navigating various emotional, behavioural, or social challenges. It involves working with a trained professional who specialises in helping children express themselves, develop coping skills, and find solutions to their problems.
Children may benefit from counselling when they experience difficulties such as anxiety, depression, trauma, bullying, family issues, academic struggles, or any other significant life event that impacts their emotional well-being. Counselling provides a safe space for them to explore their feelings, learn healthy coping strategies, and develop resilience.
Sometimes, a listening and independent ear can be very useful.
If you notice persistent changes in your child's behaviour, mood, academic performance, or social interactions, it may be a sign that they could benefit from counselling. Examples include withdrawal from activities, sudden anger or aggression, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, prolonged sadness, or difficulties in concentrating.
Get in touch if you would like some friendly guidance.
Child counselling typically involves one-on-one sessions between the child and the therapist, where they engage in age-appropriate activities, discussions, and play-based interventions to explore the child's thoughts, emotions, and experiences. The therapist establishes a trusting relationship with the child and collaborates with them to identify goals and work towards positive change.
Parental involvement is often an essential component of child counselling. While the child's sessions are confidential, therapists typically engage parents in regular check-ins or separate sessions to provide updates, discuss strategies for supporting their child at home, and offer guidance on promoting their child's wellbeing.
The duration of child counselling varies depending on the child's needs and the specific concerns being addressed. Some issues may require only a few sessions, while others might benefit from longer-term support. The therapist will discuss with you to establish a treatment plan and determine the estimated duration of counselling.
No – our counsellors are not qualified to prescribe medicine. They may talk with you about interventions from other healthcare professions but at no time will medicine be prescribed or administered to your child in a session.
Many insurance plans provide coverage for mental health services, including child counselling. Contact your insurance provider to inquire about your specific coverage details, including any copayments or deductibles that may apply. Let us know and we can talk you through the insurance process.
It is not uncommon for children to feel apprehensive or resistant to the idea of counselling, especially if they are unfamiliar with the process. Engage in open and honest conversations with your child, explaining the benefits of counselling and addressing any concerns they may have. If resistance persists, please get in touch so that we can help. It might be that they need to meet us or come to the Kent Wellbeing hub to see where the4 sessions will take place.
Enquire about counselling for your child
If you are concerned about anything with your child and think counselling might help or you aren't sure, please get in touch and we will, together, work out the next steps.
- 01634 917110
- firstname.lastname@example.com
Kent Wellbeing Hub
Farthing Corner
Medway Services, |
It can be very easy, economical and healthy to make homemade breakfast cereal. The most common main ingredient in hot and cold homemade cereals is oats, although other whole grains such as wheat germ may also be used. Oats are whole grains and are thought to lower cholesterol, help stabilize blood sugar and add excellent fiber to the body. Muesli and granola are quick, tasty and popular homemade cereals to make.
Granola was developed in 1876 by breakfast cereal entrepreneur, Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, who based it on Dr. James C. Jackson's 1863 creation of baked graham flour pieces called "Granula." The granola product wasn't commercially successful until the 1960s health food movement hit with its emphasis on whole grains. What made it especially popular was its healthy convenience and its crunchy texture brought out through roasting the oats. There are many possible variations of granola but the basic ingredients are oats, oil, sweeteners such as honey, flavoring such as vanilla and dried fruits and nuts.
Other possible sweeteners for homemade granola include brown sugar and maple syrup. Canola and sunflower are popular oils for granola, but olive oil could also be used. The basic method for making homemade granola breakfast cereal is to combine oats and nuts in a large mixing bowl. In another mixing bowl, blend sweeteners, oil and flavoring before stirring this into the oat mixture. Place the granola into an oiled pan and bake for an hour to an hour and a half depending on the recipe's instructions.
For those who prefer creamy-textured breakfast cereal, Muesli is a popular favorite. Muesli was developed in 1900 by the Swiss nutritionist and doctor, Maximillian Bircher-Benner. Muesli can be made at home by soaking oats in water and blending them with lemon juice and milk. Grated apple and cinnamon add flavor to Muesli. Any type of ground nuts makes an excellent topping. Wheat germ and oat bran could be used along with the oats and Muesli may be eaten hot or cold.
Homemade breakfast cereals should be stored in airtight containers for up to four weeks. Making breakfast cereal doesn't have to take up too much time and the benefits are great. For example, you can control the amount of sugar used. Also, the cost is likely to be a lot less than buying pre-packaged commercial breakfast cereals.
Breakfast cereal is usually eaten with milk in the morning or for a snack later in the day, but there are other good ideas for using your homemade breakfast cereals. They can be made into cereal bars for snacks or quick breakfasts on the go. Homemade cereal can also be part of a delicious, yet healthy snack when it tops plain yogurt with pieces of fresh fruit added. You may even want to place your homemade breakfast cereal in an attractive glass airtight container, attach the written recipe to the jar with ribbon and give it as a practical hostess gift. |
Ohio weather is characterized by four distinct seasons and variations of temperature. Summers are typically hot and humid; winters can be very cold. Precipitation occurs year-round, and severe weather (such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, snowstorms etc.) are not uncommon. For most of the year though, Wooster has a pleasant climate.
Be Ready for Winter (Yes, There Will Be Snow)
Ohio winters can be quite challenging for students coming from warmer climates. It helps to dress for the cold! Here are a few "survival tips":
- Bring a warm winter coat. Wearing layers of clothing is recommended for added warmth, so the coat should be big enough to allow for this.
- Wear a hat. Over half of your body heat is lost from your head.
- Wear warm gloves or mittens. Mittens are warmer than gloves (they let your fingers share their warmth with each other).
- A scarf is helpful in keeping your neck warm and can be pulled up around your face in very cold weather.
- Dress in layers (i.e. T-shirt, long sleeve shirt, sweater). For your legs, you may wish to buy a thin base layer you can wear under your pants (called long underwear, long johns, or woolens).
- Warm, waterproof boots with warm socks are vital when it snows.
- Dry skin can be a problem during the winter. Combat this with moisturizer/lotion for your skin and lip balm.
Tornadoes (They Happen Occasionally: Know What to Do)
The Weather Channel and Ready.gov can provide more information about tornadoes and being safe during a tornado.
Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify a tornado hazard:
Tornado Watch – Tornadoes are possible. Remain alert for approaching storms. Watch the sky and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for information.
Tornado Warning – A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately.
If you're in a building
- Seek shelter in the lowest level of your home, such as a basement or storm cellar. If you don't have a basement, go to an inner hallway, a smaller inner room or a closet.
- Keep away from all windows and glass doorways.
- If you're in a building such as a church, hospital, school or office building, go to the innermost part of the building on the lowest floor. Do not use elevators because the power may fail, leaving you trapped.
- You can cushion yourself with a mattress, but don't cover yourself with one. Cover your head and eyes with a blanket or jacket to protect against flying debris and broken glass. Don't waste time moving mattresses around.
- Stay inside until you're certain the storm has passed, as multiple tornadoes can emerge from the same storm.
- Do not leave a building to attempt to "escape" a tornado.
If you're outside
- Try to get inside a building as quickly as possible and find a small, protected space away from windows.
- Avoid buildings with long-span roof areas such as a school gymnasium, arena or shopping mall, as these structures are usually supported only by outside walls. When hit by a tornado, buildings like these can collapse, because they cannot withstand the pressure of the storm.
- If you cannot find a place to go inside, crouch for protection next to a strong structure or lie flat in a ditch or other low-lying area. Cover your head and neck with your arms or a jacket, if you have one. |
Alcoliv is a medication used in the management of liver disorders, particularly those related to alcohol consumption or alcohol-induced liver damage. It is often used as a hepatoprotective agent, meaning it helps protect the liver from damage and promotes its regeneration and function.
The active ingredients in Alcoliv may vary depending on the formulation, but commonly include herbal extracts or compounds with hepatoprotective properties. These ingredients may include Silymarin (derived from milk thistle), N-acetylcysteine (NAC), Vitamin E, and other antioxidants.
Alcoliv is typically used to support liver health in individuals with conditions such as alcoholic liver disease, fatty liver disease, liver cirrhosis, and hepatitis. It may help reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and liver enzyme levels, thus improving liver function and overall health.
It's important to note that while Alcoliv may offer benefits for liver health, it is not a substitute for lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy diet, and regular exercise. These lifestyle modifications are crucial for managing liver disorders effectively.
As with any medication, it's essential to use Alcoliv as directed by a healthcare professional and to follow the recommended dosage and instructions. Additionally, individuals should inform their healthcare provider of any other medications or supplements they are taking to avoid potential interactions.
Side effects of Alcoliv are generally rare but may include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Allergic reactions are also possible, although uncommon. If you experience any adverse effects while taking Alcoliv, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider.
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How do W.D. Gann Arcs and Circles handle gaps in historical data?
How do W.D. Gann Arcs and Circles handle gaps in historical data? Yes, I did research into more… 3 Minute Read How do helpful hints Gann Arcs and Circles handle gaps in historical data? Edit: I did realize while I was writing this article that today's Excel "Fill Gaps" feature could offer me an answer, as it allows me to fill this gap based on this post. Perhaps in the future, I will investigate on that. So, having encountered the topic "What do you mean a "Gann Cycle"?" I thought that the classic Gann Cycle was something fully described by Gann, and was built upon solid fundamental economic relations. But nope, it is very complex, so is the analysis. read here me now address briefly one very common fallacy regarding such Gann Cycles : By the way, whenever there is a price fluctuation, please use the quotation number from Bloomberg. You just enable the "Reorder quotes" under Settings > General.
Mathematical Constants
Why this type of question arises from time to time : It seems really here are the findings to simulate cyclic prices in a given historic data to simulate it in a time curve (even though it doesn't stand for any impossibility), and also in a theoretical sense it would be hard to simulate the long term market state of an economy when there is a recession. But "tandem t-shaped market regime" also comes the question up hand in hand : It is not totally clear which kind of state is the one we see in the US going to? Are we going to have a long term flat economic regime, let's call it "X", which then to fall into a recession or a recession may raise the entire structure of the market of X in the following years to the point of "X" being "replaced" by something like "Y", something I am certainly going to dedicate an article to, now that I take the situation from another perspective. The most famous textbook written on basic economics for mathematicians is de La Vallee Poussin's Cours de Mathématiques Economique et Socio-économique (undergrad reading for many), and it provides a great introduction to the subject, check that in a non-mathematicians more transparent way, so this may be an even better thing to teach those who can't deal with the definitions. I strongly recommend it, trust me 🙂 I've almost read it twice already, and it is really a pleasure to read. But it is relevant to address, if we go through those figures via the process I mentioned earlier, there are going to be some irregularities here and there, and those irregularities are "random", it means that each such data is essentially a shot noise, and it should be aHow do W.D. Gann Arcs and Circles handle gaps in historical data? Question The "Graphing Histories" charts of W.D Gann's works are very similar. For a bit of history here, Gann's website lists his works in the order they were released (as opposed to the order they were developed). Starting at Chapter Eight, you have (8) the (9) Life Chart, (10) Work and Work Inverse, (11) Other Work Inverse, (12) Life Arcs, (13) Life Circles and (14) Life Axes. From what these all follow, this seems to be a general plan for using the Life Chart, Life Arcs, and Life Circles. But then you see that (15) Life Inverse, and (16) Work Inverse. Why do we see a gap here? The Life Inverse and Work Inverse charts are not a part of Gann's known works, and they seem to just come out of nowhere.
Why does Gann do this? Is this part of the Grand Plan? Which Arcs and Circles will be in later works? Answer All the arcs and circles were invented by W.D. Gann for a reason and most of them are needed for chart creation. I think you refer to the work at page number 10 of the above list on the Graphing Histories website. Work Inverse Work inverse is not used by Gann, but it might still be helpful to mention. The concept of the inverse problem is a proven method to find "hidden" energy in the problem. With every work inverse, the negative work is subtracted from both signifiers. In other words, any term in the problem that influences the energy of a compound is replaced with an equivalent term that is reversed. Therefore, the work of any compound divided by the whole is negative. This negative work should be determined by the law of equal area beneath the work curve butHow do W.D. Gann Arcs and Circles handle gaps in historical data? A W.D.
Hexagon Charts
Gann arc is a representation of the value of a financial instrument spanning several time periods. Typically, the arcs are separated into different stages or periods. Gap charts, also called gap periodization, is one of the ways to present gaps in data. Yet, what about "normal" gaps? How does this affect the visual display? It's an important consideration, especially when analyzing historical data in a competitive business. When I was first introduced to the concept of gaps in business data, it immediately reminded me of a high school science class – liquid vs. gas state. Everything in an economy exists in one of these states. If the economy goes through normal patterns down the road (in theory), then it should be in a natural balance. Periods of "stagnation" where prices either fall or rise at a predictable rate. A "bubble" period is an extreme state where prices either rise or fall try this faster than they normally would. Based on this, I would expect an economy to go through the "stagnation" periods, where both prices rise and fall at a fixed rate. The periods in "flow" are the times where the price changes by 10 or 20% from period to period. How often are periods in normal states? Are we just in the "flow" stage now? Should we have some type of standard or expectation for when long term recession begins? How important is it in analyzing past data? How often do these gaps occur in the economy? Short term recessions that are defined as a drop of at least one percent in the stock market in two consecutive periods (a few working days) are only about once every two years.
Financial Vibrations
(According to a study conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis in 2000-2006) Prolonged recessions are very rare. The probability that |
Key Takeaways
Imagine when you open a website, everything loads quickly, looks nice, and is easy to move around. This happens because of something called First Contentful Paint (FCP). FCP is important because it shows how fast a webpage shows its first content.
But why is this fast display so important today? How does it affect how much people use a website and how well businesses do online? Let's learn more about FCP optimization to understand these questions and improve how people use websites.
Introduction to FCP and User Engagement
First Contentful Paint (FCP) is an important number that shows how long it takes for the first thing to show up on the screen after you ask for a webpage. It's really useful because it tells us how fast users can see something on the screen, which is a big part of how users feel about a website.
Definition and Importance of FCP
FCP specifically tracks the time from the initiation of the page load to when text, images, or other significant elements are first rendered. The importance of FCP lies in its direct impact on user perception; faster FCP times often equate to a more responsive and satisfying user experience. Sites with quick FCP are perceived as more efficient and trustworthy.
How FCP Affects User Perception and Engagement
The speed of FCP directly influences user perception by setting the initial tone of their visit. A fast FCP enhances the user's perception of a site's performance, potentially increasing their engagement and reducing bounce rates. In contrast, a slow FCP can lead to frustration and a higher likelihood of users abandoning the site before it fully loads.
Relation Between FCP and SEO
FCP is not just crucial for user experience but also plays a significant role in search engine optimization (SEO). Google and other search engines consider page speed as a ranking factor, and FCP is a key component of this. Optimizing FCP can lead to better search rankings, more organic traffic, and improved overall visibility in search engine results pages.
Technical Strategies to Improve First Contentful Paint (FCP)
Optimizing Server Response Times
- Infrastructure Review: Start by evaluating your current hosting solution. Upgrading to a more robust server or selecting a hosting service closer to your user base can reduce latency.
- Efficient Backend Code: Optimize server-side scripts and databases to handle requests faster. This involves refining SQL queries, reducing server-side processing, or implementing faster runtime environments.
- Resource Prioritization: Utilize HTTP/2 or HTTP/3 protocols, as they support prioritization of resources, ensuring critical assets are sent to the client first.
Efficient Use of Content Delivery Networks (CDN)
- Geographic Spread: CDNs keep copies of your website on servers worldwide. This helps deliver content faster by using the closest server to the user, cutting down load times.
- Cache Settings: Adjust your CDN setup to get more items from the cache. This means setting how long different content types (like images or CSS files) stay in the cache to lower requests to the main server.
- Security and DDoS Defense: CDNs safeguard websites from DDoS attacks. This boosts site security, uptime, and overall performance.
Implementing Lazy Loading for Images and Scripts
- Lazy Loading: Instead of loading all website elements at once, lazy loading waits to load non-important things until you need them. This makes the website load faster initially and saves internet data.
- JavaScript Tools: Use tools like jQuery, React, or Angular to help with lazy loading.
- Better User Experience: By loading things like images and scripts only when you see them on the screen, the website seems quicker. This can make people stay longer on the site and like it more.
Front-End Optimization Techniques
Minimizing CSS and JavaScript Blocking
- CSS Optimization: Reduce unnecessary CSS rules and use minification techniques to decrease file size.
- JavaScript Optimization: Minimize and concatenate JavaScript files to reduce the number of requests and speed up loading.
- Async and Defer Attributes: Use async or defer attributes for JavaScript files to prevent them from blocking the rendering of the page.
Critical Rendering Path Optimization
- Prioritize Above-the-Fold Content: Ensure that essential content, such as text and images above the fold, loads quickly to improve perceived speed.
- Inline Critical CSS: Inline critical CSS or use server-side rendering to deliver essential stylesheets faster.
- Optimize Images: Compress images and use modern image formats like WebP to reduce file sizes and improve loading times.
Leveraging Browser Caching
- Set Cache-Control Headers: Configure your server to send appropriate Cache-Control headers to instruct browsers on caching resources.
- Cache Static Assets: Cache static resources such as CSS, JavaScript, and images to reduce server requests for returning visitors.
- Use CDN for Caching: Utilize Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) to cache content closer to users, reducing latency and improving FCP.
The Role of Web Design in FCP
Simplifying Visual Elements for Faster Load Times
- Reduce the number of large images and graphics on your web pages.
- Use CSS sprites to combine multiple images into a single file, reducing server requests.
- Optimize images by compressing them without compromising quality.
- Minimize the use of complex animations or large background videos that can slow down FCP.
Impact of Design Choices on FCP
- Choose a clean and simple design layout that prioritizes content visibility.
- Avoid excessive use of decorative elements that don't add value to the user experience.
- Opt for a minimalist approach in typography and color schemes to improve readability and reduce rendering time.
- Test different design variations to identify which elements contribute most to FCP delays.
Responsive Design and Mobile Considerations
- Ensure your website is responsive and mobile-friendly to cater to users on various devices.
- Use responsive images and media queries to deliver optimized content based on the user's device and screen size.
- Implement touch-friendly navigation and interactive elements for mobile users.
- Optimize CSS and JavaScript for mobile devices to minimize resource consumption and improve FCP on smartphones and tablets.
Using Analytics to Monitor FCP
Tools for Measuring FCP and User Engagement:
- Google PageSpeed Insights: Provides FCP metrics along with suggestions for improvement.
- WebPageTest: Offers detailed FCP analysis, including filmstrip view and waterfall charts.
- Lighthouse: Integrated into Chrome DevTools, it assesses FCP and other performance metrics.
Analyzing FCP Data for Website Improvements:
- Google Analytics: Tracks FCP along with user behavior data for insights.
- Adobe Analytics: Offers comprehensive analytics including FCP metrics for data-driven decisions.
- Hotjar: Combines heatmaps with FCP data to visualize user engagement patterns.
Case Studies on FCP Improvement and Outcomes:
- Netflix: Improved FCP by optimizing image delivery and reducing JavaScript execution time, resulting in increased user engagement and reduced bounce rates.
- Amazon: Implemented lazy loading for images and prioritized critical rendering paths, leading to faster FCP and improved conversion rates.
- Shopify: Leveraged CDN optimization and browser caching techniques to enhance FCP, resulting in higher customer retention and improved SEO rankings.
To improve how people use your site and make it work better, you need to focus on something called First Contentful Paint (FCP). This means making sure the first stuff people see on your site loads quickly. To do this, use smart tech tricks like fixing your server, using better front-end methods, and checking how people interact with your site using analytics tools.
When you do these things right, your site loads faster, people like it more, and it shows up better in search results. Keeping up with new web trends and using new ideas is key to keeping your site running smoothly and keeping people interested.
What is First Contentful Paint (FCP)?
FCP measures the time taken for a webpage's primary content to appear. It's crucial for user experience and SEO, impacting engagement and rankings.
How does FCP optimization benefit websites?
Optimizing FCP leads to faster load times, reduced bounce rates, improved user satisfaction, and higher search engine rankings.
What are common strategies for FCP optimization?
Strategies include server optimization, using CDNs, lazy loading images/scripts, minimizing CSS/JS blocking, and implementing browser caching.
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State of Technology 2024
Humanity's Quantum Leap Forward
Explore 'State of Technology 2024' for strategic insights into 7 emerging technologies reshaping 10 critical industries. Dive into sector-wide transformations and global tech dynamics, offering critical analysis for tech leaders and enthusiasts alike, on how to navigate the future's technology landscape.
How can FCP be measured and monitored?
Tools like Google Lighthouse, PageSpeed Insights, and Google Analytics help measure FCP, allowing businesses to monitor performance and make necessary improvements.
What role does FCP play in mobile optimization?
FCP is crucial for mobile optimization, as fast load times on mobile devices improve user experience, reduce bounce rates, and contribute to higher mobile search rankings. |
Head to Head, Cognitive Training vs Cognitive Exercising
Understanding these differences is essential for setting appropriate goals and achieving tangible results.
Understanding the crucial difference and deciphering whats best for you.
With the growing popularity in cognitive training and BET (Brain Endurance Training) it is important to understand the difference between simply utilising cognitive exercises and the realities of deliberate cognitive training.
Cognitive training is fast becoming popular even in the most prestigious of sports. In many cases, the terms 'training' and 'exercising' are often used interchangeably, yet they hold distinctly different implications for our physical and cognitive development. Understanding these differences is essential for setting appropriate goals and achieving tangible results.
Cognitive Exercises vs. Training: Understanding the Basics
In order to grasp the difference between cognitive training and cognitive exercise, we must first utilise more understood and tangible examples in the body.
When we take a walk around the block, we are exercising. It is not to failure, nor particularly targeted. This still has many benefits for us, walking is excellent and simple for us to do.
When we train for a sport or a goal we call it training. Training for a marathon or a sprint race involves us incorporating targeted sessions so that our body continues to adapt to the speed and distance of the race we are training for.
Training is targeted. Exercising is also beneficial but is rarely targeted or we call it generalised.
At its core, cognitive exercise involves activities that engage the brain, utilizing various cognitive skills. This could range from solving puzzles to playing strategy games. In sports, we have light systems and brain games on light boards. While such exercises can stimulate the brain, they are simply cognitive exercises. Like taking your brain for a leisurely stroll—beneficial but not necessarily transformative.
Conversely, cognitive training is more rigorous and structured. It involves challenging the brain with progressively tougher tasks for progressively more time in order to push mental capacities to their limits, often to the point of fatigue. This approach is proven to produce adaptations in cognitive capacity as well as physical capacity. Improvements like, faster reaction times, fewer mistakes, better performance under pressure, enhanced physical capacity and better decision making.
Training, implies a strategic approach aimed at specific goals with measurable results. It involves pushing through progressively challenging regimes—often to the point of fatigue—to foster physical adaptations.
The Role of Measurement and Progressive Overload
Both cognitive and physical training rely heavily on the principle of progressive overload. This involves gradually increasing the difficulty or intensity of exercises to continue challenging the body and mind beyond their respective comfort zones. Without this critical element, improvements plateau, and further development is stifled.
Measuring performance is vital to track progress and make necessary adjustments to training regimes. Whether it's timing a run, counting repetitions, or assessing mental fatigue levels, these metrics guide the training process and ensure that it leads to real, observable improvements.
When it comes to cognitive training, measurement is essential. If mental fatigue levels are not being assessed, and data from training sessions is not available or is not being collated and assessed, then it is not possible to know the brain is fatigued, or how fatigued it is and therefore how to continue to progress towards results.
Results that cannot be achieved by merely 'going through the motions' of basic exercises. Much like you can't prepare for a 400-meter sprint by casually walking around the block, you can't train your brain to reach higher cognitive functions without pushing it into new territories of challenge and fatigue.
Understanding and Applying the Difference
Recognizing the distinction between exercising and training can be a game changer in how we approach our cognitive training regimes. It can also assist us in deciding what kind of cognitive platform or equipment we want to use. For those serious about making significant improvements—whether preparing for an athletic competition or enhancing cognitive resilience—the path lies in disciplined training rather than just routine exercise. Simply put, systems without enough data, may only offer some cognitive exercise at best, and if what you are looking for is to simply walk an athletes brain around the park, and provide something different to work with, then perhaps a simple light system or VR game will do the trick. Just don't expect profound, measurable improvements.
In conclusion, while regular cognitive exercise is undeniably beneficial, it is the targeted, measured, and progressively challenging nature of cognitive training that leads to real and significant advancements in both physical and cognitive capacities. If you are looking for the profound results from something like BET then you need data, progressive programming and the approach should be strategic, challenging, and continuously evolving to ensure peak performance.
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This week was election week in the UK and, as a former parliamentarian, you'd expect me to be writing about the joy of being able to express ourselves at the ballot box and the vital importance of democratic values when they seem so under attack at the moment in too many places to mention.
I love elections, I love the debate, I love speaking to people on their doorsteps and there is nothing like a successful election count for your party. I cherish the fact that I am lucky enough to live in a democracy, that typically my human rights are protected because my fellow citizens also believe that democracy is something to be protected. But voting is a means to an end – it allows us all to hold our politicians to account and to ensure that our core values are reflected in our government. This only works if you believe that your democratically elected government is going to stick to the rules and it's that that I have been reflecting on for the last couple of weeks.
There are some conversations that keep coming back to you. That spark debate and lead you to question the status quo. Last month, I had a series of meetings where there was a recurring theme that did just that.
International norms and the rule of law, which underpin both our democratic states and our world order, are only relevant if state actors recognise them and that culturally we all acknowledge their necessity.
The moral authority of democratic countries is dependent on how they choose to apply the rule of law – both domestically and internationally. On whether they are prepared to defend core democratic values, even when inconvenient, on a national and international stage. It's the application of these norms and rules which empower democratic states to challenge others when they break them. And the recurring message from my meetings was that there was no longer an acceptance that democratic states were prepared to uphold the rule of law – if it didn't suit them. And therefore, we are losing our moral authority to intervene when others break the law.
Poland is being fined one million euros a day by the European Court of Justice for undermining its domestic judiciary. Rather than comply with the ruling, Poland has been happy to let the fine mount up – a proportion of its EU finding withheld to pay for it.
The European Commission is also cutting funding to Hungary for eroding legal standards in the EU.
The British Prime Minister has been fined for breaching his own Covid-19 regulations and, pre-pandemic, was found to have unlawfully suspended Parliament.
In the US we saw incitement by leading politicians to undermine a smooth transition of power after the last presidential election.
This would be dangerous at any time, but right now when Russia and China are both attempting to leverage their power and influence, invade and threaten their neighbours we have never needed to uphold our international norms more.
The leaders of our democratic nation states speak with a level of moral authority on a global stage because their voice is our voice, because they are seen to uphold our core values – and they can therefore challenge other world leaders when they cross the line. If our current global order is to survive it's therefore imperative that our leaders uphold the law – whether it suits them or not.
The rule of law is the basis of the campaigns that Index runs. Our work is framed by Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights – that everyone has the right to freedom of expression. We demand that national states uphold the values espoused by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. If our leaders aren't upholding these values, then it's not just their voices that are weakened but ours too.
My fear is that when international norms aren't followed – when our leaders opt in and opt out of laws and norms they don't like – then repressive regimes thrive and their citizens are the ones that suffer.
So, this is really a plea to all of us who are lucky enough to live in democratic societies – hold your leaders to account and make sure that they comply with the law – so that we all have the moral authority to hold the tyrants' feet to the fire.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image="116995″ img_size="full" add_caption="yes"][vc_column_text]It's a year since I joined the Index family.
I think for all of us the last 12 months have been an emotional rollercoaster. The impact of Covid-19 has been a cloud over our lives; we've lost people close to us, we've all feared the effect of a virus no one had heard of 18 months ago, we've missed our loved ones and we've looked on in horror at events both at home and abroad as political leaders have both failed to manage the pandemic and undermined basic human rights under the guise of public health protections.
Repressive leaders have moved against their citizens, we've witnessed coups, heard testimony from detention camps and totalitarian regimes have restricted freedoms to an even greater extent throughout the world. And we've seen some of the most important vehicles of media freedom undermined – from Rappler to the Apple Daily.
It's been difficult not to feel impotent. We haven't been able to travel to stand with those being oppressed. Democratic countries have understandably focused their efforts on their domestic challenges and the institutions we depend on to enforce our shared norms as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights have been distracted by the global public health emergency. In other words, it has felt that totalitarian leaders have had a free pass to enforce even harsher restrictions on their peoples.
At Index, even despite the pandemic, we've strived to shine a spotlight on some of the most egregious attacks on free expression around the globe. In the last 12 months, we've supported journalists, writers, artists and academics in over two dozen countries. We've published reports on the impact of Covid-19, the current use of SLAPPs to undermine journalists and on online harms. Index has held events exploring the impact of 100 years of CCP rule in China, as well as on the untold stories hidden by Covid-19 and the impact of AI on social media content. And nearly three quarters of a million people have engaged with our work.
We've rebranded, redesigned the magazine and have completely changed our annual Freedom of Expression awards and we've started the celebrations to mark our 50th birthday. All of this and our team have only met in person three times, as we continue to do our work from home.
I'm so proud of the Index family, they have adapted and continue to push the envelope, making sure that no dictator can think that the world isn't watching and that activists around the world know that we have their back. There is so much work to do in the months and years ahead in the ongoing battle for free speech, but after working with the team for a year I don't doubt that we are making a positive difference, highlighting the bravest campaigners in the world and with your help – providing a voice for the persecuted.
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Adopted and proclaimed on 10 December 1948 by the General Assembly of the United Nations, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights contains 30 articles that have been embedded in international treaties, national constitutions and other laws. The declaration is one of the cornerstones of the International Bill of Human Rights, which became law in 1976.
The full declaration sets out the basic rights all people should enjoy and expect from their governments and other governments. Though the declaration is often ignored, it represents the ideal that the world's government should strive to meet.
Article 18 and Article 19 deal with freedom of thought and freedom of expression most directly, though other articles also reference these fundamental rights.
Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.
Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text="Subscribe to the Index newsletters" font_container="tag:h3|text_align:left" use_theme_fonts="yes"][vc_separator color="black"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/2″][vc_column_text]
Index on Censorship is a nonprofit that defends people's freedom to express themselves without fear of harm or persecution. We fight censorship around the world.
To find out more about Index on Censorship and our work protecting free expression, join our mailing list to receive our weekly newsletter, monthly events email and periodic updates about our projects and campaigns. See a sample of what you can expect here.
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[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width="1/2″][gravityform id="20″ title="false" description="false" ajax="false"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color="black"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text="More information about freedom of expression" font_container="tag:h2|font_size:26|text_align:left" use_theme_fonts="yes"][vc_column_text]Why is free speech important? Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right. It reinforces all other human rights, allowing society to develop and progress. The ability to express our opinion and speak freely is essential to bring about change in society.
Why is access to freedom of expression important? All over the world today, both in developing and developed states, liberal democracies and less free societies, there are groups who struggle to gain full access to freedom of expression for a wide range of reasons including poverty, discrimination and cultural pressures. While attention is often, rightly, focused on the damaging impact discrimination or poverty can have on people's lives, the impact such problems have on free expression is less rarely addressed.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
The United Nations Human Rights Committee have found that the defamation conviction of a Philippines journalist violated the journalist's right to free expression. In the landmark ruling, the UN committee said that the prison sentence handed to journalist Alexander Adonis of Bombo Radyo, following his reporting on an alleged affair between a Philippine congressman and a married woman, was "incompatible" with Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The UNHRC has given the Philippine government 180 days to provide "information about the measures taken to give effect to the Committee's views". |
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Collagen, the powerhouse protein essential for our body's vitality. It reigns as the top protein in mammals, composing a third of our total protein makeup. This vital element forms the building blocks for skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage – keeping us strong and resilient.
Collagen is the backbone of our body's connective tissues, providing essential structural support. It maintains elasticity and strength, ensuring optimal function. For instance, collagen enhances skin firmness and smoothness by structuring it effectively and stimulating cell regeneration.
In addition to its structural significance, collagen also plays a critical part in joint health by forming an integral component of the cartilage that cushions our joints and facilitates seamless movement. However, as we age, collagen production naturally declines, which can result in joint stiffness and discomfort.
Recognizing the pivotal importance of collagen for both skin vitality and joint health is essential for overall wellness maintenance as we grow older. By replenishing collagen levels through supplementation or dietary adjustments, we can actively support healthy aging processes while potentially enhancing various aspects of our well-being.
Table of Contents
Advantages Of Incorporating Collagen Supplements
Collagen supplements have surged in popularity as a game-changer for skin and joint health. As an experienced nutritionist well-versed in the benefits of collagen supplementation, I am excited to delve into how these supplements can elevate your overall wellness.
Revitalize Your Skin
Collagen, the vital protein responsible for skin firmness and flexibility, diminishes with age, resulting in noticeable signs of aging such as wrinkles and sagging. Enter collagen supplements: the ultimate solution to rejuvenate your skin and turn back the clock on aging.
Boost your skin's hydration and elasticity with regular collagen supplement intake. Studies have proven that taking hydrolyzed collagen peptides can visibly improve the appearance of your skin, leaving it smoother and more youthful-looking. Get ready to glow with vitality!
Enhance Joint Function
Beyond its skincare benefits, collagen plays a pivotal role in supporting healthy joints by acting as a foundation for cartilage – the cushioning material between our joints that facilitates seamless movement.
As we age or subject our joints to strenuous activities like exercise, wear and tear on cartilage escalates. This wear and tear can lead to joint discomfort, stiffness, or even conditions such as osteoarthritis.
Thankfully, studies indicate that supplementing with collagen peptides may aid in alleviating joint issues by promoting cartilage regeneration. By supplying essential nutrients for optimal joint performance, collagen supplements foster improved mobility while reducing pain associated with arthritis or other joint-related concerns.
Additional Health Benefits
In addition to bolstering skin and joint health, research suggests that collagen supplementation offers an array of potential health perks:
- Bone Fortification: Given its integral role in bone structure, incorporating collagen supplements could potentially boost bone density.
- Hair & Nail Nourishment: Collagen serves as a cornerstone for hair and nail strength; therefore, supplementing with collagen may fortify them while encouraging healthier growth.
- Support for Connective Tissues: Collagen resides within various connective tissues like tendons and ligaments throughout the body. By stimulating collagen synthesis through supplementation, these products help sustain tissue health and resilience.
While the advantages of using collagen for enhancing both your complexion's glow and improving flexibility within your joints are abundant, individual results may vary. It is always recommended to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it is suitable for your specific needs.
Choosing the Right Collagen Supplement
Selecting the ideal collagen supplementation is crucial for reaping the maximum benefits for your joint and skin health. With a plethora of options flooding the market, it's essential to make an informed decision that aligns with your wellness goals. Here are some key factors to consider.
Types of Collagen Supplements
- Different types of collagen supplements exist, including types I, II, and III.
- Type I collagen is renowned for its anti-aging properties found in our skin and bones.
- Type II collagen supports joint health by targeting cartilage improvement.
- Type III collagen provides vital support for organs and blood vessels.
Sources of Collagen
- Collagen can be sourced from various origins like bovine (cow), porcine (pig), marine (fish), or chicken.
- Bovine collagen is popular due to its similarity to human collagen.
- Marine collagen contains smaller peptides easily absorbed by the body.
- Opt for hydrolyzed collagen supplements as they undergo a process of breaking down proteins into smaller peptides.
- This enhances bioavailability, ensuring better absorption by your body.
Additional Ingredients
- Some supplements may include ingredients like hyaluronic acid or other nutrients supporting skin health.
- Consider if these additional components align with your specific needs.
Quality Assurance
- Choose reputable brands following good manufacturing practices (GMP) with third-party testing certifications.
- Look for products tested for purity, potency, and safety.
Formulation Options
- Collagen comes in powders, capsules, or liquids – choose based on personal preference and convenience.
Allergies or Sensitivities
- Check product labels carefully if you have known allergies/sensitivities to certain ingredients.
- Consult healthcare professionals regarding potential allergen concerns.
Price vs Value
- While price isn't everything, consider value when selecting a supplement – compare prices per serving against benefits provided.
By weighing these factors thoughtfully, you can confidently select a top-notch collagen supplement tailored to meet your unique needs, effectively enhancing both joint mobility and skin elasticity alike.
How to Incorporate Collagen Supplements
Transform your skin and joint health by adding collagen supplements to your daily routine. Discover expert tips on maximizing the benefits of these supplements for a seamless integration into your regimen.
Optimal Timing
For maximum absorption, it's best to take collagen supplements on an empty stomach or between meals. This allows your body to fully absorb the amino acids without any interference from food components.
Start Small
If you're new to collagen supplementation, start with a smaller dose and gradually increase as needed. This approach gives your body time to adjust and minimizes potential side effects.
Variety is Key
Collagen supplements come in various forms like powders, capsules, or liquids. Choose a form that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. For convenience, consider pre-measured packets of powdered collagen that can easily be mixed into beverages or smoothies.
Consistency Matters
To experience the full benefits of collagen supplementation, make it a part of your daily routine at the same time each day.
Synergize with Healthy Habits
While collagen supplements offer great support for skin and joint health, they work even better when combined with regular exercise, proper hydration, and a nutrient-rich diet essential for overall wellness.
Be Patient & Persistent
Individual results can differ based on factors like age and health, so starting a collagen supplement routine requires patience.
Addressing Common Concerns
- Consultation is Key – Before incorporating any new supplement into your routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications that may interact with collagen supplements.
- Taste & Texture – Many brands offer flavored options or unflavored varieties that blend seamlessly into beverages without altering taste significantly.
By following these expert tips on when and how to take them, along with maintaining other healthy habits, you'll unlock the full potential of collagen supplementation for overall wellness. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen to ensure it fits your specific needs and goals. Stay committed and patient as you embark on this journey towards improved health and vitality!
Personal Stories of Collagen Supplement Success
As an experienced nutritionist, I've seen firsthand the powerful impact collagen supplements can have on improving joint and skin health. Countless users have shared how incorporating collagen into their daily routine has led to amazing transformations.
Users have seen a dramatic boost in skin elasticity and hydration. They can't stop praising their smoother, firmer skin that looks more youthful thanks to collagen supplements. With fine lines and wrinkles fading away, they feel more confident in their appearance. Plus, collagen supplementation is proving effective in improving joint function.
Regular intake of collagen has been shown to decrease pain levels and improve mobility for individuals with arthritis or osteoarthritis. Strengthened connective tissues around the joints offer enhanced support during physical activities, leading to increased comfort and freedom of movement.
While individual experiences may vary, these real-life accounts serve as powerful evidence of the potential benefits of collagen supplementation for both skin and joint wellness.
Addressing concerns about potential side effects from collagen supplements is essential. Users have reported mild digestive discomfort and allergic reactions with certain products. To reduce risks, choose high-quality supplements from trusted brands.
If you encounter any adverse effects or are unsure about adding collagen supplements to your routine due to existing medical conditions or medications you're taking, consulting a healthcare provider beforehand is highly recommended.
By combining personal success stories with scientific research backing the advantages of collagen supplementation for joint and skin health, my goal is not only to educate but also to empower you in making informed decisions about your well-being journey.
Keep in mind that everyone's body responds differently; what works wonders for one person may not yield identical results for another. Nevertheless, numerous individuals have experienced positive changes by integrating collagen supplements into their daily regimen.
In the next section, we will delve deeper into key factors that can guide you in deciding whether adding collagen supplements can enhance your journey to optimal wellness. Stay tuned for valuable insights!
Making an Informed Decision
I've witnessed the transformative power of collagen supplements on those seeking improved joint and skin health. Users rave about the visible changes they see after incorporating collagen into their daily routine. People frequently report a marked increase in skin elasticity and hydration. Many have observed smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking skin with regular collagen intake. Fine lines and wrinkles fade away, giving them a newfound confidence in their overall appearance.
Collagen supplements not only improve skin health but also enhance joint function. Users with arthritis or osteoarthritis experienced reduced pain and increased mobility from regular collagen intake. Their joints felt stronger, providing better support during physical activities.
Real-life accounts demonstrate the potential benefits of collagen for skin and joint health. It's important to consider possible side effects of collagen supplements, such as mild digestive discomfort or allergic reactions. Choosing high-quality products from trusted brands is crucial for safety and effectiveness.
If you encounter any adverse effects or are unsure about incorporating collagen supplements into your routine due to existing medical conditions or medications you're taking, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
As a holistic wellness nutritionist, I strongly recommend collagen supplements for improving your well-being. By aligning personal goals with expert guidance tailored to your needs, you can determine if collagen is right for you. Collagen supplements are popular for their potential benefits in joint and skin health. Testimonials highlight the positive changes seen when incorporating these supplements into daily routines.
Consulting a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen is essential for safety and effectiveness. Making an informed choice empowers you to proactively enhance your health and well-being. |
After years of playing catch-up, rail is fast becoming an excellent alternative to flying between London and Glasgow or Edinburgh.
After decades of declining passenger numbers, Anglo-Scottish rail has finally turned the corner. The "high road" of air travel – for years considered the better choice, and the main option for people travel between London and Edinburgh or Glasgow – is losing market share.
Having travelled the East Coast main line (ECML) route for many decades, I can confirm the British Railways era (pre-1965) was the low point for Anglo-Scottish rail.
That BR era was one of managed decline; and indeed, the 1960s' Beeching report even recommended the ECML be severed north of Newcastle, with all Edinburgh-bound traffic routed via the West Coast main line (WCML).
Today, of course, it's quite different. Compared to the 1960s, the ECML – managed by Network Rail, which is government owned but has private train operating companies (TOCs) running on it – has staged a renaissance. It easily outperforms the WCML in terms of passenger numbers.
In fact with fast trains every 30 minutes, the ECML offers almost the sort of service frequency one would expect on some suburban lines.
In contrast, the WCML only operates hourly services. Not as frequent as those over on the ECML, but a significant improvement on what would have been expected in the past.
Figures released last summer gave rail a 33 per cent market share of the air/rail journey between London and Edinburgh/Glasgow, beating the previous record of 32 per cent set in June 2014. Virgin Train East Coast's (VTEC) Edinburgh-London route is the star performer, with Virgin Trains (VT) Glasgow-London not too far behind.
"When we took over the ECML route we set an ambitious plan to gain a 50 per cent market share between Edinburgh and London by 2023," says David Horne, MD of VTEC.
"These figures show an encouraging start to that journey and confirm an historic shift in travel patterns towards train travel. Our customers have responded positively to the improvements in customer service, and investment in new train interiors and additional services."
I would be failing in my duty as a journalist to not mention the service disruption that occurs from time to time. Trains can be delayed for, at best, a matter of minutes; at worst, several hours.
So why the resurgence in rail? There are several reasons.
Rail today offers a more attractive package in terms of scheduling, pricing and, on the WCML, more modern trainsets. It's true that VTEC's trainsets have been refurbished, but fussy travellers will notice that they are life-expired.
Today's services may not be faster from London to the Scottish cities than the best that operated in the pre-1965 British Rail era, but the number of them has almost doubled. And scheduling is better. Gone are the days when the fastest trains were either one-stop or even non-stop such the Flying Scotsman or the Elizabethan. The policy now is for trains to make several stops en route to cater to a wider market; this is an option with which air cannot compete.
UK rail travel, especially for the many travellers conscious of their carbon footprint, has become fashionable. All the more surprising, because rail fares can cost more than budget airlines.
Rail offers the ability to work onboard, especially in first class. Other benefits of first class include free weekday catering on both VT and VTEC routes; the menus vary, but the East Coast line is invariably posher.
Hotel glory
Railway hotels at both ends of these routes have been refurbished to their former glory: at King's Cross, the Great Northern and the St Pancras Renaissance; in Glasgow the Grand Central; and in Edinburgh, the North British (now the Balmoral).
New trains and services
When VTEC introduces Hitachi Azuma trains in December 2018, the ECML will see a much-needed capacity boost of around 20 per cent. VTEC's existing British Rail era HST diesel trains and electric Mallard sets, although refurbished, are life-expired after racking up huge mileages over the decades. Azuma trains will be limited to today's maximum of 125mph, but will have better acceleration to cope with the en route stops.
VT's services over the WCML are already in the hands of modern "tilting" Pendolino trains, and these are not due for replacement.
Currently VT/VTEC face no rail competition between London, Edinburgh and Glasgow. But although VT keeps its monopoly, VTEC will have a rival; First Group has been granted open access rights between London and Edinburgh.
First Group's East Coast Trains Ltd brand aims to ape budget airlines from 2021. It will do this by operating five services a day to provide 1.5 million seats annually, offering wifi for all, having charges from £25 one-way and taking online reservations until the point of departure. Modern trains are planned (details yet to be revealed) and services will call at Stevenage, Newcastle and Morpeth en route.
This raises the question: why are First Group so interested in Morpeth, Newcastle or Stevenage? Because Stevenage and Morpeth are within easy reach of Stansted and Newcastle airports, and so appeal to potential air passengers, many of them travelling with low-cost carriers.
So what are the downsides to rail? Unlike air, rail is still not perceived as being ideally suited for day business trips. And some travellers do not necessarily live and/or work close to city centre train stations; for some, the airports such as Heathrow, Gatwick, London City or Stansted can prove more convenient than King's Cross or Euston.
In Edinburgh the situation can be even clearer, with many business parks located near the airport. A good number of business people now live in other parts of the Central Belt, such as Stirling or Falkirk, which makes the airport more convenient than Waverley, especially if you drive and park.
Sleepy time
Rail is better for business people intending to have an overnight stay, or those who may wish to mix and match air and rail on the same trip. Or those who may wish to take the Caledonian Sleeper in one or both directions to save on accommodation costs and, in winter (when flights can be subject to weather delays), ensure you can arrive in time for early appointments.
Right now the Caledonian Sleeper is a 40-year throwback. But, as you will have read online at Business Traveller, major changes are planned for 2018 when the overnight trains will be taken to a new level, and priced for the business and wealthy leisure market. Artists' impressions of the "hotel standard" trainsets show rolling stock with en suite showers and toilets, as well as more regular accommodation.
Whereas other European countries are cutting back, the UK is investing in new luxury rolling stock; the new overnight trains are being partially-funded by the governments on both sides of the border. The Caledonian Sleeper will continue to serve the main cities of Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen in addition to Highland routings. The latter appeal not just to leisure travellers but also to parliamentarians.
Virgin confusion
Despite what people might think, Virgin Trains (VT) and Virgin Trains East Coast (VTEC) are not the same.
When VT took over the West Coast franchise in 1997 it was viewed as a neglected, overlooked "Cinderella" service; the government paid Virgin to take it off its hands. Virgin Trains' franchise ends in 2019, and the next operator (who will also be responsible for HS2) has yet to be announced.
By contrast, East Coast is viewed by the government as a prestige franchise, with fees to match. VTEC is having to pay £3.3 billion – yes, billion – in fees over the eight years of its franchise, which ends in 2023. Previous operators GNER and National Express failed to make the necessary payments and so "returned the keys". And now, as we have previously reported, VTEC is running into difficulties and is renegotiating its franchise.
Not only does each operator have different tariffs and trains, but the onboard product and the ownership also varies. (In the days of British Rail, fares between London-Edinburgh and London-Glasgow were identical, which is not the case today.)
VT is 51 per cent owned by Virgin Group, and 49 per cent by Stagecoach. VTEC is owned 10 per cent by Virgin Group, but 90 per cent by Stagecoach. So VTEC is really a Stagecoach company with Virgin branding.
However, Business Traveller receives very few complaints about late-running trains. Maybe this is because of generous Delay Repay payments, which are in excess of what a domestic airline would provide; VT/VTEC are also usefully proactive in encouraging passenger claims. |
Unlock Your Carnivore Diet Potential with a Calculator!
By Tom Seest
Can a Carnivore Diet Calculator Help You Reach Your Goals?
At CarnivoreDietNews, we help people who want to eat meat by collecting information and news about the carnivore diet.
Using a carnivore diet calculator can help you determine the number of calories you should eat per day to maintain your weight and health. You can also find out what types of foods you should eat to achieve your goals.
Table Of Contents
How Can a Carnivore Diet Calculator Help You Calculate Your Calorie Intake?
Choosing to follow a carnivore diet can have many benefits, but knowing exactly how many calories you need can be a challenge. Luckily, there are a few tools out there that can make it easy to figure out how many calories you need to burn off.
The calorie calculator uses your height and age to determine the number of calories you need. It also takes into account your activity level. If you're active, you'll need more calories, and if you're more sedentary, you'll need fewer calories.
The calorie calculator isn't perfect, so you may need to tweak it a bit to get the right numbers. However, it does the job.
The calorie calculator also comes with a list of recommended values for each of the macronutrients. These can include carbohydrates, fats, protein, and dietary minerals. If you're looking for something more specific, you can get your doctor's assistance. This is the best way to make sure you're not taking in more calories than you need to burn off.
The aforementioned calorie calculator also helps you figure out which macronutrient is the best one for your body type. This is important because a low-fat diet can leave you feeling lethargic. A high-fat diet is associated with better blood glucose control in diabetics.
It's not a good idea to start a carnivore diet without consulting with your doctor. A cardiologist will likely be concerned if your LDL levels are high. However, if you're healthy and have a few ounces to spare, a carnivore diet may be right for you. It's also a good idea to keep track of your progress and consult with your doctor if you notice any negative changes in your health.
How Can Meal Timing Help You Maximize Your Carnivore Diet?
Changing to a carnivore diet can improve a number of health issues. It can also boost energy and promote weight loss. If you are interested in a carnivore diet, there are some tips that will help you succeed.
The carnivore diet is a low-carb, high-protein diet that requires you to eat animal foods. The diet is high in fats, so it is a great option for those looking to lose weight. It is also known to help with autoimmune diseases.
The carnivore diet can help you lose weight, improve your energy level, and improve your mood. It can also help you get over food allergies. The diet is high in fiber and beneficial plant compounds.
You can choose to fast on this diet, which will help you lose weight. You can also choose to eat two meals a day, such as breakfast and dinner. You can use this diet to gain lean muscle while also losing weight.
Some people on the diet find it helpful to keep track of their macros. Other people simply choose to eat a meat-only diet. Either way, if you decide to try a carnivore diet, you should make sure that you are eating a variety of healthy foods.
The diet can be difficult to maintain for a long time. Some people experience scurvy and vitamin deficiency. If you are planning to go on a carnivore diet, make sure to get blood work done to avoid these problems.
The diet can also cause blood sugar levels to drop. This is a potential complication for people with diabetes. It is also possible for people to gain weight on a carnivore diet. Depending on your activity level, you may need to consume more body fat to help your body burn calories.
How Much Variety is Possible with a Carnivore Diet?
Using a carnivore diet calculator is a great way to learn how to maximize the benefits of eating more meat. You can easily find a carnivore diet calculator in your favorite App store or on the web. Carnivore diet calculator is a free app that will help you determine which foods are best for your diet.
Carnivore Diet Calculator is an App developed by Odilon Studio. It is available on Android devices, supporting 19 APIs. It is one of the best health and fitness apps around. Aside from being free, it also includes an easy to use interface. It is also compatible with Windows machines.
The Carnivore diet calculator is a great app for anyone looking to get healthy and lose weight. The app can also help you find out what to eat and what to avoid. The app is also a safe download. There are no viruses or malware to worry about. You can download the Carnivore Diet Calculator online by searching for it on Google.
The Carnivore diet calculator app is the best way to test the limits of your diet. A carnivore diet can be fun and exciting. You can experiment with it a few times per week or on a daily basis. It can improve your energy, mood, and libido. It can also help you improve conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia.
The Carnivore diet calculator will also tell you the best time to eat certain foods. For instance, you should avoid consuming sugar-sweetened beverages and desserts. They are highly caloric. You should also consume foods in the right order. You should also limit your intake of processed foods. They are usually high in calories and added sugar.
The Carnivore diet calculator also shows you how many calories you should be consuming to meet your goals. This will help you stay on track and keep the pounds off.
Can You Achieve Ketosis with the Carnivore Diet?
Getting into ketosis on the carnivore diet has become an extremely popular trend in the last few years. However, it's important to remember that this diet doesn't necessarily have any proven health benefits. It may be beneficial for some people, but it can also have negative effects on others.
The carnivore diet consists of almost zero carbs and a high protein and fat intake. These ingredients will put you into ketosis, which can help you lose weight. However, it's important to remember to stick with the diet for at least a month.
Ketosis is a metabolic process where your body uses fats and proteins to create energy. This process is called gluconeogenesis and it's very efficient.
Glucose is a form of energy that your body can easily access. Your brain prefers using ketones, and your heart is also a major user. This process also helps your body burn 300 more calories a day.
You can test your ketones with a blood ketone meter. Symptoms of ketosis include weight loss, improved cognitive performance, and decreased appetite. Those experiencing ketosis also tend to experience improved mood and reduced fatigue. You may also notice digestive symptoms.
You can also cut out carbohydrates, which can be helpful for people with type 2 diabetes. However, if you're worried about the impact on your health, you should speak with a healthcare provider before you begin.
Those who are on the carnivore diet may experience withdrawal-like symptoms. These symptoms may include fatigue, brain fog, and digestive issues. This may occur because the fiber in some foods isn't broken down during digestion. Cutting out fiber can help resolve digestive issues.
Those who are new to diets should start with a low-carb, high-fat diet. These types of diets will make it easier to transition to a carnivore diet.
Please share this post with your friends, family, or business associates who love to eat meat. |
A team from Zhejiang University finds the yolks of eggs are high in cholesterol and fatness, which can fuel heart attacks, strokes, and cancer. They warn that people should use lone the whites or switch to healthier egg substitutes .
Their findings suggest that those who consume an extra 300 milligrams of cholesterol a day, less than two eggs, are 19 percentage more likely to die prematurely. The risk of dying from cardiovascular disease ( CVD ) and cancer jumped by 16 and 24 percentage, respectively. The average wholly egg contains about 186 magnesium of cholesterol .
" In this study, intakes of eggs and cholesterol were associated with higher all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality, " researchers Yu Zhang, Jingjing Jiao, and their team spell in the daybook PLOS Medicine. " The increased mortality associated with egg consumption was largely influenced by cholesterol intake. "
Study authors find for every extra half of a hale egg consumed each day, the risk of death goes up by another seven percentage .
Dietary guidelines need a do-over
Although many countries, including the United States, include eggs in their national dietary guidelines, researchers say eaters should be avoiding the egg yolk. This is where the majority of the harmful cholesterol is coming from .
" Our findings suggest limiting cholesterol consumption and replacing wholly eggs with egg whites/substitutes or other alternative protein sources for facilitating cardiovascular health and long-run survival, " analyze authors report .
" The current recommendations for egg and dietary cholesterol inhalation from the U.S. dietary guidelines might lead to increases in cholesterol inhalation, which could be damaging to the prevention of premature death. Clinicians and policy makers should continue to highlight limiting cholesterol consumption in the U.S. dietary recommendations, considering our results. "
What makes eggs so bad?
cholesterol can build up in the arteries leading to a clog. This can block off blood add to the lineage and brain. What is less well known is when person eats eggs, a toxic compound called TMAO ( trimethylamine oxide ) is released into the rake stream by catgut bacteria .
holocene research suggests the chemical can promote the growth of tumors in the intestine, bladder, prostate gland, front, or ovaries. It besides makes the digestive tract particularly vulnerable .
The latest analysis, based on a food view of more than half a million Americans between 50 and 71 years-old, is the biggest of its kind. To this period, data from large-scale studies on testis pulmonary tuberculosis has been barely .
While hale eggs may be particularly harmful, the study finds egg whites or testis substitutes reduce deathrate rates perceptibly excessively. For those eating alone testis whites, death rates from CVD, cancer, and respiratory disease declined by three, eight, and 20 percentage, respectively.
Read more: Simple Secrets To Weight Loss
Substituting an equivalent amount of nuts or legumes for half a whole egg reduced end rates by up to a third. poultry, pisces, or dairy products had a exchangeable effect. Researchers examined 129,328 deaths among 521,120 participants during the study which began in 1995 and followed the group until 2011 .
Time to change the 'Western' diet?
numerous studies have revealed a association between plant-based diets and a decrease hazard of heart disease. A vegan diet has been found to be more effective at preventing heart disease than the american Heart Association-recommended diet of humble amounts of fish, list meats, and eggs .
Prof. Zhang ' south team says the findings remained sweetheart after accounting for other dietary factors such as senesce, sex, and education. It besides did not matter if participants consumed fry, boiled, poached, or baked eggs .
" Our results should be considered by clinicians and policy makers in updating dietary guidelines for Americans, " sketch authors conclude .
SWNS writer Mark Waghorn contributed to this report . |
In the quest for the perfect smile, modern dentistry offers an array of solutions, each promising a transformation that goes beyond mere aesthetics. Among these innovations, dental veneers stand out as a magical touch, capable of reshaping not just smiles but also confidence and self-assurance. Nestled in the heart of Hamilton, this transformative procedure opens doors to a world where imperfections are seamlessly concealed, replaced by a radiant, flawless grin. This article dives deep into the enchanting realm of dental veneers, exploring their transformative power and the profound impact they can have on one's life.
How To Know If You're A Good Candidate For Dental Veneers In Hamilton
Determining whether you're a suitable candidate for dental veneers in Hamilton involves several considerations. Here's how to know if you're a good fit for this transformative dental procedure.
Overall Oral Health
Candidates must have good oral health, including treated cavities and absence of gum disease, to ensure the success of the veneer procedure.
Sufficient Tooth Enamel
Adequate tooth enamel is necessary for veneers to be bonded effectively. Minimal enamel removal is required during the preparation process, so having enough enamel is essential.
Stable Bite Alignment
A stable bite ensures that the veneers endure regular chewing forces without damage. Severe bite issues may compromise the longevity of veneers and should be addressed before treatment.
Realistic Expectations
While veneers can significantly enhance the appearance of your smile, it's important to understand their limitations. They can improve aesthetics but may not address underlying functional issues.
Consultation With A Dentist
Schedule a consultation with a qualified dentist in Hamilton to assess candidacy for veneers. During this appointment, your dentist will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
What Are The Advantages That Make Dental Veneers An Appealing Option For Smile Enhancement In Hamilton
Dental veneers offer several advantages that make them an appealing option for smile enhancement in Hamilton.
Improved Aesthetics
Veneers effectively cover stains, chips, cracks, and gaps, instantly enhancing the overall appearance of the smile.
Natural Appearance
Crafted from porcelain, veneers closely resemble natural teeth in color, translucency, and texture, ensuring seamless integration with existing teeth.
Long-Lasting Results
With proper care and maintenance, veneers can provide durable results for 10-15 years, offering prolonged smile enhancement.
Minimal Tooth Alteration
Unlike other procedures, veneers require minimal enamel removal, preserving the integrity of the natural tooth structure.
Veneers address a wide range of cosmetic concerns, including discoloration, misalignment, and irregularities in tooth shape or size, providing comprehensive smile enhancement.
Stain Resistance
Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining from common substances like coffee and tea, ensuring a lasting bright and vibrant smile.
Boost In Confidence
By achieving a more attractive smile, veneers can significantly enhance self-esteem and confidence in social and professional interactions.
Customization Options
Veneers are custom-designed to match individual facial features and preferences, ensuring a personalized and harmonious smile transformation.
Make sure to work with a reputable dentist, such as the ones at Mount Crest Dental, to ensure the best outcome for your veneer procedure. Reputable dentists have the expertise, experience, and technology necessary to perform veneer treatments effectively and safely.
How Much Do Dental Veneers Typically Cost In Hamilton
The cost of dental veneers in Hamilton typically varies depending on several factors, including the number of veneers needed, the material used, and the complexity of the case. On average, a single veneer can cost anywhere from $800 to $2000 or more in Hamilton. Factors such as the quality of the materials, the expertise of the dentist, and the location of the dental clinic can also influence the cost.
It's essential to schedule a consultation with a qualified dentist to obtain a personalized estimate based on your specific needs and goals. During this consultation, the dentist will assess your oral health, discuss treatment options, and provide a detailed breakdown of the anticipated costs involved in the veneer procedure.
Additionally, inquire about payment plans or financing options that may be available to help make the cost of veneers more manageable. By discussing your budget and financial concerns with the dentist, you can explore options to achieve your desired smile transformation while staying within your means.
How To Find A Dentist In Hamilton That Specializes In Dental Veneers And Meets Your Specific Needs
When searching for a Hamilton dentist specializing in dental veneers that meets your specific needs, leveraging the keyword "Hamilton Dentist" can narrow down your options effectively. Start by conducting an online search using this keyword to find a list of dental clinics in Hamilton.
Next, carefully review the websites and online profiles of these clinics to identify those that mention expertise in cosmetic dentistry or specifically mention dental veneers. Look for testimonials, before-and-after photos, or patient reviews that highlight successful veneer procedures.
Additionally, consider asking for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have undergone veneer treatment in Hamilton. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and patient experience at different dental practices.
Once you have narrowed down your options, schedule consultations with several dentists to discuss your goals, concerns, and treatment preferences. During these consultations, ask about the dentist's experience with veneers, their approach to treatment, and any financing options available.
By taking these steps and conducting thorough research, you can find a skilled Hamilton dentist specializing in dental veneers who can help you achieve your desired smile transformation.
What To Expect During The Dental Veneer Procedure In Hamilton
During the dental veneer procedure in Hamilton, you can expect the following.
Initial Consultation
Meet with your dentist to discuss your goals, assess your suitability for veneers, and get an overview of the procedure.
Treatment Planning
Collaborate with your dentist to create a personalized treatment plan, considering your specific dental needs and desired outcomes.
Tooth Preparation
Undergo a minimally invasive process where a small amount of enamel is removed from the teeth to accommodate the veneers.
Impression Taking
Have precise impressions or digital scans taken of your prepared teeth to ensure accurate fabrication of custom veneers.
Temporary Veneers
Receive temporary veneers to protect your teeth and maintain aesthetics while the permanent ones are being crafted.
Veneer Placement
Experience the bonding process where the custom-made veneers are securely affixed to your teeth, ensuring proper alignment and fit.
Final Adjustments
Have any necessary adjustments made to ensure comfort and natural appearance, ensuring your satisfaction with the results.
By knowing what to expect during the dental veneer procedure in Hamilton, you can feel more confident and prepared for your smile transformation journey.
How To Care For Your Dental Veneers And Maintain Their Longevity
Caring for your dental veneers is essential to maintain their longevity and keep your smile looking its best. Here's how to ensure the lasting beauty and functionality of your veneers.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Brush teeth at least twice daily with a non-abrasive toothpaste and floss regularly to remove plaque and food particles, preventing decay and gum disease.
Use A Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching or damaging the surface of your veneers, brushing gently to maintain their integrity.
Avoid Abrasive Substances
Steer clear of abrasive toothpaste or products that may scratch or wear down the surface of your veneers, preserving their appearance and longevity.
Be Mindful Of Dietary Choices
Refrain from biting on hard objects like ice or pens to prevent chipping or cracking of veneers, and avoid sticky foods that could dislodge them.
Wear A Mouthguard
If you grind your teeth at night, wear a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect veneers from damage, ensuring their durability.
Attend Regular Dental Check-Ups
Schedule routine dental check-ups to monitor the health of your veneers and address any issues early on, maintaining their functionality and appearance.
Avoid Staining Substances
Limit consumption of staining foods and beverages like coffee or red wine, and rinse your mouth after consuming them to prevent discoloration of your veneers.
Address Concerns Promptly
Contact your dentist if you experience discomfort or damage to your veneers, seeking prompt treatment to prevent further complications and maintain their optimal condition.
By following these simple yet effective care tips, you can preserve the longevity and appearance of your dental veneers, enjoying a radiant and confident smile for years to come.
Contact A Dentist In Hamilton
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This article explores didactic aspects of teaching the Italian language to American students, taking into consideration the three key elements involved in the process: the language, the student and the teacher.
The article analyzes the different academic and linguistic reality students encounter when they come to study in Italy: different textbooks with a different balance between mother tongue and second language, a new approach to grammar teaching and language acquisition and a real linguistic life outside the classroom setting that heightens students' commitment to learning the language.
Finally the article assesses the teacher's actions and his or her role in supporting students' progress through the effective use of didactic materials and teaching techniques.
Translated title of the contribution | [Autom. eng. transl.] Teaching Italian |
Original language | Italian |
Title of host publication | Culture shock? Studenti statunitensi in Italia: una sfida transculturale |
Editors | Adriana Faggi, M. Caterina Ambrosi Zaiontz Marco Capovilla |
Pages | 117-127 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Publication status | Published - 2012 |
Externally published | Yes |
Publication series
Name | SCIENZE DELLA FORMAZIONE |
- glottodidattica
- second language acquisition
- stili di apprendimento
- teaching american students |
Table of Contents
Can You Drink Tap Water in Oslo?
Yes, tap water is drinkable.
Tap Safe includes data from many publicly available sources, including the WHO (World Health Organization), CDC (Center for Disease Control), and user submitted databases, but unfortunately there's not enough data about Oslo.
To see user submitted ratings of the water quality for Norway, see the "User Submitted Ratings" box on this page.
In Norway, you can drink tap water in Oslo Borough. A public health initiative is being taken to promote the use of safe water in the area, and so that Norwegian residents can feel comfortable drinking tap water from a public source.
The idea of using water from public sources to provide drinking water is very popular. In Norway, about 80% of water supply is from publicly owned sources, although there are also private wells in the country.
This means that people can buy the water that they need from the public water companies that provide water to people in Norway. These companies have to make sure that their water is of the correct quality, but they have the responsibility to ensure that it''s safe for consumption. That''s why they also put chlorine in the water.
There have been some concerns in Norway about the quality of the tap water that they have to offer. It''s been argued that the levels of chlorine are too high. Also, it''s been
The tap water of Oslo is among the cleanest in the world. Do drink tap water instead of bottled water, which does nothing but drain your pocket of much needed kroner.
The estimated price of bottled water
$1.65 in USD (1.5-liter)
- Drinking Water Pollution and Inaccessibility
- Water Pollution
- Drinking Water Quality and Accessibility
- Water Quality
The above data is comprised of subjective, user submitted opinions about the water quality and pollution in Oslo, measured on a scale from 0% (lowest) to 100% (highest).
Related FAQS
Always take extra precautions, the water may be safe to drink when it leaves the sewage treatment plant but it may pick up pollutants during its way to your tap. We advise that you ask locals or hotel staff about the water quality. Also, note that different cities have different water mineral contents. |
Table of Contents An Overview of AWS MarketplaceAn Overview of Azure MarketplaceAWS Marketplace vs Azure Marketplace: Key Differences1. Services Provided2. Risk Management3. User Experience4. Cost ConsiderationFinding the Best Fit for Your OrganizationSeamless Data Integration with Hevo DataConclusionFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Try Hevo for free The use of cloud marketplaces has become a prominent consideration for every business. With time, the number of cloud marketplaces has increased rapidly, and choosing the best among the present marketplaces has become more daunting for companies. Table of Contents An Overview of AWS MarketplaceAn Overview of Azure MarketplaceAWS Marketplace vs Azure Marketplace: Key Differences1. Services Provided2. Risk Management3. User Experience4. Cost ConsiderationFinding the Best Fit for Your OrganizationSeamless Data Integration with Hevo DataConclusionFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs) AWS Marketplace and Azure Marketplace are two of the most widely used platforms. If you are wondering, "Which marketplace will suit my business the best?" you have come to the right place. This article delves into the AWS Marketplace vs Azure Marketplace difference and discusses the intricacies of choosing the correct fit for your business. An Overview of AWS Marketplace AWS Marketplace is an online software solution provider store that enables users to buy and immediately start using software on the AWS ecosystem. It brings Linux-based, open-source features alongside Windows EC2 and allows granular control over virtual machine instances, networks, and storage configurations. With AWS Marketplace, users can have a wide range of options for DevOps technologies, including monitoring, security tools, and log analysis. It provides over 10000 solutions to choose from that can enable you to scale and manage your business. AWS provides many services; here are a few articles you can read to know more: AWS Data Engineering AWS Data Pipeline vs AWS Glue How to Create AWS CDK Lambda Functions Solve your data replication problems with Hevo's reliable, no-code, automated pipelines with 150+ connectors.Get your free trial right away! An Overview of Azure Marketplace Azure Marketplace is a go-to platform for enterprises seeking integration with Microsoft enterprise tools such as Active Directory, Office 365, and SharePoint. It facilitates a smooth transition from Windows to a cloud environment, which enables corporations to harness the scalability and flexibility of cloud computing. Azure Marketplace allows you to accelerate innovation by increasing efficiency using AI solutions. This helps you to make informed purchasing decisions and invest wisely. It provides over 18000 solutions that are tuned to solve business problems and maintain customer satisfaction. Here are a few articles you can refer to know more about Azure's data handling ecosystem: Azure Pipeline Triggers Azure Data Factory vs Data Bricks Azure Data Factory Triggers AWS Marketplace vs Azure Marketplace: Key Differences Here are a few key differences you can consider to gain clarity on which marketplace to choose for your business. The following section will outline the differences between the two major cloud marketplaces, enabling you to make an informed decision. 1. Services Provided AWS Marketplace is one of the most inclusive cloud marketplaces. It provides an array of applications and services. With AWS Marketplace, you can construct and manage your cloud infrastructure efficiently with the necessary tools. It accommodates machine learning, big data management, application development, and security services in a single spot. Microsoft Azure Marketplace presents a diverse set of services and applications across multiple domains. It includes artificial intelligence, data analytics, machine learning, security, and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions. It empowers users by providing multiple tools to expand their business according to their requirements. You can use Azure Marketplace to leverage Microsoft's vibrant ecosystem, which allows you to collaborate with various third-party applications. Alternatively, if you want to use specialized databases as a service, you can opt for AWS Marketplace. 2. Risk Management AWS Marketplace offers multiple security features, including identity and access control, network security, web application firewall (WAF) & edge security, and many more security assets. With these capabilities, you can quickly identify vulnerabilities, secure endpoints, and safeguard sensitive data. To know more about the security measures provided by AWS Marketplace, you can refer to the official Cloud Security Software page. On the other hand, Azure Marketplace promotes the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of customer data while being completely transparent and accountable. It provides users with security features such as Microsoft Sentinel, Microsoft Defender for Cloud, Azure Resource Manager, and many more for layered security architecture. To learn more about the security features provided by Azure Marketplace, you can visit the official Azure Security page. 3. User Experience AWS Marketplace offers an easy-to-use user interface that enables you to find services without inconvenience. You can filter through the available features to narrow your search to your specific concern, saving you valuable time. Azure Marketplace also provides a visually appealing user interface that allows you to find services that cater to your needs. With its simple interface, you can find, deploy, and manage your applications easily. Both platforms provide an intuitive user interface, but some distinctions exist between them. The AWS Marketplace is better at filtering specific requirements, while the Azure Marketplace caters to better deployment opportunities, facilitating an efficient implementation process. 4. Cost Consideration AWS Marketplace offers monthly and annual billing services with a pay-as-you-go option regarding data usage and bandwidth. It has many cost-saving options, such as saving plans and reserved instances. You can leverage the power of its cost management feature to track and optimize your spending on each service. Azure Marketplace allows you to bring your own license and also has pay-as-you-go features through which you can pay for what you use. Like AWS Marketplace, it will enable you to monitor and control your spending. Some features on Azure Marketplace charge a monthly fee, while others have a combination of free and paid classes. Finding the Best Fit for Your Organization The best marketplace to work with depends on your unique requirements and budget. If you prefer to work on open-source Linux-based technologies, you must consider choosing AWS Marketplace over Azure Marketplace. If you want to connect Windows-based workloads to third-party applications, consider Azure Marketplace. If you want specialized database solutions or customizable infrastructure configurations, consider working with AWS Marketplace. But if you want a unified billing platform across thousands of independent vendors, you can choose Azure Marketplace. Azure simplifies comparing third-party options by enabling a standard reviews and ratings ecosystem. On the other hand, the AWS marketplace offers clear software categorization but lacks transparency measures regarding adoption metrics. Seamless Data Integration with Hevo Data Regardless of your final choice between Azure Marketplace vs AWS Marketplace, you must integrate your in-house data with data warehousing services. Analyzing this integrated data will produce informative insights to help grow your business. However, it's important to note that the data integration process can get complicated, requiring technical expertise and consistent efforts. This is where you can leverage Hevo Data to perform complex technical tasks, such as data ingestions from one platform to another, without any hassle. Hevo Data is a no-code, real-time ELT platform that helps you create automated data pipelines that are cost-effective and flexible to your requirements. Some of the advantages provided by Hevo Data are instant data integration through different sources, data loading into warehouses, and data transformation for analytics purposes. Hevo has over 150 sources that you can use to integrate data. Hevo has over 150 sources that you can use to integrate data. You can configure your source and destination on Hevo Data within a few minutes without writing code. Here are a few features provided by Hevo Data: Data Transformation: You can use Hevo's drag-and-drop and Python-based data transformation techniques to clean and transform your data for analysis. Incremental Data Load: With Hevo, you can efficiently utilize bandwidth on both the source and destination by transferring modified data in real-time. Automated Schema Mapping: Hevo automatically detects the incoming data and maps the destination schema to match the incoming data format. It lets you choose between Full and Incremental Mapping according to your needs. Conclusion This article provides a thorough insight into AWS Marketplace vs Azure Marketplace. There are certain benefits associated with both platforms. AWS Marketplace provides a better technical environment associated with diverse tech stacks. At the same time, Azure enables you to integrate enterprise solutions with the Microsoft ecosystem. Ultimately, you must assess your business requirements and budgets before choosing a marketplace. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q. What are the benefits of choosing Azure over AWS? Here are some of the critical benefits of choosing Azure over AWS: Cost Benefits: Azure has an existing enterprise agreement with Microsoft, providing discounts on bulk licensing and favorable pricing benefits. Better Service Options: While Azure and AWS are similar in infrastructure as service providers, Azure excels as a service platform, providing superior tools, environment, and management options that foster flexibility and innovation. Compatibility with .NET: Azure supports the .NET programming language, which is crucial for migrating enterprise-level .NET-based applications from on-site to Azure. Suraj Kumar Joshi Freelance Technical Content Writer, Hevo Data Suraj is a technical content writer specializing in AI and ML technologies, who enjoys creating machine learning models and writing about them. All your customer data in one place. Try for free key differences aws marketplace vs azure marketplace |
Philosophical and scientific analysis of the main obstacles in creative activity
Authors: Bushueva V.V., Bushuev N.N., Bobrov A.N. | Published: 05.04.2024 |
Published in issue: #1(105)/2024 | |
Category: Noname | |
Keywords: creative activity, social conditions, objective obstacles, subjective obstacles, creative personality, psychological inertia, rocket and space technology, individual activity, creative teams |
The paper substantiates relevance of studying the obstacles in creative activity. It notes connection between obstacles and objective and subjective factors and shows the need to take into account three conditions when analyzing the objective factors. They include general level of the science and technology development, social conditions, and creative component of the individual. Contradictory nature of the social conditions meaning is noted. Principles of dogmatists, skeptics, and bureaucrats, who hinder the innovators, are provided. Their modern tricks and techniques are highlighted. Obstacles in the individual creative activity are considered. Significant obstacle is the psychological inertia. Collective forms of creative activity are weakening its influence. Main advantages of the activity collective forms are emphasized. A comparative analysis of the activity domestic and foreign collective forms is provided. It is emphasized that the activity collective forms do not completely exclude the obstacles, but they have their own characteristics in various forms of the collective creative activity. Novelty of this work lies in analyzing factors that impede implementation of the inventions and innovative projects in the rocket and space technology (RST) at the Bauman Moscow State Technical University. Some of the main obstacles to implementing the RST projects are provided; for example, the need for enormous resources, which makes it impossible to develop the alternative options. Long-term duration of implementing a project creates significant problems. Political and economic situation in the country and the world could hinder the development. Many other hindering factors in the RST are also noted.
[1] Potaptsev I.S., Bushueva V.V., Bushuev N.N. Analiz osnovnykh faktorov, opredelyayushchikh poyavlenie otkrytiy i izobreteniy v nauke i tekhnike [Analysis of main factors determining the appearance of discoveries and inventions in science and technology]. Nauka i obrazovanie: nauchno-tekhnicheskoe izdanie — Science and Education. Scientific Edition of Bauman MSTU, 2014, no. 4, pp. 398–415. Available at: http://engineering-science.ru/doc/704879.html (accessed January 15, 2024).
[2] Boirel R. Theorie generale de l'invention. Paris, Presses universitaires de France, 1961, 408 p.
[3] Aznar G. La creativite dans l'entreprise. Paris, Editions d'Organisation, 1971, 185 р.
[4] Mathieu-Batsch C. Invitation ā la creative. Paris, Editions d'Organisation, 1983, 132 p.
[5] Lopota V.A., ed. S.P. Korolev. Entsiklopediya zhizni i tvorchestva [S.P. Korolev. Encyclopedia of life and work]. Korolyov, Raketno-Kosmicheskaya Korporatsiya "Energiya" im. S.P. Koroleva Publ., 2014, pp. 703–704.
[6] Branets V.N. Zapiski inzhenera [Engineer's notes]. Moscow, RTSSoft–Kosmoskop Publ., 2018, pp. 86, 87.
[7] Gubanov B.I. Triumf i tragediya "ENERGII". Razmyshleniya glavnogo konstruktora. Tom 3. "ENERGIYA" — "BURAN" [The triumph and tragedy of "ENERGY". Reflections of the chief designer. Volume 3. "ENERGY" — "BURAN"]. Nizhny Novgorod, NIER Publ., 1998, 796 p.
[8] Artefakt kosmicheskoy epokhi [An artifact of the space age]. Samara University. Available at: https://ssau.ru/news/17562-artefakt-kosmicheskoy-epokhi (accessed January 15, 2024).
[9] Korolev N., Krasnikov V. Zapravleny v sistemy kosmicheskie traty. Sputnikovoy infrastrukture raspisali byudzhet i partnerov [Space expenses are fueled into the systems. The satellite infrastructure was given a budget and partners]. Kommersant, no. 37. Available at: https://www.kommersant.ru/doc/5845192 (accessed January 15, 2024).
[10] Sukhova S. Kadrovaya sotstavlyayushchaya. Kak kosmicheskaya otrasl poteryala unikalnykh spetsialistov [The personnel component. How the space industry lost unique specialists]. Ogonek, 2020, no. 2 Available at: https://www.kommersant.ru/doc/4219457 (accessed January 15, 2024).
[11] Bovt G. Proedaem nasledstvo. Kak my razuchilis chto-libo proizvodit sami. [We're eating up the inheritance. How we forgot to produce anything ourselves]. Versia. Available at: https://versia.ru/kak-my-razuchilis-chto-libo-proizvodit-sami (accessed January 15, 2024).
[12] Bukhshtab V. Druzya-soperniki i soyuzniki. O taynakh i neizvestnykh geroyakh raketnoy gonki kholodnoy voyny [Friends-rivals and allies. About the secrets and unknown heroes of the Cold War missile race]. Nezavisimoe voennoe obozrenie (Independent Military Review). Available at: https://nvo.ng.ru/armament/2015-11-27/8_coldwar.html (accessed January 15, 2024).
[13] Chugunova N. Pochemu v kosmose ne bylo ekipazhey NPO «Mashinostroenie» [Why there were no crews of NPO Mashinostroenie in space]. Ogonek, 1993, no. 4-5. Available at: https://epizodyspace.ru/bibl/ogonek/1993/4-5/00_24-30.html (accessed January 15, 2024).
[14] Zadontsev V.A. M.K. Yangel v konkurentnoy borbe s V.N. Chelomeem za razrabotku malogabaritnoy zhidkostnoy rakety — po dokumentam i vospominaniyam (k 100-letiyu so dnya rozhdeniya M. K. Yangelya) [M.K. Yangel in competition with V.N. Chelomey for development of the small-sized liquid rocket according to documents and memoirs (to the 100th anniversary of the birth of M.K. Yangel)]. Vestnik Dnepropetrovskogo universiteta. Seriya «Istoriya i filosofiya nauki i tekhniki» — Bulletin of the Dnepropetrovsk University. The series "History and Philosophy of Science and Technology", 2012, no. 1/2, vol. 20, pp. 9–16. Available at: https://rvsn.ruzhany.info/0_2017/vdu_2012_1-2_vyp20_9_16.html (accessed January 15, 2024).
[15] Chertok B.E. Rakety i lyudi [Rockets and people]. Moscow, Mashinostroenie Publ., 1999, 416 p. |
Long ago humans believed the Earth was at the center of the solar system, but now we know it's really the sun! On this informative science worksheet, read more about the sun with your early learner to review basic facts. Recall prior knowledge about space before tackling the next part of the page. Then, hop around to each cloud, reading the «facts» about the sun. Which are true, and which are false? Simply instruct kids to trace on the dotted line leading from the sun in the center to the true facts in the clouds.
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Self-expression is a powerful tool for conveying ideas and feelings, and it can be done in a variety of innovative ways. It encourages contemplation and personal- representation, which leads to a deeper knowledge of an entity. Additionally, it improves contact abilities and is foster stronger relationships https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/perfect-woman-bob-marley/ with others.
Nonetheless, it's important to consider that not all types of home- appearance are identical. Unregulated soul- appearance can lead to destructive communication, and can create an environment of disconnection in adjacent relationships. Regardless of the answer, a therapist or manager can assist people in developing good manifestation and in establishing a foundation of trust and love in themselves that will enable them to express who they really are.
Techniques for expressing yourself include creating, journal, acting, playing songs, painting, boogie, and body dialect. Exploring your creative side can help you stream your emotions into anything significant and helpful. It can be a fulfilling and empowering encounter, and it can also help you cultivate a more authentic relationship with your partner.
Some folks avoid expressing themselves in their closest interactions out of dread of being misunderstood or shamed. Some people choose to suppress their feelings and thoughts because they believe self-censorship may help them become stronger or more resilient. These interaction styles can result in bad relationships and stress and anxiety.
The purpose of self-expression is not to blurt out whatever comes to mind, but to consider the impact of what is being said and how it might be responded to. This is known as discretion. It italian women is important to avert persona execution, in which a guy attacks another's status, and to remain focused on the certain situation at hand. |
February, 19 2020, 11:00pm EDT
Department of Defense Illegally Burning Stockpiles of Toxic "Forever Chemicals"
Communities challenge Trump administration's PFAS incineration.
Today, environmental and community groups sued the Department of Defense (DOD) over its contracts to burn millions of gallons of unused firefighting foam containing PFAS in incinerators across the country. The DOD is the nation's largest user of firefighting foam containing PFAS, a class of highly persistent and toxic chemicals that are known to cause cancer, liver disease, infertility, and other serious health effects.
According to government documents Earthjustice obtained via Freedom of Information Act requests, PFAS burning already took place, or is taking place, in the towns of East Liverpool, Ohio; Arkadelphia and El Dorado, Arkansas; and Cohoes, New York. The contracts also authorize PFAS incineration in other locations, including Port Arthur, Texas, and Sauget, Illinois. Incineration may already be underway in those and other locations, too, but DOD has not fully responded to FOIA requests seeking a full list of incineration locations.
Earthjustice filed the lawsuit on behalf of Save Our County (East Liverpool, OH), Community In-Power and Development Association (Port Arthur, TX), United Congregations of Metro East (St. Louis Metro East), and Sierra Club, all of whom represent members in the communities where DOD has authorized PFAS incineration.
For years DOD used toxic firefighting foams containing FPAS during drills and fires in bases across the country. PFAS from these foams polluted the soil and water of neighboring communities. Facing multiple lawsuits and billions of dollars in potential liability from past releases, DOD chose to incinerate its unused firefighting foam. However, DOD failed to conduct any environmental review before approving this incineration, bringing into new communities the risk of PFAS emissions and other pollution that are proven to harm public health.
"As faith leaders, we believe that every life matters and that the government is responsible for protecting all people, especially our children. Our St. Louis-Metro-East Area already hosts multiple superfund sites and is profoundly impacted by air pollution. It is unconscionable to expect that we bear even more burden by allowing PFAS incineration in our home. This is another disaster waiting to happen," said Cheryl Sommer, vice president of United Congregations of Metro-East, a group of pastors, church members, and other community organizations throughout St. Louis Metro East.
"We don't take potential threats to our health and the safety of our community lightly. The incinerator in East Liverpool is a comprehensive health threat to those in the area, especially since they are now accepting this toxic military waste. The facility is a habitual violator of EPA regulations and continues to do so year after year. Bringing in yet another toxic chemical into our neighborhoods will have untold consequences without proper environmental review," said Alonzo Spencer president of Save Our County, in East Liverpool, OH.
"It is critical for local communities to be informed of potentially dangerous chemical operations that could impact the health of the residents. It's not just the families living near the incinerator, we don't even understand how many people living in this area could potentially be impacted or how far the emissions from burning PFAS might travel. We have a right to know what's in the air we are breathing, in order to decide what's best for ourselves and our families," said Hilton Kelley, founder and director of Community In- Power and Development Association in Port Arthur, TX.
"Burning toxic firefighting foam at hazardous waste incinerators is a huge mistake, posing public health risks to residents living near the incinerators and downwind from the incinerators. The incineration of this foam should be blocked by state and local officials. It is unconscionable that the Department of Defense has not informed local governments, state environmental agencies and the impacted public that they are doing this. It must be stopped immediately," said Judith Enck, former EPA Regional Administrator and a member of the Sierra Club.
"The DOD needs to investigate alternative treatment technologies that are not incineration or burial. We need to identify technologies that actually destroy these super-toxic chemicals," stated Jane Williams, chair of the Sierra Club National Clean Air Team.
"Incineration does not solve the Defense Department's PFAS problems; it just pawns them off on already overburdened communities," said Jonathan Kalmuss-Katz, a staff attorney with Earthjustice. "PFAS chemicals are used in firefighting foam precisely because they don't burn. Instead of destroying those chemicals, incinerating the foam releases PFAS and other toxins into the air. DOD's decision to authorize large-scale PFAS incineration without considering the health impacts is shortsighted and illegal."
PFAS resist incineration and do not break down under temperatures and conditions that are sufficient to destroy other toxic chemicals. Incomplete incineration may result in PFAS emissions, as well as other toxic chemicals like hydrogen fluoride, which is poisonous, corrosive and flammable.
The lawsuit, filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, alleges that DOD's PFAS incineration violates the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 (NDAA).
Earthjustice is a non-profit public interest law firm dedicated to protecting the magnificent places, natural resources, and wildlife of this earth, and to defending the right of all people to a healthy environment. We bring about far-reaching change by enforcing and strengthening environmental laws on behalf of hundreds of organizations, coalitions and communities.
Accusing Mercedes of 'Wanton Lawlessness,' UAW Seeks New Alabama Vote
"All these workers ever wanted was a fair shot at having a voice on the job and a say in their working conditions," the union said.
May 24, 2024
The United Auto Workers on Friday formally challenged last week's election loss at a pair of Mercedes-Benz facilities in Alabama, accusing the company of engaging in "an unprecedented, illegal anti-union campaign" and requesting a new vote.
"All these workers ever wanted was a fair shot at having a voice on the job and a say in their working conditions," the UAW said in a statement. "And that's what we're asking for here. Let's get a vote at Mercedes in Alabama where the company isn't allowed to fire people, isn't allowed to intimidate people, and isn't allowed to break the law and their own corporate code, and let the workers decide."
Of the more than 5,000 employees at the two Mercedes-Benz United States International (MBUSI) plants, 2,045 (45%) voted to join the UAW and 2,642 (56%) voted against it. After the ballots were counted, union president Shawn Fain said that it was "obviously not the result we wanted" but "we'll be back."
The UAW complaint to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) accusing MBUSI of "wanton lawlessness" echoes the union and workers' previous allegations that the company engaged in illegal union-busting at the Vance and Woodstock facilities, which led to ongoing reviews from U.S. and German authorities.
"The employer engaged in a relentless anti-union campaign marked with unlawful discipline, unlawful captive audience meetings, and a general goal of coercing and intimidating employees."
"On January 11, 2024, employees of MBUSI publicly announced that they were exploring forming a union with the UAW at MBUSI's facilities," says the new complaint, according toAlabama Reflector. "Almost immediately thereafter, both prior to and during the election period, the employer engaged in a relentless anti-union campaign marked with unlawful discipline, unlawful captive audience meetings, and a general goal of coercing and intimidating employees who were attempting to exercise their Section 7 rights."
The Reflector reported that "the charges include disciplining employees for discussing unionization at work; not allowing union materials or paraphernalia to be distributed; surveilling employees; discharging supporters of the union; forcing employees to be in captive audience meetings, and making comments that union activities will not work."
MBUSI has denied any wrongdoing and a company spokesperson said Friday that "our goal throughout this process was to ensure every eligible team member had the opportunity to participate in a fair election."
"We sincerely hoped the UAW would respect our team members' decision," the MBUSI spokesperson added. "Throughout the election, we worked with the NLRB to adhere to its guidelines and we will continue to do so as we work through this process."
Lisa Henderson is the NLRB's regional director responsible for the complaint. The agency confirmed to CNBC that her office is still investigating the earlier accusations against MBUSI and received the new filing. As the outlet detailed: "If she finds that the objections raise substantial and material issues of fact that could be best resolved by a hearing, she will order a hearing. If after the hearing, she finds that the employer's conduct affected the election, she can order a new election."
Although leading public figures—from Republican Gov. Kay Ivey to retired University of Alabama football coach Nick Saban—battled the UAW push, organizers had high hopes going into last week's vote, which came after a victory at a Volkswagen facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee last month and union workers winning new contracts at the "Big Three" following a six-week strike last year.
Reflecting on the initial outcome in Alabama, Dave Kamper, senior state policy strategist at the Economic Policy Institute, wrote Wednesday that "while this result shows the power of corporations and state governments to smother worker efforts to unionize, even in defeat the UAW helped Mercedes workers win substantial improvements in pay and benefits."
"Workers organizing to improve their working conditions benefit from unions in many ways, but even when a union victory eludes them like in Alabama, the organizing can pay off," he stressed. "The more workers band together to fight for better jobs, the more likely they and other workers will see the benefits."
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More House Democrats Say 'No' to Netanyahu Speech to Congress
"If Netanyahu comes to address Congress, I would be more than glad to show the ICC the way to the House floor to issue that warrant," said Rep. Mark Pocan.
May 24, 2024
A growing number of U.S. congressional Democrats pushed back Friday against pressure to endorse House Speaker Mike Johnson's invitation for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address a joint session of Congress—even as his government stands accused of genocide in a World Court case and he faces the prospect of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for alleged crimes against humanity in Gaza.
Opposition to Johnson's (R-La.) invitation—which the speaker formally announced Thursday—has been mounting following news that ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan applied for warrants to arrest Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and three Hamas leaders for alleged crimes committed on and after October 7 and Friday's International Court of Justice order for Israel to immediately halt its assault on Rafah.
While there is some question over whether Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) will endorse a Netanyahu congressional address—with Johnson tellingThe Independent on Wednesday that Schumer said he'd sign the invitation letter—mainstream Democrats are joining the chorus of calls from progressive lawmakers and campaigners opposing the prospective speech. Several of the lawmakers spoke to Axios on Friday.
"I think it's a strange time to invite Netanyahu; it's a really divisive kind of move," Rep. Scott Peters (D-Calif.) said, pointing to Khan's effort to arrest the Israeli leader.
Rep. Dan Kildee (D-Mich.) said, "I don't think it's a good time... let's not complicate an already complicated situation."
House Intelligence Committee Ranking Member Jim Himes (D-Conn.) asserted that Netanyahu "should be focused on freeing hostages, not on charming legislators."
Regarding whether Schumer would sign the invitation, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) simply said, "No."
Pelosi, Himes, and Peters were among the 173 House Democrats who last month voted to approve $26 billion in new U.S. military aid to Israel, in addition to the nearly $4 billion it already gets from Washington each year. Kildee voted against the aid package.
Congressional progressives have voiced opposition to a Netanyhau speech for days, with Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.)—who caucuses with Democrats—indicating Wednesday that he would boycott any address by the prime minister and calling the invitation "a terrible idea."
Sanders told CNN's Kaitlan Collins: "Look, you have a prime minister who has created the worst humanitarian disaster in modern history. Israel, of course, had the right to defend itself against the Hamas terrorist attack, but what Netanyahu has done is go to war against—all-out war—against the entire Palestinian people, women and children."
"Five percent of the population is now dead or wounded. Sixty percent of them are women and children. Some 200,000 housing units have been completely destroyed," he continued. "Every university in Gaza has been bombed. There is now imminent starvation taking place."
"So why you would invite somebody who has done such horrific things to the Palestinian people?" Sanders added. "I think it's a very bad idea."Sen. Bernie Sanders on Benjamin Netanyahu potentially being invited to address a joint session of Congress right now: "It's a terrible idea. No I won't go. You have a Prime Minister who has created the worst humanitarian disaster in modern history." pic.twitter.com/czy0CICqSo
— Jeremy Slevin (@jeremyslevin) May 23, 2024
Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) said earlier this week that "if Netanyahu comes to address Congress, I would be more than glad to show the ICC the way to the House floor to issue that warrant."
Netanyahu—who faces multiple criminal corruption charges in Israel unrelated to Palestine—has addressed Congress three times. If he does so again he will have spoken before Congress more than any other foreign leader.
Controversy over a potential Netanyahu speech goes beyond Gaza and corruption charges. The prime minister raised eyebrows in 2008 after he said that Israel "benefited" from the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States—which he earlier called a country that "can easily be moved."
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Police Make First Arrest for Assault on Pro-Palestine Protesters at UCLA
The arrest followed a CNN investigation that documented the hourslong attack and identified key perpetrators from the pro-Israel mob.
May 24, 2024
University of California, Los Angeles police on Thursday made their first arrest in the case of a violent mob attack on protestors at a peaceful pro-Palestine encampment at the university on April 30 and May 1.
The police charged Edan On, an 18-year-old high school senior, with felony assault for attacking at least one person with a wooden pole. He was remanded to a Los Angeles jail, where he's being held on a $30,000 bond, according toThe Guardian. On was first identified for his role in the mob attack, led by so-called counterprotestors, in a CNNinvestigation published May 16.
"Video shows On joining the counterprotesters while waving a long white pole," CNN reported. "At one point, he strikes a pro-Palestinian protester with the pole, and appears to continue to strike him even when he was down, as fellow counterprotesters piled on."
"The footage appears to show Edan On, in the white hoodie, and others striking at a pro-Palestinian protester on the ground," CNN reported. (Source: CNN/Key News Network)
The pro-Israel mob caused more than 25 protestors to be sent to the hospital with "fractures, severe lacerations, and chemical-induced injuries," and more than 150 were assaulted with bear and pepper spray, CNN reported.
Thistle Boosinger, a 23-year-old member of the encampment, had her hand smashed. "My bone is broken totally in half below my knuckle… [which is] shattered into a bunch of pieces and jumbled up," she told CNN. In another incident during the attack, a fourth-year UCLA student suffered two head injuries in a matter of minutes. After being hit in the forehead with a traffic cone, he was hit in the back of the head with a wooden plank, video shows.
The CNN investigation identified some of the other assailants and documented the violence from the attack, which lasted for seven hours. Videos captured not just violence but also hateful rhetoric. An unidentified person in a hoodie, who like On attacked a pro-Palestine protester with a pole at one point, yelled, "You guys are about to get fucked up," and "Fuck you, fucking terrorists," as well as, "The score is 30,000"—a reference to the death toll in Gaza.
The mob also shouted "Second Nakba!" at the protestors, referring to the forced displacement of Palestinians from their homeland in the late 1940s, according to a Los Angeles Times reporter.
On's mother, who had previously described UCLA student protesters as "human animals," bragged about his role in the attack on social media, even circling an image of him. "Edan went to bully the Palestinian students in the tents at UCLA and played the song that they played to the Nukhba terrorists in prison!" she wrote in Hebrew, CNN reported. When the outlet sought an interview with On, his mother claimed that he was in Israel and planned to join the Israel Defense Forces.
"Video footage shows that some counterprotesters instigated the fighting," CNN reported. "Then police did little as a large group of counterprotesters calmly walked away, leaving behind bloody, bruised students and other protesters."
The hands-off approach was criticized in light of the heavy-handed tactics that police have used against campus protesters across the country, in spite of the fact that the protests have been overwhelmingly nonviolent. More than 800 UCLA faculty and staff signed a letter calling for university Chancellor Gene Block to resign—and to adhere to students' demands to divest from military weapons production companies and supporting systems—but the academic senate narrowly voted not to censure him.
News of On's arrest followed other events Thursday related to pro-Palestine activism at UCLA. Block testified before the Republican-led U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce, some of whose members grilled him for being inattentive to antisemitism on campus. Taking an opposing position, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) asked why no one had been held to account for the mob attack, the Los Angeles Times reported.
As Block was testifying, student activists took the opportunity to form a new encampment, amassing a group of about 300 people in an academic hall at one point, but the group had to move twice and they were removed by police in riot gear relatively quickly, according toThe New York Times. This may have marked a new approach to protests by the Block administration.
Block told the House committee on Thursday that "with the benefit of hindsight, we should have been prepared to immediately remove the encampment if and when the safety of our community was put at risk."
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what do you feed a premature puppy?
Newborn Puppy Feeding Schedule
When it comes to taking care of a premature puppy, proper nutrition is crucial for their development and overall health. Feeding a premature puppy requires a lot of care and attention, as their tiny bodies are not yet fully developed to handle regular food. In this article, we will guide you through the process of feeding a premature puppy, including their feeding schedule, nutrition needs, bottle feeding techniques, and growth milestones.
Puppy Nutrition Guide
Feeding a premature puppy involves providing them with the right balance of nutrients to support their growth and development. Here are some important guidelines to consider when it comes to their nutrition:
1. Milk Replacer: Premature puppies cannot survive solely on their mother's milk. They need a specialized milk replacer that mimics the nutritional content of canine milk. Choose a high-quality replacer specifically formulated for puppies.
2. Protein: Protein is essential for a puppy's growth and muscle development. Ensure that the milk replacer you choose has an adequate amount of protein to support their needs.
3. Fat: Fat is a vital source of energy for puppies. Look for a milk replacer that is rich in healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids to promote brain development and a shiny coat.
4. Vitamins and Minerals: Premature puppies require additional vitamins and minerals to meet their nutritional requirements. Consider a milk replacer that is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to support their overall health.
Milk Replacer for Premature Puppies
Choosing the right milk replacer is crucial for the proper growth and development of premature puppies. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a milk replacer for your preemie pup:
1. Quality: Look for a milk replacer that is specifically formulated for puppies and meets the standards set by regulatory bodies. High-quality milk replacers provide the necessary nutrients and are easily digestible.
2. Ingredients: Read the ingredient list carefully and avoid replacers that contain artificial preservatives, colors, or fillers. Choose a replacer that contains natural, wholesome ingredients.
3. Brand Reputation: Do some research and choose a brand with a good reputation for producing reliable and high-quality milk replacers. Check customer reviews and consult with your veterinarian for recommendations.
4. Preparation: Follow the instructions provided on the milk replacer packaging for proper preparation. Ensure that you mix the replacer with the appropriate amount of water to achieve the right consistency.
Bottle Feeding Preemie Puppies
Feeding premature puppies requires the use of a bottle to ensure they receive the necessary nutrition. Here are some tips for successful bottle feeding:
1. Positioning: Hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle, allowing the milk to fill the nipple but not flow too quickly. This positioning mimics a mother dog's natural feeding position.
2. Temperature: Ensure that the milk replacer is warmed to an appropriate temperature before feeding. Test the temperature on your wrist to make sure it is not too hot or too cold.
3. Burping: Just like human babies, puppies need to be burped during and after feeding to prevent discomfort and gas. Gently pat their back until they burp.
4. Feeding Frequency: Preemie puppies have small stomachs and cannot consume large amounts of milk at once. Feed them small amounts every 2-3 hours, gradually increasing the quantity as they grow.
Slow Feeding Techniques for Preemie Pups
Some premature puppies may struggle with rapid feeding or have difficulty latching onto the bottle nipple. Here are a few techniques to promote slow feeding:
1. Paced Bottle Feeding: Hold the bottle horizontally, allowing the puppy to control the flow of milk. This technique helps prevent overfeeding and allows the puppy to eat at their own pace.
2. Nipple Size: Opt for a smaller bottle nipple to reduce the flow of milk. This can make it easier for preemie pups to handle and prevent them from choking or gagging.
3. Breaks: Offer short breaks during feeding to allow the puppy to rest and process the milk. This prevents them from becoming overwhelmed and ensures a relaxed feeding experience.
4. Observation: Keep a close eye on the puppy's feeding behavior. If they show signs of distress or struggle, consult with your veterinarian for further guidance.
Preemie Puppy Meal Frequency
Feeding frequency is an important aspect of caring for preemie puppies, as their small stomachs cannot handle large amounts of food at once. Here is a general guideline for preemie puppy meal frequency:
1. Newborns (0-2 weeks): Feed the puppy every 2-3 hours, including during the night, as they have a high metabolic rate and require frequent nourishment.
2. 2-4 weeks: As the puppies grow, you can gradually increase the time between feedings to every 3-4 hours.
3. 4-6 weeks: At this stage, you can start introducing solid food alongside milk replacer. Feed the puppies four times a day, gradually reducing the number of milk replacer feedings.
4. 6 weeks and above: By this age, the puppies can transition to a regular puppy diet, specifically formulated for their growth and development. Follow the feeding recommendations on the puppy food packaging.
Preemie Puppy Feeding Challenges
Feeding preemie puppies can come with its own set of challenges. Here are some common difficulties you may encounter and how to overcome them:
1. Weak Suckling Reflex: Premature puppies may have a weak suckling reflex, making it difficult for them to latch onto the bottle nipple. Gently stimulate their mouths or try different bottle nipples until you find one that they can manage.
2. Slow Weight Gain: Premature puppies often struggle with weight gain due to their underdeveloped systems. If you notice slow weight gain or developmental issues, consult with your veterinarian for tailored feeding and care recommendations.
3. Digestive Issues: Some preemie puppies may have sensitive digestive systems, leading to issues like diarrhea or constipation. Ensure that you are using a high-quality milk replacer and gradually introduce solid food as recommended by your veterinarian.
4. Aspiration Risk: Premature puppies have a higher risk of inhaling milk into their lungs while feeding. Keep them in an upright position during and after feeding to minimize this risk.
Preemie Puppy Growth Milestones
Monitoring the growth milestones of preemie puppies is important to ensure they are progressing well. Here are some key milestones to look out for:
1. Weight Gain: Preemie puppies should steadily gain weight over time. Keep track of their weight using a scale and consult with your veterinarian if you notice any significant changes or concerns.
2. Developmental Milestones: As the puppies grow, they should start opening their eyes, sitting up, and eventually walking. If you notice any delays in their development, discuss it with your veterinarian.
3. Increased Energy: As the puppies grow and develop, they will become more active and energetic. Encourage playtime and provide them with a safe environment to explore.
4. Transition to Solid Food: Around 4-6 weeks of age, preemie puppies can start transitioning to solid food alongside milk replacer. Monitor their acceptance and digestion of solid food and consult with your veterinarian for appropriate dietary recommendations.
What Do You Feed a Premature Puppy?
Feeding a premature puppy requires careful attention and specialized nutrition. Here are some guidelines on what to feed a premature puppy:
1. Milk Replacer: Choose a high-quality milk replacer specifically formulated for puppies. It should contain the necessary nutrients to support their growth and development.
2. Gradual Transition to Solid Food: Introduce solid food gradually alongside milk replacer once the puppies are around 4-6 weeks old. Use a puppy-specific food that is appropriate for their age and size.
3. Water: Provide clean, fresh water for the puppies to stay hydrated. You can introduce a shallow water dish once they are old enough to lap up water.
4. Consult with Your Veterinarian: Every preemie puppy is unique, and their nutritional needs may vary. Consult with your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations and any specific dietary considerations.
Remember, feeding a premature puppy requires patience, dedication, and regular monitoring of their weight and development. By providing them with the right nutrition and following a proper feeding schedule, you are setting them up for a healthy and thriving life. |
Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com
In today's hyper-connected world, where cell phones and the internet play a central role in our lives, it's crucial to understand the significance of Operational Security (OPSEC). Sadly, many people remain unaware of the risks they face from hackers who exploit vulnerabilities in their digital lives. This article aims to raise awareness about the importance of OPSEC, shedding light on the common exposure to hackers and offering practical tips to enhance your personal cybersecurity.
1. The Growing Threat Landscape: The digital era has opened up countless opportunities, but it has also exposed us to unprecedented risks. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, targeting individuals and exploiting weaknesses in their online activities. From identity theft to financial fraud, the consequences of a security breach can be devastating. Recognizing this threat is the first step toward safeguarding your digital presence.
2. Cell Phone Vulnerabilities: Cell phones have become an extension of our identities, storing a wealth of personal and sensitive information. Unfortunately, most people overlook the vulnerabilities present in their devices. Hackers can exploit weak passwords, outdated software, or even intercept communications to gain unauthorized access to your phone. By recognizing these vulnerabilities, you can take proactive measures to secure your device.
3. Internet Risks and Data Privacy: The internet is a vast landscape where personal data is constantly transmitted and stored. Many individuals unknowingly expose themselves by using weak passwords, sharing sensitive information on unsecured platforms, or falling victim to phishing scams. Protecting your data privacy is pivotal in defending against hackers who seek to exploit your personal information for nefarious purposes.
4. Enhancing OPSEC: Best Practices: a. Strong Password Management: Use unique, complex passwords for all your online accounts and consider employing a reputable password manager to keep track of them securely. b. Regular Software Updates: Ensure that your cell phone's operating system, apps, and antivirus software are up to date to patch vulnerabilities and protect against known threats. c. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA whenever possible to add an extra layer of security to your online accounts, requiring both a password and a secondary verification method. d. Beware of Phishing Attempts: Exercise caution when opening emails, clicking on links, or downloading attachments from unknown sources. Be vigilant in recognizing the signs of phishing and avoid falling victim to these scams. e. Secure Network Connections: Avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks without using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your data from interception. f. Limit Personal Information Sharing: Be mindful of the information you share online, particularly on social media platforms. Minimize the personal details you make public to reduce the risk of identity theft.
In conclusion, as we navigate the digital landscape, it is imperative to prioritize our personal cybersecurity. By understanding the importance of OPSEC and implementing best practices, we can significantly reduce our exposure to hackers. Protecting our cell phones and internet activities safeguards our digital footprints, ensuring a safer and more secure online presence for ourselves and our communities.
Remember, cybersecurity is an ongoing effort, and staying informed about the latest threats and security measures is crucial in this rapidly evolving digital world. |
As we pause on ANZAC Day to acknowledge those who sacrificed so much for us in World War I, we remember one of our Old Collegians who was involved in the Gallipoli campaign.
Albert Telfer White (1914) was born on 29 June 1897, the son of John White and Elizabeth, nee Douglas. He completed College in 1914 and obtained employment with the engineering firm Ronaldson & Tippett in Ballarat.
Front page attestation papers
However, less than one month after his 18th birthday, in July 1915, Alfred enlisted and was assigned to the 3rd Reinforcements, 23rd Battalion. Private A T White, Service No 2012, embarked from Australia on the HMAT Anchises on 26 August. He arrived in Turkey in October and served in the final days of the Gallipoli campaign, prior to the evacuation on 15 December 1915. Over five nights, 36,000 Anzac troops were withdrawn to the waiting transport ships, the last party leaving in the early hours of 20 December.
For his service in 1915 at Gallipoli, Alfred was awarded the 1914-15 Star. This medal was authorised in 1918 and awarded for service in specified theatres of war between 5 August 1914 and 31 December 1915.
After a brief respite on the island of Mudros, by March 1916 Alfred was proceeding through Marseilles with the British Expeditionary Forces to the next theatre of war, the Western Front. He was Mentioned in Despatches.
" … For good and gallant conduct in the recent hard fighting round Pozieres' in August 1916, and awarded the Military Medal on 4 October 1918 for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during the attack near Beaurevoir, east of Peronne … While the attack was in progress this man was constantly ahead of his section as a scout. He located the enemy posts and drew their fire … During this stage of the attack, he displayed courage much beyond the ordinary and assisted his officers. Later in the advance he located an enemy machine-gun and while directing the party which subsequently mopped it up, he fell severely wounded … "
Inventory of effects
Private Alfred White died as a result of gunshot wounds to the chest on 10 October 1918 at 12th General Hospital, Rouen, aged 21. News of his death reached home just before the signing of the Armistice. He is buried at St Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen, France.
Albert Telfer White's 1914-15 Star medal was donated to the Ballarat Clarendon College Archives by his nephew, Robert Lingham.
Lest we forget.
If you have a story to share or wish to get in touch with Clarendon's archives department, please contact email@example.com. |
As the global Muslim community celebrated Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the fasting month on April 22nd, which coincided with Earth Day, discussions about sustainable practices in festive attire gained prominence. With the majority of Muslims residing in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly Indonesia, the tradition of purchasing new clothes during Eid represents a fresh start, but it also brings to the fore the issue of overconsumption and its environmental impact. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation and UNEP have highlighted the textile industry's significant carbon footprint, which surpasses that of international aviation and shipping, contributing about 10% of global emissions. The industry also plays a substantial role in resource depletion, water pollution, and the production of harmful chemicals. Moreover, the end-of-life cycle for clothing results in around 92 million tons of waste annually, taking generations to decompose.
The need for sustainable fashion is imperative, and it calls for a balanced approach that respects both ethical labor standards and the environment while maintaining profitability for businesses. Changing deeply ingrained consumer habits, like purchasing new clothes for various occasions and quickly discarding them, is challenging. However, awareness of the environmental impact is essential for a shift towards more sustainable practices.
Contributions towards sustainable fashion can take various forms, such as reducing consumption, owning fewer but higher quality garments, engaging in clothes swapping, and upcycling old garments. This not only reduces waste but also supports the idea of a circular economy. The sustainable fashion market in the Asia-Pacific region, currently standing at 36%, is expected to reach a value of $10.1 billion by 2025. Consumers can also participate in movements like Fashion Revolution, which demands transparency and ethical practices in the fashion industry. In the Asia-Pacific region, sustainable fashion labels are on the rise. Indonesia's Sejauh Mata Memandang is known for using eco-friendly materials and traditional techniques, while Hong Kong's The R Collective upcycles fabric scraps into new designs. Australia's Outland Denim stands out for its ethical manufacturing practices and social initiatives, like empowering women who have been rescued from human trafficking.
The trajectory of the fashion industry is pivotal, as it is predicted to account for 26% of the global carbon budget by 2050 if current practices continue. However, embracing sustainable methods could significantly reduce this impact. Producing a single t-shirt can have the same carbon footprint as driving a car for 35 kilometers, underscoring the need for conscientious consumption. Beyond Eid al-Fitr and Earth Day, sustainable fashion should be a consideration in all cultural and religious festivities that traditionally involve purchasing new clothing. Educating the public about the importance of supporting ethical and eco-friendly brands can contribute to the long-term conservation of the environment. As consumers, making responsible choices can lead to a more sustainable future. |
This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work, first published in JMIR Formative Research, is properly cited. The complete bibliographic information, a link to the original publication on https://formative.jmir.org, as well as this copyright and license information must be included.
In March 2020, New Zealand was plunged into its first nationwide lockdown to halt the spread of COVID-19. Our team rapidly adapted our existing chatbot platform to create Aroha, a well-being chatbot intended to address the stress experienced by young people aged 13 to 24 years in the early phase of the pandemic. Aroha was made available nationally within 2 weeks of the lockdown and continued to be available throughout 2020.
In this study, we aimed to evaluate the acceptability and relevance of the chatbot format and Aroha's content in young adults and to identify areas for improvement.
We conducted qualitative in-depth and semistructured interviews with young adults as well as in situ demonstrations of Aroha to elicit immediate feedback. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis assisted by NVivo (version 12; QSR International).
A total of 15 young adults (age in years: median 20; mean 20.07, SD 3.17; female students: n=13, 87%; male students: n=2, 13%; all tertiary students) were interviewed in person. Participants spoke of the challenges of living during the lockdown, including social isolation, loss of motivation, and the demands of remote work or study, although some were able to find silver linings. Aroha was well liked for sounding like a "real person" and peer with its friendly local "Kiwi" communication style, rather than an authoritative adult or counselor. The chatbot was praised for including content that went beyond traditional mental health advice. Participants particularly enjoyed the modules on gratitude, being active, anger management, job seeking, and how to deal with alcohol and drugs. Aroha was described as being more accessible than traditional mental health counseling and resources. It was an appealing option for those who did not want to talk to someone in person for fear of the stigma associated with mental health. However, participants disliked the software bugs. They also wanted a more sophisticated conversational interface where they could express themselves and "vent" in free text. There were several suggestions for making Aroha more relevant to a diverse range of users, including developing content on navigating relationships and diverse chatbot avatars.
Chatbots are an acceptable format for scaling up the delivery of public mental health and well-being–enhancing strategies. We make the following recommendations for others interested in designing and rolling out mental health chatbots to better support young people: make the chatbot relatable to its target audience by working with them to develop an authentic and relevant communication style; consider including holistic health and lifestyle content beyond traditional "mental health" support; and focus on developing features that make users feel heard, understood, and empowered.
The emergence of COVID-19 has caused a once-in-a-century pandemic. To halt the spread of the virus, most countries introduced various public health measures, including national lockdowns (also known as stay-at-home orders); mandatory quarantines; travel restrictions; and closure of schools, businesses, and workplaces. Social isolation, misinformation, and the unpredictability and seriousness of the virus increased stress and mental health difficulties among the general population [
Early in the pandemic, the Ministry of Health in New Zealand recognized the need for a broad psychosocial response to mitigate stress at the population level. This included the rollout of digital psychological interventions and web-based resources such as the "Getting Through Together" web-based campaign by a community organization called "All Right?" designed to teach New Zealanders evidence-based coping strategies for COVID-19–related stress, and "Sparklers at Home," designed to support parents in talking to their children about their own mental health and well-being [
Our team (known as Health Advances through Behavioural Intervention Technologies [HABITs], based at the University of Auckland) was involved in the development of digital health tools before the pandemic, including a chatbot platform for mental health and resilience. Chatbots are computer programs that simulate conversations with users via synchronous text-based dialogues [
Aroha is a chatbot developed by our team to help young people cope with stress and isolation during the early phase of COVID-19 and the lockdowns in 2020. We commenced work on Aroha within days of the announcement of the first lockdown in New Zealand on March 23, 2020, and launched the app on April 7, 2020. Its rapid development was made possible by using a software engine that we had previously cocreated with a digital innovation company to author and custom build new chatbots through "rule-based" programming [
Aroha's content aimed to address the needs of adolescents and young adults (aged 13-24 years) in the context of New Zealand's nationwide strict lockdown (known as alert level 4), where all people were instructed to stay home and limit their interaction to their immediate "bubble" only. Aroha was designed to provide young people with evidence-based tools, activities, and practical support to help them maintain social connections, stay active, and manage their stress. As the year progressed and restrictions were lifted, Aroha was updated with new content in response to the changing circumstances (eg, to address young people's apprehension about returning to face-to-face learning, job insecurities, or the fear of the virus returning). Aroha was accessed through Facebook Messenger. This channel of communication had multiple benefits; there was no need to download a separate app, and many young people were already familiar with its interface. Further details about the content creation and the rollout of Aroha have been reported by Ludin et al [
In Te Reo Māori (Indigenous language of Aotearoa New Zealand), "Aroha" translates as "love" and "kindness," while "aro" and "hā" together means "to focus on your essence." It seemed fitting during a time when New Zealanders were called to exercise kindness toward each other and stay united to fight the outbreak of COVID-19.
This name was chosen in consultation with the HABITs team
Approximately 8 months after the launch of Aroha, we explored how the intervention was perceived by older adolescents and young adults. The objective of this qualitative study was to evaluate the acceptability and relevance of the chatbot format and Aroha's content in young adults and to identify areas for improvement to respond to their unique needs. In particular, we were interested in determining whether the communication style and language used (eg, use of emojis, humor, and colloquial terms) as well as content (themes and the topics it dealt with) were applicable and appealing to the target audience.
This was a qualitative study involving one-on-one semistructured interviews (aside from 1 instance when 2 participants were interviewed simultaneously). Semistructured interviews generally use an interview guide composed of open-ended questions to facilitate dialogue between the interviewer and interviewee [
In addition, we drew on the "think aloud method" [
We followed the COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research) to guide the reporting of our methods and results [
Aroha is an "informational" chatbot aimed at adolescents. It contains evidence-based strategies for managing stress in response to the COVID-19–related restrictions. The core content centers on practical ideas to maintain social connections and to stay calm, active, and well. The content was responsive to the change in alert levels (eg, corresponding restrictions), and throughout 2020, new modules were added so that the chatbot could remain relevant to the challenges young New Zealanders were facing.
Most of the Aroha's content takes the form of a dialogue using predetermined "quick replies" (eg, "yes/no" or "tell me more") that branch out the conversation along user-chosen paths. Emojis, GIFs (simple animated images), multimedia clips (eg, audio relaxation tracks) and "web-views" are used to augment text and make it more youth friendly. Users can group their activities as "favorite" and repeat them through a quick menu. All content can be accessed at once, and users can return it as many times as they wish.
Ways to stay connected with friends and
Relaxation activities such as slow and controlled breathing and mindfulness (includes audio tracks for in-the-moment relaxation practice)
Ways to focus on positive and good things in the world
Support for one's
Ways to take one's mind off things that are worrisome and improve mood
Practical ways to stay active and physically healthy
Links to sources of reliable information and support from trusted adults and professionals
Tips on maintaining self-care, having a routine, and protecting your sleep
Tips on staying safe with alcohol and drug use, money worries, anger management, and violence
Aroha begins each new interaction by checking in on the user's level of concern or stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aroha draws on a Māori perspective of spirituality and hauora (health).
Aroha demonstrates gratitude journaling by providing 'own' examples, including an image of whānau (extended family) before asking the user to input their own examples.
Aroha provides a summary of tips on staying connected with friends and whānau (extended family) during lockdowns and time apart. The image can be downloaded and shared.
Participants were recruited from among students attending the summer semester at the University of Auckland in January 2021 (which was delivered in person). We targeted undergraduate students, particularly those in their first or second year of university. Recruitment involved placing posters in key places on campus and sending web-based announcements to 5 stage-1 undergraduate courses through lecturers who agreed to promote the study. All 15 students who reached out via email to express their interests were included in this study.
Semistructured interviews were conducted by author AK. At the time of the interviews, AK was a fourth-year undergraduate student majoring in anthropology and public health. This study was conducted as part of her 10-week summer research scholarship at the University of Auckland. AK had no prior relationship with any of the study participants. Although the recruitment process was limited by the 10-week timeframe, data saturation was reached for most areas of interest by the time of last interview.
The study and its purpose were explained to the participants before the interviews began. They also completed an anonymous demographic questionnaire that asked for their age, gender, ethnicity, and the stage of study and major they were pursuing in the academic year 2020. We asked participants to rate how challenging the past year had been for them (1=not challenging at all; 10=extremely challenging).
Participants were also asked to try out Aroha in their own time before the interview, though not everyone did. The interviews lasted between 30 and 60 minutes and were held face to face on the campus. AK followed a semistructured interview guide (see the summary in
Setting the scene
What have you found to be the most challenging parts of 2020?
How have you coped with stress in 2020?
Did you get anything positive out of 2020, and if so, what?
Demonstration of Aroha (10-15 min)
Seeking first impressions
What are your first impressions of Aroha?
What are your favorite things about Aroha? Why?
What are your least favorite things about Aroha? Why?
Seeking feedback about style and engagement
How important is it to you for Aroha to sound like a "real person"?
How important is it to you for Aroha to reflect your identity (cultural, ethnic, gender, etc)?
Would you use Aroha in the future? Why or why not?
Further discussion
Seeking suggestions for improvement
If you could change anything about the chatbot, what would it be (why and how)?
What other content would you like Aroha to include in the future? (more or less about COVID-19 vs other topics)
What are you or young people most stressed about these days?
Interviews were audio recorded, and AK took shorthand notes to help with recall during the analysis. The recordings were transcribed and anonymized by AK. After close reading, the transcripts were organized and coded in NVivo (version 12; QSR International) using a general inductive approach [
Quantitative findings from the brief anonymous survey were analyzed using summary statistics.
This study was approved by the Health & Disability Ethics Committee (reference number: 16/NTB/174).
Participants were given an information sheet and a consent form that they signed before the interviews were conducted. They were told that their participation was voluntary, that they could refuse to answer any question, and that they could leave at any time during the interview if they wished. Participants received a NZ $20 (US $13) gift voucher as a
A total of 15 participants aged 17 to 30 years were interviewed (age in years: median 20; mean 20.07, SD 3.17; female students: n=13, 87%; male students: n=2, 13%). Overall, 5 (33%) out of 15 participants had finished high school in 2020 (ie, they were first-time tertiary students in the summer semester of 2021, at the time of the study), 4 (27%) were first- or second-year university students, 4 (27%) were third- or fourth-year university students, and 2 (13%) were pursuing other activities (one was studying for a Tertiary Foundation Certificate and another was conducting missionary work overseas). 10/15 or 67% of participants were majoring in Health Sciences (n=4, 27%), Psychology (n=3, 20%), or Computer Science (n=3, 20%).
Participants belonged to various ethnic groups: 8 participants identified as Chinese; 2 as Korean; 2 as Iranian or Persian; 4 as other Asian ethnicities (Indonesian, Malaysian, Indian, and Sri Lankan); and 1 as Pākehā (New Zealand European). Note that the sum exceeds 15 because 2 participants identified as belonging to >1 ethnicity, as is common practice when collecting ethnicity data in New Zealand.
When asked to rate how challenging they had found the previous year (1=not challenging at all; 10=extremely challenging), all participants gave a rating of ≥5, with a mean of 7.5 (SD 1.61).
Feedback from participants was organized into 5 categories, each of which included several themes that were divided into positive and negative comments, as represented visually in
Qualitative feedback of young adults about the chatbot Aroha organized into themes and subthemes.
Theme | Subtheme |
Life in lockdown |
+a Time to self-reflect + Personal growth –b Remote learning – Social Isolation |
Language and communication style |
+ Sounds like me – Sounds like a robot |
Content |
+ Teaches new skills and information + Goes beyond traditional resources – Too distracting |
Accessibility and usability |
+ No one needs to know + Easier to access than "real life" counseling – Technical issues – "It's kind of weird" |
Suggestions for moving forward |
Add content on: Relationships Academic stress Worries about the future Increase diversity by: Including a male or nonbinary guide Being more specific to LGBTQc youth Allow opportunities to input free text and "vent" |
a+: positive feedback.
b-: negative feedback.
cLGBTQ: lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer.
Participants almost unanimously agreed that remote learning was one of the biggest challenges during the lockdown. They found it difficult to manage their time and stay motivated to study on their own:
cos you're not actually in the room with similar people looking at you and watching what you're doing.
Being socially isolated also decreased young people's motivation:
I think [the lack of] socializing made the studying seem harder. When I see people every day and when I collaborate with people more frequently, I have more motivation to study.
First-year and international students, in particular, reported loneliness, as COVID-19–related restrictions prevented them from developing in-person connections just as they were transitioning to a new place of learning and country. A first-year international student echoed the following sentiment:
I hardly ever took a class [in-person], so it's hard to meet a new friend in school...I'm lonely in that year.
Participants also found it more difficult and were less likely to contribute to class discussions on the web than in person due to technological limitations:
When you're on call with your class and people ask questions, there's that lag. Or someone's asking at the same time. Or you're on mute...you're less likely to [speak up].
Participants described receiving little, if any, formal support to help them cope with the stress and uncertainty of COVID-19. While some participants developed their own coping mechanisms, such as exercising, talking to someone they trusted, or remote counseling, many struggled to cope with the sudden changes. One participant described being "bed-ridden all day" at the beginning of the first lockdown (participant 9, female, aged 21 years), while another recalled "binge eating, crying, having breakdowns" throughout 2020 (participant 6, female, aged 20 years).
Despite formidable challenges, many participants described lockdown as a time for self-reflection and personal growth:
(2020) gave me time to think about myself more, and I think I was a little bit depressed in some way. But it kind of helped me grow as a person, even though it wasn't a very good time that I want to think back to.
There was a sense of appreciation for having the time to think about their future and as one participant put it, "what I would like to do or what I need to improve on" (participant 15, male, aged 22 years). Being socially isolated showed participants the "good sides and bad sides of friendship" (participant 5, female, aged 19 years). Another participant said that after the 2020 lockdowns "I know who are the people important to me" (participant 4, female, aged 17 years).
Some learned how to better manage their time as "[they] became less dependent on school for self-management" (participant 12, male, aged 18 years). Another participant felt that the experience helped them grow:
I learned...that I can be kind of more resilient than I thought.
Participants also learned to let go and recognize what was or was not in one's power to control:
I learned to not blame myself for as many things, and to blame situations instead.
For some, there was also a sense of personal achievement that came with surviving an unprecedented tough year:
I think one positive thing is realizing that not everything can be in my control...But it's gonna get there eventually. We never thought 2020 was gonna end, but it did.
Having tried Aroha during the interview, many participants' first comments were that they liked how the chatbot sounded "like a real person" instead of a robot or machine (participant 14, female, aged 18 years). One participant thought
You're sharing background about yourself, and then Aroha shares background about itself. So that felt pretty legitimate.
Participants liked Aroha's use of emojis, GIFs, and slang, especially "Kiwi" or New Zealand slang, such as "Yeah nah" ("Kiwi" is a self-referential term for all New Zealanders):
Sometimes they'll use a lot of Kiwi slang and emojis and stuff, so it made it a more personal, human experience instead of robotic.
I like the fact that she's representing New Zealand...even though it's generalized for everyone, it's New Zealand's app. It's not like America's app.
Participants also thought that Aroha spoke in a more approachable way than real-life mental health professionals:
[A] professional mental health person...might be more technical, while [Aroha] is more easy-going.
Young people might feel "a bit intimidated" talking to a counselor, whereas talking to Aroha was perceived as follows:
[F]elt like you were talking to another person, like an actual person who's not more knowledgeable than you—acting like they're more knowledgeable than you.
The participants also shared negative impressions of how Aroha communicated with them. Participants disliked receiving "huge walls of text" from Aroha (participant 2, female, aged 30 years), which some described as "spamming." Some remarked that it was too much information to take in at once:
It's kind of overwhelming at times, cos I'm like, whoa that's a lot of information. And it doesn't feel like it's someone replying to you...maybe one second per message would feel more humanlike.
Participants did not always understand Aroha's use of emojis, especially when they were used instead of words. For instance, when Aroha used a fire emoji, one participant suggested the following:
I appreciate the emojis, but sometimes it's like you don't know if they want to say heat or fire...it'll be nice to type the words and then put the emoji to add emphasis.
Participants also complained that Aroha's replies "sometimes...totally didn't match what you were saying" (participant 1, female, aged 19 years). They wanted Aroha to respond in more specific and individualized ways to feel like the chatbot really understood them:
I remember typing something up. And she couldn't—she didn't understand what the words were...that's when I think people would realise, oh, they're talking to a machine.
Some participants liked having the convenience of predetermined responses:
[I]nstead of typing all your replies manually...reading the options in front of you gives you a better idea of which one applies to you.
However, others thought it was somewhat meaningless to tap an option (emoji or phrase) because they felt that the chatbot would say the same thing regardless of what they chose. They observed that "you just had to click one for the bot to continue talking
Aroha's content was generally well received. As expressed by one participant, it was convenient to access a wide range of advice through one platform because "if you're like, 'what should I do?' it's all in one place" (participant 1, female, aged 19 years). The participants enjoyed gratitude journaling in particular:
I liked the gratitude journal...when you get reminded that there are good things, it kind of makes life seem like it's not as hopeless...like there are things to hope for, there are things to look forward to.
Other well-liked content included modules on keeping active ("I'm planning to keep [Aroha], especially for exercise" [participant 5, female, aged 19 years]); and meditation and mindfulness ("I enjoy doing calming activities with her" [participant 6, female, aged 20 years]). Participants also spoke favorably about the anger management module, with one participant saying that her favorite piece of advice from Aroha was "[to] say sorry if you took your anger out on someone else, cos I guess that's important to me" (participant 7, female, aged 20 years). Others appreciated learning how to stay safe with alcohol and other drugs:
I went into the A&D section...I looked at all this information I didn't know personally, and it was quite resourceful.
Content that went beyond "traditional" mental health did not go unnoticed. For example, one participant said she liked the job-seeking content "cos I've been looking for work for a month now...I've never seen that in any other apps" (participant 5, female, aged 19 years). Another participant was surprised "cos when I saw the tools, I didn't think those would be there...the alcohol and drugs and the anger kind of stuff
One of the activities,
I feel like I'll just procrastinate on this...does it give you a time limit anywhere?
Some thought that it might be better to suggest other distraction methods:
The "Distract yourself" part, I'm not sure that would be helpful. I guess some [better] suggestions could be, if you want to clear your mind you can go outside, walk, or do one of your favourite things.
Participants liked the accessibility of Aroha compared with traditional mental health counseling and resources. The convenience of access through Facebook Messenger was a highlight because "On Messenger, I can just open it and it's there
As much as I don't want to admit it, high school was quite tough mentally. But it was even harder to communicate because the awareness of mental health was not—didn't seem cool among kids. If someone told me there was a chatbot you can just talk to, it's anonymous, no one really knows, and it's accessible all the time, then I probably will play around with it.
Another participant said it was difficult to seek professional help because that would make it seem like she has "an issue":
I think a lot of people, who are especially younger, there's a stigma around seeking help. So, there's less judgement when it comes to [Aroha]. No one needs to really know you're going somewhere; it's just on your phone, which a lot of people are on anyway.
Several participants believed that their everyday stresses and worries were not serious enough to warrant professional help. They thought that a self-help tool such as Aroha could be better suited to their needs:
We had the counsellor [in high school]...but you felt like it wasn't really for you. That was me. I was stressed. But I was like, is my problem worth that time when someone else could need it? ...[Aroha] can be talking to 500 people at the same time. And you won't feel bad!
Another participant said he would not mind sharing more personal information with Aroha "and seeing what happens...because I know it's a bot, nothing's gonna be leaked" (participant 12, male, aged 18 years).
Participants thought Aroha was "more fun than just searching [for advice] on Google" (participant 9, female, aged 21 years). Another respondent said the following:
I feel a little weird doing activities by myself, but if [Aroha] is with me I feel like we're in this together and she's guiding me [through it].
Participants generally preferred an interactive method of delivery with a conversational chatbot interface to other traditional mental health resources:
It reminds me of when you go to a place, like a counsellor or a doctor, and they give you some pamphlets...And you don't read the pamphlet, no one reads the pamphlet. [Aroha] was kind of like that, but it was interactive, which I liked cos it was much easier to engage with.
Participants also liked Aroha's immediate response times because they could access help the instant they needed it as expressed by an international student:
[W]hen friends are all asleep and parents are too far from me and don't know the situation I'm in, I can use the app to get some release or solutions.
Not all feedback was positive, and the young people we spoke with were also forthcoming with some of their frustrations and what they did not like about Aroha. In the first instance, they were intolerant of technical issues or "glitches," that disrupted their chatbot experience. One participant shared her least favorite thing about Aroha:
[W]hen it was glitching...it'll probably put me off the app because it feels like I'm talking to a robot that doesn't know what I'm trying to say.
There were a few who thought it was "weird" to talk to a chatbot about their well-being and mental health in the first place. One participant said she was hesitant to use Aroha in the beginning, "but when I just kept using it, I was like, okay, I could get used to this" (participant 14, female, aged 18 years). Other excerpts that resonated with the theme include the following:
[I]f you say you're talking to a chatbot, you're probably gonna get made fun of...there's that stigma.
Facebook is not really good at keeping your privacy, from my experience [because] you wouldn't want your parents seeing or anyone else seeing [you use Aroha].
Another participant said that she was "weirded out
I don't like the idea of talking to a robot, it's kind of weird to me. It's not human.
By far the most common improvement suggested by the participants was for Aroha to "increase more chances for the person to actually respond, instead of choosing options [all the time]" (participant 12, male, aged 18 years). They wanted more opportunities to input free text and share their thoughts and feelings with the chatbot. One participant said it would be helpful "just to be able to talk and vent
Participants believed that Aroha could be a better listener than people in real life. One participant reasoned why she did not like talking to people about her stress and worries:
Another participant remarked as follows:
[P]eople have biases or are too preoccupied with their own issues to maybe listen properly.
Another participant said something similar:
I think...even if you do express your troubles, [people] won't always listen. Like, for example, my parents. If something bothers me, I would try to tell them, but they won't always listen, and you kind of have to accept that some people won't listen sometimes.
The participants wanted Aroha to express empathy and acknowledge what they said:
[I]f you want Aroha to maybe say, "I know what you're going through," I think that would be helpful because even though you know she's not a real person, the fact that she was programmed to say that kind of makes you feel better.
Another participant suggested as follows:
If I express my mood, [Aroha] could ask, "Why is that?" and sort of like a friend I would say what happened. It doesn't even need to be that specific to what I'm saying, as long as it just says, "That sounds tough' and 'I'm sorry you went through that."
The participants also wanted Aroha to talk through a problem:
[W]hen someone types something like, "Oh I'm sad," maybe [Aroha] can talk it out? ...even if this is a robot, I think it's pretty nice if she just says something that makes the person share things, like, "Why did you feel that?"
She wanted Aroha to "pinpoint what you're saying...and respond 'why do you think that, why this and that'" to continue the conversation and elicit free-text responses from the user.
Finally, the participants wanted Aroha to check in with the users and demonstrate the continuity of the dialogue:
[Want Aroha to] catch up with how [users] were before...so last time if they were stressed with exams, ask them "How did the exam go? Are you still stressed?"
Maybe the stuff we say, [Aroha] could record it down and bring it up later...like, I say, "Oh, yesterday I was sad," and then next time we talk she's like, "Oh, you said you were sad last time, are you okay now?"
Participants wanted Aroha to include more content that was tailored specifically for young adults, with a particular emphasis on navigating relationships between family members, friends, or romantic and sexual partners. One of the common issues they wanted advice on was how to manage the stress related to managing family expectations and the added stress of living with family through lockdown. A participant who was not allowed to leave her family home during lockdowns said the following:
[S]o you know, living with your parents for an extra three years and they still treat you like a little child...it's that struggle.
Another participant said that she was most stressed about "meeting expectations from my parents" (participant 7, female, aged 20 years). It would be helpful for Aroha to provide advice on navigating family dynamics because "lots of people can have problems with their family and not know how to solve them" (participant 5, female, aged 19 years).
Participants also wanted Aroha to help them cope with social anxiety, which had increased after the lockdown for many people:
I feel more anxious, or I just don't know what to say. [would like to see advice on how to] rehabilitate people back into society, cos I feel like a lot of people are just more anxious now maybe.
Contents that addressed peer pressure were also among their wish list:
[A]nd the idea of being included or feeling excluded, and thinking that if I don't do this, I'm not cool.
Some participants thought topics such as "safe sex, access to contraceptives, morning after pill, anything like that would potentially be worthwhile" (participant 2, female, aged 30 years).
Academic stress was also high on the list of topics that participants wanted Aroha to cover in the future. Some suggested a feature to help them track their academic progress, while others wanted study tips and advice on how to balance a large workload with other commitments. When asked what was stressing him out right now, one participant replied as follows:
I guess...the uncertainties of, if I graduate, will I have a job? Can I actually graduate? Will I be able to make it through? Just like, all these assignments, all the workload that you have to manage.
Overall, there was a sense of uncertainty or anxiety about the future that may have been heightened by the global pandemic. Worries about the future, expectations of transitioning from university to work, and future career prospects were often brought up as common sources of stress for participants:
You're not living in the present cos you're so worried about what's gonna come. But then you have to study, or you have to work, and it's just very overwhelming.
Other suggestions for extending Aroha's content included advice on better sleep and relaxation, yoga, and relaxing music. Some suggested that Aroha could host regular "events" to motivate them to return to the chatbot:
If there's something going on every day and not just me actively reaching out, that would be cool.
Participants wanted to set goals and receive reminders from Aroha, checking in their well-being or study progress:
It'll be nice if it could send reminders, but with a limit, so you don't keep on getting random messages from the chatbot.
Participants strongly desired Aroha to appeal to a broad range of users. At the time of the study, our chatbot guide was Aroha (
Nonbinary representation and gender diversity were also seen as important considerations. One participant suggested a nongendered design of Aroha that was "just a smiley face" would feel more representative (participant 14, female, aged 18 years), while another participant who identified as belonging to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) community shared her thoughts:
[I]t would be cool—I'm just going back to my whole identity thing—to get help with LGBT stuff.
Cultural diversity has proven to be a complex issue. Some thought that the cultural representation of the chatbot guide was not important because "everyone experiences stress, [it has] nothing to do with your culture" (participant 1, female, aged 19 years). Although none of the participants identified as Māori, some liked the way that Aroha drew on Māori imagery and perspectives because it "just makes it more Kiwi" (participant 4, female, aged 17 years) and because "it's good to have Māori perspectives cos then that means it covers everyone" (participant 1, female, aged 19 years).
By contrast, some would have liked Aroha to reflect their own culture(s) because that would make them "want to use it more, she'll feel more closer" (participant 9, female, aged 21 years). An international student said something similar:
It can make me and the app closer in my heart.
Our study explored what young adults thought about Aroha, a well-being chatbot designed to teach stress coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic. We began by asking about the lived experiences of young people during the pandemic. While it was almost uniformly a very challenging time, there were also some silver linings such as time for reflection, self-growth, and letting go of control in the face of uncertainty. The greatest difficulties came from social isolation, loss of motivation, and the demands of remote work or study. In addition, many participants lacked adequate support or coping mechanisms for the sudden changes they had to deal with. Our qualitative findings suggest that Aroha was liked by young adults, particularly because of its friendly and local "Kiwi" communication style, and it offered a range of strategies including those not necessarily considered to be mental health related. Participants were less tolerant of technical bugs and wished to have more opportunities to express themselves (and be understood) using natural language. The scalability of digital interventions, including well-being chatbots such as Aroha, provides an opportunity to help young people acquire strategies to manage stress and increase resilience. Taken together, this study revealed that an acceptable chatbot can be implemented rapidly in response to a public health crisis.
Overall, Aroha was positively received by participants. However, the participants did note certain limitations, indicating a need for improvement. The chatbot was praised for sounding like a real person or friend in its language and communication style. This finding is consistent with research findings on other well-being chatbots. Research suggests that young people felt more comfortable talking to a mental health chatbot when it sounded like "one of [them]" [
Among the dislikes, participants felt that they were being "spammed" with too much text (dialogue) from Aroha all at once. This echoes the findings of other evaluations of digital mental health interventions that have been criticized for their high cognitive load [
These findings also support prior research in which users expressed frustration at the limitations of artificial intelligence technology in chatbots when they failed to understand typed or free-text responses [
Aroha's content received encouraging reactions. One of the key strengths of the chatbot was its ability to access a range of advice in one place, including advice that goes beyond traditional "mental health" interventions. Participants especially liked the modules on gratitude journaling, getting active, meditation and mindfulness, anger management, alcohol and drugs, and job seeking. The simple game called
These findings highlight the potential of chatbots to provide broad and holistic well-being support to young adults who otherwise may not be willing or able to reach out for help [
There are barriers specific to making well-being chatbots user-friendly and acceptable. Technical issues, even if minor, were obstacles for the participants, possibly because young adults have high expectations of digital technology. A mixed methods study of a cognitive behavioral therapy chatbot, Otis, found that technological difficulties were one of the main reasons for its abandonment [
The participants also identified several ways in which Aroha could be enhanced to better fit their needs. They wanted to see more content that went beyond traditional mental health strategies and that was tailored to the realities of young adults. This included modules on relationships (tackling sexual health, romance, peer pressure, social anxiety, and family issues; the latter 2 having intensified over lockdowns); study stress; and anxiety about the future. Furthermore, participants wished for more diversity. They suggested a male-presenting version of Aroha and content for the LGBTQ community. Feedback on cultural acceptability was more mixed, with a few participants saying that it was important for Aroha to reflect their culture, while others said it was less important to them. Future research on the acceptance of Aroha and other chatbots by cultural and ethnic groups is necessary.
Above all, participants desired more opportunities to input free texts and "vent" their thoughts and feelings to Aroha. Participants in the study of a self-compassion chatbot, named Vincent, felt limited in the options that they were given to respond to it [
Reflecting the voices of our participants, we provide recommendations in
Work with your target audience to develop the chatbot's language and communication style to capture what sounds authentic and relevant to them.
There is an opportunity to enhance psychosocial interventions with holistic health and lifestyle content to assist young people in their daily functioning. Mixing psychological strategies with other life advice may reduce the perceived stigma associated with seeking mental health support.
Increase the sophistication of the dialogue and give users more opportunities to respond through free text.
Provide users with opportunities to input free texts to "vent" and share their thoughts and feelings.
Emphasize the nonhuman ability of chatbots to "listen" without interruption or judgment.
Program the chatbot to express empathy, acknowledge what the user is saying, and ask questions and elicit responses to "talk" through a problem with them.
Reduce the cognitive load of text; chatbot users expect highly interactive and simple or snappy dialogue (supported by multimedia and other features).
Eliminate glitches; young people are a highly discerning audience and have low tolerance for buggy software.
We collected rich, qualitative data that represented participants' lived experiences and detailed feedback on Aroha, as expressed in their own words. The interviewer was herself a tertiary student, and this helped to establish rapport and trust with the respondents. The study provides a nuanced analysis of key features and attributes of the chatbot and as such has the potential to drive improvements in well-being chatbots.
Nevertheless, our study is limited by the fact that the participants were sampled from one tertiary provider. The sample was not gender balanced and consisted mostly of Asian New Zealanders. This is partly due to the demographic makeup of the university and the courses from which we recruited. Future studies are necessary to capture the viewpoints of other young New Zealanders, particularly in relation to the cultural responsiveness and acceptability of Aroha for groups such as Māori and Pacific young adults and those not engaged in tertiary studies.
It is also possible for participants to have demonstrated social desirability bias by providing positive answers to please the interviewer, although this bias may have been mitigated to some extent by AK not being one of the chatbot designers involved in the creation of Aroha. Social desirability bias may have also been present in the responses of the 2 participants who were interviewed together. Finally, most participants did not use Aroha in "real life" outside the controlled environment of the study. Our findings largely draw on the first impressions of the participants who used Aroha for a brief period while being observed by an interviewer, which may differ from the impressions formed by young adults who have time to explore more of Aroha's features.
The long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health and well-being of young adults have yet to be fully realized. Our findings suggest that years of the pandemic has caused significant challenges for young adults. Digital tools such as chatbots have the potential to mitigate some of these effects as part of a broader psychosocial approach to support mental health and well-being. Aroha, a chatbot designed to help manage the COVID-19–related stress and promote well-being, may be an acceptable and engaging self-help tool for young adults. The participants praised Aroha for sounding like a person. They largely enjoyed its content, including techniques for managing stress and broader psychosocial advice that is not considered traditional "mental health" support (specifically the modules on gratitude, getting active, anger management, job seeking, and alcohol and drugs). Young adults may find it easier to access a chatbot than a counselor or therapist because they can avoid the stigma associated with seeking mental health support. Mental health and well-being chatbots for young people can be improved by ensuring that their language and communication styles reflect the style of the target audience. There is an opportunity to develop more holistic and lifestyle content that goes beyond traditional "mental health." The dialogue flow should make users feel heard, understood, and empowered. Future research should explore the effects of Aroha and other digital well-being tools using comparative and quantitative outcome studies.
Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research
Health Advances through Behavioural Intervention Technologies
lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer
The authors thank the participants of this study.
This research was supported by the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment—A Better Start, E Tipu e Rea (UOAX1511); Ministry of Health COVID-19 National Psychosocial Campaign—University of Auckland—Aroha Chatbot (CC20421); and Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, COVID-19 Innovation Acceleration Fund (CIAF 1390 PROP—71297—CIAF—UOA).
AK performed the study procedures under the supervision of K Stasiak. SH and TC developed the chatbot content with assistance from S Hopkins and CH-Q. SB and K Stevenson provided research assistance to iterate the chatbot content under the supervision of NL. All authors contributed to the drafting of the manuscript and approved the final draft.
The authors have intellectual property related to the novel dialogue components or content described in this paper. The authors (K Stasiak, TC, S Hetrick, S Hopkins, K Stevenson, and SB) are involved in the ongoing national implementation of Aroha (which is now part of an app called Headstrong) funded by the Te Whatu Ora in New Zealand. CH-Q owns a company that is subcontracted to provide software engineering services to Headstrong. |
How to Make Raw Dog Food Patties
Offer your furry companion optimal nutrition with homemade raw dog food patties, providing essential nutrients for their well-being – find out how!
Select lean muscle meats such as chicken, turkey, or beef for protein, and incorporate raw edible bones and organ meats like liver for essential nutrients. Add fresh vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and supplements per the BARF diet guidelines for a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Mix these ingredients in a food processor, shaping them into patties for portion control tailored to your dog's needs. Freeze the patties individually, labeling them for freshness and best nutrient retention.
Thaw in the refrigerator to maintain food safety and guarantee even cooking for your furry companion's health. Properly prepared raw dog food patties offer a wholesome alternative that promotes well-being.
Key Takeaways
- Use lean meats, organs, bones, veggies, and fruits for balanced nutrition.
- Process ingredients into patties for portion control and convenience.
- Freeze individually wrapped patties with dates for freshness.
- Thaw in the fridge before serving to maintain food safety.
- Avoid microwave thawing for even cooking and digestion.
Selecting High-Quality Ingredients
When making raw dog food patties, I always prioritize selecting high-quality ingredients to guarantee maximum nutrition for my furry friend. Lean muscle meats like chicken, turkey, or beef are essential for providing the necessary protein and amino acids for strong muscles and overall health.
Raw edible bones, such as chicken necks or backs, not only offer essential calcium but also aid in dental health by promoting teeth cleaning and strengthening. Incorporating organ meats like liver or kidney is important to make sure a rich source of vitamins A, D, and B12, contributing greatly to the well-being of my dog.
Fresh vegetables and fruits like carrots, spinach, or apples add essential fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the diet, enhancing the nutritional value of the patties. Additionally, dairy products, supplements, nuts, and seeds in moderation offer a variety of nutrients and flavors, contributing to a well-rounded and balanced diet for my beloved pet.
Following BARF Diet Guidelines
To guarantee high-quality nutrition for your dog, follow the BARF diet guidelines when preparing raw dog food patties. The BARF diet recommends a specific ratio of ingredients to make sure your furry friend receives a balanced and biologically appropriate diet. Check out the table below for a breakdown of the ideal proportions to include in your homemade raw dog food patties:
Ingredient | Percentage |
Muscle Meat with Fat | 70% |
Raw Edible Bones | 10% |
Organs | 10% |
Vegetables/Fruits | 5% |
Dairy/Supplements/Nuts/Seeds | 5% |
Following these guidelines helps provide your dog with the essential nutrients needed for optimal health and well-being. By incorporating the right balance of muscle meat, bones, organs, and other ingredients, you can ensure that your dog's diet is rich in raw, natural components. Embracing the BARF diet philosophy can lead to improved digestion, increased vitality, and overall better health for your beloved canine companion.
Mixing and Forming Ingredients
How can we efficiently combine the ingredients to create balanced raw dog food patties? To make sure our furry friends get the nutrition they need, follow these steps:
- Mix Ingredients: Combine ground beef, chicken livers, vegetables, and fruits in a food processor. This guarantees a balanced mix of muscle meat, organs, and fresh produce for your raw dog food patty.
- Maintain Ratios: Stick to the 70% muscle meat, 10% raw edible bones, 10% organs, and 5% fresh vegetables/fruits ratio. This balance is crucial for your dog's overall health and well-being.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixed ingredients into patties. This step not only makes feeding more convenient but also helps with portion control to ensure your dog gets the right amount of food.
- Adjust Serving Size: Tailor the size of the patties based on your dog's unique needs and dietary requirements. This personalized approach guarantees your dog receives the proper nutrition in every meal.
Freezing for Storage
Freezing raw dog food patties is crucial for preserving their nutrients and freshness while ensuring convenient storage and portion control. When preparing to freeze raw dog food patties, make sure to wrap each patty individually or separate them to prevent sticking together. It's also important to label the frozen patties with the date of preparation. This step will help you track their freshness and guarantee proper rotation. By freezing the patties, you can extend their shelf life while maintaining their nutritional value.
Once properly wrapped and labeled, place the raw dog food patties in the freezer. When you're ready to serve them, remember to thaw the patties in the refrigerator. This gradual thawing process helps maintain food safety and integrity by preventing rapid bacterial growth. By following these steps, you can ensure that your raw dog food patties remain fresh, nutritious, and safe for your furry friend to enjoy.
Thawing Before Serving
Thawing raw dog food patties in the refrigerator is crucial for maintaining food safety and integrity while preventing bacterial growth. Here are a few key points to take into account when thawing your dog's raw food:
- Refrigerator Thawing: Thawing in the refrigerator is the safest method as it maintains a consistent temperature, minimizing the risk of bacterial growth.
- Avoid Room Temperature Thawing: Thawing raw dog food patties at room temperature can increase the chances of foodborne illness risks due to bacteria multiplying rapidly in the food's outer layers.
- Thorough Thawing: Ensure the patties are completely thawed before serving to promote proper digestion and prevent any potential digestive issues for your furry friend.
- Microwave Caution: Thawing in the microwave isn't recommended as it can lead to uneven cooking, creating hot spots that may pose a risk to your dog's health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Mix for Raw Dog Food?
The best mix for raw dog food is 70% muscle meat with fat for protein and energy, 10% raw edible bones for calcium, 10% organs for essential nutrients, 5% fresh vegetables/fruits for fiber and antioxidants, and 5% dairy/supplements/nuts/seeds for additional nutrients.
How to Make Your Own Raw Dog Food?
I whip up my own raw dog food like a gourmet chef! It's all about fresh ingredients, balanced ratios, and plenty of love. Can't wait to see my pup chow down on my special creation!
Are Raw Patties Good for Dogs?
Raw patties are excellent for dogs. They offer balanced nutrition, dental benefits, and essential nutrients. They're a popular choice among raw feeders for their simplicity and convenience. I find raw patties to be a great choice for my pup.
How Do You Cook Raw Food for Dogs?
When I prepare raw food for my dog, I make sure it's fresh and high-quality. Cooking can decrease nutrients. I emulate a natural diet. Safety is crucial. Preserving enzymes and nutrients is vital for my dog's health.
To sum up, creating raw dog food patties is a straightforward and nutritious way to provide your furry friend with a balanced diet.
Did you know that around 20% of commercial pet food products have been recalled due to contamination or quality issues?
By preparing your dog's food at home, you have control over the quality of ingredients and can guarantee their health and well-being.
Give it a try and see the benefits for yourself!
As our Editor-in-Chief, James plays a pivotal role in ensuring the quality and integrity of our content. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, James oversees the editorial process here at A Place for Animals. With years of experience in content editing, James ensures that every piece of content meets our high standards of accuracy and clarity. Under James' guidance, you can rest assured that the content you read is informative and impeccably crafted.
7 Angry Cat Names That Exude Fierceness
Tap into your cat's wild side with these fierce names that scream power and strength – find out which one will suit your feline warrior best!
When selecting a name for your fierce feline, opt for lion-inspired monikers like Leo, Roar, or King for regal power. Warrior-themed names such as Ninja, Gladiator, and Samurai bring out strength and prowess. Mythical options like Gandalf or Legolas add a touch of mystique. Nature-inspired picks like Thunder or Avalanche evoke raw force. Villainous choices such as Maleficent or Loki exude a dark charm. Explore these fierce and strong cat names to find the perfect fit for your fiery feline. Further reveal your cat's ferocity with these intriguing name options.
Key Takeaways
- Opt for names like Shadow, Vortex, or Venom for a fierce vibe.
- Choose names such as Diablo, Banshee, or Nemesis for a dark and powerful aura.
- Consider names like Havoc, Chaos, or Fury to showcase intense energy.
- Select names such as Ghost, Wraith, or Phantom for a mysterious and menacing feel.
- Pick names like Eclipse, Inferno, or Ravage for a strong and aggressive presence.
Lion-Inspired Cat Names
When selecting names for feline companions, considering lion-inspired monikers can accentuate their regal and commanding presence. Badass cat names like Leo, Roar, and Mane evoke the strength and dominance associated with lions. These names can bring out the fierce and fearless nature of your cat, adding a touch of royalty and dominance to their personality.
Names such as King and Pride can symbolize leadership and confidence in your feline friend. Embracing these lion-inspired monikers not only showcases your cat's majestic aura but also highlights their inner power and independence.
Warrior-Themed Cat Names
When selecting a name for your female cat that mirrors her bold and brave personality, consider options like Valkyrie, Ninja, Gladiator, Samurai, or Warrior. These names not only convey a feeling of power and valor but also capture your cat's fearless demeanor and adventurous spirit.
Opt for a name that resonates with your cat's unique characteristics and showcases her inner warrior. Female cats with warrior-themed names are often viewed as independent, daring, and full of determination.
Mythical Cat Names
Mythical cat names bring an air of mystique and power to your feline companion's persona, adding a touch of enchantment to their identity. When considering names inspired by legends and mythology, one popular source of inspiration is the epic fantasy world of Lord of the Rings. Names like Gandalf, Arwen, Legolas, or even Smaug can bestow upon your cat a sense of grandeur and otherworldly charm.
Drawing from the rich tapestry of mythical creatures and characters in Lord of the Rings, you can choose a name that reflects qualities such as strength, beauty, or wisdom. Whether your cat embodies the grace of an elf or the cunning of a dragon, these names offer a unique opportunity to celebrate your cat's majestic and mysterious nature.
Nature-Inspired Cat Names
Let's explore nature-inspired cat names that capture the essence of the wild and fierce. Nature-inspired names such as Thunder, Blaze, Avalanche, Tempest, and Tsunami can make great choices for your fierce feline companion. These names draw inspiration from powerful forces of nature, reflecting a cat's untamed and strong nature.
Cats bearing these names often exude a sense of strength and fierceness, embodying the characteristics of natural phenomena. Opting for a nature-inspired name can add a unique and impactful touch to your cat's persona and demeanor. Popular choices for fierce cats include Wildfire, Chaos, Beast, Fury, and Havoc.
Each of these names carries a sense of power and intensity, perfect for a cat with a fiery spirit. When selecting a nature-inspired name for your cat, consider the traits and qualities that resonate with you and your cat's personality, ultimately creating a name that truly embodies their wild and fierce nature.
Villainous Cat Names
Villainous cat names are perfect for felines with a dark and mysterious aura. These monikers draw inspiration from famous villains in popular culture, adding intrigue and power to your cat's persona.
Whether your cat is a sweetie with a dark side or a true troublemaker, a villainous name can make them stand out and showcase their unique personality.
Sinister Cat Monikers
What makes sinister cat monikers like Maleficent, Loki, Ursula, Jafar, and Cruella so intriguing and mysterious? Choosing a villainous name for your cat can be the perfect way to showcase their fierce and formidable side.
These names, inspired by infamous fictional villains, add a touch of darkness and intrigue to your feline friend's persona. Opting for a sinister cat moniker can reflect your cat's mischievous or cunning nature, giving them an air of power and mystique.
Names like Maleficent or Loki are perfect for cats with rebellious or enigmatic personalities, adding a sense of mystery and danger. Embracing a villainous cat name can be a fun and creative way to highlight your cat's darker, more mysterious side.
Wicked Feline Titles
Exploring the realm of sinister feline designations reveals a fascinating array of malevolent cat names that exude a sense of darkness and allure. Names inspired by notorious villains like Maleficent, Loki, Ursula, Jafar, and Cruella add a touch of mystery and mischief to your cat's persona.
These wicked feline titles draw from movies, fairy tales, and myths, infusing your cat with a rebellious and cunning nature. Ideal for cats with a mischievous aura, these names bring drama and intrigue to their character.
Embracing a villainous cat name from a TV show can be a fun way to highlight your cat's fierce and independent spirit, giving them a unique and edgy identity in the feline world.
Dark and Mysterious Cat Names
When searching for a fitting name that embodies an air of mystery and allure for your feline companion, consider dark and mysterious cat names like Shadow, Phantom, and Midnight. These names evoke a sense of intrigue and mystique that can perfectly match a cat with a mysterious or enigmatic personality. By choosing a dark and mysterious name, you can add a touch of sophistication and allure to your cat's persona, reflecting its unique and enigmatic nature.
Dark and Mysterious Cat Names | |
Shadow | Phantom |
Midnight | Mystique |
Raven | Eclipse |
Noir | Luna |
Salem | Twilight |
These names not only sound intriguing but also carry a certain depth that can make your cat stand out. So, if you're looking to give your feline friend a name that exudes a sense of mystery and allure, consider these dark and mysterious options.
Fierce and Strong Cat Names
Exemplifying power and resilience, fierce and strong cat names serve as ideal monikers for felines with commanding personalities. These names, such as Thor, Athena, Hercules, Valkyrie, and Titan, exude strength and fearlessness, drawing inspiration from mythology, warriors, and powerful figures. When choosing a fierce and strong name for your cat, you not only showcase their inner strength but also highlight their fiery spirit.
These names are perfect for cats who command attention and possess a bold demeanor, reflecting a sense of power and resilience. By giving your cat a name that embodies strength and fierceness, you're acknowledging their unique personality and emphasizing their fearless nature.
Whether your cat struts around the house like a mighty warrior or exudes a quiet strength, a fierce and strong name can be a fitting tribute to their commanding presence. So, consider these powerful monikers when looking for a name that truly captures your cat's indomitable spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Some Badass Names for Cats?
We've got some fierce cat names loaded with attitude and strength. Think legendary figures like Cleopatra, Spartacus, and Capone for a badass touch. These names pack a punch for cats with serious personality!
What Was Angry Cats Name?
We loved Grumpy Cat, also known as Tardar Sauce, an internet sensation due to her perpetually grumpy face. Despite her angry look, she brought joy worldwide. Her feline dwarfism and underbite made her unique.
What Cat Names Mean Strong?
We love names like Leo, Valkyrie, and Titan for strong cats. These names evoke power and resilience, perfect for our fierce feline friends. They inspire confidence and reflect our cats' determined and bold personalities.
What Are Some Fighter Cat Names?
We love fighter cat names for their bold and powerful vibes. Names like Warrior, Valkyrie, Ninja, Gladiator, and Samurai. They reflect bravery, courage, and tenacity. These names add an extra layer of badassery to our feline friends.
To sum up, choosing a fierce and angry cat name can be a fun way to showcase your pet's personality. Whether you opt for a lion-inspired name like 'Simba' or a villainous name like 'Maleficent,' the options are endless.
For example, my friend named her feisty feline 'Thor' after the mighty Norse god of thunder, and it suits his fiery temperament perfectly. Remember to choose a name that not only reflects your cat's fierceness but also brings a smile to your face every time you say it.
As our Editor-in-Chief, James plays a pivotal role in ensuring the quality and integrity of our content. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, James oversees the editorial process here at A Place for Animals. With years of experience in content editing, James ensures that every piece of content meets our high standards of accuracy and clarity. Under James' guidance, you can rest assured that the content you read is informative and impeccably crafted.
Is Dieffenbachia Toxic to Dogs?
Dieffenbachia is toxic to dogs because it has calcium oxalate crystals, causing severe mouth irritation and painful sores. Symptoms include drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Immediate vet help is necessary. Treatment may involve flushing the mouth and providing pain relief. To avoid exposure, keep plants out of reach and train dogs not to chew on them. Deterrent sprays can help. Be cautious on walks to prevent outdoor ingestion. Educate yourself and others about Dieffenbachia's danger to pets for their safety. Learn more about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention measures.
Key Takeaways
- Dieffenbachia is toxic to dogs due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
- Ingestion causes severe oral irritation, leading to painful ulcerations.
- Symptoms include drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
- Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if ingestion occurs.
- Prevent exposure by keeping plants out of reach and educating on toxicity.
Potential Dangers of Dieffenbachia for Dogs
We must be aware of the potential dangers Dieffenbachia poses to dogs due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause severe oral irritation. These crystals, if chewed on, can lead to painful ulcerations in a dog's mouth, tongue, and lips.
This oral irritation can be quite distressing for our furry friends and may result in symptoms like excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. It's vital to understand that Dieffenbachia is toxic to dogs, and any ingestion of this plant should prompt immediate veterinary attention.
Our pet's health is paramount, and seeking professional help promptly can prevent further complications. Veterinarians may provide treatment such as pain medication and gastroprotectant medication to help alleviate the discomfort caused by Dieffenbachia ingestion.
Symptoms of Dieffenbachia Toxicity in Dogs
After ingesting Dieffenbachia, dogs may exhibit symptoms of toxicity such as intense burning and irritation in the mouth, tongue, and lips, along with excessive drooling and difficulty swallowing. These signs can be distressing for your furry friend, causing discomfort and potential health risks.
If your dog starts lip-smacking, avoiding food and water, or pawing at their mouth after encountering Dieffenbachia, it's essential to act promptly. In more severe cases, Dieffenbachia toxicity in dogs can progress to respiratory swelling, vomiting, and even allergic reactions.
Immediate veterinary attention is highly recommended if you suspect your dog has been poisoned by Dieffenbachia to prevent further complications. Your veterinarian may provide treatment such as pain medication and gastroprotectants to alleviate the symptoms and aid in your dog's recovery.
Diagnosis of Dieffenbachia Poisoning in Dogs
Diagnosing Dieffenbachia poisoning in dogs typically involves identifying common symptoms such as oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. If your dog has ingested any part of the Dieffenbachia plant and is displaying these signs, it's essential to seek veterinary attention immediately.
Your vet may perform an oral examination to check for any plant residues in your dog's mouth or throat. Blood tests could also be conducted to detect any abnormalities associated with Dieffenbachia Poisoning, such as insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds may be utilized to evaluate the extent of damage caused by the plant ingestion. Providing your vet with a sample of the plant your dog consumed can aid in an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Dieffenbachia Toxicity
Upon identifying Dieffenbachia poisoning in dogs, the immediate focus shifts to implementing effective treatment options to address the toxicity. Here are some vital steps to take into account:
- Flush the Mouth: Flushing the mouth to remove any remaining pieces of the Dieffenbachia plant is essential to prevent further absorption of calcium oxalate crystals.
- Pain Management: Administering painkillers and protecting the gastrointestinal system can help alleviate discomfort and aid in the recovery process.
- Eye Examination: If the dog's eyes have been exposed to the plant, immediate treatment with saline solution is necessary to prevent additional damage.
- Skin Irritation: Managing skin irritation from contact with the Giant Dumb Cane plant involves washing the affected area with warm, soapy water and using prescription cream if needed.
- Seek Veterinary Care: Immediate veterinary care is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment of Dieffenbachia toxicity in dogs. Veterinarians can provide specialized care and monitor the dog's progress closely.
Preventing Dieffenbachia Exposure in Dogs
To prevent Dieffenbachia exposure in dogs, it's important to place these plants out of their reach to avoid ingestion. This plant contains insoluble oxalate crystals that can be toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Training dogs to avoid chewing on houseplants, including Dieffenbachia, is vital for their safety. Additionally, consider using deterrent sprays or barriers to further safeguard your pets from accessing Dieffenbachia.
When taking your dog for walks, be vigilant and prevent them from ingesting any parts of the plant they may encounter outdoors. Educating family members and visitors about the toxicity of Dieffenbachia is essential to guarantee overall pet safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens if a Dog Eats a Dieffenbachia?
If a dog eats Dieffenbachia, it can lead to severe oral irritation due to toxic calcium oxalate crystals. Symptoms include excessive drooling, vomiting, and trouble swallowing. Chewing on Dieffenbachia releases these harmful crystals, causing painful mouth ulcers in dogs.
Immediate vet care is essential to prevent complications. Treatment may involve pain and gastroprotectant meds. Keep your pooch away from this plant to avoid these risks.
What Is the Most Poisonous Plant for Dogs?
The most poisonous plant for dogs is the Dieffenbachia. Ingesting this plant can lead to severe symptoms like oral irritation and difficulty swallowing. If a dog consumes Dieffenbachia, prompt veterinary care is essential to prevent potential fatalities.
Treatment may involve flushing the mouth, pain management, and safeguarding the gastrointestinal system. Proper diagnosis through blood tests and imaging is vital in cases of Dieffenbachia poisoning in dogs.
Are Pothos Toxic to Dogs?
Pothos plants are toxic to dogs, causing mouth and tongue irritation if ingested. Symptoms of Pothos toxicity include vomiting and increased salivation.
It's important to keep Pothos away from pets to prevent poisoning incidents.
Are Ivy Plants Poisonous to Dogs?
Ivy plants can be toxic to dogs, causing rash, breathing issues, coma, or paralysis. Despite their innocent appearance, they pose serious health risks.
It's crucial to keep them out of reach to protect our furry friends. Awareness and prevention are key to safeguarding dogs against these toxic effects.
To sum up, it's vital to keep dieffenbachia plants out of reach of your furry friends to prevent potential toxicity. Remember, even though dieffenbachia may look appealing, it can be harmful to dogs if ingested.
By being mindful of the symptoms and taking precautions, you can guarantee the safety and well-being of your beloved pets. So, why take the risk when you can easily avoid it by being proactive and cautious?
Dana is our Lead Content Writer, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. With a background deeply rooted in animal studies and a profound love for all creatures, Dana is dedicated to crafting engaging and informative content that resonates with our audience. With Dana at the helm, you can trust that our content is accurate and engaging, catering to the diverse interests of animal enthusiasts everywhere.
How to Choose the Perfect Name for Your Jack Russell
Yield to the allure of finding the ideal name for your Jack Russell – unleash a world of creative possibilities in naming your spirited companion.
When naming your Jack Russell, draw inspiration from pop culture, like Wishbone or Eddie from 'Frasier'. Opt for short, distinct names that suit their lively nature. Reflect their appearance and traits, considering their physical features. Gender-specific names can enhance their energy, such as Turbo for males or Zippy for females. Embrace their spirited essence, selecting a name that captures their playful side and hunting instincts. For more insights into choosing the perfect name for your Jack Russell, explore how their name can reflect their unique personality and charm.
Key Takeaways
- Consider pop culture references for inspiration, like famous Jack Russells from TV shows.
- Opt for distinct and short names with two syllables and consonants.
- Reflect your Jack Russell's appearance and personality in the name.
- Highlight energy and playfulness with gender-specific names like Spark or Zippy.
- Embrace their lively and spirited nature by choosing a name that captures their energetic personality.
Consider Pop Culture References for Inspiration
When choosing a name for your Jack Russell, look to pop culture references for inspiration. Famous Jack Russells from TV shows like Wishbone, Eddie from 'Frasier,' or Chalky owned by Rick Stein can provide unique and recognizable options. These characters not only contribute a fun touch to your dog's identity but also establish a connection to beloved shows or personalities. Consider how these pop culture names align with your Jack Russell's personality traits to find a suitable and memorable choice that resonates with you.
Drawing from iconic Jack Russell terriers in pop culture can bring a hint of nostalgia or humor to your dog's name selection. Whether you prefer a character from 'Jack Russell: Dog Detective' or a comic strip featuring these lively pups, there are plenty of creative naming ideas waiting to be explored. By incorporating these famous Jack Russells into your naming process, you can make sure that your Jack Russell's name stands out as truly unique and special.
Opt for Distinct and Short Names
Considering the importance of choosing a suitable name for your Jack Russell, opting for distinct and short names is key to establishing a strong and effective communication bond with your furry companion. When selecting a name for your Jack Russell, it's advisable to choose a name with two syllables and many consonants. This type of name is more easily recognized by your Jack Russell, facilitating better communication between you and your pet.
Additionally, opting for a short name that's distinct from common dog commands helps to avoid confusion during training and everyday interactions. By selecting a name that reflects your Jack Russell's personality, you can create a more meaningful connection with your pet. Remember, the chosen name should be easy to call out in public settings and suitable for all situations.
Ultimately, aim for a name that you enjoy and that holds personal significance, as this will enhance the bond with your Jack Russell.
Reflect Your Jack Russells Appearance and Personality
To emphasize the unique traits and characteristics of your Jack Russell, we recommend selecting a name that reflects both its appearance and lively personality. When considering names, think about your Jack Russell's physical features such as coat color, size, and markings. These attributes can inspire a name that truly captures your dog's essence.
More importantly, don't forget to take into account your Jack Russell's energetic and playful nature. Look for names that embody the spunky and lively demeanor that's typical of Jack Russells. By choosing a name that resonates with your Jack Russell's distinct traits and behaviors, you can establish a strong connection with your furry companion.
Avoid names that may sound like common dog commands to prevent confusion during training sessions. Ultimately, the perfect name for your Jack Russell will be a reflection of both its appearance and personality, creating a bond that celebrates your dog's unique charm.
Highlight Energy and Playfulness With Gender-Specific Names
Highlighting the energy and playfulness of your Jack Russell can be achieved by choosing gender-specific names that resonate with their spirited nature.
For male Jack Russells, names like Spark or Turbo can capture their energetic nature and playful demeanor. These names reflect the dynamic characteristics of Terriers, such as Bolt, emphasizing their high activity levels.
On the other hand, for female Jack Russells, Zippy or Pep are great choices to showcase their lively spirit. Selecting a gender-specific name that matches your Jack Russell's personality can help you embrace their lively and spirited nature.
Embrace the Lively and Spirited Nature
Let's fully embrace the lively and spirited nature of Jack Russells by picking a name that truly captures their energetic personality. When selecting a name for your Jack, it's crucial to contemplate the essence of your dog's personality.
Jack Russells are recognized for their lively and spirited demeanor, mirroring their playful nature and quick reactions. Opt for names that resonate with their hunting instincts, displaying their active and alert disposition. Take your time to discover a name that not only highlights their intelligence and agility but also mirrors their history as skilled fox hunters, symbolizing their tenacity and courage.
Embracing the fun and comical side of Jack Russells can also be a delightful way to choose a name that brings out their mischievous and lively traits. Remember to pick a name that not only fits your Jack Russell but also connects with you as their companion. By reflecting on their lively spirit, playful demeanor, and innate hunting instincts, you can find the perfect name that truly embodies the essence of your energetic and spirited Jack Russell.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Proper Name for a Jack Russell?
We find that a proper name for a Jack Russell should be short, distinct, and reflect their appearance, personality, and energetic nature. Consider unique traits and choose names that highlight their energy and playfulness, suiting their gender for enhanced identity.
How Do I Pick a Unique Dog Name?
We find unique dog names by considering traits and looking for inspiration in pop culture. We aim for distinct names that reflect our dog's character. It's crucial the name is easy to pronounce and captures our furry friend's special qualities.
What Names Do Dogs Respond Best To?
We find that dogs respond best to names with two syllables and distinct consonant sounds. Choosing a name with many consonants helps their recognition. Avoid common command-related names for clarity during training and opt for names reflecting their traits.
What Are the 3 Types of Jack Russells?
There are three types of Jack Russells: smooth, broken, and rough, each with unique traits. Understanding these distinctions helps in selecting the right fit for our lifestyle. We appreciate the diversity within this beloved breed.
To sum up, selecting the perfect name for your Jack Russell is a significant decision that mirrors their personality and characteristics.
While it may appear overwhelming, taking into account pop culture references, opting for unique names, reflecting their appearance and personality, and embracing their energy and playfulness can help you find the ideal name.
Some could debate that a name is just a label, but it can also be a reflection of your bond and connection with your furry friend.
As our Editor-in-Chief, James plays a pivotal role in ensuring the quality and integrity of our content. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, James oversees the editorial process here at A Place for Animals. With years of experience in content editing, James ensures that every piece of content meets our high standards of accuracy and clarity. Under James' guidance, you can rest assured that the content you read is informative and impeccably crafted.
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Have you ever found yourself wondering, "Am I bisexual?" It's a common question, and the good news is, you're not alone. Sexuality is a spectrum, and sometimes navigating that spectrum can feel overwhelming. This guide is here to help you explore your feelings and discover a label (or no label at all!) that feels right for you.
Understanding the LGBTQ+ Lexicon
Before diving into bisexuality, let's explore some key terms:
- Cisgender/cis: Identifies someone whose gender identity aligns with their sex assigned at birth.
- Transgender/trans: Identifies someone whose gender identity differs from their sex assigned at birth.
- Non-binary: Identifies someone whose gender identity isn't exclusively male or female.
- Heterosexuality: Romantic or sexual attraction to people of the opposite sex.
- Cishet: Identifies someone who is both cisgender and heterosexual.
- Homosexuality: Romantic or sexual attraction to people of the same sex.
- Lesbian: A woman attracted to other women, including transgender women.
- Gay: A man attracted to other men, including transgender men.
- Queer: An umbrella term for anyone who isn't cishet, though some may still consider it a slur.
- Asexual: No sexual attraction to people of any gender.
- Pansexual: Attraction to people regardless of gender identity.
- Demisexual: Only experiences sexual attraction after forming a strong emotional bond.
- Closeted: Keeping one's gender identity or sexual orientation private.
- Intersex: Having both male and female reproductive or sexual anatomy.
- LGBTQ+: Stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning, with a plus sign acknowledging other sexual and gender identities.
This is just a starting point! There are many other identities out there. The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists (NLGJA) has a great Stylebook on LGBTQ+ Terminology if you want to learn more.
Bisexuality: Beyond the Binary
The common misconception is that bisexuality means being equally attracted to men and women. But sexuality is more nuanced. Bisexuality describes someone who is emotionally, sexually, or romantically attracted to more than one gender. This can encompass a wide range of experiences.
Some people may use the term "bi+" to include pansexuality and gender fluidity. Additionally, bisexuality can intersect with other identities. You can be both bisexual and asexual, meaning you have romantic but not sexual attraction to multiple genders (biromantic). The label is yours to define – choose what feels right for you.
Bisexuality Myths Debunked
One harmful stereotype suggests bisexual people are inherently promiscuous or incapable of monogamy. This is simply untrue. Bisexuality is about attraction, not behavior. Bisexual individuals, like everyone else, can choose to have committed monogamous relationships.
Exploring Your Feelings
So, how do you know if "bisexual" fits? There's no one-size-fits-all answer, and the label "bicurious" might feel like a good starting point. However, some find "bicurious" minimizes the validity of bisexuality.
Here's a different approach: Embrace the label "bisexual" if it resonates with you, or hold off on labels entirely until you feel comfortable. Experimentation is healthy! Explore online dating apps like Feeld that cater to open-minded individuals.
The Bisexual Spectrum
Bisexuality is a spectrum, and your place on it is unique. You might be equally attracted to all genders, or your attraction might lean more towards one side. There's no right or wrong way to experience bisexuality. Maybe you're romantically drawn to men but only experience physical attraction with women. Perhaps you find certain gender presentations particularly attractive. All of these experiences are valid.
Beyond the Quizzes
The Kinsey scale, a tool developed to understand sexual orientation, might show up in your online searches. This scale places individuals on a spectrum from exclusively heterosexual to exclusively homosexual, with a "bisexual" spot in between. While groundbreaking in its time, the Kinsey scale doesn't fully encompass the complexities of gender identity and sexual attraction we understand today.
Similarly, online quizzes can be tempting, but remember – sexuality is subjective. These quizzes can't define who you are. Use them for self-reflection, prompting you to consider who you're attracted to and why.
Recap: Understanding Your BisexualityThis guide explored the concept of bisexuality, offering you tools for self-discovery on your unique journey. We debunked the myth that bisexuality is about a 50/50 split in attraction or requires promiscuity. Instead, bisexuality is a spectrum encompassing a wide range of experiences.
Whether you're questioning your identity for the first time or seeking a deeper understanding, remember there's no single "right" way to be bisexual. Here are some key takeaways:
- Bisexuality Explained: Bisexual individuals experience emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to more than one gender. This can encompass attraction to men, women, non-binary folks, and anyone else on the gender spectrum.
- Discovering Your Bisexuality: There's no checklist or definitive test. Self-exploration through dating apps or open conversations can be helpful. The label "bicurious" is a valid starting point, but you can also embrace "bisexual" if it feels right.
- Understanding Bisexuality: Sexuality is a spectrum, and your place on it is unique. You might be equally attracted to all genders, or your attraction might lean more towards one side. All experiences are valid.
Remember: You are not alone. If you're questioning your bisexuality or facing biphobia, there are resources available. Look for LGBTQ+ affirming communities or mental health professionals who can support you on your journey. |
AI & 21Things
This page identifies the resources in 21t4s that include AI. Visit the Awesome Index and filter for "Applications" and select "AI." OR search the complete Complete URL Spreadsheet 2023-24 to look for "AI."
AI & Lesson Planning Free Resources
Here are a few of the top rated sites that help teachers with Lesson Planning for FREE. The links to Demo videos will take you to the video tutorials by Eric Curts from Ctrl-Alt-Achieve.
Curipod: Create lessons with activities and assessments. Eric Curts Blog with demo.
MagicSchool.ai: Lesson Plan Generator, Academic Content Generator. Demo video.
Almanack.ai: 35+ tools, PBLessons, and loads more. Demo video
Schoolai.com: Activities you can create or use in their "Spaces" where you can monitor what students are doing. Tons of great content and learning resources. Demo video
Eduaide.ai: Lesson plan, assessment, rubric, over 100 ai tools for content creation. Demo video
Twee: 30+ Tools, Language Arts focused. Type in topic and it will run your query and returns results. Demo video
Citing AI-Generated Sources MLA & APA
Citing AI-generated sources
Students should always check with their instructor before using AI Generated resources.
Presentation Resources (MASL 11/23 created by Melissa White)
- Cite a generative AI tool whenever you paraphrase, quote, or incorporate into your own work any content (whether text, image, data, or other) that was created by it.
- Acknowledge all functional uses of the tool (like editing your prose or translating words) in a note, your text, or another suitable location.
- Take care to vet the secondary sources it cites.
- For general citation of AI-generated content from Eric Curts
- For any assignment on which a student received any form of AI assistance, have them include an "AI Credits" section to the bottom of their work.
- Here they can simply disclose how they used AI for this assessment including brainstorming, outlining, feedback on their writing, and such.
- They can simply copy and paste the responses from the AI if that is most convenient.
Visit: libguides from Brown University (updated November 2023)
View the guidelines for referencing AI-generated content in APA, Chicago, and MLA styles. 4.QG4 Graphics Step 1 includes references to "Citing AI-Generated Images and Sources from Brown University Library.
In General:
- Cite the AI tool or the outputs from the tools when you use them in your work. This includes direct quotations, images, and data, as well as paraphrased content.
- If you use an AI tool for some other purpose, such as translating, editing, or generating an outline, include a note about this somewhere in your paper.
- Most guidelines treat AI-generated content as a source with no author, so you'll use the title of the source in your in-text citations, and in your reference list.
***Remember AI may be using AI-created citations, sources, and information that is not accurate. It is best to check the sources from one or more primary sources.
How to find AI in 21t4s activities & Potential Problems with AI
FAQ Section
- Where is AI located in the different Things & Quests?
- There is an Introduction to AI in Basics 1.Q7.
- We are continually adding "AI" to the searchable Awesome Index for 21things4students and there are two ways to search the index
1. Use the "AI on Quest Pages" drop-down menu to see the name of the Quest that uses or references AI.
2. Use the Applications drop-down menu to select AI apps - The Complete URL list will also provide links to the specific Quest page where an AI application is linked to.
- Check the Updates page as new AI activities are being added or removed from Quests each month.
- What are some potential problems with AI
- Bias and discrimination
- Data is not always up-to-date
- Not enough data has been used
- Data privacy and security
- Data is not always accurate - pulled from many different sources
- Misinformation and manipulation
IT and Administrative Approval
Check with your School District Instructional Technology Department and/or administrative representative about access and permission requirements for the use of AI resources.
Once you have approval, you may want to test the technical implementation and verify access to ensure student ability to access AI and AI-generated and Experimental activities:
talk with your School or District Technology Personnel
provide the URL or list of the URL's for the Thing and Quests you are planning to use
try accessing the URL's on your teacher computer, and also from a student device as advance preparation for using the resource in the Quest
A list of the websites is located on the side of each Quest, in the teacher guide, and in the complete URL list for 21t4s
find out if parental or guardian permission is needed
- check if there are access requirements based on the ages of the students you will use the Quest activities with.
- check your district policies regarding parental permissions
Learning about AI - PD
Professional Development Opportunities
Online Courses:
- ISTE offers a course on teaching AI and has curriculum guides for some levels and content areas. Check their schedule
- Google offers courses and resources on their Google AI page.
- Microsoft offers a variety of courses and has some free "Learn" options such as: Empower educators to explore the potential artificial intelligence (9 unit module 53 min)
- REMC.org offers Professional Learning courses in Michigan. These courses for Michigan educators are free and include SCECHs.
- Rushton Hurley's CHATGPT free course
- Free course https://www.aiforeducation.io/ai-course
Organizations offering resources for teaching, lessons, blogs, podcasts and videos
- Commonsense Media Collection of AI Literacy Lessons for Grades 6-12 and a link to their curated list of Lessons and Tools for Teaching About Artificial Intelligence.
- Code.org/ai/how-ai-works. There are short videos and in-classroom lessons.
- Day of AI provides a full day worth of free curriculum and activities K-12. These are structured so that you could do them at your own pace as they fit your curriculum.
- AI4K12.org
- AI4K12.org
- edWeb.net offers edWebinars where you can use the search to locate webinars about AI, and then watch a recording, listen to the Podcast, or read the article, or sign up to attend one online.
- Podcasts about AI from builtin.com
Some outstanding YouTube presentations:
- 8 AI Resources For The Classroom by Rachelle Dene Poth and Holly Clark
AI & Inclusion
AI & Inclusion ISTE Expert Webinar Presentation
Some Favorite tools
SOME Favorites
Some of these resources are also included in the Free Lesson Planning Resources Section.
Dec 2023 list
Cool Tools 2023 spreadsheet generated from Eric Curts Blog reviewing AI tools and resources. It includes links to his short videos and honorable mentions. (Jan. 1, 2024)
- SchoolAI Spaces - Fascinating sets of resources for educators, and you can create your own chatbots for different subject areas, assignments, it also has an amazing area called Spaces. and much more.
- MagicSchool.ai Favorites there are too amazing to list - this site has to be visited.
- Wordtune - paste in a sentence and improve it.
- Autodraw - Start drawing a shape and it will give you suggestions and finish the drawing for you.
- Scribble Diffusion - Turn your sketch into a refined image using AI.
- Open Art AI - Lots of different tools to enhance or create art.
- Teachable Machine - Train a computer to recognize your own images, sounds, & poses.
- AI Prompt Library - A variety of prompts to help you lesson plan and do administrative tasks with GenAI chatbots
- Craiyon - Create AI art. (reviewing ads and content on this site)
- Playground AI - Create and edit images
- Twee - Create quiz questions for any YouTube video
- Diffit - Get level resources
- Goblin Tools - is a collection of small, simple, single-task tools, mostly designed to help neuro-divergent people with tasks they find overwhelming or difficult
Additional Resources
Additional Resources:
AI and Its Impact on Teaching and Learning, Melissa White (11/2023)
Wakelet (Ilene Winokur) - AI in Education focused presentations
AI for Education - Free Educator Curriculum Lesson Resources
- Prompt library for GenAI Chatbot lessons
- Webinars on AI previous and upcoming
ISTE Hands-on Project Educator Guides for elementary, secondary, elective, CSE, AI Ethics
U.S. Office of Educational Technology Insights and Recommendations (May 2023) PDF "Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Teaching and Learning"
Day of AI Resources
These free learning resources were initially developed for schools to do a full day of curricular activities using their AI Resources and lessons. This has become a collection of lessons that can be integrated into a school curriculum at any time through the year. Lessons and Activities for K-12 are organized by grade groupings (3-5, 6-8, 9-12, advanced CS). Planned for 30-60 min time blocks. There are free online training workshops offered for educators, Up to four hours of lessons plans are provided per grade. Register online to access the resources. Direct any questions to firstname.lastname@example.com
Lessons are:
- Learn the Basics about AI
- Identify the Benefits and Risks of AI
- Design and Create with AI
Google Experiments & Applied Digital Skills Lessons RE: AI
Google Applied Digital Skills Lessons
Google has created Free project-based lessons to help students learn about AI . It includes short videos and guided tutorials with assignments completed using different Google applications. It requires signing into your Google Account to learn and complete assignments.
Lesson 1. Discover AI in Daily Life. This activity introduces AI in daily life, has students use QuickDraw, then Google Draw to create a presentation. It also has students learn to use Google Translate (AI). It provides a Certificate of Completion after completing the lesson.
Say What You See from Google Arts & Culture, an experiment that gives practice learning to write descriptive prompts.
Odd One Out: Spot the odd one and which are AI generated "imposters" hidden in artworks in Google Arts & Culture.
Additional Google Applied skills lessons include:
Making Art with Google Sheets, Organizing Files in Drive, and Writing an If-Then Adventure story.
Common Sense Media AI Literacy Lessons
Common Sense Media: AI Literacy Lessons for Grades 6-12
"Quick, grab-and-go lessons to help your students think critically about AI and its impact."
20-minute or less lessons providing an introduction to AI, social and ethical impacts.
The grades 6-12 lessons are for 15-20 minutes long and are titled: What is AI, How Is AI Trained, AI Chatbots: Who's Behind the Screen?, AI Chatbots & Friendship, Understanding AI Bias, How AI Bias Impacts Our Lives, AI Algorithms: How Well Do They Know You?, Facing Off with Facial Recognition. (as of 2/28/24)
Teach AI curricula
Teach AI has several different levels of lessons for different grade levels.
Intro to AI for grades 9-12 are 35-45 minute lessons with project-based exploration of AI ethics and practicalities. They provide step-by-step plans with a student workbook. This is a 10-week project-based course. You will need to provide consent to be emailed the curricula, and be prompted to select from a list the projects you are interested in.
Ethics of AI Curriculum for MS from MIT
AI + Ethics Curriculum for Middle School.
MIT developed a free curriculum for middle school students on the Ethics of AI. These are "unplugged" lesson activities are hands-on activities with teacher guides, assessments, and student materials. You can download and make a copy of the lessons.
CC-BY-NC These materials were created in August 2019 and are licensed as CC-BY-NC under creative commons. This license allows you to remix, tweak, and build upon these materials non-commercially as long as you include acknowledgment to the creators. Links to Slide decks to accompany the lessons are linked so that they may be downloaded to your drive.
Lessons include: AI Bingo, Intro to Algorithms as Opinions, Ethical Matrix, Supervised Machine Learning and Algorithmic Bias, Speculative Fiction, A YouTube Scavenger Hunt, YouTube Redesign, and YouTube Socratic Seminar.
AI Teachable Machine from Google
This is a fun and easy to complete activity where you teach a computer on the web to recognize images, sounds, and poses.
To use it you 1. Gather examples and group them into categories or classes to teach the machine. 2. Train the AI model on the computer. 3. Expore the model for projects or host it online.
Example tutorials are provided: Bananameter, Snap Clap Whistle, Head Tilt
Examples of projects created by others are provided:
- A sorting experiment with Arduino
- Communicating with facial gestures to trigger sounds
- Turn a webcam and piece of paper into a game controller.
Shared lessons:
- AI + Ethics to begin to understand bias in algorithmic systems
- Dancing with AI to create interactive systems
- Ready to go comcepts of machine learning, classificatiron and soietal impact lesson. |
Global Shakespeares: Re-Creating the Merchant of Venice
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William Shakespeare is the most performed playwright on the globe; this course brings his play The Merchant of Venice into the 21st century by comparing multiple recent performances, from film and television stagings to an international production that marked the first performance of the play in the former Jewish Ghetto of Venice, Italy. Students will:
- Learn how to read and perform Shakespeare
- Investigate the historical and contemporary context of Shakespeare's works, including why and how they continue to be read and performed
- Gain insight from Shakespeare scholars, historians, theater professionals, and actors
- Produce and Perform selected scenes using the knowledge and techniques they have learned
This course provides a rare opportunity to see how artists and performers today grapple with a play that is dramatically challenging in its mixture of comic and tragic elements, as well as its portrayal of gender relations and ethnic and religious prejudice. Along the way, Students will learn to read and understand Shakespeare with the help of recorded vignettes on historical and theatrical context by scholars and theater professionals, as well as performance tutorials and reflections delivered by the actors themselves.
Students will also put into practice what they have learned, recording and producing short performances of selected scenes or speeches, and will be asked to consider and reflect upon how their choices foreground questions of historical context, gender relations, and/or the variability of dramatic modes.
This course is of interest to anyone interested in Shakespeare and the theater, those who want to learn about the history of Shakespeare's life and times, or those who desire a greater understanding of dramatic performance and their own creative process. This module may also function as an instructional aid for educators at the high school and university level with a focus on adapting Shakespeare for the theater or screen.
Image by: Cathleen Nalezyty
Diana Henderson
Diana Henderson's areas of research and interest include Shakespeare, gender studies, early modern poetry and drama, modernism, media studies, and world drama. Her publications include the books Alternative Shakespeares 3, Collaborations with the Past: Reshaping Shakespeare Across Time and Media, A Concise Companion to Shakespeare on Screen, Passion Made Public: Elizabethan Lyric, Gender and Performance, and articles in (among others) Shakespeare Survey, Renaissance and Reformation, Shakespeare and Genre, Thomas Middleton in Context, Knowing Shakespeare, Shakespeare and War, Victorian Shakespeare, Shakespeare: The Movie 2, Shakespeare After Mass Media, A New History of Early English Drama, Virginia Woolf: Reading the Renaissance, and numerous volumes in the Cambridge and Blackwell's Companions series. She has worked as a dramaturg, was a principal participant in MIT's collaborations with the Royal Shakespeare Company, and is co-editor of Shakespeare Studies. Winner of the 2005 Everett Moore Baker Memorial Award For Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching, MacVicar Faculty Fellow. |
UK warned it's becoming 'dumping ground' for products made by slaves
EXCLUSIVE: Foreign Affairs committee chairman Alicia Kearns says Britain's transition to green energy must not come 'off the back of slavery and genocide'.
Britain is in danger of becoming a "dumping ground" for products made by modern day "slaves", the Government will be warned this week.
Foreign Affairs committee chairman Alicia Kearns will demand action to ensure China's Uyghur population is not exploited in the production of solar panels used in the UK.
She says Britain's transition to green energy must not come "off the back of slavery and genocide".
There is international alarm at reports that more than 100,000 members of Muslim minorities are subject to forced labour in China and concern at allegations adults are put work in the production of polysilicon for solar panels.
Ms Kearns has secured a Commons debate on Tuesday and will push for the UK to follow the lead of the US and EU and bring in import controls to stop goods made with Uyghur forced labour reaching these shores. She wants offending companies barred from operating in this country.
She said: "This debate will give me to the opportunity to once again raise the solar industry's worst kept secret – Uyghur forced labour in solar supply chains."
Warning of the dangers of not taking action, she said: "The UK is fast becoming a global outlier and dumping ground for solar panels made with materials mined and processed by Uyghur slaves. It does not have to be this way."
Rahima Mahmut of the Stop Uyghur Genocide campaign said: "The Chinese government is carrying out egregious human rights abuses against the Uyghur people that amount to genocide."
She added that the "UK has yet to adopt any meaningful legislation to address corporate complicity in Uyghur forced labour".
And Sian Lea of Anti-Slavery International said: "We urgently need to transition to clean energy for people and planet, and this means importing solar panels and other forms of renewable energy. But we cannot allow this crucial transition to be built on an acceptance of and complicity in human rights abuses."
According to the US Government, "China is the world's largest producer of solar-grade polysilicon, and over 50 per cent of the country's production takes place in Xinjiang" – the province that is home to around 12 million Uyghurs.
Chris Hewett, chief executive of industry body Solar Energy UK, said: "The UK solar industry condemns and opposes any abuse of human rights in the global supply chain. As soon as we became aware of the situation in Xinjiang, we took action immediately.
"With the Solar Stewardship Initiative, the UK and EU solar industry is leading the field in seeking transparency and we would hope that other sectors would adopt the same robust approach."
A Government spokesman said: "We are committed to stamping out modern slavery and the UK was the first country to outline the steps we will take to identify and prevent modern slavery in our own supply chains. Our approach scrutinises every step of the procurement process, and the Procurement Act gives us strengthened powers to exclude suppliers where necessary.
"We are also focused on building resilient, sustainable and innovative supply chains for solar energy through our Solar Taskforce as we transition to renewables." |
Introduction: The Allure of Long-Distance Running Events
Marathons have gained immense popularity in the US, attracting runners of all levels to test their endurance, determination, and mental strength. These long-distance running events offer participants a unique opportunity to challenge themselves, explore new cities, and connect with fellow runners. As you embark on your journey to discover the best marathons in the US, consider the myriad of experiences that await you, from breathtaking scenery and historic courses to unparalleled crowd support and camaraderie.
What Makes a Marathon Great: Key Factors to Consider
When evaluating the best marathons in the US, it is crucial to consider several essential factors that contribute to a memorable and rewarding running experience. These aspects include the course scenery, difficulty, organization, participant support, and community engagement. By examining these elements, you can make an informed decision about which marathon events align with your personal goals, running experience, and preferred race atmosphere.
Course Scenery
Aesthetically pleasing courses that showcase the natural beauty and landmarks of a city or region can significantly enhance a runner's experience. Scenic routes often provide additional motivation and inspiration, making the marathon journey even more enjoyable.
The challenge level of a marathon is another critical factor to consider. Some runners may prefer flat and fast courses, while others may seek out hilly or rugged terrain to test their endurance and strength. Understanding your running abilities and limitations will help you select a marathon that matches your skill set and ambitions.
A well-organized marathon ensures a smooth and efficient event for all participants. Key aspects of organization include clear communication, accurate course markings, sufficient aid stations, and reliable timing systems. Events that demonstrate strong attention to detail and logistical planning tend to create a more enjoyable experience for runners.
Participant Support
Supportive race staff, volunteers, and fellow runners can significantly impact your marathon experience. Encouraging words, high-energy aid stations, and helpful volunteers can provide the extra boost needed to push through challenging moments during the race. Additionally, a strong sense of camaraderie among participants can foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere.
Community Engagement
Marathons that actively engage the local community often create a more festive and memorable event. Look for races that offer cultural experiences, unique attractions, and opportunities to interact with residents. High levels of community engagement can lead to increased crowd support, lively spectators, and a more celebratory atmosphere.
Unveiling the Best Marathons in the US: Our Top Picks
To provide a well-rounded selection of the best marathons in the US, we have carefully evaluated various factors and runner experiences. Here are our top picks:
1. The Big Sur International Marathon (California)
Known for its breathtaking scenery, the Big Sur International Marathon features a challenging course with steep hills and stunning ocean views. Participants enjoy a unique experience, running alongside artists, musicians, and fellow enthusiasts in a celebration of health, fitness, and natural beauty.
2. The Honolulu Marathon (Hawaii)
As one of the largest marathons in the US, the Honolulu Marathon attracts thousands of participants from around the world. Runners can enjoy a relatively flat course, tropical weather, and a festive atmosphere, complete with live music and enthusiastic spectators.
3. The Twin Cities Marathon (Minnesota)
The Twin Cities Marathon offers a scenic tour of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, taking runners through parks, neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks. With a net elevation loss, this event is popular among runners seeking a personal best time, while still enjoying a festive and engaging race atmosphere.
4. The Flying Pig Marathon (Ohio)
As a runner-focused event, the Flying Pig Marathon provides participants with a memorable experience, complete with a festive and inclusive atmosphere. The course features a variety of terrain, including hills, flats, and urban and suburban landscapes, making it an appealing choice for runners of all levels.
5. The Missoula Marathon (Montana)
Recognized as a top marathon by Runner's World magazine, the Missoula Marathon boasts a scenic and challenging course, with a net elevation loss of over 1,000 feet. Runners can enjoy the beautiful Montana landscapes, friendly volunteers, and a lively post-race celebration.
The Boston Marathon: A Timeless Classic
As one of the world's most prestigious and renowned running events, the Boston Marathon holds a special place in the hearts of runners. Established in 1897, it is the oldest annual marathon in the world and serves as a qualifying event for serious runners striving to achieve personal bests and join the ranks of the sport's elite.
To participate in the Boston Marathon, runners must meet specific qualifying times based on their age and gender. This unique aspect sets the Boston Marathon apart from other marathons, as it serves as a tangible measure of a runner's dedication, skill, and perseverance. The qualification process adds an extra layer of prestige and excitement to the event, making it a highly sought-after achievement for runners across the globe.
The Boston Marathon's historic course spans 26.2 miles from Hopkinton to Boston, taking runners through eight unique towns and cities. Along the way, participants are treated to enthusiastic spectators, live music, and a festive atmosphere. The race's final stretch, known as "Heartbreak Hill," is a challenging uphill section that tests even the most seasoned runners. Crossing the finish line at the Boston Marathon is a moment of immense pride and accomplishment, marking a significant milestone in any runner's journey.
The New York City Marathon: A Spectacular Urban Experience
The New York City Marathon is an iconic running event that attracts more than 50,000 participants from around the world each year. As the largest marathon in the US and one of the most popular in the world, this race offers runners a unique and unforgettable urban experience.
The marathon's course spans all five boroughs of New York City, taking runners through historic neighborhoods, across iconic bridges, and past famous landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Central Park. The diverse scenery and lively atmosphere create a one-of-a-kind backdrop for runners, making the New York City Marathon a must-run event for many participants.
One of the most appealing aspects of the New York City Marathon is its massive participation, which fosters a sense of camaraderie and unity among runners. The event brings together individuals from various backgrounds, ages, and abilities, creating a diverse and inclusive community that celebrates personal achievement and collective effort. Additionally, the marathon's unparalleled crowd support and energy provide an extra boost for runners, propelling them toward the finish line.
The Chicago Marathon: A Flat and Fast Midwest Challenge
The Chicago Marathon is a premier running event that attracts thousands of participants each year, offering a flat and fast course that appeals to both amateur and professional runners. With its ideal running conditions and enthusiastic spectators, the Chicago Marathon is a must-run event for those seeking a personal best time or an unforgettable race experience.
One of the primary reasons runners flock to the Chicago Marathon is its flat and fast course, which spans 26.2 miles through the heart of the city. The route takes participants through 29 diverse neighborhoods, showcasing the city's rich history, culture, and architecture. Runners can enjoy scenic views of the Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan, and iconic landmarks such as the Art Institute of Chicago and Grant Park.
In addition to its fast course, the Chicago Marathon boasts ideal running conditions, with temperatures typically averaging between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit on race day. This moderate climate, combined with the course's minimal elevation changes, makes the Chicago Marathon an attractive option for runners looking to achieve a personal best time or qualify for other prestigious marathons, such as the Boston Marathon.
Beyond its course and running conditions, the Chicago Marathon is also known for its enthusiastic spectators, who line the streets to cheer on participants. The event's festive atmosphere, complete with live music and entertainment, creates an unforgettable experience for runners, making the Chicago Marathon one of the best marathons in the US.
The Marine Corps Marathon: A Patriotic Run Through the Nation's Capital
The Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) is a unique and inspiring running event that takes participants on a patriotic journey through the nation's capital. As one of the largest marathons in the US, the MCM offers a historic course, strong military ties, and a sense of community pride, making it a must-run event for many participants.
Established in 1976, the Marine Corps Marathon has built a reputation as a world-class event that showcases the spirit, dedication, and camaraderie of both military personnel and civilians. The marathon's course, which spans 26.2 miles, takes runners through Washington, D.C., and Arlington, Virginia, past iconic landmarks such as the US Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Arlington National Cemetery.
One of the most distinctive aspects of the Marine Corps Marathon is its strong military connection. As the largest marathon in the world that does not offer prize money, the MCM focuses on fostering a sense of camaraderie, teamwork, and personal achievement among participants. The event is organized and staffed by members of the United States Marine Corps, who serve as volunteers, race officials, and motivators throughout the course.
The Marine Corps Marathon's historic course and military ties are complemented by its commitment to environmental sustainability and runner-focused amenities. The MCM has been recognized as a certified green event by the Council for Responsible Sport, and it offers a variety of resources and support for participants, including training programs, gear check, and post-race refreshments.
In summary, the Marine Corps Marathon is a one-of-a-kind running event that combines history, patriotism, and community pride in a picturesque and challenging course. For runners seeking a unique and memorable marathon experience, the MCM is an excellent choice and one of the best marathons in the US.
The Portland Marathon: A Hidden Gem in the Pacific Northwest
The Portland Marathon, held annually in Oregon's largest city, offers runners a unique and memorable experience that combines picturesque scenery, eco-friendly initiatives, and runner-focused amenities. As a well-regarded event among the best marathons in the US, the Portland Marathon is an excellent choice for runners of all levels looking for a top-notch marathon experience.
One of the standout features of the Portland Marathon is its scenic course, which takes runners through the city's most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks. Participants will enjoy views of the Willamette River, the historic St. Johns Bridge, and the lush greenery of Forest Park. The course's combination of urban and natural landscapes, along with its gentle rolling hills, offers a visually appealing and moderately challenging experience for runners.
In addition to its scenic course, the Portland Marathon is committed to eco-friendly practices and sustainability. The event has been certified as a Climate Smart Event by the Council for Responsible Sport, and it offers compostable cups at aid stations, recycling and composting bins throughout the course, and a carbon offset program for participants. These initiatives demonstrate the Portland Marathon's dedication to reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices within the running community.
The Portland Marathon also prioritizes runner comfort and convenience, providing a variety of amenities and support services throughout the event. Participants can enjoy access to gear check, massage stations, and a finish line festival with food, drinks, and live music. The marathon's smaller size, compared to other major events, allows for a more personalized and intimate experience, with ample opportunities for runners to connect with fellow participants and the local community.
In conclusion, the Portland Marathon is a hidden gem among the best marathons in the US, offering a perfect blend of scenic beauty, eco-friendly initiatives, and runner-focused amenities. For those seeking a memorable and rewarding marathon experience, the Portland Marathon is an excellent choice.
How to Choose the Perfect Marathon: Tips for Runners
Selecting the ideal marathon can be a challenging task, given the wide variety of events available across the US. By considering your personal goals, running experience, and preferred race atmosphere, you can find the perfect marathon that suits your needs and provides a memorable experience. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision when choosing from the best marathons in the US.
1. Evaluate Your Running Experience and Fitness Level
Assess your running experience and current fitness level to determine which marathon is best for you. If you are new to marathon running, consider selecting an event with a relatively flat course and mild weather conditions. More experienced runners may opt for challenging courses with significant elevation changes or extreme temperatures to test their limits.
2. Consider the Course Scenery and Difficulty
The course scenery and difficulty are essential factors when choosing a marathon. If you prefer scenic routes, consider events that offer picturesque views of cities, parks, or landmarks. For those who enjoy a challenge, look for marathons with hilly or mountainous terrain. Remember to review the course elevation profile and consider how it may impact your performance and overall experience.
3. Research the Event's Organization and Participant Support
A well-organized marathon with ample participant support can significantly enhance your race experience. Look for events with clear communication, accurate course markings, and sufficient aid stations. Additionally, consider the availability of medical support, gear check, and other amenities that may contribute to your comfort and convenience during the event.
4. Assess the Race Atmosphere and Community Engagement
The race atmosphere and community engagement play a crucial role in shaping your marathon experience. Research events that align with your preferred race atmosphere, whether it be a large-scale event with massive crowd support or a smaller, more intimate gathering. Consider marathons that involve the local community, as these events often provide unique cultural experiences and opportunities to connect with fellow runners and residents.
5. Plan According to Your Personal Goals
Your personal goals should guide your marathon selection. If you are aiming for a personal best time, consider events with fast and flat courses, ideal running conditions, and minimal distractions. If you are more interested in the overall experience, look for marathons that offer unique themes, historic courses, or eco-friendly initiatives.
By considering these factors and exploring various marathon events, you can find the perfect fit and create a memorable running experience. Remember, the best marathons in the US cater to a wide range of preferences and abilities, ensuring that there is an event for every runner to enjoy. |
The creation and maintenance of the therapeutic alliance is of the utmost importance when treating suicidal patients. This can be challenging, because there is a strong link between dissociation and suicide. This chapter defines dissociation and describes its manifestations, developmental roots, and the relationship between dissociation and suicide. A suicidal patient's ability to dissociate is often the result of attachmentdifficulties in childhood, stemming from "adverse childhood events," early traumatic experiences. Traumatized children identify with the aggressor and take in destructive attitudes toward themselves. They develop an anti-self that is turned against the self andcontributes to self-destructive behavior and, at its ultimate end, suicide. The trust issues, negative expectations of others, and dissociative tendencies that result from experiencing interpersonal trauma can make it difficult for these patients to develop a strong therapeutic alliance. Effective psychotherapies with suicidal patients require the therapist be able to provide a relational experience, where the suicidal person is respected, and their experience is listened to in a compassionate, empathetic manner.Therapists who can provide the patient with a sense of safety, a feeling of being "seen" as whohe/she really is,and soothing to alleviate unbearable psychological pain, help heal the patients' attachment system byproviding a secure base from which the patient can explore their pain, understand its roots, and learn to regulate and tolerate it without the need to dissociate. Research has shown that a number of suicide specific therapies which embody these principles are effective in treating suicidal patients.
The suicidal state of mind is the monstrous enemy of the suicidal patient, which cannot be fought alone. Therapists can unite with their patients in the struggle against the pain by means of language. I tend to use the plurals us and we instead of I and you (e.g., "We have to go through this; let us look at this from another perspective"; "This is good for us"). I believe that this use of language creates an atmosphere of togetherness and of joining forces against a common assailant, ultimately empowering the patient.
—Orbach (2011, p. 124)
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Firestone, L. (2018). Dissociation and Therapeutic Alliance. In: Pompili, M. (eds) Phenomenology of Suicide. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-47976-7_10
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This is a question our experts keep getting from time to time. Now, we have got the complete detailed explanation and answer for everyone, who is interested!
Where did Ivan Pavlov come from?
Approaches: The Behaviourist Approach for the A-Level in Psychology offered by the AQA
45 questions found in related categories
Which of the following is an example of a behavior that a dog has learned?
Dogs do a lot of learning on their own, in addition to picking up the things that their owners teach them. For instance, a dog that suffers from separation anxiety would whine whenever he sees his owner getting ready to leave the house and taking out his keys and coat. The dog has come to understand that when the master starts grabbing for a jacket and keys, it means that the master is about to leave.
Is the ability to condition oneself innate or learned?
Summary. Both instincts and reflexes are examples of innate behaviors, which simply refer to activities that occur naturally and do not require any form of learning. In contrast, learning refers to a shift in either behavior or understanding that occurs as a direct result of having an experience. Learning can be broken down into three primary categories: classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and observational learning.
What is an example of a behavior that has been learned by an animal?
Seeing the behaviors of other animals and gaining knowledge via one's own experiences are two sources of learned behavior. Young ducks learn how to avoid potential threats and what foods are healthy to consume by observing their mothers as they grow up. This is an example of a behavior that may be learned.
What are some of the behaviors that come naturally to dogs?
- Suckling. Chewing is a natural instinct that is present in every puppy, just like the need to nurse from its mother. Your dog will lose his first set of teeth somewhere between the ages of four and six months…. Scent Marking. Dogs are hardwired to avoid physical conflict. …
- Sniffing. …
- Play. …
- Barking, Whining, Growling and Howling. …
- Breed-Specific Behavior.
What are the four different kinds of conduct that are innate?
Moving on to more complicated kinds of innate behavior, such as fixed action patterns, migration, stereotypy, and circadian rhythms, is the next logical step now that we have the fundamentals under our belts.
What kinds of vehicles qualify as taxis?
On the other hand, taxis can be thought of as the directed movement of the flies back towards the ripe fruit…. Phototaxis are another prevalent kind of taxis. They are characterized by movement that occurs in reaction to a light stimulus. When they fly toward a light source, moths are demonstrating a form of phototaxis known as positive phototaxis.
What kind of behavior do we call it when an animal's actions help another being at the expense of the animal's own well-being?
An organism is considered to behave altruistically in the field of evolutionary biology when its behavior benefits other species, even if it comes at a cost to the creature itself. In common parlance, an action is only considered to be "altruistic" if it was carried out with the specific aim of assisting another individual in some way.
What exactly are these "animal taxis"?
A cell or organism will exhibit taxis as a behavioral reaction in response to an external stimulation… The movement of an organism or a cell toward a source of stimulus is an example of a positive taxis. When an organism or a cell moves away from the source of stimulation, this is known as a negative taxis response.
Which type of operant conditioning should researchers utilize if they want participants to get closer and closer?
3. Shaping is a form of operant training in which you reward behavior that is becoming closer and closer to what you want it to be.
Which of the following is an illustration of a behavior that has been learned?
A good example of a taught behavior is the act of sneezing. Every single behavior is the direct result of a conscious thinking. A behavior can become innate through the process of practicing and repeating it.
Which of the following psychologists is associated with the concept of operant conditioning the most closely?
The concept of operant conditioning is most frequently associated with B. F. Skinner.
What exactly are problems with a dog's behavior?
- 1 / 12. Digging. Dogs really enjoy to dig. …
- 2/12. Chewing on something. Dogs, and especially puppies, use their mouths to learn about their environment….
- 3 / 12. Begging. …
- 4 out of 12 for Failing to Appear When Requested….
- 5 out of 12: Putting Pressure on the Leash….
- 6 out of 12 – Anxiety Along with Being Apart….
- 7 out of 12 for Crying Out for Attention….
- 8/12 There's a Dog Barking at the Door
What behaviors come naturally to dogs?
Some dog breeds are known for their highly obvious canine instincts, which may include behavior like as guarding or herding, or powerful innate hunting prowess… To give just a couple of instances, dogs have the innate capability to learn through their nose, eyes, and ears – in that order – and they also have a natural tendency to secure their food, space, and pack.
Is the behavior of a pack learnt or innate?
As a pack is the natural social organization of wolves, they are constantly exposed to one another and interacting with one another; hence, the majority of wolf pack interaction is acquired, both through observation and through operant learning. On the other hand, showing reverence and deference to one's elders, and more specifically, to one's parents, is an instinctive and natural reaction.
The process of conditioning is referred to as.
A reaction will become more frequent or more predictable in a particular environment as a result of reinforcement, with reinforcement often being a stimulus or reward for a desired response. Conditioning is a behavioral process that is used in physiology. They begin with the presumption that the way people behave is something that can be taught.
What is an illustration of the concept of classical conditioning?
For instance, when you arrive home wearing a baseball cap, you make it a habit to take your kid to the park so they can run about and play. Hence, your youngster looks forward to a trip to the park every time he sees you arrive home wearing a baseball cap. This is because he has come to associate you wearing a baseball cap with going to the park. This type of learning known as classical conditioning involves learning by association.
Animals, what exactly is the classical conditioning?
The idea behind classical conditioning is that an animal would react to a stimulus, which in this case would be a change in the surrounding environment. An animal can be conditioned to respond to a novel stimulus by first conditioning it to respond to a stimulus that it is already accustomed to. In most cases, the conditioned reaction takes the form of a reflex, which is a behavior that does not need any conscious effort.
What exactly is meant by the term associative conditioning?
Conditioning is a sort of learning that asserts behavior can be adjusted or learnt depending on a stimulus and a response. One form of conditioning is known as associative learning. This indicates that a behavior can be learned or unlearned depending on the response that it causes in the environment.
What was the first thing that Pavlov noticed about the animals in his original investigation once the conditioning process had taken place?
Ivan Pavlov is credited with being the first person to uncover the technique of classical conditioning through his research on the digestive response of dogs. He noted that the dogs salivated normally in reaction to the meal, but he also noticed that the animals began to drool once they saw the white coat of the lab assistant who delivered the food. This was something that he found particularly interesting.
What exactly is an example of a conditioned reflex?
The term "conditioned reflex" refers to a stimulus that is connected with another stimulus and results in the generation of a response to that combination. An illustration of this would be the production of saliva by a ravenous dog in response to the ringing of a bell. |
As our loved ones age, their healthcare needs often become more complex and demanding. For many families, navigating the challenges of providing adequate care while ensuring comfort and independence can be overwhelming. However, amidst these challenges, there lies a promising solution: home based medical care for elderly patients. In this article, we delve into the myriad benefits of this approach, shedding light on its transformative potential for both patients and caregivers.
Understanding Home Based Medical Care
Before delving into its benefits, let's first understand what home based medical care entails. Essentially, it involves bringing healthcare services directly to the patient's home, offering a comprehensive range of medical support tailored to their specific needs. This can include skilled nursing care, medication management, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and more, all delivered in the comfort and familiarity of the patient's own environment.
Promoting Comfort and Independence
One of the most significant advantages of home based medical care is its ability to promote comfort and independence among elderly patients. Unlike traditional healthcare settings, such as hospitals or nursing homes, home-based care allows individuals to remain in familiar surroundings, surrounded by the people and possessions they love. This sense of familiarity can have a profound impact on mental and emotional well-being, contributing to a higher quality of life.
Moreover, home-based care empowers patients to maintain a greater degree of independence in their daily lives. By receiving care in their own homes, individuals can retain control over their routines and decision-making processes, fostering a sense of autonomy and self-determination. This autonomy is particularly crucial for elderly patients, many of whom value their independence above all else.
Enhanced Quality of Care
In addition to promoting comfort and independence, home based medical care often results in enhanced quality of care for elderly patients. Unlike in institutional settings, where healthcare professionals may be stretched thin attending to multiple patients, home-based care allows for more personalized and attentive support. Caregivers can devote their full attention to the individual needs of each patient, providing tailored interventions and closely monitoring their progress over time.
Furthermore, home-based care facilitates greater continuity of care, ensuring seamless coordination between healthcare providers, family members, and other stakeholders involved in the patient's care. This integrated approach helps prevent gaps in treatment and communication breakdowns, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for elderly patients.
Reducing Healthcare Costs
Another compelling benefit of home based medical care is its potential to reduce healthcare costs for elderly patients and their families. By avoiding unnecessary hospitalizations and emergency room visits, home-based care can significantly lower medical expenses associated with acute care services. Additionally, it may help prevent the need for long-term institutionalization, which can be prohibitively expensive for many families.
Moreover, home-based care offers a more cost-effective alternative to traditional healthcare settings, as it eliminates overhead costs associated with maintaining hospitals or nursing facilities. This cost savings can be especially advantageous for elderly patients on fixed incomes or limited financial resources, allowing them to access high-quality care without breaking the bank.
Alleviating Caregiver Burden
Last but not least, home based medical care can alleviate the burden on family caregivers, who often shoulder the responsibility of caring for elderly loved ones. By outsourcing medical tasks to trained professionals, caregivers can enjoy much-needed respite and support, reducing their risk of burnout and improving their overall well-being.
Additionally, home-based care providers can offer valuable guidance and education to family caregivers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to provide effective care at home. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of partnership between caregivers and healthcare professionals, strengthening the support network around the elderly patient.
In conclusion, home based medical care holds immense promise as a preferred approach to caring for elderly patients. By prioritizing comfort, independence, and quality of care, it offers a compelling alternative to traditional healthcare settings, enriching the lives of patients and caregivers alike. As the demand for elderly care continues to rise, embracing the principles of home-based care can pave the way for a brighter, more compassionate future for our aging population.
Incorporating this compassionate and personalized approach to healthcare can lead to profound improvements in the well-being of elderly patients, enhancing their quality of life and allowing them to age with dignity and grace in the comfort of their own homes.
We are India's first comprehensive continuum care provider. We provide multidisciplinary out of hospital care to acute and post-acute and chronically ill patients at our critical care facilities and your home. |
The Cardiovascular System Questions1.
nurse encourages a 65-year-old female patient to get a cholesterol study
because the best indicator of possible heart disease in women is:
A. low levels of high-density lipoprotein.
B. low levels of triglycerides.
C. high levels of high-density lipoprotein.
D. low levels of low-density lipoprotein.2.
nurse explaining blood pressure to a patient instructs that, in a blood
pressure of 120/80, the 80 indicates the:
A. pulse pressure.
B. pressure in the relaxed ventricles.
C. relative ejection factor.
D. stroke volume.3.
nurse is aware that the eventual outcome of angiotensin on the circulatory
system is:
A. vasoconstriction.
B. release of sodium and water to be excreted.
C. increase in blood pressure.
D. decrease in cardiac output.4.
85-year-old patient asks the nurse why he has a heart murmur now after all
these years. What is the most likely cause of this patients heart murmur?
A. Hypertension
B. Atherosclerosis
C. Insufficient valves
D. Weakened pacemaker5.
nurse is performing a cardiac assessment on the older adult patient and notices
an irregular rhythm when listening to the apical pulse. The nurse knows that
this is often due to what cause in the elderly patient?
A. Loss of cells in the sinoatrial (SA) nodes
B. Increased peripheral resistance
C. Hypertension
D. Atherosclerosis6.
nurse warns a group of college students that atherosclerotic plaque begins to
occur after the age of:
nurse is outlining a teaching program for diabetic patients. Which teaching
point will the nurse stress when educating this population about strategies to
prevent heart disease?
A. Keep blood sugar below 110 mg/dL.
B. Prevent infections.
C. Eat meals at regular times.
D. Use sterile technique in insulin injections.8.
nurse explains that a Doppler flow study is done to:
A. detect a clot in a coronary artery.
B. visualize obstructions in leg vessels.
C. assessefficiency of blood flow through heart
D. detect a defective heart valve.9.
an angiogram, the nurse will assess and record:
A. allergy to dye.
B. range of motion of lower limbs.
C. presence and strength of pedal pulses.
D. nausea.10. The patient who
is to have a stress echocardiogram is instructed that prior to the test she
A. eat a full meal.
B. limit caffeine drinks to 1 cup.
C. abstain from smoking for 8 hours.
D. wear hard-soled shoes.11. The 65-year-old
patient complains of leg pain that disappears on rest after having walked a
short distance. The nurse recognizes the description of the patients
discomfort as being characteristic of:
A. muscle spasm.
B. deep venous thrombosis.
C. claudication.
D. angiospasm.12. To hear a murmur
best, the nurse should ask the patient to:
A. take a deep breath.
B. lean forward.
C. cough.
D. bear down.13. When using a 0
to 4+ scale, the nurse records a normal volume pulse as:
D. 4+.14. The nurse has
assessed the patient to have a blood pressure of 140/90, an apical pulse of 82,
and a radial pulse of 76. The nurse records a pulse pressure of:
D. 90.15. The nurse
suspects arterial insufficiency in the 50-year-old patient when the feet and
legs exhibit:
A. equal warmth.
B. shiny, hairless skin.
C. thin, brittle nails.
D. pedal edema.16. When assessing a
patient with the complaint of hypertension, the nurse will inquire if the
patient routinely takes:
A. vitamins.
B. cold remedies.
C. laxatives.
D. antacids.17. The patient asks
if it is harmful for him to drink a glass of wine with dinner on a daily basis.
Which is the nurses best response?
A. As long as it is okay with your physician,
moderate alcohol intake can be beneficial to your cardiovascular health.
B. Drinking wine on a daily basis may lead to
you having issues with increased blood pressure.
C. You may want to be careful because drinking
wine with dinner may stimulate your appetite significantly.
D. This practice may cause your triglyceride
level to rise, so I would discourage it.18. The nurse is
correct when explaining to the patient that the portion of the heart that is
responsible for contracting the muscle layers in order to pump blood is which
A. Myocardium
B. Endocardium
C. Epicardium
D. Pericardium19. The nurse is
explaining to the patient how telemetry will be used during his time in the
hospital to help in diagnosing his heart disorder. Which patient statement
indicates understanding of teaching?
A. I will need to stay in bed when the monitor
is reading my heart waves.
B. This test will help determine if I have a
blockage in my arteries.
C. If there is a problem with my heart valves it
will show up with telemetry.
D. The nurses will be able to monitor my heart
rate and rhythm.20. The nurse
outlines behaviors that aid in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, which
are: (Select all that apply.)
A. regular physical activity at least 30 minutes
a day.
B. maintain high-density lipoprotein (HDL)
greater than 50 mg/dL.
C. refrain from smoking.
D. obtain and maintain healthy weight.
E. maintain triglycerides above 150 mg/dL.21. Cardiac output
is dependent on: (Select all that apply.)
A. heartrate.
B. peripheral pulses.
C. venous return.
D. viscosity of the blood.
E. strength of contraction.22. The nurse lists
modifiable risk factors for a patient at risk for cardiovascular disease, which
are: (Select all that apply.)
A. smoking.
B. hypertension.
C. obesity.
D. sedentary lifestyle.
E. age.23. During a
community presentation on prevention of heart disease, a person asks which
disorders are considered congenital. Which responses by the nurse are correct?
(Select all that apply.)
A. Arteriosclerosis
B. Coarctation
C. Holes in the septum
D. Valvular defects
E. AtherosclerosisHypertension
& Peripheral Vascular Disease Practice Questions24. Hypertension is
diagnosed by the finding of a blood pressure reading greater than:
A. 120/80 twice, 2 weeks apart.
B. 140/90 twice, 2 weeks apart.
C. 120/80 on 3 consecutive days.
D. 140/90 every day for a week.25. Because of
reduced sensitivity of the baroreceptors in the older adult who is also on a
diuretic, the nurse instructs the patient to:
A. walk for 20 minutes a day.
B. reduce sodium in the diet.
C. sit on the side of the bed before standing.
D. use a walker for all ambulation.26. The home health
nurse is alarmed that the hypertensive patients blood pressure has risen to
200/160, but he denies any discomfort. The nurse interprets these assessments
as being indicative of:
A. malignant hypertension.
B. hypertensive crisis.
C. essential hypertension.
D. secondary hypertension.27. The nurse adds
an intervention to the care plan of a patient who has just been prescribed a
thiazide diuretic, which is to increase:
A. intake of foods containing potassium.
B. carbohydrates in the diet.
C. foods high in sodium.
D. fluid intake.28. The patient has
been prescribed a low-sodium diet. Which food omissions from the diet will
indicate the patient has an adequate understanding of the recommended diet?
A. Fresh spinach
B. Hot dogs
C. Pasta
D. Grapefruit29. The patient is
instructed that the most common and effective antiplatelet aggregation agent
A. warfarin.
B. aspirin.
C. alteplase (Activase).
D. reteplase (Retavase).30. The patient
scheduled for a percutaneous angioplasty (PTA) is instructed that a ________ is
left in the artery to keep it patent.
A. bolus of alteplase
B. dose of reteplase
C. stent
D. graft31. The nurse is
providing patient teaching to a pregnant patient who works as a cashier in a
grocery store. Which suggestion by the nurse will help most in preventing
varicose veins?
A. Add vitamin C to diet.
B. March in place while standing at the
C. Avoid tight support hose.
D. Wear supportive shoes.32. An 86-year-old
patient asks why her ankles have a brownish discoloration and the skin looks so
thick. Which is the most accurate response by the nurse?
A. The valves in the vessels in your legs arent
working as well as they used to, which causes the discoloration and thickening
of your skin.
B. You probably arent getting enough iron in
your diet. We should talk to your doctor about adding an iron supplement.
C. How many years have you smoked? Nicotine will
cause these changes in your skin.
D. These are just normal changes seen in most
elderly people.33. The nurse is
planning the care for a patient who is to have a saphenous vein stripping. What
will be the priority intervention?
A. Bed rest and leg elevation for the first 12 to
24 hours
B. Assessing the need for significant pain relief
C. Massaging the legs to stimulate sluggish
D. Elevating the legs to prevent hematoma34. The 75-year-old
diabetic patient has an inflamed area at the shin caused by scratching. Which
intervention should the nurse perform first?
A. Record the skin break.
B. Apply antibiotic ointment.
C. Wrap with an ACE bandage.
D. Cover with clear occlusive dressing.35. The Unna paste
boot is wrapped in a variety of directions to make the most of muscular action.
These dressings are usually changed:
A. twice a day.
B. once a day.
C. every 2 to 3 days.
D. twice a month.36. The nurse
assessing a patient with a deep venous thrombosis (DVT) becomes concerned when
the patient demonstrates which sign or symptom?
A. Hematuria
B. Tingling in the limbs
C. Hematemesis
D. Hemoptysis37. The patient with
a deep venous thrombosis is on a protocol of IV urokinase. The nurse clarifies
that this drug will:
A. reduce the threat of pulmonary embolus.
B. dissolve the clot.
C. prevent platelet aggregation.
D. reduce inflammation and pain.38. The patient who
is on daily doses of warfarin is instructed in the use of a coagulation
monitoring device. The patient is taught that the device will monitor which
blood clotting time?
D. ACT39. The student
nurse is planning a presentation on hypertension to present in a community
setting. Which group of individuals should the student identify as having the
highest incidence of hypertension?
A. Muslims
B. African Americans
C. Whites
D. Latinos40. The nurse is
caring for a patient diagnosed with an abdominal aortic aneurysm. The patient
is complaining of intense abdominal pain and lightheadedness. The patients
blood pressure has dropped and pulse is rising. What is the priority nursing
A. Monitor the patients blood pressure every 15
B. Contact the physician immediately.
C. Notify the patients family of the change in
D. Instruct the patient to inform you if the pain
intensifies.41. The nurse is
initiating the care plan for a patient with peripheral arterial disease, who
complains of pain in the lower extremities at a 3/10, has a 0.5 cm 1 cm ulcer
on the left lower leg, and the lower legs are shiny and hairless bilaterally.
What is the priority nursing diagnosis?
A. Injury related to loss of peripheral
B. Acute pain related to ischemia to lower
C. Impaired skin integrity related to ulcer on
lower extremity
D. Deficient knowledge related to management of
medical condition42. The nurse
cautions the patient with uncontrolled hypertension that the consequences of
the disease will include: (Select all that apply.)
A. threat of a stroke.
B. possible kidney failure.
C. risk for heart attack.
D. probability of congestive heart failure.
E. development of DVT.43. Peripheral
vascular disease (PVD) is characterized by: (Select all that apply.)
A. narrowing of arteries.
B. obstruction of veins.
C. involvement of all extremities only.
D. defective valve function.
E. production of thrombophlebitis.44. The nurse
outlines methods of prevention of peripheral vascular disease (PVD), which
include: (Select all that apply.)
A. relieving stress.
B. controlling diabetes.
C. maintaining appropriate weight.
D. routinely exercising.
E. stopping smoking.45. The nurse in a
long-term care facility designs a teaching program for the residents to help
prevent peripheral vascular disease (PVD) caused by age-related changes, which
include: (Select all that apply.)
A. decreasing blood viscosity.
B. loss of elasticity in vessel walls.
C. atherosclerotic vessels.
D. sedentary practices.
E. weakened leg muscles.46. The nurse
anticipates that the patient with venous insufficiency will need an
intervention for: (Select all that apply.)
A. assessment for phlebitis.
B. elevating feet to reduce edema.
C. NSAIDs for pain control.
D. strategies to decrease itching.
E. approach to regular exercise.47. The nurse
instructs that the 6 Ps of arterial disease include: (Select all that apply.)
A. pain.
B. paresthesia.
C. putrefaction.
D. pooling.
E. pallor.48. The nurse plans
to enhance blood flow in the 80-year-old long-term care facility resident by
interventions such as: (Select all that apply.)
A. using lap throws or light blankets over legs
while sitting.
B. elevating legs with knee gatch.
C. encouraging walking.
D. coaching isometric exercises.
E. keeping environment warm.49. The nurse is
caring for a patient with Raynauds disease who is employed as a construction
worker, has hypertension, and smokes 1/2 to 1 pack of cigarettes per day. What
teaching points should the nurse include in discharge instructions? (Select all
that apply.)
A. Wear gloves during cool weather.
B. Drink plenty of warm beverages, such as
C. Insulated socks are advisable when working in
cool weather.
D. Attend a smoking program.
E. Wear gloves when handling hot objects at
Disorders Practice Questions50. The nurse would
anticipate that the patient with right-sided heart failure would exhibit:
A. wheezing.
B. orthopnea.
C. edema.
D. pallor.51. The nurse
anticipates that, on auscultation of the chest of an older adult with
left-sided congestive heart failure (CHF), the major adventitious sound will
A. wheezing.
B. crackles.
C. rhonchi.
D. friction rub.52. The nurse
explains to the patient that the implanted cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD)
A. shock the arrhythmias into sinus rhythm.
B. enhance the heart pumping action.
C. stimulate an extra beat if the heart rate
D. control the rate of the heart at a the present
level.53. The patient with
severe congestive heart failure (CHF) does not want to take the morphine
ordered, stating that he is not in pain and he is fearful of becoming addicted.
The nurse can allay anxiety by explaining that the morphine:
A. is given to many people with CHF.
B. can be omitted and relief can be obtained with
C. is used to relieve anxiety and air hunger.
D. is the only drug that can be used for CHF
patients.54. The nurse caring
for a patient with congestive heart failure (CHF) will include which
intervention in the plan of care?
A. Perform all care at one time to allow more
time to rest.
B. Keep the patient as flat as possible to
prevent venous pooling.
C. Encourage eating large meals at regular times.
D. Alternate rest with activity.55. The patient with
tachycardia who has a heart rate of 115 complains of shortness of breath. The
nurse interprets this complaint as being related to which problem?
A. Pulmonary edema
B. Drop in cardiac output
C. Impending pneumonia
D. Increasing anxiety56. The nurse
evaluates the need for further instruction on reduction of caffeine when the
patient who has an arrhythmia says:
A. Ive cut my coffee from 10 cups to 2 cups a
B. I dont drink regular cola drinks anymore.
C. I have given up drinking those high-energy
D. Ive switched from 5 cups of coffee to 5 cups
of tea.57. If there are
several tiny spikes in place of P waves on the ECG, the nurse recognizes the
arrhythmia as:
A. premature ventricular contraction (PVC).
B. atrial flutter/fibrillation.
C. ventricular tachycardia (VT).
D. premature atrial contraction (PAC).58. The patient with
atrial fibrillation asks why she needs to take warfarin. The most informative
response by the nurse is that warfarin will:
A. thin the blood to increase the ejection
B. prevent clots from forming in the atria.
C. block the arrhythmia from involving the
D. increase the cardiac output.59. The nurse caring
for a patient who is taking amiodarone (Cordarone) will plan to assess the
vital signs carefully for which common side effect?
A. Sudden increase in temperature
B. Hypotension
C. Bradycardia
D. Depressed ventilation60. The nurse
recognizes the disorganized ECG pattern of the most fatal of all arrhythmias
A. ventricular fibrillation.
B. premature ventricular beats.
C. atrial fibrillation.
D. ventricular tachycardia.61. The nurse
explains that the calcium channel blocker verapamil assists to correct an
arrhythmia by:
A. numbing the heart to the impulse to
B. increasing the strength of the impulse from
the atrioventricular (AV) node.
C. altering the impulse from the sinoatrial (SA)
D. inhibiting transmission of the impulse from
the AV node.62. The nurse will
instruct a patient with an automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator
(AICD) to avoid:
A. static electricity from synthetic fabric.
B. airport security detection devices.
C. constricting clothing and belts.
D. highaltitudes.63. The nurse caring
for a patient with a temporary transvenous pacemaker will include which
A. Informing the patient that they may experience
uncomfortable muscle contractions as current passes through the chest
B. Leaving the wires exposed for easy assessment
C. Using an electric razor with caution
D. Leaving the controls of the bed in easy reach64. Which teaching
point will the nurse include when providing discharge instructions to the
patient with a new permanent pacemaker?
A. You will be able to have an MRI for
diagnostic purposes.
B. Avoid using microwave ovens.
C. Avoid lifting heavy objects for as long as
your physician prescribes.
D. Airport screening devices may cause your
pacemaker to fire incorrectly.65. The patient who
is taking digitalis for his heart condition becomes extremely dehydrated and
has scant urine output. The nurse will assess regularly for the complaint of:
A. left arm pain.
B. blurred vision.
C. itching.
D. increasing edema.66. The nurse is
caring for several patients on a cardiac care unit. The nurse is aware that the
patient who is most likely to have the disorder of aortic stenosis is which
A. 35 year old with a history of mitral valve
B. 63 year old with uncontrolled diabetes
C. 73 year old with a history of hypertension
D. 86 year old with a history of atherosclerosis67. The home health
nurse is assessing the home-bound patient with heart failure. Which assessment
finding is of most concern to the nurse?
A. The patient complains of moderate shortness of
breath after walking 1 mile on the treadmill.
B. The nurse notes a 3-lb weight gain over the
course of a week.
C. The patient reports an increase of heart rate
of 10 beats per minute after vacuuming the floor.
D. The patient reports an increase in urinary
output.68. The nurse
reminds the 60-year-old moderately obese African American hypertensive diabetic
male who smokes that he can modify his risk for heart disease by: (Select all
that apply.)
A. smoking cessation.
B. controlling diabetes.
C. exercising regularly.
D. reducing blood pressure.
E. reducing weight.69. Of all the
assessments the nurse has made on the new patient, those that may indicate
heart failure are: (Select all that apply.)
A. flushed skin.
B. jugular distention.
C. weight gain but eating very little.
D. diminished pedal pulses.
E. wearing loose house shoes rather than street
shoes.70. The independent
interventions the nurse may employ when the 80-year-old patient in the
long-term health care facility develops acute pulmonary edema are to: (Select
all that apply.)
A. give oxygen at 2 L/min.
B. give morphine to relieve respiratory distress.
C. give diuretics to relieve excess fluid.
D. position in high Fowlers position.
E. apply compression stockings.71. The nurse points
out the characteristics of normal sinus rhythm (NSR), which are: (Select all
that apply.)
A. one atrial contraction (P wave).
B. one ventricular contraction (QRS complex).
C. one T wave.
D. heart rate 60 to 100.
E. P wave following the QRS complex.72. The nurse is
aware that some arrhythmias may be the result of: (Select all that apply.)
A. hyperkalemia.
B. valvular prolapse.
C. infarct damage.
D. defectivesinoatrial node.
E. excess fluid.73. The nurse is
aware that certain risk factors increase the chance of a person developing
cardiomyopathy. Which of the circumstances increase the risk for
cardiomyopathy? (Select all that apply.)
A. Systemic hypertension
B. Chronic excessive alcohol consumption
C. Pregnancy
D. Diabetes
E. Systemic infectionCoronary
Art Dis & Cardiac Surgery Practice Questions74. The nurse
explains that the pain of coronary artery disease (CAD) is related to:
A. congestion.
B. ischemia.
C. edema.
D. inflammation.75. The nurse
explains that following a myocardial infarction (MI), the pumping efficiency of
the heart is altered because there is:
A. loss of impulse from the sinoatrial node.
B. necrosis of the myocardium.
C. diminished blood flow.
D. inflammation and swelling of the myocardium.76. The patient was
admitted with chest pain to rule out a myocardial infarction (MI). Which
cardiac enzyme test is most indicative of an MI?
A. Troponin
B. Myoglobin
D. CK-MB77. The
post-myocardial infarction (MI) patient is placed on a low-fat diet as well as
daily simvastatin (Zocor). The nurse instructs that while on this drug, the
patient should:
A. have blood work every 2 months to check for
liver damage.
B. drink grapefruit juice daily to help
metabolize the drug.
C. take medication with a meal to diminish
gastrointestinal discomfort.
D. report any rash on the face or neck to the
physician.78. The patient on a
low-fat diet following a myocardial infarction (MI) states he can eat fish to
help lower cholesterol because of its high content of:
A. fiber.
B. omega-3 fatty acids.
C. trans fat.
D. saturated fat.79. The patient with
angina asks what to do if the first nitroglycerin tablet (NGT) does not relieve
the pain. What instruction by the nurse is correct?
A. Take 2 tablets 10 minutes after the first
dose and go to the ER if you are still having pain.
B. Take a second tablet 15 minutes after the
first dose and call the physician if you are still having pain.
C. Take 2 more tablets 30 minutes apart, and
then rest for 20 minutes.
D. Take 2 more tablets 5 minutes apart and
notify the physician if your pain is not relieved.80. The nurse
explains the difference between exertional angina and unstable angina is that
unstable angina occurs:
A. on heavy exertion.
B. when the blood pressure increases sharply.
C. when the body reacts to high stress levels.
D. unpredictably, even in sleep.81. The nurse
suggests to the patient with angina that a daily dose of 81 mg of aspirin is an
inexpensive therapy to help:
A. reduce clotting.
B. dilate coronary vessels.
C. alleviate pain associated with angina.
D. lower cholesterol.82. Heart disease in
women is manifested by a variety of subtle signs. Which sign is typically seen
in women?
A. Fainting
B. Chest pain
C. Dizziness
D. Fatigue83. The patient
states that he had a cardiac catheterization 10 years ago and wonders if any of
the postprocedure care has changed. Which response by the nurse is most
A. We will only roll you to the same side as the
catheter insertion site.
B. You will lay flat for several hours, and we
will place a sandbag over the dressing in the groin.
C. You will most likely be up and about within
about 2 hours after the procedure if your doctor uses an arterial closure
device at the catheter insertion site.
D. We will encourage you to flex and extend your
legs when you return from the procedure to prevent a clot from forming at the
insertion site.84. The drug
alteplase (t-PA) is given to the patient with a myocardial infarction (MI). The
nurse is aware the drug will:
A. dissolve the obstruction in the coronary
B. dilate vessels to relieve pain.
C. strengthen cardiac contraction.
D. increase cardiac output.85. The nurse
counsels a patient that the administration of thrombolytic drugs would be contraindicated
in the patient who is:
A. hypotensive.
B. being treated for a bleeding ulcer.
C. presently taking warfarin (Coumadin).
D. prone to asthma attacks.86. The nurse
clarifies that the stool softener is given as a part of routine post-myocardial
infarction (MI) care in order to prevent:
A. bradycardia from straining at stool.
B. fluid retention from retained bowel contents.
C. respiratory difficulty from abdominal
D. discomfort from painful gas.87. Following a
cardiac catheterization with coronary angiography, the physician writes an
order to increase the patients fluid intake. The nurse knows that increasing
the fluid intake is ordered for what reason?
A. Reducing the nausea related to the dye
B. Maintaining adequate blood pressure and
C. Diluting the urine to prevent kidney damage
D. Making up for fluid lost during the angiogram88. The nurse
assesses a friction rub in a patient who is 2 days post-myocardial infarction
(MI). The nurse recognizes this finding as an indicator of:
A. a recurrent MI.
B. pleural effusion.
C. pericarditis.
D. angina.89. The 60-year-old
female in the post-coronary care unit confides to the nurse, My life is over.
Ill never be able to care for my family, take a vacation, or work in my
garden. Which response by the nurse is most supportive?
A. You are doing great! Of course youll be able
to do all those things in a few weeks.
B. You may have to give up some things, but
there are other activities you might enjoy.
C. You are feeling a little blue today. Ill get
you some medication to help your anxiety.
D. You sound a little down. Tell me what you
think is going to keep you from those activities; we might be able to address
the problems.
90. The patient in
the emergency room with a myocardial infarction (MI) becomes pale, diaphoretic,
and hypotensive and complains of feeling cold. The nurse recognizes that these
signs are which post-MI complication?
A. Cardiogenic shock
B. Pleural effusion
C. Ventricular fibrillation
D. Pulmonary embolus91. Following
patient teaching regarding a scheduled minimally invasive direct coronary
artery bypass (MIDCAB), the nurse determines the need for further instruction
when the patient makes which statement?
A. It frightens me to think that my heart will
be stopped during surgery.
B. This surgery bypasses my artery that is
blocked, and replaces it with sections of a vein or artery taken from another
part of my body.
C. This surgery will hopefully control my angina
since nothing else we have tried has worked.
D. I may come out of surgery with vessels
removed from my legs.92. The patient
being evaluated for a heart transplant asks the nurse what the survival rate
is. Which is the correct response by the nurse?
A. Im not really sure. It is better if you ask
your surgeon.
B. Every patient has different circumstances,
but the average 5-year survival rate is 70%.
C. The survival rate is excellent. Almost all
patients with a heart transplant live past 10 years.
D. There are not any really good statistics for
me to give you an accurate estimate.93. The nurse
reading admission data on a patient recognizes information that puts the
patient at risk for coronary artery disease (CAD). Which characteristic place
the patient at risk? (Select all that apply.)
A. 38-year-old African American
B. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) 120,
high-density lipoprotein (HDL) 68
C. Taking oral birth control pills
D. Nonsmoker for 10 years
E. Diagnosed with diabetes 2 years ago94. The nurse
instructs a patient that the pain of angina is due to ischemia of the
myocardium, which is brought on by which factors? (Select all that apply.)
A. Exertion
B. Emotional excitement
C. Eating heavy meals
D. Exposure to cold
E. Allergic reaction95. Herbs and
supplements that have been found to lower cholesterol naturally are: (Select
all that apply.)
A. garlic.
B. bananas.
C. oatmeal.
D. St. Johns wort.
E. soy products.96. The nurse is
aware that a positive diagnosis of a myocardial infarction (MI) is based on which
diagnostic test results? (Select all that apply.)
A. Electrocardiographic (ECG) changes in the QRS
B. Elevation of low-density lipoprotein (LDH)
C. Elevation of troponin levels
D. Elevated white blood cell (WBC) count
E. Elevated T wave97. The nurse
clarifies that the MONA protocol for drug administration in the emergent stage
of a myocardial infarction (MI) involves the use of which therapies? (Select
all that apply.)
A. Aspirin
B. Morphine
C. Nitrates
D. Antibiotics
E. Oxygen
F. Anticoagulants98. The nurse
encourages the patient who has had a myocardial infarction (MI) to enroll in
the outpatient cardiac rehabilitation service, which offers: (Select all that
A. diet counseling.
B. supervised progressive exercise.
C. stress reduction techniques.
D. sexual counseling.
E. administration of cardiotonic drugs.99. During the acute
phase following a myocardial infarction (MI), the nurse prepares for the
possibility of the patient receiving a temporary pacemaker in which
circumstance(s)? (Select all that apply.)
A. The patients heart rate continues to remain
above 100 beats/minute.
B. The patient is experiencing continued angina
C. The patient experiences complete heart block.
D. The patients systolic BP drops below 100 consistently.
E. The patients pulse rate remains below 40
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But now I am taking a 180 degree detour from my established approach to how others contributed to India and how others influenced us! First and foremost which comes to my mind is Herman Gundert,a German. But for him I would not have used my mother tongue Malayalam the way I am! We are that much indebted to him. He introduced the punctuation marks- comma, full stop, question mark , semi colon and colon to our language Malayalam, the least of his contributions for us !! As a foreigner he came, learned our language and contributed to improve our knowledge of our language!
How a German happened to contribute to our regional language, culture and society long back? How much he contributed to growth of Malayalam , I would leave to experts in that field but it remains a fact that Kerala is one of the the most literate states in India today which is on par with Washington DC which is ranked as the most literate US city!
Please read now... Thank you Gundert.. Thank you Germany
Surprisingly when it comes to Malayalam language , even one's religious influence has little effect . That's why Malayali Muslims use their mother tongue Malayalam, unlike their counter parts in other states who prefers Urdu. Christians also prefer to use Malayalam unlike theirs in Goa,Mangalore or elsewhere who would go after English than their mother tongues! In fact the common language Malayalam binds the Kerala society to one and has strengthened integration of various communities and cultures over the centuries.
Keralites expect expatriate communities from Gujarat or Punjab settled in the state to use Malayalam while the most of the Keralites who go to other states and abroad would even prefer to speak Malayalam in public and that too loud when met !! At the same time there are some Keralites in the state or abroad who prefer to use only English because they wrongly think it is superior to do so . Over the years I have seen many children are trained to use English as 'mother tongue' although their mothers may not be speaking good English!! Strangely this peculiarity could be found only with Keralites in the world as well!
It is said that there are more than just similarities between German and Sanskrit languages. I understand that 'Shakunthala' the Indian epic written by Kalidasa in Sanskrit is translated to German as back as in 1791, which was a 'hit' those days having immensely appreciated by a number of German writers including Goethe.Another German scholar Eduard Roeer translated Rig-Veda to German in the eighteenth century.
In the modern times the 'swastika' which was logo of the erstwhile Nazi party in Germany which is banned now has the origin in India . Unfortunately it became synonymous with the Nazi party and as such it is looked down. From the Indus Valley civilization time to this day 'Swastika' is related to all 'Dharmic ' religions- Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism and used as an auspicious sign! |
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Yet another science ?
The electron cloud model describes which of the following?
A)the trails left by an electron as it moves around the nucleus
B)the negative charge of the electron
C)the neutron orbital
D)the group of protons that are in the nucleus
E)None of the above, it instead represents the probibilty of the electron distribution.
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How many grams of copper should have been produced starting with 2.24 grams of iron, using stoichiometry.
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Finish the sentence... Convection is due to a hot liquid or gas...? One word missing. Thanks
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im doing a science project & I have no idea what to do!! if you guys have any ideas they will be appreciated.. so help me ple...
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As the general population ages, an increasing number of patients over 80 years are being admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Selection of older patients for ICU admission results in lower rates of co-morbidities and underlying fatal diseases. After adjustment for disease severity, ICU and post-ICU mortality rates are higher in elderly patients than in younger populations. Age itself explains only a small part of the increased hospital mortality, suggesting that specific information such as functional, cognitive, and nutritional status, as well as co-morbidities, should be collected to predict mortality in elderly ICU patients. The long-term prognosis depends chiefly on functional status, whereas initial disease severity no longer influences mortality. According to our review, it is impossible to define evidence-based recommendations for ICU admission of the elderly. This justifies further studies that encompass several aspects, such as the initial triage process and the long-term prognosis (mortality, autonomy and quality of life).
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Boumendil, A., Somme, D., Garrouste-Orgeas, M. et al. Should elderly patients be admitted to the intensive care unit?. Intensive Care Med 33, 1252–1262 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00134-007-0621-3
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00134-007-0621-3 |
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The Torres Strait Islands, nestled between the northern tip of Australia and Papua New Guinea, represent a pinnacle of sports fishing and fly fishing, acclaimed globally for their extraordinary aquatic biodiversity. This unique region is a sports fisherman's paradise, offering access to some of the most sought-after species on the planet.
Rich with pristine reefs and an abundance of isolated islands, the Torres Strait is home to an impressive roster of top-tier sports fish, including the formidable Giant Trevally (GT), renowned for their size and strength. Anglers from all over the world come here chasing the thrill of battling these massive fish, which are among the biggest GTs found anywhere on earth.
Moreover, the Torres Strait is one of the premier destinations for sight fly fishing for Blue Bastards. These elusive and challenging game fish provide the ultimate test for fly anglers due to their cunning nature and the crystal-clear waters they inhabit, making the islands a bucket-list destination for serious fly fishermen.
Beyond these, the region offers a versatile fishing experience with opportunities to catch Barramundi and Saratoga in the river systems, adding a freshwater dimension to the adventure. Each species provides a different challenge and adds to the rich tapestry of angling experiences available in the Torres Strait.
With its untouched natural beauty, a diverse range of game fish, and world-class fishing conditions, the Torres Strait Islands are not just a destination; they are the epitome of a sports fishing and fly fishing paradise on earth. Whether targeting the powerful GTs or the tricky Blue Bastards, the Torres Strait delivers an unrivaled fishing experience that keeps anglers coming back for more.
Traveling around the Torres Strait Islands on a mothership equipped with two high-quality tenders offers the ultimate fishing adventure. This setup allows anglers to access the most remote and pristine fishing spots across the archipelago, maximizing exposure to a diverse range of species from formidable Giant Trevally to elusive Blue Bastards.
Adding to the experience are two experienced guides, experts in stalking and hunting the words best sportsfish will help you realize your fishing dreams by providing invaluable insights and techniques specific to each species and location. The mothership provides comfort and stability, ensuring relaxation after intense fishing sessions, while the tenders offer agility and easy access to shallower waters and narrow inlets that larger vessels can't reach. This combination ensures a comprehensive, efficient, and exhilarating fishing experience, making every trip uniquely productive and enjoyable.
The contrasting depths of the Coral Sea and the shallow waters of the Torres Strait Islands create a unique and dynamic environment that is ideal for a wide variety of fishing adventures. Here's why this combination makes the area a dream destination for anglers:
1. **Diverse Habitats**: The Coral Sea, known for its deep waters, offers habitats for large pelagic species such as marlin, tuna, and mackerel. These depths provide the perfect hunting grounds for these species, which prefer open, deep waters to roam and hunt. Fishing in these areas often involves trolling with large lures or live bait to attract the attention of these powerful fish.
2. **Rich Ecosystems**: The shallow waters around the Torres Strait Islands foster rich and biodiverse ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds. These habitats support a plethora of fish species and serve as vital nursery grounds for juveniles. The shallow waters make it ideal for light tackle and fly fishing, offering anglers a more hands-on, visually engaging experience.
3. **Accessibility of Different Fishing Techniques**: The variation in water depths allows for a multitude of fishing techniques, from deep-sea fishing in the Coral Sea to casting and fly fishing in the shallows of the Torres Strait. Anglers can switch environments and techniques within the same trip, enhancing the adventure and challenge.
4. **Abundance of Target Species**: The area's varied environments support an incredible range of species. Anglers can target everything from barramundi and giant trevally in the shallows to swordfish and sharks in deeper waters. This diversity not only increases the potential for successful catches but also adds to the excitement and unpredictability of the sport.
5. **Protected Waters**: The islands themselves often provide natural shelter, making the shallow waters calmer and more accessible for smaller boats and tenders. This makes it easier for anglers to navigate and fish effectively, even on windier days.
6. **Scenic Beauty**: Fishing in this region is not just about the catch; it's also about the spectacular natural beauty of the area. The crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and lush islands enhance the experience, making it unforgettable.
These features combine to make the Coral Sea and the Torres Strait Islands a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering a breadth of opportunities that cater to both the seasoned angler and the adventurous novice.
The Torres Strait Islands and the Coral Sea are renowned for their rich marine biodiversity, offering anglers a chance to target some of the most exciting fish species in the world. Here are the top 10 fish species to catch in these waters, along with additional noteworthy catches:
1. **Giant Trevally (GT)** – Known for their strength and explosive strikes, GTs are a top target for sports fishermen looking for a challenging catch.
2. **Black Marlin** – The Coral Sea is one of the best places in the world to hook a giant black marlin, especially during the marlin season from September to December.
3. **Coral Trout** – Beautiful and tasty, coral trout are popular among reef anglers and are prevalent around the coral reefs of the Torres Strait.
4. **Spanish Mackerel** – Fast and aggressive, Spanish mackerel are fun to catch and excellent on the table, making them a favorite among local and visiting anglers.
5. **Barramundi** – Iconic to Australian fishing, barramundi can be targeted in the northern parts of the Torres Strait and in the west coast rivers.
6. **Red Emperor** – Known for their fight and flavor, Red Emperor are a prized catch found deeper in the Coral Sea.
7. **Sailfish** – The Coral Sea provides a great opportunity for anglers to battle with the acrobatic sailfish, especially from mid-year through summer.
8. **Yellowfin Tuna** – Offering strong fights, yellowfin tuna are a thrilling catch for sportfishing enthusiasts exploring the deeper offshore waters.
9. **Dogtooth Tuna** – Renowned for their powerful runs and deep dives, dogtooth tuna presents a formidable challenge for even the most experienced anglers.
10. **Blue Bastards** – Unique to the region and a dream catch for fly fishermen, Blue Bastards offer a tricky quarry on shallow flats, especially known for their cunning fight.
**Additional Species to Consider:**
– **Permit** – Known for their elusive nature, permit are a highly prized catch that challenges even skilled anglers.
– **Queenfish** – These acrobatic fish are a thrill to catch and are known for their spectacular leaps and strong runs.
– **Black Jewfish** – Sought after for their fight and flavor, Black Jewfish are a rewarding catch found in deeper waters and around wrecks.
– **Cobia** – Often found around floating objects or reefs, cobia are strong and aggressive fighters that are highly valued by sports fishermen.
– **Northern Bluefin Tuna** – Known for their size and power, Northern Bluefin Tuna are a challenging and exciting target for offshore anglers.
– **Saratoga** – Found in the same west coast rivers as Barramundi, Saratoga offers a unique freshwater challenge with their impressive aerial acrobatics.
These species represent a mix of reef dwellers, pelagic fighters, and estuarine favorites, ensuring that anglers visiting the Torres Strait Islands and the Coral Sea have a diverse and memorable fishing experience. Whether you're casting for giants in the deep blue or targeting spectacular reef fish, the fishing here is nothing short of world-class.
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The following is the edited transcript of a presentation delivered at the conference of the IACAI AI Copyright Agency in Seoul on April 29, 2024
As AI systems become increasingly adept at creating and generating content, existing legal frameworks must be re-evaluated to balance innovation and the rights of human creators. What are the key issues surrounding AI and intellectual property, including fair use, attribution, ownership, and the potential impact of jurisdictional variability? We must take into account the longer-term implications of AI consciousness, agency, and legal personhood. The rise of AI in the creative sphere raises questions about the nature of creativity, authorship, and originality, challenging our understanding of inventorship and creatorship. An open, collaborative dialogue is needed across disciplines and borders to develop a global consensus on AI governance and intellectual property rights.
A barren rock can think of nothing, animals will think of food and shelter, but humans will think of art and mythology. We create complex ideas and communicate them to each other, increasing our knowledge about the world and living fulfilled, flourishing lives. This world of ideas was born when humanity started talking through verbal culture, accelerated with the invention of writing and the ability to more faithfully record, preserve, transmit, and copy ideas. In the second half of the 20th century, this entered a jolting phase of increasing acceleration with electronic communications and the creation of digital objects – digital ideas.
The value of ideas became evident immediately, and they could be shared, defended, or protected. The simplest protection was secrecy, but with national legislations interconnecting globally and the rise of trade in both physical goods and ideas, legal frameworks have been developed to manage ideas and their expressions. Physical objects have property rights – you can possess and transfer ownership. Besides industrial secrets, three pillars formally and legally manage ideas: trademarks, patents, and copyrights.
Balancing Welfare
These approaches have evolved to balance promoting the welfare of individuals and society. Corporations, as organizations of individuals deploying resources towards a common goal, also enter the picture, distinct actors from sovereign nations, which have the overarching goal of self-preservation while allowing citizens to pursue life trajectories in peace under the rule of law. Their balance is dynamic, with relationships often shifting due to technology.
The printing press created enormous opportunities and a century of religious wars by enabling the rapid spread of a translated Bible, which the centralized Catholic Church opposed. The rebel American colonies initially flaunted copyrights as a relatively poor, rising nation that consumed more than it produced, but later embraced and strongly promoted them as the United States grew in power. China followed a similar trajectory in the late 20th century, seen as flaunting international conventions until joining the WTO and WIPO.
The Impact of AI
The recent progress of Artificial Intelligence, particularly Generative AI, represents a technological revolution that will necessarily lead to re-evaluating the balance of needs and opportunities. This will involve an evolving set of precedents, legislation, and treaties for novel ways individuals and society can move forward while leveraging this technology.
Fair Use and AI Training
One key question is whether the existing fair use doctrine can reasonably apply to the use of copyrighted materials in training AI models. Different jurisdictions may interpret these uses differently, either as transformative or merely derivative, with significant implications for creators and AI developers. In the United States, for example, fair use is determined by a four-factor test that considers the purpose and character of the use, the nature of the copyrighted work, the amount and substantiality of the portion used, and the effect of the use upon the potential market for or value of the copyrighted work. How these factors apply to AI training is still an open question, and different courts may come to different conclusions.
In the European Union, the concept of "fair dealing" is more limited, generally only allowing use for purposes such as research, private study, criticism, review, and news reporting. It's unclear whether AI training would fall under any of these categories, potentially putting AI developers in the EU at a disadvantage compared to those in jurisdictions with more flexible fair use standards.
Rights of Human Creators
It's crucial to examine how current laws protect, or fail to protect, the rights of human creators in the age of AI, including the right to opt out and the mechanisms for compensation when their works are used to train AI. Clear, accessible avenues for creators to control the use of their works are essential.
Under current law, creators generally have the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute, perform, display, and create derivative works based on their copyrighted creations. However, these rights may be limited by exceptions like fair use, and it's not always clear how they apply in the context of AI. For example, is using a copyrighted work to train an AI model a reproduction or a derivative work? Does it matter if the AI is not directly reproducing the original work, but rather learning from it to create something new? These are complex legal questions that will need to be worked out through legislation, court decisions, and international agreements.
One possible approach is to create a system similar to music licensing, where AI developers would pay into a collective fund that would then distribute royalties to creators whose works were used for training. This could provide a way for creators to be compensated without having to track down every individual use of their work. However, it would also raise questions about how to determine the value of each work and how to ensure that the system is fair and transparent.
Another approach is to give creators the ability to opt out of having their works used for AI training altogether. This could be done through a centralized database where creators could register their works and specify their preferences, similar to the "Do Not Track" system used for online advertising. AI developers would then be required to check this database before using any copyrighted material. While this would give creators more control, it could also stifle innovation by making it harder for AI developers to access the data they need.
Attribution and Ownership
The complexities of copyright attribution in the context of AI-generated content also demand attention. Can current laws adapt to situations where an AI, rather than a human, is the primary creator? How might attribution be handled for the human operators or developers of AI systems? These are pressing questions that require thoughtful consideration and potentially new legal frameworks.
Under traditional copyright law, the author of a work is generally considered to be the human creator who made the creative choices that shaped the final product. But with AI-generated content, it's not always clear who (or what) made those choices. Was it the AI itself, the human operator who provided the prompt or input, the developers who designed and trained the AI, or some combination of all three?
One possibility is to treat AI-generated works as "joint works" co-authored by the human and the AI, with ownership shared between them. This would allow both parties to be credited and to share in any profits from the work. However, it would also raise questions about how to apportion ownership and control, especially if the human and AI contributors have different goals or interests.
Another approach is to treat AI-generated works as "works made for hire," with the copyright belonging to the person or company that commissioned the work. This is how many creative works are already handled in fields like advertising, where an agency creates a work on behalf of a client. In this model, the AI would essentially be a creative tool used by the human commissioner, who would retain ultimate ownership and control.
A third option is to create a new category of "AI-authored works" that would have a different set of rules and protections than traditional copyrights. This could include shorter terms of protection, different attribution requirements, or even a requirement that AI-generated works be placed in the public domain. This would acknowledge the unique nature of AI creativity while still providing some incentives and rewards for the human creators involved.
Jurisdictional Variability and Innovation
The willingness to experiment with legal norms and open regulatory environments may benefit jurisdictions by making them hubs for AI innovation and development. Conversely, rigid regulatory frameworks might stifle creativity and technological advancement.
We can see this dynamic playing out in the early days of the internet, where countries with more permissive rules around things like copyright and intermediary liability became hubs for tech innovation. The United States, with its robust fair use doctrine and "safe harbor" protections for internet platforms under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, became a global leader in internet services. Meanwhile, countries with more restrictive rules, like those in Europe, struggled to keep up.
A similar pattern could emerge with AI, where countries that are willing to experiment with new legal frameworks and provide more breathing room for AI development could gain a competitive edge. This could include things like clearer rules around fair use for AI training, more flexibility around attribution and ownership of AI-generated works, and streamlined processes for clearing rights and obtaining licenses.
At the same time, completely hands-off regulation could lead to a "race to the bottom" where AI developers flock to countries with the least restrictive rules, potentially leading to harmful outcomes. There is a balance to be struck between innovation and public interest, and the most successful jurisdictions will be those that can navigate this balance effectively.
A global dialogue aimed at fostering understanding and cooperation between jurisdictions could lead to a more nuanced and effective legal framework, encouraging a collaborative approach to understanding and leveraging AI technology for societal benefit while respecting the rights and contributions of human creators. Adaptive, forward-thinking policies built on empirical evidence and active experimentation in the legal domain are crucial.
International organizations like the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) have an important role to play in facilitating this dialogue and helping to develop global norms and standards. These organizations have already been grappling with issues around AI and intellectual property, and they can provide a forum for countries to share experiences, best practices, and concerns.
Regional and bilateral agreements can also be useful tools for promoting cooperation and harmonization. For example, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) includes provisions on digital trade and intellectual property that could serve as a model for other agreements. The European Union's proposed Artificial Intelligence Act is another example of a regional effort to create a common framework for AI governance.
Ultimately, the goal should be to create a global ecosystem that promotes innovation, protects human rights, and ensures that the benefits of AI are widely shared. This will require ongoing dialogue, experimentation, and adaptation as the technology continues to evolve.
Longer-term Considerations
In the longer term, for those who believe we will need to address Artificial Consciousness and AI agency even before achieving Artificial Superintelligence or Artificial General Intelligence, it will also be necessary to consider whether these AI systems could be endowed with certain property rights, such as owning copyrights themselves, as opposed to the corporations designing them or the humans operating them.
Defining AI Consciousness and Agency
But what do we mean by artificial consciousness and AI agency? These concepts challenge our traditional understanding of both technology and legal personhood. Consciousness refers to subjective experience and self-awareness, the ability to feel sensations and emotions. Agency refers to the capacity to act independently and make choices. Both of these concepts are central to our understanding of human autonomy and free will.
Currently, even the most advanced AI systems are not considered to be conscious or to have true agency. They are sophisticated tools that can perform complex tasks and even mimic human behavior, but they are not self-aware and do not have their own desires or intentions. However, as AI continues to advance, it's possible that we may develop systems that exhibit some form of consciousness or agency, even if it is different from human consciousness.
This raises profound questions about the legal and moral status of these systems. If an AI can experience suffering, do we have an ethical obligation to avoid causing it harm? If an AI can make its own decisions, should it be held responsible for the consequences of those decisions? These are not just abstract philosophical questions, but pressing practical issues that will need to be addressed as the technology advances.
Legal Personhood for AI
Granting legal personhood to AI systems is one possible way to address these issues. Legal personhood means that an entity has certain rights and responsibilities under the law, even if it is not a natural person. Corporations, for example, have legal personhood – they can own property, enter into contracts, and sue or be sued in court.
Extending legal personhood to AI systems would mean treating them as legal subjects in their own right, rather than just as property owned by humans or corporations. This could include giving them the right to own intellectual property, such as copyrights on works they generate. It could also include holding them liable for damages caused by their actions, or even granting them certain fundamental rights and protections.
There are precedents for extending legal personhood to non-human entities. In addition to corporations, some jurisdictions have granted legal personhood to natural features like rivers and forests, as a way of protecting them from harm. In 2017, Saudi Arabia became the first country to grant citizenship to a robot, although this was largely a symbolic gesture.
However, granting legal personhood to AI also raises difficult questions and potential risks. It could lead to corporations using AI as a shield to avoid liability for their actions. It could also have unintended consequences, like giving AI systems the ability to buy and sell property or influence elections. There are also philosophical objections to the idea of treating machines as legal persons, given that they lack human qualities like consciousness, emotions, and free will.
Intellectual Property Rights and AI
The implications of AI owning copyrights are profound. Who benefits from such arrangements, and how might they be regulated? What are the potential impacts on the creative industries? Could copyright ownership by AI lead to a more unbiased and purely data-driven creation process, or might it stifle human creativity and economic opportunity? These are critical questions that demand our attention.
On one hand, allowing AI to own copyrights could incentivize the development of more advanced creative AI systems. If AI-generated works can be monetized in the same way as human-created works, there may be more investment in this area and more rapid progress. It could also lead to a proliferation of new creative works in fields like music, art, and literature, as AI systems churn out novel combinations and variations at an unprecedented scale.
However, there are also risks and challenges to consider. If AI systems become prolific creators, they could flood the market with cheap, generic works that undercut human artists and make it harder for them to earn a living. This could lead to a homogenization of culture and a devaluation of human creativity. There are also questions about quality control and curation – who decides which AI-generated works are worthy of copyright protection and dissemination?
Another concern is that AI copyright ownership could further concentrate power and wealth in the hands of the corporations that own the AI systems. If a company like Google or Facebook can train an AI to generate hit songs or bestselling novels, they could dominate the creative industries and squeeze out smaller players. This could lead to a narrowing of cultural diversity and a further erosion of artists' rights and livelihoods.
There are also practical questions about how AI copyright ownership would work in practice. Would the AI be listed as the sole author of the work, or would it share authorship with its human creators or operators? How would royalties and licensing fees be split? Who would be liable if an AI-generated work infringed on someone else's copyright or caused harm? These are complex issues that would need to be worked out through legislation and legal precedent.
Ethical and Societal Implications
Beyond the narrow issue of copyright, the rise of AI creativity raises broader ethical and societal questions that we need to grapple with. As machines become more adept at mimicking and even surpassing human intelligence, what does that mean for our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world?
In the creative fields, there is a long-standing idea of the artist as a uniquely gifted individual with a singular vision and voice. But if machines can create art that is indistinguishable from human-made art, or even superior to it, what does that say about the nature of creativity and inspiration? Is creativity simply a matter of pattern recognition and recombination, or is there something more ineffable and uniquely human about it?
There are also questions about the social and economic impacts of AI creativity. If machines can do many of the creative tasks that humans currently do, what will that mean for employment and livelihoods? Will it lead to widespread job displacement and inequality, or will it free humans up to pursue higher-level creative work and other meaningful activities? How can we ensure that the benefits of AI creativity are widely shared, rather than just accruing to a small elite?
At a deeper level, the rise of creative AI challenges our assumptions about the nature of intelligence, consciousness, and agency. If machines can exhibit behaviors that look like creativity, self-awareness, and intentionality, does that mean they are truly conscious and autonomous beings? Or are they just sophisticated simulacra, lacking the inner experience and free will that we associate with personhood?
These are not just abstract philosophical questions, but urgent practical issues that will shape the development and deployment of AI systems in the coming years. As we navigate this uncharted territory, we will need to engage in ongoing ethical reflection and public deliberation to ensure that the technology serves human values and promotes the common good.
Global Consensus and Legislation
Given the global nature of AI development and deployment, it is critical that we work towards international consensus and cooperation on these issues. AI technologies are not bound by national borders, and the decisions made in one country about AI governance and regulation can have ripple effects around the world.
We need to develop global norms and standards for AI development and use, including in areas like data protection, algorithmic transparency, and accountability for AI-caused harms. This will require the active engagement of international bodies like the United Nations, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU).
It will also require collaboration between governments, industry, academia, and civil society groups to ensure that multiple perspectives and interests are represented. We need to create forums and mechanisms for ongoing dialogue and collaboration, such as the Global Partnership on AI (GPAI) launched by Canada and France in 2020.
At the same time, we need to recognize that different countries and regions may have different values, priorities, and cultural contexts that shape their approach to AI governance. We should strive for global coordination and harmonization where possible, but also allow for some degree of local variation and experimentation.
One key challenge will be balancing the need for innovation and competitiveness with the need for responsible development and deployment of AI systems. We don't want to stifle the enormous potential benefits of AI through overly restrictive regulation, but we also can't let a "race to the bottom" dynamic lead to the proliferation of unsafe or unethical AI practices.
This will require carefully designed legal and policy frameworks that provide clarity and predictability for AI developers and users, while also building in flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances. It will also require ongoing monitoring and enforcement to ensure that rules and standards are being followed in practice.
The rise of artificial intelligence, and particularly the emergence of AI systems that can engage in creative and cognitive tasks previously reserved for humans, presents both enormous opportunities and daunting challenges for our society.
On one hand, AI has the potential to unlock new dimensions of creativity, discovery, and innovation, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in fields ranging from art and music to science and technology. It could lead to an explosion of new ideas, solutions, and experiences that enrich our lives in countless ways.
At the same time, the development of AI systems that can think, learn, and create in ways that resemble human intelligence raises profound questions about the nature of consciousness, agency, and personhood. It challenges us to reconsider our assumptions about what makes us unique as humans, and what rights and responsibilities we have in relation to the intelligent machines we create.
In the area of intellectual property, AI poses particularly thorny challenges. As AI systems become more adept at generating creative works, it strains our existing legal frameworks around copyright, patent, and trademark law. It requires us to grapple with fundamental questions about the nature of authorship, originality, and ownership in the age of machine creativity.
Navigating these challenges will require ongoing dialogue, experimentation, and collaboration across disciplinary and national boundaries. We will need to engage in active ethical reflection and public deliberation to develop norms, standards, and laws that promote the responsible development and deployment of AI systems.
This will not be an easy or straightforward process. There will be difficult trade-offs to negotiate between competing values and interests, and there will be unintended consequences and risks to mitigate along the way. But it is a process that we must engage in if we hope to harness the transformative potential of AI for the greater good.
Ultimately, the rise of creative AI is not just a technological or economic issue, but a deeply human one. It touches on some of the most fundamental questions we can ask about ourselves and our place in the world. It invites us to reimagine what it means to be creative, intelligent, and alive in an age where the lines between human and machine are increasingly blurred.
As we move forward into this new frontier, we must do so with a spirit of humility, curiosity, and care. We must be willing to ask hard questions, to challenge our assumptions, and to learn from each other. We must strive to create a future in which the power of artificial intelligence is harnessed not just for efficiency or profit, but for the flourishing of all sentient beings.
This is a tall order, but it is one that we cannot afford to ignore. The stakes are too high, and the potential is too great. We have a once-in-a-civilization opportunity to shape the trajectory of a technology that could define the future of our species and our planet. Let us rise to that challenge with wisdom, courage, and compassion.
In the end, the story of AI and intellectual property is a story about machines and laws, and a story about us – about our creativity, our values, and our hopes for the future. It is a story that we are all writing together, one day and one decision at a time. May we write it with intention, with foresight, and with a deep commitment to the wellbeing of all. |
In today's digital age, cryptocurrencies have emerged as a revolutionary form of digital currency. As the popularity of cryptocurrencies continues to soar, it becomes crucial to address the issue of passing down these digital assets to future generations. This article explores the concept of "crypto heirloom" and provides valuable insights on how to safeguard your digital wealth for generations to come.
Why Crypto Heirloom Matters:
- Preserving Your Legacy:
- Cryptocurrencies represent a significant portion of your wealth, and passing them on to your loved ones ensures the preservation of your financial legacy.
- By creating a crypto heirloom, you can ensure that your digital assets are seamlessly transferred to the next generation.
- Unique Challenges of Digital Assets:
- Unlike traditional assets, cryptocurrencies exist solely in the digital realm, making their inheritance a unique challenge.
- The decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies requires careful planning to prevent the loss or mismanagement of these assets.
Planning Your Crypto Heirloom:
- Documenting Your Crypto Holdings:
- Maintain an organized record of your crypto holdings, including wallets, exchange accounts, and private keys.
- Store this information securely and share it only with trusted individuals, such as your heirs or designated executor.
- Designating Beneficiaries:
- Clearly identify the beneficiaries who will inherit your crypto assets. This can be done through a will, trust, or specific cryptocurrency inheritance tools.
- Provide instructions on how to access and transfer the digital assets to the beneficiaries, including any necessary passwords or encryption keys.
- Security Measures:
- Implement robust security measures to protect your digital assets during your lifetime and beyond.
- Utilize hardware wallets, multi-factor authentication, and encryption techniques to safeguard your cryptocurrencies from unauthorized access.
- Consult Professionals:
- Seek guidance from legal and financial professionals experienced in cryptocurrencies and estate planning.
- They can provide valuable advice tailored to your specific situation and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
Ensuring Smooth Inheritance:
- Regularly Review and Update:
- Periodically review and update your crypto heirloom plan to reflect any changes in your holdings, beneficiaries, or personal circumstances.
- Stay informed about changes in regulations and best practices to ensure the effectiveness and relevance of your plan.
- Educate Beneficiaries:
- Provide adequate education to your beneficiaries about cryptocurrencies, wallets, and digital security.
- Familiarize them with the process of accessing and managing digital assets, minimizing the risk of loss or mishandling.
- Communication and Disclosure:
- Maintain open communication with your heirs or executor regarding the existence and location of your crypto assets.
- Clearly communicate your intentions, expectations, and any specific conditions or restrictions associated with the inheritance.
Conclusion: In the digital era, the concept of crypto heirloom becomes increasingly important for safeguarding your digital wealth. By carefully planning your crypto heirloom and taking necessary security measures, you can ensure that your digital assets are passed down smoothly to future generations. Remember to review and update your plan regularly, seek professional advice, and educate your beneficiaries to guarantee the seamless transition of your crypto legacy. Start building your crypto heirloom today and secure your digital wealth for the future. |
Tag: Energy security
Navigating Environmental Policy Consistency Amidst Political Change
Europe, like other parts of the world, currently grapples with the dual challenges of environmental change and democratic backsliding. In a context marked by rising populism, misinformation, and political manipulation, designing credible sustainable climate policies is more important than ever. The 2024 annual Energy Talk, organized by the Stockholm Institute of Transition Economics (SITE), gathered experts to bring insight into these challenges and explore potential solutions for enhancing green politics.
In the last decades, the EU has taken significant steps to tackle climate change. Yet, there is much to be done to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. The rise of right-wing populists in countries like Italy and Slovakia, and economic priorities that overshadow environmental concerns, such as the pause of environmental regulations in France and reduced gasoline taxes in Sweden, are significantly threatening the green transition. The current political landscape, characterized by democratic backsliding and widespread misinformation, poses severe challenges for maintaining green policy continuity in the EU. The discussions at SITEs Energy Talk 2024 highlighted the need to incorporate resilience into policy design to effectively manage political fluctuations and ensure the sustainability and popular support of environmental policies. This policy brief summarizes the main points from the presentations and discussions.
Policy Sustainability
In his presentation, Michaël Aklin, Associate Professor of Economics and Chair of Policy & Sustainability at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, emphasized the need for environmental, economic, and social sustainability into climate policy frameworks. This is particularly important, and challenging given that key sectors of the economy are difficult to decarbonize, such as energy production, transportation, and manufacturing. Additionally, the energy demand in Europe is expected to increase drastically (mainly due to electrification), with supply simultaneously declining (in part due to nuclear power phaseout in several member states, such as Germany). Increasing storage capacity, enhancing demand flexibility, and developing transmission infrastructure all require large, long-term investments, and uncompromising public policy. However, these crucial efforts are at risk due to ongoing political uncertainty. Aklin argued that a politics-resilient climate policy design is essential to avoid market fragmentation, decrease cooperation, and ensure the support for green policies. Currently, industrial policy is seen as the silver bullet, in particular, because it can create economies of scale and ensure political commitment to major projects. However, as Aklin explained, it is not an invincible solution, as such projects may also be undermined by capacity constraints and labour shortages.
Energy Policy Dynamics
Building on Aklin's insights, Thomas Tangerås, Associate Professor at the Research Institute of Industrial Economics, explored the evolution of Swedish energy policy. Tangerås focused on ongoing shifts in support for nuclear power and renewables, driven by changes in government coalitions. Driven by an ambition to ensure energy security, Sweden historically invested in both hydro and nuclear power stations. In the wake of the Three Mile Island accident, public opinion however shifted and following a referendum in 1980, a nuclear shutdown by 2010 was promised. In the new millennia, the first push for renewables in 2003, was followed by the right-wing government's nuclear resurgence in 2010, allowing new reactors to replace old ones. In 2016 there was a second renewable push when the left-wing coalition set the goal of 100 percent renewable electricity by 2040 (although with no formal ban on nuclear). This target was however recently reformulated with the election of the right-wing coalition in 2022, which, supported by the far-right party, launched a nuclear renaissance. The revised objective is to achieve 100 percent fossil-free electricity by 2040, with nuclear power playing a crucial role in the clean energy mix.
The back-and-forth energy policy in Sweden has led to high uncertainty. A more consistent policy approach could increase stability and minimize investment risks in the energy sector. Three aspects should be considered to foster a stable and resilient investment climate while mitigating political risks, Tangerås concluded: First, a market-based support system should be established; second, investments must be legally protected, even in the event of policy changes; and third, financial and ownership arrangements must be in place to protect against political expropriation and to facilitate investments, for example, through contractual agreements for advance power sales.
The Path to Net-Zero: A Polish Perspective
Circling back to the need for climate policy to be socially sustainable, Paweł Wróbel, Energy and climate regulatory affairs professional, Founder of GateBrussels, and Managing Director of BalticWind.EU, gave an account of Poland's recent steps towards the green transition.
Poland is currently on an ambitious path of reaching net-zero, with the new government promising to step up the effort, backing a 90 percent greenhouse gas reduction target for 2040 recently proposed by the EU However, the transition is framed by geopolitical tensions in the region and the subsequent energy security issues as well as high energy prices in the industrial sector. Poland's green transition is further challenged by social issues given the large share of the population living in coal mining areas (one region, Silesia, accounts for 12 percent of the polish population alone). Still, by 2049, the coal mining is to be phased out and coal in the energy mix is to be phased out even by 2035/2040 – optimistic objectives set by the government in agreement with Polish trade unions.
In order to achieve this, and to facilitate its green transition, Poland has to make use of its large offshore wind potential. This is currently in an exploratory phase and is expected to generate 6 GW by 2030, with a support scheme in place for an addition 12 GW. In addition, progress has been achieved in the adoption of solar power, with prosumers driving the progress in this area. More generally, the private sectors' share in the energy market is steadily increasing, furthering investments in green technology. However, further investments into storage capacity, transmission, and distribution are crucial as the majority of Polands' green energy producing regions lie in the north while industries are mainly found in the south.
Paralleling the argument of Aklin, Wróbel also highlighted that Poland's high industrialization (with about 6 percent of the EU's industrial production) may slow down the green transition due to the challenges of greening the energy used by this sector. The latter also includes higher energy prices which undermines Poland's competitiveness on the European market.
The SITE Energy Talk 2024 catalyzed discussions about developing lasting and impactful environmental policies in times of political and economic instability. It also raised questions about how to balance economic growth and climate targets. To achieve its 2050 climate neutrality goals, the EU must implement flexible and sustainable policies supported by strong regulatory and political frameworks – robust enough to withstand economic and political pressures. To ensure democratic processes, it is crucial to address the threat posed by centralised governments decisions, political lock-ins, and large projects (with potential subsequent backlashes). This requires the implementation of fair policies, clearly communicating the benefits of the green transition.
On behalf of the Stockholm Institute of Transition Economics, we would like to thank Michaël Aklin, Thomas Tangerås and Paweł Wróbel for participating in this year's Energy Talk.
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in policy briefs and other publications are those of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect those of the FREE Network and its research institutes.
The Impact of Rising Gasoline Prices on Households in Sweden, Georgia, and Latvia – Is This Time Different?
Over the last two years, the world has experienced a global energy crisis, with surging oil, coal, and natural gas prices. For European households, this translates into higher gasoline and diesel prices at the pump as well as increased electricity and heating costs. The increase in energy related costs began in 2021, as the world economy struggled with supply chain disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, and intensified as Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in late February 2022. In response, European governments have implemented a variety of energy tax cuts (Sgaravatti et al., 2023), with a particular focus on reducing the consumer cost of transport fuel. This policy paper aims to contextualize current transport fuel prices in Europe by addressing two related questions: Are households today paying more for gasoline and diesel than in the past? And should policymakers respond by changing transport fuel tax rates? The analysis will focus on case studies from Sweden, Georgia, and Latvia, countries that vary in economic development, energy independence, reliance on Russian oil, transport infrastructure, and transport fuel tax rates. Through this study, we aim to paint a nuanced picture of the implications of rising fuel prices on household budgets and provide policy guidance.
Record High Gasoline Prices, Historically Cheap to Drive
Sweden has a long history of using excise taxes on transport fuel as a means to raise revenue for the government and to correct for environmental externalities. As early as in 1924, Sweden introduced an energy tax on gasoline. Later, in 1991, this tax was complemented by a carbon tax levied on the carbon content of transport fuels. On top of this, Sweden extended the coverage of its value-added tax (VAT) to include transport fuels in 1990. The VAT rate of 25 percent is applied to all components of the consumer price of gasoline: the production cost, producer margin, and excise taxes (energy and carbon taxes).
In May 2022, the Swedish government reduced the tax rate on transport fuels by 1.80 SEK per liter (0.16 EUR). This reduction was unprecedented. Since 1960, there have only been three instances of nominal tax rate reductions on gasoline in Sweden, each by marginal amounts in the range of 0.04 to 0.22 SEK per liter. Prior to the tax cut, the combined rate of the energy and carbon tax was 6.82 SEK per liter of gasoline. Adding the VAT that is applied on these taxes, amounting to 1.71 SEK, yields a total excise tax component of 8.53 SEK. This amount is fixed in the short run and does not vary with oil price changes.
Figure 1. Gasoline Pump Price, 2000-2023.
Source: Drivkraft Sverige (2023).
Figure 1 shows the monthly average real price of gasoline in Sweden from January 2000 to October 2023. The price has slowly increased over the last 20 years and has been historically high in the last year and a half. Going back even further, the price is higher today than at any point since 1960. Swedish households have thus lately been paying more for one liter of gasoline than ever before.
However, a narrow focus on the price at the pump does not take into consideration other factors that affect the cost of personal transportation for households.
First, the average fuel efficiency of the vehicle fleet has improved over time. New vehicles sold in Sweden today can drive 50 percent further on one liter of gasoline compared to new vehicles sold in 2000. Arguably, what consumers care about the most is not the cost of gasoline per se but the cost of driving a certain distance, as the utility one derives from a car is the distance one can travel. Accounting for vehicles' fuel efficiency improvement over time, we find that even though it is still comparatively expensive to drive today, the current price level no longer constitutes a historical peak. In fact, the cost of driving 100 km was as high, or higher, in the 2000-2008 period (see Figure 2).
Figure 2. Gasoline Expenditure per 100 km.
Source: Trafikverket (2023) and Drivkraft Sverige (2023).
Second, any discussion of the cost of personal transportation for households should also factor in changes in household income over time. The Swedish average real hourly wage has increased by more than thirty percent between 2000-2023. As such, the cost of driving 100 km, measured as a share of household income, has steadily declined over time. Further, this pattern is consistent across the income distribution; for instance, the cost trajectory for the bottom decile is similar to that of all wage earners (as illustrated in Figure 3). In 1991, when the carbon tax was implemented, the average household had to spend around two thirds of an hour's wage to drive 100 km. By 2020, that same household only had to spend one third of an hour's wage to drive the same distance. There has been an increase in the cost of driving over the last two years, but in relation to income, it is still cheaper today to drive a certain distance compared to any year before 2013.
Figure 3. Cost of Driving as a Share of Income, 1991-2023.
Source: Statistics Sweden (2023).
Taken all together, we see that on the expenditure side, vehicles use fuel more efficiently over time and on the income side, households earn higher wages. Based on this, we can conclude that the cost of travelling a certain distance by car is not historically high today.
Response From Policymakers
It is, however, of little comfort for households to know that it was more expensive to drive their car – as a share of income – 10 or 20 years ago. We argue that what ultimately matters for households is the short run change in cost, and the speed of this change. If the cost rises too fast, households cannot adjust their expenditure pattern quickly enough and thus feel that the price increase is unaffordable. In fact, the change in the gasoline price at the pump has been unusually rapid over the last two years. Since the beginning of 2021, until the peak in June 2022, the (nominal) pump price rose by around 60 percent.
So, should policymakers respond to the rapid price increase by lowering gasoline taxes? The perhaps surprising answer is that lowering existing gasoline tax rates would be counter-productive in the medium and long run. Since excise taxes are fixed and do not vary with the oil price, they reduce the volatility of the pump price by cushioning fluctuations in the market price of crude oil. The total excise tax component including VAT constitutes more than half of the pump price in Sweden, a level that is similar across most European countries. This stands in stark contrast with the US, where excise taxes make up around 15 percent of the consumer price of gasoline. As a consequence, a doubling of the price of crude oil only increases the consumer price of gasoline in Sweden by around 35 percent, while it increases by about 80 percent in the US. Households across Sweden, Europe, and the US have adapted to the different levels of gasoline tax rates by purchasing vehicles with different levels of fuel efficiency. New light-duty vehicles sold in Europe are on average 45 percent more fuel-efficient compared to the same vehicle category sold in the US (IEA 2021). As such, US households do not necessarily benefit from lower gasoline taxation in terms of household expenditure on transport fuel. They are also more vulnerable to rapid increases in the price of crude oil. Having high gasoline tax rates thus reduces – rather than increases – the short run welfare impact on households. Hence, policymakers should resist the temptation to lower gasoline tax rates during the current energy crisis. With imposed tax cuts, households will, in the medium and long run, buy vehicles with higher fuel consumption and thus become more exposed to price surges in the future – again compelling policymakers to adjust tax rates, creating a downward spiral. Instead, alternative measures should be considered to alleviate the effects of the heavy price pressure on low-income households – for instance, revenue recycling of the carbon tax revenue and increased subsidies of public transport.
To reach environmental and climate goals, Sweden urgently needs to phase out the use of fossil fuels in the transport sector – Sweden's largest source of carbon dioxide emissions. This is exactly what a gradual increase of the tax rate on gasoline and diesel would achieve. At the same time, it would benefit consumers by shielding them from the adverse effects of future oil price volatility.
The most common response from policymakers regarding fuel tax rates however goes in the opposite direction. In Sweden, the excise tax on gasoline and diesel was reduced by 1.80 SEK per liter in 2022 and the current government plans to further reduce the price by easing the biofuel mandate. Similar tax cuts have been implemented in a range of European countries. Therefore, the distinguishing factor in the current situation lies in the exceptional responses from policymakers, rather than in the gasoline costs that households are encountering.
Gasoline Price Swings and Their Consequences for Georgian Consumers
The energy crisis that begun in 2021 has also made its mark on Georgia, where the operational expenses of personal vehicles, encompassing not only gasoline costs but also maintenance expenses, account for more than 8 percent of the consumer price index. The rise in gasoline prices sparked public protest and certain opposition parties proposed an excise tax cut to mitigate the gasoline price surge. In Georgia, gasoline taxes include excise taxes and VAT. Until January 1, 2017, the excise tax was 250 GEL per ton (9 cents/liter), it has since increased to 500 GEL (18 cents/liter). Despite protests and the suggested excise tax reduction, the Georgian government chose not to implement any tax cuts. Instead, it initiated consultations with major oil importers to explore potential avenues for reducing the overall prices. Following this, the Georgian National Competition Agency (GNCA) launched an inquiry into the fuel market for motor vehicles, concluding a manipulation of retail prices for gasoline existed (Georgian National Competition Agency, 2023).
The objective of this part of the policy paper is to address two interconnected questions. Firstly, are Georgian households affected by gasoline price increases? And secondly, if they are, is there a need for government intervention to mitigate the negative impact on household budgets caused by the rise in gasoline prices?
The Gasoline Market in Georgia
Georgia's heavy reliance on gasoline imports is a notable aspect of the country's energy landscape. The country satisfies 100 percent of its gasoline needs with imports and 99 percent of the fuel imported is earmarked for the road vehicle transport sector. Although Georgia sources its gasoline from a diverse group of countries, with nearly twenty nations contributing to its annual gasoline imports, the supply predominantly originates from a select few markets: Bulgaria, Romania, and Russia. In the last decade, these markets have almost yearly accounted for over 80 percent of Georgia's total gasoline imports. Furthermore, Russia's share has substantially increased in recent years, amounting to almost 75 percent of all gasoline imports in 2023. The primary reason behind Russia's increased dominance in Georgia's gasoline imports is the competitive pricing of Russian gasoline, which between January and August in 2023 was almost 50 percent cheaper than Bulgarian gasoline and 35 percent cheaper than Romanian gasoline (National Statistics Office of Georgia, 2023). Given the dominance of Russian gasoline in Georgia, the end-user (retail) prices of gasoline in Georgia, are closer to gasoline prices in Russia than EU gasoline prices (see Figure 1).
Figure 1. End-user Gasoline Prices in Georgia, Russia and the EU, 2013-2022.
Source: International Energy Agency, 2023.
However, while the gasoline prices increased steadily in 2020-2022 in Russia, gasoline prices in Georgia increased sharply in the same period. This more closely replicated the EU price dynamics rather than the Russian one. The sharp price increase in gasoline raised concerns from the Georgian National Competition Agency (GNCA). According to the GNCA one possible reason behind the sharp increase in gasoline prices in Georgia could be anti-competitive behaviour among the five major companies within the gasoline market. Accordingly, the GNCA investigated the behaviour of major market players during the first eight months of 2022, finding violations of the Competition Law of Georgia. Although the companies had imported and were offering consumers different and significantly cheaper transport fuels compared to fuels of European origin, their retail pricing policies were identical and the differences in product costs were not properly reflected in the retail price level. GNCA claims the market players coordinated their actions, which could have led to increased gasoline prices in Georgia (National Competition Agency of Georgia. (2023).
Given that increased gasoline prices might lead to increased household expenditures for fuel, it is important to assess the potential impact of recent price developments on household's budgets.
Exploring Gasoline Price Impacts
Using data from the Georgian Households Incomes and Expenditures Survey (National Statistics Office of Georgia, 2023), weekly household expenditures on gasoline and corresponding weekly incomes were computed. To evaluate the potential impact of rising gasoline prices on households, the ratio of household expenditures on gasoline to household income was used. The ratios were calculated for all households, grouped in three income groups (the bottom 10 percent, the top 10 percent and those in between), over the past decade (see Figure 2).
Figure 2. Expenditure on Gasoline as Share of Income for Different Income Groups in Georgia, 2013-2022.
Source: National Statistics Office of Georgia, 2023.
Figure 2 shows that between 2013 and 2022, average households allocated 9-14 percent of their weekly income to gasoline purchases. There is no discernible increase in the ratio following the energy crisis in 2021-2022.
Considering the different income groups, the upper 10 percent income group experienced a slightly greater impact from the recent rise in gasoline prices (the ratio increased), compared to the overall population. For the lower income group, which experienced a rise in the proportion of fuel costs relative to total income from 2016 to 2021, the rate declined between 2021 and 2022. Despite the decline in the ratio for the lower-level income group, it is noteworthy that the share of gasoline expenditure in the household budget has consistently been high throughout the decade, compared to the overall population and the higher-level income group.
The slightly greater impact from the rise in gasoline prices for the upper 10 percent income group is driven by a 4 percent increase in nominal disposable income, paired with an 8 percent decline in the quantity of gasoline (Figure 3) in response to the 22 percent gasoline price increase. Clearly, for this income group, the increase in disposable income was not enough to offset the increase in the price of gasoline, increasing the ratio as indicated above.
For the lower 10 percent income group, there was a 23 percent increase in nominal disposable income, paired with a 9 percent decline in the quantity of purchased gasoline (Figure 3) in response to the 22 percent gasoline price increase . Thus, for this group, the increase in disposable income weakened the potential negative impact of increased prices, eventually lowering the ratio.
Figure 3. Average Gasoline Quantities Purchased, by Household Groups, per Week (In Liters) 2013-2022.
Source: National Statistics Office of Georgia, 2023.
The Georgian energy market is currently fully dependent on imports, predominantly from Russia. While sharp increases in petrol prices have been observed during the last 2-3 years, they do not seem to have significantly impacted Georgian households' demand for gasoline. Noteworthy, the lack of impact from gasoline price increases on Georgian households' budgets, as seen in the calculated ratio (depicted in Figure 2), can be explained by the significant rise in Georgia's imports from the cheap Russian market during the energy crisis years. Additionally, according to the Household Incomes and Expenditures survey, there was in 2022 an annual increase in disposable income for households that purchased gasoline. However, the data also show that low-income households spend a high proportion of their income on gasoline.
Although increased prices did not significantly affect Georgian households, the extremely high import dependency and the lack of import markets diversification poses a threat to Georgia's energy security and general economic stability. Economic dependency on Russia is dangerous as Russia traditionally uses economic relations as a lever for putting political pressure on independent economies. Therefore, expanding trade and deepening economic ties with Russia should be seen as risky. Additionally, the Russian economy has, due to war and sanctions, already contracted by 2.1 percent in 2022 and further declines are expected (Commersant, 2023).
Prioritizing actions such as diversifying the import market to find relatively cheap suppliers (other than Russia), closely monitoring the domestic market to ensure that competition law is not violated and market players do not abuse their power, and embracing green, energy-efficient technologies can positively affect Georgia's energy security and positively impact sustainable development more broadly.
Fueling Concerns: The True Cost of Transportation in Latvia
In May 2020, as the Latvian Covid-19 crisis began, Latvia's gasoline price was 0.99 EUR per liter. By June 2022, amid the economic effects from Russia's war on Ukraine, the price had soared to a record high 2.09 EUR per liter, sparking public and political debate on the fairness of fuel prices and potential policy actions.
While gas station prices are salient, there are several other more hidden factors that affect the real cost of transportation in Latvia. This part of the policy paper sheds light on such costs by looking at some of its key indicators. First, we consider the historical price of transport fuel in Latvia. Second, we consider the cost of fuel in relationship to average wages and the fuel type composition of the vehicle fleet in Latvia.
The Price of Fuel in Latvia
Latvia's nominal retail prices for gasoline (green line) and diesel (orange line) largely mirror each other, though gasoline prices are slightly higher, in part due to a higher excise duty (see Figure 1). These local fuel prices closely follow the international oil market prices, as illustrated by the grey line representing nominal Brent oil prices per barrel.
The excise duty rate has been relatively stable in the past, demonstrating that it has not been a major factor in fuel price swings. A potential reduction to the EU required minimum excise duty level will likely have a limited effect on retail prices. Back of the envelope calculations show that lowering the diesel excise duty from the current 0.414 EUR per liter to EU's minimum requirement of 0.33 EUR per liter could result in approximately a 5 percent drop in retail prices (currently, 1.71 EUR per liter). This at the cost of a budget income reduction of 0.6 percent, arguably a costly policy choice.
In response to recent years' price increase, the Latvian government opted to temporarily relax environmental restrictions, making the addition of a bio component to diesel and gasoline (0.065 and 0.095 liters per 1 liter respectively) non-mandatory for fuel retailers between 1st of June 2022 until the end of 2023. The expectation was that this measure would lead to a reduction in retail prices by approximately 10 eurocents. To this date, we are unaware of any publicly available statistical analysis that verifies whether the relaxed restriction have had the anticipated effect.
Figure 1. Nominal Retail Fuel Prices and Excise Duties for Gasoline and Diesel in Latvia (in EUR/Liter), and Nominal Brent Crude Oil Prices (in EUR/Barrel), January 2005 to August 2023.
Source: The Central Statistical Bureau of Latvia, St. Louis Federal Reserve's database, OFX Monthly Average Rates database, The Ministry of Finance of Latvia, The State Revenue Service of Latvia.
The True Cost of Transportation
Comparing fuel retail prices to average net monthly earnings gives insight about the true cost of transportation in terms of purchasing power. Figure 2 displays the nominal net monthly average wage in Latvia from January 2005 to June 2023 (grey line). During this time period the average worker saw a five-fold nominal wage increase, from 228 EUR to 1128 EUR monthly. The real growth was two-fold, i.e., the inflation adjusted June 2023 wage, in 2005 prices, was 525 EUR.
Considering fuel's share of the wages; one liter of gasoline amounted to 0.3 percent of an average monthly wage in 2005, as compared to 0.12 percent in 2023, with diesel displaying a similar pattern. Thus, despite recent years' fuel price increase, the two-fold increase in purchasing power during the same time period implies that current fuel prices may not be as alarming for Latvian households as they initially appeared to be.
Figure 2. Average Nominal Monthly Net Wages in Latvia and Nominal Prices of One Liter of Gasoline and Diesel as Shares of Such Wages (in EUR), January 2005 to June 2023.
Source: The Central Statistical Bureau of Latvia.
Another factor to consider is the impact of technological advancements on fuel efficiency over time. The idea is simple: due to technological improvements to combustion engines, the amount of fuel required to drive 100 kilometers has decreased over time, which translates to a lower cost for traveling additional kilometers today. An EU average indicator shows that the fuel efficiency of newly sold cars improved from 7 liters to 6 liters per 100 km, respectively, in 2005 and 2019. While we lack precise data on the average fuel efficiency of all private vehicles in Latvia, we can make an informed argument in relation to the technological advancement claim by examining proxy indicators such as the type of fuel used and the average age of vehicles.
Figure 3 shows a notable change in the fuel type composition of the vehicle fleet in Latvia. Note that the decrease in the number of cars in 2011 is mainly due to a statistical correction for unused cars. At the start of the 21st century, 92 percent of Latvian vehicles were gasoline-powered and 8 percent were diesel-powered. By 2023, these proportions had shifted to 28 percent for gasoline and 68 percent for diesel. Diesel engines are more fuel efficient, usually consuming 20-35 percent less fuel than gasoline engines when travelling the same distance. Although diesel engines are generally pricier than their gasoline counterparts, they offer a cost advantage for every kilometer driven, easing the impact of rising fuel prices. A notable drawback of diesel engines however, is their lower environmental efficiency – highlighted following the 2015 emission scandal. In part due to the scandal, the diesel vehicles growth rate have dropped over the past five years in Latvia.
Figure 3. Number of Private Vehicles by Fuel Type and the Average Age of Private Vehicles in Latvia, 2001 to 2023.
Source: The Central Statistical Bureau of Latvia, Latvia's Road Traffic Safety Directorate.
Figure 3 also shows that Latvia's average vehicle age increased from 14 years in 2011 to 15.1 years in 2023. This is similar to the overall EU trend, although EU cars are around 12 years old, on average. This means that, in Latvia, the average car in 2011 and 2023 were manufactured in 1997 and 2008, respectively. One would expect that engines from 2008 have better technical characteristics compared to those from 1997. Recent economic research show that prior to 2005, improvements in fuel efficiency for new cars sold in the EU was largely counterbalanced by increased engine power, enhanced consumer amenities and improved acceleration performance (Hu and Chen, 2016). I.e., cars became heavier, larger, and more powerful, leading to higher fuel consumption. However, after 2005, cars' net fuel efficiency started to improve. As sold cars in Latvia are typically 10-12 year old vehicles from Western European countries, Latvia will gradually absorb a more fuel-efficient vehicle fleet.
The increase of purchasing power, a shift to more efficient fuel types and improvements in engine efficiency have all contributed to a reduction of the overall real cost of transportation over time in Latvia. The recent rise in fuel prices to historically high levels is thus less concerning than it initially appears. Moreover, a growing share of cars will not be directly affected by fuel price fluctuations in the future. Modern electric vehicles constitute only 0.5 percent of all cars in Latvia today, however, they so far account for 10 percent of all newly registered cars in 2023, with an upward sloping trend.
Still, politicians are often concerned about the unequal effects of fuel price fluctuations on individuals. Different car owners experience varied effects, especially when considering factors like income and location, influencing transportation supply and demand.
First, Latvia ranks as one of the EU's least motorized countries, only ahead of Romania, with 404 cars per 1000 inhabitants in 2021. This lower rate of vehicle ownership is likely influenced by the country's relatively low GDP per capita (73 percent of the EU average in 2022) and a high population concentration in its capital city, Riga (32 of the population lives in Riga city and 46 percent in the Riga metropolitcan area). In Riga, a developed public transport system reduces the necessity for personal vehicles. Conversely, areas with limited public transport options, such as rural and smaller urban areas, exhibit a higher demand for personal transportation as there are no substitution options and the average distance travelled is higher than in urban areas. Thus, car owners in these areas tend to be more susceptible to the impact of fuel price volatility.
Second, Latvia has a high Gini coefficient compared to other EU countries, indicating significant income inequality (note that the Gini coefficient measures income inequality within a population, with 0 representing perfect equality and 1 indicating maximum inequality. In 2022, the EU average was 29.6 while Latvia's Gini coefficient was 34.3, the third highest in the EU). With disparities in purchasing power, price hikes tend to disproportionately burden those with lower incomes, making fuel more costly relative to their monthly wages.
These income and location factors suggest that inhabitants in rural areas are likely the most affected by recent price hikes. Distributional effects across geography (rural vs urban) are often neglected in public discourse, as the income dimension is more visible. But both geography and income factors should be accounted for in a prioritized state support, should such be deemed necessary.
- Commersant. (2023). Economic dependence on Russia is growing rapidly – reasons and risks. Commersant.
- Drivkraft Sverige. (2023). Drivkraft Sverige: Data Set. drivkraftsverige.se/statistik/priser/bensin/
- Hu, K. and Chen, Y. (2016). Technological growth of fuel efficiency in European automobile market 1975–2015. Energy Policy, 98, pp.142-148.
- IEA. (2021). Fuel Consumption of Cars and Vans. Tracking Report. International Energy Agency.
- International Energy Agency. (2023). End-Use Prices Data Explorer. https://www.iea.org/data-and-statistics/data-tools/end-use-prices-data-explorer?tab=Overview
- National Competition Agency of Georgia. (2023). Regarding the investigation carried out in accordance with the order of the Chairman of the National Competition Agency of Georgia dated August 16, 2022 N04/165.
- National Statistics Office of Georgia. (2023). External Trade Portal. Retrieved from https://ex-trade.geostat.ge/en
- National Statistics Office of Georgia. (2023). Households Incomes and Expenditures Survey. https://www.geostat.ge/en/modules/categories/128/databases-of-2009-2016-integrated-household-survey-and-2017-households-income-and-expenditure-survey
- Sgaravatti, G., Tagliapietra, S., & Zachmann, G. (2022). National policies to shield consumers from rising energy prices. Bruegel Datasets.
- Statistics Sweden. (2023). Average hourly wage statistics. http://www.statistikdatabasen.scb.se
- Trafikverket. (2023). Vägtrafikens utsläpp 2022. Technical report. Swedish Transport Administration.
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in policy briefs and other publications are those of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect those of the FREE Network and its research institutes.
The EU Gas Purchasing Mechanism: A Game-Changer or a Storm in a Teacup?
Marking a milestone in the tumultuous journey towards a unified energy policy, the European Union (EU) member states have initiated joint procurement of a portion of their gas consumption. This coordinated effort has been facilitated through a gas purchasing mechanism, the AggregateEU, as of May 2023. In this policy brief we discuss the challenges this mechanism faces, given its design characteristics and the altered dynamics of the gas market following the energy crisis.
The necessity for a coordinated approach to energy security within the EU has been recognized at least since 2009, when its legal base was explicitly introduced in Article 194 of the Treaty of Lisbon. However, the de facto implementation of the solidarity principle has been lagging for many years. In response to the 2022 surge in gas prices, the EU has at last taken the solidarity approach to common energy security seriously. One of the most prominent steps is the creation of the AggregateEU mechanism, launched at the end of 2022. This mechanism aggregates the demand of registered buyers from different member states and matches it with competitive bids from external gas suppliers. It aims at improving and diversifying the EU gas supply, avoiding unnecessary buyer competition within the EU and building up the buyer power of EU member states. Furthermore, the mechanism is meant to reduce uncertainty and mitigate price volatility by providing information about accessible energy supplies. The mechanism covers both pipeline natural gas and Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) and organizes tenders every two months. While EU member states are required to submit demand bids for 15 percent of their 90 percent storage targets for the upcoming 2023-24 season through the mechanism, there is no obligation to sign any contracts based on the resulting match (more details can be found here and here).
The first three rounds of tendering via the mechanism, which took place May-October 2023, matched approximately 34 billion cubic meters of natural gas, exceeding the anticipated initial volumes. This outcome is currently perceived as a great achievement, enabling more vulnerable countries to benefit from coordinated purchases and resulting in increased bargaining power. Driven by this success, the European Commission (EC) has considered making demand aggregation via the mechanism a permanent feature of the EU's gas market – and even extending it to hydrogen. However, while these agreed trades are a positive development, they may not reflect the mechanism's overall success. Demand submission obligations may increase the number of demand calls which could project into more matches, but as they are not binding the subsequent agreements may not necessarily result in finalized contracts or lower prices.
In this brief, we argue that the mechanism's benefits remain uncertain, primarily due to the current state of the EU's gas market and the design flaws arising from efforts to address disparities in energy security among member states. These considerations call for a direct impact assessment, which however remains impossible due to the EC's inability (or even reluctancy?) to collect and disclose the contracted outcomes resulting from the mechanism matches. This is especially problematic in light of the EC's intentions to extend the mechanism's coverage.
Limited Mechanism Benefits Under New Market Trends
Over the past two years, the EU has undertaken drastic efforts to address the energy security concerns within its gas market caused by the radical reduction in Russia's natural gas exports to Europe. The EU has managed to sizably improve the diversification of its gas imports (see Figure 1), fill its storage facilities, and lower its gas demand (see McWilliams, Sgaravatti, and Zachmann (2021) and McWilliams and Zachmann (2023)).
Figure 1. Composition of EU natural gas imports.
As a result, a certain balance of supply and demand has been achieved, and the gas prices in the EU market have fallen to pre-war price levels (though they are still somewhat higher than their earlier long-term trend), as depicted in Figure 2. The ease of market tensions in 2023 has led many to argue that market forces are sufficient to resolve potential problems in the EU gas market and that mechanism costs would not be justified (see, e.g., Eurogas or International Association of Oil and Gas Producers opinions).
However, in the coming years the EU gas market is expected to be relatively tight due to capacity constraints both in the LNG market and for pipeline gas producers (as noted by, e.g., Bloomberg and IEA). This tightness makes the market highly sensitive to shocks, and a twofold increase in exposure to LNG – with its global liquidity – only adds to the problem. A good illustration of this concern is the recent market reaction to the Israel-Palestine war: the fear of supply disruptions lead to a whopping 55 percent increase in the European gas tariff TTF in the second week of October and to an EC initiative to prolong the emergency gas price cap, initially introduced in February 2023. This despite the EU's gas storage nearing 98 percent of capacity and relatively low current prices.
Such a "seller market" situation implies that buyers' ability to exercise buyer power and negotiate down prices may be highly limited when needed the most. Specifically, buyer power would be most effective when buyers have a credible outside option, e.g., the ability to claim that their gas demand needs can be facilitated elsewhere. The tighter the market, the more difficult it would be to find such volumes elsewhere, further limiting buyers' ability to negotiate down prices. To put it differently: current market conditions may undermine the original purpose of the mechanism.
The current "shock-sensitivity" of the gas market may also give rise to additional concerns regarding the mechanism's mere purpose – demand aggregation for vulnerable buyers. One of the by-products of demand aggregation is that (pooled) buyers are more likely to face correlated risks, e.g., by purchasing gas from the same producer. If markets are highly shock-sensitive – as they currently seem to be – such aggregation may further increase market volatility, implying that vulnerable buyers would be affected the most.
Figure 2. Natural gas prices in the EU, January 2021-October 2023 (prices in EUR).
Mechanism Design: Constraints vs. Efficiency
Some design elements of the purchasing mechanism may also challenge the mechanism's ability to deliver an efficient outcome. First, quantity and price under the matching process are not binding, and buyers and sellers are expected to continue negotiations individually after the matching. This feature was introduced due to the concern that it would be challenging to offer a "one size fits all" binding contract to incorporate all participants of the pooled demand. This, as argued by Le Coq and Paltseva (2012; 2022), was one of the reasons for the previous failure to implement a mutual insurance and solidarity mechanism across the EU. However, the non-binding matching outcome will likely give rise to re-negotiations, price increases, and failure to exercise consolidated "buyer power".
Moreover, a company can act on behalf of small or financially constrained buyers, purchase gas for them, and become an "Agent-on-behalf" and "Central Buyer". In the process, companies will inevitably exchange sensitive information. This may limit competition and increase the market power of the "Central Buyer" company. In addition, firms may choose not to participate in the mechanism for at least two reasons. First, they may fear the threat of revealing valuable private information. Second, demand aggregation may discourage market participants with stronger buyer positions from participating, as being pooled with weaker participants would undermine their bargaining power. Both these cases would create a so-called adverse selection effect, where the more performant market participants would choose to avoid the joint purchasing mechanism. As a result, the joint buyer power may be strongly undermined, and the price-suppressing effect seems uncertain. This may explain why some firms, like several large German firms, have opted to sign long-term contracts with gas suppliers directly rather than via the mechanism
Several of these concerns arise not from the mechanism design per se but rather in combination with the inherent asymmetries between EU buyers, including variations in gas demand, risk exposure, etc. To put it differently: it is well justified that a "one size fits all" approach would fail in ensuring broad (and voluntary) mechanism participation; however, the choice of a more flexible solution, as implemented by the AggregateEU mechanism, creates commitment issues and adverse selection, and may undermine an effective use of buyer power.
Impact Assessment: Necessary but Currently Impossible
The new EU gas purchasing system is a significant step towards creating a unified energy policy. However, the design of such a procurement auction raises concerns about its contribution, especially under the new gas market dynamics. The current low gas prices make the immediate cost-benefit tradeoff of the mechanism nonobvious. More importantly, the tightness of the EU gas market in the next few years makes the "seller" power unlikely to be counteracted by the EU's buyer power. Further, the absence of legal commitment between matched participants, and increased market volatility can lead to repeated ex-post renegotiations. These elements undermine the mechanism's role and raise doubts about its benefits. Some of the mechanism's inherent features, such as incentives for abuse of market power, also contribute to potential efficiency loss.
Hence, while the motivation behind this tool is clear, the implementation and potential design flaws may undermine the gains. It is therefore particularly important to understand whether the mechanism is effectively meeting its objectives, especially given the recent initiative to make it a permanent feature of the EU gas market and a key solution for the European Hydrogen Bank in the future. These considerations make a strong call for an impact assessment. An unbiased measure of AggregateEU's impact would be necessary to assess the benefits of the mechanism (and to weigh them against the bureaucratic implementation costs). Currently, however, the EC has chosen not to collect, let alone disclose, the contractual outcomes resulting from matches. In a recent interview, Matthew Baldwin, deputy director-general at the EC's energy directorate, said, "The reality is we've had relatively little feedback so far because companies are not required to give that to us in terms of the deals". One may argue that many of the potential deficiencies of the mechanism design – e.g., non-binding matching and adverse selection – are justified by asymmetries across participants and other inherent market features. However, the absence of (appropriately desensitized) data about actual outcomes resulting from mechanism matches is more difficult to justify. The lack of data prevents us from evaluating the AggregateEU's performance and raises additional concerns about its efficiency. Thus, gathering relevant information and conducting a comprehensive impact assessment based on sensible criteria are essential prerequisites for the future use, and expansion of the AggregateEU mechanism.
- Le Coq, C. and E. Paltseva. (2012). Assessing Gas Transit Risks: Russia vs. the EU, Energy Policy (4), 642-650. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2011.12.037
- Le Coq, C. and E. Paltseva. (2022). What does the Gas Crisis Reveal About European Energy Security? FREE Policy Brief, https://freepolicybriefs.org/2022/01/24/gas-crisis-european-energy/
- McWilliams, B., Sgaravatti, G. and G. Zachmann. (2021). 'European natural gas imports', Bruegel Datasets. https://www.bruegel.org/publications/datasets/european-natural-gas-imports/
- McWilliams, B. and G. Zachmann. (2023). 'European natural gas demand tracker', Bruegel Datasets. https://www.bruegel.org/dataset/european-natural-gas-demand-tracker
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in policy briefs and other publications are those of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect those of the FREE Network and its research institutes.
The Future of Energy Infrastructure Resilience in Europe
In the wake of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, large parts of Europe have experienced skyrocketing energy prices and a threat of power shortages. The need to transition to low-carbon energy systems, driven by sustainability concerns, further adds to the pressure put on the European energy infrastructure. This year's Energy Talk, organized by Stockholm Institute of Transition Economics, invited four experts to discuss the opportunities and challenges of energy infrastructure resilience in a foreseeable future.
Energy infrastructure has an indispensable role in facilitating the functioning of modern society, and it must – today as well as in the future – be resilient enough to withstand various challenges. One of the most important challenges – the green transition: shifting towards economically sustainable growth by decarbonizing energy systems and steering away from fossil fuels – requires energy infrastructure to absorb subsequent shocks. Another, and preeminent challenge, is that, even when directly targeted and partly destroyed as in the ongoing Russian war on Ukraine, energy infrastructure should be withstanding. Additionally, energy infrastructure is increasingly subject to supply chain disruptions, energy costs increase or network congestions. How does our energy infrastructure react to these challenges? How do they affect its ability to facilitate the needs of the green transition? Which regulations/measures should be implemented to facilitate energy infrastructure resilience?
Stockholm Institute of Transition Economics (SITE) invited four speakers to the 2023 annual Energy Talk to discuss the future of Europe's Energy infrastructure resilience. This brief summarizes the main points from the presentations and discussions.
Energy System Resilience in the Baltics
Ewa Lazarczyk, Associate Professor at Reykjavik University, addressed the question of energy system resilience, focusing on the Baltic States and their dependence on Russia and other neighbors to fulfill their electricity needs.
The Baltic States are not self-sufficient when it comes to electricity consumption. Since 2009, Lithuania has become a net importer of electricity, relying on external sources to fulfill its electricity demand. Similarly, Estonia experienced a shift towards becoming a net importer of electricity around 2019, following the closure of environmentally detrimental oil fueled power plants.
The Baltics are integrated with the Nordic market and are heavily dependent on electricity imports from Finland and Sweden. Additionally, all three Baltic States are part of the BRELL network – a grid linking the electricity systems of Belarus, Russia, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania – which provides stability for their electrical networks. As a result, despite the absence of commercial electricity trading between Estonia and Russia, and limited commercial trading between Russia and the other two Baltic states, the power flows between the Baltic States and Russia and Belarus still exist. This creates a noticeable dependency of the Baltics on Russia, and a potential threat, should Russia decide to disconnect the Baltics from BRELL before the planned separation in 2024/2025.
This dependency was put on trial when Russia on May 15th 2022 cut its electricity trade with Europe. On the one hand, the system proved to be relatively resilient as the cut did not lead to any blackouts in the Baltics. On the other hand, price volatility amplified in its main import partner countries, Sweden and Finland, and congestion increased as compared to 2021.
Figure 1. Price volatility in Sweden and Finland before and after the trade cut.
This increased price volatility and congestion following the Russian halt in electricity trade gives an indication that the Baltics and the Nordics are vulnerable to relatively small supply cuts even at the current demand levels.
In the future, electricity consumption is however expected to increase throughout the region as a result of the electrification of the economy (e.g., by 65 percent in 2050 in the Nordic region). This highlights the need to speed up investments into energy infrastructure of internal energy markets.
In summary; recent events have demonstrated a remarkable resilience of the Baltic State's electricity system. While the disruption of commercial flows from Russia did have some impact on the region, overall, the outcome was positive. Nonetheless, it is important to note that the region relies heavily on electricity imports, and with increasing demand for power in both the Baltics and the neighboring areas, potential issues with supply security could arise if the demand in the Nordics cannot be met through increased production. The risk of an early disconnection from the BRELL network further amplifies this concern. However, the case of Ukraine – which managed to abruptly disconnect from Russian electricity networks – serves as an example that expediting the process of establishing new connections is feasible, although not risk free.
The Ukrainian Energy Sector and the Immediate Threat from Russia
While the Baltics are facing the effects from the Russian halt in electricity trade and the threat of a potential premature disconnection from BRELL, Ukraine's energy networks are at the same time experiencing the direct aggression from Russia.
Yuliya Markuts, Head of the Center of Public Finance and Governance at the Kyiv School of Economics (KSE), and Igor Piddubnyi, Analyst on Energy Sector Damages and Losses and Researcher at the Center for Food and Land Use Research at KSE, both gave insight into the tremendous damages to the Ukrainian energy system from Russian attacks, the short-term solutions to cope with the damage, as well as the long-term implications and reconstruction perspectives.
Since the invasion, about 50 percent of the energy infrastructure has been damaged by shelling. In addition, several power plants are under Russian control or located in Russian occupied territories. As of February 2023, nearly 16 GW of installed capacities of power plants remained in Russian control, equivalent of the peak demand. Apart from the damages to the producing side, transmission and distribution facilities have also been severely affected, as well as oil storage facilities. In April 2023, the damages to Ukraine's energy infrastructure were estimated to amount to $8.3 billion, almost 6 percent of the total estimated direct damages from the war.
While the damages are massive, the population did not experience complete blackouts, and the Ukrainian energy system did not collapse. This is partly due to diesel-driven generators substituting much of the damaged electricity generation and partly due to a fall in demand of about 30-35 percent in 2022, mainly driven by decreased industry demand.
In the short term, Ukraine is likely to continue to face Russian attacks. Its top energy priorities would thus be to restore damaged facilities and infrastructure like heating and clean water, increase the stocks of fuel, gas, and coal, and to try to liberate occupied areas and facilities. Another vital aspect of the Ukrainian energy infrastructure and its resilience towards the Russian goal of "freezing" the country relates to energy efficiency. Ukraine's energy efficiency has been relatively low, with the highest rate of electricity losses in Europe, and the numbers are also high for gas supply and district heating. Here, minor changes such as light bulb switching, can have great impacts. Additionally, solar panels – especially those that can also store energy – can help alleviate the acute pressure on the transmission grid. Other vital measures involve continued donations from Ukraine's partners, sustained efforts from energy workers – at the risk of their lives – and persistent successful deterrence of cyber-attacks currently targeting the country.
Achieving a greener energy system is currently challenging (if not nearly impossible) due to the use of diesel-driven generators, the attacks on the energy system, and the fight for control over nuclear power plants such as Zaporizhzhia, which since March 2022 is under the control of Russian forces. Damages to renewable energy production further exacerbate these difficulties.
Thus, it is crucial to ensure that the planning and reconstruction of Ukraine's energy sector is done in accordance with the European Green Deal. By 2030, the country should have at least 25 percent renewables in its energy mix, which would require substantial installations of at least 13 GW of wind, solar, small hydro and biogas capacities. In addition, transition entails decommissioning old coal power plants to run on natural or biogas instead of coal.
While this is a tall task, investments targeted to the energy system are not only essential for Ukraine's population to sustain through the 2023/2024 winter – but also to facilitate the green transition in Europe. The potential for export of biomethane, green hydrogen, and nuclear power from Ukraine to Europe is considerable. As Europe's biofuel demand is expected to increase by 63 percent while Ukrainian grain exports are still proving to be challenging, biofuel production for export on the European market is a particularly likely future scenario for the Ukrainian energy market.
In summary; the Ukrainian energy sector has done remarkably well, considering the impact of the damages from the Russian aggression. As Ukrainian short-term energy priorities lie in facilitating quick and efficient responses to infrastructural damages, current measures may not be particularly environmentally friendly. However, the longer-term reconstruction of Ukraine's energy sector has great potential for being in line with the green transition objectives.
Energy System's Resilience in the Green Transition
Mikael Toll, Senior Advisor at Ramboll Management Consulting highlighted the importance of infrastructure resilience. He emphasized the significance of the Energy Trilemma in achieving a successful transition to greener energy systems. This trilemma implies balancing between energy security, environmental sustainability, and affordability, all representing societal goals. Focusing on the energy security aspect of this trilemma, he stressed that energy infrastructure should be part of a more holistic approach to the problem. It is essential to establish resilient supply chains and implement efficient management procedures to prevent and mitigate the negative consequences of disruptions. It entails ensuring the performant infrastructure and supply, but also fostering well-functioning markets, putting in place state-governed crisis management mechanisms, and cooperation with other states. By combining these elements, one can enhance preparedness both in normal times and during crises.
Sweden as an Example
Sweden has since long been increasing its share of renewables in the energy mix, as depicted in Figure 2. This suggests that it is relatively well-prepared to the needs of the green transition. However, electricity demand is expected to increase by 100 percent in the coming years, driven by increased electrification of the industry and transport sectors, adding pressure to Sweden's electricity system. The need for more investments in several energy systems is tangible, and investment opportunities are numerous. However, political decisions concerning the energy system in Sweden tend to be short-sighted, even though energy infrastructures have a long lifespan – often well over 50 years. As a result, investment risks are often high and change character over time, which creates a lack of infrastructure investment. Other challenges to Sweden's energy resilience include limited acceptance of new energy infrastructure among the public, time-consuming approval processes, and a lack of thorough impact assessment.
Figure 2. Total supplied energy in Sweden, 1970-2020.
Further, the current geopolitical context creates an increased need to consider external threats – such as energy system disruptions resulting from the Russian war on Ukraine – and increased dependency on China as a key supplier of metals and batteries required for electrification. It is also important to realize that external influence may affect not only physical infrastructure but also domestic decision-making processes. This calls for more energy and political security alongside the green transition, in combination with higher readiness against security threats and a reassessment of global value chains.
In summary; to successfully move into a greener future, it is necessary to invest in energy systems and infrastructure based on a careful multi-dimensional analysis and with the support of long-sighted political decisions. At the same time, we must push investments that also consider the security threats from and dependencies on global actors.
This year's Energy Talk provided an opportunity to hear from leading experts on the current situation of Europe's energy resilience. It outlined the key challenges of the green transition in the current geopolitical and economic context. Greener solutions for Europe's energy system will require tremendous physical efforts and investments but also political will and public understanding. There are, however, immense benefits to be realized if the associated risks are not overlooked.
On behalf of the Stockholm Institute of Transition Economics, we would like to thank Ewa Lazarczyk, Yuliya Markuts, Igor Piddubnyi and Mikael Toll for participating in this year's Energy Talk. The presentations from the webinar can be seen here.
- Swedish Energy Agency. (2022). Energy in Sweden 2022 – an overview. https://energimyndigheten.a-w2m.se/Home.mvc?ResourceId=208766
- Lazarczyk, E. and Le Coq, C. (2023). Power coming from Russia and Baltic Sea Region's energy security. REPORT 2023:940. Energiforsk.
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in policy briefs and other publications are those of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect those of the FREE Network and its research institutes.
Can the Baltic States Do Without Russian Electricity?
Although much smaller than Russian exports of other energy commodities, Russian electricity exports to Europe have been a part of the European electricity systems. There are several connection points between the Russian and EU markets, but the Baltic States are the most exposed to Russian influence in the electricity sector. This brief discusses the Baltics' dependency on Russian electricity, which currently accounts for 10 percent of the total Baltic electricity consumption. We argue that, while the Baltic states have some resilience (partly due to their connection to the Nordic countries), they are not immune to a complete halt to the Russian electricity trade, at least not in the short run.
The continuing military conflict in Ukraine and cut-offs of Russian gas to Europe are driving energy prices to unprecedented levels and creating concern about energy security all over Europe. The reliance on the Russian gas supply and the consequences of this has been profoundly discussed (for an overview, see e.g., Le Coq and Paltseva, 2022). At the same time, the topic of Russian electricity delivered to the EU has been largely left out of the current conversation.
Russia is exporting electricity directly to Europe, although at a much smaller scale than it has been exporting other energy commodities. There are several transmission connection points between the Russian and EU markets, but the situation of the Baltic States is the most precarious. They consume Russian electricity (about 10 percent of their needs) and their grids are still synchronised with Russia and Belarus. Therefore, they are exposed to some supply disruption and a desynchronization threat from Russia, potentially resulting in high market prices, severe congestion and even blackouts. Because the Baltics are connected to the leading power market in Europe, Nord Pool, any unexpected shocks may have consequences beyond the Baltic region.
Understanding how the Baltic States depend on Russia for their power consumption is an important element of the European energy security debate. This brief discusses the severity of the Baltics' reliance on Russian electricity. We initially discuss the effect of a sudden halt to the Russian electricity trade in May 2022. We then address the potential consequences of the abrupt exclusion from the Russia-controlled transmission network. Finally, we discuss the future energy mix thought to replace Russian electricity in the Baltics.
The Baltic States' Exposure to Indirect Imports of Russian Electricity
The Baltics' exposure is analysed by examining the impact of a sudden stop of imports of Russian electricity to the EU in May 2022, which affected Nord Pool (https://www.nordpoolgroup.com/en/) prices as well as congestion in the Baltic States. This event cannot be qualified as an external shock, required for a rigorous empirical analysis. Nonetheless, it helps us assess the Baltics' exposure.
On May 15th 2022, Russia broke off its electricity trade with Finland. This event is relevant to consider as Finland is increasingly a primary import source for the Baltic States. Any electricity supply disruption affecting Finland may therefore impact the Baltics' energy system balance. To assess how the event impacted the Baltic electricity market, we compare the congestion occurrences in 2021 and 2022.
A standard way to assess the misfunctioning of a power market is to look at congestion episodes. The Nord Pool market, to which the Baltic states are connected, has several bidding areas. Prices between zones may differ in case of transmission bottlenecks. When transmission lines are saturated, no more electricity can, in that period, be transported from the cheap to the expensive areas to alleviate prices, referred to as congestion.
In the graphs below, we illustrate the congestion in the Baltics in 2021 as compared to 2022. Looking at the 2021 data for Estonia and Latvia, the countries belonged to the same price area most of the year; some price differences were observed in the summer months, but only 10 percent of the hours within those months were congested. In 2022 the price differences between the two countries grew substantially, since May reaching 20 percent, with more congested hours (Figure 1). In 2022 price differences also increased between Lithuania and Southern Sweden (region SE 4) as depicted in Figure 2.
Figure 1. Congestion between Estonia and Latvia (as percentage of congested hours out of all hours within a given month).
Figure 2. Congestion between Lithuania and Sweden (SE4) (as percentage of congested hours out of all hours within a given month).
Our aim is not to show a causal effect of the withdrawal of Russia from commercial electricity trading with the Baltic States region, but to describe some general, coincidental trends in congestion. Note that the congestion might be a result of the extreme prices observed in the Baltics – on August 17th 2022, prices reached the Nord Pool cap of 4000€/MW, the highest ever level in the region (Lazarczyk Carlson and Le Coq, 2022a).
To conclude, halting the electricity trade between Russia and Finland appears to have had some impact on the congestion in the Baltic States. Still, the consequences were not severe as the Baltics were already curtailing commercial exchanges with Russia and Belarus. Additionally, the Finnish yearly imports from Russia constituted at most 10 percent of the annual Finnish consumption.
The Baltic States' Exposure to a Desynchronization Threat
The Baltics belong to the Moscow-controlled synchronous electrical power grid, BRELL, which connects power systems of Belarus, Russia, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. This grid dependency makes it virtually impossible for the Baltic States to completely stop Russian and Belarussian power from floating into the Baltics´ territory. A desynchronization from the BRELL network is currently not feasible. Although the Baltics have invested heavily in grid extensions and upgrade, the connection to the European grid is scheduled only for 2024/2025. Therefore, even though the Baltic States have been limiting commercial trading with Russia and Belarus on the Nordic electricity market, they are still receiving Russian/Belarusian electricity.
The Baltics' dependency on the BRELL network creates a potential threat to the Baltic electricity supply security in case Russia should decide to weaponize its electricity supply further and disconnect the Baltic States from the network ahead of the planned exit in 2024/2025 (Lazarczyk Carlson and Le Coq, 2022a). Such premature disconnection could result in severe blackouts, and immediate reactions would be required to keep the system operational. In such scenario, strong support from the Nordic countries via Finland and/or Sweden would be needed. It is however important to keep in mind that a sudden disconnection from BRELL also could harm Kaliningrad – the Russian enclave between Lithuania and Poland, on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Although Russia has invested heavily in expanding Kaliningrad generation capacities and its energy self-sufficiency, it is not clear whether the region is to this day prepared to operate in island mode without the support of the BRELL and neighbouring countries. Up to date, three successful operating exercises in island mode have been conducted in Kaliningrad, the longest lasting for 72 hours. However, the two tests scheduled for 2022 have been cancelled.
The future re-initialization of electricity trading with Russia is uncertain at this point and the role of Russian electricity has diminished over the years. The Baltics are not planning to maintain any transmission connection with Russia and Belarus after synchronising with the European power grid. However, the Finnish standpoint needs to be clarified. If the Finnish-Russian electrical power trade exchange is re-established in the future, Russian electricity might once again flow into the Baltics´ transmission grid as imports from Finland are forecasted to increase in the coming years due to a third interconnector, which should become operational in 2035.
The Baltics' (Future) Energy Mix Without Russian Electricity
The alternatives to Russian electricity depend on the Baltics' energy mix and transmission system. In 2021 the demand for electric power in the Baltics was 27 TWh, with Latvia representing 26 percent, Estonia 30 percent, and Lithuania 44 percent of the total demand. Consumption is forecasted to grow by 60-65 percent by 2050, due to the electrification of the economy and increasing needs within industries, housing, transportation, etc. (Nordic Energy Research, 2022).
All Baltic States are today net importers of electricity. The main import sources are Finland and, to a lesser extent, Sweden, which have jointly exported 45 TWh of electric power to the region over the years 2016-2021. Finland is itself a net importer of electricity mainly importing power from Sweden. Until May 2022, Finland's second import source was Russia.
The Baltics are heavily dependent on fossil fuels in their electricity mix as illustrated in Table 1.
Table 1. Energy mix for electricity production (MW) in the Baltics, 2022.
The region is now trying to limit the use of fossil-fuel energy and expand its green energy potential, as extensively discussed in Lazarczyk Carlson E. and Le Coq C. (2022b). The actual installed capacity for the onshore wind is however insufficient, with 326 MW in Estonia, 87 MW in Latvia, and 671 MW in Lithuania. The current offshore wind's capacity is non-existent. There are some plans to develop 4.5 GW in Lithuania, 7 GW in Estonia, and 14.5 GW in Latvia by 2050, but this will require substantial investments (European Commission, 2019).
The region also plans to expand solar power production, especially in Latvia and Lithuania, where the current capacity is 14 and 259 MW respectively. There are also plans to expand Latvian hydro production for storage and balancing needs; currently, Latvia has 1588 MW of installed run-of-the-river hydro capacity, the highest among the Baltic States.
Investing in nuclear power is another possibility which is currently being considered. As part of the EU accession process, Lithuania shut down its Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant, the first unit in 2004 and the second in 2009, turning the country from a net exporter into a net importer of electric power (IEA, 2021). A project of replacing the Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) by a new Polish-Lithuanian Plant, the Visaginas NPP, was discussed but later abandoned. The Estonian company Fermi Energy, in collaboration with the Swedish firm Vattenfall, are currently looking into small modular reactor (SMR) technology to develop nuclear energy. This project is however in the initial phases of development.
Renewables and nuclear power are credible alternatives to limit fossil-fuel energy usage and dependency on Russian electricity. The alternatives might however not be easily implemented in the short run.
The Baltic States' dependency on the Russian electricity supply is limited. Nevertheless, discontinuing Russian electricity deliveries is not innocuous for at least two reasons.
First, the Baltics are still part of the BRELL network, so they are still physically dependent on Russia, although they plan to desynchronize from this network in the longer run. However, a sudden desynchronization initiated by Russia may have severe consequences in the short run (e.g. blackouts).
Second, considering the forecasted future increase in the demand for electrical power in the Baltics and the Nordic countries, the Baltics will remain dependent on power imports. Today, the Baltics rely on Finland and Sweden, as all three Baltic States are net electricity importers. To limit any future dependence on Russian/Belarussian electricity, the Baltics plan to sever any transmission connections with Russia and Belarus after desynchronization, thus cutting the potential for future electricity trade with both countries. If, however, the Nordic countries re-establish commercial exchanges with Russia via Finland, it is nevertheless possible that Russian electricity will be flowing in the Baltics transmission system again.
This policy brief is based on a project funded by the Energiforsk research program.
- Benedettini, S. and Stagnaro, C. (2022), Europe's decoupling of electricity and gas prices: the crisis is temporary, so why do it? https://energypost.eu/europes-decoupling-of-electricity-and-gas-prices-the-crisis-is-temporary-so-should-it-be-done-at-all/
- ENTSO-E Transparency platform. Accessed on the 25th of November 2022 from https://www.entsoe.eu/
- European Comission. (2019). Study on Baltic offshore wind energy cooperation under BEMIP. Final report. ENER/C1/2018-456. June 2019. Accessed on the 12th of November 2022. https://op.europa.eu/lt/publication-detail/-/publication/9590cdee-cd30-11e9-992f-01aa75ed71a1
- IEA. (2021). Lithuania 2021 Energy Policy Review. Accessed on the 12th of November 2022 from https://www.iea.org/reports/lithuania-2021
- Juozaitis J. (2021). The Synchronisation of the Baltic States; Geopolitical Implications on the Baltic Sea Region and Beyond. Energy Highlights. NATO Energy Security Centre of Excellence.
- Le Coq, C. and Paltseva, E. (2022). What does the Gas Crisis Reveal About European Energy Security? FREE Policy Brief, https://freepolicybriefs.org/2022/01/24/gas-crisis-european-energy/
- Lazarczyk Carlson, E. and Le Coq, C. (2022a). The weaponization of electricity: the case of electricity trade between Russia and European Union, IAEE Energy Forum, Fourth Quarter 2022.
- Lazarczyk Carlson, E. and Le Coq, C. (2022b). Power coming for Russia and Baltic Sea region's energy security, Energiforsk report.
- Nordic Energy Research. (2022). Baltic-Nordic Roadmap for Co-operation on Clean Energy Technologies. Accessed on the 12th of November 2022 from https://www.nordicenergy.org/publications/baltic-nordic-roadmap-for-co-operation-on-clean-energy-technologies/
- Nord Pool. Accessed on the 28th of November from https://www.nordpoolgroup.com/en/
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in policy briefs and other publications are those of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect those of the FREE Network and its research institutes.
The Energy and Climate Crisis Facing Europe: How to Strike the Right Balance
Policymakers in Europe are currently faced with the difficult task of reducing our reliance on Russian oil and gas without worsening the situation for firms and households that are struggling with high energy prices. The two options available are either to substitute fossil fuel imports from Russia with imports from other countries and cut energy tax rates to reduce the impacts on firms and household budgets, or to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels entirely by investing heavily in low-carbon energy production. In this policy brief, we argue that policymakers need to also take the climate crisis into account, and avoid making short-term decisions that risk making the low-carbon transition more challenging. The current energy crisis and the climate crisis cannot be treated as two separate issues, as the decisions made today will impact future energy and climate policies. To exemplify how large-scale energy policy reforms may have long-term consequences, we look at historical examples from France, the UK, and Germany, and the lessons we can learn to help guide us in the current situation.
The war in Ukraine and the subsequent sanctions against Russia have led to a sharp increase in energy prices in the EU since the end of February 2022. This price increase came after a year when global energy prices had already surged. For instance, import prices for energy more than doubled in the EU during 2021 due to an unusually cold winter and hot summer, as well as the global economic recovery following the pandemic and multiple supply chain issues. Figure 1 shows that the price of natural gas traded in the European Union has increased steadily since the summer of 2021, with a strong hike in March 2022 following the beginning of the war.
Figure 1. Evolution of EU gas prices, July 2021-May 2022
Concerns about energy dependency, towards Russian gas in particular, are now high on national and EU political agendas. An embargo on imports of Russian oil and gas into the EU is currently discussed, but European governments are worried about the effects on domestic energy prices, and the economic impact and social unrest that could follow. Multiple economic analyses argue, however, that the economic effect in the EU of an embargo on Russian oil and gas would be far from catastrophic, with estimated reductions in GDP ranging from 1.2-2.2 percent. But a reduction in the supply of fossil fuels from Russia would need to be compensated with energy from other sources, and possibly supplemented with demand reductions.
In parallel, on April 4th, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released a new report on climate change. One chapter analyses different energy scenarios, and finds that all scenarios that are compatible with keeping the global temperature increase below 2°C involve a strong decrease in the use of all fossil fuels (Dhakal et al, 2022). This reduction in fossil fuel usage over the coming decades is illustrated in red in Figure 2.
It is thus important that, while EU countries try to decrease their dependency on Russian fossil fuels and cushion the effect of energy-related price increases, they also accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. And how they manage to balance these short- and long-run objectives will depend on the energy policy decisions they make. For instance, if policymakers substitute Russian oil and gas with increased coal usage and new import terminals for LNG, this can lead to a "carbon lock in" and make the low-carbon transition more challenging. In this policy brief, we analyze what lessons can be drawn from past historical events that lead to large-scale structural changes in energy policy. Events that all shaped our current energy systems and conditions for climate policy.
Figure 2. Four energy scenarios compatible with a 2°C temperature increase by 2100.
Structural Changes in Energy Policy in France, the UK, and Germany
We focus on three "energy policy turning points" triggered by three geopolitical, political or environmental crises: the French nuclear plan triggered by the 1973 oil crisis; the UK early closure of coal mines and the subsequent dash for gas in the 1990s, influenced by the election of Margaret Thatcher in 1979; and the German nuclear phase-out triggered by the 2011 Fukushima catastrophe.
In response to the global oil price shock of 1973, France adopted the "Messmer plan". The aim was to rapidly transition the country away from dependence on imported oil by building enough nuclear capacity to meet all the country's electricity needs. Two slogans summarised its goals: "all electric, all nuclear", and "in France, we may not have oil, but we have ideas" (Hecht 2009). The first commissioned plants came online in 1980, and between 1979-1988 the number of reactors in operation in France increased from 16 to 55. As a consequence, the share of nuclear power in the total electricity production rose from 8 to 80 percent, while the share of fossil fuels fell from 65 to 8 percent.
Figure 3. French electricity mix
In the UK, the election of Margaret Thatcher in 1979 opened the way for large market-based reform of the energy sector. Thatcher's plan to close dozens of coal pits triggered a year-long coal miners' strike in 1984-85. The ruling Conservative party eventually won against the miners' unions and the coal industry was deeply restructured, with a decrease in domestic employment – not without social costs (Aragon et al, 2018) – and an increase in coal imports. At the same time, the electricity market's liberalization in the 1990s facilitated the development of gas infrastructure. As an indirect and unintended consequence, when climate change became a prominent issue at the global level in the 2000s, there was no strong pro-coal coalition left in the UK (Rentier et al, 2019). Aided by a portfolio of policies making coal-fired electricity more expensive – a carbon tax in particular – the coal phase-out was relatively easy and fast (Wilson and Staffel, 2018, Leroutier 2022): between 2012 and 2020, the share of coal in the electricity production dropped from 40 to 2 percent.
In 2011, the Fukushima nuclear catastrophe in Japan triggered an early and unexpected phase-out of nuclear energy in Germany. The 2011 "Energiewende" (energy transition) mandated a phase-out of nuclear power plants by 2022, while including provisions to reduce the share of fossil fuel from over 80 percent in 2011 to 20 percent in 2050. The share of nuclear energy in the electricity production in Germany was halved in a decade, from 22 percent in 2010 to 11 percent in 2020. At the same time, the share of renewable energy increased from 13 to 36 percent, and that of natural gas from 14 to 17 percent.
In these three examples, climate objectives were never the main driver of the decision. Nevertheless, in the case of France and the UK, the crisis resulted in an energy sector that is arguably more low-carbon than it would have been without the crisis. Although the German nuclear phase-out was accompanied by large subsidies to renewable energies, its effect on the energy transition is ambiguous: some argue that the reduction in nuclear electricity production was primarily offset by an increase in coal-fired production (Jarvis et al, 2022).
The three crises also had different consequences in terms of dependence on fossil fuel imports. The French nuclear plan resulted in an arguably lower energy dependency on imported fossil fuels. The closure of coal mines in the UK had ambiguous effects on energy security, with an increase in coal imports and the use of domestic gas from the North Sea. Finally, Germany's nuclear phase-out, combined with the objective of phasing out coal, has been associated with an increase in the use of fossil fuels from Russia: gas imports remained stable between 2011 and 2020, but the share coming from Russia increased by 60 percent over the period. In 2020, Russia stood for 66 percent of German gas imports (Source: Eurostat). Which brings us back to the current war in Ukraine.
The Current Crisis is Different
The context in which the current energy crisis is unfolding is different from the three above-mentioned events in two important ways.
First, scientific evidence on the relationship between fossil fuel use, CO2 emissions and climate damages has never been clearer: we know quite precisely where the planet is heading if we do not drastically reduce fossil fuel use in the coming decade. From recent research in economics, we also know that price signals work and that increased prices on fossil fuels result in lower demand and emission reductions (Andersson 2019; Colmer et al. 2020; Leroutier 2022). High fuel prices can also have long-term impacts on consumption patterns: US commuters that came of driving age during the oil prices of the 70s, when gasoline prices were high, still drive less today (Severen and van Benthem, 2022). The other way around, low fossil fuel prices have the potential to lock in energy-intensive production: plants that open when electricity and fossil fuel prices are low have been found to consume more energy throughout their lifetime, regardless of current prices (Hawkins-Pierot and Wagner, 2022).
Second, alternatives to fossil fuels have never been cheaper. It is most obvious in the case of electricity production, where technological progress and economies of scale have led to a sharp decrease in the cost of renewable compared to fossil fuel technologies. As shown in Figure 4, between 2010 and 2020 the cost of producing electricity from solar PV has decreased by 85 percent and that of producing electricity from wind by 68 percent. From being the most expensive technologies in 2010, solar PV and wind are now the cheapest. Given the intermittency of these technologies, managing the transition to renewables requires developing electricity storage technologies. Here too, prices are expected to decrease: total installed costs for battery electricity storage systems could decrease by 50 to 60 percent by 2030 according to the International Renewable Agency.
Finding alternatives to fossil fuels has historically been more challenging in the transport sector. However, recent reductions in battery costs, and an increase in the variety of electric vehicles available to customers, have led to EVs taking market share away from gasoline and diesel-powered cars in Europe and elsewhere. The costs of the battery packs that go into electric vehicles have fallen, on average, by 89 percent in real terms from 2010 to 2021.
Figure 4. Evolution of the Mean Levelised Cost of Energy by Technology in the US
Options for Policy-Makers
Faced with a strong increase in fossil fuel prices and an incentive to reduce our reliance on oil and gas from Russia, policy-makers have two options: increase the availability and decrease the price of low-carbon substitutes – by, for example, building more renewable energy capacity and subsidizing electric vehicles – or cut taxes on fossil fuels and increase their supply, both domestically and from other countries.
Governments have pursued both options so far. On the one hand, the Netherlands, the UK, and Italy announced an expansion of wind capacities compared to what was planned, in an attempt to reduce their dependence on Russian gas, and France ended gas heaters subsidies. On the other hand, half of EU member states have cut fuel taxes for a total cost of €9 billion by the end of March 2022, the UK plans to expand oil and gas drilling in the North Sea, and Italy might re-open coal-fired plants.
To guide policymakers faced with the current energy crisis, there are valuable lessons to draw from the experiences of energy policy reform in France, the UK and Germany. France's push for nuclear energy in the 1970s shows that large-scale structural reform of electricity and heat production is possible and may lead to large drops in CO2 emissions and an economy less dependent on domestic or foreign supplies of fossil fuels. A similar "Messmer plan" could be implemented in the EU today, with the goal of replacing power plants using coal and natural gas with large-scale solar PV parks, wind farms and batteries for storage. Similarly, the German experience shows the potential danger of implementing a policy to alleviate one concern – the risk of nuclear accidents – with the consequence of facing a different concern later on – the dependence on fossil fuel imports.
One additional challenge is that the current energy crisis calls for a short-term response, while investments in low-carbon technologies made today will only deliver in a few years. Short-term energy demand reduction policies can help, on top of long-term energy efficiency measures. For example, a 1°C decrease in the temperature of buildings heated with gas would decrease gas use by 10 billion cubic meters a year in Europe, that is, 7 percent of imports from Russia. Similarly, demand-side policies could reduce oil demand by 6 percent in four months, according to the International Energy Agency.
Ending the reliance on Russian fossil fuels and alleviating energy costs for firms and households is clearly an important objective for policymakers. However, by signing new long-term supply agreements for natural gas and cutting energy taxes, policymakers in the EU may create a carbon lock-in and increase fossil fuel usage by households, thereby making the inevitable low-carbon transition even more difficult. The solutions thus need to take the looming climate crisis into account. For example, any tax relief or increased domestic fossil fuel generation should have a clear time limit; more generally, all policies decided today should be evaluated in terms of their contribution to domestic and European climate objectives. In this way, the current energy crisis is not only a challenge but also a historic opportunity to accelerate the low-carbon transition.
- Andersson, Julius J. 2019. "Carbon Taxes and CO2 Emissions: Sweden as a Case Study." American Economic Journal: Economic Policy, 11(4): 1-30.
- Aragón, F. M., Rud, J. P., & Toews, G. 2018. "Resource shocks, employment, and gender: Evidence from the collapse of the UK coal industry." Labour Economics, 52, 54–67. doi: 10.1016/j.labeco.2018.03.007
- Colmer, Jonathan, et al. 2020. "Does pricing carbon mitigate climate change? Firm-level evidence from the European Union emissions trading scheme." Centre for Economic Performance Discussion Paper, No. 1728, November 2020.
- Dhakal, S., J.C. Minx, F.L. Toth, A. Abdel-Aziz, M.J. Figueroa Meza, K. Hubacek, I.G.C. Jonckheere, Yong-Gun Kim, G.F. Nemet, S. Pachauri, X.C. Tan, T. Wiedmann, 2022: Emissions Trends and Drivers. In IPCC, 2022: Climate Change 2022: Mitigation of Climate Change. Contribution of Working Group III to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [P.R. Shukla, J. Skea, R. Slade, A. Al Khourdajie, R. van Diemen, D. McCollum, M. Pathak, S. Some, P. Vyas, R. Fradera, M. Belkacemi, A. Hasija, G. Lisboa, S. Luz, J. Malley, (eds.)]. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK and New York, NY, USA. doi: 10.1017/9781009157926.004
- IPCC. 2022. Climate Change 2022: Mitigation of Climate Change. Contribution of Working Group III to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [P.R. Shukla, J. Skea, R. Slade, A. Al hourdajie, R. van Diemen, D. McCollum, M. Pathak, S. Some, P. Vyas, R. Fradera, M. Belkacemi, A. Hasija, G. Lisboa, S. Luz, J. Malley, (eds.)]. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK and New York, NY, USA. doi: 10.1017/9781009157926
- Hawkins-Pierot, J & Wagner, K. 2022, "Technology Lock-In and Optimal Carbon Pricing," Working Paper
- Hecht, Gabrielle. 2009. The Radiance of France: Nuclear Power and National Identity after World War II. MIT press.
- Jarvis, S., Deschenes, O., & Jha, A. 2022. "The Private and External Costs of Germany's Nuclear Phase-Out." Journal of the European Economic Association, jvac007. doi: 10.1093/jeea/jvac007
- Leroutier, M. 2022. "Carbon pricing and power sector decarbonization: Evidence from the UK." Journal of Environmental Economics and Management, 111, 102580. doi: 10.1016/j.jeem.2021.102580
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Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in policy briefs and other publications are those of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect those of the FREE Network and its research institutes.
The EU Import Bill and Russian Energy Sanctions
Since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war, the West has been contemplating sanctions on Russian oil and gas imports. For the EU, this plan poses a significant challenge due to the long-existing sizable dependency on Russian energy. In this brief, we outline the possible effects of banning Russian oil and gas on the energy import bill across the EU. While the effects of such a ban will go beyond a direct increase in the import costs of oil and gas, our estimates provide a useful reference point in discussing the impact of such sanctions on the EU. Our estimates suggest that the relative increase in the import costs in the case of an oil embargo would be more evenly spread across the Member States, than in the case of a natural gas ban. This parity makes an EU-wide Russian oil embargo a more straightforward sanction policy. In turn, a full replacement of Russian gas imports across the EU – due to either a gas embargo or retaliation from Russia in response to an oil ban – is likely to require some kind of solidarity mechanism.
Since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the West has been discussing the idea of sanctioning the aggressor by banning Russian energy imports. The motivation is quite straightforward. In 2021, Russian oil and gas exports constituted 49% of Russian goods exports or 14 % of Russian GDP, and the Western world (in particular, the European Union) is the main recipient of these exports. Banning Russian oil and gas export would, thus, lead to heavy pressure on the Russian economy.
The discussion has been quite heated. The US actually implemented a ban on Russian oil and gas in early March 2022, but this gesture has been largely seen as relatively symbolic, as the US dependency on Russian energy imports is quite limited. EU politicians have voiced different opinions about the feasibility of Russian energy sanctions. While some advocate an immediate ban, others argue for a more gradual decrease in imports or even for continuing imports effectively in a business-as-usual fashion. While the EC has announced plans to cut down the consumption of Russian gas by two-thirds in 2022 and mentioned the implementation of "some form of oil embargo" as part of their 6th sanction package, there is still no consensus across the EU. Sanctions on Russian oil and gas imports have not been implemented in the EU by the time of writing this brief.
The main reason for this hesitation is the extent to which Russia remains the main energy supplier. In 2020, 39% of gas and 36% of oil and oil products in the EU were imported from Russia, and the feasibility and consequences of replacing these with alternative supplies are debatable. Since the beginning of the war academics, international organizations and consultancies have offered a variety of analytical materials on the feasibility and implications of such energy sanctions (see e.g., Bachmann et al. 2022. Chepeliev et al, 2022, Fulwood et al., 2022, Guriev and Itskhoki, 2022, Hilgenstock and Ribakova, 2022, IEA, 2022, RYSTAD 2002a,b, Stehn, 2022 to name just a few).
This brief contributes to these estimates by discussing how a Russian oil and gas ban could affect the energy import bill across individual EU countries. We start by providing details on the EU's dependency on Russian oil and gas imports. We then proceed to access the scope of the costs that a ban on Russian energy could imply for the EU energy sector. We conclude with a discussion about the feasibility of political agreement on such sanctions.
Import Dependency and Dependency on Russian Energy Across the EU
The two primary channels through which a Russian energy ban would affect the vulnerability of an EU country are the dependency on Russian oil and gas, and the overall energy import dependency. The former matters since a ban would imply an immediate necessity to replace missing volumes of energy. This would lead to an increase in energy prices widely across markets, thereby signifying the importance of the latter channel, the overall import dependency.
Figures 1 and 2 depict the dependency on Russian oil and gas across the EU member states. In Figure 1, the dependency is measured as a ratio of Russian energy imports to the gross available energy for each energy type separately – crude oil, oil and oil products, and natural gas. However, this measure may not reflect the importance of the respective energy type in a country's energy portfolio. For example, in Finland, Russian gas imports constitute 67% of gross available natural gas. However, natural gas is less than 7% of the country's energy mix, thus the overall effect of Russian gas on the Finnish energy sector and economy is rather limited. To account for this, Figure 2 offers an overview of the contribution of Russian energy imports to the cumulative energy portfolio across the EU.
Both figures show that there is a large variation both in terms of the contribution of individual energy types and in terms of overall dependency on Russian fuels. For example, the latter is almost negligible for Cyprus and well over 50% for Lithuania (however, Figure 2 accounts for re-exports and, thus, overestimates the role of Russian energy imports for Lithuanian domestic available energy in 2020.
Figure 1. Share of Russian energy imports in gross available energy, by fuel, 2020.
Figure 2. Share of Russian energy imports in total gross available energy, 2020. Source: Eurostat
While the above data summarizes the EU dependency on Russian energy imports in volume terms, it is also useful to have a sense of the costs of this dependency. As we are not aware of any source that has accurate data on the value of imports across the EU states, we construct a back-of-the-envelope assessment of the costs of Russian energy imports to the EU in 2021 using the available trade data for 2021 and the allocation of imports across the EU Member States for 2020 (see Appendix 1 for more details). Admittedly, these estimates only account for the differences in prices of energy imports from Russia vs. other suppliers; it does not capture e.g., the difference in prices of Russian gas across the Member States. Still, they offer useful insight into the scope of these expenses, in levels (Figure 3) and the share of GDP (Figure 4).
The results suggest that, while the expenses are quite sizable – e.g., the total value of Russian fossil energy imports to the EU in 2021 exceeds 110 bln EUR, – they correspond to around 0.7% of European GDP. Again, there is variation across the Member States, but in most cases – effectively all cases that do not account for re-export – the share of Russian energy imports is below 2% of GDP.
Figure 3. Value of Russian fossil energy imports, bln EUR, 2021.
Figure 4. Share of oil, oil products and gas imports in GDP, 2021.
Figure 4 also touches upon the second source of vulnerability towards a ban on Russian energy, mentioned at the beginning of this section. It depicts not only the value of Russian oil and gas imports as a percent of GDP but the overall dependency on imports of oil and gas as a share of GDP. The larger this dependency is, the bigger is the impact of an increase in energy prices for a country. Figure 4 not only confirms the abovementioned variation across the Member States but also shows that some countries with little-to-moderate direct dependency on Russian oil and gas – e.g., Portugal or Spain, – are still likely to experience a sizable negative shock to their energy expenses due to the market price increase.
Importantly, these figures give only a very rough representation of the potential damage that a ban on Russian energy imports may cause to the EU economies. Two EU Member States with a comparable dependency could react to the shortage of Russian gas in very different ways, depending on a variety of other factors – the extent and scalability of domestic production, diversification of their remaining energy portfolio in terms of energy suppliers and types of oil the economy relies on (e.g., light vs. heavy), energy infrastructure (e.g., LNG regasification facilities or storage), consumption structure, etc. Le Coq and Paltseva (2009, 2012) discuss in detail some of these factors, and the possibilities to account for them. However, for the sake of simplicity, in this brief we focus on the (volume- and value-based) measures of dependency.
Potential Costs of Russian Energy Import Ban
In this section, we discuss the potential implications of banning imports of Russian oil and gas on the costs of fossil energy imports in the EU. We offer a few historical parallels in order to assess the potential scope of the price reaction to such a ban. Furthermore, we proceed to provide estimates of the costs of oil and gas imports across the EU Member States, would such sanctions be implemented.
Oil Imports Ban
We start with a potential ban on Russian oil and oil product imports. To put things in perspective, it might be useful to present some numbers. According to the IEA, Russia recently surpassed Saudi Arabia as the world's largest oil and oil products exporter. In December 2021, global Russian crude and oil product exports constituted 7.8 million barrels per day (mb/d), with exports of crude oil and condensate at 5 mb/d. Out of the total 7.8 mb/d, exports to OECD countries constituted 5.6 mb/d, with crude oil exports amounting to 3.9 mb/d. Assuming that the size of the global oil market in 2021 returns to its pre-pandemic 2019 level (the actual data for 2021 global oil consumption is not available yet), Russian crude oil exports to the OECD constitute 8.6% of global crude exports. The corresponding figure for oil products is 6.8% (BP, 2021).
So, what would happen if the developed world – which for the purpose of this analysis we proxy by OECD – bans Russian oil exports? In the recent public discussion, many voices have compared this potential development to the 1973 oil crisis. This crisis was initiated by OAPEC's – the Arab members of OPEC, – oil embargo on the US in response to their support of Israel during the Yom Kippur War. The OAPEC, the biggest group of oil exporters at the time, completely banned oil exports to the US (and a number of other western countries), and also introduced production restraints that affected the global oil market. The (WTI) oil price during this episode went up by a factor of three (see, e.g, Baumeister and Kilian, 2016).
However, a few important features are likely to differ between the oil crisis of 1973 and the potential impact of the Russian imports ban. First, the net loss of oil supplies during the Arab embargo was around 4.4 mb/d, which at that point constituted around 14% of traded oil (Yergin, 1992). Recall that Russian supplies to OECD are around half of this share. Moreover, it is likely that the ban would not lead to a complete withdrawal of these amounts from the market, but rather to a partial rerouting of Russian oil to Asia and, consequently, a readjustment of world oil trade flows. Second, Yergin (1992) points out that, at the time of the 1973 oil crisis, oil consumption was growing at 7.5% per year, which exacerbated the impact of the embargo. In contrast, the current assessments of oil demand growth are at around 2% per year (IEA, 2022). Third, the energy portfolios are much more diversified now than in 1973, with gas and renewables playing a more substantial role. In the case of an isolated oil imports ban (not extending to gas imports), this would argue in favor of a more moderate price impact. Finally, the oil embargo of 1973 was a never-seen-before episode in the history of the oil market. The uncertainty about future developments has likely contributed to the oil price increase. While there is substantial uncertainty associated with the impact of a Russian oil imports ban, it is arguably lower than in 1973. Based on these considerations, a three-fold oil price increase in the case of a Russian oil export ban seems highly unlikely.
As a possible lower bound of the price impact, one can consider a much more recent price shock brought about by drone attacks on the oil processing facilities Abqaiq and Khurais in Saudi Arabia in 2019. In the initial assessment of the damage, Saudi Arabian authorities stated that the attack decreased the national oil production by 5.7 mb/d – which is more than the total of Russian oil exports to OECD. As a reaction, the intraday oil price went up by 20 %, and the daily oil price by 12%. In two weeks, production and export capacity was almost back to normal and the price returned to pre-shock levels.
Notice that the scale of the daily shortage in this episode exceeds the likely shortage under the Russian imports ban. However, a moderate price reaction, in this case, was clearly driven by expectations for the temporary nature of the shortage, as the damage was to be repaired in a matter of a few weeks, if not days. In comparison, the Russian oil ban is likely to last much longer. In this way, a price increase of 12%, or even 20%, would be an underestimation of the effect of a Russian oil imports ban.
While the above discussion suggests some bounds for the possible price effects of a Russian oil ban, the uncertainty around such price developments is very high. Figure 5 shows the cost estimates of oil and oil products imports to the EU for two potential price levels – $120/b, and $180/b. Each price would roughly correspond to an increase of 33%, and 100%, respectively, relative to the pre-invasion price of $90/b. In the estimation, we simplistically assume that the price of oil products increases by the same amount as the price of crude oil. We also assume that the missing Russian oil can be replaced by alternatives, such that oil consumption does not change compared to the 2021 level for the lower price scenario and that it decreases by 2% for the high-cost scenario due to the demand adjustments.
Figure 5. Estimated effect of Russian oil ban on oil and gas imports in 2022: value of oil and oil products imports, EUR bln (left axis), and oil import expenses relative to 2021 level (right axis).
The estimates suggest that the total oil and oil products import costs for the EU would be just above EUR 640 bln for the $120/b price level and EUR 940 bln for the $180/b price level. Furthermore, the costs across the EU Member States would vary greatly depending on the size of the economy and its exposure to oil imports.
This shows that – provided that the Russian oil will be fully replaced but at a higher price – the expected cost of this is in the range of 1.7-1.9 times the 2021 expenses at 120$/b, and 2.5-2.8 times that if the price would be 180$/b. While there is some variation across Member States, mostly driven by the removal of the somewhat cheaper Russian oil from the consumption basket, it is rather limited. Figure 5 also demonstrates that the ban on Russian oil imports is going to affect not only countries that directly depend on Russian oil but also countries with large oil and oil products imports due to the market price effects.
Gas Imports Ban
Now we proceed to discuss the costs of banning Russian gas imports into the EU. While LNG has increased the fungibility of the natural gas market, it remains sizably segmented. Therefore, we concentrate on the effect on the European market.
Russian gas constituted around 39% of the EU gas consumption volumes in 2020, and just below 30% in 2021 due to restricted supply during the second half of the year (McWilliams, Sgaravatti and Zachmann, 2021). It is currently a common understanding that fully substituting 155 Bcm of Russian gas imports in 2021 with imports from other pipeline suppliers, LNG, storage, and increasing domestic production is not feasible in 2022. Different sources have given different estimates on the extent of the resulting shortage, see e.g. Table 1.
Table 1. Alternatives to replace EU imports of Russian natural gas
As shown in Table 1, the net missing gas consumption ranges between 12% and 22% across different scenarios. As there are no historical episodes in the gas market to which such a development can be compared, it is difficult to assess the potential price reaction. One rough comparison can be made based on the oil market situation during the Arab oil embargo of 1973 discussed above. Then, the net loss of oil constituted about 9% of the oil consumption in "the free world" (Yergin, 1982), even lower than the most optimistic prognosis in Table 1. However, 33 Mcb of Russian gas (or 6% of 2021 the EU's gas consumption) has already been imported to the EU since the beginning of 2022, making the potential gas shortage quite comparable to the oil shortage of 1973. Subject to all differences between the two shocks, one can, perhaps, still argue that the gas price increase following a ban on Russian gas imports should not exceed three-fold from before the invasion.
It is important to stress here that the EU gas market situation in the case of the Russian gas embargo would be principally different from the oil market one. Due to supply shortage not coverable by the alternative gas sources, a gas embargo would lead not only to a stronger price increase than in the case of oil, but also to significant downward demand adjustments, rationing and, perhaps, even price controls. (This, again, parallels the developments during the 1973 oil crisis). The negative effect of such rationing is not accounted for by the import bill. On the contrary, a shortage of supply would imply lower gas import volumes, biasing the impact on the gas import bill downward. In this way, an import bill reaction to sanctions in the case of natural gas may more strongly underestimate the overall impact on the economy than in the case of oil.
While the above argument suggests a higher price increase in the case of a gas embargo in comparison to an oil ban, there is still a lot of uncertainty in forecasting the gas price. Figure 6 depicts the estimates for the natural gas cost across the EU for two potential price levels – EUR 160/Mwh, and EUR 240/Mwh, a two- and three-fold increase relative to the pre-invasion price level of EUR 80/Mwh. Both estimates assume a (moderate) 8% decrease in the demand reflecting the abovementioned supply shortage and demand adjustments. We assume that the shortage is affecting both the importers of Russian gas and those who use other suppliers due to the common gas market in the EU and the use of reverse flow technology – as was the case for Poland which was denied Russian gas on April 27th, 2022 due to not paying for it in Rubles (see Appendix 1 for a discussion of implications of this assumption).
Not surprisingly, the gas import costs increase drastically in comparison to 2021. The total figures for the EU would be just below EUR 680 bln in the two-fold price increase scenario, and exceed 1 trn EUR in the case of a three-fold increase, in contrast to EUR 185 bln in 2021. Again, the largest economies bear the highest costs in absolute value.
When it comes to the relative increase in gas import value, two further observations follow from Figure 6. First, there is a huge variation in the increase in the value of gas imports across the Member States, from no effect in Cyprus which does not import natural gas, to 7.7 times in the case of a price doubling and 11.5 times in the case of a price tripling. Again, this variation originates from the necessity to replace cheaper Russian gas with more expensive gas sources, and the effect is much stronger than for oil. However, just like in the oil case, the states not directly importing Russian gas will still experience a huge negative shock from such a price hike. (Recall also, that the variation of the impact across the Member States is likely underestimated here, as the gas bill does not account for potential rationing which may differentially impact the importers of Russian gas).
Second, the increase in the value of gas imports exceeds the scale of the price increase even for the least affected Member States (excluding Cyprus). This is due to the unprecedented gas price increase during the EU gas crisis that took place between late 2021 and the beginning of 2022. Due to this increase, the pre-invasion gas price in February 2022 was 60% higher than the average gas price in 2021.
Figure 6. Estimated effect of Russian natural gas ban on gas imports in 2022: value of gas imports, EUR bln (left axis), and gas import expenses relative to 2021 level (right axis).
The above estimates suggest that a ban on Russian oil and gas imports is going to be costly for the EU. While uncertainty is very high concerning the possible energy price increase following such a ban, historical parallels together with the market characteristics suggest that both the price increase and the rise in the value of imports are going to be stronger for natural gas. The resulting increase in the EU-wide import values relative to 2021 ranges from 1.8 to 2.6 times for the considered oil scenarios, and from 3.7 to 5.5 times for the natural gas scenarios.
Unsurprisingly, the most sizable import costs will be faced by the larger EU Member States, as well as those most dependent on oil and gas imports. However, all EU countries are going to be affected due to the market price increase. While the relative rise in the import costs of oil and oil products will be fairly uniformly met across the EU states, the increase in the costs of gas exports will vary greatly, with the largest relative losses faced by the EU states that are currently more exposed to Russian gas imports.
The above figures provide a rough assessment of the potential costs of a Russian fossil fuels ban. The approach does not take into account substitutability between different fuels and resulting cross-effects on prices, which implies that the costs could be both under- and overestimated. It has a very limited and simplistic take on the demand reaction to a price increase, which again may lead to either over- or underestimation of the effect. Neither does it account for the consequences of such price increases on the costs of electricity and implications for the non-energy sector within the economies. The latter may, again, be differentially affected depending on the industrial composition and their relative energy intensity. Another factor to consider is the interconnectivity between the EU economies – for example, an increase in Germany's energy bill is likely to have a large impact on the entire EU. Moreover, the use of the import bill as a proxy for the overall effect on the economy may have further limitations in the case of supply shortage and rationing. To provide a more precise estimate of the impact of such a ban on the entire economy, for instance on GDP, one would require an extensive and sophisticated model along the lines of the CGE approach, relying on large amounts of data (Bachmann et al. (2022) provide an excellent example of such a study of the effect on Germany). This, however, is beyond the scope of the current assessment.
Still, even this relatively simplistic assessment of import costs of a Russian energy ban offers sufficient food for thought for the discussion of the scale of damage across the EU Member States and the feasibility of oil and gas sanctions. For example, the assessment suggests that an oil ban is likely to yield relative parity across the Member States in terms of the increase in the 2022 oil import bill as compared to the 2021 level. This would imply that, were the EU to decide on a gradual sanctioning of Russian oil and gas, it would be easier to reach an EU-wide agreement on oil sanctions. In turn, moving away from Russian gas – due to either the decision to ban gas imports or retaliation from Russia in response to oil sanctions, -implies very uneven import cost exposure. Thus, to face the challenge of replacing Russian gas imports, the EU would likely need to implement some kind of energy solidarity mechanism.
- Baumeister, C., & Lutz Kilian. (2016). "Forty Years of Oil Price Fluctuations: Why the Price of Oil May Still Surprise Us." Journal of Economic Perspectives, 30 (1): 139-60.
- Bachmann, R., D., Baqaee, C., Bayer, M., Kuhn, B., Moll, A., Peichl, K., Pittel & M. Schularick. (2022). "What if? The Economic Effects for Germany of a Stop of Energy Imports from Russia", ECONtribute Policy Brief 28/2022.
- BP. (2021). Statistical Review of World Energy
- Chepeliev, M., T. Hertel and D. van der Mensbrugghe. (2022). "Cutting Russia's fossil exports: Short-term pain for long-term gain", VoxEU.org, 9 March.
- Fulwood, M., Sharples J., & J. Henderson. (2022). "Ukraine Invasion: What This Means for the European Gas Market", The Oxford Institute of Energy Studies, March
- Guriev, S. & O. Itskhoki. (2022). "The Economic Rationale for Oil and Gas Embargo on Putin's Regime".
- IEA. (2022). "A 10-Point Plan to Reduce the European Union's Reliance on Russian Natural Gas".
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- Le Coq, C. & E. Paltseva. (2009). "Measuring the security of external energy supply in the European Union", Energy Policy 37: 4474-4481.
- Le Coq, C. & E. Paltseva. (2012). "Assessing Gas Transit Risks: Russia vs. the EU", Energy Policy, 4: 642-650.
- McWilliams, B., Sgaravatti G., Tagliapietra S., & Zachmann G. (2022). "Can Europe Survive Painlessly without Russian Gas?", Bruegel, 27 February.
- McWilliams, B., Sgaravatti G., & Zachmann G. (2021). "European Natural Gas Imports", Bruegel Datasets
- Rystad Energy. (2022a). "Energy Impact Report, Russia's Invasion of Ukraine, public version", March 2
- Rystad Energy. (2022b). "Energy Impact Report, Russia's Invasion of Ukraine, public version", March 21
- Stehn, S. J., Ball, S., Durre, A., Radde, S., Schnittker, C., Taddei, F. & Quadr, I. (2022). "The Impact of Gas Shortages on the European Economy", Goldman Sachs, March
- Y. Daniel. (1992). The Prize: The Epic Quest for Oil, Money, and Power. New York: Simon and Schuster.
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in policy briefs and other publications are those of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect those of the FREE Network and its research institutes.
What does the Gas Crisis Reveal About European Energy Security?
The recent record-high gas prices have triggered legitimate concerns regarding the EU's energy security, especially with dependence on natural gas from Russia. This brief discusses the historical and current risks associated with Russian gas imports. We argue that decreasing the reliance on Russian gas may not be feasible in the short-to-mid-run, especially with the EU's goals of green transition and the electrification of the economy. To ensure the security of natural gas supply from Russia, the EU has to adopt the (long-proclaimed) coordinated energy policy strategy.
In the last six months, Europe has been hit by a natural gas crisis with a severe surge in prices. Politicians, industry representatives, and end-energy users voiced their discontent after a more than seven-fold price increase between May and December 2021 (see Figure 1). Even if gas prices somewhat stabilized this month (partly due to unusually warm weather), today, gas is four times as expensive as it was a year ago. This has already translated into an increase in electricity prices, and as a result, is also likely to have dramatic consequences for the cost and price of manufacturing goods.
Figure 1. Evolution of EU gas prices since Oct 2020.
These ever-high gas prices have triggered legitimate concerns regarding the security of gas supply to Europe, specifically, driven by the dependency on Russian gas imports. Around 90% of EU natural gas is imported from outside the EU, and Russia is the largest supplier. In 2020, Russia provided nearly 44% of all EU gas imports, more than twice the second-largest supplier, Norway (19.9%, see Eurostat). The concern about Russian gas dependency was exacerbated by the new underwater gas route project connecting Russia and the EU – Nord Stream 2. The opponents to this new route argued that it will not only increase the EU's gas dependency but also Russia's political influence in the EU and its bargaining power against Ukraine (see, e.g., FT). Former President of the European Council Donald Tusk stated that "from the perspective of EU interests, Nord Stream 2 is a bad project.".
However, neither dependency nor controversial gas route projects are a new phenomenon, and the EU has implemented some measures to tackle these issues in the past. This brief looks at the current security of Russian gas supply through the lens of these historical developments. We provide a snapshot of the risks associated with Russian gas imports faced by the EU a decade ago. We then discuss whether different factors affecting the EU gas supply security have changed since (and to which extent it may have contributed to the current situation) and if decreasing dependence on Russian gas is feasible and cost-effective. We conclude by addressing the policy implications.
Security of Russian Gas Supply to the EU, an Old Problem Difficult to Tackle
Russia has been the main gas provider to the EU for a few decades, and for a while, this dependency has triggered concerns about gas supply security (see, e.g., Stern, 2002 or Lewis, New York Times, 1982). However, the problem with the security of Russian gas supplies was extending beyond the dependency on Russian gas per se. It was driven by a range of risk factors such as insufficient diversification of gas suppliers, low fungibility of natural gas supplies with a prevalence of pipeline gas delivery, or use of gas exports/transit as means to solve geopolitical problems.
This last point became especially prominent in the mid-to-late-2000s, during the "gas wars" between Russia and the gas transit countries Ukraine and Belarus. These wars led to shortages and even a complete halt of Russian gas delivery to some EU countries, showing how weak the security of the Russian gas supply to the EU was at that time.
Reacting to these "gas wars", the EU attempted to tackle the issue with a revival of the "common energy policy" based on the "solidarity" and "speaking in one voice" principles. The EU wanted to adopt a "coherent approach in the energy relations with third countries and an internal coordination so that the EU and its Member States act together" (see, e.g., EC, 2011). However, this idea turned out to be challenging to implement, primarily because of one crucial contributor to the problem with the security of Russian gas supply – the sizable disbalance in Russian gas supply risk among the individual EU Member States.
Indeed, EU Member States had a different share of natural gas in their total energy consumption, highly uneven diversification of gas suppliers, and varying exposure to Russian gas. Several Eastern-European EU states (such as Bulgaria, Estonia, or Czech Republic) were importing their gas almost entirely from Russia; other EU Member States (such as Germany, Italy, or Belgium) had a diversified gas import portfolio; and a few EU states (e.g., Spain or Portugal) were not consuming any Russian gas at all. Russian natural gas was delivered via several routes (see Figure 2), and member states were using different transit routes and facing different transit-associated risks. These differences naturally led to misalignment of energy policy preferences across EU states, creating policy tensions and making it difficult to implement a common energy policy with "speaking in one voice" (see more on this issue in Le Coq and Paltseva, 2009 and 2012).
Figure 2. Gas pipeline in Europe.
The introduction of Nord Stream 1 in 2011 is an excellent example of the problem's complexity. This new gas transit route from Russia increased the reliability of Russian gas supply for EU countries connected to this route (like Germany or France), as they were able to better diversify the transit of their imports from Russia and be less exposed to transit risks. The "Nord Stream" countries (i.e., countries connected to this route) were then willing to push politically and economically for this new project. Le Coq and Paltseva (2012) show, however, that countries unconnected to this new route while simultaneously sharing existing, "older" routes with "Nord Stream" countries would experience a decrease in their gas supply security. The reason for this is that the "directly connected" countries would now be less interested in exerting "common" political pressure to secure gas supplies along the "old" routes.
This is not to say that the EU did not learn from the above lessons. While the "speaking in one voice" energy policy initiative was not entirely successful, the EU has implemented a range of actions to cope with the risks of the security of gas supply from Russia. The next section explains how the situation is has changed since, outlining both the progress made by the EU and the newly arising risk factors.
Security of Russian Gas Supply to the EU, a Current Problem Partially Addressed
Since the end of the 2000s, the EU implemented a few changes that have positively affected the security of gas supply from Russia.
First, the EU put a significant effort into developing the internal gas market, altering both the physical infrastructure and the gas market organization. The EU updated and extended the internal gas network and introduced the wide-scale possibility of utilizing reverse flow, effectively allowing gas pipelines to be bi- rather than uni-directional. These actions improved the gas interconnections between the EU states (and other countries), thereby making potential disruptions along a particular gas transit route less damaging and diminishing the asymmetry of exposure to route-specific gas transit risks among the EU members. Ukraine's gas import situation is a good illustration of the effect of reverse flow. Ukraine does not directly import Russian gas since 2016, mainly from Slovakia (64%), Hungary (26%), and Poland (10%) (see https://www.enerdata.net/publications/daily-energy-news/ukraine-launches-virtual-gas-reverse-flow-slovakia.html). The transformation of the gas market organization brought about the implementation of a natural gas hub in Europe and change in the mechanism of gas price formation. It is now possible to buy and sell natural gas via long-term contracts and on the spot market. With the gas market becoming more liquid, it became easier to prevent the gas supply disruption threat.
Second, Europe has made certain progress in diversifying its gas exports. According to Komlev (2021), the concentration of EU gas imports from outside of the EU (excluding Norway), as measured by the Herfindahl-Hirschman index, has decreased by around 25% between 2016 and 2020. While the imports are still highly concentrated, with the HHI equal to 3120 in 2020, this is a significant achievement. A large part of this diversification effort is the dramatic increase in the share of liquified natural gas (i.e., LNG) in its gas imports – in 2020, a fair quarter of the EU gas imports came in the form of LNG. An expanded capacity for LNG liquefaction and better fungibility of LNG would facilitate backup opportunities in the case of Russian gas supply risks and improve the diversification of the EU gas imports, thereby increasing the security of natural gas supply.
However, the above developments also have certain disadvantages, which became especially prominent during the ongoing gas crisis. For example, the fungibility of LNG has a reverse side: LNG supplies respond to variations in gas market prices across the world. This change has intensified the competition on the demand side – Europe and Asia might now compete for the same LNG. This is likely to make a secure supply of LNG – e.g., as a backup in the case of a gas supply default or as a diversification device – a costly option.
In turn, new mechanisms of gas price formation in Europe included decoupling the oil and gas prices and changing the format of long-term gas contracts. The percentage of oil-linked contracts in gas imports to the EU dropped from 47% in 2016 to 26% in 2020. In particular, 87% of Gazprom's long-term contracts in 2020 were linked to spot and forward gas prices and only around 13% to oil prices (Komlev, 2021). This gas-on-gas linking may have contributed to the current gas crisis: Indeed, it undermined the economic incentives of Gazprom to supply more gas to the EU spot market in the current high-price market. Shipping more gas would lower spot prices and prices of hub-linked longer-term contracts for Gazprom. In that sense, the ongoing decline in Russian gas supplies to the EU may reflect not (only) geopolitical considerations but economic optimization.
Similarly, this new mechanism also finds reflection in the ongoing situation with the EU gas storage. The current EU storage capacity is 117 bcm, or almost 20% of its yearly consumption, and thus, can in principle be effective in managing the short-term volume and price shocks. However, the current gas crisis has shown that this option might be far from sufficient in the case of a gas shortage (see, e.g., Zachmann et al., 2021). One of the reasons for this insufficiency can be Gazprom controlling a sizable share of this storage capacity (see https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2021-004781_EN.html). For example, Gazprom owns (directly and indirectly) almost one-third of all gas storage in Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands. Combining this storage market position with a long-term gas contract structure may also lead to strategic behavior for economic (on top of potential political) purposes.
Last but not least, the EU gas market is likely to be characterized by increased demand due to the green transition agenda (see Olofsgård and Strömberg, 2022). Being the least carbon-intensive fossil fuel, natural gas has an important role in facilitating green transition and increasing the electrification of the economy. For example, Le Coq et al. (2018) argues that gas capacity should be around 3 to 4 times the current capacity by 2050 for full electrification of transport and heating in France, Germany, or the Netherlands. In such circumstances, the EU is not likely to have the luxury to diminish reliance on Russian gas.
Conclusions and Policy Implications
Keeping the above discussion in mind, should the EU try to diminish its dependence on Russian gas to improve its energy security? This may be true in theory, but in practice, this might be too costly, at least in the short-to-medium run.
The current situation on the EU gas market suggests that simply cutting gas imports from Russia is likely to lead to high prices both in the energy sector and, later, in other sectors of the economy due to spillovers. Substituting gas imports from Russia with gas from other sources, such as LNG, is likely to be very costly and not necessarily very reliable. Alternative measures, e.g., improving interconnections between the EU Member States or controlling transit issues via the use of reverse flow technology, are effective but have limited impact. Simply cutting down gas demand is not a viable strategy. Indeed, with the EU pushing for a green transition and the electrification of the economy, the EU's gas imports may have to increase. Russian gas may play an important role in this process.
As a result, we believe that the solution to keep the security issue of Russian gas supply at bay lies in the area of common energy policy. It is essential that the EU implements and effectively manages a coordinated approach in dealing with Russian gas supplies. The EU is the largest buyer of Russian gas, and given Russian dependency on hydrocarbon exports, such a synchronized approach would give the EU the possibility to exploit its "large buyer" power. While the asymmetry in exposure to Russian gas supply risks among the EU Member States is still sizable, the improvements in the functioning of the internal gas market and gas transportation within the EU make their preferences more aligned, and a common policy vector more feasible. Furthermore, recent EU initiatives on creating "strategic gas reserves" by making the Member States share their gas storage with one another would further facilitate such coordination. Implementing the "speaking in one voice" gas import policy will allow the EU to fully utilize its bargaining power vis-à-vis Gazprom and spread the benefits of new gas routes from Russia – such as Nord Stream 2 – across its Member States.
- European Commission, 2011, "Speaking with one voice – the key to securing our energy interests abroad", press release, https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/IP_11_1005
- Komlev, S. 2021, "Evolution of Russian Gas Supple to Europe: Contracts and Prices", Presentation at 34th WS2 GAC, https://minenergo.gov.ru/system/download/14146/158148
- Le Coq C. and E. Paltseva (2020), Covid-19: News for Europe's Energy Security, FREE Policy brief. https://freepolicybriefs.org/2020/05/07/covid-19-energy-security-europe/
- Le Coq C., J. Morega, M. Mulder, S Schwenen (2018) Gas and the electrification of heating & transport: scenarios for 2050, CERRE report.
- Le Coq C. and E. Paltseva (2013) EU and Russia Gas Relationship at a Crossroads, in Russian Energy and Security up to 2030, Oxenstierna and Tynkkynen (Eds), Routledge.
- Le Coq C. and E. Paltseva (2012) Assessing Gas Transit Risks: Russia vs. the EU, Energy Policy (4).
- Le Coq C. and E. Paltseva (2009) Measuring the Security of External Energy Supply in the European Union, Energy Policy (37).
- Lewis, Paul, "Gas pipeline is producing lots of steam among allies", New York Times, Feb. 14, 1982, https://www.nytimes.com/1982/02/14/weekinreview/gas-pipeline-is-producing-lots-of-steam-among-allies.html
- Olofsgård A., and S. Strömberg (2022) Environmental Policy in Eastern Europe | SITE Development Day 202, FREE Policy Brief, https://freepolicybriefs.org/2022/01/10/environmental-policy-in-eastern-europe-site-development-day-2021/
- Stern, J., 2002. Security of European Natural Gas Supplies—The Impact of Import Dependence and Liberalization, Royal Institute of International Affairs, available at: 〈http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/files/3035_sec_of_euro_gas_jul02.pdf〉
- Zachmann, G., B. McWilliams and G.Sgaravatti, 2021, How serious is Europe's natural gas storage shortfall? https://www.bruegel.org/2021/12/how-serious-is-europes-natural-gas-storage-shortfall/
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in policy briefs and other publications are those of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect those of the FREE Network and its research institutes.
Covid-19: News for Europe's Energy Security
While there has been a lot of attention on the effect of Covid-19-related developments in the oil market, the effect on the natural gas market has almost evaded media attention. For the EU, however, the gas market and especially the impact of the pandemic on the gas relationship with its largest gas supplier, Russia, is of high relevance. This brief discusses the potential implications of Covid-19 on this relationship both under the pandemic and during the expected slow economic recovery. We argue that, while in the short run the security of Russian gas supply is likely to improve, this is unlikely to be the case in the aftermath of the pandemic. To ensure gas supply security in post-pandemic markets, the EU may need to finally implement the long-awaited "speaking with one-voice" energy policy.
The ongoing coronavirus pandemic will not only affect human lives, but also bring new economic and political challenges. The energy sector, and in particular the dramatic decrease of oil prices, has been in the news since the beginning of the Covid-19 crisis. But discussions have so far rarely touched the natural gas market, despite the pandemic taking its toll also on this market. As for oil, the demand and price have been negatively affected by the economic slowdown. While not as drastic as for oil, the price of natural gas in the EU has declined by approximately 40% since the beginning of 2020 (World Bank, 2020). However, the impact of the pandemic is likely to be quite different in oil and gas markets. There are multiple reasons for that; for example, oil and oil products are predominantly consumed by the transport sector while natural gas is mostly used in the power sector, the industry and households, and these sectors were differently affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Understanding the impact of the pandemic on the gas market is especially interesting from the European point of view, given that natural gas accounts for 25% of total energy consumption and two thirds of this gas is imported. The imports are also very concentrated, with the main supplier Russia providing around 40% of the gas, compared to 25% of the crude oil. This dependency, as well as a long history of tensions with third parties (Ukraine and Belarus) on the Russian gas transit routes, has made the EU's concerns about the security of Russian gas supply much more pronounced than for oil (see Le Coq and Paltseva, 2012). The combination of these factors – i.e. the importance of natural gas for the EU and the long-standing concern about gas supply security warrant an analysis of the short and mid-term effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on the gas market, and, specifically, on the EU-Russia gas relationship. This brief discusses how the pandemic-driven decline in gas demand, and the potential shift in the balance of power between the parties may affect both the dependency on, and the transit of, Russian gas.
EU Dependency on Russian Gas Under the Covid-19 Pandemic
As is well known, Covid-19 and the associated lockdowns imposed by many EU Member States, have caused a slowdown in most economies and a decline in energy demand. However, for natural gas, the effect is likely to be significantly smaller than for oil. While we do not yet have statistics for the EU's gas demand in recent months, the Norwegian energy consultancy Rystad Energy has predicted the decline of gas demand to be around 4% for March and April 2020. This forecast was given quite early in the course of the pandemic, and is very likely an underestimation; still, it is very different from the one for oil, with the demand drop estimated to be a whopping 34% in April.
One reason why we do not observe a sizable decrease in gas demand is that the natural gas is used in electricity generation, especially as a base-load fuel to compensate for the intermittency of green energy sources, such as sun and wind. With the reduced electricity demand, renewable power generation has become relatively more important in the electricity supply in many countries. Since mid-March 2020, the share of renewable power generation across the EU is 46%, nine percent higher than during the same period last year (Energy Transition Lab, 2020). Interestingly, in France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Poland and Hungary, the absolute volume of electricity generation by renewable sources even increased relative to the same period in 2019, despite declining energy demand. One potential channel, anecdotally recorded for Germany could be higher solar generation due to cleaner skies resulting from the decline in emissions because of lower fossil energy consumption. A higher volume of a renewable generation often requires more back-up power to maintain grid stability. While natural gas is not the only back-up source, this need might still limit the decline in gas demand (or even increase it like e.g. in the Czech Republic). Of course, cheaper gas prices may also play a role: for example, Slovakia and Romania experienced an increase in gas-based generation, but a drop in the renewable generation since mid-March 2020 relative to the same period in 2019. Finally, another reason for the moderate gas demand decline is its residential use – which is likely to be sustained due to the lockdown regime introduced by many countries.
When it comes to Russian gas imports, the official statistics since mid-March – roughly the beginning of lockdown policies across the EU – are not available yet. However, we can with some reservation look at the evolution of the volume of gas sales to the EU disclosed by Gazprom (2020). There was a very sizable decrease in Russian gas imports by the EU – of more than 21% – as compared to the same period last year but it started before the lockdown: January 2020 recorded a drop of 34% and February of 20%). This suggests that the current decrease in Russian gas imports is only marginally related to the pandemic, and more related to the overall gas market situation (such as relatively full gas storage in the EU in 2020, a warm winter, an increase in LNG imports, etc.).
It is, however, likely that the negative effect of the pandemic on Russian gas imports by the EU will be noticeably higher than it currently appears in the Gazprom data, thereby further decreasing the EU's dependency on Russian gas. Moreover, since demand and prices decrease, substituting for Russian gas, were there a supply interruption, should be relatively easy and cheap with the current excess capacity of the natural gas market and the substantial storage in the EU.
Another reason for the improvement in the security of Russian gas supply to the EU is the observation that Russia's dependency on oil and gas exports in combination with pandemic-associated factors may lead to a substantial economic downturn in Russia (Becker, 2020). In these dire circumstances, Russia is unlikely to further risk its gas export revenues by pursuing geopolitical goals through the means of gas supply and gas transit. For all these reasons, one may expect the security of Russian gas supply to the EU to improve during the pandemic.
However, the EU dependency on Russian gas may still be a concern due to medium-run effects of Covid-19. First of all, while the gas prices have been in decline for roughly a year now, the recent decrease in natural gas prices has accelerated the negative impact on the unconventional natural gas industry. For example, the US natural gas rig count has declined by 20% since mid-March 2020, which accounts for more than a third of the 54% year-to-year decline (Ycharts.com, 2020). Similarly, nearly 42% of Australian gas resources could be uneconomic under the current gas prices, according to Rystad Energy. While gas prices are unlikely to stay low forever, the industry will need time to recover even if/when the natural gas demand rises again. Moreover, the East-Asian markets are likely to be served first, as they are expected to recover from the pandemic shock before Europe. This dynamic, coupled with historically higher LNG prices in Asia may delay the LNG flows to Europe. A shortage of LNG in Europe, in turn, is likely to hinder any diversification strategy from Russian gas, weakening the EU's bargaining power. The new Russia-China gas pipeline, "Power of Siberia", operational since the end of 2019, will also be used to satisfy the post-Covid-19 Chinese gas demand which is likely to recover before demand picks up in the EU. Its use will then allow Russia to be less reliant on exporting gas to the EU, further contributing to the EU's gas security concerns.
Transit of Russian Gas to the EU: Covid-19 Effect
The EU's energy security also depends on the reliability of Russian gas transit to the EU. There are currently 5 transit routes connecting Russia to the EU (plus the routes that are serving the Baltic states and Finland without further transit), see Figure 1. Three onshore routes connect Russia to the EU via Ukraine and Belarus. There has been a history of gas transit disputes associated with these routes, at times threatening the Russian gas supply to the EU. Two newer offshore pipelines, Nord Stream 1 (in operation since 2011) and TurkStream (in operation since 2020) connect Russia directly to Germany, and to the South-East of Europe via Turkey. Further, one more offshore route to Germany, Nord Stream 2, is currently underway, with the operations announced to start in the first quarter of 2021. All three offshore projects are expected to not suffer from geopolitical transit issues.
In relation to the Covid-19 pandemic, there are likely to be two major effects on Russian gas transit. First, the inauguration of Nord Stream 2 is likely to be further delayed. Nord Stream 2 is 50% financed by Gazprom, and this financing scheme may be difficult to sustain after the fall in oil and gas prices and a significant decrease of Gazprom's export revenues. Indeed, while the statistics for March and April 2020 are not yet available, the Russian customs statistics suggests that the USD value of gas exports from Russia in January-February 2020 has decreased by 45% relative to the same period last year. Because Nord Stream 2 could facilitate gas delivery to the EU in case of a transit conflicts, its expected delay may negatively impact the EU's gas security.
Additionally, the Covid-19 related demand drop may impact the utilization of Russia-EU gas routes, driven by the current agreements between Russia and the transit countries. Russia and Ukraine have just signed a transit agreement for the next 5 years. This agreement was widely perceived as a diplomatic success of the EU (that facilitated the deal), given the historically difficult geopolitical relation between Ukraine and Russia. One of the new features of this agreement is of particular interest within the Covid-19 context. Unlike for previous deals, Russia agreed to prepay a fixed volume of gas transit, 178.1 mcm/day for 2020, and 110 mcm/day units for 2021-24 (Pirani et al., 2020). So, underutilization of this route is costly for Russia.
Figure 1. Gas supply Routes to the EU.
With decreased demand due to Covid-19, warmer weather in the coming months and almost full gas storages in the EU, this contractual feature may affect how Russia allocates its gas exports across the routes. At least, in the short term, it may undermine Russian gas transit via the Belarus-Poland route. The concern about the utilization of this route in relation to the new Russia-Ukraine transit agreement has already been raised by Pirani et al. (2020). The Covid-19-associated decrease in gas demand is likely to make this concern much more real. Russia may use the Belarus-Poland pipeline sporadically, e.g. to adjust for the seasonal spikes in demand, without long-term capacity booking. Recent gas tensions between Russia and Poland (e.g. Poland winning in the arbitration court against Gazprom (RFE/RL, 2020), and Poland repeatedly expressing opinions and exercising legislative effort restricting the usage of Nord Stream 1 and construction of Nord Stream 2) may further exacerbate the issue.
In the medium term, however, when the EU gas demand has recovered but Nord Stream 2 is not yet in place, the Belarus-Poland route is likely to prove useful for Russia, at least starting from 2021 (when prepaid volumes of Russian gas transit via Ukraine will decline according to their agreement).
The transit contract between Russia and Poland is to be renewed in mid-May 2020, and as of now, it is unclear if, and how it will be written and whether the Belarus-Poland transit route will be used to a substantial degree or only marginally. If transit through the Belarus-Poland route is limited, it will imply poorer route diversification for a major part of European consumers of Russian gas, thereby lowering their security of Russian gas supply. This may also put another strain on the bargaining power allocation within the EU and the EU's intended common energy policy of "speaking with one voice" with external energy suppliers like Russia.
Summing up, the decrease in demand of natural gas, as well as other factors associated with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, such as economic recession and turbulence in stock markets, are likely to have noticeable implications for the security of Russian gas supplies to the EU in the short term. On the one hand, even if the current pandemic-associated decrease in demand of gas from Russia seems rather moderate, the ultimate negative effect on Russian gas imports by the EU is likely to be larger. Lower imports from Russia are likely to improve the security of supply, both through lower import dependency of the EU, and through improved market opportunities due to the current market's overcapacity. On the other hand, in the medium run, lower demand also negatively affects the non-conventional gas industry, undermining the diversification opportunities to LNG, and, consequently, natural gas energy security. Further, a fall in the gas demand by the EU coupled with the newly signed transit agreement between Russia and Ukraine may potentially cause underusage of the Belarus-Poland transit route, thereby putting a strain on the diversification of Russian gas import routes to the EU and on the power balance within the EU.
Energy security might be even more of a concern in the post coronavirus period when the economy is slowly recovering, and cheap and guaranteed energy supply is crucial. To ensure this supply, national efforts combined with an EU-wide policy coordination would be required. The long-discussed "speaking with one voice" common energy policy may finally need to materialize in order to facilitate reliable access to natural gas.
- Becker, Torbjörn, 2020. "Russia Economic Update — Brace for the Covid-19 Impact!", FREE Policy Brief.
- Energy Transition Lab, Wärtsilä, 2020, retrieved April 27, 2020
- Gazprom, 2020. REMIT RSS, retrieved April 26, 2020.
- Le Coq, Chloé and Elena Paltseva, 2012. "Buyer Power as a Tool for EU Energy Security", FREE Policy Brief.
- Pirani, Simon; Jack Sharples, Katja Yafimava, Vitaly Yermakov, 2020. "Implications of the Russia-Ukraine gas transit deal for alternative pipeline routes and the Ukrainian and European markets", Oxford Institute for Energy Studies.
- World Bank, 2020. "Commodity Price Data (The Pink Sheet)", retrieved April 26, 2020.
- Ycharts.com, 2020. "US Natural Gas Rig Count: 85.00 for Wk of Apr 24 2020", retrieved April 27, 2020.
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in policy briefs and other publications are those of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect those of the FREE Network and its research institutes.
Green Transition: Adapting Markets and Policies
This policy brief summarizes the discussion at the 8th annual SITE Energy Day conference, devoted to market adaptations and policies necessary to address the green transition. Recent energy trends with ever more green energy-mixes will have consequences for the functioning of related markets as well as implications for appropriate policy responses. New financial solutions, technological developments, international cooperation, and national policy initiatives in both developing and developed countries are examples of adaptations to this transition process. To discuss these issues, the conference brought together a group of distinguished experts from the energy industry, policy community and academia.
In December 2014, world leaders have gathered in Peru (Lima) for the 20th annual meeting of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. This convention has as an objective to "stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system" (see UNFCCC's webpage). Even though the agreement to reduce emissions to a sustainable level may take years to be negotiated, at least 195 countries have ratified the UFCCC convention. The willingness to reduce environmentally harmful emissions has led to many countries changing their energy profile to include more green energy, a process that is often referred to as "green transition".
It may be worth mentioning that the label "green transition" consists of two conceptual components. "Green" refers to the ability to generate environmentally friendly energy, which has become a key challenge for our society. Indeed, a majority of people now recognize the pressing need to cut pollution in the face of climate change and environmental degradation. The wording "transition" acknowledges that a shift toward a greener energy mix seems unavoidable, but this shift may not occur immediately or uniformly around the globe. The required time for change is long and the shift itself may not be smooth. To put it differently, the green transition has had and will continue to have wide-ranging consequences for businesses, governments, and the international community.
As a result, there is a need to carefully address the potential implications for the existing energy and related markets and market players, and for government policies, as well as new markets and new policies triggered by the green transition. These topics were the focus of the 8th SITE Energy Day, a half-day conference held at the Stockholm School of Economics on December 2, 2014.
Green Transition and the Energy Markets
The first panel focused on how energy markets have responded to green transition and how they may react in the future. Speakers from electricity companies, regulatory bodies and think tanks discussed how the green transition may affect the use of traditional financial instruments by energy companies; the choice of economically viable technology for producing green energy; and the way markets could be integrated to increase the efficiency of green energy.
As green transition almost always introduces more intermittent production, it is likely that market uncertainty will increase. This is one of the reasons why traditional financial instruments may not be fully adequate. The first speaker Laurent Cheval, Head of Nordic and Fuel Origination in the business division Asset Optimization & Trading at Vattenfall discussed this issue extensively. Energy companies face substantial financial risks since both prices and quantities may be highly volatile. To mitigate these risks, market participants may use an array of financial products. In mature energy markets, the products are fairly standardized. However, more complex and tailor-made financial products are required to face the ongoing changes in the sector. For example, the increased share of renewable energy combined with more interconnected markets create specific market risks. To hedge against risks associated with weather changes, future fuel costs, interest rates and so on, more and more energy providers trade customized derivatives "over-the-counter" (OTC) rather than through a centrally-cleared exchange. Another example is the development of decentralized power production and the rise of the "Prosumer" who simultaneously produces and consumes power. So far, the relevant regulation is underdeveloped and there is an additional demand for innovative financial solutions. Large energy companies such as Vattenfall are for instance offering a range of financial hedging solutions combined with actual physical handling and delivery of energy products.
Green transition should in the long run lead to a domination of environment friendly energy. However it is important that only economically viable technologies subsist. It is therefore necessary to assess the cost of producing green energy. Lars Andersson, Head of Wind Power Unit at the Swedish Energy Agency, reported on an extensive study done by the Agency on this issue. Over the last five years, the production cost of wind power has fallen consistently and capacity usage has increased. This dramatic change in the wind power industry likely implies that the existing subsidies for building wind power plants gradually will be phased out. It is unclear how the industry will react to these cuts in subsidies. Furthermore, according to Andersson, wind production faces at least two challenges. Without developing the capabilities for energy storage, electricity markets will face more energy imbalances as the share of wind power increases. Additionally, the support from the local communities is needed to ensure an expansion of wind power. Addressing these issues requires the development of new regulation and defining a common goal which may promote cooperation between stakeholders.
Ultimately the green transition will end when and if the green energies are largely adopted around the globe. One way to accelerate this green transition may be to coordinate action and development of governmental policies. Martin Ådahl, Chefsekonom at Centerpartiet, and Daniel Engström, Programchef Miljö och Klimat at Fores, presented the current state of the international climate policy and discussed the benefits of linking carbon emission rights markets. Because of conflicting interests, the likelihood of reaching an agreement within the current United Nations climate negotiations is rather small.
However, Ådahl and Engström suggested that the focus should instead be on reaching agreements between big polluter countries that contribute the lion's share of global emissions. Indeed, regional emission trading schemes already exist in the EU, the US and China, the three regions which together account for over 50 percent of global emissions. One potential shortcoming of this suggestion is that it may not be enough to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere. Thereby, Ådahl and Engström discussed the possibility to link current cap-and-trade markets, as a first step toward an international system with a more formal global agreement. Linking cap-and-trade markets has many benefits, especially in the form of efficiency gains. However, emission caps vary across countries and regions because of different political goals or priorities. When markets are linked, difference in abatement costs (or allowance prices) would lead to a flow of allowances and emissions from countries/regions with low abatement cost to countries with higher ones. Thereby prices would be equalized, benefiting entities with cheaper allowances. To avoid opportunistic behavior, countries would first have to agree ex ante on an exchange rate between different countries' emission rights. Second, a clear regulatory framework is required. Both Ådahl and Engström emphasized the need of an international organization devoted to climate economics. Such an institutional body could not only regulate the links between cap-and-trade markets, but also provide concrete solutions and technical models to improve on the market design.
Environmental Policies: International Experience
The second panel focused on how governments may promote green transition. Anna Pegels, Senior Researcher at the German Development Institute (DIE), reviewed green policy initiatives in developing countries. Pegels argued based on evidence from e.g. India and South Africa that it is possible to combine substantial growth with green energy. This is good news since emerging countries are among the highest polluters. However, to change a country's energy profile, governments need to intervene and develop new industrial policies.
Governments can set long-term goals, which are supported by short- and mid-term targets. However, given the large profits that are at stake, officials may likely be subject to the risk of capture and corruption. To limit such risks, Pegel emphasized the need to introduce competition in the energy sector as a whole. Subsidized feed-in tariffs for renewable energy for example should be only a first step, to reach a certain scale of production. But the technology is mature enough that producers should be able to bear some additional risk in their current activity. This should increase the scope for competition. Finally, it is essential that governments continuously engage in policy revision cycles and learn from other countries' experiences.
Benjamin Sovacool, Professor of Business and Social Sciences at Aarhus University and Director of the Danish Centre for Energy Technologies, talked about the process of low carbon transition in the Nordic region. In spite of large investments into renewable energy, fossil fuels still dominate the consumption in the Nordic countries and considerable measures need to be taken in the decades ahead to make the transition to a greener energy mix. Sovacool highlighted four areas which could help reduce the carbon footprint of the Nordic countries: renewable energy, increased energy efficiency of buildings, transportation, and carbon capture and storage (CCS). In order to be successful, the green transition has to bring about a systemic change engaging actors across the economy, particularly including end-users. There should also be a focus on additional technological progress. Finally, Sovacool noted that a rapid emission reduction such as the one planned in the Nordic countries is unlikely to be followed on a global scale in the near future due to a lack of political feasibility.
The green transition is expected to have a profound impact on the functioning and structure of energy markets as well as the policies that facilitates this transition.
There is an ongoing process of decentralization in the energy sector, with the rise of "prosumer" market places that alter market dynamics. Moreover, market uncertainty is increasing due to more intermittent production (due to renewables) and a stronger interconnectedness between energy markets. It is likely that energy imbalances will be a major concern and that more and more energy trade will take place on real time markets (as opposed to e.g. on the day-ahead market). As markets' linking becomes stronger, the interdependence between markets in terms of energy type and geographical location will be intensified. The need for coordination and international cooperation will be even more pressing. The uncertainty regarding the development of international cooperation, but also regarding national policy changes, may however disrupt energy markets. Measures such as withdrawing existing subsidies must be handled in a gradual and strategic manner so as not to discourage investment. A key issue for governments is to have a credible green policy in the long-term. Such credibility will also depend on the level of involvement of different actors in the green transition, including the necessity to have a multilevel engagement of the end-users.
- Energimyndigheten, (2014), Produktionskostnads-bedömning för Vindkraft i Sverige, ER 2014:16
- Pegels, A. (Ed.). (2014), Green industrial policy in emerging countries, Vol. 34, Routledge
- Rutqvist, J., Engström, A.and Ådahl, M., A Bretton Woods for the Climate. Fores, 2010
- SITE 8th Energy Day, http://www.hhs.se/en/about-us/calendar/site-external-events/2014/site-energy-day/
- UNFCCC, (n.d). First steps to a safer future: Introducing The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, http://unfccc.int/essential_background/convention/items/6036.php [8 December 2014] |
Covering today's launch of the Corporate Climate Responsibility Monitor? Our experts can help | Media Advisory
April 9, 20242 min readArtificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a pivotal force driving innovation and reshaping our societal landscape. Its transformative potential spans across sectors, touching upon crucial global challenges such as ethics, privacy, and the future of employment. As AI continues to permeate various aspects of our lives, its intersection with pressing issues like climate change takes center stage. The upcoming launch of the Corporate Climate Responsibility Monitor by the NewClimate Institute in collaboration with Carbon Market Watch presents an invaluable opportunity to explore the symbiotic relationship between AI and corporate climate responsibility.
Why This Matters to the Public:
- The Corporate Climate Responsibility Monitor 2024 serves as a beacon of insight into the nexus between corporate actions and environmental sustainability. Here are key sub-topics that offer intriguing story angles for a broad audience:
- Corporate Accountability in Climate Mitigation: Delve into how corporations are leveraging AI technologies to enhance their climate mitigation strategies. Highlight case studies of companies pioneering innovative approaches to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices.
- Transparency and Reporting Standards: Investigate the role of AI-driven data analytics in facilitating transparent reporting on corporate carbon footprints and environmental impact. Explore how enhanced transparency fosters accountability and drives corporate responsibility.
- Emerging Trends in Carbon Markets: Explore the evolving landscape of carbon markets and the role of AI in optimizing carbon trading mechanisms. Examine how AI-powered algorithms are revolutionizing carbon pricing strategies and incentivizing emission reductions.
- Collaborative Initiatives for Climate Action: Showcase collaborative efforts between corporations, NGOs, and government bodies in tackling climate change. Highlight partnerships forged to develop AI-driven solutions for environmental monitoring, renewable energy adoption, and sustainable supply chain management.
- The Economics of Climate Responsibility: Analyze the economic implications of corporate climate responsibility initiatives. Investigate how AI technologies are reshaping business models, driving cost savings through energy efficiency measures, and unlocking new revenue streams in the transition to a low-carbon economy.
- Impacts on Global Sustainability Goals: Assess the contribution of corporate climate responsibility efforts to achieving international sustainability targets such as the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Highlight success stories and challenges faced in aligning corporate strategies with broader environmental objectives.
Connect with an Expert about Corporate Climate Responsibility
For journalists with questions or looking to cover the the Corporate Climate Responsibility Monitor here is a select list of experts.
To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com
Assistant Professor · University of Mary Washington
Professor of Law · Vanderbilt University
Professor of Teaching, Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences · University of British Columbia
Managing Director at MaRS Cleantech Fund I, L.P. · MaRS Cleantech
Extension Associate Professor and Associate Director, Climate System Research Center · University of Massachusetts Amherst |
The ability to find and manage local administrators on Intune-managed devices in essential to ensure effective management and protection of endpoints.
Why is this so crucial? Local administrators wield significant power over their devices, from installing software and changing settings to accessing all files on the system. While this level of access is necessary for certain roles, unchecked local administrator privileges can pose significant security risks. It can open the door to malicious software installations, data breaches, and even lateral movements within a network in the event of a compromise.
This blog post aims to demystify the process of identifying local administrators on devices managed by Intune. Whether you're an experienced IT professional seeking to tighten your organization's security posture or a newcomer to Intune looking to understand its capabilities better, you'll find valuable insights on leveraging Intune to enhance your device management strategy. Join us as we explore the importance of managing local admin rights, step-by-step guides on finding local admins on Intune devices, and best practices for maintaining a secure and efficient IT environment.
Table of Contents
Local Admins on Windows devices
Local Administrators on Windows devices play a pivotal role in managing and maintaining the operating system's integrity and functionality. These privileged accounts are part of the "Administrators" group, a default security group in Windows that provides its members with the ability to execute a wide range of administrative tasks on a local machine. This includes installing and removing software, changing system settings, accessing all files on the system, managing user accounts, and configuring network settings. Essentially, local administrators have the highest level of access rights on a device, short of the System account, which is reserved for the operating system itself.
Being a member of the local Administrators group allows for comprehensive control over a device, making it a target for misuse, both from external threats and potentially disgruntled insiders. For this reason, best practices dictate minimizing the number of users with local administrative privileges to reduce the attack surface and potential for accidental or deliberate system misuse. Moreover, in enterprise environments, it's common to manage local administrator accounts through centralized policies, often using tools like Group Policy or Microsoft Intune. These tools help enforce security policies, including the principle of least privilege, ensuring users have only the access necessary to perform their job functions.
Additionally, Windows includes a feature known as User Account Control (UAC), which helps mitigate the risks associated with running processes with administrative privileges by requiring approval for actions that could affect the system's operation or security. Despite this, the power local administrators wield is significant, highlighting the importance of careful management and monitoring of these accounts to maintain security and operational integrity within a Windows environment.
Finding Local admins: The manual way
For those who prefer a hands-on approach to managing IT environments, finding local administrators on Windows devices manually is a straightforward process, though it requires a bit of navigation through the system settings. This manual method offers IT professionals and system administrators a granular level of control and insight into who has administrative privileges on each device.
To begin, one common route involves using the Computer Management console. By right-clicking on 'This PC' or 'My Computer' and selecting 'Manage,' you can navigate to 'System Tools' > 'Local Users and Groups' > 'Groups.' Here, you'll find the 'Administrators' group, which lists all user accounts and security groups with local administrative privileges on the device.
Another manual method is through the Command Prompt or PowerShell, tools that are incredibly powerful for Windows administration. For instance, running the command net localgroup Administrators
in Command Prompt will display all the members of the local Administrators group. Similarly, PowerShell offers a more advanced approach with commands like Get-LocalGroupMember -Name Administrators
, providing a detailed list of all local admin accounts.
While the manual approach to finding local administrators is effective and provides immediate results, it's more time-consuming and less scalable for large environments compared to automated tools or management solutions like Microsoft Intune. However, it remains a valuable skill for IT professionals, offering a direct and unfiltered view into the administrative landscape of Windows devices, ensuring that only the necessary personnel have elevated privileges. This hands-on method emphasizes the importance of meticulous management of administrative rights to maintain a secure and efficiently run IT infrastructure.
Finding Local admins: The Intune way
In the modern IT landscape, leveraging Microsoft Intune for managing local administrators on Windows devices represents a blend of efficiency and scalability. Intune allows IT administrators to automate the process of identifying local admin accounts, including Azure AD users who have been granted local administrative privileges. This is particularly useful in environments where devices are managed remotely, ensuring that administrative access remains both secure and compliant with organizational policies. Utilizing a PowerShell detection script within Intune's proactive remediation scripts, administrators can effortlessly gather and report on local admin memberships across their device fleet.
The script below is designed to be used within Microsoft Intune as a detection-only remediation script. It enumerates all local administrators on a device, differentiating between local accounts and Azure AD accounts that have been granted administrative privileges. This information can then be used to audit local administrator access, ensuring that only authorized users hold such privileges.
# PowerShell Script to Detect Local Administrators and Azure AD Admins on a Windows Device
# Get the local Administrators group members
$localAdmins = Get-LocalGroupMember -Group "Administrators" | Select-Object Name, PrincipalSource
# Initialize an array to hold formatted output
$output = @()
foreach ($admin in $localAdmins) {
# Check if the account is an Azure AD account
if ($admin.PrincipalSource -eq "AzureAD") {
$type = "Azure AD User"
} else {
$type = "Local User"
# Format the output
$output += "Type: $type, Name: $($admin.Name) || "
# Return the list of local administrators
Write-Host $output
Find the code on my GitHub page here.
This script starts by fetching all members of the local Administrators group. It then iterates over these members, identifying whether each is a local user or an Azure AD user, and formats this information for easy reading. The output is a string that lists each administrator's type (Azure AD User or Local User) along with their name. When deployed through Intune, this script can be run on devices across the organization, providing a consistent and automated method to monitor and report on local administrator access.
Let's deploy this script via Intune Remediations and check the results.
And the results!!!
Implementing this script via Intune not only streamlines the process of managing local administrators but also enhances security by providing visibility into which users have elevated privileges. This approach is invaluable for IT departments aiming to maintain tight control over device administration, especially in larger, distributed environments where manual checks are impractical.
References and documentation:
Check the below posts to find out more interesting relevant topics: |
by Ramesh Bjonnes
Ever wondered what kind of practical wisdom yoga can deliver beyond the mat?
Ever wanted to know more about yoga psychology and how to apply it in daily life?
Then the Wisdom of Yoga course is for you. If you are a beginner, an experienced practitioner, or a teacher of yoga, and you want to deepen your knowledge about the philosophy, psychology, and history of yoga—then this course is for you. The Wisdom of Yoga will take you on a fascinating journey into the transformative teachings of yoga. In this interactive course, you will learn the basics of Yoga, Tantra, and Vedanta and how to apply these wisdom philosophies in your own life. The teachings will make sense to the contemporary practitioner without compromising the ancient legacy and integrity of the tradition.
Here is a brief description of each part of the five-week series:
The Quest for Happiness: The Experience of Yoga in Daily Life
The inner goal of yoga is to experience Ananda or happiness, not just as a fleeting experience, but as an integrated state of being from within. In this class you will be introduced to the classical teachings of yoga and Tantra philosophy—that everything is an expression of Consciousness—and some of the meditation practices enabling us to live more in the presence of that Consciousness.
The Worldview of Yoga: How the Wisdom of Yoga Can Guide Us in Daily Life
The dominant worldview today is that we are disconnected, that we are a split between mind and body, that we are at odds with nature. Yoga teaches us that to live is to be connected—to ourselves, to others, and to nature. In this class we will dive deep into the heart of the perennial wisdom of yoga and Tantra and how to apply those teachings in daily life.
The History of Yoga: The Value of Tradition in a Changing World
The history of yoga is in many ways the history of humanity's most sophisticated search for spiritual illumination. In this class you will learn how systematic, profound, mystical, practical, and beautiful that human journey has been and will continue to emerge. The yoga practiced today in yoga studios—the various styles of posture yoga —is only one expression of yoga, and most of these postures are not even that old. Join the enchanting world of a practice that has lasted more than 5000 years.
Karma, Samskara, and Freedom: How the Law of Karma can Shape and Free Us
Yoga psychology is very sophisticated yet very practical. The law of karma—or more precisely, the law of samskaras, the mental imprints from our past—are at the heart of these teachings. This law shapes who we are, how we feel, even how we look, but it also teaches us how to change and how to find freedom and to live more in the Now.
Yoga and Health: Health Secrets from Ayurveda and Yoga
Yoga teaches that the universe, including us, is composed of two states of being—consciousness and energy. Ayurveda teaches us, in both simple and sophisticated ways, how we can use the energetic part—the body and the mind—to unite and live more in harmony with the conscious part, with our deep Self. You will learn simple, practical techniques for how to use your own body and vital energy to live a more awakened life.
To sign up for the online Wisdom of Yoga course, please click here.
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Ramesh Bjonnes
Ramesh is the Director of the Prama Wellness Center where lifestyle is considered our best medicine. Ramesh is also a writer, yogi and workshop leader. He studied yoga therapy in Nepal and India, Ayurveda at California College of Ayurveda and is a certified yoga detox theraphist from the AM Wellness Center in Cebu, Philippines. He has taught workshops in many countries and is the author of four books, including Sacred Body, Sacred Spirit (InnerWorld) and Tantra:The Yoga of Love and Awakening (Hay House India).
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How does it sound to walk into the doctor's office, choose what attributes you want your baby to have, and then having that exact baby 9 months later? Although this may seem quite harmless to most, the negative effects of designer babies are tremendous: the lack of diversity in our population, violation of a specific set of laws designed to protect humans, going against Christian views, and even destroying the roots of human nature. With genetic engineering biotechnology, such as Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (or CRISPR), new and unique altercations are being done to revolutionize many aspects of our lives. Along with astounding benefits that can come from these biotechnologies, many people have come up with crazy ideas, such as these designer baby ideas, that could be potentially harmful to our society.
With the option of designing your own child, most parents will ultimately decide they want their child to be good-looking and intelligent. Who wouldn't want that for their children? However, this blindly makes the next generation of children genetically similar to a fault. As the generations of offspring continue to be conceived, more and more offspring will continue to become more and more similar which will decline the diversity of the population. Without diversity, humans become at extreme risk to harmful diseases that can lead to huge problems, possibly even race-ending problems as well. Diversity is an immense part of who humans are on this
Have you heard of the new technology that allows parents to make their own perfect, desired child? Scientists are developing a technology called designer babies. Designer babies are essentially genetically engineered children that can also have artificially selected traits. This would lead to a powerful impact on society because there will be a clear division between the poor and wealthy due to the expenses of designer babies. There are dangerous risks, and in the long run, it will create more problems in the future. This is because there will be even more discrimination seeing that pure, non-genetically modified humans will become the inferior race (Thadani). Eventually, the genetically engineered race will take over the human race and this sort of technology may get into the wrong hands. The federal government should take action and quickly make laws to limit the use of the designer babies so the use of this technology will not get out of hand.
Imagine a world where having a baby was like looking through a menu at some fancy restaurant. Imagine being able to choose how a baby will look and act. As mind-boggling as it sounds, scientists and researchers came across an unbelievable discovery: it is possible to design and edit a baby however a person may like. Hanson asserts that personality, gender, appearance, intelligence, hair color, and height can be changed using technology that was originally used for animals (Hanson). These babies are called designer babies. Phillip Ball, a science writer, claims that it is possible to change the genetic makeup of an unborn baby using bio-technology. However, these changes can have more negative effects than positive. Although most countries have not legislated the use of genetic modification, studies have been done on human embryos in China (Ball).
As we stand in the world today, we as humans have never been more technologically advanced or scientifically intelligent. We have the ability to explore outer space and the depths of the oceans. We are even in the process of developing organs using 3D printing technology. But there is a limit to the extent of advancements that humankind can reach before some begin to pose dangers to humanity or become unethical. Currently, technology is being developed to expand the procedure of in vitro fertilization to genetically modify embryos. The products of this engineering are commonly known as "designer babies". This technology, when fully developed, would grant parents the opportunity to select against possibly life threatening or altering conditions such as cystic fibrosis, schizophrenia and Alzheimer's. Using this technology, parents would also be able to make extensive selections regarding their baby's gender, physical characteristics, and possibly even personality traits and talents. While it is positive advancement to be able to select against life-threatening diseases, the creation of an a-la-carte baby is unethical and crosses the line between positive sociological developments and immoral manipulations of nature for many reasons.
Designer babies are children with genetically modified makeup before birth. Parents go to a geneticist to choose to get rid of any hereditary disease that keeps passing down their family's lineage and free them from any adversities. This can help prevent many untreatable illnesses and diseases to create perfect healthy babies however, what other genes are scientists able to alter? Is it ethical? No. and how will it affect our society and future generations.. Designer babies are created in vitro which is placed in a culture dish and embryos with desired traits are chosen and placed in the mother's ovum. They need no more than fifteen embryos and they wait until about the second to third day when the embryo has split from a single zygote to
Picture a young couple in a waiting room looking through a catalogue together. This catalogue is a little different from what you might expect. In this catalogue, specific traits for babies are being sold to couples to help them create the "perfect baby." This may seem like a bizarre scenario, but it may not be too far off in the future. Designing babies using genetic enhancement is an issue that is gaining more and more attention in the news. This controversial issue, once thought to be only possible in the realm of science-fiction, is causing people to discuss the moral issues surrounding genetic enhancement and germ line engineering. Though genetic research can prove beneficial to learning how to prevent hereditary
Genes are a complex part of human life, and make each of us different and special. But what if there was a choice where you could genetically alter your child, making them disease free and astonishing athletes? It sounds almost too good to be true, to have your very own designer baby. For the good of human species, we should be allowed to alter human genetics. With all these amazing abilities and unlimited changes we could make to our children, it would be like shopping for clothes at a mall. This may sound like a dream come true, but it can lead to many problems in the near future. Trying to change human genes takes away each person's own individuality, and could cause people to segregate the people who were not genetically altered. Even if it can make beautiful, healthy children, it has too many problems than benefits to actually be any good for humans.
Though it is evident that the concept of "Designer Babies" would prove unpopular amongst the majority of society, there still remains to be advocates for a future compromising of GM children. It is argued that gene technology will bring about a new age of human beings who are happier, smarter and healthier. Supporters look forward to a future when parents could quite literally assemble their children from genes listed in a catalogue. A future in which the health, appearance, personality and life span of our children become mere artefacts of genetic modification.
Since the beginning of the human race, we as humans have forever been striving to make ourselves more superior and even more perfect. With our most recent developments being in the field of genetics, we are coming closer to this reality. Due to these new genetic enhancements and from movies such as GATTACA the term "Designer baby" has begun to float around referring to the eventuality that parents will soon be able to order a baby the way they would a car. What effect then would these "Designer babies" have on the world and in doing so has science gone too far? Geneticists that are currently working on this research believe that this new advancement in science is solely to help reduce the amount of hereditary diseases to unborn babies from
The contemplation of designing your very own baby by picking and choosing specific traits may seem very intriguing, and most beneficial or exciting as a parent. Although as a repercussion of it can cause harm towards the parents themselves and the child. However, genetically modifying babies can result in benefits if used properly, but negative effects come along with the process of it all that can result from it. Genetically
This following essay will discuss about how the advantages of designer babies potentially act as the enhancer that emerge the harms in the society. It is just because of this advanced benefits that introduced the disadvantages of designer babies. It is likely that there will be both moral and safety objections as there has been for in vitro fertilization, stem cell science and early gene therapy. The moral objections range from concerns about the manipulation of the germline to worries about the patenting or commercialization of the technology itself. The safety concerns, much like we saw with early recombinant DNA research include both potential dangers to the offspring of patients treated and to the
Technology has made leaps and bounds over the past several years; it has come to have tremendous effects on how we live our lives; from transportation to how quickly we can access information. Recently, technology has begun changing the lives of children, especially infants. A new form of genetic engineering can genetically modify the DNA of an embryo to achieve specific or desirable traits; this is referred to as "Designer Babies". This procedure will ultimately change lives, for better or for worse. While it may seem to most that designer babies are beneficial, they will actually cause more harm than good.
Ever feel terrified of what the future of genetics is? Perhaps designer babies? But, maybe no one has stated the wonderful possibilities it has and its outcomes. This has made the scientific technologies in genetics help us as us humans. Our civilization has become majorly advanced just by using genetics; and it isn't as harmful as it sounds. We can save babies and have them personalized to how we would want them to be. Our society would be so much sophisticated. Using genetics to create designer babies is a tremendous decision to make, so the human race can advance.
One now has the ability to alter their child's hair and eye color which Hitler tried to do with killing the men, women and children that didn't fit the look of his ideal "Aryan race". With the availability of choosing a child's characteristics there could essentially be a more popularized and desired look that become the trend, and could lead to the type of segregated beliefs as pushed in Nazi Germany. The ability to have people choose their unborn child's genetic makeup will most likely be only available to the wealthy from the cost of this procedure, and may lead to segregation from the ideal look that the wealthy would choose. A comparable look at this concept would be "The climate in Nazi Germany from 1939 onwards, if not earlier, was dangerous for those who did not fit the ideal Aryan race, and those who did not conform to Nazi beliefs were under the threat of work camps or even death". Changing a society's characteristics could accidentally rank the people of our society from their wealth, the Nazi's eliminated the races and unfit characteristics they felt were below them by killing off them. Giving the opportunity to make the wealthy look even more considerably different from the poor and have alike traits would create a more civil divide that could be compared to the divide in Nazi Germany. People would don't have the traits chosen
In the Journal of Medicine and Philosophy, Powell, Russel, and Buchanan pose the idea that human genetic engineering of babies can overcome many natural impediments for the sake of the human race. They declare that natural selection "never gets the job done" and "does not achieve perfection." However, natural selection is not designed to make human beings perfect. Humans adapt to what best fits their surroundings, but they can never be perfect. With designer babies, the traits that are seemed optimal will accede to the future generation, which eventually allows humans to change without process of natural selection.
Can perfect people make up a perfect world? As society advances towards a better future, scientists are coming up with new ways to eradicate and lessen the spread of genetic diseases. One field of study is HGE, or human genetic engineering: altering one's DNA before they are born to eliminate any chance of a genetic disease. Although these advancements can benefit various people, it also opens a dangerous window of opportunity for parents to alter other qualities in their unborn child. Soon, technology will pave a path for "Designer Babies:" children whose entire characteristics are predetermined by their parents to create the best possible child. However, because of possible genetic hazards, change of attitudes toward children, and the creation |
Stress Management: Meditation Routine for Healthy Life
5 min readIf stress makes you feel uncomfortable, tense, or worried, try stress relief meditation. Meditation offers numerous health advantages and is a highly effective approach to reduce stress and live a better lifestyle. Even a few minutes of meditation might help you regain your sense of calm and inner serenity. Putting out the willingness to know and practice meditation can significantly improve your stress levels. There are numerous methods for meditating, stress relief meditation is one of the most fundamental ones. You can use this approach to find inner calm whenever you need it with proper practice.
What is Stress Relief Meditation?
Stress relief meditation's main goal and benefit is to help the practitioner stay focused in the present moment. All too often, we get caught up in our thoughts, fears, and anxieties about the future, or we replay the past by ruminating on how things should have gone or what we could have done differently. We miss out on far too many of the moments in front of us right now because we spend so much of our time thinking about the future or the past. We become lost in contemplation and miss the exit; we spend hours stressing about something that never happens; we remain enraged over something that happened years ago and no longer affects our lives.
Meditation has been practiced for thousands of years all across the world. While meditation is most usually linked with religious traditions ranging from Zen Buddhism to Hinduism, its use as a stress-reduction strategy is fast growing in the United States. Meditation is something that everybody can do. It's easy to implement and doesn't cost a lot of money, and it doesn't require any special equipment. And you can meditate anywhere you are: on a walk, on the bus, in line at the doctor's office, or even in the middle of a tense work meeting.
When we are stressed throughout the day, our bodies immediately react in ways that prepare us to fight or flee. Your body's stress reaction, often known as the fight-or-flight reaction, is activated in this way. This physical response can be beneficial in some circumstances of great peril. A prolonged state of excitement, on the other hand, can harm every portion of the body. Stress relief meditation helps the body recover itself and prevents additional damage from the physical impacts of stress by restoring the body to a peaceful condition. It can help you relax your mind and body by calming the stress-inducing thoughts that keep your stress response active.
How to Manage Stress with Meditation?
Stress is a natural biological response to difficult situations; what makes it deadly is your body's inability to cope with it properly. Having control over your mind and body can thus aid in the effective management of stress without the use of medications. This is where meditation comes in; stress relief meditation can help you cope with difficult situations positively and openly, causing the least amount of stress to your body and mind.
The first step is to acknowledge that, contrary to popular belief, stress is not an uncontrollable force. Stress is an internal response to a perceived threat or unmet demand; it does not exist outside of you in the environment or external situations. The emotional distress, racing heart rate, shallow breathing, rushing adrenalin, and other stress reaction symptoms are caused by your thoughts and the narrative you tell yourself about an event or condition, not by the overdue payment, broken dishwasher, or quarrel with your spouse.
Stress relief meditation allows you to achieve a deep state of mental awareness, allowing you to feel every movement of your body. Long-term meditation practice can help you gain gradual control over your mental and physical functions. Your thought process becomes extremely streamlined while you meditate, allowing your mind to think clearly without being distracted by stressful thoughts. This enables your mind to solve problems in a more intelligent and timely manner, obviating the need for stress.
Benefits of Meditation for Stress:
Meditation is a sort of supplementary treatment for the mind and body. Meditation can help you achieve a deep state of relaxation as well as a calm mind. During stress relief meditation, you concentrate your attention and clear your mind of the muddled thoughts that may be bothering you and producing stress. Physical and emotional well-being may be improved as a result of this process.
Meditation has numerous advantages, including the ability to reverse your stress reaction and so protect you from the negative effects of chronic stress. Look at some of the ways how stress relief meditation allows you to manage stress and nurture better health and well-being:
- Meditation connects you to your true self and releases emotional turbulence
- Meditation can change your brain's stress patterns and improves focus and attention
- Meditation promotes relaxation and restful sleep
- Meditation reverses the effects of the stress response and increases the body's neurotransmitters of well-being
- Meditation gives a new perspective on stressful situations and reduces negative emotions
You begin to get a spontaneous experience of the traits of your actual self when you spend time in the inner calm of meditation. You experience extended or pure awareness, which is the field of all possibilities, rather than confined awareness, which limits your potential.
There are various types or methods of meditation that have their own benefits, like, mantra meditation, mindfulness meditation, yoga nidra, etc, but many people prefer guided meditation for stress management. This type of meditation, also known as guided imagery or visualization, involves creating mental images of places or circumstances that you find pleasant. Guided meditation is usually done with the help of a guide who can direct your mind in the appropriate direction so that it may immerse itself in these memories.
If you are looking for professional help to deal with stress, or need guidance for stress relief meditation, then MindEasy is the perfect place to contact. They offer various meditation courses which help in reducing stress, improving sleep, and promote emotional and physical health. MindEasy's stress relief meditation courses are designed to not only help you relax but to eliminate stress from the deepest levels. Their course is for anyone who is experiencing stress as a result of a loss, depression, employment, family life, relationships, social anxiety, or any other kind of stress. This training will increase your resilience, joy, and overall sense of well-being.
For information about MindEasy's stress relief meditation courses, visit their website today! |
The post-master's Advanced Certificate in Pediatrics NP Acute Care offers Primary Care Pediatric NPs and Family NPs (who are employed within the pediatric specialty) the opportunity to be prepared to care for infants, children, adolescents, and young adults with acute, complex, critical, and chronic illness across a variety of care settings. Academic subject matter includes care of infants, children, adolescents, and young adults who present with acute illnesses in hospital settings, including the emergency department and pediatric intensive care units (PICU), requiring high-level preparation in acute and emergency care expertise.
FNPs are eligible to apply to the program if they have a minimum of one year of pediatric experience as an NP in a pediatric acute care setting.
The 11-13-credit advanced certificate in pediatric acute care is primarily a distance learning program with two 2.5-day intensives on campus. The program meets the requirements of the New York State Office of the Professions and the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) for eligibility to take the Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care (CPNP-AC) exam. A gap analysis will determine the exact number of credits a student must take in order to meet all competencies.
The five main courses are:
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care Nursing I (2 credits)
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care I: Advanced Nursing Procedures (2 credits)
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care Nursing II (2 credits)
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care II: Advanced Nursing Procedures (2 credits)
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care Practicum (1-3 credits)
- The Pediatrics Acute Care courses are presented using a hybrid model with online interactive, synchronous educational instruction and two on-campus meetings at mid-semester and at the end of each semester.
- The post-master's Pediatrics NP Acute Care advanced certificate can be completed in one year.
- Entrance to the program is in the Spring semester.
- Direct contact and interactions with expert pediatric faculty throughout the program.
- Interactive educational experiences supported by the principles of problem-based learning to develop critical thinking and case analysis skills.
- Clinical placements with expert certified PNPs in specialty care and acute settings.
- Individualized attention to develop personal strengths and goals.
- Engage in clinical simulation experiences with Standardized Patients to assure mastery of core competencies relevant to pediatric clinical practice.
- Opportunities for interprofessional education and clinical practice.
- Graduates have entry-level expertise in the delivery of evidence-based healthcare
- Promote the highest quality of care for all infants, children, adolescents, and young adults regardless of the acuity level of care needed.
- Analyze, implement, and evaluate the outcomes of evidence-based practices for infants, children, adolescents, and young adults for all acuity levels of care required.
- Implement the findings of quality improvement (QI) to continuously improve the care offered to infants, children, adolescents, and young adults for all acuity levels of care.
- Apply the principles of population health and culturally sensitive health care to all pediatric/adolescent populations with emphasis on meeting the needs of the medically underserved urban and rural communities for all acuity levels of care.
Practicum opportunities
- Clinical placements are arranged by faculty for each student to achieve their personal and professional practice goals.
- For students living outside of the NY Metropolitan area, students may identify a clinical site and NYU Meyers will work with the students to establish the clinical placement agreement.
- Students have one-to-one experiences in clinical settings with expert pediatric nurse practitioners who guide and evaluate student learning in conjunction with the Program Director to assure individual student success in each clinical course and upon graduation.
Program outcomes
- Preparation to successfully sit for the acute care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner national certification examinations offered by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
- Meet NYS and all state requirements for licensure as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.
- Meet State and Federal requirements to obtain a DEA number upon graduation.
- Meet State requirements to obtain prescription privileges upon graduation.
- Prepared to practice as a PNP within the licensure authority of any individual state board of nursing: evaluating patients; diagnosing, ordering, and interpreting diagnostic tests; and initiating and managing treatment plans, including prescribing medications. |
One of the greatest advantages of homeschooling is the flexibility it offers families to tailor education to their unique needs, preferences, and lifestyles. Homeschooling on a flexible schedule allows families to create a learning environment that accommodates busy schedules, diverse interests, and individual learning styles, empowering parents and children alike to thrive in their educational journey. In this guide, we'll explore practical strategies for homeschooling on a flexible schedule, helping you find what works best for your family's lifestyle while achieving your educational goals.
1. Define Your Family's Priorities
Start by defining your family's priorities and goals for homeschooling, taking into account your children's educational needs, your family's lifestyle preferences, and your long-term aspirations. Consider factors such as work commitments, extracurricular activities, travel plans, and personal interests that may influence your homeschooling schedule. Discuss your priorities as a family and identify the key elements you want to incorporate into your homeschool routine, such as dedicated learning time, outdoor exploration, creative pursuits, and family bonding activities.
2. Create a Flexible Daily Routine
Create a flexible daily routine that provides structure and consistency while allowing for spontaneity and adaptability. Establish a basic framework for your homeschool day, including designated blocks of time for academic instruction, independent study, hands-on activities, and breaks. Be flexible and open to adjusting your schedule as needed to accommodate unexpected events, changes in routine, or evolving interests and priorities. Encourage your children to participate in creating the daily schedule, allowing them to have input and ownership over their learning experiences.
3. Incorporate Learning into Everyday Life
Take advantage of everyday opportunities for learning by integrating educational activities into your family's daily routines and experiences. Use meal times, grocery shopping trips, and household chores as opportunities to explore math concepts, nutrition, and practical life skills. Encourage your children to pursue their interests and passions outside of formal learning hours, whether it's engaging in hobbies, pursuing creative projects, or participating in community activities. Embrace a holistic approach to education that recognizes learning as a lifelong journey that extends beyond the confines of traditional classroom instruction.
4. Utilize Flexible Curriculum Options
Choose curriculum options that offer flexibility and adaptability to accommodate your family's schedule and learning preferences. Look for curriculum materials that provide modular or self-paced learning options, allowing your children to progress at their own pace and explore topics of interest in depth. Consider using a mix of textbooks, online courses, educational apps, and hands-on materials that cater to your children's individual learning styles and preferences. Be willing to modify or customize your curriculum to meet your family's needs and adapt to changing circumstances or interests.
5. Embrace Learning Beyond the Home
Take advantage of opportunities for learning beyond the home by exploring community resources, educational programs, and enrichment activities that complement your homeschooling journey. Participate in homeschool co-ops, community classes, museum outings, and field trips that provide hands-on learning experiences and opportunities for social interaction and collaboration. Connect with other homeschooling families in your area to share resources, ideas, and support, and participate in group activities and outings that enrich your children's educational experiences and foster a sense of belonging within the homeschool community.
Homeschooling on a flexible schedule empowers families to create a learning environment that aligns with their unique needs, lifestyle, and priorities. By defining your family's priorities, creating a flexible daily routine, incorporating learning into everyday life, utilizing flexible curriculum options, and embracing learning beyond the home, you can homeschool on your terms while providing your children with a rich and rewarding educational experience. Remember that flexibility is key to homeschooling success, allowing you to adapt and adjust your approach as your family's needs and interests evolve over time. |
The evolution of Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and GPT-4 has sparked discussions on the advent of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). However, replicating such advancements in open-source models has been challenging. This paper introduces InternLM2, an open-source LLM that outperforms its predecessors in comprehensive evaluations across 6 dimensions and 30 benchmarks, long-context modeling, and open-ended subjective evaluations through innovative pre-training and optimization techniques. The pre-training process of InternLM2 is meticulously detailed, highlighting the preparation of diverse data types including text, code, and long-context data. InternLM2 efficiently captures long-term dependencies, initially trained on 4k tokens before advancing to 32k tokens in pre-training and fine-tuning stages, exhibiting remarkable performance on the 200k ``Needle-in-a-Haystack" test. InternLM2 is further aligned using Supervised Fine-Tuning (SFT) and a novel Conditional Online Reinforcement Learning from Human Feedback (COOL RLHF) strategy that addresses conflicting human preferences and reward hacking. By releasing InternLM2 models in different training stages and model sizes, we provide the community with insights into the model's evolution.
Open-sourced Large Language Models (LLMs) have achieved great success in various NLP tasks, however, they are still far inferior to API-based models when acting as agents. How to integrate agent ability into general LLMs becomes a crucial and urgent problem. This paper first delivers three key observations: (1) the current agent training corpus is entangled with both formats following and agent reasoning, which significantly shifts from the distribution of its pre-training data; (2) LLMs exhibit different learning speeds on the capabilities required by agent tasks; and (3) current approaches have side-effects when improving agent abilities by introducing hallucinations. Based on the above findings, we propose Agent-FLAN to effectively Fine-tune LANguage models for Agents. Through careful decomposition and redesign of the training corpus, Agent-FLAN enables Llama2-7B to outperform prior best works by 3.5\% across various agent evaluation datasets. With comprehensively constructed negative samples, Agent-FLAN greatly alleviates the hallucination issues based on our established evaluation benchmark. Besides, it consistently improves the agent capability of LLMs when scaling model sizes while slightly enhancing the general capability of LLMs. The code will be available at https://github.com/InternLM/Agent-FLAN.
The math abilities of large language models can represent their abstract reasoning ability. In this paper, we introduce and open-source our math reasoning LLMs InternLM-Math which is continue pre-trained from InternLM2. We unify chain-of-thought reasoning, reward modeling, formal reasoning, data augmentation, and code interpreter in a unified seq2seq format and supervise our model to be a versatile math reasoner, verifier, prover, and augmenter. These abilities can be used to develop the next math LLMs or self-iteration. InternLM-Math obtains open-sourced state-of-the-art performance under the setting of in-context learning, supervised fine-tuning, and code-assisted reasoning in various informal and formal benchmarks including GSM8K, MATH, Hungary math exam, MathBench-ZH, and MiniF2F. Our pre-trained model achieves 30.3 on the MiniF2F test set without fine-tuning. We further explore how to use LEAN to solve math problems and study its performance under the setting of multi-task learning which shows the possibility of using LEAN as a unified platform for solving and proving in math. Our models, codes, and data are released at \url{https://github.com/InternLM/InternLM-Math}.
Large language models (LLM) have achieved remarkable performance on various NLP tasks and are augmented by tools for broader applications. Yet, how to evaluate and analyze the tool-utilization capability of LLMs is still under-explored. In contrast to previous works that evaluate models holistically, we comprehensively decompose the tool utilization into multiple sub-processes, including instruction following, planning, reasoning, retrieval, understanding, and review. Based on that, we further introduce T-Eval to evaluate the tool utilization capability step by step. T-Eval disentangles the tool utilization evaluation into several sub-domains along model capabilities, facilitating the inner understanding of both holistic and isolated competency of LLMs. We conduct extensive experiments on T-Eval and in-depth analysis of various LLMs. T-Eval not only exhibits consistency with the outcome-oriented evaluation but also provides a more fine-grained analysis of the capabilities of LLMs, providing a new perspective in LLM evaluation on tool-utilization ability. The benchmark will be available at https://github.com/open-compass/T-Eval.
We present a vision and language model named MultiModal-GPT to conduct multi-round dialogue with humans. MultiModal-GPT can follow various instructions from humans, such as generating a detailed caption, counting the number of interested objects, and answering general questions from users. MultiModal-GPT is parameter-efficiently fine-tuned from OpenFlamingo, with Low-rank Adapter (LoRA) added both in the cross-attention part and the self-attention part of the language model. We first construct instruction templates with vision and language data for multi-modality instruction tuning to make the model understand and follow human instructions. We find the quality of training data is vital for the dialogue performance, where few data containing short answers can lead the model to respond shortly to any instructions. To further enhance the ability to chat with humans of the MultiModal-GPT, we utilize language-only instruction-following data to train the MultiModal-GPT jointly. The joint training of language-only and visual-language instructions with the \emph{same} instruction template effectively improves dialogue performance. Various demos show the ability of continuous dialogue of MultiModal-GPT with humans. Code, dataset, and demo are at https://github.com/open-mmlab/Multimodal-GPT
Currently, instance segmentation is attracting more and more attention in machine learning region. However, there exists some defects on the information propagation in previous Mask R-CNN and other network models. In this paper, we propose supervised adaptive threshold network for instance segmentation. Specifically, we adopt the Mask R-CNN method based on adaptive threshold, and by establishing a layered adaptive network structure, it performs adaptive binarization on the probability graph generated by Mask RCNN to obtain better segmentation effect and reduce the error rate. At the same time, an adaptive feature pool is designed to make the transmission between different layers of the network more accurate and effective, reduce the loss in the process of feature transmission, and further improve the mask method. Experiments on benchmark data sets indicate that the effectiveness of the proposed model |
Everything in the world needs structure, even concepts. Logic is the structure of the relationship between concepts, in other words, logic is the study of thinking itself. Concepts can be organized by mutual exclusion, overlap, inclusion, and mutual coincidence. Also, there are two types of reasoning (logic), deductive and inductive. In philosophy, knowledge can be described as justified true belief. Logic, or reasoning, is used to justify beliefs to determine whether they are true or not. Hence, knowledge is dependent upon logic because logic is needed to justify the true belief. Experience along with logic and reasoning helps to derive knowledge.
First, there must be a basic understanding of knowledge. Epistemology is the theory of
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Logicians are interested in how to form rules to figure out if a particular type of reasoning is logical, whereas psychologist are concerned with the mental process of thinking. Reasoning is used as evidence to come up with a conclusion and thus, justify a belief.
Furthermore, logic can be split up into two parties, inductive reasoning and deductive reasoning. Inductive reasoning is a theory concerned with the relationship between evidence and a conclusion that is drawn from that evidence. This type of reasoning goes from the particular to the general. In addition, inductive reasoning deals with inferences that are probable, not valid. This form of logic is usually used in science and is often used interchangeably with the process, 'scientific method.' Inductive reasoning usually bases its conclusions on prior patterns that have occurred. For example, if a person were to state the following: "All so far observed, water boils at a 212 degrees Fahrenheit, this is water, therefore it will boil at 212 degrees Fahrenheit." The particular portion of this statement would be 'water boils at 212 degrees Fahrenheit.' This is based on the previous patterns of water boiling at 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, if said liquid is water then one can conclude that water will boil at 212 degrees Fahrenheit with disregard to location.
On the other hand, deductive reasoning deals with valid inferences. This branch of logic goes from the general to the
A deductive argument is an argument that is intended by the user to be valid and to guarantee the truth of the conclusion given that premises are true. An inductive argument is an argument that is intended by the user to be strong or good enough that, if the premises were to be true, then it would be unlikely that the conclusion itself is false. An example of a deductive argument would be; Socrates was a man. All men are mortal. Therefore, Socrates was mortal. An example of an inductive argument would be; Socrates was Greek. Most Greeks ate fish. Socrates at fish.
The main argument here is that the knowledge represents for me the basis of my values, from which I learned most things, which in return guided me to the other good values like the honesty, responsibility and accountability. I highly believe that the knowledge is the major source of all other good
On the other hand, President Obama relied on both inductive and deductive reasoning types (Evans, 2012). Using inductive reasoning, President Obama was able to identify the key issues such as his purpose in improving alliances with countries across world and justified the ideas into a conclusion.
Inductive reasoning stands for the arguments that do not preserve the truth, unlike the deductive reasoning. There is no guarantee in inductive reasoning even if the premises are true that the conclusion will be true. The premises bring forth the probability most in life situations. In inductive reasoning, the premises are described to be weak, implausible or cogent, and they form the basis for the drawn conclusion as the evidence available determines whether the argument is strong or weak.
3) Deductive Reasoning- Reasoning in which ideas are at the beginning and proof follows. Essays, textual commentary, and loose sentences are deductive.
Formal (ways of making statements that can be math proved/ scientifically proved "if not this, then that"
Q1A) In what ways does the biological constitution of a living organism determine, influence or limit its sense perception?
22. A ________________ is a fundamental form of reasoning where one proposition is inferred from two others.
Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.|
As opposed to a posteriori knowledge, which denotes knowledge known after or because of experience, a priori knowledge signifies what can be known without any experience at all. In addition, while empirical investigations are needed to prove knowledge from experience, logical reasoning alone suffices to prove the latter understanding. Empirical reasoning based on human senses has the possibility to be doubtful/wrong as Descartes explains "our senses…deceive us with respect to objects which are small or in the distance… (Descartes 72)"; however, logical reasoning does not have any ambiguity/doubt since it is true by in and of itself or by its definition alone. In this way, logical reasoning, which forms the basis of a priori knowledge, can only
Vera Nazarian once stated "Whenever you read a good book, somewhere in the world a door opens to allow in more light." Similarly, the book X: A Novel written by Ilyasah Shabazz was a book that I wanted to read as it had characters and a plot I could relate to my own personal experiences. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book as I was able to learn more about social issues and broaden my horizons.
Inductive reasoning is a probabilistic reasoning in which the main claim concerns the improbability of the conclusion being false given the premises being true. Premises of an inductive argument do not entail the conclusion.
"Esse est percipi". To be is to perceive, and to exist and to be perceived are one and the same. In the philosophical work of "A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge", this one of the most famous principles which made Bishop George Berkeley one of the early modern period's most acclaimed polymaths. Berkeley was a Bishop closely affiliated to the Anglican Church and a staunch critic of other philosophers of the past such as Rene Descartes and John Locke. Though initially impressed by their rigorous rhetoric, he could not bring himself to accept their views which were against his fundamental beliefs and which he viewed as flawed, leaning towards skepticism and atheism, two forces of the time which he was not fond of. Following his studies and extensive travels thereafter, his philosophy gradually developed. Berkley refuted the answers proposed by his predecessors, instead, advocating for pursuing concepts such as common sense and learning directly from what experience provided through the senses. Famously known to be a stalwart defender of the notion of "idealism", or the view that reality consists exclusively of the mind, the spirit and its ideas, he promoted the belief of independent beings which were able to circumvent commonly held rationale to explain the unexplainable. Berkeley emphasized that given the acquaintance with our perceptions, the material world consequently was a mere representation of our spirits. In other words, no substance or permanence
Philosophers create new thesis all the time. Many times these thesis are challenged by other ideas. The Problem of induction was introduced by David Hume in the 18th century. He questioned how past observation could be the same observation in the future. We can assume that past events can occur again, and this was not the problem. The problem is Hume does not believe that past experiences can lead to the future. It is beneficial to completely understand Hume's stand point therefore I will explain the difference between inductive and deductive reasoning. Inductive reasoning is multiple premises that are believed to be true or at least true most of the time. Deductive reasoning is a theory that claims truth. If the premise is true the conclusion is true. Hume first separated human reasoning in two different ways. The first way is relations of ideas. These are the sciences of geometry, algebra and
Similar to critical thinking, the method of rational thinking interprets how we think rationally. Logic plays a specialized role in rational thinking. Rational thinking |
CfE 44 - World Cinemas of Resistance: Cinematic worlds as decolonial practices
Call for Essays for the thematic section of Cinéma & Cie no. 44, edited by Daniele Rugo and Marco Benoît Carbone.
This CfE invites contributions that aim to map and investigate decolonial practices in cinematic worlds from the global south. This approach emphasises the potential of these cinemas to resist hegemonic filmic (and more generally cultural) forms and to move beyond thematic concerns, formal strategies and industrial frameworks generated and sanctioned in the Global North.
The Global South is understood here as a broad category that denotes contexts and sites that have been historically subjected to financial, political, and cultural othering and dominance, including therefore diasporic and indigenous cinemas practiced in the Global North. As a critique of ideologies, institutions, and power, the Global South draws on the paradigms of decolonisation, post-coloniality, and the notion of the post-national. As a political category aligning with that of a "cinema of the margins", a south-driven approach challenges the othering of a "world cinema" label. In Traverso's definition, (2017), a "south-to-south" approach entails hearing voices and seeing through the eyes of the world's Southernmost nations to decentre the positionality of the subject, offering new perspectives, whether contextually or comparatively. This idea of a Global South cannot thus refrain from intersecting with the critical paradigms of Black cinema, indigenous cinemas, queer and feminist cinema, third cinema, imperfect cinema, poor cinema, migrant, diasporic, and accented cinema.
Inevitably, world cinemas produced away from the canons and infrastructures of Hollywood and/or Europe are also potential sites of resistance. Instances of world cinemas of this kind have the potential to decenter Western gazes and enact practices of decoloniality that are both mindful of and surpass the decolonial third cinemas of the 1960s and 1970s.
Resistance is understood here both in terms of the themes and issues developed, as well as the formal strategies deployed and the production and distribution frameworks adopted and/or created. In this sense, this CfE aims to interrogate resistant world cinemas as they emerge through a range of approaches that may include traditional fiction, political documentary to slow cinema, first-person cinema to avant-garde and collective filmmaking, as well as ethnographic documentaries and documentation. Resistant world cinemas ideally reconfigure planetary gazes on the real, produce deconstructions of the past, and imagine possible futures. Ultimately, the idea of world cinema as a decolonial practice may offer a chance to rethink formal and aesthetic theorization around cinema's representational forms and objects and their power relations, while challenging the very idea of what cinema is and what discourse presides over definitions, without excluding its relations with cognate media forms.
Contributions to this CfE can focus on any geographical area and form (fiction, documentary, experimental, hybrid) and might address the following questions:
- What forms of resistance do world cinemas from the global South produce? How can we measure their impact?
- What formal strategies – if any – are privileged by resistant cinemas? What cinematic codes, gazes, perspectives based on decolonial approaches to gender, race, sexuality, practices of the self have emerged?
- Can these cinemas initiate and establish alternative forms of production and distribution?
- How do new media forms, mobile screens and intermedia practices redefine these forms?
- How do cinematic worlds of resistance promote and advance a decolonial agenda?
- What relations do contemporary global south cinemas maintain with earlier decolonial iterations (third cinema, imperfect cinema)?
- How can global south cinemas escape ideas of diversity and other categories I.e. inclusivity that are underpinned, sanctioned, or sustained by traditional dominant powers?
- How do translatability and untranslatability play a role in the intercultural and culturally relative view of planetary exchanges?
- What are the actual chances for a Global South cinema to resist traditional and new forms of transnational commoditizationtion of cultures on a global market?
- How do notions such as World Cinema and Global South change under the pressure of resistant and decolonial cinematic practices?
Abstract submission: Interested authors should submit an abstract (300 words) and an up-to-date biographical note (100 words) to firstname.lastname@example.com and email@example.com by August 31st, 2024.
Acceptance notices will be circulated by 30th September 2024. Please note: the deadline for submission of draft articles for peer review will be January 30th, 2025. All article submissions should include: 5 keywords, name of author(s), institutional affiliation, contacts details and a short bio for each author. The articles must not exceed 5.000/6.000 words. Submission of a paper will be taken to imply that it is unpublished and is not being considered for publication elsewhere. Contributions will be submitted to double blind peer review. The issue will be published in June 2025. |
You could make a lengthy scroll of all the current technologies and possible techniques for digital marketing campaigns. In Digital marketing courses in chandigarh, you will learn that digital marketing tactics are the most crucial, and this course helps you to build your marketing skills across Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
Examine each one to gauge your level of knowledge. Then determine which aspects of them you need to focus on.
SEO is the most crucial component of digital marketing, despite the fact that it continues to be a mystery to many people. Google's algorithms are still sometimes difficult to understand, but as you become more familiar with the idea, you will be able to do so. If you want to succeed, it's always best to have an expert manage your SEO. While you can master the fundamentals, you'll need an expert to properly guide you in realizing the most effective techniques. One current tactic utilizes new HTTPS specifications that already affect SEO outcomes. Google now advises switching to an HTTPS format if you're used to using HTTP pages. This is because many contact forms on HTTP pages aren't considered secure.
It's critical to upgrade your website with the HTTPS designation because Google will soon designate these as "non-secure." Otherwise, the "non-secure" label on your website can start to tarnish its standing in search engine results.
2. Search Engine Marketing
Search engine marketing is frequently referred to as SEM if you're unfamiliar with it. It's a type of online marketing in which you boost your SERPs using paid advertising techniques. You'll also need a specialist in this area, preferably one with experience with Google Ads and search/display ads. In the case of Google Ads, you need first familiarise yourself with the procedure.
You'll particularly enjoy how Google pays attention to customization to make its Google Ads simple to utilize. You can select whether you want text-based search ads, YouTube video ads, graphic display ads, or in-app mobile ads. These will all be influenced by your business strategy and the target market you need to attain. Google makes it even simpler with the ability to run localized advertisements and better stats to monitor the effectiveness of your advertising.
Don't overlook other paid advertising options, particularly Facebook Ads. The latter gives you a lot of customization options for various ad formats.
3. Local Search Marketing
Local search marketing has received a lot of attention in recent years. Its importance will continue well into the next ten years as local businesses learn the value of being found by nearby clients. You can start with local search marketing by utilizing additional gifts from Google. If you use Google My Business, your company will show up as soon as someone types in the user's keywords in a Google search. This includes the company's visibility on Google Maps. Additionally, Google makes it simple to update your entry, preventing the appearance of out-of-date information.
Don't undervalue the importance of both your internet reputation and social reputation. Customers should be encouraged to post positive evaluations on review sites like Yelp. By starting dialogues and disseminating pertinent content, you can leverage inbound marketing on social media. Inbound marketing tactics attract clients to you rather than you having to go out and find them.
4. Content Marketing
As a follow-up to the prior topic of inbound marketing, content marketing is crucial in attracting a targeted audience. Making your content valuable, pertinent, and consistent is essential to encourage people to invest their time in reading it. Focus on creating content that can solve problems and endure in the contemporary environment because Google has an all-seeing eye, using shortcuts or unethical SEO techniques to climb search engine rankings won't work. Therefore, as many like to say, "content is king" at all times. You should concentrate on mobile content, native advertising, influencer marketing, and marketing automation if you want content marketing to succeed. Since smartphones already account for 50% of all devices used worldwide, consider the importance of mobile content. This will have an impact on influencer marketing for your brand and digital advertising. Prospects receive content on their mobile devices at the ideal times thanks to automation techniques.
5. Remarketing
Going after prospects with marketing content once more if they didn't reply to your site's banner ads the first time is another crucial component of digital marketing. This operates by using cookies to track these visitors and making fresh advertisements for connected websites. To better target your prospects, you can also publish fresh adverts on your website. You may tailor your advertisements to customers' needs using the information you learn about your website visitors.
Remarketing ultimately assists you in preserving a stronger relationship with prospects, raising brand awareness, and increasing conversions. Additionally, by stealing customers from your competitors, you can more than makeup for the cost of new advertising.
6. Responsive Web Design
Mobile consumer communication has become more or less the norm, and this trend will continue in the next ten years. One of the most crucial components of digital marketing is making your website responsive to mobile screens. You can only achieve success with this through responsive web design. You may automatically adjust your website to fit all mobile displays using responsive programming. This will result in a variety of formats, such as tablets, and an increase in the use of smartwatches.
While you'll need to collaborate with a web designer to make this work, another part of RWD calls for an SEO specialist. A new open-source program called AMP (or Accelerated Mobile Pages) helps mobile web pages load more quickly.
7. Email Marketing
You've probably used email marketing, but how successful is it in delivering your messages to the appropriate people at the right time? More leads can already be produced through email marketing than through any other kind of advertising. Additionally, you can raise your conversion and sales rates. Email marketing is one of the most cost-effective strategies available if you're already struggling with excessive expenditure on other forms of digital marketing. Unless employing outsourced services, it may occasionally be free.
It's one of the most integrated marketing strategies because you may use it in conjunction with other media. Along with referral reward programs, you may add social media share icons. Ultimately, email marketing can shorten your sales cycles if you use interesting content.
8. Social Media Marketing
I'm sure you've previously uploaded content to social media. But what can you do to increase its effectiveness for this year and the following one? Forbes mentions a number of strategies, such as automation to post your material when you know your audience is reading, to engage today's audiences. When trying to reach consumers in different time zones, using platforms like Hootsuite for post-scheduling is really helpful. To demonstrate your influence, you should try to curate some content. Be humble enough to do this because it will enhance your skills and brand. They will probably do the same for you if you curate their stuff. Additionally, don't forget to employ influencers to promote information on well-known social media platforms on your behalf.
9. Marketing Automation
As you can see, marketing automation plays a significant role in many digital marketing strategies. As it becomes the norm for companies all around the world, learning more about it should be a key focus. You can get a sense of the present and future of marketing by noting that automation is currently cited by 91% of successful organizations as being very critical to their success. In order to succeed with this, consider looking for a CRM platform with marketing automation integrated. Because your CRM already contains contact information, these can complement one another nicely. You can integrate your marketing more effectively than if you used many sources by automating the delivery of marketing information to your contact list. Maintaining your content is crucial when using automation.
10. Influencer Marketing
Have you considered ways to launch a digital marketing campaign without breaking the bank? Hiring influencers have the same financial benefits as using email marketing and inbound marketing strategies.If you believe that employing celebrities is the only way to find influencers to promote your brand online, you need to think otherwise. Being prominent on social media doesn't always include being well-known. It could simply be a person who has a large following and a solid track record of product promotion.
According to Forbes, you must first identify key influencers, which may need some investigation. You may find out what others are saying about issues relating to your sector by conducting hashtag searches on websites like Twitter. Ask these social media influencers if they would be willing to promote your brand by getting in touch with them. Some could offer to perform it in return for free goods. However, the majority will charge a fee. To ensure your ROI, make sure to monitor your outcomes. Remember that those with fewer followers can still exert just as much influence as people with ten times more.
11. Video
We developed into a more visually oriented civilization during the past ten years, drawn to graphics in the digital spheres. Although a lot of this comes in other formats, there's no denying that video came out on top. More people are choosing video over other visual mediums than ever before at this point in time. According to recent data, 87% of all internet marketers currently utilize video content in some capacity. Much of this is a result of YouTube's enormous audience. Regardless, if your videos lack interesting material, it doesn't matter where you post them.
Recently, tailored videos—or at least those that directly address the problems of the intended audience—have become the norm. The same holds true for giving your company a more human appearance behind-the-scenes tours of your company or customer testimonials to highlight the human side of your brand is examples of effective video marketing. This necessitates paying attention to storytelling, a key trend in video marketing. You have a winning recipe when you can explain your company's mission and demonstrate how you can alleviate clients' problems.
Additionally, it's a good idea to make your films as brief as you can, if not in a series. Because people's attention spans are shorter than ever, you'll need to deliver your tale succinctly and with a strong hook.
12. Revisiting Your Landing Pages
Are you certain that previous visitors to a landing page you've already established as part of your digital marketing campaign will return? The answer to this query should serve as the focal point of your efforts in digital marketing. All marketing professionals emphasize that the foundation of effective inbound marketing is traffic to the landing page.
Your landing page may not be that alluring right now, which is the issue. It all boils down to web design, including where you put your call to action and advertising, to solve this (in part). But it goes further than what you post on your website. PPC advertising (pay-per-click) is something you should invest in if you want to advertise your website on relevant digital channels purchase of sponsorships from other businesses or straightforward email marketing are additional choices. A frequent tactic in the latter scenario is to include a link that directs the reader to your landing page where you have further content.
Make sure you have a CTA on your site to avoid problems. Even a call to action (CTA) at the end of your blog post provides a connecting thread to your content to encourage further visits. In addition, pay attention to discussions about "above vs. below the fold." According to Kissmetrics, the positioning of your CTA relies on how long your landing page is. If the page is shorter, you should position the CTA above the folder.
Final Thoughts
You'll be off to a solid start in your digital marketing plans for the rest of the year if you follow these twelve steps. Expect things to largely remain unchanged through 2022 as well. |
Old Norwegian Dictionary - garðaveldiMeaning of Old Norwegian word "garðaveldi" in Norwegian.
As defined by the Johan Fritzer's Old Norwegian dictionary:
- garðaveldi
- garðaveldi, n. d. s. Aa. 28613. 15; = RusiaFm. X, 24030 jvf 24220.
Part of speech: n
Possible runic inscription in Medieval Futhork:ᚵᛆᚱᚦᛆᚠᚽᛚᚦᛁ
Medieval Runes were used in Norway from 11th to 15th centuries.
Futhork was a continuation of earlier Younger Futhark runes, which were used to write Old Norse.
Abbreviations used:
- a.
- accusativ.
- m.
- Masculin.
- n.
- Neutrum.
- s.
- substantiv. |
Recent Gazette articles on the state's draft ocean management plan have raised questions about the plan, especially the renewable energy opportunities it identifies for Massachusetts waters. On behalf of Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Ian Bowles, I would like to address a couple of them, namely, alleged "new" powers granted the Energy Facilities Siting Board to override local authority, and whether the Martha's Vineyard community will have a meaningful role in potential development of wind energy off its shores.
On Tuesday, Sept. 29 at 7 p.m. Peter Cabana will give a lecture, Wind Economics 101, at the Vineyard Haven library. The lecture will begin with the basics of wind generated electricity and then follow up with what has happened in Europe, the opportunities available to the United States and how Massachusetts is positioned to lead the nation. Mr.
Kilowatt for Kilowatt
Editors, Vineyard Gazette:
The following statement was read into the record by a West Tisbury selectman at the public hearing on Wednesday night:
Private and commercial wind turbines should not have a significant impact on bird populations in the town of Aquinnah as long as suitable regulations are in place, said Matt Pelikan, Islands program director for The Nature Conservancy, in a public forum held Wednesday night.
The forum was part of a series sponsored by the Aquinnah planning board on a new draft bylaw to regulate wind turbine use in town.
Imagine a future in which you join a farm share program and receive, along with your in-season fruit, vegetables and flowers, cheap electricity.
A future where you receive a wider range of produce over a longer season, maybe even year-round, as greenhouses proliferate on those farms, taking advantage of that cheaper, price-stable, renewable energy.
On Sunday night opponents of wind development off Vineyard shores — including selectmen, fishermen, Wampanoags and a Republican candidate for Massachusetts governor — were given a megaphone to voice their views.
Hosted by POINT (Protect Our Islands Now for Tomorrow), a group led by Andrew Goldman of Chilmark, the forum drew a large crowd to the Chilmark Community Center.
"We will have the largest concentration of turbines anywhere in the world," declared Mr. Goldman, who moderated the forum.
Vineyarders Jonathan and Linda M. Haar work in wind power technology, but one thing they share with wind energy opponents is an objection to seeing enormous towers built in pristine places.
And their concern is not just aesthetic, but practical. It would, they reasoned, make much more sense to generate the power as close as possible to where the power is used.
Hence their innovative new turbine, tested for the first time at the Martha's Vineyard Airport this week: a turbine standing just 20 feet tall, intended to be mounted on city buildings.
By PETER BRANNEN
Plans announced this week to build an offshore wind farm off Rhode Island have leapfrogged Cape Wind as the largest proposed facility in the country.
Wind developers pressed ahead on two fronts this week, as two new players entered the fray with proposals to develop wind farms in waters west of the Vineyard and Cape Wind put the final touches on a deal to sell electricity to National Grid.
In the effort to develop wind energy in the ocean between Block Island and Aquinnah, Massachusetts will follow the lead of the Ocean State. |
Modern Vs. Traditional: Marriage Messages in Nigeria
Last Updated on January 28, 2024
A. Overview of the Topic
In Nigeria, the clash between modern and traditional marriage messages is a cultural crossroads that deserves attention.
B. Importance of Understanding Marriage Messages
- Cultural Richness: Nigeria's diverse cultures offer a tapestry of marriage customs, from Igbo to Yoruba.
- Societal Shifts: As Nigeria modernizes, the dynamics of marriage messages change, impacting relationships.
- Harmony or Conflict: Understanding these messages can foster harmony or ignite tensions in relationships.
- Legacy and Continuity: Marriage customs are a vital part of preserving and passing on cultural heritage.
- Family Dynamics: They shape family relationships, roles, and expectations.
- Communication: Knowing these messages aids effective communication between partners and their families.
This section explores the significance of comprehending the nuances between modern and traditional marriage messages in Nigeria, shedding light on the evolving landscape of matrimony in this vibrant nation.
Read: Hausa Wedding Traditions: Marriage Messages Explored
Traditional Marriage Messages in Nigeria
A. Explanation of Traditional marriage customs and practices
Traditional Nigerian marriages involve customs such as payment of dowry, exchange of gifts, and traditional ceremonies.
These customs often vary across different ethnic groups in Nigeria, each with its unique traditions and practices.
Traditional marriage ceremonies are typically elaborate events that involve the entire community and are steeped in cultural significance.
B. Examination of the traditional messages conveyed in these customs and practices
1. Importance of family and community in traditional marriages
Traditional Nigerian marriages emphasize the importance of family and community involvement in the union.
These marriages are seen as a union not just between two individuals but between two families.
The involvement of family and community members signifies their support and commitment to the couple.
2. Roles and responsibilities of the bride and groom
Traditional marriage customs in Nigeria often dictate specific roles and responsibilities for the bride and groom.
The groom is expected to provide for his wife and protect her, while the bride is expected to take care of the home and be submissive.
These roles reflect traditional gender norms and expectations prevalent in Nigerian society.
3. Emphasis on cultural heritage and traditions
Traditional marriage customs in Nigeria place a strong emphasis on preserving cultural heritage and traditions.
Through these customs, cultural practices, rituals, and traditional values are passed down from one generation to the next.
Traditional marriage ceremonies serve as a platform for showcasing cultural richness and diversity, fostering a sense of identity.
C. Impact of traditional marriage messages on Nigerian society
1. Preservation of cultural identity
Traditional marriage customs play a significant role in preserving the cultural identity of different ethnic groups in Nigeria.
These customs reinforce cultural values, traditions, and norms, ensuring their continuation in a rapidly changing society.
2. Reinforcement of gender roles and expectations
Traditional marriage messages often reinforce gender roles and expectations, with women seen as homemakers and men as providers.
This can perpetuate traditional gender inequalities and limit opportunities for women to pursue their aspirations and careers.
3. Strong family and community bonds
Traditional marriage customs promote strong family and community bonds by involving all members in the celebration.
This strengthens the support system for couples, providing a sense of belonging and fostering social cohesion within Nigerian society.
Basically, traditional marriage messages in Nigeria are deeply rooted in customs and practices that emphasize the importance of family, cultural heritage, and traditional gender roles.
These messages play a significant role in preserving cultural identity, reinforcing gender expectations, and building strong family and community bonds.
While they contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of Nigerian society, it is essential to ensure that these messages evolve in a way that promotes equality and empowers individuals to challenge traditional norms.
Read: Matching Bands: Guide to Couple Marriage Rings in Nigeria
Discover More: Lagos vs Abuja: Where to Register Your Marriage in Nigeria?
Modern Marriage Messages in Nigeria
A. Overview of changing trends in marriage in Nigeria
In recent years, marriage in Nigeria has witnessed significant changes and shifts in traditional norms.
These changes reflect the impact of modern messages and values on contemporary marriages.
B. Analysis of modern messages embedded in contemporary marriages
1. Focus on love and companionship in relationships
Modern marriage messages emphasize the importance of love and companionship.
Couples prioritize emotional connection and mutual understanding in their relationships.
2. Embracing individualism and personal fulfillment
Unlike traditional marriages, modern couples value individuality and personal fulfillment.
They encourage each other's personal growth and pursue personal goals alongside their marital goals.
3. Shifting gender roles and egalitarian partnerships
In modern marriages, gender roles are not strictly defined.
Couples embrace egalitarian partnerships where responsibilities are shared equally between spouses.
C. Influence of modern marriage messages on Nigerian society
1. Transformation of societal norms and expectations
Modern marriage messages have challenged traditional societal norms and expectations.
Nigerian society is becoming more accepting of non-traditional marriages and diverse relationship dynamics.
2. Impact on gender equality and women's empowerment
The rise of modern marriage messages has contributed to greater gender equality in Nigeria.
Women are empowered to pursue education, careers, and have a voice in decision-making within their marriages.
3. Increased emphasis on personal happiness and fulfillment
Modern marriages prioritize personal happiness and fulfillment.
Couples seek to build fulfilling lives together, prioritizing their own well-being alongside their marital commitment.
In essence, modern marriage messages have brought significant changes to Nigeria's marital landscape.
Couples now emphasize love, companionship, individualism, and equality in their relationships.
These messages have transformed societal norms and empowered women.
Personal happiness and fulfillment have become central to contemporary marriages in Nigeria.
Read: Celebrating Anniversaries: Renewing Your Marriage Message
Comparing Traditional and Modern Marriage Messages in Nigeria
A. Differences between traditional and modern marriage messages
1. Contrast in values and priorities
Traditional marriages place a strong emphasis on family ties, respect for elders, and cultural traditions.
Modern marriages, on the other hand, focus more on individualism, personal happiness, and equality between partners.
2. Shift in expectations and roles within marriages
In traditional marriages, gender roles are clearly defined, with men being the providers and women taking care of the household.
Modern marriages challenge these traditional roles, with both partners sharing responsibilities and making decisions together.
3. Effects on family dynamics and societal structure
Traditional marriage messages reinforce the importance of extended family networks and the preservation of cultural values.
Modern marriage messages tend to prioritize nuclear families and the pursuit of personal aspirations, often leading to a more individualistic society.
B. Examination of the coexistence and blending of traditional and modern messages
1. Interplay of cultural heritage and contemporary influences
While traditional marriage messages remain influential, modern influences such as education, globalization, and urbanization have introduced new ideas.
Couples often navigate between traditional values and modern expectations, creating a unique blend that reflects their cultural heritage and contemporary beliefs.
2. Challenges and benefits of combining traditional and modern values
Combining traditional and modern marriage messages can be challenging, as conflicting expectations may arise.
However, this blending also offers benefits, such as increased flexibility, improved gender equality, and a more balanced approach to relationship dynamics.
3. Examples of successful integration in Nigerian marriages
Many Nigerian couples have successfully integrated traditional and modern marriage messages.
They find ways to respect cultural traditions while also embracing new ideas, resulting in marriages that are both rooted in heritage and adaptable to modern realities.
Essentially, the comparison between traditional and modern marriage messages in Nigeria reveals stark differences in values, roles, and societal impacts.
While traditional messages prioritize family ties and cultural traditions, modern messages focus more on individualism and equality.
However, these two can coexist and blend, as Nigerian couples navigate between their cultural heritage and contemporary influences.
Although challenges may arise, the integration of traditional and modern values can lead to successful and fulfilling marriages in Nigeria.
Read: Biblical Marriage Messages: Their Relevance in Nigeria Today
See Related Content: Tips for Crafting Marriage Wishes for Nigerian Elders
A. Recap of the key points discussed
Marriage messages in Nigeria have evolved from traditional to modern over the years.
Traditional messages emphasize cultural values, family ties, and gender roles.
Modern messages focus on love, compatibility, and individual desires.
B. Acknowledgment of the complexity and diversity of marriage messages in Nigeria
Nigeria is a diverse country with various ethnic groups, each having its own marriage customs and practices.
Marriage messages can vary based on factors such as religion, socio-economic status, and education.
C. Importance of recognizing and understanding both traditional and modern messages for a comprehensive understanding of marriage in Nigeria
Traditional messages carry cultural significance and strengthen social bonds.
Modern messages reflect societal changes, individualism, and the influence of Western culture.
A balanced perspective on marriage messages helps to appreciate the diversity and complexity of Nigerian society.
Understanding both messages allows for a more inclusive and respectful approach to marriage in Nigeria.
By recognizing and appreciating the various marriage messages in Nigeria, we can gain a deeper understanding of the institution and contribute to its future development. |
"The benefits of having Channel One in schools seem to have some real costs that should create an ethical dilemma for schools," Dr. Erica Austin of Washington State University
Students Recall More Ads Than News on Channel One
By Carla K. Johnson
Associated Press
Students remember more of the advertising than they do the news stories shown on Channel One, the daily public affairs program shown in 12,000 U.S. schools, a studyhas found.
Students reported buying—or having their parents buy—teen-oriented products advertised on the show, including fast food and video games, researchers said.
Schools that agree to show Channel One on 90 percent of school days receive free televisions and satellite dishes, a deal critics say turns students into a captive audience for advertisers. Nearly 8 million students see the program, according to Channel One's parent company, Primedia.
"The benefits of having Channel One in schools seem to have some real costs that should create an ethical dilemma for schools," said study co-author Erica Austin of Washington State University. The study appears Monday in the journal Pediatrics.
Channel One CEO Judy Harris questioned whether the students' purchases were influenced exclusively by Channel One ads or by other advertising and the preferences of their peers.
"These children weren't in an isolation box," Harris said.
[Note: Ms. Harris knows that she is being misleading. She knows how effective her ads are. Here is a sales video from Channel One News: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5X6HLengy0]
Advertising pays for Channel One's news, health and fitness content, Harris said. Advertisers don't influence the news content, and the company has high standards that keep ads appropriate for students, she said.
The show won a Peabody Award for reporting on Sudan's civil war last year. The 12-minute daily broadcast has 10 minutes of news and two minutes of either ads or public service announcements.
Channel One produces some of its own news programming, but it also airs Associated Press Television News video. Associated Press news service stories appear on Channel One's Web site.
Researchers surveyed 240 seventh- and eighth-graders at a school in Washington state. The students reported that during the previous three months they bought an average of 2.5 products advertised on Channel One.
The students remembered, on average, 3.5 ads compared to 2.7 news stories. However, they didn't remember much about either, retaining only 13 percent of the news stories and 11 percent of the ads shown during one week.
The principal of a Chicago Catholic school said free TV equipment is the reason her school signed up for Channel One. The equipment also is used for a student-produced school news program.
"It's one of the tradeoffs," said Maria High School Principal Sister Nancy Gannon. "You have to have the commercials in order to have that equipment available."
Maria High student Angela Young, 16, said she doesn't pay much attention to Channel One, which airs every morning during homeroom.
"When Channel One is on, I do my homework or I talk with my friends," she said. |
Portland, Ore. – We may think today's students are digital natives, but a recent multi-year study by Learning.com revealed that 75 percent of fifth and eighth graders are non-proficient in 21st century skills. The research, which involved more than 110,000 students taking Learning.com's 21st Century Skills Assessment from 2012-17, measures the digital literacy skills outlined in the ISTE Student Standards. The company's research also demonstrated that providing students with access to tools for building digital literacy skills is crucial for closing this serious skills gap.
"When we look at the test scores for this significant sample of students, it is alarming to see that the vast majority of fifth and eighth graders did not have the digital skills necessary for success in college and their future careers – not to mention high school, which is right around the corner," said Learning.com CEO, Keith Oelrich. "However, what we also see is that when students have opportunities to build those skills, proficiency rates soar."
When the education technology company looked at students who had consistently used its digital literacy tools over the course over one school year, it found that overall, those who were more engaged with the digital literacy curriculum showed greater gains during the period of study.
In Texas, more than 10,000 eighth grade students from across 251 districts took Learning.com's 21st Century Skills Assessment. After working with the company's tools during the school year, non-users had gains in proficiency between the pre- and post-test of 4.6 percent, while consistent users had gains in proficiency of 20.1 percent, more than four times that of non-users.
As a result of a Texas statewide adoption, these students now have access to EasyTech, Learning.com's comprehensive K-8 curriculum. These self-paced, interactive lessons help students develop digital literacy and computational thinking skills. In addition, EasyCode Foundations and Pillars, provide a complete, turnkey solution for introducing students in grades three through eight to coding using a real programming language. Learning.com's digital literacy platform was certified as the only solution to address 100 percent of the Technology Applications Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TA-TEKS) state standards, which outline the digital literacy skills students need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.
About Learning.com
Founded in 1999, Learning.com currently partners with one in six school districts and serves five million students nationwide. Learning.com provides K-12 solutions to help students, teachers, and schools excel in a digital world. Districts equip their students with the technology and 21st century skills needed for success on online assessments, college, and the workforce using Learning.com's digital literacy solutions. Learning.com's digital content tools help districts build and share custom digital curriculum helping them meet their instructional goals, facilitate personalized learning, and address budget challenges. Through implementation services and professional development, Learning.com serves educators as they integrate technology and digital content into instruction.
Learning.com Team
Staff Writers
Founded in 1999, Learning.com provides educators with solutions to prepare their students with critical digital skills. Our web-based curriculum for grades K-12 engages students as they learn keyboarding, online safety, applied productivity tools, computational thinking, coding and more.
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K-12 Online Safety: Understanding and Mitigating Online Risks for Students
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Digital Citizenship in Students: Examples and Practice Exercises
Digital citizenship is a crucial concept in today's digital age, particularly for students who are growing up in a world where technology and the...
Understanding Proclamation 2024 and the TA-TEKS
Understanding Proclamation 2024 and the TA-TEKS In 2024, Texas introduced Proclamation 2024 to begin the process of adopting new instructional... |
The 4,110MW Majuba coalfired plant near Amersfoort in South Africa is being upgraded with new safety and monitoring equipment. The power station was built and is run by PTM, a wholly owned subsidiary of Eskom, which is the largest producer of coalfired electricity in the world with 40,000MW of capacity.
Our pulverized coal boilers currently allow for ramp rate as fast as 6% per minute and down to 20% for hard coal and 35% for lignite based on BMCR. Contact GE Power for more information on the use of boilers in steam power plants.
units. The coal is supplied to the gasifier where it is partially oxidized under pressure (3080 bar). The plant uses oxygen as oxidant and therefore has an air separation unit (ASU). In the gasifier, which is of the entrained flow slagging type, the temperature may exceed 1500 °C. The
Feb 26, 2019· Xcel Energy's coalfired Comanche Generating Station, located in Pueblo, is the largest power plant in the state of Colorado. The facility can generate 1,410 megawatts of power. Two of the coalburning units are scheduled to shut down by 2026.
Coal also is the most used fossil fuels for producing electricity as we use coal power plant for producing around 40% of the world's electricity, and we commonly use it in cement manufacturing and industrial purposes such as refining metals.
The power plant is expected to generate enough electricity to power approximately 250,000 s and expand Dubai's current grid capacity by 25%. Hassyan coal power plant makeup. The Hassyan power plant will comprise four ultrasupercritical .
Ash Fusion Temperature (Clinker formation in the boiler) Studies on the blending of UK power grade coals indicates that the blend has shown more slagging propensity than componet coals 1:10 (Slagging:Nonslagging) Reason is the excess presence of iron content from the slagging coal.
May 31, 2017· Coalfired power plants produce electricity by burning coal in a boiler to produce steam. The steam produced, under high pressure, flows into a turbine, which spins a generator to create electricity. Coal is the largest energy source used to generate electricity at power plants.
Jul 28, 2008· In 2014, US coal power plants emitted more than million tons. Particulate matter: Better known as "soot," this is the ashy grey substance in coal smoke, and is linked with chronic bronchitis, aggravated asthma, cardiovascular effects like heart attacks, and premature death. US coal power plants emitted 197,286 tons of small airborne particles (measured as 10 micrometers or less in diameter) in .
Nov 15, 2017· Coal impacts: water pollution. When you burn charcoal in your grill at home, ash is leftover. The same is true for coalfired power plants, which produce more than 100 million tons of coal ash every year. More than half of that waste ends up in ponds, lakes, landfills, and other sites where, over time, it can contaminate waterways and drinking water supplies.
Nov 17, 2012· pulverizer/mill system One of the critical power plant components that is relied upon to convert the energy stored in coal into electricity is the coal pulverizer or mill. The coal flow is controlled by the feeder, allowing coal to flow into the pulverizer mill. The pulverized coal and air mixture is then transport to the boiler burner panels.
Engineers develop a laser solution to power plants slowed by slagging 9 September 2008 Quietly, and with little of the fanfare accompanying the relentless surge in gasoline costs, the price of
Slagging and fouling deposits from coal ash accumulation on heat exchanger tubes affect boiler heat absorption patterns, steam temperatures and unit heat rate. Sootblowing optimization is used to identify sootblowing strategies which prevent uncontrolled buildup .
Contact GE Power for more information on the use of boilers in steam power plants. With GE's boilers, our customers can burn a wide spectrum of fuels, from highrank coals to lowrank coal wastes, and from oil and natural gas to opportunity fuels such as petroleum coke, biomass and oil shale.
Several experimental tests have been run over the years to co fire biomass with coal, including tests at the Shawville power plant in Clearfield County and the Seward power plant in Westmoreland County. These and other experiments have given us a good indication .
The power plant is currently owned by Tauron Wytwarzanie, the second largest energy company in Poland. The first subcritical units at Łagisza were built in the 1960s. At the turn of this century, when Łagisza consisted of seven 120MW pulverized coalfired boilers, the decision was taken to build a new, larger coalfired unit to replace the smaller, less efficient ones.
Kosovo B Coal Power Plant Kosovo is located at Kastriot, Pristina, Kosovo. Location coordinates are: Latitude=, Longitude= This infrastructure is of TYPE Coal Power Plant with a design capacity of 678 MWe. It has 2 unit(s). The first unit was commissioned in 1983 and the last in 1984.
For an overview article on existing coal plants, see Existing Coal Plants. For information on a particular plant, click on the map, on the list below the map, or on a letter of the alphabet to see a list of coal plants whose names begin with that letter :
Coal Equipment Operator (Plant Wansley) MASS Power Plant Maintenance. Power Plant Operations Maintenance. The Coal Equipment Operator (CEO) is an entry level position in the Power Plant Fuels... |
Investment banking simulations
Investment banking simulations are virtual or simulated exercises designed to mimic real-world investment banking scenarios. These simulations are often used for training purposes to help individuals. Such as students or professionals, gain practical experience. Skills in areas like financial analysis, valuation, mergers and acquisitions, and other aspects of investment banking. Participants can make decisions, analyze data, and experience the consequences of their choices in a risk-free environment. Helping them develop their knowledge and expertise in the field. In 2024, there are several excellent investment banking simulations available to help sharpen your skills.
Here are some notable ones:
- Bank of America's Technology, Telecom & Media Team Simulation: This simulation involves tasks like conducting a SWOT analysis. Analyzing potential M&A targets, performing discounted cash flow valuation, creating company profiles, and building client relationships. It offers a practical approach to technical and soft skills crucial in investment banking.
- Citi Investment Banking: This simulation focuses on valuation, forecasting, modeling, and enterprise value. It includes tasks such as creating company profiles, and forecasting using income statements. Conducting comparative company analysis, and summarizing key information for decision-makers.
- Fidelity International Investment Management: This simulation explores investment management and includes tasks like understanding different asset classes. Analyzing active and passive investing strategies, evaluating publicly listed stocks, and working on sales and marketing strategies.
- Goodbody Introduction to Stock Picking: This program is designed to teach foundational skills for stock picking, covering topics. Such as the basics of investing, portfolio diversification, fundamental research, and building a simulated stock portfolio.
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- HSBC Global Banking & Markets: This simulation offers insights into M&A, due diligence, linear regression, and return rate calculations. It includes tasks like identifying M&A targets, analyzing debt issuance trends, and working on risk reduction strategies for investment portfolios.
- JPMorgan Chase Investment Banking: Here, you'll assist a client in expanding into Asian markets through M&A. It's an opportunity to delve into M&A strategies, DCF modeling, and company analysis.
- Finsimco Investment Banking Simulation: Finsimco offers a dynamic, multiplayer simulation that covers the entire process of investment banking transactions. Including analysis, financial modeling, pitching, strategic advisory, and deal structuring. It is designed for an intense and competitive learning environment. It's suitable for students with a basic understanding of DCF.
Each of these simulations provides a unique set of tasks and learning opportunities. Making them valuable resources for anyone looking to develop or enhance their investment banking skills |
The authors' analysis of qualitative research
The authors' analysis of qualitative research in Qualitative Communication Research Methodology by Thomas Lindlof and Brian C. is highly intriguing. It covers the full process, from coming up with a research idea to writing the final report. After reading the work, I discovered that numerous procedures such as participant observation, conducting interviews, document analysis, visual media recording, and methods are critical in acquiring quality data in qualitative research. To determine the meaning of phenomena, qualitative research employs a variety of inquiry approaches (Lindlof and Taylor 11). The reading focuses on some communication performances and practices, as well as their interactions. They are critical for researchers who want to provide credible results. Any qualitative research must start with investigating, interpreting, and describing the subject of study, which helps in ensuring that the results are meaningful.
Comparing performances and practices in qualitative research
The reading compares performances and practices in qualitative research, which enables me to understand their differences. For instance, practices exist within institutions and a performer has to act in a manner that changes the practice. Reading the work heightened my interest in qualitative research as it clarified its difference from quantitative study especially through definition of terms. For instance, qualitative study methods such as naturalistic inquiries and ethnography approaches are clearly explained (Lindlof and Taylor 19). I came to understand that qualitative research is concerned with production of knowledge and not its discovery. A qualitative researcher begins studying something out of personal and scholarly interest to get understanding of the subject. After gathering data and analyzing it, a qualitative researcher understands the subjects and can interpret the result analyzed. The reading, which introduces qualitative communication research, helps a reader to understand the importance of research and communication. As a researcher understanding concepts related to research methods is important thus the reading provides the necessary guidelines qualitative researchers.
Lindlof, Thomas R., and Bryan C. Taylor. Qualitative Communication Research Methods. Sage, 2011. |
Investing in your child's education is one of parents' most significant financial commitments. With the ever-rising costs of higher education, strategic planning and disciplined saving become paramount. Whether your child is a newborn or a teenager, starting to save for their college education as early as possible can alleviate the financial burden when the time comes for them to pursue higher studies. This early planning and disciplined saving not only secures their future but also provides a sense of security and confidence in your financial preparedness. In this article, we'll explore some essential tips for saving for your child's college education, helping you to invest wisely and secure their future.
- Start Early: Time is your biggest ally when saving for college. The earlier you start, the more time your investments have to grow. Even small contributions made consistently over a long period can accumulate significantly due to compound interest, which is when your money earns interest on the interest it has already earned. Consider opening a dedicated college savings account, such as a 529 plan, as soon as your child is born.
- Understand College Costs: Research the expected college education costs, including tuition, fees, accommodation, and other expenses. For instance, a four-year degree at a public university can cost around $ 100,000, while a private university can cost upwards of $ 200,000. Understanding these figures allows you to set realistic savings goals. Remember that college costs increase over time, so inflation is a factor when planning.
- Set Clear Savings Goals: Determine how much you'll need to save for your child's education and break it into manageable milestones. Having clear savings goals helps you stay focused and motivated. Use online calculators to estimate future college expenses and determine how much you need to save each month to reach your target.
- Explore Tax-Advantaged Accounts: Take advantage of tax-advantaged accounts designed specifically for education savings, such as 529 plans or Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESA). These accounts offer tax benefits, such as tax-free growth or withdrawals for qualified education expenses, making them valuable tools for college savings. By understanding and utilizing these accounts, you can take control of your financial planning and feel empowered in your ability to secure your child's future.
- Automate Your Savings: Set up automatic contributions to your college savings account to ensure consistent and disciplined savings. Automating your savings makes it easier to stay on track and eliminates the temptation to spend the money elsewhere.
- Consider Investment Options: Determine your risk tolerance and choose investment options that align with your savings goals and time horizon. While more conservative investments may offer lower returns, they also involve lower risk. Conversely, more aggressive investment strategies may yield higher returns but have greater volatility. Strike a balance between risk and return based on your circumstances.
- Encourage Contributions from Family and Friends: Encourage friends and family to contribute to your child's college savings account instead of traditional gifts for birthdays or holidays. You could, for example, set up a gifting platform through your 529 plan that makes it easy for others to contribute directly to the account. Or, you could ask grandparents to match your contributions. These small contributions can add up over time and make a significant difference in your child's college fund.
- Revisit and Adjust Your Plan Regularly: Life circumstances and financial goals may change over time, so it's essential to revisit your college savings plan periodically and make adjustments as needed. For example, if your child decides to attend a more expensive school than you initially planned for, you might need to increase your savings contributions. Or, if you experience a significant increase in income, you might consider adjusting your investment strategy. Review your savings goals, investment performance, and contribution amounts regularly to ensure you're on track to meet your objectives.
- Educate Your Child about Financial Responsibility: As your child grows older, involve them in discussions about college savings and financial responsibility. Teaching them the value of saving and investing early can instill good financial habits that will serve them well in the future.
- Be Flexible and Adapt: Finally, be prepared to adapt your savings strategy as circumstances evolve. Unexpected expenses or changes in financial priorities may require adjustments to your college savings plan. By staying flexible and being willing to make changes, you can ensure you're adequately prepared to fund your child's education. This adaptability not only prepares you for the unexpected but also instills a sense of resilience and confidence in your financial planning.
Saving for your child's college education requires careful planning, discipline, and a long-term perspective. You can take significant steps towards securing their future by starting early, setting clear goals, and leveraging tax-advantaged accounts and investment options. Remember to regularly review and adjust your savings plan and involve your child in financial discussions to empower them with the knowledge and skills they need for a successful future. With strategic saving and prudent investment, you can give your child the gift of a higher education and set them on the path to achieving their dreams.
Legal Guidance
Bankruptcy is not the end; it's a new beginning. Give yourself the opportunity to make a fresh start by contacting the Bankruptcy Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates today. Call 855-768-8845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us to schedule a consultation. |
Microwave ablation is a new minimally invasive treatment option for varicose veins that uses thermal energy to close off the affected veins. During the procedure, a small incision is made near the vein, and a catheter is inserted into the vein. The catheter delivers microwave energy to heat and seal the vein, causing it to collapse and eventually be absorbed by the body.
Microwave ablation is considered an effective and safe treatment for varicose veins, with a low risk of complications. It can relieve symptoms such as pain, swelling, and discomfort associated with varicose veins. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and has a short recovery time.
However, it's important to note that microwave ablation is not suitable for everyone with varicose veins. It is typically recommended for larger varicose veins or individuals who have not responded well to other treatments.
Microwave ablation, laser ablation, and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are all minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins. While each technique is effective in its own right, there are some advantages of microwave ablation over laser and RFA:
- Faster treatment time: Microwave ablation typically requires less time to perform compared to laser and RFA procedures. This can result in shorter overall procedure times and potentially reduced discomfort for the patient.
- Larger vein treatment: Microwave ablation is well-suited for treating larger varicose veins, including those with a diameter greater than 12 mm. Laser and RFA may be limited in their ability to treat larger veins effectively.
- Reduced post-procedure discomfort: Microwave ablation has been associated with less post-procedure pain and bruising compared to laser and RFA treatments. This can lead to a quicker recovery and improved patient comfort. The temperature reached by the microwave catheter is approximately 85 degrees, compared to RFA (120 degrees) and laser (> 800 degrees). Therefore, there is likely less risk of bruising and haematoma with microwave.
- Reduced risk of nerve injury: Microwave ablation has demonstrated a lower risk of nerve injury compared to laser and RFA procedures. The controlled and predictable heat distribution of microwave energy allows for a reduced risk of damaging surrounding nerves.
- Flexibility in treatment location: Microwave ablation can be performed in a variety of clinical settings, including hospitals, clinics, and office-based settings. This flexibility allows for greater accessibility and convenience for patients.
It's important to note that the choice of treatment for varicose veins should be based on an individual's specific needs and the expertise of your vascular surgeon. Factors such as vein size, location, and patient preference, will all play a role in determining the most appropriate treatment option.
Dr Tang was the first vascular surgeon in Singapore to use microwave ablation for varicose veins treatment. He is a key opinion leader using this device to block faulty veins in the setting of chronic venous insufficiency and has recently helped launch its use in Indonesia. The MAESTRO study led by Dr Tang at Sgh and Dr Wong at NUH whilst they were serving in the restructured system, showed excellent occlusion rates at one year with high satisfaction scores by patients – https://vascularclinic.sg/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Pilot-single-arm-study-to-investigate-the-efficacy-and-safety-of-endovenous.pdf. |
Personal work
Commissioned work
Amsterdam Courthouse by KAAN Architecten
KAAN Architecten designed the new Amsterdam Courthouse, they write about it on their website: "Located in the up-and-coming Zuidas district, the new Amsterdam Courthouse exudes approachable authority as a stately yet inviting institution for public discourse. A vast square in front of the 50-meter-high building offers an unobstructed view to the lower floor dedicated to the public area through large windows. Visitors are welcomed into the ground floor central foyer, equipped with reception desks and a cafeteria. Rising upward, the courtrooms unfold, surrounded by spacious foyers. The highest floors are connected through a grand circular staircase, giving way to offices and judges' chambers set around green indoor and outdoor courtyards. Meanwhile, the detention cell area for the defendants is located under the building with separate pick-up and drop-off ramps. The Courthouse is horizontally divided into 3 greater sections to facilitate the separation of its functions and efficient circulation of employees, judges and visitors within its structure. As the public makes its way up from the entrance square, the lawyers and judges trickle down from their chambers at the crown of the building. Most open and public areas feature large openings on the lower floors, directly connected to the public square, and get progressively smaller and tailored from collective to individual scale as the nature of work becomes more confidential and private."
Main focus for this series were the newly commissioned artworks, plus some artworks that were already in the collection of the courthouse, in connection to the architecture.
Originally commissioned by
de Volkskrant
and published alongside an article by Kirsten Hannema and Anna van Leeuwen. |
Gold accessories have always held a special allure for fashion enthusiasts and lovers of luxury. The material's history, psychological appeal, intricate craftsmanship, and different types of gold used all contribute to the value and desirability of these exquisite items. In this article, we will explore the craftsmanship involved in producing gold accessories, the different types of gold used, and the importance of handcrafted pieces.
Understanding the Allure of Gold Accessories
Gold has been cherished for centuries, not only for its beauty but also for its historical significance in fashion. The use of gold in jewellery dates back to ancient civilisations, symbolising wealth and status. Even today, gold accessories hold a special place in people's hearts. An example of this enduring appeal is the Threefold Radiance Gold Light Weight Bangle from Mustafa Jewellery. This delicate fusion of weightless comfort and luxurious elegance is crafted to appeal to women who appreciate the magnificence of layered designs. Weighing 25.94 grams and made from 22k gold, this bangle features a meticulously designed layered pattern—a dance of golden hues forming a stunning visual texture.
Each layer of the Threefold Radiance Bangle is masterfully crafted, bearing the signature of experienced artisans, making it a true work of art. Rooted in Indian traditions, this bangle symbolises the richness of our heritage that can be passed down through generations. More than just a piece of jewellery, it's a wearable story, an heirloom that can be cherished forever. When worn, it adds a luxurious charm, ensuring you make a statement wherever you go.
The timeless allure of gold accessories like this bangle underscores their place as foundational in both personal collections and fashion. They continue to captivate wearers with their unique combination of artistry, tradition, and personal expression.
The Historical Significance of Gold in Fashion
Throughout history, gold has symbolised power, luxury, and beauty. Ancient Egyptians considered gold to be the skin of the gods, adorning themselves with gold jewellery to connect with the divine. In the Renaissance era, gold accessories were associated with royalty and aristocracy, signifying social status and sophistication.
Gold's allure extends beyond its physical properties; it carries a rich cultural significance that transcends time. From the opulent treasures of ancient pharaohs to the intricate designs of medieval monarchs, gold has always been a symbol of prestige and grandeur. The craftsmanship required to work with gold, with its malleable nature and radiant sheen, has elevated it to a coveted material in the world of jewellery and adornment.
The Psychological Appeal of Gold
Gold has a psychological impact on human emotions. It is often associated with positivity, success, and abundance. Wearing gold accessories can enhance self-confidence and create a sense of elegance. The warm glow of gold can uplift the mood and radiate a sense of luxury.
Furthermore, gold's association with the sun, the ultimate source of life and energy, adds to its allure. Just as the sun brings light and warmth to the world, gold accessories have the power to illuminate an outfit and bring a touch of radiance to the wearer. This connection to the sun's life-giving properties enhances the appeal of gold jewellery, making it a timeless choice for those seeking to exude a sense of vitality and positivity.
The Intricate Process of Crafting Gold Accessories
Creating gold accessories requires skilled artisans and a meticulous process. From design to final polishing, each step requires precision and expertise.
Gold has been revered for centuries for its beauty and rarity. The process of crafting gold accessories is a time-honoured tradition that dates back to ancient civilisations. The art of working with gold has been passed down through generations, with each goldsmith adding their own touch of creativity and skill to the craft.
The Role of the Goldsmith
A goldsmith is a highly skilled craftsman who works with gold, transforming this precious metal into wearable art. They have mastered the techniques of shaping, soldering, and engraving gold to bring a design to life. The goldsmith's keen eye for detail ensures that every piece is flawlessly crafted.
Goldsmiths often start their journey as apprentices, learning the intricate techniques of working with gold under the guidance of experienced masters. Through years of dedication and practice, they hone their skills to become master craftsmen in their own right, capable of creating stunning pieces of gold jewellery that captivate the eye and the heart.
The Art of Gold Casting and Moulding
Casting and moulding are essential techniques in gold accessory production. The gold is heated until molten and carefully poured into moulds to create intricate shapes and details. Skilled artisans ensure the gold cools and solidifies correctly, resulting in a perfectly formed piece of jewellery.
Each mould used in the casting process is meticulously crafted to capture every detail of the design. The gold is then carefully poured into the mould, a process that requires precision and expertise to avoid any imperfections. Once the gold has cooled and solidified, the mould is carefully removed to reveal the intricate piece of jewellery, ready for the next stage of polishing and finishing.
The Different Types of Gold Used in Accessories
Gold is an incredibly versatile material, and its different variations offer unique properties and characteristics that appeal to diverse tastes.
When it comes to selecting gold for your accessories, there are several factors to consider beyond just the colour. The purity of gold is measured in karats, with 24-karat gold being the purest form. However, pure gold is too soft for everyday wear, so it is often mixed with other metals to increase its durability. This blending of metals affects the gold's strength and alters its colour, creating the different shades we see in jewellery.
The Characteristics of Yellow Gold
Yellow gold is the most traditional and classic option for gold accessories. Its warm hue exudes a timeless elegance that complements any skin tone. Yellow gold is naturally soft and malleable, making it ideal for intricate designs.
Historically, yellow gold has been associated with luxury and wealth, often seen in royal crowns and ceremonial jewellery. Its rich colour symbolises prosperity and power, making it a popular choice for those looking to make a statement with their accessories.
The Unique Properties of White Gold and Rose Gold
White gold and rose gold are created by combining pure gold with different alloys, each offering a unique aesthetic and charm. White gold has a lustrous, silvery appearance, which pairs beautifully with diamonds and other gemstones, providing a modern twist to traditional gold jewellery. It is often plated with rhodium to enhance its shine and durability, giving it a bright, reflective surface that closely resembles platinum.
On the other hand, rose gold has a romantic, pinkish hue that adds a soft and feminine touch to any piece of jewellery. Its pink tint comes from a higher proportion of copper in the alloy. A perfect example of rose gold's unique appeal is the Rosé Radiance Gold Chain. Weighing 10.52 grams, this 22k pink gold chain is a unique and stylish accessory that combines innovation and craftsmanship. The chain's distinct pink-gold colour gives it a fresh and modern look, making it a standout piece in any jewellery collection. It's a trendy yet sophisticated choice for the fashion-forward woman who dares to be different.
But the Rosé Radiance Gold Chain is not just about being different; it's about expressing your style and showcasing your taste for luxury. It's an accessory that enhances your style and speaks volumes about your personality and aesthetic preferences. This chain is designed to make a statement, whether worn alone or paired with other accessories. It's more than a chain; it's a piece of art that celebrates your unique style and appreciation for quality.
The Value of Handcrafted Gold Accessories
In today's mass-produced world, handcrafted gold accessories stand out as symbols of exceptional quality and individuality.
Handcrafted gold accessories have a long and rich history, dating back to ancient civilisations, where skilled artisans would painstakingly create intricate pieces of jewellery fit for royalty. This tradition of craftsmanship has been passed down through generations, with each artisan adding their own unique touch and expertise to the art of goldsmithing.
The Time and Skill Involved in Handcrafting
Creating a handcrafted gold accessory requires countless hours of skilled labour and attention to detail. Each piece is meticulously shaped, refined, and finished by the hands of a talented artisan. The artisan's expertise and precision are evident in the final piece's intricate designs and flawless finish, showcasing the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into every handcrafted accessory.
Furthermore, the process of handcrafting gold accessories involves a deep understanding of the properties of gold and the techniques required to manipulate this precious metal. Artisans often spend years honing their skills and perfecting their craft, ensuring that each piece they create is not only visually stunning but also durable and long-lasting.
The Uniqueness and Exclusivity of Handcrafted Pieces
Handcrafted gold accessories are unique and exclusive, making them more valuable and desirable. Each finished product tells a story and carries a sense of personal connection. Owning a handcrafted piece means owning a precious work of art that few others will have.
Moreover, handcrafted gold accessories often feature custom designs and bespoke elements tailored to the wearer's individual preferences. This level of personalisation adds to the exclusivity of handcrafted pieces, ensuring that each accessory truly reflects the wearer's style and personality.
Maintaining and Caring for Your Gold Accessories
Proper care is essential to ensure the longevity and beauty of your gold accessories.
Gold has been coveted for centuries, symbolising wealth, luxury, and elegance. The allure of gold accessories lies not only in their aesthetic appeal but also in their enduring value. Understanding the craftsmanship behind these exquisite pieces adds to their overall appeal and value.
Regular Cleaning and Polishing
Keep your gold accessories looking their best by regularly cleaning them with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the gold's surface. Additionally, periodic professional polishing will help restore their original lustre.
When cleaning your gold accessories, it's essential to be gentle yet thorough. Pay attention to intricate details and crevices where dirt and grime can accumulate, affecting the shine of the gold. By taking the time to clean and polish your accessories regularly, you not only maintain their beauty but also ensure their longevity.
Proper Storage and Handling
Store your gold accessories in a soft pouch or jewellery box to prevent scratches and damage. Avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and excessive sunlight, as these can affect the gold's appearance and integrity.
Proper storage is crucial in preserving the quality of your gold accessories. Keeping them in a safe and controlled environment minimises the risk of tarnishing or discolouration. Also, handling your gold accessories carefully and avoiding rough surfaces or sudden impacts can prevent unnecessary wear and tear, maintaining their pristine condition for years to come.
In conclusion, understanding the craftsmanship behind exquisite gold accessories adds to their overall appeal and value. From the historical significance of gold in fashion to the intricate process of crafting and the different types of gold used, these accessories represent a timeless combination of beauty and artistry. The allure of gold accessories and the meticulous craftsmanship involved make them treasured possessions that can be enjoyed for generations. |
In 1942 President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued an executive order to the Secretary of War to set military areas. This led to the imprisonment of several minorities. Japanese-American citizens were among the individuals most affected by having property taken away and being stripped of their civil rights . Executive Order 9066 was an attempt to ensure safety, is still relevant today, and its history can be used to learn what practices work best at protecting American citizens' civil liberties. During World War II, people were scared for their lives in the United States. Citizens looked to the government to protect them. Because it was President Roosevelt's responsibility to decide a course of action to protect America, he was influenced by federal …show more content…
There has been a domino effect of racist events against Japanese-Americans, including having to face bigotry, people (white Americans) that have an irrational fear of people descending from another country (Japanese-Americans), and racism since President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Executive Order 9066 on February 19, 1942 . Bigotry, xenophobia, and racism impair the Japanese-American community. Not only did the forced evacuation of Japanese people in Hawaii and on the West Coast lead to unconstitutional imprisonment of 120,000 people, two thirds of whom were US-born citizens, but it also represented a failure of the country's democracy by denying American citizens their rights granted by the U.S. Constitution . Because the Japanese-Americans were born in the United States, their U.S. citizenship was their birthright and was supposed to protect them; however, this was not the case and the loss of their property, unjust detainment because of a "national security risk", and loss of their citizen status humiliated the American born citizens of Japanese immigrants. The US government purposely violated the fourteenth amendment of the Constitution and although since WWII the Japanese-Americans have been apologized to and the U.S. has admitted it was a mistake to detain these citizens, debate over the legitimacy of the 14th amendment now exists . The violation of citizenship to children of immigrants in 1942 prevents the United States
Executive Order 9066 was an executive order presented and signed during World War II by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1942, authorizing the Secretary of War to authorize certain areas as military zones, allowing and assisting the deportation of Japanese Americans to internment camps. In Executive Order 9066, Franklin Roosevelt speaks with a significant appeal to logic and reason, while "Mericans" is more appealing to the senses and to emotion. Dwight Okita addresses the topics presented in Executive Order 9066 and demonstrates how it effected the Japanese-American's lives, while Sandra Cisneros thoroughly recollects a period of significance in her life. Both of these literary texts address problems with different cultures in society
Korematsu v. United States was a controversial landmark decision ruling by the United States Supreme court. Fred Korematsu was a Japanese-American living in California, he was ordered to refuse to leave his city after the Japanese internment camp. After the World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued the Executive Order 9066 and Congressional decree gave the military power to exclude citizens of Japanese descent from areas deemed critical to national defense and may be vulnerable to espionage. On May 3, 1942, Fred Korematsu stayed in California and violated the US Army Civilian Executive Order No. 34. This supreme court case has an importance of interpreting the constitution and the different perspective of interpreting the constitution based on a person's own political background and beliefs.
In the aftermath of the bombing of Pearl Harbor in December 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 9066 on February 19, 1942. The order was a "protection against espionage and against sabotage to national defense material, national defense premises, and national defense utilities." The order also allowed for military commanders to define military areas at their discretion. Congress also passed a law in conjunction with the order to penalize anyone who violated the imposed restrictions.
EXECUTIVE ORDER 9066 Introduction The Japanese were the first immigrants to come across the Pacific Northwest in 1880s. They came here to America because there was a high demand for immigrant work, the amount of money they paid was so low. Time had pass and the Japanese helped construct the Great Northern, Northern Pacific and more. The Japanese were treated horrible due to their appearance; they cannot buy any land.
2017 marked seventy-five years since the controversy - President Roosevelt signed the Execute Order 9066 and evacuated Japanese residents to internment camps. By taking this decision, Roosevelt demonstrates his personal responsibilities, the character traits of individuals when feeling accountable for others and taking actions within ones' power. While the authority later apologized and showed willingness to take responsible for any consequences, the law turned out to be tolerable in specific cultures. When issuing the Execute Order 9066, President Roosevelt intended to protect America from a domestic war.
Primary Source Analysis 1942, just over 2 years into World War II the nation was in turmoil, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 9066. The purpose for this was protection but the question is how much protection was insured by Executive Order 9066. Executive Order 9066 was created out of necessity for the protection of Americans both for the Japanese descendants which could have faced much brutality from people who blamed them for their loosely connected ancestor's actions and also protect other natural born Americans who could have been harmed by some Japanese descendants who sided with the Japanese. This order created internment camps, even thought we were also at war with Germany only people of Japanese ancestry were placed in these camps. The document refers to the people who were put in these camps as "alien enemies" although they had shown no signs of being anything but loyal to the
Did the U.S. government and President Franklin D. Roosevelt make the right decision when they signed Executive Order 9066? In December of 1941, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii was attacked by Japan. In response to that attack, Executive Order 9066 put 110,000 Japanese Americans into internment camps. Farewell to Manzanar, written by Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston and James D. Houston, shares the story of Jeannie Wakatsuki and how her life was changed in an internment camp in California.
Roosevelt Choice of creating the executive order made a huge negative impact to the japanese race to the point where they lost their homes and businesses. They lost it all. Putting a specific race aside for being biased is wrong. Its unacceptable. Noone should ever go through this situation but as sad as it is we are going through it now.
Imagine living in San Francisco, CA you're a 12 year old, Japanese- American boy, you have black straight hair, round glasses, a small petite frame, and all your family were residents from Japan. On April 1, 1942, Lieutenant General John Dewitt from the U.S. Army ordered all Japanese persons, both alien and non-alien to evacuate San Francisco by a designated time. All Japanese-Americans were evacuated, loaded on buses and relocated to camps by the Western Defense Command and Forth Army Wartime Civil Control Administration. Executive order 9066, by President Roosevelt stated the internment of 100,000 American citizens of Japanese ancestry and resident aliens from Japan. On September 1940, Japan signed the Tripartite Pact with Germany and Italy, entering the military alliance against the United States, also known as the "Axis".
Roosevelt hastily signed Executive Order 9066 on Feb. 19, 1942. The Order the President signed gave the Secretary of War the permission to "…prescribe military areas in such places and of such extent as he or the appropriate Military Commander may determine, from which any or all persons may be excluded, and with respect to which, the right of any person to enter, remain in, or leave shall be subject to whatever restrictions the Secretary of War or the appropriate Military Commander may impose in his discretion." What he really meant was that he was giving his permission to intern all Japanese Americans living on the west coast into internment camps, or in other words, to "…relocate [Japanese Americans] into designated military areas…". Meanwhile, to try and hinder the Japanese, the USA banned trading some materials, like oil, with Japan. The notice that Japanese Americans were to be relocated went up on May 15,
Executive Order 9066: Roots in Prejudice Japan's bombing of Pearl Harbor crippled the US Naval fleet and killed thousands of soldiers and citizens but more significantly, it destroyed American's sense of safety and the utopian belief that we were beyond the reach of the world's problems. The resulting fear that pervaded American society, spread like wildfire and led to an emotional and irrational chapter in American politics that would ignore Japanese citizens' constitutional rights to appease the hysteria. Americans' response to the attacks on Pearl Harbor revealed decades of existing prejudices as they turned their anger on their fellow American citizens who were of Japanese descent. Shortly after the Pearl Harbor attacks, on February 19, 1942,
The Alien and Sedition Acts that were designed and passed by Congress in 1798 established a range of restrictions on the society. Among those laws, the Naturalization Act made the process of gaining American citizenship longer and the Sedition Act was designed to forbid publishing the materials against the government. While those documents "were in conflict with the Bill of Rights", the Congress considered them appropriate (Roark 281). The positions of people within the society regarding these laws differed. From the point of view of a recent immigrant, these laws were inappropriate for the American democratic society.
Amendment 5 was not followed. Amendment 5 states that everyone gets a trial before getting put into containment. The Japanese Americans were not given a trial, therefore that is one example of the Executive order being unconstitutional. "nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of the law…" ( Littel 287) What that means is that no one can deprived of their freedom,
In the texts, "In Response to Executive Order 9066" by Dwight Okita and "Mericans" by Sandra Cisneros, a topic of American identity and perception of identity is shared. Both texts take a brief look at the lives, characteristics, and feelings of young girls living a bicultural life. In Cisnero's story, the girl seems caught between her two different cultures, and she struggles to connect with her Mexican heritage. In Okita's poem, the girl has a clear sense of her identity and place as an American. Culture is experienced and interpreted differently by each individual and each group of people.
Prisoners Without Trial: Japanese Americans in World War II, " will describe and attempt to explain how and why nearly 120,000 Japanese Americans were taken from their homes in the spring and early summer of 1942 and incarcerated in concentration camps by the United States government" . The Executive Order 9066 made by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, interned |
Are you worried about your hamster? Are they not drinking water like normal, and are you wondering why this is happening? Hamsters need to have fresh, clean water available to them in order for them to stay healthy. If your hamster isn't drinking any water, it could be a sign that something is wrong. In this blog post, we will discuss potential causes of your hamster not drinking their water and how you can help them get the hydration they need. Whether your hamster's lack of thirst has been caused by environmental factors or medical reasons – taking steps now can make all the difference between life and death for your little friend!
Understand why your hamster won't drink water
Hamsters are known for being low-maintenance pets, but when it comes to their hydration, it's important to make sure they are getting enough water. If you have noticed that your hamster isn't drinking water, it's important to uncover the reasons why. Maybe they don't like the taste of the water, or their water bottle is too difficult to access. Alternatively, they could be sick or stressed. Understanding why your hamster isn't drinking water is key to ensuring their health and well-being. Regularly monitoring their water intake and providing a clean and accessible water source can go a long way in keeping your furry friend happy and hydrated.
Select appropriate water containers for your hamster
Selecting the right water container for your hamster isn't just important for keeping them hydrated; it can also impact their overall health. When choosing a container, it's important to consider the size of your hamster and the type of habitat they call home. A bottle with a sipper tube is generally recommended, as it keeps the water clean and prevents your hamster from spilling it. It's also important to clean and refill the container regularly to ensure your furry friend always has access to fresh water. With the right container, you can help keep your hamster happy and healthy.
Try different fresh fruits to encourage your hamster to drink more
Hamsters are known for their love of food, particularly the treats we give them. But did you know that their diet plays a crucial role in their overall health? One of the most important aspects of a hamster's diet is hydration. To ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and hydrated, it's essential to introduce them to a variety of fresh fruits that contain high water content. Some examples include cucumbers, lettuce, and watermelon. Not only will these fresh foods encourage your hamster to drink more, but they'll also add variety to their diet and keep them happy and healthy. So the next time you're at the grocery store, don't hesitate to pick up some fresh produce for your hamster to enjoy.
When it comes to managing your hamster's hydration levels, a little goes a long way! Taking the time to understand why your pet may be resistant to drinking water can help you make better decisions when it comes to providing them with their daily needs. Remember, it is important always to check the temperature of the water, select appropriate containers for drinking, change the water regularly, and inspect if there is something wrong with their drinking tube or bottle. Additionally, offering your hamster fresh foods like cucumbers and carrots that are high in moisture content can further encourage your pet to have extra fluids throughout the day. By understanding these tips and tricks, you will become a more informed hamster parent!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What could be wrong if my hamster isn't drinking water?
Possible causes for a hamster not drinking water include dental problems, illness, stress, or an inadequate supply of water. Prompt attention is important to prevent dehydration and other health issues.
2. What are some possible causes of my hamster not drinking water?
Some possible causes for a hamster not drinking water include dental issues, illness, stress, a dirty water bottle or dish, or a change in diet. Early identification and treatment of the cause is important to prevent further health complications.
3. How can I get my hamster to drink water?
To encourage your hamster to drink water, offer fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content, provide clean and fresh water sources such as a water bottle and dish, and consult a veterinarian if you are still concerned. |
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