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How to Grow Cilantro Sprouts – The Best Facts One Needs To Know Among the endless treasure of food flavors, it is rare to come across herbs that can match the deep impact or equally punchy flavor profile of cilantro sprouts. Appreciated for its freshness, citrusy element, and marvelous aroma, cilantro, has featured in millions of kitchens around both this globe and continents, giving unique flavor to recipes ranging from salsa to salads, curry to soups. Cilantro sprouts, being the popularly young form of this herb, usually cilantro microgreens or coriander microgreens, embody the essence of the tenderness of cilantro. Brightly colored and exceptionally tasty, these wonderful little leaves not only give people a rich range of flavors along with full measures of nourishment, but they also give them a gastronomic experience like no other. Indeed no other herbs could serve their purpose as well like cilantro's soft, greenish-yellow leaves, its powerful, fresh aroma, and overall ability to give a dish an extra boost of energy. Through cilantro sprouts investigation, we travel, looking for the keys to the doors of marvels of this amazing plant in its miniature form. Here in this article, we give more focus to How to Grow Cilantro Sprouts because they are a crop that seems to be ranked highly. We shall also know about the nutritional benefits of cilantro sprouts, its growth process and the problems faced during its growth process. All these details shall be discussed. Nutritional Benefits Of Cilantro Sprouts Vitamins and Minerals The cilantro sprouts provide the average amounts of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin E which are needed for your daily requirements, and others like calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium are also concentrated in this tiny seed. Digestive Health Cilantro sprouts have dietary fiber which promotes a good digestion system by helping to keep regularity and prevents constipation but promotes the growth of good bacteria on the other end. To begin with, the sprouts could likely have an antimicrobial quality from nature that helps get rid of the growth of harmful bacteria in the alimentary canal. Chlorophyll, phytochemicals, and other compounds in Cilantro sprouts are known to assist liver functioning and normal disposal of toxins from the body this way. Cilantro also has known that it can bind with toxic metals, therefore removing them from the human body. Anti-Inflammatory Properties Some researchers grant cilantro sprouts the reputation of anti-inflammatory properties, which would be used to fight inflammation in the system or to ease the symptoms of conditions relative to arthritis, allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease. Heart Health The antioxidants and phytochemicals in the microgreens of cilantro have been proven to possibly facilitate heart health by contouring LDL levels lower than its poor counterpart, helping to prevent oxidative stress and inflammation which are often linked with atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. Weight Management Cilantro sprouts are kind of light in both calories and carbohydrates, so they suit a healthy diet for people who are dieting to be lighter or get into shape. Highly fibrous diets ease up the feeling of satiation and fullness and, thus, might reduce the amount of calories being consumed. Eye Health The vitamin A in cilantro sprouts could affect positively vision protection and vision health. Vitality A is an essential precursor to rhodopsin synthesis in the retina. This pigment will help us with low light and color vision. How to Grow Cilantro Sprouts Home farming sprouts of cilantro is an easy and fulfilling process, which is quick and does not need so many things. To get started, follow these basic steps: To get started, follow these basic steps: Seed Selection Obtain cilantro seeds that are of premium quality, marked for sprouting or microgreens. If organic seeds are chosen then primal quality and absence of dangerous chemical exposure would be guaranteed. The seed selection is considered crucial as it impacts the entire growth process. Growing Medium Alternatively, a shallow tray or a container with sterile, soil-free growing mediums such as coconut coir, peat moss, or vermiculite can be used. Saturate the growing media uniformly to achieve moisture with enough water but without moisture excess for seed germination. Make sure to use the sterile growing media Sowing Seeds You can sprinkle or just broadcast the cilantro seeds uniformly on the surface of the growing medium and lightly work them into the soil, thus ensuring close seed-to-soil contact. Dust the seeds lightly with soil or vermiculite to promote the growth. Germination and Growth Place the tray under a warm in a well-lit area that includes indirect light, for example, a windowsill or underneath grow lights (the lamps used to grow plants indoors artificially). Regular watering but never soggy and misting to prevent drying out is the approach you should use. During this 7 – 14-day period, my cilantro sprouts should mature and be ready to harvest. The conditions of the environment play a role in the process of sprouting. At this point, the sprouts are tall enough (1-2 inches) and have obtained a set of true leaves, they are considered ready to be harvested. Use the clean scissors or a sharp knife (cut cleanly just over the dirt level) to cut the stem, leaving the root intact. Problems Faced In the Growth Process Of Clinatro Sprouts Slow Germination Cilantro seeds can sometimes be slow to germinate, especially if they are old or if the soil temperature is too cold. Make sure to use fresh seeds to prevent contamination and ensure optimum conditions for a healthy growth process. Damping Off Damping off is a fungal disease that affects seedlings, causing them to wilt and collapse at the soil level. It is usually caused by overwatering the media or poor air circulation, or using contaminated soil. Using sterile soil, providing good drainage, and avoiding overwatering can help prevent damping off in cilantro sprouts. Leggy Growth If cilantro sprouts are grown in low light conditions or if they are overcrowded, they may become leggy or elongated as they stretch toward the light. Providing adequate light and spacing out the seeds or seedlings can help prevent leggy growth. Cilantro is prone to bolting, which is when the plant prematurely produces flowers and seeds. This can be caused by high temperatures or stress, such as inconsistent watering or transplanting shock. To prevent bolting, keep cilantro plants well-watered and harvest the leaves regularly to encourage continued leaf growth. Flavor Profile And Culinary Uses Sprouted cilantro has an actual taste of cilantro, but it is sometimes more intense, to say the least. They incarnate the plant's typical fresh citrus lime flavored addition, which includes medium sharpness and delicate sweetness. Whether you are adding cilantro sprouts to salads, sandwiches, soups, or tacos, their flavor is truly overwhelmingly strong which will make them an excellent addition to any dish. 1. Salads and Garnishes Bring some flavor and texture through the application of cilantro sprouts on top of salads, wraps, and grain bowls as an added topping. 2. Tacos and Mexican Cuisine The option of using cilantro sprouts is suggested as a taco, burrito, quesadilla, or nacho filling for some crunchiness and extra cilantro. Such a rich as well as sharp taste fits perfectly with spices and all that the dishes have, giving them a richer taste. 3. Soups and Stir-Fries Cilantro sprouts can be used as a garnish in soup, stew, and stir-fry just before serving; this not only adds a refreshing and delightful flavor to the dish but also gives a greenish or bright touch. 4. Salads and Dips Make your mouth water by mixing sprouts of cilantro in your salsas, guacamole, or creamy dips, for a natural, cilantro-flavored fulfillment. The fact that their leaves are a little softer and the sizes are almost similar to those of the ones we pick in our gardens allows them to contribute a beautiful shade of green color to dips and spreads thus increasing their flavor. Similarly, sprouted cilantro is a very useful ingredient in that it can be eaten fresh as part of a salad with bread or can be added to soups, and sauces and will they not add flavor to a Sandwich too. The first advantage of organic produce weighs in on their unique taste – they are both spicy and fragile. Be it a master chef consistent with trying out new culinary ideas or simply a person of nutritional value who wishes to improve what they eat, cilantro sprouts is a unique and interesting way to increase your consumption of nutrition. While integrating these exemplary products into your regular diet, you can reveal the numerous advantages they bring with the butterfly effect of exploding your palate with fuchsia, purple, and green letters of the alphabet. Thus, in the coming time when you enjoy the walk through the produce aisle or play gardening in your home, make a list to buy cilantro sprouts if possible or plant them in your growing seeds. Embrace this herb with all the goodness, savor its freshness in the end, and your bodily reward is waiting for the inclusion of cilantro sprouts in your diet.
1. Check for leaks: Regularly inspect your radiator for any signs of leaks, such as puddles of coolant under the car or visible corrosion on the radiator itself. Leaks can lead to coolant loss and eventual overheating, so it's important to address them promptly. 2. Inspect the radiator cap: The radiator cap plays a key role in maintaining proper pressure within the cooling system. Check the cap for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary to prevent coolant from boiling over. 3. Flush the coolant: Over time, coolant can become contaminated with rust, debris, and other impurities that can clog the radiator and reduce its efficiency. It's recommended to flush the coolant and replace it with fresh, clean coolant at least every two years. 4. Clean the radiator fins: The fins on the radiator can become clogged with dirt, bugs, and other debris, hindering airflow and reducing cooling efficiency. Use a soft brush or compressed air to gently clean the fins and remove any obstructions. 5. Check the fan operation: The cooling fan plays a crucial role in maintaining proper engine temperature, especially in stop-and-go traffic or during hot weather. Ensure that the fan is working properly by testing it regularly and replacing any faulty components. 6. Inspect the radiator hoses: The hoses that connect the radiator to the engine can become brittle or develop cracks over time, potentially leading to leaks. Inspect the hoses for any signs of wear and replace them if necessary to prevent coolant loss. 7. Monitor coolant levels: Regularly check the coolant reservoir to ensure that it's filled to the proper level. Low coolant levels can lead to overheating, so it's important to top up the reservoir as needed. By following these expert tips for maintaining your NA Miata's radiator, you can ensure that your car's cooling system operates efficiently and effectively. Proper radiator maintenance is key to preventing overheating issues and ensuring that your Miata stays running smoothly for years to come.
In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has been making major strides in transforming the healthcare industry. With the ability to process large amounts of data and identify patterns, AI has the potential to revolutionize the way medical professionals diagnose, treat, and manage patient care. From early detection of diseases to personalized treatment plans, AI-powered solutions are changing the landscape of healthcare and improving outcomes for patients. One of the key areas where AI is making an impact is in medical imaging. Traditional methods of analyzing medical images, such as X-rays and MRIs, often require a great deal of time and expertise. However, with the help of AI, these images can be analyzed more quickly and accurately, leading to faster and more accurate diagnoses. In addition, AI-powered solutions can help identify early signs of diseases, such as cancer, that may be missed by human eyes. AI is also being used to improve patient care and outcomes. Through the use of predictive analytics, AI can help identify patients who are at risk for certain conditions and proactively intervene to prevent them from developing or worsening. This can lead to better outcomes for patients and reduce the burden on healthcare systems. AI can also be used to develop personalized treatment plans for patients based on their specific medical history, genetic makeup, and other factors, leading to more effective and targeted care. Another area where AI is transforming healthcare is in the realm of administrative tasks. AI-powered solutions can help streamline processes such as scheduling appointments, managing electronic health records, and billing, freeing up time for healthcare professionals to focus on patient care. This can lead to more efficient healthcare systems and better patient experiences. Despite the many benefits of AI-powered solutions in healthcare, there are also challenges and concerns that need to be addressed. One of the main concerns is the potential for bias in AI algorithms, which can lead to unequal treatment for certain groups of patients. It's important for developers to actively work to mitigate these biases and ensure that AI-powered solutions are fair and equitable for all patients. In conclusion, AI-powered solutions are revolutionizing the way healthcare is delivered and managed. From improved diagnostic accuracy to personalized treatment plans, AI is helping to improve patient outcomes and streamline healthcare processes. While there are challenges to address, the potential for AI to transform healthcare is immense, and the industry is poised to continue reaping the benefits of these innovative technologies.
John Mahama pledges quality education outcomes when elected In a significant commitment to the future of Ghana's education system, former President and National Democratic Congress (NDC) flag bearer, John Mahama, has vowed to overhaul the quality of education in Ghana if elected in the upcoming December elections. Labeling the current state of education as "appalling," Mahama emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy, inclusive of stakeholder engagement and visionary leadership, to usher in transformative changes. Addressing an audience at the maiden edition of the presidential aspirants public lecture at the Wisconsin International University College, Ghana, Mahama, alongside his running mate, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, outlined a vision for an education system that transcends mere access. He stressed the importance of expanding infrastructure to achieve equity and quality education outcomes. Central to Mahama's educational reform is a three-pronged approach focusing on access, quality, and equity. ALSO READ: Top 10 Note-Taking Methods for Better Retention Highlighting the foundational significance of basic education, he proposed targeted investments to strengthen this level, thereby improving secondary education outcomes. His strategy includes the construction and renovation of schools in underserved communities, eliminating schools under trees, and enhancing equity and inclusivity through financial support mechanisms like a reformed student loan scheme. Moreover, Mahama reassured that the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy would be retained but refined, particularly aiming to abolish the contentious double-track system. Plans for building more community SHSs in densely populated urban areas and providing dormitory blocks for rural community day schools were also mentioned as part of his strategy to improve education accessibility and quality. Mahama's vision extends to promoting gender equity, creating job opportunities for the youth, and fostering stronger connections between Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions and the industry. He proposed a novel approach to STEM education by upgrading existing science resource centers into STEM centers, thus democratizing access to STEM education across all secondary schools. Additionally, recognizing the need for higher education opportunities across Ghana's new regions, Mahama pledged to establish public universities in these areas. His comprehensive education plan was met with encouragement from Prof. Obeng Mireku, President of Wisconsin International University College, who highlighted the crucial role of academia in shaping effective national policies and strategies. This educational vision by John Mahama signifies a promising direction towards improving the educational landscape in Ghana, focusing on equity, quality, and accessibility, which are vital for the country's growth and development. Share Our Post on The Topic 'John Mahama pledges quality education outcomes'. To Read More Stories, Click Here. Send Stories \| Social Media \| Disclaimer Send Stories and Articles for publication to [email protected] We Are Active On Social Media WhatsApp Channel: JOIN HERE 2024 BECE and WASSCE Channel - JOIN HERE Facebook: JOIN HERE Telegram: JOIN HERE Twitter: FOLLOW US HERE Instagram: FOLLOW US HERE The information contained in this post on Ghana Education News is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the post for any purpose.
By Laura Williamson, Science Writer The Cancer Breakthroughs session is a collaborative effort among medical societies to share the latest cutting-edge cancer research, showcasing studies from the 2023 annual meetings of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM). The session was moderated by ASTRO President Howard Sandler, MD, FASTRO, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles. The first discussant was Kimmie Ng, MD, MPH, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/Harvard Medical School, Boston, who shared two abstracts from ASCO's 2023 annual meeting that she called "practice changing." Dr. Ng noted that both ASCO and ASTRO had chosen to focus their meetings on the importance of partnering with patients. Dr. Ng began with a presentation of "INDIGO: A Phase 3, Global, Randomized, Double-blinded Study of Vorasidenib versus Placebo in Patients with Residual or Recurrent Grade 2 Glioma with an IDH1/2 Mutation." The study showed that in patients who had prior surgery, vorasidenib, an oral inhibitor of IDH1 and IDH2 mutations, was superior to placebo for progression free survival and showed significant improvement in time to next treatment intervention. Dr. Ng explained that IDH1/2 mutations occur in the vast majority of low-grade diffuse gliomas, affecting predominantly young adults. "They are incurable tumors that can infiltrate the brain, leading to severe disability and death. New treatment approaches are desperately needed." Varasidenib showed a benefit across all subgroups of patients and was very well tolerated, she said. "This is what oncologists really dream of for their patients. Varasidenib represents a new standard of care for patients with grade 2 glioma, with evidence of measurable non-enhancing disease, but without immediate need for radiation plus chemotherapy." Dr. Ng then presented "Preoperative Chemotherapy with Selective Chemoradiation versus Chemoradiation for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer: The PROSPECT Trial." She noted that in keeping with the theme of partnering with patients, investigators worked directly with patient advocates when designing the study and included patient-reported adverse events, with an emphasis on quality of life. This de-escalation trial found "neoadjuvant FOLFOX, with only selective use of chemoradiation, was a safe and effective treatment option for patients with cT2N+, cT3N-, or cT3N+ rectal cancer who are candidates for sphincter-sparing surgery," she said. "Overall health-related quality of life was not significantly different between the two arms." While there was significantly more toxicity among those treated with FOLFOX compared to chemoradiotherapy, by 12 months there were very low rates of severe side effects in both arms, she said, adding that "patient preferences need to be taken into account when making treatment decisions." When the PROSPECT study was originally reported in June, ASTRO's Gastrointestinal (GI) Resource Panel issued a patient-focused statement to clarify that the trial did not explicitly conclude that radiation therapy should be omitted, contrary to many news reports, but rather that select patients now have an additional treatment option to consider in discussions with their care team. The PROSPECT approach was recently adopted by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) in its clinical practice guidelines. Discussant Kristy K. Brock, PhD, FASTRO, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, who is vice chair of the AAPM Science Council, next presented three studies from AAPM's 2023 annual meeting. Dr. Brock highlighted, "some of the work that the medical physics field is doing in leveraging deep learning to classify cancer subtypes from histological images using transformers and to investigate the use of deep learning and transformer models to aggregate large amounts of data from electronic health records to be able to predict overall survival," as well as "a study on the prompt gamma rays spectroscopy for proton range verification." The first abstract she presented, "Cancer Subtype Classification from Histologic Images Using Transformers," tested a hierarchical model using a transformer encoder and decoder for cancer subtype classification, with histopathology whole slide images. The model outperformed majority voting and multiple-instance, learning-based classifiers in three cancer subtype classification tasks. The findings "demonstrate the significant benefit of transformer models and the importance of large, publicly available datasets to compare algorithms," she concluded. She next presented findings from "Investigating Aggregation Methods of Contextualized Transformer Embeddings of Long Electronic Health Record Notes for Glioma Overall Survival Prediction." This study looked at aggregating unstructured data from clinical notes for use in predicting outcomes. "The goal was to be able to predict 14-month survival of glioma patients," Dr. Brock said. The study showed a sequential aggregation encoder effectively aggregated long electronic health record notes for outcome prediction tasks. "Large language models can help us to investigate at a scale not previously possible," she concluded. Finally, Dr. Brock described an ongoing study, "Clinical Study of Prompt y-ray Spectroscopy for Proton Range Verification," which has been enrolling patients with brain tumors since 2022. The trial is investigating ways to fine-tune proton radiation treatment by better measuring proton range. To date, the clinical prototype has been successfully used to deliver 30 treatment fractions to six patients. Initial findings suggest "prompt y-ray spectroscopy provides a non-invasive in vivo measurement of the proton range," she said. "The first results show mainly systemic range errors." Patient recruitment is ongoing and investigators are considering expansion to other treatment sites. "This has very exciting potential for clinical impact," said Dr. Brock. Benefits include the ability to spare normal tissue, enable patient-specific measurements and learn across patient populations. Registered participants can view the Cancer Breakthroughs session via the Annual Meeting Portal.
Michael Lueck 11 Dec 2019 The official death toll remains at six, and eight people are still missing, presumed to have died in yesterday's volcanic eruption at Whakaari/White Island. The people on the island were tourists and tour guides, including visitors from Australia, the UK, China and Malaysia, along with New Zealanders. Several of the tourists were passengers from the cruise ship Ovation of the Seas. GeoNet, which operates a geological hazard monitoring system, says there is a 50% chance of a smaller or similar eruption taking place within the next 24 hours. The volcanic alert level remains at three, one rung higher than it was when the eruption took place. But the question being asked now is why tourists were allowed on such a dangerous island. This will probably feature prominently in investigations - both by police and WorkSafe. White Island is privately owned, and only permitted operators are allowed to take tourists on guided tours. White Island Tours is one of the main operators in Whakatane, a township on the east coast of the North Island, and they had people on the island yesterday. This operator has stringent safety checks and was even named New Zealand's safest place to work in a workplace safety award last year. But earlier this month, GeoNet had raised the alert level to two (out of five), due to "moderate and heightened volcanic unrest". Should that have caused enough concern to discontinue tours to the island? Hindsight is always 20/20, but any visit to an active volcano, or volcanic field bears a certain amount of risk, and usually it is managed by governmental bodies generally, and the tourism industry in particular. The management, or lack thereof, varies by country and jurisdiction. Commonly, organisations such as GeoNet provide real time updates on volcanic activities and issue warnings of potential hazards. In the case of White Island, it falls ultimately to the operators to decide whether or not to send tours to the island on any given day. Leading geo-tourism researcher Patricia Erfurt-Cooper notes there is a "distinct lack of safety guidelines for volcano tours at most sites, which is compounded by language problems". Management strategies include multi-lingual signage, such as in Japan, and the closure of active sites, such as in Hawaii. Often, volcanic geologists are able to read early signs of activity, and predict eruptions hours, if not days in advance. But this is not always the case, as we saw yesterday and in the 2007 eruption of Mount Ruapehu. Volcano tourism is a subset of adventure tourism, and New Zealand has had its fair share of incidents in this sector. Many will remember the collapse of a viewing platform at Cave Creek in 1995, where 14 people died. After the collapse, the Department of Conservation (DOC) inspected more than 500 structures, resulting in the closure of 65. A commission of inquiry found a number of shortcomings in the building of the platform and DOC took responsibility for the accident. Since then, New Zealand law has changed so government departments can be held responsible and liable for negligence in offences under the Building Act. Worldwide, there have been several deadly volcanic eruptions, including Japan's Mount Ontake in 2014. This steam-driven eruption occurred without clear warning and killed 63 people hiking the mountain, in what became the country's most deadly eruption in nearly 90 years. In 2013, the eruption of Mayon volcano in the Philippines killed five climbers. Last year, one tourist died in an eruption of Italy's Stromboli volcano, which has become a resort island. New Zealand promotes itself as the adventure capital of the world, and it is a fine balance for an operator to provide the (often advertised) excitement the thrill-seeking tourists are looking for, and the safety of everybody involved. Research shows the majority of thrill-seekers are looking for risk, but in a controlled way. The adrenaline rush is paramount, but they don't seriously want to be at risk of injury or loss of life. The tragic events of White Island reiterate that we must be vigilant, and have excellent risk management strategies in place. Perhaps it is time for the tourism industry, government and volcanic experts to review current rules. We can minimise the risk, but we can never totally rule it out. Any adventure tourist must be aware of the potential risk they are taking and should check the tour operator's website for information about the risk they'd be undertaking, and how the tour operator plans to manage it. If the operator doesn't have this information available - choose another one. This opinion piece was first published by The Conversation on December 10, 2019.
Columbian Mammoth Named The Official State Fossil May 28, 2014COLUMBIA, SC – Governor Nikki Haley was joined today by Olivia McConnell, her mother Amanda, her classmates and teachers, Senator Kevin Johnson, and Representative Robert Ridgeway for a ceremonial signing of House Bill 4482, which names the Columbian Mammoth as the official state fossil of South Carolina. Olivia's personal interest in fossils encouraged the third grader to write Gov. Haley, indicating that South Carolina was one of only seven states without a state fossil. She suggested that the state's fossil should be the Columbian Mammoth, after her research revealed that mammoth teeth were first found in South Carolina in 1725 and are thought to be the first identified, vertebrate fossils in North America. The governor put Olivia in touch with her legislative delegation, who introduced House Bill 4482 on January 14. After being debated and eventually passed in the General Assembly, Olivia's efforts were rewarded when the bill was signed into law by Gov. Haley on May 16, 2014. To watch a video of the event, click here: http://goo.gl/mnwtXM "This is a great reminder that young people in South Carolina really can make a difference. Regardless of your age, if you have the confidence to use the power of your voice to pursue something that you're passionate about, then you can find a way to be successful," said Gov. Haley. "Children like Olivia are the future leaders of our state and she has set a great example for all of us to follow." "If someone out there has a really big heart and believes strongly, anyone can make a difference, no matter how big or how small," said Olivia McConnell. "You can make a difference in the world – you don't have to be little, and you don't have to be big. The fossil bill had a very good purpose and I didn't want this piece of our history to be lost. I had to do something about it, and it was really important that I did it."
The purpose of this trial is to correlate fetal thyroid hormones from fetal cord blood with clinical (maternal antithyroid drug dose and antithyroid antibodies) and ultrasound (US) parameters of fetal thyroid function from pregnant mothers with autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD). Full description Maternal hyperthyroidism in pregnancy is complicated with hypertension, preeclampsia, heart failure, thyroid storm, preterm labor and stillbirth, while the fetus suffers from intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), goiter; neonatal prematurity and low birth weight. Maternal hypothyroidism is seen in 2 % of pregnancies. Risks are higher for preeclampsia, postpartum hemorrhage, miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth and lower IQ score. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor antibodies, antithyroid drugs and iodine pass to the fetus. So the fetus may also become a patient. Monitoring fetal growth, fetal heart rate (tachycardia is a late sign of fetal hyperthyroidism), bone maturation and the size of the fetal thyroid by ultrasound are important parameters for the assessment of transfer of hyperthyroidism from mother to the fetus Patients follow up: After inclusion into the study, thyroid function tests (fT4, TSH), and auto-antibodies assessment (anti TPO, TRAK) were performed once every two months in mothers with AITD, and from the 24th week of gestation monthly. Treatment was adjusted accordingly. Ultrasound for fetal size, morphology and fetal heart rate (FHR) was performed once in two months, and from the 24th week of gestation, monthly. The fetal biophysical profile score was determined weekly from the 30th week of gestation. The single centre design was chosen: all fetal sonograms were performed by the same gynecologist. Cardiotocography was performed once weekly from the 30th week of gestation. Study design: Fetal and maternal free thyroxin (fT4) and TSH, thyroid antibodies in mothers and fetal ultrasound (fetal size, morphology and fetal heart rate) were determined at the same time, once, from 22nd to 33rd weeks of gestation. Procedure: Cordocentesis (Cordocentesis is a highly specialized prenatal test in which a fetal blood sample is removed from the umbilical cord and tested for genetic problems, hormones or infections. Cordocentesis can be done at 18 weeks of pregnancy or later). Fetal fT4 and TSH were measured from cord blood samples. Healthy pregnant subjects were directed for cordocentesis for karyotype analysis due to age (missed previous procedures for karyotyping). The diagnosis of fetal hypo or hyperthyroidism was established taking into account fT4 concentrations according to the nomograms Thorpee-Beeston et al., 1996, 1991. When fetal hyperthyroidism is diagnosed, antithyroid drugs given to the mother are administered or adjusted. When fetal hypothyroidism is diagnosed, then the possibility of intraamniotic thyroxin application is discussed with the mother. Inclusion criteria Exclusion criteria Any other chronic diseases. 83 participants in 3 patient groups Data sourced from clinicaltrials.gov Clinical trials Research sites
Consumer Health: Breast cancer in men Breast cancer could also be regarded as a illness that impacts solely women. It's the second-most widespread cancer recognized in women in the U.S., and it'll have an effect on 1 in 8 women, in accordance with the American Cancer Society. Much of the messaging round breast cancer analysis focuses on the illness in women. However, breast cancer can occur in men as effectively. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which makes this a great time to find out about breast cancer in men. An estimated 2,800 new instances of invasive breast cancer will likely be recognized in men in the U.S. this 12 months, and about 530 men will die from the illness, in accordance with the American Cancer Society. Men recognized with breast cancer at an early stage have a great probability for a treatment. Signs and signs of male breast cancer can embody: - A painless lump or thickening in your breast tissue. - Changes to the pores and skin masking your breast, equivalent to dimpling, puckering, redness or scaling. - Changes to your nipple, equivalent to redness or scaling, or a nipple that begins to show inward. - Discharge out of your nipple. Risk components Factors that enhance the danger of male breast cancer embody: - Older age. The threat of breast cancer will increase as you age. Male breast cancer is most frequently recognized in men in their 60s. - Exposure to estrogen. If you're taking estrogen-related medicine, equivalent to these used for hormone remedy for prostate cancer, your threat of breast cancer is elevated. - Family historical past of breast cancer. If you've gotten an in depth member of the family with breast cancer, you've gotten a larger probability of creating the illness. - Klinefelter syndrome. This genetic syndrome happens when boys are born with multiple copy of the X chromosome. Klinefelter syndrome could adversely have an effect on testicular progress, ensuing in smaller than regular testicles, which might result in decrease manufacturing of testosterone. - Liver illness. Certain circumstances, equivalent to cirrhosis of the liver, can scale back male hormones and enhance feminine hormones, rising your threat of breast cancer. - Obesity. Obesity is related to greater ranges of estrogen in the body, which will increase the danger of male breast cancer. - Testicle illness or surgical procedure. Having infected testicles or surgical procedure to take away a testicle can enhance your threat of male breast cancer. Some men inherit mutated genes from their mother and father that enhance the danger of breast cancer. Mutations in certainly one of a number of genes, particularly a gene referred to as BRCA2, put you at larger threat of creating breast and prostate cancers. If you've gotten a robust household historical past of cancer, focus on this together with your healthcare group. They could advocate that you simply meet with a genetic counselor in order to think about genetic testing to see for those who carry genes that enhance your threat of cancer. Male breast cancer treatment typically includes surgical procedure to take away the tumor and surrounding breast tissue. Radiation remedy, hormone remedy and chemotherapy additionally could also be advisable. If you've got been recognized with breast cancer, your therapy will likely be primarily based on the stage of your cancer, your total health and your preferences. Connect with different men residing with male breast cancer in the Breast Cancer Support Group on Mayo Clinic Connect, an internet affected person neighborhood moderated by Mayo Clinic.
Table of Contents: In the rapidly evolving landscape of 5G networks, ensuring seamless operations and swift fault detection is paramount. The complexity of 5G networks demands sophisticated approaches to fault detection and isolation (FDI). One such approach gaining prominence is leveraging log analysis. This blog delves deep into the realm of enhancing fault detection and isolation through log analysis in 5G networks, exploring key methodologies, tools, and best practices to ensure network reliability and performance optimization. Understanding Fault Detection and Isolation in 5G Networks: In the burgeoning era of 5G networks, the landscape is defined by its intricate architecture and the proliferation of diverse components. Unlike its predecessors, 5G networks encompass a multitude of technologies, including massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output), beamforming, and network slicing, among others. This complexity introduces a myriad of potential points of failure, necessitating robust fault detection and isolation (FDI) mechanisms. Fault detection in 5G networks revolves around the identification of anomalies or deviations from normal operational behavior. These anomalies can manifest in various forms, such as sudden drops in throughput, increased latency, or unexpected packet loss. Given the sheer volume and velocity of data traversing 5G networks, traditional manual inspection methods are insufficient. Automated systems equipped with advanced algorithms are indispensable for promptly flagging deviations and alerting network administrators. Isolation, the subsequent step in the FDI process, entails pinpointing the root cause of detected faults. This is often a challenging endeavor due to the interconnected and interdependent nature of 5G network elements. Isolating faults requires comprehensive visibility into network components, protocols, and interactions. Advanced diagnostic techniques, including packet tracing, protocol analysis, and correlation of event logs, are employed to trace the fault's origin accurately. The significance of fault detection and isolation in 5G networks cannot be overstated. Unresolved faults can cascade into service disruptions, affecting the quality of service (QoS) experienced by end-users. Moreover, in mission-critical applications such as autonomous vehicles or remote surgery, the implications of undetected faults can be dire. Ensuring network reliability and QoS hinges on the effectiveness of fault detection and isolation mechanisms. By leveraging automated systems, advanced diagnostic techniques, and real-time monitoring, operators can swiftly identify and address faults, thereby minimizing downtime and optimizing network performance. In the competitive landscape of 5G deployment, adept fault management is a cornerstone of success, facilitating enhanced user experiences and fostering trust in the capabilities of 5G technology. Importance of 5G Log Analysis in FDI: In the dynamic ecosystem of modern telecommunications, where 5G networks reign supreme, the importance of fault detection and isolation (FDI) cannot be overstated. Central to effective FDI is the meticulous analysis of logs generated by network elements, a process that serves as a cornerstone for maintaining network integrity and optimizing performance. Logs serve as a comprehensive record of network activities, capturing a plethora of data points including network events, system errors, configuration changes, and traffic patterns. This wealth of information serves as a treasure trove for network operators, providing valuable insights into the behavior and performance of the network infrastructure. One of the primary functions of log analysis in FDI is the identification of patterns and trends within the data. By scrutinizing log entries over time, operators can discern recurring sequences of events or anomalies that may indicate underlying issues within the network. For instance, a sudden spike in error messages from a particular network node could signify a hardware malfunction or a misconfiguration that requires immediate attention. Furthermore, log analysis facilitates the detection of anomalies that deviate from expected norms. By establishing baseline performance metrics and comparing them against real-time log data, operators can flag unusual behaviors indicative of potential faults or security breaches. This proactive approach to anomaly detection enables operators to preemptively address issues before they escalate into larger problems, thereby minimizing service disruptions and optimizing network reliability. Moreover, log analysis enables operators to conduct root cause analysis (RCA) when faults occur. By tracing the sequence of events leading up to a fault, operators can pinpoint the underlying cause, whether it be a software bug, network congestion, or a cyber-attack. This granular understanding of fault origins is instrumental in devising effective remediation strategies and implementing preventive measures to mitigate similar incidents in the future. In conclusion, log analysis is indispensable for effective fault detection and isolation in 5G networks. By harnessing the insights gleaned from log data, operators can proactively monitor network health, detect anomalies, and swiftly resolve issues, thereby ensuring optimal performance and reliability for end-users. Methodologies for 5G Log Analysis: In the intricate realm of 5G networks, where the volume and complexity of log data can be overwhelming, employing robust methodologies for log analysis is imperative to ensure efficient fault detection and isolation (FDI). Several methodologies have emerged as effective strategies for extracting valuable insights from log data, each offering distinct advantages tailored to the specific challenges of 5G networks. Pattern recognition stands as one of the fundamental methodologies for log analysis in 5G networks. By leveraging predefined patterns or templates, operators can systematically identify recurring sequences of events within log data. These patterns may encompass regular network activities, such as handovers between base stations or signaling exchanges between network elements. Pattern recognition facilitates the rapid identification of expected behaviors and deviations, enabling operators to promptly flag anomalies that may signify potential faults or security breaches. Anomaly detection represents another powerful methodology for log analysis in 5G networks. Unlike pattern recognition, which relies on predefined templates, anomaly detection operates on the principle of identifying deviations from normal operational behavior. This approach is particularly valuable in detecting novel or unforeseen events that may not conform to established patterns. Advanced anomaly detection algorithms, such as statistical modeling, machine learning, and outlier analysis, enable operators to uncover subtle deviations indicative of emerging issues or security threats. Machine learning-based approaches have gained prominence in recent years as a sophisticated methodology for log analysis in 5G networks. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven algorithms, machine learning models can autonomously analyze vast volumes of log data, identify complex patterns, and predict potential faults or performance degradations. These models continuously learn from historical log data, adapting to evolving network conditions and enhancing the accuracy of fault detection and isolation over time. Each of these methodologies offers unique advantages in terms of accuracy, scalability, and automation. Pattern recognition provides a structured framework for identifying known patterns and behaviors, while anomaly detection excels in detecting novel or unexpected events. Machine learning-based approaches, meanwhile, offer unparalleled sophistication and adaptability, empowering operators to uncover hidden insights and optimize network performance in the ever-evolving landscape of 5G networks. By leveraging a combination of these methodologies, operators can harness the full potential of log analysis to ensure the reliability and efficiency of 5G networks. Tools for Efficient 5G Log Analysis: Apeksha Telecom's training program on "Key Challenges in 5G Protocol Testing and Log Analysis" is at the forefront of equipping professionals with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of 5G networks. Central to this training is the utilization of cutting-edge tools for efficient log analysis, which play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability and performance optimization of 5G networks. Splunk stands out as a leading tool in the realm of log analysis, renowned for its powerful search and analytics capabilities. With Splunk, operators can ingest, index, and correlate log data from disparate sources, enabling comprehensive visibility into network events and behaviors. Its intuitive user interface and robust query language empower operators to uncover insights, detect anomalies, and troubleshoot issues with unparalleled efficiency. The ELK Stack, comprising Elasticsearch, Logstash, and Kibana, offers a versatile and scalable platform for log analysis in 5G networks. Elasticsearch serves as a distributed search and analytics engine, capable of processing vast volumes of log data in real-time. Logstash facilitates the ingestion and parsing of log data from diverse sources, while Kibana provides a rich visualization interface for exploring and analyzing log data through interactive dashboards and visualizations. Grafana emerges as another indispensable tool for efficient log analysis, particularly in the context of monitoring and visualization. With Grafana, operators can create dynamic dashboards and charts to visualize log data in real-time, enabling proactive monitoring of network performance and health. Its extensible architecture and support for various data sources make it an ideal choice for integrating with log analysis pipelines and other monitoring systems. These tools, among others, form the cornerstone of efficient log analysis in 5G networks. By leveraging Splunk, ELK Stack, Grafana, and similar cutting-edge tools, operators can streamline the process of fault detection and isolation (FDI), enhance network visibility, and optimize performance. Apeksha Telecom's training program empowers professionals to harness the full potential of these tools, enabling them to navigate the complexities of 5G protocol testing and log analysis with confidence and proficiency. Best Practices for Effective FDI through Log Analysis: To maximize the efficacy of log analysis for FDI in 5G networks, adhering to best practices is essential. This includes establishing clear logging policies, defining meaningful log formats, and implementing proactive monitoring strategies. Case Studies and Real-world Applications: Real-world case studies highlight the practical applications of log analysis in enhancing FDI in 5G networks. By analyzing logs in real-time, operators can preemptively address potential faults, minimize downtime, and optimize network performance. In conclusion, enhancing fault detection and isolation through log analysis is indispensable for ensuring the reliability and efficiency of 5G networks. By leveraging advanced methodologies, tools, and best practices, operators can proactively identify and mitigate faults, thereby enhancing the overall quality of service. Apeksha Telecom's training program empowers professionals with the requisite skills to navigate the complexities of 5G network management, with a promise of 100% placement for students.
Development of Teachers through Tech-MODE to Meet the Goal of Universal Primary Education: Proposed NTERCs Model for India Journal Title Journal ISSN Volume Title Corporate Author Teachers are shapers of the modern world. They play a leading role in transforming the children into responsible global citizens by facilitating them acquire knowledge, skills, values and attitudes. Educated citizens are the agents of change for a better world. Realizing the power of education on development of individual and development of a country, Universal Primary Education (UPE) is taken as the first goal of UN Development Goals 2000. In reality, the supply of qualified teachers is not meeting the demand in different regions and countries to realize this goal. According to the UNESCO projections a total 10.3 million teachers are needed in order to achieve UPE. The two thirds of world's teacher gap is in certain Sub-Saharan, African and Arab States. In order to meet the goal of UPE many countries need political will, commitment and investment to scale-up the teacher development activity with cost effective teaching learning practices to meet the challenge of UPE 2015. These statistics reflects the need for strategies for developing innovative methods/ models to revamp teacher development with commitment and investment to minimize the teacher gap. Open Distance Education is playing a major role in development of qualified teacher's world wide. // This paper discuss about the barriers in teacher education and the need, relevance and advantages of technology mediated Open Distance Education (Tech-MODE) for teacher development and training to meet the demand of qualified teachers. After assessing the existing ICT enabled strategies for teacher development world over an ICT enabled, ODL mediated Network of Teacher Education Resource Centers (NTERCs) model is proposed that facilitate the suggested Three Stage Teacher Development Approach to meet the demand of qualified teachers in a developing country like India.
Researchers in Wuhan, China, working with the Chinese military, were genetically engineering the world's deadliest coronaviruses to create a new mutant virus just as the Covid-19 pandemic began, according to the Sunday Timeswhich has reviewed hundreds of documents, "including previously confidential reports, internal memos, scientific papers and email correspondence that have been obtained through sources or by freedom of information activists in the three years since the investigation began pandemic". The time also interviewed U.S. State Department researchers, including experts specializing in China, emerging pandemic threats and biological warfare, who conducted what the outlet describes as "the first major investigation of the U.S. on the origins of the Covid-19 outbreak". [O]Our new research paints the clearest picture yet of what happened in the Wuhan lab. The facility, which had begun hunting the origins of the Sars virus in 2003, attracted funding from the US government through a New York-based charity whose chairman was a British-born and educated zoologist. America's top coronavirus scientist shared cutting-edge virus manipulation techniques. The institute engaged in increasingly risky experiments on coronaviruses it collected from bat caves in southern China. Initially, he made his findings public and argued that the associated risks were justified because the work could help science develop vaccines. That changed in 2016 after that Researchers discovered a new type of coronavirus in a mine shaft in Mojiang, Yunnan province where people had died from symptoms similar to Sars. –Sunday Times The Mojiang mine strain that killed several people is now recognized as "the only members of the immediate family of Covid-19 known to exist before the pandemic" and were transported to Wuhan Institute of Virology. After that, "The paper trail starts to get dark," said one American researcher. "That's exactly how it was when the ranked program started. My opinion is that the reason Mojiang was covered up was due to related military secrecy [the army's] search for dual-use capabilities in biological weapons and virological vaccines". According to American researchersthe WIV embarked on a classified program to make the mine's viruses more transmissible to humans, which they believe led to the creation of Covid-19than then leaked into the city of Wuhan after a laboratory accident. "It has become more and more clear Wuhan Institute of Virology participated in the creation, promulgation and cover-up of the Covid-19 pandemic," said one of the researchers, who found evidence that the researchers working on these experiments were hospitalized in November 2019 with symptoms similar to Covid, just a month before the West became aware of the pandemic. A family member of the victims also died. "We were pretty sure it was probably Covid-19 because they were working on advanced coronavirus research in the lab. They're trained biologists in their thirties and forties. Thirty-five-year-old scientists don't get sick with the flu very often," he said. say a researcher. Meanwhile, a separate analysis reveals that the epicenter of the original Covid-19 outbreak was near the WIVnot Wuhan's "wet" wildlife market as previously thought. "I interviewed scientists in Asia who have close ties to the Wuhan Institute of Virology," said one of the researchers, who said they had evidence that the WIV was also working on a vaccine against Covid-19 before the pandemic. "They told me they believe there was vaccine research in the fall of 2019, relevant to the Covid-19 vaccination." Rutgers University microbiologist Richard Ebright called the experiments "by far the most reckless and dangerous research into coronavirus, or indeed any virus, known to have been conducted at any time in anywhere". Humanized mouse tests Professor Ralph Baric of the University of North Carolina is pioneering cutting-edge experiments that use a technique to merge different pathogens combining their genes. To test the effects of these chimeric coronaviruses, Baric created "humanized" mice, who were injected with genes that allowed them to develop human-like lungs and vascular systems. "Ominously, tools exist to simultaneously modify genomes to increase virulence [and] transmissibility," Baric wrote in a 2006 paper. "These biological weapons could be directed at humans, domestic animals or crops, causing a devastating impact on human civilization." In the meantime, by 2012, activists and scientists were beginning to reject gain-of-function research for its inherent dangers. "About 30 laboratories are now working with live Sars virus worldwide. The probability of an escape from at least one laboratory is high," wrote Lynn Klotz, a senior fellow at the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation. "Would one escape in ten lead to a major outbreak or pandemic? One in a hundred? One in a thousand? No one knows. But for any of these probabilities, the probability-weighted number of casualties and deaths would be intolerably high ". In 2013, WIV researcher Shi Zhengli called Ralph Baric to ask for your help in growing sufficient quantities of a Sars-like virus found in a cave, SHC014, for testing. Baric agreed, and the WIV provided him with the strain's genetic sequence so he could recreate genes from its spike proteins. Baric's team inserted the SHC014s "spike gene" into a copy of the original Sars virus they created in North Carolina and tested the new chimeric virus in humanized mice. Meanwhile a May 2014EcoHealth Alliance received $3.7 million from the US National Institutes of Health, of which more than $500,000 went to fund the purchase of laboratory equipment at the WIV, and $130,000 went directly to Shi and the his assistant The Obama administration then banned gain-of-function research, but a "loophole" allowed the practice to continue if it was deemed "urgent and safe." Baric argued this to the NIH, which approved. The results of Baric's experiment with the genetic sequence given to him by Shi were published in co-authored research in November 2015. The combined copy of Sars and the SHC014 virus was a potential mass killer. It caused severe lung damage in humanized mice and was resistant to vaccines developed for Sars. The paper acknowledged that it might have been too dangerous an experiment. It caused quite a stir. "If the virus escaped, no one could predict the trajectory", warned Simon Wain-Hobson, virologist at the Institut Pasteur in Paris. -Sunday hours And in May 2016, Daszak told a conference in New York that he was getting "closer and closer" to obtaining a virus "that could actually become pathogenic in people." For 2017He wrote in a paper that his team had tried to create eight mutant coronaviruses based on strains found in Shitou Cave, two of which were found to infect human cells. The research had been done in BSL-2 laboratorieswhile US guidelines for this research require BSL-3 precautions, including self-closing doors, filtered air, and scientists equipped with full PPE while under medical supervision, the time write Enter the smoking gun How Shi was creating his eight mutant viruses, WIV made 'another dangerous leap forward' with his work on Shitou Cave viruses, in which Ebright describes how the most dangerous coronavirus experiment ever conducted – which was funded in part with EcoHealth grant money. The scientists selected three lab-grown mutant viruses, created by mixing Sars-like viruses with WIV1, which had been shown to infect human cells. These mutants were then injected into the nose of albino mice with human lungs. The goal was to see if the viruses had the potential to cause a pandemic if they merged, as they might do naturally in a bat colony. The original WIV1 virus was injected into another group of mice as a comparison. Mice were monitored in their cages for two weeks. The results were shocking. The mutant virus that fused WIV1 with SHC014 killed 75 percent of the rodents and was three times more lethal than the original WIV1. In the first days of infection, the human lungs of the mice were found to contain a viral load up to 10,000 times greater than the original WIV1 virus. Scientists had created a highly infectious supercoronavirus with a terrifying death rate that in all likelihood would never have emerged in the wild. The new genetically modified virus was not Covid-19, but it could have been even more deadly if it had leaked. -Sunday hours In its April 2018 annual progress report, the WIV, EcoHealth's Peter Daszak omitted mouse deaths. Nor did he mention them in his grant renewal application submitted to the NIH later that year. In fact, he said they had only experienced "mild clinical signs like Sars". So Daszak lied, since the experiment had killed six of the eight infected humanized mice. Daszak was eventually cleared, but says his statement about "mild" disease was based on preliminary results (even though the mice had died months before he issued his statement). The US State Department intervenes As global lockdowns came to an end, US State Department investigators gained access secret intelligence on China's coronavirus experiments in the months and years before the emergence of Covid-19. More than a dozen investigators, with unparalleled access to "metadata, phone information and Internet information" from US intelligence intercepts, published a report in early 2021 that he made two statements; that the WIV was experimenting with a strain, RaTG13, found in the Moijang mine, and that covert military research – including experiments conducted on animal test subjects, were being conducted just prior to the pandemic. "They were working with all nine different variants of Covid," said one of the researchers, adding that they believe a WIV virus was even closer to Covid-19 than RaTG13. "We are sure they were working on a closer unpublished variant, possibly collected in Mojiang." And of course others believe that Covid-19 was largely an American production… Either way, here you go. Apologies from the MSM, fact checkers, social media companies and the Biden administration can be sent to [email protected]. This post was originally published on Zero Hedge
The collapse of the Key Bridge in Baltimore has created significant traffic disruptions for commuters, with around 34,000 cars and trucks needing to find alternative routes without this important crossing. The bridge collapse has severed a portion of Interstate 695, impacting the heavily industrial areas surrounding the port. The Maryland Transportation Authority has advised commuters to use the two tunnels that also span the harbor as alternative routes while the bridge is out of commission. When the Key Bridge was constructed in 1977, it was meant to alleviate traffic congestion at the Harbor Tunnel and provide a critical third link for north-south traffic on I-95 and commercial traffic from the port and distribution warehouses. The bridge collapse has increased pressure on the tunnels, which were already handling a significant amount of traffic. Trucks carrying goods, such as the nearly 4,900 that crossed the bridge daily, are now facing challenges in transporting their goods efficiently. The impact of the Key Bridge collapse is particularly concerning for businesses that rely on consistent deliveries, such as William Washington's cement board plant located near the southern end of the bridge. The disruption to transportation routes may lead to delays and complications in the supply chain, affecting the operations of these businesses. Trucks carrying hazardous materials, which are prohibited from using the tunnels, will have to navigate approximately 30 miles of detours, adding to the challenges faced by drivers. The collapse of the Key Bridge not only affects commuters and businesses relying on efficient transportation routes, but also raises concerns about the safety of infrastructure in the area. The incident highlights the importance of regular maintenance and inspection of bridges and other transportation structures to prevent future accidents. The Maryland Transportation Authority will need to assess the extent of the damage and develop a plan for repairing or replacing the Key Bridge to restore normal traffic flow in the area. In response to the collapse, local authorities and transportation agencies will need to coordinate efforts to manage traffic flow, provide updates to commuters, and ensure the safety of alternative routes and structures. The disruption caused by the bridge collapse serves as a reminder of the critical role that infrastructure plays in supporting economic activity and daily life. Addressing the challenges posed by the collapse will require effective planning, communication, and collaboration among various stakeholders involved in the transportation industry. As Baltimore faces the aftermath of the Key Bridge collapse, residents, businesses, and transportation agencies will need to adapt to the new traffic realities and find ways to mitigate the impact on daily operations. The incident serves as a wake-up call for the importance of investing in infrastructure maintenance and improvements to ensure the safety and efficiency of transportation networks. By addressing the immediate challenges posed by the bridge collapse and developing long-term strategies for infrastructure resilience, Baltimore can work towards creating a more sustainable and reliable transportation system for the future.
Between 600 and 540 million years ago, life on Earth consisted of soft-bodied organisms known as the Ediacaran fauna, the earliest known complex multicellular animals. The fossil record shows that these organisms significantly diversified in complexity and type between 575 and 565 million years ago. Previous research has suggested that this diversification is linked to a significant increase in atmospheric and oceanic oxygen levels that occurred over the same period. However, it is not yet clear why this increase in oxygen occurred. Researcher John Tarduno and colleagues analyzed the magnetic properties of 21 plagioclase crystals, a common mineral in Earth's crust, which were extracted from a 591-million-year-old rock formation in Brazil. Plagioclase crystals contain tiny magnetic minerals that preserve the intensity of the Earth's magnetic field at the time they are formed. Analysis of the crystals showed that at their point of formation, Earth's magnetic field was the weakest ever recorded — some 30 times weaker than both the current magnetic field intensity, and that measured from similar crystals formed approximately 2,000 million years ago. The authors combined their results with previous measurements to establish that the Earth's magnetic field was at this weak level for at least 26 million years, from 591 to 565 million years ago. This overlaps with the rise in oxygen, which occurred between 575 and 565 million years ago. The authors propose that the weakened magnetic field may have allowed more hydrogen to escape to space, resulting in a greater percentage of oxygen in Earth's atmosphere and oceans, which may in turn have supported the diversification in the types and complexity of organisms. More information: John Tarduno, Near-collapse of the geomagnetic field may have contributed to atmospheric oxygenation and animal radiation in the Ediacaran Period, Communications Earth & Environment (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s43247-024-01360-4. www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01360-4 Journal information: Communications Earth & Environment
IRS charges highway taxes for the vehicles used on public roads in the United States. Truckers must pay the 2290 highway tax by filing IRS 2290 Form if they operate heavy-weight vehicles with a gross weight of 55000 pounds or above. A tax period starts on July 01 and ends on June 30. For the tax period, the 2290 highway tax is due annually between July 1 and August 31. You can be exempt from the 2290 highway tax by some specific limitations provided by the IRS. To be eligible for form 2290 highway use taxes, commercial vehicles must travel more than 5,000 miles and agricultural vehicles must travel more than 7,500 miles on public highways. If your heavy motor vehicle does not fall into one of these categories, then you should file IRS Form 2290 and request that your vehicle's tax be suspended. E-Filing 2290 Highway Tax Return Every trucker is required to file a form 2290 highway tax return. If you have more than 25 heavy motor vehicles, you must file them electronically. Electronic is just an e-filing system for obtaining the IRS digital stamp schedule 1 proof in a fast and easy way. E-filing is more accurate and reduces the time it takes for paper filing. Then you will receive your IRS 2290 schedule 1 proof within minutes. It also calculates your IRS HVUT taxes accurately and avoids errors that can occur when e-filing. After your filing has been successfully submitted, you will receive an email confirmation. And you can re-file your form 2290 for the rejected files. Hence, e-filing is a simple and secure way to file or pay HVUT taxes and federal taxes. What are the requirements to file the 2290 highway tax form? Truckers must have the following information in order to file the 2290 tax form: - Name and address of the company - Employer Identification Number (EIN) - VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) - The taxable gross weight of the vehicle - Vehicle's First Used Month (FUM) - The total number of vehicles suspended. What are the payment options for the 2290 HVUT? Traditionally, truckers can pay their 2290 highway taxes in both ways, either physically or digitally. The types of payments are: - Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW) - The Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) - Money Order or Check - Credit and debit cards How to File a 2290 Heavy Vehicle Use Tax Form There are two ways to file the 2290 highway tax form. One is paper filing, and the next is e-filing through an IRS e-file provider. As we know, truckers who own 25 or more vehicles must file form 2290 using the e-filing method. If you want to use the paper filing method, you must print the 2290 HVUT form and fill it out with the required information. Then you can draught a check or money order to the IRS office through the post or manual. When you are filing your Form 2290 online, first choose an IRS e-file provider like Truck2290. Online filing is a fast way to get your Schedule 1 proof in early. You need to follow these when you are filing in online through https://www.truck2290.com/ - Register or log in to your Tuck2290.com account to begin - Enter the required information about your vehicle. - Make sure that your payment was successful. - Get your IRS-stamped Schedule 1 in your box. Finally, you must file your 2290 highway tax form as soon as possible before the due date or on time to avoid penalties and interest imposed by the IRS.
Old Danish Dictionary - kumpanMeaning of Old Danish word "Kumpan", as defined by Otto Kalkar's Dictionary of Old Danish language. The Old Danish word Kumpan can mean: - se kompan. Possible runic inscription in Medieval Futhork:ᚴᚢᛘᛕᛆᚿ Medieval Runes were used in Denmark from 12th to 17th centuries. Abbreviations used: - n. - norsk. Also available in related dictionaries: This headword also appears in dictionaries of other languages closely related to Old Swedish.
It is very common to roll over a 401(k) or other workplace retirement plan into an individual retirement account (IRA) when changing jobs or retiring. Among other potential benefits, rollovers allow savers to combine multiple accounts and better track everything. But if the rollover isn't done correctly, you could end up facing a hefty tax bill along with unwanted penalties from the IRS. Direct transfers between retirement account managers provide an easy and reliable way to avoid taxes. However, indirect rollovers involving checks require savers to carefully follow timing rules and exchange the withheld funds to avoid problems.talk to financial advisor It can help provide clarity when weighing your IRA rollover decision. How the IRS taxes IRA rollovers When you withdraw money from a tax-advantaged retirement savings account. 401(k) or Islay, you typically have to pay taxes on the funds you withdraw. However, the tax law allows people to transfer their retirement savings between different types of tax-advantaged accounts without paying taxes. roll. A common rollover involves moving funds from a former employer's 401(k) to an IRA. You can also roll over funds from her 401(k) plan at her former employer to a 401(k) plan run by her new employer. When she retires and leaves the workforce, she can roll over her 401(k) money from her previous job into a new or existing IRA. Rollovers are also categorized as: directly and indirect Variety. A direct rollover transfers funds directly from your old 401(k) or IRA to your new IRA or new employer's retirement plan. Since the check is not sent to the saver, no taxes are due on it. However, with an indirect 60-day rollover, the "source" retirement account issues a check to the individual, and in some cases, taxes are automatically deducted. As long as the entire withdrawal is redeposited within his 60 days, the rollover remains tax-free, but this is a strict deadline and there are serious consequences for not meeting it. If you miss the 60-day deadline, the IRS will treat this as a withdrawal of your money. This will incur income tax on the entire rollover amount. For savers below 59 1/2 he will also be subject to a 10% early withdrawal penalty. And if, as is often the case, the sending party's 401(k) or IRA prepays and deducts his 20% for taxes, the saver must return that money as well. Otherwise, taxes and penalties will apply to any missing withholdings. Additional rules may also apply. For example, the IRS only allows one tax-free indirect rollover per year. Beyond that, the rollover will be treated as a taxable withdrawal and will be subject to penalties. How a typical 401(k) to IRA rollover works Consider a 42-year-old person who has a 401(k) balance of $100,000 and is retiring. They request an indirect rollover distribution to a traditional IRA. The workplace retirement plan follows IRS rules, and after 20% ($20,000) is deducted, he is given the remaining $80,000. If a saver deposits only $80,000 within 60 days, the IRS will consider her missing $20,000 a taxable distribution from the 401(k). This saver must pay a 10% early withdrawal penalty of $2,000 plus income taxes on her $20,000 that is unpaid. A saver can add $20,000 of their own money to an IRA account within 60 days, along with an $80,000 check. This will put the full $100,000 into your IRA, replacing the amount that was initially withheld. Also, since you received the rollover check directly, this IRA transfer will count as an allowable his-one indirect her-IRA rollover in the following year. Strategies to minimize IRA rollover taxes If possible, it's best to move your 401(k) or IRA money directly into your new retirement account. This way, no checks are written to the saver, so no taxes or penalties are collected. IRAs limit rollovers to once a year for all accounts, but direct transfers between IRAs conveniently circumvent this rule. It often makes sense to roll over your workplace retirement plan to an IRA when you change jobs or retire. However, if you don't properly comply with various IRS regulations, you can incur taxes and penalties. Transferring assets directly between retirement account administrators is easiest and avoids taxes and penalties. When making indirect transfers, you should carefully observe timing requirements and exchange held funds to avoid problems. retirement planning tips a financial advisor When you perform an IRA rollover, you may identify opportunities to reduce associated taxes and penalties. SmartAsset Free Tools , we match you with up to three vetted financial advisors serving your area. You can also have a free introductory call with an advisor to decide which advisor you feel is a good fit for you. Are you ready to find an advisor to help you reach your financial goals? Get started now. Here's how to figure out if you've saved enough for a comfortable retirement: SmartAsset Retirement Calculator. Photo credit: ©iStock/Lorado, ©iStock/FreshSplash, ©iStock/Sladic post What tax rules apply to IRA rollovers? It first appeared SmartRead with SmartAsset.
Water-dispersion paints come in a wide variety, making it sometimes difficult to pick the right option. The primary criteria for choosing paint for glass wall paper are that it must be diluted with water only and solve the problem. This will enable you to choose the right detergent for your surface and simplify the maintenance of fiberglass or glass pasted on top. Water-dispersion paints use aqueous dispersions containing synthetic polymers. These paints can be diluted with water, making them non-flammable. These paints have binder particles which are dispersed into water. These particles become bonded glasvezelbehang nieuwbouw together when they come in contact with each other. This is the best way to paint glass walls papers in children's rooms. Water-dispersion compounds do not contain organic solvents. They do not have any particular smell. They are easy to apply with a sprayer, brush, and roller. The resultant coating adheres well to fiberglass wallpaper. They also have excellent operational characteristics. This allows for moisture vapor to pass through which allows the surface to "breathe" and increases comfort in the rooms. Water-based paint is mainly produced in white. However there are no color restrictions and no barriers to getting the desired shades. You can achieve this by using specialized tinting dyes. Even pigments can be made to mimic gold and silver, platinum, bronze, or steel. While you can tint the paint manually by using a pencil, there are unique opportunities to use modern equipment such as tinting machines. You can get the desired color of paint, as well repeat it as needed, with these machines. How to paint glass or fiberglass? The top manufacturers of water dispersion paints around the world have their own tinting cards. This allows them to assign each shade a number. They are widely used. Acrylic paints are a major part of all water-based colors. This is why they are often used to paint glass. Acrylic paints come in a wide range of colors and shades, including up to 15,000 color options. Acrylic paints can be applied to glass walls paper and they will retain their color even after being exposed to intense UV radiation. Acrylic paints made of high-quality materials are durable, flexible, and washable. Acrylic binders have made it possible to create fiberglass wallpaper and fiberglass water-dispersion colors that are very similar to wood. What are the best paints for glass fiber? Experts recommend that you use latex-based water based paint to create textured or structural wallpapers. Latex paints can be used to color glass wall coverings in both residential and public buildings. They can be applied using a roller, brush, or high pressure spray guns. Experts advise that you only use high-quality water dispersion paints and a very small amount of filler when painting glass wallpapers. Cheap paints are made with chalk, which can clog the glass wallpaper's textured patterns after the first coat. When creating trendy and trendy designs for any space, glass wall paper is becoming more popular. After gluing, you can paint this finish. This step is necessary in order to paint fiberglass-based wallpaper.
Institutions of higher learning in the United States have been incurring a lot of administrative expenses at ensuring that they maintain their academic standards. Over the last few years, most colleges have reported an increase in tuition fees to in-state students by 2.9% in the academic year 2015/16 (Thomas & Kati, 2016) so that they can attain their academic goals. Such trends have locked out students from needy nations who might wish to further their studies abroad. In justification of this devastating trend, Lauren (2016), noted the Latin and African-American students are getting fewer degrees compared to the whites since tertiary education is not affordable to them. In fact, Lauren (2016) perceives that policies that the universities and colleges in U.S. have adopted promote racism. Malloy (2011) also stated that England was position 34 out of the 50 states in the U.S in terms of the number of young adults who were enrolled to peruse their higher education. Notably, paying for tertiary education is strenuous for most middle-class families in my state and makes most graduates to work extremely hard to pay the money they borrow in order to pay their tuition fees in both public and private tertiary institutes (Quinton, 2016). Many lawmakers perceive that University education ought to be affordable; however, most states have few resources at their disposal to ensure that this move comes to happen. The elections this year seems to be holding the future of the United States since most presidential aspirants, especially the democratic candidates, have come out clearly to state that no student will have to borrow to pay for their University and college education (Quinton, 2016). Apparently, most universities often tend to increase the number of financially able students so that it can meet they can address the financial challenges that they face. This move, on the other hand, has caused the quality tertiary education in the state to come under scrutiny despite the fact that they have long been known as world class. Delegate your assignment to our experts and they will do the rest. The Connecticut's' plan for higher education appears to offer a solution to this matter because it is focused on the success of the student. The issue of world-class universities underperforming in terms of offering education to young adults is not acceptable. The change in leadership that facilitated the appointment of a novel Board of regents will offer more young adults a chance to establish themselves as competitive individuals globally. In the last three decades, Connecticut higher education was under the leadership of the Board of Governors for Higher Education. The agency was created with good intentions, however, it was ruined by lack of authority over the institution, bureaucracy and intellectual struggle for power. On the outer look, the organization appeared to be noble in terms of intakes, the degrees offered, campus expansion in addition to sustaining high academic standards (Thomas & Kati, 2016). Nevertheless, our state's national ranking in relation to educational attainment was overtaken by other states, which proved to be more aggressive and had a broader insight about the future economic and demographic challenges (Thomas & Kati, 2016). In this regards, there is the need for my state to turn around and address the matter. This can be attainable if the following steps can be followed promptly: Focus Spending on Students Learning Research in the state as well as in Connecticut has revealed that in most institutions of higher learning, a lot of money is rapidly spent on the administration rather than investing on learning (Thomas & Kati, 2016). In order for our public and private colleges to prioritize our students, there is the need to ensure that enough teaching and instruction materials are provided in our classrooms. This will justify the harmony of the leadership of Connecticut's fraternity institutes. This will imply that prior to them taking the office this July there will be the need for the State Universities, Colleges as well as the board of Governors for Higher Education to be under one effective Board Regents. Ideally, they will all be directed by one board; that has one Chief Executive officer. In so doing , millions of money would be saved that can be used difficulty in classrooms to ensure learning is effective. Establishing student-Friendly Strategies In order to overcome the challenges that students face in tertiary institutes, there is the dire need to establish a student ally mechanisms (Thomas & Kati, 2016). For example, scholars who undertake their studies at Connecticut related State Universities and Colleges such as charter Oak State Colleges need more friendly interventions to overcome the challenges that hinder them from graduating. Studies indicate that a good number of students shift between the Connecticut's State university as well as the Colleges (community) against the normal transfer traditions. Notably, they undertake their studies from each system simultaneously. An assessment conducted by Connecticut's high school 2004 graduates indicated that between that time and now, more than one-third of students who were admitted in the university took studies at a community while undertaking their degree studies. In addition, 40% of these students were transferre cases while 60% exhibited overlapping admissions - a trend that they perceive rhymes with their needs (Thomas & Kati, 2016). In a nutshell, most students opt to change their way of attending college irrespective of their admission details concerning the duration of their courses. Some were admitted to a two-year college program and end up in a four-year degree program. This increasing trend of mobility needs an efficient transfer strategy and the relationship between a two-year college study and a four-year university study. Apparently, the combined leadership of community and Connecticut's State University that is accorded to the board will ensure that the systems in tertiary institutes are student-friendly to the later. Lower Students Costs In comparison to other states, Connecticut is also feeling the wrath of national recession coupled with the hurdle of approximately $3.5 million budget deficiency (Thomas & Kati, 2016). In that regard, the budget of our state requires a sacrifice that is not only shared equivocally among the government states, but rather the private sector and the taxpayers as well. There is the need for higher education institutes to plan their budgets such that they cut down significantly the tuition fees that is seen to increase exponentially in most universities in our state. Despite the inflation threats, campuses ought not to raise students' costs above the inflation bar (Thomas & Kati, 2016). Higher education Institutions need to be mandated to ensuring that tertiary education is affordable at all times including when the state is in a financial crisis. It is true to say that the world in recent times fancies attainments that are achieved educationally. Therefore imperative for us to understand that increasing the number of graduates is inherent. The traditional perspectives about tertiary institutes will not prevail thus there is the need for everyone to play an integral role in the guardianship of success. In this respect, tertiary institutions in my state need to be committed to restoring its image by reducing the number of students who drop out of school. On the other hand, students need to realize that despite the great rewards that education offers, it is a challenging endeavor that requires solutions to be found through an extra commitment outside the classroom. There is also the need for families to support their children in their pursuit of education. The employers also have a role to play in ensuring that their employees return to institutions of higher learning for them to take refresher courses. Notably, the harmonized board will be in pole position at ensuring that each individual understands this truth. Therefore, its primary role would be to ensure that a strategic plan is developed with the participation of stakeholders and the public to ensure that Connecticut's educational goals are attained. I believe that strong leadership and innovation would be instrumental in ensuring that the state regains its educational standards. Lauren, C. (2016). States are Slaking on Higher Education Spending. Retrieved from http ://.usnews.com/news/ articles / 2016 / 01 / F0 / states-spending-less-on-higher-education-today-than-before-recession&tabId=4 Malloy, D. P. (2011). Future of Higher Education in Connecticut. New England Journal of Higher Education . NEBHE. Retrieved from http://www.nebhe.org/journal/the-future-of-higher-education-in-connecticut/ Quinton, S. (2016). The High Cost of Higher Education. The PEW Charitable Trusts. Retrieved from http://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/blogs/stateline/2016/01/25/the-high-cost-of-higher-education Thomas, L. H., and Kati, L. (2016). Top 10 Higher Education State Policy Issues for 2016. Policy Matters . AASCU , U.S.
Single Ikat Artisans and NIFT Students Spin a Vibrant Tale of India's Weaves - NIFT students pan-India work with Indian artisans across 75 handloom clusters as part of the Cluster initiative - Odisha Ikat weavers and NIFT students to take handloom to more audiences Bhubaneshwar, 1st August 2023: In a celebration that intertwines art, culture, and history, the Ministry of Textiles is honouring traditional handloom artisans as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav — a celebration of India's 75 years of Independence. The occasion serves as evidence of the government's dedication to safeguarding and strengthening the rich tradition of handloom workmanship in the country. As part of the effort, National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) students are working with artisans and weavers in 75 clusters across India to exchange knowledge and ideas to take Indian handloom to a wider audience. India's handlooms in recent years have taken the global stage. We've seen global dignitaries adorning our traditional looms during the recently organised G20 Summit. It is the art that we must cherish, preserve and promote as much as possible. As proud Indians it is our responsibility to bring our artisans on a global platform, where in they can share their love and passion for the artform with millions of other people globally. NIFT's cluster initiative allows master craftsmen and weavers to pass on their art to future designers and handloom enthusiasts, while allowing them to imbibe newer ideas and modern ways from the students. "India's handlooms have gracefully taken centre stage on the global platform, a testament to their timeless artistry and cultural significance. As proud Indians, we embrace the responsibility to elevate our artisans to a worldwide audience, allowing them to share their profound love and passion for this art form with millions across the globe. With steadfast government support, we strive to empower these skilled craftsmen, securing their livelihoods and weaving a vibrant tapestry of cultural pride that resonates far beyond our borders. The government's robust initiatives provide financial assistance, skill development, and enhanced market access, bolstering the growth of this treasured industry. Together, we weave a brighter future, preserving our rich cultural legacy for generations to come," stated Smt. Darshana V. Jardosh, Minister of State for Railways & Textiles, Government of India. Maniabandha, a picturesque village in Baramba tehsil of Cuttack district, Odisha, serves as the enchanting backdrop for the vibrant Ikat Cluster. The community, which has a population of 4,264 people and is surrounded by mountains and green fields, employs 1,000 to 2,000 craftspeople of any gender or age. Festivals like Dussehra, Lakshmi Puja, Savitri Puja, and New Year (on Hanuman Jayanti) hold special significance for the village, as the residents come together adorned in new and traditional clothes, often purchasing at least one piece of the exquisite Ikat craft. "Being a part of the Ikat Cluster has been transformative," shared Garima Vij, 3rd Year, NIFT student. "Collaborating with skilled artisans from Orissa, I've witnessed the enchanting process of setting weft yarns, tying intricate designs, and experiencing the artistry of dyeing. It's a mesmerising journey, and I'm inspired to preserve India's rich handloom legacy." The Ministry of Textiles, in collaboration with NIFT, recognised the immense talent and potential of the NIFT students in contributing to further strengthening India's handloom legacy. As a part of their cluster initiative programme, NIFT students engaged with the local artisans in the Single Ikat Cluster in Maniabandha. Under the guidance of skilled artisans, they witnessed the meticulous craftsmanship, experiencing the essence of this timeless art form first-hand. "Their fresh perspectives and innovative design ideas have breathed new life into our craft. These students fearlessly try out new patterns and colours, inspiring us to venture into uncharted territories. We truly appreciate the collaboration with such young and bright minds. Witnessing their enthusiasm fills us with confidence and pride, knowing that with these students as our representatives, the art form will continue to thrive in the future," expressed Bikash Mohapatra, Master Weaver from Maniabandha. As we approach National Handloom Day, the Ministry of Textiles celebrates the ingenuity and creativity of NIFT students, who have become torchbearers in illuminating India's handloom legacy at the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav's Ikat Cluster. Their dedication and passion for preserving traditional crafts complement the government's vision of fostering self-reliance and empowering local artisans. The Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav pays a fitting tribute to the skilled artisans and NIFT students, reinforcing India's commitment to nurturing its invaluable handloom legacy and weaving a resplendent tapestry of tradition and modernity. #NIFT #bizindustry #HandloomArtisans #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav #NIFTStudents #IndianHandloom #HandloomCluster #MinistryOfTextiles #HandloomLegacy #CulturalHeritage #WeavingTradition #India75YearsOfIndependence #TextileIndustry #IndianArtistry #NurturingArtisans #Craftsmanship #Handmade #SustainableFashion #PreservingTradition #ArtAndCulture #IkatArtisans #HandloomEnthusiasts #CraftingTradition #IndiaHandlooms
Published on 15 April 2024 News items related to food systems and submitted by members of the A&FS Network. 23 May 2024 Facing increasing requests to deploy Food security / Food systems / Nutrition experts, the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit (SHA) wishes to strengthen its response capacity. 21 May 2024 The GRFC is the reference document for a comprehensive analysis of global, regional and country-level acute food insecurity. 16 April 2024 These twenty one case studies have been collected from nine African countries and India. From the most hostile environments of the Sahel (Niger) to equatorial wetlands (Gabon), saline soils (Tanzania) and oases (Tunisia), the authors show us how farmers' varieties meet the nutritional and economic needs of populations in traditional, agroecological production systems. The aim of this new FAO report is to improve the understanding of how climate change affects the livelihoods and economic behaviour of vulnerable rural populations. It brings together an impressive array of data from 24 low- and middle-income countries in five regions of the world. This FAO report emphasizes existing efforts and climate commitments, detailing an integrated approach for a just transition, outlining food security, nutrition objectives, and their emission implications. Additionally, it introduces ten domains of actions, and 20 key milestones. The report is the first of three reports to be published by FAO until 2025. 15 April 2024 The 2023 edition of The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report presents updates on the food security and nutrition situation around the world including the latest estimates of the cost and affordability of a healthy diet.
A gap year is a term that refers to students who take a year, or more off of school after high school, essentially putting off college for later. According to US News And World Report, 40,000 to 60,000 students in the US take a gap year each academic year. This year off can be a good time to reflect on one's choices and prepare for life, or simply take a break. However, many people are adamantly against the idea of gap years. Teachers who have taught for a long time have seen many students come and go throughout the years, and have witnessed the effects of gap years firsthand on multiple occasions. Many are against the idea. "It is a terrible idea; it's hard to get back into school," science teacher Connie Bang said. Math teacher Paul Martin, going on forty-one years of teaching, shared a similar negative view of gap years. "Don't recommend it (gap year). Sometimes it can work, but I know kids who get what they think is a good job during a gap year and don't go back. But later on, they realize there are no benefits, and they have been out so long they can't get back into school." This, of course, traps the student and prevents them from being able to move forward in any career. This feedback loop is quite damaging and has been said many times in the case agaisnt gap years. Math teacher Dallas Burright, a younger teacher going on his second year of teaching, is wary of gap years as well. But is slightly more optimistic about their usefulness. "It's fine if you are using it for your own benefit. Like traveling, or taking an internship. But not for playing video games," Dallas Burright said. He shared that he believes a gap year can be a valuable time to find out more about what you want to pursue, making it beneficial for college and beyond. However, he did share the same sentiment as the other teachers that one should be careful to get back into school afterwards regardless. Even current seniors at EHS aren't keen on taking gap years. "I personally wouldn't do it," senior Jules Joens said. "I could see using a gap year for work to finance college, or for travel. But especially in the case of travel; I think it would be better to do it during the summer, even if it means less travel time. It's really up to each person."
Cardinal Gregory issues norms to implement pope's 'Traditionis Custodes' July 25, 2022By Mark Zimmermann Catholic News Service Filed Under: Feature, News, World News WASHINGTON (CNS) — Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory of Washington promulgated liturgical norms July 22 for implementing Pope Francis' apostolic letter "Traditionis Custodes" ("Guardians of the Tradition"), which limits celebrations of the Mass according to the rite used before the Second Vatican Council. Effective Sept. 21, celebration of the Mass according to the 1962 Roman Missal can take place on Sundays in three nonparochial churches in the archdiocese: Chapel of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Forest Glen, Md.; the Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in Washington; and St. Dominic Mission Church in Aquasco, Md. Cardinal Gregory, in a letter to priests serving in the archdiocese, said that "it is clear that the Holy Father's sincere intention is to bring about greater unity in the church through the celebration of the Mass and sacraments" according to St. Paul VI's 1970 Roman Missal, "which was the fruit of the renewal in the liturgy" called for by Vatican II. The pope's apostolic letter, promulgated July 16, 2021, contains a set of norms for the celebration of what is popularly known as the "traditional Latin Mass" or "Tridentine Mass" — drawn from the 1962 Roman Missal. On the day the pope issued the document, Cardinal Gregory said in a statement that he would prayerfully reflect on the apostolic letter and carefully consider how the pontiff's intentions would be implemented in Archdiocese of Washington. As of Sept. 21 — the feast day of St. Matthew the Apostle, the archdiocese's patron saint — all priests, deacons and instituted ministers need to request in writing and receive permission from Washington's archbishop to celebrate the Eucharist using 1962 Roman Missal either privately or publicly in the territory of the archdiocese. Quoting "Traditionis Custodes," the archdiocesan norms state that clergy and ministers making this request must affirm in writing "the validity and legitimacy of the liturgical reform dictated by" Vatican II and the magisterium "of the supreme pontiffs." Cardinal Gregory noted in the archdiocesan norms that Pope Francis issued "Traditionis Custodes" "motu proprio," or on his own initiative, "as a means of encouragement and to bring harmony to the celebration of the Mass" in the church's Latin-rite "so that together we may with one accord glorify God." The pope's apostolic letter, he said, restored celebration of the Mass according to the liturgical books promulgated by St. Paul VI and St. John Paul II "and declared that these reformed liturgical books guarantee the fidelity" of the Vatican II reform. In his letter to priests, Cardinal Gregory noted that he had formed a working group to assist him with implementing "Traditionis Custodes," and in the recent archdiocesan listening sessions for the 2023 Synod of Bishops on synodality, the faithful offered their input about the Mass according to the liturgical books issued before 1970. A plea expressed in the listening sessions was that Mass celebrated according to the 1962 Roman Missal "continue to be provided for in our archdiocese," he said. "In the time I have served as archbishop of Washington, I have discovered that the majority of the faithful who participate in these liturgical celebrations in the Archdiocese of Washington are sincere, faith-filled and well-meaning," the cardinal said. "Likewise, the majority of priests who celebrate these liturgies are doing their very best to respond pastorally to the needs of the faithful," he added. He named Msgr. Charles Pope, pastor of Holy Comforter-St. Cyprian Parish in Washington, to act as his delegate in the pastoral care of faithful who wish to celebrate the Eucharist using the 1962 Missal. The delegate will serve as a moderator of all the clergy and instituted ministers who have received permission to celebrate that Mass. Cardinal Gregory said that as the norms for "Traditionis Custodes" are implemented in the archdiocese, "please be assured of my constant prayers for the faithful who share a deep devotion to the celebration of the Mass" using the 1962 missal. According to the archdiocesan norms, all celebrations of Mass on Christmas, the Triduum, Easter and Pentecost Sunday "are to use exclusively" the liturgical books promulgated by Sts. Paul and John Paul, "either in the vernacular or in Latin." "If permission is granted to celebrate the Eucharist according to the Roman Missal of 1962," the norms state, "the Scripture readings must be proclaimed in the vernacular," using the official translation recognized by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, "and the homily is to reflect the norms and directions for preaching indicated by the Second Vatican Council and post-conciliar documents." In addition, the norms also require that all other sacraments be celebrated using the liturgical books promulgated by Sts. Paul and John Paul. "These rites may be celebrated in Latin," the norms said. "The intention of these requirements," Cardinal Gregory wrote, "is to foster and make manifest the unity of this local church, as well as to provide all Catholics in the archdiocese an opportunity to offer a concrete manifestation of the acceptance of the teaching of the Second Vatican Council and its liturgical books." The norms will be reviewed in three years. Zimmermann is editor of the Catholic Standard newspaper of the Archdiocese of Washington. Read More World News Rise in religious persecution fueled in part by authoritarianism, says U.S. watchdog agency In '60 Minutes' interview, pope clarifies same-sex blessings, speaks out against war, says clergy abuse can 'not be tolerated' National Eucharistic Pilgrimage journeys begin on Pentecost, inviting torrents of grace on U.S. Northern pilgrimage begins with a call to holiness and an intimate walk in the woods with Jesus Turn conflict into cooperation, commitment, pope tells university leaders Hours after his first Communion boy begins remarkable recovery from debilitating illness Copyright © 2022 Catholic News Service/U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Print In '60 Minutes' interview, pope clarifies same-sex blessings, speaks out against war, says clergy abuse can 'not be tolerated'
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a popular natural remedy for various ailments, including pain relief, anxiety, and depression. CBD products come in various forms, from oils and tinctures to capsules and gummies. In recent years, CBD gummies have gained popularity as a convenient and tasty way to consume CBD regularly.But, is it safe to take CBD gummies daily? This question has been a hot topic, and experts have different views on this matter. In this article, we will delve into the benefits and risks of taking CBD gummies daily and get expert insights to help you make an informed decision. Firstly, it's essential to understand how CBD works in the body and how it differs from tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. Unlike THC, CBD doesn't cause a "high" or alter a person's state of mind. Instead, it interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling system that regulates various functions, such as sleep, mood, appetite, and immune response. By interacting with the ECS, CBD can potentially alleviate symptoms of various ailments. ✔ Gummies, Oil, Capsules, Creams, Vapes, CBD for Pets ✔ Top Quality - Best Brands ✔ Side-Effects - NA ✔ Availability - Online ✔ Shipping - World Wide ✔ View All Products → https://bit.ly/3MF66TT Over the past few years, CBD has made waves in the health and wellness industry as a natural supplement that offers a variety of benefits. CBD products come in many forms, including oils, topicals, and capsules. However, one product that has gained a significant amount of attention is CBD gummies. CBD gummies are a fun and easy way to incorporate CBD into your daily routine. They are available in a wide range of flavors and strengths, making them a popular choice for people who want to enjoy the benefits of CBD without the taste of the natural plant extract. What sets CBD gummies apart from other CBD products is their convenience and portability. They are easy to carry in a purse or backpack, and you can take them on the go. Additionally, they offer an exact dosage of CBD, making it easier to monitor your intake. Another reason for the growing popularity of CBD gummies is the potential benefits they offer. CBD is known for its ability to provide relief from anxiety, pain, and inflammation. Additionally, it may help with sleep, mood regulation, and cognitive function. While research is still ongoing, many people have reported positive experiences with CBD gummies. In conclusion, CBD gummies have quickly become a favorite among CBD users due to their convenience, effectiveness, and delicious flavors. As always, it's essential to speak with a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement regimen, including CBD gummies. CBD gummies have become increasingly popular as a way to consume cannabidiol, a compound extracted from the hemp plant. While research is still limited, anecdotal evidence suggests that daily consumption of CBD gummies may provide several potential benefits. While these potential benefits are promising, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of daily CBD gummy consumption. It is also important to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement regimen. While CBD gummies are becoming more and more popular as a daily health supplement, there are some potential risks and side effects to consider before integrating them into your routine. Some of the most common side effects of regular CBD gummy use include digestive issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and changes in appetite. In addition, there are some concerns about the potential impact of CBD on liver function, particularly for individuals who already have liver disease or are taking other medications that may impact liver function. CBD has the potential to interact with certain enzymes in the liver, potentially leading to liver damage if taken in large doses or for extended periods of time. Another potential risk of regular CBD gummy use is the development of tolerance. Over time, your body may become less sensitive to the effects of CBD, meaning you may need to take larger doses in order to achieve the same benefits. In some cases, this can lead to dependency or addiction. It's also important to note that CBD gummies are not regulated by the FDA, meaning that it can be difficult to know exactly what you're getting in terms of dosage and purity. Some brands may contain lower levels of CBD than advertised or may be contaminated with harmful substances. Ultimately, if you're considering adding CBD gummies to your daily routine, it's important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and side effects. As with any supplement or medication, it's always a good idea to speak with your doctor before starting, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications that may interact with CBD. When it comes to CBD products, not all are created equal. It is important to choose products that are made from high-quality, organic hemp. This ensures that the final product will not have harmful contaminants that can be harmful to your health. Additionally, opting for quality CBD products from reputable companies can ensure that you are getting the correct dosage of CBD per serving. This is important because taking too much or too little can have unintended effects on your health and wellness. Third-party lab testing is another important factor in choosing quality CBD products. This testing ensures that the CBD content is accurately labeled and that there are no unexpected additives or contaminants in the product. Finally, choosing quality CBD products can also ensure that you are getting the full spectrum of CBD benefits. This means that you are not only getting the benefits of CBD, but also other beneficial cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that work together to enhance the overall effectiveness of the product. CBD gummies have gained widespread popularity as a natural supplement for various health benefits. However, it is important to remember that just like any other medication or supplement, proper dosage plays a vital role in ensuring a safe and effective consumption of CBD gummies. As per the expert recommendations, beginners are advised to start with a low dosage of CBD gummies, usually 5-10mg per day, and gradually increase the dosage based on their body's response. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting the intake of CBD gummies. Consuming a higher dosage of CBD gummies than what is recommended can result in various side effects such as fatigue, drowsiness, and dry mouth. It is also important to note that the effects of CBD gummies may differ from person to person depending on their age, weight, health condition, and CBD tolerance level. By following proper dosage recommendations and consuming high-quality CBD gummies, one can enjoy the benefits of CBD without any risks of potential side effects or long-term health implications. While CBD gummies have been reported to have numerous benefits such as alleviating anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain, it is important to consider the potential interaction of CBD with other medications. CBD gummies may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, antipsychotics, and antidepressants. CBD is metabolized by the liver, which is the same pathway that some medications use. Therefore, taking CBD gummies daily with other medications may increase or decrease their effectiveness or even cause adverse reactions. If you are currently taking medications and are considering adding CBD gummies to your daily routine, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider beforehand. Your healthcare provider can help you determine if taking CBD gummies daily is safe and if it may interact with any of your current medications. Additionally, your healthcare provider can recommend the appropriate dosage of CBD gummies to take based on your medical history and current medications. It is also important to note that CBD gummies purchased from unregulated sources may contain varying levels of CBD and other harmful additives. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase CBD gummies from reputable sources and to carefully review the product labels before consumption. CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound that is derived from the hemp plant. While hemp is a species of Cannabis Sativa, it is distinct from marijuana because it contains only trace amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC is the psychoactive compound in marijuana that causes a "high." As a result of the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp and its derivatives, including CBD, were removed from the list of controlled substances. However, this does not mean that CBD is legal in all 50 states. Whether or not CBD is legal depends on several factors, including the state in which you live, the source of the CBD (e.g., marijuana vs. hemp), and the THC content of the CBD product. Despite the growing popularity of CBD products, regulation of the industry is still in its early stages. The FDA has approved one CBD-derived drug to treat seizures associated with two rare forms of epilepsy. However, the agency has not approved CBD for any other use. Additionally, while the FDA is responsible for regulating CBD products that are marketed with therapeutic claims, enforcement has been minimal. If you are considering taking CBD gummies daily, it is important to follow some expert guidelines to ensure safe and effective use. Here are some tips: By following these expert guidelines, you can safely and effectively incorporate CBD gummies into your daily routine and enjoy their potential benefits. According to experts, CBD is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, but daily use of CBD gummies may still cause some side effects, such as dry mouth, low blood pressure, drowsiness, and changes in appetite or weight. However, the severity and frequency of these side effects can vary depending on the individual and the dosage and quality of CBD gummies consumed. As with any supplement, the optimal dosage of CBD gummies can vary depending on various factors, such as body weight, health condition, and treatment objectives. Experts suggest starting with a low dose, such as 5-10 mg of CBD per day, and gradually increasing the dosage as needed to achieve the desired effects. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using CBD or changing any medication regimen. As of 2018, the Farm Bill legalized the production and consumption of hemp-derived CBD products, such as CBD gummies, in the United States, as long as the THC content is no more than 0.3% by dry weight. However, the legality of CBD products may vary from state to state, so it is important to check local regulations and buy from reputable sources. Yes, CBD can interact with some medications, particularly those that are metabolized by the liver enzymes CYP450, such as blood thinners, anti-seizure drugs, and some antidepressants and antipsychotics. CBD can inhibit or enhance the activity of these enzymes, which may increase or decrease the effects of these medications. Therefore, it is crucial to talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using CBD with other medications. Some of the potential benefits of regular CBD consumption include reduced anxiety and stress, improved sleep quality, pain relief, anti-inflammatory effects, and better mood and cognitive function. However, the research on these effects is still limited and inconclusive, and the benefits may vary depending on the individual and the dosage and form of CBD used. It is important to consult with a doctor before using CBD for any medical conditions. ✔ Gummies, Oil, Capsules, Creams, Vapes, CBD for Pets ✔ Top Quality - Best Brands ✔ Side-Effects - NA ✔ Availability - Online ✔ Shipping - World Wide ✔ View All Products → https://bit.ly/3MF66TT As someone who struggles with anxiety and stress, I was excited to try CBD gummies as a natural solution. After doing some research and consulting with a doctor, I decided to start taking them daily. I can confidently say that they have made a positive difference in my mental health. However, I would advise others to be cautious and do their own research before adding CBD to their daily routine. It's also important to note that the quality of CBD products can vary greatly. I personally opt for gummies made with organic, non-GMO ingredients and third-party lab tested for purity. Jessica Martinez Before taking CBD gummies daily, I had a lot of questions and concerns about their safety. After consulting with my doctor and doing my own research, I decided to give them a try. It's been several months now and I can confidently say that they have made a positive impact on my mental health. I feel more relaxed, less anxious, and have noticed improvements in my sleep quality. However, I think it's important to address some of the common misconceptions surrounding CBD. Despite being derived from the cannabis plant, CBD does not produce the psychoactive effects associated with THC. It is also not addictive and has a lower risk of side effects compared to traditional anxiety medications. That being said, the quality of CBD products on the market can vary greatly. It's crucial to do your research and purchase from a reputable source to ensure their safety and effectiveness. Personally, I opt for gummies made with organic, non-GMO ingredients and third-party lab tested for purity. Overall, I believe that CBD gummies can be a valuable tool for those struggling with anxiety and stress. However, it's important to make informed decisions and consult with a healthcare professional before adding them to your daily routine. I have been taking CBD gummies daily for a few months now and I haven't experienced any negative side effects. In fact, I feel more relaxed and less anxious since starting this routine. However, I do make sure to purchase high-quality gummies from a reputable source to ensure their safety.
It's a fact that driving can be dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 33, 561 Americans were killed in 2012 in the 5, 615, 000 police reported motor vehicle crashes. The numbers for each year after that remain pretty much the same. These facts and other important information can be found in Traffic Safety Facts published the NHTA. The Business Insider reports that fatal crashes are caused by these factors: careless driving, road rage, improper lane changing, failure to stay in proper lane, police pursuit, failure to yield right of way, failure to obey signs and driving on the wrong side of the road. This source also states that the various U.S. States are prone to specific types of motor vehicle accidents. In Texas it is failure to stay in the proper lane; in Arizona it is failure to yield the right away, and in Pennsylvania, ironically, it is driving on the wrong side of the road. It has been stated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that most accidents occur daily between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m. which during the week is the "rush hour." It is the time when many people are tired and anxious to get home. Still when all the data is laid out and broken down by the days of the week, every recent accident study claims that Saturday claims the most human fatalities and Tuesday, the least. No underlying social patterns can be found to explain why this effect occurs. However Dayology has some thoughts on this matter: Saturday is the most dangerous day to drive. It is governed by Saturn, the agent of seriousness, responsibility and death. It rules matters of hardship and loss. On the other hand Tuesday, is the least dangerous day to drive. Tuesday is ruled by Mars overseeing the skillful use of tools, weapons and vehicles. Mars is the planet traditionally recognized for quick responses and problem solving. While these specific influences may be affecting the behaviors of drivers on Saturday and Tuesday, we still must do our best to drive carefully every day of the week. UPDATE – A 2023 report from SMASHNEGATIVITY still gives Saturday as the most dangerous day to drive all year long. It now names Monday as unsafe because it is the day of the week in which adults return to work and kids go back to school after several days off. Monday is felt to be a very emotional day. The ruler is the Moon, representing babies, children, parents and child-care workers. Thursday is being added to the dangerous days due to its high stress levels and general fatigue. Jupiter is the ruler of the Thursday and while it is generally positive, it can take on more that it can handle. Car-sharing and job-sharing could be an answer to these problems. By the way the assignment of the "dangerous days" changes during holidays, when the roughest and toughest days correspond to patterns of getting to and leaving destinations. On these "holidays" our social responses seem to override the underlying astrological patterns.
How Much Is Puppy Ear Cropping This will cost between $300 and $800. How much is puppy ear cropping. Dobes are known for their pointed ears, even though this happens surgically, not naturally. Vets charge anywhere from $150.00 up to $800.00 in some cases. It is illegal in the uk and wales but still legal in other parts of the world such as the us and some european countries. The best age to crop a dog's ear varies with factors like breed, age, and size of the puppy. Tail docking is controversial because there are claims of 'phantom tail syndrome' which is much like phantom limb syndrome. However, depending on the type of procedure that is done, the costs can easily reach the $1,000 mark. For instance, basset hounds and cocker spaniels are very prone genetically to ear infections, and yet we would never think of cropping their puppy ears. Belton veterinary clinic is our recommend place to take your puppy for ear cropping. It's a procedure performed on few dog breeds, particularly doberman pinschers, to mold their floppy ears into a pointed shape. Doberman ear cropping is very common. Video of an ear cropping surgery This can cause pain and make your dog snappy if their tail is touched. On average, you can expect to pay anything from $150 to over $600. Some of these procedures have traditionally been carried out by laypersons without due regard to the health and welfare of the animal. How much does doberman ear cropping cost? With great dane ear cropping, it's earlier the better. Although the procedure does require the puppy to be anesthetized, it may lessen your fears about cropping to know that the operation takes. It ranges anywhere between $150 to more than $600.
Effect of Examination Malpractice on Students Attitude to Learn in Public Secondary School (in Makurdi Benue State) Chapter One Objective of the Study The purpose of this study is to find out the causes and effects of examination malpractice in secondary schools, especially in Makurdi of Benue state. It also seeks to find out various methods employed by students as well as the roles by teachers, parents, secondary school authorities and the society at large. Basically, the study seeks to: - Ascertain the factors that brings about examination malpractice in secondary schools; - Ascertain the effects of examination malpractice on the performance of secondary school students; - Ascertain appropriate control measures towards curbing examination malpractice in secondary schools. This chapter reviews various works by different writers and researchers on examination malpractices. It is organized into conceptual framework, theoretical framework, empirical studies and summary of literature review. Conceptual Framework Concept of Examination Malpractices Meaning and Nature of Examination Malpractices Examination malpractice has been given different meanings by different scholars with the meanings pointing at one thing. Akpama, Bassey, Idaka and Bassey (2009) viewed examination malpractice as an unlawful behaviour or activity engaged by school children at whatever level of education, to have personal advantage in examination over their mates who are completing in the same examination. Joshua (2008) opined that examination malpractice is any unauthorized or unapproved action, inaction, activity, behaviour or practice that is associated with the preparation, conduct and processing of examination and other forms of assessment and carried out by any person involved in preparing for, giving, taking and processing that examination at any level. In the view of the University of Portharcourt Academic Policies (2009), examination malpractice refers to all forms of cheating which directly or indirectly falsify the ability of the students. The definition above is an "unwholesome behaviour which help the doer to perform better than he / she would ordinary done if not for the act". Similarly, Hudson (2006) viewed examination fraud as "the act as to cheat ones way to success in an examination". He equated examination malpractice with "Expo" which he described as "a form of misconduct in examination halls". Also in their contributions, Ibiam (2007) and WAEC (2005) posited that examination malpractice is an abdication of examination ethics as those values which constitute free and fair examination standard. Ibiam opined that cheating in examination is a vice that makes examination lose fairness as "a test of knowledge". Daramola and Oluyeba (2007) saw examination malpractice as any irregular behaviour exhibited by candidate or any body charged with the conduct of examination in or outside the examination hall, before during or after such examination. They include the following as examination malpractice, paper leakage, cheating, impersonation, swooping of scripts in the examination hall, collusion, result / certificate forgery, physical / verbal assault on examination administration. Oluamaro (2009) wrote "dubbling, giraffing, talkie, use of computers, body writing, string pull method, local syndicate, stamped method false pockets, under lockers are all included as forms of examination malpractices". Onanuga (2008) also said that examination malpractices are categorized as either internally aided or externally aided. The internally aided in the student "giraffing", while the externally aided include peripheral answer scripts and supervisors accepting already prepared answer books when packing other candidates answer scripts. In an article written by Onunuaga (2009), he believes that the perpetration of examination malpractice is an embarrassing act involving parents, students and teachers even the authorities. He went further to say that the society is corrupt. The always search for the best for their children, they are the main culprits of examination malpractices, they spend what they have to get what they need. The corrupt parents and their wares, he explained that the aim of any body establishing a private school or tutorial centre is to male profit. They aid examination malpractice in order to have more students and more money. However examination malpractice act 33 of 1999 revised the above decree but now stipulated punishment ranging from a fine of N50,000.00 to N100,000.00 and imprisonment for a term of 3-4 years with or without option of fine. This new development is due to the inability of the appropriate authorities to enforce the old Decree 20 of 1985. Despite all these laws, examination malpractice has been on the increase and thus may be due to non- implementation of the laws. Reasons for it being the low moral standard in schools, candidates" fear of failure, lack of confidence in themselves, inadequate preparation, laziness and "419" syndrome that have eaten deep into the life of the society. Types of Examination Malpractice According to Ezekiel-Hart (2011), there are three major types of examination malpractice: Type I: Cheating before the examination: This type of cheating occurs when students are given already prepared examination questions prior to the examination. This gives them the opportunity to read only for particular questions or even take already prepared answers into the examination hall. This type of cheating often occurs with the collaboration of the subject teacher, the typists or anybody to whom the examination question are exposed before the actual examination date. Type 2: Cheating during the examination: This is the most common type of malpractice. It occurs within the examination time and venue where students cheat by copying from one another, or from notebooks and textbook brought into the venue. Some students pay others to write for them, branding them mercenaries. Others copy from their body or stuff their pockets, brassieres, pants with copied materials. The use of impersonators has made examination a meaningless tool for assessment. In this chapter, attention was paid on the methods employed by researchers in obtaining information geared towards ascertaining the causes and effects of examination malpractice on performance of secondary school students. Design of the Study The researcher adopted a descriptive survey research method in ascertaining. The causes and effects of examination malpractice among secondary school students, using selected schools in Makurdi. A descriptive survey research method according to Iwuji (2000) "is primarily intended to describe the nature and degree of conditions which exist". Osegbo and Enemou (2009) posited: "descriptive survey are concerned with the description of events as they are". Population of the Study The population for this study was made up of one hundred and fifty (150) students and fifty (50) teachers from five (5) \selected schools in Makurdi in Benue State, as shown in the table below: This chapter dealt with the presentation, analysis and interpretation of data. It is organized and presented according to research questions which were structured into two (2) categories, namely Section A and Section B. Section A dealt with responses from students while section B dealt with responses from teachers. Section A (students' responses) This chapter dealt with the discussion of findings, educational implication of the study, limitations of the study, suggestions for further study, recommendations, summary of the study and conclusion. Meanwhile, discussion of the findings will be presented in the categories of sections A and B, but in accordance with the research questions in each category. Discussion of the Findings Session A (students Responses) Research question 1: What are the factors that bring about examination malpractices? In table III, which presented the results of responses, it was found that examination malpractices are brought about by: Academic laziness of students, lack of qualified and dedicated teachers, the quest and rush for a good result and certificate, congested sitting arrangement during examinations, as well as, fear of failure in examination by the student concerned" The finding is in consonant with Nweze (2008) who identified some of the causes of examination malpractices by secondary school student to include: students do not work hard, students cheat in order to pass, as well, the lack of examination techniques". Moreover, this lack of examination techniques may embrace poor sitting arrangement and insured examination questions and scripts. Research question 2: What are the effects of examination malpractices on the performance of students? Table IV presented the result of the findings based on the above research question and revealed that impairment of the objectives of secondary education, discouragement of good student from studying hard, cancellation of examination / confiscation of results, poor performance of secondary school students at work places, as well as, de-recognition of secondary school students, constitutes the effects of examination fraud on the performance of secondary school students. In line with the findings, Falade (2012), observed that West African Examination Council (WAEC) has decided to cancel in its entirely some of the withheld results of November/December 2011 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) based on the decision of the Nigerian Examination Committee"s (NEC) recommended sanctions. In the same way Jimoh (2009), lamented that examination frauds lead to loss of ones integrity, bread unproductive and non-functional graduates. The findings of the research questions are in line with these previous researchers. Research Question 3: What are the control measures in bringing about an end to examination fraud? In table v which showed the results of the above question, it was discovered that adequate funding of secondary education, employment of qualified and dedicated teachers, student desire to acquire knowledge, adequate check of entry requirements and qualifications, as well as adequate sitting arrangements during examination constitute part of how the examination frauds could be remedied. The findings are in consonants with Shonekan (2011) who partly proffers "provision of adequate facilities in terms of textbooks, well-equipped laboratories, classroom, conducive teaching and learning atmosphere and covering of syllabuses by the teachers" as probable solution to examination malpractices. Section B (Teachers responses) Researcher question 1: What are the factors that bring about examination malpractices? In table VI, where the findings of the above research question was presented, it is discovered that teachers accepted "corrupt invigilators, parents" desperate quest for examination success of their children, teachers" inability to teach well and cover the scheme of work, emphasis on paper qualification, as well as population explosion and sitting congestion during examination to be part of the major determinants of examination frauds. The findings are in line with Jimoh (2009) who further identified the causes of examination malpractice to include: The students" non-challant over studying, parental indiscipline and abuse of wealth, teachers" lack of using adequate instructional materials and poor covering of the syllabus supervisors and invigilators" gratification of all sort, such as cash, snacks, drinks and variety of others compulsive demands, lack of conducive teaching and learning environment, lack of teachers motivation and emphasis on certification. Research question 2: What are the effects of examination malpractices on the performance of students? Table Vii presented the summary and findings for the above question, and revealed the followings are the effects of examination malpractice on the performance of students: emergence of bad reputation to the school found guilty, fasten the destruction of the standard of education, parents withdrawal of their children from the affected school, employers loss of confidence in the educational system, as well as the inability of students/graduates to prove the worth of the certificate. According to Edikpa (2006), examination malpractices have continued to threaten the relevance and quality of education. This also suggests that confidence in our educational system is now eluded, as employers have devised a new way of testing graduates seeking for job, in as much as, the candidates may possess first-class honour. Research question 3: What are the control measures in bringing about solutions for examination malpractices? In table Viii, the findings of the above question were revealed. These include the control measures are as follows: safe keeping of examination questions and answered scripts, adequate spacing of students during examination, re-orientation of invigilators/supervisors and teachers on examination ethics, adequate funding of school in all ramification, self discipline on the part of both teachers and invigilators. In the words of Shonekan (2011), adequate and large examination halls, employment of school guidance counselors to counsel students, as well as the increment of supervisors and invigilators in the examination hall, constitute part of the ways that examination frauds could be arrested. Based on the findings of this study, it has been seen by other learned people that this examination malpractices could be traced as far back as 1914, so many years age before WAEC was established. In other words, examination is not a thing of today. This paper has taken a cursory look at the concept of examination malpractice among secondary school students. it identified its causes, forms and effects. The paper also highlighted the solutions that can help to bring lasting solutions to the deadly cankerworm. Every problem has a solution. What it takes to eradicate examination malpractice in secondary schools is to encourage and motivate students to read and the teachers to discipline themselves and maintain discipline in all ramifications. Both people should imbibe good moral values. The parents at home should try and inculcate good moral to their wards. This is because the teachers, students and parents are in a better position to eradicate it since every effort at committing examination malpractice is to get excellent results and amiable certificates to be employable and make money. The teachers and students have roles to play in order to eradicate examination malpractice. Again, if the saying that the youths of today are the leaders of tomorrow is valid, then everybody must make "an to nip" this horrifying situation in the bud for a better standard in our secondary and other levels of education. Based on the findings made so far, the researchers wish to recommend the following; - There should be re-orientation towards moral values. Moral instructions that can adequately provide the understanding of the ills in examination malpractice should constitute part of their curricular. - Logistic value should be applied. There should be proper control of the supply, distribution and custodian of examination materials should be made in order to avoid leakage. - There should be a serious re-orientation of the Nigerian society on discipline monetary or material achievement such as certificates. - The guidance and counseling services in secondary schools should also help to offer guidance to the students in their choices of subject according to their individual and natural abilities and interests. - Secondary schools that are found in such ugly acts should be banned for a period of time, and the names of such schools and their officials involved should be announced and finally publicized so as to serve as a deterant in intending schools. - The government should encourage and motivate the school administrators by ensuring that they are all well paid and ensure that their conditions of service are secured. There is need for adequate provision of educational materials and facilities that will be conducive and motivate both the students and teachers for proper and effective teaching and learning. The teeming popularity of students should also be considered in the course of all these, to minimize examination malpractice. - Charity they say begins at home. Parents should extol hard work, dignity of labour and discouraged dubious and fraudulent behaviour such as providing their wards with money to obtain marks or question papers. They should make out time to check the performance of their children and start on time to help them in difficult areas or even pay private teachers to aid them at home instead of buying marks for them. This will help curb the ugly malaise of examination malpractice. - Akanni, O. O., & Odofin, B. (2015). Reducing Examination Malpractices in Nigerian Schools through Effective Continuous Assessment (C. A.) Techniques as an Alternative to One-Shot Examination in Osun State, Nigeria. American Journal of Educational Research, 2(1): 91 – 101 - Akaranga, S. I., & Ongong, J. J. (2013). The phenomenon of Examination Malpractice: An Example of Nairobi and Kenyatta Universities. Journal of Education and Practice, 4(18): 87 – 96 - Anzene, S. J. (2014). Trends in Examination Malpractice in Nigerian Educational System and its Effects on the Socio-Economic Development of Nigeria. Asian Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, 2(3): 1 – 8 - Emaikwu, S. O. (2012). Assessing the Impact of Examination Malpractices on the Measurement of Ability in Nigeria. International Journal of Social Sciences & Education, 2(4): 748 – 757 - George, I. N., & Ukpong, D. E. (2013). Contemporary Social Problems in Nigeria and its Impact on National Development: Implication for Guidance and Counselling Services. Journal of Educational and Social Research, 3(2): 167 – 173 - Jimoh, B. O. (2009). Examination Malpractice in Secondary Schools in Nigeria: What sustains it? European Journal of Educational Studies,1(3): 101 – 108 - Nnam, M. U., & Inah, A. F. (2015). Empirical Investigation into the Causes, Forms and Consequences of Examination Malpractice in Nigerian Institutions of Higher Learning. International Journal of Novel Research in Humanity and Social Sciences, 2(1): 52 – 62
When the Chimpanzee waltzes into your life as a spirit animal, it carries a profound message. Embodying playfulness, intelligence, and adaptability, the Chimpanzee encourages you to tap into your inner creativity and wisdom. It's a gentle nudge to reconnect with your youthful spirit, allowing you to view the world with renewed curiosity. Also, it's an emblem of communication, nudging you to express yourself honestly and clearly. Table of Content - Spiritual meaning of the Chimpanzee - Chimpanzee spirit animal characteristics and personality - What does the Chimpanzee spirit animal represent? - Chimpanzee spirit animal positive powers - Chimpanzee spirit animal negative powers - The spirit of the Chimpanzee as healer and teacher - How to call the animal spirit of a Chimpanzee for help? - The Chimpanzee, an ancient spirit animal worshiped in many traditions - The spirit of the Chimpanzee and healing - Chimpanzee totem animal - Chimpanzee spirit animal and grounding forces - How does the Chimpanzee animal spirit make itself known? - How do I honor my spirit animal? - How to understand your Chimpanzee spirit animal message? - Chimpanzee mythology and folklore - Chimpanzee meaning in Greek and Roman mythology - Chimpanzee meaning and symbolism in Finnish culture - Chimpanzee symbolism in Anglo-Saxon folklore - Chimpanzee in Native American culture - Chimpanzee symbolism in Celtic folklore - Chimpanzee symbolism in Asia - Chimpanzee meaning in Nordic mythology - Chimpanzee in Slavic Culture and Folklore - Chimpanzee symbolism in Quran - Chimpanzee symbolism in Indian culture - Chimpanzee in astrology & zodiac - Chimpanzee symbolism in Chinese cultures - Chimpanzee in the Bible - Chimpanzee in Chinese Medicine - Chimpanzee meaning in feng shui - Chimpanzee tattoo meaning - Chimpanzee sayings - Chimpanzee slang - Modern Chimpanzee symbolism - Chimpanzee Power Animal - Chimpanzee Dreams Meaning - Chimpanzee Facts - Chimpanzee spirit animal final thoughts Spiritual meaning of the Chimpanzee On a spiritual plane, the Chimpanzee resonates with harmony and community. These creatures are deeply social, pointing towards the significance of nurturing your relationships. With an emphasis on empathy, the Chimpanzee spirit animal urges you to understand others and build connections based on mutual respect and love. It's a subtle reminder that we, as humans, are interlinked and our strength lies in unity. Chimpanzee spirit animal characteristics and personality Individuals who resonate with the Chimpanzee spirit animal are witty, adaptive, and good communicators. Like Chimpanzees, they hold an innate curiosity and often pursue knowledge and novelty with fervor. They are socially inclined, fostering strong bonds within their community. They have a playful side too, enjoying the whimsical aspects of life while also knowing when it's time to get serious. What does the Chimpanzee spirit animal represent? Chimpanzee spirit animal signifies wisdom, adaptability, and communication. It embodies the art of problem-solving and encourages the pursuit of knowledge. It's a symbol of the balance between light-heartedness and responsibility, reminding us to stay curious and playful while also taking care of our duties. It echoes the importance of relationships and empathy, pushing us to cultivate a sense of community. Chimpanzee spirit animal positive powers The positive powers of the Chimpanzee spirit animal spring from its intelligence and social nature. These include problem-solving, adaptability, creativity, and efficient communication. They inspire individuals to approach life with curiosity, fostering learning and growth. Furthermore, its playful energy can bring joy and levity even amidst challenges, supporting resilience and a positive perspective. Chimpanzee spirit animal negative powers While the Chimpanzee spirit animal's powers are largely positive, they can occasionally manifest negatively. Misdirected curiosity may lead to meddling and mischief, causing unnecessary issues. Additionally, the Chimpanzee's social tendencies can sometimes trigger over-dependence on others, potentially stifling individual growth and autonomy. The spirit of the Chimpanzee as healer and teacher Within the Chimpanzee spirit animal dwells both a healer and a teacher. Its healing power lies in its ability to instill joy and warmth, aiding in emotional recovery. As a teacher, it imparts wisdom about balancing responsibility with fun, nurturing relationships, and learning from every experience. How to call the animal spirit of a Chimpanzee for help? Seeking the Chimpanzee spirit animal's assistance begins with quiet introspection. Establish a serene space, free from distractions. In this tranquil state, imagine the Chimpanzee and ask for its guidance sincerely. You can also use symbols or images of Chimpanzees during this process to reinforce your connection. The Chimpanzee, an ancient spirit animal worshiped in many traditions Throughout history, various cultures have revered the Chimpanzee as a sacred being. Known for their intelligence and community-oriented nature, they've been worshiped as symbols of wisdom, leadership, and social cohesion. Rituals and ceremonies often featured the Chimpanzee as a focal point to encourage learning, growth, and unity. The spirit of the Chimpanzee and healing In the realm of healing, the Chimpanzee spirit animal can act as a profound catalyst for emotional recovery. Its playful, joyful energy aids in alleviating stress and negativity, fostering emotional healing. Simultaneously, its communal nature encourages connection and empathy, which can contribute to psychological healing. Chimpanzee totem animal If you're drawn towards the Chimpanzee totem, it's a clear indicator that you're someone who values social connection, intelligence, and playfulness. As a totem, the Chimpanzee guides you towards achieving balance in life – juggling responsibilities with fun, nurturing relationships, and always maintaining a thirst for knowledge. Chimpanzee spirit animal and grounding forces The Chimpanzee spirit animal embodies grounding forces. Its earthly existence symbolizes stability and encourages a strong connection with our natural environment. This grounding energy can help maintain emotional equilibrium, promote mindfulness, and foster a deeper understanding of our place in the world. How does the Chimpanzee animal spirit make itself known? You might be visited by the Chimpanzee spirit in dreams or during meditation. Additionally, repeated real-world encounters with Chimpanzees – whether through images, sounds, or physical presence – could indicate its spiritual presence. It's an invitation to embrace its teachings of community, intelligence, and playfulness. How do I honor my spirit animal? Honoring your Chimpanzee spirit animal can take various forms. You could study about Chimpanzees, learn their traits, and try to embody them in your life. Decorating your personal space with Chimpanzee symbols, images or artefacts, and acknowledging their guidance in your daily routines can also be a fitting tribute. How to understand your Chimpanzee spirit animal message? Interpreting your Chimpanzee spirit animal's message involves paying attention to your thoughts, emotions, and circumstances when it appears. Are you neglecting your relationships? Is your life all work and no play? The Chimpanzee spirit animal's message will often address areas of your life that need more balance or joy. Chimpanzee mythology and folklore The Chimpanzee features prominently in various mythologies and folklores, often as a symbol of wisdom and community. Its playful yet wise nature is seen as a reminder of the balance between levity and responsibility, prompting individuals to maintain this delicate equilibrium in life. Chimpanzee meaning in Greek and Roman mythology While Chimpanzees don't explicitly appear in Greek or Roman mythology, similar primates like monkeys often symbolize cunning and mischievous behavior. However, due to their intelligence and sociability, Chimpanzees could be interpreted as embodying the cleverness and community-oriented values depicted in many Greek and Roman myths. Chimpanzee meaning and symbolism in Finnish culture In Finnish culture, where animals hold significant roles in mythology and folklore, the Chimpanzee isn't a traditional symbol due to geographical reasons. Still, its universal symbolism of intelligence, sociability, and adaptability can resonate with the Finnish appreciation for wisdom, community, and resilience. Chimpanzee symbolism in Anglo-Saxon folklore Anglo-Saxon folklore is steeped in animal symbolism. The Chimpanzee, although not indigenous, can be interpreted through its universal attributes of intelligence and social bonding. It aligns with the Anglo-Saxon ethos of wisdom, community, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Chimpanzee in Native American culture Native American cultures hold a deep respect for all animal spirits. While the Chimpanzee isn't a native species, its traits of intelligence, adaptability, and social connection resonate deeply with the Native American reverence for wisdom, adaptability, and community. Chimpanzee symbolism in Celtic folklore Celtic folklore, rich in animal symbolism, would regard the Chimpanzee as a representation of intelligence, community, and playfulness. Even though Chimpanzees aren't indigenous to Celtic lands, these traits align well with the Celtic appreciation for wisdom, kinship, and joy. Chimpanzee symbolism in Asia In various Asian cultures, the Chimpanzee's symbolism isn't explicitly defined, but its universal symbolism holds true. Traits like intelligence, social cohesion, and adaptability are highly valued, making the Chimpanzee a symbol of these aspects. Chimpanzee meaning in Nordic mythology Although not traditionally present in Nordic mythology, the Chimpanzee's universal symbolism of intelligence, community bonding, and adaptability can find a place in Nordic values. The Chimpanzee's playful yet wise nature aligns with the Nordic appreciation for balance in life. Chimpanzee in Slavic Culture and Folklore In Slavic culture, while the Chimpanzee isn't a traditional symbol, its global attributes of intelligence, sociability, and playfulness can resonate with Slavic values. The Chimpanzee spirit can be a powerful reminder of the importance of community, wisdom, and joy in life. Chimpanzee symbolism in Quran In Islamic tradition, as per the Quran, animals are regarded with respect and considered as communities like humans. While Chimpanzees are not specifically mentioned, their traits of intelligence and social cohesion can be seen in alignment with Islamic teachings about community, wisdom, and mutual respect. Chimpanzee symbolism in Indian culture Indian culture reveres animals and often attributes spiritual symbolism to them. Even though Chimpanzees are not indigenous to India, their universal traits of intelligence, adaptability, and community bonding can be seen as a reflection of Indian values of wisdom, flexibility, and unity. Chimpanzee in astrology & zodiac While not traditionally associated with astrology or the zodiac, the Chimpanzee's traits can find resonance in various astrological signs. Its intelligence and adaptability might echo Gemini's quick-thinking nature, while its social tendencies resonate with the community-oriented sign of Aquarius. Chimpanzee symbolism in Chinese cultures The monkey holds significant meaning in Chinese culture, seen as a symbol of cleverness and curiosity. While not exactly the same species, the Chimpanzee shares similar attributes of intelligence, adaptability, and sociability, making it an emblem of these qualities in a broader sense. Chimpanzee in the Bible While the Chimpanzee isn't specifically mentioned in the Bible, biblical texts often speak about wisdom, community, and harmony with nature – values that align with the Chimpanzee spirit animal's attributes. Chimpanzee in Chinese Medicine In Chinese Medicine, each creature embodies unique energies. Although Chimpanzees aren't directly included, they can be viewed as sources of 'Yang' energy due to their active, social, and intelligent nature, promoting mental agility and social interaction. Chimpanzee meaning in feng shui In the practice of Feng Shui, animals are used as symbols to harmonize energies. While the Chimpanzee isn't traditionally used, its attributes of intelligence, community, and balance can be invoked to stimulate mental clarity, foster relationships, and create balance in one's environment. Chimpanzee tattoo meaning In the world of tattoos, a Chimpanzee might symbolize intelligence, social bonding, and adaptability. A person who chooses this design may be looking to embody the Chimpanzee's wisdom, emphasize the importance of their community, or celebrate their ability to adapt to life's changes. Chimpanzee sayings There are many sayings involving monkeys, the closest relative to Chimpanzees, such as "Monkey see, monkey do". Applying it to Chimpanzees, it serves as a reminder of their observational learning skills, hinting at the importance of role models and learning from others' experiences. Chimpanzee slang In the realm of slang, the term 'chimp' or 'chimpanzee' is often used playfully or endearingly. It may also refer to someone's playful, mischievous behavior, reflecting the jovial and intelligent nature of these creatures. Modern Chimpanzee symbolism In modern culture, Chimpanzees symbolize intelligence, social bonding, adaptability, and the ability to learn through observation. They're seen as mirrors of humanity, embodying both our complex social structures and our inherent need for balance between seriousness and playfulness. Chimpanzee Power Animal As a power animal, the Chimpanzee offers strength in intelligence, community, and adaptability. Calling upon the Chimpanzee power animal can aid in improving communication, embracing change, fostering social bonds, and nurturing a playful approach to life. Chimpanzee Dreams Meaning Dreaming of a Chimpanzee might imply a need to communicate more effectively, foster your relationships, or bring more playfulness into your life. It can also suggest a need to adapt to changes or to approach problems with a keen, analytical mind. Chimpanzee Facts Chimpanzees are remarkably intelligent primates, known for their use of tools and complex social structures. They exhibit a broad range of emotions and have the ability to learn through observation. These traits have made them a symbol of wisdom, adaptability, and community in various cultures. Chimpanzee spirit animal final thoughts With its engaging mix of wisdom, playfulness, and sociability, the Chimpanzee spirit animal brings an enriching message. It encourages you to nurture your intellect, foster your relationships, and embrace life with a balanced sense of seriousness and fun. In a world that can often seem daunting, the Chimpanzee spirit animal serves as a beacon, guiding us towards a more balanced, joyful, and communal existence.
Activists from the world are uniting against Dutch banking giant ING's environmental racism. Specifically, at the company's upcoming AGM they plan to call out ING's financing of a big polluter and climate-wrecking industries harming marginalised communities throughout the Global North and South. On Monday 22 April community defenders from the US, Mexico, Brazil, Liberia, and the Czech Republic will attend ING's AGM to call out the company's financing for destructive big polluters. Fossil fuel finance accountability non-profit BankTrack and Netherlands climate campaign group Fossielvrij have facilitated their travel to Amsterdam, to take on the banking giant at this key meeting. ING financed 'sacrifice zones' Significantly, the coalition of community representatives will draw attention to ING's financing for liquified natural gas (LNG) and steel projects decimating local communities across the globe. In the US, ING has financed seven LNG terminals in the Gulf South, Texas, with more in the pipeline. Notably, data from the IJGlobal database shows that just last year in 2023, ING provided at least US $1.4bn in finance to these LNG terminals and companies planning further expansion. There, the ING financed facilities are adding to the already toxic levels of air and water pollution. Of course, this is because companies have situated this infrastructure in the Texas petrochemical corridor. Two community defenders fighting projects in their towns of Port Arthur and Freeport will take ING to task for the impacts these are having on the health of residents. Predictably, the LNG projects are disproportionately harming Black and Brown communities in these locations. Ostensibly then, these are 'sacrifice zones', which as the Guardian has previously articulated, refer to: parts of the United States where rates of cancer caused by air pollution exceed the US government's own limit of "acceptable risk." Crucially, Black and Brown communities make up a disproportionate percentage of the people in these 'sacrifice zones'. In other words, they are overrepresented in places sitting on the frontlines of the toxic impact from these polluting facilities. Calling out environmental racism Given this, founder and CEO of the Port Arthur Community Action Network John Beard is attending the AGM in protest. At ING's meeting in 2023, Beard previously called the company out on its environmental racism. However, the AGM shut down his question, since it did not concern company profits. Meanwhile, director of Better Brazoria Melanie Oldham will also be testifying to the meeting on the environmental and health impacts of these LNG terminals in her city of Freeport, Texas. She said that: LNG projects, including Freeport LNG near my town, are literally killing us and our Earth. Many frontline community leaders from environmental injustice "sacrificed" Gulf Coast areas, including me, have already travelled to the Netherlands to tell ING our stories. We demanded that ING stop financing LNG. However, ING management has refused to take any action so far. ING should take the lead and stop financing risky, proven dangerous, health damaging, methane spewing LNG facilities present and proposed on the US Gulf Coast. They are adding their names to the representatives of these communities who have been challenging ING's finance for the past year. In October 2023, four residents from the Gulf of Mexico held a demonstration in front of ING's offices in Rotterdam, calling on the bank to end finance for LNG expansion. Steel industry decimating Global South communities Of course, ING is also financing environmentally destructive industries in the Global South. Specifically, it is funding a number of steel companies across Brazil, Mexico, and Liberia. For instance, ING finances Ternium's steel plant in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. The facility is heavily polluting, and disproportionately impacting the health and livelihoods of Black and Brown communities living nearby. Meanwhile, ING-funded ArcelorMittal owns the ArcelorMittal Liberia iron ore mine in Nimba county, Liberia. Naturally, the company is attempting to expand its production. Of course, this is despite decades of allegations of corruption, broken promises for social development contributions, and massive biodiversity loss that threatens the livelihoods of local communities living near the mine. Similarly, in Jalisco, Mexico, Ternium and ArcelorMittal jointly operate the Peña Colorada iron ore mine. There, three human rights defenders opposing the mine were murdered in 2023. Demanding "social, environmental and climate justice now" As such, three members of the Fair Steel Coalition from these communities will attend ING's AGM. These include community organiser at PACs Brazil Ana Luisa Queiroz, co-founder of Green Advocates Liberia John Nimly Brownell, and Eduardo Mosqueda, a human rights lawyer and founder of Tskini, from Mexico. Brownell said: I'm attending ING's AGM because I want ArcelorMittal Liberia to address its social and environmental impacts, from customary land grabs to the loss of water and wildlife through pollution. I want ArcelorMittal to value the environment, respect human rights and provide sustainable livelihoods for the communities affected by its mines. The areas damaged by AML's operations can never be restored to their original natural beauty. Adding to this, Mosqueda said that: The steel companies that ING finances have torn down hundreds of hectares of forests, covered our communities in dust, and dried up our water supplies. Meanwhile the Indigenous defenders who oppose this model have disappeared or are murdered. We are in Amsterdam now to tell ING that they are just as responsible for their clients' actions, and that we, the people of the global south, demand social, environmental and climate justice now. ING is the third largest European financier of steel. Specifically, it has funded the industry to the tune of US $6bn between 2016 and June 2023. Crucially, ArcelorMittal is ING's largest steel client. According to financial research by Reclaim Finance, since 2016 ING has provided US $3.4bn to ArcelorMittal through loans, bonds and shares. In addition, ING also provided US $100m of $1.5bn loan to Ternium in 2017. In particular, this was for the company to acquire its steel mill in Sao Paulo and set up Ternium Brazil. And as well as causing these huge environmental and health harms for people and biodiversity, the industry is responsible for 11% of global carbon emissions due to its reliance on coal. Cut ties with community and climate-wrecking projects So, on Monday, these community members from across the world will take ING to task for its rampant environmental racism. Inside the AGM, they will call out the banking giant for underpinning these ecocidal and human rights violating projects. That evening, they will share their stories about the impact of ING's finance on people, workers and the climate. They will be highlighting these experiences at a storytelling event in Pakhuis de Zwijger in Amsterdam. In tandem with this, Dutch environmental organisation Milieudefensie (Friends of the Earth Netherlands) has prepared volunteers to enter the AGM. It will do so with the clear demand that ING: Adhere to the Paris climate agreement, so at least 48% fewer emissions in absolute terms (scope 1, 2 and 3) compared to 2019 by 2030, or we'll see you in court In January, it launched legal action against ING over its inadequate climate policy. Together, community defenders will shed light on ING's financing of ecocidal, racist, and climate-wrecking projects the world over. Vitally, they hope to compel the company to cut ties with these projects. Only then, can it finally bring the harm it is causing to their communities to an end. Featured image via BankTrack
Taxidermy grew through the first half of the 19th century and fine examples were shown at the Great Exhibition after which it became very popular. By the First World War many homes from the highest to the very modest had pieces of taxidermy as interior decor/interest. After the First World War interest declined except for field sports fraternity. By 1950s only two large firms in London and a very small number of solo operators remained and by late 60s only one London firm. At this time there was renewed interest and numbers grew (mainly professionals) through the 70s and 80s. Birds and small mammals are mainly mounted by fitting an anatomically correct body made from balsa or styrofoam into the cleaned and washed skin using galvanised wires for the structure. Larger mammals are mounted putting the tanned skin onto a sculpted mannikin or form. This is anatomically accurate to the specific animal and is commonly made from PU foam. Commercial forms can be bought for many species. Whist fish and reptiles can be prepared using similar methods the preferred technique is to mould the actual specimen using silicone rubber and then make a replica with epoxy resin or similar. The Guild of Taxidermists has a list of qualified current members on the FAQs page of its website. Virtually all practitioners are now sole traders. Become a Heritage Crafts Fan and receive a free monthly newsletter about craft announcements, events and opportunities.
This carefully created collection of resources not only navigates the intricacies of missionary work but also offers crucial cultural information on destinations where The Boaz Project extends its compassionate arm. These books and articles, filled with rich narratives and invaluable information, provide a window into the places where we foster change and make a tangible impact, inviting you to explore, understand and join us in our shared mission of love and service. Book Recommendations: General Foreign to Familiar: A Guide to Understanding Hot - And Cold - Climate Cultures by Sarah Lanier Foreign to Familiar by Sarah Lanier is a fabulous little fast read that paints broad-stroke pictures of cultures around the world. Lanier theorizes that much of a culture is determined by its climate. For example, hot-climate cultures tend to be less time-oriented and more laid-back than cold-climate cultures. Using this model, Foreign to Familiar examines seven different scales for evaluating a culture, such as relationship vs. task orientation or inclusion vs. privacy. Then it predicts where a culture will land on that scale based on its climate. Along the way, Lanier offers examples from her many experiences overseas and makes suggestions of how to apply the information to your own travels or with those of a different culture who live nearby. It's the best resource we've found for explaining all the world's cultures at once! Book Recommendations: South Asia Why Not Today: Trafficking, Slavery, the Global Church . . . and You by Matthew Cork and Kenneth Kemp When Matthew Cork, lead pastor of a church in a comfortable corner of Orange County, first encountered the Dalit (untouchable) people of India on a visit to Hyderabad, he was shaken to his core. Children begging at the airport. Elderly women sweeping gutters. Families living in discarded concrete pipes. He learned of the systemic bondage they had been in for thousands of years. As Matthew came face-to-face with this suffering, he knew God was summoning him to help. He knew that the greatest hope for the Dalits lay in educating their children—something long closed to them. So God gave Matthew a vision that would transform him and his church, taking them on a journey from the suburban comfort of the US to the slums and villages of India. Today a new movement is sweeping over the world, a movement to set oppressed people free—free from slavery, sex trafficking, poverty, and political and social injustice. Why Not Today is an invitation—and a challenge—to join in the efforts to bring freedom and hope to people suffering all over the world. Perhaps God has stirred a passion in you to help the poor and overcome injustice. This story shows what God can do when we are willing to respond to that stirring. Why not start today? Book Recommendations: East Africa African Friends and Money Matters by David Maranz Those who've enjoyed the hospitality Africa offers typically find the culture warm and inviting. Quick to share a meal, a dance, or a hug, Africans are quick to make foreigners feel welcome. This warmth sets visitors so at ease that cultural differences tend to sneak up and take us by surprise. Most of these differences are centered around our drastically different views of money. Before anyone heads to Africa, we would highly recommend reading African Friends and Money Matters thoroughly. Offering a crash course in the African financial psyche, this resource will prevent travelers from misinterpreting cultural cues, explain hosts' expectations, and offer wisdom on how best to navigate relationships with Africans. While the focus of this book is comparing and contrasting how Africans and Americans handle money, the explanations include valuable information about the history, relationships, and beliefs that shape Africa's culture. Book Recommendations: Eastern Europe The Boy from Baby House 10: From the Nightmare of a Russian Orphanage to a New Life in America by Alan Philps and John Lahutsky The Boy From Baby House 10 is the harrowing story of a Russian boy's first nine years of life spent in the state-run orphan care system. Alan Philps helps John Lahutsky tell his story of sheer determination and will to survive. Born prematurely and with cerebral palsy, then abandoned by his mother at 18 months, John (known as Vanya) was diagnosed by the state authorities as an "imbecile" and "ineducable." He was assigned to a bleak orphanage for those with physical and mental disabilities called Baby House 10. The rest of the book is a detailed picture of the nightmarish orphanage system through the eyes of a little boy who, despite his dire surroundings, did not lose his spirit and intellectual curiosity. It is also the story of those who found him in the orphanage and sacrificially fought to help him escape a life of confinement. This emotionally draining book fulfills the stated purpose of bringing awareness of the neglect and cruelty to children in the Russian orphanage system. It is also an amazing, miraculous example of God's divine intervention through people committed to coming to the aid of some of the world's most vulnerable children. Russian in 10 Minutes a Day by Kristine K. Kershul Russian in 10 Minutes a Day is a complete, hands-on language learning experience! Interactive computer sticky labels, flash cards, and special activities add a fun twist and you'll learn faster than ever! Whether you're exploring St. Petersburg, marveling at the architecture in Moscow, or taking a journey on the Trans-Siberian Railway, all your language needs are covered. This book/software combo has everything you'll need for your adventures in Russia! Psychology of Orphans by Dr. Ludmila M. Shipitsyna Dr. Ludmila Shipitsyna brings to her book Psychology of Orphans a wealth of clinical experience as well as psychological theory. While much of this resource is valuable for anyone working or living with orphans or former orphans, it is particularly insightful for those working with children who have been institutionalized. A highly respected researcher, Dr. Shipitsyna explains the results of research done in Russia. She then interprets the data to explain the needs of children from institutionalization and how to help them. With a candor that is uncommon when addressing these issues, Shipitsyna addresses the pitfalls of the current Russian orphanage system and proposes foster care (or, patronate care, as she calls it) as a preferred method of caring for children. More scientific text than a parenting manual, this book is heavier on data than anecdote and analysis than compassion. But for those who are seeking to understand a child from Russia's orphanage system, sifting through this book for gems of insight could be well worth it. Abandoned to the State: Cruelty and Neglect in Russian Orphanages by Human Rights Watch Abandoned to the State is not a read for the faint of heart. With raw candor, Human Rights Watch exposes the atrocities it found within the Russian orphanage system during a one-month period. It details abuse and neglect, the results of Russia's harsh stigma against orphans. This document provides a helpful explanation of Russia's orphanage system, demonstrating how children are segmented by age and presumed abilities (or lack thereof). But it also examines a cultural prejudice against children who've been abandoned and offers specific examples they observed during their examination of the system. Not only do many of the abuses detailed in this book violate human conscience, but they also violate a myriad of international and Russian laws. This volume includes a plea for Russia to make changes that restore human dignity to the orphan. Though the copyright on this book is 1995, we fear Russia has not made as much progress toward change as Human Rights Watch hoped for when they published it. Admittedly difficult to read, this book can be a powerful introduction to Russia's orphanages, giving potential visitors both knowledge of and compassion for the children they could potentially meet. Readers should be aware that some of the photos included are quite disturbing. Helpful Articles: Eastern European Orphans & Orphanage Conditions With over 25 years of experience and a network of like-minded people around the globe, The Boaz Project can help you show Christ's love to scared and abandoned children. To learn how you can help save orphaned children from life on the streets—connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit our website here.
Dec 14, 2016 Doria Shafik's 108th Birthday This Doodle's Key Themes One of the leading champions for the Egyptian women's liberation movement came in the form of a powerful female force that set out against the status quo from an early age. Doria Shafik knew she was destined for more than what society offered women during her time—she earned a PHD in Paris, became a prolific feminist activist, philosopher, poet, author and editor. As a direct result of her efforts, Egyptian women were granted the right to vote for the first time. She led protests at the Parliament, initiated hunger strikes and traveled around the world to spread her wisdom. Doria published an Arabic magazine called "Bint Al Nil," or "Daughter of the Nile" (her nickname), to educate Egyptian women and empower them to play an active role in their families and in society. The first copy came out in November of 1945 and immediately sold out—fueling the desire for real systemic change. Today we celebrate what would have been Doria's 108th birthday with a personal motto that inspired her along the path of reformation and justice: "to know, to be able, to want and to dare." (Three initial concepts for the Doodle) Where this Doodle appeared Discover more Doodles by color Did you know? The very first Doodle launched as an "out of office" message of sorts when company founders Larry and Sergey went on vacation. Learn MoreDid you know? The first Doodle launched in 1998, before Google was officially incorporated. Learn MoreDid you know? The first same day Doodle was created in 2009 when water was discovered on the moon. Learn MoreDid you know? Doodle for Google student contest winners have gone on to become professional artists Learn MoreDid you know? The time it takes from sketch to launch for a Doodle varies widely: some have taken years and others just a few hours! Learn MoreDid you know? Hundreds of Doodles launch around the world every year. Often, several different ones are live in different places at the same time! Learn MoreDid you know? Our most frequently recurring Doodle character is Momo the Cat - named after a real-life team pet! Learn More
How does oxidised LDL cause atherosclerosis? Oxidized LDLs stimulate collagen production by SMCs [43], thus contributing to the fibrous cap lining the atherosclerotic plaque and the expansion of the lesion size. What is the effect of oxidised LDL in the arterial wall? Oxidized LDL is highly atherogenic as it stimulates macrophage cholesterol accumulation and foam cell formation, it is cytotoxic to cells of the arterial wall and it stimulates inflammatory and thrombotic processes. Is oxidized LDL a component of plaque? Oxidized Low-density Lipoprotein (oxLDL) oxLDL is a major component of atherosclerotic lesions, and T lymphocytes reactive to oxLDL have been recovered from human atherosclerotic plaques (Stemme et al., 1995). What is the function of foam cells? Foam cells are a type of macrophage that localize to fatty deposits on blood vessel walls, where they ingest low-density lipoproteins and become laden with lipids, giving them a foamy appearance. Why does LDL get oxidized? Summary. Oxidized cholesterol forms in the body when LDL goes through a chemical reaction. Oxidized LDL can build up on the artery walls due to eating certain foods high in trans and saturated fats. Smoking tobacco products is also linked to high levels of oxidized LDL. What do foam cells do? What happens to endothelial cells in atherosclerosis? Endothelial cells (ECs) line all blood vessels and are critical mediators of inflammatory responses. In the setting of atherosclerosis, ECs become chronically activated through a combination of turbulent blood flow, lipid accumulation in the vessel wall and exposure to inflammatory mediators (for example, IL-1β)1. How do you get rid of oxidized LDL? There are things that you can do to stop the damage from oxidized LDL. - Focus on eating healthy fats. - Eat saturated fats in moderation. - Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. - Pay attention to nutrition labels, and stay away from hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated foods. Does atherosclerosis cause vasodilation? 6 Decreased production or activity of NO, manifested as impaired vasodilation, may be one of the earliest signs of atherosclerosis. What is the oxidative theory of atherosclerosis? 'The oxidative theory' postulates that oxidative stress and subsequent LDL oxidation trigger a series of vascular responses leading to atherogenesis, and predicts that a decrease of oxidative stress and LDL oxidation should be associated with reduced atherogenesis. What is the role of oxidized LDL in atherosclerosis? Role of oxidized LDL in atherosclerosis A critical event in the early stages of atherosclerosis is the focal accumulation of lipid-laden foam cells derived from macrophages. In various cholesterol-fed animal models of atherosclerosis, localized attachment of circulating monocytes to arterial endothelial cells appeared to precede the forma … What are the mechanisms of foam cell formation in atherosclerosis? Mechanisms of foam cell formation in atherosclerosis Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and cholesterol homeostasis in the peripheral blood is maintained by specialized cells, such as macrophages. Macrophages express a variety of scavenger receptors (SR) that interact with lipoproteins, including SR-A1, CD36, and lectin-like oxLDL receptor-1 (LOX-1). What is the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis? Atherosclerosis is a chronic disease characterized by the deposition of excessive cholesterol in the arterial intima. Macrophage foam cells play a critical role in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis. How do macrophages maintain LDL and cholesterol homeostasis? Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and cholesterol homeostasis in the peripheral blood is maintained by specialized cells, such as macrophages. Macrophages express a variety of scavenger receptors (SR) that interact with lipoproteins, including SR-A1, CD36, and lectin-like oxLDL receptor-1 (LOX-1).
The Chief Scientific Adviser reportedly warned the government in January that the care homes sector in the UK was particularly vulnerable to Covid-19 – and that has unfortunately proved to be the case. With care home deaths now being reported daily, what do the numbers tell us about this group? Have care home residents been disproportionately affected? And is there a chance the crisis could belatedly mark the start of better times for a sector in danger of collapse? What the numbers tell us England and Wales have not been alone in their difficulties with care home cases during the pandemic. Other European countries have also had high numbers of deaths in care homes – with WHO Europe last week reporting that up to 50% of Covid-19 deaths across the region were in care homes. The USA, Canada and other countries further afield have also been affected – with coronavirus-related deaths in Canadian care homes corresponding to 72% of all Covid-19 deaths in the country. Over the last five years in England and Wales, around 21-23% of deaths took place in care homes – an average of 2,238 a week with some seasonal variation. There are around 400,000 care home beds in England and Wales.[1] Assuming 85% occupancy, this gives an average of 6.5 deaths per 1,000 residents per week. The ONS have been routinely reporting weekly data on place of deaths this year since week 11 (ending March 13th). Up to March 27th, the number of deaths was in line with previous years, but from that point on there has been a very marked uptick. The table below shows care home deaths over recent weeks, which have been increasing so that by the week of April 17th there were 5,162 more deaths than the five-year average (so-called 'excess deaths'). This is equivalent to a weekly mortality rate of around 21.4 per 1,000 residents (again assuming 85% occupancy). Week \| All care home deaths (England & Wales) \| Covid-19 deaths \| Excess over 5-year average \| % over 5-year average \| 13-Mar \| 2,471 \| 0 \| 28 \| 1% \| 20-Mar \| 2,335 \| 2 \| 4 \| 0% \| 27-Mar \| 2,489 \| 20 \| 209 \| 9% \| 03-Apr \| 3,769 \| 195 \| 1,557 \| 70% \| 10-Apr \| 4,927 \| 826 \| 2,747 \| 126% \| 17-Apr \| 7,316 \| 2,050 \| 5,162 \| 240% \| Source: ONS The rate in care homes might be somewhat inflated if fewer care home residents were taken to hospital but, given that usually there are only 450 admissions to hospitals that result in death from care homes each week, the effect of any change in policy about sending patients to hospital is likely to be relatively small. Since the beginning of the year, care homes have accounted for 16% of all Covid-19 deaths. But, as the table shows, Covid-19 was only mentioned in 2,050 of cases. The reluctance to record the contribution of Covid-19 in the absence of a test may explain some of this, and therefore it is likely that a significant proportion of the remaining 5,162 additional deaths can be directly or indirectly attributed to it. This probably makes 16% a sizeable underestimate. That these figures are broadly in line with international trends will be no consolation to those affected. Getting a full understanding of the picture will have to wait, but it is likely that systemic issues within the care sector have played a part. Covid-19 response: social care the poor relation again? With the focus on the NHS, social care entered the daily Covid-19 discourse relatively late. There was almost a full month after schools had closed before an action plan for social care was published, and well before then care homes had to rapidly establish supply chains and often pay a high price for PPE. As the NHS worked to free up hospital beds for Covid-19 patients, care homes had to manage how to receive people newly discharged from hospital (some having tested positive for Covid-19 and some awaiting test results) who required strict isolation. Many homes struggled to source enough PPE and field enough staff, with pre-existing shortages exacerbated by sickness and self-isolation. High use of agency staff who may work across multiple homes has been identified as a key factor in rapid spread between homes in the USA, and may also have played a part in the UK. It is still too early to say what the overall impact has been on the sector but, even if the immediate response had been better, social care entered this crisis ill prepared. Chronically underfunded, with an increasingly fragile provider market and a myriad of workforce issues, the sector was already struggling to meet the growing needs of the population. Before the crisis, 75% of councils were reporting providers closing down or handing back contracts due to dwindling fees, with little slack in the system to respond to increased pressure. Although £1.3 billion was provided to councils for short-term care packages for those discharged from hospital, and a further £1.6 billion to support all council services (social care among them), there are concerns that the money, if it reaches providers, is not sufficient to fund existing care packages as well as new ones. Provider failure or a silver lining? There is a tangible risk that the growing pressures from lost income, the costs of sourcing PPE and the extra staff required to put in place containment measures in the event of an outbreak will lead to widespread failure of the market. What we have observed when studying the reforms to care systems in Germany and Japan is that support for change had been building among the public over time, but it took a major political or economic event to force eventual change. In Germany, reunification; in Japan, the stock market crash of the early 1990s. Whether the Covid-19 crisis proves to be a watershed moment for social care in the UK remains to be seen, but we owe it to those lives lost to this tragedy and to their families to see a positive legacy emerge from it. Suggested citation Edwards N and Curry N (2020) "Deaths in care homes: what do the numbers tell us?", Nuffield Trust comment. Updated 04/05/2020
Definition: Headless CMS A Headless Content Management System (CMS) is a back-end content management platform that provides a way to author, store, and manage content without a built-in front-end or presentation layer. Unlike traditional CMS platforms that tightly couple content management with how and where content is displayed, a headless CMS offers a more flexible approach by delivering content through an API to any front-end system, such as websites, mobile apps, or other digital displays. This separation of concerns allows developers to use any technology stack for the front end, providing greater flexibility and scalability in building digital experiences. Exploring the Concept of Headless CMS The advent of headless CMS represents a shift in the way digital content is managed and delivered. It caters to the growing need for omnichannel content delivery, where businesses seek to provide consistent content experiences across various digital touchpoints. The headless architecture is particularly advantageous in today's fast-evolving technology landscape, enabling content to be future-proof and accessible on any device or platform without redevelopment. Benefits of Using a Headless CMS - Flexibility and Freedom for Developers: Developers can choose their preferred technologies and frameworks for the front end without being constrained by the back-end CMS. - Omnichannel Content Delivery: A headless CMS can serve content to any device or channel via APIs, supporting a consistent omnichannel experience. - Improved Performance: Separating the content management from the presentation layer can lead to faster load times and better performance of digital experiences. - Enhanced Scalability: As the front-end presentation is decoupled from the content management, scaling the application or adding new channels becomes easier and more efficient. - Easier Updates and Maintenance: Updating the design or functionality of the front end does not require modifications to the content back end, simplifying maintenance and upgrades. How Does a Headless CMS Work? At its core, a headless CMS consists of a content repository accessible via a RESTful API or GraphQL. This API serves as a bridge, delivering content from the CMS to any front-end application or device. The process typically involves the following steps: - Content Creation and Management: Content creators and editors use the CMS's back-end interface to input and manage content, which is stored in a database. - API Delivery: When a user accesses a front-end application (e.g., a website or app), it makes API calls to the headless CMS to retrieve content. - Content Presentation: The front-end application uses the retrieved content to render the digital experience on the user's device. Key Features of a Headless CMS - API-driven Content Delivery: The ability to deliver content through APIs is a defining feature of headless CMS platforms. - Content Modeling: Headless CMSs often provide tools for defining content types and models, making it easier to structure and reuse content across different channels. - Multi-channel Support: Designed for omnichannel delivery, these systems can distribute content to various platforms and devices seamlessly. - Cloud-Based Infrastructure: Many headless CMSs are offered as cloud services, providing scalability, reliability, and security for content management and delivery. Practical Uses of a Headless CMS - Building Modern Web Applications: Developers can use modern JavaScript frameworks like React, Vue.js, or Angular to create dynamic and engaging web applications powered by a headless CMS. - Mobile Applications: Content for iOS and Android apps can be managed in a headless CMS, ensuring consistency and ease of updates. - Digital Signage and IoT: From digital billboards to smart devices, a headless CMS can serve as the content backbone for various IoT applications. - E-commerce Platforms: E-commerce sites benefit from the flexibility of a headless CMS to deliver personalized content and product information across multiple channels. Frequently Asked Questions Related to Headless CMS What Makes a CMS "Headless"? A CMS becomes "headless" when it operates without a front-end presentation layer or "head," focusing solely on backend content management and making content accessible via an API for any front-end system to consume. How Does a Headless CMS Differ from a Traditional CMS? Unlike traditional CMS platforms that integrate content management with a specific front-end delivery system, a headless CMS separates content management from content presentation, serving content through APIs to any front-end or device. Can You Use a Headless CMS for E-commerce? Yes, a headless CMS can be highly beneficial for e-commerce platforms, allowing for seamless content updates and personalized content delivery across multiple channels and devices. What Technologies Work Well with a Headless CMS? Modern JavaScript frameworks like React, Vue.js, and Angular are well-suited for developing front-ends that consume content from a headless CMS, offering flexibility and dynamic content rendering capabilities. Is a Headless CMS More Secure Than a Traditional CMS? While security depends on specific implementations, a headless CMS can offer enhanced security features due to its decoupled architecture, reducing the attack surface by separating the content management from the content delivery layer. How Do You Choose the Right Headless CMS? Choosing the right headless CMS depends on factors such as the project's technical requirements, the development team's familiarity with certain technologies, scalability needs, and the specific features and integrations offered by the CMS. Can a Headless CMS Support Multiple Languages? Yes, many headless CMS platforms offer multi-language support, enabling content to be managed and delivered in multiple languages to cater to global audiences. What Are the Challenges of Using a Headless CMS? Challenges may include the need for a skilled development team to build and maintain the front end, potential complexity in managing content across multiple channels, and ensuring consistent content delivery and performance across all devices. How Can a Headless CMS Improve Content Delivery Speed? By decoupling content management from presentation and utilizing modern web technologies for the front end, a headless CMS can significantly reduce content loading times and improve the overall speed of content delivery across digital channels.
Taking the step to focus on your mental health and emotional well-being can feel uncomfortable, especially when it's been put on the back burner while pursuing career success. Dr. Astrid Matarrita- Chinchilla explains why true success means finding a healthy balance between personal life and work. During a first session, I typically inquire, "What brings you here today?" While it is common for my clients to respond that everything is fine, it is important to dispel the misconception that mental health only warrants attention when significant symptoms arise. This notion perpetuates a toxic culture in which people feel pressure to appear "fine" at all times, equating success with emotional stability. In reality, we all experience difficult emotions, and it can be challenging to navigate them. For instance, when reflecting on the underlying causes of stress, such as family, relationships, career paths, elderly parents, or loneliness, it becomes clear that even those who achieve professional success are not immune to these experiences. When it comes to the mental health of successful executives, the constant pressure to perform at a high level can generate a positive stress that enhances performance and triggers the release of stress hormones like adrenaline. However, unwinding and disconnecting from work can become challenging, making it difficult to engage in simple pleasures. Our brains learn from experiences and relate meaning to them. Thus, past experiences of constant stress, disconnection, and fight or flight mode can impact how we react to similar situations in the present, potentially hindering our ability to fully enjoy life. Recognizing this pattern is the first step to managing it, as it allows us to develop coping mechanisms and prevent it from becoming a larger issue. It is essential to understand that this challenge does not necessarily reflect on the individual's current state, but can be a result of past experiences. Let's delve into four key areas of introspection that can have a profound impact on your personal life. By examining these areas, you can cultivate more positive relationships, reduce unnecessary stress, and intentionally enhance the quality of your emotional well-being. Ain't nobody got time for that It's important to find a healthy balance between work and rest. Constantly overworking ourselves can lead to burnout and negatively impact our emotional and physical health. Prioritizing rest and taking breaks when needed can actually improve our overall performance and productivity in the long run. Additionally, sometimes we use busyness as a way to avoid difficult situations or emotions, but it's important to confront those issues and take care of our emotional well-being before problems build up. It's not uncommon for us to feel guilty when we are not working or anxious when trying to relax with family or friends, knowing that work-related emails and tasks are accumulating. Recognizing these emotions can help us better understand how to structure our lives in a functional manner. The human mind is a complex system that can be prone to distracting thoughts and rumination, which can make it challenging to relax and be fully present in the moment. Engaging in mental rehearsals and planning for future events can exacerbate this issue, causing us to be mentally absent from the current moment. While compartmentalizing can be an effective coping mechanism in the short term, it requires considerable effort and is not a sustainable long-term solution. To address this challenge, it may be beneficial to create a structured schedule that realistically divides work and leisure time. This approach provides clarity and allows for a greater sense of control, reducing the likelihood of feeling overwhelmed or consumed by work-related thoughts during leisure time. It also gives permission to prioritize and be fully present in the task at hand, whether it's work or pleasure. In this way, we can intentionally allocate our mental resources to where they are needed most. I can't get no satisfaction. And I try and I try. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we may feel like something is missing or not quite right in our lives. We may be following all the supposed "right" steps, ticking off all the boxes on society's checklist, but still feel unfulfilled or unsatisfied. It's like we're trying to solve a puzzle, but can't seem to find that one missing piece. This feeling can be frustrating and confusing, but it's important to remember that everyone's journey is unique and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It may take some introspection, reflection, and experimentation to discover what truly brings us joy and fulfillment. Feelings aren't like puzzles to be solved – they simply exist, and that's okay. Start by identifying what are the non-negotiable aspects of your life, such as your values, beliefs, and priorities. These are the things that give you a sense of purpose and direction in life, and they should not be compromised or sacrificed for work. When you align your actions and decisions with your core values and beliefs, you will feel a greater sense of fulfillment and satisfaction in your life. It's also important to periodically re-evaluate your priorities and beliefs, as they may change over time due to new experiences, knowledge, or perspectives. By doing so, you can intentionally work towards a purposeful life. Love languages 101 Connection and belonging are essential human needs and when they are absent, it can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and suffering. It's important to prioritize your relationships and make time for meaningful connections with your loved ones. The concept of love languages can be a useful tool in understanding how to show love and receive love in a way that feels meaningful to each person. However, it's also important to communicate and be open to the unique needs and preferences of your loved ones, as they may not always align with your own love language. A classic scenario: You're a busy parent with a demanding job, and you wish you could spend more time with your child. But what if, instead of focusing on the quantity of time, you shift your focus to the quality of your interactions? Maybe your child values little moments of connection, like when you ask about their day or give them a hug for a job well done. By being present in those small moments, you can still make a big impact on your child's life and let them know how much you care. We can create connections in more than one way. To learn more about love languages, you, your partner, and your children can take a quick online questionnaire: https://5lovelanguages.com/quizzes/ love-language Who runs the world? Not me, according to my husband. It's important to remember that leadership skills don't always translate perfectly to the home environment. While it's natural to want to take charge and fix problems, sometimes our loved ones just want to be heard and validated. It can be frustrating when our efforts to help are met with defensiveness and criticism, but it's important to recognize that our approach may not be effective in every situation. It's okay to take a step back and let others take the lead, or to simply be a supportive listener. Ultimately, a strong relationship is built on mutual respect and communication, rather than asserting dominance or control. Our loved ones don't always share their internal struggles with us because they're looking for solutions or insights. Sometimes, they just want to connect with us and feel understood. By taking the time to empathize, we can create a space where they feel safe to open up and share their thoughts and feelings. Focusing on your mental health may bring up old wounds or challenges. It can be incredibly daunting to acknowledge that our experiences and past have a complex impact on who we are today. We may feel uncomfortable or resistant to the idea that our upbringing has shaped us in significant ways. However, taking the time to explore the invisible forces that drive us, in the company of a skilled and experienced therapist, is truly one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves in terms of our overall well-being. As someone who works with busy executives, you know that time is a precious commodity. In the fast-paced world of business, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the daily grind. But just like you wouldn't ignore an urgent email or an important meeting, you can't afford to neglect your mental health. It's not just another box to tick off on your to-do list, it's an essential aspect of your overall well-being. So take the time to cultivate inner peace and emotional stability, even if it means setting aside a few minutes every day. As the saying goes, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." [C]
Home » Blog » Early Childhood » ECDC South Hills "Backyard" Enhances Learning The South Hills Early Childhood Development Center is blessed with what some call "Our Backyard." But what people are referring to is more than any old backyard. The JCC South Hills is situated on a huge site that includes three playgrounds, a large field, a grassy hill and direct access to the adjoining Scott Conservancy, and ECDC makes full use of all these wonderful resources. "The outdoor play areas are so important to our families and to our children," says Kathy Revesz, ECDC director. "It's great for children's physical development and for just experiencing nature." On a daily basis, ECDC children get outside to play in the developmentally appropriate playgrounds accessed from the building: the "Triangle Playground" for the youngest tots and the "Front Playground" for older preschoolers. Kids in the Kindergarten Enrichment program also make use of the "Back Playground," an accessible playground with larger equipment used by children of all ages. During the school year "Nature Don," a nature specialist, leads preschoolers for hikes in the Scott Conservancy, where the trail leads to a "crick." "There's so much to explore on these walks," Revesz says. "Nature Don talks to the children about plants, insects and animals that they see along the way." During camp time in the summer, the youngsters help in the Garden, learning about the goodness that comes from dirt while growing produce that they donate to local food pantries. Year-round, the children play games in the large field area and frequently make a game out of running up and down the steep hill next to the JCC facility. "The children love being outside," Revesz says. "It's experiential learning that enriches them in countless ways. And it's fun."
Species Pyracantha coccinea Pictures from Observations There aren't any identifications of Pyracantha coccinea. Location unknown Etymology of Pyracantha: Gk. pyr = fire; akanthos = thorn; alluding to the brilliant fiery colour of the berries and, to some extent, the spines. 'Firethorn'. Etymology of coccinea: From the Latin coccineus = 'scarlet' Scientific name: Pyracantha coccinea M. Roem. Synonym of: Long etymology: Synonym status: Observations of Taxon There aren't any identifications of Pyracantha coccinea.
Table of Contents What Are Wearables and What Can They Do? What Are Wearables and What Can They Do? 3 Examples of Small Wearables with a Big Impact 3 Examples of Small Wearables with a Big Impact Challenges for Employers Challenges for Employers Conclusion Conclusion All Articles Safety Software Using Wearable Tech to Enhance Worksite Safety By Jessica Barrett Last updated: March 16, 2019 Table of Contents What Are Wearables and What Can They Do? What Are Wearables and What Can They Do? 3 Examples of Small Wearables with a Big Impact 3 Examples of Small Wearables with a Big Impact Challenges for Employers Challenges for Employers Conclusion Conclusion Key Takeaways Wearable devices can notify workers of hazards, provide useful safety data to employers, and improve safety on the worksite. The Internet of Things (IoT) market is expected to be worth $250 billion by 2020, and the market for wearables (a subset of IoT) is growing right along with it. This is great for tech junkies and Silicon Valley investors, but it's also good news for occupational safety professionals. That's because the use of wearable technology can make workplace safety more efficient and give workers an extra level of protection. Advertisement A 2014 survey from The Workforce Institute at Kronos Inc. found that a significant number of adults in many countries think that improving safety is the number one factor that would make workers more likely to use wearable technology in the workplace. And it could benefit a variety of industries and occupations, from first responders to the construction, warehouse, and manufacturing sectors. What Are Wearables and What Can They Do? Wearables are items equipped with small electronic devices that capture data and give feedback about the wearer. They can be worn under, on top of, or attached to clothing – but more and more, they're being integrated into the very structure of it. Advertisement The list of benefits of using wearables for workplace safety is long, and this list is certainly not exhaustive. We hope to highlight some of the key ways that wearable technology can make worksites across the country safer (see 6 Workplace Safety Technologies Every Company Should Know About for related reading). Increases Worker Awareness of Safety Risks Using wearable technology can heighten a worker's awareness of the risks they face during common, everyday activities. Their devices could, for instance, alert them when toxins are present in the atmosphere, temperatures climb to dangerously high levels, noise levels require hearing protection, or heavy machinery is operating nearby. Data shows that when people understand their habits better, they're more likely to change their behaviour. In this case, workers will notice when they are at risk and adapt their behaviour to avoid putting themselves in potentially hazardous situations. Reduces Ergonomic Hazards Ergonomic hazards are a fact of life in everything from desk jobs to highly physical labour. Wearable sensors can alert the wearer when they are putting themselves at ergonomic risk. Sensors embedded in an employee's work shirt could, for instance, register whether they are sitting with a proper posture or are using proper lifting techniques (learn more in Safe Lifting: Don't Put Your Back on the Line). Provides Managers with Data to Better Monitor Workflow and Identify Hazards Wearables use the same kind of sensors as those found in smartphones and smart watches to collect real-time data about the time and effort required for work tasks. This data is valuable for managers and supervisors, who can use it to better manage workflow and identify potential health and safety risks that should be proactively addressed. Advertisement Offers Learning Opportunities While there is a lot to learn from accidents, reviewing near misses can be far more valuable when it comes to preventing future incidents. Wearable tech allows users, supervisors, or health and safety managers to review and interpret the data collected. Then, they can implement this learning to modify the work environment or tasks to mitigate risk (learn more about Near Misses: What They Are and Why You Should Report Them). Highlights Issues with Safety Reporting Data collected from wearable tech can help employers see when supervisors or workers aren't following through on safety initiatives. This can offer valuable insight into issues with safety reporting in the workplace, allowing employers to take action to address it. 3 Examples of Small Wearables with a Big Impact 1. Health-Tracking Vest Researchers at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) developed a vest that can track the health of construction workers in real time. This type of wearable is particularly useful in climates where heat-related illness is a major concern. They've also created wearable sensors specifically designed to detect UV radiation, which can help users prevent sunburns. 2. Proximity Sensors GPS and proximity warning sensors are increasingly being integrated into safety vests and other types of PPE. They monitor the location of workers set off audible or visual warnings when a worker gets too close to dangerous machinery or a potentially hazardous location on the worksite. Given that about 10 percent of all construction fatalities are related to workers being struck by an object, this technology alone could revolutionize construction site safety. 3. Smart Hard Hats Hard hats can be equipped with a clear visor that can display 3D visual overlays for the wearer, as well as a wireless camera that allows the worker to get a 360-degree view of his or her surroundings. This can function, in effect, as a rear-view mirror for pedestrians, reducing the risk of an accidental run-over. Challenges for Employers As with many new technologies, there are drawbacks and challenges that accompany the benefits. Often, the companies developing wearable technology have little experience in the field of workplace safety. So while their technology expertise is valuable, there may be some hiccups when it comes to actually applying it on the worksite. Privacy is another huge concern. No matter what type of wearable you're looking to use, employees will want to know where their data is going and what it will be used for. Employers should, therefore, have strong security measures to protect employee data and a strategy for communicating to workers that the main goal is improving safety, not punishing workers. Then there's user error. Very few technologies are fool proof, and workers could become overly dependent on the wearable or use the device incorrectly. They might, for instance, walk through the construction site without paying attention to their surroundings, believing that the sensors in their safety vest will alert them to any nearby hazard. To avoid this, employers introducing wearables into their workforce should hold training sessions to teach workers how to use the devices and help them understand what their limitations are. Conclusion Wearable technology has the potential to completely change the way we approach safety on the worksite. From increasing awareness of risk to offering data that can help control hazards and improve efficiency, the benefits are numerous. It's time for every employer to evaluate their worksite and ask themselves, "How could wearable tech improve the safety of my workers?" Related Terms Safety Vest Personal Protective Equipment Protective Clothing Quantitative Data Safety Software Qualitative Fit Test Personal Protective Equipment Earmuffs Ambient Air Breathing Apparatus Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus Share This Article> Written by Jessica Barrett Jessica is a freelance writer and editor from Toronto, Canada. She specializes in creating content for nonprofits and has written for organizations working in human rights, conservation, education, and health care. She loves traveling and food, speaks Spanish, and has two dogs, one of whom she rescued while living in Mexico. Read Jessica Barrett's bio Follow: Tags EHS Programs PPE Safety Equipment Safety Software Related Articles PPE The Biggest Trends in PPE Design Safety Software Why Worker Engagement Is Key to Data Capture and Tracking Safety KPIs Safety Software Managing EHS Software Safety Software How to Use Technology to Engage Workers in Workplace Safety Let's Make Workplaces Safer! Subscribe to the Safeopedia newsletter to stay on top of current industry trends and up-to-date know-how from subject matter authorities. Our comprehensive online resources are dedicated to safety professionals and decision makers like you. Email Address EmailThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Advertisement Latest Articles Shaping the Future of Work: Top Occupational Health and Safety Trends for 2024 By: Sarah Ballini-Ross Is Fluorine-Free Firefighting Foam Safer than AFFF for Firefighters' Health? By: Jonathan Sharp The Vital Role of Contractor Safety Orientations in Ensuring Workplace Success By: Addison Moore \| Director of Marketing Is the Safety Pyramid Still Relevant to Occupational Safety? By: Karoly Ban Matei \| HR and Safety Manager Advertisement Advertisement
Bam! Crackle! Pow! Here comes Black Thunder, the popular chocolate bar from snack-maker Yuraku that everyone in Japan knows and loves. Made with a unique blend of cocoa cookie bits, rice puffs, and dark chocolate, Black Thunder is a hearty Japanese snack created with the promise of providing "delicious taste in a flash of lightning." Go on and grab your own stick of Black Thunder because today we're going on a field trip to learn more about this iconic Japanese treat! - Japanese name: ブラックサンダー ( pronounced burakku sandaa) - Manufacturer: Yuraku Confectionary - Number of Black Thunder Flavors: More than 50 - Fun Fact: Black Thunder became so popular in Taiwan in 2014 that Yuraku ran out of stocks in Japan! Black Thunder might sound like one of the latest heroes from Marvel or DC, but it actually doesn't have anything to do with comic book superheroes. Nope! Black Thunder is actually a super snack. It's a Japanese chocolate bar that was created by Japanese snack maker Yuraku back in 1994. Though Yuruku had to shut down the production of Black Thunder in 1995, the company didn't give up on the dark chocolate treat and now it's one of the most popular chocolate snacks in Japan! Black Thunder is a thick and filling chocolate bar that's made with a blend of dark milk chocolate, bits of crushed cocoa cookies and Japanese-style rice puffs. It's a super hearty snack. While the bitter-sweet taste of the dark chocolate in Black Thunder stands out the most, Japanese snack enthusiasts also get to enjoy the different textures thanks to the rice crisps and crushed cookies. The name Black Thunder is pretty cool enough on its own, but what makes this chocolate bar really stand out is its special texture! This treat is fun to eat with crushed cookies and rice crisps pressed flat into the bar. It's crunchy, hard, and hearty. Not only that, but Japanese snackers love that Black Thunder has a good balance of bitterness and sweetness. People in Japan aren't too fond of overly sugary snacks and somehow Black Thunder manages to hit that perfect sweet spot! The answer is yes and no! The original Black Thunder chocolate bar doesn't have any peanuts in it. But there are a couple of variants that do have nuts in it! Introduced in 2011 as a breakfast bar, Morning Thunder is a milk chocolate treat containing crushed cinnamon-flavored cookies, peanuts, soybean puffs, and extra protein. Another nut-based variant is the Black Thunder Almond & Hazelnut mini bar. As the name implies, it contains crushed almonds, hazelnuts, and a special ingredient — coffee powder. This Black Thunder bar is perfect for people who need an extra kick of caffeine to make it through the day! First of all, we'll have to cut "Black Thunder" into two before we bite our way into the story behind this iconic chocolate bar's name. The "Black" in "Black Thunder" comes from the chocolate bar's appearance. In Japan, when you label a treat black, like for example, Black Meiji Chocolate, you imply that it uses cacao and is made of dark chocolate. By saying that it's Yuraku's chocolate bar is "Black", consumers in Japan can already tell that the treat isn't going to be too sweet. "Thunder" in "Black Thunder" is actually inspired by Super Sentai heroes that children love. Super Sentai is a Japanese superhero metaseries that features live-action characters, wacky villains, fun effects, and color-coded costumes. It's a lot similar to Power Rangers! Yuraku wanted to imbibe the fun feeling of super sentai with Black Thunder. Besides the references to dark chocolate and Japanese TV heroes, Yuraku also wanted to add a bit of impact to Black Thunder by creating a connection to the Japanese god of thunder, Raijin. While the packaging of the chocolate bar is written as Black Thunder in English, the logo also includes the Japanese kanji 黒い雷神 which stands for Kuroi (Black) Raijin (the God of Thunder). These Japanese characters add more power to Black Thunder's branding. Black Thunder first came crackling into life in a Yuraku factory in the Japanese city of Toyohashi in 1994. The chocolate treat was made as the opposite of Yuraku Seika's main product at the time, the Choconuts 3. Made with three different kinds of nuts, Choconuts had a light texture. Yuruku wanted to create a more filling kind of chocolate bar, and thus Black Thunder was born. Despite its cool name and its hearty ingredients, Black Thunder didn't catch on as quickly as one would expect. The year after it made its big debut, Black Thunder failed to make sales, and so its production was discontinued in 1995. Luckily the chocolate bar was popular in some stores parts of Kyushu. In 1996 there were multiple requests for Black Thunder's return, so much so that a sales representative in charge of Kyushu had to directly talk to the company. "Well, if you're going to go that far, it's just for the amount of wrapping paper left," Yuraku told the sales rep. It's good that they made that decision though, because from there word of mouth spread that Black Thunder was back on shelves, and soon the snack became increasingly popular! The chocolate bar became a staple among university students in Kyushu. In the 2000s, Yuraku started selling Black Thunder all around Japan. When the company sponsored the Men's Gymnastics team at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, Black Thunder got lots of endorsements from Silver Medalist Kohei Uchimura. Since then it has become the "favorite food of Olympic athletes," turning Black Thunder into an explosive hit among Japanese snackers! As we mentioned earlier in the blog, Black Thunder comes from Japanese food company, Yuraku. However, while Black Thunder came from a factory in Kyushu, the maker of the iconic chocolate snack actually comes from Tokyo. Yuraku Seika, the Japanese snack company behind Black Thunder originated from the Setagaya Ward in Tokyo. It started in 1955, decades before the creation of Black Thunder. When it first started, Yuraku focused on Japanese chocolate products. It then moved on to pretzel snacks, par-baked cakes, and nougat goods before going on to chocolate bars like Black Thunder. While most Japanese people love the bittersweet goodness of dark chocolate, Yuraku knows that variety is the spice of life. There are many different Black Thunder flavors Japanese snackers can enjoy. There are classic Japanese flavors like hojicha latte, manju, matcha Azuki, and Monaka. There are fruit flavors like strawberry and coconut! Black Thunder even has its own soup flavor, Corn Potage. Besides the basic flavors, Black Thunder also has different kinds of varieties! There are Big Thunder bars which are twice the length and width of the original Black Thunder. Black Thunder Mini-Bars are half the size and width of the regular size. The brand even has a version made with dried ramen called the Ikeman Thunder bar! To put it simply, as a brand, Black Thunder is as hearty as its ingredients list. There's just a lot of different kinds of Black Thunder to enjoy. If you'd like to learn about all the Black Thunder varieties Yuraku has to offer, you can check out our Complete List of Black Thunder Flavors! Originally, Black Thunder didn't have a mascot during its creation. Yuraku solely focused on the chocolate bar's branding and fun wordplay. However, after years of success, the company decided that it was high time for Black Thunder to get its own hero during the treat's 25th anniversary in 2019. During the 25th anniversary celebration, Yuraku introduced Black Thunder Matt, a strange-looking hero portrayed by the model Matt Kuwata, the son of former baseball player Masumi Kawata. A 25-year-old android character, Black Thunder Matt has Black Thunder choco bars for eyebrows. He shoots Black Thunder bars at citizens dying of hunger from waiting in line too long! At first glance, Black Thunder Matt might seem creepy. However, Japan has a soft spot for strange characters and weird TV commercials. According to Yuraku's story, Black Thunder Matt begins on a fateful Christmas night when ordinary Matt gets struck by mysterious lightning after running home to hurriedly see his girlfriend. The story takes a lot of strange twists and turns when Matt eventually becomes a superhero! Black Thunder's strange marketing tactics don't end with Black Thunder Matt. During Valentine's 2019 Yuraku decided to make a shocking announcement to the Japanese public - they were canceling their regular giri choco. You see in Japan, giri chocolates are obligatory chocolate treats that are given by women to the men in their lives during Valentine's. They're a big tradition in the country, so it came as quite a shock when Yuraku said it was canceling their Black Thunder giri choco! According to a newspaper report, Yuraku had forgotten all about giri choco! Apparently the company had been "brainwashed by an alien so that the existence of giri choco had totally disappeared from their heads." So, instead of having their regular Black Thunder giri choco pop-up shop which they hold during Valentines', the company decided to sell regional-exclusive souvenir Black Thunder varieties instead. Food companies love collaborating with Black Thunder. Mcdonald's Japan had a fun little teamup with Yuraku in 2017 which produced a special McFlurry Black Thundet. In 2023, Black Thunder worked together with Family Mart to produce special Black Thunder treats like Black Thunder Chocolate Cookie Sandwiches, Black Thunder Florentine, Black Thunder Chocolate Cookie Eclair, and Black Thunder Chocolate Tiramisu. That's not all. Apparel companies also want a slice of the Black Thunder marketing bolt! In 2010 the Japanese chocolate candy bar managed to get a collab with Guacamole brand clothing designers - a team-up that led to a line of men's and women's swimwear, a line of men's underwear, and sporting items all having the Black Thunder design. Yes, Black Thunder ice cream is very much real! Back in 2009 Yuraku got to work together with Royal Foods company in Japan to make their very own Black Thunder ice cream bars and Black Thunder Monaka ice cream sandwiches. These tasty treats can be found in Japanese 711 stores. For a limited time, Yuraku also produced special Black Thunder ice cream treats with the help of Koehi Arai. Thanks to the collab between food companies, Japanese Black Thunder fans got to have a taste of "Honmei no Zakufuwa Black Thunder Parfait" and "Pretty Black Thunder Ice Cake Bar" at all Alkindo Sushiro conveyor belt sushi restaurants. There are so many different ways one can turn Black Thunder into pastries. Thanks to Pablo Cheesetart in Japan, Black Thunder got its very own cheesecake. Adding some fruit into the mix, specialty cafe Granny Smith Apple Pie and Coffee in Japan decided to turn Black Thunder into some sort of Apple Pie. If doughnuts are more of your thing, you can also try out the Shiroi Black Thunder doughnuts from Komeda Coffee shop. Valentine's is the season of chocolates in Japan and in 2024 Yuraku decided to give their own special twist to the love-filled day. The company decided to produce a special kind of Black Thunder - Tempura Black Thunder that is! Doesn't that sound crazy? Yuraku held a limited-time shop in Shinjuku, Tokyo with special Black Thunder dipped in tempura sauce and then deep fried in hot oil. The result is melty dark chocolate mixed with rice puffs and cookies all wrapped in crispy batter! And it was only 35 yen per piece! Valentine's in 2024 was certainly a good time for Black Thunder fans. Besides the special Black Thunder train, Japanese snackers can also find another special Black Thunder treat in Toyohashi City. In the Japanese confectionery shop Okamedo, chocolate snack enthusiasts can find a traditional Japanese treat with a delicious Black Thunder twist called the Black Thunder Anmaki. Created in Aichi, the traditional Anmaki is rolled crepe pancake filled with sweetened red beans. Adding its own crackling twist to the Japanese dessert, the Black Thunder Amaki uses a special chewy and crunchy Black Thunder filling. Japan has a lot of novelty items, and one of the most things you can find in the country are gachapon. These are large toy-vending machines filled with tiny round capsules containing figures and collectibles. Black Thunder has become so popular in Japan that Yuraku has its own set of Black Thunder gachapon collectibles! These gachapon items from Yuraku were cute little pouches designed to look like bars and packs of Black Thunder! Did you know there's a Black Thunder train running through Toyohashi city? That's right! Since Black Thunder was born in a factory in Toyohashi, the city's railway company decided to dedicate a small train to the chocolate bar. It's colored black all over with a yellow lightning bolt running across its sides! Just like a train for Super Sentai! Ever since 2021, Yuraku's given fans the chance to enhance the appeal of Black Thunder by working with company employees through the "Black Thunder Public Relations Office." This special department allows Yuraku to directly connect with avid Black Thunder staff. With the help of the "Black Thunder Public Relations Office" Yuraku was able to create official merch for Black Thunder. Approving five different products from the department, Yuraku now produces sleek and stylish Black Thunder items including bento boxes, caps, tote bags, and more! Black Thunder is a super popular chocolate snack. That's why it's no surprise that you can find Black Thunder almost everywhere in Japan! These crunchy dark chocolate bars can be spotted on shelves in konbinis (Japanese convenience stores) and in supermarkets around the country. They're not all that hard to find! Yuraku also has a couple of specialty Japanese chocolate stores where you can find special Black Thunder bars. The first is the Yuraku Chocolate Shop in Kodaira City, Tokyo. The second is the Toyohashi Yume Factory Direct Store, otherwise known as the "Black Thunder Sanctuary" in Toyohashi in the Aichi Prefecture of Japan. While you might be a bit concerned that you'll have to book a plane to Japan just to try out some Black Thunder, you don't really have to do that. You can find all sorts of varieties of this iconic Japanese chocolate bar in our Black Thunder collection on Japan Candy Store! Take your time picking out all the different flavors you want to try! So there you have it! Today we learned about Black Thunder and how it became one of Japan's most beloved chocolate bars of all time. Filling and hearty, Black Thunder is the perfect bittersweet chocolate snack for people on the go. It's got a cool name, great taste, and a fun mascot in the shape of Black Thunder Matt! What are your thoughts about Black Thunder? Have you ever tried this chocolate bar before? Which flavors do you think you'd like to try? Don't be shy, feel free to geek out over your favorite Japanese snacks here. That's what our comment section is for! Go all out and tell us what you love about Black Thunder.
Where will your retirement money come from? If you're like most people, qualified-retirement plans, Social Security, personal savings and investments are expected to play a role. Once you have estimated the amount of money you may need for retirement, a sound approach involves taking a close look at your potential retirement-income sources. Should You Tap Retirement Savings to Fund College? There are three things to consider before dipping into retirement savings to pay for college. Have A Question About This Topic? Understanding the SECURE Act 2.0 A timeline covering a few of the major provisions of the SECURE Act 2.0. SECURE Act 2.0: An Overview The second iteration of the SECURE Act brings forward several changes to the world of retirement. Retiring Earlier Than Expected? What To Know Retiring earlier than expected can be disheartening. Learn steps that can help you smoothe the road ahead. Retirement Realities Many pre-retirees can become focused on the "ideal" retirement, but turning that dream into a reality can be tricky. Tax Efficiency in Retirement What role would taxes play in your investment decisions? Should You Borrow from Your 401(k)? Does it make sense to borrow from my 401(k) to pay off debt or to make a major purchase? View all articles Annuity Comparison This calculator compares a hypothetical fixed annuity with an account where the interest is taxed each year. Saving for Retirement This calculator can help you estimate how much you may need to save for retirement. A Look at Systematic Withdrawals This calculator may help you estimate how long funds may last given regular withdrawals. Roth 401(k) vs. Traditional 401(k) This calculator compares employee contributions to a Roth 401(k) and a traditional 401(k). Potential Income from an IRA Estimate your monthly and annual income from various IRA types. Inflation & Retirement Estimate how much income may be needed at retirement to maintain your standard of living. View all calculators Working With A Financial Professional A financial professional is an invaluable resource to help you untangle the complexities of whatever life throws at you. Tuning Your Social Security Benefit When should you take your Social Security benefit? Retirement and Quality of Life Asking the right questions about how you can save money for retirement without sacrificing your quality of life. Should You Ever Retire? A growing number of Americans are pushing back the age at which they plan to retire. Or deciding not to retire at all. Timing Your Retirement This short video illustrates the importance of understanding sequence of returns risk. A Fruitful Retirement: Social Security Benefit Taking your Social Security benefits at the right time may help maximize your benefit.
Researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute and at Sun Yat-sen University have generated what they claim is the first comprehensive atlas of aging muscles in humans. The team applied single-cell technologies and advanced imaging to analyze human skeletal muscle samples from 17 individuals across the adult lifespan. Their resulting map provides new insights into the many complex processes underlying age-related muscle changes, and revealed new cell populations that may explain why some muscle fibers age faster than others. The study also identified compensatory mechanisms the muscles employ to combat aging and could point to strategies for therapies and interventions that improve muscle health and quality of life as we age. This study was carried out as part of the international Human Cell Atlas initiative that aims to map every cell type in the human body. Sarah Teichmann, PhD, at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, is co-founder of the Human Cell Atlas, and senior author of the team's reported study. Commenting on the findings, Teichmann said, "Through the Human Cell Atlas, we are learning about the body in unprecedented detail, from the earliest stages of human development through to old age. With these new insights into healthy skeletal muscle aging, researchers all over the world can now explore ways to combat inflammation, boost muscle regeneration, preserve nerve connectivity, and more. Discoveries from research like this have huge potential for developing therapeutic strategies that promote healthier aging for future generations." Teichmann and colleagues described the study in a paper in Nature Aging titled "Human skeletal muscle aging atlas." Skeletal muscle makes up 40% of our body mass, is essential for movement and has pivotal roles in metabolism and immune regulation, the authors wrote. "The major components of skeletal muscle, the multinucleated myofibers (MFs), are classified into 'slow-twitch' (type I) and 'fast-twitch' (type IIA, type IIX and intermediate hybrid fibers) according to their contraction speed, structural protein composition and metabolic characteristics (oxidative versus glycolytic)." Slow-twitch fibers are designed more to enable endurance activities, while fast-twitch fibers enable more powerful, explosive movements. The myofibers are also surrounded by mononuclear muscle stem cells (MuSCs), which can generate new muscle after damage. As we age, our muscles progressively weaken. This can affect our ability to perform everyday activities such as standing up and walking. For some people, muscle loss worsens, leading to falls, immobility, a loss of autonomy and a condition called sarcopenia. "Skeletal muscle aging is characterized by the loss of both muscle mass and strength, often leading to sarcopenia," the team continued. During aging, there is a selective decrease in both the number and size of fast-twitch MFs, they noted. "Furthermore, the number of MuSCs and their activation and proliferation in response to stimuli decrease with age." However, the reasons why our muscles weaken over time have remained poorly understood, and most previous studies focused on one particular mechanism or cell type, "leaving a gap in our understanding of muscle aging as a whole." To generate their aging muscle atlas the researchers used both single-cell and single-nucleus sequencing techniques along with advanced imaging to analyse human muscle samples from 17 individuals aged 20 to 75 years. "… In the present study, we combined scRNA-seq and snRNA-seq to build a human skeletal muscle aging atlas that includes both MuSCs and MF nuclei as well as cells from the microenvironment," they explained. Because a muscle fiber consists of just one cell, but many nuclei, it brings unique challenges for study. Both single-cell RNA sequencing and single-nucleus RNA sequencing methods were used to address these challenges. While single-cell RNA sequencing looks at individual cells, including less common types of muscle stem cells and other supporting cells, profiling muscle fibers is difficult. Single-nucleus RNA sequencing, on the other hand, can focus on the multiple cell nuclei scattered throughout the muscle cell, to better explore its genetics. In total, the team carried out transcription profiling of 90,902 cells and 92,259 nuclei from from the samples. "This allowed us to investigate transcriptional changes of MuSCs, MFs and microenvironment cells during aging," they stated. The results showed that genes controlling ribosomes, responsible for producing proteins, were less active in muscle stem cells from aged samples. This impairs the cells' ability to repair and regenerate muscle fibers as we age. Further, non-muscle cell populations within these skeletal muscle samples produced more of a pro-inflammatory molecule called CCL2, attracting immune cells to the muscle and exacerbating age-related muscle deterioration. "In the MuSC compartment, we found downregulation of ribosome assembly resulting in decreased MuSC activation as well as upregulation of pro-inflammatory pathways, such as NF-κB, and increased expression of cytokines, such as CCL2," they stated. In the MF microenvironment, we found several cell types that expressed pro-inflammatory chemokines, such as CCL2, CCL3 and CCL4. These cytokines may mediate the recruitment of lymphoid cells into muscle and the pro-inflammatory environment of aged muscle." Age-related loss of a specific fast-twitch muscle fiber subtype, key for explosive muscle performance, was also observed. However, they discovered for the first time several compensatory mechanisms from the muscles appearing to make up for the loss. These included a shift in slow-twitch muscle fibers to express genes characteristic of the lost fast-twitch subtype, and increased regeneration of remaining fast-twitch fibre subtypes. The team also identified specialized nuclei populations within the muscle fibers that help rebuild the connections between nerves and muscles that decline with age. Knockout experiments in lab-grown human muscle cells by the team confirmed the importance of these nuclei in maintaining muscle function. "Our atlas also highlights an expansion of nuclei associated with the neuromuscular junction, which may reflect re-innervation, and outlines how the loss of fast-twitch myofibers is mitigated through regeneration and upregulation of fast-type markers in slow-twitch myofibers with age," the team stated. Study co-senior author Hongbo Zhang, PhD, from Sun Yat-sen University, said, "In China, the U.K. and other countries, we have aging populations, but our understanding of the aging process itself is limited. We now have a detailed view into how muscles strive to maintain function for as long as possible, despite the effects of aging." Study first author Veronika Kedlian, PhD, at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, added, "Our unbiased, multifaceted approach to studying muscle aging, combining different types of sequencing, imaging and investigation reveals previously unknown cellular mechanisms of aging and highlights areas for further study."
Caroline Robinson The focus of this article is on advocacy opportunities provided by the anti-trafficking framework in a new political climate. Through the case study of the United Kingdom (UK) Modern Slavery Act 2015 deliberations the article explores opportunities to use political interest in human trafficking to advocate labour rights and protections for vulnerable workers. The article explores how, largely cynical, political motivations for the debate on 'modern slavery' in the UK, provided an opportunity to reframe the anti-trafficking discourse in this context. Whilst migration control and labour market deregulation are key priorities for the UK government, the Modern Slavery Act process enabled advocates to highlight the impact of such measures on vulnerable, predominantly migrant, workers. It also ultimately served to persuade decision makers to make a connection between widespread labour abuses and severe labour exploitation. Through this case study the article argues for engagement with anti-trafficking frameworks to both highlight and harness the political rhetoric, and maximise the space provided for promoting the rights of vulnerable workers. Keywords: UK, modern slavery, labour exploitation, immigration, labour inspection, policy advocacy Please cite this article as: C Robinson, 'Claiming Space for Labour Rights within the United Kingdom Modern Slavery Crusade', Anti-Trafficking Review, issue 5, 2015, pp. 129–143, www.antitraffickingreview.org Caroline Robinson La atención de este artículo se centra en las oportunidades de promoción e incidencia generadas a partir del nuevo marco político contra la trata de personas. A través del estudio de caso de las deliberaciones de la Ley contra la Esclavitud Moderna de Reino Unido del año 2015, el artículo estudia las posibilidades del uso del interés político en la trata de personas para promocionar e incidir en los derechos laborales y la protección de las/os trabajadoras/es vulnerables. El artículo expone cómo, de manera profundamente cínica, las motivaciones políticas para el debate sobre la "esclavitud moderna" en Reino Unido, dan la oportunidad de reformular el discurso contra la trata en este contexto. Mientras que el control migratorio y la desregulación del mercado laboral son prioridades clave para el gobierno de Reino Unido, el proceso de formulación de la Ley contra la Esclavitud Moderna ha permitido defender y resaltar el impacto que estas medidas han tenido en las/os trabajadoras/es vulnerables, predominantemente migrantes. En última instancia, también ha servido para persuadir en la toma de decisiones para hacer una conexión entre los abusos laborales, ampliamente extendidos, y la grave explotación laboral. A través de este caso de estudio, el artículo defiende el compromiso con el marco contra la trata de personas para resaltar y aprovechar la retórica política, maximizando de esta forma el espacio disponible para la defensa de los derechos de las/os trabajadoras/es vulnerables. Palabras clave: Reino Unido, esclavitud moderna, explotación laboral, inmigración, inspección laboral, incidencia política The global debate on human trafficking has largely been dominated by sex.1 Responses to trafficking for sexual exploitation have the power to polarise moral opinion to such an extent that the Trafficking Protocol2 negotiations in the late 1990s were reportedly dominated by angry exchanges and eventual gridlock about prostitution's place in the treaty.3 However, the process to review and revise the United Kingdom's (UK) anti-trafficking law and policy framework from 2013–15 has taken a different course. Here moral opinion on sexual exploitation has been overtaken by a less muddied moral narrative recalling the UK's role in the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. This article discusses how the Modern Slavery Act 2015 process4 and this moral narrative have been used by politicians to offset the impact of their own morally questionable responses to immigration and labour market regulation. In this article I will look at the motivations behind the UK government proposing concurrent legislation that on one hand sought to create gaps in protections for migrants and low-skilled workers and on the other sought to support those who are severely exploited as a result of such gaps. I will discuss how this contradictory policy juxtaposition provided an opportunity for organisations like my own, Focus on Labour Exploitation (FLEX), to reframe the debate on trafficking through the Modern Slavery Act. I will use the example of the Modern Slavery Act debate on the role of the Gangmasters' Licensing Authority (GLA), a labour provider licensing body established to prevent labour abuses, to demonstrate how it served as a conduit for discussion on the connection between migration control, labour market deregulation and labour exploitation. I will conclude by addressing the implications of the UK experience for future advocacy in the sphere of trafficking for labour exploitation. From Cambodia to India, Argentina to the United States of America, anti-trafficking legislation has caused debate, fighting and often stalemate among those who support sex work as work and those who believe it to be inherently exploitative. Indeed many sex workers' rights activists have come to despise all interest in combating 'trafficking' as they view such interest as a covert means of attacking sex work. In the UK, however, the debate in relation to the Modern Slavery Act has taken a different direction, away from questions relating to sexual exploitation. The narrative has shifted from the morality of selling sex to that of abusing labour for profit—all labour in all sectors—a major departure from many anti-trafficking debates. Addressing non-governmental organisations (NGOs) on the Modern Slavery Bill's contents at the Human Trafficking Foundation forum in December 2013, the then Security Minister James Brokenshire, expressly ruled out consideration of prostitution within the Bill due to time constraints. In the interests of ensuring safe passage of their Bill through Parliament before the May 2015 general election, the government sought to draw on a more black-and-white moral narrative. The spirit of William Wilberforce and his crusade against the transatlantic slave trade from his seat in the UK parliament was regularly invoked, making non-sexual 'slavery' the narrative focus, and therefore largely side stepping polarising debate on agency in sex work. With the UK General Election set to take place in May 2015, the governing party, the Conservatives, were aware that immigration could sway the vote. Figures on net migration had seen a 'statistically significant increase' to 298,000,5 contrary to the Conservatives' 2010 election pledge to reduce levels of net migration to below 100,000. The Conservatives were also threatened by a growing popularist political movement, led by a minority party, the UK Independence Party (UKIP). UKIP links unemployment, low pay and reduced funding for public services to the pressures placed on the UK by immigration from EU Member States. In order to counter this threat, the Conservatives championed government measures that sought to reduce opportunities for migrants to access the British welfare system and to increase barriers to undocumented migrants accessing services. The proposed Modern Slavery Bill, steeped in associations with William Wilberforce and Britain's role in 'extinguishing the new slavery just as it did the old',6 was partly designed to soften the blow for a core section of its electorate, namely Anglican church goers,7 of the anti-immigration agenda. The Modern Slavery Bill's announcement coincided neatly with the introduction of the Immigration Bill to the Houses of Parliament. This Bill, now Immigration Act 2014, explicitly aimed to 'make the UK the least attractive destination for illegal [sic] migrants'8 through measures to limit migrant access to public services. The introduction of the Modern Slavery Bill, to help the victims of hostile migration measures, successfully rallied support from both the Anglican and Catholic churches. This move headed off those who might accuse the Conservatives of regressing to the 'nasty party', a term coined by the then Chair, now Home Secretary, Theresa May in 2002, recognising the party's need to detoxify their image. When May made tackling 'modern slavery' a 'personal priority' in 20139 she was keenly aware of the importance of her anti-slavery crusade to her party's electoral success. The opposition Labour Party also found labour exploitation to be a useful means of addressing the difficult politics of immigration. Delivering a key speech on immigration in 2012, the Labour leader Ed Miliband detailed mistakes he felt his party had made when in government: an unrestricted flow of immigration from the European Union, weak labour standards and a 'short-term, low skill approach' from business.10 In the speech, Miliband spoke of the need to expand the remit of the GLA. The Labour Party was striving to address British people's growing concerns about immigration whilst ensuring that their core trade union support and socialist wing did not see it as evidence of a shift to the right. In April 2014, Labour Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, in a speech on immigration, launched a consultation in to 'the laws around exploitation and the undercutting of wages and jobs.'11 Labour's position on immigration has become tied to its position on labour exploitation: too many low-skilled migrant workers is bad both for migrant workers who are being exploited, and for British workers who are having their wages undercut. In addition to toughening conditions for undocumented migrants in the UK, the Coalition government also implemented significant reforms to the way in which the labour market is regulated, with implications for the low-skilled workforce. The government's 'Red Tape Challenge' set out to reduce the regulatory burden on UK business, and culminated in the publication of a Deregulation Bill in July 2013. Its provisions included changes to rules governing health and safety for self-employed workers as well as curtailing the powers of employment tribunals and the main UK labour inspection authorities. Many of the so-called bureaucratic measures to be cut had an impact on protections for workers. In this context, the Modern Slavery Bill offered the government a safe space to talk about severe labour abuses being faced by some workers, without addressing some of the wider impact of deregulation or migration reform on workers at the bottom of the labour market. The Labour and Conservative Party positions on immigration and the labour market, whilst distinct, share a need for a sweetener for important sections of both their core base and potential electorate. For the Modern Slavery Bill to provide this it had to incorporate consideration of labour exploitation across all sectors, something that is often excluded in anti-trafficking debate. Indeed, when I asked the Home Secretary at the launch of the Bill whether prevention of trafficking for labour exploitation would be considered in the proposed legislation she said that it was a key priority for the government and that the role of the GLA would be under review as a core part of this agenda. Whilst politicians are skilled at offering appeasing responses, within five months of the Bill launch meeting the GLA had been moved from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to the Home Office, opening the door for its expansion into non-agricultural sectors. Announcing this major change, the government said the move would help 'stop practices which exploit vulnerable workers and undercut local businesses that play by the rules'.12 This announcement made clear that rhetoric on labour exploitation would play a major part in the modern slavery crusade. The danger was that the language of labour exploitation would be used to target migrants and to pursue serious organised criminal networks rather than to enforce labour rights. A Modern Slavery Bill supported by all parties, to be rapidly enacted before the May 2015 general election made good political sense. Early on, NGOs were told by those enforcing the Bill for the government that due to the short timeframe, importance and urgency of the issue, few amendments should be sought. This is not unusual in the anti-trafficking world, as the Global Alliance Against Traffic in Women (GAATW) has shown,13 time and again responses to human trafficking are often misguided precisely because of their act-first-think-later nature. In the UK context, acting first meant ignoring the mismatches beneath the surface of the government's immigration, red tape cutting and modern slavery agendas. Yet while some suggested 'any bill on slavery is better than no bill',14 many politicians, lawyers and NGOs, including FLEX, were outspoken in their objection to the draft Modern Slavery Bill. Indeed, in a Guardian newspaper article published following the release of the Draft Bill, Claire Falconer and I highlighted many key gaps in the Bill, which we argued lacked 'prevention measures required to root out exploitation in high-risk labour sectors' as well as any victim protection or support provisions.15 Forced labour and trafficking for labour exploitation were pushed to the fore during the Modern Slavery Bill16 pre-legislative scrutiny, parliamentary debate and amendments. The key opportunities to amend the Modern Slavery Act as it passed through Parliament were at Committee and Report Stages, first in the House of Commons and then in the House of Lords. Opposition amendments on labour exploitation and forced-labour-related issues were tabled at all stages, and it was these amendments that ultimately served to shift the Bill most from its original form. Trafficking for labour exploitation and forced labour were covered in three main ways through the Bill debates: firstly in efforts to change the 'tied' overseas domestic worker visa; secondly to provide for corporate supply chain transparency and accountability; and finally to address the limited remit of UK labour inspectorates and particularly the GLA. The first of these issues is backed by a long-standing and broad coalition of NGOs and rights organisations, as well as many opposition Members of Parliament (MPs), who argue that the UK domestic worker tied-visa system resembles the Middle-Eastern Kafala system of employer-employee sponsorship. The second issue, corporate accountability, also has broad civil society support from investors, business, NGOs and parliamentarians, and advocacy focused on measures to ensure UK corporations effectively scrutinise their supply chains for labour exploitation. The final issue, UK labour inspection, was much less popular as many saw it as an unattainable goal, particularly in the climate of deregulation and greatly reduced resources for all government agencies. Yet by including labour exploitation as part of the narrative surrounding the Bill the government enabled NGOs like FLEX to make progress on this issue, which might not otherwise have been possible. FLEX advocacy on the GLA, and on UK labour inspection more widely, sought to ensure that wherever the modern-slavery agenda was used to hide or cloud the impact of immigration and labour deregulation reforms, we would use it to clarify the connection between all three. This became especially important as the parliamentary debate and government policy, mired in immigration tensions, risked moving the GLA away from a focus on its licensing standards, linked to forced labour indicators, towards immigration enforcement. A FLEX working paper used in advocacy on the Bill highlights gaps in prevention of trafficking for labour exploitation in the UK and looks at opportunities for the existing UK labour inspectorates to do more to proactively prevent this crime.17 In doing so it addresses the limited scope of the GLA and calls for its expansion in to a broad range of UK labour sectors in order to conduct its intelligence gathering work across the UK labour market. This is not a new position, many trade unions and NGOs called for expansion of the GLA almost as soon as it was established, but this advocacy had largely subsided in the context of austerity and a strong emphasis on market deregulation. The GLA was established in the Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004 to protect vulnerable workers in the agriculture, food processing, horticulture, forestry and shellfish gathering sectors. The Bill was introduced by Jim Sheridan, a Labour Member of Parliament (MP), shortly after the death of 23 Chinese cockle harvesters who were working for a gangmaster in the northwest of the UK, at Morecambe Bay, in February 2004. Importantly, this legislation not only sets out to protect workers from exploitation but also defines a 'worker' to include individuals without the 'right to be, or to work in the United Kingdom'.18 The GLA was therefore established in recognition of the fact that workers, documented and undocumented, are vulnerable to exploitation and the state has a duty to act to prevent such exploitation by enforcing labour standards. The focus on labour exploitation in the course of the Modern Slavery Act provided a space for this issue to be revived. At the same time, the precedent set by the Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004 provided a means of introducing discussions on labour standards enforcement in to the Modern Slavery Bill debate. At the Modern Slavery Bill's first stage, known as House of Commons Committee Stage, the idea of prevention through labour inspection and labour standard enforcement gained traction with the Labour Party. Labour tabled a broad amendment on the GLA, requiring the Home Secretary to review its remit and based on that review to extend it where necessary. The response of Karen Bradley MP, then Minister for Modern Slavery and Organised Crime, to the amendment in the Committee debate was fascinating. She rejected the notion that there was a need for the GLA's work to reach beyond its limited remit and talked of the range of UK labour inspectorates operating in other sectors. In doing so she foregrounded labour rights abuses against migrant workers across the UK labour market and said the government was 'determined effectively to tackle labour exploitation'.19 Her response covered the work of the national minimum wage inspectorate and the Health and Safety Executive as well as addressing agency worker regulation. She highlighted the work of these agencies in proactive enforcement and providing protections to workers. This debate signaled an important shift from a simplistic victim and criminal narrative to one of degrees and shades of exploitation found across the labour market. The GLA was again the subject of debate during the next phase of the Bill, Commons Report Stage. Labour tabled an enabling clause to give the Secretary of State the power to broaden the remit of the GLA, if she had evidence to do so. This time amendments were also tabled by a Conservative backbencher Stephen Barclay MP, a strong advocate for the GLA, calling for the authority to be given increased powers.20 At this point the Minister for Modern Slavery's response revealed an understanding of the link between labour abuses and severe exploitation. She stated: Looking ahead, the GLA is well placed to tackle the serious worker exploitation that lies between the more technical compliance offences investigated by HMRC21 and the serious and organised crime addressed by the National Crime Agency.22 In her remarks, the Minister took a relatively progressive approach in the anti-trafficking sphere, in setting out a range of exploitative labour practices, from labour abuses including non-payment of the minimum wage as investigated by HMRC, to labour exploitation dealt with by the GLA. Her response turned the spotlight on the role of government agencies such as the HMRC national minimum wage inspectorate, and provided an opportunity to critique their failure to actively prevent labour abuses from descending in to labour exploitation on the spectrum that the Minister herself identified. For years labour rights and anti-trafficking activists have locked horns on the limiting nature of anti-trafficking responses, that only seem to allow for consideration of the most severe labour exploitation, whilst prolific labour abuses seemingly do not warrant consideration. At the very least, during the debate on the Modern Slavery Act, a link between labour abuses and 'serious worker exploitation' has been drawn, prising open a space in which to advocate for workers' rights as a means of preventing trafficking from taking place. In the House of Lords, parliament's second chamber, Peers were receptive to discussion on labour regulation and even keener than MPs in the Commons to understand the drivers of severe exploitation in the UK labour market. The Liberal Democrat Party Peer Baroness Hamwee tabled an amendment that acted as a step forward in the way in which trafficking for labour exploitation and forced labour are conceptualised and addressed. Her amendment, entitled 'exploitation', called for a review of the Modern Slavery Act, once enforced, along with relevant laws establishing labour inspectorates, to assess whether they protect victims of exploitation.23 Whilst this amendment was problematic in its use of the vague and undefined term 'exploitation' it made an important link between prolific labour abuses, trafficking for labour exploitation and forced labour and the response of labour inspectorates. Throughout the Act's progress, the growing parliamentary concern with preventing and identifying the full range of labour exploitation served to lift the veil from the market deregulation measures the Bill was meant to obscure. While the government had committed to rolling back the labour inspectorate infrastructure in the name of 'deregulation' and austerity, the debate on the Modern Slavery Act led to a reversal of certain deregulation measures as labour inspection agencies were instead partly boosted. Throughout the debate on the Act the government response to the need to expand the role of the GLA was that the Employment Agencies Standards Inspectorate (EAS) is already operating in the sectors outside of the GLA remit. The EAS oversees the Employment Agencies Act 1973 and the Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses Regulations 2003, yet its resources were drastically cut to a skeleton staff of three in late 2013. Experts have pointed out that on a shoe-string budget the EAS has barely had the resources to conduct basic paper checks let alone proactive labour inspection.24 One week before the House of Lords Report Stage, the government committed to increasing resources to the EAS, doubling EAS resources this financial year and potentially increasing it again for the financial year 2015–16, in order to increase staff and conduct more targeted enforcement. This represents a significant u-turn by the government from almost total disbandment of the EAS prior to the Modern Slavery Act debate to a redoubling of its resources. The final major attempt to introduce a new Clause to the Act on labour inspection and regulation came from the Bishop of Derby in the House of Lords Report Stage. His amendment provided for review of the remit and resources of the GLA and had wide support in the House. In response the Government Minister Lord Bates referenced the government's deregulation agenda, citing concerns about placing financial burdens on business.25 Despite these reservations Lord Bates returned to the House of Lords at Third Reading with an amendment to insert the new Clause 'Gangmasters Licensing Authority',26 which commits the government to a review of the GLA's role. When introducing the amendment the Minister stated: It is obvious that there is a shared interest right across the House in increasing the GLA's effectiveness and indeed that of all the agencies engaged in the fight against worker mistreatment.27 He went on to say that the government shared the commitment to considering how the GLA 'can tackle and punish those that abuse, coerce and mistreat their workers'.28 This amendment is weak; it commits the government to an amorphous consultation, that risks providing them with the opportunity to further divert the GLA from its labour inspection role towards crime control or immigration enforcement. In this respect the amendment could do more harm than good, and yet it also offers advocates an opportunity to reinforce the importance of the GLA's work to enforce labour standards and protect vulnerable workers. The focus of attention on immigration, deregulation and now slavery in the UK has provided a unique opportunity to reframe the human trafficking debate to incorporate the central importance of labour rights. It has opened up the possibility of debate on the negative impact of our flexible, migrant dependent labour market on labour standards, and the link between deteriorating labour standards and severe exploitation. The Modern Slavery Act acted as a diversion from hostile migration control measures and labour market deregulation. However it has simultaneously provided space for debate about labour rights and the rights of migrant workers to be heard by those in power, free from the traditional associations with polarising trade union or pro-immigrant politics. The UK Modern Slavery Act experience provides some useful lessons to advocates. Primarily that unless we seek opportunities to make labour rights central to anti-trafficking law and policy, we will instead find ourselves with legislation that purports to protect the rights of workers and yet achieves the opposite. When faced with the not-so-hidden agenda to use the modern slavery rhetoric to deflect concerns about immigration and deregulation measures, it is tempting to turn advocacy attention elsewhere for risk of being seen to support such cynical moves. However, discussions with migrant community organisations and trafficked persons in the UK suggest that we do not have that luxury. As migrant rights and labour rights are being eroded to the point at which exploitation flourishes, when a small window of recognition of that fact by the government opens up it should be seized, albeit cautiously. Many argue that human trafficking can be used to create a convenient state-centric hierarchy of victims, ignoring the structural obstacles inherent in capitalism that prevent labour standards from being met. Rogaly, for example, suggests that from the outset a core driver of the Modern Slavery Bill in the UK was an effort to move the public attention away from the 'range of ways in which capitalism itself creates, perpetuates, and relies on forms of unfree labour'.29 Others such as Fudge highlight the dangers for advocates of engaging in the Modern Slavery Act debate.30 She argues that by linking the human rights of exploited workers with the modern slavery agenda advocates 'reinforce, rather than challenge an approach that emphasises the criminal law and border controls'.31 The link between border security and anti-trafficking efforts has been well documented in issue 2 of this journal, and the threat of immigration enforcement action against exploited individuals who enter the trafficking system is very real. The opportunity to disrupt irregular migration flows that the trafficking framework provides has long held appeal to states. The Modern Slavery Act was conceived with similar goals as much of the anti-trafficking legislation the world over, to reinforce a state-centric rather than victim-centric means of protecting victims from exploitation by placing huge emphasis on prosecuting traffickers. However as with much anti-trafficking debate, the Act also permitted discussion about the impact of ongoing labour deregulation on vulnerable workers, compensation for non-payment of the national minimum wage and the need to properly regulate employment agencies. These are important issues that are rarely tackled by this government from the perspective of the worker and yet this Act, flawed as it is, provided room for that debate. To leave the anti-trafficking or anti-slavery crusade to states would be to turn our backs on the very people we asked states to assist in the first place, simply because we do not like the responses initiated in their name. Whilst the opportunities for debate on labour rights, and migrant labour rights in particular, were limited in the wider UK political context, the Modern Slavery Act provided a useful vehicle for such discussion to take place. The GLA seemed, like many other UK labour inspectorates, doomed to experience further cuts and increasing reductions to its mandate. However, the Modern Slavery Act pushed senior government ministers to link labour abuses and modern slavery and politicians on all sides to consider the spectrum of labour abuses. Deregulation and anti-migrant policies in the UK actively create the space for exploitation, particularly of migrant workers, to flourish. The Modern Slavery Act provided cover for these policies, whilst the discourse of exploitation has also given the opposition Labour Party the opportunity to talk about immigration. Yet, all the while the Act provided space for advocates to uncover those same policies and motives. The debate on the role of the UK's labour inspectorates in the Modern Slavery Act has provided a useful example of the way in which the conversation on labour exploitation has evolved. It also offers lessons for future advocacy in this area, acknowledging the limitations of the anti-trafficking framework and setting out strategies to address such constraints. Ultimately as advocates there is a need to seize opportunities to bring about change. The Modern Slavery Act provided such an opportunity in a hostile political climate and demonstrates our responsibility to engage in debates on trafficking in order to reclaim the political ground on behalf of and with trafficked persons. Caroline Robinson is Co-Founder and Policy Director at Focus on Labour Exploitation (FLEX). FLEX promotes effective responses to human trafficking for labour exploitation that prioritise the needs and voice of trafficked persons and their human rights. Caroline has ten years experience in the field of human trafficking at both the UK national and international level. Email: firstname.lastname@example.com 1 See for example: the work of N Kristoff in the New York Times, retrieved 6 August 2015, http://www.nytimes.com/column/nicholas-kristof and at Half the Sky Movement, retrieved 14 May 2015, www.halftheskymovement.org; J Chuang, 'Rescuing Trafficking from Ideological Capture: Prostitution reform and anti-trafficking law and policy', University of Pennsylvania Law Review, vol. 158, issue 6, 2010, p.1655; E Bruch, 'Models Wanted: The search for an effective response to human trafficking', Stanford Journal of International Law, vol. 40, issue 1, 2004, pp.1–45. 2 In full: United Nations General Assembly, Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children, Supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, 15 November 2000 (Trafficking Protocol). 3 See: A T Gallagher, 'Human Rights and the New UN Protocols on Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling: A preliminary analysis', Human Rights Quarterly, vol. 23, 2001, retrieved 25 February 2015, http://traffickingroundtable.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Human-Rights-and-the-New-UN-Protocols.pdf 4 This article was drafted two weeks prior to the Modern Slavery Bill's enactment into law. 5 Office for National Statistics (ONS), 'Migration Statistics Quarterly Report, February 2015', ONS, 2015, retrieved 26 February 2015, http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/migration1/migration-statistics-quarterly-report/february-2015/index.html 6 F Nelson, 'William Wilberforce's heirs are ready to tackle the great evil of the age', The Telegraph, 22 August 2013. 7 B Clements and N Spencer, 'Voting and Values in Britain: Does religion count?', Theos, 2014, retrieved 28 January 2015, http://www.theosthinktank.co.uk/files/files/Reports/Voting%20and%20Values%20in%20Britain%2012.pdf 8 Home Office, 'Immigration Bill Factsheet: Overview of the Bill', Home Office, 2013, p.3, retrieved 28 January 2015, https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/249251/Overview_Immigration_Bill_Factsheet.pdf 9 Press Association, 'Theresa May makes modern slavery her "personal priority"', The Guardian, 24 November 2013. 10 E Miliband, 'Ed Miliband's Immigration Speech in Full', politics.co.uk, 2012, retrieved 29 January 2015, http://www.politics.co.uk/comment-analysis/2012/06/22/ed-miliband-s-immigration-speech-in-full 11 Y Cooper, 'Labour's Approach to Immigration—Speech by Yvette Cooper MP', Labour Party, 2014, retrieved 31 January 2015, http://press.labour.org.uk/post/82276714334/labours-approach-to-immigration-speech-by 12 UK Government, 'Tougher Enforcement Action and Stronger Penalties for Unscrupulous Employers', 2014, retrieved 31 January 2015, https://www.gov.uk/government/news/tougher-enforcement-action-and-stronger-penalties-for-unscrupulous-employers 13 GAATW, 'Collateral Damage: The impact of anti-trafficking measures on human rights around the world', GAATW, 2007. 14 Comments made by Baroness Butler-Sloss at the Human Trafficking Foundation Forum meeting, 9 December 2013. 15 C Robinson and C Falconer, 'Theresa May's Modern Slavery Bill will Fail to Provide Protection to Victims', The Guardian, 20 December 2013. 16 This Bill was drafted by the UK government in 2013, it then underwent a process of 'pre-legislative scrutiny', which consisted of submission of oral and written evidence from interested parties on the Bill's contents to a committee of MPs from both the lower chamber, the democratically elected House of Commons and the upper chamber, the unelected House of Lords. This 'Select Committee' published a report on evidence received and the Bill was presented to the House of Commons in June 2014 at 'First Reading', a brief formal introductory process. The Bill returned to the House of Commons for 'Second Reading' during which Members of Parliament debated its contents in more depth. The Bill then underwent a 'Committee Stage' in the House of Commons during which appointed cross-party MPs debated its contents and proposed amendments that were voted on by the Committee. The Bill then returned to the House of Commons for 'Report Stage' at which time any MP who wished to do so could bring forward amendments to the Bill for debate and instigate votes on such amendments. 'Third Reading' took place immediately after 'Report Stage' in the Commons—the final debate on the Bill before it was sent to the House of Lords. In the House of Lords the Bill underwent the same process: 'First Reading'; 'Second Reading'; 'Lords Committee Stage', which unlike the Commons did not involve votes on amendments to the Bill; 'Report Stage; and finally 'Third Reading'. The Bill then returned to the House of Commons for 'Consideration of Amendments' or 'ping-pong', where Lords amendments were overturned by the government meaning the Bill returned to the House of Lords for 'ping-pong' agreement of the revised Bill. The Bill was then 'enacted' through 'Royal Assent' on 26 March 2015, becoming the Modern Slavery Act 2015. 17 C Robinson, 'Working Paper 01: Preventing Trafficking for Labour Exploitation', Focus on Labour Exploitation, 2014. 18 Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004, Clause 26 (2), retrieved 2 May 2015, http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2004/11/section/26 19 K Bradley, Modern Slavery Bill Committee Session 10, UK parliament, 2014, retrieved, 18 February 2015, http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201415/cmpublic/modernslavery/141014/pm/141014s01.htm 20 House of Commons, Modern Slavery Bill Notice of Amendments, UK parliament, 30 October 2014, retrieved 25 February 2014, http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/bills/cbill/2014-2015/0096/amend/modernslaveryaddednames.pdf 21 Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs, the agency responsible for administration of taxes and the national minimum wage in the UK. 22 K Bradley, Modern Slavery Bill Report Stage, UK parliament, 2014, retrieved 18 February 2015, http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201415/cmhansrd/cm141104/debtext/141104-0004.htm 23 Baroness Hamwee, Modern Slavery Bill, New Clause 100, UK parliament, 2014, retrieved 20 February 2015, http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/bills/lbill/2014-2015/0051/amend/ml051-IV.pdf 24 Construction, 'Minister Resorts to Myths When Opposing Gangmaster Licensing—UCATT', Construction, 2010, retrieved 25 February 2015, http://www.construction.co.uk/construction_news.asp?newsid=120309 25 Lord Bates, Modern Slavery Bill Report Stage, Official Report, col. 1713, UK parliament, 2015, retrieved 1 March 2015, http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld201415/ldhansrd/text/150225-0002.htm 26 House of Lords, Amendments to be Moved on Third Reading, Modern Slavery Bill, p.1, UK parliament, 2015, retrieved 1 March 2015, http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/bills/lbill/2014-2015/0098/amend/am098-a.pdf 27 Lord Bates, Modern Slavery Bill Third Reading, Official Report, col. 243, UK parliament, 2015, retrieved 5 March 2015, http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld201415/ldhansrd/text/150304-0001.htm#15030468000814 28 Ibid., col. 244. 29 B Rogaly, 'Immigration Politics, Slavery Talk: The case for a class perspective', Open Democracy, 2015. 30 J Fudge, 'The Dangerous Appeal of the Modern Slavery Paradigm', Open Democracy, 2015, retrieved 5 May 2015, https://www.opendemocracy.net/beyondslavery/judy-fudge/dangerous-appeal-of-modern-slavery-paradigm 31 Ibid.
Manoa Falls is a spectacular 150-foot waterfall located in the Manoa Valley on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. This natural attraction is part of the greater Honolulu area and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. Surrounded by a lush rainforest, the falls and the trail leading up to it offer a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle and provide a glimpse into Hawaii's diverse flora and fauna. The Trail to Manoa Falls Hiking Adventure The trail to Manoa Falls is approximately 1.6 miles round trip and is considered a relatively easy hike, making it accessible for most people. The path is well-maintained, although it can be muddy and slippery due to frequent rain in the valley, so proper footwear is recommended. Rainforest Ecosystem As hikers make their way to the falls, they pass through a dense rainforest canopy, home to various native and introduced plant species. Towering banyan trees, bamboo groves, and the fragrant scent of ginger blossoms create a verdant, tropical atmosphere that enchants visitors. Filming Location The captivating scenery of Manoa Falls and its trail have been featured in several movies and television shows, most notably in the TV series "Lost" and the movie "Jurassic Park," showcasing the valley's cinematic qualities. Manoa Falls The Waterfall Upon reaching the end of the trail, visitors are greeted by the sight of Manoa Falls, a narrow cascade that drops 150 feet into a small, rocky pool below. The water flow varies depending on recent rainfall but is generally consistent throughout the year. Safety Precautions Swimming at the base of the falls is not recommended due to the risk of falling rocks and potential contamination from Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be present in freshwater streams and ponds. Ecological Importance Watershed Protection The Manoa Valley serves as an essential watershed for Honolulu. The lush vegetation and natural landscapes play a critical role in capturing and filtering rainwater, replenishing groundwater sources, and preventing erosion. The area around Manoa Falls supports a diverse range of wildlife, including native birds like the apapane and amakihi, which can sometimes be seen flitting among the treetops. Efforts to control invasive species and preserve native plants are ongoing to maintain this biodiversity. Visitor Information Amenities and Accessibility The trailhead to Manoa Falls is easily accessible by car or public transportation from Honolulu. There is a parking fee for those who drive, and facilities at the entrance include restrooms and a small gift shop. The trail is open during daylight hours, and it's advisable to check weather conditions before planning a hike. Guided Tours For those interested in learning more about the ecosystem and history of the valley, guided tours are available. These tours often provide additional insights into the cultural significance of the area and identify various plant and animal species along the trail. Conservation Efforts Visitors to Manoa Falls are encouraged to respect the natural environment by staying on designated trails, not leaving any trash behind, and not disturbing the wildlife. These practices help to preserve the area's natural beauty and ecological integrity. Manoa Falls offers an easily accessible adventure for those looking to explore Hawaii's natural beauty. The hike to the falls is a journey that stimulates the senses and provides an opportunity to connect with the island's lush landscapes. As a place of ecological and cultural significance, Manoa Falls reminds us of the importance of conservation and the role that each visitor plays in protecting these precious environments for future enjoyment.
Anew programme in Delhi government schools will try to increase student leadership and ownership of their schools by setting up elected 'Student Advisory Boards'. This project will first be introduced in 20 schools on a pilot basis, and the boards will comprise two children from each section of grades 7, 8, 9 and 11 who will be selected through intra-section elections. According to a note prepared by the Directorate of Education on this initiative, "It is envisioned that the Student Advisory Board will assist in augmenting and maximizing student participation in various leadership roles at the school level. The SAB will act as a voice of the students. SAB will contribute towards developing a sense of ownership in students, by designing, managing and executing various school activities. Schools have been issued strict instructions that these boards should be equally split in terms of gender in co-ed schools. Before the elections, students will also be told about "values and actions to look for" while choosing board members such as "always helps his/her classmates", "actions never cause physical, emotional or mental harm to self or others". Once the boards have been elected, schools have been encouraged to set up different sub-committees such as a co-curricular sub-committee, sports affair sub-committee, culture & assembly sub-committee, and student discipline sub-committee to look at discipline-related issues and organise events such as a theatre festival, musical day and awareness campaigns. The DoE will even be conducting training sessions for the School Advisory Board members with the stated goals of 'vision of excellence', 'a sense of responsibility', 'vision setting', 'goal setting' and 'execution', and will be conducting "exposure visits" to other schools with such boards. Before this, the Directorate has introduced various measures to increase parent participation in school governance by making School Management Committees active and bringing on board parents as school mitras.
'The Missing' wins Best Short Documentary Award in Zurich We are delighted to announce 'The Missing' has won the 'Best Short Documentary' award at the recent Inspirational Film Festival held in Zurich. Read MoreLucinda Horrocks writes 'Discovering an Archive' Wind & Sky Producer Lucinda Horrocks has had an article published in Provenance, the free journal of the Public Record Office of Victoria. Read More'The Missing' nominated for awards in Berlin, Tokyo and Hawaii We are proud to announce that 'The Missing' has been nominated for several awards in the last few months at global film festival events. Read More'The Missing' Nominated in British Short Film Awards Exciting! Our short documentary 'The Missing' has been nominated for an award in the 2022 British Short Film Awards! Read More'The Missing' screening in Croatia for the History Film Festival We are proud to announce that the Wind & Sky Productions short documentary 'The Missing' is screening in Rijeka, Croatia as part of the 6th History Film Festival 13-17 September 2022. Read MoreActs of Heroism Produced: 2022 Length: 15.34 minutes Funded by: Telematics Trust In collaboration with: Federation University Aboriginal Heroes of Flood Fire and Food Digital Map.The Story This short documentary film explores the history of emergency rescues and assistance in Victoria by Aboriginal people of non-Aboriginal people. In the 19th and early 20th century Aboriginal Victorians saved lives. They knew how to manage fire and flood in the bush and where to find food in times of scarcity. Despite the devastating impacts of European invasion, Aboriginal people consistently offered help and rescue to colonists. 'Acts of Heroism' looks at instances where Aboriginal people took action in emergency situations in Victoria and reflects on the legacy of these shared histories. It includes Indigenous and academic perspectives, with speakers Yaraan Couzens-Bundle, Jidah Clark, Uncle David Wandin, Associate Professor Michael-Shawn Fletcher, Professor Richard Broome and Associate Professor Fred Cahir. Directed by Jary Nemo, produced and written by Lucinda Horrocks and Jary Nemo, the film features the original music of composer Deb Lowah Clark. Viewers are advised that the film may contain images and names of people who have died. The film mentions acts of violence and the killing times which may be distressing. Viewers are also advised they will hear and see words written more than a hundred years ago. In quoting the words as they were first written the film makers intend no disrespect to peoples past or present. This short film is a companion to a web-based education portal 'Aboriginal Heroes of Fire, Food and Flood' which spatially maps locations and documented instances of Aboriginal heroism to do with fire, flood and food in Victoria and Southeastern Australia from the 1800s to the 1930s. The project was funded by the Telematics Trust and is a collaboration between Federation University historians, the Centre for eResearch and Digital Innovation at Federation University, and Wind & Sky Productions. The film was produced in Ballarat, in regional Victoria, on Wadawurrung Country. More information at https://www.aboriginalheroesmatter.org.au/ Viewing the film Not yet released to the public. Coming soon.Credits - Featuring (in order of appearance): - Yaraan Couzens-Bundle, Jidah Clark, Fred Cahir, Richard Broome, David Wandin and Michael-Shawn Fletcher - And the voices of: - Bryn Cahir, Hannah Cahir, Heather Horrocks, Kylee Smith, Tobias Horrocks, William Horrocks, Thomas Brooker - Directed by: - Jary Nemo - Written and produced by: - Lucinda Horrocks and Jary Nemo - Executive producer: - Fred Cahir - Original music: - Deb Lowah Clark - Soundscape: - 'Place-we-be'. Composed, recorded and performed by Deb Lowah Clark. Featuring Deb Lowah Clark, Sarah Jane Hall, Bonnie Chew and Tony Lovett. Production support Dave Clark. - Stock content: - Footage courtesy of iStock by Getty Images. 'Old Prophecy' by Felipe Adorno Vassao. Courtesy Beat Suite. - Equipment support: - Assisted by a City of Ballarat Creative Inspiration Grant through Creative Ballarat and Regional Arts Victoria. - With thanks to: - Maxine Briggs, Craig Briody, Deb Lowah Clark, Dave Clark, Kirsten Clark, Pete Dahlhaus, Sam Henson, Kathy Horvat, Clare Gervasoni, Geoffrey Lord, Malcolm Sanders, Helen Thompson, Rob Milne, Dan Tout, Anthony Romano, Charley Woolmore, City of Ballarat, Latrobe University, Melbourne University Indigenous Knowledge Institute, Federation University Centre for eResearch and Digital Innovation (CeRDI), Regional Arts Victoria, Federation University SMB Library, Royal Historical Society Victoria, State Library Victoria and Wandoon Estate Aboriginal Corporation. - License: - This film has been released under a Creative Commons BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license. - Produced in collaboration with: - Federation University Australia - Supported by: - the Telematics Trust - Companion website: - Aboriginal Heroes Matter - Acknowledgements: - Film production and development took place on the lands of the Bunurong, Dja Dja Wurrung, Djab Wurrung, Jardwardjali, Taungurung, Wadawurrung, and Wurundjeri peoples. We acknowledge these Traditional Owners and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future. - Copyright with: - Wind & Sky Productions ©2022 unless otherwise acknowledged. Celebrating humanitarian women and men of the First World War. 19 April 2021, Wind & Sky Productions A new online exhibition 'The Missing' celebrates two Australian humanitarian efforts of WW1 – the Australian Red Cross Wounded and Missing Enquiry Bureau and post-war Australian Graves Workers. Visit https://victoriancollections.net.au/stories/the-missing to view the free exhibition. Read MoreShining a Light on Untold Women's History By Wind & Sky Productions 4 March 2020Few Melbournians realise that the Mission to Seafarers, that odd-looking building with the dome and the bell tower at the Docklands end of Flinders Street, has a story reaching back to World War One and early 20th century Melbourne harbourside life. A new documentary 'Harbour Lights' tells the story of a remarkable and forgotten group of women connected to the origins of that building. Read MoreHarbour Lights Commissioned by: Victorian Government Produced: 2020 Length: 17:51 minutes About The Film In WW1 Melbourne a pioneering network of women at the Mission to Seafarers called the Ladies Harbour Lights Guild supported sailors who risked their lives at sea. The documentary 'Harbour Lights' tells the remarkable story of the Ladies Harbour Lights Guild and the lives of seafarers in early 20th century Melbourne. It focusses on Melbourne's iconic Mission to Seafarers building, its connection to the Great War and to a unique community of ships crew and volunteers. This Wind & Sky Production was produced in collaboration with the Mission to Seafarers Victoria. It was directed by Jary Nemo and written and produced by Lucinda Horrocks and Jary Nemo with executive producers Sue Dight and Gordon MacMillan. Narrated by Sharon Turley, the film features Jill Garner, Kate Darian-Smith, Chris McConville, Janet Miller and Gordon MacMillan. Music was specifically composed by the incredible Richard Chew. Featuring Melbourne historians, commentators, archivists and architects and rare footage and images of sailing and social life in and around the ports of Melbourne, this film will inform and connect audiences young and old. Created with the support of the Victorian Government. Story Background At the outbreak of World War One shipping was central to the Victorian way of life. Seafarers from every corner of the world visited Melbourne on merchant ships. They risked their lives bringing goods to what was then the largest port in Australia. Life could be equally difficult in port where exploitation of sailors was rife. To help protect them from harm the Mission to Seafarers set up a network of support in Australia and around the world. The Mission was first established as a floating chapel in Hobson's Bay in 1857, but by the early 20th century had established shore-based missions in Williamstown, Port Melbourne, and on the Yarra River in Melbourne. The Melbourne Mission to Seafarers, which still stands today, was constructed on the Yarra River waterfront in 1917 during the First World War at a time when ships carrying cargo and people were subjected to heightened dangers at sea. What is little-known about the story is the crucial work of a group of women called the Ladies Harbour Lights Guild who raised significant funds for the Mission's construction and who volunteered their time to support the global welfare of seafarers from ship to shore. The inspiration for the film project was the rediscovery in 2007 of a near-forgotten set of dusty old boxes stored under the Mission's theatre. The boxes were filled with documents and photographs related to the activities of the Ladies Harbour Lights Guild from its foundation in 1906 to its demise in the 1960s. In recent years a dedicated team of volunteers and staff at the Mission has been gradually digitising, identifying and cataloguing the Guild records. Through their research they discovered that the construction of the current Mission building at 717 Flinders Street, particularly the building of the Memorial Chapel, was paid for in large part by the fundraising efforts of the Ladies Harbour Lights Guild during WW1. The archives also revealed that the Ladies Harbour Lights Guild model was a homegrown invention, pioneered in Melbourne in 1906 and exported to Missions around the world. Though the Ladies Harbour Lights Guild disbanded in the 1960s, their legacy is present in the bones of the building they helped construct during the terrible years of the First World War. Their traces can be found in the outdoor garden, designed and planted by members of the Guild, and in the stained glass, decorative work and plaques in the building's Memorial Chapel, dedicated to the memory of merchant mariners who lost their lives in the Great War. Today the Mission continues to operate from the same building and has an active staff and volunteer community working in support of the world's seafarers who visit the port of Melbourne. In the News Peter Krausz, Interview with Lucinda Horrocks and Jary Nemo Harbour Lights, Movie Metropolis, WYN 88.9FM, 24 July 2021. Documentary Drive, 'MDFF 2021: Shorts to Watch', 06 July 2021. Annie McLoughlin, 'Harbour Lights & The Last Typewriter Shop In Melbourne', Interview with Lucinda Horrocks and Jary Nemo, Showreel, 3CR Community Radio, 24 June 2021. Screenings and Events Winner, Best Documentary Film, Directors Circle Festival of Shorts 2021, 27 November – 4 December 2021. Official Selection, Melbourne Documentary Film Festival 2021, 7-31 July 2021. Official Selection, Setting Sun Film Festival 2021, 18-26 June 2021. Official Selection, Carmarthen Bay Film Festival 2021, 18-19 May 2021. Geelong Wooden Boat Festival: Sunday 8 March 2020, West Lounge Theatre, Geelong Foreshore. Program Film Launch: Wednesday 26th February 2020, Melbourne Mission to Seafarers. Viewing the Film The film is free to show, watch and share online at internet quality at Harbour Lights on YouTube. To arrange for a high quality screening copy for community screenings and events contact Wind & Sky Productions or Mission to Seafarers Victoria. Media Contact For interviews and further information, contact Wind & Sky Productions or Mission to Seafarers Victoria. - Narrator - Sharon Turley - Featuring (in order of appearance) - Dr Chris McConville, Gordon MacMillan, Janet Miller, Professor Kate Darian-Smith and Jill Garner - With - Raul S Gantalao Jr, Escoto Lemuel, Ben Schroeder, Cinda Manins - And - Ian Fletcher, Yuan Jia, Uma Kothari, Gordon Lansley, William Reed and Cheka Samaranayake - Directed by - Jary Nemo - Written and Produced by - Lucinda Horrocks and Jary Nemo - Music by - Richard Chew - Executive Producers - Sue Dight and Gordon MacMillan - Research advisors - Geraldine Brault, Maria Culka, Professor Kate Darian-Smith, Ros Fletcher, Professor Uma Kothari, Dr Barbara Lemon, Catherine McLay, Dr Chris McConville, Janet Miller, Rick Mitchell, Duncan 'John' Perryman, Dr Annette Sheill and Peter Taylor - Archival photographs, music and footage courtesy of - Australian Red Cross Society, Central Highlands Libraries, Internet Archive, National Film and Sound Archive, National Library of Australia, Mackarness Family Personal Archives, Mission to Seafarers Victoria, Public Record Office Victoria, State Library of Victoria and US National Archives - Music - Harbour Lights. Music by Richard Chew. Westering. Music by Richard Chew. Twilight (Crépuscule) by Jules Massenet. Performed by Amelita Galli-Curci. I Love You So, Waltz from The Merry Widow by Franz Lehár. Performed by Elise Stephenson and Harry Macdonough with Orchestra. Harbour Lights 2. Music by Richard Chew. If I Could Fly by Walking Hearts featuring Jennifer Holm. Courtesy of Epidemic Sound. - With thanks to - Peter Barrow, Sarah Bartak, Lin Bender AM, Patty Braumueller, Csilla Csongvay, Emer Diviney, Moira Drew, Ian Fletcher, Ajith Jayasuriya, Ben Jones, Patience Jones, Cinda Manins, Madeleine Martiniello, Georgia Melville, Elisabeth Moglia, Tara Oldfield, Lyn Pasquier, Nigel Porteous, Rev'd Onofre (Inni) Punay, Dr Rosalie Triolo, Ben Schroeder, David Simpson, Cheka Samaranayake, Daria Wray, the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust and KPMG. - A special thanks to - The women of the Ladies Harbour Lights Guild 1906 to 1961 - Produced in collaboration with - The Mission to Seafarers Victoria - Created with the support of - The Victorian Government - Licensing - This film has been released under a Creative Commons BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license - Acknowledgement of country - Project production and development took place on the lands of the Kulin nation. We acknowledge Traditional Owners and pay our respects to Elders past, present and future. - Production company - A Wind & Sky Production - Copyright with - © Wind & Sky Productions MMXIX
Hey there, fellow human being. Can we talk about something that's been hanging heavy in the air lately? Social anxiety. Yep, you know it. It's that gnawing feeling in the pit of your stomach when you think about stepping out into the world, even after COVID-19 has started to fade into the rearview mirror. It's like the pandemic's aftershock, leaving us a bit shaken and uncertain about getting back into the swing of things. Let's face it, pre-COVID, social anxiety was already a thing. But now, oh boy, it's like it's gone through a growth spurt. The pandemic, with all its lockdowns, social distancing, and mask mandates, seems to have taken a toll on our collective social skills. Think about it: for what felt like forever, we were cooped up inside, mastering the art of social distancing and Zoom calls. Human interaction became this rare gem we only stumbled upon during masked grocery runs or virtual happy hours. And now, as the world slowly reopens, it's like we're emerging from hibernation, blinking in the sunlight and wondering if we still remember how to talk to people without awkwardly clearing our throats. The pandemic shook up our lives like a snow globe, and now that things are settling, it's normal to feel a bit shaky about stepping back into the social scene. The fear of catching a potentially deadly virus is still very real for many of us, even with vaccines doing their superhero thing. So, what happens when you add that fear to the already existing cocktail of social anxiety? You get a whole lot of sweaty palms and racing hearts. Social anxiety is about this underlying fear of judgment, of not being "enough," of saying the wrong thing and feeling like you're the odd one out. Social anxiety and even agoraphobia are on the rise and fairly prevalent in today's Post-COVID world. Social anxiety is a persistent fear of social situations, especially those involving unfamiliar people. Individuals with social anxiety worry excessively about being judged, criticized, or rejected by others. And let's be real, COVID-19 didn't exactly do wonders for our self-esteem. The constant barrage of bad news, the isolation, the endless scrolling through social media comparing our lives to everyone else's highlight reels—it's enough to make anyone feel like they're not measuring up. But hey, it's important to remember that feeling anxious in social situations right now is totally normal. We're all trying to find our footing in this brave new world, figuring out how to interact with each other without the constant threat of an invisible enemy looming over us. "Nobody realizes that some people expend tremendous energy merely to be normal." So, what can we do about it? Well, first off, cut yourself some slack. Seriously. Beating yourself up for feeling anxious won't do anyone any good. Acknowledge your feelings and give yourself a mental high five for even showing up. Take a deep breath, remind yourself that it's okay to not have all the answers, and give yourself permission to take things one step at a time. Secondly, take baby steps. You don't have to dive headfirst into a crowded bar or a bustling concert venue right away. Start small. Meet up with a friend for a coffee date or take a leisurely stroll in the park. Ease yourself back into social situations at your own pace. Whether it's a friend, a family member, or a therapist, having someone to talk to about what you're going through can make all the difference. Sometimes just knowing that you're not alone in feeling this way can be incredibly comforting. The more you practice putting yourself out there, the easier it'll become. And hey, if you need a little extra support, that's okay too. Therapy, support groups, meditation—there are plenty of resources out there to help you manage your anxiety. Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness; it's a sign of strength. Above all, remember that you're not alone in this. We're all feeling a little wobbly as we navigate this new normal together. So, let's cut each other some slack, lend a helping hand when needed, and maybe even share a laugh or two along the way. After all, isn't that what being human is all about? Here's to navigating this brave new world together, one awkward interaction at a time. And hey, if all else fails, there's always puppies and pizza to fall back on. Think you might have social anxiety? Take the "Social Anxiety or Shyness?" Quiz here.
RC Rourkela Royal offers critical care ambulance for neonates With the implementation of its first global grant, the Rotary Club of Rourkela Royal, RI District 3261, has taken a big leap towards the objective of saving precious lives of infants, and making a dent in the abysmal numbers that the state of Odisha has when it comes to infant mortality. "We were shocked when Dr P Lall, a leading paediatrician in Rourkela, who heads the special paediatric facility called Aastha Mother and Child Care Hospital, contacted us about two years ago and shared with us the dismal statistics about Odisha when it comes to infant mortality," recalls past president of the club Ajay Agarwal. The statistics shared by Dr Lall stated that Odisha has one of the poorest records in India and is near the bottom of the pile when it comes to IMR (Infant Mortality Rate) at 37/1,000 live births which is the third highest in India. The national average IMR in India at present is 22/1,000 live births. "Dr Lall explained to us that about 60 to 70 per cent of these deaths fall in the neonatal period (first four weeks). Many such infants who are either preterm babies, or suffer from birth asphyxia and certain congenital and other conditions requiring quick surgical intervention, need effective and urgent transport to well-equipped and specialised paediatric centres where qualified doctors can save these precious lives," says Agarwal. But the main problem is that such specialised centres providing critical and life-saving care to such babies are very few and in select cities only. Hence critically-ill babies require good transport over long distances in specially equipped ambulances. "The available ambulances were woefully inadequate to meet this need both in terms of equipment and skilled manpower. He stressed the need for not only good transport with specialised equipment but also effective care by trained persons enroute to a specialised centre, and sought our help to get such an ambulance." Once the paediatrician shared the heartbreaking statistics with the Rotarians that nearly 44 per cent of the neonates who finally reach a well-equipped paediatric facility in ordinary vans or other vehicles, reach such centres either dead or having developed severe complications that result in long term morbidity, the dye was cast. "The doctor told us that he was pained to note that most babies came from long distances to his hospital either lifeless or in a very sorry condition just because of poor means of transport and lack of timely care on the way." Being associated with this club's members for other earlier projects as well, he urged the Rotarians to undertake the project to make available a state-of-the-art ambulance for the worthy cause of saving neonatal lives. "The cost (₹33 lakh) and complexity of the project was a challenge because not only was the capital cost high, there was also a high running and maintenance cost involved, along with the need to have trained manpower on standby at all times in order to effectively operate the ambulance. But challenge is what excites Rotarians of RC Rourkela Royal the most," he smiles. While the worldwide neonatal mortality rate is 15 per 1,000 live births, in India this figure is 22, that of Odisha is alarmingly high at 37. When you consider this, this project is really meeting a critical need of Odisha and the local community. – Dr Bharat Pandya, TRF Trustee Vice Chair Very soon, Ajay Agarwal, as the project chair, and his team decided to get such a special, well-equipped ambulance, through a global grant and some CSR funds. The project was aptly named Ummeed (hope). "According to the detailed specifications given by Dr Lall, we decided to get a specialised vehicle with over a dozen equipment that can ensure the safe transportation of the infant from the birthplace to the hospitals with modern facilities. With this essential and godsend ambulance, we hope to prevent as many deaths and disabilities as possible that result from improper transport of neonates in non-equipped vehicles," he says. With DRFC Ranjit Saini helping them identify an international partner from Nepal — Rotary Club of Pashupati, RID 3292, Kathmandu — and corporates such as Kai International, Bhaskar Steel and Ferro Alloy coming on board, they applied for a global grant around September 2023. With Dr Lall guiding them to order the specific medical equipment required, the project was completed in a record time of seven months, and on Feb 29, a fully equipped neonatal ambulance was put into service for the people of Rourkela and surrounding areas by Dilip Tirkey, Hockey India president. The final challenge was where to place the ambulance so that anybody can use its service. Sushant Acharya, CEO of Hitech Medical College and Hospital, volunteered to take charge of the operation and maintenance of the ambulance, and also provide the services of trained personnel to operate it. Inaugurating the ambulance at RID 3261's district conference at Jharsuguda, TRF trustee vice-chair Bharat Pandya said that when a child is born, till 28 days, it is known as a neonate, and this is a very critical stage in the survival and growth of an infant. "During its first 28 days, the chances of something going wrong and the infant dying are very high. While the worldwide neonatal mortality rate is 15 per 1,000 live births, in India this figure is 22, that of Odisha is alarmingly high at 37. When you consider this, this project is really meeting a critical need of Odisha and the local community, and I congratulate you for providing this much needed ambulance to your local community." We gave the application in Aug–Sep 2023, and got the approval by December! My experience has been that the RI staff is so meticulous and if you do things properly, and follow all the rules and guidelines, the approval hardly takes any time.. – Ajay Agarwal, Project Chairman Agarwal thanks Kai International, Bhaskar Steel and Ferro Alloy for donating CSR funds to the tune of ₹20 lakh for this project, and DG Manjit Singh Arora. One of the directors of these companies, Suresh Agarwal, is a member of the executing club, and all its members, led by its president Sudhir Lath, Ajay Agarwal, secretary Rakesh Agarwal and treasurer Abhishek Patnaik also contributed. "We are so proud that Rotary has provided this first-of-its-kind facility in our city and a much-needed service that will go a long way in saving lives of newborn babies. This is a feather in the cap of not only our club but also District 3261 and Rotary as a whole. As one of our team members, Suresh Agarwal, aptly put it, the breakeven of the project will be achieved as soon as even one life of a newborn is saved with the help of Ummeed!" Helpline number for this special ambulance service: 90821 83896. Quick approval of GG On his experience in getting the global grant of around ₹33 lakh for a modern, well-equipped state-of-the-art ambulance for neonates, approved in a "record time of a few months," past president of RC Rourkela Royals and project chair of Ummeed Ajay Agarwal is all gratitude. I ask him this question about his experience in the backdrop of several Indian Rotarians complaining about delays in getting GGs approved. Adds Agarwal, "I am happy to share that the approval came in the record time of a few months. We gave the application in Aug-Sep 2023, and got the approval by December! My experience has been that the RI staff is so meticulous and if you do things properly, and follow all the rules and guidelines, the approval hardly takes any time. But you have to follow the process, which I must point out, is so clear and user-friendly. Those who complain, are surely making mistakes because I found all the instructions to be crystal clear. The problem is that most of us don't know what is to be done, when and how, and this is because nobody gives us practical training! What we get is theory all the time…" He advocates a structured and proper training process on how to apply for a global grant. He, of course, has prior experience with global grant applications, having helped his wife Rashmi Agarwal, who was then the president of RC Rourkela Queens, to prepare a ₹26 lakh global grant application for a mobile eye clinic. "That was again done in a record time of about 7–8 months… we applied for the GG and handed over the van in the same year." He is now guiding a few more clubs in the district on how to apply for global grants, an immediate one being for a dialysis unit.
Navigating the Professional Flat Roof Installation Process Flat roofs are a popular choice for many buildings, from residential properties to commercial and industrial buildings, thanks to their cost-effectiveness and the extra space they offer. However, the success and longevity of a flat roof heavily depend on the materials used and the quality of the installation. This comprehensive guide will explore the essentials of flat roof installation, covering the best materials, construction techniques, maintenance, and more. What is a Flat Roof? Contrary to what the name might suggest, a flat roof isn't perfectly flat but has a slight slope to allow water drainage. This roof type is characterized by its minimalistic design and is often used in modern architecture. Flat roofs can serve various purposes, including living spaces, garden terraces, or as a base for solar panels. The Best Material for a Flat Roof Choosing the right material is crucial for ensuring the durability and efficiency of your flat roof. The most popular options include: - EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): A highly durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane known for its long lifespan and resistance to weathering, UV rays, and extreme temperatures. - TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin): This single-ply roofing membrane is favored for its energy efficiency, as it reflects UV rays, thereby reducing cooling costs. It's also resistant to chemical exposure, ozone, and algae growth. - PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): PVC roofing is robust, resistant to fire, chemicals, and weathering, and is also energy efficient due to its high reflectivity. - Modified Bitumen: A modern take on traditional asphalt roofing, modified bitumen is applied in layers, offering enhanced flexibility, durability, and tear resistance. - Built-Up Roof (BUR): This time-tested option involves several layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics, creating a finished membrane. It's known for its durability and resistance to water. How to Build a Flat Roof Building a flat roof involves several key steps: - Design and Planning: This initial phase involves determining the roof's structure, including its size, materials, and the slope for drainage. - Installation of the Deck: The deck is the foundation of the roof, usually made of wood, concrete, or metal. - Waterproofing Layer: This critical step involves applying your chosen roofing material to create a water-resistant barrier. - Insulation: Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining indoor temperature and reducing energy costs. - Installation of the Surface Material: This is the final layer, which could be one of the materials mentioned earlier, depending on your preference and budget. How to Slope a Flat Roof for Drainage Sloping a flat roof is essential to prevent water accumulation, which can lead to leaks and structural damage over time. Here's how to ensure proper drainage: - Design the Slope: The slope (also known as the pitch) of a flat roof should be at least 1/4 inch per foot to ensure efficient water drainage. - Use Tapered Insulation: Installing tapered insulation boards is an effective way to create the necessary slope for drainage without altering the structure significantly. - Incorporate Drains: Strategically placed drains, scuppers, and gutters will help remove water from the roof, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall. How Long Does a Flat Roof Last? The lifespan of a flat roof depends on several factors, including the material used, the installation's quality, and the maintenance level. On average, a flat roof can last: - EPDM: 25-30 years - TPO: 20-25 years - PVC: 20-30 years - Modified Bitumen: 15-20 years - Built-Up Roof: 15-30 years Regular maintenance, such as cleaning debris, inspecting for damage, and timely repairs, can significantly extend your roof's lifespan. Flat roofs are an excellent choice for many due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. The key to a successful flat roof installation is selecting the right materials, ensuring quality craftsmanship, and maintaining regular upkeep. With the right approach, your flat roof can provide decades of reliable protection and aesthetic appeal to your property.
The Rise of Australian Counterfeit Currency in the Financial Services Sector In the realm of financial transactions, the issue of Australian counterfeit currency has been a growing concern for individuals, businesses, and financial institutions alike. The illicit production and circulation of fake Australian notes pose significant risks to the stability of the economy and the integrity of the financial system. Understanding Australian Counterfeit Currency Australian counterfeit currency refers to fake banknotes that are produced with the intention of deceiving others into accepting them as genuine legal tender. The creation and distribution of counterfeit money are criminal acts that carry severe penalties. Despite advancements in security features on Australian banknotes, counterfeiters continue to devise sophisticated methods to mimic the look and feel of genuine currency. The Impact on Financial Services Within the financial services sector, the presence of Australian counterfeit currency poses a range of challenges. Financial institutions must remain vigilant in detecting and preventing the circulation of fake notes to safeguard their businesses and customers. The proliferation of counterfeit currency can lead to financial losses, a decline in trust, and reputational damage for banks and other financial entities. Combatting Counterfeit Currency Efforts to combat Australian counterfeit currency involve a multi-faceted approach that includes the use of advanced security features on banknotes, enhanced training for bank staff in counterfeit detection, and collaboration between law enforcement agencies and financial institutions. By staying informed about the latest counterfeiting techniques and investing in robust detection technologies, businesses can minimize their exposure to counterfeit risks. Protecting Your Finances For individuals and businesses alike, safeguarding against Australian counterfeit currency requires a proactive stance towards verifying the authenticity of banknotes. Simple strategies such as checking for security features, examining the quality of printing, and being cautious in high-risk transactions can help prevent falling victim to counterfeit scams. In conclusion, the issue of Australian counterfeit currency is a complex challenge that requires ongoing vigilance and collaboration within the financial services sector. By raising awareness about the risks associated with counterfeit money and adopting proactive measures to combat its circulation, businesses can better protect themselves and their customers from the detrimental effects of counterfeit currency. Explore more about financial services and counterfeit currency risks at undetectedbanknotes.com.
Table of Contents 5 Signs of Workplace Sexual Harassment and steps to take. In today's professional landscape, where collaboration and productivity are key, there's a dark underbelly that often goes unacknowledged: workplace sexual harassment. It's a pervasive issue that not only undermines the integrity of organizations but also shatters the lives of countless individuals. Identifying and addressing this insidious behavior is paramount in fostering safe and respectful work environments. As we observe Sexual Assault Awareness Month, it's crucial to shine a light on the prevalence of sexual harassment in the workplace and empower individuals to recognize the signs and take action. 1. Unwelcome Advances and Comments: The Thin Line Between Banter and Harassment One of the most blatant indicators of sexual harassment is the presence of unwelcome advances or comments. Whether it's suggestive remarks, inappropriate jokes, or lewd gestures, such behavior creates an uncomfortable and hostile atmosphere for the victim. No one should ever feel pressured to endure such misconduct in the workplace. 2. Power Dynamics at Play: Recognizing Abuse of Authority Image Source: Freepik Sexual harassment often thrives in environments where power differentials exist. Whether it's a supervisor exploiting their authority or a colleague leveraging their influence, the imbalance of power can embolden perpetrators and silence victims. Recognizing when authority is being misused to coerce or manipulate others is crucial in combating harassment. 3. Persistent and Unwelcome Attention: When "Friendly" Becomes Predatory Image Source: The New Times Harassment isn't just a one-time occurrence; it's a pattern of behavior that persists over time. Individuals who repeatedly subject others to unwanted attention, whether through emails, texts, or physical proximity, are crossing boundaries and disregarding consent. Consistency in such behavior underscores the urgency of intervention. 4. Isolation and Exclusion: Tactics Used in Workplace Sexual Harassment Image Source: Medium In instances of workplace sexual harassment, perpetrators often resort to tactics of isolation and exclusion to target their victims. This can manifest as deliberately excluding individuals from meetings, social gatherings, or professional opportunities as a means of exerting control or punishment. Recognizing and addressing these behaviors is essential in dismantling the toxic power dynamics that enable harassment to persist within organizations. 5. Retaliation and Fear of Reporting: Breaking the Chains of Silence Perhaps the most insidious aspect of workplace sexual harassment is the fear and stigma associated with reporting it. Victims may hesitate to come forward due to concerns about retaliation, damage to their reputation, or disbelief from their peers. Instances where individuals are discouraged or penalized for speaking out against harassment highlight systemic failures in addressing these issues. Image Source: oVRcome Taking Action: Steps to Address Workplace Sexual Harassment If you find yourself in a situation where you believe you are experiencing workplace sexual harassment, it's essential to take action promptly. First and foremost, document any incidents or interactions that made you feel uncomfortable, including dates, times, and specific details. Next, consider reaching out to your organization's human resources department or designated point of contact for harassment complaints. They are trained to handle such situations with discretion and can guide you through the reporting process. If you're uncomfortable reporting internally or if your company lacks proper protocols for addressing harassment, you may seek assistance from external resources such as legal counsel or advocacy organizations specializing in workplace rights. Remember that you have the right to seek support and protection from harassment, and there are laws in place to safeguard you from retaliation for speaking up. Additionally, consider confiding in trusted colleagues or friends for emotional support. You don't have to navigate this challenging situation alone, and seeking solidarity can provide strength and validation in your decision to confront harassment. Ultimately, taking action against workplace sexual harassment not only empowers you but also contributes to creating a safer and more respectful work environment for everyone. Addressing workplace sexual harassment requires a collective effort from employers, employees, and policymakers alike. It necessitates a culture of accountability, where perpetrators are held responsible for their actions and victims are supported in seeking justice. By recognizing the signs of sexual harassment and taking proactive measures to prevent it, we can strive towards workplaces that are equitable, inclusive, and free from fear. As we commemorate Sexual Assault Awareness Month, let us commit to unmasking workplace sexual harassment and creating environments where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.
Old Solar Panels – What to do with them What to do with our old solar panels A recent paper published in ScienceDirect has some answers. Resources, Conservation and Recycling Volume 202, March 2024, 107316 Verity Tan and Rong Deng wrote an encouraging article addressing this issue. In the paper titled 'Solar photovoltaic waste and resource potential projections in Australia, 2022–2050', Dr Rong Deng explains It's time to stop thinking about solar panels as the waste crisis of the future and view them as a valuable mining resource that can completely supply some of the critical materials the industry needs. He also suggests recycled solar panels could, in 15 years, supply 50 per cent of the industry's silver and aluminium needs, and within 25 years all of those needs as older models use more metals than newer, more advanced ones. As the demand for renewable energy grows, we could run out of silver and other materials required to make solar panels. If we can recycle and reuse most of the componentry from old materials this cuts down the waste product and supplies us with valuable resources. 2 terms discussed frequently in relation to sustainablity in renewable energy are: Photovoltaic (PV) materials and devices convert sunlight into electrical energy. End of life (EOL), in the context of manufacturing and product lifecycles, is the final stages of a product's existence. We can not call it renewable energy if it fixes one problem by creating another, that is why what we do with materials when they reach the EOL stage is just as important and how we obtain these resources and use them. "Recycling can help with effective recycling practices, in 15 years the amount recovered from waste could be sufficient to meet demand, eliminating the need to mine from the earth. Instead, we would "mine" materials from waste." Deng explains. The PV industry may run out of silver if the consumption level remains the same while the market is expected to grow 20 times. The implication is to reduce the amount of silver used in current solar panels or replace it with other materials such as copper. Waste reduction remains the goal so replacing your solar panels before they reach EOL is not recommended as it adds to the problem. Let them do their job for as long as they can, you will save money as new technology is emerging at an alarming rate and this means better products at a reduced price as demand grows. "I think raising public awareness is the key there. Solar panels have a long lifespan of 25 or 30 years, which is quite rare for consumer products. None of the products we use daily – our cars, TVs, mobile phones etc. last that long. Australians are aware that solar can help reduce energy bills, but there should also be education on their longevity and the fact that they continue to generate electricity even after the payback period," Deng says. The amount of e-waste from electronic devices is significantly higher than PV, and they also contain silver. Enhancing domestic recycling capability in general, to improve the resource recovery rate and retain them in our economy, rather than sending all valuable material containing waste overseas, is a good opportunity. Recycle, or face constraints The researchers dramatically hiked estimates for the volume of solar photovoltaic panels coming offline in the years to 2050. By 2030 they estimate the cumulative volume of end-of-life solar panels – four-fifths of which will be from rooftop solar systems which are often replaced sooner than their technical lifetime – will be 250,000 to 700,000 tonnes. By 2050, that figure will hit 2-3 million tonnes. These figures are as much as seven times higher than other research estimates and one to two times higher than the waste forecast published by DEECCW, Deng says. (DEECCW) Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. Learn More about our Off Grid Expo HERE \| Buy your tickets for EXPO Here Event Organisers: Dee White: firstname.lastname@example.com – 0434 630 510 Di Woodstock: firstname.lastname@example.com – 0419 224 628 Event Organisers Dee White 0434 630 510 Di Woodstock 0419 224 628
Ecological restoration work on our remaining grassland habitat is hard. From contending with aggressive invasive species, to the loss of poorly understood soil microbiomes, to the absence of the natural systems that once made possible the rich diversity of these places. It's hard. And there's so much that we don't know. The more I learn, the more humbled I am. For years now, I've been steadily working to rehabilitate about three acres on our property. I quickly learned that even a high-diverse seed mix that contains nearly a hundred different species does not result in a remnant quality prairie. Not everything germinates. Some species tend to dominate. The cool season invasive grasses continue to be an ongoing challenge. But more than that, many incredible species aren't even included in seed mixes! Take for example my beloved pasque flower. People don't include it for a reason. Like many others, the seed is expensive and doesn't germinate well using standard sowing techniques. This is why I've taken to developing methods for planting HUNDREDS of living plants quickly and efficiently to produce the kind of effect that you'd find on a high quality remnant (like at the Seven Sisters, for you local folk). There are many species like this, but another is the wood lily. One of two lilies native to Minnesota, it is an absolute firecracker on an early summer prairie. But if you want to experience that one your own property by sowing some seed, you'd better be ready to wait… upwards of seven years! I'm working on ways to shave years off of that timeline. And yesterday I received a bit of encouragement! I don't even remember planting this lily, but here it is! The goal is, like with the pasque flower, be able to plant hundreds of them on a site quickly and efficiently. My hope is that I can augment traditional reconstruction practices with more of these rare charismatic plants. This will not only make our restorations more attractive to people, but, especially with respect to the early season flowers, more functional as well! Wish me luck!
Welcome to our article on the best practices for continuous improvement and benchmarking. In today's fast-paced and ever-changing business world, it is crucial for companies to constantly strive for improvement and stay ahead of the competition. This is where continuous improvement and benchmarking come into play. By implementing these techniques, businesses can identify areas for growth and make necessary changes to increase efficiency and effectiveness. In this article, we will dive into the concept of continuous improvement and benchmarking, discuss their importance, and provide practical tips for incorporating them into your organization. Whether you are a small startup or a large corporation, these best practices will help you stay competitive and achieve long-term success. So, let's get started and discover how continuous improvement and benchmarking can take your business to the next level. In order to effectively implement continuous improvement and benchmarking, there are several key points to keep in mind. First, it's important to establish clear goals and objectives for your organization. These goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). By setting clear goals, you can better track your progress and identify areas for improvement. Next, it's important to regularly evaluate your performance against these goals. This involves gathering data, analyzing it, and identifying areas where you are excelling and areas where there is room for improvement. This can also involve conducting surveys or gathering feedback from customers or employees to get a better understanding of how you are performing in the eyes of others. In addition to evaluating your own performance, benchmarking involves comparing your performance to that of your competitors or industry leaders. This can help you identify best practices that you may not have been aware of, as well as areas where you may be falling behind. By learning from others and implementing their successful strategies, you can improve your own performance and stay competitive in your industry. It's also important to regularly review and adjust your processes and procedures as needed. This can involve making changes to improve efficiency, reduce costs, or enhance the quality of your products or services. By continuously evaluating and adjusting your processes, you can stay ahead of the curve and constantly improve your performance. Finally, it's important to foster a culture of continuous improvement within your organization. This involves encouraging and rewarding employees for suggesting and implementing new ideas and strategies for improvement. By involving everyone in the process, you can create a more innovative and successful organization. Regularly Evaluating Performance In order to continuously improve and benchmark your performance, it is crucial to regularly evaluate your performance. This involves gathering data, analyzing it, and identifying areas for improvement. Data collection can be done through various methods such as surveys, customer feedback, and performance metrics.Once the data is gathered, it is important to analyze it thoroughly to identify any patterns or trends. Identifying areas for improvement can be done by comparing your performance to that of your competitors or setting internal benchmarks. This will help you see where you may be falling short and where there is room for improvement. Regularly evaluating your performance allows you to track your progress and make necessary adjustments to continuously improve. It also helps you stay ahead of your competition by identifying areas where you can excel. Benchmarking Against Competitors Benchmarking is a critical practice for any business or industry looking to achieve success. It involves comparing your performance to that of your competitors or industry leaders in order to identify areas for improvement and set goals for continuous growth. By benchmarking against your competitors, you can gain valuable insights into their strategies, processes, and performance. This allows you to identify potential gaps in your own approach and make necessary changes to stay ahead in the market.Moreover, benchmarking can also help you set realistic goals and track your progress over time. By studying the best practices of your competitors, you can set achievable targets and measure your success against industry standards. However, it's important to note that benchmarking is not about blindly copying your competitors. It's about understanding their strengths and weaknesses and using that information to improve your own practices. In order to effectively benchmark against your competitors, it's crucial to have a thorough understanding of your own performance. This involves gathering accurate data and metrics, as well as analyzing them in relation to industry standards. In conclusion, benchmarking against competitors is an essential aspect of continuous improvement. By learning from others in your industry and setting realistic goals, you can continuously improve your performance and achieve success in your field. Fostering a Culture of Continuous Improvement In order to truly embrace continuous improvement, it is important to foster a culture that encourages and rewards employees for suggesting and implementing new ideas and strategies.This not only allows for a constant influx of innovative ideas, but also creates a sense of ownership and involvement among employees. To start, it is crucial for management to actively listen to and consider suggestions from employees at all levels. This shows that their opinions are valued and can lead to positive change within the company. Additionally, implementing a rewards system for successful ideas can further motivate employees to participate in the continuous improvement process. Moreover, creating a safe and open environment for sharing ideas is key to fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Employees should feel comfortable speaking up and offering their thoughts without fear of judgment or criticism. This can be achieved through team brainstorming sessions, suggestion boxes, or even regular check-ins with employees to gather feedback. By encouraging and rewarding employees for their contributions, a culture of continuous improvement can thrive within an organization. This not only leads to better ideas and strategies, but also boosts employee morale and engagement. Ultimately, this helps to drive success in any industry. Continuously Reviewing and Adjusting Processes In order to continuously improve and benchmark, it is essential to regularly review and adjust processes. This involves constantly evaluating your current processes and making necessary changes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve quality.One key aspect of this practice is conducting regular performance evaluations. This allows you to identify any areas that may need improvement and make necessary adjustments to your processes. By regularly reviewing your processes, you can ensure that they are aligned with your goals and objectives, and make any necessary changes to drive better results. Another important aspect of continuously reviewing and adjusting processes is staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices. This allows you to stay ahead of the curve and make proactive changes to your processes, rather than constantly playing catch-up with your competitors. It is also important to involve your team in this process. Encouraging open communication and feedback from team members can provide valuable insights and ideas for process improvements. By involving everyone in the process, you can create a culture of continuous improvement within your organization. Regularly reviewing and adjusting processes allows you to: - Identify areas for improvement - Stay ahead of industry trends - Involve your team in the process Setting Clear Goals Setting clear goals is an essential part of any continuous improvement and benchmarking strategy. These goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Let's take a closer look at what each of these elements means and how they can help your organization.Specific: When setting goals, it's important to be as specific as possible.This means clearly defining what you want to achieve and how you plan to do so. For example, instead of saying 'improve customer satisfaction,' a more specific goal would be 'increase customer satisfaction ratings by 10% within the next quarter.' Measurable: In order to track your progress and determine whether you have achieved your goals, they must be measurable. This involves setting specific metrics or indicators that you can use to measure your performance. In the example above, the goal of increasing customer satisfaction ratings by 10% is measurable because it has a specific target percentage. Achievable: It's important to set goals that are realistic and achievable. Setting unrealistic goals can lead to frustration and demotivation if they are not met. Make sure to take into account your available resources and capabilities when setting goals. Your goals should be relevant to your organization's overall objectives and strategies.They should align with your mission and vision and contribute to the overall success of your organization. Lastly, it's important to set a timeframe for achieving your goals. This creates a sense of urgency and helps keep you on track. Without a deadline, it's easy to become complacent and lose sight of your goals.By setting clear goals that follow the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) framework, you can ensure that your continuous improvement and benchmarking efforts are focused and effective. These goals provide a roadmap for your organization and help keep everyone accountable for their performance. With well-defined goals in place, you can track your progress, make necessary adjustments, and ultimately achieve success in your industry. By following these best practices for continuous improvement and benchmarking, you can achieve optimal performance in your industry. Remember to always set clear goals, regularly evaluate your performance, benchmark against others, review and adjust your processes, and foster a culture of continuous improvement within your organization. By doing so, you can stay ahead of the competition and continuously improve your success.
Sample – I Environment and Tree Plantation "Preserve and cherish The pale blue dot, The only home we've Ever known" I Agree with this quote. We may have houses or maybe not but rather than a house we have a home which is our environment. Building, and apartments are just for time being but the real and ultimate home is the environment. Why am I saying this? The answer is, I am simply in love with the environment. It's a place where I can find the wonders of the world, the beauty of nature, and the fantasies I heard in childhood. a l w a y s imagined what makes the environment so beautiful and astonishing. The answer was "Trees " I never knew that simple plants can increase the beauty of the environment. How surprising! But something is wrong these days. The environment seems weak and dull. People enormously destroying the environment. They are cutting the poor trees. Doing pollution. That is not what the environment deserves. We all have heard that trees are our friends. They provide us with food, shelter and oxygen to breathe. We are taking from trees but not giving anything to them. We are so blind in loving ourselves that we forget we have the environment to take care of. How selfish are we? Loving ourselves that we forgot we have the environment to take care of. How selfish are we? Can we even imagine a world without an environment and trees? No, we can't. Because if there are trees and there's no environment. And no environment no home and no home no world or earth. And we are doing that right now. If we destroy our environment our destroyment is for sure. Many people don't believe that. But it's a fact. According to RAN, 3.5 billion to 7 billion trees have been cut down each year. How cruel people could be! Because of trees we are alive, we are living in this world. Many disasters like conflict and cyclones are being stopped by trees. It doesn't only give us food but also oxygen, the reason we are breathing constantly. Because deforestations, pollution like water, soil, air are the main reasons for cutting trees. Global warming is undoubtedly happening because of cutting trees. Many developed countries has 25% of forest but we have 17% of it. Tree plantations maintain our ecological system. Many animals depend on tree. As a result, we can see that trees play an important role in our life and environment. We can say that trees are the part and parcel of the environment. Researchers are strongly telling us to "Go Green ". According to SDG- Goal number 13 1-4 -15 are related to each other because there main the target is to save the environment and save trees. So, SDG- Goal number 13 -14-15 are related to each other because their main target is to save environment and save trees. So, we should plant more trees and save our beautiful environment. Because sir Diendrolal said that- Nowhere you will discover such a land as this Oh, she is the queen of all land, she is my motherland, my motherland, my motherland. Let's work together in order to save our earth. SDG says that "living no one behind "it not only means people but the whole planet. If we maintain this slogan then we will be able to overcome any problem.
Decompiling and compiling APK files can be a valuable skill for Android developers, enthusiasts, or those curious about the inner workings of Android apps. This tutorial will guide you through decompiling and compiling an APK file, providing insights into the Android app structure. Many factors and labour are involved in creating an Android APK from scratch. There are several shortcuts to modifying already available applications in the market to ease the situation. Content Table What is an APK? An APK file represents the mobile application installed in an Android-based device such as a smartphone, tablet, Android Wear, Android TV, etc. The APK file is a simple archive that can be opened on a computer using archive packagers like WinRar or WinZip. You can open the file quickly and view every individual file present inside the package. These APK files are compiled in binary format. APK packages are generally meant to be installed on Android-based devices that run an application. In layman's terms, it is just like a software package installed on a computer. Why Decompile and Compile APK Files? - Understanding Code Structure: - Decompiling APK files helps developers gain insights into the code structure and logic implemented by app developers. - Debugging and Troubleshooting: - When encountering issues or bugs in an app, decompiling allows developers to analyze the code and identify potential problems. - Customization and Modding: - Advanced users can decompile and modify APK files to customize app features or create modded versions. Do Your Research The first thing you must do is research and then determine why Android is your choice of operating system. Clear your consciences beforehand because playing with the Java codes is time-consuming and requires a lot of patience. Although decompiling and recompiling don't require much technical skill in many instances, things do not work on the first go. Even when building an app for Android, there can be a rise of bad ideas to make decisions based on hunches and gut feelings. You must focus on the project you have picked up and work on it accordingly. Just follow the instructions below and give your best shot. Now what? It is time to roll up your sleeves and give that shot to make the magic happen on your mobile. Before that, we must gather all the information and prerequisites for the procedure. Tutorial For Decompiling And Compiling APK The following tutorial is based on the composition and is guided by a renowned developer on XDA forums named CrYsTAxiT. Tools Required 1. APKTool: - Download and Install: - Visit the official APKTool website to download the tool. - Follow the installation instructions for your operating system. 2. Java Development Kit (JDK): - Download and Install: - Visit the official Oracle JDK website or OpenJDK to download and install the Java Development Kit. 3. Decompiler (JD-GUI): - Download and Install: - Download JD-GUI from the official JD-GUI website. - Extract the downloaded file and run the JD-GUI executable. Steps for Decompiling APK Files Step 1: Extract APK with APKTool - Open a command prompt or terminal. - Navigate to the directory containing the APK file. - Run the command: apktool d your_app.apk -o output_folder with the name of your APK file. Step 2: Explore Decompiled Code - Open the output folder generated by APKTool. - Explore the folders to view the decompiled code. - Use JD-GUI to open and analyze Java files if needed. Steps for Compiling APK Files Step 1: Make Modifications - Make desired modifications to the decompiled code using a code editor. - Ensure modifications comply with licensing and legal standards. Step 2: Recompile with APKTool - Open a command prompt or terminal. - Navigate to the directory containing the decompiled files. - Run the command: apktool b input_folder -o new_app.apk with the folder containing the modified files. Step 3: Sign the APK - Sign the recompiled APK using the following command: jarsigner -verbose -sigalg SHA1withRSA -digestalg SHA1 -keystore your_keystore.keystore new_app.apk alias_name with your keystore details. Step 4: Align the APK - Align the APK using the following command: zipalign -v 4 new_app.apk aligned_app.apk Decompiling and compiling APK files offer valuable insights into Android app development and enable users to customize or troubleshoot applications. However, respecting the legal and ethical considerations surrounding app modification is essential. Following this tutorial and using the recommended tools allows you to explore the Android app development process and better understand how applications are structured and built.
As a new parent, it is crucial to make your home a safe place for your toddler. After all, babies love to explore using touch and other senses, which means a lot of things in the home can be harmful to them. The task can be incredibly overwhelming, but it is all about taking the first step. Once you do, everything else will also fall into place. So, if you want to toddler-proof your house, you have come to the right place. Here are all the seven tips you need to follow. Key Notes - Keep all the sharp objects away from the sight and reach of toddlers - Tie up the electrical cords or cut them short whole attaching covers on them - Attach locks on everything that your child can open easily - Make their nursery a safe place because they will spend most of time there 1. How To Toddler-Proof The Kitchen You can begin by toddler-proofing the kitchen. That is because it has a lot of dangers, such as sharp objects, stovetops, ovens, cleaning supplies, and much more. Here are some ways to toddler-proof the kitchen: Sharp Objects It is important to keep all sharp objects away from the table or counter. You just store them away inside cabinets and out of sight and reach of the children. Besides that, it is also crucial that you keep appliances such as food processors from your two-year-old baby. Safety Covers You must add safety covers on the knobs so the child can't turn the knob on. Besides that, it is important to keep a lock on your oven so that your two-year-old can't accidentally open it. Also, put a latch on the refrigerator and keep the magnets away. 2. How To Toddler-Proof The Home There are general things and objects that exist all around your house. These include electrical outlets, furniture, and much more. It is important to have some guidelines to toddler-proof your entire home. These include: - Invest in electrical outlet covers to keep them safe from babies - Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors all around your home - Make sure that you have a first aid kit handy in your home - Secure all the heavy furniture to a wall with safety straps - Put a fence and lock it on your stairs so that your two-year-old can't climb and up and down the stairs without supervision These are some important general safety guidelines you need to follow when you are toddler-proofing your home. You can call a professional to do this, as they can let you know what needs to be safe in your home and take steps accordingly. 3. How To Toddler-Proof The Living Room Your living room is a space for the fireplace, lamps, furniture, and much more. All of these are hot spots, and your two-year-old should not be around these hazards. Here are all the guidelines to follow to toddler-proof your living room: You must put window guards on all your windows so that your two-year-old baby can't accidentally open them. You must also screw them on the sides of the window frame. If you want, you can also add bars to the windows, but make sure that they are not four inches apart. Electrical Cords Electricity is incredibly dangerous for children because two-year-old babies like to put their hands on everything and explore this way. Here are some things you can do about the electrical cords: - Attach plastic covers to the ends of the electrical cords - Shorten any long electrical cords - Tie up any cords that are not in use to keep them out of reach - Secure the window cords to a wall - Use a tie-down device to put the window cords safe You can use any of these guidelines to make the electrical cords secure. Of course, the ways you use it depends on the type of electrical cords that you have in the living room. Home Office Many people also have their home office close to the living room since work from home is becoming the norm in many regions. You must toddler-proof this part of your living room too. You can start by keeping all the dangerous items such as staple pins, paper clips, and more away in a desk. Besides that, you can lock the home office when it is not in use so that your toddler can't enter it. You can also tie up the electrical cords and keep them out of the general vicinity while you are not using the home office. 4. How To Toddler-Proof The Bathroom A bathroom is also a hazardous place because there are cabinets, hot water, sharp objects, and more. You can begin by putting a safety latch on the toilet seat. It will prevent the baby from opening the seat and exploring what is inside. Besides that, it is crucial to keep cleaning supplies on the top cabinet and secure them with a lock. You must also store any medication, shampoo, toothpaste, and much more out of the reach of your babies. Finally, keep the temperature of the water heater at 120F so that there is no risk of burns. 5. How To Toddler-Proof The Nursery It is time to toddler-proof the place where your two-year-old spends the most time, which is the nursery. Start by mounting the dresser to the wall to secure it properly. On the other hand, use cordless window coverings so that there is no risk of entanglement. You must also leave the crib as bare as you possibly can, as it is the safest. You also don't need to add a mobile at this age because your two-year-old can easily grab it, and it can be a hazard. 6. How To Toddler-Proof The Fireplace Of course, you also need to secure the fireplace, especially when it is lit. You must not leave your two-year-old unattended if the fire is going on. Many people use glass or screen doors, but they are not the best safety measure to use because of the high temperatures. Instead, call a professional to assess your fireplace. Once you do, they will let you know the best safety measure you can use. 7. How To Toddler-Proof The Laundry Room Finally, you just ensure that everything in the laundry room is safely locked. This includes detergents, pods, gel packs, and much more. Make sure that you also buy a lock for your dryer and washer so that your two-year-old cannot open them. You can also stop buying colorful pods until your baby is six years old, as they will know that these things are dangerous by that time. Before that, there is always a risk of ingesting these materials that can cause harm to your toddler. So, make sure that you are taking the right precautions to store and lock these things. Final Thoughts These are the top five ways you can toddler-proof your home in the best way possible for your two-year-old. Once you do, your home will be a safe space, and there will be no hazards around. After all, a safe home is a happy home, and it will keep your baby healthy at all times.
Chickenpox vaccine overview The chickenpox vaccine protects against the varicella zoster virus that causes chickenpox. The chickenpox vaccine is not part of the routine childhood vaccination schedule. It's currently only offered to people who are in close contact with someone who's particularly vulnerable to chickenpox or its complications. There are 2 chickenpox vaccines currently available. The brand names of the chickenpox vaccine are VARIVAX and VARILRIX. Who is at risk from chickenpox? Chickenpox is a common childhood infection. Usually, it's mild and complications are rare. Almost all children develop immunity to chickenpox after infection, so most only catch it once. It can be more severe in adults. But some people have a higher chance of developing serious complications from chickenpox. These include: people who have weakened immune systems through illnesses such as HIV or treatments like chemotherapy pregnant women Who should have the chickenpox vaccine? The vaccine is recommended for people who are not immune to chickenpox and are in close contact with people at risk of becoming seriously ill if they catch it. For example, if you're having chemotherapy, any children you're in close contact with who are not immune to chickenpox should be given the chickenpox vaccine. This can reduce the risk of them getting the infection and spreading it to you. The vaccine is also given to people who are not immune to chickenpox whose job puts them at risk of catching it. This includes: healthcare workers who are not immune to chickenpox and are in contact with patients (including cleaners, catering staff and receptionists) laboratory staff who are not immune to chickenpox and who may be exposed to chickenpox through their work. The vaccine is not given to people with a weakened immune system as it contains a small amount of the live virus that causes chickenpox. The virus in the vaccine is weakened so it's safe for most people, but it could make you ill if you have a weakened immune system. How the chickenpox vaccine works The chickenpox vaccine is a live vaccine and contains a small amount of weakened chickenpox-causing virus. The vaccine stimulates your immune system to produce antibodies that will help protect against chickenpox. How is the chickenpox vaccine given? The vaccine is given as 2 separate injections, usually into the upper arm, 4 to 8 weeks apart. How effective is the chickenpox vaccine? It's been shown that 9 out of 10 children vaccinated with a single dose will develop immunity against chickenpox. Having 2 doses is recommended, as this gives an even better immune response. The vaccination is not quite as effective after childhood. It's estimated that three-quarters of teenagers and adults who are vaccinated will become immune to chickenpox. What Our Clients Say "I have been going here for over a decade. The Chief pharmacist always goes out his way to assist me, the rest are also always friendly, polite and helpful." "Nice staff particularly regular pharmacist. Gave me my flu jab painlessly" "Directed here by my niece. Wonderful! Friendly staff in a cozy pharmacy packed with everything you could need. " "Best local travel clinic. Really friendly and helpful staff. Very quick service."
Abstract Background Kuwait had its first COVID-19 in late February, and until October 6, 2020 it recorded 108,268 cases and 632 deaths. Despite implementing one of the strictest control measures-including a three-week complete lockdown, there was no sign of a declining epidemic curve. The objective of the current analyses is to determine, hypothetically, the optimal timing and duration of a full lockdown in Kuwait that would result in controlling new infections and lead to a substantial reduction in case hospitalizations. Methods The analysis was conducted using a stochastic Continuous-Time Markov Chain (CTMC), eight state model that depicts the disease transmission and spread of SARS-CoV 2. Transmission of infection occurs between individuals through social contacts at home, in schools, at work, and during other communal activities. Results The model shows that a lockdown 10 days before the epidemic peak for 90 days is optimal but a more realistic duration of 45 days can achieve about a 45% reduction in both new infections and case hospitalizations. Conclusions In the view of the forthcoming waves of the COVID19 pandemic anticipated in Kuwait using a correctly-timed and sufficiently long lockdown represents a workable management strategy that encompasses the most stringent form of social distancing with the ability to significantly reduce transmissions and hospitalizations. The occurrences and non-occurrences of the rainfall can be described by a two-state Markov chain. A dry date is denoted by state 0 and wet date is denoted by state 1. We have taken the sample which follows a Poisson process with known parameter. Using this Poisson sample we have given a new approach to affect statistical inference for the law of the Markov chain and state estimation concerning un-observed past values or not yet observed future values. The paper aims at comparing the earlier fit of the data with the new approach. A statistical study of the annual rainfall data at Cocch Behar district during the periodt90 1 to t9S ~ has been undertaken by using. Markov chain model. One step 3 X3 Ma rcov chain model has beenused in (his study. The outcomes of the model reveal normal, bad and good year of rainfall a t the two stationsof thi s district. The hypoth esis of independence has been tested on the use of entropy and it has been ver ifiedusing likelih ood ra tio criterion. The results of the two methods are the same-tha t the yearly rainfall occurrencemay be regarded as independent at the two places o f the district. Estimation of the number of demands for a product must be done correctly, so that the company can get maximum profit. Therefore, this study discusses how to estimate the amount of sales demand in a company correctly. The model that will be used to estimate sales demand is the Multivariate Markov Chain Model. This model can estimate the future state by observing the present state. The model requires parameter estimation values first, namely the transition probability matrix and the weighted Markov chain, where in previous studies an estimation of the transition probability matrix has been carried out, so that in this study we will continue to estimate the weighted Markov chain parameters. This model is compatible with 5 data sequences (product types) defined as product 1, product 2, product 3, product 4, and product 5, with 6 conditions (no sales volume, very slow-moving, slow-moving, standard, fast moving, and very fast moving). As the result, the state probability for product 1, product 2 and product 3 in company 1 are stationary at state 6 (very fast moving), product 4 and product 5 are stationary at state 2 (very slow moving). This paper presents a way of using the Markov chain model for the analysis of migration based on the example of banknote migration between regions in Poland. We have presented the application of the methodology for estimating one-step transition probabilities for the Markov chain based on macro-data gathered during the project conducted in the National Bank of Poland (NBP) in the period of December 2015–2018. We have shown the usefulness of state-aggregated Markov chain not only as a model of banknote migration but as migration in general. The banknotes are considered here as goods, so their migration is strictly related to, inter alia, the movement of people (commuting to work, business trips, etc.).Thus, the gravity-like properties of cash migration pointed to the gravity model as one of the most pervasive empirical models in regional science. Transition probability of the Markov chain expressing the attractive force between regions allows for estimating the gravity model for the identification of relevant reasons of note and, consequently, people migration. For agricultural planning, it is important to know the sequence of dry, wet periods. For this purpose a week period may be taken as the optimum length of time. The success or failure of crops particularly under rainfed conditions is closely linked with the rainfall patterns. In this study the Markov chain model method has been applied to know the probability of having a dry or a wet week and consecutive dry or wet periods of 2 or 3 weeks during monsoon period over Andhra Pradesh.
The wheel bearing is a steel-colored disc-like thick metallic plate that stays behind the wheels. This part's interior has steel balls and rollers tightly packed inside and out of sight. This entire structure results from precise engineering studies; basically, the steel balls and rollers inside the bearing help reduce friction and improve wheel rotation. Consequently, wheels become durable, safe, smooth, and capable of managing tons of weight. No, driving a car with a bad wheel bearing is unsafe. A damaged wheel bearing won't handle friction, resulting in too much heat; overheating this system can end up with wheel separation mid-traffic. Even if it doesn't get to that, a bad wheel bearing worsens the vehicle's steering, increases accident risks, and damages other components. The life expectancy of a wheel bearing depends on the product's quality, driving conditions, and maintenance. A well-maintained wheel bearing lasts between 85,000 to 100,000 miles (137,000 to 160,000 kilometers). Still, noticing signs of wear, such as unusual noises or vibrations, hints that the wheel bearings require maintenance; these symptoms can pop anytime. Regular maintenance, proper lubrication, and driving safely can extend the lifespan of wheel bearings. The worst-case scenario if you're driving with a bad wheel bearing is a catastrophic failure. Here are some potential outcomes: Loss of Vehicle Control: A severely worn or damaged wheel bearing can cause the wheel to wobble or even separate from the vehicle. This loss of control can result in a dangerous accident. Wheel Separation: In extreme cases, a bad wheel bearing can lead to the wheel separating from the vehicle while in motion, posing a significant safety hazard to you and others on the road. Damage to Other Components: Driving with a bad wheel bearing can stress other parts of the wheel assembly, including the hub, spindle, and brake components, potentially leading to expensive repairs. Increased Friction and Heat: A deteriorating wheel bearing generates increased friction and heat, which can cause further damage and potentially lead to a wheel fire. Uneven Tire Wear: Bad wheel bearings can cause tires to wear unevenly, reducing tire lifespan and affecting vehicle handling. A bad wheel bearing causes loss of vehicle control, wheel separation, damage to other components, overheating, and uneven tire wear. This type of issue can develop into hefty repair costs and safety risks. The noise means something is wrong, so you shouldn't keep driving. The noise is typically because of a bearing problem. Driving with a damaged, noisy wheel bearing results in more damage, risking safety and future repairs. But, if you can't simply stop driving due to the noisy wheel bearing, you might still have some time before serious damage pops up. A short drive to a safe location or repair shop should be fine. But, routine daily drives to run unrelated errands can be risky. Unusual Noise: Grinding, roaring, or humming noises, especially when turning or at higher speeds, are common signs of a worn wheel bearing. This noise indicates friction and should not be ignored. Vibration: Excessive vibration felt through the steering wheel or the vehicle's floor, especially at certain speeds, can indicate a wheel bearing issue. It results from uneven wheel rotation. Loose or Wobbly Wheel: A wheel with excessive play or wobbling when jacked up or shaken indicates a deteriorating wheel bearing that needs attention. ABS Warning Light: A failing wheel bearing can trigger the vehicle's anti-lock braking system (ABS) warning light as it affects wheel speed sensor readings. Uneven Tire Wear: Uneven tire wear, particularly on one side of the vehicle, can suggest a problem with a specific wheel bearing, as it affects the alignment and tire contact. Pulling or Drifting: A vehicle might pull to one side or exhibit unstable handling when a wheel bearing is worn or damaged, impacting proper wheel alignment. Overheating: A hot wheel or brakes after driving can indicate excessive heat generated by a malfunctioning wheel bearing. This condition can lead to further damage if not addressed. Difficulty Steering: Difficulty steering, especially when turning, can occur due to a wheel bearing issue, as it affects the smooth rotation of the wheel. Act quickly if you notice any of these symptoms from your car. More problems can appear frequently after initial symptoms. Exemplary auto shops perform vehicle services focusing on the customer's trust; they follow a process in which the customer receives images and information about anything done on their car. This customer-oriented service informs car owners of the issue and how to avoid it. Let's see how this type of service goes by creating a fictional customer and technician interaction. Sarah brought her SUV for a routine check-up at Mark's auto shop. She mentioned a humming noise while driving. Like many car owners, Sarah wasn't sure what to expect from the repair process. The technician, Mark, welcomed her. His line of work is giving customer education to ensure transparency and trust. Test: Mark performed a test drive to verify the humming noise and found that the noise was from the right front wheel and became louder when turning left. Inspect: Mark lifted Sarah's SUV on the shop's lift for a thorough inspection. Mark had an assistant, Steve, video him as he pushed the right front wheel top to bottom and rotated the tire; some noticeable growling and loose movement were present. Mark then showed Sarah the video and images of the failing wheel bearing. He explained the visible damage and sound from the right front wheel bearing. Sarah could clearly see from the video and images that the wheel bearing was faulty. Evaluate and Diagnose: Mark checked all wheels for movement and noise and found that the right front wheel bearing was the only one that had failed. Mark also found no damage to the brake systems and wheel speed sensor. Mark showed Sarah the inspection images, proving no other damage was present. He recommended a wheel bearing replacement to prevent further damage to other components and ensure her safety on the road. Confirm Repair: Mark discussed the replacement process, detailing the steps and how long it'll take. He provided Sarah with the cost of parts and labor, assuring her that they only used high-quality, reliable bearings. Sarah felt well-informed and confident in Mark's expertise. With Sarah's approval, Mark and his team replaced the wheel bearing. Throughout the process, he updated Sarah, showing her the old, damaged bearing once removed. Mark's dedication to educating his customers resolved Sarah's issue and strengthened the bond of trust between the shop and its valued clients. Unusual Noise: A humming, grinding, or roaring noise, especially when turning or at high speeds, signifies potential wheel bearing wear or damage requiring replacement. Vibration: Excessive vibration felt in the steering wheel or vehicle floor, particularly during acceleration or at specific speeds, suggests a worn wheel bearing necessitating replacement. Loose or Wobbly Wheel: A wheel exhibiting play or wobbling when raised or shaken typically indicates a deteriorating wheel bearing that should be replaced for safety. ABS Warning Light: A malfunctioning wheel bearing can trigger the ABS warning light due to erratic wheel speed sensor readings, indicating a need for replacement. Uneven Tire Wear: Uneven tire tread wear, especially on one side of the vehicle, may result from a failing wheel bearing affecting alignment and requires replacement to prevent further damage. Wheel Bearing Replacement: Replacing worn or damaged wheel bearings eliminates noise and vibration and ensures smooth wheel rotation. Hub Assembly Replacement: Replacing the entire hub assembly, including the wheel bearing, to simplify installation and ensure proper alignment and performance. Wheel Alignment: Performing a wheel alignment after replacing a wheel bearing to restore proper wheel positioning and prevent uneven tire wear. Brake Inspection: Inspecting and, if necessary, replacing brake components like rotors and pads that may have been affected by a bad wheel bearing. ABS Sensor Replacement: If the wheel bearing issue triggered the ABS warning light, replacing a faulty ABS sensor ensures accurate wheel speed readings and system functionality. This article explains the role of wheel bearings in providing safe and smooth vehicle movement on the road. It discusses the signs of a failing wheel bearing, such as unusual noises and vibrations, and the importance of prompt replacement. The article also educates readers about the consequences of ignoring wheel-bearing issues, including loss of control and expensive repairs. Raising awareness about wheel bearing maintenance encourages responsible vehicle ownership and emphasizes safety on the road. The fictional service between Sarah and Mark discussed above is based on true interactions. We understand the importance of transparency and educating our customers. Informative inspection images are featured in all our articles to strengthen that. Whether you need a routine check-up or specific repairs like wheel bearing replacement, we have a list of reputable shops that provide top-notch service. Explore the expertise and reliability of local automotive professionals who focus on your safety and satisfaction. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience peace of mind on the road; visit our "Shop Near You" page today!
HTTP Strict Transport Security In this lesson, we'll learn how to force secure communications with the use of the HTTP Strict Transport Security header to improve end-to-end communication for users and websites. HTTP Strict Transport Security, also known as HSTS, is a protocol standard which enforces secure connections to the server via HTTP over SSL/TLS. HSTS is configured and transmitted from the server to any HTTP web client using the HTTP header Strict-Transport-Security. This specifies a time interval during which the browser should only communicate over an HTTP secured connection (HTTPS). When a Strict-Transport-Security header is sent over an insecure HTTP connection, the web browser ignores it because the connection is insecure. After the header has been set, the browser consults a preload service, like Google's, to determine whether the website has opted in for HSTS. Get hands-on with 1200+ tech skills courses.
Research Uncovers 'Blue Monday' Phenomenon: Why Heart Attacks are More Common at the Start of the Week Research presented at the British Cardiovascular Society conference reveals that fatal heart attacks, specifically ST-segment elevation myocardial infarctions (STEMI), are more prevalent on Mondays. Analyzing data from over 10,000 patients hospitalized in the UK between 2013 and 2018, researchers found a spike in STEMI heart attack rates at the beginning of the workweek. While the exact cause remains unclear, previous studies have linked this phenomenon to the body's circadian rhythm. The British Heart Foundation reports over 30,000 annual hospital admissions in the UK due to STEMI, emphasizing the need for emergency assessment and treatment to minimize heart damage. Further investigation is required to understand the underlying factors contributing to this "Blue Monday" trend.
Noise Control of Supersonic Jet with Steady and Flapping Fluidic Injection Large-eddy simulation is used to investigate steady-state mass flow injection into a supersonic jet stream with and without flapping motion of the microjets. The results are validated with particle image velocimetry and acoustic measurements. The effect of microjet penetration on the far-field acoustics is studied by altering the number of injectors, the cross-sectional area of each injector, and the injection mass flow. The injectors are evenly distributed around the nozzle exit. The injection angle is 90 deg relative to the main jet flow. This research is a continuation of a previous large-eddy simulation study of pulsed injection that showed that the unsteady injection-induced pressure pulses in the jet caused increased tonal noise for far-field observers at low angles. Flapping jet injection was shown to minimize the creation of the pressure pulses, except for high-amplitude flapping angles and high injection mass flows, where the injections divert out of the shear layer and introduce periodic superposition of the double shock-cell structure. Furthermore, the flapping injection did not show improved noise reduction compared with the steady injection, which is essentially promising because steady injection proves to be a more practical solution for implementation in real jet engine applications. [1] , "Fifty Years of Fluidic Injection for Jet Noise Reduction," International Journal of Aeroacoustics, Vol. 9, Nos. 1–2, 2010, pp. 91–122. doi:https://doi.org/10.1260/1475-472X.9.1-2.91 1475-472X [2] , "Subsonic Jet Noise Reduction by Fluidic Control: The Interaction Region and the Global Effect," Physics of Fluids, Vol. 20, No. 10, 2008, Paper 101519. doi:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.3006424 [3] , "Control of an Axisymmetric Jet Using Vortex Generators," Physics of Fluids, Vol. 6, No. 2, 1994, p. 778. doi:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.868316 [4] , "Characteristics of Internal- and Jet-Noise Radiation from a Multi-Lobe, Multi-Tube Suppressor Nozzle Tested Statically and Under Flight Simulation," Sixth Aeroacoustics Conference, AIAA Paper 1980-1027, 1980. [5] , "Large-Eddy Simulations of Chevron Jet Flows with Noise Predictions," International Journal of Heat and Fluid Flow, Vol. 30, No. 6, 2009, pp. 1067–1079. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijheatfluidflow.2009.05.002 IJHFD2 0142-727X [6] , "On the Flow Physics of a Low Momentum Flux Ratio Jet in a Supersonic Turbulent Crossflow," Europhysics Letters, Vol. 97, No. 2, 2012, p. 24001. doi:https://doi.org/10.1209/0295-5075/97/24001 EULEEJ 0295-5075 [7] , "Transverse Jet Injection into a Supersonic Turbulent Cross-Flow," Physics of Fluids, Vol. 23, No. 4, 2011, Paper 046103. doi:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.3570692 [8] , "Control of Penetration and Mixing of an Excited Supersonic Jet into a Supersonic Cross Stream," Physics of Fluids, Vol. 17, No. 10, 2005, Paper 106101. doi:https://doi.org/10.10.1063/1.2099027 [9] , "Shock Patterns in a Slightly Underexpanded Sonic Jet Controlled by Radial Injections," Physics of Fluids, Vol. 19, No. 4, 2007, Paper 048104. doi:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.2720836 [10] , "Numerical Study of Mixing Enhancement in a Supersonic Round Jet," AIAA Journal, Vol. 45, No. 7, July 2007, pp. 1675–1687. doi:https://doi.org/10.2514/1.27497 AIAJAH 0001-1452 [11] , "Subsonic Jet Mixing via Active Control Using Steady and Pulsed Control Jets," AIAA Journal, Vol. 49, No. 4, April 2011, pp. 712–724. doi:https://doi.org/10.2514/1.J050608 AIAJAH 0001-1452 [12] , "Mixing Enhancement of Compressible Jets by Using Unsteady Microjets as Actuators," AIAA Journal, Vol. 40, No. 4, 2002, pp. 681–688. doi:https://doi.org/10.2514/2.1700 AIAJAH 0001-1452 [13] , "The Response of Supersonic Jet Noise Components to Fluidic Injection Parameters," 19th AIAA/CEAS Aeroacoustics Conference, AIAA Paper 2013-2196, May 2013. [14] , "Supersonic Jet Noise Reduction via Pulsed Microjet Injection," 15th AIAA/CEAS Aeroacoustics Conference, AIAA Paper 2009-3224, 2009. [15] , "Turbulence and Noise Suppression of a High-Speed Jet by Water Injection," Journal of Fluid Mechanics, Vol. 491, No. 9, 2003, pp. 131–159. doi:https://doi.org/10.1017/S0022112003005226 JFLSA7 0022-1120 [16] , "High Speed Jet Noise Reduction Using Microjets," Eighth AIAA/CEAS Aeroacoustics Conference & Exhibit, AIAA, Reston, VA, June 2002. [17] , "Numerical Investigation of the Micro-Jets Efficiency for Jet Noise Reduction," 15th AIAA/CEAS Aeroacoustics Conference (30th AIAA Aeroacoustics Conference), AIAA Paper 2009-3127, May 2009. [18] , "A Comprehensive Investigation of Pulsed Fluidic Injection for Active Control of Supersonic Jet Noise," 51st AIAA Aerospace Sciences Meeting Including the New Horizons Forum and Aerospace Exposition, AIAA Paper 2013-0009, Jan. 2013. [19] , "A Study of the Response of a Round Jet to Pulsed Fluidic Actuation," 17th AIAA/CEAS Aeroacoustics Conference (32nd AIAA Aeroacoustics Conference), AIAA Paper 2011-2750, June 2011. [20] , "Exploring High-Speed Axisymmetric Jet Noise Control Using Hartmann Tube Fluidic Actuators," 42nd AIAA Aerospace Science Meeting, AIAA Paper 2004-0186, 2004. [21] , "Review of Acoustic Control of Turbulent Jets," AIAA Journal, Vol. 42, No. 10, Oct. 2004, p. 2174. doi:https://doi.org/10.2514/1.14210 AIAJAH 0001-1452 [22] , "A Low-Dimensional Approach to Closed-Loop Control of a Mach 0.6 Jet," Experiments in Fluids, Vol. 54, No. 4, 2013, p. 1484. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s00348-013-1484-8 EXFLDU 0723-4864 [23] , "Spatially Distributed Forcing and Jet Vectoring with a Plasma Actuator," AIAA Journal, Vol. 47, No. 6, June 2009, pp. 1368–1378. doi:https://doi.org/10.2514/1.36716 AIAJAH 0001-1452 [24] , "Jet Noise Control Using the Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma Actuators," Acoustical Physics, Vol. 58, No. 4, 2012, pp. 434–441. doi:https://doi.org/10.1134/S1063771012040100 AOUSEK 1063-7710 [25] , "Active Control of Noise in Supersonic Jets Using Plasma Actuators," ASME Turbo Expo 2009, American Soc. of Mechanical Engineers Paper GT2009-59456, Fairfield, NJ, 2009. [26] , "Noise Control of a High Reynolds Number Mach 1.3 Heated Jet Using Plasma Actuators," 48th AIAA Aerospace Sciences Meeting, AIAA Paper 2010-0013, 2010. [27] , "Acoustic and Flow Fields of an Excited High Reynolds Number Axisymmetric Supersonic Jet," Journal of Fluid Mechanics, Vol. 656, Aug. 2010, pp. 507–529. doi:https://doi.org/10.1017/S0022112010001357 JFLSA7 0022-1120 [28] , "Effect of Plasma-Based Azimuthal Mode Excitation on Supersonic Jet Flow," Fifth Flow Control Conference, AIAA Paper 2010-4416, 2010. [29] , "Micro-Jet Flow Control for Noise Reduction of a Supersonic Jet from a Practical C-D Nozzle," 16th AIAA/CEAS Aeroacoustics Conference, AIAA Paper 2010-3875, 2010. [30] , "Comparison of Flow Control Methods Applied to Conical C-D Nozzles," 16th AIAA/CEAS Aeroacoustics Conference, AIAA Paper 2010-3874, 2010. [31] , "Fluidic Injection Effects on Acoustics of a Supersonic Jet at Various Mach Numbers," 17th AIAA/CEAS Aeroacoustic Conference, AIAA Paper 2011-2900, 2011. [32] , "Active Suppression of Supersonic Jet Noise Using Pulsating Micro-Jets," 50th AIAA Aerospace Sciences Meeting Including the New Horizons Forum and Aerospace Exposition, AIAA Paper 2012-0246, 2012. [33] , "Toward the Large-Eddy Simulation of Compressible Turbulent Flows," Journal of Fluid Mechanics, Vol. 238, May 1992, pp. 155–185. doi:https://doi.org/10.1017/S0022112092001678 JFLSA7 0022-1120 [34] , "Large Eddy Simulation for the Analysis of Supersonic Jet Noise Suppression Devices," Ph.D. Thesis, Div. of Fluid Dynamics, Chalmers Univ. of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden, 2010. [35] , "Study of Supersonic Jet Noise Reduction Using LES," Ph.D. Thesis, Div. of Fluid Dynamics, Chalmers Univ. of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden, 2014. [36] , "Development and Validation of Highly Modular Flow Solver Versions in G2DFLOW and G3DFLOW," Volvo Aero Corp., Internal Rept. 9970-1162, Trollhattan, Sweden, 1995. [37] , "A Study of Subsonic Turbulent Jets and Their Radiated Sound Using Large-Eddy Simulation," Ph.D. Thesis, Div. of Fluid Dynamics, Chalmers Univ. of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden, 2005. [38] , "Zur Theorie der Lichtstrahlen," Annalen der Physik und Chemie, Vol. 254, No. 4, 1883, pp. 663–695. doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/(ISSN)1521-3889 ANPYA2 0003-3804 [39] , "The Design and Validation of a Coaxial Nozzle Acoustic Test Facility," 40th AIAA Aerospace Sciences Meeting, AIAA Paper 2002-0369, 2002. [40] , "Supersonic Jet Noise Reduction with Novel Fluidic Injection Techniques," Ph.D. Thesis, Univ. of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 2013.
. \| . \| SwRI scientists introduce cosmochemical model for Pluto formation by Staff Writers San Antonio, TX (SPX) May 24, 2018 Southwest Research Institute scientists integrated NASA's New Horizons discoveries with data from ESA's Rosetta mission to develop a new theory about how Pluto may have formed at the edge of our solar system. "We've developed what we call 'the giant comet' cosmochemical model of Pluto formation," said Dr. Christopher Glein of SwRI's Space Science and Engineering Division. The research is described in a paper published online today in Icarus. At the heart of the research is the nitrogen-rich ice in Sputnik Planitia, a large glacier that forms the left lobe of the bright Tombaugh Regio feature on Pluto's surface. "We found an intriguing consistency between the estimated amount of nitrogen inside the glacier and the amount that would be expected if Pluto was formed by the agglomeration of roughly a billion comets or other Kuiper Belt objects similar in chemical composition to 67P, the comet explored by Rosetta." In addition to the comet model, scientists also investigated a solar model, with Pluto forming from very cold ices that would have had a chemical composition that more closely matches that of the Sun. Scientists needed to understand not only the nitrogen present at Pluto now - in its atmosphere and in glaciers - but also how much of the volatile element potentially could have leaked out of the atmosphere and into space over the eons. They then needed to reconcile the proportion of carbon monoxide to nitrogen to get a more complete picture. Ultimately, the low abundance of carbon monoxide at Pluto points to burial in surface ices or to destruction from liquid water. "Our research suggests that Pluto's initial chemical makeup, inherited from cometary building blocks, was chemically modified by liquid water, perhaps even in a subsurface ocean," Glein said. However, the solar model also satisfies some constraints. While the research pointed to some interesting possibilities, many questions remain to be answered. "This research builds upon the fantastic successes of the New Horizons and Rosetta missions to expand our understanding of the origin and evolution of Pluto," said Glein. "Using chemistry as a detective's tool, we are able to trace certain features we see on Pluto today to formation processes from long ago. This leads to a new appreciation of the richness of Pluto's 'life story,' which we are only starting to grasp." The paper, "Primordial N2 provides a cosmochemical explanation for the existence of Sputnik Planitia, Pluto," is coauthored by Glein and Dr. J. Hunter Waite Jr., an SwRI program director. What do Uranus's cloud tops have in common with rotten eggs? Washington DC (SPX) Apr 24, 2018 Hydrogen sulfide, the gas that gives rotten eggs their distinctive odor, permeates the upper atmosphere of the planet Uranus - as has been long debated, but never definitively proven. Based on sensitive spectroscopic observations with the Gemini North telescope, astronomers uncovered the noxious gas swirling high in the giant planet's cloud tops. This result resolves a stubborn, long-standing mystery of one of our neighbors in space. Even after decades of observations, and a visit by the Voyager 2 ... read more The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, are Copyright 1995-2024 - Space Media Network. All websites are published in Australia and are solely subject to Australian law and governed by Fair Use principals for news reporting and research purposes. AFP, UPI and IANS news wire stories are copyright Agence France-Presse, United Press International and Indo-Asia News Service. ESA news reports are copyright European Space Agency. All NASA sourced material is public domain. Additional copyrights may apply in whole or part to other bona fide parties. All articles labeled "by Staff Writers" include reports supplied to Space Media Network by industry news wires, PR agencies, corporate press officers and the like. Such articles are individually curated and edited by Space Media Network staff on the basis of the report's information value to our industry and professional readership. Advertising does not imply endorsement, agreement or approval of any opinions, statements or information provided by Space Media Network on any Web page published or hosted by Space Media Network. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Statement Our advertisers use various cookies and the like to deliver the best ad banner available at one time. All network advertising suppliers have GDPR policies (Legitimate Interest) that conform with EU regulations for data collection. By using our websites you consent to cookie based advertising. If you do not agree with this then you must stop using the websites from May 25, 2018. Privacy Statement. Additional information can be found here at About Us. \|
How Kazakhstan Is Promoting Human Rights Through UN Pledges – OpEd Progress in the sphere of human rights often comes in incremental steps rather than giant leaps. The world is currently divided into countries that fully champion human rights, those that deprioritise them, and a third group making strides towards the standards set by the first. While several of the former Soviet republics are already in the first category, some align themselves with the third category, embarking on a path to emulate those who fully embrace human rights. Kazakhstan is a case in point, as exemplified by the country's recent pledges to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. In line with the words of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights – "all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights" – it's important to acknowledge the efforts made by countries like Kazakhstan in striving toward these ideals, particularly in a world where over half the countries still struggle with comprehensive anti-discrimination laws. In December 2023, Kazakhstan submitted a series of pledges focused on enhancing human rights mechanisms within its borders. These pledges revolve around legal protection for children, the concept of a "Listening State" where the government actively listens to and addresses the concerns of its citizens, and the promotion of digitalisation for human rights, which aims to reduce disadvantages arising from unequal access to modern technologies and thereby enable more effective exercise of rights. Additionally, the pledges involve strengthening the role of civil society and incorporating UN human rights indicators into national plans. This ambitious approach aims to embed human rights into the very fabric of Kazakhstan's governance and society. The most notable stride was made on December 8, 2023, when the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, signed a decree backing an Action Plan to advance human rights and the rule of law. As part of this plan, seven laws will be adopted, addressing key issues such as domestic violence, labour safety and expanding the rights of persons with disabilities. Moreover, a regional child rights ombudspersons will be established, with the aim to safeguard the future of its younger citizens. It's worth noting the universal relevance of Kazakhstan's initiatives. In an increasingly interconnected world, the steps taken by one nation can have far-reaching implications. Kazakhstan's progress in human rights not only sets a precedent for neighbouring countries and emerging democracies but also contributes to the global discourse on human rights standards. For the international community, these reforms signify a collective move towards a world where respect for human rights is the norm rather than the exception. During its current membership in the UN Human Rights Council, Kazakhstan, on behalf of Central Asian countries, presented its first initiative – a resolution on the rights of children in the field of education. Despite the diverse positions of UN Member States on human rights issues, the presented document received broad support, gaining co-sponsorship from more than 70 states, including the USA, China, the European Union, as well as countries from Latin America, Asia, and Africa. Based on the country's positive experience in repatriating and reintegrating children from conflict zones, a key element of the adopted document was a call to all UN Member States to ensure measures for the recovery and reintegration of children affected by armed conflict and terrorism, particularly through education. Furthermore, in the context of geopolitical tensions and human rights abuses, Kazakhstan's commitment is certainly welcome. It demonstrates that positive change is possible, encouraging other nations to reflect on and improve their own human rights records. It's a reminder that concerted efforts and international cooperation can yield tangible improvements in the lives of people worldwide. A pivotal move in Kazakhstan's human rights journey is the constitutional enshrinement of the Human Rights Ombudsperson's status and responsibilities, accomplished through a special Constitutional Law. Empowering the Ombudsperson with the authority to propose legislative and enforcement improvements to the President, Parliament, and Government is a significant step in institutionalising human rights oversight. Furthermore, the appointment of specific Ombudsmen for children's rights and the rights of persons with disabilities, along with the ratification of international protocols in these areas, signals an approach to protecting vulnerable populations. Another initiative is the re-establishment of the Constitutional Court, with the authority to directly hear citizen appeals and the power to issue final decisions on constitutional rights. This structural reform ensures that the Constitution remains the supreme guide, providing a robust framework for protecting the rights and freedoms of its citizens, as well as foreigners and stateless persons. All of these reforms and initiatives originated from Kazakhstan's civil society, showcasing a dialogue between the government and the country's people, thereby exemplifying the notion of a "Listening State". The involvement of international bodies like the UN and OSCE in the oversight of these measures adds credibility to Kazakhstan's efforts. Such collaborations ensure that Kazakhstan remains open to constructive international dialogue and is held accountable on the global stage. This approach, blending internal reforms with international cooperation, could be the blueprint needed for more countries to turn human rights from just a theory to a lived reality for citizens. Kazakhstan's journey, however, is not without its challenges. The nation's past struggles with human rights issues cannot be overlooked, and the road ahead will require sustained effort, transparency, and sometimes difficult introspection. It's also crucial for Kazakhstan to ensure that these reforms are not just ink on paper but translate into tangible improvements in the lives of its people. Kazakhstan's pledges to the UN are a promising step in the right direction. By recognising the gaps in its human rights record and actively working towards remedying them, the country sets an example for the global community. As the world continues to strive for universal human rights, it is important to encourage the progress made by nations like Kazakhstan, for it is in these incremental steps that the spirit of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights gradually becomes a universal reality.
Best 30 House Floor Plan Ideas \| House Plans Daily Explore the top 30 house floor plan ideas, including north, west, east, and south-facing house plans designed according to vastu principles. Find your perfect home layout in this comprehensive video article. Best 30 House Floor Plan Ideas \| House Plans Daily Explore the top 30 house floor plan ideas, including north, west, east, and south-facing house plans designed according to vastu principles. Find your perfect home layout in this comprehensive video article. #housefloorplans #homedesignideas #dreamhomegoals #houseplansdaily #housedesign #homedesign #houseplan #floorplan #smallhouseplans #modernarchitecture #archdaily #housefloorplans #vastushastra #architecture #architecturalphotography#architects #trend #trending #trendingvideo #shorts #short #reels #viral #viralvideo #youtubeshorts #houseplansdaily #shortvideo #viralshort #youtube Top 100 North Facing House Plans for Positive Energy, Approved by Vastu Shastra \| PDF Book best house plan ideas The PDF book "Top 100 North Facing House Plans for Positive Energy: Vastu Shastra Approved" is available for purchase. To buy it, click the download button below. Floor designs with a north facing orientation range in size from 477 square feet to 3200 square feet. Concerning the PDF Book for North Facing House Plans North facing house layouts Greetings from the land of north-facing house layouts endorsed by Vastu Shastra, where harmony and positive energy rule. We shall examine in this book how the age-old art of Vastu Shastra may improve the flow of energy in your house and design an environment that encourages prosperity and well-being. An ancient Indian architectural science called Vastu Shastra places a strong emphasis on the value of lining your house with the natural energy forces. According to Vastu Shastra, a house facing north is lucky because it receives the most positive energy from the Earth's magnetic field. You may use positive energy to enhance your relationships, finances, and overall well-being by designing and organizing your home according to Vastu Shastra principles. Vastu Shastra gives a comprehensive method for designing a harmonious living area, including room placement and entryway orientation. Whether you want to remodel your current house or create a new one, this book will walk you through the essential components of north-facing house plans that have been approved by Vastu Shastra. Concerning the Writer The creator of the www.houseplansdaily.com website is A.S. Sethupathi. He hails from Tamilnadu, India's Anthiyur in the Erode district. He is a blogger, creator of house plans, YouTuber, structural engineer turned architect, best-selling author, world record holder, and award-winning nonfiction book author.At Hindustan University in Chennai, he earned a B.E. in civil engineering (2013) and an M.Tech. in structural engineering (2015). He has received more than twenty awards for his accomplishments and nonfiction book. He studied Vastu Shastra on his own. Additionally, he gained knowledge of Vastu Shastra house design. In addition, he creates 2D and 3D blueprints, sections, 3D elevation drawings, electrical, plumbing, and interior design drawings. He discovered after doing some research that there are a lot of people searching for house plans and design inspiration worldwide. In order to help those in need of house designs to build their ideal homes, he made the decision to write books on house plans and design based on Vastu Shastra. These days, he designs houses and publishes them worldwide through his books and website. Vastu Shastra Guidelines for House Plans with a North Face While creating your ideal house is an exciting experience, you must make wise choices in order to live in harmony. Incorporating Vastu Shastra principles can improve the flow of positive energy and provide harmony to your home, particularly if you're thinking of building a north-facing house plan. An ancient Indian architecture system called Vastu Shastra provides guidelines for creating structures that are in harmony with cosmic energy and the natural world. You can design a setting that encourages riches, prosperity, and well-being by arranging your house according to Vastu principles and the cardinal directions. We shall examine the core Vastu Shastra ideas that apply to house plans that face north in this book. We will discuss how to create an auspicious home atmosphere by understanding the importance of entrances, room placement, and furniture arrangement. You'll get useful advice for designing a north-facing home that exudes positive energy that complies with Vastu principles, from maximizing natural light to making the most use of available space. Knowing the Vastu Shastra principles for building plans that face north It's essential to comprehend the Vastu Shastra principles when planning a north-facing home in order to create a harmonious living area. The main entry has a major impact on drawing positive energy into the home, according to Vastu Shastra. The entrance to a house facing northwards should preferably be located toward the north or northeast. This lets the sun's healthy energy, which brings warmth and life, into the house. Vastu-compliant north-facing house plans lay equal emphasis on the placement of rooms as they relate to the main entrance. Given that riches and success are linked to the north, the north is the best direction for the living room or drawing room. This space should be tidy, clear of clutter, and well-lit to foster a friendly and upbeat vibe. To encourage healthy sleep patterns and general wellbeing, the bedrooms, on the other hand, ought to face southwest or northwest. An open central courtyard or atrium is advised for your north-facing home to optimize the flow of positive energy. This gives the property an air of openness and peacefulness by letting in natural light and airflow. To further increase the positive energy in your house, include natural components like indoor plants and water features. The significance of the primary entrance and where it is located in residences facing north North facing house plans as per vastu shastra According to Vastu Shastra, the front door serves as the entryway for good energy to enter the home. The main entrance's location is crucial for ensuring a smooth energy flow in residences that face north. The best orientation for the entrance is toward the north or northeast, which lets the sun's healing energy inside the home. You should consider the size and placement of your home's main entrance when constructing a north-facing residence. The entrance should not be blocked by any obstructions, such as trees or utility poles, and should be proportionate to the size of the home overall. To create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, it's also advised to have a well-lit entryway with the right lighting fixtures. Maximizing the space in north-facing homes' kitchen, living room, and bedrooms A north-facing home's room arrangement is essential to establishing a peaceful living area. The north is a direction linked to riches and success in Vastu Shastra, which makes it a perfect place for the drawing room or living room. To encourage positive energy flow, this space should be well-lit, roomy, and clutter-free. It is advised to design the kitchen in a north-facing residence with the southeast orientation. This guarantees that there is enough ventilation and sunlight in the cooking area, which is necessary to preserve hygienic conditions. Along with being well-organized, the kitchen should have specific areas set aside for washing, storing, and cooking. To preserve hygiene and avoid the mingling of energies, it is advised to keep the toilet and bathroom apart. In order to foster a clean and fresh atmosphere, it is also crucial to make sure that these rooms have adequate ventilation and natural light. Vastu Shastra emphasizes the importance of selecting the appropriate colors, materials, and furnishings while building a home that faces north. The energy flow and atmosphere of a space can be greatly influenced by the interior color scheme. It is advised to choose cool, light hues, including white, cream, pastels, and blues, for residences that face north. These hues improve the house's good energy flow by fostering a feeling of openness and peace. Steer clear of bright or dark colors, which might overpower or weight the room. Adding natural light and ventilation to houses that face north In north-facing homes, natural light and ventilation are essential to a comfortable and healthy living space. Vaastu Shastra states that the north is connected to the sun's positive energy, therefore getting the most of natural light in your house is crucial. Larger windows and openings facing north are advised if your house faces north in order to optimize natural light. This lets a lot of sunlight into the house, which makes it feel cozy and welcoming. Moreover, light-colored blinds or drapes can aid in glare prevention and sunlight dispersion. Concluding remarks regarding creating your ideal home using Vastu Shastra principles for house layouts facing north By using the principles of Vastu Shastra to design your dream home with a north-facing floor plan, you may create a harmonious environment that supports prosperity, happiness, and good health. Understanding the fundamentals of Vastu Shastra and using them to your interior design will help you harmonize your space with cosmic energy and create an atmosphere that is uplifted and positive.
To make the perfect IBM clone revenue mark by 1987 Compaq was a special company, first to take on IBM succesfully and one of the main reasons why the PC market is what it is today. They have made groundbreaking computers, sometimes too far ahead for its time. In 20 years it went from a startup company, to one of the biggest players on the market, to eventually needing a merger with HP to survive. Compaq was an American computer technology company that was established in 1982 by three former Texas Instruments managers: Rod Canion, Jim Harris, and Bill Murto. Their vision was to create portable personal computers that could run all the software and peripherals designed for IBM PCs, which dominated the market at that time. Compaq achieved this by legally reverse engineering IBM's technology and producing 100% compatible clones. Compaq's first product, the Compaq Portable, was launched in 1983 and became a huge success, making Compaq the fastest-growing company in US history. Compaq continued to innovate and compete with IBM by introducing new features, such as faster processors, better graphics, and expandable memory. Between 1983 and 1999, Compaq launched several product lines that catered to different segments of the PC market. Some of these product lines were: The Deskpro series, which were desktop PCs for business and professional users. The first Deskpro model was released in 1984 and featured an Intel 8086 processor. Later models used Intel 80286, 80386, and 80486 processors, as well as Pentium and Pentium Pro processors. - The Portable series, which were portable PCs that could be used as desktops when connected to a monitor and a keyboard. The first Portable model was released in 1983 and featured an Intel 8088 processor. Later models used Intel 80286 and 80386 processors, as well as LCD screens and hard disk drives. - The LTE series, which were laptop PCs for mobile users. The first LTE model was released in 1989 and featured an Intel 80286 processor. Later models used Intel 80386, 80486, and Pentium processors, as well as color LCD screens and CD-ROM drives. - The Presario series, which were consumer-oriented PCs that offered multimedia features and Internet access. The first Presario model was released in 1993 and featured an Intel 80486 processor. Later models used Pentium, Pentium II, Pentium III, and AMD processors, as well as DVD drives and modems. By the early 1990s, Compaq had become the world's largest supplier of PC systems, surpassing IBM in sales and profits. However, Compaq also faced challenges from low-cost rivals like Dell, who used direct sales and customized orders to undercut Compaq's prices. In 1998, Compaq made a controversial decision to acquire Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC), a leading maker of minicomputers and servers, for $9.6 billion. The acquisition proved to be costly and difficult to integrate, and Compaq soon lost its market share and leadership position to Dell and HP. In 2002, Compaq agreed to merge with HP in a $25 billion deal that created the world's largest PC maker. The Compaq brand name was gradually phased out by HP until 2013, when it was discontinued in most markets. Today, the Compaq name is licensed to third parties for use on electronics like smart tv's and tablets in Brazil and India.
The pancreas is a long, flat organ behind the stomach and small intestine that secretes digestive enzymes and regulates blood sugar. A pancreas divisum is a birth defect in which parts of the pancreas do not join together. Pancreas divisum is a widespread condition affecting 5 to 10 percent of the general population. Pancreas divisum is the most common congenital anomaly of the pancreas and the most common anatomic variation of the pancreatic duct system. What Are the Types of Pancreas Divisum? The pancreas divisum is divided into complete and incomplete pancreas divisum. Complete pancreas divisum is the complete separation of the pancreatic duct system. An incomplete pancreas divisum has inadequate communication between the ventral and dorsal pancreatic ducts, usually an extremely small branch. What Is the Cause of Pancreas Divisum? The cause of the defect is unknown. In many cases, the defect goes unnoticed and causes no problems. Pancreas divisum is hereditary. The human embryo begins life with two pancreatic ducts: the dorsal and ventral. Normally, the two ducts fuse to form one main pancreatic duct. Fluid and digestive juices pass through this pancreatic duct. When they do not fuse during embryogenic development at approximately eight weeks of intrauterine life, it results in pancreas divisum. The digestive juices and enzymes drain into the small intestine through the ventral duct and the major papilla. In the pancreas divisum, they drain through the dorsal duct and visa the minor papilla. Fluids from two parts of the pancreas drain separately. What Are the Symptoms of Pancreas Divisum? Most individuals born with pancreas divisum will not have any symptoms, and most cases of pancreas divisum are discovered after death during autopsy. The symptoms are due to pancreatitis and not due to pancreas divisum alone. Some symptoms of pancreas divisum include: Abdominal pain, most often in the upper abdomen. Abdominal swelling. Jaundice or yellowing of the skin. Food intolerance. Recurrent episodes of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Sometimes, the pancreas divisum is associated with abnormalities in the womb, like choledochal cysts and intestinal malrotation. What Is the Diagnosis of Pancreas Divisum? The following tests are done for the proper diagnosis of pancreas divisum: Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography: This test uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce clear images of the pancreas and pancreatic ducts. A contrast material is given while taking the test. It is a non-invasive procedure and does not require x-rays. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: In this procedure, a long, thin, flexible tube (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth into the stomach. A dye is injected, and x-rays of the pancreatic system are taken. In these tests, the doctors will look for two separate ducts rather than one fused duct. Other tests used for the diagnosis of pancreas divisum are: Blood Test: Amylase and lipase enzymes are elevated in the blood test when the pancreas is damaged. Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: This test uses a combination of x-rays and computer images to show detailed images of the inside of the body. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): They use magnetic and radio fields to create images of the organs and tissues. Endoscopic Ultrasound: This procedure combines the use of sound waves and endoscopes. It is a useful diagnostic tool for the evaluation of acute pancreatitis. If the pancreas divisum is undiagnosed, sometimes digestive juices do not drain into the intestine properly, impacting the digestive process. How Is Pancreas Divisum Treated? Asymptomatic patients of pancreas divisum do not require treatment. In mild cases, the treatment focuses on a low-fat diet, relieving pain, and supplementing pancreatic enzymes. If symptomatic, the doctor might do surgery to enlarge the size of the opening of the minor papilla to allow normal flow of pancreatic enzymes. This is done in two ways: Medical Sphincterotomy: It is done through endoscopy in which the minor duct is identified, and the opening is cut open. Surgical Sphincterotomy: The surgeon cuts the minor papilla opening through a laser and creates a large opening for the digestive enzymes. A stent may be inserted into the duct to ensure the duct will not cause blockage. The complications of this surgery include acute or chronic pancreatitis and, in rare cases, kidney failure or death. Many studies have investigated the association between pancreas divisum and malignancy. Some studies report a higher risk of pancreatic adenocarcinoma associated with pancreatic divisum. What Are the Complications of Pancreas Divisum? The major complication of the pancreas divisum is acute or recurrent pancreatitis. It occurs when the narrowed pancreatic ducts become blocked, and the digestive juices cannot drain into the small intestine. This causes pain and swelling. The pain is usually gradual and suddenly starts at the top of the belly and worsens after eating. Acute pancreatitis is treated with fluid intake, painkillers, and nutritional support. How Can We Prevent Pancreas Divisum? Since the condition is present at birth, there is no way to prevent pancreas divisum. What Are the Home Remedies for Pancreas Divisum? The national pancreas foundation has given the following lifestyle advice for people with pancreatic diseases: Low-Fat Diet: Follow a low-fat diet with no more than 20 grams of fat a day. Avoid Alcohol Consumption: If you have pancreatic disease, you should never drink alcohol. Alcohol causes direct injury and inflammation of the pancreas. Temporary Fasting: Limiting food intake is sometimes necessary to rest the inflamed pancreas. Avoid dehydration by drinking lots of water. Pancreas divisum is an abnormality that occurs in the womb. The condition will not impact life, and many people will not even know they have this condition. Most people remain asymptomatic, and the prognosis is excellent.
Dennis Ross and the Arrogance of American Policy in the Region Ahmed Atawna* The Americans, whether in official capacities or within research and academic institutions, present themselves as exceptional experts and custodians capable of devising the most suitable plans, formulations, and approaches to international crises. With a tone of superiority, they dictate to each party what should be done, what is possible, and what is not feasible, deciding on behalf of the peoples what is best for them, and what will ensure a safe and prosperous future from the American perspective. They also determine who the (righteous) parties, forces, and ideas are, and who the (evil) entities that must be eradicated are. They impose their own definitions and concepts of stability, prosperity, development, terrorism, violence, and law, among others. Those who do not comply with this ready-made American recipe face severe consequences. They have allowed themselves, with all arrogance and hubris, to violate the blood of the innocents and destroy their countries and dismantle their states; to impose what they believe, as the experiences of Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, and Libya are not far removed. The Americans attempt to deal with the current events in the Palestinian crisis and the genocide in Gaza with the same mentality and methodology, continuously offering proposals and political perspectives to emerge from the crisis, known as the day after the war. From the early days of the conflict, they began promoting the idea of forming international forces to control Gaza and manage it during a transitional period. Later, they proposed forming an Arab force for the same purpose. When they failed to garner support for these ideas, they presented another vision based on renewing the Palestinian Authority; to become qualified "according to the American-Israeli vision" to manage Gaza, then began collaborating with some countries and powers to establish a seaport in the north of the Strip. Throughout this process, the American does not even consider what the Palestinian might accept, or what suits their national interests. Indeed, none of these ideas were discussed or consulted with any relevant parties before being proposed, and they were often introduced through statements by spokespeople for the State Department, the White House, or various media outlets and think tanks. Undoubtedly, what has contributed to the United States' unique position in proposing solutions and perspectives is the lack of initiative from Arab, Islamic, and international actors, and their reluctance to propose any political formula that might end the war and open a suitable political horizon for the Palestinians. Thus, the door was left wide open for American ideas and visions, which hold only one constant: the interest of Israel, its political ambitions, and the guarantee of its future. With a Perspective from Dennis Ross This American mindset is evident in an article by the politician and renowned American expert Dennis Ross, titled "Israel Needs a New Strategy," published on the Independent Arabia website on March 16, 2024. Drawing on his extensive experience in the Palestinian issue, which he has worked on for many years across several American administrations, Ross offers his recipe or vision for dealing with the genocide in Gaza. He outlines the objectives of each party involved in the war and specifies what each should and can do. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar can contribute only in areas Ross believes they have expertise in or are worthy of. He states in his article, "The problem, however, is that 70 percent of all buildings in the north are either destroyed or uninhabitable. Therefore, the first step in the strategy must be to establish a mechanism to address the humanitarian situation, led by the United States and in partnership with Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states. Immediate assistance must be provided concerning temporary and mobile housing. It is undeniable that the Saudis, given their experience in managing the very large numbers of pilgrims who come to the Kingdom and often require accommodation, can undoubtedly contribute to this effort. The Emiratis and Qataris can also fund caravans, trailers, and prefabricated homes. Ross then attempts to find a way for them to navigate their publicly declared political stances on the war and reconstruction, writing, "It is true that the Gulf states have stated they will not provide reconstruction aid unless it is linked to a plan to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Nonetheless, they are already contributing to humanitarian aid, and when it comes to meeting humanitarian needs, nothing is more important than providing food and shelter. Undoubtedly, these countries can justify their actions as necessary to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinians." This stance indicates that Americans do not take the political positions of Arab states, particularly those of significant political importance, seriously. They believe that Arab countries can act contrary to their declared positions, and the problem lies only in how to justify or facilitate the bypassing of these political stances to the public. It seems that they do not attribute significant weight to the nature and reality of the political stance itself, and the national, nationalist, and political motives and backgrounds behind these positions. Later in the same article, Dennis Ross advises Israel to benefit in its dealings with Hamas as an ideology from the American experience in dealing with ISIS in Syria and Iraq, considering that the United States succeeded in defeating ISIS. He ignores that those who fought and defeated ISIS were the people of the Arab and Islamic region, and that ISIS was an anomaly in the region's culture and the religion of its people, and that it was created, grew, and spread under American sponsorship, as publicly acknowledged by Hillary Clinton. The majority of its cadre were assembled from around the world, especially from Western countries with their intelligence agencies' backing. In contrast, Hamas is a local Palestinian national resistance movement. Its leaders, cadre, youth, and fighters are from the towns, villages, and camps of Palestine, distributed across all social, economic, and cultural strata of the Palestinian people. They include no foreigners, unknowns, or individuals with unidentified identities. However, it is the superiority and arrogance that blinds its bearer, leading them to portray others as they wish and find pleasing, not as the facts present them. Replicating Failed Experiments Drawing from the failed American experience in Afghanistan, Dennis Ross offers the Palestinians a vision for the day after the war. The failure of his country to impose a political leadership on the Afghan people—believing in the feasibility of installing a pro-American Karzai regime and imposing their will on the will of the people—has not deterred him from proposing that the Palestinians repeat the same experiment. Ross suggests, "Furthermore, it requires establishing an alternative to 'Hamas' capable of managing daily administration and ensuring the necessary law and order for reconstruction. In other words, the desired goal of both Israel and the United States should be the permanent disarmament of Gaza and preventing the use of the sector again as a platform for launching attacks against Israel. This would be beneficial for both Israelis and Palestinians, as Israel would not need to isolate or attack Gaza again." Ross then presents a specific vision for the future administration of Gaza: "The Gulf states, along with Egypt, the European Union, Jordan, and the United States, should collaborate with the administrative system (the bureaucratic infrastructure) in Gaza, which was first established by the Palestinian Authority in 1994 and continued to operate under Hamas. This system to play an administrative, not a political, role in managing daily needs. Additionally, Palestinian businessmen from inside and outside Gaza should be involved in managing the sector, and humanitarian organizations should cooperate with them to distribute aid and stimulate the beginnings of commercial activity." Ross clearly states that his plan does not include any political goals or vision for the Palestinians, and as usual, he attributes the absence of that to the Palestinians themselves and not to Israeli extremism, the fascist right within it, or to American bias and hypocrisy. He states, "Given that 91 percent of Palestinians believe that Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas should resign, and 80 percent are convinced that the Palestinian Authority is corrupt, it is pointless to talk about a political horizon or a final goal." He continues, as if Israeli consent to the establishment of a Palestinian state were a Zionist concession contingent upon good Arab and Palestinian conduct. Ross prescribes to the Arabs how they should view and engage with the Palestinian resistance and Hamas, writing, "For the Israelis to accept the possibility of a Palestinian state, they must feel reassured. Observations on American Approaches In light of the American experiences in various countries in our region and following what has been issued by the Americans since the beginning of the war, the following observations can be noted: 1. The United States has either been unable or unwilling to spread stability and security or to assist peoples in achieving their rights in any of the countries it has occupied or actively intervened in their affairs and crises. The experiences in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, and Yemen confirm this. 2. The United States often manages to spread chaos, destruction, and devastation wherever it goes, but it does not contribute to building stability and development in those countries. 3. The United States does not consider the will of the people, their orientations, aspirations, and imposes what it believes serves its interests and the interests of Israel. 4. The United States does not have permanent friends, even among those who cooperate with it; it changes its tools and partners according to its interests and can abandon any local party if necessary. 5. The United States always adopts Israeli vision and goals regardless of the government ruling in Tel Aviv; if there is any disagreement, it is with the government only and not with Israel as an entity. 6. The United States refuses the idea of imposing any solutions or even measures on Israel, and attempts only to persuade it to adopt certain positions through incentives or encouragement, treating Israel as its pampered child. 7. There is no evidence of genuine American concern for the rights of the peoples in the region, particularly the Palestinian people, and insists on denying the legitimacy of their resistance and struggle as part of liberation. 8. The United States does not value human rights when it concerns the peoples of the region, using the global values system only for deception and for political and media purposes, having violated the most basic human rights in the countries it has intervened in. Regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Arab and Palestinian interactions must consider the aforementioned issues. There is a high responsibility, especially on the Palestinians, to prevent the United States from shaping the scene as it has typically done in other countries, which could lead to a landscape of chaos, division, and disorientation potentially lasting for years. A scrutiny of American interventions in various countries leads to the realization that what American ingenuity and political arrogance can produce is merely chaos, destruction, instability, and divisions, destroying the present and future of nations for decades. Relying on American solutions and approaches to the Palestinian issue will only lead to further chaos, devastation, and loss, and the Palestinians will reap nothing but the perpetuation of occupation, division, and the destruction of the future of Palestinian generations for decades. Despite the Palestinian's well-acquainted experience with the American role after more than 30-year of Oslo Accords, many indicators suggest that the official Palestinian political leadership, including the Palestinian Authority and the PLO, is on the path to repeating the experience and engaging in a new futile American gambit. This is a development that must be cautioned against and closely monitored. The magnitude of sacrifices made and still being made by the Palestinian people necessitates a profound reflection on oneself and responsible action to thwart any opportunities for the United States and Israel to exploit. *Expert on the Palestinain Issue, and the General Manager of Vision Centre for Political Development
Relating Sensory, Cognitive, and Neural Factors to Older Persons' Perceptions about Happiness: An Exploratory Study. Journal Title Journal ISSN Volume Title Repository Usage Stats Citation Stats Despite increased rates of disease, disability, and social losses with aging, seniors consistently report higher levels of subjective well-being (SWB), a construct closely related to happiness, than younger adults. In this exploratory study, we utilized an available dataset to investigate how aspects of health commonly deteriorating with age, including sensory (i.e., vision and hearing) and cognitive status, relate to variability in self-described contributors to happiness. Community-dwelling seniors (n = 114) responded to a single-item prompt: "name things that make people happy." 1731 responses were categorized into 13 domains of SWB via structured content analysis. Sensory health and cognition were assessed by Snellen visual acuity, pure-tone audiometry, and in-person administration of the Brief Test of Adult Cognition by Telephone (BTACT) battery. A subset of eligible participants (n = 57) underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to assess resting state functional connectivity (FC) within a previously described dopaminergic network associated with reward processing. SWB response patterns were relatively stable across gender, sensory status, and cognitive performance with few exceptions. For example, hearing-impaired participants listed fewer determinants of SWB (13.59 vs. 17.16; p < 0.001) and were less likely to name things in the "special events" category. Participants with a higher proportion of responses in the "accomplishments" domain (e.g., winning, getting good grades) demonstrated increased FC between the ventral tegmental area and nucleus accumbens, regions implicated in reward and motivated behavior. While the framework for determinants of happiness among seniors was largely stable across the factors assessed here, our findings suggest that subtle changes in this construct may be linked to sensory loss. The possibility that perceptions about determinants of happiness might relate to differences in intrinsic connectivity within reward-related brain networks also warrants further investigation. Published Version (Please cite this version) Publication Info Horne, Alexandra J, Kimberly S Chiew, Jie Zhuang, Linda K George, R Alison Adcock, Guy G Potter, Eleonora M Lad, Scott W Cousins, et al. (2018). Relating Sensory, Cognitive, and Neural Factors to Older Persons' Perceptions about Happiness: An Exploratory Study. Journal of aging research, 2018. p. 4930385. 10.1155/2018/4930385 Retrieved from https://hdl.handle.net/10161/18949. This is constructed from limited available data and may be imprecise. To cite this article, please review & use the official citation provided by the journal. Alexandra Jordan Horne Linda K. George My research falls into three broad areas: (1) social factors and the onset, course, and outcome of mental and physical illness, (2) social factors and aging, and (3) the organization and delivery of health services. I am working on funded research projects in all three areas. I have been the principal and co-principal investigator of two major epidemiologic studies. The first examines social factors and mental illness throughout adulthood. The second focuses on social factors related to both physical and mental health among older adults. I also am director of the one core of the Clinical Research Center for the study of depression in later life, funded by NIMH. The focus of my CRC project is the effects of social factors on the course of outcome of geriatric depression. In all of these studies, tje social factors examined include age, gender, race, urban vs rural residence, socioeconomic status, social stress, and social relationships. The major health services project in which I am involved is a randomized trial of outpatient commitment. This study is evaluating the extent to which outpatient commitment can increase the odds that the chronically mentally ill will be able to live in the community rather than being subjected to frequent involuntary commitments to state mental hospitals. The importance of this project is its potential to demonstrate that outpatient commitment is a less coercive and less expensive form of treatment for the chronically mentally that also improves their quality of life. Rachel Alison Adcock Dr. Adcock received her undergraduate degree in psychology from Emory University and her MD and PhD in Neurobiology from Yale University. She completed her psychiatry residency training at Langley Porter Psychiatric Institute at UC-San Francisco and did neurosciences research as a postdoctoral fellow at UC-SF, the San Francisco VA Medical Center, and Stanford before joining the Duke faculty in 2007. Her work has been funded by NIDA, NIMH, NSF and Alfred P. Sloan and Klingenstein Fellowships in the Neurosciences, and the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation, and honored by NARSAD awards, the 2012 National Academy of Sciences Seymour Benzer Lectureship, and the 2015 ABAI BF Skinner Lectureship. The overall goals of her research program are to understand how brain systems for motivation support learning and to use mechanistic understanding of how behavior changes biology to meet the challenge of developing new therapies appropriate for early interventions for mental illness. Guy Glenn Potter Scott William Cousins Scott W. Cousins, M.D. is currently the Robert Machemer, M.D. Professor of Ophthalmology and Immunology, Vice Chair for Research, and Director of the Duke Center for Macular Diseases at Duke Eye Center. As Vice Chair, he oversees all basic science research as well as the Ophthalmology Site-Based Research Group, which administrates clinical research for Duke Eye Center. Dr. Cousins is also Medical Director of Hospital-Based Imaging and Procedures for Duke Eye Center. Dr. Cousins is a retina-trained ophthalmologist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of macular diseases, especially age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vascular diseases. Dr. Cousins is active in both clinical and laboratory research. In his clinical practice, Dr. Cousins is involved in many trials and innovative therapies for the treatment of macular diseases, especially AMD and diabetic retinopathy. He has served as site PI for numerous phase1-3 clinical trials in AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal disorders. He has served as a consultant or member of data safety monitoring committees (DSMC) for numerous pharmaceutical and biotechnology startup companies. In his scientific laboratory, Dr. Cousins pursues both NIH-funded and industry-funded research in various areas of dry and wet AMD. In particular, he is studying the role of circulating bone marrow-derived progenitors (stem cells) in contributing to wet AMD. His laboratory is attempting to develop treatments for dry macular degeneration and improving vision in eyes with wet macular degeneration. His program is also developing blood tests and new imaging technologies for the identification of patients who are at high risk for progressing into complications. Dr. Cousins has published over 100 peer-reviewed manuscripts, book chapters, and other publications addressing topics of research or clinical care of retinal disease, especially AMD. In 2006, Dr. Cousins was awarded the prestigious Alcon Research Foundation Clinician Scientist Award. In 2008, the National Institutes of Health invited Dr. Cousins to join the National Advisory Eye Council. Dr. Cousins is also a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Retina Specialists, the Retina Society, the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, the American Association of Immunologists, and the American Medical Association. In 2010, Dr. Cousins was named one of the "Top 34 Ophthalmologists in the United States" by Becker's ASC Review, a leading source of business and legal news for ambulatory surgery centers. They cited his leadership of the Duke Center for Macular Diseases and his ongoing research in macular degeneration as reasons for the honor. Unless otherwise indicated, scholarly articles published by Duke faculty members are made available here with a CC-BY-NC (Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial) license, as enabled by the Duke Open Access Policy. If you wish to use the materials in ways not already permitted under CC-BY-NC, please consult the copyright owner. Other materials are made available here through the author's grant of a non-exclusive license to make their work openly accessible.
Philip Emeagwali Philip Emeagwali Nigerian computer scientist and mathematician who developed the world's fastest supercomputer. Emeagwali has made impressive contributions in a number of fields and, though forced from school at age 12, is widely regarded as one of the world's most brilliant minds. He has helped develop methods for oil recovery in nearly spent oil fields and made important contributions to the science of weather forecasting and a variety of mathematical specialties. More From encyclopedia.com tung oil , tung oil See ALEURITES. Edwin Laurentine Drake , Though he drilled only three oil wells in his lifetime, Edwin Drake (1819-1880) is known as the "Father of the Petroleum Industry" because the techno… Oils , Oil David S. Painter Oil was an integral part of U.S. foreign policy in the twentieth century, and its influence has shown no sign of diminishing in… Oil Pollution , Introduction Oil spills refer to the release of oil (liquid petroleum hydrocarbon) onto land or into water. The release can be accidental and due to… Philip , Philip His Royal Highness Prince Philip, duke of Edinburgh (born 1921) has spent over fifty years by the side of his wife, Queen Elizabeth II of Grea… Drying Oil , drying oil Any highly unsaturated oil that absorbs oxygen and, when in thin films, polymerizes to form a skin. Linseed and tung oil are examples of d… You Might Also Like Philip Emeagwali
For this case, we offered RL-R19 to be used as a DAQ-system. We mounted the accelerometer next to the pilot's seat and an optical tachometric sensor on the dashboard. Some reflective tape was stuck on the first blade. If the equipment is placed this way, it is possible to measure the phase and amplitude of the imbalance vector in any flight mode. The positioning of points close together means that the increased level of vibration is due to the main rotor unbalance. The distance of points from the center and the space occupied by the cloud of points tells us that the balancing procedure has good chances of being a success. Even though the unbalance vector has slightly changed, the cloud of points is still dense and located in about the same segment of the diagram. It shows that the nature of the unbalance is fixed, e.g. it is due to the uneven mass distribution in the rotor and does not depend on the flight mode. To determine the "heavy point", the trial weight of 500 g was placed on the first blade of the main rotor. After that, the unbalance vector shifted very little in phase, which signifies that the corrective weight is to be placed around the angle of the first blade. It was calculated that the mass of the corrective weight is 1980.14 g and the angle of its placement is 12⁰. The corrective weight was split onto two nearby blades: Vibration, mm/s \| Hovering \| 100 km/h \| 200 km/h \| Before balancing \| 5.56 \| 4.11 \| 6.24 \| After balancing \| 2.15 \| 1.25 \| 3.49 \|
If you're looking for a healthier and tastier option to cooked pork chops, then cooking them in an air fryer is the perfect solution. Not only is the process quick and easy, but it also eliminates the need for unhealthy breadcrumbs and frying oil. In this article, we'll be discussing all there is to know about cooking air fryer bone-in pork chops without breading. How to cook juicy and tender pork chops in an air fryer The secret to cooking juicy and tender pork chops in an air fryer is to season them well. First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Then, season the chops with salt, pepper, and any other spices you love. Next, put the chops directly into the basket of the air fryer and cook for around 10-12 minutes. Check for temperature and cook for a further 2-3 minutes if necessary. Another tip for cooking pork chops in an air fryer is to use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to the correct temperature. The internal temperature of pork should reach 145°F to be safe to eat. Additionally, you can add a glaze or sauce to your pork chops for extra flavor. Brush on a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and garlic before cooking, or serve with a side of barbecue sauce for dipping. A healthier alternative to traditional fried pork chops Cooking pork chops in an air fryer is a much healthier alternative to traditional frying, as it eliminates the need for oil and breading. This makes it perfect for those who are watching their calorie intake or trying to stick to a specific diet. Additionally, air frying pork chops also helps to retain more of the natural juices and flavors of the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. This method of cooking also reduces the risk of overcooking or undercooking the pork chops, as the air fryer provides a consistent and even heat distribution. Another benefit of using an air fryer to cook pork chops is the convenience factor. It is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and healthy meal, without the hassle of traditional frying methods. Plus, the air fryer is easy to clean and maintain, making it a great addition to any kitchen. The benefits of cooking bone-in pork chops in an air fryer When cooking bone-in pork chops in an air fryer, you can expect them to come out tender and juicy. The air fryer cooks the chops evenly and locks in the natural flavors and juices. Additionally, the bone adds extra flavor and nutrients to the dish. Another benefit of cooking bone-in pork chops in an air fryer is that it is a healthier cooking method compared to traditional frying. Air fryers use hot air to cook the food, which means you don't need to add any oil or fat to the dish. This results in a lower calorie and lower fat meal, making it a great option for those who are watching their weight or trying to eat healthier. How long to cook bone-in pork chops in an air fryer Cooking time for pork chops in an air fryer may differ according to chop thickness and air fryer type. In general, you should cook your pork chops for 10-12 minutes at 400°F. Always double-check the temperature of the pork chops using a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork is cooked through and is at a safe temperature. It is also important to note that the seasoning and marinade used on the pork chops can affect the cooking time and temperature. If the pork chops are heavily seasoned or marinated, it may be necessary to adjust the cooking time and temperature to ensure that the pork is fully cooked and not overcooked. Additionally, it is recommended to let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a tender and juicy result. The best seasoning for air fryer bone-in pork chops The best seasoning for air fryer bone-in pork chops is a blend of your favorite herbs and spices. Paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder are great options to add depth and rich flavor. Do not forget salt and pepper, adding the essential must-have flavors. Another great seasoning option for air fryer bone-in pork chops is a mixture of brown sugar, smoked paprika, and chili powder. This combination adds a sweet and smoky flavor with a hint of heat. You can also try a blend of rosemary, thyme, and sage for a more herbaceous taste. Experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect flavor profile. Tips for achieving the perfect sear on your air-fried pork chops For a perfect sear on your pork chops, pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning and cooking. This helps in the evaporation of liquids, and the heat from the air fryer can brown the chops. Also, try to cook in a single layer, to allow the heat to circulate evenly on the pork chops. Finally, avoid over-crowding the air fryer basket to ensure even baking. Another tip for achieving the perfect sear on your air-fried pork chops is to preheat the air fryer before cooking. This ensures that the air fryer is at the right temperature when you add the pork chops, which helps in achieving a crispy sear. Additionally, consider using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. This helps in ensuring that the pork chops are cooked to the desired level of doneness. Lastly, consider marinating the pork chops before air frying them. A marinade not only adds flavor to the pork chops but also helps in tenderizing them. You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, or experiment with different flavors such as honey mustard or teriyaki. Marinate the pork chops for at least 30 minutes before air frying them for the best results. How to ensure your pork chops are fully cooked in the air fryer The best way to ensure that your pork chops are fully cooked in the air fryer is by using a meat thermometer. The thermometer should show 145°F when inserted into the center. It is also important to let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and flavorful meat. Simply cover the pork chops with foil and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Pairing sides with air fryer bone-in pork chops for a complete meal Air fryer bone-in pork chops pair exceptionally well with various sides. Pair with roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts and carrots. Mashed potatoes are always a comforting staple that everyone can love. Finally, a fresh and bright salad balances the meal well. Another great side to pair with air fryer bone-in pork chops is a creamy coleslaw. The cool and tangy flavors of the coleslaw complement the savory pork chops perfectly. Additionally, a serving of garlic bread or dinner rolls can add a nice touch to the meal, especially if you're looking for something to soak up the delicious juices from the pork chops. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider serving the pork chops with a quinoa salad. Quinoa is a great source of protein and fiber, and it pairs well with a variety of vegetables and herbs. You can also add some nuts or seeds for extra crunch and flavor. Another healthy option is to serve the pork chops with a side of roasted sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals, and they have a natural sweetness that complements the pork chops nicely. The versatility of air fryer bone-in pork chops: from breakfast to dinner Not only are air fryer bone-in pork chops perfect for dinner, but they also make a great breakfast option. The options are endless, from serving with eggs and crispy hashbrowns to pairing with toasted bagels. Additionally, air fryer bone-in pork chops can also be used as a delicious lunch option. Cut the pork chops into thin slices and add them to a salad for a protein-packed meal. You can also use the leftover pork chops to make a sandwich with your favorite toppings. The versatility of air fryer bone-in pork chops makes them a great option for any meal of the day. Air fryer bone-in pork chops with a twist: unique flavor combinations to try For a unique flavor combination on your pork chops, try marinating them. A simple balsamic vinegar marinade with a touch of honey adds sweetness to the countertop while maintaining healthiness. You can also try a spicy paprika rub for a bold and fiery kick. If you're feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. For example, a blend of rosemary, garlic, and lemon zest can add a fresh and zesty flavor to your pork chops. Or, try a combination of cumin, coriander, and chili powder for a smoky and savory taste. Don't be afraid to get creative and try out different combinations until you find your perfect flavor profile! How to store leftover air-fried bone-in pork chops Store leftover air-fried bone-in pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. Reheated pork chops will not be as crispy as the original, and they may lose some tenderness and moisture. If you want to freeze your leftover air-fried bone-in pork chops, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the pork chops in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. When air-frying bone-in pork chops, it's important to make sure they are cooked to the appropriate temperature. The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature before serving. If the pork chops are not fully cooked, return them to the air fryer for a few more minutes until they reach the appropriate temperature. Frequently asked questions about cooking bone-in pork chops in an air fryer 1. Can I use frozen pork chops in an air fryer? Yes, you can, just increase the cooking time. 2. Can I use any type of seasoning for air-fried pork chops? Yes, you can! Adjust according to your palate and the flavors that you love. 3. Can I use foil in an air fryer to cook bone-in pork chops without breading? Yes, you can use foil; however, it may decrease the crispiness of your pork chops. 4. How long do bone-in pork chops last in the fridge? Bone-in pork chops can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days when properly stored. As you see, there are plenty of advantages to using an air fryer for bone-in pork chops without breading. This alternative to traditional frying is much healthier and produces tender, juicy pork chops. By using the correct temperatures, seasonings, and cooking times, you can quickly create a delicious meal that your family will love.
Dogs are able to use all of their senses to perceive the world around them. Sight, sound, smell, taste and touch are all used by dogs to understand their surroundings. Dogs have been known to be very loyal companions and have been used as working animals for centuries. Dogs have an acute sense of smell, hearing, and sight. They use all of these senses to perceive the world around them. Dogs are able to smell things that are far away and they can hear quiet noises. They also have very good eyesight and can see in the dark. Dogs are very social animals. They live in packs and in close proximity to each other. This is why they are also very social animals. Dogs can be great companions for both humans and other dogs. Dogs see the world in a different way than humans. While humans have binocular vision and can see in color, dogs only see in black and white and have poorer vision overall. Dogs' eyes are also positioned on the side of their head, which gives them a wider field of view but limits their depth perception. Dogs are able to adapt to their poor vision by using their other senses, including smell, sound, and touch, to perceive their environment. Dogs have great vision and can see in both low light and high contrast environments. Dogs have some of the best vision of all animals. They can see in low light and high contrast environments, which is why they are often used as guide dogs. Their vision is also very sensitive to movement, which helps them to detect prey or predators. Do dogs really only hear high-pitched noises? A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Alberta suggests that this might not be the case. The researchers played a variety of sounds for dogs—including both high and low pitches as well as non-sounds like silence—and monitored their brain activity. They found that while dogs do exhibit a bias towards high-pitched noises, they are still able to detect lower pitched sounds. This suggests that our understanding of how dogs hear might need to be revised. Dogs are known for their exceptional sense of smell, but did you know that they also have an excellent sense of hearing? Dogs can hear frequencies that humans cannot, and this makes them especially good at detecting movement and other noises in the dark. This is why dogs are often used as service animals for the deaf and hearing impaired. Dogs have a unique smell that is different from other animals. Their smell comes from the oils in their fur and skin. Dogs use their smell to communicate with each other and with people. They can tell what kind of person or animal is nearby by smelling them. Dogs also use their smell to find things they are looking for, like food or toys. Dogs have an incredibly strong sense of smell and can detect smells that are imperceptible to humans. Dogs use their sense of smell to communicate with other dogs, to find food and shelter, and to identify potential threats. Dogs that are used for law enforcement or search and rescue are often trained to use their sense of smell to find drugs, explosives, or missing people. Some dogs are even being trained to sniff out cancer cells in patients' bodies. Dogs have a very sensitive sense of touch and can feel textures that humans cannot. This is because their skin has more nerve endings per square inch than human skin. Dogs use their sense of touch to explore their environment, learn about new things, and interact with other dogs and people. Some dogs are so sensitive to touch that they will become anxious or fearful if they are not petted or touched regularly. Dogs have a very keen sense of taste. In fact, their taste receptors are so sensitive that they can detect the presence of just a few molecules of a substance in a solution. This is why dogs are often used as detection animals in law enforcement and search-and-rescue operations. Dogs have a much keener sense of taste than humans do and can taste things that are undetectable to us. Dogs can distinguish between different types of food, and they can also smell and taste food that is spoiled or dangerous. In fact, a dog's sense of taste is so keen that they can even differentiate between different brands of kibble. Dogs are incredibly adept at using their senses to interact with their environment. Their sense of smell is incredibly powerful, allowing them to detect scents that humans and other animals cannot. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell, hearing, and sight. They are able to use these senses to their advantage in a number of ways. Dogs also have an acute sense of hearing, which allows them to hear sounds that are imperceptible to humans. Dogs use their senses to navigate their surroundings, communicate with others, and find food.
Michael Faraday: History, Notable Works and Facts Michael Faraday was born on September 22, 1791, in Newington Butts, a village in Surrey, England. He came from a humble background; his father, James Faraday, was a blacksmith, and... Throughout history, scientists have paved the way for society's progress, making discoveries that changed the way we perceive and interact with the world. Their legacies range from foundational theories to inventions that we use daily. Below, we explore the most renowned scientists and their groundbreaking achievements. An English mathematician and physicist, Newton is famed for his three laws of motion and the law of universal gravitation. His work, "Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica," laid the groundwork for classical mechanics. He also made significant advancements in optics and calculus. This German-born physicist introduced the theory of relativity. His equation, E=mc^2, which describes the relationship between energy and mass, transformed theoretical physics. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921 for his explanation of the photoelectric effect. A Polish-born physicist and chemist, Curie is celebrated for her pioneering research on radioactivity. She became the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and remains the only person to win in two different scientific fields (Physics and Chemistry). An Italian astronomer, physicist, and polymath, Galileo is a central figure in the scientific revolution. He championed heliocentrism, improved the telescope, and made astronomical observations that challenged traditional beliefs, leading to conflicts with the Catholic Church. An English naturalist and biologist, Darwin proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection. His "On the Origin of Species" remains one of the most influential books ever written, fundamentally altering biological thought. While best known as a Renaissance artist, da Vinci was also a scientist, engineer, and inventor. His notebooks are filled with anatomical studies, engineering designs, and his observations on the nature of water, light, and the geology of the earth. A Serbian-American inventor, Tesla made significant contributions to the development of the alternating current (AC) electrical system. He also ventured into radio, radar, and early X-ray technology. Tesla's innovations laid the foundation for various modern electrical devices. A Scottish physicist, Maxwell is best known for his four equations that describe the behavior of electric and magnetic fields. These foundational principles provided the framework for modern electromagnetism. An English chemist, Franklin is renowned for her work on the X-ray diffraction images of DNA, which significantly contributed to the discovery of the DNA double helix. Sadly, her contribution was under-recognized during her lifetime. A French chemist and microbiologist, Pasteur made incredible strides in understanding the causes and prevention of diseases. His development of the pasteurization process to treat milk and wine has saved countless lives. An American theoretical physicist, Feynman made significant contributions to quantum electrodynamics, for which he was jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1965. He's also known for the Feynman diagrams and his engaging lectures. Often regarded as the world's first computer programmer, this English mathematician worked on Charles Babbage's early mechanical general-purpose computer. She was the first to recognize the machine's potential beyond arithmetic calculations. An English scientist, Faraday's experiments on electromagnetism led to the first electric generator's invention. He also made significant contributions to the fields of electrolysis and electrochemistry. A German-speaking Moravian scientist and Augustinian friar, Mendel is the founder of modern genetics. His pea plant experiments established the patterns of inheritance, introducing dominant and recessive genetic traits. This English theoretical physicist is best known for his work on black holes and the nature of the universe. His book, "A Brief History of Time," delved into cosmology's depths and became a bestseller. An American scientist, McClintock's research on maize led her to discover transposons or "jumping genes." Her findings significantly impacted genetic research, earning her the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1983. A German mathematician, astronomer, and astrologer, Kepler is renowned for his laws of planetary motion, which became a foundation for Newton's theory of universal gravitation. A German physicist, Heisenberg is best known for his uncertainty principle, a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics. He won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1932 for his work on quantum theory. This Russian chemist is celebrated for creating the Periodic Table of Elements. His table organized elements based on atomic weight, predicting properties of undiscovered elements with incredible accuracy. An English primatologist and anthropologist, Goodall is the world's leading expert on chimpanzees. Her 60-year study of wild chimps in Tanzania revolutionized our understanding of primate behavior. the aforementioned scientists hail from diverse backgrounds and fields, yet each has profoundly impacted our understanding of the world. Their relentless curiosity, rigorous inquiry, and groundbreaking discoveries have paved the way for future generations. The annals of science are filled with these luminaries, who have illuminated the dark corners of the universe and charted the course for humanity's advancement. Whether through unraveling the DNA helix or deciphering the vast cosmos's mysteries, their legacies remain indelible, echoing through time. Michael Faraday was born on September 22, 1791, in Newington Butts, a village in Surrey, England. He came from a humble background; his father, James Faraday, was a blacksmith, and... Albert Einstein's General Theory of Relativity, formulated between 1907 and 1915, revolutionized our understanding of gravity, space, and time. World History Edu presents some important facts about this groundbreaking theory:... The German physicist and mechanical engineer Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen is hailed as the first to identify electromagnetic radiation in wavelength ranges, which are now known as X-rays. Even though other... There have been many brilliant scientists to come out of Germany throughout the years, but Robert Heinrich Herman Koch stands out as one of the country's all-time greats. Koch established... Widely regarded as the 'Founder of Contemporary Philosophy," René Descartes sought to reinvent the curriculum in science by abandoning its established fundamental principles. He developed a philosophical system that includes...
Your Financial Future: Benefits of Professional Investment Advice Let's talk about money – what makes our world go around. We all want a comfortable future, but figuring out how to get there can be daunting. That is where a financial professional comes in. The game-changing benefits of working with an investment counselor to craft a plan about your goals, dreams, and financial peace of mind. Getting Personal with Your Finances Money means different things to different people. It could be the dream vacation you've been putting off, a cozy retirement, or just having some extra cash for a rainy day. Whatever your financial hopes and dreams, a professional investment counselor can help you realize them. First things first – what does a professional investment counselor or financial advisor do? To put it simply, they're like your financial detectives. They sit with you, chat about your life, and learn your money story. What are your goals? What keeps you up at night? Once they've cracked the code of your unique situation, they can help you set realistic and work towards achievable financial goals. Creating Your Financial Roadmap Okay, so you've spilled the beans about your financial dreams. Now what? This is where the magic happens – turning dreams into reality with a personalized financial roadmap. Your investment counselor takes all those shared goals and crafts a plan just for you. This roadmap isn't a one-size-fits-all deal. It's tailored to your situation, considering your income, expenses, and what makes you tick. You may be a risk-taker, or you prefer to play it safe. Your plan reflects your personality and comfort level, ensuring you're on a path that suits you like a glove. "Investment planning is the compass that navigates our money journey, and partnering with an investment counselor is like having a seasoned guide by your side," says Daniel Lerner, Executive Vice President of Investment Services, "It's not about predicting the future, but crafting a roadmap that adapts to life's twists and turns. With professional expertise and your unique goals, the journey becomes less daunting, and your financial future more predictable." Guidance Every Step of the Way Life doesn't come with a roadmap; sometimes, it throws unexpected curveballs. That's where ongoing guidance from your investment counselor becomes your financial GPS. They're not just there for a one-time chat – they're there for you for the long haul. As life changes, so do your financial goals. Maybe you got a promotion, had a baby, or decided to pursue that passion project. Your investment counselor helps you adjust your financial roadmap accordingly. They're the experts in the ever-changing financial landscape, and have your back through thick and thin. Boosting Financial Confidence Money matters can be stress-inducing. The data backs this up. A recent study found that 90 percent of people say money negatively impacts their stress levels. More than half (close to 65 percent) feel their financial difficulties are piling up to the point that they can't see a way out. Less than a quarter feel very optimistic about their financial future! However, with a solid financial roadmap and a trustworthy investment counselor by your side, that stress can start to fade away. You gain confidence in your financial decisions because they're not just shots in the dark – but strategic moves aligned with your goals. Understanding Your Financial World Financial literacy is like the secret code to unlocking financial success. Working with an investment counselor isn't just about them telling you what to do but teaching you the ropes. They break down the complex financial jargon, answer your burning questions, and empower you to make informed decisions. In the grand game of life, your finances play a starring role. Teaming up with an investment counselor isn't a luxury; it's an investment in your future self. They're the architects of your financial dreams, helping you create a plan that's as unique as you are. So, let's make money less of a mystery and more of a tool for the life you want to live. Your financial future awaits – are you ready to take charge? Material contained in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to be used in connection with the evaluation of any investments offered by David Lerner Associates, Inc. These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable– we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.
Medical clowns boost sleep quality and reduce hospital stay for children, study finds In a recent study published in Scientific Reports, a group of researchers evaluated the impact of medical clown interventions on sleep quality and hospital stay duration in pediatric patients. Sleep is crucial for recovery, yet hospital environments often disrupt it, particularly affecting pediatric patients. Hospitalized children experience late bedtimes, frequent awakenings, and reduced sleep time, intensifying their anxiety and discomfort. Medical clowns, a non-pharmacologic intervention, have demonstrated potential in reducing stress and anxiety, enhancing overall well-being and cooperation in pediatric care, yet further research is essential to conclusively establish their effectiveness in improving sleep quality and overall recovery outcomes in hospitalized children. About the study This single-center, prospective observational study, conducted at The Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center in Israel from July 2019 to January 2022, involved pediatric patients aged 2-18 years, predicted to stay for at least two nights. Patients were recruited based on admission order and matched 1:1 for age and clinical condition with controls. Exclusions included children under 2 or over 18, those with sleep disorders, on sleep-altering medication, chronic conditions, a fear of clowns, or expected one-day hospitalizations. Participants were excluded if discharged or transferred within one night or if they removed the Actigraph sleep-monitoring device prematurely. The study group received standard medical care and a session with a medical clown at bedtime, using relaxation techniques like music or guided imagination for 15–30 minutes. The control group, matched by medical condition, age, and if possible, gender, received standard care without clown intervention. Both groups wore Actigraph devices to measure sleep and were accompanied by a primary caregiver who completed a three-part questionnaire about the child's sleep at home, during hospitalization, and, for the clown group, the perceived effect of the clown on sleep. Data from Actigraph devices were compared with parents' questionnaires, and each study participant's data was compared with their control group counterparts. An independent unpaired two-tailed t-test was used for statistical analysis, with a paired t-test for within-group comparisons across two hospital days. A p-value of less than 0.05 indicated statistical significance. Ethical approval was granted by the Carmel Medical Center IRB, with informed consent obtained from all participant caregivers. Study results In the present study, 57 children were initially recruited, but 15 were dropped for not completing the required two-night protocol, leaving 42 participants divided into a clown group (n = 21) and a control group (n = 21). Children were matched by age and clinical characteristics, averaging around 10.8 years, with a nearly equal gender distribution. Medical conditions varied, including acute appendicitis and abdominal pain, among others. The sleep habits of both groups were initially similar. However, the study revealed significant differences in sleep patterns post-intervention. The clown group, exposed to a medical clown intervention before bedtime, showed a delayed wake-up time by approximately 27 minutes compared to the control group. This group also experienced longer time in bed and total sleep time as assessed by both objective measures and parental estimates. Interestingly, the total wake time during the night was slightly shorter in the clown group. The mean sleeping period was longer in the clown group by 72 minutes, though this did not reach statistical significance. Sleep efficiency was marginally higher in the clown group. The mean number of awakenings during the night was lower in the clown group, but this also did not reach statistical significance. A notable finding was within the clown group itself. When comparing the two nights for each child in this group, the night following the clown intervention showed a significant increase in total sleep time by 54 minutes, reduced total wake time, and improved sleep efficiency by 4.3%. These changes were mainly attributed to a reduction in the wake period after sleep onset. Beyond sleep parameters, the study also observed general characteristics of the children's hospital stay. A remarkable outcome was that the length of hospitalization was significantly shorter in the clown group compared to the control group, with an average reduction of nearly a full day. The study found significant improvements in sleep parameters for the clown group, including later wake-up times, reduced wakefulness during the night, and increased sleep efficiency. This improvement was particularly notable when comparing nights with and without the clown intervention within the same group. Moreover, the study discovered a substantial reduction in hospital stay duration for children who interacted with the clowns. These findings suggest that medical clowns not only improve sleep quality but also potentially expedite overall recovery.
This year, 54-year-old Frank Marshall did something he'd never done before: He went to a dentist. Marshall stays at a local homeless shelter, and said he had been experiencing tooth pain for about a month. Then, through his shelter, he heard about the Madison Dental Initiative — an organization that connects those who can't afford dental care with area dentists. It's part of a broader effort in Madison to improve access to care for such people, all the while reducing the number of patients with tooth problems in emergency rooms. "They pulled a tooth a few weeks ago, and now they're going to do cleanup work on cavities," said Marshall. Stay informed on the latest news Sign up for WPR's email newsletter. MDI Executive Director Aaron Warren said about a thousand children and adults were seen last year by 40 area dentists through the organization. "They volunteer anywhere between four hours on the low end per month, all the way up to 20 hours. Then we have a remaining 11 who see patients at their own offices," said Warren. The clinic now has three dental chairs. It started five years ago with just one. Back then, the clinic was just for emergencies, open only on Thursdays. "Thursday has always been the day of getting people out of pain," said Warren. "So we have our normal business hours, but Thursdays are our 'extreme dental day,' I like to call it. We start seeing patients in the evening at 6 o'clock, and we don't leave until the last patient is done." Debra DeNure is a dental health coordinator with Public Health Madison & Dane County. She and others have been working to divert patients with dental pain who come to the ER. "It's a big cost and it's a poor use of the resources there — unless someone is to the point of being really urgent, in which case that's exactly where they should be," she said. ER doctors aren't dentists, and DeNure said it isn't only patients who are in distress when someone comes in with tooth problems. "When someone comes to you for help and you cannot provide treatment that is going to take care of the real problem that someone has come to you for, it's a horrible feeling, because your whole purpose it to make sure someone is not suffering," said DeNure. DeNure and others have also set out to standardize how dental patients are treated in the ER — for instance, what antibiotics are best for infected teeth and what pain medication should be used. "And one of the things that we wanted to do was decrease the amount of opioids or opiates that are in our community. Research has shown that is not the best medication. There are other things that work better — ibuprofen," said DeNure. The ongoing effort to standardize tooth care in the ER and divert those patients to more appropriate, less-expensive care appears to be working. DeNure said that in 2002, there were about 1,530 dental patients at four emergency rooms in the Madison area. Eight years later, such cases had surged by 2,549. But last year, the numbers dropped to 1,981. "You can't say that it's one thing — there's all kinds of variables," said DeNure. However, she said that MDI seems a likely driver of the trend, pointing to how much it's grown over the last few years. "During the last two years they have put out their information to the ERs and said, 'If you have someone who has dental pain and they don't have a dentist, you can have them call MDI,'" said DeNure. DeNure also credits federally funded clinics in the area in helping divert dental patients from emergency rooms. But often there's more demand than supply, and DeNure said people in need don't know which doors to knock on to find one that will open up. Correction: The audio file originally included in this article was for another Wisconsin Public Radio News story. The correct audio has since been uploaded. Wisconsin Public Radio, © Copyright 2024, Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System and Wisconsin Educational Communications Board.
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, financial apps have emerged as powerful tools that revolutionize the way we manage our finances. Whether it's mobile banking apps, personal finance apps, or fintech platforms, these applications offer convenience, accessibility, and efficiency. However, with the increasing reliance on financial apps comes the crucial need for robust security measures to safeguard sensitive data and protect against potential threats. By understanding the importance of financial app security and adopting proactive security measures, users can confidently engage with financial apps, knowing that their personal information and financial data are safeguarded. Likewise, fintech companies can demonstrate their commitment to protecting sensitive information, build trust with their users, and mitigate the risk of reputational damage and legal repercussions. Key security risks and issues in financial apps Financial apps face a range of security risks and vulnerabilities that can compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive information. Understanding these risks and issues is crucial for implementing effective security measures and mitigating potential threats. Some of the following security risks and issues have been listed among the OWASP Mobile Top 10 vulnerabilities. - M3: Insecure Authentication/Authorization - M4: Insufficient Input/Output Validation - M5: Insecure Communication - M9: Insecure Data Storage Data breaches Data breaches pose a significant risk to financial apps, as they can result in unauthorized access to personal and financial data. Attackers may exploit vulnerabilities in the app's infrastructure, weak authentication mechanisms, or insecure data storage practices to gain access to sensitive information. The consequences of a data breach can be far-reaching, leading to financial loss, identity theft, and reputational damage. Inadequate authentication Weak or inadequate authentication mechanisms can undermine the security of financial apps. A simple password-based authentication may be susceptible to brute-force attacks or password guessing. Multi-factor authentication (MFA), such as using a combination of passwords, biometrics, or security tokens, enhances the app's security by adding an additional layer of verification. Insufficient encryption Encryption is a crucial component of securing financial apps. It ensures that data transmitted between the app and the server, as well as data stored on the device or in databases, remains encrypted and indecipherable to unauthorized individuals. Insufficient or improper implementation of encryption algorithms can leave sensitive data vulnerable to interception or decryption. Lack of secure code practices Financial apps must be built on a foundation of secure code practices. Inadequate input validation, insecure data storage, poor error handling, or inadequate session management can introduce vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. Employing secure coding practices, such as input validation, secure storage, and strong error handling, can significantly reduce the risk of security breaches. Insecure network communications Financial apps rely on network communications to transmit data between the user's device and the server. If these communications are not adequately protected, attackers can intercept or manipulate the data, leading to unauthorized access or fraudulent transactions. Implementing secure communication protocols, such as Transport Layer Security (TLS), helps ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data during transmission. Third-party integration risks Financial apps often integrate with third-party services or APIs to provide additional functionalities or access to financial data. However, such integrations can introduce security risks if the third-party services have vulnerabilities or inadequate security measures in place. It is essential for financial app developers to thoroughly vet and assess the security practices of third-party services before integrating them. Lack of regular security updates Failing to promptly apply security updates and patches can leave financial apps exposed to known vulnerabilities. Regular updates help address security vulnerabilities discovered over time and protect the app from emerging threats. Fintech companies should establish a robust process for monitoring and applying security updates to ensure the app remains resilient against evolving security risks. By understanding these key security risks and issues, fintech companies can proactively address vulnerabilities, implement appropriate security controls, and protect financial app users from potential security breaches. 13 best practices to implement for financial app security Securing financial apps requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses secure design principles, ongoing security education, regular updates and patch management, and more. By implementing these 13 best practices, fintech companies can establish a strong security foundation and mitigate potential security risks. 1. Secure design principles Implementing secure design principles from the inception of a financial app is crucial for building a robust security architecture. This includes following secure coding practices, adhering to industry standards and frameworks, conducting threat modeling, and incorporating security controls at every layer of the application. 2. Ongoing security education and training Promoting a culture of security awareness and providing regular education and training for developers and users is essential. Developers should stay updated on the latest security practices, vulnerabilities, and attack techniques. User education should focus on security best practices, such as creating strong passwords, recognizing phishing attempts, and using secure Wi-Fi networks. By equipping both developers and users with security knowledge, fintech companies can reduce the risk of human error and enhance overall security. 3. Regular updates and patch management Keeping financial apps up to date with the latest security updates and patches is crucial for addressing emerging security threats. Fintech companies should establish a robust patch management process that includes regularly monitoring for security updates, promptly applying patches, and ensuring compatibility with third-party libraries and dependencies. 4. Data minimization and encryption Adopting data minimization practices by only collecting and storing necessary user data helps reduce the potential impact of a data breach. Additionally, sensitive data within the app, such as personal and financial information, should be encrypted both at rest and during transmission. Strong encryption algorithms and key management practices should be implemented to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access. 5. Compliance with regulatory standards Fintech companies must adhere to relevant regulatory standards and industry-specific compliance requirements. This may include data protection regulations, such as GDPR or CCPA, or industry-specific guidelines like PCI DSS for handling payment card data. Compliance with these standards ensures that financial apps meet minimum security requirements and safeguards user information. 6. Robust incident response plan Developing a well-defined incident response plan is crucial for efficiently managing security incidents. The plan should outline the roles and responsibilities of the incident response team, incident triage and escalation procedures, communication protocols, and recovery strategies. Regularly testing and updating the incident response plan helps ensure an effective and coordinated response in the event of a security incident. 7. Third-party risk management When integrating third-party services or APIs into financial apps, it is essential to assess the security practices of these vendors. Conducting due diligence, performing security assessments, and ensuring proper contractual agreements help mitigate the security risks associated with third-party integrations. Fintech companies should also monitor the security practices of third-party providers and address any vulnerabilities or breaches promptly. 8. Security testing and auditing Regular security testing and auditing are critical for identifying vulnerabilities and ensuring the effectiveness of security controls. This includes conducting penetration testing, code reviews, and vulnerability assessments to uncover potential weaknesses in the app's security posture. Regular audits help validate compliance with security standards and provide insights for further improvements. 9. User privacy and consent Respecting user privacy and obtaining appropriate consent for data collection and processing is essential. Fintech companies should clearly communicate their data privacy practices, including how user information is collected, used, and shared. Implementing privacy-enhancing measures, such as data anonymization or pseudonymization, helps protect user privacy and build trust. 10. Secure authentication and authorization Implementing strong authentication mechanisms, such as password policies, biometric authentication, or tokenization, ensures that only authorized users can access the financial app. 11. Secure storage and transmission of data Safeguarding data both at rest and in transit is crucial for financial app security. Fintech companies should also ensure that data backups are securely stored and regularly tested for data integrity and recovery. 12. Monitoring and log management Implementing robust monitoring and log management systems allows for the detection of security incidents and helps in forensic analysis. By monitoring logs and system events, suspicious activities can be identified, and timely action can be taken. Centralized log management also aids in compliance reporting and post-incident analysis. 13. Regular security assessments and reviews Conducting regular security assessments and reviews is essential to identify new vulnerabilities, emerging threats, and evolving security risks. This includes staying informed about the latest security trends, monitoring security forums and industry alerts, and engaging in external security assessments or audits. Regular assessments help ensure that the financial app remains resilient against new and emerging threats. Proven app protection for the financial industry At Verimatrix, we believe in friendly security. That means empowering our customers to apply proven App Shielding without overly disrupting their development teams, release schedules, or workflows. With Verimatrix App Shielding, you can continue developing new, exciting, and trusted features for your customers.
In a sea of misery and impending doom, the story of Vo is an inspiring display of how leadership, decisive action and community discipline put an end to the spread of coronavirus. This story is even more astonishing as it comes from a country that has seen more deaths due to COVID-19 than China itself, from a small town in the heart of Italy's danger zone. By now, we are all familiar with the terrifying news pouring out of Italy, of overcrowded hospitals and decisions being made between older and younger patients over who gets a bed in ICU. But, with the entire country's healthcare system on the brink of collapse, the town of Vo in Italy's north offers a glimmer of hope, providing an example of what quick, decisive action can achieve. After seeing Italy's first coronavirus death back in February, Vo took measures to ensure it was the town's last, testing all 3,000 residents regardless of whether they were showing symptoms. 89 came back positive. Instead of sending them to hospitals where the chance of infecting vulnerable patients was high, they were asked to self-quarantine at home. Two weeks later, a second round of testing found the infection rate had plummeted from 3% to 0.41%, with no further deaths. The success of the testing program, led by University of Padua professor Andrea Crisanti and Antonio Cassone, former director of infectious diseases at the Italian Institute of Health, has attracted a lot of attention around the efficacy of rigorous testing and social isolation. While it may have worked for a town with only 3,300 residents, it doesn't present as a viable solution for a city with nearly 2 million such as Perth, especially as the global supply of testing kits is dwindling. In fact, you can only get tested in Perth if you have a fever and a cough or sore throat AND you have: Cynicism aside, if there is anything that we can learn from Vo, it's that action needs to be taken swiftly by leadership, and that all members of a community need to take social isolation policies seriously for them to work. To see how social distancing helps 'flatten the curve', check out Washington Post's 'fake disease simulator' here. Read the original opinion piece by the leaders of this experiment here. Travel Italy Covid-19
We report a neonate who presented with early onset Streptococcus agalactiae or group B streptococcus (GBS) septicemia within 24 hours of birth. After discharge at day 14, she went on to develop late onset GBS meningitis at 36 days of age. The infant was treated with intravenous antibiotics on both occasions and eventually discharged home with no apparent sequelae. We address issues associated with GBS infection in infancy including the demographics, risk factors, and the risk of late onset GBS meningitis following an early onset GBS infection. The major source of GBS in early onset GBS disease is maternal birth canal GBS colonization. On the other hand, nosocomial cross-infection is an important source of GBS in late onset disease. Penicillin remains the current treatment of choice for GBS infection. Given the rapid onset and progression within hours of birth and lack of an effective solution for preventing late onset GBS, administration of an effective GBS vaccine in pregnancy could provide a sensible and cost-effective solution in all settings. 1. Introduction Neonatal infection with Streptococcus agalactiae or group B streptococcus (GBS) is serious, potentially preventable, and imminently treatable [1–7]. GBS is a common colonization agent in the maternal gastrointestinal and genital tract. The organism can spread from the mother to the neonate during vaginal delivery. The vast majority of neonatal infections caused by GBS occur within the first 6 days of life [1–3, 8, 9]. While early onset GBS infection (from birth to 6 days) often presents as sepsis, pneumonia, and, less commonly, meningitis, late onset GBS infection (from 7 days to 89 days) more commonly presents as bacteremia, meningitis, and, less commonly, other focal infections such as cellulitis, lymphadenitis, and bone/joint infection [1, 8, 10, 11]. Understanding the sources and mechanisms of infection is crucial in the prevention and treatment to reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality of this disease [1–3, 10–12]. This case illustrates that adequate antibiotic treatment for early onset GBS does not necessarily prevent late onset GBS disease. As GBS immunization is not currently available, known maternal GBS carriers with infants who had early onset GBS disease should be informed about risks of late onset GBS disease on discharge. These infants should be immediately assessed, should there be any suspicion of late onset GBS infection. 2. Case Report A female neonate was born at 38 weeks of gestation to a 33-year-old primigravida mother following a spontaneous vaginal delivery. The mother had been well during pregnancy and antenatal GBS screen was negative. There was prolonged rupture of membrane of over 32 hours. Apgar scores were 9 and 9 at 1 minute and 5 minutes, respectively. Her birth weight was 3.035 kg (25th percentile), length 49 cm (25th percentile), and head circumference 32.5 cm (10th percentile). Shortly after birth, the neonate had tachypnea, cyanosis, intercostal indrawing, and one episode of low oxygen saturation. An air bronchogram over the retrocardiac region was noted on chest radiography and pneumonia was suspected. The patient was admitted to the newborn nursery and treated as sepsis/congenital pneumonia with intravenous gentamicin and ampicillin following sepsis work-up. She remained hemodynamically stable. Blood white cell count was raised at 14.6 × 109/L while C-reactive protein plateaued at 9.85 mg/L. Lumbar puncture showed a protein level of 1.4 g/L and glucose level of 3.4 mmol/L. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture was negative. Streptococcus agalactiae was identified from the blood culture and the left ear skin swab. The patient was treated with intravenous ampicillin and cefotaxime for 5 days followed by intravenous benzylpenicillin for another 5 days. GBS was sensitive to penicillin G but resistant to clindamycin and erythromycin. Nonpneumococcal penicillin-sensitive streptococci could be considered susceptible to ampicillin, amoxicillin, cefazolin, cefuroxime, ceftriaxone, and carbapenems. Chest X-ray was repeated upon completion of antibiotic therapy and showed no abnormality. She was successfully breastfed and mother did not have mastitis. The infant was discharged at 14 days of age in good condition following counselling of the mother regarding the possibility of late onset GBS disease. At 36 days of age, the patient presented to the emergency department with fever, irritability, poor feeding, and occasional regurgitation. Physical examination revealed an irritable child with a temperature of 39.1°C. Vital signs were stable. The fontanelle was full. Neurological examination was unremarkable. Intravenous penicillin with cefotaxime was given and the patient was immediately admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit. Investigations showed a white cell count of 14.2 × 109/L and C-reactive protein of 102 mg/dL (which plateaued to 268 mg/dL). CSF showed a white cell count of 1420 × 109/L with 89% polymorphs, protein of 3.8 g/L, and glucose less than 0.2 mmol/L. Blood glucose was 3.9 mmol/L. Gram stain of the CSF showed Gram-positive cocci. GBS, which was sensitive to penicillin but resistant to clindamycin and erythromycin, was positive in the CSF culture. Blood culture yielded no pathogen. The patient was treated with a 3-week course of intravenous antibiotics (penicillin and cefotaxime) and subsequently discharged after repeated sterile CSF along with stable vital signs. No neurological sequelae were detected. The infant remained well on follow-up 3 months later. 3. Discussion Early onset GBS infection is defined as GBS infection during the first 6 days of life [1–3, 5, 6, 9]. The infection can be acquired through rupture of amniotic membranes (especially if prolonged) or during passage through the birth canal. The majority of neonatal GBS infections present in the initial 24 hours of birth with a percentage of 63.9% in one study [13]. Previous studies showed that the incidence rate was 0.58 cases among 1000 live births in Hong Kong [8]. This is comparable to the United States incidence of around 0.5 cases per 1000 live births in a study undertaken by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2000 [1–3]. This figure has been on the decline since the 1990s when the incidence rate was at around 1.8 per 1000 live births in the US. The decline in early onset GBS infection can be attributed to the widespread use of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis and the universal screening of pregnant women for GBS colonization [1–3]. For early onset GBS, risk factors apart from maternal GBS colonization (around 20% of the general population) include premature birth, prolonged rupture of membranes, intrapartum maternal fever, and twin pregnancy [1–3, 8, 13]. A history of GBS disease in siblings of previous deliveries would also increase the probability of GBS disease [1]. The rates of neonatal septicemia for infants born to women diagnosed with vaginal GBS colonization are significantly elevated at 10 per 10,000 live births. Previous studies suggested the risk could be as high as 25 times compared to women who do not have vaginal GBS colonization [12, 13]. Vertical transmission of GBS usually occurs after rupture of the amniotic membranes or after onset of labor. In the present case, the source of GBS in the early onset GBS disease might be related to maternal vaginal colonization with GBS which was missed in the antenatal GBS screen. Alternatively, the source of the GBS might be from the maternal gastrointestinal colonization. Late onset GBS disease is defined as infection with onset from 7 days to 89 days after birth [10, 14, 15]. If the onset occurs from 89 to 180 days after birth, it is known as late, late onset GBS (also called very late onset GBS or GBS beyond early infancy). The incidence of late onset GBS disease in the US was around 0.35 per 1000 live births in 1990 but declined to 0.27 per 1000 live births in 2013 [16]. Late onset GBS disease most commonly presents with septicemia, meningitis, and other focal infections such as cellulitis, lymphadenitis, and bone/joint infection [10, 14, 15]. Late and early onset GBS diseases share similar risk factors, but some crucial differences have been observed. The GBS colonization of maternal birth canal is not a crucial factor in late onset GBS disease as it is in early onset GBS disease although horizontal transmission from mother to infant is still possible after birth. As such, the use of maternal intrapartum chemoprophylaxis has been shown to be ineffective in the prevention of late onset GBS disease [11]. Rather, the most important maternal risk factor for late onset infections is premature birth of less than 37 weeks [10]. This could be explained by the reduced time for maternal IgG specifically for GBS to cross the placenta to the infant [17]. The greater the prematurity, the higher the likelihood for the infant to have later onset GBS infection. Additionally, the medical equipment used in supporting a preterm neonate could contribute as another source of infection [11]. Exposures to colonized parents and siblings are important risk factors for late onset GBS disease. While late onset GBS disease is much less common compared to early onset GBS disease, its presentation and complications particularly neurological sequelae can be similarly devastating [2, 3, 10, 12]. In particular, worrisome is that the occurrence of late onset GBS disease does not appear to be as significantly reduced as in early onset GBS disease in the past decade [2, 3, 10]. It is therefore of prime importance to prevent the occurrence of late onset GBS disease after an early onset GBS disease. The use of intrapartum antibiotics for selective high-risk patients, while being sufficient for the prevention of early onset GBS disease, has been found to be insufficient for prevention of late onset GBS disease. In contrast, prematurity, the most critical factor for late onset GBS, will help to reduce the incidence of late onset GBS disease if it could be prevented [15]. Possible sources of infections must also be removed. Of particular interest are nosocomial cross-infections due to prolonged hospital stay, breastfeeding in the event of maternal mastitis, colonized household contacts, and poor hand hygiene of the caregivers [11]. Since oligosaccharides in breast milk can inhibit the growth of GBS, breast feeding in the absence of maternal mastitis should be strongly encouraged. In the present case, the patient had both early and late onset GBS disease. The probability of reoccurrence after the first episode of GBS infection has been estimated to be between 1 and 6% depending on the specific localities. The mechanisms of reoccurrence are variable and not currently fully understood. Some authors have suggested the etiology to be due to suboptimal dosage of antibiotics used during the first infective episode leading to failure to eradicate the initial source of infection. When antibiotics are subsequently discontinued, the infection reemerges and thus becomes a reoccurrence. This would be especially significant in infants who are unable to produce the necessary antibodies and have a weaker immune response [14, 17]. This vulnerability would be exacerbated by the prematurity of the infant [14]. Other authors have suggested that the reoccurrence is due to a second source of infection. This is worth considering as many infants with early onset GBS disease would be exposed to many other sources and types of infection due to prolonged stay in the hospital [2, 3]. Alternative sources of infection include maternal mastitis in the case of breast feeding or simply poor hand hygiene among healthcare workers resulting in the spread of GBS in the ward [15]. In the management of this infant, cefotaxime and ampicillin were given before switching over to penicillin G. Penicillin G is generally recommended for the treatment of GBS infection as well as for use in pregnant women for intrapartum eradication of GBS colonization of the birth canal. Both erythromycin and clindamycin can be used in the case of penicillin resistance or hypersensitivity. This recommendation is supported by multiple guidelines and studies which have found GBS to be uniformly susceptible to penicillin and ampicillin. In contrast to penicillin, around 20 to 30% of GBS has been found to be resistant to both erythromycin and clindamycin [18]. Therefore, erythromycin and clindamycin should only be considered for GBS when both penicillin and ampicillin are unsuitable for use, for example, due to hypersensitivity [18, 19]. Early GBS disease may be prevented by intrapartum antibiotic, and affected infants can be treated by penicillin or ampicillin [1, 10]. Early detection of GBS is therefore essential. Given the rapid onset and progression within hours of birth and lack of an effective solution for preventing late onset GBS, administration of an effective vaccine in the third trimester of pregnancy could provide a sensible and cost-effective solution in all settings. The vaccine will protect neonates from GBS disease through transplacental transfer of antibodies to the fetus in utero. Protein conjugate vaccines and protein-based GBS vaccines are currently in development [17, 20]. Heath discussed a number of promising candidate vaccines [20]. In particular, phase I and II trials of a trivalent GBS vaccine have been conducted in >600 nonpregnant and >500 pregnant women in four countries to assess the optimal dose, need for adjuvant, immunogenicity in pregnant women, placental transfer, and persistence in babies. The trivalent vaccine appeared to be well tolerated and immunogenic. Conflicts of Interest The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.
Ensuring your child receives all the necessary vitamins and minerals is essential for their growth and development. However, getting kids to take their vitamins can often be a challenge. That's where multivitamin gummies come in. These delicious and chewy supplements offer a fun and enjoyable way for children to get the nutrients they need. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the top choices for the best multivitamin gummies for kids and why they're a smart choice for parents. Why Multivitamin Gummies Matter for Kids Multivitamin gummies are more than just a tasty treat; they're a convenient way to ensure your child gets essential nutrients. With their appealing flavors and chewy texture, these gummies make taking vitamins a hassle-free experience for kids. Plus, they're packed with vitamins and minerals that are crucial for children's growth, development, and overall health. The Benefits of Multivitamin Gummies for Kids Multivitamin gummies offer a wide range of benefits for growing children. From supporting immune function to promoting healthy growth and development, these supplements play a vital role in maintaining your child's health. Here are some key benefits of incorporating multivitamin gummies into your child's daily routine: - Tasty and Appealing: Unlike traditional vitamins, multivitamin gummies come in a variety of delicious flavors that kids love. This makes it easier to convince children to take their vitamins without any fuss. - Nutrient-Rich Formula: Multivitamin gummies are formulated to provide a comprehensive blend of vitamins and minerals that are essential for children's health. From Vitamin A to Zinc, these supplements cover all the bases. - Convenient and Easy to Take: Gummies are convenient for parents and easy for kids to take. There's no need for measuring or mixing – simply grab a gummy and go. - Supports Immune Health: Many multivitamin gummies contain immune-boosting vitamins like Vitamin C and Vitamin D, which help strengthen your child's immune system and ward off illness. Choosing the Best Multivitamin Gummies for Kids With so many options available on the market, finding the best multivitamin gummies for your child can be overwhelming. Here are some factors to consider when making your selection: - Quality Ingredients: Look for gummies made with high-quality, natural ingredients and free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. - Nutrient Content: Check the label to ensure the gummies provide a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals suitable for your child's age and nutritional needs. - Allergen-Free Options: If your child has allergies or sensitivities, opt for gummies that are free from common allergens like gluten, dairy, and nuts. - Doctor's Recommendation: Consult with your child's pediatrician before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it's safe and appropriate for their individual needs. Exploring Key Ingredients in Multivitamin Gummies In this section, we'll take a closer look at the essential vitamins and minerals found in multivitamin gummies and their role in supporting children's health. Tips for Encouraging Consistent Multivitamin Gummy Consumption Discover practical strategies for ensuring your child takes their multivitamin gummies regularly and incorporates them into their daily routine. Understanding Potential Side Effects of Multivitamin Gummies While generally safe, multivitamin gummies may cause side effects in some children. Learn about potential risks and how to mitigate them. Comparing Different Brands of Multivitamin Gummies Not all multivitamin gummies are created equal. This section will compare and contrast various brands to help you make an informed decision. Incorporating Multivitamin Gummies into a Healthy Lifestyle Find out how multivitamin gummies can complement a balanced diet and other healthy lifestyle habits to promote optimal health for your child. Addressing Common Concerns About Multivitamin Gummies This section will address common questions and concerns parents may have regarding the use of multivitamin gummies for kids, providing clarity and reassurance. FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) Are multivitamin gummies safe for kids? Yes, when taken as directed, multivitamin gummies are generally safe for children. However, it's essential to follow dosage recommendations and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. How many multivitamin gummies should my child take each day? Dosage recommendations may vary depending on your child's age and nutritional needs. Always follow the instructions on the product label or consult with your child's pediatrician for personalized recommendations. Can multivitamin gummies replace a healthy diet? While multivitamin gummies can supplement a child's diet, they should not be used as a substitute for a balanced and nutritious diet. Encourage your child to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins for optimal health. Investing in the best multivitamin gummies for kids is a proactive step towards supporting your child's health and well-being. With their delicious flavors and nutrient-rich formula, these supplements make it easy for children to get the vitamins and minerals they need for healthy growth and development. Remember to choose high-quality gummies made with natural ingredients and consult with your child's pediatrician before starting any new supplement regimen.
Water damage in your home can be more than just a nuisance; it can lead to costly repairs, health hazards, and structural compromise if left unaddressed. Understanding how critical it is to take immediate action to mitigate water damage is essential to protecting your family's safety as well as the integrity of your property. Knowing the effects of water damage—from broken pipes to roof leaks—enables you to take preventative action to mitigate its effects. This comprehensive guide will delve into why it's essential to immediately address water damage in your home, exploring the risks involved and the steps you can take to safeguard your property and well-being. Structural Integrity Compromise: The structural integrity of your house is seriously threatened by water damage, which jeopardizes its stability and security. Water intrusion into your home's walls, roof, or foundation can cause structural deterioration, warping, and decay. Particularly wooden constructions are vulnerable to water damage because moisture encourages the development of fungi and the decay of wood. Long-term exposure to water can degrade structural components like beams, joists, and supports, increasing the chance of collapse and putting inhabitants in danger. To limit the need for significant repairs and rebuilding and to stop future degradation of your home's structural integrity, it is imperative that you swiftly address water damage. Mold Growth and Health Hazards: The spread of mold growth, which can seriously endanger your family's health, is one of the most alarming effects of water damage. Because it grows most effectively in moist conditions, mold spreads quickly in places where water has seeped in. Mold spore exposure can result in allergic responses, respiratory troubles, and other health complications, especially in those with weakened immune systems or pre-existing illnesses. Furthermore, certain mold species—like black mold, for example—produce chemicals called mycotoxins, which, if swallowed or breathed, may have detrimental effects on health. To avoid mold development and reduce the associated health hazards, it is imperative that water damage be promptly addressed and efficient moisture management methods used. This will ensure that your loved ones can live in a safe and healthy atmosphere inside. Electrical Hazards and Fire Risk: Significant electrical risks can also be posed by water damage, raising the possibility of electrical fires and electrocution. Electrical problems, power surges, and short circuits can occur when water comes into contact with outlets, appliances, or electrical wiring. Water conducts electricity and may ignite combustible items. Thus, this not only throws off the electrical system but also puts people at risk of fire. Furthermore, over time, moisture accumulation in walls and ceilings may erode electrical components, compromising their reliability and integrity. To mitigate the risk of electrical hazards and potential fires, it's crucial to address water damage promptly and enlist the expertise of a qualified water restoration company to assess and repair any electrical issues safely. Property Damage and Loss: Water damage affects everything from furniture and possessions to structural components and finishes, causing serious property damage and financial loss. Water can soak into textiles, upholstery, and carpets, resulting in degradation, stains, and odors. When exposed to moisture, wooden furniture and fixtures may expand, distort, or decay, making them unsalvageable. Furthermore, due to the high risk of leaks and floods, expensive items kept in crawl spaces, attics, or basements are especially susceptible to water damage. To reduce property damage and salvageable objects, as well as reduce the financial load and emotional grief associated with loss and destruction, water damage must be addressed quickly. Decreased Property Value and Resale Potential: Unchecked water damage has the potential to negatively affect your home's value and resale prospects, turning away potential purchasers and reducing its market attractiveness. Prominent indicators of water damage, such as discolored ceilings, flaking paint, and musty smells, cause prospective purchasers to become suspicious and indicate hidden problems and possible upkeep expenses. Water damage can continue to impact buyers' views and bargaining power even after it has been repaired, which might result in fewer offers and a longer time on the market. In the cutthroat real estate market, investing in expert water restoration services to handle water damage and return your house to its pre-damage state is crucial for maintaining its value and optimizing its resale potential. In conclusion, the importance of immediately addressing water damage in your home cannot be overstated. The effects of water damage can be extensive and expensive, ranging from compromising structural integrity and presenting health risks to causing property damage and lowering resale value. By recognizing the risks involved and taking proactive measures to address water damage promptly, you can protect your property, safeguard your family's well-being, and preserve the value of your investment for years to come. James Martin is a passionate writer and the founder of OnTimeMagazines & EastLifePro. He loves to write principally about technology trends. He loves to share his opinion on what's happening in tech around the world.
How the Zombie Argument Functions and Why It Cannot Ease the Problem Between Physicalism and Dualism Essay by eugene535 • April 28, 2017 • Essay • 2,086 Words (9 Pages) • 1,156 Views Essay Preview: How the Zombie Argument Functions and Why It Cannot Ease the Problem Between Physicalism and Dualism This paper will explore how the zombie argument functions and why it cannot ease the problem between physicalism and dualism. It will first define the theories of physicalism and dualism, and the disagreements between them, focusing on the concept of Qualia. It will then explain the importance, function of thought experiments, and define the zombie argument. Based on physicalist Jack Smart's thoughts, it will then provide a response to the zombie argument. Finally, it will elaborate the epistemic problems between physicalism and dualism. It will also explain why a thought experiment such as the zombie argument cannot overcome or engage either school of thought. Physicalism is an influential theory on the relationship between mind and body in a human being. It holds that "human persons are physical things." (Van Ingwagen, 168) In this context, a physical thing is "an individual thing made entirely of those things whose nature physics investigates," e.g. chemical substances, biological functions, and neurons (167). The main idea of this theory is that there is no separation between the human "person" and the human organism, and that all changes to the human person are physical changes (171). This would refuse the existence of the "mental" and "psychological" as separate categories; with that said, mental and psychological characteristics are subordinated to the physical changes (172). Another theory of the mind-body problem is Dualism. Dualism says that human beings, specifically their minds, are non-physical things. To be more precise: "the person is, strictly speaking, a non-physical thing, but it is very intimately associated with a certain physical thing, a human organism, which is called the person's body." (Van Ingwagen168). Fundamental to Dualism is the concept of Qualia. Frank Jackson, a renowned epiphenomenalist (a subset of Dualism) describes qualia as "certain features of the bodily sensations... which no amount of purely physical information includes... hurtfulness of pains, the itchiness of itches, pangs of jealousy, or the characteristic experience of tasting a lemon." (127) The concept of qualia is one of the main disagreements between physicalism and dualism. Dualism holds that even if we knew everything one could possibly know about the physical makeup of an object, we still could not understand Qualia (129). This reminds me about Armstrong's quote that we discussed in class: "If you have to ask what jazz is, you will never know". Qualia (sensations like "seeing red") are unexplainable and can only be experienced. You cannot measure Qualia or find where it happens in the body; it simply occurs. This would put physicalism in a tight spot: if the human being were only combinations of physical things, and can be fully understood that way, then there cannot be anything (such as Qualia) missing from that point. This theoretical disagreement is described the Zombie argument. Designed as a thought experiment, the Zombie argument mentions the following: Physicalism states that everything that makes up a human being is physical. A world physically identical to ours would have every aspect of a human being, including consciousness. In this new world, we can conceive of beings that are physically identical to us, but lack consciousness (these are the zombies). Because we can comprehend this, physicalism is false. To understand the implications of this argument, we have to take a look at how a thought experiment functions. The most important aspect of a thought experiment is conceivability. If it is logically possible to imagine such a given scenario, then the thought experiment has proven its point. In this world, physicalism cannot explain the absence of consciousness, despite this world being physically identical to ours. Because such a world is possible (conceivable), then physicalism is not able to explain a human being as a completely physical being, because there must be aspects of human beings that are non-physical (Jackson 130-131). A simple response by physicalists is the zombie experiment is not logically sound. For the dualist to claim that everything in this new world is physically identical to the old, but lacks consciousness, creates a false separation between sensation and the physical world. Physicalists argue that sensations are caused by physical stimuli (something Dualists can agree with). If this were the case, the identical nature of the physical world would logically cause the same sensations in our zombies. This means that these zombies would have to feel some sort of sensations, and thus have consciousness. Daniel Dennett brings another counterargument to the zombie argument. In "The Unimagined Preposterousness of Zombies", Dennett reveals how zombies can be conceivable, but not how dualists hoped they would be. According to Dennett, if the conditions of the zombie argument were true, then there is no way we could know the difference between humans and zombies: "If zombies are behaviorally indistinguishable from us normal folk, then they are really behaviorally indistinguishable! They say just what we say, they understand what they say, and they believe what we believe, right down to having beliefs that perfectly mirror all our beliefs about... "qualia," and every other possible topic of human reflection and conversation." (Dennet 1995) To think that these zombies also lacked consciousness would be impossible, because it would have to rely on physical information, which is identical to humans. This would also indicate that zombies have mind and intelligence, and perhaps even same ones that human beings possess. For the thought experiment to work, dualists would have to admit that every belief a human has would be an analogue to zombie's one. We can assume this because zombies and humans are behaviorally indistinguishable, and their actions towards "beliefs" would be the same. Dennett argues that Dualists' misconception regarding actually existing zombies arises from a poor understanding of consciousness. "Supposing that by an act of ... imagination you can remove consciousness while leaving all cognitive systems intact ... is like supposing ... you can remove while leaving all bodily functions and powers intact." (Dennett 1991). For Dennett, consciousness and physical existence are not two separate entities but are a cohesive whole that make up human beings. Further comprehension of a physicalist's response to this argument, requires exploring how physicalists interpret the idea of Qualia that Jackson puts forward. According to Jack Smart, qualia (which he names as "sensations") are no more than brain-processes (Smart 191). "Why should not sensations just be brain processes of a certain sort... in so far as 'after-image' or 'ache' is a report of a process, it is a report of a process that
GES Code of Conduct doesn't address issues in schools – EduWatch Despite the Ghana Education Service's assurance that its code of conduct will instil discipline in students in pre-tertiary schools across the country, Africa Education Watch (EduWatch) says the document does not address school issues. Kofi Asare, the Director of the Watch in a social media post sighted by Thisterm.com said the content of the document does not address two of the most critical issues that negatively affect the administration of discipline in schools. "Bearing in mind that these contentious issues very much occasioned the development, and indeed delayed the completion of the document; value addition is regrettably low," the founder of the education think tank stated. The Education Policy Analyst added that "Of all the list of unacceptable conduct in schools, one conduct, is not just the most endemic, but a conveyor belt for the other delinquent behaviours-possessing a mobile phone Offences like exam fraud, pornography, videos, cyberbullying, drugs, sexual offences etc are either fueled, facilitated or reinforced through access to social media via mobile phones. It beats my imagination why nothing new was added to the sanctions for possessing mobile phones when the GES is aware these same documented ineffective sanctions are the reasons why the decade-old ban has proven woefully ineffective. If the sanctions for possessing a mobile phone are seizure and the signing of a bond of good behavior, students will sign new bonds every year and still bring new phones. No wonder the average SHS student has a mobile phone, even though authorities keep seizing it. The maximum sanction has been non-deterrent for over 10 years and won't deter moving into the future." Commenting on dismissal as a punishment, he said "It can take 6 months or more to secure approval for student dismissal. From school management-school board meeting-region-GES Headquarters. This affected the timely administration of discipline and justice. I know of SHS that had some students in perpetual suspension either because there were no funds to convene board meetings to discuss dismissal requests of management, or they were simply waiting for the Director-General's advice. In some cases, the advice is received after the student has completed WASSCE. I was expecting a reduction in the bureaucracy to either School-Region (cc'ed Board) or School-Board-Region. However, the document is dead silent on this major impediment to effective discipline management. The 2024/2025 edition of the Ghana Education Service (GES) code of conduct Kofi Asare said as a guideline fails to recognize the importance of the distinction between first & repeat offenders and their accompanying sanctions. "If the 23 pager document I have read is final from the GES, it requires an immediate withdrawal and review for relevance, value addition and quality assurance, as it does not depict one which took three years to develop," he said.
The global economy is currently on life support, grappling with a series of assaults. The Wuhan virus pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the Israel-Hamas conflict have all contributed to the Economic Instability. As a result, the question arises: Is a recession imminent? According to Wall Street giants, the answer is yes. The Predictions of Wall Street Giants Larry Fink, the head of BlackRock, the world's largest asset management firm, has stated that the probability of a recession is growing. He attributes this to the rising fear that leads to a withdrawal from consumption or spending, which in turn, creates recessions in the long run. Jamie Dimon, the head of America's largest bank, JPMorgan, echoes this sentiment, describing the current situation as "scary and unpredictable." The Impact of Geopolitical Conflicts The impact of geopolitical conflicts on the global economy cannot be understated. Currently, there are 32 Live War Zones in the world, each destroying lives and property. However, not all wars have the same global impact. The Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts, despite being local, have global repercussions due to their influence on key commodities for the global economy – food and fuel. Russia and Ukraine are major food producers, and Russia also produces energy. The war has made both commodities more expensive. Similarly, while neither Israel nor Gaza produces oil, their proximity to oil-producing nations like Saudi Arabia and Iraq has led to an increase in oil prices, crossing $85 per barrel. The State of Major Economies Major economies worldwide are already feeling the effects of these conflicts. The UK's GDP shrank by 0.5% in the June quarter, and experts predict another contraction for the September quarter, technically indicating a recession. The Euro Zone, a block of 20 European countries, saw its GDP fall by 0.1% in the September quarter, and the current quarter is off to a bad start. In the United States, the latest jobs report shows an unemployment rate of 3.9%, up from 3.4% in April, indicating a worsening job market. China, too, is facing challenges, with foreign investors pulling out more money than they invested, around $12 billion more. The Need for Conflict Resolution The current precarious period we're entering could lead to a global meltdown if these wars continue. However, the worst part is that it's all perfectly avoidable. The Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Israel-Palestine issue are rooted in political objectives that could be resolved through dialogue rather than force. As we face the threat of a global recession, it's crucial to remember that wars should be the last resort, not the first response. If we normalize conflict, it will spread, leading to dire consequences for the global economy. Therefore, it's imperative to prioritize conflict resolution to prevent a potential economic meltdown.
Men's health often takes a backseat to their busy lives and hectic schedules. However, prioritizing your well-being is crucial for a long and fulfilling life. While there are many paths to achieving better health, one effective and holistic approach is to incorporate natural remedies into your routine. In this blog post, we will explore some practical tips to boost men's health naturally and enhance vitality and well-being. 1. Balanced Diet: Fueling Your Body Right A well-balanced diet is the foundation of good health. Ensure that your meals include a variety of nutrients, such as lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, to combat oxidative stress and support your immune system. Additionally, foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, can promote heart health and reduce inflammation. 2. Stay Hydrated: Water is Your Friend Don't underestimate the power of hydration. Proper water intake is essential for digestion, circulation, and overall health. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and consider herbal teas or infused water for added flavor and health benefits. 3. Regular Exercise: Keep Moving Physical activity is vital for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and preventing chronic illnesses. Engage in regular exercise that you enjoy, whether it's brisk walking, weightlifting, swimming, or yoga. Find a routine that works for you and stick with it. 4. Manage Stress: Mind-Body Balance Chronic stress can take a toll on men's health, both mentally and physically. Practice stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or mindfulness to manage stress effectively. Remember that taking care of your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health. 5. Quality Sleep: Recharge Your Body Adequate sleep is crucial for recovery and overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a bedtime routine, limit screen time before bed, and create a comfortable sleep environment to ensure restful sleep. 6. Herbal Supplements: Nature's Support Consider incorporating herbal supplements into your daily routine to address specific health concerns. Some herbs like saw palmetto, ashwagandha, and ginseng are known to support men's health, including prostate health and hormonal balance. However, always consult with a healthcare professional before adding supplements to your regimen. 7. Regular Check-ups: Prevention is Key Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help detect health issues early and provide guidance on maintaining your well-being. Don't neglect routine screenings, and be open to discussing any health concerns you may have. 8. Stay Social: Connection Matters Maintaining social connections is vital for mental and emotional health. Spend time with friends and loved ones, engage in hobbies and activities you enjoy, and seek support when needed. 9. Limit Harmful Habits: Quit Smoking and Moderate Alcohol If you smoke, make quitting a priority. Smoking is a leading cause of preventable diseases, including heart disease and cancer. Additionally, limit alcohol consumption to moderate levels to protect your liver and overall health. 10. Positive Mindset: Believe in Your Health Journey Finally, maintain a positive mindset about your health journey. Believe in your ability to make positive changes, and celebrate small victories along the way. A positive outlook can go a long way in achieving your health and wellness goals. Incorporating these natural remedies and lifestyle changes into your daily routine can significantly improve men's health and enhance vitality and well-being. Remember that consistency is key, and it's never too late to start prioritizing your health. Your body will thank you for it in the long run, allowing you to lead a healthier, happier life.
- Youth English - Adult English - About Us - Teacher Member - Contact Us English Language Arts, also known as ELA or language arts, is an in-depth literacy program meant to widen students' communication skills by enhancing their understanding of the English language by reading, writing, and speaking. Let's Read English curriculum is planned to quip students from PreK-12th grades with a thorough and quality education that includes writing, grammar, phonics and reading fluency, and more. Our curriculum is online and is taught via interactive classes and activities like tests and exams, which help tutor/parents to assess their tutee/child's understanding of each lesson. The most amazing part of Let's Read English's online school language arts curriculum is that it uses student-based strategies that enable members to retake classes, activities, tests, exams the need be. Merriam-Webmaster defined language as the subject that tends to enhance students' understanding and capability to use oral and written language. Subject in the definition refers to "literature, reading, composition, and spelling." The key factor of language arts is reading and writing, which makes it an essential part of your child's online school curriculum. However, these components are the foundation for learning. Language arts help young scholars develop their literacy level, phonetic awareness and boost their reading and writing skills. A language arts curriculum is planned to improve further student's literacy levels, including listening, writing, reading, and speaking. To achieve this, the English Language Arts curriculum will contain the following subjects: Let's Read English gives a total preschool-twelfth grade online language arts curriculum, which has the same standard as the curriculum in all states. We deliver lectures using instructional videos, tests, exams, animated programs, and more planned to improve and develop learners' literacy levels. Language arts is delivered in the following form: Grades \| Language Arts Lessons \| Language Arts Extensions \| K-2 \| Organized phonics-based, this teaches how to read. Much focus is attached to a systematic strategy for text components and letter sounds. \| Thematic-based strategy for reading. Scholars traverse phonics via a sequence of narratives that are not organized. \| 3-6 \| A complete sequence of lectures to enhance reading comprehension, writings, and vocabulary. Lectures give scholars instructions, assignments, and the room to practice. \| Training classes allow scholars to practice and instructional programs which include grammar, spelling, reading, and writing. \| 7-8 \| Total sequence of classes to enhance reading comprehension, vocabulary, and writing skills. Classes give scholars instruction, assessment, and practice. \| Auxiliary instructional classes and resources for scholars to boost reading and writing skills \| Pre-k learners will start developing their pre-reading expertise with interesting activities and programs that are designed to make learning easy for their level. The Pre-K language arts curriculum has different themes like At the Zoo, My ABCs, and more For kindergarten learners who are at the early stage of knowing letters and sounds, Let's Read English's Language arts curriculum helps them to learn in a fun and fascinating ways. Learners also develop a strong foundation and comprehensive knowledge of phonics before they start reading. For elementary scholars, the Let's Read English Language Arts curriculum centers on learning different phonics and reading proficiency skills at the first stage, followed by writing skills, reading, building grammar, and more at a later stage. Scholars can as well access language art extension, which includes spelling rules, literature, and more With Let's Read English's language arts curriculum, middle school scholars will be learning how to improve their writing skills, literature skills, and comprehension. Scholars will also learn more about complex issues in different literary genres and also improve their grammar, lexicon, and their parts of speech knowledge. Advanced comprehension expertise is built by the use of figurative language, context clues, and more The senior high school English Language Arts curriculum, is arranged into different courses to help learners gain college results and be career-ready. The senior high school English program lays more emphasis on writing. Reading expertise is also the central part, teaching learners to scrutinize all aspects of a story in fiction and nonfiction passage. Here are the rationales why online schoolers around the world choose Let's Read English's online English Language Arts curriculum as their main curriculum: An in-depth program built to develop solid literacy level It integrates clear videos and aural components to improve learning Let's Read English curriculum helps scholars to enhance their expertise in literary analysis and interpretation For students with special needs, the Let's Read English ELA curriculum gives an interesting lecture that inspires learners to study more. Our various program forms keep scholars glued to their studies. Scholars can learn at their pace to access a grade level above and one below, enabling the parents to customize the curriculum to suit their child's needs.
Introduction to Bulldog Breed Basics When it comes to dogs, each breed has its unique traits and characteristics. Bulldogs are no exception. In this section, we will explore the basics of Bulldog breeds, their characteristics, and other essential information. Let's dive in! - Understanding Bulldog breeds There are several types of Bulldogs, including the English Bulldog, French Bulldog, and American Bulldog. Each of these breeds has its own unique traits and characteristics. For example, the English Bulldog is known for its muscular build and distinctive pushed-in nose, while the French Bulldog is smaller and has large, bat-like ears. - Bulldog breed characteristics Bulldogs are known for their muscular build, short legs, and distinctive pushed-in nose. They have a friendly and gentle disposition, making them great companions. Despite their tough exterior, Bulldogs are known to be gentle and friendly. They are also known for their courage and excellent guarding abilities. Bulldogs have a lifespan of 8-10 years and can weigh between 40-50 pounds. - Bulldog breed information Bulldogs are a popular breed, ranking 5th in the American Kennel Club's list of most popular dog breeds. They are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature. Bulldogs are also very adaptable, making them suitable for both apartment living and houses with yards. They require moderate exercise and are known to be great with children and other pets. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into understanding Bulldogs, their unique needs, and how to care for them. We will also share case studies of Bulldogs and their owners, providing real-life examples of what it's like to live with this wonderful breed. Stay tuned! Understanding Bulldogs: A Deep Dive Let's delve deeper into understanding the unique nature of Bulldogs. One of the most important aspects to consider is their behavior and temperament. Bulldog Behavior and Temperament Bulldogs are known for their distinctive behavior and temperament. Let's explore this in detail. - Common Bulldog behaviors Bulldogs are generally known for their calm and friendly nature. They love to be around their human family and are often seen lounging around. Bulldogs are also known for their stubbornness. This can sometimes make training a bit challenging, but with patience and consistency, they can be trained effectively. Bulldogs are also known for their courage and protective nature. They make excellent guard dogs and are always ready to protect their family. - Understanding Bulldog's unique temperament The temperament of a Bulldog is quite unique. They are known for their docile and willful nature. Bulldogs are often described as 'gentle giants' due to their large size and gentle demeanor. They are generally very friendly and get along well with children and other pets. Bulldogs are also known for their stubbornness. This trait can sometimes make them a bit difficult to train, but with the right approach, they can be trained effectively. Bulldogs are also known for their loyalty. They form strong bonds with their human family and are always ready to protect them. Bulldogs are a unique breed with a distinctive behavior and temperament. Understanding these traits can help you better care for your Bulldog and form a stronger bond with them. Bulldog Physical Characteristics One of the most recognizable breeds, Bulldogs have a number of distinct physical traits that set them apart. Let's take a closer look at these features and understand how they can impact the health of these lovable dogs. - Distinct Physical Traits of Bulldogs Bulldogs are well-known for their muscular, compact build. They typically weigh between 40 to 50 pounds and stand about 12 to 15 inches tall. Their broad shoulders and sturdy legs give them a distinctive waddle when they walk. One of the most noticeable features of a Bulldog is its face. They have a short, flat nose, large, round eyes that are set wide apart, and a wide mouth with a pronounced underbite. Their ears are small and folded, and they have a characteristic wrinkled brow. Their skin is another unique feature. Bulldogs have a loose, wrinkled skin that forms folds around their face and neck. Their coat is short, flat, and can come in a variety of colors including white, fawn, and shades of brindle. - Understanding Bulldogs' Health Concerns Related to Their Physical Traits While Bulldogs' physical traits make them unique, they can also lead to certain health issues. Their short noses, for example, can cause breathing difficulties, a condition known as Brachycephalic Syndrome. This can lead to snoring, wheezing, and in severe cases, respiratory distress. Their skin folds, while adorable, can trap moisture and dirt, leading to skin infections if not cleaned regularly. Bulldogs are also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia due to their compact build. This can cause pain and mobility issues in older dogs. Obesity is another common health concern in Bulldogs. Their love for food, combined with their low activity level, can easily lead to weight gain. This can further exacerbate their breathing issues and joint problems. Understanding these physical traits and potential health issues can help Bulldog owners provide the best care for their pets. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and moderate exercise can go a long way in ensuring a healthy, happy life for these charming dogs. Bulldog Care Guide: Meeting Their Unique Needs When it comes to taking care of your Bulldog, there are several key areas to focus on. These include feeding and nutrition, exercise and activity level, and grooming. Let's delve into these aspects to ensure your Bulldog is healthy and happy. Basics of Bulldog Care Understanding the basics of Bulldog care is crucial for any Bulldog owner. Here are the three main areas to focus on: - Feeding and Nutrition Needs Bulldogs require a balanced diet to maintain their health. This includes high-quality dog food that is rich in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. It's also important to include fruits and vegetables for added vitamins and minerals. Bulldogs typically eat twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Always ensure clean water is available for your Bulldog. - Exercise and Activity Level Despite their sturdy appearance, Bulldogs are not high-energy dogs. They require moderate exercise to maintain a healthy weight and to keep their muscles toned. A daily walk or play session in the yard is usually sufficient. Remember, Bulldogs are prone to overheating, so avoid strenuous exercise during hot weather. - Grooming Needs Bulldogs have a short, fine coat that requires minimal grooming. A weekly brush will help to keep their coat healthy and shiny. Bulldogs are prone to skin issues, so regular baths with a gentle dog shampoo are recommended. Pay special attention to cleaning the wrinkles on their face to prevent infections. By understanding and meeting these basic care needs, you can ensure your Bulldog leads a healthy and happy life. Remember, every Bulldog is unique, so it's important to tailor your care routine to your dog's specific needs. Caring for Bulldogs: Health and Wellness When it comes to the health and wellness of Bulldogs, there are a few key areas to focus on. These include understanding common health issues, ensuring regular veterinary care, and providing mental stimulation. Let's delve into each of these aspects. - Common health issues in Bulldogs Bulldogs are known for their unique appearance, but this breed is also prone to certain health issues. These include breathing difficulties due to their short snouts, hip and elbow dysplasia, skin infections, and obesity. It's important to be aware of these potential issues so you can monitor your Bulldog's health and seek veterinary care if needed. - Regular veterinary care Regular check-ups with a trusted veterinarian are crucial for maintaining your Bulldog's health. These visits allow for early detection of potential health issues, ensuring your Bulldog gets the care they need before problems become more serious. Regular vaccinations, dental care, and preventative treatments for parasites are all part of a comprehensive veterinary care plan for Bulldogs. - Importance of mental stimulation for Bulldogs While physical health is important, mental stimulation is equally crucial for Bulldogs. This breed is known for its intelligence and can become bored without regular mental challenges. Interactive toys, training exercises, and socialization with other dogs can all help to keep your Bulldog mentally stimulated and happy. Caring for a Bulldog's health and wellness involves understanding the breed's common health issues, ensuring regular veterinary care, and providing plenty of mental stimulation. By focusing on these areas, you can help your Bulldog lead a happy and healthy life. Case Studies: Bulldogs and Their Owners Let's delve into real-life experiences of bulldog owners. These case studies will provide practical insights into the unique challenges and solutions associated with owning bulldogs. Case Study 1: Bulldog with Special Dietary Needs In this case study, we will explore the story of a bulldog with special dietary needs and how its owner navigated the situation. - Owner's Challenges The owner, Sarah, noticed her bulldog, Max, was gaining weight rapidly and showing signs of lethargy. She was worried about Max's health and was unsure about the right diet for him. Sarah was also struggling with finding a diet that Max would enjoy, as he was a picky eater. - Solutions and Outcomes After consulting with a vet, Sarah learned that bulldogs are prone to obesity and require a balanced diet. The vet recommended a diet rich in protein and low in fat. Sarah started feeding Max a mix of lean meats, vegetables, and special low-fat dog food. She also ensured that Max got regular exercise. The result was positive. Max's weight stabilized, and his energy levels improved. Sarah was relieved and happy to see Max healthy and active again. This case underscores the importance of a balanced diet and regular exercise for bulldogs. Stay tuned for more case studies that will provide valuable insights into the unique needs and challenges of owning a bulldog. Case Study 2: Bulldog with Behavioral Issues Let's delve into another case study. This time, we will focus on a Bulldog that had some behavioral issues. This case study will provide a clear understanding of the challenges faced by the owner and the solutions that led to positive outcomes. - Owner's Challenges The owner of this Bulldog, named Max, reported that Max was showing signs of aggression towards other dogs and even some humans. Max would often bark excessively, growl, and even attempt to bite. This behavior was not only distressing for the owner but also posed a risk to others. The owner also found it challenging to take Max out for walks due to his unpredictable behavior. - Solutions and Outcomes The owner sought help from a professional dog trainer who specialized in dealing with aggressive dogs. The trainer worked with Max and his owner over several months, using positive reinforcement techniques to modify Max's behavior. The owner was taught how to recognize and manage Max's triggers to prevent aggressive outbursts. Over time, Max's behavior improved significantly. He became less aggressive and more manageable during walks. The owner reported a notable decrease in Max's barking and growling, and Max no longer attempted to bite. The owner was relieved and grateful for the transformation in Max's behavior, attributing it to the professional guidance and consistent training. However, with the right approach and consistent effort, it is possible to manage and even improve these behaviors. This case study serves as an example that every Bulldog, despite their unique challenges, can lead a happy and well-adjusted life with their owners. Key Takeaways: Understanding and Caring for Bulldogs As we conclude our deep dive into the world of Bulldogs, let's summarize the key points we've learned about understanding and caring for this unique breed. - Understanding Bulldog's Unique Needs and Characteristics Bulldogs are a breed like no other. They have a distinctive appearance with a short, stocky body and a large head. They are known for their lovable, gentle nature and are great companions. However, their unique physical characteristics also mean they have special needs. For instance, their short snouts can make breathing difficult, especially in hot weather or during exercise. Bulldogs also have a tendency towards certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and skin conditions. Therefore, understanding these unique needs is crucial for any potential Bulldog owner. - Importance of Regular Care and Health Checks Given their predisposition to certain health issues, regular care and health checks are vital for Bulldogs. Regular vet visits can help catch any potential problems early. A healthy diet and regular exercise are also important to keep your Bulldog in good shape. Remember, Bulldogs can struggle with heat and strenuous exercise, so it's important to monitor them closely during physical activities. - Insights from Case Studies Throughout this article, we've shared several case studies of Bulldogs and their owners. These stories highlight the joys and challenges of owning a Bulldog. From the story of Max, who overcame skin issues with the right diet and care, to Bella, who needed surgery for hip dysplasia, these case studies underscore the importance of understanding and meeting the unique needs of Bulldogs. If you're considering adding a Bulldog to your family, we hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights to make an informed decision.
In the United States, 44 of 50 states and the District of Columbia have state lotteries. The six that don't—Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Mississippi, Nevada, and Utah—don't have them for reasons ranging from religious objections (Mississippi and Utah) to the fact that they already get a slice of gambling revenue (Nevada) to the lack of "fiscal urgency" in the other states (Alaska). The history of the lottery is a tale of boom and bust, with the lottery's popularity rising in times of economic stress and falling when the national economy is on solid footing. Cohen's analysis of the phenomenon begins in the nineteen-sixties, when the growth of public awareness about all the money to be made from lottery games met a crisis in state funding. Rising population, inflation, and war costs were putting serious strains on the ability of state governments to balance budgets without raising taxes or cutting services. One of the main arguments in favor of state-sponsored lotteries was that the proceeds were being used for a "public good," whether it was kindergarten placement at a reputable school or units in a subsidized housing block. In fact, however, studies have shown that the lottery's popularity has little to do with a state government's actual fiscal health—lottery sales rise even in times when the state is financially sound and does not face the prospect of tax increases or service cuts. Generally, states legislate a monopoly for themselves; establish a government agency or public corporation to run the lottery; begin operations with a modest number of relatively simple games; and then, due to ongoing pressure for additional revenues, progressively expand their offerings. This expansion has tended to occur as the number of lottery participants grew, and as new modes of play emerged. But the most important factor in lotteries' long-term success appears to be their ability to attract a core group of super users—those who buy tickets frequently, often in large quantities. When the jackpots on state-sponsored lotteries are enormous, they attract attention both from speculators and the media. The ensuing publicity can help raise interest in the game, but it also gives critics of the lottery an opening to attack it as harmful, citing its potential for addiction and its regressive effect on lower-income populations. This kind of criticism tends to ignore the reality that, for most people, the odds of winning a big prize are extremely small. The truth is, most people who play the lottery are not hooked on gambling, but on the dream of striking it rich. This dream has fueled the growth of the lottery industry for centuries. It is not likely to go away any time soon.
Jefferson Hills is a somewhat small borough located in the state of Pennsylvania. With a population of 12,301 people and three associated neighborhoods, Jefferson Hills is the 80th largest community in Pennsylvania. Jefferson Hills real estate is some of the most expensive in Pennsylvania, although Jefferson Hills house values don't compare to the most expensive real estate in the U.S. Also of interest is that Jefferson Hills has more people living here who work in computers and math than 95% of the places in the US. A relatively large number of people in Jefferson Hills telecommute to their jobs. Overall, about 13.49% of the workforce works from home. While this may seem like a small number, as a fraction of the total workforce it ranks among the highest in the country. These workers are often telecommuters who work in knowledge-based, white-collar professions. For example, Silicon Valley has large numbers of people who telecommute. Other at-home workers may be self-employed people who operate small businesses out of their homes. Because of many things, Jefferson Hills is a very good place for families to consider. With an enviable combination of good schools, low crime, college-educated neighbors who tend to support education because of their own experiences, and a high rate of home ownership in predominantly single-family properties, Jefferson Hills really has some of the features that families look for when choosing a good community to raise children. Is Jefferson Hills perfect? Of course not, and if you like frenetic nightlife, it will be far from your cup of tea. But overall this is a solid community, with many things to recommend it as a family-friendly place to live. Jefferson Hills is one of the most well-educated cities in the nation. 44.46% of adults in Jefferson Hills have at least a bachelor's degree. Compare that to the average community in America, which has just 21.84% with a bachelor's degree or higher. The per capita income in Jefferson Hills in 2018 was $56,989, which is wealthy relative to Pennsylvania and the nation. This equates to an annual income of $227,956 for a family of four. The people who call Jefferson Hills home describe themselves as belonging to a variety of racial and ethnic groups. The greatest number of Jefferson Hills residents report their race to be White, followed by Asian. Important ancestries of people in Jefferson Hills include German, Irish, Italian, Polish, and Slovak. The most common language spoken in Jefferson Hills is English. Other important languages spoken here include Polish and Chinese.
Travelogues are among the first-hand sources, especially among historians. The main reason for this is that most of the information contained in these works is directly observed by the authors themselves. Apart from being a source, these works also contain richness.. Turkish Food Culture in Different Centuries Through the Eyes of Foreign Travelers Prof. Dr. Hayati BEŞİRLİ Summary: Travel books are considered as an important data source, especially among historians. These works also show the feature of being the first ethnographic work. In travel books, it is possible to find economic, cultural, anthropological and philological information in addition to historical and geographical information. In these works, the traveler explains in more detail the elements that are different from his own culture in the society he encounters and gives information about the social structure. In this study, the food culture in different Turkish geographies was evaluated in the narratives of foreign travelers. While making this evaluation, it is aimed to determine the geographical conditions and nutrition relationship, and what the foods that make up the Turkish culinary culture are. Another subject emphasized in the study is to reveal both rituals related to ceremonial meals and habits related to daily life within the scope of travel books. In the study, travel books of the 13th century (Wilhelm Von Rubruk), 14th century (Ibn Battuta, Johannes Schiltberger), 15th century (Ruy Gonzales De Clavijo), 17th century (Jean-Baptiste Tavernier) and 19th century (Arminius Vámbéry) were examined. Login Travel book, which consists of the words travel, which means "to travel, travel" in Arabic, and name (risale, letter) in Persian, means "travel letter, travel work". This is also called a campaign in Persian literature. In Arabic literature, the word rihle is mostly used in the sense of "journey" and "journeyname". Rihle is a noun from the infinitive rahl (or death with the same meaning) meaning "to migrate from one place to another" and means "migration". In ancient Arabic poetry, the Qur'an and hadiths, rihle was used in the meaning of "migration, journey, trip, travel" and the journeys and travels of the Quraysh tribe for commercial purposes were called rihle in the Qur'an (Yazıcı, 2009: 9). Travelogues are among the first-hand sources, especially among historians. The main reason for this is that most of the information contained in these works is directly observed by the authors themselves. Apart from being a source, these works also contain richness in terms of content. In travel books, it is possible to find economic, cultural, anthropological and philological information in addition to historical and geographical information. In this respect, it is possible to evaluate these works among the main sources of cultural history. In the classical period, the books written by the authors about geography and the information about geography have become literary works based on the stories and observations they have witnessed and heard. Travel books are considered as primary sources for historians (Ağarı, 2008:1). Making evaluations about social life in these works, which reflect the period from the eyes of the author, makes the work important in sociological terms. In our study, Turkish food culture travel books were examined and evaluated. The travel books we studied were selected from works covering a wide Turkish geography from different periods. In this context, in the study, 13th century (Wilhelm Von Rubruk), 14th century (Ibn Battuta, Johannes Schiltberger), 15th century (Ruy Gonzales De Clavijo), 17th century (Jean-Baptiste Tavernier) and 19th century (Arminius Vámbéry). ) travel books were examined. Wilhelm Von Rubruk and Travel Period The Mongol invasion in the 13th century was a great danger for the Muslims as well as for the Christian world. In order to take precautions against this invasion, the Christian world has started various activities. Wilhelm von Rubruk, King of France IX. Ludwig (1226-1270) commissioned an envoy to the Mongols. For this purpose, he sailed from Istanbul with his entourage in May 1253 and reached the Crimea via the Black Sea. The Seljuk Sultan Izzeddin Keykavus (II., 1246-1259), whom Rubruk mentions as ruling in Turkey during his travels. The delegation of ambassadors traveled long distances through Mongolian organizations sent from one ruler to another. The delegation stayed in Karakorum for more than six months (Rubruk, 2012: 1-9). Ibn Battuta and his Travel Period Considered one of the most important travelers of the world, Ibn Battuta (Abu Abdillâh Shamsuddin (Bedrüddin) Muhammad b. Abdillah b. Muhammed b. Ibrahim al-Levâtî et-Tanci) was born on 17 Rajab 703 (February 24, 1304, in Tangier, Morocco, and is a new addition to travel books). He brought an understanding and style, gave information about the situations of people and peoples, social life, beliefs and traditions rather than the characteristics of countries and towns. Ibn Battuta's travels lasted nearly thirty years from 725 (1325). Among the places Ibn Battuta has visited are countries such as Turkey, India, China, Andalusia, Western Sudan, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt. The notes he took during his travels were damaged by the robbery in India and the sinking of the ship he boarded in Kolkata Port. What is Turkish Food Culture in the Eyes of Foreign Travelers in the past? His travel book, which contains important information about Turkish-Mongolian history, is named Tuhfetü'n-Nüzzâr fi Garâibi'l-Emsâr ve Acâibi'l-Esfâr (Yazıcı, 2009: 9-11). Ibn Battuta, who met the rulers of Turks, Mongols and Maldives, was appointed to the position of kadi in many countries, and he was given some diplomatic duties due to his knowledge of Persian and Turkish and gaining various political experiences during his travels (Aykut, 1999:361-368). Johannes Schiltberger and the Travel Period He was probably born in 1380 in a village (Hollers) near Munich. According to his own statement, he joined the Crusader army, which was prepared against the Turks under the rule of Hungarian King Sigismund, in the service of his feudal lord Leinhardt (Leonhard) R(e)ichartinger and was captured by the Turks in the Battle of Nicopolis (25 September 1396). Later, Yıldırım was captured by Timur with Bayezid. Schiltberger remained in captivity with Timur and his successors for twenty-six years. Years later, he managed to escape from Crimea, the last country he traveled in captivity, by finding a way, and after a captivity that lasted for thirty-two years, he returned to his country via the Danube via the Caucasus, Batumi, and Istanbul (1424). He wrote his memoir in his country. Schiltberger, who did not give any information about his next life and family, died in 1440 (Beydilli, 2009:228). Ruy Gonzales De Clavijo and the Travel Period It is known that Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, one of the 15th century nobles, came from an important family. He was born in Madrid. However, there is no information about his date of birth in the sources we can reach, the ruler of Castile and Leon III. Henry's chamberlain. He was sent as an ambassador from Spain to Timur's palace. When he set foot on Anatolian lands in 1402, Timurid armies defeated Yıldırım Bayezid's armies in the Battle of Ankara, and a part of Anatolia came under the influence of Timurids. He has seen Byzantium, Interregnum Anatolia, Iran's and Transoxiana's big cities such as Tabriz, Mashhad, Merv, Belh, Tirmidhi, Samarkand and Bukhara. Clavijo's journey to Samarkand took place a century after Marco Polo's. Although the embassy delegation continued its journey, it was able to reach Samarkand from Kadis in fifteen months. Of course, in the meantime, they had to stay in Istanbul for five months, saw Timur's palaces, and the traveler died in Madrid on April 2, 1412 (Doğrul, 1993: 10-12). Jean-Baptiste Tavernier and the Travel Period Tavernier was born in this city as the son of a map dealer who came from Antwerp and settled in Paris. Tavernier, one of the 17th century travelers, followed the Bolu-Amasya-Erzurum-Yerevan route in his first Iran trip in 1632, and came to Iskenderun by sea from Marseille in his second journey in 1638. He took the road to Najaf and Basra following the Euphrates, reached Isfahan from there, and in 1644 he came to Iskenderun by ship from Livorno and came to Aleppo-Telbaser-Birecik-Urfa-Mardin-Nusaybin-Mosul-Şehrizor-Sineridic- He reached Isfahan by way of Hamadan. After this third journey, which lasted until 1649, Tavernier went to the Orient three more times (1652-56, 1657-62, 1663-68), traveled through India and Indonesia, and died in Copenhagen in 1689 (Tavernier, 1980: 1 -9). Arminius Vámbéry and the Period of Travel Vambery was born on March 19, 1832, to a Jewish family in the town of Szentgyörgy, now in Slovakia. After completing primary school in the village where he was born, he continued his education in a monastery in Niske (Niş) in Hungary. By the age of eight, Vambery had learned Latin, French and German alongside Hungarian. He came to Istanbul to go to Turkestan. He also learned Turkish in a short time in Istanbul. He also received Islamic education during his stay in Istanbul. Vambery came to Trabzon from Istanbul. He went to Iran by caravan passing through here. He started his journey to Turkistan in 1863 when he was 31 years old. From March 28, 1863, until November of the same year, Vambery traveled to the cities of Khiva, Kongrat, Urgench, Bukhara, Samarkand and Herat, disguised as a dervish, and returned to Tehran. He remained in Tehran until 28 March 1864. To see and examine many more residential areas during this long and dangerous trip; found the opportunity to get to know the communities still living in a nomadic state (Yılmaz, 2005:599-600, Akpınar, 2012:502, Ayan, 2011: 43-45). When Vambery reached Samarkand in 1863, he met Emir Muzaffereddin, Khan of Bukhara, and Seyid Muhammed Khan, ruler of Khiva. Vambery died on September 15, 1913, at the age of 80. Turkish Food Culture in Travel Books While evaluating the food culture in different Turkish geographies according to the studies of foreign travelers, firstly, the relationship between geographical conditions and nutrition, in this context, the differentiation of foods on the basis of geographical conditions, secondly, the determination of the foods that make up the Turkish culinary culture, and thirdly, the rituals related to ceremonial meals and daily life. It is aimed to reveal the habits within the scope of travel books. Turkish Food Culture in the Eyes of Foreign Travelers In general, it is seen that the food culture of the Turks living in the Anatolian geography differs from their relatives in Central Asia. These differences are clearly explained in the work of Ibn Battuta, who traveled a wide Turkish geography. Ibn Battuta talks about abundance and fertility starting from Alanya, where he set foot in the Anatolian geography, which he refers to as Diyar-ı Rum in his travel book, and expresses this by saying "Plenty and abundance are in the land of Damascus, and love and mercy are in Rum". In his work, he often emphasizes the interest and generosity he receives from the Turks living in the Anatolian geography. He expressed this interest in his work: "When we came to Anatolia, we saw great interest no matter which zawiyah we went to. Our neighbors, male or female, did not hesitate to offer us treats" (Ibn Battuta, 2000:402). While describing Alanya, his first stop in Anatolia, Ibn Battuta said, "Bread is baked once a week, according to the custom here. Enough bread is made for the other days… On the day of bread, men filled us with hot bread and delicious food." expresses as. The foods offered to them are mutton, chicken meat and fruits. As a beverage, he often mentions various sherbets. As it is understood, bread and fruits have an important place in the nutrition tradition in Anatolia. According to the data obtained by Ibn Battuta, there are differences in the food culture of the Turks as they move away from the Anatolian geography. In this difference, bulgur emerges as an important food. The increasing importance of bulgur and its products as food and beverage is reflected in the travel books, as well as the fact that bread remains in the background. "Turks do not eat bread and solid food. They make a dish similar to our anli, which they call "dûkî" (duğ, dügi = bulgur). First they put the water on the fire. When it boils, they throw a piece of dûkî into it. If they have meat with them, they cut it into pieces, put it in the pot and cook it together. When the food is cooked, they put everyone's share on their plates and serve, and finally they pour yogurt on the food on the plate" (Ibn Battuta, 2000: 466). Turkish Food Culture in the Eyes of Foreign Travelers During our breaks in the area of Özbek Han, we only cooked the wedding and took it long enough to eat. The meal was cooked in a single pot, then pieces of dry meat were placed on top and eaten by pouring milk. While the car was on the road, everyone was either eating or sleeping (Ibn Battuta, 2000:519). Tatars are a very brave nation. They all ride very well. They use excellent bow and arrow. When they find plenty of food, they fill their bellies more than necessary. If they can't find it, they are content with milk and meat. In this way, they travel for a long time, they live on meat and milk without eating bread. The Tatar nation endures more cold and hunger than all the nations of the world (Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, 1993:141-143). As seen in Ibn Battuta's narrative regarding the Crimea in the 14th century, bulgur, which is obtained as a result of boiling and drying wheat, which has an important place in Turkish culinary culture today, is an indispensable food in the diet of Turkish communities living in the north of the Black Sea. However, this situation changes in the narrative of Vambery, one of the 19th century travellers. When the travelogue is examined, it is seen that he talks about bread throughout all the geographies he has traveled. He only states that the Kyrgyz, who are still nomadic, do not consume bread. Etrek … When he returned, he gave us a large amount of meat, bread and kumiss (a buttermilk made from mare's milk) (Vambery, 1993: 101). Hiyve … Even in an ordinary banquet in Central Asia, it is customary to place a dirty table woven from various colors of silk, usually smeared with food residues, and put enough bread for two people in front of the guest (Vambery, 1993: 114). Hiyve … Then I was ordered to sit in peace. After being offered a bowl of tea and a piece of bread, Han started to chat with me (Vambery, 1993: 119). Bukhara … I immediately gave them the bread they wanted… During my stay here, boiled meat, the best bread, tea and fruits were found in all my meals (Vambery, 1993: 157). Belh … The city's market consisted of a few bakery shops, lining and ready-made garment shops (Vambery, 1993: 196). Kyrgyz people… Even the word bread is foreign to them. They only feed on meat and milk (Vambery, 1993: 153). Great Tatarstan … Another custom is this: When the king wakes up in the morning, they offer him mare's milk in a golden bowl, and he drinks it on an empty stomach (Schiltberger, 1997:117). Turkish Food Culture in the Eyes of Foreign Travelers Similarly, kumiss and boza, which are traditional Turkish drinks in this region, seem to have replaced sherbet in Anatolia. In travelogues, kumiss is not only a drink that is drunk alone, but also an important drink of celebrations. This highly nutritious and immune-boosting beverage is also an important gift for guests. This is reflected in the travelogues as follows: Crimea… After the meal, they drink the object made from mare's milk and called kimizz [=kimiz] (Ibn Battuta, 2000:466). On my right and left, I saw cars full of red overalls stretching as far as the eye could see. The ruler ordered these drinks to be distributed to those present at the end of the meal (Ibn Battuta, 2000:484). Along with these, they brought sweet kumiss in gold and silver goblets (Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, 1993: 141-143). Vambery, one of the 19th century travellers, gave the following information about kumis: Kyrgyz people have gained fame in the production of kumiss. In Central Asia, this drink is attributed to its fattening properties and is used as a stimulant. I also drank koumis a few times. But I could never drink more than two or three sips because it was so sour and it dazzled my teeth (Vambery, 1993:135). For this reason, he was in a hurry to wander around the region in order to collect some bread and sacrifice meat. When he returned, he gave us a large amount of meat, bread and kumiss (a buttermilk made from mare's milk) (Vambery, 1993:103). It was very entertaining to watch the Kyrgyz women, even though they are on animals themselves, drink the amount of red they want to people by pouring them into their mouths without wasting a single drop of it. Because this showed the talent and mastery of both sides (Vambery, 1993: 135). It is stated in the Uyghur Travel Book of the Chinese Ambassador Wang Ten-Te regarding kumiss, which is consumed in most of the far Asian nomadic communities, in 806 that the Uyghurs refrained from drinking kumiss under Manichaean influences. He stated that other tribes in the region drank kumiss and were drunk (Wang ten-te, 1989: 35). Kumis is still the indispensable drink of nomadic Turkish societies. It is possible to see this drink, which is still consumed heavily in Kyrgyz, Kazakh and Uzbek societies, in other nomadic communities with steppe culture. Boza is an old Turkish beverage that is heavily consumed in travelogues of different centuries. They also have a kind of must, which is made from dûkî grains. After leaving Crimea, we arrived in Sicican (Sıcgan). The gentleman prepared a variety of dishes. Among them, there was also bread. While serving, they first brought a white water in small bowls. Everyone drank it. "What is this drinking?" I asked. Replied. "It is the water of Duki," he said. But I didn't understand anything he said. When I came out of the meal, I researched what it was. They told. "This is a nebiz made of duki grains. They are from the Hanafi school and our prophet is halal in their eyes. The locals call the dûkî nebî "buza" (İbn Battuta, 2000: 467). Turkish Food Culture in the Eyes of Foreign Travelers Afterwards, mare's milk and boza were offered (İbn Battuta, 2000:469) are frequently encountered in travel books. Tea appears in travelogues after the 19th century. It is possible to come across expressions about tea in Vambery. Vambery's relationship with tea, which she encountered for the first time in the geography of Turkestan, would later turn into an obligatory friendship. As soon as they saw me, they greeted me with an extreme show of love and offered green water, which they called tea according to their tradition (Vambery, 2011: 27). In Vambery, tea will gain a fatigue-relieving effect over long distances. This situation is expressed in the same work as "We started to prepare our tea to relax" (2011: 59). As it can be understood from the frequency of these sentences in Vambery's travel notes, tea significantly affects the social and economic life of the people in the Turkestan geography, which includes the Silk Road, as well as their daily lives. Again, according to Vambery's narrative (2011:177): In Bukhara, they drank tea without sugar and with a kind of bun made from cornmeal and tallow. It is considered undesirable to blow on tea; therefore, it was necessary to shake and shake it in the bowl to cool it. A person who wanted to prove that he was an elegant and well-mannered person had to take care to constantly turn the tea in the bowl in his hand with a gentle movement, by placing his right elbow on his left hand, provided that not even a drop was spilled. If he spilled a drop, he would lose all his reputation. Drinking tea took several hours each day filled with meaningless talk. After the kettle was empty, the boiled tea leaves inside were distributed to those present. But it was considered ungraceful to take more than two-finger hold of the tea. According to his connoisseur, these teas were supposedly very good. After this tea business, their biggest entertainment was ram wrestling. Thereupon, everyone took turns cooking tea in the hearth of the salapurya (Vambery2011: 40). Hacı Bilal took me to the shore of the cistern named after the Emir's Divan Bey, Imam Kulu Han, by passing me through the tea market or the tea market (Vambery, 2011: 157). When we evaluate meat consumption in travel books after drinks, it is seen that horse meat is among the basic foods of nomadic Turkish communities as they approach Central Asia. In the travel book of Ibn Battuta, Azak chief Muhammad Hâce and his children survived to serve. Afterwards, dishes made from horse meat and other meats were brought. After the meal was finished, the Qur'an was read with a beautiful voice. A pulpit was established and the preacher went here (Ibn Battuta, 2000:469). I was in the presence of Sultan Üzbek during the month of Ramadan. There was mare and mutton meat, which were often eaten (Ibn Battuta, 2000:467). Sultan Cani Bey… Turks here do not know how to host foreigners and what kind of food to offer them! Sheep and horses to be slaughtered and eaten; They also send kumiss overalls as a beverage! First, a soft drink made of "duke", then a meal consisting of boiled horse and mutton was prepared (Ibn Battuta, 2000:476). The food of this place is either boiled horse or mutton (Ibn Battuta, 2000:484). Turkish Food Culture in the Eyes of Foreign Travelers Jean-Baptiste Tavernier, on his journey in 1632, started from Rumelia with sheep, chickens, butter, rice and bread; While stating that other fresh foods were given as gifts, he tells that the Tatars he met in Anatolian geography ate horse meat and pastrami for the first time. We arrive at a small village called Almons (Almus). When our chief spoke of this adventure to the Tatars whom we met later, they were so pleased that fifteen or twenty of them galloped to smash our dead horses. Two hours later, we saw them come back. They had flayed those two horses and put one piece of each under their horse's saddle. In this way, the meat becomes soft and kind of cooked with the movement and warmth of the horse. Tatars often eat meat in this way without cooking it again. One of the Tatars took one of these pieces of meat, beat it well with a piece of wood between two dirty clothes, and then ate it voraciously (Tavernier, 1980: 28). In travelogues, pastrami is also found in Schiltberger's work: If they are in a hurry and have to leave in a hurry, they cut the meat into thin slices and put it under their saddles and ride on it. When they are hungry, they eat this meat. Meat is salted first, and according to them, this meat does not harm them. Because the meat dries with the heat of the horse, and due to the movement of the horse, it becomes crispy, soft and watery under the saddle. If they do not have time to prepare food, they do so (1997: 117). Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, one of the 15th century travelers, also states that horse meat was consumed at Timur's table. After we sat down, the servants began to prepare the tables. The dishes brought were sheep and horse meat… Both these plates and other plates were very valuable. The most appreciated meat by Tatars is horse meat (Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, 1993:141-143). As for Vambery, Turkmens... When we sat at these tables, we were eating an old-time meal consisting of camel and horse meat piece by piece by attacking kavatas (pot from tree trunk) one after another with our half-rolled arms (Vambery, 1993: 74). Not even an hour had passed since our break, many of the righteous nomads came to visit us just to earn rewards. In return for a few breaths and blessings I gave them, I received a great deal of bread and a few pieces of camel, horse and mutton (Vambery 1993:104). In Central Asia, where Turkish culture continues to feed on the cultural values of the pre-Islamic period, unlike Anatolia, Turks continue to consume horse meat. As it can be understood, it is a period in which Turks living in Anatolia stopped consuming horse meat in the 14th century. It is difficult to reveal the reason for this. Here, the first factor affecting this result is the population density of the Anatolian geography and the excess of the settled population. Unlike the steppe culture, Anatolia does not have large pastures to raise large herds of horses. In addition, due to the relative abundance of agricultural activities in Anatolia, there is not enough feeding and movement space for horse herds that require a wide spread area. This settlement makes it more difficult to maintain a nomadic lifestyle compared to the steppe. In addition, the suitability of climatic conditions brings with it a new nutrition culture. In addition to the difficulty in supplying and feeding the horse, its increasing importance as a means of transportation in wars can also be considered in this context. In addition to the determinant of physical geography, the determinant of cultural geography is inevitable in the change of horse meat consumption. Intense and long-term cultural contacts with Persians and Arabs were influential in the Islamization process of Turks in Anatolia. This cultural interaction is likely to have an effect on the abandonment of horse meat eating habits. With their arrival in Anatolia, the influence of their relatives in Central Asia on the cultural nourishment of the Turks decreased, and their daily life practices were shaped by the influence of their close neighbors with whom they had intense religious relations. Turkish Food Culture in the Eyes of Foreign Travelers In the travel books, narratives about the consumption of horse meat and products by the Turks as they move away from the Anatolian geography are encountered. In this context, horse meat and kumiss are also an important food for the Mongols, where Turks in Central Asia share the same physical geography and carry out similar economic activities. Mongolians... They all eat meat and live off cattle and cattle. As long as they drink kumiss in summer, they are not interested in other foods… When an ox or horse dies, they dry its meat, cut it into small pieces and hang it on the wall under the sun (Rubruk, 2012: 35). The Mongols … They prepare kumiss from horse and mare milk… They put mares next to them and milk them… When the milk is fresh, it is poured into a big bag or something like that and its fat is extracted with a specially made mallet. This wood is as big as a human head in the lower part and has been carved inside. The milk is now vigorously beaten until it sours and ferments like wine. When taken back, it is obtained in oil. Then they try the milk and drink it if it is (Rubruk, 2012: 36). It is possible to see this cultural influence clearly in the names of the dishes. In the travel book of Ibn Battuta, tirit is mentioned in Anatolia in a remarkable way and it is stated that tirit is a starter meal. While we were sitting like this, food was brought; "Serid" (tirit) made of lentils crushed with sugar and oil, placed in small plates, was the first service. They open their fast with tirit, saying it will be good luck. Claiming that this fast-breaking meal was preferred by the Prophet over other meals, they say: "We start the meal with tirit, following his beautiful custom." After that, they move on to other dishes (Ibn Battuta, 2000:407). In Ibn Battuta , in the geography of Crimea, vegetables in Anatolia are gradually being replaced by meat and fried dough. Ibn Battuta talks about "burhani" while describing the Turkish communities in this region. Turks are people of good character, strong and brave. Sometimes they eat the pastry called "burhani". This dish is actually small pieces of dough cut into pieces. These are placed in the pot by making a hole in the middle. After cooking, yogurt is poured on it and drunk (Ibn Battuta, 2000:467). Another food mentioned in Ibn Battuta's travel book is rishta. After cooking the noodle-like noodles, soup is made by mixing it with milk. In Ibn Battuta, it is seen that food is mixed with yogurt as well as with milk: And finally, they pour yogurt on the food on the plates (İbn Battuta, 2000:466). Turks do not feel thirsty because they mix the yogurt they carry on their whips with the cooked duki and drink it (Ibn Battuta, 2000:498). After cooking, yogurt is poured on it and drunk (Ibn Battuta, 2000:467). Because Turkish women walk around with their faces open. I saw another woman in the same way. He used to bring milk and yogurt to the market with his slaves and sell them, and buy essential oils in return (Ibn Battuta, 2000:471). The same food is quoted in the work of Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo (1993:141-143) "There are also cereals that they boil in buttermilk." reflected in the form. One of the dishes made related to ayran is ashur. The same work describes ayran and ayran vaccination as follows: Turkish Food Culture in the Eyes of Foreign Travelers Near Tabriz... The people of this place were always Turkmen... As we approached a village, the villagers came to us and asked us to stop by their village and offered us the food they brought. Ayran and bread were served first, then soup. If we were to spend the night in the village, they would also cook meat for us (Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, 1993: 122). When necessary, they are content with only ayran. This is how they prepare ayran: First, they fill a cauldron with water and heat it. While the water has not boiled yet, the yoghurt prepared like cheese is crushed in cold water and poured into the cauldron after being liquefied. Thus, the cauldron is filled with a sour ayran like vinegar. Then they throw the dough they prepared in the form of small rounds into the cauldron. While they are inside, the cauldron, which boils a little more, is removed from the fire. And what is inside the cauldron is filled into bowls. This dish, which means a kind of soup, is very acceptable to Tatars. Tatars eat it without bread and meat and they like it very much. The name given to this dish that I am describing is "cheese"" (Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, 1993;141-143). When the consumption of rice and rice among the Turks is examined, Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, one of the 15th century travelers, talks about rice while describing the governor appointed by Timur to Erzincan. However, rice is an important food in Central Asia. The meat was put in the sinews. About a hundred pots were removed. All of these were round and deep. These pots reminded me of the helmets our cavalry wore. Apart from the meat placed in the trays, the pots were also filled with meat and rice. Each plate was different. The cover of the table set in front of the governor and us was made of silk. When the tables were set, everyone gathered around them. Everyone had a knife for cutting meat and a wooden spoon for eating. Next to the governor was a servant who would cut the meat that he would eat. He invited the two noblemen sitting across from him to dinner with him. As for the rice, all three of them used a single spoon and ate from the same dish. They used the spoon in turn (Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, 1993: 76). When we arrived at the Çağatay tents, Mirza Bozar asked us for meat and rice, then milk and butter. Many melons were brought after them. In this country, melons are both plentiful and delicious. There are also cereals that they boil in buttermilk (Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, 1993:122). Because His Holiness, like the poorest of his people, ate nothing but rice cooked with tallow (Vambery 1993:160). Today, I shudder when I remember those days, that is, the days when I saw myself in front of a big pile of rice cooked with a lot of tallow, starting from dawn every day, and had to attack it with a false hungry wolf appetite (Vambery, 1993:114). In Vambery, one of the 19th century travellers, rice also appears as a ceremonial food. Turkish Food Culture in the Eyes of Foreign Travelers Samarkand... The Emir had ordered a festival to be held on the day he entered the city. For this reason, huge cauldrons of the kind used in Emir's kitchen were collected from all sides and brought to Rikistan. A bowl of rice, three shredded sheep, a large pot of tallow and a small sack of carrots were filled into each of these and placed over a medium fire to boil and mix well. A large amount of tea was also brewed. Eating and drinking went together on horseback, there was no break (Vambery, 1993: 182). In short, Rahmet Bey did not have the opportunity to accuse me on the information given by the spies. Therefore, he called me to his presence with the excuse of eating rice (Vambery, 1993: 162). The importance of dessert in Turkish food culture also differs according to cultural geography. While dessert is consumed in Anatolian geography, dessert consumption is not seen towards Central Asia. When this situation is evaluated in Ibn Batutta's travel book, When I came here, the ruler of Iyzec, Sultan Atabek Afrasiyab b. It was Sultan Atabek Ahmed. Here, all the rulers are called Atabek, and these lands are called Bilad-ı Lur. According to the custom of the school, the main servant of the madrasah counts the guests one by one. He offers each of them two round loaves of bread, meat and dessert. The costs of these services are covered entirely by the Sultan's foundations. Sultan Atabek Ahmed is a benevolent person as we have explained; There is no world passion. Even underwear is a garment made of hair (Ibn Battuta, 2000:275276). They offered us fruit, sweet and delicious foods (Ibn Battuta, 2000:410). He brought gold and silver bowls filled with a kind of syrup made of lemon juice, in which large pieces of sweets were thrown, and there were gold and silver spoons with him (Ibn Battuta, 2000:422). From there we moved to Muğla… This man was a kind-hearted, generous person. He would visit us often and would not come to us without preparing food, fruit or dessert! In this city, we met with İbrahim Bek, the son of the Milas judge, which we will talk about later (İbn Battuta, 2000:411). His name is Karamanoğlu Bedreddin … Apart from delicious food on silver plates, delicious fruits and sweet desserts; candles, clothes, mounts and various gifts sent (Ibn Battuta, 2000:414). The Sultan of Birki is Muhammed, Aydınoğlu … Gold and silver bowls filled with a kind of syrup made of lemon juice, with large pieces of sweets thrown into it, were brought along with gold and silver spoons (Ibn Battuta, 2000:422). An important reason for sweet consumption in Anatolia is contact with Arab culture. In this context, the consumption of sweets disappears as they move away from the influence area of Arab culture. It is considered shameful for them to eat sweets … I was in the presence of Sultan Üzbek during Ramadan… That night, I presented the sultan a plate of dessert made by my friends. The Sultan only touched and tasted it with his finger, he never touched his hand again! According to what Tülük Timur tells, the sultan once said to a respected doorkeeper whose number of children and grandchildren was forty: "If you eat this dessert, I will free your sentence!" But the man replied: "Even if you kill me, I won't eat it!" (Ibn Battuta, 2000:467-469). I brought a plate of sweets to the sultan that day. And he just touched his finger to the dessert and took it to his mouth and never ate it (Ibn Battuta, 2000:476). Food in terms of Social Indicators in Travel Books Food has a very important place in the process of determining the social position of individuals. In this context, the table has a didactic function. It is possible to see various indications of this, especially in ceremonial meals. Turkish Food Culture in the Eyes of Foreign Travelers With whom the meal is eaten, that is, the table mate, is determined on the basis of social hierarchy. This also indicates the degree of dignity of the individual. The place of the individual at the table, sitting on the right and left side of the ruler, and the degree of service at the table occur on the basis of his social status. Ibn Battuta expresses this issue as follows: The meal was prepared, a separate table for fiqh scholars, sheikhs and ahis; A separate table was set up for the poor and needy. On that day, the rich and poor people were not turned away from the door of the ruler (Ibn Battuta, 2000:410). When he saw me, he stood up, took my hand and made me sit on the sofa next to him, and invited me to the table. After I finished the meal, I went to my room in the madrasa (Ibn Battuta, 2000:419). The lord lord came to our district one day after the afternoon. Müderris Efendi was sitting in the corner, the ruler was on his right and I was sitting on the left side of the teacher. This way of sitting is the clearest expression of the respect that Turks show to fiqh scholars (Ibn Battuta, 2000:421). Some of these were set up for the ruler. When we came here, he pushed aside his own bench with his hand and sat on the sofas with us. Müderris faqih sat on his right, the kadı next to him, and I sat further back. Hafiz were on the right side of the cedar (Ibn Battuta, 2000:424). The cut meat was placed on gold and silver plates. Put in silver and gold dishes, and after the horse meat was placed, they were lined up and filled with soup. After that, the bread was distributed. After this was done, each seated person was given a bowl. Timur complimented us and sent us two plates. Each plate was getting a new one (Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, 1993:141-143). The sultan and the great woman sat on the cushions in the middle of the throne. It Küçük and Urdu Hatun sat on the right, and Beyelun Hatun and Kebek Hatun sat on the left mat. Crown Prince Tîn Bek sat on the right side of the throne, the second son Canı Bek on the left, the emirs and their children sat on the chairs placed on either side of them. Behind them were the small-ranking gentlemen. These are called "Ümera-yı Hezare". In other words, they are the commanders of the thousand-man troops. In this way, according to the protocol, after everyone took their seats, meals were served on gold and silver tables. Four or more people carried each table. The food here is either boiled horse or mutton. A table is brought before each order. "Barucı" [=the peacemaker], who wears silk dresses, a silk apron, and carries large knives and rows in a sheath around his waist; shredder] comes. Barucı means meat cutter. Every order has a barista. When the tables are set, they first attack and take their place in front of their masters; Small vessels made of gold or silver filled with salty water are brought behind them… Locals prefer meat cooked side by side with bones in their meals (İbn Battuta, 2000:484). That's their treat! A few days passed, we performed the afternoon prayer with the sultan; When I got up to go to my tent, he immediately ordered me to sit down (Ibn Battuta, 2000:476). In addition, the food sent to the guests is associated with the value given to them. Because, as I explained above, abstaining from eating was against their customs and was considered a kind of insult to the owner of the banquet (Vambery, 1993:115). Ibn Battuta, who visited Deştikıpçak in the north of the Black Sea and met with Sultan Muhammed Üzbek Khan, arrived in the old Bulgarian city around today's Kazan city. The order of Muhammet Üzbek Khan on 10 Shawwal 732 (July 5, 1332). A rich table was set by making a variety of dishes; we attended the banquet... The Turks here do not know how to host foreigners and what food to give them. Sheep and horses to be slaughtered and eaten; They send kumiss overalls as a beverage. This is their treat (Ibn Battuta, 2000:476). Turkish Food Culture in the Eyes of Foreign Travelers In travelogues, food also draws attention as a determinant of belonging. Different communities of the same religion are segregated and treated according to their diet. He brought gold and silver bowls filled with a kind of syrup made of lemon juice, in which large pieces of sweets were thrown into it, and there were gold and silver spoons with him. There were also tile bowls and wooden bowls filled with sherbet. People who refrained from using gold and silver items due to religious rules used tile bowls and wooden spoons (Ibn Battuta, 2000:422). In the city of Sanup (Sinop), Kadı Ibn Abdürrezzak, who was both the regent and teacher of the ruler, hosted us in his mansion… When we came to the city, the people witnessed that we were praying with our hands down. Of course, since the people there are Hanafi, they do not know the Maliki sect and its way of praying... Because of this similarity, they accused us of being Shiite. They asked questions one after another. Even though we tried to tell them that we were Malikis, we couldn't make them believe, and doubt fell into their hearts. Finally, the town manager sent a rabbit with his servants. The man who told us to watch what we do. I cut the rabbit, cooked it and ate it with pleasure. After that, they started to welcome immediately. Let the feasts come. Because Rafizis do not eat rabbit meat (Ibn Battuta, 2000:444). The social position of women and their place at the table are described in Ibn Battuta's travel book, "Women are held superior to men". The woman was advancing with such magnificence and pride and sitting in the presence of the brain. The concubines were standing around the woman. The chick, who poured a glass from the kumiss overalls brought shortly after, kneeled down on her two knees and presented it to the gentleman with her hand, and after the gentleman drank it, the chick presented the same type of drink to her brother-in-law. Finally, the brain himself had his wife drink a glass of red with his own hand. When the table was ready, they ate their meals together. After Mr. Bey presented a suit to his wife, Hatun politely walked out. This is how the gentlemen show their women here! Finally, the brain himself made his wife drink a glass of red with her own hand (Ibn Battuta, 2000:472). Kebek Hatun was pleased and ordered that kumiss be brought. Like the queen, she presented the glass to me with her own hand. We also left him (Ibn Battuta, 2000:478). In Islamic period Turkish cultural circles, meals are usually arranged according to the time of prayer, as is the determination of the appropriate time to do any work. The records of Ibn Battuta also confirm this situation: Alanya … He went to the castle with me on Friday and prayed. He offered me treats and feasted (Ibn Battuta, 2000:402). After performing the evening prayer, this man came to us again. We went together, we encountered a magnificent lodge! When we got there, they offered us a variety of food, fruit and dessert (Ibn Battuta, 2000:406). From there we go to the place of prayer. After performing the prayer, we went to his mansion with the sultan. The meal was prepared (Ibn Battuta, 2000:410). He informed me after the evening prayer; I found him in a corner of the garden, under the arbor... When he saw me, he stood up, took my hand and made me sit on the sofa beside him; ordered to the table. After I finished the meal, I left him and returned to my room in the madrasah (Ibn Battuta, 2000:419). In the afternoon, Melik Hüseyin dismounted from his horse and prayed, and then the meal was prepared (İbn Battuta, 2000:560). Conclusion Turks have led a nomadic life in a wide geography throughout history. The breadth of the living geography has also enriched the food culture. This richness is reflected not only in the types of food but also in the rituals. The breadth of the geography where the Turks live and the contact with different cultures have brought about differentiations in the food culture among the Turkish communities. While the reason for this differentiation is evaluated on the basis of geographical factors, seasonal conditions and the determinativeness of physical geography on the mode of production are essential. When the seasonal conditions of the region where the community lives are evaluated, the growth period and durability of the plants that will form the food gain importance. According to the climatic conditions, the consumption of vegetables and fruits decreases in the Turks living in the north, and the consumption of meat and fried dough increases instead. Bulgur consumption takes the place of bread in Anatolia. Geographical factor also revealed similar eating habits in similar populations. This is the main reason for the similarity in the food cultures of the Turkish and Mongolian societies, which show the nomadic social structure. However, the fact that the Turks were Muslims revealed the differences. It is possible to express the effect of different communities on the differentiation of food culture among Turkish communities as cultural contact and feeding with traditional values. The sources of religious nutrition of the Turks in Anatolia have been the Iranian and Arab communities. As the contact with these communities increases, there is an increase in the influence of their food cultures. It is possible to see this situation as the place of horse meat, kumiss and sweets in the food culture, as well as the presence of Persian food names in the kitchen. As here, the weakening of the cultural nutrition of Central Asia from Central Asia can be considered as a determining factor in the differentiation in Turkish food culture. Turkish Food Culture in the Eyes of Foreign Travelers REFERENCES AĞARI, Murat, (2008), "Preface", Ibn Hurdazbih Book of Roads and Countries, Translation: Murat Ağarı, Publishing House, İstanbul. AKPINAR, Turgut, (2012), "VÁMBÉRY, Arminius", TDV Encyclopedia of Islam, Vol. 42, Turkey Diyanet Foundation, Istanbul 2012, p. 501-502. AYAN, Ergin, (2011), "The North of the Black Sea According to the European Travelers of the Mongolian Era", Black Sea Studies 2011, Issue 30, p. 43-70. AYKUT, A.Sait, (1999), "IBN BATTÛTA", TDV Encyclopedia of Islam, Vol. 19, Turkey Diyanet Foundation Istanbul, pp.361-368. BEYDİLLİ, Kemal, (2009), "SCHILTBERGER, Hans Johannes", TDV Encyclopedia of Islam, C.36, Turkey Diyanet Foundation, Istanbul, p. 228. DOĞRUL, Ö. Rıza, (1993), 'A General Overview of the Timurid Period', Anadolu Central Asia and Timur, Ses Publications, Istanbul. Ebu Abdullah Muhammed Ibn Battuta Tanci, (2000), İbn Battuta Travel Book, Translation: A. Sait Aykut. Yapı Kredi Publications, Istanbul. IZGI, Ozkan. (1989), Chinese Ambassador Wang Ten-Te's Uyghur Travel Book, Turkish Historical Society, Ankara. Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, (1993), Anatolia, Central Asia and Timur, Translation: Ömer Rıza Doğrul Simplifying: Kamil Doruk, Ses Publications, Istanbul. SCHILTBERGER, Johannes, (1997), Between Turks and Tatars (1394-1427), Translation: Turgut Akpınar, İletişim Publications, Istanbul. TAVERNIER, J. Baptiste, (1980), Over Turkey in the Middle of the XVII Century Travel to Iran, Translation: Ertuğrul Gültekin, Translator 1001 Basic Works, Istanbul. VAMBERY, Arminius, (1993), A False Dervish's Trip to Central Asia, Prepared by N. Ahmet Özalp, Ses Publications, Istanbul. WILHEM von Rubruk, (2012), Travel to the Great Khan of the Mongols, Translation: Ergin Ayan. Moonlight Books, Istanbul. YAZICI, Hüseyin, (2009), "Travel", TDV Encyclopedia of Islam, Vol. 37, Turkey Diyanet Foundation, Istanbul, p. 9-11. YILMAZ, Salih, (2005), "Turkistan Travel Book of Armin Vamberyn and Records of Karakalpak Turks", BELLETEN, C. LXIX, No. 255, Turkish Historical Society, p. 599-628 * You can contact me through my contact information for more information on the subjects specified by labeling, taking into account my professional background in the above article, and to get support for Restaurant Consulting, Kitchen Consulting in the titles within my Service Areas. *
5 min read Earth planning date: Friday, April 12, 2024 As we've continued to drive up into Gediz Vallis, the ground in front of us has become increasingly littered with large rocks sticking up out of the sand. While certainly good for geology, these rocks frequently slow down our forward progress, as even our team of skilled rover planners can't anticipate every challenge that Mars loves to throw at us. On Wednesday, we planned a drive of just over 20 metres to bring us closer to the edge of the Gediz Vallis channel. When we arrived this morning, we learned that the drive had ended early after about nine metres. A quick analysis of the post-drive Front Hazcam images revealed that Curiosity's front right wheel was perched atop one of the many rocks along the planned route. Although there were initially concerns that this would prevent us from safely unstowing the arm to do contact science at this location, it was eventually determined that there was no risk of the rover moving from atop its perch if we did so. Although we didn't make it to our intended location at the edge of the channel, this weekend's plan is still packed full of science. We start off with a hefty two hours of activities, starting off with a ChemCam LIBS of the bedrock target "Kaweah River." ChemCam RMI will then take a 10x1 mosaic of Fascination Turret, which has featured in many mission update posts over the last few weeks. After ChemCam finishes its work for this first sol, we have a full hour of Mastcam imaging. This hour begins with documentation images of the LIBS target, then continues with a 6x4 mosaic of the area we will be driving towards. We'll then take some pictures of "Goodale Mountain," a vertically-oriented fractured bedrock block about 6.5 metres from our current location. Our big Mastcam activity for this plan is a 22x3 mosaic of a bedrock trough that can be seen in orbital imagery. Mastcam finishes off its first sol with a mosaic of some rocks off to the right side of the rover. These two hours wrap up with a Navcam suprahorizon movie to observe dust and cloud activity over Gale, as well as a Navcam line-of-sight to measure the amount of dust in the crater. Not content with the geology team getting nearly two hours of activities in, the environmental science team will get their own two hours thanks to a Navcam "shunt prevention" activity. You may have heard that it's not a good idea to leave your phone or computer plugged in and fully charged for an extended period of time because it will hurt their batteries' maximum capacity. The same thing is true for our rover. Because this plan is not particularly power-hungry, the rover would be at a high state-of-charge for longer than we would prefer. So, this observation was developed several years ago to eat up some of that extra power while getting some extra bonus science. The version used in this plan consists of eight dust devil movies and four suprahorizon movies. Following an afternoon nap, Curiosity will wake up about an hour before sunset for some arm activities. First, APXS will be touched to the target "Hetch Hetchy." We will then perform a DRT "brush height test." DRT will be lowered to three different heights above Hetch Hetchy and spun to brush the target. In addition to the usual Navcam and Hazcam images that typically accompany DRT activities, MAHLI will image Hetch Hetchy before and after each height to determine how well DRT is removing the dust at each distance from the target. Overnight, APXS will take two lengthy integrations, first of its calibration target and then of Hetch Hetchy before the arm is retracted. The second sol contains more science time as well as this plan's drive. Once again, we begin with a LIBS observation, this time of "Twin Lakes," which is located about halfway between Kaweah River and Hetch Hetchy. We'll then take yet another RMI mosaic of Fascination Turret, then image this plan's second LIBS target with Mastcam. As usual, environmental science observations round out the second sol, with a series of short movies looking for dust devils around the rover and a Navcam mosaic of the rover deck to monitor how the accumulated dust shifts with the wind and as we drive. Having driven away from our current location, the third sol of this plan will be focused on untargeted remote science. This includes a ChemCam AEGIS activity as well as another suprahorizon movie, dust devil movie, and a post-drive rover deck mosaic. In the mid-afternoon, Curiosity will briefly wake up to take a Mastcam tau observation to measure the amount of dust in the atmosphere. After sleeping overnight, we will wake up one last time before handing the rover over to Monday's planning team to take some early-morning environmental science observations: another Mastcam tau and suprahorizon movie, a zenith movie, and another Navcam line-of-sight. As always, REMS, RAD, and DAN will be diligently doing their duties throughout this plan. Written by Conor Hayes, Graduate Student at York University
The traditional view of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) as a monophasic inflammatory disorder that affects both the optic nerves and the spinal cord is expanding. Over the last decade, a combination of clinical, radiological, pathological, and serological findings have resulted in evolving definitions of NMO and the appreciation that it likely constitutes a broader, more diverse spectrum of disease that is pathogenically distinct from multiple sclerosis. Neuromyelitis optica-immunoglobulin (Ig)G is the first antibody marker for any inflammatory central nervous system disorder, and is both sensitive and specific for NMO. Its target antigen, aquaporin-4, the most abundant water channel in the central nervous system, has opened up new research directions into demyelinating disorders of the central nervous system. The identification of NMO-IgG in patients with recurrent optic neuritis or longitudinally extensive myelitis and its ability to predict subsequent relapse support the concept of a spectrum of NMO disorders. Preliminary in vitro studies and recent immunopathological evidence support a role for NMO-IgG as the initiator of the NMO lesion. Definitive proof of pathogenesis is needed and will require the development of active immunization and passive transfer animal models, which will hopefully lead to more effective targeted therapies. Original language \| English (US) \| Pages (from-to) \| 95-104 \| Number of pages \| 10 \| Journal \| Seminars in Neurology \| Volume \| 28 \| Issue number \| 1 \| DOIs \| \| State \| Published - Feb 2008 \| - Aquaporin - Devic's disease - Neuromyelitis optica - Optic neuritis - Transverse myelitis ASJC Scopus subject areas - Neurology - Clinical Neurology
Nitesh R Pradhan In a bid to strengthen deep-rooted connection between nature and local communities, the Indian state of Sikkim has introduced an innovative initiative called "Mero Rukh Mero Santati" (My Tree My Child). Under this government-monitored program, 100 trees will be planted for every newborn baby in Sikkim, making it one of the pioneering efforts in the Eastern Himalayas. The main objective of this initiative is to reinforce the age-old bond between society and nature, creating an ecosystem where both trees and children can thrive, promising vitality, health, and happiness. "Mero Rukh Mero Santati" aims to facilitate seamless services for new parents, from enrollment to planting and post-care, with various departments of the state government coming together to support the program. Pradeep Kumar, Secretary of the State Forest Department, emphasised the collaborative nature of the initiative, stating that ASHA workers, Aaganwadi workers, gram panchayats, urban local bodies, and department staff will assist in onboarding the parents. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), the brain behind this idea, has urged parents to voluntarily participate in this program. "Mero Rukh Mero Santati "(MRMs) initiative of the government alone on a long-term average will sequester about 2.2 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) per annum for every new-born which will comfortably offset the estimated per capita carbon dioxide (CO2) emission in India (which is to the tune of 1.9 metric tons). "MRMs is one such program that aims at creating an environmental legacy by embedding tree planting, with one of the important milestones of life i.e., childbirth. Tree planting under MRMs will be carried out during plantation season identified as Santati Saptah (1st week of July) every year," said the Sikkim Chief minister. It is a voluntary program and to register for the scheme, parents simply need to send a "hi" or "hello" message to a designated WhatsApp number, after which they will receive a link to be filled out. After successful registration, parents will receive a congratulatory message via mobile or email from the Chief Minister. During the enrollment process, parents will provide information regarding their preferences for species, number of plants, and location. Based on this information, the Forest Department will contact the parents during the favourable plantation season or the "Santati Saptah" in July. The program allows for the planting of trees on private land, community land, or nearby forests, providing flexibility to parents. As of May 25th, 2400 couples have already confirmed their participation in the "Mero Rukh Mero Santati" program, with the highest enrollment in Namchi district (724), followed by Gangtok district (524), Pakyong district (482), Soreng district (309), and Mangan (127). To ensure that the program reaches the grassroots level, the Forest Department will collaborate with the State Health Department, cross-referencing the data with birth registration certificates. This proactive approach aims to instill a sense of ownership and belongingness to the local communities, shifting the perception of forests from being solely government property to a shared responsibility. Parents who have participated in the program, such as Sushmita Chettri, express their desire for their children to grow alongside nature, upholding the tradition of worshipping trees and raising awareness among young minds about the modern challenges of climate change and global warming. Environmentalists, including Kamal Kumar Tanti, Director of the Centre for Environment and Climate Action Foundation, commend the Government of Sikkim for this initiative. Recognizing the threats posed by climate change and climate disasters, Tanti believes that the program will motivate people to conserve nature, particularly inspiring the younger generation, grassroots workers, and conservationists. He also suggests providing training to individuals to ensure the successful maintenance of tree saplings before implementing the program on a larger scale. With an acknowledgment to mitigate the global climate crisis, this program has the potential to change the paradigm of environment conservation in Eastern Himalayas which can foster a renewed bond with nature. Nitesh R Pradhan is a journalist based in Sikkim, India. He is currently correspondent of RT India and Editor of The Voice of Sikkim Jigmey Dorjee Dukpa is a freelance journalist based in Sikkim, India
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Construction projects, whether big or small, leave behind considerable debris, dust, and debris. While completing the construction phase is a significant milestone, cleaning up afterward can be daunting and time-consuming. This is where professional post-construction cleaning services come into play. This article delves into the many benefits of hiring professionals for post-construction cleaning, highlighting how their expertise and specialized equipment can save time, ensure safety, and deliver superior results. Expertise and Experience Professional post-construction cleaning companies possess the expertise and experience to tackle the unique challenges of cleaning up construction sites. The providers of Commercial Cleaning Services in Philadelphia, PA, recommend opting for professionals for post-construction cleaning due to their specialized skills and equipment tailored for this specific task. 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Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that has become a staple in many households. This simple yet flavorful dish consists of succulent shrimp sautéed with garlic, butter, white wine, and lemon juice. It's a quick and easy recipe that can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. To make Shrimp Scampi, start by sautéing minced garlic in butter until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and slightly curled. Then, deglaze the pan with white wine and lemon juice, and let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly. Finally, toss the shrimp with chopped parsley and serve over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for a new recipe to add to your repertoire, Shrimp Scampi is sure to impress. The combination of garlic, butter, and white wine creates a rich and flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp. So, grab a bottle of white wine and give this classic dish a try! History of Shrimp Scampi Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that has been enjoyed by many for decades. The dish originated in Italy, where it was made with langoustines, a type of small lobster. However, when Italian immigrants brought the recipe to the United States, they substituted the more readily available shrimp. The word "scampi" actually refers to the langoustines, not the dish itself. In Italy, scampi are typically prepared with garlic, butter, and white wine, which is the same way shrimp scampi is prepared in the United States. Shrimp scampi has become a popular dish in many Italian-American restaurants and is often served over pasta or with crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful sauce. The dish is known for its simple yet delicious flavor, with the garlic and butter complementing the sweetness of the shrimp. Overall, shrimp scampi is a beloved dish that has stood the test of time. Its history may be rooted in Italy, but its popularity in the United States has made it a staple in many households and restaurants. Ingredients and Substitutions Choosing the Right Shrimp When it comes to making a delicious shrimp scampi, choosing the right shrimp is crucial. I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp for this recipe. They have a firm texture and a sweet flavor that pairs well with the garlic and lemon in the dish. If you're buying frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. If you're unable to find fresh or frozen shrimp, you can also use other types of seafood, such as scallops or clams. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of seafood you use. Herbs and Spices Variations While the classic shrimp scampi recipe calls for garlic, lemon, and parsley, you can also experiment with different herbs and spices to add more flavor to the dish. For example, you can add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or use fresh thyme or oregano for a more earthy flavor. If you don't have fresh herbs on hand, you can also use dried herbs. Just keep in mind that dried herbs are more potent than fresh herbs, so you'll need to use less of them. Wine Selection Wine is an important ingredient in shrimp scampi, as it adds a depth of flavor to the dish. I recommend using a dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines have a crisp, acidic flavor that pairs well with the buttery sauce and the seafood. If you don't have white wine on hand, you can also use chicken or vegetable broth instead. However, keep in mind that the flavor of the dish will be different without the wine. Cooking Techniques Sautéing Shrimp To sauté shrimp, it is important to use a large skillet to ensure that the shrimp cook evenly. Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until the butter is melted. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are slightly firm to the touch. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Creating the Sauce The key to a delicious shrimp scampi sauce is to use fresh ingredients. Mince garlic and shallots and sauté them in the same skillet used to cook the shrimp until they are fragrant and slightly browned. Add white wine and lemon juice to the skillet and cook until the liquid is reduced by half. Stir in cold butter until it is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pasta Pairing Shrimp scampi is traditionally served with linguine, but it can also be paired with other types of pasta such as spaghetti or fettuccine. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions and toss it with the shrimp scampi sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Remember to serve the dish immediately after cooking to ensure that the pasta stays warm and the shrimp remains tender. Serving and Presentation When it comes to serving and presenting shrimp scampi, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First and foremost, this dish is all about the shrimp, so you want to make sure that they are the star of the show. One way to do this is to serve the shrimp scampi in individual bowls or plates, with each serving containing several plump, juicy shrimp. You can also garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, to add a pop of color and flavor. Another important aspect of serving shrimp scampi is the pasta. Ideally, you want to use a long, thin pasta such as spaghetti or linguine, as this will help to showcase the flavors of the shrimp and sauce. Be sure to cook the pasta until it is al dente, or just tender, so that it has a nice texture and doesn't become mushy. When it comes to presentation, simplicity is key. You don't want to overwhelm the dish with too many garnishes or decorations, as this can detract from the natural beauty of the shrimp and sauce. Instead, focus on arranging the pasta and shrimp in an attractive manner, and let the flavors speak for themselves. Overall, serving and presenting shrimp scampi is all about highlighting the natural beauty and flavors of the dish. By keeping things simple and focusing on the shrimp and pasta, you can create a stunning and delicious meal that is sure to impress. Frequently Asked Questions What are the essential ingredients for a classic shrimp scampi? To prepare a classic shrimp scampi, you will need butter, garlic, lemon juice, white wine, and of course, shrimp. Salt and pepper are also essential to add flavor to the dish. Parsley is often used as a garnish, but it is not a must-have ingredient. How can I make a shrimp scampi sauce without using wine? If you prefer not to use wine in your shrimp scampi sauce, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth. Simply replace the wine with an equal amount of broth, and you will still get a delicious sauce. What are some simple steps to prepare shrimp scampi? To prepare shrimp scampi, start by cooking the pasta according to the instructions on the package. Then, in a separate pan, melt butter, add minced garlic, and cook for a minute or two. Add the shrimp and cook until pink. Add white wine, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and cook until the sauce thickens. Toss the pasta with the sauce and shrimp, and serve hot. Which pasta pairs best with shrimp scampi for an ideal meal? Shrimp scampi goes well with various pasta types, but linguine is the classic choice. The long, thin noodles provide a perfect balance to the rich, flavorful sauce. However, you can also use spaghetti, fettuccine, or angel hair pasta. Can a creamy variation of shrimp scampi be made, and if so, how? Yes, a creamy variation of shrimp scampi can be made by adding heavy cream to the sauce. After cooking the shrimp, remove them from the pan and set them aside. Add heavy cream to the pan, and cook until it thickens. Then, add the shrimp back to the pan, and toss with the sauce and pasta. What are some healthy side dishes to serve with shrimp scampi? To balance the richness of shrimp scampi, you can serve it with a light salad or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus. Roasted vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, are also a great option. Additionally, a side of crusty bread can help soak up the delicious sauce. PrintShrimp Scampi - Total Time: 25 minutes - Yield: 4 servings Shrimp Scampi is a quick and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich sauce of garlic, butter, lemon, and white wine, typically served over pasta. It's a beloved seafood classic that's perfect for a sophisticated yet easy dinner. - Prepare the Skillet - Sauté the Garlic - Season and Cook Shrimp - Deglaze with Chicken Broth - Finish and Serve - Pro Tips: - Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. - Adjust the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences. - If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth. - Prep Time: 10 minutes - Cook Time: 15 minutes - Category: Main Course - Method: Sautéing - Cuisine: Italian-American - Calories: 300 kcal - Sugar: 1g - Sodium: 1170mg - Fat: 15g - Saturated Fat: 7g - Carbohydrates: 4g - Fiber: 0g - Protein: 35g - Cholesterol: 290mg
Key Takeaways - Each new generation of night vision devices brings sharper clarity, longer range, and greater light sensitivity. - First-generation devices magnify ambient light 1,000 times but deliver grainy images with soft edges. - Second-generation devices offer brighter, clearer visuals, improving performance in dim conditions and detail recognition. - Third-generation technology enhances image intensity and incorporates IR illuminators for crisp views in minimal light. - Though not officially recognized, fourth-generation technology uses filmless and gated intensifiers for the clearest images under the darkest skies. Generation 1 Night Vision First used in the Vietnam War, Generation 1 night vision devices harness ambient light to form images. These devices, cost-effective for beginners, amplify light by 1,000 times using intensifier tubes. This gives the basic ability to see in darkness. Yet, Gen 1 devices may not provide the clearest view. Expect blurry edges and lower resolution compared to newer generations. Still, for those new to night vision technology and seeking an economical option, Gen 1 night vision goggles are a good start. They offer a view up to 75 yards, fitting for casual activities like nighttime wildlife watching or simple security tasks. However, their battery life is short and image quality isn't top-notch. For newcomers, Gen 1 devices serve as an introduction to what advanced technology offers, affordably.Generation 2 Night Vision Building on what Gen 1 started, Gen 2 night vision gives you clearer, brighter night views. Thanks to better tubes, these devices shine in low light, showing more detail. Gen 2 works well without extra light, perfect for military or police needing stealth. They handle changing light better too, less likely to get overwhelmed by sudden brightness. Here's a clearer look at the upgrades:Feature \| Gen 1 \| Gen 2 \| Image Quality \| Ok \| Much better \| Range \| 75 yards \| 200 yards \| Light Sensitivity \| Not great \| Much better \| Use Case \| Just for fun \| Serious work \| Phosphor Technology \| None \| Yes \| Generation 3 Night Vision Exploring Generation 3 night vision technology, you discover its unmatched clarity and reliability in dim light. The United States military trusts these devices, which deliver superior image quality and interference resistance. They use an enhanced image intensifier tube, similar to Generation 2, but stand out for their ability to produce the clearest, sharpest images. Gen 3 Night devices include a microchannel plate, boosting image quality significantly. This allows for High Definition views in low light. Their long tube life, up to 10,000 hours, guarantees durability and consistent performance. Many Gen 3 models feature built-in IR illuminators for clear vision in total darkness. Furthermore, Gen 3 Autogated technology automatically adjusts the brightness in the image intensifier tube, enhancing device performance across different light levels. This is especially useful for military operations, where light conditions change quickly.Generation 4 Night Vision While Generation 3 night vision sets a high standard, the new Generation 4 technology goes further with its advanced features. Understand this: Generation 4 Night Vision, not yet officially recognized by the military, stands on the brink of future acceptance. This is because of its sophisticated filmless and gated image intensifiers, a big step up from previous generations. Despite its current lack of wide acceptance and official military backing, manufacturers are heavily promoting Generation 4 Night Vision as the next leap in night vision technology. Its performance indeed marks a significant advance, offering clearer, sharper images even in the darkest conditions. However, this advancement comes at a cost, typically around $5,000 to $6,000.Types of Night Vision Devices Diving into night vision, we explore monoculars, binoculars, goggles, and rifle scopes. Each serves Military and Special Forces, with Gen 2 and Gen 3 tubes improving night missions. Gen 3 shines in tough conditions.- Monoculars: They gather light to see in the dark. Useful in many settings. - Binoculars: They let you see depth, key for detailed situations. - Goggles: Wear them for hands-free use. Gen 3 tech gives clear views in dim light. - Rifle Scopes: Made for accuracy, some use Thermal Imaging to see in pitch black. The Future of Night Vision Technology Diving into the future of night vision technology reveals a landscape where innovation is king. Soon, we'll witness crisper visuals, thanks to better resolution. Augmented reality will merge with night vision, creating immersive nightscapes. Plus, devices will sip power, lasting longer. These advancements promise to reshape night operations in many fields, marking an exhilarating era for night vision advancements.Enhanced Resolution Improvements In the world of night vision, better resolution changes how we see in the dark. White Phosphor Technology leads, changing the game with black and white images. This improves clarity, making details stand out, even in low light. Recognizing targets becomes easy, as WPT provides better contrast and a more natural look. It's also easier on the eyes, reducing strain with long use. As exploration continues, including research into injections for night vision, we're moving toward a future where improved resolution in devices offers unmatched visibility. This makes nighttime exploration less challenging and more beneficial.Integration With Augmented Reality The fusion of night vision and augmented reality transforms your experience in the dark, making it richer and more interactive. This blend not only sharpens your awareness of your surroundings but also introduces new capabilities.- Augmented reality layers digital details onto your view, deepening your experience in dim conditions. - It delivers instant information and advice, crucial for swift decisions. - Identifying targets becomes sharper, key for both civilian and military use. - Navigation gets easier, aiding your journey through unknown or tricky landscapes. - It enhances teamwork through a smooth digital information overlay. Energy Efficiency Advancements Delving into the realm of night vision technology, strides in energy efficiency are set to change how we view darkness. At the heart of this shift is White Phosphor Technology (WPT), which offers clearer visuals and the bonus of saving energy. It's not just about enhancing vision; it's about extending device life in a more eco-friendly manner.Feature \| Benefit \| White Phosphor Technology \| Better target spotting, reduced eye fatigue \| Injections for enhancement \| Promising future for low-power devices \| Sustainable devices \| Progress in energy conservation \|
Fitness Made Simple With Effective Strategies That Work! Some people find that adopting a fitness routine is second nature, fitness is a time consuming chore. The following article can help anyone reach their personal fitness goal. Many people think they need a gym in order to get fit. Instead, you can practice six simple exercises in order to build muscle and burn fat. If a person typically uses a treadmill, try playing basketball or walking outside. Running up a hilly sidewalk will create different muscles being used and challenged. Starting a garden is an unorthodox, yet great way to get some exercise. People are shocked at how much work gardening really is. It requires digging, weeding, and a great deal of squatting down in the dirt. Gardening is one of a lot of things people can do from home to stay physically fit. Simple push-ups can actually tone triceps. This targeted push-up exercise will strengthen and strengthens your triceps unlike any other exercise out there. Join a gym and pay your dues in advance. Ideally, you'll get to the gym more often in order to keep your investment from going to waste. This is a great way to trick yourself into going into the gym if you have trouble attending. Don't do crunches to work out your sole abdominal exercise. A major research university discovered that a quarter million crunches to burn a single pound of fat.You should also work out the abs in alternate ways too. Are you strapped for time when it comes to working out? Make your workouts into two sessions. Do not increase the time you workout, but try to break it into a half. Therefore, instead of working out for a one hour burst, split it into two half-hour sessions, one morning and one night. If you do not like to go to the gym two times in a single day, try having one workout in the gym and one outdoors. Running in an outside far surpasses the workout you than a treadmill. Running on the pavement is better in the winter than a treadmill. The best way for a person to get more out of his or her routine is to do a wide variety of exercises. If you usually exercise indoors, try playing basketball or walking outside. Running up a hilly sidewalk will result in different muscles being used and challenged. Varying the exercises you do prevents the body from acclimatizing itself to one specific exercises, which can reduce its effectiveness. Doing crunches will not help you get a six pack. You aren't going to lose tummy fat with abdominal exercise, but these are not going to reduce the fat in your midsection. Change up the exercises you do on a regular basis. That way, you won't get bored and decide to skip a workout. Your muscles also present a symptom where they become used to a specific position or routine and you begin to achieve less of a benefit from the workouts. This will help you to start your morning off on the right foot and builds healthy habits that can be intensified over time. Keep a detailed, daily journal of what you do. Make note of the exercise routines you do, what you eat and other parts of your fitness plan. You may even find including the day's weather to be helpful. You will be able to reflect on any highs or lows if you do. If you couldn't work out for a couple days, write down why. You should try and enhance your stride if you intend to take part in a sprinter. This means placing your foot's landing point beneath your body rather than forward of it. Use the toes of your back leg to push forward. Practice doing this and let your running stride speed will gradually increase. This tip brought to you by tennis players will help you build strength in your forearms. Put a giant piece of newspaper on a table or other surface that is flat. Work at rumpling up the whole newspaper for half a minute. Use your dominant hand. Repeat the exercise two times and then use your other hand to do the exercise. After you have done the exercise once you will be ready to switch hands again and repeat the exercise. If you exercise during commercials, you can watch TV as much as you like and still get a good workout. Try out kickboxing. It is one great way to work many muscles and work up a sweat. Kickboxing can burn a tremendous amount of calories, and your strength will increase a lot as well. Dips are great addition to your fitness regimen.Dips are an effective exercise to work not only your triceps, triceps and chest, and are an incredible exercize. There are other ways to do dips. One way is to position yourself between two chairs out and use those.You can increase the impact your dips with weights. Keep up your workout routine on the weekends. It's not uncommon for someone to view weekends as "free time" to rest and ignore health. You should keep weight loss on your mind, daily. You never want to break your routine on a weekend by splurging on some food, then you will be back at square one and have to begin all over again. Calf Muscles Pay off your fitness classes before you go. This practice increases the likelihood that you will actually show up for your workouts. The reason for this is that your money is already spent. You are going to want to make the most of your investment so you will follow through. Donkey calf raises is a great way to help build stronger and fitter calf muscles. These are a very effective way to help you build up your calf muscles. Have someone help you by sitting on top of your back and then simply raise your calves. When scheduling your day, block off time for meal planning and exercise. If you do not plan ahead, you will likely grab something very unhealthy whenever you are busy doing something. It's easy to grab a cookie instead of an apple whenever you are busy in the office. This is why it is wise to schedule things ahead of time, so that you do not fall off your diet plan. When you decide to get fit, remember to schedule a check-up with your doctor before throwing yourself into vigorous exercise. Even if you feel you are in good shape, your physician can give you more assistance. Box squats can help you bulk up your quadriceps. Do box squats and you will greatly improve your normal squats. The only equipment you require is a box that you can position behind you. You do it just as you would a regular squat, but pause when trying to sit on the box. Don't bounce around when you're stretching out. This is because bouncing causes your muscles to strain when they do not have to. Although many people do bounce when stretching, it is not true. You may get hurt if you engage in the process. Keep in mind that optimum stretches are stable and not bouncy. Vary your ab crunches with some regular sit-ups. Over the past few years sit-ups have been given a bad reputation. To do sit-ups safely, don't use an anchored-feet position. These particular sit-ups are terrible on your lower back. Smaller muscles get tired faster than larger muscle groups. Start with dumbbells, next try barbells, and work on the machines last. Try counting in reverse. Rather than counting to the amount of reps you desire, count backwards. It actually makes your exercise sessions appear to be less hard or long, since you are giving yourself the luxury of smaller increments of time. Thinking of how many reps are left instead of focusing on counting up can increase your motivation. Bend your wrists when you work them out harder. Extend your wrists in a backwards and do your bicep exercise as you normally would. It might feel a little uncomfortable, but your body will get used to it. Your body will tell you when you need to take a break. Most trainers believe you should rest only between certain sets, when you start a different exercise. You need to listen to your muscles more than "expert" advice. When your body says to ease off, listen to it. You could end up hurting yourself if you do not. Bring your pet to exercise with you when you work out.Pets actually need good amount of exercise as much as people do. Studies show that up to 35 percent of pets are overweight, so if you exercise with your pet, too. Just walking your pet can both get healthier. Your run should consist of three parts. Start your run slowly, and then as you approach the middle of your run, start moving faster. Push your pace up past your normal speed during the final third. This helps increase your endurance and eventually, you should be able to start running longer every time you run. Video Games Always make sure that you are not over-training when it comes to your exercise routine. Take your heart rate the morning after you work out. Video games have become a great fitness tool. The Wii Fit and Dance Dance Revolution are both fun video games that will have you moving. Before you begin any fitness routine it is best, especially when trying to tone your arms, it is best to come up with a list of goals. If you are looking to bulk up, concentrate on heavy weights and intense workouts. To build your arm muscles, do more reps and you will get more toned. Seek the advice of a dietitian to develop your diet. You can easily get rid of unhealthy food, but are you aware of how exercising factors into what you eat. Pick a friend to run with. A friend can help keep you motivated when you feel like giving up. A friend is also a good distraction. If you are talking and laughing while running, you'll focus less on how hard you are working. Running with someone who is in great shape will remind you of your goals and push you to succeed. If you workout with someone who is currently more athletically gifted than you are, it increases your drive to meet that level and even beat it. Find others that will be supportive of your efforts. Ask your friends to work out with you, or attempt to make friends with other gym-goers. Exercising with others can build a sense of competition that fosters increased dedication. Include yogurt as a part of your diet. The healthy acidophilus bacteria in yogurt will help your digestion. Yogurt also has the calcium and protein you need to stay healthy. There should be dairy included in your diet because it is known that people who consume more dairy products often are in better health. You should try to get about 30 or so minutes every day. Just remember that the longer you workout, the more time you'll need. See a doctor if you have joint fatigue or pain. Keeping an exercise journal is a great way to keep track of pain that you might experience during exercise. This will help you to log your awareness and show the way. Treat your fitness as a life-changing goal. Deep vein thrombosis can be avoided if you take short breaks during your work day. Leave your desk every 20 minutes and go for walk. Increase circulation in your arms and legs by stretching them for a few minutes. Even a small amount of exercise done several times daily will boost your fitness significantly. Here is an exercise to build your muscles. Multiply the reps by the total amount of weight to keep track. Try increasing this multiplied value each day to bulk up your strength. Use what works for you. You might feel like you are not in good enough shape to take part in something like swimming, but if you like it, go ahead and do it. Fitness should come from an internal desire, not external pressure. Set your inhibitions aside, and keep enjoying what has worked well for you. As you can see, no matter what your fitness style, there are strategies that can help you achieve your goals. Commit all tips to memory and integrate them into your lifestyle. Spend the necessary time to achieve real fitness, and the rewards will be long-lasting. If you want to get fit and healthy, you need to plan a fitness routine that you can easily incorporate into your daily life. Even though setting goals is important, exercising should be take priority in your daily life if you want to become as fit as possible.

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