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What Are Grade Crossing Railroad Accidents? Most people do not give much thought to the possibility of a train accident – particularly if they are traveling in a motor vehicle rather than in a train. However, this is a luxury that drivers in Georgia cannot afford. Based on preliminary 2023 data compiled by the United States Department of Transportation Federal Railroad Administration, Georgia ranks third in the nation for the most railroad crossing crashes. According to the railroad safety group Operation Lifesavers, only Texas and California had more railroad crossing crashes in 2023. These crashes take place at highway-rail grade crossings – locations where a railroad line crosses a street or highway at the same level as the road, rather than via an overpass or underpass. Georgia has more than 5,000 of such highway-rail grade crossings throughout the state. Common causes of grade crossing railroad accidents There are several factors that can contribute to train accidents at grade crossings, but the most common include: - Lack of safety gates - Lack of warning lights - Equipment malfunction or failure According to Operation Lifesaver, as of December 2022, fewer than half of Georgia's 5,000 highway-grade railroad crossings were equipped with gates, and approximately 2.9% had flashing lights but no gates. In a truly appalling statistic, more than half of these railroad crossings — around 51.9% — were considered "passive" crossings, meaning they had neither flashing lights nor gates to alert drivers and pedestrians regarding an oncoming train. Factors like poor visibility, driver distraction or error, and drivers trying to "race" the train can also contribute to these accidents. These factors and others, such as speeding trains and defective tracks, lead to train accidents in Savannah. However, with nearly 52% of all railroad crossings in Georgia having zero warning system for drivers, it is not difficult to see why so many of these accidents happen here. Common injuries in a grade crossing railroad accident When a train hits a car – or vice versa – the outcome is rarely good for the occupants of the car. The combination of the larger size, weight, and, often, speed of trains at crossings can cause serious, often catastrophic injuries, or even fatalities. Common injuries in a grade crossing railroad accident may include: - Traumatic brain injury (TBI) - Spinal cord injuries (SCI) - Back and neck injuries - Dismemberment - Burns - Broken bones - Internal injuries such as organ damage - Soft-tissue damage These injuries can be extremely painful and are often debilitating, requiring extensive medical care and follow-up treatments. This can be incredibly expensive and, depending on the type and severity of the injury, can leave the victim unable to return to their pre-accident life. Some may require lifelong treatment and care and cause the victim to be unable to support themselves or their family, resulting in a significant financial burden. How to avoid a grade crossing railroad accident Per Operation Lifesaver, a person or vehicle is hit by a train every three hours in the United States. The group advises drivers and pedestrians adhere to the following safety tips: - Follow the law. Cross rail lines only at designated crossings. - Be alert. Always expect that a train might be approaching from either direction, so use caution when approaching railroad crossings. Note and obey any safety gates or warning lights or signals and look both ways before crossing the rail line. Make sure you have a clear view in both directions before crossing the tracks, and if you see or hear a train approaching, do not try to beat it across the tracks. - Clear the tracks. Before you cross the rail line, make sure there is room for your vehicle to fully clear the tracks on the other side. Trains overhang the tracks so Operation Lifesaver recommends that drivers "leave at least 15 feet between the front and rear of your vehicle and the nearest rail." If your car stalls or gets stuck at a railroad crossing, it is best to get yourself and everyone else out of the vehicle and far away as quickly as possible – even if you do not see a train approaching. If there is a blue and white emergency sign posted, call the number listed on the sign. Otherwise, call 911. What to do if you are involved in a grade crossing railroad accident in Savannah If you or a loved one are hit by a train while crossing a highway-grade railroad crossing in Savannah or anywhere else in Georgia, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, loss of income, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. It is important that you consult a Savannah personal injury attorney skilled at handling train accident cases. At Harris Lowry Manton LLP, our Savannah personal injury lawyers have experience representing clients in train accident cases throughout the state. We leverage our in-depth knowledge and strategic approach to secure a high-value settlement for every client. Call us or complete our contact form to schedule a free initial consultation. One of the nation's top trial attorneys, Jeff Harris is an award-winning litigator who handles high-profile, complex cases across a wide variety of practice areas. He excels at securing justice for clients who have been seriously injured or killed, holding responsible parties accountable for their actions as well as their negligence. Read more about Jeffrey R. Harris here.
About Us Food additive series Veterinary medicine series API series Contact Us About Us Food additive series Veterinary medicine series API series Contact Us 0086 18231198596 Linkman:Linda Yao 0086 18231198596 Current Position: ε-Polylysine hydrochloride: Exploring its role in improving the safety of plant-based food products. ε-Polylysine hydrochloride: Exploring its role in improving the safety of plant-based food products. As the demand for plant-based food products continues to rise, ensuring their safety and microbial stability is paramount. While plant-based foods offer numerous health benefits and environmental advantages, they are also susceptible to microbial contamination and spoilage. Traditional preservatives may not align with consumers' preferences for natural and clean-label ingredients. ε-Polylysine hydrochloride, derived from natural fermentation, presents an opportunity to address these challenges by providing effective microbial control while meeting consumer demands for clean-label ingredients. Mechanisms of Action ε-Polylysine hydrochloride exhibits antimicrobial activity through multiple mechanisms: Cell Membrane Disruption: ε-Polylysine hydrochloride disrupts the cell membranes of bacteria, leading to leakage of cellular contents and eventual cell death. Inhibition of Protein Synthesis: By binding to ribosomes, ε-Polylysine hydrochloride interferes with protein synthesis in microbial cells, inhibiting their growth and proliferation. pH-Dependent Activity: The antimicrobial activity of ε-Polylysine hydrochloride is influenced by pH, with optimal activity observed under acidic conditions commonly found in plant-based foods. Applications in Plant-Based Food Products ε-Polylysine hydrochloride has diverse applications in plant-based food products, including: Meat Alternatives: Used in plant-based meat analogs to prevent microbial contamination and extend shelf life without compromising taste or texture. Dairy Alternatives: Added to plant-based dairy substitutes such as almond milk and soy yogurt to enhance microbial safety and maintain product quality during storage. Bakery Products: Incorporated into plant-based baked goods, including bread, cakes, and pastries, to inhibit mold growth and prolong freshness. Ready-to-Eat Meals: Utilized in plant-based ready-to-eat meals and convenience foods to ensure microbial safety and extend shelf life without the need for refrigeration. Benefits and Challenges The use of ε-Polylysine hydrochloride in plant-based food products offers several benefits: Natural Origin: Derived from natural fermentation, ε-Polylysine hydrochloride aligns with consumer preferences for clean-label ingredients. Broad-Spectrum Activity: Effective against a wide range of bacteria, yeasts, and molds commonly encountered in plant-based foods. Improved Shelf Life: Enhances the microbial stability of plant-based food products, reducing the risk of spoilage and foodborne illness. Challenges associated with the use of ε-Polylysine hydrochloride include: Optimization of Formulation: Determining the optimal concentration and application method of ε-Polylysine hydrochloride to achieve effective microbial control without affecting product quality. Consumer Acceptance: Educating consumers about the safety and benefits of ε-Polylysine hydrochloride and addressing any concerns about its use in plant-based foods. Future Research Directions Future research on ε-Polylysine hydrochloride in plant-based food products should focus on: Optimizing Formulation: Investigating novel formulations and delivery systems to improve the efficacy and stability of ε-Polylysine hydrochloride in plant-based matrices. Consumer Perception Studies: Conducting consumer perception studies to understand attitudes and preferences towards ε-Polylysine hydrochloride in plant-based foods and identify strategies to enhance consumer acceptance. Safety Assessment: Evaluating the long-term safety and toxicological profile of ε-Polylysine hydrochloride in plant-based food products to ensure consumer safety. Regulatory Considerations: Addressing regulatory requirements and standards for ε-Polylysine hydrochloride in plant-based food products to facilitate market approval and compliance. ε-Polylysine hydrochloride offers a promising solution to enhance the safety and microbial stability of plant-based food products while meeting consumer demands for clean-label ingredients. By leveraging its antimicrobial properties and natural origin, ε-Polylysine hydrochloride can contribute to the production of safer and more sustainable plant-based foods. However, further research is needed to optimize its formulation, ensure consumer acceptance, and address regulatory considerations. With continued innovation and collaboration, ε-Polylysine hydrochloride has the potential to play a significant role in improving the safety and quality of plant-based food products in the future. Evaluating the impact of ε-Polylysine hydrochloride on the nutritional content of fortified foods. Assessing the potential of ε-Polylysine hydrochloride as a surface sanitizer. Related News: What is Nisin and what is it used for? Is Nisin safe for consumption? How is Nisin produced? What is ε-Polylysine hydrochloride? How is ε-Polylysine hydrochloride used in the food industry? Nisin 500g Nisin 1kg Nisin 25kg
As biomass feedstock production expands, air pollutants generated from feedstock supply chain activities may impact air quality and human health. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory's Feedstock Production Emissions to Air Model (FPEAM) generates county-scale inventories of direct air pollutant emissions produced by feedstock supply chain activities. FPEAM can also be used to generate local, temporally resolved inventories for input into air quality models. This presentation provides an overview of FPEAM functionality and discusses several recent use cases prior to FPEAM's scheduled public release in September 2019. FPEAM is a modular, data-driven model. Each module contains calculations for an activity type, except for the feedstock transportation and on-farm equipment operation modules which connect to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Motor Vehicle Emissions Simulator (MOVES) and Nonroad models, respectively. The data-driven aspect of FPEAM means that it is the input data provided for a scenario rather than the model itself that determines the pollutants and supply chain activities included in the scenario scope. Modules within FPEAM can also be turned on or off manually to adjust the scenario scope. Default input data packaged with the FPEAM code base can be used to calculate inventories of volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, ammonia, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, and carbon monoxide generated by agricultural and forestry equipment operation, application of nitrogenous fertilizers, herbicide and insecticide, and feedstock transportation. Custom, user-developed data can be used in place of the default data to analyze scenarios with additional or alternate feedstocks, pollutants, and supply chain activities. Original language \| American English \| Number of pages \| 21 \| State \| Published - 2019 \| Publication series Name \| Presented at the 2019 International Emissions Inventory Conference - Collaborative Partnerships to Advance Science and Policy, 29 July - 2 August 2019, Dallas, Texas \| NREL Publication Number - biomass feedstock - biomass supply chains - biorefineries - criteria air pollutants
Corporate Social Responsibilities The CSR activities that are carried out by LUMPL in Nongtrai and Shella Villages focus on following thrust areas: - Health Services - Support to Education - Infrastructure Improvement - Income Generation Programmes – Development of Skill Sets, Trainings and Awareness Programmes. - Social and Cultural Events Activity planning (for development work) is mostly need based where the suggestions of the Durbars or the local communities are assessed in the Joint Committee for Community Development (JCCD) meetings in addition to the individual and group consultations within the local community. The JCCD is constituted in both Nongtrai and Shella villages represented by members approved by the respective Durbars and having included the LUMPL representations. Depending upon the implementation mechanism agreed, the community development activities are carried out mostly through; - The village durbars - Kher (sub-village) or local committees Summary of Community Development activities carried out: Health Services - Provision of a mobile clinic manned by a registered medical practitioner, health assistants and necessary diagnostic devices provided to the community. Free consultation and medicines were provided by this mobile clinic van to the villages in and around the Shella and Nongtrai durbars. On an average, a population of over 7,500 and 1,200 were catered to by the facilities of this mobile van in Shella durbar and Nongtrai durbar respectively. The services of the mobile van were available to the community in the Shella durbar (four times a week) and Nongtrai durbar (twice a week). - Bi annual health camps in the Shella and Nongtrai durbar organized by the company. These health camps are attended by medical practitioners (for eye, general physician, dentist, pathologists etc) where free consultation, referral and follow up services are provided to the community. - Special camps (Eye & Dental camps) and Awareness Camps to sensitize the community about health issues and preventive care. Consultation and free medical services are also provided with respect to specific diseases and problems along with follow up to the referral centres. The costs incurred in follow up and necessary medical care is borne by the company. Support for Education - Scholarships are provided to the selected students as agreed by JCCDs in three schools (two in Shella and one in Nongtrai) for those students who were either economically weak or fared well in their examinations. - Distribution of school bags, umbrellas and text books to the students to encourage children to continue their studies. - Enhancement of teachers' salaries. The Company provides additional salaries to the Science, Mathematics and Hindi teachers in the selected schools in the two durbars. Infrastructural Improvements A majority of the community development activities have been undertaken by the Company is focused around improvement of local infrastructure and amenities in the villages/hamlets of the two durbars (Shella & Nongtrai).The community demands and expectations in the project area of influence with respect to the benefits are mostly linked to infrastructural investments. Income Generation - LUMPL has taken steps to initiate livelihood support programme to build community capacities/skills and explore opportunities for economically productive employment especially for the women and youth groups in the community. Weaving and sericulture (in partnerships with the sericulture department) has been planned for the women and the adolescent girls of the community. The company carried out awareness programmes and has shortlisted a group of target beneficiaries. Another significant initiative in income support provided was the services of the horticultural specialist to address the issue of pest which has significantly impacted the betel nut production in the area. The initiative is being followed up by the Company. - Livestock management and exposure visits (of 40 people) were also carried out by the company to sensitize the community about the potential livelihood opportunities. However, there was a lukewarm response to these initiatives by the community. Factors like existing dependence of the community on livestock (which is currently not a significant contributor to the family income) and the willingness to take up animal husbandry were reasons attributed to the poor response to these initiatives. Social and Cultural Events - Environment Day, Earth Day, Anti drug day etc (common programme for both villages to try develop unity and integrity between children of the two villages)
Question: Write a paragraph about 'Pahela Baishakh' by answering the questions below. - What is Pahela Baishakh? - When is this day celebrated? - How is Pahela Baishakh celebrated? - Why do people celebrate this day? - What do the traders and shop-keepers do on this occasion? - How are people dressed on this day? - Why do the Bangles celebrate this day? - What is the significance of Pahela Baishakh? Answer: Pahela Baishakh is the first day of the Bengali New Year. The first day of the new year is celebrated in a befitting manner all over the world. We Bangalis are no exception in this respect. We observe Pahela Baishakh, the first day of Bangla new year gorgeously throughout the country. This is an annual festival in our country. People from all walks of life celebrate this great occasion with enthusiasm and funfair. It opens a new Bengali Calendar and inspires us to start a new life with hopes. Pahela Baishakh lasts for a day but it remains in our mind for a year. Pahela Baishakh is celebrated both in villages and towns. In towns, various socio-cultural organisations arrange interesting programmes. In Dhaka, the first programme of the day takes place at Ramna Batamul organised OffarlivIt by a leading cultural organisation, Chhayanat. Traders and shopkeepers commence 'Halkhata' and offer sweets to their customers and clients. The villagers observe 'Pahela Baishakh' in a traditional manner. Boys and girls put on colourful dresses. 'Baishakhi Mela' is the main attraction of Pahela Baishakh both in cities and villages. In a word observance of Pahela Baishakh is an inseparable part of Bengali culture. It opens a new chapter in our Bengali society and offers us an open chance to find out our cultural identity.
The Tesla Model 3 sedan has been making headlines not only for its cutting-edge electric technology but also for its unparalleled safety features. In a recent crash test, the Model 3 proved how it goes above and beyond to ensure the safety of its occupants. The frontal offset test showcased the capability of the Model 3 to protect its occupants. In a traditional car with an engine in the front, the impact of a crash directly affects the passengers. However, in the case of the electric Model 3, the front compartment, free from an engine, crumples to absorb the shock, immensely minimizing the harm to the passengers. Aside from its unique design, the Model 3 has excelled in various safety tests. From roof strength to head restraints and seats tests, the Model 3 has consistently garnered top marks. The car's autonomous driver assistance systems have also been commended. One of the key factors contributing to the Model 3's exceptional safety is its passive safety features such as airbags, seats, and car structure. The car's roof withstood an extraordinary amount of force, achieving the highest rating in roof strength. Additionally, the placement of its heavy battery at the floor lowers the center of gravity, further enhancing its stability, especially in rollover scenarios. Active safety is also a highlight of the Model 3, with its suite of driver assistance systems that actively help prevent collisions. The automatic emergency braking system and lane-keeping assist have been instrumental in avoiding accidents, earning the car superior ratings in front crash prevention. Recognized by reputable safety organizations, the Model 3 has joined the ranks of the safest cars ever built. Its remarkable safety ratings have placed it alongside other top performers in the industry, including the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Audi e-tron. Tesla's commitment to safety has been evident, and the Model 3 stands as a testament to their dedication. With its innovative design and advanced safety features, the Model 3 has set a new standard for car safety. Experience the ultimate in car safety with the Tesla Model 3. What makes Tesla's Model 3 sedan ultra safe in crashes? The safety of Tesla's Model 3 sedan in crashes is attributed to various features. It has a large crumple zone that absorbs the shock of a crash, an all-electric powertrain design with a heavy battery at the floor that lowers the car's center of gravity, passive safety systems including airbags, seats, and car structure, as well as advanced safety technology and driver assist systems. Overall, these components contribute to the Model 3 being among the safest cars ever built. What are some key features that contribute to the Model 3's safety? The Model 3's safety is enhanced by features such as a large crumple zone, roof strength that can resist significant force, all-electric powertrain design with a heavy battery at the floor, passive safety systems including airbags and seat geometry, advanced safety technology, and driver assist systems. What are the active safety systems in the Model 3? The Model 3 has a suite of driver assist systems designed to prevent collisions, including an automatic emergency braking system that detects and stops the car for obstacles, lane-keeping assistance, and pedestrian and cyclist detection. These systems contribute to the Model 3's superior front crash prevention and safety assist ratings. How does the Model 3 perform in crash tests? The Model 3 performed exceptionally well in crash tests. It received top overall marks in various tests, including roof strength, head restraints, seats, and autonomous driver assist systems tests. Additionally, it scored highly for preserving occupant safety and halting automatically for pedestrians and correcting inattentive driving. Which other vehicles received high safety ratings? Other vehicles with excellent safety ratings include the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus ES350, Audi e-tron, and Hyundai Nexo SUV. These vehicles scored highly in various safety categories, with some receiving the highest safety awards from organizations like IIHS.
Xiao Luo, who had been pregnant for nine months, has been waiting at home for her due date. Her diet and living are also fully responsible for her husband. Just preparing to sleep that night, but her husband proposed to come to a "husband and wife life".Essence After hearing this request, Xiao Luo just started to resist, because in their concepts, he never heard of a husband and wife who had sex during pregnancy, and was also afraid that sexual life would affect the fetus in the belly.Want to go or refuse the husband's request, is it suitable for the life of husband and wife during pregnancy? Many people think that women during pregnancy are often emotional instability, and there may be problems such as stretch marks and edema, which will affect personal image and health.Therefore, some people think that the life of too frequent or fierce couples will put pressure on women's body and emotions, and may even cause adverse consequences such as premature birth. And some people believe that sexual life may affect the fetus in pregnant women, and various abortion and other fetuses are injured. In fact, sexual life can be performed during pregnancy, because during pregnancy, the fetus has the protection of amniotic fluid and placenta, so when the sex life is carried out between husband and wife, the fetus has a double protective film, but pay attention to the method and method of sexual life.The following points need to be done between husband and wife: 1. Choose the appropriate posture Because during pregnancy, the fetal development will lead to changes in the placenta and ovaries of the pregnant woman, so when the husband and wife live, it is recommended that you use the side lying position. Pregnant women can lie flat on one side. This method can effectively put the placenta effectivelyThe protection of the baby is on the left to achieve a safe sex life. Secondly, you can adopt a post -in -type method. This posture can completely relax the pregnant woman and avoid excessive movement, which causes congestion and amniotic fluid rupture. In the end, the way of sitting can also be used to complete the life between husband and wife.In this posture, both sides can get a good stretch, and the muscles can be relaxed, which is the best choice. 2. Avoid the life of husband and wife in early 1-3 months of pregnancy 1-3 months is also a period of high incidence of problems such as susceptibility to abortion, fertility, and threatened abortion in pregnant women, so you must avoid the life of husband and wife in the early pregnancy. Because the fetal development of the fetus has not yet matured at this time, and it is a critical period for the development of important organs such as fetal brain, nervous system, and heart.And most of the biochemical reactions and the elevated white blood cells appear during this period. Therefore, this time period should be put first, and sexual life needs to be avoided. Sexual life may bring tiny trauma, and at this time, the uterus of pregnant women is not only very sensitive, but also in the most sensitive period of growth and development.Therefore, even small trauma may hinder the healthy development of the fetus. 3. It should not be performed in the later stages of pregnancy one month before production Pregnant women in the second trimester are in the process of gradually preparing for delivery.Sexual behavior can stimulate uterine contraction and increase the risk of premature birth.Especially in the second trimester, if the pregnant woman already has a contraction, sexual behavior may cause more intense contractions and even cause premature birth.Therefore, it is not recommended that pregnant women have a husband and wife life in the second trimester to reduce the risk of premature birth. Secondly, the physical condition of pregnant women in the second trimester is relatively weak.Sexual behaviors may cause some bacteria in pregnant women to enter the human body, cause infection, and easily cause diseases such as vaginitis and urinary tract infections, and have adverse effects on the health of pregnant women and fetuses.In addition, the life of husband and wife may also lead to worsening cervical inflammation in pregnant women, increasing the risk of infection, and causing complications of childbirth. 4. The life of husband and wife should not be too intense The uterus of women during pregnancy has undergone tremendous pressure. If sexual behavior is too intense, it may lead to complications such as placental peeling and amniotic fluid rupture.Therefore, doctors generally recommend that couples avoid excessive sexual behavior in early and late pregnancy to avoid unnecessary risks. 1. Diet should be reasonable Pregnant women should eat more protein, such as fish, meat, poultry, beans, etc.These foods contain important amino acids and are the buildings needed for fetal growth.In addition, pregnant women should also eat more calcium -rich foods, such as milk, yogurt or cheese, which helps the fetal skeletal development. However, some foods should be avoided during pregnancy.For example, fish (such as sharks, tuna, etc.) contain a large amount of mercury should avoid consumption because mercury is not good for the fetal's central nervous system and brain development.In the same way, processed foods containing harmful substances such as bactericides and preservatives should also be reduced as much as possible. 2. Add more folic acid Folic acid is conducive to the normal development of the fetal nervous system.In the early stages of pregnancy, the nervous system developed rapidly, and insufficient folic acid intake of pregnant women can lead to the appearance of neural tube malformed babies.Many parents' so -called environmental factors induce fetal nerve tube deformities. In fact, it is due to the lack of folic acid in pregnant women, especially at the stage of pregnancy.And folic acid not only needs to take in during pregnancy, but also should also take the nutrients appropriately. Secondly, the deficiency of folic acid in pregnant women may also cause discomfort such as nausea and vomiting in the early pregnancy.This is because folic acid can also stabilize DNA, reduce the risk of pregnancy poisoning, and reduce early pregnancy symptoms. 3. Periodic inspection It is very important to start a regular checkup as soon as possible.The first inspection is usually performed in about eight weeks after pregnancy, so that any potential health problems can be found as soon as possible and necessary measures are taken immediately.The next examination is usually performed at different stages of pregnancy to ensure the best health of the mother and fetus and prepare for any possible issues. Secondly, the production inspection plan should be formulated according to personal circumstances.Everyone's physical condition and background are different, so different people need different production inspection plans.Your obstetrician or midwife can formulate a production inspection plan that suits you according to factors such as your health, gestational week, personal status, and family genetic history. Finally, remind everyone that a healthy and positive mentality can effectively reduce the tension and anxiety of pregnant women.If pregnant women are too nervous and anxious, they may produce some harmful hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which may affect the development of the pregnant woman's immune system and fetus, leading to complications during pregnancy. [1] "Pregnancy Health Knowledge" -China Health Network -2019-02-12. [2] "Journal of Pregnancy"-Dr. Lilac-2017-03-15.
What are the 5 original Navy ships? The United States was inaugurated on May 10, 1797, and was one of the first Naval vessels. What diver was killed by white sharks. A great white shark killed Simon, a diving instructor. A report classified his death as a "provoked incident" Because of the bait fishermen place in the water, a frenzied shark might have gotten drawn to him. How long does boat last? A high quality inflatable that is well cared for will last more than 5 years. The range is determined by how well they are cared for. Is a powerboat the fastest? The Foner is the fastest yacht in the world at a top speed of 70.1 knots. The power behind its top speed comes from several machines. Which one is bigger? During World War I, the direct successors to protected cruisers could be placed on scales that were 888-282-0465 888-282-0465 888-282-0465 888-282-0465 888-282-0465. Is RFT's stand for Army? The Roll Fitness Test is for soldiers. The RFT (S) is gender free, age appropriate and related to the required physical challenge of the specific role. The ground close combat soldiers have certain standards. Who is active with naval ships? 251 active ships are in commission. The commission status of ships that are not battle- ready, such as the Battleships, not included in the number of ships active in commission. What person died by the 2 great white sharks in Australia? A great white shark killed a diving instructor in LA A report classified his death as a "provoked incident" The man appeared to have been drawn to him by fishermen's bait. Which boat is called in Australia? Something was saying something. A dinghy is often used to describesmall boats, often used as a tender or a shelter on larger boats. They're used as a small boat, and sometimes as an inflatable, with known meanings such as 'rubber ducky'. Do you stay on a boat in the Navy? DeputyyMENT. An Sailor gets assigned to a ship and then a shore duty period of 3 years. Most ships spend more time at home than at sea and you will not be at sea for three years straight. Who designed the cars that are now called the Maritimo yachts? Maritimo is the work of Australian craftsmen. Our passion for the sea is reflected in the fact that we have a number of outstanding, long-range, luxurious and stylish motor yachts. Bill Barry-Cotter, our founder, has been ensur for over fifty years. . There is a ' What is the most popular yacht brands in Australia? The Australian is home to a number of top motor yacht manufacturers. Riviera, Maritimo, and Sunseeker can accommodate a range of travelers, from a weekend away for one to a long-term voyage for many. Is the boat app like the app for ridesharing? The yacht charter application has boat rentals and other things. The ability to share or rent is the most used feature in the boat app. Those who prefer to be a true captain on board can find these maps. What is the definition of US. Navy ships? When combining these with sequential numbers they are referred to as "Hull numbers." For various ships, a letter was repeated in one of their letters. What is the process for making solace boats? Our factory is here. SLACE is well suited to fulfill the quality standards we have set for ourselves. The newest naval vessels are called the next-Generation naval warships. As part of the US Navy's plan to add new capability to their fleet, they are trying to replace the Navy's aging class of ships. The first DDG(X) will be purchased by the US Navy. What boats are found on those ships? A tender is a small boat that runs back and forth to a bigger craft. Smaller recreational boats call their fishing boats dinghies. A question about the fastest luxury powerboat. The fastest yacht of all time is the Foners with a 70.1 knots top speed, which is better than everything else. The power behind its top speed comes from several machines. What is the smallest naval vessel in the USA? History. United States 48.0000N 76.0000W The building was built in 1941. The Bureau of Construction and Repair More rows How much does the cost to keep a yacht running? The costs of running If the yacht's initial purchase price is less than 20% of total purchase price an owner would pay 20% to keep it running for a long time. The cost of operating a $10 millionyacht would top 2 million dollars per year. The Guardian class patrol boat has a problem. The ships' sick bays proved to have poor vegetation in May 2021, while on February 11, 2021. Is The Real Love Boat Australia still in business? Sally Geach and Jay Bonnell are no longer together. It was Sally and Jay who kept the show afloat even after the ratings sunk more than the Titanic. What is considered the biggest military piece of construction in America? The largest and most technologically advanced aircraft carrier in the world, the US Navy's newest supercarrier, and the most powerful destroyer in the world, recently crossed the Atlantic alongside warships from other NATO Allies. Can you drive from the US to Australia? There are cruises to Australia from the United States, but no many because of the long journey. There is a luxurious way to travel to Australia. Cruises from the US to Australia can be found in Los Angeles, Hawaii, Seattle, New York. What makes a boat license required in California? A person must be at least 16 years of age and possess a California Boater Card in order to operate a boat that has a motor of 15hp or more. What is the oldest Royal Navy ship to have been delivered? The line of the Royal Navy has a 104.63 gun ship. The order was placed in 1758, and she was placed in 1759. The world's oldest naval vessel still exists, having been in commission for 241 years. Is there anything on boat shoes? The rubber-soled shoes have no writing on them and are useful in wet conditions. The tread is cut in a siping style and has the similar grooves found on tires. How far away can a zodiac boat go? The vessels themselves are relatively easy to board and disembark, but the majority of expedition cruise lines recommend that passengers are able to get in and out on their own. Crew members will follow What boat did Jessica take on her sail. Jessica Watson was a young Australian sailor who in 1990 completed her southern hemisphere solo circumnavigation at the age of 16. She came home three days before her 17th birthday. The boat is docked. Which is the smallest military ship in the world? A small warship are a corvette While vessels in the smaller class are considered a proper 'rated' naval vessel, it is the smallest class. Are Bill Gates yacht? The mega yacht known as the Aqua has a price tag of $645 million and it runs on hydrogen fuel. The only waste of its operation is water in the form of water. It did well when it was debut at the M.
Music style is one of the important labels for music classification, and the current music style classification methods extract features such as rhythm and timbre of music and use classifiers to achieve classification. The classification accuracy is not only affected by the classifier but also limited by the effect of music feature extraction, which leads to poor classification accuracy and stability. In response to the abovementioned defects, a deep-learning-based music style classification method will be studied. The music signal is framed using filters and Hamming windows, and the MFCC coefficient features of music are extracted by discrete Fourier transform. A convolutional recurrent neural network structure combining CNN and RNN is designed and trained to determine the parameters to achieve music style classification. Analysis of the simulation experimental data shows that the classification accuracy of the studied classification method is at least 93.3%, and the classification time overhead is significantly reduced, the classification results are stable, and the results are reliable. 1. Introduction Music categorization, on the other hand, is a crucial aspect of music retrieval, because classified music information may considerably reduce the scope of a search. Music categorization has a wide range of applications and plays a vital role in music retrieval. Music classification tags are one of the most common ways for users to filter out specific types of music, and music style is one of the most accurate classification tags [1, 2]. Many music platforms provide a search portal, and one of the main ways to filter out specific types of music is through music classification tags, and music style is one of the most accurate classification tags. Music genres may be classified to assist individuals easily identify their favorite music and to play various types of music at different times and for different purposes. The most critical step in the production of music style identification is still the extraction of relevant data and the selection of classifiers. Various classification effects are achieved when different music feature vectors are utilized for music style identification, and characteristics such as pitch, timbre, and loudness are still often used [3]. Numerous factors contribute to the difficulty of extracting musical elements, resulting in ineffective categorization and identification of musical genres. To enhance style recognition, researchers have taken a variety of approaches, including adding musical features, combining machine learning principles, support vector machine models, convolutional neural networks, and CRF models, or attempting to solve the problem using signal generation principles [4–9]. These approaches have improved the categorization of music to some degree, although feature extraction remains challenging in certain unique circumstances. People are gradually attempting to apply machine learning and deep learning to the field of music recognition, and because deep learning is more powerful than machine learning in storing and processing large amounts of data, more and more deep neural networks, particularly recurrent neural networks and long short-term memory networks, are being used in music analysis and processing [10–12]. Recurrent neural networks were first employed to classify music; however, the classification results are not particularly satisfying. Due to music's high before-and-after correlation, when using conventional recurrent neural networks, data between the previous and previous moments cannot be obtained, and the extracted musical features such as pitch, timbre, loudness, and rhythm are skewed, resulting in inaccurate classification results. In the context of the above research analysis, this paper investigates deep-learning-based music style classification methods with the aim of improving the accuracy of music style classification. 2. Research on Music Style Classification Based on Deep Learning 2.1. Music Digital Signal Preprocessing The music signal is initially preprocessed to a standard format using appropriate methods before the feature extraction activity begins. Preprocessing is a broad term that encompasses operations such as antialiasing filtering, preemphasis, digitisation, windowing, and frame. Because most music and songs saved on the internet are digital, they are merely treated by preemphasis, windowing, and framing. The concept of human vocalization indicates that the high-frequency component approximately above 800 Hz reduces by 6 dB/octave during sound emission through sound gate excitation and mouth and nose radiation. As a result, while solving the spectrum of a music signal, the high-frequency component is more challenging to locate than the low-frequency component. The purpose of preemphasis is to increase the signal's high-frequency component [13]. The music signal preemphasis is implemented using a first-order high-pass digital filter with the expression: In formula (1), is the preemphasis coefficient of music signal, and the value range is . In order to facilitate the subsequent processing of music signal, the preemphasis output signal is usually normalized. The waveform peak after preemphasis is more prominent for further processing. Because the music signal is time-varying and unstable, but the portion of the signal between 10 ms-30 ms is typically smooth, the spectrum waveform may be viewed as a short-time and smooth process. As a result, the musical features may be determined by removing this portion of the signal. This is often accomplished by segmenting the music signal into a number of frames that can then be conveniently evaluated using appropriate signal processing methods. The framing procedure is often accomplished by windowing a limited length of the signal window, which also eliminates significant frequency domain peaks and troughs. The mathematical expression for adding a window to each frame of the music signal is as follows [14]: In formula (2), is a music signal frame, represents signal conversion operation, and is a window function applied to each frame on the music signal. The signal's short-time analysis characteristics are heavily influenced by the window function used. Short-time parameters may better depict the changing features of the music signal if the window function is adequate. The advantages and disadvantages of regularly used window functions are examined in this work. Hamming windows are utilized to process music signals in this research. Three synthetic rectangular windows may be used to simulate the spectrum of Hamming windows, and the first side's lobe attenuation rate can reach -42 dB. The Hamming window has the following expression [15]: After preprocessing the music signal according to the above, the feature variables that can represent the music style are selected to extract the music style features, thus facilitating the classification of music based on the music style. 2.2. Selection of Musical Style Features In the feature extraction of music signals especially in speech signals, most of the extracted features are short-time features. These short time feature parameters are able to capture the characteristic attributes of music signals such as loudness, pitch, and timbre. In this study, MFCC coefficient features are used instead of the traditionally extracted short-time music feature parameters to represent the music signal more accurately with the help of MFCC coefficients. The extraction process of MFCC is shown in Figure 1 [16]. In this paper, the discrete Fourier transform of the music signal is performed with the following parameters: the sampling rate is 16 kHz, the window function is 32 ms, and the frame shift is 16 ms. The window length is samples, i.e., there are 512 samples in a frame. The discrete Fourier transform (DFT) of these points gives the spectral expression of a frame of music signal as After the spectrum value of the signal is obtained, the energy spectrum is obtained by squaring it. In order to avoid zero, a fixed jitter constant is added to the energy spectrum. We convert the actual Hertz frequency of the musical signal to the Mel frequency scale according to the following formula. Mel filter banks are composed of triangular filter banks defined on the Mel frequency scale. In this paper, is selected. The intermediate frequency of each triangular filter is distributed at equal distances and intervals on the Mel frequency axis and widens with the increase of on the frequency axis. The frequency response of triangular filter is defined as [17] In formula (5), is the center frequency of the th triangle filter, and the formula is as follows: In formula (6), and are the lowest frequency and highest frequency of the triangle filter, respectively. is FFT points, is the sampling rate of music signal, and is the conversion formula of Mel frequency to time domain. After the short-time energy spectrum passes through the Mel filter bank, in order to obtain the spectrum estimation error with good robustness, we take the logarithm of the output signal. The obtained logarithmic energy is transformed into spectrum by discrete cosine transform [18]. The retrieved signal's MFCC feature parameters are obtained from the first 20 coefficients of each frame. The act of combining all of a frame's short-time feature vectors across a longer period of time into a new vector is known as temporal feature ensemble. Music characteristics like timbre and loudness can only be retrieved during a 10 to 40 ms time span, and their features only reflect the features of that time period, not the connection between its musical qualities in subsequent time periods. Other qualities like rhythm, melody, and melodic effects like vibrato, on the other hand, can only be detected on a larger time scale. Convolutional neural networks and recurrent neural networks in deep learning are utilized to accomplish the categorization process of musical styles after extracting the musical style attributes. 2.3. Deep Convolutional Recurrent Neural Network Design and Implementation 2.3.1. Network Architecture Design We provide a novel deep learning neural network model, the convolutional recurrent neural network, in this research by combining CNN and RNN. This network architecture can be used to process class sequence information such as music; it employs average processing for the output of each previously processed analysis window, and if the first few segments at this point are fed into the RNN as class sequence objects for analysis, the final output will be more stable. The structure of the CRNN enables learning without the need for comprehensive annotation of each segment, but rather on the basis of the music's categorization as a whole. Additionally, there is no need to do feature extraction for each analysis window during the preprocessing step, since the CRNN's head uses a CNN structure without linked completely connected layers, which enables feature extraction immediately from the spectrogram. The tail has the same qualities as RNN; it does not need a fixed audio length, has less parameters, and is capable of producing a category output for each analysis window processed. The CRNN network structure is shown in Table 1. The network consists of multiple convolutional layers finally connecting three fully connected layers. By superimposing many convolutional layers, each layer increasingly integrates the output features from the preceding layer to produce more global characteristics, resulting in the formation of a high-level representation containing semantic features. Following each layer of convolution, this approach employs a one-dimensional maximum pooling layer to reduce the dimensionality of the parameters. The output of the final convolutional layer in the network is utilized as the features learnt by the convolutional network and is no longer pooled throughout the whole temporal domain, thereby maintaining the temporal dimension. The feature map may be thought of as the outcome of sewing together a series of features from several moments, and the dimensionality of these features is defined as the product of their dimensionality and the frequency of the feature map. Feature maps may therefore be utilized as feature sequences in recurrent neural networks, which are then merged to form convolutional recurrent neural networks. Two convolutional layers are utilized in the residual unit. The input data is first passed through the first convolutional layer, which is then activated by batch normalization and ReLU function in turn, and the output feature map is then activated by the second convolutional layer, batch normalization, and ReLU function in turn to complete the mapping, and the obtained feature map is superimposed correspondingly with the input data. Finally, the residual unit's output is obtained by ReLU activation once more. The loss function was determined after building the convolutional recurrent network structure, and the network was trained using the music style training set to identify the network's parameters. The music to be processed was classified using a CRNN network with predetermined parameters [19]. 2.3.2. Determining Network Parameters and Implementing Music Style Classification Softmax, as an extension of Logistics, is often mostly used to solve multiclassification problems. However, it is clearly inappropriate to directly use the loss function of softmax for multilabel classification problems directly, because from each training of minibatch, it can only calculate the probability of one correct label. In contrast, the output of one of the convolutional recurrent neural networks designed in this paper for music style classification is multiple music style labels, i.e., corresponding to multiple categories. But, in practice, not all predictions are perfect, and it is possible that the wrong category predictions will be high. So, for such a situation, a dynamic Euclidean distance-based loss function is proposed in this paper, as shown in the following equation: In formula (10), represents all samples in a minibatch, and represents the predicted value of the th error label in the th sample. represents the cardinality of the error label set. represents correctly classified sets, represents the error set, represents the predicted value of the actual correct tag in category of the th sample, represents the predicted value of the actual error label for category in the th sample, and is the reweighting function for learning sorting and is a harmonic series. We use and to represent the expected output of the training batch. In this paper, the stochastic gradient descent method is used to train CRNN network parameters, and the specific training process is shown in Figure 2 [20]. After training the CRNN network parameters using music with known music style as the training set, the music to be classified is processed using the network with known parameters [21]. The music to be classified is processed according to the above research, and the corresponding music style category labels are obtained from the output of the CRNN network to achieve music style classification and complete the research on deep-learning-based music style classification methods. 3. Experimental Simulation and Analysis The performance of the deep-learning-based music style categorization approach suggested before is evaluated and studied in this section using a two-part simulation study. The experiments consist of two sections. The first section is a simulation experiment examining the influence of the sound spectrum on the categorization of musical styles. As the sound spectrum is taken from the audio source and sent into the classification network. The short-time Fourier sound spectrum, the Meier sound spectrum, and the constant Q sound spectrum based on the CQT are the three primary sound spectra presently utilized for sound categorization. However, not all sound spectra are amenable to classification networks for the purpose of categorizing musical genres. As a result, the first section analyzes the influence of the three acoustic spectra on classification performance in order to choose the input acoustic spectrum for the future music style classification networks [22]. The second portion of the simulation compares the deep-learning-based music style classification approach suggested in this study against the SVM classifier-based classification method and the network-based classification method. The classification accuracy as well as the time overhead of the classification techniques are compared to assess the performance of the music classification methods. 3.1. Comparative Simulation Data Preparation MP3 tracks from various genre categories are collected online and added to the music database, and then, all tracks are recategorized by forming a "jury of experts". The jury consisted of 100 music lovers, divided into 10 groups, to label the music. The collection included over 900 songs from each genre, totaling over 4,000 tracks over five genres, with each expert panel allocated an average of over 400 songs to categorize. If an unidentifiable category was present during the annotation, the experts were permitted to listen again until they arrived at the proper classification. Individual songs will be annotated ten times at the conclusion of the entire review annotation exercise, and only if a track is annotated as a category more than or equal to seven times will it be allocated to that category prior to being authorized to be included to the music database [23–25]. The final composition of the music training and test libraries obtained is shown in Table 2. Furthermore, since most individuals listen to music for a few minutes at a time, the data acquired would be enormous if the feature vector extraction were done directly. However, in most cases, a portion in the center of a piece of music may sufficiently convey its artistic characteristics. As a result, the experimental data sample may be cut from the middle 30 seconds of each song and set to mono, and the sampling rate is set to 16 KHz. 3.2. Analysis of the Effect of Acoustic Spectrogram on Classification Performance Under varied frequency scale divisions and resolutions, all three sound spectrograms can depict the time-frequency variation of music signals. The same structured network is used in the experiments to train and extract features using convolutional neural networks using these three sound spectrograms as input to categorize them in two datasets and compare their classification impacts. Three convolutional layers and three fully linked layers were employed in the tests, with the particular values listed in Table 3. For each convolutional layer, the parameters are expressed as the size and number of its convolutional kernels, arranged as frequency, time, and number of convolutional kernels. The parameters of the fully connected layer indicate the number of hidden units, and the output length of fully connected layer 3 varies depending on the number of categories contained in the dataset, from 10 dimensions when using GTZAN to 6 dimensions when using ISMIR2004. The activation function for fully connected layer 3 is a softmax function that maps the output to a probability vector, and the activation functions for the other layers use ReLU. After training the above networks with different input spectrograms, the classification results of the three spectrograms are finally obtained, as shown in Table 4. It can be seen from Table 4 that the classification accuracy of short-time Fourier spectrum is the highest on GTZAN dataset, which is 85.46%, and the classification accuracy of constant Q spectrum is the highest on ismir2004 dataset, which is 86.57%, and the accuracy of the two spectra is relatively close, while the frequency band division method of Mel spectrum is inconsistent with that of interval frequency in music, resulting in insufficient discrimination between scales. Classification performance decreased. Therefore, Mel spectrum is not selected as the input of the classification network when classifying music styles. 3.3. Comparison of Simulation Result Analysis The performance and convergence speed of the algorithm are compared with traditional SVM-based classification method and convolutional neural network-based classification method to verify the performance and convergence speed of the algorithm in the case of unlabeled incremental data. In the database of labeled music samples, 300 songs are randomly selected in each category as the initial sample set, and the remaining labeled music samples are used as the test dataset. The remaining labeled music samples are used as the test dataset. An additional sample set including unlabeled samples of each category is collected, with about 3000 songs. The original training set is the same for all three methods, and the number of each incremental iteration and the accuracy statistics of the classifier are calculated by varying the size of the number of samples selected in each loop iteration of the network training process, and the experimental results are shown in Figures 3 and 4 [26–28]. As can be seen in Figures 3 and 4, both the SVM-based and the convolutional neural network-based classification methods are less accurate than the present method during the whole incremental training process. Moreover, this method converges to a smooth value very quickly, which is not bad compared with the other two methods. It can also be seen that the accuracy of the three methods is similar at the start of the iterative loop process, implying that this is due to the uneven distribution of samples and the small size of the initial training set, while samples that are extremely dissimilar are more likely to be randomized. The accuracy and convergence rate of the three classification algorithms varies depending on the size of the number of samples picked in each loop iteration, as shown in the figure. The more examples there are, the more likely the selection engine will choose more useful samples for expert labeling, contributing more to the correct classification model and increasing the classification model's accuracy [29]. The comparison of classification accuracy and time cost of classification methods is shown in Table 5. When comparing the data in Table 5 above, it can be observed that this approach's overall classification accuracy is more than 93.3 percent, indicating that this method is more accurate in classifying music genres than the other two comparative classification methods. Each method's standard deviation of classification accuracy is lower than the other two, and this method's maximum fluctuation of the standard deviation of classification accuracy is roughly 0.34 percent, which is much lower than the other two techniques. It demonstrates that this technique has greater classification stability while categorizing items with varied compositions. This approach has a 0.0456 s average time overhead, which is less than the 0.1584 s average time overhead of SVM and convolutional neural network. This approach has a much greater classification effectiveness than the other two comparison methods [30]. The above simulation analysis concludes that the classification accuracy of the deep-learning-based music style classification method proposed in this paper is higher than 93.3%, and the classification efficiency is higher, which has good classification performance. 4. Conclusion A huge number of various forms of music have emerged in tandem with the advancement of people's aesthetic abilities and the development of diverse global civilizations. Consumers may access a huge variety of music services via music platforms, and categorizing music according to music types can help users find what they are looking for faster. We propose a deep-learning-based music style classification approach in this research, based on a study of existing common music classification methods and a comparison of several deep learning theories. The findings of the simulated experimental investigation reveal that additional characteristics, such as cochlear filter cepstral coefficients, may be retrieved in future research. The classification performance of the classification network may be enhanced by enriching the features, resulting in better classification results.. Data Availability Data is available on request. Conflicts of Interest The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.
In Germany, 33,000 men and 28,000 women develop colon cancer every year. This makes colon cancer the third most common cancer in both sexes. As with most types of cancer, the risk of developing the disease increases with age: from the age of 50 onwards, colon cancer occurs more frequently. Recently, however, a study caused a stir that more and more young people are developing cancer. Along with breast cancer and bronchial and lung cancer, colon cancer is one of the most common early-onset cancers. "If you have two of these symptoms, you should really have a colonoscopy done." The good news: If colon cancer is detected early, it is often curable. Some experts therefore appeal for possible cancer screening examinations before the age of 50. One of them is James Cleary, a gastroenterologist and oncologist at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. He tells "Business Insider" the following five symptoms of colon cancer: unwanted weight loss: Considered a symptom of several types of cancer, including colon cancer. According to Cleary, this typically involves a significant weight loss of five to ten kilos in six months to a year. He speaks of a "high-risk trait". Those affected should definitely see a doctor, especially if an additional symptom occurs, such as rectal bleeding. persistent fatigue: If you constantly feel very tired, this could also be a sign. The background is blood loss through rectal bleeding, which in turn leads to a lack of healthy red blood cells. Changes in bowel movements: These include more frequent trips to the toilet, pencil-thin stools, diarrhea, constipation and blood in or on the stool. Iron deficiency anemia (= low iron levels): The aforementioned blood loss can lead to iron deficiency. Signs of iron deficiency include fatigue, lack of energy, shortness of breath and headaches. Stomach pain: Repeated, cramping abdominal pain that lasts for more than a week may also be a sign. Cleary emphasizes, "If you only notice one of these symptoms, you should consider a colonoscopy. But if you have two of these symptoms, statistically, the odds are higher, and you should really have a colonoscopy carried out." This also applies to younger people. Colonoscopy and Stool sample: These colon cancer screening tests are available There are two possible screening tests for colon cancer. Experts consider both to be useful, writes the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ). Specifically, these are: Colonoscopy (colonoscopy): For men aged 50 and over and women aged 55 and over, a colonoscopy is offered as part of the statutory cancer screening program. It is more reliable than the stool test. Doctors examine the inside of the intestine with an endoscope. Intestinal polyps (= possible precancerous lesions) can also be removed immediately. Stool test (test for non-visible blood in the stool): An immunological test for hidden blood in the stool can be carried out annually from the age of 50 and every two years from the age of 55. The background is that intestinal tumors bleed more often than healthy intestinal mucosa. If the stool test is abnormal, a colonoscopy is usually recommended. People with a genetic predisposition, a family history or other risk factors such as inflammatory bowel disease are considered to be particularly at risk. Talk to your doctor about possible earlier check-ups. Preventing colon cancer risk factors: This is how you can protect yourself In addition to genetic factors and environmental stress, lifestyle also plays a role in the development of colon cancer – even at a young age, write the researchers in the study mentioned at the beginning. "Dietary risk factors such as red meat, a lot of salt, little fruit, vegetables and milk, but also alcohol consumption and smoking are the main factors behind early onset cancer cases." There are also clear connections with obesity and increased blood sugar levels. According to the team, at least some of these cancer cases could be delayed, if not prevented, by adopting a healthier lifestyle. If Prevention tips The DKFZ also recommends accordingly: no smoking, regular exercise (regardless of overweight), avoidance of overweight, diet with sufficient fiber, lots of vegetables and little red meat, little or, if possible, no alcohol from the age of 50. Early detection examinations In order to break the trend, more information and better early detection are also important. Cancer therapies would also have to be adapted for younger patients. Two thirds of colon cancer patients are still alive five years after diagnosis Depending on the tumor and the patient's state of health, treatment can include removing the affected section of intestine or using radiation therapy, chemotherapy or a combination of radiation and chemotherapy. Five years after diagnosis, two thirds of men and women are still alive. A positive development that experts attribute, among other things, to early cancer detection and treatment.
April is National Poetry Month. The 6th graders in Mrs. Manocchio and Ms. Levine's classes visited the 4th grade Language Arts classes to share some of the poetry they have been writing in class this month. The older students explained their writing process to the younger students, teaching them about various types of poetry including haiku, acrostic, and bio-poetry. The 4th graders were able to ask questions of the 6th graders, as well as share some of their own knowledge of poetry. A fun and informative time was had by all! You are here: Pierrepont School / Pierrepont School News / National Poetry Month – 6th Grade Visitors
Are you from the Dominican Republic? Are you planning to travel to Uruguay? If the answer is yes, then this article is for you. Before booking your flight, you might be wondering: Do Dominican citizens need a visa to enter Uruguay? What visa do I need to travel to or visit Uruguay? What are the visa requirements for Uruguay? How long can I stay in Uruguay on e-visa? Many Dominican residents are asking these questions for themselves. As the world becomes smaller thanks to modern technology and more convenient transportation options, it's normal to desire to visit other parts of the world. If you're looking to travel to another country but don't know the visa requirements, it could be a bit difficult. Luckily, we will discuss the requirements for visas and other information about traveling to Uruguay with Dominican passport. It is important to be prepared prior to travel to ensure that everything goes smoothly. To help you with this, we've put together this article that provides helpful information on what you need to know prior to your trip to Uruguay. We will discuss what type of visa you need to enter or visit Uruguay, as well as how long you can stay in Uruguay if your visa is approved. This article will tell you everything you need to be aware of when getting a visa application to travel to Uruguay as a citizen from the Dominican Republic. Read Also About: United-States Read Also About: United-Kingdom About Uruguay Uruguay is one of the most stunning countries in the world. It is known for its rich culture and diversity. It offers numerous opportunities for travelers to experience its rich history and cultural heritage. If you're looking for the perfect place to spend your vacation or simply want to explore somewhere new, then Uruguay is a fantastic option! One method to gain an understanding of the uniqueness of this country is to go to one its many tourist attractions! There are many things that make the United States special. The first is that it has a rich history that can be seen throughout many areas and monuments. Additionally, it has a diverse population with people from all over the world who reside there. If you are looking to travel there in the near future, then make sure you check out some of these places, to ensure you don't lose anything! Uruguay is a small country in South America. It has a population of 3.3 million people and is the second smallest country in the world by area. Uruguay shares its land borders with Argentina and Brazil and it's surrounded by water on three sides, including the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the Río de la Plata to the south, and Lake Uruguayan on its west side. The best time to visit Uruguay is during summer as it offers many outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing, boating and more. The weather is also typically warm during this time of year so you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about getting cold or wet. Read Also About: United-Arab-Emirates Visa Requirements for Visiting Uruguay With Dominican Passport: In this article we will discuss the requirement for visas for Uruguay. However, prior to getting the desire to visit Uruguay be aware that there are a variety of types of visas each with their own set of conditions. When you are thinking about your trip to Uruguay , there are many things to consider, including the requirements for obtaining a visa to enter the country. Although no two countries will have exactly the same procedure but each country has their own set of rules to get visas. These requirements can help you decide if your trip is worth the expense and effort. If you are planning to visit a foreign country, the first thing to be sure of is that you have all the necessary documents to apply for the visa. In order to apply for a visa, there are a variety of documents you need to have, such as proof of employment or income. The requirements may vary depending on the type of visa you're seeking, therefore be certain to verify before you make any plans! Visa Required Visa is required to enter this country. You must apply for a visa before traveling to this country. There are various types of visas one can apply for, such as student visas, working visas, and touristic visas, which all fall into this category. Nevertheless, remember that every category has a distinguished variety of requirements. Some visas are hard to get, whereas others are granted very easily. The same is why one needs to conduct thorough research before selecting the type of Visa they wish to obtain. To acquire it, you must visit the embassy of the country you wish to travel to. You must submit all your legal documents and follow the guided procedure. Most of these visas are granted on a referral basis as well. However, it all depends upon the country. Please check with the embassy of the country for the requirements and the application process. In conclusion, it is crucial to know the process by which Uruguay visas work and how they impact how you travel. Although this article provides an outline of the process, you can also consult with the local consulate or embassy for more information about the specific circumstances. Last Updated: 16/09/2022
Nikki Catsura is a well-known photographer whose stunning photos have captivated and inspired audiences around the world. Her unique eye for composition and lighting has earned her widespread recognition and accolades in the photography community. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of Nikki Catsura's most iconic photos and the stories behind them, illuminating the skill, creativity, and vision that has made her work so revered. Table of Contents - Introduction to Nikki Catsura and her photography - Nikki Catsura's most iconic photoshoots - The evolution of Nikki Catsura's photography style - Top tips for capturing photos like Nikki Catsura - Analyzing the composition and lighting in Nikki Catsura's photos - Exploring the use of color in Nikki Catsura's photography - How to find and purchase Nikki Catsura's prints - Nikki Catsura's impact on the photography industry - In Conclusion Introduction to Nikki Catsura and her photography Nikki Catsura is a renowned photographer known for her captivating and emotive photography. Her work has been featured in numerous publications and galleries, showcasing her unique ability to capture the essence of her subjects. Catsura's photography encompasses a wide range of styles, from stunning landscapes to intimate portraits, all of which reflect her keen eye for detail and composition. One of the most striking aspects of Catsura's photography is her use of natural light, which adds a timeless and ethereal quality to her images. This, combined with her expert editing skills, results in a body of work that is both visually stunning and emotionally evocative. Whether she is capturing the beauty of nature or the raw emotion of her subjects, Catsura's photography consistently resonates with viewers on a deep and meaningful level. Through her photography, Catsura seeks to inspire and connect with her audience, inviting them to see the world through her lens and experience the beauty and emotion that she captures. Her ability to evoke powerful emotions through her images sets her apart as a truly exceptional photographer, and it is clear that her work will continue to leave a lasting impact on the world of photography. Nikki Catsura's most iconic photoshoots Nikki Catsura is known for her captivating and iconic photoshoots that have graced the pages of top fashion magazines and captivated audiences around the world. Her stunning beauty and effortless grace have made her a sought-after model for some of the most renowned photographers in the industry. Let's take a look at some of that have left a lasting impression on the fashion world. 1. Vogue Italia One of was for Vogue Italia, where she was featured in a sultry and edgy spread that showcased her versatility as a model. The striking images captured her magnetic presence and impeccable style, cementing her status as a fashion icon. 2. Harper's Bazaar Nikki Catsura's photoshoot for Harper's Bazaar was another standout moment in her career. The editorial spread featured her in elegant and luxurious ensembles that highlighted her innate poise and sophistication. The timeless beauty that Nikki exuded in this photoshoot solidified her reputation as a top model in the industry. Nikki Catsura's talent and charisma have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the world of fashion, and her iconic photoshoots continue to inspire and captivate audiences to this day. The evolution of Nikki Catsura's photography style Nikki Catsura, a renowned photographer, has undergone a remarkable evolution in her photography style over the years. From her early beginnings, where her work encompassed traditional landscape and portrait photography, to her current signature style that focuses on abstract, fine art, and conceptual photography, Catsura has continually pushed the boundaries of her craft. One notable aspect of Nikki Catsura's photography evolution is her use of color and light. In her earlier work, Catsura predominantly used natural light and subdued, earthy tones to convey a sense of serenity and calmness. However, as she progressed in her career, she began to experiment with bold and dynamic color palettes, as well as unconventional lighting techniques, to create visually striking and emotionally resonant photographs. Her mastery of color and light has ultimately become a defining characteristic of her current photography style. Furthermore, Catsura's evolution as a photographer is also evident in her subject matter and composition. While her early work predominantly focused on capturing the beauty of the natural world and human subjects in their environment, her current style is characterized by thought-provoking and poetic imagery that often challenges the viewer's perception and emotions. Through unconventional compositions, juxtapositions, and the use of symbolism, Catsura's photographs now tell intricate and compelling stories that transcend beyond the visual realm. Top tips for capturing photos like Nikki Catsura Nikki Catsura is known for her stunning photography skills that capture the essence of the moment in a unique and captivating way. If you want to take photos like Nikki Catsura, there are several tips and tricks that can help you improve your photography skills and create beautiful, memorable images. First and foremost, it's essential to have a good understanding of composition when taking photos. Nikki Catsura often uses the rule of thirds to create balanced and visually appealing images. This involves dividing the frame into nine equal parts with two horizontal and two vertical lines, and placing key elements of the photo along these lines or at their intersections. In addition to composition, lighting is another critical factor in capturing photos like Nikki Catsura. Natural light is often preferred, as it can create a soft, flattering effect. If natural light is not available, using a diffuser or reflector can help soften harsh shadows and create a more pleasing overall look. Additionally, experimenting with different angles and perspectives can add depth and interest to your photos, much like Nikki Catsura does in her work. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be afraid to experiment and find your unique style. Analyzing the composition and lighting in Nikki Catsura's photos Nikki Catsura is known for her stunning photography, and one of the key elements that make her photos stand out is the composition and lighting. When analyzing the composition of her photos, it's evident that Catsura has a keen eye for framing her subjects in a visually appealing way. Whether she's capturing a landscape or a portrait, her compositions are thoughtfully balanced, drawing the viewer's eye to the focal point of the image. This attention to composition allows her photos to have a strong visual impact and draws the viewer in to explore every detail. Additionally, Catsura's use of lighting in her photos is masterful. She understands how lighting can dramatically alter the mood and atmosphere of an image, and she uses it to her advantage. Whether it's natural light streaming through a window, or carefully placed artificial lighting, she knows how to manipulate light to create a dynamic and captivating visual story. The way she plays with light and shadow adds depth and dimension to her photos, making them come alive in a way that is truly breathtaking. In conclusion, Nikki Catsura's photos are a testament to her skillful use of composition and lighting. Through thoughtful framing and expert manipulation of light, she is able to create images that are not only visually stunning, but also emotionally evocative. It's clear that her understanding of these elements plays a crucial role in the success of her photography, setting her work apart in a crowded field. Exploring the use of color in Nikki Catsura's photography Nikki Catsura's photography is renowned for its bold and striking use of color. Her vibrant and dynamic compositions are a testament to her mastery of color theory and her keen eye for capturing visually captivating scenes. Whether she is photographing urban landscapes, natural environments, or portraiture, Catsura's use of color adds depth and emotion to her work, elevating it to a whole new level. One of the most intriguing aspects of Catsura's use of color is her ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through her photography. From the warmth and coziness of a golden sunset to the cool and ethereal tones of a misty morning, Catsura's mastery of color allows her to create truly immersive visual experiences for her viewers. Her understanding of how color can influence mood and perception is evident in her work, as she expertly combines different hues to convey specific emotions and narratives in her photographs. In addition to emotional impact, Catsura's use of color also contributes to the compositional strength of her photographs. Her bold color choices often serve as focal points within her images, guiding the viewer's eye and creating visually dynamic and engaging compositions. By skillfully utilizing contrasting and complementary colors, Catsura is able to create images that are not only visually stunning but also conceptually rich and thought-provoking. Whether she is using color to emphasize a particular element within a scene or to create a harmonious overall aesthetic, Catsura's deliberate and thoughtful approach to color is an integral part of her photographic style. How to find and purchase Nikki Catsura's prints If you're interested in finding and purchasing Nikki Catsura's prints, you're in luck! Nikki Catsura is a renowned photographer known for her mesmerizing and thought-provoking images. Her prints are highly sought after and can add a unique and captivating touch to any space. Here's how you can go about finding and purchasing Nikki Catsura's prints: Online Galleries and Stores: One of the easiest ways to find and purchase Nikki Catsura's prints is by visiting online galleries and stores that specialize in fine art photography. Look for reputable websites that showcase her work and offer prints for sale. You can browse through the collection, select the prints you like, and make a purchase directly through the website. Art Exhibitions and Shows: Keep an eye out for art exhibitions and shows featuring Nikki Catsura's work. These events often provide an opportunity to view her prints in person and make a purchase on the spot. Check local art galleries, museums, and event listings to stay updated on upcoming exhibitions where you can find and purchase her prints. Directly from the Artist: In some cases, you may be able to purchase Nikki Catsura's prints directly from the artist herself. Visit her official website or contact her through social media or email to inquire about purchasing prints. This can be a great way to acquire a print directly from the source and possibly even get it signed or personalized. Finding and purchasing Nikki Catsura's prints can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Whether you choose to buy online, at an exhibition, or directly from the artist, you'll be adding a captivating piece of art to your collection. Keep an eye out for new releases and limited editions to make sure you don't miss out on the opportunity to own a stunning Nikki Catsura print. Nikki Catsura's impact on the photography industry Nikki Catsura, a renowned photographer, has left an indelible mark on the photography industry with her unique and captivating style. Her impact is felt not only through her stunning images but also through her advocacy for diversity and inclusivity in the field of photography. Catsura's work embodies a sense of raw authenticity that has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning her a well-deserved reputation as a trailblazer in the industry. One of the key aspects of is her ability to capture the essence of her subjects in a way that is both powerful and empathetic. Her images go beyond mere visual aesthetics, delving into the emotional depth of the human experience. This has set her apart as a photographer who is able to connect with her subjects on a profound level, resulting in images that are not only visually captivating but also deeply moving. Furthermore, Catsura's influence extends beyond her artistic talents, as she has been a vocal advocate for diversity and representation within the photography industry. Through her work, she has championed the importance of amplifying marginalized voices and shedding light on underrepresented communities. This commitment to inclusivity has sparked important conversations within the photography world and has paved the way for a more diverse and equitable industry. Overall, is undeniable, as she continues to inspire both fellow photographers and audiences alike with her unparalleled artistry and dedication to positive change. Q: Who is Nikki Catsura? A: Nikki Catsura is a professional photographer known for her captivating and artistic photos. Q: Where can I find Nikki Catsura's photos? A: Nikki Catsura's photos can be found on her website, social media profiles, and various online platforms where her work is featured. Q: What type of photography does Nikki Catsura specialize in? A: Nikki Catsura specializes in portrait, fashion, and conceptual photography. She is known for her unique and creative approach to capturing images. Q: Are Nikki Catsura's photos available for purchase? A: Yes, Nikki Catsura's photos are available for purchase as prints or digital downloads through her official website and other online platforms. Q: Can I hire Nikki Catsura for a photography session? A: Yes, Nikki Catsura is available for freelance photography work. Interested individuals or businesses can contact her through her website to inquire about booking a photography session. Q: What sets Nikki Catsura's photos apart from others? A: Nikki Catsura's photos stand out for their artistic expression, attention to detail, and the way she captures emotion and mood in her subjects. Her unique style and creative vision make her photos distinct and memorable. In Conclusion In conclusion, the photos of Nikki Catsura capture the essence of her creative and enigmatic spirit. Through her artistic vision, she has left an indelible mark on the world of photography and continues to inspire contemporary artists. The timeless beauty and depth of her work ensure that her legacy will endure for generations to come. Nikki Catsura's photos serve as a reminder of the power and impact of visual storytelling, and her influence on the art form will continue to be felt far into the future.
Searching the Help To search for information in the Help, type a word or phrase in the Search box. When you enter a group of words, OR is inferred. You can use Boolean operators to refine your search. Results returned are case insensitive. However, results ranking takes case into account and assigns higher scores to case matches. Therefore, a search for "cats" followed by a search for "Cats" would return the same number of Help topics, but the order in which the topics are listed would be different. Search for \| Example \| Results \| A single word \| cat Topics that contain the word "cat". You will also find its grammatical variations, such as "cats". \| A phrase. You can specify that the search results contain a specific phrase. \| "cat food" (quotation marks) \| Topics that contain the literal phrase "cat food" and all its grammatical variations. Without the quotation marks, the query is equivalent to specifying an OR operator, which finds topics with one of the individual words instead of the phrase. \| Search for \| Operator \| Example \| Two or more words in the same topic \| Either word in a topic \| Topics that do not contain a specific word or phrase \| Topics that contain one string and do not contain another \| ^ (caret) \| cat ^ mouse A combination of search types \| ( ) parentheses \| Remove Category Categories are used to group catalog items within a catalog. The Organization Administrator can remove categories. To remove a category: - From the Launchpad, click the Categories application. The Categories view is displayed. - Optional: Navigate to the parent category. - In the Categories view, for the category you want to delete, click and select Remove. A confirmation dialog to delete the category is displayed. - Confirm the category deletion, and the category is deleted. Note You can also remove a category from the Details view. Click Remove and confirm the deletion. Related Topics
Citation: \| Tingting Zhang, Hua Wang, Yong Yue, Chuanyan Huang, Liwei Zhang. Cenozoic Subsidence Features of Beitang Sag and Relationship with Tectonic Evolution. Journal of Earth Science, 2009, 20(4): 746-754. doi: 10.1007/s12583-009-0061-9 \| Based on the application of the EBM basin modeling software and 2-D seismic profiles, the Paleogene and Neogene subsidence histories of the Beitang (北塘) sag are simulated with the backstripping technique, and the relationship between subsidence character and tectonic revolution is discussed. Moreover, the result of the basin modeling reveals that the subsidence history of the Beitang sag has the characteristics of several geological periods, and these succeeding periods have shown certain inheritance and difference characteristics. At the early (E Chen, L., Gan, H. J., Zhu, C. R., et al., 2002. Study on Subsidence History of Weixinan Depression in Beibuwan Basin. Journal of Xinjiang Petroleum Institute, 14(4): 12–17 (in Chinese with English Abstract) http://www.cqvip.com/Main/Detail.aspx?id=7383628 \| Cheng, H. W., Wang, B. E., Dai, J. H., et al., 2003. Diagenesis Characteristics of Clastic Rock Reservoir of Es3 in Beitang Sag. Mud Logging Engineering, 14(4): 56–59 (in Chinese) \| Deng, R. J., Chai, G. Q., Yang, H., 2001. Forming Conditions and Distribution Characteristics of Tertiary Oil and Gas Pools in Beitang Sag. Petroleum Exploration and Development, 28(1): 27–29 (in Chinese with English Abstract) http://en.cnki.com.cn/Article_en/CJFDTotal-SKYK200101008.htm \| Deng, R. J., Xu, B., Qi, J. F., et al., 2005a. Petroleum Geological Role of Paleogene Overpressure Reservoirs in Tanggu-Xincun of Beitang Sag, Bohai Bay Basin. Petroleum Exploration and Development, 32(6): 46–51 (in Chinese with English Abstract) http://www.researchgate.net/publication/292555805_Petroleum_geological_role_of_Paleogene_overpressure_reservoirs_in_Tanggu-Xincun_of_Beitang_Sag_Bohai_Bay_Basin \| Deng, R. J., Xu, B., Qi, J. J., et al., 2006. Sedimentation Characteristics and Factors Affecting the Reservoir in Palaeogene Shasan Member of Beitang Sag, Huanghua Depression. Acta Petrologica et Mineralogica, 25(3): 230–236 (in Chinese with English Abstract) http://www.researchgate.net/publication/288518239_Sedimentation_characteristics_and_factors_affecting_the_reservoir_in_Palaeogene_Shasan_Member_of_Beitang_sag_Huanghua_depression \| Deng, R. J., Xu, B., Yang, H., et al., 2005b. Paleogene Source Rock Characteristic and Its Evolution in Beitang Sag, Huanghua Depression. Petroleum Geology and Recovery Efficiency, 12(4): 35–38 (in Chinese with English Abstract) http://en.cnki.com.cn/Article_en/CJFDTOTAL-YQCS200504012.htm \| Deng, R. J., Yang, H., Lu, F. T., et al., 2002. Petroleum Exploration of Tanggu Oil Field in Beitang Sag of Huanghua Depression. Petroleum Exploration and Development, 29(2): 123–126 (in Chinese with English Abstract) http://en.cnki.com.cn/Article_en/CJFDTOTAL-SKYK200202037.htm \| Fang, L. M., Luo, Q., 2003. Characteristics of the Fractures and Distribution of Petroleum in Beitang Depression. Journal of Xi'an Petroleum Institute (Natural Science Edition), 18(4): 1–6 (in Chinese with English Abstract) http://www.researchgate.net/publication/292555459_Characteristics_of_the_fractures_and_distribution_of_petroleum_in_Beitang_depression \| Gong, Z. S., Li, S. T., 1997. Continental Margin Basin Analysis and Hydrocarbon Accumulation of the Northern South China Sea. Science Press, Beijing. 75–91 (in Chinese) \| Han, J. Y., Xiao, J., Guo, Q. J., et al., 2003. Analysis on the Coupling of Subsidence Processes, Magmatic Activities, Temperature-Pressure Field Evolution and Hydrocarbon Accumulation in the Nanpu Sag of the Bohaiwan Basin. Petroleum Geology & Experiment, 25(3): 257–263 (in Chinese with English Abstract) http://en.cnki.com.cn/Article_en/CJFDTOTAL-SYSD200303006.htm \| Huang, C. Y., Wang, H., Gao, J. R., et al., 2008. Tectonic Evolution and Its Controlling over Sequence Filling Pattern of Paleogene in Beitang Sag. Journal of China University of Petroleum, 32(3): 7–13 (in Chinese with English Abstract) http://www.researchgate.net/publication/280015893_Tectonic_evolution_and_its_controlling_over_sequence_filling_pattern_of_Paleogene_in_Beitang_sag \| Li, S. T., 2004. Sedimentary Basin Analysis: Principle and Application. Higher Education Press, Beijing. 275–306 (in Chinese) \| Liu, Z., 1999. Sequence Stratigraphic Framework and Hydrocarbon Exploration. Petroleum Industry Press, Beijing. 25–26 (in Chinese) \| Ma, J., Gao, Y., Deng, R. J., et al., 1999., Reservoir Evaluation and Favorable Belt Prediction for Es3 Formation of Beitang Sag. Petroleum Exploration and Development, 26(6): 36–38 (in Chinese with English Abstract) http://en.cnki.com.cn/Article_en/CJFDTOTAL-SKYK199906012.htm \| Sachsenhofer, R. F., Lankfreijer, A., Cloetingh, S., et al., 1997. Subsidence Analysis and Quantitative Basin Modeling in the Styrian Basin (Pannonian Basin System, Austria). Tectonophysics, 272: 175–196 doi: 10.1016/S0040-1951(96)00257-0 \| Scheck, M., Bayer, U., 1999. Evolution of the Northeast German Basin—Inferences from a 3D Structural Model and Subsidence Analysis. Tectonophysics, 313: 145–169 doi: 10.1016/S0040-1951(99)00194-8 \| Schwarzer, D., Littke, R., 2007. Petroleum Generation and Migration in the 'Tight Gas' Area of the German Rotliegend Natural Gas Play: A Basin Modeling Study. Petroleum Geoscience, 13: 37–62 doi: 10.1144/1354-079306-703 \| Xiao, K. Y., Deng, R. J., Yang, H., 2004. Petroleum Geological Role of Magmatic Activities in Xingang Prospect Area, Beitang Sag. Petroleum Exploration and Development, 32(2): 25–28 (in Chinese with English Abstract) http://en.cnki.com.cn/Article_en/CJFDTOTAL-SKYK200402006.htm \| Zhang, Q. C., Shi, G. R., Tian, Z. Y., 2001. Present Developing Situation and Future Prospects of Basin Simulation Technology. Petroleum Geology & Experiment, 23(3): 312–317 (in Chinese with English Abstract) http://en.cnki.com.cn/Article_en/CJFDTOTAL-SYSD200103010.htm \| Zhu, T. X., Huang, Z. Y., Yin, F. G., 2000. Mesozoic Tectonic Subsidence in the Chuxiong Foreland Basin, Yunnan. Sedimentary Geology and Tethyan Geology, 20(4): 20–30 (in Chinese with English Abstract) http://www.cqvip.com/QK/98500A/200004/4724688.html \|
Perlihatkan publikasi sederhana The use of chemotherapeutic agents in aquaculture in the Philippines dc.contributor.author \| Baticados, Maria Cecilia L. \| \| dc.contributor.author \| Paclibare, Jose O. \| \| dc.contributor.editor \| Shariff, M. \| \| dc.contributor.editor \| Subasinghe, R. P. \| \| dc.date.accessioned \| 2011-06-22T09:35:24Z \| \| dc.date.available \| 2011-06-22T09:35:24Z \| \| dc.date.issued \| 1992 \| \| dc.identifier.citation \| Baticados, M. C. L., & Paclibare, J. O. (1992). The use of chemotherapeutic agents in aquaculture in the Philippines. In M. Shariff, R. P. Subasinghe, & J. R. Arthur (Eds.), Diseases in Asian Aquaculture, I: proceedings of the first Symposium on Diseases in Asian Aquaculture : 26-29 November 1990, Bali, Indonesia (pp. 531-546). Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines: Fish Health Section, Asian Fisheries Society. \| en \| dc.identifier.uri \| http://hdl.handle.net/10862/350 \| \| dc.description.abstract \| Chemotherapeutants are widely used to treat diseases of fish, specifically shrimp and aquarium fishes in the Philippines. The most commonly treated diseases are luminous vibriosis, filamentous bacterial disease, shell disease, larval mycosis and protozoan infections in shrimp and white spot, velvet disease, fin and tail rot, crustacean and monogenean infections, fungal infections and dropsy in finfishes. These chemicals include chloramphenicol, erythromycin, oxytetracycline, nitrofurans, formalin, malachite green, potassium permanganate, copper sulfate and Neguvon. The indiscriminate use may cause mortalities and morphological deformities in the host, development of resistant strains of bacteria and public health hazards. The Philippine government has embarked on regulating the use of these chemicals. Initially, use of chloramphenicol has been banned in food producing animals. In the near future, rules and regulations on the registration and labelling of these chemicals will be implemented. While these are a welcome development, much still needs to be done. It is recommended that medically important drugs be excluded from aquaculture. The campaign on the careful and restricted use of drugs should be intensified in both drug and aquaculture industries. Further research must be done on the screening of other drugs which are effective and environmentally safe. Lastly, funds should be allocated for research, extension and manpower development in fish health management, specifically, in chemotherapy. \| en \| dc.language.iso \| en \| en \| dc.publisher \| Asian Fisheries Society, Fish Health Section \| en \| dc.relation.ispartof \| In: Shariff, M., Subasinghe, R.P., Arthur, J.R. (eds.). Diseases in Asian Aquaculture I. Proceedings of the First Symposium on Diseases in Asian Aquaculture, 26-29 November 1990, Bali, Indonesia. Manila, Philippines: Asian Fisheries Society, Fish Health Section. pp. 531-546 \| en \| dc.subject \| animal health \| en \| dc.subject \| Philippines \| en \| dc.subject.lcc \| VF SP 142 \| \| dc.title \| The use of chemotherapeutic agents in aquaculture in the Philippines \| en \| dc.type \| Conference paper \| en \| dc.citation.spage \| 531 \| \| dc.citation.epage \| 546 \| \| dc.citation.conferenceTitle \| Diseases in Asian Aquaculture I. Proceedings of the First Symposium on Diseases in Asian Aquaculture, 26-29 November 1990, Bali, Indonesia \| en \| dc.subject.asfa \| drugs \| en \| dc.subject.asfa \| therapy \| en \| dc.subject.asfa \| disease prophylaxis \| en \| dc.subject.asfa \| literature reviews \| en \| Files in this item Files \| Size \| Format \| View \| There are no files associated with this item. \| Publikasi ini ada di koleksi berikut Conference Proceedings [300]
Times have changed, and every entrepreneur is looking for more sustainable solutions. So, knowing them is not necessary; it is essential in an era where people love them. There is a host of solutions that work perfectly to give sustainable results. This article will provide examples, materials, box designs, and the benefits of sustainable packaging. Let it be an informational journey. Sustainable packaging is a system that follows a complete process for the circular economy. It offers the following methods to achieve sustainable solutions: Sustainability can provide multiple environmental benefits with pros for manufacturers, too. So, here are some you need to know: Now, making sustainable packaging needs to come from materials supporting it. So, we have a list that will give you the top raw materials you can use for this: This list includes the most common materials used in packaging. Each material has its benefits, making it perfect for specific jobs. Find out which ones work for you and ensure they make things impressive. This part will give you two examples of such products and examples you need to know. So, here are some you can use for your needs: These industries use sustainable packaging most frequently. So, using it can be a great way to reap the benefits of these in-thing packaging needs. The concrete part comes when you add some box designs to your products. So, your sustainable solutions must ensure you get the perfect shape, design, and other essential components. Here are some sustainable packaging examples you need to try: These designs can perfect your packages with the best beauty they carry. Making sure you get the right uniqueness and creativity is essential. You can find multiple features of sustainable packaging, such as being made from recyclable material. This means you can break it down and convert it into other products, reducing waste in landfills. You can also try materials like cardboard, aluminum, and paper. Here are some essential methods that can help improve your packaging sustainability: Using sustainable packaging materials can help with environmental impact as they are biodegradable, recycled, and renewable. At the same time, you conserve resources when you use such packaging by not relying on virgin resources. Customers and clients will also be more interested in buying eco-friendly products, making such materials more reliable. The impact of sustainable packaging on branding is quite effective. Using such packaging allows you a positive brand image and differentiation. At the same time, your customers and clients will have more brand loyalty. You can also use these values to enhance your brand story. Multiple factors are converting the sustainable packaging industry into a trend, such as: We care for every packaging need by following the most recent and valuable trends. So, let us help you achieve your goals with the most impressive results you can get. The better we design, the more sales you can get.
Rāmāyaṇa \| \| Information \| \| Religion \| Hinduism \| Author \| Valmiki \| Language \| Sanskrit \| Period \| 8th century BCE–3rd century CE \| Chapters \| 500 Sargas, 7 Kandas \| Verses \| 24,000 \| Full text \| \| Rāmāyaṇa at Sanskrit Wikisource \| \| The Ramayana at English Wikisource \| Part of a series on \| Hinduism \| The Ramayana ( /rɑːˈmɑːjənə/ ; [1] [2] Sanskrit : रामायणम्, romanized: Rāmāyaṇam [3] ), also known as Valmiki Ramayana, as traditionally attributed to Valmiki, is a smriti text (also described as a Sanskrit epic) from ancient India, one of the two important epics of Hinduism known as the Itihasas , the other being the Mahabharata . [4] The epic narrates the life of Rama, a prince of Ayodhya in the kingdom of Kosala. The epic follows his fourteen-year exile to the forest urged by his father King Dasharatha, on the request of Rama's stepmother Kaikeyi; his travels across forests in the Indian subcontinent with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana; the kidnapping of Sita by Ravana, the king of Lanka, that resulted in war; and Rama's eventual return to Ayodhya along with Sita to be crowned king amidst jubilation and celebration. The scholars' estimates for the earliest stage of the text ranging from the 7th to 4th centuries BCE, [5] [6] and later stages extending up to the 3rd century CE, [7] although original date of composition is unknown. It is one of the largest ancient epics in world literature and consists of nearly 24,000 verses (mostly set in the Shloka/Anuṣṭubh metre), divided into seven kāṇḍa (chapters). It belongs to the genre of Itihasa, narratives of past events (purāvṛtta), interspersed with teachings on the goals of human life. There are many versions of the Ramayana in Indian languages, besides Buddhist, and Jain adaptations. There are also Cambodian ( Reamker ), Indonesian, Filipino, Thai ( Ramakien ), Lao, Burmese, Nepali, Maldivian, Cambodian, Vietnamese, Tibeto-Chinese, and Malay versions of the Ramayana. [note 1] The Ramayana was an important influence on later Sanskrit poetry and the Hindu life and culture, and its main figures were fundamental to the cultural consciousness of a number of nations, both Hindu and Buddhist. Its most important moral influence was the importance of virtue, in the life of a citizen and in the ideals of the formation of a state (from Sanskrit : रामराज्य, romanized: Rāmarājya, a utopian state where Rama is king) or of a functioning society. The name Rāmāyaṇa is composed of two words, Rāma and ayaṇa. Rāma, the name of the main figure of the epic, has two contextual meanings. In the Atharvaveda, it means 'dark, dark-coloured, black' and is related to the word rātri which means 'darkness or stillness of night'. The other meaning, which can be found in the Mahabharata , is 'pleasing, pleasant, charming, lovely, beautiful'. [13] [14] The word ayana means travel or journey. Thus, Rāmāyaṇa means "Rama's journey", with ayana altered to ayaṇa due to the Sanskrit grammar rule of internal sandhi. [15] [16] Scholarly estimates for the earliest stage of the available text range from the 7th to 4th centuries BCE, [17] [6] with later stages extending up to the 3rd century CE. [7] According to Robert P. Goldman (1984), the oldest parts of the Ramayana date to the early 7th century BCE. [18] The later parts cannot be composed later than the 6th or 5th century BCE, due to the narrative not mentioning Buddhism (founded in the 5th century BC) nor the prominence of Magadha (which rose to prominence in the 7th century BC). The text also mentions Ayodhya as the capital of Kosala, rather than its later name of Saketa or the successor capital of Shravasti. [19] In terms of narrative time, the action of the Ramayana predates the Mahabharata . Goldman and Sutherland Goldman (2022) consider Ramayana's oldest surviving version was composed around 500 BCE. [20] Books two to six are the oldest portion of the epic, while the first and last books ( Balakanda and Uttara Kanda , respectively) seem to be later additions. Style differences and narrative contradictions between these two volumes and the rest of the epic have led scholars since Hermann Jacobi toward this consensus. [21] The Ramayana belongs to the genre of Itihasa , narratives of past events (purāvṛtta), which includes the epics Mahabharata and Ramayana, and the Puranas. The genre also includes teachings on the goals of human life. It depicts the duties of relationships, portraying ideal characters like the ideal son, servant, brother, husband, wife, and king. [22] Like the Mahabharata, Ramayana presents the teachings of ancient Hindu sages in the narrative allegory, interspersing philosophical and ethical elements. In its extant form, Valmiki's Ramayana is an epic poem containing over 24,000 couplet verses, divided into seven kāṇḍas (Bālakāṇḍa, Ayodhyakāṇḍa, Araṇyakāṇḍa, Kiṣkindakāṇḍa, Sundarākāṇḍa, Yuddhakāṇḍa, Uttarakāṇḍa), and about 500 sargas (chapters). [23] [24] It is regarded as one of the longest epic poems ever written. [25] The Ramayana text has several regional renderings, recensions, and sub-recensions. Textual scholar Robert P. Goldman differentiates two major regional revisions: the northern (n) and the southern (s). Scholar Romesh Chunder Dutt writes that "the Ramayana, like the Mahabharata , is a growth of centuries, but the main story is more distinctly the creation of one mind." There has been discussion as to whether the first and the last volumes of Valmiki's Ramayana (Bala Kanda and Uttara Kanda) were composed by the original author. Though Bala Kanda is sometimes considered in the main epic, according to many Uttara Kanda is certainly a later interpolation, not attributable to Valmiki. [23] Both of these two kāndas are absent in the oldest manuscript. [26] Because of some style differences and narrative contradictions between these two volumes and the rest, many Hindus don't believe that these kandas are integral parts of the scripture. [27] Some think that the Uttara Kanda contradicts how Rama and Dharma are portrayed in the rest of the epic. M. R. Parameswaran says that the way the positions of women and Shudras are depicted shows that the Uttara Kanda is a later insertion. Since Rama was revered as a dharmatma, his ideas seen in the Ramayana proper cannot be replaced by new ideas as to what dharma is, except by claiming that he himself adopted those new ideas. That is what the U-K [Uttara Kanda] does. It embodies the new ideas in two stories that are usually referred to as Sita-parityaga, the abandonment of Sita (after Rama and Sita return to Ayodhya and Rama was consecrated as king) and Sambuka-vadha, the killing of the ascetic Sambuka. The U-K attributes both actions to Rama, whom people acknowledged to be righteous and as a model to follow. By masquerading as an additional kanda of the Ramayana composed by Valmiki himself, the U-K succeeded, to a considerable extent, in sabotaging the values presented in Valmiki's Ramayana. [28] The epic begins with the sage Vālmīki asking Nārada if there is a righteous man still left in the world, to which Nārada replies that such a man is Rāma. After seeing two birds being shot, Vālmīki creates a new form of metre called śloka, in which he is granted the ability to compose an epic poem about Rāma. He teaches his poem to the boys Lava and Kuśa, who recite it throughout the land and eventually at the court of king Rāma. Then the main narrative begins. [29] Daśaratha was the King of Ayodhyā. He had three wives: Kausalyā, Kaikeyī, and Sumitrā. He did not have a son and in the desire to have a legal heir performs a fire sacrifice known as Putrīyā Iṣṭi. Meanwhile, the gods are petitioning to Brahmā and Viṣhṇu about Rāvaṇa, king of the rākṣasas who is terrorizing the universe. Thus Viṣṇu had opted to be born into mortality to combat the demon Rāvaṇa. As a consequence, Rāma was first born to Kausalyā, Bharata was born to Kaikeyī, and Lakṣmaṇa and Śatrughna were born to Sumitrā. [29] When Rāma was 16 years old, the r̥ṣi (sage) Viśvāmitra comes to the court of Daśaratha in search of help against demons who were disturbing sacrificial rites. He chooses Rāma, who is followed by Lakṣmaṇa, his constant companion throughout the story. Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa receive instructions and supernatural weapons from Viśvāmitra and proceed to destroy Tāṭakā and many other demons. Viśvāmitra also recounts much lore of the landscape, his own ancestors, and the ancestors of the princes. [29] The party then decide to go to attend king Janaka's sacrifice in the kingdom of Mithilā, who has a bow that no one has been able to string. Janaka recounts the history of the famed bow, and informs them that whoever strings the bow will win the hand of his daughter Sītā, whom he had found in the earth when plowing a field. Rāma then proceeds to not only string the bow, but breaks it in the process. Rāma marries Sītā; the wedding is celebrated with great festivity in Mithilā and the marriage party returns to Ayodhyā. [29] After Rāma and Sītā have been married, an elderly Daśaratha expresses his desire to crown Rāma, to which the Kosala assembly and his subjects express their support. On the eve of the great event, Kaikeyī was happy about this, but was later on provoked by Mantharā, a wicked maidservant, to claim two boons that Daśaratha had long ago granted her. Kaikeyī demands Rāma to be exiled into the wilderness for fourteen years, while the succession passes to her son Bharata. The grief-stricken king, bound by his word, accedes to Kaikeyī's demands. Rāma accepts his father's reluctant decree with absolute submission and calm self-control which characterizes him throughout the story. He asks Sītā to remain in Ayodhyā, but she convinces him to take her with him in exile. Lakṣmaṇa also resolves to follow his brother into the forest. After Rāma's departure, King Daśaratha, unable to bear the grief, passes away. Meanwhile, Bharata, who was on a visit to his maternal uncle, learns about the events in Ayodhyā. He is shocked and refuses to profit from his mother's wicked scheming. He visits Rāma in the forest and implores him to return to Ayodhyā and claim the throne that is rightfully his. But Rāma, determined to carry out his father's orders to the letter, refuses to return before the period of exile. Bharata reluctantly returns to Ayodhyā and rules the kingdom on behalf of his brother. In exile, Rāma, Sītā, and Lakṣmaṇa journey southward along the banks of the river Godāvari, where they build cottages and live off the land. One day, in the Pañcavati forest they are visited by a rākṣasī named Śurpaṇakhā, sister of Ravaṇa. She tries to seduce the brothers and, after failing, attempts to kill Sītā out of jealousy. Lakṣmaṇa stops her by cutting off her nose and ears. Hearing of this, her brothers Khara and Dushan organize an attack against the princes. Rama defeats Khara and his rakshasas. When the news of these events reaches Rāvaṇa, he resolves to destroy Rāma by capturing Sītā with the aid of the rakṣasa Mārīca. Mārīca, assuming the form of a golden deer, captivates Sītā's attention. Entranced by the beauty of the deer, Sītā pleads with Rāma to capture it. Rāma, aware that this is the ploy of the demons, cannot dissuade Sītā from her desire and chases the deer into the forest, leaving Sītā under Lakṣmaṇa's guard. After some time, Sītā hears Rāma calling out to her; afraid for his life, she insists that Lakṣmaṇa rush to his aid. Lakṣmaṇa tries to assure her that Rāma cannot be hurt that easily and that it is best if he continues to follow Rāma's orders to protect her. On the verge of hysterics, Sītā insists that it is not she but Rāma who needs Lakṣmaṇa's help. He obeys her wish but stipulates that she is not to leave the cottage or entertain any stranger. He then draws a line that no demon could cross and leaves to help Rāma. With the coast finally clear, Rāvaṇa appears in the guise of an ascetic requesting Sītā's hospitality. Unaware of her guest's plan, Sītā is tricked and is then forcibly carried away by Rāvaṇa. [30] Jatāyu, a vulture, tries to rescue Sītā but is mortally wounded. In Lankā, Sītā is kept under the guard of rakṣasīs. Ravaṇa asks Sītā to marry him, but she refuses, being totally devoted to Rāma. Meanwhile, Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa learn about Sītā's abduction from Jatāyu and immediately set out to save her. During their search, they meet Kabandha and the ascetic Śabarī, who directs them towards Sugriva and Hanuman. Citadel Kishkindha Kanda is set in the place of Vānaras (Vana-nara) – Forest dwelling humans. [31] Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa meet Hanumān, the biggest devotee of Rāma, greatest of ape heroes, and an adherent of Sugriva, the banished pretender to the throne of Kiṣkindhā. Rāma befriends Sugriva and helps him by killing his elder brother Vāli thus regaining the kingdom of Kiṣkindhā, in exchange for helping Rāma to recover Sītā. However, Sugriva soon forgets his promise and spends his time enjoying his newly gained power. The clever former ape queen Tārā, (wife of Vāli) calmly intervenes to prevent an enraged Lakṣmaṇa from destroying the ape citadel. She then eloquently convinces Sugriva to honor his pledge. Sugriva then sends search parties to the four corners of the earth, only to return without success from north, east, and west. The southern search party under the leadership of Aṅgada and Hanumān learns from a vulture named Sampātī the elder brother of Jatāyu, that Sītā was taken to Lankā. Sundara Kanda forms the heart of Valmiki's Ramayana and consists of a detailed, vivid account of Hanumān's heroics. After learning about Sītā, Hanumān assumes a gigantic form and makes a colossal leap across the sea to Lanka. On the way, he meets with many challenges like facing a Gandharva Kanyā who comes in the form of a demon to test his abilities. He encounters a mountain named Maināka who offers Hanuman assistance and offers him rest. Hanumān refuses because there is little time remaining to complete the search for Sītā. After entering Lankā, he finds a demon, Lankini, who protects all of Lankā. Hanumān fights with her and subjugates her in order to get into Lankā. In the process, Lankini, who had an earlier vision/warning from the gods, therefore, knows that the end of Lankā nears if someone defeats Lankini. Here, Hanumān explores the demons' kingdom and spies on Rāvaṇa. He locates Sītā in Ashoka grove, where she is being wooed and threatened by Rāvaṇa and his rakshasis to marry Rāvaṇa. Hanumān reassures Sītā, giving Rāma's signet ring as a sign that Rāma is still alive. He offers to carry Sītā back to Rāma; however, she refuses and says that it is not the dharma, stating that Ramāyaṇa will not have significance if Hanumān carries her to Rāma – "When Rāma was not there Rāvaṇa carried Sītā forcibly and when Rāvaṇa was not there, Hanumān carried Sītā back to Ræma." She says that Rāma himself must come and avenge the insult of her abduction. She gives Hanumān her comb as a token to prove that she is still alive. Hanumān takes leave of Sītā. Before going back to Rāma and tell him of Sītā's location & desire to be rescued only by him, he decides to wreak havoc in Lankā by destroying trees in the Naulakha Bagh and buildings and killing Rāvaṇa's warriors. He allows himself to be captured and delivered to Rāvaṇa. He gives a bold lecture to Rāvaṇa to release Sīta. He is condemned and his tail is set on fire, but he escapes his bonds and leaps from roof to roof, sets fire to Rāvaṇa's citadel, and makes the giant leap back from the island. The joyous search party returns to Kiṣkindhā with the news. Also known as Lankā Kāṇḍa, this book describes the war between the army of Rāma and the army of Rāvaṇa. Having received Hanuman's report on Sītā, Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa proceed with their allies towards the shore of the southern sea. There they are joined by Rāvaṇa's renegade brother Vibhiṣaṇa. The vānaras named Nala and Nīla construct the Rama Setu. [32] The princes and their army cross over to Lanka. A lengthy war ensues. During a battle, Ravana's son Meghanāda hurls a powerful weapon at Lakṣmaṇa and he gets mortally wounded. So Hanumān assumes his gigantic form and flies from Lankā to the Himalayas. Upon reaching Mount Sanjeevani, Hanumān is unable to identify the herb that will cure Lakṣmaṇa and so he decides to bring the entire mountain back to Lankā. Eventually, the war ends when Rāma kills Rāvaṇa. Rāma then installs Vibhishaṇa on the throne of Lanka. On meeting Sītā, Rāma says; "The dishonour meted out to him and the wrong done to her by Rāvaṇa have been wiped off, by his victory over the enemy with the assistance of Hanumān, Sugrīva and Vibhishaṇa". [33] However, upon criticism from people in his kingdom about the chastity of Sītā, Rāma gets extremely disheartened. So Sītā, in order to prove the citizens wrong and wipe the false blame on her, requests Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa to prepare a pyre for her to enter. When Lakṣmaṇa prepares the pyre, Sītā prays to Agni and enters into it, in order to prove her conjugal fidelity. Agni appears in person from the burning pyre, carrying Sītā in his arms and restores her to Rāma, testifying to her purity. [34] Rama later joyfully accepts her. The episode of Agni Pariksha varies in the versions of Ramāyaṇa by Valmiki and Tulsidas. In Tulsidas's Ramcharitmanas , Sītā was under the protection of Agni (see Māyā Sītā) so it was necessary to bring her out before reuniting with Rāma.The Gods led by Brahma arrives and Glorifies Rama as the incarnation of Supreme God Narayana. Indra restores the dead Vanaras back to life. After the exile, Rāma returns to Ayodhya and the people are so happy they celebrate it like a festival. Deepavali is the day considered that Rāma, Sītā, Lakṣmaṇa and Hanumān reached Ayodhyā after a period of 14 years in exile after Rāma's army of good defeated demon king Rāvaṇa's army of evil. The return of Rāma to Ayodhyā was celebrated with his coronation. It is called Rāma pattabhisheka. There are mentions in Rāmayaṇa that Rama gave several donations to Sugriva, Jambavan, other Vanaras, and gave a pearl necklace to Sita telling her to give it to a great person. She gives it to Hanumān. Rāma was so thankful to Vibhisaṇa and wanted to give him a great gift. Rāma gave his Aradhana Devata (Sri Ranganathaswamy) to Vibhishana as a gift. [35] Rama's rule itself was Rāma rājya described to be a just and fair rule. [36] [37] It is believed by many that when Rama returned people celebrated their happiness with diyas , and the festival of Deepavali is connected with Rāma's return. [38] Scholars note "linguistic and rhetorical differences" between the Uttara Kanda and books 2 through 6 of the Ramayana, especially in stories such as Sita's exile and death of Shambuka, and together with Bala Kanda it is considered by some scholars to be an interpolation, and that "the 'original' poem ended with the Yuddhakanda. [39] [40] This kanda narrates Rama's reign of Ayodhya, the birth of Lava and Kusha, the Ashvamedha yajna, and last days of Rama. At the expiration of his term of exile, Rama returns to Ayodhya with Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman, where the coronation is performed. On being asked to prove his devotion to Rama, Hanuman tears his chest open and to everyone's surprise, there is an image of Rama and Sita inside his chest. Rama rules Ayodhya and the reign is called Rama-Rajya (a place where the common folk is happy, fulfilled, and satisfied). Then Valmiki trained Lava and Kusha in archery and succeeded the throne after Rama. As in many oral epics, multiple versions of the Ramayana survive. In particular, the Ramayana related in north India differs in important respects from that preserved in south India and the rest of southeast Asia. There is an extensive tradition of oral storytelling based on Ramayana in Indonesia, Cambodia, Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, Vietnam and Maldives. There are diverse regional versions of the Ramayana written by various authors in India. Some of them differ significantly from each other. A West Bengal manuscript from the 6th century presents the epic without two of its kandas. During the 12th century, Kamban wrote Ramavataram, known popularly as Kambaramayanam in Tamil, but references to Ramayana story appear in Tamil literature as early as 3rd century CE. The Telugu rendition, Ranganatha Ramayanam, was written by Gona Budda Reddy in the 13th century and another of a purer Telugu rendition, called Molla Ramayanam written by Atukuri Molla in the 15th century. The earliest translation to a regional Indo-Aryan language is the early 14th century Saptakanda Ramayana in Assamese by Madhava Kandali. Valmiki's Ramayana inspired Sri Ramacharit Manas by Tulsidas in 1576, an epic in Awadhi Hindi with a slant more grounded in a different realm of Hindu literature, that of bhakti; it is an acknowledged masterpiece, popularly known as Tulsi-krita Ramayana. Gujarati poet Premanand wrote a version of the Ramayana in the 17th century.[ citation needed ] Akbar, the third Mughal Emperor, commissioned a simplified text of the Ramayana which he dedicated to his mother, Hamida Banu Begum. Created around 1594, the manuscript is illustrated with scenes from the narrative. [41] [42] Other versions include Krittivasi Ramayan, a Bengali version by Krittibas Ojha in the 15th century; Vilanka Ramayana by 15th century poet Sarala Dasa [43] and Jagamohana Ramayana (also known as Dandi Ramayana) by 16th century poet Balarama Dasa, both in Odia; a Torave Ramayana in Kannada by 16th-century poet Narahari; Adhyathmaramayanam, a Malayalam version by Thunchaththu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan in the 16th century; in Marathi by Sridhara in the 18th century; in Maithili by Chanda Jha in the 19th century; and in the 20th century, Rashtrakavi Kuvempu's Sri Ramayana Darshanam in Kannada and Srimadramayana Kalpavrukshamu in Telugu by Viswanatha Satyanarayana who received Jnanapeeth award for this work. There is a sub-plot to the Ramayana, prevalent in some parts of India, relating the adventures of Ahiravan and Mahi Ravana, evil brother of Ravana, which enhances the role of Hanuman in the story. Hanuman rescues Rama and Lakshmana after they are kidnapped by the Ahi-Mahi Ravana at the behest of Ravana and held prisoner in a cave, to be sacrificed to the goddess Kali. Adbhuta Ramayana is a version that is obscure but also attributed to Valmiki – intended as a supplementary to the original Valmiki Ramayana. In this variant of the narrative, Sita is accorded far more prominence, such as elaboration of the events surrounding her birth – in this case to Ravana's wife, Mandodari as well as her conquest of Ravana's older brother in the Mahakali form. The Gondi people have their own version of the Ramayana known as the Gond Ramayani, derived from oral folk legends. It consists of seven stories with Lakshmana as the protagonist, set after the main events of the Ramayana, where he finds a bride. [44] Chance discovery of a 6th-century manuscript reveals insights into the evolution of the narrative. Importantly, the 'Daśagrīvā Rākṣasa Charitrām Vadham' (Slaying of the Ten-Headed Giant) manuscript contains only five kandas (chapters), and ends with the trio's triumphant return to Ayodhya. [45] [46] Missing from this particular recension are the 'Balakanda' dealing with Rama's childhood, and the 'Uttarakanda' – which narrates (a) Rama's divinity as an avatar of Vishnu, (b) the events leading up to the exile of Sita, (c) the death of Rama's devoted brother, Lakshmana. These are also the only two books where the Sage Valmiki appears as a character. [47] The manuscript was discovered in 2015, from an archive compiled by the German Indologist Theodor Aufrecht. Even before Kambar wrote the Ramavataram in Tamil in the 12th century AD, there are many ancient references to the story of Ramayana, implying that the story was familiar in the Tamil lands even before the Common Era. References to the story can be found in the Sangam literature of Akanaṉūṟu (dated 1st century BCE) [48] and Purananuru (dated 300 BC), [49] [50] the twin epics of Silappatikaram (dated 2nd century CE) [51] and Manimekalai (cantos 5, 17 and 18), [52] [53] [54] and the Alvar literature of Kulasekhara Alvar, Thirumangai Alvar, Andal and Nammalvar (dated between 5th and 10th centuries CE). [55] Even the songs of the Nayanmars have references to Ravana and his devotion to Lord Siva. The entire Ramayana was written as an Tamil Opera again in the 18th century CE by Arunachala Kavirayar in Srirangam. The Ramayana was named as Rama Natakam and was composed in Tamil Language. Arunachala Kavi was fascinated by the epic Ramayana so much that he wanted to impart the story and the good lessons preached by it to a large number of persons who could not obviously read the entire epic in original. He composed the entire Ramayana in the form of songs together as an opera so even normal people could understand his Ramayana. [56] [57] In the Buddhist variant of the Ramayana (Dasaratha Jataka), Dasharatha was king of Benares and not Ayodhya. Rama (called Rāmapaṇḍita in this version) was the son of Kaushalya, first wife of Dasharatha. Lakṣmaṇa (Lakkhaṇa) was a sibling of Rama and son of Sumitra, the second wife of Dasharatha. Sita was the wife of Rama. To protect his children from his wife Kaikeyi, who wished to promote her son Bharata, Dasharatha sent the three to a hermitage in the Himalayas for a twelve-year exile. After nine years, Dasharatha died and Lakkhaṇa and Sita returned. Rāmapaṇḍita, in deference to his father's wishes, remained in exile for a further two years. This version does not include the abduction of Sītā. There is no Ravana in this version, or the Rama-Ravana war. However, Ravana appears in other Buddhist literature, the Lankavatara Sutra. In the explanatory commentary on Jātaka, Rāmapaṇḍita is said to have been a previous birth of the Buddha, and Sita as previous birth of Yasodharā (Rahula-Mata). Jain versions of the Ramayana can be found in the various Jain agamas like Saṅghadāsagaṇī Vāchaka's Vasudevahiṇḍī (circa 4th century CE), [58] Ravisena's Padmapurana (story of Padmaja and Rama, Padmaja being the name of Sita), Hemacandra's Trisastisalakapurusa charitra (hagiography of 63 illustrious persons), Sanghadasa's Vasudevahindi and Uttarapurana by Gunabhadara. According to Jain cosmology, every half time cycle has nine sets of Balarama, Vasudeva and prativasudeva. Rama, Lakshmana and Ravana are the eighth Baldeva, Vasudeva and Prativasudeva respectively. Padmanabh Jaini notes that, unlike in the Hindu Puranas, the names Baladeva and Vasudeva are not restricted to Balarama and Krishna in Jain Puranas. Instead they serve as names of two distinct classes of mighty brothers, who appear nine times in each half time cycle and jointly rule half the earth as half-chakravartins. Jaini traces the origin of this list of brothers to the jinacharitra (lives of jinas) by Acharya Bhadrabahu (3d–4th century BCE). In the Jain epic of Ramayana, it is not Rama who kills Ravana as told in the Hindu version. Perhaps this is because Rama, a liberated Jain Self in his last life, is unwilling to kill. [59] Instead, it is Lakshmana who kills Ravana (as Vasudeva killes Prativasudeva). [59] In the end, Rama, who led an upright life, renounces his kingdom, becomes a Jain monk and attains moksha. On the other hand, Lakshmana and Ravana go to Hell. However, it is predicted that ultimately they both will be reborn as upright persons and attain liberation in their future births. According to Jain texts, Ravana will be the future Tirthankara (omniscient teacher) of Jainism. The Jain versions have some variations from Valmiki's Ramayana. Dasharatha, the king of Ayodhya had four queens: Aparajita, Sumitra, Suprabha and Kaikeyi. These four queens had four sons. Aparajita's son was Padma and he became known by the name of Rama. Sumitra's son was Narayana: he came to be known by another name, Lakshmana. Kaikeyi's son was Bharata and Suprabha's son was Shatrughna. Furthermore, not much was thought of Rama's fidelity to Sita. According to the Jain version, Rama had four chief queens: Maithili, Prabhavati, Ratinibha, and Sridama. Furthermore, Sita takes renunciation as a Jain ascetic after Rama abandons her and is reborn in heaven as Indra. Rama, after Lakshman's death, also renounces his kingdom and becomes a Jain monk. Ultimately, he attains Kevala Jnana omniscience and finally liberation. Rama predicts that Ravana and Lakshmana, who were in the fourth hell, will attain liberation in their future births. Accordingly, Ravana is the future Tirthankara of the next half ascending time cycle and Sita will be his Ganadhara. There are several Indonesian adaptations of Ramayana, including the Javanese Kakawin Ramayana [60] [61] and Balinese Ramakavaca. The first half of Kakawin Ramayana is similar to the original Sanskrit version, while the latter half is very different. One of the recognizable modifications is the inclusion of the indigenous Javanese guardian demigod, Semar, and his sons, Gareng, Petruk, and Bagong who make up the numerically significant four Punokawan or "clown servants". [62] Kakawin Ramayana is believed to have been written in Central Java circa 870 AD during the reign of Mpu Sindok in the Mataram Kingdom. [62] The Javanese Kakawin Ramayana is not based on Valmiki's epic, which was then the most famous version of Rama's story, but based on Ravanavadha or the "Ravana massacre," which is the sixth or seventh century poem by Indian poet Bhattikavya. [63] Kakawin Ramayana was further developed on the neighboring island of Bali becoming the Balinese Ramakavaca. The bas-reliefs of Ramayana and Krishnayana scenes are carved on balustrades of the 9th century Prambanan temple in Yogyakarta, [64] as well as in the 14th century Penataran temple in East Java. [65] In Indonesia, the Ramayana is a deeply ingrained aspect of the culture, especially among Javanese, Balinese and Sundanese people, and has become the source of moral and spiritual guidance as well as aesthetic expression and entertainment, for example in wayang and traditional dances. [66] The Balinese kecak dance for example, retells the story of the Ramayana, with dancers playing the roles of Rama, Sita, Lakhsmana, Jatayu, Hanuman, Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Indrajit surrounded by a troupe of over 50 bare-chested men who serve as the chorus chanting "cak". The performance also includes a fire show to describe the burning of Lanka by Hanuman. [67] In Yogyakarta, the Wayang Wong Javanese dance also retells the Ramayana. One example of a dance production of the Ramayana in Java is the Ramayana Ballet performed on the Trimurti Prambanan open air stage, with dozens of actors and the three main prasad spires of the Prambanan Hindu temple as a backdrop. [68] The Hikayat Seri Rama of Malaysia incorporated element of both Hindu history and Islamic mythology. [69] [70] [71] The Maharadia Lawana , an epic poem of the Maranao people of the Philippines, has been regarded as an indigenized version of the Ramayana since it was documented and translated into English by Professor Juan R. Francisco and Nagasura Madale in 1968. [72] : "264" [73] The poem, which had not been written down before Francisco and Madale's translation, [72] : "264" narrates the adventures of the monkey-king, Maharadia Lawana, to whom the Gods have granted immortality. [72] Francisco, an indologist from the University of the Philippines Manila, believed that the Ramayana narrative arrived in the Philippines some time between the 17th to 19th centuries, via interactions with Javanese and Malaysian cultures which traded extensively with India. [74] : 101 By the time it was documented in the 1960s, the character names, place names, and the precise episodes and events in Maharadia Lawana's narrative already had some notable differences from those of the Ramayana. Francisco believed that this was a sign of "indigenization", and suggested that some changes had already been introduced in Malaysia and Java even before the story was heard by the Maranao, and that upon reaching the Maranao homeland, the story was "further indigenized to suit Philippine cultural perspectives and orientations." [74] : "103" Thailand's popular national epic Ramakien (Thai : รามเกียรติ์, from rāmakīrti, 'glory of Ram') is derived from the Hindu epic. In Ramakien, Sita is the daughter of Ravana and Mandodari (thotsakan and montho). Vibhishana (phiphek), the astrologer brother of Ravana, predicts the death of Ravana from Sita's horoscope. Ravana throws her into the water, but she is later rescued by Janaka (chanok). [59] : 149 While the main story is identical to that of Ramayana, many other aspects were transposed into a Thai context, such as the clothes, weapons, topography and elements of nature, which are described as being Thai in style. It has an expanded role for Hanuman and he is portrayed as a lascivious character. Ramakien can be seen in an elaborate illustration at Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok. A critical edition of the text was compiled in India in the 1960s and 1970s, by the Oriental Institute at Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, India, utilizing dozens of manuscripts collected from across India and the surrounding region. [75] An English language translation of the critical edition was completed in November 2016 by Sanskrit scholar Robert P. Goldman of the University of California, Berkeley. [76] It is said that there are around thirty three commentaries for Ramayana. [77] Some of the commentaries on Ramayana include Mahesvara Tirtha's tattvadīpa (also known as tattvadīpika), Govindaraja's bhūṣaṇa (also known as govindarājīyam), Sivasahaya's śiromaṇi, Mahadeva Yogi's amṛtakaṭaka, Ramanuja's rāmānujīyam, Ahobala's taniclōkī and tilaka by Nagoji Bhatta or Ramavarma. [78] The three commentaries tilaka, bhūṣaṇa and śiromaṇi are known as ṭīkātraya (i.e. commentary trio) and are more popular. [79] Diwali is the festival of lights in Hinduism; people celebrate this festival in joy of Lord Rama returning to Ayodhya with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana. [80] Adam's bridge also known as Ramsetu was built by Lord Rama and vanaras to cross the Palak Strait for rescuing Sita from Ravana's Lanka. One of the most important literary works of ancient India, the Ramayana has had a profound impact on art and culture in the Indian subcontinent and southeast Asia with the lone exception of Vietnam. The story ushered in the tradition of the next thousand years of massive-scale works in the rich diction of regal courts and Hindu temples. It has also inspired much secondary literature in various languages, notably Kambaramayanam by Tamil poet Kambar of the 12th century, Telugu language Molla Ramayanam by poet Molla and Ranganatha Ramayanam by poet Gona Budda Reddy, 14th century Kannada poet Narahari's Torave Ramayana and 15th century Bengali poet Krittibas Ojha's Krittivasi Ramayan, as well as the 16th century Awadhi version, Ramcharitmanas , written by Tulsidas. Ramayanic scenes have also been depicted through terracottas, stone sculptures, bronzes and paintings. [81] These include the stone panel at Nagarjunakonda in Andhra Pradesh depicting Bharata's meeting with Rama at Chitrakuta (3rd century CE). [81] The Ramayana became popular in Southeast Asia from the 8th century onward and was represented in literature, temple architecture, dance and theatre. Today, dramatic enactments of the story of the Ramayana, known as Ramlila, take place all across India and in many places across the globe within the Indian diaspora. In Indonesia, especially Java and Bali, Ramayana has become a popular source of artistic expression for dance drama and shadow puppet performances in the region. Sendratari Ramayana is the Javanese traditional ballet in wayang orang style, routinely performed in the cultural center of Yogyakarta. Large casts were part of outdoor and indoor performances presented regularly at Prambanan Trimurti temple for many years. [82] Balinese dance dramas of Ramayana were also performed frequently in Balinese Hindu temples in Ubud and Uluwatu, where scenes from Ramayana are an integral part of kecak dance performances. Javanese Wayang ( Wayang Kulit of purwa and Wayang Wong ) also draw from Ramayana or Mahabharata . Ramayana has also been depicted in many paintings, notably by the Indonesian (Balinese) artists such as I Gusti Dohkar (before 1938), I Dewa Poetoe Soegih, I Dewa Gedé Raka Poedja, Ida Bagus Made Togog before 1948 period. Their paintings are currently in the National Museum of World Cultures collections of Tropenmuseum in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Malaysian artist Syed Thajudeen also depicted Ramayana in 1972. The painting is currently in the permanent collection of the Malaysian National Visual Arts Gallery. Multiple modern, English-language adaptations of the epic exist, namely Ram Chandra Series by Amish Tripathi, Ramayana Series by Ashok Banker and a mythopoetic novel, Asura: Tale of the Vanquished by Anand Neelakantan. Another Indian author, Devdutt Pattanaik, has published three different retellings and commentaries of Ramayana titled Sita, The Book Of Ram and Hanuman's Ramayan. A number of plays, movies and television serials have also been produced based upon the Ramayana. [83] One of the best known Ramayana plays is Gopal Sharman's The Ramayana, a contemporary interpretation in English, of the great epic based on the Valmiki Ramayana. The play has had more than 3,000 performances all over the world, mostly as a one-woman performance by actress Jalabala Vaidya, wife of the playwright Gopal Sharman. The Ramayana has been performed on Broadway, London's West End, United Nations Headquarters, the Smithsonian Institution among other international venue and in more than 35 cities and towns in India. Starting in 1978 and under the supervision of Baba Hari Dass, Ramayana has been performed every year by Mount Madonna School in Watsonville, California. [84] In the Philippines, a jazz ballet production was produced in the 1970s entitled "Rama at Sita" (Rama and Sita). The production was a result of a collaboration of four National Artists, Bienvenido Lumbera's libretto (National Artist for Literature), production design by Salvador Bernal (National Artist for Stage Design), music by Ryan Cayabyab (National Artist for Music) and choreography by Alice Reyes (National Artist for Dance). [85] Smite (video game) features Rama, khumbakarna, and ravana as playable characters. Ramayana has had a profound influence on India and Indians across the geographical and historical space. Rampur is the most common name for villages and towns across the nation particularly UP, Bihar and West Bengal. [86] It is so common that people have been using Ram Ram as a greeting to each other. [87] [88] Lakshmana, also known as Laxmana, Saumitra and Ramanuja, he is the younger brother of Rama and his loyalist in the Hindu epic Ramayana. Lakshmana is considered as an incarnation of Shesha, the lord of the Serpents and is the husband of Urmila, an avatāra of Nagalakshmi. Shatrughna is a prince of Ayodhya, King of Madhupura and Vidisha, and a brother of Prince Rama in the Hindu epic Ramayana. He is also known as Ripudaman. He is the twin of Lakshmana. He is a loyalist of Bharata, just like Lakshmana is to Rama. According to the Valmiki Ramayana, Shatrughna is an incarnation of the Sudarshana Chakra. Shatrughna also appears as the 412th name of Vishnu in the Vishnu Sahasranama of the Mahabharata. Mandodari was the queen consort of Ravana, the king of Lanka, according to the Hindu epic Ramayana. The Ramayana describes her as beautiful, pious, and righteous. She is extolled as one of the Panchakanya, the recital of whose names is believed to dispel sin. Sita, also known as Siya, Janaki, Maithili, Vaidehi and Bhumija, is a Hindu goddess and the female protagonist of the Hindu epic, Ramayana. She is the consort of Rama, the avatar of the god Vishnu, and is regarded as an avatar of Vishnu's consort, Lakshmi. She is also the chief goddess of Rama-centric Hindu traditions. Sita is known for her dedication, self-sacrifice, courage, and purity. Sundara Kanda is the fifth book in the Hindu epic Ramayana. The original Sundara Kanda is in Sanskrit, and was composed in popular tradition by Valmiki, who was the first to scripturally record the Ramayana. Sundara Kanda is the only chapter of the Ramayana in which the principal protagonist is not Rama, but Hanuman. The work depicts the adventures of Hanuman and his selflessness, strength, and devotion to Rama are emphasised in the text. Hanuman is believed to have been fondly called "Sundara" by his mother Anjani, and Sage Valmiki is stated to have chosen this name over others as the Sundara Kanda is about Hanuman's journey to Lanka. Bharata is a figure in the ancient Hindu epic Ramayana. He is the son of Dasharatha, the king of Kosala, and Kaikeyi, the daughter of King Ashvapati of Kekeya. He is a younger half-brother of Rama. He rules Ayodhya as its regent while Rama is banished from his kingdom, and fights to rescue his wife Sita, kidnapped by Ravana. Adhyatma Ramayana is a 13th- to 15th-century Sanskrit text that allegorically interprets the story of Hindu epic Ramayana in the Advaita Vedanta framework. It is embedded in the latter portion of Brahmānda Purana, and the author is considered to be Vyasa. The Hindu tradition also attributes the text to the Bhakti movement saint Ramananda. Shurpanakha, is a rakshasi (demoness) in Hindu epic. Her legends are mainly narrated in the epic Ramayana and its other versions. She was the sister of Lanka's king, Ravana, and the daughter of the sage Vishrava and the rakshasi Kaikeshi. Shurpanakha's role in the original epic is small, yet significant. Ramayan is an Indian Hindi-language epic television series based on ancient Indian Sanskrit Epic Ramayana. The show was created, written, and directed by Ramanand Sagar. It originally aired between 1987 and 1988 on DD National and it was narrated by Ashok Kumar and the director Ramanand Sagar. The music was composed by Ravindra Jain. During its run, the show became most watched television series in the world, and it is the most watched serial in the world, it had a viewership of 82 percent. The repeat telecast was aired on 20 different channels in 17 countries on all the five continents at different times. The success of the series was documented well by the media. According to BBC, the serial has been viewed by over 650 million viewers. Each episode of the series reportedly earned DD National ₹40 lakh. Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is a 1992 anime film co-produced by Japan and India; produced and directed by Yugo Sako. It is based on the Indian epic Ramayana. The film was directed by Koichi Sasaki and Ram Mohan, with music composed by Vanraj Bhatia. The film was first released in India at the 24th International Film Festival of India. It was also screened at the 1993 Vancouver International Film Festival. Subsequently, a Hindi dubbed version was released in the late 1990s. Depending on the methods of counting, as many as three hundred versions of the Indian Hindu epic poem, the Ramayana, are known to exist. The oldest version is generally recognized to be the Sanskrit version attributed to the sage Narada, the Mula Ramayana. Narada passed on the knowledge to Valmiki, who authored Valmiki Ramayana, the present oldest available version of Ramayana. Bala Kanda is the first Book of the Valmiki Ramayana. The Bala Kanda, in part—if not in its entirety—is generally regarded as an interpolation to the original epic. Rama is a major deity in Hinduism. He is the seventh and one of the most popular avatars of Vishnu. In Rama-centric traditions of Hinduism, he is considered the Supreme Being. Sampoorna Ramayanam is a 1958 Indian Tamil-language Hindu mythological film directed by K. Somu. It is based on Valmiki's Ramayana. The film stars N. T. Rama Rao in the lead role of Rama and Sivaji Ganesan as Bharatha. It was released on 14 April 1958 and ran for over 264 days in theatres, thereby becoming a silver jubilee hit. The film was dubbed into Hindi as Ramayan in 1960. Rama (Rāma), the hero of Ramayana, is described in the Jain scriptures as one of sixty-three illustrious persons, known as Salakapurusa. Among these, there are nine sets of Balabhadra, Vasudeva and Prati-Vasudeva. Rama was the 8th Balabhadra with Lakshmana and Ravana being his Vasudeva and Prati-Vasudeva counterparts. He is described as a young prince who is deprived of his throne and turned into a pauper. While living in exile his wife Sita is kidnapped by Ravana, King of Lanka. Rama then rescues Sita with the help of his brother Lakshmana and King Sugriva. Ravana is killed by Lakshmana and they both go into hell. Rama becomes a Jain muni and his soul attains moksha. Sita becomes a Jain sadhvi and is born into heaven as Indra. Trijata is a rakshasi (demoness) in the Hindu epic Ramayana who is assigned the duty of guarding Sita who was kidnapped by the demon-king of Lanka Ravana. In later adaptions of Ramayana, Trijata is described as a daughter of Vibhishana, the brother of Ravana. Nila, also spelled as Neela, is a character in the Hindu epic Ramayana. He is a vanara chieftain in the army of Rama, the prince of Ayodhya and avatar of the god Vishnu. He is the commander-in-chief of the vanara army under the vanara king Sugriva, and is described as leading the army in Rama's battle against the rakshasa king Ravana of Lanka and as killing many rakshasas. Shrimad Ramayan is an Indian Hindi-language mythological television series that premiered on 1 January 2024 on Sony Entertainment Television. Produced by Siddharth Kumar Tewary under the banner of Swastik Productions, the series is based on the epic Ramayana. It stars Sujay Reu as Rama and Prachi Bansal as Sita. The exile of Rama is an event featured in the Ramayana, and is an important period in the life of Rama. In the epic, Rama is exiled by his father, Dasharatha, under the urging of his step-mother Kaikeyi, accompanied by his wife Sita and half-brother Lakshmana for 14 years. Rama's exile is a prelude to subsequent events of the epic, such as abduction of his wife Sita, his meeting with Hanuman and Sugriva, his battle with Ravana, and ultimately, the killing of Ravana, the purpose for which Vishnu had incarnated himself as Rama. {{cite news}} : CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link){{cite book}} : CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link){{cite journal}} : Cite journal requires \|journal= (help){{cite web}} : CS1 maint: unfit URL (link)
Dr Sebi: Alkalinity, not versus the African Biomineral Balance but how do they compare well they're one of the same the African Biomineral Mineral Balance has to be constructed around an organic or alkali structure. Why? Because it is alkalinity that delivers the energy. There isn't a battery that man makes that is acid. It says alkali, there is energy. So alkalinity is what produces electricity and since the human body is also electrical, and you're gonna feed it something dead, well you have not done anything. You're gonna have to feed the body electric food, uh you find electric food or in resonance of electricity in what the geologists call native plants.
Small business financial intelligence is the cornerstone of sustainable growth and success in the competitive business landscape. It encompasses the strategic understanding and management of financial resources to optimise profitability and ensure long-term viability. With an acute focus on prudent decision-making and judicious allocation of funds, financial intelligence empowers small businesses to navigate economic uncertainties and capitalise on opportunities. Developing proficiency in financial intelligence requires a comprehensive understanding of financial statements, cash flow management, budgeting, and forecasting. By leveraging data-driven insights, small businesses can harness the power of financial intelligence to streamline operations, minimise risks, and drive strategic expansion. Importance of Financial Intelligence in Small Business Small business financial intelligence is pivotal for informed decision-making and sustainable growth. It enables entrepreneurs and business owners to gain clarity on their financial standing, identify trends, and anticipate potential challenges. By embracing financial intelligence, businesses can proactively mitigate cash flow constraints, optimise resource allocation, and foster a culture of fiscal prudence. Furthermore, financial intelligence empowers small businesses to evaluate the feasibility of investments, assess the impact of strategic initiatives, and align financial goals with overarching business objectives. In an era characterised by economic volatility and evolving consumer preferences, the astute application of financial intelligence equips small businesses with the agility and resilience to capitalise on emerging opportunities and mitigate potential pitfalls. Key Components of Small Business Financial Intelligence The bedrock of thriving small businesses extends far beyond mere product excellence or service superiority – it lies in the mastery of small business financial intelligence. This keen acumen encompasses several core components. First and foremost is financial literacy. Small business owners must understand foundational accounting principles, enabling them to comprehend balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow projections with the perspicacity of an expert. Strategic financial decision-making is another critical pillar. This admittedly nuanced skill involves forecasting, risk assessment, and investment analysis bespoke to their niche. A business operates within a living economy, and the financially savvy entrepreneur must anticipate markets, customer behaviour and adjust the sails of the enterprise accordingly. Moreover, astute budgeting and resource allocation are inseparable from the notion of financial intelligence. The ability to judiciously manage resources, minimising waste while maximising ROI, is what distinguishes a business on the trajectory to success. Lastly, regulatory and tax compliance form the scaffold of a legally-sound business operation; knowledge here not only prevents costly legal pitfalls but also pinpoints potential financial incentives. Implementing Financial Intelligence in Small Business Operations Infusing small business operations with financial intelligence starts with setting a robust accounting system in place. Precision and organisation are key – tracking expenses, monitoring cash flow, and updating financial records should become as routine as the first light of dawn. Technology here is an invaluable ally. Accounting software tools streamline processes and provide a vista of financial analytics at a glance, paving the way for informed decision-making. Next, implementing rigorous financial planning and analysis (FP& A) practices is essential. Small businesses must nurture a culture of regular financial review, incorporating routine audits and performance benchmarks. This empowers businesses to stay on course financially, identifying both underperforming assets and unforeseen opportunities. Employee financial empowerment is another dynamic element. Teams armed with financial understanding can contribute to the broader financial goals, making a collective impact on the company's bottom line. Employing a participatory budgeting approach can give employees a vested interest in the company's financial health. Lastly, an ongoing commitment to financial education ensures a business's financial intelligence remains razor-sharp. This entails keeping abreast of market trends, legal shifts, tax law changes, and technological advancements. A small business vested in financial intelligence is one poised for unprecedented growth and enduring sustainability. Tools and Technologies for Small Business Financial Intelligence Small businesses require efficient tools and technologies to gain insights into their financial performance and make informed decisions. Utilising accounting software such as QuickBooks or Xero allows for accurate tracking of expenses, revenues, and overall financial health. These platforms offer features like invoice management, payroll processing, and financial report generation, simplifying the process of financial management. Furthermore, leveraging business intelligence tools like Microsoft Power BI or Tableau enables small business owners to analyse data, identify trends, and create interactive visualisations to comprehend complex financial information. These tools empower users to make strategic financial decisions with confidence. Monitoring and Measuring Financial Performance Small business financial intelligence hinges on the regular monitoring and measurement of financial performance. Implementing key performance indicators (KPIs) is crucial in assessing the success of financial strategies. KPIs may include gross profit margin, net profit margin, and cash flow forecast accuracy, providing actionable insights into the financial health of the business. Regular financial statement analysis, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, is imperative in evaluating the business's profitability and solvency. This comprehensive overview aids in identifying areas for improvement and potential financial risks, ultimately guiding the formulation of effective financial strategies and decisions. Challenges and Solutions in Developing Financial Intelligence Navigating the financial landscape of small business ownership demands astuteness and an understanding of the underlying fiscal challenges, which are essential for developing small business financial intelligence. A primary challenge is the intricate task of cash flow management. Ensuring that revenues exceed expenditures demands precision and planning, with many entrepreneurs grappling to maintain the delicate balance needed for sustainable growth. Moreover, the complexity of tax regulations and the need for adept risk assessment often present hurdles that can impede a company's economic progress. In addressing these challenges, small businesses must invest in advanced analytics and accounting systems beneficial for monitoring financial health in real-time. Additionally, cultivating relationships with financial experts who provide valuable insights and strategies can pave the way for informed decision-making—a cornerstone of financial finesse. Equally important is the adoption of robust fiscal policies that include stringent budgeting, forecasting, and the ability to adapt to market fluctuations. These solutions integrate a data-driven, proactive approach to financial management, thereby elevating a business's capability to navigate economic uncertainties and leverage growth opportunities. Effective financial intelligence also hinges on continuous learning and development. Small businesses should encourage a culture of fiscal education, updating their acumen on emerging financial trends and tools, and thus ensuring an innovative and competitive stance in the marketplace. Through these methodologies, the art of financial finesse becomes accessible, allowing small businesses to thrive amidst economic pressures and to remain agile in an ever-evolving financial realm. Parting Thoughts Financial finesse is an art all in itself, one that, when mastered, bestows upon small business owners the ability to steer their ventures with confidence and insight. It is important to understand the imperative of small business financial intelligence in sculpting a thriving, upscale brand. Navigating financial intricacies with precision, adopting cutting-edge tools, and embracing continual learning are integral strategies to foster fiscal intelligence—a vital driver of small business success. Embodying these principles elevates businesses, allowing them to operate with sophistication and innovative distinction, which resonates with the market's expectations. We see the convergence of financial acumen and marketing excellence as the catalyst for remarkable brand stories and exceptional financial outcomes. As custodians of your brand's presence, you should be committed to amplifying your financial prowess through strategic storytelling, driving your brand to the pinnacle of its potential. The mastery of small business financial intelligence is not an ideal but a tangible asset, and it's within this that positions your business for unprecedented levels of success.
Jackson is the most powerful library for JSON serialization and deserialization. It can do anything literally with JSON. But at the same time, it is a bit frustrating. That's because Jackson has a complex workflow. This is necessary not the library fault. It's just how JVM languages especially Java works. Anyhow, in this article, I cover how to append arrays to an existing JSON file with Jackson. Let say we want to extract a million record from a database and convert it to a JSON file. If the data volume was small, we could just query the table, get data as Array<?> and then use this code to convert it to JSON. The problem here is the volume of data is too large. So neither database is capable of returning a million records, nor the application can handle holding the amount of data in heap. So the only way to get it through is by reading the data page by page. But wait a second how to convert them to JSON? If we modify the previous approach we can append the data to the list but soon we get OutOfMemoryError . Not to mention that serializing and deserializing slows down the process significantly. A better solution is to read the data page by page and append it to the existing JSON file. That way the database only gets a single page at the time, so JVM keeps a very small array in heap. So we need to configure Jackson in such a way that we can keep appending array to it. So that, we can do something like one in below. For new file, For existing file, The first line creates or opens an existing file. Next, it reads the content as JSON array and then in appends a list to the end of the file. For example, if the file is empty the line 2 creates an empty opening array [ . Then the line 6 appends the content to the empty array, And finally the line 11 closes the array. So we will have something like below, If the file is not empty the same process will be repeated but with the existing content. That's all for this article, hope you have enjoyed it. To learn how to read or write to/from a JSON file with Jackson read my previous article available at the link below, Inline/featured images credits - Java logo on Wikipedia - JSON logo on Wikipedia - Michael Jackson silhouette by SegaCD32x on DeviantArt
Hemlock Water Dropwort (Oenanthe crocata) FAQs Frequently asked questions about Hemlock Water Dropwort for a UK resident: Comprehensive invasive weed control Find and tackle problem weeds Knowledge Hub Learn about conservation Hemlock Water Dropwort (Oenanthe crocata) FAQs Probably the most poisonous plant in the UK. What are some common names for Hemlock Water Dropwort? Common names include Hemlock Water Dropwort, Water Hemlock, Dead Man's Fingers, and Dead Tongue. What is the scientific name for Hemlock Water Dropwort? The scientific name is Oenanthe crocata. Is Hemlock Water Dropwort Poisonous? Yes. Hemlock Water Dropwort is probably the most poisonous plant in the UK and is toxic to both humans and livestock. Is Hemlock Water Dropwort a non - native invasive plant? No. Hemlock Water Dropwort is not listed as a non-native invasive plant, but once established can become very invasive. When does Hemlock Water Dropwort bloom? Hemlock Water Dropwort typically flowers from June to July. How can you identify Hemlock Water Dropwort? Hemlock Water Dropwort is part of the Umbellifer (Carrot) family and so typically has small white flowers growing in umbrella-shaped clusters. Identification cues include bright green, shiny, fern-like leaves, which can look a bit like parsley. Stems are bright green, hollow, grooved, hairless, and can look a bit like celery. In the Winter Hemlock Water Dropwort is one of the few active plants and so can be a good time to identify it. Where does Hemlock Water Dropwort grow? It grows in damp areas like marshes, along lakes, rivers, streams, and ditches. Plants may occur several metres inland from the water's edge. What plants could Hemlock Water Dropwort be confused with? It may be confused with flat-leaved parsley, water parsnip, or water celery. Is Hemlock Water Dropwort used for any medicinal purposes? No, being probably the most poisonous plant in the UK, Hemlock Water Dropwort is not used medicinally Why is Hemlock Water Dropwort considered the most poisonous plant in the UK? All parts of the Hemlock Water Dropwort plant, including the stems, leaves, roots, and seeds contain extremely toxic compounds that can cause death within hours of ingestion. The toxins act by constricting muscles leading to asphyxiation. How tall does Hemlock Water Dropwort grow and how long does it take to reach maturity? Plants can grow 1 to 1.5 metres tall, reaching their full height in 2 to 5 years. At maturity, they can spread 1.5 to 2.5 metres wide. How does Hemlock Water Dropwort reproduce and spread? As a perennial, established plants grow back year after year. It also spreads by seeds which develop after flowering. Both mechanisms allow it to proliferate, especially in damp areas.
Omtre project Half of all incinerated waste is wood. That's a huge loss of resources that can easily be reused in small and large projects . We want to do something about this. We want reuse to be the rule, rather than the exception, and we are actively working to change the entire circle that wood encounters today. With new technology, research and collaboration, we can accelerate the path towards our common climate goals. Our areas of expertise From growth rings to value circles Our work Towards a common goal SirkTRE's goal is to utilize 250,000 cubic meters of Norway's wood waste by 2024, corresponding to 100,000 tonnes, and 1 million cubic meters by 2030. SirkTRE will contribute a climate reduction of 0.5 million tons of CO2 annually by 2024, and two million tons of CO2 annually by 2030. In 2030, this corresponds to a reduction of around eight percent of national emissions compared to 1990 levels. This includes the storage effect of biogenic carbon in wood, which accounts for just over a third of the climate reduction. With digital tools Omtre collaborates with strategic technology providers to create tomorrow's recycled wood processing systems. We see that large-scale reuse is made possible through innovative industrial lines, where optimized processes driven by machine learning automate an otherwise manual process. We are working to put in place a seamless flow of information from where the waste is created, all the way to where the reclaimed wood is installed in new buildings as building elements. Let us give your used wood a new life.
In a world that prizes independence and freedom, the ability to move effortlessly from one place to another is not just a convenience but a fundamental aspect of living. For individuals with limited mobility, especially wheelchair users, the quest for this independence can be fraught with challenges. Wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) emerge as a beacon of hope in this context, offering a transformative solution that redefines accessibility and autonomy for people with disabilities. This comprehensive article delves into the importance of wheelchair accessible vehicles, exploring their impact on quality of life, the features that distinguish them, and their role in fostering inclusivity in society. Understanding Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles A wheelchair accessible vehicle is specially modified to accommodate wheelchair users, enabling them to travel while remaining seated in their wheelchairs. These modifications can range from the installation of ramps or lifts for easy access to the restructuring of interiors to provide sufficient space and secure wheelchair anchoring. WAVs come in various forms, including vans, buses, and cars, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. Enhancing Quality of Life The core value of wheelchair accessible vehicles lies in their profound impact on the quality of life of people with disabilities. By providing a reliable and convenient mode of transportation, WAVs empower individuals with limited mobility to engage more fully in everyday activities, from essential tasks like attending medical appointments to life-enriching pursuits such as travel, education, and social engagement. Independence and Freedom One of the most significant benefits of owning or having access to a WAV is the independence it affords. Wheelchair users no longer need to rely heavily on public transportation schedules or the availability of caregivers to get around. This autonomy not only facilitates practical daily living but also boosts self-esteem and mental well-being. Safety and Comfort WAVs are designed with the safety and comfort of wheelchair users in mind. Features such as lowered floors, securement systems, and ample space ensure that passengers can travel comfortably and securely. This attention to detail reduces the risk of injury during transit and alleviates the physical strain associated with transferring from a wheelchair to a standard vehicle seat. Social Inclusion By breaking down transportation barriers, wheelchair accessible vehicles play a crucial role in promoting social inclusion. They enable individuals with limited mobility to participate more actively in community life, attend social events, and maintain connections with family and friends. This social engagement is vital for mental health and contributes to a more inclusive society where disability does not equate to isolation. Key Features of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles Access Options The method of entry and exit is a critical consideration in WAVs. Ramps offer a lightweight and cost-effective solution, while lifts can accommodate heavier electric wheelchairs and provide an easier access alternative for some users. The choice between side and rear entry also depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user. Interior Modifications Beyond access, the interior of a wheelchair accessible vehicle must be meticulously designed to ensure safety and ease of use. This includes adjustable seating arrangements for caregivers or family members, adequate headroom, and robust wheelchair securement systems that comply with safety standards. Driving Adaptations For wheelchair users who drive, WAVs can be equipped with various adaptations to facilitate independent driving. Hand controls, steering aids, and touchpad systems are just a few examples of modifications that can be made to accommodate a driver's specific physical needs. The Importance of Customization Every individual's mobility needs are unique, making customization an essential aspect of selecting and configuring a wheelchair accessible vehicle. A thorough assessment by a mobility specialist can help determine the most appropriate vehicle type, access method, and interior configuration, ensuring that the WAV fully supports the user's lifestyle and mobility requirements. Overcoming Barriers to Access Despite their transformative potential, the acquisition and use of wheelchair accessible vehicles are not without challenges. The high cost of purchasing and modifying a WAV can be prohibitive for many individuals and families. Additionally, finding parking spaces large enough to accommodate these vehicles and use ramps or lifts can be difficult in areas not designed with accessibility in mind. Advocacy and Support To address these barriers, advocacy for more robust support systems and financial assistance programs is crucial. Many countries offer subsidies, grants, or tax incentives to help offset the cost of purchasing and modifying wheelchair accessible vehicles. Furthermore, ongoing advocacy efforts aim to improve public infrastructure, ensuring that parking, roadways, and transportation hubs are accessible to everyone, including WAV users. Looking to the Future The future of wheelchair accessible vehicles is bright, with continuous advancements in technology promising even greater independence and mobility for individuals with disabilities. Innovations in automation and smart technology, for example, hold the potential to create WAVs that are not only more user-friendly but also more integrated with the broader transportation ecosystem. Wheelchair accessible vehicles are more than just a means of transportation; they are a lifeline to independence, social inclusion, and an enhanced quality of life for individuals with limited mobility. By offering safe, comfortable, and reliable mobility solutions, WAVs empower wheelchair users to navigate the world on their own terms. As society continues to progress towards greater inclusivity, the role of wheelchair accessible vehicles will undoubtedly expand, underscoring the importance of continued innovation, advocacy, and support in making the world accessible to all. GowringsVersa Mobility Daytona Dr, Thatcham RG19 4ZD 0345 608 8020
Published on Oceans cover 72% of the planet's surface and play an important role in regulating climate, sustaining life, and fostering interconnected ecosystems—yet we know very little about them. The Blue Economy is valued at $1.5 trillion annually, but sustainable, effective long-term management requires regular and accurate measurements of essential ocean variables. Collecting this critical data is traditionally expensive, dangerous, and carbon-intensive. Saildrone is proud to release its first annual Carbon Impact Report, a detailed assessment of our carbon emissions and the emissions avoided by employing Saildrone's innovative uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs) for maritime data collection. How Saildrone calculates carbon impact Saildrone's approach to assessing our carbon impact requires two separate initiatives, which allows us to focus on both "doing less harm" by mitigating our operational emissions and "doing more good" by expanding the adoption of Saildrone technology to avoid emissions generated by existing solutions for ocean data collection. To calculate carbon emissions, Saildrone partnered with EcoAct, an international sustainability consultancy and project developer with nearly 20 years of experience in corporate greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting and comprehensive decarbonization strategies. Saildrone followed the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, a framework divided into three areas: - Scope 1 Direct emissions from owned and operated assets; - Scope 2 Indirect emissions from the generation of purchased electricity, steam, heat, or cooling; - Scope 3 Indirect emissions by other entities as a result of the company's activities. To calculate avoided emissions, Saildrone partnered with Rightship, the world's leading environmental, social, and governance (ESG)-focused digital maritime platform. Using the guidance established in 2023 by the World Business Council on Sustainable Development (WBCSD) for quantifying avoided emissions, Saildrone missions were separated into solution areas and use cases to identify the most likely alternative technology scenario that would have occurred in the absence of Saildrone USVs. The results During 2022 missions combined, Saildrone USVs generated only 10 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e). The total emissions that would have been generated by the reference vessels amounted to 8,299 tCO2e. This means that, operationally, Saildrone produced only 0.1% of the emissions that would have been produced by existing vessels. In other words, Saildrone avoided 99.9% of the carbon that would have been produced by traditional maritime solutions, across all ocean research, seafloor mapping, and maritime defense missions. That is equal to 143% of its own total emissions. This ratio clearly demonstrates the role Saildrone solutions play in progressing to a low-carbon maritime future. "Ocean access and exploration is critical to the health of our planet and the expansion of the Blue Economy, but until now, collecting that data has been very fossil-fuel intensive. Reducing the carbon footprint of maritime data collection has been part of our core mission from the beginning, so it is very satisfying to now see that goal validated in our operational data," said Saildrone founder and CEO Richard Jenkins. What's next? Saildrone's rapid growth trajectory is certain to have an impact on our carbon footprint. In 2022, missions were performed predominantly with zero-carbon Saildrone Explorer-class USVs. In April 2023, Saildrone announced the mid-size Voyager and, in early 2024, launched the first production Surveyor. These larger-class USVs also burn small amounts of diesel fuel, which is expected to slightly increase operational emissions. However, as fleet operations expand, Saildrone's avoided emissions are expected to increase as well. Saildrone aims to continue avoiding >95% of operational carbon emissions in future years and is committed to actively managing carbon impact so that we continue avoiding greater than 100% of our total carbon footprint. "As we grow our fleet in support of our science, commercial, and defense customers, so too do we grow the amount of carbon we offset. It is an honor to be a part of the long-term carbon solution," said Jenkins.
Journey to the Tiny Houses of Arkansas Tiny houses of arkansas,Arkansas is a river-hugging state famous for its warm sun and simple lifestyle. Tiny houses, a recent rising trend in Arkansas, offer an ideal solution for those who want to reduce their living space.Tiny houses of arkansas,These tiny houses are often built with environmentally friendly materials and focus on energy efficiency. Designs suitable for Arkansas' climate often include renewable energy sources such as solar panels and water-saving systems. This not only reduces living space but is also a point of attraction for those who want to adopt an environmentally friendly lifestyle. Arkansas' natural wonders often offer a variety of natural wonders, such as riverside or lake views from tiny homes.Tiny houses of arkansas offer a unique opportunity for those who want to embrace a quiet lifestyle by integrating with nature. For people who adopt a minimalist approach, living a life in touch with nature means freedom and peace. Tiny house communities are sprouting up all over Arkansas. It aims to support the blog of these groups, share information and disseminate environmentally friendly practices. Tiny home owners in Arkansans often gather in their communities to exchange ideas on sustainable living. Arkansas' tiny house owners not only live in a tiny house but also strive to contribute to the local ecosystem and increase environmental awareness. Some choose to grow their food, while others focus on recycling and environmentally friendly practices. However, it is important for those planning tiny houses living in Arkansas to pay attention to local building codes, zoning rules, and other regulations. Considering that each city or county may have different regulations, it is important to understand local regulations before making the transition to a large lifestyle with these tiny homes. It should be noted that different parts of Arkansas may have different local regulations, and it is important to be informed about this in advance. The Cost of Tiny Houses in Arkansas: A Detailed Review Land Costs: Land costs throughout Arkansas are generally low. The cost of 1 acre of land in rural areas can vary between $5,000 and $20,000. Land costs close to city centers may increase. Construction Costs: The average tiny house with a simple design and basic structure can cost between $50,000 and $100,000 to build. Increased power outage or special designs may increase the cost of assembly. Assembly or Construction Services: By purchasing a ready-assembled tiny house, it is possible to reduce construction costs. However, the cost of this fee can vary between $30,000 and $80,000. Material Costs: Material quality and large quantity determine the cost. The cost of materials for a tiny house can range from $20,000 to $40,000. "Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Costs" Can choose energy efficient features, increase cost by using solar panels or sustainable systems. It is possible to choose between an additional $5,000 and $20,000 for these additional features. "Local Building Permits and Regulations" Building permits and regulations can typically range from $500 to $5,000. Please note that these figures are general estimates and may vary depending on individual characteristics and local factors. Additionally, construction and design choices can vary greatly depending on individual preferences. To determine the exact temperature, a detailed cost analysis with a construction professional or architect is recommended.
Future Returns: Sustainable Investing Poised To Gain Assets The Global Sustainable Investment Review indicates assets are rising quicky. The Global Sustainable Investment Review indicates assets are rising quicky. Assets in sustainable strategies are rising at a fast clip globally, with US$35.3 trillion invested as of 2020, according to a report out this week from the Global Sustainable Investment Alliance or GSIA, an international collaboration of membership-based sustainable investment organisations. With several changes afoot in regions across the world, these figures are likely to climb further by the time the next report is released in two years. In the U.S.—where 48% of sustainable investing assets resided as of the beginning of 2020, according to the report—potential regulatory and legislative changes are expected to spur further interest in sustainable strategies. The report, titled the Global Sustainable Investment Review (GSIR), is based on data provided through Dec. 31, 2019, with the exception of Japan, where the data is collected through March 31, 2020. In part, that's because these changes will lead to a rise in investments by individual investors in sustainable investing—which include a range of strategies emphasizing environmental, social, and governance, or ESG, matters. Currently about 25% of all investments in sustainable strategies are by "non-institutional" investors, a figure that held steady between the last two reports. One reason assets haven't expanded as fast in the retail market is that growth typically comes from retirement funds, where a majority of retail assets are invested, says Lisa Woll, CEO of US SIF: The Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment, a membership organization focused on shifting investment practices to sustainability. And, Woll points out, the U.S.'s largest retirement plan—the US$760 billion Federal Thrift Savings Plan—doesn't offer any ESG options to its 6.2 million members, Woll says. Beginning next summer, however, members will be offered the option of investing in ESG mutual funds in response to a May executive order on climate-related financial risk from President Joe Biden. Among several items, the order asks the secretary of labour to assess "how the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board has taken environmental, social, and governance factors, including climate-related financial risk, into account." "We've worked on this for a decade, to get them to implement that," Woll says. Penta recently spoke with Woll about trends in sustainable investing globally and in the U.S., much of which was detailed in the group's own report on sustainable and impact investing trends in November. Shifts in the U.S. Regulatory Landscape Another drag on asset growth in retirement funds was the "anti-ESG agenda" of former President Donald Trump's administration, Woll says. "Now, it's a new era." The U.S. Department of Labor in March stated it would not enforce Trump-imposed rules limiting the ability of retirement-plan administrators to consider ESG factors in retirement options, and to engage in proxy voting on ESG-related issues, according to the report. Also in March, the Securities and Exchange Commission took initial steps that could result in requirements by corporations to disclose climate-related risks to their operations in addition to a "potentially a broader set of ESG issues," the report said. More broadly, the Biden administration is addressing several ESG themes in addition to climate. One example is labour rights, the subject of the new White House Task Force on Worker Organizing and Empowerment. The potential implications for ESG investing from the array of government actions taken so far, and those to be expected, haven't fully been analysed yet, and could be significant. The climate-change directive, for instance, "affects so many different agencies in different ways," Woll says. And, she notes, a more recent executive order on competitiveness includes language about treating employees better, which is a key governance concern for investors. It's about "creating better capitalism and better companies," Woll says. "There are all kinds of interesting focal points, including diversity, equity, and inclusions—big policy priorities for the administration and our members." The Rise of ESG Integration By far the most popular sustainable investing strategy—representing US$25.2 trillion in assets globally—is "ESG integration," an approach where ESG factors are explicitly included in financial analysis, according to the GSIA. That's a major switch from 2018, when negative screening was the most popular global strategy with nearly US$20 trillion in assets compared to US$15 trillion by 2020. Negative or exclusionary screening—which remains highly popular in Europe—removes categories of investments such as companies engaged in making weapons or tobacco, or those involved in human rights abuses, versus seeking out companies engaged in best ESG practices. One reason for the popularity of this approach is that any investment manager who wants to get business increasingly needs to be a signatory to the Principles of Responsible Investment (PRI), a U.N.-sponsored network of investors, Woll says. "ESG integration was very much the preferred strategy taken up by those signatories." In the U.S. Woll is concerned, however, that many companies offering ESG integration strategies don't clearly articulate their criteria, making it difficult for investors to know what kind of impact their investments are having. "We have to have more transparency around this," she says. The Global Picture While the GSIR report provides a good snapshot of sustainable investment trends in five major markets (the U.S., Canada, Japan, Europe, and Australia/New Zealand), it also reveals a sector that's in flux as changing frameworks, regulations, and definitions make it difficult to precisely track global trends. For instance, in Europe, assets invested in sustainable strategies fell 13% to US$12 trillion from US$14 trillion in 2018. But that decline simply reflects changes in regulatory definitions that no longer include some products or strategies. In Australia and New Zealand, assets grew to US$906 billion from US$734 billion, but the growth was at a slower pace because of new industry standards for sustainable investment. Given different strategies and different regulatory environments, the countries from major markets involved in the report are recognizing that field-builder institutions such as US SIF or the European Sustainable Investment Forum need to be resources for best practices, Woll says. Reprinted by permission of Penta. Copyright 2021 Dow Jones & Company. Inc. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Original date of publication: July 20, 2021 This stylish family home combines a classic palette and finishes with a flexible floorplan Just 55 minutes from Sydney, make this your creative getaway located in the majestic Hawkesbury region. More meetings and faceless chats. Fewer work friends. How the modern workday is fueling an epidemic of isolation. More Americans are profoundly lonely, and the way they work—more digitally linked but less personally connected—is deepening that sense of isolation. Nick Skarda , 29 years old, works two jobs in logistics and office administration in San Diego to keep up with his bills. After a couple of years at the logistics job, he has one friend there. He says hi to co-workers at his office job but doesn't really know any. "I feel sort of an emptiness or lack of belonging," he says. Juggling two jobs leaves Skarda exhausted, with little energy or time to grab drinks with co-workers . "It makes it harder to go in and give it your all if you don't feel like anyone is there rooting for you," he adds. Employers and researchers are just beginning to understand how workplace shifts over the past four years are contributing to what the U.S. surgeon general declared a loneliness health epidemic last year. The alienation affects remote and in-person workers alike. Among 1-800-Flowers.com 's 5,000 hybrid and fully on-site employees, for instance, the most popular community chat group offered by a company mental-health provider is simply called "Loneliness." Consider these phenomena of modern work: It is a marked shift from even a decade ago, when bonds fostered at work helped compensate for declining participation in church , community groups and other social institutions. As the American workday becomes more faceless and scheduled , the number of U.S. adults who call themselves lonely has climbed to 58% from 46% in 2018, according to a recent Cigna poll of 10,000 Americans. The disconnection is driving up staff turnover and worker absences, making it a business issue for more employers, executives and researchers say. Cigna, the health-insurance company, estimates that loneliness is costing companies $154 billion a year in absenteeism alone. "Work is social, it's a lot more than a paycheck," says James McCann , founder and chairman of 1-800-Flowers.com. Earlier this year, 1-800-Flowers.com moved from three days in the office to four to boost a sense of connectivity among workers. It has also begun tapping workers across teams to serve as designated hosts during lunchtime, encouraging people to sit with colleagues they don't know in common areas and chat, and suggesting conversation topics. While today's workers have more ways to connect than ever, "there are only so many memes and jokes you can send over Slack," says Maëlle Gavet , chief executive of Techstars, a pre-seed fund that has invested in 4,100 startups. "We tend to have more and more people with back-to-back calendars, more meetings and less connections." Gavet says that is especially the case for hybrid workers on in-office days, which they tend to use to dash from one meeting to the next. Paradoxically, meetings can make people feel lonelier—and even more so if the meetings are virtual, behavioural researchers say. A 2023 survey by employee experience and analytics company Perceptyx found people who described themselves as "very lonely" tended to have heavier meeting loads than less-lonely staffers. More than 40% of those people spent more than half their work hours in meetings. In Cincinnati, Kelly Roehm says she came to chafe at the meetings—sometimes as many as 12—consuming her day after joining a consulting company in 2021. She would often feel her eyes glazing over as she multitasked on other screens. "It's like you're a zombie, there but not there," says Roehm, who lived 10 minutes from the office but worked mostly remotely because she says few colleagues typically came in. It is a more common setup as companies distribute teams across more locations: At Microsoft , 27% of the company's teams all worked in the same location last year, compared with 61% in 2019. She compares that experience with her time more than a decade ago at a company now owned by AstraZeneca . There, she enjoyed lots of social outlets at work: a Weight Watchers group and a lunchtime crochet club. "Now if I were to think about asking, 'Hey, do you want to participate in something like this,' it would just sound weird," says Roehm, who left this year to focus on her own career-consulting business. "There wasn't that emotional attachment that made it difficult to say, it's time to move on." Office chitchat, sometimes an unwanted distraction, seems to provide more benefits than many people realise, says Jessica Methot , an associate professor at Rutgers University who studies social ties at work. In a study of 100 employees at different workplaces, Methot and fellow researchers surveyed participants at points throughout the day. They found those who had engaged in small talk reported less stress and more positivity toward co-workers. Even exchanging pleasantries with a co-worker you barely know can help, says Sarah Wright , an associate professor at New Zealand's University of Canterbury who studies worker loneliness. "We used to think loneliness has to be overcome by developing meaningful relationships and having that degree of intimacy," Wright says. "More and more, though, we're seeing it's these day-to-day weak ties and frequency of [interactions] with people that matters." Such interactions are substantially harder to replicate in a virtual environment. "The default now is, I have to schedule time with you, even if it's five minutes, instead of just picking up the phone," says Katie Tyson , president of Hive Brands, an online food retailer founded in 2020 as a fully remote company. The frictions add up, she says. Last fall, the company added an office in New York where employees voluntarily gather a couple of times a week to foster more cohesion. Coming to the office, even on a hybrid basis, tends to yield a roughly 20% to 30% boost in serendipitous connections, according to Syndezo, which analysed survey data and email and messaging traffic from more than two dozen large companies. Yet there are diminishing returns to time in person, says Philip Arkcoll , founder of Worklytics, which analyses workforce data for Fortune 500 companies. Coming in once a month provides a significant boost in ties; two or three times a month adds a little more, Worklytics data show. Once or twice a week results in a smaller increase, though, and working in-person four or five days a week makes almost no difference. Ernst & Young has asked managers to use the first five minutes of team calls to engage in conversation "as real human beings," says Frank Giampietro , whose title, chief well-being officer for the Americas, was created in 2021 to help support employees during the pandemic. The professional-services firm is also training employees to spot and reach out to co-workers struggling with issues such as isolation. To date, more than 1,600 employees have taken the training. One challenge is that American workers have sacrificed connection for productivity, says Julie Rice , co-founder of fitness chain SoulCycle. These days, with more business contacts preferring video calls, she finds breakfast meetings and coffee dates on her calendar have been replaced with Zoom. Though efficient, such video calls are less likely to yield conversations that can turn into useful professional connections or lasting friendships, she says. "Even people I'm meeting with here in New York, we'll just Zoom," she says. Last year, Rice co-founded Peoplehood, a company that runs "gathers" to improve connectivity and relationship skills, and employers are signing up. One, a beauty-services business with hundreds of field employees who never see each other, asked Peoplehood to host a series of gatherings for workers to meet and share job advice. Another, a marketing company with far-flung employees, requested help after surveys showed staff wanted to feel more connected. "Whatever relationships we had pre-Covid have sort of run out of gas," Rice says. Good luck prodding employees to socialise, though. Nearly all the 150-odd staff at the Pleasanton, Calif., headquarters of Shaklee, the nutrition-supplements company, used to attend annual Earth Day gatherings, which involved community service, lunch and breaking early for the day, says Jonathan Ramot , the company's North American human-resources director. Office happy hours, bowling outings and "mix and mingles" were also robustly attended. Now that the workforce has gone remote, last year's Earth Day event attracted 20 staffers, even though most workers live nearby. "We have a lot of people asking for in-person events, but when we plan them, they don't show up," Ramot says. "Then they complain they're lonely." This past April, Shaklee instead held a mandatory get-together with the chief executive, who had relocated to Florida during the pandemic and was in town. About 100 employees gathered at a brewery for food, drinks and conversation—and no speeches from the bosses. There was a buzz in the air, Ramot says, as staff hugged and delighted in seeing each other, some for the first time. "People were saying, I miss this," he says. This stylish family home combines a classic palette and finishes with a flexible floorplan Just 55 minutes from Sydney, make this your creative getaway located in the majestic Hawkesbury region.
Many people associate giving with charity and donating money to help those who are in need. You can also make donations to organizations that support causes that you believe in. There are other kinds of giving as well. For example, you can donate things that you've outgrown or replaced. You can also volunteer your time and special skills and talents. The point of philanthropy, or charitable giving, is not necessarily how much you give. Even small donations can add up to make a big difference. Philanthropy is really about recognizing that others can use your help and then donating what you can to make things better. The good feeling that comes from helping is why many people believe that giving is better, and more rewarding, than receiving. Why People Give There are many reasons why people give. It may simply be a desire to help others or share their good fortune with them. Or it may be a desire "to give back" to a community, school, or organization that contributed to their success. Other people believe strongly in a cause, like protecting wildlife, preserving the environment or restoring a community, and they donate time and money to see the cause succeed. Or they may have a very personal reason for giving to an organization that shares their concern, such as stopping unsafe driving or using renewable energy. How People Give Celebrities hold benefit concerts and events to raise money for the victims of disasters, such as earthquakes, typhoons, and floods. People attend special dinners and galas to raise money for foundations that research cures for diseases like cancer and diabetes. And some people give a fixed amount of their income, sometimes as much as 10% or more, to the religion of their choice. Some wealthy people give money to build things that benefit specific communities or society as a whole. For example, they may donate money to build a new hospital wing, community center, or library. Or they may provide scholarships for students going to college. While you may not have the money to give as much as these major benefactors—the people who support major causes and institutions—you can give in more ways than you think. Budgeting for Charity Just as you budget for things you need and want, you can set aside a portion of your income to donate to charity. You can decide how much that should be, depending on your other expenses and how strongly you feel about giving. If you earmark some of your income for charity when creating your budget, you're more likely to have the money available to make your donation. You might have several different charities that you would like to give to. Here's where budgeting can also help. Think of charity as a short-term but ongoing goal. By planning how much you would like to donate to each charity, you'll know how much you'll need to save as part of your weekly or monthly budget. Checking Up on Charities There are many worthwhile charities to which you might give time or money. But there are also people who claim to represent charities but really don't. They collect money only to enrich themselves, not to benefit others. If someone asks you to donate money—in person, by phone, or online—take a closer look before you give. You might go to the organization's website or see what you can find out by typing the charity's name into a search engine. You can also check www.greatnonprofits.org to see a list of recognized charities that you can trust to use your donation for the right purpose. Give Away or Throw Away Money isn't the only thing you can donate. Some charities specialize in collecting items that you're planning to throw out but are still in useable condition. For example, there are charities that collect coats and other clothing for those in need. You might donate a jacket that you've outgrown or shoes that you hardly wore. Other organizations collect used electronic devices, such as phones and computers, which they repair and distribute to people who can't afford them or donate to training programs. There are neighborhood thrift shops that accept many different items, including books, CDs, and toys. These shops typically give a percentage of the money they earn to charitable organizations, such as food banks, shelters, or other community groups. Besides giving money, you can contribute to charity by volunteering or giving your time. Many charities have small staff and depend on volunteers to deliver their services and fulfill their mission. You might volunteer to work in a food or clothing drive to help out the victims of a fire or flood. Or you might volunteer to make a cake for a local bake sale or wash cars to raise money for a school event. During weekends and holidays, you might also volunteer your time in a soup kitchen or at institutions that provide meals for those who would otherwise go hungry. You can also volunteer to read to children or senior citizens in community centers or libraries or contribute your time to programs sponsored by other neighborhood organizations. At Chesapeake Bank At Chesapeake Bank, our motto has always been, "It's all about community." We understand that we make our most significant impact in the communities we serve, and as a community, we're stronger when we come together. Whether it's helping you attain your financial goals or helping you make a difference in your community, we're here to help on a local level, just as we have for more than 120 years. How can we help you? While we hope you find this content useful, it is only intended to serve as a starting point. Your next step is to speak with a qualified, licensed professional who can provide advice tailored to your individual circumstances. Nothing in this article, nor in any associated resources, should be construed as financial or legal advice. Furthermore, while we have made good faith efforts to ensure that the information presented was correct as of the date the content was prepared, we are unable to guarantee that it remains accurate today. Neither Banzai nor its sponsoring partners make any warranties or representations as to the accuracy, applicability, completeness, or suitability for any particular purpose of the information contained herein. Banzai and its sponsoring partners expressly disclaim any liability arising from the use or misuse of these materials and, by visiting this site, you agree to release Banzai and its sponsoring partners from any such liability. Do not rely upon the information provided in this content when making decisions regarding financial or legal matters without first consulting with a qualified, licensed professional.
- anamorphism - noun1. the evolution of one type of organism from another by a long series of gradual changes• Syn: ↑anamorphosis• Hypernyms: ↑evolution, ↑organic evolution, ↑phylogeny, ↑phylogenesis2. metamorphism that occurs deep under the earth's surface; changes simple minerals into complex minerals• Ant: ↑katamorphism• Hypernyms: ↑metamorphism3. a distorted projection or perspective; especially an image distorted in such a way that it becomes visible only when viewed in a special manner• Syn: ↑anamorphosis• Hypernyms: ↑copy Useful english dictionary. 2012.
TikTok wellness trends can sway our health decisions, and berberine is no stranger to this phenomenon. TikTok wellness trends can sway our health decisions, and berberine is no stranger to this phenomenon. In 2023, considerable attention was paid to berberine as claims spread that this plant-based compound was "nature's Ozempic." What does current research on berberine show? Let's learn about berberine's importance for our health. What is berberine? Berberine is an alkaloid found in medicinal plants such as barberry and goldenseal. Known for its bright yellow color and bitter taste, research has shown that berberine supports blood sugar balance, helps sustain already normal cholesterol levels, and maintains healthy insulin sensitivity and weight management. Additional investigations have examined berberine's impact on anthropometric measures such as body weight and body mass index (BMI). In a review of 12 studies, berberine led to significant reductions in body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and inflammation markers. In another review, berberine significantly reduced weight, BMI, and other measures such as triglycerides, total cholesterol, and fasting blood glucose. Berberine provides various nutritional benefits and addresses many health concerns prevalent today. How does berberine work? Many of berberine's actions result from its ability to activate adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Known as the "metabolic master switch," AMPK is an enzyme found throughout the body, especially in the brain, muscles, and liver. AMPK activation helps decrease sugar and fat production, increase fat breakdown, decrease fat storage, and decrease insulin secretion. Berberine also increases the production of GLP-1, a gut hormone that reduces appetite and food intake, while increasing insulin secretion and sensitivity, among other actions. By interacting with the gut microbiota, berberine can positively influence our health. Can berberine's absorption be improved? Berberine has low bioavailability, which has prompted researchers to examine strategies to enhance berberine's absorption in the body. LipoMicel® is one example of a delivery system in which natural compounds are encapsulated in a liquid micelle matrix made of natural food-grade ingredients to help improve bioavailability. One pilot study found that healthy adults who supplemented with two 500 mg softgels daily of this berberine preparation experienced a 12% reduction in blood glucose levels within a few days. Is berberine safe to use? At the recommended dose of 500 mg once or twice daily, berberine is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. Some individuals may experience constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort; under such circumstances, berberine may be discontinued or used at a lower dosage. Consult a physician before use, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, are taking medication, have a medical condition, or intend to use beyond three months. Keep out of the reach of children. With clear knowledge and understanding of berberine, many people can gain the numerous health benefits of this plant compound.
Southern African Hidden Gems You Should Add to Your Bucket List Drawing up a bucket list is relatively easy, but deciding what to tick off first is a different story altogether. Well the time is nigh to sharpen your pencils and head on down south as we present you with the southern African experiences you won't want to miss. While hidden gems often stay just that, secretly guarded by locals, we dish the dirt and let you in on some homegrown picks. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips. Paternoster and the Cape Columbine Lighthouse The Cape Columbine Lighthouse is located just outside Paternoster on the west coast of South Africa, in an area infamous for its many shipwrecks and harsh, unyielding sea conditions. It was erected in 1936 atop a range of boulders known as Castle Rock and today still acts as a beacon of light for vessels that pass its treacherous waters. The lighthouse holds significance as the last project of Harry Claude Cooper, a famed, master lighthouse designer, and is one of only four lighthouses in South Africa that offers accommodation. Book a night or two and explore the quaint fisherman village of Paternoster while you're there. !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre Located on the west coast of South Africa, this centre gives visitors the unique experience of meeting and interacting with the descendants of the first indigenous people of South Africa, the San. Guided tours take visitors on a whirlwind journey through the history, traditional knowledge, skills, languages and customs of the San tribe, as you learn more about animal tracking and plant identification and explore a replica of a traditional San village. Have a bit of a laugh while trying to produce a few of the tricky clicking sounds that are used in the San language and enjoy a day exploring the cultural history of southern Africa. Adam's Calendar Also sometimes referred to as 'African Stonehenge', this standing-stone, circle edifice is believed to be the oldest man-made structure in the world, predating both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza by tens of thousands of years. It is also the only known example of a completely functional, mostly intact, megalithic stone calendar on the planet and was first brought to public attention in 2003. The stones are placed to track the movement of the sun, which casts shadows on the rock and still works perfectly today. Most recently, scientists have discovered sound frequencies with acoustic properties, made from the earth inside the circles ,which conduct electricity. As the sound frequencies surface to the ground, they acquire the shape of flowers of sacred geometry. Pelican Point and Sandwich Harbour The remote and pretty Pelican Point Peninsula lies close to Walvis Bay in Namibia and take travellers right into the midst of Cape fur seals, flamingos, pelicans, dolphins and more. You need to book a tour to get there, which will include a 4×4 trip cross the wetlands of Walvis Bay to the kayak pick-up point. Visitors then have the rare opportunity of interacting with a range of marine life, including friendly seals and playful dolphins. Later, transportation is provided to Sandwich Harbour, a UNESCO World Heritage Site forming part of the Namib Sea Sand – one of the biggest sand fields in the world, where awesome sand dunes fringe the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. Set aside a full day for this amazing experience and your booking price will include all necessary permits, lunch and drinks. Ponta do Ouro Suitable for star-struck lovers and hedonists alike, this little treasure is located on the southernmost stretches of Mozambique and is considered one of the top ten attractions on the African continent. Scuba diving, fishing and browsing quaint, open-air markets and shops is all you really need to keep you busy in this little piece of paradise, where dolphins and turtles frolic with swimmers, and sunshine and sea air fill the days. After a hard day at the beach, treat yourself to an excellent meal at one of the many rustic and charming restaurants in the town. Hole in the Wall Myths and legends of a love-struck maiden denied her honey surround the Hole in the Wall, an absolutely unique landmark situated just south of Coffee Bay in the Eastern Cape. The rocky archway lies only a short distance from the coastline and, according to geologists, was created millions of years ago by the relentless crashing of waves against sandstone and shale. The local Xhosa maiden legend spins a more interesting yarn but, regardless of how the hole came into existence, it is still an amazing sight to behold. The nearby village of Coffee Bay is a top choice among nature lovers and backpackers, and is as renowned for its friendly vibes as it is for the great socialising that takes place come sunset. Linyanti Swamp While Namibia is most often visited for its stunning sand dunes and arid yet mesmerising landscape, there is other hidden beauty that the country holds. Towards the east of the Bwabwata National Park, a forested landscape gives way to the swampy savanna of the Kwando. This river originates in Angola and veers sharply east due to movements in the earth's crust, breaking into multiple channels and forming a mini-delta in the Namibian savanna, before branching into the Linyanti and Chobe Rivers. The Linyanti Swamp region is one of the most beautiful and remote in Africa and remains preserved and pristine thanks to its relative inaccessibility. It also holds some of the largest elephant, wildebeest, lion, tsessebe, and crocodile populations in Namibia. St Lucia St Lucia is a gorgeous, palm-fringed settlement on South Africa's east coast lying a couple of hours from the tourist hub of Durban. But while Durbs is all about fast city life, surfing and shopping, St Lucia offers a much more natural approach to a seaside vacation. Here the number of hippos closely rivals that of human residents and in fact accounts for the largest hippo population in South Africa, making the likelihood of bumping into one of these enormous (and usually water-dwelling) creatures range from good to excellent. On a regular basis, the 'townies', or street-roaming hippos, make an appearance, and while a hippo traffic jam is not common, it does occur, especially at night when hungry hippos venture from the nearby estuary in search of suburban sweetness and grassy verges. Sani Pass Only recommended for those with a head for heights, the Sani Pass is the gateway to the Roof of Africa, and also home to the highest pub on the continent. It is located within the stunning Drakensberg escarpment and meanders through the mountain kingdom of Lesotho, peaking at an eye-watering 2800 metres (9186 feet) above sea level, and is a prime location for high-alpine birding in South Africa. Driving conditions are challenging and not for the faint at heart, and a 4×4 vehicle is considered essential if you don't want to end up like the few car wrecks you will come across as you ascend the mountain. The nail-biting trip does however provide travellers with absolutely amazing vistas and plenty of gripping tales to take home. Make sure you have your passport handy, as it is needed to cross over into Lesotho. Take a sidecar tour Although the scenic beauty of Cape Town hardly rates as a hidden gem, there are a couple of ways to experience its panoramic glory with a difference. A sidecar tour is the perfect way to sit back and relax while you are driven along some of the most popular and picturesque roads in the Mother City. Although the vintage sidecars have their origins in World War II, they have been spruced up and given a colourful, sexy look, and travellers are kitted-out in groovy leather jackets, helmets and goggles for a retro feel and completely fun experience. Make sure you take your camera for some cool photographs of yourself. Grand Bassin The postcard-perfect island of Mauritius is popular among families, honeymooners and water sports enthusiasts alike, but if you can pull yourself away from the dreamy beaches for a while, travellers will find that there is a lot more to this piece of paradise than initially meets the eye. Grand Bassin is one such spot. Once an active volcano, it now features a serene mountain lake that is the most sacred Hindu place on the island, with a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, as well as a statue in his honour. Peaceful and contemplative, this is one spot you should take a while to ponder and quietly absorb. Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special. Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?> All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we've got you covered.
Should I Start an LLC for My Bike Shop? Starting a limited liability company (LLC) for your bike shop can provide several benefits. Most importantly, an LLC structure offers limited liability to its owners, which can protect their personal assets from lawsuits and creditors. For a bike shop, lawsuits can arise from things like accidentally selling faulty bikes, as well as from customers suffering accidents while using a bicycle that's been purchased from your store. LLCs are also affordable, highly flexible (from a tax point-of-view), and can make your bike shop seem more credible. Recommended: Use Northwest to form an LLC for $29 (plus state fees). Do I Need an LLC for a Bike Shop? LLCs are a simple and inexpensive way to protect your personal assets and save money on taxes. You should form an LLC when there's any risk involved in your business and/or when your business could benefit from tax options and increased credibility. LLC Benefits for a Bike Shop By starting an LLC for your bike shop, you can: - Protect your savings, car, and house with limited liability protection - Have more tax benefits and options - Increase your business's credibility Limited Liability Protection LLCs provide limited liability protection. This means your personal assets (e.g., car, house, bank account) are protected in the event your business is sued or if it defaults on a debt. Bike shops will benefit from liability protection because retail businesses, including bike shops, face the risk of product liability, workplace accidents, trademark infringement, and financial data breaches. Example 1: After test-driving one of your bikes, a customer collides with a car and suffers a fracture of their knee. Claiming that this was a result of a loose wheel, they threaten to sue you and your business for compensation. Since your bike shop is registered as an LLC, you will not be personally liable for compensating the claimant. Example 2: You promise to purchase ten bicycles from a struggling store owner in order to resell them. In exchange, the store owner offers to put up a few flyers to advertise your products as a thank you. When you pull out of the deal, the owner claims that your promise constituted a binding verbal contract, and threatens to sue you for compensation. Regardless of the outcome of the lawsuit, your personal assets will remain protected if your business is registered as an LLC. Example 3: You decide to lease a second storefront and expand your bike shop business. In order to do this, you apply for a large loan with your business's bank, which you will use to purchase additional equipment and finance all moving costs. Since the loan is in your LLC's name, your personal belongings will not be put at risk if you fail to repay it in the future. Example 4: During a test ride, a customer seriously injures themself in a crash and decides to sue for medical-related compensation. While a court may rule in your favor, you still may have to pay legal fees. An LLC will also protect your personal assets in the event of commercial bankruptcy or loan default. To maintain your LLC's limited liability protection, you must maintain your LLC's corporate veil. LLC Tax Benefits and Options for a Bike Shop LLCs, by default, are taxed as a pass-through entity, just like a sole proprietorship or partnership. This means that the business's net income passes through to the owner's individual tax return. The business's net income is then subject to income taxes (based on the owner's tax bracket) and self-employment taxes. Sole proprietorships and partnerships are taxed in a similar way to LLCs, but they do not offer limited liability protection or other tax options. S Corp Option for LLCs An S corporation (S corp) is an IRS tax status that an LLC can elect. S corp status allows business owners to be treated as employees of the business (for tax purposes). S corp tax status can reduce self-employment taxes and will allow business owners to contribute pre-tax dollars to 401k or health insurance premiums. The S corp status requires that the business pay the employee-owner(s) a reasonable salary for the work they perform. In addition, the business might need to spend more on accounting, bookkeeping, and payroll services. To offset these costs, you'd need to be saving about $2,000 a year on taxes. We estimate that if a bike shop owner can pay themselves a reasonable salary and at least $10,000 in distributions each year, they could benefit from S corp status. You can start an S corp when you form your LLC. Our How to Start an S Corp guide will lead you through the process. Credibility and Consumer Trust Bike shops rely on consumer trust. Credibility plays a key role in creating and maintaining any business. Businesses gain consumer trust simply by forming an LLC. A growing business can also benefit from the credibility of an LLC when applying for small business loans, grants, and credit. Northwest will start an LLC for you for just $29 (plus state fees). How to Form an LLC Forming an LLC is easy. There are two options for forming your LLC: - You can hire a professional LLC formation service to set up your LLC for a small fee - Or, you can choose your state from the list below to start an LLC yourself Select Your State - Alabama LLC - Alaska LLC - Arizona LLC - Arkansas LLC - California LLC - Colorado LLC - Connecticut LLC - Delaware LLC - Florida LLC - Georgia LLC - Hawaii LLC - Idaho LLC - Illinois LLC - Indiana LLC - Iowa LLC - Kansas LLC - Kentucky LLC - Louisiana LLC - Maine LLC - Maryland LLC - Massachusetts LLC - Michigan LLC - Minnesota LLC - Mississippi LLC - Missouri LLC - Montana LLC - Nebraska LLC - Nevada LLC - New Hampshire LLC - New Jersey LLC - New Mexico LLC - New York LLC - North Carolina LLC - North Dakota LLC - Ohio LLC - Oklahoma LLC - Oregon LLC - Pennsylvania LLC - Rhode Island LLC - South Carolina LLC - South Dakota LLC - Tennessee LLC - Texas LLC - Utah LLC - Vermont LLC - Virginia LLC - Washington LLC - Washington D.C. LLC - West Virginia LLC - Wisconsin LLC - Wyoming LLC For most new business owners, the best state to form an LLC in is the state where you live and where you plan to conduct your business. Do LLCs Need Insurance? You need to purchase business insurance if you want to protect your business's assets against foreseeable financial harm. An LLC, in turn, protects your personal assets. When it comes to bike shops, such assets may include repair equipment, bikes, and company vehicles. Common Situations Business Insurance May Cover for a Bike Shop Example 1: During a test ride, a customer seriously injuries themself in a crash and decides to sue. While a court may rule in your favor because the customer took on certain risks by riding the bike, general liability insurance would cover your legal fees and any damages awarded in a settlement. Example 2: As an employee demonstrates a bike's fast rate of acceleration, he loses control and hits a customer's car. General liability insurance would pay for the customer's vehicle repair costs. Example 3: A competitor claims your marketing campaign defames their shop and decides to sue. Your general liability insurance would cover your legal fees and any damages awarded in a settlement. Other Types of Coverage Bike Shops Need While general liability is the most important type of insurance to have, there are several other forms of coverage you should be aware of. Below are some other types of insurance all bike shops should obtain: Commercial Property Insurance You've made major investments in your inventory of bicycles and cycling accessories. If you own the building in which you operate, you're responsible for all business-related property housed there in the event of a fire or other natural disaster. Commercial property insurance would cover the cost of replacing your lost inventory after an accident so you can recover quickly. Product Liability Insurance While your customers assume a certain level of risk when riding your bikes, there's always a chance someone may file a lawsuit if they believe one of your products harmed them. Product liability insurance would protect your business by covering your legal fees and any damages awarded in the event of a lawsuit. Commercial Umbrella Insurance While your general liability insurance policy covers most claims, some accidents or lawsuits may be so catastrophic that they threaten to exhaust the limits of your primary coverage. Commercial umbrella insurance protects you from paying out-of-pocket for any legal fees and awarded damages that exceed your primary policy. Workers' Compensation Insurance Most states require businesses to carry workers' compensation insurance for their part-time and full-time employees. This coverage protects your employees if they become injured at work or fall ill after a work-related accident. It not only covers an employee's medical bills and lost wages if they need time to recover but also any disability benefits stemming from a work-related accident. Should I Start an LLC FAQ Choosing the right business structure depends on your business's unique circumstances and needs. However, unless your business is very low risk (like a hobby), an LLC is likely the better option. Visit our LLC vs. Sole Proprietorship guide to learn more. At a minimum, you'll need general liability insurance, commercial property insurance, and workers' compensation insurance if you have employees. Read our Bike Shop Business Insurance article for more info. Generally speaking, opening a bike shop can cost anywhere between $10,000 and $350,000. You will need to obtain the required business license and permits, lease a storefront, and purchase all of your initial inventory. Your largest maintenance cost will likely be your employees' salaries (if applicable), as well as the repair and maintenance of your bikes. Visit our How to Start a Bike Shop guide to learn more about the costs of starting and maintaining this business. Some of the operating expenses for a bike shop include rent, inventory, payroll, and marketing costs. Learn more about running a bike shop. Bike shops make money by selling bikes and bike accessories. Some also offer bike repair services. Learn more about starting a bike shop. Bike shops typically carry a wide variety of bikes as well as things like helmets and bike parts. Startup costs for a bike shop can vary depending on its location and the size of the shop. While this can be a considerable expense, the markup on bikes can be substantial, which keeps profit margins high. The average profit margin for a successful bike shop is around 40%. Learn more about starting a bike shop.
Are you one of the millions of people worldwide suffering from the discomfort and pain caused by bunions? If so, you're not alone. Bunions, those bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, can make walking and wearing shoes painful and challenging. Fortunately, advancements in medical technology have led to innovative treatments like minimally invasive bunion surgery, offering relief with less discomfort and downtime compared to traditional surgical methods. At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, led by the esteemed Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, we understand the impact foot pain can have on your daily life. That's why we're dedicated to providing comprehensive care and staying at the forefront of cutting-edge treatments like minimally invasive bunion surgery. In this blog post, we'll explore why this approach may be the ideal solution for your foot pain. Understanding Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery Minimally invasive bunion surgery is a modern technique that aims to correct bunions with smaller incisions and less disruption to surrounding tissues compared to traditional open surgery. This approach utilizes specialized instruments and advanced imaging technology to precisely realign the bones of the foot, addressing the root cause of the bunion while minimizing trauma to the soft tissues. Benefits of Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery Choosing minimally invasive bunion surgery offers several advantages over traditional open procedures - Faster recovery times - Reduced postoperative pain - Smaller scars - Lower risk of infection - Quicker return to normal activities How Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery Works During minimally invasive bunion surgery, the surgeon makes tiny incisions near the bunion and uses specialized tools to carefully shave away excess bone and realign the joint. This approach allows for greater precision and accuracy while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. Is Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery Right for Me? Minimally invasive bunion surgery is suitable for many patients with mild to moderate bunions who have not found relief from conservative treatments like orthotics or shoe modifications. However, it's essential to consult with a qualified podiatric surgeon like Dr. DiNucci to determine the best course of action for your specific condition. What to Expect During Recovery After minimally invasive bunion surgery, patients typically experience less pain and swelling compared to traditional surgery. Most can bear weight on the affected foot shortly after the procedure and return to normal activities within a few weeks, although full recovery may take several months. Risks and Complications While minimally invasive bunion surgery is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks, such as infection, nerve damage, or recurrence of the bunion. However, these risks are typically lower with minimally invasive techniques compared to open surgery. Cost Considerations The cost of minimally invasive bunion surgery can vary depending on factors such as the surgeon's experience, the complexity of the procedure, and your insurance coverage. However, many patients find that the benefits of faster recovery and fewer complications outweigh any potential additional costs. Long-Term Outcomes Studies have shown that patients who undergo minimally invasive bunion surgery experience excellent long-term outcomes, with high rates of satisfaction and minimal recurrence of bunions. By addressing the underlying structural issues causing the bunion, this approach can provide lasting relief from foot pain. Alternative Treatments While minimally invasive bunion surgery offers significant benefits, it may not be the right choice for everyone. Depending on your specific condition and preferences, alternative treatments such as orthotics, physical therapy, or traditional open surgery may be more appropriate. Dr. DiNucci can help you explore all your options and make an informed decision. Read more arizonafoot.com How to Get Started If you're tired of living with foot pain caused by bunions, don't wait any longer to seek relief. Contact the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona today to schedule a consultation with Dr. DiNucci and learn more about the benefits of minimally invasive bunion surgery. Our knowledgeable and compassionate staff are here to support you every step of the way on your journey to healthier, happier feet. Frequently Asked Questions What is minimally invasive bunion surgery? Minimally invasive bunion surgery is a modern technique used to correct bunions with smaller incisions and less disruption to surrounding tissues compared to traditional open surgery. How does minimally invasive bunion surgery differ from traditional open surgery? Unlike traditional open surgery, which involves larger incisions and more extensive tissue disruption, minimally invasive bunion surgery utilizes specialized instruments and advanced imaging technology to achieve similar results with smaller incisions and less trauma to surrounding tissues. Am I a candidate for minimally invasive bunion surgery? Many patients with mild to moderate bunions who have not found relief from conservative treatments like orthotics or shoe modifications may be candidates for minimally invasive bunion surgery. However, it's essential to consult with a qualified podiatric surgeon to determine if this approach is right for you. Minimally invasive bunion surgery represents a significant advancement in the treatment of foot pain, offering patients a safer, faster, and more effective solution compared to traditional open surgery. With its many benefits, including faster recovery times, reduced postoperative pain, and smaller scars, it's no wonder why more and more people are choosing this innovative approach. If you're ready to say goodbye to bunions and hello to healthier feet, schedule a consultation with Dr. DiNucci at the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona today. Your feet will thank you!
How Do You Listen To Music and Do You Even Listen? Is There A Music Player In Your Possession? As you have probably gathered, music is a great part of my life. Allegedly the first record that I liked was "Hound Dog" by Elvis Presley when I was around three years old. Growing up in the sixties music was on a record player or via transistor radio, often listening to Radio Luxembourg, and pirate radio stations. Then we finally got a pop station from the BBC in Radio 1 and the first record they played was "Flowers In The Rain" by The Move and the disc jockey was Tony Blackburn. The only tape we had was reel to reel, and on TV "Thank Your Lucky Stars", "Top Of The Pops" and "Juke Box Jury" were places to check out the latest records, though they were not always acceptable. This is my own potted history of music media: The main picture shows my options for listening to music, which include radio, vinyl, cassette, CD and DVD/Blu-Ray. I also have digital copies that I listen to when walking on my phone, and I like to see artists playing live. This is all music that I own and have paid for. So What Is This About? Streaming models are not good for artists, and I have said several times that companies like Spotify would have no problem if no new music was ever produced because they have such a huge catalogue of music to stream. This is the ultimate musical convenience. Very often people don't even choose what they want to hear, they just let their app decide for them. I am often told that I am behind the times because I listen to music in so many ways instead of Spotify. A few people have told me that they only hear music when they watch a TV series or advertisement. I get the feeling that these are the sort of people (and I know a lot of these) who would never read a book (or have one in their house) or watch a film that was in black and white or had subtitles. Since the millennium the way the public treat music has changed dramatically. People like convenience and that is what streaming platforms give them, and once someone is on that path it is highly unlikely they will change because convenience is king. I am as bad when I watch a film or TV program. I may have the DVD but if I can watch it on demand, without leaving my sofa, then I go for that option. Anyway, carrying on from this playlist I have discovered a few more wonderful records in my collection and I will share them with you to close this piece. The Godfathers - "Walking Talking Johnny Cash Blues" While I know of The Godfathers I didn't know their music, and still don't, but this closed a magazine freebie and takes a beefed-up version of the Johnny Cash beat to make a truly great song reminiscent of "Hello, I'm Johnny Cash" by The Alabama 3 which you can listen to in this piece. Echobelly - "Dark Therapy" from the album "On" This is a song that is always with me but was on one of the compilations that came from the other room and the gorgeous vocals on this beauty still give me goosebumps today. If you listen to this it will stay with you too. Bob Marley and the Wailers - "No Woman, No Cry" from "Live At The Lyceum" I will close this short playlist with this truly great song. I remember trying very hard to source a copy when it was released. I got it, and a few weeks later it hit the top forty. I pulled out my vinyl copy of the album for the main picture in this article and was shocked to find that this was not a Marley composition, it's only taken me forty-five years to find that out, although this is the story from Wikipedia, so it still may be a Marley song in reality. Although Bob Marley is widely believed to have written the song, or at least the melody, songwriting credit was given to Vincent Ford, a friend of Marley's who ran a soup kitchen in Trenchtown, the ghetto of Kingston, Jamaica, where Marley grew up (he specifically mentions the Government Yards of Trenchtown, a public housing project). The royalty payments received by Ford ensured his efforts would continue. Thank you for reading, I really appreciate your support, and would love to know how you listen to your music. Reader insights Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more! Top insights Expert insights and opinions Arguments were carefully researched and presented Compelling and original writing Creative use of language & vocab Easy to read and follow Well-structured & engaging content Heartfelt and relatable The story invoked strong personal emotions Masterful proofreading Zero grammar & spelling mistakes On-point and relevant Writing reflected the title & theme - Christy Munsonabout a month ago I do listen to music and nearly all the time. I can't imagine life without it. My husband is an exceptional musician and he jams a lot, so that's probably the #1 way I hear music. Second is streaming services set in whole house mode so my music follows everywhere I am in the house. Next is a service in my car. I'm not getting much out of it these days since I'm at home most of the time, but I love knowing it's there waiting for me for short trips. I have music through my Peloton as well. Then I have tons of old records, CDs, tapes including mix tapes, and on an on. I did have to let go of some of my collection about a decade ago because we ran of our room for everything. My husband is also a music enthusiast and he had music mags from his teens through his late 40s. He reads them from time to time, but now I think, it's mostly nostalgia. He sold a number of them to a reputable secondhand music store and the owner was blown away. Great to see others giving those gems a second life. - Dharrsheena Raja Segarranabout a month ago I don't use Spotify or any other streaming services. I download songs and listen to them. On my laptop I use Windows Media Player to listen. On my phone I use Samsung Music Player. That's about it hehehe - Carol Townendabout a month ago I share some of your perceptions, though I do listen to music on Spotify. However, I still buy records, Compact Discs. I feel it is only right to honour my favourite musicians in this way because a lot of effort goes into creating their music. - Mariann Carrollabout a month ago I listen to music like it's water and food. Some music moves me and some does not at all. I get introduced to music by my parents during childhood. The first song introduce I remember was from my mother to me, You are my Sunshine. School teaches music. Peers also influence my taste in music. Movie soundtrack is also introduce me to knew music as well. - Dana Crandellabout a month ago Some good selections here and some interesting thoughts, too. I was born in the mid 50's, so I've run the whole gamut of listening options. I sold my vinyl collection long ago. I burned all of my casettes to CDs and still have those, but rarely get them out. These days, my entire, very eclectic collection is on a big external hard drive and I let it run when I'm at my desk. When I'm driving, I'll pop in a CD or just tune to a classic rock station. One of my prize possessions is a big reel- to reel tape of the family singing and playing at a party sometime in the 70's. I plan to have that digitized, since tape is prone to damage. - Margaret Brennanabout a month ago awesome; I also love music. Not too keen on TV unless it's the History or Discovery channels. However, I also love to read. There are times when I'm reading, I also have my radio on. Music definitely helps my old bones move. - Andy Pottsabout a month ago I think these days I listen to most of my music in the car, which means good old-fashioned CDs (remember when CDs were the future, rather than the past?). Where possible, I buy discs in physical stores or at gigs. For more obscure stuff, I try to get them from the artists' websites. I have a CD player at home as well, but rarely have chance to use it undisturbed. After that, yes, I use online platforms. It's a good way of sourcing new bands and checking out people I've read about but not previously heard. And finally, I'm trying to get to more gigs. Not always easy because of work and family commitments, but hopefully it's broadening my horizons a bit and helping artists pay their bills. - ROCK about a month ago Excellent recs; I can't wait to check some of these out and discover the Godfathers!
24/7 writing help on your phone Save to my list Remove from my list A tragic hero is a literary character that possesses a certain flaw that leads to their own self-destruction. The idea of a "tragic hero" was first presented by Aristotle, an Ancient Greek philosopher. The characteristics of these types of heroes are hamartia, hubris, peripeteia, anagnorisis, and catharsis., and there are many literature works that focus on them. One example is Okonkwo, a character in the book Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe. Okonkwo is a character that is so consumed by his flawed beliefs that it causes him to go through a series of bad decisions that pushes him away from his clan, and eventually leads to his suicide. To elaborate, in Okonkwo's eyes, masculinity is seen through strength, hard-work, being respected. As Okonkwo becomes consumed with the idea of never being seen as weak, he begins to make very rash decisions. This is one of the most important characteristics of a tragic hero. It is his fear of being seen as weak that influences events throughout the book. One of the biggest situations influenced by his flaw was the murder of Ikemefuna, a boy he treated like his own son. "Dazed with fear, Okonkwo drew his machete and cut him down. He was afraid of being thought weak" . The quote is from the scene where Okonkwo takes part in the murder of the boy he accepted into his family. His fear of being presumed as weak overpowers everything else. This scene in the book demonstrates that Okonkwo would rather kill a fifteen year old boy that he considered his son, than for the village to think he "lacked masculinity" and possessed cowardly traits. Furthermore, Okonkwo exhibits many examples of hubris, which is having a lot of pride and a miniscule amount of respect for the natural order. Okonkwo's pride lies within his many achievements that gained him notoriety within the village, and the fact that he can support three wives who bear his children. "Okonkwo was well known throughout the nine villages and even beyond. His fame rested on solid personal achieviements" . These are the first two sentences of the book, and they introduce readers to how accomplished Okonkwo is and sets up the perception that he is very prideful and slightly conceited. Another example from the text is on page 11 of the online book and states, "His enemies said his good fortune had gone to his head". This shows that others thought of him as arrogant because of his attitude about his many accomplishments. Additionally, the tragic hero goes through a turning point known as peripeteia. The best example of this in Things Fall Apart is Okonkwo's exile from his village. "It was a crime against the earth goddess to kill a clansman, and a man who committed it must flee from the clan". The situation is ironic because Ikemefuna went through a similar situation in which he was sent to Okonkwo for the murder of someone in the village. The exile and banishment of Okonkwo for seven years shifted the events of the story that only led to his downfall. Alongside Okonkwo's journey as a tragic hero, it begins to come to an end as he undergoes a realization between his clan and him. It happens when Okonkwo ends up killing a messenger and sees that his village will not back him up and fight a war. "He knew that Umofia would not go to war. He knew because they had let the other messengers escape". This shift in events takes a turn for the worst in regards to Okonkwo's character and self-identity. He, once again, acts violently as he has done countless times and, in turn, suffered the consequences of his bad decision. This is where the feelings within the reader shift which gives the final element of catharsis into play. Catharsis is where the readers takes up certain emotions about the main character that may involve pity and empathy for them. In the end, Okonkwo ends up taking his life due to his inability to cope with the things he'd done in his life. "Then they came to the tree from which Okonkwo's body was dangling. . ." . This shows the tragic end of the life of a character who let his own flaws influence his decisions, which led to his own ruin. In conclusion, Okonkwo is a tragic hero because his story possesses all the traits of the original elements of Aristotle's idea. The character possessed a large amount of pride and possessed a flaw that caused a turning point in his life where the only direction he could go was down. It was his own character trait that brought about his own destruction, and that is what makes Okonkwo a tragic hero. Okonkwo: The Story Of a Tragic Hero. (2024, Feb 09). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/okonkwo-the-story-of-a-tragic-hero-essay 👋 Hi! I'm your smart assistant Amy! Don't know where to start? Type your requirements and I'll connect you to an academic expert within 3 minutes. get help with your assignment
Does Menopause Make You Tired? (Yes! ... But Why?) Women in their late 40s and early 50s typically report menopause-related "crushing" fatigue. In this blog, we discuss natural remedies to get rid of menopause tiredness and when to speak to a doctor about your energy levels during menopause. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone are the main cause of menopause fatigue. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sleep aids can help you feel more energized. If you feel depressed along with menopause fatigue, seek professional medical advice. Did you know? The average age of menopause in women is around 51 years; early menopause (before the age of 40) and late menopause (after 55) are less common! Curious if menopause is leaving you feeling tired? The short answer is … yes. Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. Because of this, multiple changes occur in your body, especially with your hormones, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes and tiredness. How can you deal with these symptoms? Well, let's first start by understanding what exactly menopause is! What Exactly Is Menopause? Menopause is the stage in a woman's life when monthly menstrual periods stop. It usually happens in the late 40s or early 50s. During menopause, the ovaries produce fewer hormones like estrogen and progesterone, leading to changes in the menstrual cycle and eventually the cessation of periods. Women may experience multiple symptoms during this period, so let's first look at how menopause can impact your energy levels! Does Menopause Impact Your Energy Levels? Yes. During menopause, the decline in estrogen and progesterone levels can affect your body's energy regulation. For instance, estrogen plays a role in regulating metabolism and energy production, so its decline during menopause can lead to feelings of fatigue. Menopause And Sleepiness Symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and increased stress make it harder for you to fall asleep and stay relaxed throughout the night. This experience can lead to waking up feeling tired, despite a full 7 to 9 hours of sleep. Menopause-related exhaustion can manifest in various ways and may include: - Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly (sometimes referred to as "brain fog") - Decreased motivation or interest in activities - Feelings of weakness or lethargy - Increased irritability or mood swings In the next section, we take a closer look at why you experience these symptoms! Why Does Menopause Cause Fatigue? Other than hormonal changes, which we have discussed, the following factors contribute to menopause fatigue 1. Increased Stress: The menopausal transition often matches up with other life changes, like increased stress, changes in work or family dynamics, or lifestyle adjustments. These factors can also add to the general feelings of fatigue. 2. Physical Changes: Menopause is associated with changes in muscle mass and distribution, which can affect overall physical strength and endurance. 3. Changes in metabolism: Most women may experience changes in metabolism during menopause, including more fatigue and weight gain, accompanied by a decrease in overall energy levels. 4. Mood Changes: Hormonal fluctuations can affect mood, leading to symptoms like irritability, anxiety, or depression, which may contribute to feeling tired as well. 5. Sleep Disturbances: Other menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats, can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue during the day. Next, let's look at other common symptoms of menopause that can accompany the feelings of fatigue. Signs And Symptoms Of Menopause On top of fatigue, symptoms of menopause can vary widely among women. In fact, some women experience few or mild symptoms, while others find them more pronounced. However, common symptoms of menopause include: 1. Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Menstrual cycles may become irregular, and periods may be lighter or heavier than usual. 2. Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Sudden, intense feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating, can occur, especially at night. 3. Sleep Disturbances: Changes in sleep patterns, including difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, may occur. 4. Mood Swings: Hormonal fluctuations can lead to mood changes, including irritability, anxiety, or feelings of sadness. 5. Vaginal Dryness and Discomfort: Declining estrogen levels can result in vaginal dryness, itching, and discomfort during sexual intercourse. 6. Decreased Libido: Some women may experience a decrease in sexual desire or changes in sexual satisfaction. 7. Difficulty Concentrating: Some women report difficulties with memory or concentration during menopause, a condition known as "Menopause Brain Fog". 8. Joint and Muscle Pain: Joint pain and muscle aches may be experienced by some women. 9. Changes in Skin and Hair: Changes in skin elasticity, dryness, and changes in hair texture also occur. 10. Urinary Changes: Changes in urinary frequency or urgency, as well as an increased risk of urinary tract infections, may occur. These symptoms are mostly manageable with proper care and professional medical advice. So, in the next section, we discuss how you can go about managing menopause fatigue in particular. How Should I Deal With Menopause Fatigue? Here are things you can try to have higher energy levels during your menopause: 1. Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, swimming, or yoga. Exercise can improve overall energy levels and mood. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days. 2. Healthy Diet: Consume a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugar intake. Include foods with complex carbohydrates to provide sustained energy. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. 3. Adequate Sleep: Prioritize good sleep hygiene to address any sleep disturbances associated with menopause. Create a comfortable sleep environment, maintain a consistent sleep schedule, and consider using blackout curtains or a sleep mask. 4. Sleep Aids: Weighted blankets, for instance, can be extremely helpful in dealing with symptoms of menopause. If hot flashes are keeping you awake at night, a breathable weighted blanket like our chunky-knit Tree Napper can help you sleep cooler. The TENCEL™ in our Tree Napper is naturally moisture-wicking and ensures proper airflow all night long so that you can wake up refreshed and ready for the day! 5. Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques to manage the emotional aspects of menopause, which can contribute to fatigue. Explore relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, mindfulness, or gentle yoga. 6. Limit Stimulants Before Bed: Reduce the intake of stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine in the hours leading up to bedtime. Stimulants can interfere with sleep quality. Opt for decaffeinated beverages in the evening and create a relaxing bedtime routine. 7. Mind-Body Practices: Explore mind-body practices like Tai Chi or Qigong, which can improve energy flow and balance. These practices combine gentle movements with mindfulness and may contribute to improved overall well-being. 8. Social Support: Maintain strong social connections to provide emotional support during this life transition. Share your experiences with trusted friends, family, or support groups. Social interactions can positively impact mood and provide a sense of understanding and camaraderie. 9. Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor overall health and discuss menopausal symptoms. In the next section, we look at some foods you can incorporate into your diet to maintain higher energy levels before, during, and after menopause. What Are Energy-Boosting Foods For Menopausal Women? Here are some nutrient-rich foods that can help you deal with menopause-induced exhaustion: 1. Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are rich in iron, which helps transport oxygen throughout the body and combat fatigue. 2. Lean proteins: Foods like chicken, turkey, fish, tofu, and legumes provide high-quality protein, which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and sustaining energy levels. 3. Complex carbohydrates: Opt for whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oats, and whole wheat bread, which release energy slowly and provide a steady source of fuel for the body. 4. Healthy fats: Incorporate sources of healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil into your diet. These fats provide long-lasting energy and support hormone production. 5. Fruits: Berries, bananas, apples, and oranges are rich in vitamins, minerals, and natural sugars that can help boost energy levels and fight fatigue. 6. Fatty fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve mood, reduce inflammation, and increase energy levels. 7. Low-fat dairy: Greek yogurt, low-fat milk, and cheese are excellent sources of calcium and protein, which are important for bone health and muscle function. 8. Water-rich foods: Stay hydrated by consuming water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and celery, which can help prevent dehydration and maintain energy levels. 9. Green tea: Swap out sugary drinks for green tea, which contains caffeine and antioxidants that can boost energy and improve mental alertness. 10. Dark chocolate: Enjoying a small piece of dark chocolate can provide a quick energy boost thanks to its natural caffeine content and mood-enhancing properties. In addition to incorporating these energy-boosting foods into their diet, some women have considered supplementing with vitamins, especially right before they begin menopause. In the next section, we discuss what options are available! Which Vitamins Are Best For Perimenopause Fatigue? Here are some vitamin supplements often recommended for managing fatigue during perimenopause: 1. Vitamin D: Many people, especially those in northern climates or who spend little time outdoors, are deficient in vitamin D. This vitamin is crucial for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Adequate levels of vitamin D may also help reduce fatigue before, during, and post menopause. 2. Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in energy metabolism, and deficiency can lead to fatigue and weakness. As we age, our bodies may have difficulty absorbing vitamin B12 from food, so supplementation may be necessary. 3. Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play a role in mood regulation. Some research reported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) suggests that vitamin B6 supplementation may help alleviate symptoms of fatigue and depression. 4. Iron: Iron deficiency is common in women, especially during perimenopause due to heavy menstrual bleeding or decreased absorption. Low iron levels can lead to fatigue and weakness. If you suspect iron deficiency, it's essential to have your levels checked by a healthcare provider before starting supplementation. 5. Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including energy production and muscle function. Some studies reported by the NIH suggest that magnesium supplementation may help reduce fatigue and improve sleep quality. 6. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): CoQ10 is a compound that plays a crucial role in cellular energy production. Some research suggests that CoQ10 supplementation may help reduce fatigue and improve energy levels, especially in individuals with low levels of CoQ10. 7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon and in fish oil supplements, have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce symptoms of fatigue and depression. 8. Adaptogens: While not vitamins, adaptogenic herbs like rhodiola, ashwagandha, and ginseng are often recommended for managing stress and fatigue. These herbs may help the body adapt to stress and support overall energy levels. Individual needs vary, and always ensure to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. Additionally, focusing on a balanced diet rich in whole foods can provide many of the vitamins and minerals needed to support energy levels during perimenopause or even post menopause. Next, let's discuss what signs you need to look for to share during your regular check-ups or your very first menopause-related visit to the doctor's office. When To See A Doctor Here are several situations in which you should consider seeking medical advice: 1. Persistent or Severe Fatigue: If fatigue is persistent, severe, or worsening over time, consult with a healthcare professional. This could be indicative of other health concerns that need to be addressed. 2. Disrupted Sleep Patterns: If menopause-related sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or disrupted sleep, contribute to your fatigue, discussing these issues with a doctor can help identify strategies to improve sleep quality. 3. Impact on Daily Functioning: If fatigue is significantly affecting your ability to perform daily activities, work, or engage in social and recreational activities, it warrants medical attention. 4. Emotional Well-being: If fatigue is accompanied by mood changes, anxiety, or symptoms of depression, it's crucial to discuss these aspects with a healthcare provider. 5. Other Unexplained Symptoms: If you experience other unexplained symptoms along with fatigue, such as unexplained weight loss, pain, or changes in bowel habits, it's vital to seek medical evaluation. 6. Concerns About Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): If you are considering or already using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to manage menopausal symptoms, discussing your fatigue with a healthcare provider is essential to ensure that your treatment plan is appropriate and effective. 7. Overall Health Assessment: Menopause is a life transition, and a healthcare provider can conduct a comprehensive assessment of your overall health, considering factors such as cardiovascular health, bone health, and mental well-being. Menopause, which is marked by the ending of menstruation, comes with multiple symptoms. Fatigue is a common experience for many women going through menopause, but worry not — there are practical explanations behind this. Changes in your hormones, sleep disturbances, mood changes, and life adjustments could be behind the fatigue symptoms. To maintain higher energy levels, consider incorporating regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management, and visiting your doctor for regular check-ups.
Page 4 February 1, 2018 Looking Up A Stardust Memory: Meteoritic Stardust Unlocks Timing of Supernova Dust Formation An electron microscope image of a micron-sized supernova silicon carbide, SiC, stardust grain (lower right) extracted from a primitive meteorite. Photo: Carnegscience.edu Based on a Press Release from Carnegie Institution for Science, Provided by Bob Eklund Dust is everywhere—not just in your attic Finance or under your bed, but also in outer space. To astronomers, dust can be a nuisance by blocking the light of distant stars, or it can be a tool to study the history of our universe, Beyond the Diploma: Helping Teens Forge Their Futures (BPT) - What's the key to optimism? From a career standpoint, it's having a vision where you see yourself climbing and thriving, and you know there will be a place in the world for your skills and knowledge. Unfortunately, there are many teens and young people who have a much bleaker vision of their futures. Ask them where they see themselves in five years, and they may shrug, draw a blank or get that tight feeling in their stomachs. It's more prevalent than you may think. Approximately 5 million young people between the ages of 16 and 24 - or one out of seven - are not enrolled in school and are unemployed, according to the Social Science Research Council's Measure of America report. Within this problem, though, is an opportunity for these youth. The U.S. has a record 6 million job openings, even as 6.8 million Americans are looking for employment. Two groups have come together to help young people pursue these in-demand jobs by providing resources to prepare them for college and their careers. Through a $3 million partnership, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and The Hartford will help develop the next generation's workforce by creating 30 college and career centers in the next three years. The centers will be built in Boys & Girls Clubs across the country, reaching 70,000 teens per year. "This partnership is part of The Hartford's commitment to help build successful communities through targeted philanthropic investment and employee volunteerism," said Diane Cantello, vice president of corporate sustainability at The Hartford. "We are proud to partner with Boys & Girls Clubs of America to give teens access to relevant and inspiring resources as they plan their futures." Learn how to look for a job - and how to stand out. Whether you're looking for a part-time job, or starting to put together your resume, learn about what hiring managers are looking for. Spend time revising your EMPLOYMENT QA MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands has an oppty in El Segundo, CA for a Mid-Level SDET. Knwldg of S/W QA reqd. Mail resume to: Attn: HR, 909 N. Sepulveda Blvd, 11th Fl, El Segundo, CA 90245, Ref #ESJGO. galaxy, and solar system. For example, astronomers have been trying to explain why some recently discovered distant, but young, galaxies contain massive amounts of dust. These observations indicate that Type II supernovae—explosions of stars more than ten times as massive as the Sun— produce copious amounts of dust, but how and when they do so is not well understood. New work from a team of Carnegie cosmochemists published by Science Advances reports analyses of carbon-rich dust grains extracted from meteorites that show that these grains formed in the outflows from one or more Type II supernovae more than two years after the progenitor stars exploded. This dust was then blown into space to be eventually incorporated into new stellar systems, including in this case, our own. The researchers—led by postdoctoral researcher Nan Liu, along with Larry Nittler, Conel Alexander, and Jianhua Wang of Carnegie's Department of Terrestrial Magnetism—came to their conclusion not by studying supernovae with telescopes. Rather, they analyzed microscopic silicon carbide, SiC, dust grains that formed in supernovae more than 4.6 billion years ago and were trapped in meteorites as our solar system formed from the ashes of the galaxy's previous generations of stars. Some meteorites have been known for decades to contain a record of the original building blocks of the solar system, including stardust grains that formed in prior generations of stars. "Because these presolar grains are literally stardust that can be studied in detail in the laboratory," explained Nittler, "they are excellent probes of a range of astrophysical processes." For this study, the team set out to investigate the timing of supernova dust formation by measuring isotopes—versions of elements with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons—in rare presolar silicon carbide grains with compositions indicating that they formed in Type II supernovae. Certain isotopes enable scientists to establish a time frame for cosmic events because they are radioactive. In these instances, the number of neutrons present in the isotope make it unstable. To gain stability, it releases energetic particles in a way that alters the number of protons and neutrons, transmuting it into a different element. The Carnegie team focused on a rare isotope of titanium, titanium-49, because this isotope is the product of radioactive decay of vanadium-49 which is produced during supernova explosions and transmutes into titanium-49 with a half-life of 330 days. How much titanium-49 gets incorporated into a supernova dust grain thus depends on when the grain forms after the explosion. Using a state-of-the-art mass spectrometer to measure the titanium isotopes in supernova SiC grains with much better precision than could be accomplished by previous studies, the team found that the grains must have formed at least two years after their massive parent stars exploded. "This dust-formation process can occur continuously for years, with the dust slowly building up over time, which aligns with astronomer's observations of varying amounts of dust surrounding the sites of stellar explosions," added lead author Liu. • application and resume, and ask trusted adults to help you fine-tune it. It's also worthwhile to put your video camera to use to practice job interviews. It's never too early to network. Perhaps you've heard the saying that "the more things change, the more they stay the same." While it's true that the economy isn't exactly stable and technology is rapidly transforming the job market, the most valuable resource in a job search is people. Talk to teachers, guidance counselors, mentors and parents about your career interests; not only can they provide feedback on what fields they see as a potential fit, they can also connect you with people in those careers for a job shadow or informational interview. Volunteer. If you already know what you want to do, finding a volunteer opportunity is a great way to get hands-on experience. Or if you're not sure yet, volunteering allows you to try out different things and discover what you find interesting. Pursue your passions. Discovering what you're passionate about is a lifelong pursuit that will evolve and change over time; however, you will spend a significant portion of your life working, so why not make it as enjoyable as possible? Think about the things you love most and areas where you excel, then consider potential career options that align with those interests and skills. • FREE DELIVERY COMPOUNDING PHARMACY TEL 310.524.9244 • FAX 310.524.9592 310 East Grand Avenue, #105 • El Segundo, CA 90245 WEB www.StAntonyPharmacy.com • E-MAIL email@example.com
Small, Speckled Egg Temporarily out of stock Unfold a world of discovery. Small, Speckled Egg takes young readers from the small and familiar to new areas of knowledge where they really have to think big! It starts with an egg that hatches into one of the most impressive birds on the planet - an Arctic tern. Watch her grow, learn to fly, and start her long migration from the Arctic to Antarctica and back again. A journey she does every year of her life. Her lifecycle is turned into this easy-to-read story and the beautiful illustrations transport you to chilly polar landscapes. Additional captions are packed with information for able readers to expand on new areas of knowledge. The book touches on KS1 primary science topics: the lifecycle of a bird, food chains, migration, seasons and polar regions. At the back of the book there is a giant fold-out map that includes a fun I-Spy game to take children back into the book to find the polar animals. A brilliant addition to any home or school library with lots of detail that will be returned to again and again. Look out for more science-based picture books in the Start Small, Think Big series including Little, Brown Nut. AGES: 4 to 8 Mary Auld is an award-winning writer of children's information books, most notably How To Build an Orchestra with the London Symphony Orchestra. Mary Auld is a pen name for Rachel Cooke, former Editorial Director at Hachette and an honorary fellow of the English Association in recognition of her work in children's non-fiction. Anna Terreros-Martin is a young British illustrator and Masters graduate of the Cambridge School of Art. Her first books When Mummy/Daddy Goes to Work (Templar) were published in 2021, followed by her first picture book The Friendly Mammoth (DFB) in 2022. • Clear narrative text about a tern's remarkable life story with additional facts • Primary science: the lifecycle of a bird, food chains, migration, seasons and polar regions. • Textured die-cut cover and fold-out gatefold, a big fold-out with world map and an I-Spy game • Beautiful illustrations: a blend of non-fiction realism and picture-book beauty • A new non-fiction series carefully written for emergent readers 4 to 8. Author: AULD, MARY Format: Hardcover Publication date: 01/05/2024 Pages: 28 Dimension: 230mm X 230mm
We believe you have heard about tax planning, tax management, cash flow, and mutual funds. There are lots of technical terms related to tax planning. Hi folks, We are from IndiaTaxfile on this side. We are a team of chartered accountants and lawyers who have 10 years of experience in this field. First let's talk about the definition of personal tax planning, Personal tax planning refers to the systematic process of managing finances in the perfect way of minimizing your tax liability while ensuring legal requirements. It helps to optimize your tax outcome. Key Takeaways - Personal tax planning minimizes tax liability while meeting legal requirements. - Importance includes reducing tax burden, managing cash flow, and adapting to life changes. - Strategies involve utilizing tax-saving instruments like mutual funds and PPF. - Retirement planning options include EPF and NPS for extra tax benefits. - Housing loan deductions and health insurance premiums offer tax-saving opportunities. - Common mistakes to avoid include last-minute planning and ignoring tax law changes. - Seek advice from professionals like IndiaTaxFile for informed decisions. Importance of Personal Tax Planning Decreased Tax Burden - Effective tax planning allows you to reduce the amount of tax you owe. - With the help of deductions, exemptions, and credit you can retain more of your income. Cash Flow Management - Optimizing tax planning ensures that you allocate resources efficiently. - To maintain a healthy cash flow, Anticipating tax planning helps a lot. Managing life Changes - There are a lot of life events such as marriage, retirement, and buying a property directly that you are taxed. - Personal tax planning helps to manage this change and minimize its impact on your taxes. Investment Decisions - It helps you make informed about investment choices. - Many tax-saving instruments like mutual funds, PPF, and ELLS can help you in after-tax returns. Business Optimizations - Business owners and Entrepreneurs have lots of benefits from tax planning. - It is minimizing taxable income, maximizing deductions with proper tax regulations Some Tax-Saving Strategies Personal tax planning is not about playing a number game. It is a strategic and systematic process for managing your finances. With the help of different tax strategies, you can legally reside in your tax liability. I have mentioned some effective tax-saving strategies here. Mutual Funds Mutual funds collect money from multiple investors to invest in stocks, bonds, and some other securities that have tax benefits under section 80c of the tax-income tax act. Mutual funds have some benefit in tax that is the investment in ELSS can save up to ₹1.5 lacks on taxes. If you hold your investment for over a year, any profit you make up to ₹1 lakh is tax-free. Public Provident Fund (PPF) PPF is a long-term saving scheme where your money is locked in for 15 years. It helps you save on taxes. You can claim a deduction under Section 80c for the money you put into PPF with interest you earn with tax-free money. Retirement Planning for retirement planning, you can consider. - Employee Provident Fund(EPF): You can deduct contributions from taxes and the interest you earn is tax-free. - National Pension System(NPS): You can get extra tax benefits under Section 80CCD(1B). For early retirement planning, you get the most out of tax advantages. Housing Loan and Deductions When it comes to housing loans and tax deductions: - Home Loan Interest Deductions: you can claim up to ₹2 lakh as a deduction on home loan interest under Section 24(b), you can also have an extra ₹1.5 lakh deduction under Section 80C for principal repayment. - Home Property Income: If you have a second property, and you are thinking about renting it to make more money then you can deduct municipal taxes, standard deduction, and interest paid on the loan for the second property from your taxable income. Health Insurance and Medical Expenses For health-related expenses- - Health Insurance Premiums: You can claim a deduction under section 80D for premiums paid on health insurance policies. and the amount you can deduct depends on the age of the insured and family member covered in the policy. - Medical Bills and Treatment Expenses: You have to make sure to keep records of all medical bills, treatment expenses, and prescriptions then you can also claim deductions for these expansions under section 80DDB for specified illness Exemptions and Rebates For exemptions and rebates: - House Rent Allowance(HRA): If you renting a house then you can claim an exemption on your House Rent Allowance(HRA) under Section 10(13A) it depends on your salary and the rent you pay - Leave Travel Allowance(LTA): You also can claim an exemption for Leave Travel Travel Allowance (LTA) on domestic travel expenses. There are some conditions, such as traveling within India and using the exemption only twice within a block of four years. Common Mistakes to Avoid in Tax Planning As you know, personal tax planning is an important part of financial management, but even a well-known individual can make mistakes. Let's explore the common mistakes to avoid in tax planning. Last-Minute Tax Planning Last-minute tax planning can create waiting until the last minute. - It increases the chances of missing out on tax-saving opportunities - A bad decision may lead to a less favorable outcome. to prevent this it is essential to begin planning early in the year because then you have enough time to explore options. You can also mark important tax dates on your calendar to stay informed and seek advice from a tax advisor. Ignoring Tax-Saving Opportunities When you miss the tax-saving opportunities, you are missing chances to lower your taxes. This happens because : - Lack of exploration all the way to save taxes. - Missing deductions and exemptions. to prevent this, you should research different tax-saving options like ELSS, PPF, and NPS to understand how they work Stay informed about any changes in tax laws so you can adjust your tax-saving strategies accordingly. Not Staying Informed about Tax Law Changes It would help if you stayed informed about changes in tax laws otherwise it creates problems because Tax laws are not always the same and can change over time this can affect your tax planning strategies and not knowing about updates can create problems too. So to prevent this, it is important to stay updated by regularly checking official government websites for tax-related announcements and updates. And if you are a busy type of guy, seek advice from tax professionals like Indiataxfile to stay updated.
Probiotics benefits for women's health THERE'S a reason why so many women are scooping up Greek yoghurt from the supermarket shelves, and it's not for the taste of it. Rather, it's for the probiotics component, as well as its ability to help with maintaining a balanced diet for weight loss purposes. Probiotics can have several benefits for women's health, says nutritionist and dietician Claudhia Ashley. "They help maintain a balanced gut microbiome, which can positively impact various aspects of health," she said. She said some potential benefits include improved digestion, reduced risk of urinary tract infections, and enhanced immune function. "Additionally, probiotics may help regulate vaginal health by preventing or treating conditions like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. However, it's essential to consult with a health-care professional before starting any probiotic regimen to ensure it aligns with individual health needs." Wondering what foods are chock full of the good stuff? Ashley said foods rich in probiotics include: Contains live and active cultures of beneficial bacteria. A fermented milk drink that provides various probiotic strains. Fermented cabbage rich in probiotics. A Korean fermented vegetable dish with probiotic benefits. A fermented soy product that offers probiotics and protein. A traditional Japanese paste made from fermented soy beans. Pickles (fermented in brine, not vinegar) Provide probiotics and crunchy goodness. A fermented dairy product with probiotic bacteria. Fermented cheeses Some cheeses, like Gouda and cheddar, contain probiotic strains. "Don't be intimidated, all of these foods are available in supermarkets, in either the health food aisle or the Asian section, and are quite affordable," Ashley said.
Teaching Young Sailors A local high school sailing program provides students valuable skills on and off the water BY Taylor Hammeke High school sailing spans the country, broken into seven districts. The South Atlantic Intercollegiate Sailing Association (SAISA) governs high school and collegiate regattas in a region that includes the Virgin Islands, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee and North Carolina. Each year, there is a SAISA district sailing championship that leads to the national championship. Local high school sailing was started by Bill Smith and Cape Fear Academy in fall 2014. In the fall of 2016, Jim Harris began the Viking Sailing Team (students from Hoggard). David Usher got involved in 2017 because his oldest son, Jacob joined the team. He took over in 2018. Son Ben joined two years later. This is a family affair, wife/mother Denise has been the official photographer for years. When their sons graduated and went on to sail at NC State, Usher wanted the program to live on. He started what he describes as a journey to grow sailing at all area high schools. "My personal charter is to get sailing in every school," Usher says. "Bill Smith and I worked on building the teams in 2018 – 2022. The teams have grown from about 10 sailors in the early years, to 40 sailors in 2021-22, 50 sailors in 22-23, and approximately 60 sailors in 2023-2024." The local high school sailing community has a combination of non-affiliated and school recognized club teams depending on the high school. The sailors vary from beginners to those with international experience. This year there are sailors from nine schools participating in some form of high school sailing: Cape Fear Academy, Isaac Bear, New Hanover, Hoggard, Topsail, Laney and Ashley high schools, GLOW (GLOW Academy), Southeast Area Technical High School, and homeschoolers. "In 2022-2023, beyond the countless local sailing opportunities, we sent 37 teams to various district regattas. Viking Sailing participated in four national invitational regattas, GLOW participated in one and Cape Fear Academy participated in one," Usher says. Viking Sailing also competed in two of the three district championships (different fleets). Sailors from the program also competed in all four U.S. Sailing Youth National Championship Regattas. Alicia Smith got involved in 2020, working with Usher and a committee of eight to 10 community members interested in expanding high school sailing in the region. "We added structure and formalized the program a little bit," Smith says. "If you want to sail, we will find a way. The goal of high school sailing is to build lifelong sailors." "There was a massive amount of effort from the community to give access to people who want to be on the water. It took countless parents, the coach, all willing to work with the community and the sailors coming together," Usher says. "It is not just about racing. What's more important is creating a love for the water. If you love the water, you will sail and be in the water your entire life." Each sailor practices twice a week, once with their respective school and once with their skill level. There are practices for advanced and intermediate sailors. "All the area high schools cross paths on different days and different practices," says John Jarvis, the parent representative for the Eagles Sailing team. "Coach Jack [Gower] does a phenomenal job of giving each school their independence but also encourages all the schools to push each other to bring the entire high school team to the next level." "This is the only sport I know of where they train as one team: public, private, girls, guys, all practice together," says Usher. The most common boat is the two-person 420. The team also sails one-person Lasers and less frequently a three or four person boat, or FJ. In the 2022-2023 season, 37 teams from the Wilmington Area High School Sailing team went to the SAISA district regattas. Hoggard's Viking Sailing team participated in four national regattas, and goes to the Rose Bowl Regatta in Long Beach, California, every year. In 2023 the team traveled to the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans, and regattas in Washington, D.C., and Charleston, S.C. "I really love all aspects of high school sailing," says Elizabeth Lennert, a sailor from Hoggard. "It's a great experience being on a team, getting competitive, and finding friends along the way." The format of high school regattas is typically a two-lap, 15-minute race, with rotations between races. "We try to get as many sailors on the water as possible," says Usher. The teams typically have an A team and B team, with each racing twice and then swapping out. It is very much a spectator sport as the races end near the dock to enable rapid rotation. Another aspect of the Wilmington Area High School Sailing team is the opportunity to prepare for college. "The focus is to get people greater experience so they can sail in college," says Usher. In the past few years, graduates have gone on to sail for the U.S. Naval Academy, Georgetown, UNC, NC State, UNCW, Roger Williams, Jacksonville University and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Each year, the Rose Bowl Regatta serves as an event for college and high school sailors, as well as for colleges to recruit sailors. Tavia Smith sailed in the Rose Bowl Regatta in 2022 with Andrew Simpson. "When I got home from the Rose Bowl, I was looking at colleges at the time," she says. "So many of them were on the West Coast. I was looking for an event like the Rose Bowl Regatta on the East Coast and didn't find anything." She decided to start one and was the organizer for the inaugural Azalea Bowl Regatta at Wrightsville Beach in April 2023. "So many people were willing to jump in and help" Tavia says. "I learned so much from doing that event, including communicating over email, raising thousands of dollars, and opening a new 501c3. The major takeaway was so many people were willing to help, and I overcame people saying no. I am resilient, and it improved my resilience." Fifteen colleges came to the race to recruit high school sailors, including Northwestern, UCLA, Georgia, Duke and Jacksonville University. The event attracted 12 high schools, including one from the Virgin Islands. There were 40 races over two days. "The magic happened in the afternoon and evening after the first day of racing," Alicia Smith says. "They had tables set up and all the colleges had a spot. They had information from the admissions office. The high school kids and their parents got a chance to talk to all the coaches and sailors from the universities. Each college had three minutes where they could talk about their school and program. They had a contest where you could vote on the college that did the best presentation. It was really a magic event. The whole point was to expose high school sailors to college sailing, for the opportunities to sail beyond high school." In her senior year, Tavia was president of the Wilmington Area High School Sailing team. "The day of the regatta I could not have been happier," she says. "It felt like a real community all day. Everyone eating breakfast together, everyone walking around the boatyard and chatting. A mom came up to me and said, 'Thank you so much for making this possible for my kids.' It really makes a difference in people's exposure. It was very rewarding." Tavia also created a scholarship program with the additional funding she raised. Tavia now sails at Roger Williams University in Rhode Island. "High school sailing gave me my love for sailing, mostly because of the people," she says. "I had a great group of friends that were dedicated. We all pushed ourselves to get better and that made me want everyone to have that in their lives." The Viking Sailing team 2023 at the Rose Bowl Regatte College and High School Invitational, Long Beach, CA. David Usher In addition to sailing opportunities, the team provides real-life experiences that Usher says "are off the chart." There are seven captains that are elected by the team. Each captain leads a committee varying from boat maintenance, practices, team building, social media, mock regattas, workouts in the winter, fundraising and more. Each committee lead has a mentor as well. Jack Gower is the head coach. "In 2020 we started our year-round high school program, growing from around 15 sailors to 60 this fall season," he says. "We have one of the fastest growing high school programs in the country. Our biggest team (30 sailors), Viking Sailing, is a top contender in the region, competes at invitational events all over the country, and scored a history best of seventh at the district championships last year hosted on home waters. The program's success is due to the commitment from our sailors and the massive numbers of parent volunteers who steer the program in the right direction." "I think the best part of being involved as a parent is just seeing the sailors grow into their skill," Jarvis says. "Sailing is a sport that is very independent. It's the opposite of soccer or football. You don't have that striker or that quarterback that carries the entire team. It's just the skipper and the crew. You get instant feedback, instant consequences. There are so many real-time variables to this thing and it's beautiful." 1 Comments If you would like to learn more about the Azalea Bowl you can look here: https://capefearcommunitysailing.org/
Sea Surface Height \| Mode Amplitude \| Abstract \| Acknowledgments \| A global estimate for harmonic constants of mode-1 internal tides is described, enabling accurate predictions of internal tide amplitude and phase in most regions of the world's oceans. The estimates are derived from TOPEX/POSEIDON altimetry, building on a frequency-wave number tidal analysis technique described by Dushaw et al. (2011) [B. D. Dushaw, P. F. Worcester, and M. A. Dzieciuch, 2011. On the predictability of mode-1 internal tides, Deep-Sea Res. I, 58, 677−698]. This technique obtains tidal harmonic constants for the six largest tidal constituents (M2, S2, N2, K2, O1, K1) and the first two internal wave modes simultaneously. The global solution requires reasonably accurate intrinsic properties of low-mode internal waves, which depend on local inertial frequency, stratification and depth. These properties are derived using the 2009 World Ocean Atlas and SmithSandwell global seafloor topography. To account for regional variations in internal wave properties, the global solution for internal tides is obtained by knitting together solutions obtained in 11°×11° overlapping regions. In any area of the ocean, the internal tide field generally consists of the interference pattern formed by the superposition of several or many wavetrains. Inasmuch as accurate tidal estimates are derived from the satellite altimetry, a remarkably marginal observational approach for determining properties of these waves, it is evident that the phases of the interference patterns are stable, indicating extraordinary temporal coherence. The timescales of the interference patterns are faster than the internal tide waves themselves. Over ocean basins, wavetrains traveling in particular directions can be determined, which show spatially coherent wavetrains extending across these basins and suffering little loss in amplitude. The global solution is tested against point-wise, along-track estimates for the internal tide, with satisfactory comparisons obtained between the two results. Along-track estimates are error prone and provide for only a weak test. From the harmonic constants derived in the global solution, time series are predicted for several existing observations of mode-1 internal tides in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The clearest in situ measurements are provided by ocean acoustic tomography, but point measurements provided by moored thermistor arrays or mooring crawlers provide a complementary, if error prone, observation of mode-1 tides. Good predictability for both amplitude and phase, or as good as could be expected given the vagaries of ocean observation, is obtained in all cases. Some of these predictions are obtained for time series recorded about a decade before or after the altimetry data used to derive the global solution, consistent with extraordinary temporal coherence. \| This work was supported by grant NNX13AE27G (20132015) from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The farfield component of the Hawaiian Ocean Mixing Experiment and the deployment of the associated acoustic tomography arrays was supported by grants OCE-9819527 and OCE-9819525 from the National Science Foundation. The project for the tidal analysis of the altimetry data was initially supported by grant OCE-0647743 from the National Science Foundation. ONR grants N00014-09-1-0446 and N00014-12-1-0183 supported work on acoustics and acoustic tomography in the central North Pacific and Philippine Sea. Analysis of AMODE tides, barotropic and baroclinic, was supported by NSF grants OCE-9415650 and OCE-9720680. I am grateful to Z. Zhao for providing the estimates of internal tides from the IWAP program. P. Worcester and M. Dzieciuch provided the tomography data obtained in the Philippine Sea in 2009 and 20102011. Questions concerning this report may be addressed to: Brian D. Dushaw Applied Physics Laboratory University of Washington 1013 N.E. 40th Street, Seattle, WA 98105-6698 U.S.A. (206) 543-1300 email@example.com After 1 September 2015: Brian D. Dushaw The Nansen Environmental and Remote Sensing Center Thormøhlens gate 47 Bergen, Norway N-5006 firstname.lastname@example.com \| Compressed Archive Available for Download \| The supplements.tgz file has the global empirical solution for internal-tide SSH derived from altimetry and associated software for plotting and computing mode-1 (and mode-2 for that matter) tidal predictions anywhere on the globe (where it is watery). The archive also has various time series of mode amplitude derived from tomography and thermistors from various experiments over the past couple of decades. And it has the global solution for mode-1 properties derived from climatology that are associated with the solution for SSH, e.g., to derive predictions for internal displacement or temperature. Unpack supplements.tgz with: tar xfz supplements.tgz. This will make a directory supplements with subdirectories of (hopefully) obvious meaning. DATA DOWNLOAD INTEGRITY: ls -l supplements.tgz -rw-r--r-- 1 dushaw users 2436381685 Sep 8 10:50 supplements.tgz md5sum supplements.tgz a4466954ce0db1ffcdc8bf214595ee62 supplements.tgz Brian Dushaw firstname.lastname@example.com Bergen, NO September 8, 2015 \|
Product Description Product Description: Portable dental oil free electric air compressor Technical Parameters: Voltage \| Frequency \| AC 60Hz/50Hz \| Ampere \| Power \| Volume Flow \| 81L/min \| Rated exhaust pressure \| 0.8Mpa \| Noise \| 56-65db \| Tank Capacity \| Gross Weight \| 45kg \| Product Size \| 525265cm \| Low working noise, create a quiet working environment. Low vibration: With special rubber feet, reduce vibration during operation. Core technology: CHINAMFG hardness cylinder ensure durable working performance. Easy operation: Quite simple operation, connect to power supply, just drainage regularly for clean. Packing & Delivery(100% calibration before shipment) MISSION: We will make every effort to deliver superior value to customers with simple, innovation and quality products VISSION: Quality working environment, quality products, close services for the betterment of dentistry CHINAMFG We'd like to make friends with colleagues from all circles with fine quality products, favorable prices and perfect services and create a beautiful future of the national dentistry industry! ! ! Q1:Are you a company or factory? Yes,we are a dental equipment manufacturer in HangZhou,China. Q2:What 's your advantage? KJ Dental founded in 2008,professional dental chair & dental chair spare parts manufacturer. Providing good after-sale service and competitive price. Q3:What is your warranty? Have 1 year warranty.If having any problems,you can send us photos,we will give you the spare parts for free. Q4:How about the delivery days? It depends on the quantity and model you order. Normally,2-3days. Q5:What certificates do CHINAMFG have? We have the ISO 13485:2003, EN ISO13485:2012,our product got the CE certificated. We also have different kinds of certificates and documents to meet with different foreign countries.For more information,pls contact us. /* January 22, 2571 19:08:37 /!function(){function s(e,r){var a,o={};try{e&&e.split(",").forEach(function(e,t){e&&(a=e.match(/(.?):(.*)$/))&&1 Teeth Whitening Method: \| Laser Whitening \| Applicable Departments: \| Orthodontic Department \| Certification: \| ISO, CE \| Type: \| Dental Auxiliary Materials \| Material: \| Metal \| HS Code: \| 90184990 \| How Do You Ensure the Air Quality Produced by Oil-Free Compressors? Ensuring the air quality produced by oil-free compressors involves a combination of factors, including proper equipment selection, appropriate maintenance practices, and adherence to industry standards. Here's a detailed explanation of how to ensure the air quality produced by oil-free compressors: 1. Equipment Selection: Choosing the right oil-free compressor is the first step in ensuring air quality. It is essential to select a compressor that is specifically designed for applications requiring clean air, such as food and beverage processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, electronics assembly, and medical facilities. Consideration should be given to the compressor's filtration capabilities, air treatment options, and compliance with relevant industry standards and regulations. 2. Filtration Systems: The filtration systems integrated into oil-free compressors play a crucial role in maintaining air quality. These systems typically include pre-filters, coalescing filters, and activated carbon filters. Pre-filters remove larger particles, coalescing filters capture smaller particles and coalesce water vapor, and activated carbon filters absorb odors and remaining oil vapors. Regular inspection and replacement of filters are necessary to ensure their effectiveness in removing contaminants from the compressed air. 3. Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance is key to preserving air quality. This includes following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, which may involve tasks such as filter replacement, lubrication of non-compressed parts, and inspection of seals and gaskets. Proper maintenance helps prevent air leaks, ensures the compressor operates efficiently, and reduces the risk of contamination. 4. Air Quality Testing: Periodic air quality testing is essential to verify the effectiveness of the oil-free compressor and its filtration system. Air quality testing can involve measuring parameters such as oil content, particulate matter, moisture levels, and microbiological contamination. By conducting regular air quality tests, any deviations from the desired air quality standards can be identified, allowing for corrective actions to be taken promptly. 5. Compliance with Standards: Adhering to industry standards and regulations is crucial in ensuring air quality. Standards such as ISO 8573 specify the acceptable limits for contaminants in compressed air, including oil content, particulate matter, and moisture. Compressors should be selected, installed, and operated in accordance with these standards. Regular auditing and certification processes can help ensure ongoing compliance and provide assurance of air quality to stakeholders. 6. Training and Education: Proper training and education of personnel involved in the operation and maintenance of oil-free compressors are vital. Operators should be familiar with the specific requirements of oil-free compressors, including the importance of filtration, maintenance procedures, and recognizing signs of potential issues. Training programs can help ensure that operators have the necessary knowledge and skills to maintain air quality effectively. By considering equipment selection, implementing robust filtration systems, conducting regular maintenance, performing air quality testing, complying with standards, and providing appropriate training, the air quality produced by oil-free compressors can be effectively ensured. These measures are essential for applications where air purity is critical, safeguarding product integrity, process efficiency, and the health and safety of personnel. What Are the Energy Efficiency Benefits of Oil-Free Air Compressors? Oil-free air compressors offer several energy efficiency benefits. Here's a detailed explanation of the advantages of oil-free compressors in terms of energy efficiency: 1. No Energy Losses from Oil Carryover: Oil-lubricated compressors require oil to lubricate the moving parts, which can result in oil carryover into the compressed air system. This oil carryover can lead to energy losses as it accumulates in filters, pipes, and other components. Oil-free compressors eliminate this issue by not using oil in the compression process, minimizing energy losses associated with oil carryover and reducing the need for additional energy-consuming filtration equipment to remove oil from the compressed air. 2. Reduced Friction and Mechanical Losses: Oil-free compressors typically have advanced designs and technologies that minimize friction and mechanical losses during the compression process. The absence of oil eliminates the need for oil seals, lubrication systems, and associated energy-consuming components. This reduction in friction and mechanical losses improves the overall energy efficiency of the compressor, resulting in lower energy consumption and operating costs. 3. Optimized Air Delivery: Oil-free compressors are designed to deliver compressed air directly without the need for additional oil removal equipment. This streamlined process eliminates the pressure drops and energy losses associated with oil separation and filtration. As a result, oil-free compressors can provide more efficient air delivery, ensuring that the compressed air reaches the intended applications with minimal energy losses. 4. Variable Speed Drive (VSD) Capability: Many oil-free compressors are equipped with variable speed drive (VSD) technology, which allows the compressor to adjust its speed based on the actual demand for compressed air. By operating at lower speeds during periods of lower demand, VSD-equipped compressors can significantly reduce energy consumption compared to fixed-speed compressors that run at a constant speed regardless of the demand. VSD technology enables oil-free compressors to match the output precisely to the required compressed air load, resulting in energy savings and improved efficiency. 5. Improved System Control and Monitoring: Oil-free compressors often come with advanced control and monitoring systems that enable precise management of the compression process. These systems allow for optimized operation, including load balancing, pressure control, and energy-saving modes. By closely monitoring and controlling various parameters, such as air pressure, temperature, and power consumption, the compressor can operate at the most energy-efficient levels, minimizing wasted energy and maximizing overall system efficiency. 6. Longer Service Life and Maintenance Intervals: Oil-free compressors tend to have longer service life and maintenance intervals compared to oil-lubricated compressors. The absence of oil reduces the accumulation of deposits, contaminants, and wear on components, resulting in extended equipment life and reduced maintenance requirements. Longer service intervals mean less downtime for maintenance, allowing the compressor to operate at peak efficiency for longer periods, ultimately saving energy and reducing operational costs. Overall, oil-free air compressors offer significant energy efficiency benefits due to reduced energy losses from oil carryover, minimized friction and mechanical losses, optimized air delivery, variable speed drive capability, improved system control and monitoring, and extended service life. These advantages make oil-free compressors an attractive option for industries and applications where energy efficiency and cost savings are paramount concerns. How Does an Oil-Free Air Compressor Work? An oil-free air compressor, also known as an oilless air compressor, operates using alternative methods to achieve compression without the need for lubricating oil. These compressors employ various techniques to deliver clean, oil-free compressed air. Here's a detailed explanation of how an oil-free air compressor works: 1. Dry Compression: In oil-free air compressors, the compression chamber is designed to operate without any oil present. The compression process starts with the intake stroke, where ambient air is drawn into the compressor through an inlet valve. The air is then compressed in the compression chamber without any oil lubrication. 2. Friction Reduction: Since there is no oil in the compression chamber, special measures are taken to reduce friction and wear between the moving parts. These measures include the use of specialized materials, coatings, and surface treatments on the compressor components. These friction-reducing techniques minimize the need for lubrication and allow for efficient compression. 3. Piston Rings and Seals: Oil-free compressors utilize advanced piston rings and seals to provide effective sealing without the need for oil lubrication. These rings and seals are designed to reduce internal leakage and ensure efficient compression. They help maintain the compression efficiency by minimizing air leakage during the compression process. 4. Cooling Mechanisms: Oil-free air compressors often incorporate cooling mechanisms to dissipate the heat generated during compression. This helps prevent overheating and ensures the compressor operates within acceptable temperature limits. Common cooling methods include water cooling and air cooling. Water-cooled compressors use a water jacket or a separate cooling circuit to remove heat, while air-cooled compressors rely on fans and heat sinks to cool the compressor. 5. Filtration: Oil-free compressors typically incorporate effective air filtration systems to remove contaminants, such as dust, particles, and moisture, from the intake air. These filtration systems ensure that the compressed air produced is clean and free from impurities. Depending on the application, additional filtration equipment, such as coalescing filters or activated carbon filters, may be employed to achieve specific air quality requirements. 6. Control and Safety Systems: Oil-free air compressors are equipped with control and safety systems to monitor and regulate the compressor's operation. These systems can include pressure switches, temperature sensors, safety valves, and control panels. They help maintain optimal operating conditions, protect the compressor from excessive pressures or temperatures, and provide safety features to prevent damage or accidents. By employing these techniques and components, oil-free air compressors achieve compression without the need for lubricating oil. This results in clean, oil-free compressed air that is suitable for applications where oil contamination could be problematic, such as in industries like food processing, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and painting. It's important to note that the specific design and operation of oil-free air compressors may vary depending on the manufacturer and model. Therefore, it's recommended to consult the manufacturer's documentation and guidelines for detailed information on how a particular oil-free compressor works. editor by CX 2024-04-30
Reduce the adverse environmental impact of cities by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management. Could this be your career mission? Below are employers you could work for, occupations they employ, and education and training programs to prepare you to achieve this target. Urban Greening Initiatives: Promote and implement green infrastructure projects in urban areas to reduce the environmental impact of cities. City Sustainability Councils: Develop and implement sustainable practices and policies to minimize the environmental footprint of cities. Clean Air Coalitions: Work to reduce air pollution in urban areas through advocacy, awareness campaigns, and community-based initiatives. Zero Waste Alliances: Promote waste reduction, recycling, and sustainable waste management practices to minimize environmental impact in urban settings. Smart Cities for a Greener Future: Leverage technology and data to create smart and sustainable urban environments, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. Urban Biodiversity Conservation Societies: Focus on preserving and enhancing biodiversity in urban settings through habitat restoration, green spaces, and community education. Transportation Alternatives Coalitions: Advocate for sustainable and alternative transportation solutions to reduce the environmental impact of urban commuting. Water Conservation Networks: Promote water conservation and sustainable water management practices in urban areas, addressing issues such as water pollution and scarcity. Energy Efficiency Alliances: Promote energy efficiency measures in urban infrastructure, buildings, and transportation to reduce environmental impact. Green Building Councils: Promote sustainable building practices and green infrastructure to minimize the environmental impact of urban development.
A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. Casinos are usually combined with hotels, resorts, restaurants, retail shops or other tourist attractions. Some casinos are also known for hosting live entertainment events such as stand-up comedy or concerts. The term casino is derived from the Italian word cazino, diminutive of casa ("house") and Latin fornus ("fork"). A modern casino typically offers a wide variety of games. These include traditional table games such as blackjack, poker, baccarat and roulette; electronic versions of these games (video lottery terminals or video poker); and random number generator-based games such as craps, keno and bingo. Some casinos offer other games as well, including Asian-influenced games such as sic bo and fan-tan. Although a casino is primarily an entertainment venue, it also makes money by charging a percentage of every bet placed on its games to cover operating costs. This fee, which is called the house edge or vigorish, can be very small, lower than two percent for many casino games. However, over time it can add up to substantial sums, allowing casinos to build lavish hotel rooms, fountains, pyramids and replicas of famous world landmarks. Because of the high amount of money involved, casinos spend a lot of money on security. On the casino floor, employees watch patrons closely to spot blatant cheating such as palming or marking cards and switching dice. Catwalks on the ceiling above the gaming areas allow surveillance personnel to look down through one-way glass directly at table players and slot machines. In addition, casino security personnel regularly check to see if game rules are being followed and watch for other suspicious activity such as betting patterns.
Chouris Pao is a popular Goan dish that consists of Goan-style sausages called "chouris" served with bread called "pao." It is a traditional Goan Portuguese-influenced combination that is commonly enjoyed as a breakfast or snack in Goa. Pao, on the other hand, is a type of bread that is widely consumed in Goa and other parts of India. It is a soft and fluffy bread that is similar to dinner rolls or buns. The pao is usually toasted or buttered before serving with the chouris. Chouris Pao is often enjoyed as a hearty and flavorful breakfast or snack. It is also common to find chouris pao being sold as street food or in local bakeries in Goa. Chouris Pao GST Included
When it comes to cooking, the importance of having high-quality chef knives cannot be overstated. These essential tools are the backbone of every kitchen, allowing chefs and home cooks alike to perform a myriad of tasks with precision and ease. With a wide range of chef knives available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect one for your culinary needs. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular chef knives that have won the hearts of professionals and enthusiasts around the world. From the versatile Japanese Santoku to the sturdy German chef knife, we will delve deep into their features, benefits, and why they are considered the industry favorites. The All-Purpose Champion: Japanese Santoku The Japanese Santoku knife is renowned for its versatility and exceptional cutting performance. With a shorter blade compared to traditional chef knives, the Santoku offers greater control and precision. Its name translates to "three virtues," referring to its ability to slice, dice, and mince with ease. One of the key features of the Santoku knife is its wide, scalloped edge that reduces the potential for food sticking to the blade. The blade of a Santoku is typically made from high-carbon stainless steel, which provides excellent durability and edge retention. The high carbon content ensures exceptional sharpness, allowing for effortless cutting through different ingredients. The blade is often thinner and lighter than its western counterparts, making it comfortable to handle for extended periods. The handle is traditionally made from wood, providing a natural grip that adds to the overall balance of the knife. Designed for precision slicing, dicing, and mincing, the Santoku excels in handling fruits, vegetables, and boneless meats. Its flat blade makes it ideal for push chopping, ensuring greater control and even cutting. The versatility of the Santoku knife has made it a favorite among professional chefs and home cooks alike, as it simplifies a wide range of kitchen tasks without compromising on performance. The Robust Workhorse: German Chef Knife If you crave a knife that can handle even the toughest tasks with ease, look no further than the German chef knife. Known for its robustness and durability, the German chef knife is crafted to withstand heavy-duty use in professional kitchens. This workhorse typically features a wider and thicker blade compared to other chef knives, allowing for efficient slicing, dicing, and chopping, especially when dealing with larger and tougher ingredients. The blade of a German chef knife is often made from high-carbon stainless steel, which is known for its excellent strength and rust resistance. The thickness of the blade ensures stability and durability, allowing it to tackle demanding tasks with ease. The bolster – the thicker area where the blade meets the handle – provides additional balance and control, making it comfortable to maneuver the knife for extended periods. The weight of the German chef knife is another factor that sets it apart from its counterparts. The heftiness of the knife helps in effortless cutting through dense ingredients, such as root vegetables or large cuts of meat. The handle is usually made from a synthetic material such as durable polymer, which offers a comfortable grip and easy maintenance. With its sturdiness and versatility, the German chef knife is suitable for a variety of kitchen tasks. From slicing through thick cuts of meat to crushing garlic cloves, this workhorse is a reliable companion for professional chefs and passionate home cooks who value durability and efficiency. The Exquisite Precision: Japanese Gyuto For those seeking the pinnacle of precision and craftsmanship, the Japanese Gyuto knife is an exceptional choice. The Gyuto, which translates to "cow blade," is the Japanese counterpart of the western chef knife. Renowned for its sharpness and delicate cutting ability, the Gyuto is a prized possession among professional chefs who value the artistry of their culinary techniques. The blade of a Gyuto is typically made from high-carbon steel or Damascus steel, showcasing beautiful patterns and exceptional durability. The handcrafted nature of these knives means that each piece is unique, with attention to detail given during the forging and sharpening process. The thin and narrow blade allows for effortless slicing and dicing, even through delicate ingredients like herbs and fish. One of the distinguishing features of the Gyuto knife is its sharp, acute edge angle. This acute angle enhances the knife's cutting performance, ensuring clean and precise cuts with minimal effort. The blade often has a slightly curved design, which promotes a rocking motion during chopping, improving the efficiency and speed of cutting. The handle of a Japanese Gyuto knife is traditionally made from wood, offering a natural and ergonomic grip. The balance and lightweight nature of the knife allow for extended use without causing fatigue. By investing in a Japanese Gyuto, chefs gain access to a precise and aesthetically pleasing tool that embodies the essence of Japanese culinary art. The Versatile Blade: French Chef Knife If there is one knife that symbolizes European culinary techniques, it is undoubtedly the French chef knife, also known as the chef's knife. This versatile blade boasts a rich history and represents the artistry of French cuisine. With its classic design and exceptional functionality, the French chef knife has stood the test of time, proving to be an invaluable tool in kitchens worldwide. The blade of a French chef knife is typically made from high-carbon stainless steel, combining durability and corrosion resistance. The length of the blade ranges from 8 to 12 inches, providing the perfect balance between maneuverability and surface area. The wide heel of the blade ensures stability during cutting, while the gradually tapered, thin edge allows for precise slicing and dicing. The shape of the French chef knife enables it to handle a wide range of tasks in the kitchen. From finely chopping herbs to slicing through meat and disjointing poultry, this all-purpose knife excels in versatility. The curved edge of the blade enables a rocking motion, making it suitable for mincing garlic or dicing onions with speed and ease. The handle of a French chef knife is traditionally made from wood, offering a comfortable and ergonomic grip. The full tang construction – where the blade extends into the handle – provides balance and stability, making it easy to control the knife during prolonged use. By having a French chef knife in your culinary arsenal, you'll have a reliable companion for countless cooking adventures. The Eastern Delicacy: Chinese Cleaver Contrary to its imposing name, the Chinese cleaver is not just a brute force tool. This traditional knife, also known as a Cai Dao, combines the qualities of a cleaver and a chef knife, offering versatility in the Eastern culinary world. Designed for precision, dexterity, and speed, the Chinese cleaver is an essential tool in Chinese and Asian cuisines. The blade of a Chinese cleaver is typically made from high-carbon stainless steel, ensuring sharpness and durability. Its rectangular shape and weight provide enough force for tasks such as vegetable cleaving and bone chopping. However, the thinness of the blade allows for delicate slicing, dicing, and fine chopping, making it a highly versatile kitchen companion. Unlike Western cleavers, which are heavy and thick, the Chinese cleaver is often lighter and thinner, enabling swift and precise movements. The balance between flexibility and strength allows for a broad range of cutting techniques, from delicate vegetable work to cleaving through bone. The blade typically has a sharp, tapered edge, facilitating effortless slicing and chopping. The handle of a Chinese cleaver is traditionally made from wood or bamboo, providing a comfortable grip and effective control. The ergonomic design allows for extended use without discomfort. Furthermore, the wide blade surface of the Chinese cleaver can be used to transfer ingredients from the cutting board to the wok or pot, making it a versatile tool for stir-fries and other Asian cooking techniques. In the world of culinary arts, the importance of having the right chef knife cannot be emphasized enough. From the versatile Santoku to the robust German chef knife, each of these popular knives offers unique features and benefits to elevate your cooking experience. Whether you seek precision, durability, or versatility, there is a chef knife out there that perfectly suits your culinary needs. By investing in a high-quality chef knife, you'll not only enhance your cooking skills but also enjoy the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating these essential tools. So, sharpen your knives, explore different techniques, and embark on a journey of culinary excellence. Remember, a great chef knife is not just a tool, but a trusted companion that can transform every meal into a masterpiece. .Copyright © 2022 Yangjiang Yangdong Ruitai Hardware Products Co., Ltd. \| All Rights Reserved
Reflexive pronouns like myself, yourself, ourselves, etc., are used to refer to the subject in a sentence. Penlighten lists all the reflexive pronouns in English, as well as in Spanish, French, and German. Make sure that you never use a reflexive pronoun in place of a personal pronoun. Incorrect: Emily and myself are going shopping. Correct: Emily and I are going shopping. Pronouns are used to replace a noun, noun phrase, or noun clause in a sentence. For example, "David is a good boy. He always obeys his parents." In this example, the noun 'David' has been replaced by the pronoun 'he', which also helps avoid repetition, and eases the flow of language. Pronouns are classified into several types as: - Demonstrative - Indefinite - Interrogative - Intensive - Personal - Possessive - Reciprocal - Reflexive - Relative Reflexive pronouns are those which are used to refer to the subject in the sentence or clause i.e., to turn the action performed by the subject back to it. They usually end with either "self" (singular) or "selves" (plural). They are used to show that the object is same as the subject. Without a reflexive pronoun, a sentence will not convey the right message. For example, "Cindy poured her a glass of wine" will sound like Cindy poured someone else a glass of wine. However, if we use a reflexive pronoun in the sentence as "Cindy poured herself a glass of wine", it will refer to the subject of the sentence, Cindy. Identifying Reflexive Pronouns Identifying reflexive pronouns is very easy. When the subject is doing something to someone else, it is NOT a reflexive pronoun. For example, "The dog is playing with it". This shows that the dog is playing with something else. However, "The dog is playing with itself" shows that the dog is playing with itself. ● Jimmy bathes himself. (Jimmy bathes Jimmy.) ● Diana is talking to herself. (Diana is talking to Diana.) ● The Smiths love themselves. (The Smiths love The Smiths.) Reflexive Pronouns Vs. Intensive Pronouns One can often get confused between the usage of reflexive and intensive pronouns, since they are the same. Intensive pronouns also include myself, yourself, herself, himself, yourselves, ourselves, themselves. However, the usage of intensive pronouns is different from that of reflexive pronouns. They always emphasize the subject (or antecedent) of the sentence, and are placed right next to them. For example: ● I myself am very shocked. ● We ourselves painted the house. ● The author herself signed the book for me. Usage of Reflexive Pronouns in Sentences ● John was reading to himself. ● I am buying myself a pair of jeans. ● You should do yourself a favor. ● We treated ourselves to a hot sauna. ● Ashley gave herself a break. ● The kids are studying by themselves. ● I need to click a picture of myself. ● You should stop punishing yourself like this. ● My cat has hurt itself. ● Can you please serve yourselves? ● I cried myself to sleep that night. ● He loves himself way too much. ● Should we help ourselves with the drinks? ● I hope the kids behave themselves. ● They have injured themselves. ● She accidentally cut herself. ● I did it all by myself. ● He found himself lonely in the crowd. ● She was enjoying herself at the concert. ● The cat is licking itself. Reflexive Pronouns in Different Languages Subject \| Reflexive Pronoun \| Subject \| Reflexive Pronoun \| Subject \| Reflexive Pronoun \| Subject \| Reflexive Pronoun (Accusative) \| Reflexive Pronoun (Dative) \| \|\| SINGULAR \| 1st Person \| I \| myself \| je \| me/m'/moi \| yo \| me \| ich \| mich \| mir \| 2nd Person \| you \| yourself \| tu \| te/t'/toi \| tú/usted \| te \| du \| dich \| dir \| \| 3rd Person \| he/she/it \| himself/herself/itself/oneself \| il/elle/on \| se/s'/lui/soi/elle \| él/ella/usted \| se \| er/sie/es \| sich \| sich \| \| PLURAL \| 1st Person \| we \| ourselves \| nous \| nous \| nosotros \| nos \| wir \| uns \| uns \| 2nd Person \| you \| yourself/yourselves \| vous \| vous \| vosotros \| os \| ihr \| euch \| euch \| \| 3rd Person \| they \| themselves \| ils/elles \| se/s'/ils \| ellos/ellas/ustedes \| se \| Sie/sie \| sich \| sich \| Reflexive pronouns are not generally needed after verbs that describe actions that people generally do for themselves. For example, bathing, shaving, dressing. However, they can be used to generate emphasis. For example, "He is only three, but he dresses himself." Reflexive pronouns are generally used with amuse, blame, cut, help, hurt, enjoy, kill, introduce, teach, satisfy, and prepare.
Soursop Leaf Extracts ~ Cancer, Insomnia & Diabetes Soursop Leaf Elixir Traditional medicine uses soursop leaves for treating several diseases and ailments. 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Content marketing has come a long way since the early days of the Internet. As a web designer and digital marketer with over two decades of experience, I've witnessed the incredible evolution of content creation and distribution. Today, we stand at the precipice of a new era in content marketing, driven by the power of artificial intelligence (AI). In this article, we'll explore the fascinating world of AI content creation, its impact on modern marketing strategies, and how businesses can leverage this technology to stay ahead of the curve. We'll dive into the benefits, tools, and best practices for integrating AI into your content workflow, as well as address common challenges and ethical considerations. So, buckle up and get ready to discover how AI is transforming the future of content marketing! Key Takeaways - AI content creation tools can revolutionize your content marketing strategy, saving time and resources while delivering engaging, personalized content. - Integrating AI into your content workflow requires careful planning, tool selection, and a balance between AI-generated content and human creativity. - Embracing AI content creation can help businesses stay competitive and adaptable in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. The Landscape of AI Content Creation According to a survey, 22% of marketing professionals worldwide use AI along with marketing automation to create product and content recommendations, as well as personalized email subject lines. Additionally, 15% of B2B marketers in the U.S. reported that chatbots helped them increase their lead generation by more than 30%. In today's digital age, marketers face an ever-increasing demand for high-quality, engaging content. With the exponential growth of online platforms and the need to reach diverse audiences, creating content at scale has become a daunting challenge. This is where AI steps in as a game-changer, offering solutions to streamline the content creation process and overcome bottlenecks. At the heart of AI content creation are three key technologies: - Natural Language Processing (NLP): NLP enables machines to understand, interpret, and generate human language. This technology powers AI-driven content tools to analyze vast amounts of data, extract insights, and produce coherent, contextually relevant content. - Machine Learning (ML): ML algorithms allow AI systems to learn and improve over time, without being explicitly programmed. By training on large datasets, these algorithms can identify patterns, predict outcomes, and make data-driven decisions, enhancing the quality and relevance of AI-generated content. - Deep Learning (DL): DL is a subset of ML that uses artificial neural networks to process and learn from unstructured data, such as text, images, and videos. DL enables AI content creation tools to generate highly nuanced and contextually appropriate content, mimicking human creativity and style. The combination of these technologies has given rise to a new generation of AI content creation tools that can assist marketers in various aspects of content production, from ideation and research to writing, editing, and optimization. As we explore the benefits and applications of these tools, it's essential to understand the underlying technologies that make AI-driven content creation possible. Benefits of AI-Driven Content Creation Embracing AI in your content creation process offers a multitude of benefits that can revolutionize your content marketing strategy. Let's explore some of the key advantages: Benefit \| Description \| Increased efficiency and productivity \| AI content creation tools can generate high-quality content quickly, automating repetitive tasks and streamlining the content production process. \| Cost-effectiveness and resource optimization \| Investing in AI content creation tools can reduce costs associated with content production, allowing businesses to scale their content output without incurring substantial overhead costs. \| Scalability and consistency in content production \| AI tools can maintain a consistent brand voice, style, and tone across all content assets, ensuring a cohesive and recognizable brand identity. \| Hyper-personalization and targeted content \| AI algorithms can analyze user data to create highly personalized content experiences, increasing engagement, conversions, and customer loyalty. \| Real-time adaptability to market trends and user behavior \| AI-powered content tools can monitor and analyze real-time data to identify emerging topics and sentiments, enabling marketers to quickly adapt their content strategies. \| As we delve deeper into the world of AI content creation, it's essential to recognize these benefits and understand how they can contribute to the success of your content marketing efforts. By harnessing the power of AI, businesses can create more impactful, personalized, and data-driven content that resonates with their target audience and drives meaningful results. How can AI tools revolutionize content marketing and social media strategies? AI tools are transforming the landscape of content marketing and social media strategies by introducing unprecedented efficiencies and capabilities. By leveraging AI, marketers can analyze large datasets to gain insights into consumer behavior, enabling the creation of highly targeted campaigns that resonate with specific audiences. AI-driven analytics tools can predict trends and consumer responses, allowing businesses to adjust their strategies in real time for maximum impact. Moreover, AI-powered content generation tools can produce high-quality, relevant content quickly, reducing the workload on human creators while maintaining engagement with the audience. These tools also help in optimizing the distribution of content across various platforms, ensuring that it reaches the right audience at the optimal time. As AI continues to evolve, its role in strategizing and executing content marketing and social media campaigns is only expected to grow, leading to more personalized and effective marketing efforts. Impact of AI on content marketing The impact of AI on content marketing is profound and multifaceted. One of the key benefits is the automation of repetitive tasks, such as data analysis and content curation, which frees up marketers to focus on more creative and strategic endeavors. AI technologies such as machine learning and natural language processing enable the creation of content that is not only high in quality but also tailored to the preferences and browsing habits of individual users. This personalized approach increases engagement and conversion rates. Additionally, AI can optimize SEO strategies, helping content rank higher in search engine results and reach a broader audience. As AI tools become more sophisticated, they are expected to drive more nuanced content strategies that are data-driven and results-oriented, significantly enhancing the ROI of marketing campaigns. Enhancing social media content creation with AI AI is significantly enhancing social media content creation by enabling the production of more engaging, relevant, and timely posts. Tools like automated content schedulers and recommendation systems use AI to determine the best times to post and the types of content that are likely to perform well, based on historical data and user engagement metrics. AI-powered chatbots can interact with users in real time, providing personalized customer service and enhancing user engagement. Furthermore, image and video creation tools that utilize AI can generate visually appealing media tailored to the aesthetics and preferences of the target audience. This use of AI not only streamlines the content creation process but also ensures that the content is more likely to resonate with users, leading to increased engagement and loyalty. Creating personalized content using AI algorithms Creating personalized content with AI algorithms involves harnessing the power of data and machine learning to tailor content to the individual preferences, interests, and behaviors of users. By analyzing data points such as past interactions, browsing history, and purchase records, AI can help content creators deliver a highly customized experience to each user. This personalization can be applied across various types of content, including emails, website content, and targeted advertisements. AI-driven personalization improves user engagement because content that is relevant and tailored to an individual's preferences is more likely to capture attention and provoke interaction. Over time, as AI algorithms refine their understanding of consumer behavior, the precision of content personalization will continue to improve, making marketing efforts increasingly effective and efficient. AI Content Creation Tools and Platforms The AI content creation ecosystem is vast and ever-evolving, with a wide array of tools and platforms catering to different business needs and content types. In this section, we'll explore some of the top AI content creation tools for 2024 and compare their features, pricing, and target users. Top AI Content Creation Tools for 2024 - ClickUp Brain: ClickUp Brain is an AI-powered writing assistant integrated into the ClickUp project management platform. It offers content ideation, copywriting, editing, and summarization features, making it an ideal choice for teams looking to streamline their content workflow. - Narrato: Narrato is an AI-powered content workspace that covers the entire content creation process, from ideation and planning to creation and optimization. It offers a range of AI-powered tools, including a content brief generator, a topic generator, and AI-generated images. - Jasper: Jasper is a popular AI content generator that focuses on creating long-form content, such as blog posts, articles, and emails. With its "Boss Mode" feature, users can generate content tailored to their specific needs and preferences. - Copy.ai: Copy.ai is an AI writing tool that helps users create various types of content, including social media posts, product descriptions, and ad copy. It offers a range of templates and a user-friendly interface for generating content quickly and easily. - Lately: Lately is an AI-powered social media content creation tool that can generate multiple social media posts from a single piece of long-form content, such as a blog post or video. It also offers features like video clip generation and automatic post-scheduling. - Synthesia: Synthesia is an AI-powered video creation platform that enables users to create professional-looking videos from text input. It offers a range of AI avatars, voice-over options, and customization features to create engaging video content. - Murf: Murf is an AI voice generation platform that allows users to create natural-sounding voice-overs for their content. It supports multiple languages, offers voice customization options, and integrates with various content creation tools. - Canva: Canva, a popular graphic design tool, now offers AI-powered features like Magic Write and Magic Eras that allow users to generate and edit images using text prompts and descriptions. - Podcastle: Podcastle is an AI-powered audio content creation platform that enables users to record, edit, and enhance their podcasts and audio content. It offers features like noise removal, auto-leveling, and AI-generated transcripts. - Beautiful.ai: Beautiful.ai is an AI-powered presentation creation tool that helps users create professional-looking slides and decks with ease. It offers a range of templates, design suggestions, and collaboration features to streamline the presentation creation process. Integration of AI Tools with Existing Content Management Systems When considering AI content creation tools, it's crucial to evaluate how well they integrate with your existing content management systems (CMS) and marketing tech stack. Many AI tools offer APIs or direct integrations with popular CMS platforms like WordPress, Drupal, and Shopify, allowing for seamless content creation and publishing. Some AI tools also integrate with project management platforms, like ClickUp or Trello, enabling teams to collaborate on content creation tasks and track progress within their existing workflows. When selecting an AI content creation tool, consider its compatibility with your current systems and its ability to streamline your content production process. Implementing AI in Your Content Marketing Strategy Incorporating AI into your content marketing strategy requires careful planning and execution. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and successful implementation: 1. Assess Your Content Needs and Goals Begin by evaluating your current content marketing efforts and identifying areas where AI can provide the most value. Consider your target audience, content types, and distribution channels, and set clear goals for your AI-driven content creation initiative. 2. Select the Right AI Tools for Your Business Based on your content needs and goals, research and compare various AI content creation tools. Evaluate factors such as features, pricing, ease of use, and integration capabilities to find the best fit for your organization. 3. Gradually Integrate AI into Your Content Workflow Start by introducing AI tools into specific aspects of your content creation process, such as ideation, research, or editing. Gradually expand the use of AI as your team becomes more comfortable with the technology and you start seeing positive results. 4. Balance AI-generated content with Human Creativity and Oversight While AI can generate high-quality content, it's essential to maintain a balance between AI-driven automation and human creativity. Use AI tools to streamline repetitive tasks and generate ideas, but rely on human expertise to refine, edit, and add a personal touch to your content. 5. Establish Quality Control and Editorial Processes Implement a robust quality control and editorial process to ensure the accuracy, relevance, and consistency of your AI-generated content. Regularly review and provide feedback to fine-tune your AI tools and maintain the highest content standards. 6. Measure the Impact of AI on Your Content Performance Track and analyze the performance of your AI-generated content using key metrics such as engagement rates, conversions, and ROI. Use these insights to continually optimize your AI content creation strategy and allocate resources effectively. Remember, implementing AI in your content marketing strategy is an iterative process. Be prepared to experiment, learn, and adapt as you discover what works best for your business and audience. AI Content Creation Use Cases and Success Stories To better understand the potential of AI in content creation, let's explore some real-world use cases and success stories across various industries and content types. 1. Blog Post and Article Generation - HubSpot: HubSpot, a leading CRM and marketing automation platform, uses AI to generate blog post ideas and outlines based on search trends and user behavior data. This helps their content team stay ahead of the curve and create relevant, engaging content for their audience. - Bankrate: Bankrate, a financial advice website, successfully implemented AI-powered content generation to create high-quality, SEO-friendly articles. By leveraging AI tools, they were able to scale their content production and improve their search engine rankings for key industry terms. 2. Social Media Content Creation and Optimization - Hootsuite: Hootsuite, a popular social media management platform, uses AI to help users generate optimized social media posts and hashtags. Their AI-powered content creation tools analyze user data and provide personalized recommendations for maximizing engagement and reach. - Sephora: Sephora, a global beauty retailer, leverages AI to create personalized social media content for their customers. By analyzing user preferences and behavior, they can deliver highly targeted product recommendations and content that resonates with their audience. 3. Email Marketing and Personalized Customer Communication - Starbucks: Starbucks uses AI to power its email marketing campaigns, delivering personalized content and offers based on customer preferences and purchase history. This hyper-personalization has led to increased engagement and customer loyalty. - Airbnb: Airbnb employs AI-driven content creation to generate personalized email communication for their hosts and guests. By analyzing user data and behavior, they can provide tailored recommendations, tips, and support to enhance the user experience and drive bookings. 4. Video Content Production and Localization - Coca-Cola: Coca-Cola has experimented with AI-powered video content creation to generate personalized video ads at scale. By leveraging AI tools to create and adapt video content for different markets and languages, they can deliver highly targeted and culturally relevant messages to their global audience. - Nvidia: Nvidia, a leading GPU and AI technology company, uses AI to create and localize product demo videos for different markets. By automating the video creation process and generating localized voice-overs and subtitles, they can efficiently produce high-quality video content that resonates with users worldwide. 5. Interactive and Immersive Content Experiences - National Geographic: National Geographic has partnered with AI content creation platforms to develop interactive and immersive content experiences. By leveraging AI-powered tools to generate dynamic visual content and personalized storytelling, they can engage their audience in new and exciting ways. - The New York Times: The New York Times has experimented with AI-driven content creation to produce interactive articles and data visualizations. By using AI to analyze and present complex data sets in an engaging and accessible manner, they can provide their readers with unique and informative content experiences. These success stories demonstrate the diverse applications and benefits of AI in content creation across various industries. By studying these examples and adapting the strategies to your own business, you can unlock the potential of AI-driven content creation and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Challenges and Ethical Considerations While AI content creation offers numerous benefits, it also presents certain challenges and ethical considerations that businesses must address to ensure responsible and effective implementation. 1. Ensuring Content Quality and Relevance One of the primary challenges of AI-generated content is maintaining high quality and relevance. While AI tools can produce content quickly, they may sometimes lack the nuance, creativity, and contextual understanding that human writers bring to the table. To mitigate this, it's essential to have human oversight and editing processes in place to refine AI-generated content and ensure it meets your brand's quality standards. 2. Maintaining Brand Voice and Tone Consistency Another potential issue with AI content creation is maintaining a consistent brand voice and tone across all your content assets. AI tools may generate content that is technically correct but lacks the unique personality and style that defines your brand. To address this, it's crucial to provide clear guidelines and training data to your AI tools, ensuring they can capture and replicate your brand's distinct voice. 3. Addressing Potential Biases and Inaccuracies AI algorithms are only as unbiased as the data they are trained on. If the training data contains inherent biases or inaccuracies, the AI-generated content may perpetuate these issues. To mitigate this risk, it's essential to use diverse and representative training data, regularly audit your AI tools for potential biases, and have human oversight to identify and correct any inaccuracies or inconsistencies. 4. Navigating Copyright and Intellectual Property Issues As AI content creation tools become more sophisticated, questions arise about the ownership and intellectual property rights of AI-generated content. It's crucial for businesses to understand the legal implications of using AI-generated content and ensure they have the necessary permissions and licenses to use and distribute the content. 5. Balancing Automation with Human Authenticity and Empathy While AI can streamline content creation, it's important not to lose sight of the human element that makes content truly engaging and impactful. Overreliance on AI-generated content may lead to a lack of authenticity and emotional connection with your audience. Strike a balance between AI automation and human creativity, ensuring your content remains relatable, empathetic, and aligned with your brand values. Addressing these challenges and ethical considerations is an ongoing process that requires regular evaluation, adaptation, and collaboration between human content creators and AI tools. By proactively managing these issues, businesses can harness the power of AI content creation while maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of their content marketing efforts. The Future of AI in Content Marketing As AI technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, the future of content marketing is set to undergo a profound transformation. Let's explore some of the emerging trends and predictions for the coming years. 1. Increased Adoption and Sophistication of AI Tools As more businesses recognize the benefits of AI in content creation, we can expect to see a surge in the adoption of AI-powered tools and platforms. These tools will become more sophisticated, offering advanced features like real-time content optimization, predictive analytics, and seamless integration with other marketing technologies. 2. Greater Personalization and Interactive Content Experiences AI will enable content marketers to deliver hyper-personalized content experiences at scale. By leveraging machine learning algorithms and user data, AI tools will be able to create dynamic, interactive content that adapts to individual user preferences and behavior, providing highly relevant and engaging experiences. 3. The Rise of AI-Generated Visual and Audio Content While AI-powered text generation has been the primary focus in recent years, the future will see a significant increase in AI-generated visual and audio content. Advances in computer vision, generative adversarial networks (GANs), and natural language processing will enable AI tools to create high-quality images, videos, and voice-overs, further streamlining the content creation process. 4. Collaborative human content Creation As AI tools become more sophisticated, the role of human content creators will evolve. Rather than being replaced by AI, human writers, and marketers will work in collaboration with AI tools, leveraging their creative instincts and strategic expertise to guide and refine AI-generated content. This symbiotic relationship will result in higher-quality, more impactful content that combines the best of human and machine intelligence. 5. Emphasis on Ethical and Responsible AI Use As AI becomes more deeply integrated into content marketing, there will be a growing emphasis on ethical and responsible AI use. Businesses will need to prioritize transparency, fairness, and accountability in their AI-driven content creation processes, ensuring that their content aligns with ethical guidelines and avoids perpetuating biases or misinformation. The future of AI in content marketing is both exciting and challenging. By staying informed about emerging trends, embracing innovation, and prioritizing ethical considerations, businesses can position themselves to thrive in an AI-driven content landscape. Best Practices and Recommendations To successfully navigate the AI-driven future of content marketing, consider the following best practices and recommendations: - Stay informed about AI advancements: Keep up with the latest developments in AI content creation tools and technologies. Attend industry conferences, webinars, and workshops to learn from experts and stay ahead of the curve. - Foster a culture of experimentation and learning: Encourage your content team to experiment with AI tools and embrace a mindset of continuous learning. Create a safe space for testing new ideas, learning from failures, and iterating on successes. - Collaborate with AI experts and solution providers: Partner with AI experts and solution providers who can help you identify the best tools and strategies for your business. Leverage their expertise to ensure a smooth and effective implementation of AI in your content creation process. - Regularly audit and refine your AI content strategy: Continuously monitor and evaluate the performance of your AI-generated content. Use data-driven insights to refine your strategy, optimize your tools, and ensure your content remains relevant and impactful. - Prioritize user experience and engagement: Always keep your audience at the center of your AI content creation efforts. Use AI to create content that resonates with your target users, addresses their pain points, and provides genuine value. Focus on metrics that reflect user engagement and satisfaction, rather than just vanity metrics. By following these best practices and staying adaptable in the face of change, you can harness the power of AI to create compelling, data-driven content that drives business growth and customer loyalty. Which are the best AI content creation tools for creating various types of content? AI content creation tools are varied and serve multiple purposes, from generating text to crafting visuals. For text-based content, tools like OpenAI's GPT-3 offer capabilities to generate articles, blogs, and even code. For visuals, platforms like Canva integrate AI to help design graphics that are visually appealing. Additionally, tools such as Hootsuite utilize AI to optimize social media content planning and execution, ensuring that content reaches the right audience at the right time. Top AI tools for generating content ideas When it comes to generating content ideas, AI tools like BuzzSumo and HubSpot's Content Strategy Tool are invaluable. These platforms analyze current trends and performance metrics across the web to suggest topics that are likely to engage audiences. This predictive capability helps content creators stay ahead of the curve and produce relevant, timely content that captures interest and drives traffic. AI-powered tools for creating visual content For creating visual content, AI tools such as Adobe Spark and Lumen5 stand out. Adobe Spark uses AI to automate the design process, making it easier to create custom graphics, web pages, and videos in minutes. Lumen5 leverages AI to transform text content into engaging video content, ideal for social media platforms and marketing campaigns. AI algorithms for optimizing content for SEO AI algorithms play a crucial role in optimizing content for SEO. Tools like Clearscope and MarketMuse use AI to analyze the quality of content and suggest improvements based on the best SEO practices. They help identify the right keywords, recommend content structures, and provide insights on how to increase the relevance and visibility of your content in search engine results. Benefits of using AI writing tools for long-form content AI writing tools offer significant advantages for creating long-form content. Tools such as Jasper (formerly Jarvis) and Writesonic can help draft detailed articles, reports, and ebooks, significantly reducing the time and effort involved in writing. These tools are not only time-efficient but also enhance the quality of content by providing suggestions for better phrasing, coherence, and overall readability. This makes them particularly useful for content marketers, bloggers, and authors looking to scale their content production without compromising on quality. How do AI content tools help in scaling content production and improving quality? AI content tools significantly boost efficiency and quality by automating repetitive tasks and applying advanced analytics to guide content creation. They can process vast amounts of data to identify trends, enabling content to be more relevant and engaging. Additionally, these tools assist in maintaining consistency in tone and style, ensuring a high-quality output even as the volume of content increases. Using AI tools to generate video and audio content AI tools are revolutionizing the production of video and audio content by streamlining creation processes and enabling customization at scale. Tools like Descript offer video editing and production through AI-driven processes, including automatic transcriptions and overdubbing. For audio, platforms like Auphonic optimize sound quality and level adjustments automatically, significantly reducing post-production workloads. Creating high-quality content at scale with AI AI enables the creation of high-quality content at scale by leveraging machine learning models that can generate text, visuals, and interactive content based on predefined quality standards. These tools can adapt to various content formats and platforms, ensuring that the content not only reads well but is also platform-optimized and visually engaging, thereby satisfying both quantity and quality demands. Personalizing content with AI writing tools AI writing tools enhance content personalization by analyzing user data to tailor messages to individual preferences and behaviors. This capability allows for the creation of highly relevant content that resonates with each segment of an audience, improving engagement and conversion rates. By employing natural language processing, these tools ensure that the personalized content remains readable and engaging, making personalization scalable across large content campaigns. What is AI-driven content creation, and how does it differ from traditional content creation methods? AI-driven content creation involves using artificial intelligence technologies, such as natural language processing, machine learning, and deep learning, to generate, optimize, and personalize content. Unlike traditional methods that rely solely on human creativity and manual effort, AI-driven content creation leverages data, algorithms, and automation to streamline the process and produce content at scale. How can AI content creation benefit my business and improve my content marketing ROI? - AI content creation can benefit your business in several ways: - Increased efficiency and productivity, allowing you to create more content in less time - Cost savings by reducing the need for manual labor and resources - Improved content quality and relevance through data-driven insights and optimization - Enhanced personalization and targeting, leading to higher engagement and conversion rates What are the most popular AI content creation tools available in the market, and how do they compare? Some of the most popular AI content creation tools in 2024 include: - ClickUp Brain: AI-powered writing assistant for content ideation, editing, and summarization - Narrato: All-in-one content workspace with AI-powered tools for planning, creation, and optimization - Jasper: AI content generator focusing on long-form content, such as blog posts and articles - Copy.ai: AI writing tool for various content types, including social media posts and product descriptions How can I ensure a seamless integration of AI-generated content with my existing content workflow? To ensure a seamless integration of AI-generated content with your existing workflow, follow these tips: - Clearly define your content goals, target audience, and brand guidelines before implementing AI tools - Start with a pilot project or specific content type to test the effectiveness of AI-generated content - Establish a human-in-the-loop approach, where AI-generated content is reviewed, edited, and approved by human editors What are the potential challenges and ethical considerations associated with AI-driven content creation? Some potential challenges and ethical considerations associated with AI-driven content creation include: - Ensuring content quality and relevance, as AI-generated content may sometimes lack the nuance and context that human writers provide - Maintaining brand voice and tone consistency across AI-generated content - Addressing potential biases and inaccuracies in AI algorithms and training data - Navigating copyright and intellectual property issues related to AI-generated content The rise of AI in content creation marks a new era in content marketing, one filled with endless possibilities and opportunities for businesses to connect with their audiences in more meaningful and impactful ways. By embracing AI-powered tools and strategies, content marketers can streamline their workflows, create personalized experiences at scale, and drive unprecedented results. However, the success of AI in content marketing relies on a thoughtful, human-centric approach that prioritizes quality, authenticity, and ethical considerations. As we move forward into an AI-driven future, it is essential for businesses to find the right balance between automation and human creativity, leveraging the strengths of both to create content that truly resonates with their target audiences. Are you ready to unlock the potential of AI in your content marketing strategy? Take the first step today and explore how AI content creation tools can transform your business. Schedule a consultation with me at Uplevel Digital to learn more!
Gas turbines have become an essential component of modern power generation, aviation, and industrial applications. The combustion process in a gas turbine is a critical element that determines its efficiency, performance, and emissions. In this article, you will get a technical overview of the fundamentals of gas turbine combustion, including the types of fuels used, combustion mechanisms, and control strategies. Fuels Used in Gas Turbine Combustion Gas turbine combustors can burn various fuels, depending on their availability, cost, and environmental impact. Natural gas is the most commonly used fuel for gas turbine combustion due to its high energy content, low emissions, and low cost. Other gaseous fuels, such as hydrogen, propane, and ethane, can also be used in gas turbines. Liquid fuels, such as diesel, kerosene, and biofuels, can be injected into the combustor in the form of a mist or spray. Combustion Mechanisms The combustion process in a gas turbine combustor can be divided into three stages: Ignition, Flame stabilization, and Heat release. Ignition occurs when the fuel is mixed with air and ignited by a spark or pilot flame. Flame stabilization is the process of maintaining a stable flame front in the combustor. Heat release is the process of releasing heat from the combustion products to the turbine blades. The combustion mechanism can be classified into two types: 1. Diffusion flame 2. Premixed flame In a diffusion flame, the fuel and air are not premixed, and the combustion occurs in a diffusion-controlled mode. In a premixed flame, the fuel and air are premixed before entering the combustor, and the combustion occurs in a flame-controlled mode. The choice of combustion mechanism depends on the type of fuel, combustor design, and operating conditions. Combustor Design The combustor design plays a crucial role in achieving efficient and low-emission gas turbine combustion. The combustor should provide a stable flame front, minimize the formation of pollutants such as NOx and CO, and maintain a high combustion efficiency. The combustor design can be classified into two types: can combustor and annular combustor. In a can combustor, the combustion occurs in cylindrical chambers arranged in a radial pattern around the turbine shaft. In an annular combustor, the combustion occurs in a continuous ring-shaped chamber around the turbine shaft. Annular combustors are preferred in modern gas turbines due to their compact size, high efficiency, and low emissions. Combustion Control Strategies The combustion process in a gas turbine combustor is subject to various control parameters, such as fuel flow rate, air flow rate, temperature, and pressure. The combustion control strategies aim to maintain a stable flame front, minimize emissions, and optimize performance. The most commonly used combustion control strategies are flame temperature control, lean blowout control, and emissions control. Flame temperature control involves adjusting the fuel flow rate and air flow rate to maintain a constant flame temperature. Lean blowout control involves maintaining the air-to-fuel ratio at the lean limit to prevent flame extinction. Emissions control involves using advanced combustion technologies, such as low-NOx burners and catalytic combustors, to reduce emissions. Emissions from Gas Turbine Combustion Gas turbine combustion can produce various pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), unburned hydrocarbons (UHC), and particulate matter (PM). The emissions depend on the type of fuel, combustion mechanism, and operating conditions. NOx is the most significant pollutant produced by gas turbine combustion, which contributes to smog, acid rain, and respiratory problems. The formation of NOx can be reduced by using low-NOx burners and water or steam injection. CO and UHC are produced by incomplete combustion and can be reduced by optimizing the combustion process and using advanced control strategies. PM is produced by the combustion of liquid fuels and can be reduced by using filters and scrubbers. Gas turbine combustion is a complex process that involves various fuels, combustion mechanisms, and control strategies. Efficient and low-emission gas turbine combustion is essential for meeting the growing demand for energy while reducing the environmental impact. The advancements in combustion technology, such as low-NOx burners and catalytic combustors, have significantly reduced emissions from gas turbine combustion. The future of gas turbine combustion lies in the development of sustainable fuels, such as hydrogen and biofuels, and the integration of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, into the power system.
2017 was a pivotal year for women, beginning with the historic marches that took place after Trump's inauguration and continuing throughout the year with an unprecedented surge of women stepping up to run for office, organizing grassroots actions at a local level and supporting powerful movements, such as #MeToo, at a global level. We saw women everywhere become resolute, energized and acting as a collective and transformative force, speaking out for justice, equality and change in our country and the world. There is another crucial area where women are rising to the occasion and exerting their influence and power: philanthropy. Trump's first year in office catapulted progressive women donors to new levels of activism to support and uplift communities most marginalized in this political moment. Women who once gave quietly are now coordinating weekly protests, writing opinion pieces, speaking publicly and looking for all sorts of ways to level up their work and organize for change. In 2018, this trend is expected to continue as more and more women develop a sense of agency and responsibility and take advantage of the support of donor networks and a growing community. I had the opportunity to speak with several leaders within these donor networks to find out more about this powerful increase in women philanthropists, what issues their organizations champion, what they expect and hope to see in 2018, and how women who are interested in giving can get involved. "We're in a very critical moment in our nation's history where women feel a lot more energized, responsible and motivated to share their stories about the role of philanthropy in activism, which has traditionally been hard to talk about. Women are finding and owning their voices." -Donna Hall Donna Hall, president and CEO of Women Donors Network—a network of over 200 individual women philanthropists who strive to create social change—expressed to me how the election of Trump and the events of this past year have activated women on a whole new level: "We're in a very critical moment in our nation's history where women feel a lot more energized, responsible and motivated to share their stories about the role of philanthropy in activism, which has traditionally been hard to talk about. Women are finding and owning their voices." She also noted, "There are a lot of women who are becoming more politically motivated. They are beginning to strategize in very organized ways around identifying places where elections can make a difference. The Reflective Democracy Campaign, one of the big projects that WDN has been funding now for five years, has changed the national conversation around representation by showing how women and people of color are left out of the political process." This uptick in women's political awareness and involvement has also led to a dramatic increase in women donors funding campaigns. Cynthia Nimmo, president and CEO of Women's Funding Network—an association of 100 foundations whose members invest over $400 million annually to improve the lives of women and girls around the world—agreed, saying, "Women are absolutely more active now. They are demanding equality, pure and simple. They see more and more every day the ways in which they don't have it. When something happens to a woman in one corner of the world, the story spreads around the globe instantly and we are seeing women being activated. Women have the resources to pay for change, to direct their own movies, to do their own research, to tell their own stories, and they are doing it in droves." Nimmo added, "It is absolutely reaching a tipping point now. What was once a trickle is now a tidal wave. We see women donating $25 a month and women donating millions. I hear from women working in every industry that they are disgusted with the lack of progress. This is why women's foundations were created back in the 1970s. They provide a forum for women to determine what change is needed in their community, then to raise money and direct it to where it will make the most impact." Vanessa Daniel, Executive Director of Groundswell—which has granted more than $32 million to the U.S. reproductive justice (RJ) movement, engaging women of color, low-income women, young people and LGBT people as grassroots activists on reproductive issues—put it this way: "Women make up the vast majority of people engaged in the 'resistance' to the current administration—this is undeniable. We can see from the daily grassroots organizing work and from the culture shift created by #MeToo and #TimesUp that there is a rising sense that a line in the sand has been crossed and there is an urgency and imperative to speak up, do more, risk and reach beyond our comfort zones in order to do the right thing." "Women donors are no exception," Daniel continued. "Some donors—particularly white women inheritors—have told us, 'For the first time in my life I'm afraid of losing my basic rights, rights that I know many poor women and women of color have already been living without for years.' Groundswell welcomed a large number of new donors in 2017 who expressed fatigue with funding more traditional strategies and organizations and a keen interest in pivoting their giving to reach grassroots organizing at the state and local level, particularly work led by women of color. Many more white women donors are recognizing that women of color not only face the greatest attack but are also bringing the boldest fight to the current administration to defend rights that all people enjoy." After Trump's election, the Women Donors Network also recognized the potential damage any rollbacks and policy changes could have on marginalized communities, so they created the Emergent Fund to fight back against these threats. As Donna Hall explained it to me, "People had real concerns about the erosion of basic rights and sound policies, and we knew that these organizations needed resources in place to help meet assaults as they happened. That's why we created WDN's Emergent Fund in the aftermath of the election to fund organizations that aligned with our intrinsic goals and values. We worked in partnership with Solidaire, and then later with the Democracy Alliance and Threshold Foundation, and set a goal to raise and grant a million dollars in the first 100 days of the new administration to ensure groups on the ground stay alive and focused on the good work they were already doing for our communities." When asked what specific issues women donors are championing, K. Sujata, president and CEO of Chicago Foundation for Women—a grantmaking organization dedicated to increasing resources and opportunities for women and girls in the greater Chicago area—cited intersectionality and uplifting marginalized communities as some of the issues most prevalent right now: "We are very excited by the increasing awareness and support of intersectionality among our donors. Donors recognize that some of the best investments they can make are those that lift up communities that have experienced decades of neglect and disinvestment. We are also, slowly, seeing a shift in the common narrative that profiles communities of color as being the recipients of charity, to one that celebrates women of color as powerful philanthropists, driving significant resources and social change across our region. It keeps us inspired every day when we see women from all backgrounds come together to partner with CFW, to champion philanthropy as a tool to address the unique circumstances and oppression that women of color face." Donna Hall's response was that the Women Donors Network covers a wide range of issues because they are all interconnected: "We are doing a lot of work to identify organizations working at the intersection of critical issues impacting our nation. For us, it's not just reproductive rights, but reproductive rights AND environmental degradation AND the school-to-prison pipeline. We work to identify what public programs are being attacked and what needs to be filled in their absence. These multiple challenges are all interconnected. Our solutions should be as well." "This new wave of donor activists isn't one-dimensional and that's what's so exciting. They are Millennials, they're Gen Y, they're Gen Z, they're stay-at-home moms and work-outside-the-home moms, they're single, they're married, they work in tech, in finance, in media—you name it." -Cynthia Nimmo When I asked these women about what their hopes are for 2018 and where they feel women's philanthropy is headed, Cynthia Nimmo told me, "This new wave of donor activists isn't one-dimensional and that's what's so exciting. They are Millennials, they're Gen Y, they're Gen Z, they're stay-at-home moms and work-outside-the-home moms, they're single, they're married, they work in tech, in finance, in media—you name it. It's every woman, and she's paying to shift the policies and systems that prevent women and girls from advancing. Technology makes it easier to give now too, which has helped fuel the fire. My strong belief is that this will continue to grow in 2018." Vanessa Daniel shared, "My hope for donor activists in 2018 is that they can see how their own destinies are bound up with those who are more marginalized, that they can share resources as a way of sharing power and acknowledging the bold leadership of those who are most impacted by the problems of our society, and that they can use their access to wealth and those who have it to open up more resource streams to bold work at the grassroots." And Abigail Disney—an award-winning filmmaker, philanthropist and member of Women's Donor's Network who recently launched Level Forward, a startup studio venture that aims to focus on backing projects driven by women and persons of color— offered this rallying call to action: "We should recognize that this fight is forever. We're fighting gravity in a lot of ways. There's never going to be a point at which we can all relax and everything will be fine. There is no arrival and there is no finish line. There is no promised land. This is the work of our lives. What we hope for is to push things into better places all the time." Disney also shared this advice for women interested in becoming donors: "There's an inner badassery that some of us have that gets wasted on fighting your mother about how you're dressed. If you can find ways to be public in your badassery, be proud of it and rock it instead of feeling like you're not enough or that you're too fat or you're too old or you're not wearing enough makeup and all that. We need to step into our badassery first. A lot of things follow from that." She urged, "Take the ownership of the money you have control of—stop apologizing for that; it's nothing to be ashamed of. Step into power. Ask for it. It's not going to just settle over you. This is about taking our fair share. We're half the population and we deserve half the power." Seeing more and more women become individually empowered and come together collectively—by giving to causes, campaigns and donor networks, getting politically engaged, organizing and doing whatever they can to raise their voices and exert their influence—is a clear indication that women will lead the way as a driving force for change in 2018. As Donna Hall put it to me, "Watching women who have access to money, power and the luxury of time band together in a way that they have not before gives me hope. I feel we have to push on, supporting one another, holding each other up, so that we do what we can to create a better future for everyone." This article originally appeared at Forbes.com Marianne Schnall is the founder of What Will It Take Movements and a widely published journalist, author, speaker and interviewer. She is the author of Daring to Be Ourselves: Influential Women Share Insights on Courage, Happiness and Finding Your Own Voice, as well as What Will it Take to Make a Woman President? Conversations About Women, Leadership & Power. Her new books include Leading the Way: Inspiring Words for Women on How to Live and Lead with Courage, Confidence, and Authenticity, and Dare to Be You: Inspirational Advice for Girls on Finding Your Voice, Leading Fearlessly, and Making a Difference.
Choosing the right air conditioning system for your home involves navigating a maze of options, each with its unique installation requirements. For homeowners and property managers alike, understanding the difference between central air conditioning and packaged air conditioning units is crucial to making an informed decision. This guide aims to simplify that choice by breaking down the key differences, advantages, and considerations for each system. What's the difference between central air and packaged AC? The difference between central air and packaged air is that packaged air is housed in a unit outside the home while central air is housed inside. Both central air and packaged air operate with a single, centralized air conditioning unit. All the air conditioning components are in the same place. This design contrasts with other air conditioners like window AC, split AC, and wall AC which all only cool the area immediately next to their internal unit. Distributed air conditioners need several units in order to cool multiple rooms in a home. Central and packaged air both distribute the cold air produced by the air conditioning units to rooms via ducts. One air conditioner can cool all the rooms in your house in one place. The only notable difference between these two types of air conditioning systems is the location of the centralized air conditioner. Packaged air is housed in a large box separate from the building. Central air is located inside the home. Understanding Central Air and Packaged AC Systems Central air conditioning and packaged air units are both designed to provide centralized cooling for your entire home. However, they differ primarily in their installation and housing. Packaged air units are self-contained systems located outside the home, typically on the roof or on a concrete slab. Central air systems, on the other hand, have their main components split between the inside and outside of the home. Unlike window, split, or wall AC units that cool specific areas, central and packaged air systems use ductwork to distribute cool air throughout the entire property. This setup is ideal for maintaining a consistent temperature across multiple rooms or entire buildings. Cooling Capacity: Central Air vs Packaged AC One of the most critical factors to consider when selecting an air conditioning system is its cooling capacity, which is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). This measurement reflects the amount of heat an air conditioner can remove from a room per hour. The right cooling capacity for your home depends on various factors, including square footage, ceiling height, insulation quality, and even the climate zone you live in. Central Air Conditioning Capacity Central air systems are known for their higher cooling capacity, making them an ideal choice for larger homes and buildings. Typically, these systems offer a cooling power range from 18,000 to 30,000 BTUs. This range is sufficient for most residential properties, but for those with larger spaces, central air units can go as high as 60,000 BTUs. With such a high capacity, these systems can efficiently cool spaces as large as 3,000 square feet, which encompasses the size of many single-family homes, townhouses, and other residential structures. To put these numbers into perspective, consider that an average-sized home in the United States, which is about 2,500 square feet, would require an air conditioning system with approximately 25,000 to 30,000 BTUs of cooling capacity to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. This calculation assumes standard ceiling heights and average insulation. However, for homes with high ceilings, large windows, or poor insulation, the required capacity may increase to ensure adequate cooling. Packaged Air Conditioning Capacity Packaged air units, while compact and convenient, typically offer a lower range of cooling capacity, starting from 7,000 BTUs to around 19,000 BTUs. These systems are suitable for small to medium-sized homes, apartments, or specific areas within larger properties. For instance, a packaged air system with 15,000 BTUs might be perfectly suited for maintaining a comfortable temperature in an 800-square-foot apartment or a small commercial space. However, advancements in technology and design have led to the development of high-capacity packaged air units that can provide up to 60,000 BTUs, rivaling the performance of central air systems. This makes them a viable option for larger spaces, offering the flexibility of installation outside the home and the potential for a less invasive setup process. High-Capacity Models for Extensive Properties For properties with extensive square footage, multiple stories, or unique architectural features that challenge temperature regulation, high-capacity models of both central and packaged air systems are available. These models are engineered to deliver the cooling power needed for complex and large-scale environments. When considering such models, it's essential to consult with a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professional to determine the precise requirements for your space, taking into account all relevant factors that affect cooling efficiency. Cost Considerations for Air Conditioning Systems When comparing the costs of central air and packaged air conditioning systems, it's important to consider not only the initial installation expenses but also the long-term operational and maintenance costs that will accrue over the lifespan of the units. Initial Installation and Equipment Costs Central air conditioning systems are typically more expensive to install than packaged units. The cost for central air systems can range from $4,000 to $8,000, depending on the unit's capacity and the specific needs of your home's layout. This price includes the cost of the outdoor condenser, the indoor evaporator coil, and, if necessary, the furnace or air handler. The higher cost of central air systems is partly due to the complexity of the installation process, which may require extensive ductwork modification and labor. Packaged air conditioners, which combine the evaporator, condenser, and compressor in a single unit, usually cost between $2,000 and $4,000 for the unit itself. Installation costs for packaged units may be lower since they require less labor and time to install, with most of the components housed together. However, if your home does not have existing ductwork, the cost for either system will increase significantly due to the need for duct installation. Operational Efficiency and Energy Costs Both central air and packaged air systems have similar energy efficiency ratios (EER) and seasonal energy efficiency ratios (SEER), which can affect your home's energy consumption and utility bills. High-efficiency models may come with a higher initial cost but can result in lower monthly energy costs. The actual savings will depend on the usage patterns, the climate in your area, and local energy prices. Maintenance and Repair Costs Over time, both types of systems will require maintenance to keep them running efficiently. Central air systems may incur higher maintenance costs due to their more complex setup and the potential for indoor and outdoor components to require service. Packaged units, being more compact, can be easier and less expensive to maintain. However, because all components of a packaged unit are exposed to outdoor conditions, they may be more susceptible to wear and tear, potentially leading to more frequent replacements. Energy Efficiency: Maximizing Your AC's Performance Energy efficiency is a paramount consideration for homeowners when choosing between central air and packaged air conditioning systems. Not only does it impact the environmental footprint of cooling your home, but it also has a significant effect on long-term utility costs. Understanding the efficiency of these systems can help you make a more informed decision that benefits both your wallet and the environment. Efficiency Ratings and What They Mean The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) and Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) are two key metrics used to measure the efficiency of air conditioning units. The EER rating indicates the amount of cooling a unit can provide per hour for each watt of electricity it uses, while the SEER rating measures this efficiency over an entire cooling season, taking into account fluctuations in temperature. Central air conditioners typically have SEER ratings ranging from 13 to 21. Higher SEER ratings in central air systems may reflect advanced features like variable speed fans and compressors that can adjust cooling output to match demand, which enhances efficiency and comfort. Packaged air units also offer competitive SEER ratings, with many models falling within the same range as central air systems. However, the overall efficiency of packaged units can be influenced by their placement and installation. Since packaged units are located outside, they are exposed to the elements, which can sometimes affect their efficiency compared to central air systems, whose indoor components are protected from extreme temperatures. Comparing the Cost-Efficiency of Central and Packaged Air When comparing the cost-efficiency of central air and packaged air systems, it's important to consider the total operating costs over the system's lifespan. Central air systems may have a higher initial cost but can be more cost-effective over time, especially if the system is properly sized and installed for optimal performance. Packaged air systems can be a more economical choice upfront and are often easier to install, but they may require more frequent maintenance or replacement due to their exposure to outdoor conditions. The compact nature of packaged units can also lead to a trade-off between space-saving convenience and the potential for slightly lower efficiency ratings under extreme weather conditions. Maximizing Efficiency with Proper Maintenance Regardless of the type of system you choose, regular maintenance is crucial for maintaining energy efficiency. This includes routine cleaning or changing of filters, checking for duct leakage, and ensuring that the condensing unit is free from debris. For central air systems, it's also important to have regular check-ups by a professional to ensure that the indoor and outdoor components are functioning effectively. Packaged air conditioners require similar maintenance, and because all components are housed together, it can be more straightforward to service. However, their outdoor location means they may accumulate dirt and debris more quickly, which can impede performance if not regularly cleaned. Deciding Between Central Air and Packaged AC The decision to install central air or packaged AC will depend on several factors, including the existing structure of your home and aesthetic considerations. Packaged systems are often easier and less intrusive to install since they don't require indoor space for the unit. Central air systems are more discreet but may require more extensive installation work. Final Thoughts on Choosing Your AC System Both central and packaged air conditioning systems offer robust cooling solutions for any size home. They are equally matched in terms of energy efficiency, with the cost being more dependent on the unit's capacity rather than its type. When selecting an air conditioner, consider the long-term energy savings, the specific needs of your property, and the potential impact on your home's value. For more information on maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home, check out our other articles on home cooling systems, or contact us for personalized advice and installation services. Mark is a journalist who has written about home products for two years. He holds a masters degree with distinction from the London School of Economics and an undergraduate degree from the University of Edinburgh.
Unleashing the Power: Real Estate Investment Strategies for Wealth Growth Investment Strategies for Wealth Management When it comes to building wealth through real estate, there are various investment strategies that can help investors achieve their financial goals. Two popular strategies for wealth management in real estate are buying below market value and passive real estate investing. Buying Below Market Value Buying properties below market value is a common real estate investment strategy that allows investors to gain instant equity and increase their return on investment (Redfin). By purchasing properties at a discounted price, investors can secure a financial advantage from the start. This strategy provides a cushion for potential market fluctuations and ensures profitability. To find properties below market value, investors often employ various tactics such as: Foreclosures and Short Sales: These properties are typically sold below market value, providing opportunities for investors to acquire them at a discounted price. Distressed Properties: Properties in poor condition or those in need of significant repairs are often listed below market value. Investors can purchase these properties, renovate them, and sell or rent them out for a profit. Off-Market Properties: Properties that are not listed on the open market can sometimes be acquired below market value. Investors can explore networking and building relationships with real estate agents, wholesalers, and other industry professionals to gain access to these opportunities. Buying below market value requires thorough research, due diligence, and negotiation skills. It's important to assess the property's condition, location, and potential for appreciation before making a purchase. Additionally, having a solid understanding of the local real estate market is crucial for identifying undervalued properties. Passive Real Estate Investing Passive real estate investing is an attractive strategy for investors who prefer a hands-off approach to property management. This strategy involves investing in real estate assets that generate passive income, such as rental properties or real estate crowdfunding (Redfin). With rental properties, investors can purchase residential or commercial properties and generate income through rental payments. Property management tasks, such as tenant screening, property maintenance, and rent collection, can be outsourced to professional property management companies. This allows investors to enjoy a steady stream of income without the need for active involvement in day-to-day property management. Real estate crowdfunding platforms provide opportunities for passive investors to pool their funds together and invest in large-scale real estate projects. These platforms allow individuals to invest in properties or real estate development projects with lower capital requirements and reduced management responsibilities. Passive real estate investing can offer several benefits, including diversification of investment portfolios, potential tax advantages, and the opportunity for long-term wealth accumulation. However, it's important for investors to carefully assess the investment opportunities, understand the associated risks, and choose reputable platforms or partners for their investments. By leveraging strategies like buying below market value and passive real estate investing, investors can create a solid foundation for wealth management through real estate. These strategies offer opportunities for building equity, generating passive income, and achieving long-term financial goals. However, it's essential for investors to conduct thorough research, seek professional advice, and continuously monitor market conditions to make informed investment decisions. Strategies for Quick Returns When it comes to real estate investment, some strategies are focused on generating quick returns. These strategies involve buying properties with the intention of selling them for a profit in a relatively short period. Two popular strategies for quick returns in real estate investment are flipping properties and engaging in short-term real estate investments. Flipping Properties Flipping properties is a well-known real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing homes, renovating them, and selling them for a profit. This strategy requires expertise, market knowledge, and a good understanding of renovation costs. Successful property flippers carefully analyze the market to identify undervalued properties that have the potential for substantial appreciation after renovations. They then invest in renovations and improvements that are likely to increase the property's value. Flipping properties can be lucrative when executed properly, but it also carries risks. Unexpected renovation costs, market fluctuations, and longer selling times can affect the profitability of a flip. Investors should thoroughly research the local real estate market, have a solid understanding of renovation costs, and carefully evaluate potential profit margins before undertaking a property flipping project. Short-Term Real Estate Investments Another strategy for quick returns in real estate is engaging in short-term investments. Short-term real estate investments typically involve purchasing properties with the intention of selling them within a short timeframe, usually within a few months or years. These investments can take different forms, such as buying properties in up-and-coming neighborhoods, participating in real estate wholesaling, or investing in fix-and-flip projects. Short-term real estate investments require a keen eye for market trends and the ability to identify properties with high potential for appreciation within a short period. Investors must carefully analyze factors such as location, market demand, and potential renovation or improvement opportunities. By capitalizing on these factors, investors can aim to sell the property for a profit within a relatively short period. It's important to note that short-term real estate investments come with risks, including market fluctuations, unexpected expenses, and the need for quick decision-making. Investors should conduct thorough due diligence, carefully assess potential risks, and have a clear exit strategy to mitigate these risks and maximize returns. By considering these strategies for quick returns in real estate, investors can aim to generate profits within a shorter timeframe. However, it's crucial to conduct proper research, analyze market conditions, and evaluate potential risks before diving into any real estate investment venture. Additionally, consulting with professionals in the industry can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the investment process. Long-Term Investment Approaches When it comes to real estate investment, there are long-term strategies that can provide steady returns and potential appreciation over time. Two popular long-term investment approaches are the buy and hold strategy and real estate investment trusts (REITs). Buy and Hold Strategy The buy and hold strategy involves purchasing a property with the intention of holding onto it for an extended period. This long-term approach allows investors to benefit from consistent cash flow through rental income and potential property appreciation over time (Redfin). One of the key advantages of the buy and hold strategy is the ability to generate passive income through rental payments. By acquiring properties in desirable locations and maintaining them well, investors can attract reliable tenants and secure a steady stream of rental income. This income can help cover expenses, such as mortgage payments, property taxes, and maintenance costs. Additionally, as rental rates increase over time, investors may see an increase in their cash flow. Another benefit of the buy and hold strategy is the potential for property appreciation. Over the long term, real estate values tend to rise, allowing investors to build equity in their properties. This can create wealth through appreciation, especially in high-demand areas or markets experiencing growth. It's important for investors to thoroughly research and understand market trends before implementing a buy and hold strategy. Factors such as location, market conditions, and property management play a crucial role in the success of this approach. By carefully selecting properties with strong growth potential and maintaining them well, investors can maximize their returns over time. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Real estate investment trusts (REITs) offer an alternative long-term investment approach for individuals looking to invest in real estate without the need to directly purchase physical properties. REITs allow investors to pool their money with others to invest in a diversified portfolio of income-generating properties. Investing in REITs provides several advantages. Firstly, REITs offer liquidity, allowing investors to buy and sell shares on the stock market. This provides flexibility and ease of access to real estate investments. Secondly, REITs provide regular dividends to investors from rental income and property appreciation. These dividends can be an attractive source of passive income. Additionally, REITs often invest in a variety of real estate sectors, such as residential, commercial, or industrial properties. This diversification helps to spread risk and potentially increase returns. It allows individuals to gain exposure to different segments of the real estate market without the need for large capital investments. Investing in REITs also offers the benefit of professional management. REITs are managed by experienced professionals who handle property acquisitions, leasing, and maintenance. This relieves investors of the day-to-day responsibilities associated with property management. Before investing in REITs, it's important to conduct thorough research and consider factors such as the track record of the REIT, the types of properties it invests in, and its dividend history. Additionally, investors should be mindful of the tax implications associated with REIT investments. By implementing long-term investment approaches like the buy and hold strategy or investing in REITs, individuals can aim to build wealth through consistent cash flow, potential property appreciation, and the benefits of professional management. These strategies provide opportunities for steady income and long-term growth in the real estate market. Tax Considerations for Real Estate Investors When it comes to real estate investing, understanding the tax implications is essential for maximizing returns and minimizing tax liabilities. This section explores the tax benefits of real estate investing and the specific tax implications of short-term rentals. Tax Benefits of Real Estate Investing Real estate investors can take advantage of various tax deductions and benefits that can help reduce their overall tax burden. Some of the key tax benefits of real estate investing include: Mortgage Interest Deduction: Investors can deduct the mortgage interest paid on a loan up to a certain limit. This deduction can significantly reduce taxable income, resulting in lower tax liability. It's important to consult with a tax professional to understand the specific limits and eligibility criteria (Forbes). Property Tax Deductions: Property owners can deduct property taxes paid on their real estate investments. This deduction helps offset the cost of property taxes, further reducing taxable income. Operating Expenses Deduction: Investors can deduct various operating expenses related to their real estate investments, such as maintenance costs, repairs, insurance premiums, property management fees, and utilities. These deductions can help lower taxable income and increase overall profitability. Depreciation: Depreciation allows investors to recover the cost of their investment property over time. Residential and commercial properties have different depreciation schedules (27.5 years for residential and 39 years for commercial), impacting income tax deductions over the investment's life (Easler Law). Properly utilizing depreciation can significantly reduce tax liabilities. It's important to note that tax laws and regulations can change over time, so consulting with a qualified tax professional is crucial to ensure compliance and maximize available tax benefits. Tax Implications of Short-Term Rentals While short-term rental properties, such as those listed on platforms like Airbnb, can be a lucrative investment, they come with specific tax implications that investors should be aware of. Short-term rentals may not qualify for certain tax benefits that traditional long-term rentals do, such as the ability to deduct depreciation over time (Forbes). Income generated from short-term rentals is generally considered rental income, subject to ordinary income tax rates. Additionally, rental income from short-term rentals may also be subject to self-employment tax in certain cases. It's crucial to maintain accurate records of rental income and expenses to ensure accurate reporting and compliance with tax regulations. Investors should consult with a tax professional who has experience in real estate taxation to navigate the complexities and maximize tax efficiency when it comes to short-term rental properties. Understanding the tax benefits and implications of real estate investing is essential for making informed investment decisions and optimizing returns. By leveraging available tax deductions and tax-efficient strategies, investors can minimize tax liabilities and maximize their wealth accumulation through real estate investments. Managing Risks in Real Estate Investment Real estate investment, like any other form of investment, comes with inherent risks. Understanding and effectively managing these risks is crucial to maintaining a successful real estate portfolio. Here are some key risks that real estate investors need to consider and strategies to mitigate them. Market Risk Market risk refers to the possibility of fluctuations in property values and rental income due to changes in economic conditions, interest rates, and demographic shifts. To effectively manage market risk, thorough market research and analysis are essential. This includes examining local economic indicators, population growth, employment rates, and market trends. By staying informed about the market, investors can make more informed decisions and adjust their strategies accordingly. It's also important to diversify the real estate portfolio across different markets to minimize exposure to any single market's fluctuations. Inflation Risk Inflation risk is the potential loss of purchasing power over time due to rising inflation. Real estate investments can serve as a hedge against inflation, as property values and rental income tend to increase with inflation. However, it's essential to consider the impact of inflation on expenses such as maintenance, property taxes, and insurance. Properly accounting for these costs and adjusting rental rates can help mitigate the effects of inflation on real estate investments. Financing Risk Financing risk in real estate investment involves the possibility of financial losses due to inadequate financing or unforeseen changes in interest rates or lending terms. To manage financing risk, investors should carefully analyze financing options and work with trusted lenders. It's important to consider factors such as interest rate fluctuations, loan terms, and potential penalties for early repayment. Having contingency plans for unexpected changes in interest rates or financing options can provide added protection against financing risk. Engaging in thorough due diligence and maintaining a healthy cash flow can also help mitigate the potential negative impacts of financing risk. To further explore strategies for managing risks in real estate investment, consider reading our article on risk management strategies. Understanding and actively addressing these risks will enhance the overall stability and profitability of your real estate investment portfolio. Commercial Real Estate Investment Strategies When it comes to real estate investment, there are various strategies available to investors. In the realm of commercial real estate, three common strategies include core investments, value-add investments, and opportunistic investments. Core Investments Core investments are considered the least risky among commercial real estate investment strategies. These investments focus on stable, income-generating properties in prime locations. Core properties typically have long-term leases with high-quality tenants, providing investors with a steady and predictable income stream (Dealpath). The primary objective of core investments is to preserve capital and generate reliable income over the long term. These properties are often already well-maintained and require minimal enhancements or improvements. Core investments are suitable for investors seeking a more conservative approach to real estate investment, with lower potential for significant capital appreciation but a greater emphasis on income stability. Value-Add Investments Value-add investments involve acquiring properties that have untapped potential for improvement. These properties may require physical enhancements, operational changes, or market repositioning in order to increase their value and cash flow over time. Value-add strategies offer higher returns compared to core investments, but they also come with increased risk and uncertainty (Dealpath). Investors pursuing value-add opportunities typically have a hands-on approach, actively working to enhance the property's value through renovations, rebranding, or attracting new tenants. The goal is to capitalize on the property's potential and increase rental income, occupancy rates, and overall property value. Value-add investments require a thorough understanding of the market and the ability to execute strategic improvements to achieve the desired financial outcomes. Opportunistic Investments Opportunistic investments are the most risk-oriented commercial real estate investment strategy. These investments involve ventures that are highly speculative and often include ground-up developments or redevelopments. Opportunistic strategies offer the potential for the highest returns but also come with significant uncertainties and risks (Dealpath). Investors pursuing opportunistic investments take on projects that require significant capital, expertise, and a willingness to bear higher risks. These projects may involve major renovations, repositioning in the market, or development in emerging areas. The success of opportunistic investments hinges on the ability to accurately assess market trends, identify unique opportunities, and navigate potential challenges. Understanding the nuances of each commercial real estate investment strategy is essential for investors looking to build a diversified and balanced portfolio. By aligning these strategies with specific investment objectives and risk appetites, investors can make informed decisions to maximize their returns while managing their exposure to risk. Emerging Real Estate Investment Strategies As the real estate market continues to evolve, new investment strategies are emerging that offer unique opportunities for wealth growth. In this section, we will explore three emerging real estate investment strategies: the BRRRR strategy, real estate crowdfunding, and house hacking. BRRRR Strategy The BRRRR strategy, which stands for Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat, is a popular investment strategy that allows investors to leverage their capital and build a real estate portfolio over time. The BRRRR strategy involves the following steps: - Buy: Identify properties that are priced below market value, often through foreclosure auctions, distressed sales, or off-market deals. - Rehab: Renovate and improve the property to increase its value. This may involve cosmetic upgrades or more extensive renovations, depending on the condition of the property. - Rent: Find reliable tenants and generate rental income from the property. Proper property management is crucial to ensure a steady cash flow. - Refinance: Once the property is stabilized and has increased in value, refinance the property to pull out a portion of the equity. This allows investors to recoup their initial investment and use it to fund future acquisitions. - Repeat: Use the funds from the refinanced property to invest in additional properties and repeat the process. The BRRRR strategy allows investors to recycle their capital and generate cash flow from rental properties. By leveraging the equity in each property, investors can continue to grow their real estate portfolio over time. However, it's important to conduct thorough market research and due diligence to identify suitable properties for this strategy. Real Estate Crowdfunding Real estate crowdfunding has gained popularity in recent years as a way for investors to pool their money and invest in real estate projects. Crowdfunding platforms allow individuals to invest in real estate with smaller amounts of capital, making it accessible to a wider range of investors. Through these platforms, investors can browse and select projects they want to invest in, ranging from residential properties to commercial developments. The benefits of real estate crowdfunding include diversification of investment, as investors can spread their funds across multiple projects, and the ability to access real estate opportunities that may have been out of reach individually. Additionally, crowdfunding platforms often provide detailed information about the projects, allowing investors to make informed decisions. However, it's important to carefully review the terms and conditions of each crowdfunding platform and thoroughly evaluate the projects before investing. Understanding the risks involved and conducting due diligence is essential to ensure the suitability of the investment. House Hacking House hacking is a strategy that involves living in one unit of a multi-unit property while renting out the other units. This strategy allows investors to generate rental income and potentially live for free or at a reduced cost. House hacking is a great way to start building a real estate portfolio while minimizing living expenses. There are different ways to implement house hacking, such as purchasing a duplex, triplex, or quadplex property and renting out the extra units. Alternatively, investors can consider renting out individual rooms in their primary residence to generate additional income. House hacking provides a unique opportunity to offset living expenses and start building equity in real estate. However, it's important to consider local regulations, financing options, and property management responsibilities when implementing this strategy. By exploring these emerging real estate investment strategies, investors can tap into new opportunities for wealth growth. The BRRRR strategy allows investors to leverage their capital, real estate crowdfunding provides access to diverse projects, and house hacking offers a way to generate rental income while reducing living expenses. Before pursuing any investment strategy, it's important to conduct thorough research, seek professional advice, and assess individual risk tolerance and investment goals.
Published 03/09/2022 by Joanne Jones Loneliness can affect anyone or any age but is especially common among the older population. It is estimated that more than one-third of people over the age of 65 experience loneliness on a regular basis. Loneliness is also experienced by people who are not physically alone but feel emotionally isolated. This can happen when people do not have anyone to confide in or share their thoughts and feelings with. Loneliness can lead to depression and anxiety if it is not dealt with—it can significantly impact a person's mental and physical health. There are many reasons why someone might feel lonely. Some common causes include: One of the most common misconceptions about loneliness is that people think it only affects people who live alone. It is easy to assume that people who are always surrounded by others are happy—you may even think there is no way such a person could ever be lonely. Loneliness is not determined by who is in your life, it is about your connection with yourself. The feeling of being disconnected/isolated is what brings about the feeling of loneliness. Loneliness can be painful, and it is something many people experience at some point. It can make you feel like you are not good enough or do not belong. These feelings can be overwhelming and lead to a spiral of negative thoughts. Prolonged feelings of loneliness will put obstacles on your life path. Loneliness can weigh you down and prevent you from achieving your full potential. If you feel lonely, connecting with others and finding people you are comfortable opening up to is important. It is also important to nurture the relationships you already have, so spend quality time with your family/friends, they are likely to be more understanding than you think. Getting out into the world is a great way to meet like-minded people and make friends. If you feel lonely, join a local club or take up a new hobby. Staying active/exercising allows you to get out of your head so your emotions do not overwhelm you. Spending time with your family and close friends is a great way to combat loneliness. Your loved ones know you better than anyone else, so they can provide the support and companionship you need when you feel down. Giving back to your community is a great way to feel connected to something larger than yourself. Working with the people in your local area is a great way to meet new people/make new friends. Volunteering is a win-win situation, you get to help others while helping yourself. Pets are amazing companions and can help reduce feelings of loneliness. If you are not ready for a pet, consider volunteering at a local animal shelter. Walking dogs is a great way to exercise and get out of your head for a while. If you feel lonely, there is no need to suffer in silence. There are many ways to connect with others online or in person. Connecting with others who understand you will help you find the support/companionship you need. Loneliness is a complex emotion to deal with, so do not ever feel like you have to fight through it alone. We all deal with situations that shape us into who we are. Sometimes, the problems we face are easy to overcome, however, there are some hardships we cannot push through alone. During these difficult times, you might feel like giving up, but remember, you have the strength to overcome any obstacle. When you begin the process of healing, be open and honest—the more honest you are, the quicker/easier it will be for you to recover. Our trusted psychics online will show you empathy as they reveal how your emotions are impacting your life. By the end of your cheap psychic reading, you will be able to walk forward with your shoulders back, and head held high. Remember, no matter how dark and stormy the night gets, there will be a sunrise to signal a new day. Things will get better, and you will get through this—just hold on a little longer. View all our live phone psychic and tarot readers online. View All Live readersView all our live messenger psychic and tarot readers online. launch messengerView all our live text psychic and tarot readers online. Learn how to create a serene meditation space at home with tips on choosing the right spot, making it comfortable, and adding soothing elements. Unlock the power of shadow work to heal spiritually, boost confidence, and enhance wellbeing. Learn methods and benefits for profound self-discovery. Negative thinking loops can have deep impacts on your life. Embrace a more positive mindset with our guide on how to stop negative thinking. Join the global celebration of peace on International Day of Peace. Discover ways to promote harmony and unity worldwide through your day to day activities. Discover the power of self-love and its benefits for mental and physical well-being. Learn 12 effective ways to practice self love. Discover how to get rid of bad karma in your life. Explore the meaning, signs, and strategies to reverse bad karma. Gain insights from spiritual readings.
Toy guns with projectiles may injure young children. A study was undertaken to assess the danger posed by these toys and the regulations governing them. US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) data indicate that toy guns with projectiles cause relatively few injuries, mostly to young boys. The magnitude of the problem is smaller than that of nonpowder and powder firearms. Most often, toy gun injuries are to the face and eyes. Of the estimated 818 injuries in 1980 and 1981, 2.9% required hospitalization. More than 400 days were lost from school and work, and there were nearly 3,000 days of restricted activity due to these toy gun injuries. The hazard posed by toy guns with projectiles can be reduced through the legitimate regulatory authority of the Consumer Product Safety Commission with minor impact on retail cost, toy industry sales, and the play value of the toys. The yearly cost to consumers from increased regulation would probably be similar to the annual cost of the injuries. Regulation is warranted to protect young children who use these toys. Original language \| English (US) \| Pages (from-to) \| 265-268 \| Number of pages \| 4 \| Journal \| Pediatrics \| Volume \| 75 \| Issue number \| 2 \| State \| Published - Jan 1 1985 \| ASJC Scopus subject areas - Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
Will my kayak break in the winter? The need for significant repairs will come when spring arrives. Do you find it hard to get wet in the kayak? You will get less wet on a sit inside than on a sitting on top. If you cause the kayak to flip over you will have to swim or submerge in the river to drain it. Is it safe to store a kayak outside. It is important to keep it sheltered from the harmful UV rays if you have to store it outside. The sun can be a more harmful force than the cold can be. If you store it outdoors, do not allow the snow to pile on it. Is it possible to keep a kayak outside during the winter? To protect it from the sun, cover it with tarp. The sun is a lot more harmful to the environment than the cold. If there is snow on the ground, don't let it accumulate onto it and the trees fall. Can you go kayaking on Plum Island? Plum Island contains miles of estuary and marshes that are great for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Some question about whether or not you should hang kayaks on a fence. You can use your fence. What is this? A kayak mount would make a good anchor for fence posts. It's a good idea to make sure that the cradles of the kayak stand in a certain angle. What are the best ways to hang a kayak? You can make your own suspension system or purchase one from a company that has a suspension system for kayaks. Hang your boat so that the hull faces up over the ceiling. You shouldn't hang the boat near the grab loops. Doing so is allowable. A pelican kayak is heavy. The size of the kayak The kayaks of the Pelican series weigh close to 40 pounds, an excellent weight for beginners. Depending on size, weight limits and function, the kayaks are able to weigh between 19 and 78 pounds. the best way to hang a kayak It is much more effective to support the boat than not. If you use a rack, instead of straping your boat down tightly like when you would a car, be aware of the pressure points. Pressure from long ago. kayak has a shell There are different compartments on the boat. Kayaks and white water boats may have a single dry compartment in the rear. Sea kayaks have at least 2 sealed compart. Is pelican exo This pack has been designed to fit in the tankwells of certain Pelican models. This storage area is not waterproof, so it's important to protect your gear. The kayak is left in the winter. Ensure the cracks are filled. Keep it high to keep animals away. Wrap it in the right position and protect it from the elements. The kayaks should be stored upside down. There should be an upside down location for canoes indoors. The proper equipm should be carried by you. How long is the Robinson Preserve Trail Enjoy this 7.4 mile long trail. The route takes over 2 hrs 10 min to go. Do you have a kayak? The general rule of thumb, as per a general rule of thumb, is to hold the paddle with your hands more upright than your shoulder width. You can pick between the rounded portion or the concave portion of the paddle. How do you mount a kayak rack in the garage? There are a couple of ways to hook a hanger to the garage wall. You can stand the kayak in the out of the way spot. If you don't have the space for a wall Hanger, stop the canoe from gliding through the air. How much does an Ultraskiff weigh? The accessory are screwed into the mold-in inserts. How portable? The Ultraskiff is over 100 pounds. It has two handles for handling. What do you mean to kayak inHarpers Ferries? This is where your tubing and rafting fun starts. Canoes and kayak rentals are a plentiful option in the area, and the river, trails, and parks all appeal to the entire family. How do you hang a boat? If you want to store your kayak vertically for a long time, you should store it inside. The boost needs to be rested against a wall. The kayak needs to be positioned in a way that it can stand. It is unclear what is the best place to hold a canoe. Storage uprights The best canoe storage is located in a dry area. The canoe should be out of the ground. A saw or a rack works well to protect the ones that are near it. Cinder blocks do not perform well. There is a question around where you store the kayak: upside down or side. If you can, store your kayak upside down to avoid distortion of the hull. Your objective is to minimize the chance of damage to the mount or suspension system. The kayak is evenly across the floor. What is the most stable kayak design? The stability and primary stability of the pontoon hull is excellent. For their good stability recreational kayaks, fishing kayaks and sit-on-top kayaks are powered by pontoon hull. They're sl, which is the disadvantage of the pontoon hull. How do you keep a kayak protected? It is a good idea to cover the kayak up while it is at the beach or in a body of water for a longer period. Wall mounting rack helps keep boats off the ground and makes it convenient to use them during the season. Some other options are explored. Can the kayak be stored in my car? Stores your inflatable kayak deflated. deflating them is the best way to store them. It's easy as they need less space to fit in your vehicle. You may use your inflatable kayak. I want to know the best way to store a kayak. The kayak can be put on a rack. Protect the water kayak. Exposure can warp the kayak. To make sure the kayak is locked, go to a secure structure such as a garage or shed. What is the body of a kayak like? A boat is divided into separate compartments by a wall. There may not be any bulkheads on recreational kayakers and white water boats. The Sea kayaks have at least 2 sealed compart. There is a boat. The Corcl has a double hulled, extremely dense, impermeable, polyethylene body that will provide hours of entertainment for campers as they paddle around or progress through balance challenges. How do you store your kayak in the wall? kayak storage wallrack You have to make the kayak upright to do this. A cushion was placed on the ground so the boat's stern could be put on it. A stud in the wall can be anchored to with straps or bungees. Be sure don't wrap How fast can you drive a boat? It is important to use caution and common sense while driving, not everyone has a speed rating of 70 MPH. Ensure the kayak are secured, the trailer is secured and the weather is appropriate for high-speedd How do you keep the kayak rack out of the garage? The easiest way to do this is by attaching something to the garage wall. Excluding the out of the way spot, it will allow you to stand in front of the kayak. If you have less room for a wall-hunger, suspend the kayak from the ceiling. To stack two kayaks, you need to make a triangle on the floor. It's going to take some practice to establish yourself as a kayaker on a roof rack. Were you able to store a kayak under the deck? Keeping a kayak out of the water and under a covering can be a good way to keep it out of the elements. It is possible to keep your kayaks off the ground if you have mounting rack on a wall. The other options are also available. How do you keep the kayak dry during the cold winter months? You ought to check all rigging. Find bungee cords if they lose their elasticity or if the ends are getting tired. Clean the cockpit. To clean out gunk built up you should remove the kayak seat and use a hose and damp rag. The hull is inspected. Store the boat
Are you tired of cluttered countertops and messy cooking spaces? Prep kitchens might just be the solution you've been looking for! From aiding in multi-dish preparations to enhancing entertainment capabilities, the benefits of having a prep kitchen are endless. Let's dive into how these secondary kitchens can add value to your home, streamline your cooking process, and ultimately make your life easier. So, grab a cup of coffee and let's explore the wonderful world of prep kitchens together! Introduction to Prep Kitchens Prep kitchens, also known as secondary kitchens, are becoming increasingly popular in homes today. These additional spaces are designed for food preparation, organizing ingredients, and completing messier tasks that can clutter up the main kitchen. Understanding the evolution of prep kitchens sheds light on their purpose and benefits. Evolution of Prep Kitchens In the past, kitchens were solely functional spaces hidden away from the rest of the house. However, as cooking became more of a social activity, the concept of a prep kitchen emerged. This secondary kitchen designates a specific area in the house for food preparation, allowing the main kitchen to remain clean and clutter-free. Throughout history, prep kitchens have evolved from simple food preparation corners to fully equipped spaces with additional features like extra counter space, sinks, and storage. This evolution has transformed the way we cook and entertain in our homes, making prep kitchens a valuable asset for any cooking enthusiast or aspiring chef. Advantages for Cooking Enthusiasts and Professional Chefs For cooking enthusiasts and professional chefs alike, having a prep kitchen can make a world of difference in the efficiency and ease of preparing meals. One of the key benefits of having a prep kitchen is the ability to aid in multi-dish preparations. This dedicated space allows for different components of a meal to be prepped simultaneously, saving time and streamlining the cooking process. Imagine being able to chop vegetables for a salad, marinate meat for grilling, and mix ingredients for a dessert all at the same time, without having to juggle limited counter space or compete for stovetop burners. A prep kitchen provides the freedom to work on multiple dishes without the stress of overcrowding your main kitchen. Dedicated Space for Messier Tasks Another advantage of a prep kitchen is having a designated area for messier tasks such as butchering meat, filleting fish, or working with sticky dough. These tasks can be messy and require ample space to work efficiently. By having a separate space for these activities, you can contain the mess and easily clean up afterward, without affecting the cleanliness and organization of your main kitchen. Furthermore, a prep kitchen helps reduce clutter in your main kitchen, allowing for a more organized and visually pleasing cooking environment. With specialized storage solutions and convenient access to essential tools and ingredients, you can focus on the joy of cooking without feeling overwhelmed by a chaotic workspace. Overall, having a prep kitchen provides cooking enthusiasts and professional chefs with the space and functionality they need to unleash their creativity in the kitchen. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal for your family, the benefits of a prep kitchen for multi-dish preparations and messier tasks are invaluable. Enhancing Entertainment and Hosting Capabilities When it comes to hosting gatherings or parties in your home, the last thing you want is to be stuck in the kitchen, missing out on all the fun. This is where the benefits of having a prep kitchen truly shine, by allowing you to engage with your guests without the mess and noise of cooking taking over the main kitchen. Picture this: your friends and family are gathered in the living room, enjoying drinks and conversation while you effortlessly put the finishing touches on the hors d'oeuvres in your prep kitchen. You can still be part of the festivities, all while making sure that the food is being prepared and served seamlessly. Smooth Food Service During Big Parties One of the key advantages of a prep kitchen for hosting is the ability to ensure smoother food service, especially during large parties. With a dedicated space for meal preparation and plating, you can avoid the chaos of trying to juggle multiple dishes in a crowded main kitchen. Whether you're hosting a sit-down dinner party or a casual buffet-style gathering, having a prep kitchen allows you to keep the flow of food service organized and efficient. This not only enhances the overall guest experience but also reduces stress for the host, making entertaining a more enjoyable and manageable task. Added Property Value and Marketability When it comes to real estate, having a prep kitchen can significantly boost the value and marketability of your property. Homebuyers are always on the lookout for unique and functional features, and a secondary kitchen is definitely a standout selling point. By investing in a prep kitchen, you are not only enhancing your own living experience but also increasing the appeal of your home to potential buyers. Appealing Feature in Real Estate Market Prep kitchens have become a sought-after feature in today's real estate market. Homebuyers are increasingly interested in homes that offer convenience, functionality, and added space for culinary activities. Having a dedicated space for meal prep and cooking not only streamlines daily tasks but also adds a touch of luxury to the property. Whether you are looking to sell your home in the near future or simply want to increase its value, a prep kitchen can set your property apart from the competition. It showcases your attention to detail and commitment to creating a well-designed living space that caters to modern lifestyles. Increase in Property Value One of the most significant benefits of having a prep kitchen is the increase in property value it brings. Homes with secondary kitchens are typically priced higher than those without, as they offer added functionality and versatility. Potential buyers are willing to pay more for a property that meets their practical needs and provides extra amenities like a prep kitchen. Investing in a secondary kitchen is a wise decision if you are looking to maximize the value of your home. Not only does it make your property more attractive to buyers, but it also has the potential to fetch a higher selling price. The return on investment for a prep kitchen is substantial, making it a valuable addition to any home. Organizational and Storage Benefits When it comes to the benefits of having a prep kitchen, one of the key advantages lies in its organizational and storage capabilities. A prep kitchen provides ample room for storing and organizing ingredients, making meal prep and cooking a breeze. No more rummaging through crowded cabinets and overflowing drawers in your main kitchen – everything you need is right at your fingertips in your secondary kitchen. Ample Storage Space With a secondary kitchen, you have the luxury of extra storage space for all your kitchen essentials. From pots and pans to small appliances and specialty ingredients, you can keep everything neatly organized and easily accessible. This not only saves you time searching for items, but also helps to keep your main kitchen clutter-free and organized. Additional Refrigeration One of the standout features of a prep kitchen is the availability of a secondary larger refrigerator. This extra fridge allows you to store bulk items, beverages, and prepared meals without crowding your primary refrigerator. With separate cooling space, you can easily keep ingredients fresh and organized, making meal planning and prep even more efficient. Extra Counter Space Another advantage of having a prep kitchen is the additional counter space it provides. Whether you need room for food prep, baking, or setting up a buffet for a party, having extra counter space can be a game-changer. You can spread out ingredients, equipment, and dishes without feeling cramped or limited by space constraints. Meal Prepping Made Easy Meal prepping is a popular trend for busy individuals looking to save time and eat healthier meals. With a prep kitchen, meal prepping becomes a breeze. You can chop, marinate, and store ingredients for meals throughout the week, all in one dedicated space. Having everything you need at your fingertips makes it easy to stay organized and on track with your meal prep goals. Overall, the organizational and storage benefits of having a prep kitchen are undeniable. From ample storage space to extra refrigeration and counter space, a secondary kitchen can revolutionize the way you cook, entertain, and stay organized in your home. Unlocking the Hidden Gems of Prep Kitchens In a nutshell, prep kitchens are the unsung heroes of culinary creativity and entertaining prowess. They streamline multitasking, elevate hosting experiences, boost property value, and offer organization nirvana. So, whether you're a cooking enthusiast or a savvy homeowner, the benefits of having a prep kitchen are boundless. Embrace the magic of prep kitchens and watch your culinary adventures take flight!
A major protein component of domestic cat urine is the carboxylesterase family member termed cauxin. Cauxin is secreted into the urine from the proximal straight tubular cells of the kidney, and the level of cauxin excretion is species-, sex-, and age-dependent. Cauxin is excreted in large amounts in the closely related members of the Felidae lineage, the cat (Felis catus), bobcat (Lynx rufus), and lynx (Lynx lynx). Male and female immature cats begin excreting cauxin about 2.5 months after birth, and excretion levels increase with age. In mature cats, cauxin excretion is significantly higher in intact males than in castrated males or female cats. The physiological function of cauxin is to provide species-, sex-, and age-dependent regulation of 2-amino-7-hydroxy-5,5-dimethyl-4-thiaheptanoic acid (felinine) production. Cauxin hydrolyzes the peptide bond of the felinine precursor, 3-methylbutanol-cysteinylglycine, to produce felinine and glycine. The sulfur-containing volatile compounds, 3-mercapto-3-methyl-1-butanol, 3-mercapto-3-methylbutyl formate, 3-methyl-3-methylthio-1-butanol, and 3-methyl-3-(2-methyl-disulfanyl)-1-butanol, are identified as species-specific odorants and candidates of felinine derivatives from the headspace gas of cat urine. These cat-specific volatile compounds may represent pheromones used as territorial markers for conspecific recognition or reproductive purposes by mature cats. The elucidation of cauxin-dependent felinine production provides new evidence for the existence of species-specific odorants and pheromones produced by species-specific biosynthetic mechanisms in mammalian species. Access this chapter Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout Purchases are for personal use only Unable to display preview. Download preview PDF. Bacchin, A., Gaetan, E. and Cavaggion, A. (1992) Pheromone binding proteins of the mouse, Mus musculus. Experientia 48, 419–421. Beynon, R.J. and Hurst, J.L. (2004) Urinary proteins and the modulation of chemical scents in mice and rats. Peptides 25, 1553–1563. Cavaggion, A. and Mucignat-Caretta, C. (2000) Major urinary proteins, α2U-globulins and aphrodisin. Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1482, 218–228. D'Amico, G. and Bazz, C. (2003) Pathophysiology of proteinuria. Kidney Int. 63, 809–825. Ecroyd, H., Belghaz, M., Dacheux, J.L. and Gatt, J.L. (2005) The epididymal soluble prion protein forms a high-molecular-mass complex in association with hydrophobic proteins. Biochem. J. 392, 211–219. Ecroyd, H., Belghaz, M., Dacheux, J.L., Miyazak, M., Yamashita, T. and Gatt, J.L. (2006) An epididymal form of cauxin, a carboxylesterase-like enzyme, is present and active in mammalian male reproductive fluids. Biol. Reprod. 74, 439–447. Hendriks, W.H., Woolhouse, A.D., Tarttelin, M.F. and Moughan, P.J. (1995a) Synthesis of felinine, 2-amino-7-hydroxy-5,5-dimethyl-4-thiahep-tanoic acid. Bioorg. Chem. 23, 89–100. Hendriks, W.H., Harding, D.R. and Rutherfurd-Markwick, K.J. (2004) Isolation and characterisation of renal metabolites of γ -glutamylfelinylglycine in the urine of the domestic cat (Felis catus). Comp. Biochem. Physiol. B Biochem. Mol. Biol. 139, 245–251. Hendriks, W.H., Moughan, P.J., Tarttelin, M.F. and Woolhouse, A.D. (1995b) Felinine: a urinary amino acid of Felidae. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. B Biochem. Mol. Biol. 112, 581–588. Hendriks, W.H., Tarttelin, M.F. and Moughan, P.J. (1995c) Twenty-four hour felinine excretion patterns in entire and castrated cats. Physiol. Behav. 58, 467–469. Heymann, E. (1980) Carboxylesterases and amidases. In: W.B. Jakoby (Ed.), Enzymatic Basis Detoxification, Vol. II, Academic Press, New York, pp. 291–323. Heymann, E. (1982) Hydrolysis of carboxylic esters and amides. In: W.B. Jakoby, J.R. Bend and J. Caldwell (Eds.), Metabolic Basis Detoxification, Academic Press, New York, pp. 229–245. Hurst, J.L., Payne, C.E., Nevison, C.M., Marie, A.D., Humphries, R.E., Robertson, D.H., Cavaggion, A. and Beynon, R.J. (2001) Individual recognition in mice mediated by major urinary proteins. Nature 414, 631–634. Hurst, J.L., Robertson, D.H.L., Tolladay, U. and Beynon, R.J. (1998) Proteins in urine scent marks of male house mice extend the longevity of olfactory signals. Anim. Behav. 55, 1289–1297. Johnson, W.E., Eizirik, E., Pecon-Slattery, J., Murphy, W.J., Antunes, A., Teeling, E. and O'Brien, S.J. (2006) The late Miocene radiation of modern Felidae: a genetic assessment. Science 311, 73–77. Joulain, D. and Laurent, R. (1989). The catty odour in blackcurrant extracts versus the black-currant odour in the cat's urine? In: (S.C. Bhattacharyya, N. Sen and K.L. Sethi (Eds.), 11th International Congress of Essential Oils, Fragrances, and Flavours, Oxford IBH Publishing. New Delhi, India, pp. 89. Lohr, J.W., Willsky, G.R. and Acara, M.A. (1998) Renal drug metabolism. Pharmacol. Rev. 50, 107–141. MacDonald, M.L., Rogers, Q.R. and Morris, J.G. (1984) Nutrition of the domestic cat, a mammalian carnivore. Annu. Rev. Nutr. 4, 521–562. Mattina, M.J.I., Pignatello, J.J. and Swiharat, R.K. (1991) Identification of volatile components of bobcat (Lynx rufus) urine. J. Chem. Ecol. 17, 451–462. Miyazak, M., Kamiie, K., Soeta, S., Taira, H. and Yamashita, T. (2003) Molecular cloning and characterization of a novel carboxylesterase-like protein that is physiologically present at high concentrations in the urine of domestic cats (Felis catus). Biochem. J. 370, 101–110. Miyazak, M., Yamashita, T., Hosokawa, M., Taira, H. and Suzuk, A. (2006a) Species-, sex-, and age-dependent urinary excretion of cauxin, a mammalian carboxylesterase family. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. B Biochem. Mol. Biol. 145, 270–277. Miyazak, M., Yamashita, T., Suzuk, Y., Soeta, S., Taira, H. and Suzuk, A. (2006b) A major urinary protein of the domestic cat regulates the production of felinine, a putative pheromone precursor. Chem. Biol. 13, 1071–1079. Nevison, C.M., Armstrong, S., Beynon, R.J., Humphries, R.E. and Hurst, J.L. (2003) The ownership signature in mouse scent marks is involatile. Proc. Biol. Sci. 270, 1957–1963. Robertson, D.H.L., Beynon, R.J. and Evershed, R.P. (1993) Extraction, characterization and binding analysis of two pheromonally active ligands associated with major urinary protein of house mouse (Mus musculus). J. Chem. Ecol. 19, 1405–1416. Rutherfurd, K.J., Rutherfurd, S.M., Moughan, P.J. and Hendriks, W.H. (2002) Isolation and characterization of a felinine-containing peptide from the blood of the domestic cat (Felis catus). J. Biol. Chem. 277, 114–119. Rutherfurd, S.M., Zhang, F., Harding, D.R., Woolhouse, A.D. and Hendriks, W.H. (2004) Use of capillary (zone) electrophoresis for determining felinine and it's application to investigate the stability of felinine. Amino Acids 27, 49–55. Rutherfurd-Markwick, K.J., McGrath, M.C., Weidgraaf, K., and Hendriks, W.H. (2006) γ-glutamylfelinylglycine metabolite excretion in the urine of the domestic cat (Felis catus). J. Nutr. 136, 2075S–2077S. Satoh, T. and Hosokawa, M. (1998) The mammalian carboxylesterases: from molecules to functions. Annu. Rev. Pharmacol. Toxicol. 38, 257–288. Tarttelin, M.F., Hendriks, W.H. and Moughan, P.J. (1998) Relationship between plasma testosterone and urinary felinine in the growing kitten. Physiol. Behav. 65, 83–87. Wang, W. and Ballator, N. (1998) Endogenous glutathione conjugates: occurrence and biological functions. Pharmacol. Rev. 50, 335–356. Author information Authors and Affiliations Editor information Editors and Affiliations Rights and permissions Copyright information © 2008 Springer Science+Business Media,LLC About this paper Cite this paper Miyazaki, M., Yamashita, T., Taira, H., Suzuki, A. (2008). The Biological Function of Cauxin, a Major Urinary Protein of the Domestic Cat (Felis catus). In: Hurst, J.L., Beynon, R.J., Roberts, S.C., Wyatt, T.D. (eds) Chemical Signals in Vertebrates 11. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-73945-8_4 Download citation DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-73945-8_4 Publisher Name: Springer, New York, NY Print ISBN: 978-0-387-73944-1 Online ISBN: 978-0-387-73945-8 eBook Packages: Biomedical and Life SciencesBiomedical and Life Sciences (R0)
If you're an artist, DIY enthusiast, or someone seeking information about painting, you've probably heard of Kolinsky brushes and wondered why they are considered the best. Well, wonder no more! In this article, we'll delve into the world of Kolinsky brushes and uncover the reasons why they reign supreme among painting enthusiasts. From their impeccable craftsmanship to their ability to create precise and flawless strokes, Kolinsky brushes offer an extraordinary painting experience. Get ready to discover why these brushes are a must-have for any painter's toolkit. Grab your cup of tea, sit back, and prepare to be amazed! Why Are Kolinsky Brushes The Best? Table of Contents What are Kolinsky brushes? Kolinsky brushes are high-quality brushes that are widely regarded as some of the best brushes for artists. They are made from the hair of the Siberian weasel, specifically the tail hair of the male Kolinsky species, which is known for its fine and uniform bristles. These brushes are widely used in all forms of painting, such as oil painting, watercolor painting, acrylic painting, and gouache painting. Kolinsky brushes are brushes made from the hair of the male Kolinsky weasel, a small mammal found in Siberia. The hair, specifically from the weasel's tail, is known for its fine and uniform bristles, making it highly sought after by artists. The use of Kolinsky hair for brushes dates back to the 18th century, when Russian brush makers began utilizing the hair from the Siberian weasel. The unique characteristics of the Kolinsky hair, such as its strength, springiness, and ability to hold paint, quickly made it a favorite among artists worldwide. Kolinsky brushes are known for their superior bristle quality, excellent point and snap, ability to hold a large amount of paint, versatility and flexibility, as well as their durability and longevity. These characteristics make Kolinsky brushes a preferred choice for artists who require precision and control in their artwork. Kolinsky brushes come in various shapes and sizes to cater to different painting techniques and preferences. Common types of Kolinsky brushes include round brushes, flat brushes, filbert brushes, and fan brushes. Each type has its own unique qualities and applications, allowing artists to achieve different effects in their artwork. Why are Kolinsky brushes preferred by artists? Superior bristle quality One of the main reasons why Kolinsky brushes are preferred by artists is their superior bristle quality. The hairs from the male Kolinsky weasel are known for their fine and uniform bristles, which allow for precise and controlled brushwork. The bristles also have a natural spring to them, ensuring consistent performance and application of paint. Excellent point and snap Kolinsky brushes have the ability to maintain an excellent point, allowing artists to create fine details with ease. The bristles also have a snap to them, which means they quickly return to their original shape after each stroke. This characteristic is crucial for achieving clean and crisp lines in artwork. Ability to hold a large amount of paint Kolinsky brushes have the unique ability to hold a large amount of paint compared to other types of brushes. This is due to the natural shape and structure of the bristles, which has excellent paint-holding capacity. This quality is particularly beneficial for artists who work with large surfaces or need to cover a significant area with paint. Versatility and flexibility Another reason why Kolinsky brushes are preferred by artists is their versatility and flexibility. These brushes can be used for various painting techniques, including blending, glazing, stippling, and detailing. The flexibility of the bristles allows for smooth brushstrokes and effortless control, enhancing the overall quality of the artwork. Durability and longevity Kolinsky brushes are known for their durability and longevity. The high-quality bristles are resilient and can withstand repeated use without losing their shape or performance. With proper care and maintenance, these brushes can last for years, making them a worthwhile investment for artists. How are Kolinsky brushes made? Sourcing of Kolinsky hair The sourcing of Kolinsky hair is an essential part of the brush manufacturing process. The hair is procured from the Siberian weasel, specifically the tail hair of the male Kolinsky species. The weasels are not harmed in the process, as the hairs are collected during the molting season when the weasels shed their fur naturally. Hair selection and sorting Once the Kolinsky hair is sourced, it undergoes a meticulous selection and sorting process. Skilled brush makers carefully examine each strand of hair to ensure that only the finest and most uniform bristles are chosen. This ensures a consistent quality in the final product and guarantees optimal performance for artists. Brush manufacturing process The manufacturing of Kolinsky brushes involves several steps to create a high-quality and artist-grade brush. The selected Kolinsky hairs are carefully arranged and tied together with a metal ferrule, which serves as the brush's handle. The ferrule is then securely attached to a wooden or plastic handle. The brush is then shaped and trimmed to achieve the desired brush head shape and bristle length. Finally, the brush undergoes thorough quality control checks to ensure that it meets the standards expected by artists. Why is Kolinsky hair preferred over synthetic alternatives? Natural hair vs synthetic Kolinsky hair is preferred over synthetic alternatives due to its natural properties and characteristics. Synthetic brushes, while more affordable, often lack the same level of quality, performance, and longevity that Kolinsky brushes offer. The natural bristles of the Kolinsky brushes provide better paint retention, control, and precision. Performance and precision Kolinsky brushes are known for their superior performance and precision compared to synthetic brushes. The fine and uniform bristles of the Kolinsky hair allow for smooth and controlled application of paint. The brushes' excellent point and snap ensure that artists can achieve intricate details and fine lines with ease, resulting in high-quality and precise artwork. Quality and longevity Kolinsky brushes are prized for their exceptional quality and longevity. The natural hair bristles are more durable and resilient compared to synthetic alternatives, which can easily fray or wear out over time. Kolinsky brushes retain their shape and performance even after repeated use, making them a reliable choice for artists who require consistent results. Aesthetic appeal In addition to their performance and durability, Kolinsky brushes also have an aesthetic appeal that synthetic brushes often lack. The natural sheen and softness of the Kolinsky hair bristles add a touch of luxury to the painting experience. Many artists appreciate the feel and appearance of using natural hair brushes, which can enhance their overall creative process and enjoyment. Do Kolinsky brushes require special care? Cleaning and maintenance Kolinsky brushes require proper cleaning and maintenance to ensure their longevity and performance. After each use, it is important to thoroughly clean the brushes with a gentle brush cleaner or mild soap and water. Care should be taken to remove all paint residues and gently reshape the bristles. Once clean, the brushes should be dried flat or suspended upside down to preserve their shape. Storing and protecting When not in use, Kolinsky brushes should be stored in a proper brush holder or case to protect them from dust, moisture, and damage. It is advisable to store them vertically with the bristle side up to prevent the bristles from bending or deforming. Avoid storing brushes in a crowded or humid environment, as this can affect their quality and performance. Preventing damage and shedding To prevent damage and shedding, it is essential to handle Kolinsky brushes with care. Avoid forcefully bending or mishandling the bristles, as this can cause damage or breakage. When using solvents or harsh chemicals, such as turpentine or acrylic medium, it is important to avoid prolonged soaking or exposure, as this can deteriorate the bristles. With proper care, Kolinsky brushes can maintain their performance and last for many years. Can Kolinsky brushes be used for different types of painting? Oil painting Kolinsky brushes are commonly used for oil painting due to their ability to hold a large amount of paint and their excellent blending capabilities. The fine bristles allow for precise control and application of oil paints, whether it be for detailed work or broader strokes. Watercolor painting Kolinsky brushes are highly regarded in the world of watercolor painting. The natural bristles have excellent water retention, allowing artists to create smooth and controlled washes. The brushes' ability to hold a large amount of water and paint makes them ideal for wet-on-wet techniques, glazing, and creating intricate details. Acrylic painting Kolinsky brushes are also suitable for acrylic painting. The durable bristles are resistant to the harsh nature of acrylic paints, preventing them from fraying or breaking easily. The brushes' ability to hold paint and maintain an excellent point allows artists to work with thick and heavy acrylic paints, achieving bold and precise brushstrokes. Gouache painting Gouache painting, known for its opaque and vibrant colors, can also benefit from the use of Kolinsky brushes. The bristles' ability to hold a large amount of paint and their fine point make them ideal for creating intricate details and smooth, consistent washes. The brushes' flexibility and control are particularly advantageous in gouache painting, where precision is key. Are there any downsides to using Kolinsky brushes? Cost and affordability One potential downside of using Kolinsky brushes is their cost. These brushes tend to be more expensive compared to synthetic brushes due to the high quality and scarcity of the Kolinsky hair. However, many artists consider the investment in Kolinsky brushes worth it for the superior performance and longevity they provide. Ethical concerns There have been ethical concerns raised regarding the sourcing of Kolinsky hair. While efforts are made to ensure that the hair is collected during the molting season and that the weasels are not harmed, some individuals may still have concerns regarding the treatment of animals for the production of these brushes. Artists who are ethically conscious may choose alternative brush options. Availability and accessibility As Kolinsky brushes are made from a limited supply of the finest Kolinsky hair, they can sometimes be difficult to obtain. The brushes may not be readily available in every art supply store, and online retailers may have limited stock. Artists may need to do thorough research and potentially wait for restocks or backorders to get their hands on these brushes. What are some popular brands of Kolinsky brushes? Brands known for quality Several brands are highly regarded for their high-quality Kolinsky brushes. These brands include Winsor & Newton, da Vinci, Escoda, Raphael, and Rosemary & Co. These companies have a long-standing reputation for producing brushes of exceptional quality and performance. Brands catering to different budgets While Kolinsky brushes can be expensive, there are also brands that offer more affordable options without compromising quality. Some popular brands in this category include Princeton, Grumbacher, and Silver Brush. These brands provide a range of Kolinsky brushes at different price points, making them accessible to artists with varying budgets. Brands offering specialty brushes In addition to the standard round, flat, filbert, and fan brushes, some brands offer specialty Kolinsky brushes. These brushes cater to specific painting techniques or applications. Examples of specialty Kolinsky brushes include dagger brushes for creating sharp lines, mop brushes for large washes, and script liners for fine details. Brands such as Quiller, Isabey, and Terry Harrison offer a wide range of specialty brushes to meet artists' specific needs. Looking for the perfect brush for your painting project? Our guide, The Best Paint Brushes for Achieving a Desired Paint Job, has you covered. Are there any alternatives to Kolinsky brushes? Squirrel hair brushes Squirrel hair brushes are an alternative to Kolinsky brushes. Squirrel hair has similar qualities to Kolinsky hair in terms of water retention and softness. These brushes are particularly favored in watercolor painting for their ability to create smooth washes and blend colors seamlessly. Sable hair brushes Sable hair brushes are also a popular alternative to Kolinsky brushes. Sable hair comes from various species of marten, including the European mink. Sable brushes are known for their fine and tapered bristles, similar to Kolinsky brushes. They offer excellent paint retention and precision, making them a preferred choice for many artists. Synthetic brushes Synthetic brushes are the most affordable alternative to Kolinsky brushes. These brushes are made from synthetic fibers designed to mimic the properties of natural hair. While they may not offer the same level of performance and longevity as Kolinsky brushes, synthetic brushes have improved significantly over the years and can still produce satisfactory results. Where can I buy Kolinsky brushes? Art supply stores Kolinsky brushes can be purchased at various art supply stores, both physical locations and online. Many art stores carry a selection of Kolinsky brushes from different brands, allowing artists to compare and choose the ones that best suit their needs. Local art supply stores are a great resource for personalized recommendations and advice from knowledgeable staff. Online retailers Numerous online retailers specialize in art supplies, including Kolinsky brushes. Websites such as Blick Art Materials, Jerry's Artarama, and Jackson's Art Supplies offer a wide range of Kolinsky brushes from different brands. Online shopping provides convenience and access to a broader selection, making it easier for artists to find the specific brushes they desire. Specialty brush manufacturers Some brush manufacturers specialize in producing high-quality brushes, including Kolinsky brushes. These manufacturers often have their own websites where artists can directly purchase their brushes. Examples of specialty brush manufacturers include Rosemary & Co, Escoda, and Da Vinci. Artists can explore these websites for unique and artisanal Kolinsky brushes. In conclusion, Kolinsky brushes are highly regarded by artists for their superior quality, excellent performance, and durability. They are made from the hair of the Siberian weasel and offer unique characteristics such as superior bristle quality, excellent point and snap, large paint-holding capacity, versatility, and flexibility. Despite their higher cost and ethical concerns surrounding the sourcing of Kolinsky hair, these brushes remain a popular choice among artists. There are also alternative options available, such as squirrel hair brushes, sable hair brushes, and synthetic brushes, catering to different preferences and budgets. Kolinsky brushes can be purchased from art supply stores, online retailers, and specialty brush manufacturers, providing artists with a wide selection to choose from. So whether you are an oil painter, watercolorist, acrylic artist, or gouache enthusiast, Kolinsky brushes are a reliable tool that can enhance your artwork and elevate your painting experience.
Here's some news that really ought to be getting more attention than it is. A new report from UNAIDS suggests that the end might be in sight when it comes to halting the spread of AIDS. We don't want to be too Pollyanna-ish, so let's actually start with the caveats. First, activist groups like UNAIDS tend to be overly optimistic, because extreme hope tends to drive things forward. Second, the prediction is not that AIDS will be ended, per se, but that it will stop propagating (that is to say, there will still be tens of millions of carriers, even if the prediction comes to pass). Third, human societies have shown a propensity, when it comes to epidemic and pandemic diseases, to take things to the precipice of victory, and then to relax their defenses. See, for example, the recent resurgence in cases of measles. Now, with the Debbie Downer stuff out of the way, we will share the year by which UNAIDS says the disease might be defeated. It's... 2030. That's staggering; it's less than 7 years away. And while the folks at UNAIDS might be optimistic, they do have data to back their general narrative. The target, when it comes to effectively halting the spread of an epidemic disease, is described as 95-95-95. That's at least 95% of the people who have HIV knowing their HIV-positive status, at least 95% of the people who know they're HIV-positive being on antiretroviral treatment, and at least 95% of people who are on treatment being virally suppressed. Those benchmarks have been reached in most of the industrialized world, and now they've been reached in 8 different African nations, while another 16 African nations are almost there. Success in Africa matters quite a bit in this fight, since the vast majority of HIV-positive humans (well over two-thirds) live on that continent. We pass this along because the lesson is obvious. When the world's leaders put their political differences aside, and work together to solve crises, then big-time progress can result. Considering the American response, since this is a U.S.-politics-focused site, after all, Ronnie Reagan put his head in the sand when it came to the AIDS epidemic. But George H.W. Bush took it seriously, and the three presidents after Bush took it very seriously. Indeed, the efforts of the George W. Bush administration to combat AIDS in Africa, most notably the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, may be the single biggest feather in the cap of Bush the Younger. Success like this naturally gives hope about what might be done if the world in general, and if the Republicans and Democrats in particular, can have a meeting of the minds on some of the existential crises facing the world today. Like, oh, we don't know... maybe climate change, perhaps? Just spitballing here. Have a good weekend, all! (Z)
The Fitness and Nutrition course provides students with an in-depth knowledge of health, nutrition, and exercise concepts. Explore the world of nutrients, both macro and micro, and their critical functions in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Learn about the unique nutritional demands of people and different groups. Discover basic workout concepts as well as energy systems, balance, and needs. For successful fitness techniques, examine body composition and muscle mass. Investigate various fitness training approaches, such as cardiovascular workouts. This course teaches students how to manage public areas effectively while also promoting health and wellbeing via professionally developed exercise and nutrition programs. Begin a changing path toward being a skilled public realm manager with a holistic approach to well-being. How is this qualification is delivered? Our courses are taught entirely online, meaning you can access the materials wherever, whenever, at a pace that suits you, without formal deadlines or teaching schedules. These can be accessed through any device with an internet connection. Our e-learning platform is optimised for use on mobile, tablet, laptops and desktop computers. Certificates can be obtained at an additional cost of £9.99 for PDF, £16.99 for Printed Hardcopy format and £24.99 for Both for Both PDF and Hardcopy Certificates. There are no academic entry requirements for this course, and it is open to students of all academic backgrounds. Course Curriculum Module 01 Introduction to Fitness and Nutrition \| \|\|\| Introduction to Fitness and Nutrition \| 00:17:00 \| \|\| Module 02 Nutrients for Life Macronutrients \| \|\|\| Nutrients for Life Macronutrients \| 00:10:00 \| \|\| Module 03 Micronutrients \| \|\|\| Micronutrients \| 00:13:00 \| \|\| Module 04 Nutrition Requirements for Adults and Various Groups \| \|\|\| Nutrition Requirements for Adults and Various Groups \| 00:13:00 \| \|\| Module 05 Physical Activity's Exercise Fundamentals \| \|\|\| Physical Activity's Exercise Fundamentals \| 00:10:00 \| \|\| Module 06 Energy System, Energy Requirements and Energy Balance \| \|\|\| Energy System, Energy Requirements and Energy Balance \| 00:16:00 \| \|\| Module 07 Body Composition Analysis and Muscle Mass \| \|\|\| Body Composition Analysis and Muscle Mass \| 00:20:00 \| \|\| Module 08 Different Types of Fitness Training and Cardiovascular Exercise \| \|\|\| Different Types of Fitness Training and Cardiovascular Exercise \| 00:17:00 \| Course Reviews No Reviews found for this course.
Grammatical analysis of Sanskrit segment Analysis of "suvibhaktagātra" Note: this is an experimental feature and shows only the first possible analysis of the sentence. If the system was successful in translating the segment, you will see of which words it is made up of, generally consisting of Nouns, Pronouns, Verbs, Participles and Indeclinables. Click on the link to show all possible derivations of the word. Grammatical analysis of the Sanskrit text: "suvibhaktagātra"— - suvibhaktagātra - suvibhaktagātra (noun, masculine)[compound], [vocative single]suvibhaktagātra (noun, neuter)[compound], [vocative single] Extracted glossary definitions: Suvibhaktagatra Alternative transliteration: suvibhaktagatra, [Devanagari/Hindi] सुविभक्तगात्र, [Bengali] সুবিভক্তগাত্র, [Gujarati] સુવિભક્તગાત્ર, [Kannada] ಸುವಿಭಕ್ತಗಾತ್ರ, [Malayalam] സുവിഭക്തഗാത്ര, [Telugu] సువిభక్తగాత్ర Sanskrit References "suvibhaktagātra" in the Sanskrit language represents a word or a combination of words (such as Nouns, Adjectives, Pronouns, etc.). This section shows references to Sanskrit literature where this segment of Sanskrit text occurs, by literally searching for this piece of text. If you like this tool, please consider donating: (Why?)
Number of Combination Door Actuators on a Chevrolet Silverado: Exploring the System Keeping your Chevrolet Silverado's climate control system under control The Chevrolet Silverado is a reliable and popular truck that has been on the market for years. One of the key features of the Silverado is its air conditioning system, which keeps the cabin comfortable regardless of the weather outside. However, if your Silverado's climate control system is not working properly, you may find yourself in an uncomfortable situation. One of the most common problems with the climate control system is a malfunction of the mixing door actuator. In this post, we'll take a closer look at what a compound door actuator is, how it works, and how to diagnose and fix common problems. Whether you're an experienced mechanic or DIYer, understanding your mixture door actuator will help keep your Silverado air conditioning system in top shape and ensure you stay comfortable on the road. 1. Introduction to Chevrolet Silverado Climate Control System The climate control system in a Chevrolet Silverado is a complex network of components designed to ensure that the driver and passengers are comfortable regardless of the weather outside. The system includes an air conditioning, heating, ventilation and air filtration system. It is important to understand how the system works to keep it working properly. The climate control system in a Chevrolet Silverado uses a door actuator to control the temperature and airflow inside the cabin. The mix door actuator is responsible for moving the mix door within the HVAC system, which directs either hot or cold air through the ducts. It is important to note that there are usually several door actuators throughout the vehicle that control different areas of the cabin, such as the driver's side, the passenger's side, and the rear seats. Understanding how mixing door actuators work is vital to maintaining your climate control system. Problems with mix door actuators can lead to a number of issues, including inconsistent temperature control, lack of airflow, and even complete failure of the HVAC system. By keeping the door actuators under control, you can ensure that your Chevrolet Silverado's air conditioning system is working properly and providing a comfortable cabin environment for you and your passengers. 2. What is the Mixed Door Actuator? A mixing door actuator is a key component of your Chevrolet Silverado's air conditioning system, responsible for controlling the temperature inside the cabin. It is a small motorized device that regulates the flow of hot or cold air by opening and closing the mixture doors. Mixture doors are the vanes located inside the air ducts that direct the air flow to the desired air ducts. The mixture door actuator receives signals from the climate control unit instructing it to move the mixture doors to the desired position. When the temperature control is set, the actuator moves the mixture doors to change the direction of the air flow and therefore the temperature inside the cabin. The mixture door actuator is a critical component of your Chevrolet Silverado's air conditioning system, as it ensures that air flows to the right place at the right temperature. When the mixing door actuator fails, you may experience problems with the climate control system, such as not being able to adjust the temperature inside the cabin or hearing strange noises coming from the vents. It is important to have the mixing door actuator checked and replaced by a certified mechanic if necessary to avoid any further damage to your vehicle's air conditioning system. 3. Symptoms of Blend port activator failure Mixing door actuators are a key component of your Chevrolet Silverado's HVAC system, and any problems with them can lead to many symptoms that can affect the comfort and safety of your driving experience. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it is important to inspect the mixture door actuators and replace if necessary: 1. Inconsistent air temperature: If the temperature of the air coming out of your vents is inconsistent, meaning it's blowing hot air one minute and cold air the next, it could be a sign of a failing door actuator. 2. Air conditioning not responding: If you're having trouble adjusting the temperature or airflow using the climate control system, or if it's not responding at all, this could also be a sign of a failed mixing door actuator. 3. Strange noises: If you hear a clicking or banging noise coming from your dash when adjusting the air conditioning, this could indicate a problem with the mixer door actuators. 4. Odors or smoke: In rare cases, a failed door actuator can result in strange odors or even smoke coming from your vents. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to have your mixture door actuators inspected by a certified technician as soon as possible. Ignoring the problem could lead to further damage to the HVAC system and potentially endanger your safety on the road. 4. How to Diagnose a Blend Door Actuator Problem Diagnosing a problem with the Blend Door Actuator in your Chevrolet Silverado is an important step in keeping your air conditioning system in check. There are a few telltale signs that may indicate a problem with the actuator, such as a lack of cold or hot air coming from the vents or a strange clicking sound coming from the dashboard area. To diagnose the problem, start by turning on your vehicle and adjusting the temperature settings. If you notice that the system is not responding to your changes or that the air coming from the vents is not at the correct temperature, it is possible that the Blend Door Actuator is not working properly. Another way to check the actuator is to physically check it for damage or obstruction. You can locate the actuator by consulting your vehicle's manual or searching online resources. After locating the actuator, remove it from the vehicle and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice problems such as a broken gear or a jammed motor, it's time to replace the actuator. Overall, diagnosing Blend Door Actuator problems on your Chevrolet Silverado is an important step in maintaining your vehicle's air conditioning system. By monitoring your system for signs of trouble and taking action when necessary, you can ensure that your vehicle remains comfortable and functional all year round. 5. How to Replace a Blend Door Actuator If you are experiencing problems with the climate control system in your Chevrolet Silverado, it may be time to replace the Blend Door Actuator. This component is responsible for directing the flow of hot or cold air throughout the cabin of your vehicle. A faulty actuator can cause a lack of temperature control, as well as strange noises or smells coming from your vents. Fortunately, replacing this part is a relatively simple process that can be done with a few basic tools and a little patience. The first step is to locate the actuator, which is usually located behind the dashboard on the passenger side of the vehicle. Once located, you will need to remove the old actuator by unscrewing it from its mounting bracket and disconnecting any electrical connections. After removing the old actuator, it is important to install the new one in the correct orientation to ensure proper airflow direction. Most actuators will come with detailed instructions on how to do this, but it's always a good idea to double check before reinstalling the mounting bracket and connecting the electrical connectors. After you've completed the installation, it's a good idea to test the air conditioning system to make sure everything is working properly. If you are still experiencing problems, it may be worth consulting a professional mechanic to diagnose any underlying problems with your vehicle's HVAC system. 6. Preventive maintenance for the Climate Control System Preventive maintenance of your Chevrolet Silverado climate control system is essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your mixing door actuators. Here are some tips to keep your air conditioning system under control: 1. Change the cabin air filter regularly: The cabin air filter is responsible for filtering the air that circulates through your air conditioning system. A clogged air filter can stress the system, leading to reduced performance and even damage. It is recommended that you change the cabin air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. 2. Keep your coolant levels in check: Low coolant levels can cause the climate control system to blow hot air or even fail completely. Regularly checking and topping up coolant levels can prevent this from happening. 3. Check for leaks: Leaks in the climate control system can cause refrigerant to leak, leading to reduced performance. Regularly checking for leaks and promptly repairing them can prevent this from happening. 4. Keep your system clean: Dirt and debris can build up in the climate control system, stressing the system and reducing its performance. Cleaning your system regularly can prevent this from happening. By following these tips, you can prevent damage to the mixer door actuators and ensure optimal performance of your Chevrolet Silverado's air conditioning system. 7. Common Causes of Blend Door Actuator Failure Blend Door Actuators are an important component in your Chevrolet Silverado's air conditioning system. However, like any other mechanical component, they can fail over time. There are several common causes of Blend Door Actuator failure that you should be aware of. One of the main reasons for Blend Door Actuator failure is wear and tear. Continuous movement of the actuator can wear internal components, leading to failure. This is especially true for vehicles that are driven frequently or vehicles that are exposed to extreme temperatures on a regular basis. Another common cause of Blend Door Actuator failure is electrical problems. Corrosion, loose connections and damaged wires can all prevent the actuator from working properly. In some cases, the problem may be with the control unit or wiring harness rather than the actuator itself. Finally, damage caused by foreign objects can also cause damage to the Blend Door Actuator. Small debris, such as leaves or twigs, can find their way into the climate control system and become stuck to the actuator. This can cause the actuator to malfunction or get stuck altogether. If you notice that your climate control system is not working properly, it is important to have it inspected by a qualified technician. They can diagnose the root cause of the problem and determine if the Blend Door Actuator needs to be repaired or replaced. By staying current on maintenance and addressing problems early, you can keep your Chevrolet Silverado's climate control system running smoothly for years to come. 8. Tips and tricks for maintaining your climate control system Regular maintenance of your Chevrolet Silverado's air conditioning system is essential to ensure its longevity and proper operation. Here are some basic tips and tricks for maintaining your climate control system: 1. Check air filters regularly: Dirty air filters can restrict airflow, which can make your climate control system work harder, resulting in increased wear and tear. It is essential to check and replace the air filters regularly. 2. Don't ignore unusual noises: If you're hearing unusual noises from your air conditioning system, it's best to have it checked by a professional. It can be a sign of a worn part, which can cause further damage if not treated in time. 3. Check the air conditioning system regularly: It is important to test your climate control system regularly, especially before the start of a new season. This will ensure that the system is working properly and that you are not stuck with a malfunctioning system. 4. Keep your system clean: Dirt and debris can build up in the climate control system, causing it to work harder than it needs to. Regular system cleaning can help prevent this and extend the life of your system. 5. Understand mixing gate actuators: Mixing door actuators are an essential component of your climate control system, and understanding how they work can help you identify and address any problems early. By following these simple tips and tricks, you can ensure that your Chevrolet Silverado's climate control system stays in top condition and provides you with years of trouble-free operation. 9. Troubleshooting other climate control system problems While mixing door actuators are a common problem in the climate control system, they are not the only ones. If you are experiencing problems with your Chevrolet Silverado's air conditioning system, it is important to address and identify the root cause of the problem. A common problem is a temperature sensor malfunction. This can cause the air conditioner to blow warm air instead of cool air or vice versa. Another issue is a clogged cabin air filter, which can reduce airflow and make the system work harder than it needs to. If you notice that the blower fan is not working properly or making unusual noises, it may be an indication of a faulty blower motor resistor. This part regulates the fan speed of the fan and can cause problems if it is not working properly. Finally, if you are having problems with the defrost function, it could be due to a faulty vacuum actuator or a broken vacuum line. The defrost function relies on vacuum pressure to direct airflow to the windshield, so any problems with the vacuum system can cause problems with the defrost function. In summary, if you are experiencing problems with your Chevrolet Silverado's air conditioning system, it is important to address and identify the root cause of the problem. This way, you can deal with the problem quickly and efficiently, ensuring that your air conditioning system is working properly and keeping you comfortable on the road. 10. Conclusion and final thoughts In conclusion, understanding the mixing door actuators is vital to keeping your Chevrolet Silverado's air conditioning system in check. These small but complex components are responsible for directing the air flow and maintaining the desired temperature in the cabin of your vehicle. Regular maintenance and inspection of your Silverado's air conditioning system, including the mixture door actuators, can help prevent costly repairs in the future. It is important to look out for warning signs such as unusual noises or reduced air flow as these may be indications of a faulty door actuator. If you are experiencing problems with your mixing door actuators, it is important to address them immediately. Failure to do so could lead to further damage to your vehicle's air conditioning system and compromise your driving experience. Overall, keeping your Chevrolet Silverado's air conditioning system in check is an important aspect of maintaining your vehicle. By understanding the role of mixing door actuators and staying alert for warning signs, you can ensure that your Silverado remains comfortable and reliable for years to come. We hope our article on Blend Door Actuators in Chevrolet Silverado Climate Control System was informative and helpful. Understanding these critical components and how they work is essential to the proper operation of your Silverado air conditioning system. By following the tips and suggestions provided in this article, you should be able to keep your vehicle's air conditioning and heating systems running smoothly and efficiently. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them in the comments section below. Thanks for reading it!
Caffee Junction Solar Power Information & Peak Sun Hours Solar Green Energy Summary for Caffee Junction, Alabama Lattitude: 33.2454 Fixed Tilt Sunlight Hours: 5.1 hours per day 1-Axis Tilt Sunlight Hours: 6.2 hours per day 2-Axis Tilt Sunlight Hours: 6.4 hours per day Peak sun hours is one of the most important criteria to examine when considering installing a solar power system. Peak sun hours are different than total sunlight hours in a day because the strength of the radiation of the sun varies throughout the day. For example, during sunrise and sunset the solar insolation from the sun is less powerful than at noon. For a moment of sunshine to be considered a peak sun hour the intensity needs to be at least 1 kilowatt per square meter. This means that a square meter of your solar panel should be receiving 1 kilowatt of energy from the sun. This number is used because it is an amount of light that allows a solar panel to produce output efficiently and not under perform due to lack of sunlight power. Although you can easily predict sunrise and sunset hours each day to the minute, looking at latitude can help with your solar planning. The closer you get to the equator the closer your latitude gets to zero. Sunlight hours on the equator are consistent throughout the entire year. Places further from the equator can have large variance in daily sunlight. For example higher latitudes can have very long summer days with lots of sunlight and very dark winters. The latitude of Caffee Junction is 33.2. A tracking mount will increase the average peak sun hours for a solar power system. Think about a panel that is tracking the sun in the sky vs a panel that is fixed and not moving: you will see a higher efficiency ratio of productions. A 1-axis mount will track the sun from East to West from sunrise to sunset and move on a single axis of rotation. A 2-axis mount will track the Sun from East to West the same as a 1-axis mount would, but it will also track the angle of the sun in the sky as it slowly varies season to season. A 2-axis mount is more necessary in high latitude regions where the angle of the sun in the sky changes dramatically between each equinox. Although weather predicting technology has greatly evolved over time, it is still a rather unpredictable factor that will affect the amount of peak sun hours your solar power system will receive. Cloudy days for example will usually have lower peak sun hours that a clear sunny day. And areas that usually have more average sunny days per year will probably have higher peak sun hours that areas that are often overcast or stormy. In Caffee Junction the average yearly peak sun hours for a fixed tilt non-tracking solar panel mount is 5.1. This is for a fixed panel mounted at an angle that is equal to the latitude of the location for the entire year. The amount of peak sun hours increases to 6.2 hours if you are using a 1-axis panel, and to 6.4 hours if you upgrade to a 2-axis solar panel.
The lottery is a game where players purchase tickets in order to win prizes by matching numbers or symbols drawn at random. It is a form of gambling that has become highly popular in many countries around the world. There are several different types of lotteries, including the state and national lottery. There is also the private lottery, which is often conducted by sports clubs and other organizations. Lottery tickets are usually sold in convenience stores, gas stations, and other public locations. In addition to generating significant revenues for states and the winners, lotteries have proven to be a highly effective tool for raising public awareness about important issues. For example, the lottery has helped to raise funds for cancer research, and it has been used to fund the construction of many major buildings, such as libraries and churches. In some cases, the money from a lottery has been used to help poor families or to build roads and schools. Although the casting of lots for decisions and fates has a long history, the use of lotteries to distribute material wealth is of more recent origin. The first recorded public lotteries to sell tickets with prize money were held in the Low Countries during the 15th century, for such purposes as building town fortifications and distributing aid to the poor. The word "lottery" derives from the Dutch noun lot ("fate"), or more precisely loten ("fateful"), which is believed to be derived from the Latin lotio, meaning "strike it rich." Lottery is an activity that involves skill and risk, but it can have very high rewards. For that reason, some people view it as a low-risk investment, and many spend billions each year on the chance of winning the lottery. However, it's important to realize that the majority of lottery players are not compulsive gamblers and don't invest their life savings in the hopes of becoming instant millionaires. The vast majority of players simply buy tickets for a little fun and a fleeting fantasy of what it might be like to stand on a stage with an oversized check for millions of dollars. As a result, most lottery participants are not poor – in fact, they tend to come from middle-income neighborhoods. But there are also some concerns about the regressive impact of state lotteries on lower-income communities, and critics have called for a reduction in the size and frequency of state lotteries. While embracing the concept of chance is crucial to your success in the lottery, there are some proven strategies you can implement to increase your odds of winning. Learn the tips from Richard Lustig, who has won seven grand prizes using his unique approach to the game. His proven methods can help you rewrite your lottery story and achieve the life you deserve.
Posted on March 8, 2024 Creating a harmonious living or working environment transcends mere aesthetics; it's about crafting spaces that positively influence our emotional well-being and productivity. The psychology of interior design plays a pivotal role in shaping our daily experiences, subtly guiding our mood, health, and overall state of mind. This exploration delves into the nuanced ways our surroundings impact us and underscores the importance of thoughtful interior design in fostering a nurturing atmosphere. Color theory is a fundamental aspect of interior design that has profound effects on our psychological state. Different hues evoke different emotions and can dramatically alter the ambiance of a room. Lighter colors, such as soft blues and greens, are known to promote tranquility and relaxation, making them ideal choices for bedrooms and bathrooms. Conversely, vibrant colors like red and orange can stimulate energy and creativity, perfect for spaces that benefit from a dynamic and invigorating vibe. Understanding the psychological implications of color allows designers to create spaces that not only look stunning but also cater to the emotional needs of the occupants. By carefully selecting a color palette, it's possible to design environments that enhance well-being, improve concentration, and even uplift spirits. Lighting, both natural and artificial, significantly influences our mood and productivity. Natural light is especially beneficial, promoting vitamin D production, improving mood, and enhancing the perception of space. Incorporating ample windows and strategically placing mirrors to reflect light can make a space feel more open, airy, and positive. On the other hand, artificial lighting should be tailored to the function of each room, with warmer lights fostering relaxation in living areas and cooler, brighter lights enhancing focus in workspaces. By mastering the balance and quality of lighting, spaces can become more versatile and comfortable, adapting to the myriad needs of daily life. The tactile qualities of a space contribute significantly to its overall feel and comfort level. Textures play a crucial role in adding depth and interest, influencing the atmosphere of a room. Soft, plush fabrics invite relaxation and comfort, making them ideal for bedrooms and living areas. In contrast, smooth and sleek materials can impart a more modern and clean aesthetic, suitable for kitchens and bathrooms. Incorporating a variety of textures not only enhances the sensory experience of a space but also contributes to a feeling of richness and sophistication. By thoughtfully integrating different materials, designers can create environments that are as comforting as they are visually appealing. The arrangement of furniture and the overall layout of a space are critical in defining its functionality and flow. A well-planned layout ensures ease of movement and interaction, while also catering to the specific needs and lifestyles of the occupants. Ergonomic furniture that supports the body can significantly reduce discomfort and stress, enhancing overall well-being. Moreover, the spatial arrangement can influence social dynamics, encouraging interaction in communal areas while providing secluded nooks for privacy and reflection. By strategically designing the layout and selecting appropriate furnishings, it's possible to create spaces that facilitate a balance of social engagement and individual solitude. A space that reflects personal tastes and experiences is inherently more comforting and engaging. Personalization in interior design allows individuals to express their identity, memories, and aspirations, making their environment truly their own. Incorporating personal items, artwork, and photographs can transform a space into a unique reflection of its occupants, imbuing it with character and warmth. This level of personalization not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a space but also strengthens the emotional connection between the occupants and their environment. A personalized space can serve as a source of comfort and inspiration, reflecting and nurturing the individual's journey. The psychology of interior design reveals the profound impact our environment has on our mood, well-being, and productivity. By considering factors such as color, lighting, texture, layout, and personalization, it's possible to create spaces that not only look beautiful but also promote a positive emotional state. Whether you're looking to transform your home or workplace, understanding and applying these principles can lead to more harmonious and fulfilling environments. If you're ready to explore the potential of your space and how it can be tailored to enhance your mood and well-being, our team is here to help. With expertise in creating environments that resonate on a deeper psychological level, we're committed to bringing your vision to life. Reach out to us at (917) 686-3108 or (212) 532- 5450 to start the conversation about transforming your space into a nurturing and inspiring haven. Have questions or ready to start your project? Fill out the form below to contact our team.
06:05duration 6 minutes 5 seconds Main Topic This video will assist second grade students in identifying the main topic of a text by using key details. 04:40duration 4 minutes 40 seconds Using a Dictionary and Glossary 04:56duration 4 minutes 56 seconds Narrative Writing This video will assist 2nd grade students in understanding how to create a narrative writing paragraph. 04:05duration 4 minutes 5 seconds Making Connections The video will assist second grade students in making connections using scientific or technical texts. 03:34duration 3 minutes 34 seconds Understanding Rhyme and Rhythm This video will assist 2nd grade students with understanding rhyme and rhythm. 04:20duration 4 minutes 20 seconds Using Strategies to Help Find Unknown Words This video will support 2nd grade students with strategies to identify unknown words. 03:11duration 3 minutes 11 seconds Ask and Answer Questions The video will assist 2nd grade students better understand the 5Ws when they ask and answer questions.
Prescribed fires in East Kootenay part of Ecosystem Restoration Program The Wildfire Management Branch is planning prescribed fires near Bare Mountain and the Artesian Pasture in East Kootenay to take place between Sept. 23 and Oct. 31, 2014, weather conditions permitting. These controlled fires are being implemented as part of the Rocky Mountain Ecosystem Restoration Program developed by the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations and the Ministry of Environment. Smoke from the Bare Mountain site will be visible from the communities of Baynes Lake and Jaffray. Smoke from the Artesian Pasture site will be visible from Cranbrook and Kimberley. Prescribed fires may only be ignited on days when the forecast for the venting index is "good" or better. All prescribed fires must comply with the Environmental Management Act's open burning smoke control regulation, which helps minimize the amount of smoke that's produced. Fire is a natural, normal process in many ecosystems. It is beneficial and necessary to maintain a healthy forest and the diversity of plant and animal life. Through evolution and exposure to wildfires, many plants and animals have adapted to fire, and actually depend on it. Historically, the Rocky Mountain Trench has had a wide, open valley bottom with very few trees. Low-intensity fires would burn every five to seven years in the valley bottom, while upper-elevation fires would burn in intervals of around 20 years. In an absence of fire, these areas have become quite overgrown in recent decades. Aside from the danger of more intense and damaging forest fires posed by the build-up of forest fuels, the two project locations are important winter ranges and grazing grounds for a variety of ungulates. These fire treatments – in combination with logging, hand slashing and brush clearing projects – will help these areas return to their "natural" state. To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, go to: http://www.bcwildfire.ca
In ice hockey it is important to be confident on the ice, to be able to gain speed, turn and often perform "aerobatics". We offer some classic exercises to develop coordination skills of a hockey player: 1. Shuttle run: - Description: Running with the puck between two lines 5-10 metres apart. - Characteristics: Develops agility, coordination, speed. - Benefits: Helps the hockey player to change direction quickly, which is important in the game. 2. Snake: - Description: Dribbling the puck between chips arranged in a snake pattern. - Characteristics: Develops coordination, puck control, manoeuvrability. - Benefits: Helps the hockey player to dribble around opponents and possess the puck in a confined space. 3. Slalom: - Description: Dribbling the puck between chips arranged in a row. - Characteristics: Develops coordination, puck control, speed. - Benefits: Helps the hockey player to move quickly with the puck, which is important in attacking. 4. Skating on one leg: - Description: Skating on one foot with the other foot off the ice. - Characteristics: Develops sense of balance, coordination, balance. - Benefits: Helps the hockey player to stay on the ice in difficult situations. 5. Juggling the puck: - Description: Tossing and bouncing the puck with the stick. - Characteristics: Develops coordination, agility, and puck control. - Benefits: Helps the hockey player to possess the puck in all situations. These exercises are only a small part of what can be used to develop a hockey player's coordination skills. - Perform the exercises regularly. - Gradually increase the difficulty of the exercises. - Focus on proper exercise technique. Developing coordination skills is an important factor for success in hockey. How to increase a hockey player's coordination load: 1. Gradually increase the difficulty of exercises: - Start with simple exercises and gradually add more complex exercises. - Increase the speed of the exercises. - Use a variety of exercise variations. 2. Use a variety of exercise equipment: - Balance boards. - Unstable platforms. - Coordination exercise machines. 3. Incorporating coordination exercises into the training process: - Add coordination exercises to your warm-up. - Perform coordination exercises after strength exercises. - Finish your workout with coordination exercises. 4. Use game exercises: - Ball games. - Games with a puck. - Relay races. 5. Variety: - Do not do the same exercises all the time. - Change exercises to keep it interesting. - Add new exercises to your training plan. - Start with a small load and gradually increase the load. - Observe proper exercise technique. - Listen to your body and do not overload yourself. Developing coordination skills is a long process that requires patience and regular training. By following these tips, you can gradually increase the coordination load and improve your skills.
Conservation Practices in Alberta and Canada Lessons and Activities \| Paper and Digital Conservation Practices in Alberta and Canada Lessons and Activities \| Paper and Digital Regular price Regular price Sale price Unit price Teach how conservation actions are taken in Alberta and Canada. This includes parks, indigenous-led conservation and the impacts of conservation. The best part of this resource is that you can plan, print and use it in minutes. This engaging resource includes: - the definition of conservation and its importance; Indigneous-led conservation strategies; impacts of conservation of land, natural resources and organisms; protected areas, municipal parks, provincial or territorial parks, and national parks; a creative thinking activity to design a park with a conservation goal.; the responsibilities of individuals, businesses, industries and government in conservation actions.; qualitative and quantitative data; relevant and valid data; designing and implementing a conservation action plan. - three complete lesson plans with suggestions for differentiation. - student pages and templates. - answer keys and suggested answers. - opportunities to extend learning. - ideas for how to use this resource in the classroom, online, or a mix. - a digital version of all the student pages that use Google Slides. You must download the PDF file and use the access link in the file to get your digital copy. - an alignment guide for Alberta Outcomes. These lessons align with: - Alberta Science Curriculum © 2022 Grade 4 (new outcomes) These lessons support: - any earth systems unit. Do you teach science in Alberta? We have science units for you! - Learn how we're adjusting resources to align with the new science curriculum in Alberta. - Earth Systems Unit Grade 4 - Alberta Science Grade 4 Full Year Growing Bundle SAVE 30% Ninja Note: To access the digital version, download the PDF and use the link in that file. Have a question? Before contacting us, check our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Flowering now in the garden is the little-known Hedychium deceptum, which translates to deceived ginger. Discovered in 1922 by UK plantsman HJ Elwes of galanthus fame, it was initially identified as Hedychium greenii, until taxonomists realized that it was not the same as that taxon, so to commerate their confusion/deception, they coined the name Hedychium deceptum. Hedychium deceptum languished in a UK herbarium (where they keep dead, smashed plants) until it was recollected over 45 years later and named Hedychium rubrum. It was 46 more years before it was realized that there were two names for the same plant, with the earlier Hedychium deceptum having priority. We should have enough of this to share for the first time in the 2022 Plant Delights catalog. We don't have much in the way of good hardiness data, so we're guessing Zone 7b/8a.
Life Insurance 101 Why would I need life insurance? Life insurance helps take financial care of your family, loved ones, or even your business if something happens to you. If you have a mortgage, income that would need to be replaced, or taxes that would need to be paid, it can offer a solution. How much does it cost? The life insurance companies determine your cost based on your age, gender, and health. It also depends on how much insurance you want, and what type of life insurance you get. Your insurance payments are called "premiums" and are usually paid monthly or annually. What's the best type of life insurance to get? Each type of life insurance has its pros and cons. In Canada we have 2 main types: "term" and "permanent." Here's a brief summary their differences: Term Insurance - Term insures you for a set period of time. For example: years left on your mortgage, until you retire, or until your kids are no longer financially dependent on you. - If you want to renew your insurance after the term expires, your premiums increase, sometimes by an exponential amount. This can be problematic if you need the insurance longer than you originally anticipated. - Unlike permanent insurance, there's no opportunity with term insurance to pre-pay, or to have an account inside your policy you can pay into to create additional value. - Term insurance is the simplest life insurance product. Permanent insurance is a little more complicated, but offers additional flexibility and financial benefit to you. Permanent Insurance - The term of a permanent insurance policy never expires. - When you apply, you have the option to pre-pay for several years' worth of insurance. - If you stop paying your premiums, you may still be insured under your policy if you've paid enough money into it already. This is because a permanent policy has an account inside of it where your money can grow. - There are actually three kinds of permanent insurance: "universal life," "non-participating whole life," and "participating whole life." If you really want to get into the nitty gritty, we're happy to chat. The important thing to know is that universal life offers both flexibility and financial benefit at a lower cost. How much do I need? It depends! We'll work with you to recommend an amount and price point customized to your situation. What is Allan Financial's role? We work with several life insurance companies — Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, RBC, ivari, beneva, Industrial Alliance, Specialty Life Insurance, and BMO. They all have different products and pricing structures so we get to choose what works best for you! Our role is to advise you, represent your best interests, and make the process as easy as possible. How does Allan Financial get paid? We get paid a commission by the insurance company. Sometimes, we'll use a portion of our commission to make your life insurance more affordable. Ask us for more details!
Author(s): Kenan BOZKURT Fame of one of the greatest poets of Turkish literature, Bâkî, who is regarded as " sultans of poets" during his period, also continues today. Because of this fame that the poet has, today a special place has been reserved for himself both in literary history and in independent studies. However, in many studies on Bâkî, the provisions given about the poet repeated each other, causing many points of the poet to remain in the shadow. One of the aspects of poetry that remains in the shadow is the mystical dimension that lies in his poems. The poet has generally considered this dimension through love and beauty. But with Tanzimat, change in our world caused change in the meaning of love and beauty. This has caused the poet to deal with love, and a semantic breakthrough between love and beauty we have dealt with. This disconnect, unwillingly, prevented the poet's poetry to be understood correctly. The quality and the source love that is used today to meet the great love that the opposite gender feels with each other has been a subject of constant debate throughout history. Love is handled entirely as a human emotion, and also it is handled as a part of divine blowing. Especially advocates of esoteric thinking accepted love as a part of blowing. Those who work on the works of Bâkî, who is considered the greatest poet of classical poetry, have generally dealt with the love of the poet's poetry in human dimension and ignored its connection with Sufism. However, in the poet's poetry, love is handled both with its everyday meaning and with a dimension of transcendence that transcends humanity. Especially in some of his poems, love is an emotion that begins with creation and is sensed to the divine power that transcends existence, and an eternal character appears, and it is seen that the love occurs before material existence. The poet's handling the love with this aspect is also a sign that he has a lofty meaning. In this sense, the poet treats love as an ontological and epistemological phenomenon, not just as a feeling. Because the eternal dimension that the poet attributes to love and the transformation of love into the real objective of existence makes it possible for love to become a method of acquiring information. And this is composed of an outbreak of the idea ''Man can only reach God by love''. Bâkî sees beauty as a fundamental element in the process of acquiring information by treating beauty as a part of love. The poet accepts recognition as love through the hadith of "I was a secret treasure", which is often repeated in mysticism, and defines beauty as the God's beauty which enables this love to emerge. Bâkî regards every kind of beauty in the world as a part of the beauty of God acting with the thought that God created man from his own image and man received his beauty from him through manifestation. According to the poet, people who are aware of this beauty are possible to reach the whole from part by contemplating this beauty. However, although human beings were tempted by love through contemplating the divine beauty before descending into the earth, they forgot this love in the material world. Also, even if they do not fully remember this beauty in the material aspect now, the beauty image that they own cause them to tend to every beauty. That is why people are attracted by and get addicted to every beauty. In this sense, the part is an obstacle to reach the whole for the unfamiliar lovers. In order to get rid of the part, in other words, to be aware of the divine dimension hidden behind the material dimension, the lover must see through his hearth. Because being cautious is only possible with love, love shows up in an epistemological and ontological dimension and becomes a friend to man from "eternity" in reaching the absoluteness in Bâkî's poetry. Considering the ontological and epistemological meaning that the poet imbues in love and beauty, the love and beauty he referred in his council is seen to have mystical dimension rather than being away from Sufism in a material dimension as claimed before. This study will examine the issues of love and beauty that Bâkî deals with and explain them in the divine dimension. The Journal of International Social Research received 7760 citations as per Google Scholar report
姓名凃家甄(Chia-Chen Tu) 查詢紙本館藏畢業系所資訊管理學系論文名稱基於社群網路分析的模式增強轉換網路 (A Novel Social Network Prediction with Augmented Pattern-Based Transformer) 相關論文檔案 [Endnote RIS 格式] [Bibtex 格式] [相關文章] [文章引用] [完整記錄] [館藏目錄] 至系統瀏覽論文 (2028-7-1以後開放) 摘要(中) 群體意識,是刻在血液裡的記憶。當古人由獨居走向部落,人際關係的概念在交流中形成,並藉由每一次的相互影響,逐漸深化。關係鏈的交織,讓獨立的小團體們發展成難以切割的社群網路。隨著網際網路的發展,社群網站上的分享逐漸取代了現實生活中的交流。倘若人們不再透過見面聯繫感情、認識新朋友不再僅限於線下活動,當人際互動逐漸由實體轉向虛擬,如果我們試圖了解一個人的行為模式與偏好,則應聚焦在社群平台上的社群網路分析。社群網路分析的首要目標,在於透過所有使用者在人際網路中的互動關係,識別出目標使用者在此研究範圍下的潛在關係,而其最常見的應用方法為連結預測。此外,由於關係網路會隨著時間演化,當我們在實踐連結預測時,應考慮其動態性,即動態連結預測。在過去的研究中,時間範圍的切割造成資訊量不足、圖像資料導致運算過於複雜,以及無法兼顧個人與整體關係網路資訊等問題,造成最終的預測效果不彰。基於以上的挑戰,本研究提出了以特徵進行分析的增強式轉換網路架構——NET-APT,以改善已知的分析劣勢,提高社群網路關係預測的成效。同時,我們也將NET-APT運用至真實世界的資料集中,並驗證其表現皆優於基準模型。對於此研究的未來展望,我們認為可以將NET-APT應用至商業領域,以其即時性的優勢結合基於特徵的分析模式,根據使用者當下的行為特質,向其發送可能會感興趣的文章乃至廣告、社團或粉絲專頁建議。摘要(英) Throughout history, human beings′ social nature has fostered the development and deepening of interpersonal relationships through interactions and collaborations. With the advent of the Internet, people increasingly rely on virtual interactions and relationships, there is a need to shift our focus to social network analysis on social media platforms in order to uncover personal interaction patterns and preferences. The primary objective of social network analysis is to identify latent associations and connections within a social network, particularly with respect to a target user. This is commonly achieved through dynamic network link prediction techniques. However, past researches have faced challenges in achieving accurate predictions due to the lack of information caused by temporal splits, the computational complexity associated with graph data, and the failure to capture both personal and general network information. To address these challenges, we propose NET-APT, an augmented pattern-based Transformer architecture designed to enhance the effectiveness of social network prediction. We evaluate the performance of NET-APT using real-world datasets and compare it against baseline models, demonstrating its superior predictive capabilities. In terms of future development, we envision the application of NET-APT in commercial domains. For example, it could be utilized to send personalized advertisements based on users′ interaction patterns, enabling real-time pattern-based analysis. This potential application highlights the value of NET-APT in enhancing targeted marketing and providing tailored suggestions to users in various contexts. 關鍵字(中) ★ 社群網路分析 ★ 動態連結預測 ★ 基於特徵的轉換網路關鍵字(英) ★ Social Network Analysis ★ Dynamic Network Link Prediction ★ Pattern-Based Transformer 論文目次摘要 i Abstract ii 誌謝 iii Table of Contents iv List of Figures v List of Tables vi I. Introduction 1 II. Related Work 6 2.1 Social Network Analysis 6 2.2 Link Prediction 7 2.2.1 Static Network Link Prediction 8 2.2.2 Dynamic Network Link Prediction 9 2.3 Augmentation 11 III. 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Liang, "Evolution pattern mining on dynamic social network," The Journal of Supercomputing, vol. 77, pp. 6979-6991, 2021. [51] B. Perozzi, R. Al-Rfou, and S. Skiena, "Deepwalk: Online learning of social representations," in Proceedings of the 20th ACM SIGKDD international conference on Knowledge discovery and data mining, 2014, pp. 701-710. [52] A. Grover and J. Leskovec, "node2vec: Scalable feature learning for networks," in Proceedings of the 22nd ACM SIGKDD international conference on Knowledge discovery and data mining, 2016, pp. 855-864. [53] J. Chen, J. Zhang, X. Xu, C. Fu, D. Zhang, Q. Zhang, and Q. Xuan, "E-LSTM-D: A deep learning framework for dynamic network link prediction," IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics: Systems, vol. 51, no. 6, pp. 3699-3712, 2019. [54] T. Li, J. Zhang, S. Y. Philip, Y. Zhang, and Y. Yan, "Deep dynamic network embedding for link prediction," IEEE Access, vol. 6, pp. 29219-29230, 2018. [55] J. Chen, X. Wang, and X. Xu, "GC-LSTM: Graph convolution embedded LSTM for dynamic network link prediction," Applied Intelligence, pp. 1-16, 2022. [56] Q. Wang, W. Zhao, J. Yang, J. Wu, C. Zhou, and Q. Xing, "Atne-trust: Attributed trust network embedding for trust prediction in online social networks," in 2020 IEEE International Conference on Data Mining (ICDM), 2020: IEEE, pp. 601-610. 指導教授陳以錚(Yi-Cheng Chen) 審核日期 2023-7-24 推文 facebook plurk twitter funp google live udn HD myshare reddit netvibes friend youpush delicious baidu 網路書籤 Google bookmarks del.icio.us hemidemi myshare
A group of United Methodists from Michigan traveled to England to learn more about their Wesleyan heritage and how it continues to shape beliefs and inspire future mission. Content Editor Studying religious history can be dry and dusty, and it can feel irrelevant and disconnected from contemporary issues and life. Still, there are ways to look back that can enrich our faith and inspire us for ongoing mission in a new era. Twenty United Methodists from the Michigan Conference had the opportunity to experience Methodist history in a living classroom as they participated in a Wesleyan heritage tour of England. For ten days, from April 16-25, 2023, these pilgrims walked the steps of John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, and his brother Charles. And they experienced a renewed sense of purpose as uniquely United Methodist Christians. They traveled to the small town of Epworth to learn about the Wesleys' rural beginnings, to Oxford where they studied and formed their Holy Club, to Bristol on the southwest coast where Charles lived and wrote thousands of hymns, to London where John had his heart-warming experience at a meeting on Aldersgate Street, and to a few additional stops along the way. The group also met faith siblings from the Methodist Church in Britain and experienced the connectional spirit that ties us together through worship, Holy Communion, and fellowship. Rev. Faith Fowler, pastor of Cass Community UMC, organized this heritage trip through Educational Opportunities Tours, a Christian travel ministry known for its quality Wesleyan tours, for her congregation but opened it up to others to join them. The trip had members from several United Methodist congregations, including Cass Community, Birmingham: First, and Ann Arbor: First UMCs. There was a diverse mix of lifelong United Methodists, people who grew up in other Christian traditions, and a few who were new to the Christian faith. Rev. Fowler was one of four clergy members on the trip. Retired pastor Rev. Jack Harnish, Rev. Elizabeth Hurd, pastor of West Bloomfield UMC, and Rev. Sue Pethoud, a deacon serving as Church and Community Relations Liaison for Cass Community Social Services in Detroit. Faith wanted people from her congregation, especially those who didn't grow up hearing stories about the Wesleys in sermons and Sunday school classes, to know their denomination's history better. Also, in light of the fact that The United Methodist Church, through this season of disaffiliation, is having an identity struggle, Faith wanted the pilgrims to experience Methodist history in its context and appreciate our faith heritage as it relates to both spirituality and social justice. In doing so, Fowler has hope that we will find keys to our life of faith moving into the future. "I think looking back helps you figure out the way forward," Fowler noted. "And I believe that [spirituality and social justice in Wesleyan theology] are married—two sides of the same coin—and have been from the very beginning." Looking back doesn't mean seeing our United Methodist history with rose-colored glasses or nostalgia for how things used to be. Looking back means seeing our faith forbears—often larger-than-life heroes—honestly and truthfully as imperfect saints of God with lessons to teach us. It means understanding the complexities of our history and the architects who built it. The Michigan pilgrims looked at early Methodism through several windows of history as they traveled by bus around England (click here to view the itinerary), hearing the stories, sharing insights, and thinking about how this history shapes Christian faith and practices today. One aspect of John Wesley's approach to ministry that struck Rev. Fowler was how hard John worked at building community. "You had the classes, the bands, the decision to let women preach, the empowerment of laity, which is so strong in our history, and sometimes we forget it. The church is not built on individual preachers. It takes that community, and Wesley knew it." This expression of community that is so integral to the spirit of Methodism began with the Holy Club, which was started by the Wesley brothers while studying at Oxford. Out of the Holy Club came the development of the Wesleyan class meetings, a form of discipleship and accountability where, according to Rev. Jack Harnish, there were opportunities for personal spiritual growth and being active in the community. He said, "The prisons were dreadful, and they would go into them and take food and blankets. It wasn't just coming together for Bible study and prayer, but they would also be involved in the community." Rev. Elizabeth Hurd heard the stories of how John broke out of the institutional church and went to where people were, making his ministry about meeting the physical and spiritual needs of people. And she wonders how The United Methodist Church can be relevant today like Wesley was relevant back then. She said, "We're at the cusp of a changing world, and it's important to think about how we can go beyond ourselves and be out in the world. If a dead white man from the eighteenth century can resonate with people so well in the twenty-first century, what's stopping the church from the twenty-first century from replicating that idea? Where are the ways that we could take what Wesley was doing and apply it to our time? That's what really got sparked for me." This question of finding relevancy in John Wesley's methods also stood out for Rev. Sue Pethoud. It's what drew her to The United Methodist Church from the Episcopal tradition. "What brought me to the UMC was the values that Wesley had as a founder of the movement. Going forward, any church that's going to survive has to not be in its building. They must be out doing ministry with the people in the neighborhood. And that's what John Wesley did." As a young clergyperson, Rev. Elizabeth Hurd is excited to focus on moving into the community as one way to move forward in The United Methodist Church. "We have to recapture that spirit of innovation and have people who are brave enough to go and do whatever the equivalent of field preaching is, to go and be engaged in the community and share God's love and operate outside the walls of the church. That, for me, was really inspiring." But, when looking closely at history, it's important to remember that the social justice lens of Methodism is balanced by a heart conviction to proclaiming the gospel. Rev. Hurd explained, "At times, we focus so much on the social justice work of supporting women preachers or supporting the abolitionist movement, those sorts of things, that we forget that a lot of what they did was done with the aim of showing God's love to people whom the church was missing. That evangelism piece, that dedication to bringing people to Christ, was really important." Rev. Jack Harnish, a lifelong student of United Methodist history, echoed this desire for balance within Methodism, one that will continue in the future. "I think the balance that we always strive for and never achieve is that between personal piety and social commitment. 'My heart strangely warmed' and 'The world is my parish'—these phrases represent the balance of Methodism." The Methodist pilgrims from Michigan learned much about the roots of Methodism and this grassroots movement of all people—clergy and lay—that is rooted in communities of faith, small groups of Christ-followers who are committed to sharing the life-changing message of the gospel with others, especially those on the margins, those society has left out. This Methodist movement, rooted in historical places and times, inspires young and old alike and draws people to its distinct approach to discipleship: God's prevenient grace is already working in each of us and available to all. Salvation is not a once-and-done event, but something worked out throughout our lives, leading to perfection. Holiness, or Christian perfection, is a maturing of faith that allows the love of God to permeate our lives in such a way that we share that love with others through personal acts of piety and social justice. Last Updated on October 27, 2023
Custom Nozzle Factories: Innovations in Spray Technology Nozzles serve as crucial components in a diverse array of industrial equipment, from spraying and painting to oil blasting and sandblasting applications. They find utility across various industries, crafted from materials like stainless steel, plastic, silicon carbide, and more. Applications span automotive, electroplating, surface treatment, and beyond, encompassing functions such as high-pressure cleaning, dust removal, cooling, and desulphurization. The evolution of nozzle technology is characterized by the expansion and adaptability of spraying methods and structures, ultimately enhancing spray quality. A spray nozzle is a precision instrument capable of achieving distinct functions through the dispersion of different forms of liquid. Common types include Flat Fan, Full Cone, Hollow Cone, Misting, and Air Atomizing Nozzles. Additionally, specialized varieties like spiral, clamp, eductor, quick release, tank wash, air, and air shower nozzles are employed for specific tasks like washing, cooling, dust control, and desulfurization. When sourcing spray nozzles, customers have multiple avenues available. While manufacturers like us hold strong reputations in the industry, customers can also explore options through dealers, online suppliers, and local vendors. Each channel presents unique advantages and drawbacks, catering to diverse customer preferences and requirements.
There's no reason to feel all alone if you've been identified with gum diseases. The condition is known as gum disease. It's a form of gum and bone infection that could cause tooth loss or loss of teeth. Gum disease is treatable at an early stage; however, you need to visit the dentist promptly. It is caused by the accumulation of bacteria within the gums. This is usually an outcome of poor dental hygiene, and the initial stages are marked by redness, swelling, and bleeding gums. If not treated, gum disease can result in problems that can affect not only your dental health but your overall health. Cleaning and flossing your teeth daily and frequent visits to the dentist will significantly increase your chances of successfully managing gum disease and reduce the chance of contracting it. Untreated gum disease may result in the following severe health problems - Pain: The initial stage of gum disease is typically non-stressful. However, if you do not take care of your gum problem, it could eventually lead to periodontitis which can be very painful and requires oral surgery. - Diabetes: Bacteria typically multiply when there is a lot of sugar. Microorganisms are encouraged to attack dental gums. Gum disease can make patients more susceptible to diabetes due to the increase in glucose levels. - Loss of teeth: One of the most dangerous risks associated with infected gum diseases is loss of teeth. Gum disease may cause the separation of the gums from the teeth. When this happens, the teeth can become loose and eventually fall out. In this instance, cosmetic dentistry can assist in eliminating this issue with your teeth. - Alzheimer's disease: Gum disease is a cause of Alzheimer's disease and is linked to a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's condition is a neurodegenerative condition. It is characterized by memory loss that gets worse as time passes. Researchers have warned individuals to stay clear of any health concerns like gum disease, which could trigger the development of Alzheimer's disease. The dangers of not treating gum disease are numerous, and the treatment is simple and quick. Book an appointment with experienced dentists in the TeethCare Multispeciality Dental Clinic today to have a dental check-up. You'll never have to worry about untreated gum disease ever again.
- Research - Open access - Published: PTEN deficiency potentiates HBV-associated liver cancer development through augmented GP73/GOLM1 Journal of Translational Medicine volume 22, Article number: 254 (2024) Although hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major risk factor for hepatic cancer, the majority of HBV carriers do not develop this lethal disease. Additional molecular alterations are thus implicated in the process of liver tumorigenesis. Since phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) is decreased in approximately half of liver cancers, we investigated the significance of PTEN deficiency in HBV-related hepatocarcinogenesis. HBV-positive human liver cancer tissues were checked for PTEN expression. Transgenic HBV, Alb-Cre and Ptenfl/fl mice were inter-crossed to generate WT, HBV, Pten−/− and HBV; Pten−/− mice. Immunoblotting, histological analysis and qRT-PCR were used to study these livers. Gp73−/− mice were then mated with HBV; Pten−/− mice to illustrate the role of hepatic tumor biomarker golgi membrane protein 73 (GP73)/ golgi membrane protein 1 (GOLM1) in hepatic oncogenesis. Pten deletion and HBV transgene synergistically aggravated liver injury, inflammation, fibrosis and development of mixed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). GP73 was augmented in HBV; Pten−/− livers. Knockout of GP73 blunted the synergistic effect of deficient Pten and transgenic HBV on liver injury, inflammation, fibrosis and cancer development. This mixed HCC-ICC mouse model mimics liver cancer patients harboring HBV infection and PTEN/AKT signaling pathway alteration. Targeting GP73 is a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer patients with HBV infection and PTEN alteration. Liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide [1, 2]. It comprises hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), mixed HCC-ICC and other neoplasms [3, 4]. HCC is the dominant primary liver cancer type, accounting for 90% of all cases. ICC is the second common malignancy in liver, with an incidence of approximately 6% of all primary hepatic tumors. It has poorer prognosis than HCC. Hepatobiliary cancer is an infrequent subtype of primary liver cancers, which exhibits much worse prognosis than either HCC or ICC [5, 6]. Once diagnosed, the treatment is limited and the outcome is poor [7]. Since its pathological mechanism is largely unknown, clinically relevant animal models are in need to mimic the initiation and progression of mixed HCC-ICC. Viral infection is a major risk factor for primary liver cancer. Following chronic infection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatocytes experience injury, inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and eventually carcinogenesis [6,7,8]. In the United States, Europe, and Japan, most of liver cancers are associated with HCV infection. Due to excellent virological response with antiviral drugs, the risk of developing HCV infection-associated liver cancer has declined substantially. In contrast, HBV infection is still the most prominent risk factor for HCC development [7]. In China, some regions of Asia and Africa, HBV-related liver cancer is prevalent [9]. Half of global liver cancer occurs in China because up to 10% of its population are HBV carriers [10,11,12]. Although liver cancer development is highly correlated with HBV infection, only a small percentage of HBV carriers finally develop liver cancer after a long latency [13, 14]. This suggests that additional molecular alterations are involved in HBV-related liver cancer progression. Therefore, illumination of the essential molecular events that triggered this malignant transformation may help us gain insight into the mechanisms and potential treatment for HBV-associated liver cancer. More than half of hepatic cancers exhibit reduced expression of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) [15, 16]. Low expression of PTEN confers poor prognosis of HCC patients [17]. PTEN exercises its tumor suppressor function mainly by antagonizing phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway through dephosphorylation of PIP3 [18]. Loss of PTEN activates mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) through active AKT serine/threonine kinase (AKT)-mediated suppression of TSC1 and 2 complex, a suppressor of mTOR [19, 20]. Liver-specific Pten deletion mice develop liver cell adenomas at 11 months of age and HCC by 18.5–19.5 months of age [21]. The long latency of cancer initiation and development implies that additional genetic and/or epigenetic alterations likely take place in the liver in the absence of Pten. It remains elusive for the role of Pten loss in HBV-associated liver cancer initiation and progression. Golgi membrane protein 73 (GP73)/Golgi membrane protein 1 (GOLM1) is a type II Golgi transmembrane protein [22]. It is a serum marker for liver cancer. Serum GP73 level increases gradually during the process of hepatic HBV infection, cirrhosis and cancer [23,24,25]. With subcutaneous tumor formation and tail-vein injection assays, we demonstrate that overexpression of GP73 is critical for xenografting HCC tumorigenesis and metastasis triggered by mTOR activation in immune-deficient nude mice [26]. Using human HCC cell lines in culture and in nude mice, Ye et al. showed that GP73 promoted HCC metastasis by modulating epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/RTK cell-surface recycling. Furthermore, the abundance of GP73 is well correlated with human HCC metastasis and poor survival of HCC patients [27]. Although augmented GP73 is highly correlated with HBV infection and HCC, the involvement of GP73 in HBV-mediated primary liver cancer development in immune-competent mice remains to be documented. The genome of HBV encodes four core proteins, including HBV surface antigen (HBsAg), core antigen (HBcAg), DNA polymerase, and X protein (HBx) [28]. Since mouse does not have receptor for HBV, HBV infection does not occur in mice. HBV transgenic mice which contain pre-S, S, and X domains of HBV genome develop primary liver cancer around the age of 12 months [29, 30]. Even though HBV infection is not involved in the disease progression in transgenic mice, severe liver injury and inflammation still simulate the pathogenesis in liver cancer patients with HBV infection. Thus, this mouse model is widely used to illustrate the pathologic and molecular events of HBV-mediated tumorigenesis [31,32,33]. To simulate liver cancer patients with both HBV infection and activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in mice, we disrupted Pten in the livers of HBV transgenic mice and investigated the role of GP73 in liver tumor development of HBV; Pten−/− mice. Generation of HBV; Pten −/− and HBV; Pten −/− ; GP73 −/− mice HBV mice (stock no. 002226) were described previously [29]. Alb-Cre (stock no. 003574), Ptenfl/fl (stock no. 006068) and EIIA-Cre (stock no. 003724) mice were from Jackson Laboratory (Bar Harbor, ME, USA). HBV and Alb-Cre mice were respectively crossed with Ptenfl/fl mice to generate HBV; Ptenfl/fl and Alb-Cre; Ptenfl/fl mice. By intercrossing HBV; Ptenfl/fl mice with Alb-Cre; Ptenfl/fl mice, HBV; Alb-Cre; Ptenfl/fl (HBV; Pten−/−), Alb-Cre; Ptenfl/fl (Pten−/−), HBV; Ptenfl/fl (HBV) and Ptenfl/fl (WT) mice were generated. GP73fl/+ mice were developed by Beijing Biocytogen (China) and were mated with EIIA-Cre mice to generate global GP73 knockout (GP73−/−) mice. To obtain HBV; Pten−/−; GP73−/− mice, HBV; Pten−/− mice were crossed with GP73−/− mice. All mice were in C57BL/6 background and maintained in a pathogen-free facility under a 12-h light/dark cycle with appropriate temperature and humidity. The genotypes of mice were determined by PCR analysis of tail genomic DNA. The primers were shown in Table 1. The animal experiments were approved by Animal Care and Use Committee of Peking Union Medical College and performed in accordance with international guidelines. All of the mice used for this study are male unless as specified. Human liver cancer specimens Human liver cancer tissues and adjacent normal liver tissues were obtained from the patients undergoing resection at Peking Union Medical College Hospital. Written informed contents were obtained from all patients. All of these patients were HBV positive. Histological analysis Mouse liver tissues were fixed in 4% formalin. 5 μm of paraffin-embedded sections of the same liver lobes from different mice were subjected to hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) staining through the following procedures: 1. Dewaxing and hydration with environmental friendly Dewaxing Transparent Liquid, Anhydrous ethanol, 75% Ethyl alcohol and tap water; 2. Fixing with tissue fixation solution; 3. Hematoxylin staining; 4. Eosin staining; 5. Dehydration and sealing. Liver fibrosis was determined by Masson's trichrome staining kit (Sigma-Aldrich, HT15, St Louis, USA), according to the manufacturers' protocols. For immune-histochemical analysis, the paraffin sections were subjected to dewaxing to water, antigen repair, endogenous peroxidase blocking, serum closure, primary antibody and secondary antibody incubation, DAB color development and nuclus restaining. Antibody information was listed as follow: CK19 (1:500 dilution, Servicebio, 11197, Wuhan, China), Heppar-1 (1:500 dilution, ZSGB-BIO, 0131, Shanghai, China), CD34 (1:500 dilution, Abcam, 81289, Cambridge, UK), and Cleaved-caspase 3 (1:200 dilution, Cell Signaling Technology, #9664, Danvers, USA). Quantification of fibrotic areas and microvessel areas was determined by Image J software. Immunoblotting of liver tissues was processed according to the protocols as described previously [26]. Liver tissues were prepared in lysis buffer (2% SDS, 10% glycerol, 10 mM Tris (pH 6.8), and 100 mM DTT) containing Protease and Phosphatase Inhibitor Cocktail (#P002, New cell & molecular, Suzhou, China). Equal amounts of total proteins were separated on 8–12% SDS-PAGE gels, followed by immunoblotting onto the PVDF membranes. Membranes were first incubated with primary antibodies overnight at 4 °C, then incubated with secondary antibodies for 2 h at room temperature. Primary antibodies against PTEN (#9559), pAKT (#4060), AKT (#4691), cleaved-caspase 3 (#9664), JNK (#9252), pSTAT3 (#9131), STAT3 (#9137) were purchased from Cell Signaling Technology, pJNK (131499) was from Abcam, mouse GP73 (customized), GAPDH (AC001) were from Abclonal (Wuhan, China), and human GP73 (66331-1-Ig) was from Proteintech (Rosemont, USA). The detection of protein bands was carried out using LI-COR Odyssey Infrared Scanner. RNA preparation and quantitative Real-Time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) Total RNA was extracted from mouse liver tissues using Trizol (Invitrogen, Waltham, USA) and Ultrapure RNA kit (CWBIO, Taizhou, China), according to the manufacturers' protocols. 1 μg of total RNA was reverse-transcribed using ReverTra Ace® qPCR RT Master Mix with gDNA Remover (TOYOBO, FSQ-301, Osaka, Japan). qRT-PCR was performed on a Bio-Rad IQ5 machine with SYBR Green PCR Master Mix (TransGen Biotech, AQ141, Beijing, China). The procedures of qPCR assay were as follow: 1. 95 ℃ for 3 min; 2. 95 ℃ for 15 s; 3. 60℃ for 1 min + Plate Read; 4. GOTO 2, 40 cycles; 5. Melt Curve 55–95 ℃, increment 0.5 ℃ For 0:10 + Plate Read. GAPDH served as internal control. The primer sequences were listed in Table 2. Biochemical analysis Blood of mice was collected and centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 5 min. Supernatants were collected and sent to the clinical laboratory at Peking Union Medical College Hospital for alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) measurement. Statistical analysis Relative mRNA expression, tumor free, mouse survival, tumor burden and histological results were analyzed by GraphPad Prism 9.0 software. Data were shown as mean ± SD. Tumor free or survival was compared using a log-rank (Mantel-Cox) test. Statistical significance between two groups was subjected to Student's two-tailed t tests. One-way ANOVA was used to determine the difference more than two groups. *p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. PTEN expression is reduced in HBV-related liver cancer To explore the relevance of PTEN in HBV-related liver cancer, the expression of PTEN was checked in 36 pairs of tumors and adjacent tissues of HBV-positive HCC patients. Comparing with adjacent tissues, PTEN expression was decreased in 72.2% (26/36) cancer samples (Fig. 1). Knocking out Pten accelerates HBV-induced liver cancer development We next explored the involvement of PTEN in the progression of HBV-related HCC. Initially, we noticed reduced PTEN and increased pAKT in 4-month-old HBV transgenic mouse livers comparing with wildtype (WT) mouse livers. Suppressed PTEN expression and increased AKT phosphorylation were more prominent in 9-month-old HBV livers (Fig. 2A). Furthermore, PTEN decreased and pAKT increased in 14-month-old HBV transgenic mouse liver tumor compared to adjacent tissues (Fig. 2B). We thus investigated the role of PTEN in HBV-mediated hepatocarcinogenesis. Ptenfl/fl mice were crossed with HBV and Alb-Cre mice to generate HBV; Ptenfl/fl and Alb-Cre; Ptenfl/fl mice. After mating HBV; Ptenfl/fl mice with Alb-Cre; Ptenfl/fl mice, mice with 4 genotypes were generated, including Ptenfl/fl (WT), HBV; Ptenfl/fl (HBV), Alb-Cre; Ptenfl/fl (Pten−/−), and HBV; Alb-Cre; Ptenfl/fl (HBV; Pten−/−) mice (Additional file 1: Fig. S1). At age of 5 months, neither Pten−/− nor HBV mice developed visible liver tumors while small lumps were observed in HBV; Pten−/− mouse livers (Fig. 2C). At 8 months age, all (25/25) of HBV; Pten−/− mice presented multiple macroscopic tumor foci, whereas none of HBV mice and only 8.3% (2/24) Pten−/− mice exhibited visible tumors (Fig. 2C, D). All of (24/24) Pten−/− or (21/21) HBV mice developed tumors by 11 months or 14 months, respectively (Fig. 2D). Comparing with WT, HBV, and Pten−/− mice, the liver weight to body weight ratio was highest in HBV; Pten−/− mice at all indicated time points (p < 0.05, Fig. 2E). A total of 9.85 ± 4.63 tumors were presented in 9-month-old HBV; Pten−/− mice, while only 0.67 ± 1.07 were formed tumors in Pten−/− mice (p < 0.001, Fig. 2F). The maximal tumor sizes were 9.71 ± 4.25 mm in 9-month-old HBV; Pten−/− mice and 1.90 ± 2.25 mm in Pten−/− mice (p < 0.001, Fig. 2G). HBV; Pten−/− mice began to die at the age of 9 months and none of these mice survived beyond 14 months. Only 22% (4/18) of Pten−/− mice and 21% (4/19) of HBV mice died up to 14 months (Fig. 2H). Taken together, Pten deficiency accelerates the initiation and progression of HBV-induced liver cancers and confers these tumor-bearing mice with poor prognosis. Enhanced fibrosis, micro-vessel formation and combined HCC-ICC in HBV; Pten −/− mouse livers To document liver cancer progression in mice, we performed histological analysis of WT, HBV, Pten−/−, and HBV; Pten−/− livers at different stages. Four-month-old HBV; Pten−/− livers were presented with characteristics of bile duct hyperplasia and inflammatory cell infiltration. The pathological difference between HBV; Pten−/− livers and other genotypic livers became wider at the age of 9 months (Fig. 3A). Masson and CD34 staining showed increased liver fibrosis and micro-vessel in HBV; Pten−/− livers (p < 0.001, Fig. 3B, C). Comparing with other three genotypic livers, HBV; Pten−/− livers had higher expression of fibrosis-associated genes Tgfb1 and Ctgf (p < 0.05, Fig. 3D). HCCs and ICCs were more abundant in 9-month-old HBV; Pten−/− mice as tumor samples were positive for hepatocyte paraffin 1 (Heppar-1) (HCC biomarker) and CK19 (ICC biomarker) (Fig. 3E) [34]. Collectively, Pten deletion accelerates the initiation and progression of HCC and ICC in HBV mice. HBV; Pten −/− mice exhibit enhanced hepatocyte injury, apoptosis and inflammation To assess liver injury, ALT and AST were analyzed in the serum of mice with 4 genotypes at the ages of 4 and 9 months. ALT and AST were higher in HBV or Pten−/− mice than in WT mice (p < 0.01, Fig. 4A). The highest levels of ALT and AST were observed in HBV; Pten−/− mice (p < 0.01, Fig. 4A). Augmented Cleaved-caspase 3 and pJNK in 4-month-old HBV; Pten−/− mouse livers indicated increased apoptosis (p < 0.01, Fig. 4B, C). Additionally, elevated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activity and interleukin 6 (IL6) level indicated severer inflammation in HBV; Pten−/− mouse livers (p < 0.001, Fig. 4D, E). Collectively, Pten deficiency boosts liver injury, hepatocyte apoptosis and inflammation in HBV transgenic mice. Removal of GP73 suppresses liver injury, inflammation, and tumor development in HBV; Pten −/− mice To explore the involvement of GP73 in the HCC progression in HBV; Pten−/− mice, we checked the protein expression of GP73 in the mouse livers with different genotypes. GP73 abundance was slightly elevated in HBV or Pten−/− livers and dramatically increased in HBV; Pten−/− livers (Fig. 5A, upper panel). GP73 level was further increased in liver tumors relative to adjacent tissues of 9-month-old HBV; Pten−/− mice (Fig. 5A, lower panel). To determine whether overexpressed GP73 contributes to accelerated tumor development in HBV; Pten−/− mice, global GP73 knockout (Gp73−/−) mice were crossed with HBV; Pten−/− mice to generate HBV; Pten−/− and HBV; Pten−/−; Gp73−/− mice. The liver to body weight ratio of HBV; Pten−/−; Gp73−/− mice was 20% lower than that of HBV; Pten−/− mice (p < 0.01, Fig. 5B). Furthermore, GP73 knockout profoundly reduced the tumor number (HBV; Pten−/− vs HBV; Pten−/−; Gp73−/−: 11 ± 4.23 vs 4.87 ± 3.18) and size (HBV; Pten−/− vs HBV; Pten−/−; Gp73−/−: 10.54 ± 3.73 vs 4.98 ± 2.50) of HBV; Pten−/− mice (p < 0.01, Fig. 5C, D). Thus, knockout of GP73 prevents hepatocarcinogenesis of HBV; Pten−/− mice. To further analyze the role of GP73 in liver tumorigenesis, we examined the molecular and pathologic changes imposed by GP73 knockout in the livers of HBV; Pten−/− mice. Comparing with HBV; Pten−/− livers, decreased cleaved-caspase 3 indicated reduced cell apoptosis in HBV; Pten−/−; Gp73−/− livers (Fig. 5E, F). GP73 knockout also alleviated fibrosis and micro-vessel formation in HBV; Pten−/− livers (Fig. 5F). In addition, liver function was improved in HBV; Pten−/−; Gp73−/− mice (p < 0.01, Fig. 5G). The enhanced STAT3 phosphorylation and augmented IL6 in HBV; Pten−/− livers were reversed by GP73 knockout (p < 0.001, Fig. 5H, I). Our data suggest that GP73 promotes liver cancer through participation of hepatocyte injury, apoptosis and inflammation in HBV; Pten−/− mice. Association between the expression of PTEN and GP73 and the prognosis of HCC patients To seek the clinical relevance of PTEN and GP73 in human liver cancer, we analyzed patient survival and the expression of PTEN and GP73 in liver cancer database from KM Plotter website. We found that reduced PTEN and elevated GP73 associated with poor prognosis of HCC patients (Fig. 6). To investigate the involvement of aberrant PTEN-PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling cascade in HBV-associated liver cancer, we studied cancer development of liver-specific HBV transgenic and Pten deletion mice. HBV transgenic mice developed tumors between 10 and 14 months while hepatic Pten disruption caused tumors between 8 to 11 months. In contrast, HBV; Pten−/− mice developed mixed HCC-ICC between 5 to 8 months. All HBV; Pten−/− mice died between 9 to 14 months, whereas 22% (4/18) of Pten−/− mice died between 12 to 14 months and 21% (4/19) of HBV mice died between 12.5 and 14 months. Boosted GP73 was critical for the accelerated liver tumor formation as removal of GP73 alleviated the tumor burden in HBV; Pten−/− mice. Although prolonged HBV infection is the most frequent etiology in liver cancer, only a small fraction of HBV carriers eventually develop liver cancer after hepatic injury, inflammation, fibrosis and cirrhosis [9]. Additional molecular alterations are thus required for the malignant transformation of HBV infection. Various alterations of proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressors cause malfunction of PTEN-PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in hepatic cancer [15, 16]. PTEN is the second most frequently altered tumor suppressor in human cancers [35]. PTEN expression is reduced in liver cancer which may be due to PTEN genetic mutations, transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation alterations, and protein degradation [36]. Patients with reduced PTEN expression in liver cancer had poor prognosis [17]. Loss of Pten in mouse liver causes HCC around 18.5 months of age [21]. Pten inactivation causes ICC more frequently than HCC [37]. PTEN is a suppressor of AKT activity. AKT pathway alterations were observed in 96.5% of the tumors in HBV transgenic mice [31]. We and others identified that activation of β-catenin, AKT and c-jun are the important contributors of HCC development of HBV transgenic mice [31, 32, 38]. In this study, we found that liver-specific Pten deletion accelerated HBV-mediated liver tumor initiation and progression. In line with the reported findings [29, 30], HBV mice developed infrequent HCC around the age of 14 months. Half of Pten−/− mice developed tumors by the age of 9 months. In contrast, liver tumors emerged at the age of 5 months and became malignant by the age of 8 months in HBV; Pten−/− mice. These tumors exhibited pathologic characteristics of combined HCC-ICC. Compared to WT, HBV or Pten−/− livers, HBV; Pten−/− livers had enhanced apoptosis and severer liver injury. Increased phosphorylation of JNK was observed in HBV; Pten−/− livers. Since JNK activation is a well-known apoptotic inducer in liver [39], it may partly contribute to the enhanced cell death in HBV; Pten−/− livers. HBV; Pten−/− mice not only illuminate the significance of Pten inactivation in HBV-associated liver tumor development but also represent a suitable model to investigate the pathologic and molecular mechanisms for mixed HCC-ICC. Liver injury is usually followed by sustained inflammation and fibrosis. Fibrosis is a major pathological process of liver cancer [40]. IL-6 plays important role in chronic inflammation and has been demonstrated to promote diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced HCC development [41]. IL6 was increased in HBV; Pten−/− livers. STAT3, a downstream target of IL6 [42], was also activated in HBV; Pten−/− livers. Although no significant fibrosis was found in the livers of HBV or Pten−/− mice, HBV; Pten−/− livers had severe fibrosis. Thus, transgenic HBV and Pten deficiency synergistically promote hepatocyte death, liver injury, inflammation and fibrosis. We present here that reduced PTEN and elevated GP73 associated with poor prognosis of HCC patients. GP73 expression is elevated by virus infection [22]. We and others have demonstrated that serum GP73 is a biomarker for liver cancer as its level increases during the progression of HBV infection, hepatic cirrhosis and tumor formation [23,24,25]. We reported that GP73 is an mTOR downstream effector and critical for xenografting HCC development and metastasis in immune-deficient nude mice [26]. GP73 also promotes xenografting HCC metastasis by regulating EGFR/RTK cell-surface recycling [27]. However, these studies were conducted on cellular experiments and xenografting tumors in nude mice. The role of GP73 in orthotropic liver cancer should be studied in immune-competent mice. We presented here that GP73 expression was enhanced in the livers and even higher in hepatic tumors of HBV; Pten−/− mice. To study the involvement of GP73 in HBV-mediated orthotropic liver cancer development in immune-competent mice, we deleted GP73 in HBV; Pten−/− mice. Compared with HBV; Pten−/− mice, HBV; Pten−/−; Gp73−/− mice had smaller and fewer tumor foci, indicating that GP73 is critical for the accelerated liver tumor formation in HBV; Pten−/− mice. In accordance with the important role of GP73 in inflammation, knockout of GP73 reduced hepatocyte apoptosis and liver injury of HBV; Pten−/− mice. Fibrosis was suppressed when GP73 was knocked out in HBV; Pten−/− mice. Activated STAT3 and up-regulated IL6 were inhibited in HBV; Pten−/−; Gp73−/− livers. These results explain why GP73 knockout blunted the synergistic effect of HBV transgene and Pten deficiency in promoting liver tumor initiation and progression. Therefore, potential inhibitors for GP73 expression and/or function such as GP73 antibodies may benefit liver cancer patients [26, 43]. Our study provides the evidence of synergistic effect of HBV transgene and Pten deficiency in promoting mixed HCC-ICC initiation and progression in mice. Knockout of GP73 alleviates liver injury, inflammation and fibrosis, finally resulting in suppression of liver tumor development. HBV; Pten−/− mouse is a good animal model for drug screening of liver cancer with PTEN dysregulation and HBV infection. Since GP73 is a promising target for liver cancer treatment, therapeutic regimens against GP73 should be developed and tested preclinically and clinically. Availability of data and materials The datasets supporting the conclusions of this article are included within the article and its additional files. Hepatitis B virus Hepatocellular carcinoma Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma Hepatitis C virus Phosphatase and tensin homolog Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase Golgi membrane protein 73 Golgi membrane protein 1 Alanine aminotransferase Aspartate aminotransferase - mTOR: Mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase AKT serine/threonine kinase TSC complex subunit 1/2 Epidermal growth factor receptor Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 Interleukin 6 Sung H, Ferlay J, Siegel RL, Laversanne M, Soerjomataram I, Jemal A, Bray F. 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This work was supported by Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences (CIFMS) (2021-1-I2M-018), Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem Innovation Fund (22HHXBSS00012), National Natural Science Foundation of China (81730078, 81872287), Beijing Natural Science Foundation (IS23095) and State Key Laboratory Special Fund (2060204). Author information Authors and Affiliations FH, JG, FL and HZ designed the study and coordinated experiments. FH, JG, FL, NZ, MH, XG, SY, PC, YW, QM, QZ, LL, YJ, DJ, ZH, XZ and HZ performed experiments and analyzed the data. FH, MH, FL and HZ wrote, reviewed and edited the manuscript. YM, HY, and YW provided human tissues. HW provided the described mouse model. All authors reviewed the manuscript. Corresponding authors Ethics declarations Ethics approval and consent to participate All animal studies were performed following the protocols approved by the Animal Center of the Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (ethical code: ACUC-A01-2022-042). Consent for publication Consent to publish has been obtained from all authors. Competing interests The authors declare no competing interests. Additional information Publisher's Note Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations. Supplementary Information Additional file 1: Figure S1. PCR genotyping of mouse tail genomic DNA. 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The Creative Commons Public Domain Dedication waiver (http://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/) applies to the data made available in this article, unless otherwise stated in a credit line to the data. About this article Cite this article Huang, F., Guo, J., Zhao, N. et al. PTEN deficiency potentiates HBV-associated liver cancer development through augmented GP73/GOLM1. J Transl Med 22, 254 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12967-024-04976-4 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12967-024-04976-4
Homeschooling vs Public Schooling: A Comparative Analysis for Parents The decision between "homeschooling vs public schooling" is a crucial one that many parents grapple with. Both options come with their distinctive benefits and challenges, making the choice not as black-and-white as it may initially seem. This comparative analysis will demystify each educational path and aim to provide insights for parents navigating this dilemma. In essence, homeschooling offers flexibility in curriculum design coupled with personalized learning experiences while public schooling presents a structured environment where children can develop social skills through regular interactions. It's essential to carefully weigh these factors against individual child needs before deciding which education model best fits your family situation. Did you know? Did you know that the National Home Education Research Institute reports homeschooling outperforms public schooling by 15 to 30 percentile points across all subjects? Understanding the Differences: Homeschooling vs Public Schooling Homeschooling and public schooling represent two broad approaches to childhood education, each with its unique methods of integrating technology. The ongoing advancements in the digital sphere continue to reshape how teaching and learning takes place in both environments today. In homeschooling, the advent of e-learning platforms has opened up a wealth of resources for parents stepping into the role of educators. These online tools are curated carefully to align with robust academic standards while also catering to individualized learning styles typical within home-school scenarios. One distinct advantage here is that these technological aids allow flexible pacing suitable for kids' natural rhythms – allowing children more time on challenging concepts or skipping ahead when they grasp topics quickly. On the other hand, public schools provide technology-integrated classrooms as standard practice aiming at collaborative group work amongst diverse groups from an early age fostering social skills alongside academia— often critical spaces where students learn essential 21st-century skills such as coding or creating multimedia projects using various tech applications. Despite this benefit though, some argue that large classroom sizes may sometimes dilute personalized attention resulting from mass-paced instruction – an aspect homeschooled children tend not face. Yet irrespective of different methodologies employed by homeschoolers versus traditional school setups; it's apparent that proper integration of technology remains crucial across all spectra's scope: enhancing engagement levels while reinforcing key subjects thereby making them easily relatable and therefore easier understood by young minds overall. Examining Academic Outcomes and Student Performance Analyzing the academic outcomes and student performance in both homeschooling and public schooling sectors is an integral part of examining their differences. The application of technology integration plays a critical role here, especially in this modern age. Based on recent data gathered from various sources last year 2022 showed that homeschooled students tend to outdo their counterparts when it comes down to standardized tests or college entrance exams such as SATs or ACTs – a clear indication that home-based studies have no barriers against achieving sterling results. On the flip side though, these test scores only demonstrate one aspect of academic achievement – knowledge comprehension but not necessarily skills like teamwork or social interaction which are equally vital for growing children who need varied exposure beyond bookish wisdom. Public school systems also deserve credit where its due: they provide vast resources inclusive digital tools which can be accessed by all learners irrespective underprivileged backgrounds– thereby leveling potential inequality gaps among students during this digitized era. Socialization Factors in Home Education Versus Traditional Schools When comparing homeschooling vs public schooling, one of the primary concerns that often comes up is socialization. How do these two environments differ and what potential impact can they have on a child's development? In traditional schools, children are naturally exposed to diverse groups – classmates from different backgrounds, teachers with varied teaching styles and specialties. This environment promotes social skill-building as kids learn how to interact under guided supervision. Homeschooling provides an alternate sphere for interaction. Apart from family members playing pivotal roles in their learning journey, homeschoolers also engage with fellow peers during community activities or co-op classes online – thanks to the technology integration in education which has made interactions easier regardless of physical locations. Despite less conventional school surroundings, research indicates no significant difference between homeschooled students' ability to function socially versus those attending traditional schools. They exhibit confidence while interacting across all ages compared to traditionally schooled counterparts who commonly report fitting into cliques within age-specific groupings only. Curriculum Flexibility and Customization in Homeschooling The world of education has evolved significantly over the years with technology playing a key role in this transformation. One area where its impact is notably evident is Curriculum Flexibility and Customization, especially in homeschooling. Homeschooling offers an unparalleled level of customization when compared to public schooling—thanks largely to advancements in educational technology. Learning no longer confines within standard set textbooks but extends far beyond it through interactive apps, online courses, digital platforms and innovative learning tools catering specifically towards the distinct learning style of each student. In contrast to conventional curriculum delivered via public schools which tends to adopt one-size-fits-all approach; homeschooling leverages tech-integration for creating tailored curricula that suit individual learner's pace, interest as well as strength areas. With artificial intelligence tracking progress real-time plus virtual reality aiding conceptual understanding; home educators are now equipped better than ever before for delivering personalized instruction that maximizes academic potential while ensuring holistic development. Moreover,the modularity offered by edtech solutions facilitates easy adaptability- letting parents or tutors make swift changes based on ongoing assessments thus enabling dynamic course correction throughout academic journey.This kind of agile learning environment mirrors constantly evolving modern workplaces thereby developing requisite skills among students from early age itself. Tailoring Learning to Child's Interests and Pace Tailoring a child's learning to match their interests and pace is one of the key advantages of homeschooling. The flexibility it offers, especially when compared with public schooling systems, paves the way for an education system that suits individual needs. One central aspect parents should keep in mind while considering homeschooling vs public schooling is not just what children learn but how they learn it. It's highly relevant given this era where technology has been ingrained into every facet of our lives including education. With homeschooling, there are greater opportunities for integrating personal interest-led subjects alongside conventional ones. For instance, if your child shows exceptional artistry at a young age or demonstrates curiosity towards coding or robotics – these can be integrated into day-to-day lessons instead of being additional extracurricular activities like in most traditional schools. Another critical factor involves pacing—every child learns differently and flourishes under varied timelines. Homeschooling enables you to present new information at the speed your kid finds comfortable without needless pressure from competitive standardized assessments often found within public school settings. Furthermore, well-chosen edtech applications play pivotal roles here making educational content more engaging while ensuring vital skills learned remain fun-filled experiences; establishing concepts far deeper than mere rote memorization common among students facing exams' stress due largely to rigid structured curriculums typical with regular institutionalized learning models. Adapting Educational Materials for Diverse Learning Needs In the realm of homeschooling vs public schooling, one significant advantage that parents often cherish is curriculum flexibility and customization. As we steer towards a more personalized approach in child education, it becomes imperative to adapt educational materials for diverse learning needs. Homeschooling allows you to curate methods most suitable for your child's unique strengths and weaknesses. This ensures they are not left behind or struggling with concepts difficult for them while proving too easy for peers – a common scenario in public school settings. Technology integration has elevated this facet dramatically. Applications equipped with artificial intelligence now understand each learner's pace and tailor-fit content accordingly. For instance, if your kiddo struggles with multiplication tables but sails smoothly through division puzzles – there's an app customizing its lessons based on these insights! Simultaneously, children who need additional support aren't overlooked as advanced analytics detect problem areas early enough allowing parents/educators ample time to intervene. Moreover, augmented reality (AR) offers immersive experiences making subjects like history or geography come alive right within their study room! Children no longer have to memorize facts about Egypt when they can virtually walk amidst pyramids. On another note- Students fond of outdoors get opportunities harnessing GPS technology guided nature trails keeping science engaging while comprehending photosynthesis hands-on! The power of internet means limitless resources available at fingertips extending from simple video tutorials up-to interactive 3D models simplifying complex topics like cell structure etc almost effortlessly. The Role of Parental Involvement in Education Choices Parental involvement in a child's education has always been an integral part of their academic success. With the advent of technology, this role becomes even more significant as parents grapple with decisions about homeschooling versus public schooling. As we move forward into 2023, the dynamics between these two educational styles are becoming increasingly nuanced thanks to technological advancements that bridge gaps and create opportunities. A parent considering homeschooling now has access to online courses, virtual tutors, digital textbooks and interactive learning platforms that can provide a comprehensive curriculum comparable to what is offered by traditional schools. It enables them to be actively involved in tailoring their children's education according to individual needs while also ensuring they aren't missing out on any key aspects of learning due each subject having state-of-the-art applications designed specifically for home-school students. Meanwhile, public schools have not been left behind in embracing technology integration either. Schools around the world are implementing tools such as smart boards or blended learning methods where half the instruction happens through digital media enhancing engagement levels especially among younger pupils who might find traditional teaching monotonous. The choice between homeschooling and public schooling lies largely with how comfortable parents are adopting new technologies for educating young minds at home compared against sending them off each morning trusting teachers aided by similar tech but inside classrooms within school buildings away from parental watchful eyes during day hours until return. Balancing Responsibilities: Teacher-Parent versus Supportive Guardian Homeschooling vs public schooling has become a rising conversation amongst many parents and educators. As the Role of Parental Involvement in Education Choices continues to evolve, it's important for us to understand how this balance between Teacher-Parent versus Supportive Guardian plays out. When we talk about homeschooling, technology integration comes as a natural progression. It allows parents acting as teachers not only to facilitate their child's learning at home but also makes education more interactive and engaging than ever before. Many online platforms now offer comprehensive curricula that follow national norms while simultaneously providing the flexibility homeschoolers enjoy. On the other hand, there are parents who choose Public Schooling yet want an active role in their children's education – they don't want to be just supportive guardians; they strive for deeper involvement—a collaborative relationship with teachers & school administration. Impact on Family Dynamics: Commitment Required for Home Education The decision between homeschooling vs public schooling often boils down to individual family dynamics and the level of commitment parents can afford towards home education. The integration of technology in education has significantly simplified this process, allowing many families to opt for a mix-and-match approach. Homeschooling requires a strong sense of dedication from both children and parents. They need to ensure time management, discipline, and structured learning alternatively away from traditional classroom environments. Parents now become their child's main educators- thus needing high levels of patience and understanding. In contrast with public school where routines are imposed by external authorities, homeschoolers have increased flexibility when arranging schedules around family needs or preferences. This could be an advantage but also demands self-imposed structure on part of everyone involved which might be more difficult than it seems initially. In the grand scheme of things, choosing between homeschooling vs public schooling is a deeply personal decision. Each has its strengths and unique offerings that cater to different child's needs and parental expectations. What matters most is what fits best with your lifestyle, beliefs, educational goals for your child while considering their personality traits. Remember that no choice is set in stone, and adjustments can be made as you go along this exciting journey of educating children. Feel free to explore our website further for invaluable resources on educating youngsters; we offer ample support material not only for parents but also educators who guide them every day through this critical phase of life.
In its 2020 Future of Jobs Report, the World Economic Forum (WEF) discussed reskilling and upskilling. The WEF projected that by 2025, 50% of global employees would not have the required workplace skills unless there was large-scale upskilling and reskilling now. That report was published three years ago (relative to the time of this article), making 2025 only two years away. Is your workplace ready? This workplace 'revolution' is due to Industry 4.0 (I4.0). In case you are not yet familiar with this term, here is a short explanation quoted from the paper, "Reskilling and Upskilling the Future-ready Workforce for Industry 4.0 and Beyond" by Ling Li: "I4.0 is a virtual reality fusion system based on traditional manufacturing and transformed with cyber-physical systems, the Internet, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), artificial intelligence, machine learning, hyper-converged infrastructure, deep learning, virtualization, and more to create an intelligent production system (Li, 2018, 2020; Xu et al., 2018; Li & Zhou, 2020; Xu et al., 2014)." You can read more about I4.0 in this excellent overview by IBM. In their paper, "Identifying and Assessing the Required I4.0 Skills for Manufacturing Companies' Workforce", Federica Acerbi, Monica Rossi and Sergio Terzi address this very question. Table 2 shows that the skills will vary by job position. There are some common themes though: Yet, the most noteworthy and important takeaway is the fusion aspect (as was mentioned in the explanation of I4.0 above). In other words, there will be a blend of 'old' skills with new ones. Thus, the future of training will need to focus on reskilling and upskilling your current employees. Yes, this is an option. But let's dive deeper into this. People might say: "The new employee will have the skills needed." On paper, yes, but what about in practice? Having a skill is not the same as excelling in one. You can test your potential new hire before signing a contract. However, the full picture of what a worker can do (or not do) often reveals itself only after several months of work. By then you have spent $4000 (on average) to onboard this person. Some might also say: "Our new hire will be productive sooner than a retrained/upskilled worker." But are you sure? Much of today's productivity is based on teamwork. No one can predict how well your new worker will 'learn the ropes' and blend with their teammates. Thus, there is no way of knowing how productive they can be and how long that will take. Your existing employees already fit into your workspace. They are productive now. They already know your company culture and have proven their worth. With microlearning, their reskilling or upskilling happens parallel to their work via online courses accessible 24/7 via their mobile phones and other digital devices. Since many people see training as a big headache, it is tempting to solve the skills issue with new hires. Besides the points mentioned above, here is another: You have no way to know the learning potential of your current workforce until you try to teach them. In addition, the overall benefits of employee training are so important that 76% of workers said: "they are more likely to stay with a company that offers continuous training". Some data put this as high as 94%. And it is not just the workforce which gains. Despite the training costs, your enterprise comes out ahead where it counts: on the balance sheet. But going back to our specific issue of new skills needed. After reskilling and upskilling your current workers, you will be in the best position possible to know how many new hires you really require and in which positions. You will not overspend by taking a chance on people who your company didn't really need. The fusion of old skills with new and the emphasis on starting with your current workforce means you are looking for 'drop-in' training. You are not starting from square 1 but instead building upon an existing base of knowledge and know-how. Your employees need specific, highly-targeting courses rather than broad programs. This is where microlearning shines. Since the future of learning is microlearning, a best practice is to use a Learning Management System (LMS) such as SC Training (formerly EdApp). One main reason is being able to use cool features like the Learner Experience and the Editable Course Library, which can make the process of training more efficient. With this feature, your trainees see only the highly-targeted courses relevant to them. They can access them on their mobiles or other digital devices whenever they have 5 minutes of space. No Internet is required. In addition, the Learner Experience allows peer and social learning for the benefit of collaborative training. Motivation is also part of the Learner Experience. Trainees can see how they are doing, as well as receive notifications and reminders. Obviously, if people at your enterprise already had the needed I4.0 skills you wouldn't need more training. So who is going to write your microlessons? The answer is experts. And they are going to do it for free via the editable courses in your LMS course library. For example, one of the common training themes of I4.0 is Cyber Security. At the moment, there are 3 free SC Training (formerly EdApp) cyber security courses that you can customize as needed with your company's content and branding. Protolabs (which describes itself as "the leading provider of technology-enabled, rapid manufacturing solutions) partnered with Censuswide to find out how many UK businesses are ready for I4.0. The results are worrying. For example: Try SC Training (formerly EdApp)'s microlearning platform and begin reskilling and upskilling your workforce now! Lisa Aharon is a guest author at SC Training (formerly EdApp), offering varied experience as a computer programmer/analyst, technical writer, secretary/bookkeeper, copy editor, creative writer, and English teacher.
2024 World Press Photo Winners Show Why Photojournalism Matters After announcing the regional winners earlier this month, World Press Photo has unveiled its 2024 global winners. Showcasing the biggest news stories in the world, the competition's winners demonstrate the importance of photojournalism and documentary photography and the incredible lengths photographers go to tell vital stories. World Press Photo of the Year Photographer Mohammed Salem with Reuters captured the arresting prize-winning image in Palestine. Captured just days after his wife gave birth, Salem's image shows Inas Abu Maamar, age 36, holding the body of her niece, Saly, five, who was killed along with her mother and sister by an Israeli missile strike near their home in Khan Younis, Gaza. "In the photo, the woman cradles a child in her arms, balanced on her knee. It is an image that resonates, as ancient as human history," writes Rosalba O'Brien for Reuters. "But in a grim inversion of the familiar, we see that the child she holds close is a corpse, wrapped in a shroud. It is a quiet moment of intense grief. The woman wears a headscarf and her head is bowed. We cannot see who she is nor can we learn anything about the child — not even if it is a boy or girl." The World Press Photo competition jury commented that the image, composed with care and respect, shows a metaphorical and literal view of intense and unimaginable loss. Salem also won an award in the World Press Photo contest in 2010 for an image showing white phosphorous bombs exploding over the Gaza Strip. World Press Photo Story of the Year Lee-Ann Olwage's winning photo story looks at dementia and the stigma surrounding it in Madagascar. "This story tackles a universal health issue through the lens of family and care," the contest jury says. "The selection of images are composed with warmth and tenderness reminding viewers of the love and closeness necessary in a time of war and aggression worldwide." In the photo above, "Dada Paul" and his granddaughter, Odilatemix, prepare for church. Dada Paul has lived with dementia for over a decade and is cared for by his daughter, Fara. "Valim-babena," the title of Olwage's series, refers to the idea of gratitude owed to one's parents. It reflects the sentiment that a person is shaped by their parents and that the direction of care goes both ways. For many in Madagascar, dementia remains an ignored or misunderstood condition. There are societal hurdles to clear, and Olwage hopes to help put a face to the disease and help people overcome ideas of dementia and Alzheimer's as the result of witchcraft or demonic possession. World Press Photo Long-Term Project Award Much like Olwage's winning images are part of a larger series, Alejandro Cegarra's photo project has been years in the making. Since 2019, Mexico's immigration policies have experienced a seismic shift and transformed the nation from generally friendly to migrants and asylum seekers to a country with stringent immigration policies. Inspired by his own experience emigrating from Venezuela to Mexico in 2017, Cegarra's project, started in 2018, examines the people affected by Mexico's changing immigration policies. World Press Photo Open Format Award Julia Kochetova has won this year's Open Format Award for her clever multi-media look at the war in Ukraine. Peace is not on the horizon in Ukraine as the nation fights off the ongoing Russian invasion. Through photos, illustrations, poetry, audio clips, and music, Kochetova examines the people impacted by the war in Ukraine. Although from the outside, the war can seem like two armies battling each other, Kochetova shows that the Ukrainian resistance is comprised of individuals—people with lives, families, hopes, and so much more. About the World Press Photo Contest The winning photographs featured above were selected from 61,062 entries by 3,851 photographers from 130 countries. The global winners were picked from the 24 regional winners unveiled earlier this month. The awarded stories will be exhibited in more than 60 locations worldwide. "Each of these winning photographers is intimately and personally familiar with their topics. This helps them bring a deeper understanding to the rest of us, which hopefully leads to empathy and compassion. I am thankful for their dedication, courage, professionalism and skill," explains the World Press Photo's executive director, Joumana El Zein Khoury. "The work of press and documentary photographers around the world is often done at high risk. This past year, the death toll in Gaza pushed the number of journalists killed to a near-record high. It is important to recognize the trauma they have experienced to show the world the humanitarian impact of the war." On that note, World Press Photo also mentions that more than 75% of the 99 journalists and media workers who died last year in the line of duty were killed in the Israel-Gaza war, which only started in October. Per the Committee to Protect Journalists, it is one of the deadliest conflicts for journalists on record. So far this year, 95 journalists and media workers have been killed in the conflict. Of these, 90 are Palestinian, two are Israeli, and three are Lebanese. "Work, for a news photographer, can be a dangerous place. Unlike other journalists, news photographers must be where the story is happening — which might be a war zone, a humanitarian disaster, or somewhere free and open media is not welcomed. Our regional model also brings us increasingly into contact with photographers who both work and live in places that are dangerous for journalists. Many are without proper support. We work alongside other press freedom organizations to help improve this," explains World Press Photo. "All of the winning images have such power to convey a specific moment, while also resonating beyond their own subject and time. This is what we were hoping to find. Our Photo of the Year truly encapsulates this sense of impact; it is incredibly moving to view and at the same time an argument for peace, which is extremely powerful when peace can sometimes feel like an unlikely fantasy," adds global jury chair, Fiona Shields, head of photography at The Guardian. "Many photographers are currently working in really challenging and almost unimaginable circumstances, so this year we wanted to ensure that we were applauding the complete breadth of work submitted." All the awarded photos are available on the World Press Photo website. Image credits: World Press Photo / Individual photographers are credited in the image captions.
Since weights farther from the middle apply a greater torque, it was thought that the wheel would rotate forever. Nonetheless, for the reason that side with weights further from the center has fewer weights than the opposite aspect, at that second, the torque is balanced and perpetual movement isn't achieved. The transferring weights may be hammers on pivoted arms, or rolling balls, or mercury in tubes; the principle is identical. One other theoretical machine involves a frictionless environment for movement. This involves using diamagnetic or electromagnetic levitation to float an object. This is completed in a vacuum to get rid of air friction and friction from an axle. The levitated object is then free to rotate around its center of gravity without interference. Quetzal are half-bird, half-human beings dwelling within the Quetzal Forest. They've wings as well as arms, and beaks as a substitute of mouths, and are available quite a lot of colours. They hatch from brightly coloured eggs in treetop nests, and although colourless eggs are typically laid, they are thought of by the mothers to be unlucky and are rolled out of the nest. Quetzal naturally flock collectively in groups, and all quetzal share entry to a collective Memoryplace, to which every quetzal can add. By accessing the Memoryplace utilizing yellow flowers, it is feasible for humans to study both the past and the possible futures of the world. Because of the excessive accuracy of the Memoryplace, quetzal are natural mimics. They can't usually communicate human languages besides whereas mimicking, but underneath Frazhin's management Evening Plume and his flock learned to talk, as well as how to supply bows and arrows fletched with their own feathers. The condition during which a person have problem to manage regular respiratory is a condition of Asthma. There are wide ranges of due which Asthma triggers some of mud, fur of pets etc. Due to those irritations body is to release histamine, which tapered the nostrils. To enhance the signal of Asthma Assault a course of drug is required to complete. To assist a sufferer an individual can go for a small training on the cure of asthma by following a set of rules. What Happens During an Assault? A person might get suffer within the respiration if the symptoms of the Asthma Assault is not going to be observed. The passage of air by way of nostrils to lungs gets irritated and cause to swellings or contraction. Due this reason a person affected by Asthma feels issue in respiration. The most commonly used non-linear method of analysing coronary heart rate variability is the Poincaré plot. Every information point represents a pair of successive beats, the x-axis is the present RR interval, whereas the y-axis is the earlier RR interval. HRV is quantified by fitting mathematically outlined geometric shapes to the information. It is usually possible to symbolize lengthy range correlations geometrically. Sequences of RR intervals have been found to have lengthy-term correlations. Nonetheless, one flaw with these analyses is their lack of goodness-of-fit statistics, i.e. values are derived that will or might not have ample statistical rigor. Several types of correlations have been found during totally different sleep stages. HR differences when comparing HRV in multiple circumstances. Nonetheless, the exact HRV(HR) relationship is still a matter of debate. For time area parameters (RMSSD, SDNN, and so forth.) the results imply that, if there exists a universal perform, it needs to be both exponential or hyperbolic in nature. The analysis procedures used to determine HRV(HR) operate have not allowed to resolve between these choices, to this point. Unfavorable feelings resembling worry, anxiety, anger, stress, and pain could delay gastric emptying, lower intestinal and colonic transit time, and induce defecation and diarrhea. Because FGIDs are known to be multifactorial with exterior stressors and environmental elements enjoying a task in their improvement, current analysis demonstrates that psychological therapies may be efficient in relieving some signs of the illness. Interventions corresponding to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), hypnotherapy, and biofeedback-assisted relaxation training (BART) every show promise in symptom reduction. Each of those therapies goals to alter an individual's thought patterns and behaviors while bettering self-efficacy, which all work together to enhance well being outcomes. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a therapy based on the speculation that considering impacts one's feelings and behaviors. As such, alterations in a single's thought course of can have a constructive or unfavourable affect on actions and perceptions. The staff received the second place, and all their services deployed on their Immunix stack were by no means compromised. It was also the primary 12 months the competition had an organiser-provided companies infrastructure linked to an actual-time scoreboard. In 2003, the game had change into so popular that a qualification spherical was introduced, with the earlier winner routinely certified. In 2008, the Sk3wl of Root staff took advantage of a bug in the game (privilege dropping and forking were inverted), permitting them to have such an enormous lead that they spent many of the CTF enjoying Guitar Hero. It was revealed at the tip of the sport that the team taking part in as sk3wl0fr00t was the truth is organising the CTF! "Hacking the top hacker contest appeared like a fun solution to introduce ourselves to CTF group. The yells of "bullshit" from CTF groups during the Defcon 17 awards ceremony have been very gratifying." stated vulc@n, a member of DDTEK, on the topic. Electrotherapy is the use of electrical power as a medical therapy. In medicine, the term electrotherapy can apply to a wide range of remedies, including using electrical gadgets corresponding to deep brain stimulators for neurological illness. The term has also been utilized particularly to the usage of electric current to speed wound healing. Moreover, the term "electrotherapy" or "electromagnetic therapy" has additionally been utilized to a spread of other medical devices and treatments. Among the remedy effectiveness mechanisms are little understood, with effectiveness and finest practices for his or her use still anecdotal. Generally, there is little evidence that electrotherapy is effective within the management of musculoskeletal situations. A 2016 review discovered that, "in evidence of no effectiveness," clinicians should not provide electrotherapy for the treatment of neck pain or associated disorders. One in all the principle methods of removing thallium (each radioactive and stable) from people is to use Prussian blue, a cloth which absorbs thallium. Up to 20 grams per day of Prussian blue is fed by mouth to the patient, and it passes by their digestive system and comes out in their stool. Hemodialysis and hemoperfusion are also used to take away thallium from the blood serum. At later levels of the remedy, extra potassium is used to mobilize thallium from the tissues. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), artificially-made sources of thallium pollution embody gaseous emission of cement factories, coal-burning power plants, and steel sewers. Nevertheless, the machine rejects him and knocks him unconscious. Sam finds Olivia at the hospital with Peter and asks her to belief him. Meanwhile, Fauxlivia resolves to avoid wasting each worlds by making an attempt to carry Peter back to convince the Secretary to stop the machine. She is prevented from getting into the prime universe and imprisoned. Following the persevering with disintegration of the prime universe, the Fringe workforce races to stop the destruction of their world. FBI agent Olivia Dunham recruits Sam Weiss for help while Peter recovers from touching the doomsday machine within the previous episode. Peter is eventually able to reinsert himself into the machine, inflicting him to get up fifteen years in the future. Peter, who has entered the prime model of the machine with Olivia's help, experiences a vision of the long run the place the parallel universe has been destroyed and chest vibration therapy machine the same threatens the prime one. He opts instead to merge the 2 machine rooms, creating a bridge the place inhabitants of both universes can clear up their dilemma, before disappearing and being forgotten by both Walters and Olivias. Hoffman, realizing of Amanda's involvement in Jill's miscarriage, blackmailed Amanda into killing Lynn via the letter he left for her in Noticed IV (read by her in Noticed III). Within the letter, Hoffman told Amanda he would inform John of Amanda's oblique role in the incident. Feeling the strain to not disappoint her mentor, Amanda complied with Hoffman's threats and shot Lynn. This resulted in Amanda's failure to pass the ultimate check John had set for her and thus her demise. Though Amanda does not seem in the eighth movie, Jigsaw, it's revealed that John was assisted by Logan Nelson in making ready the "reverse bear lure" for the game that she survived in the primary movie. Because of this, there have been normal WST values indicating regular water quality in the identical sites. A research of water use utilizing the CityWat-SemiDistributed (CWSD) system analyzed how the lockdown throughout COVID-19 affected the water supply in England. Will increase in family water consumption have been attributed to elevated use of appliances and preventative measures similar to hand washing during lockdowns. A lower in activity exterior healing with energy medicine of the house was associated with a 35% increase in water use. As in different international locations, England saw a lower in transportation, such as each day commuting, in massive cities, the results of which was a change in pollution concentration zones. Moreover, the rivers in London became less polluted, but water quality grew to become worse near peoples' households. Dean German spearheaded the effort to safe these scholarships, having herself acquired the same scholarship at Harvard Medical School. The new faculty obtained over 4,300 applications, including no less than one with an ideal MCAT score, making it essentially the most selective medical college within the United States at that time. The UCF School of Medicine announced February 11, 2013, that it had received full accreditation from the LCME. On Might 17, 2013, 36 college students in the School of Drugs Charter Class graduated with their medical degrees. UCF's School of Medication is situated on the University's Well being Sciences Campus within the Lake Nona neighborhood of Orlando. The 50 acre (0.2 km2) campus is located on the eastern edge of Orlando, about 30 minutes from UCF's primary campus. The Medical Metropolis additionally at the moment serves as a home to UCF's Burnett Biomedical Sciences Building, Nemours Children's Hospital, University of Florida Tutorial and Research Middle, and the Orlando Veterans Affairs Medical Middle (VA). Superior students (from shodan and above) research the three long kata from which the essential kata had been derived. At the very best stage there may be a longer kata (identified colloquially as "Go Down Moses") through which all 3 kata are mixed right into a single kind. The Shintaido karate curriculum is predicated on a cut down version of the shotokai karate curriculum, which is the varsity run by Egami sensei at the time Shintaido was created. The examine of karate is supposed to complement the study of Shintaido itself, and is most often taken up by Shintaido college students of a few years experience who wish to study the history and origins of Shintaido motion. Learners examine two taikyoku (太極) and two heian (平安) katas (every is offered in sho & dai kinds) as well as variety of strikes, kicks and kumite arrangements. Advanced students (from shodan and above) examine a variety of traditional karate kata, culminating in a revisiting of the unique taikyoku kata at the highest degree. Quite a few different essential texts contain sections or chapters on facets of structure and design. The Silpa Prakasa of Odisha, authored by Ramachandra Bhattaraka Kaulachara someday in ninth or tenth century CE, is one other Vāstu Śastra. Silpa Prakasa describes the geometric ideas in every aspect of the temple and symbolism comparable to 16 emotions of human beings carved as sixteen forms of female figures. These types had been perfected in Hindu temples prevalent in the jap states of India. Different historical texts discovered develop these architectural principles, suggesting that totally different elements of India developed, invented and added their own interpretations. For instance, in Saurastra tradition of temple building present in western states of India, the feminine form, expressions and feelings are depicted in 32 varieties of Nataka-stri compared to sixteen sorts described in Silpa Prakasa. Silpa Prakasa supplies brief introduction to 12 types of Hindu temples. Sanskrit texts for temple construction discovered in Rajasthan, in northwestern region of India, include Sutradhara Mandana's Prasadamandana (actually, planning and constructing a temple) with chapters on town building. In addition they confirmed greater well being and temper which additionally declined more slowly than the earlier group over time. It is usually famous that these lengthy-time period benefits have been almost certainly obtained because the remedy was not directed towards one single conduct or stimulus condition. Elderly-friendly inside design performs a vital role in promoting independence among the elderly. The integration of Internet of Issues (IoT) in sensible properties supplies a distant monitoring system to keep monitor of the every day activities of the elderly. Thus adults can reside on their own confidently understanding that a feedback alarm can be sent to their caregivers immediately in case of an emergency. This not solely permits the aging inhabitants to take care of their independence and confidenc, but in addition brings peace of thoughts to their mates and household. Cash was raised by way of benefit concerts and the discharge of a CD, Candy Relief: A Profit for Victoria Williams, featuring artists like Lou Reed and Pearl Jam. A second CD titled Candy Relief II: Gravity of the Situation was released in 1996. All the proceeds went toward Candy Relief Musicians Fund to aid the group. A variety of different rock artists volunteered their time to carry out quite a lot of songs from Vic Chesnutt. Some well-known artists including Garbage, R.E.M., Hootie and the Blowfish, The Smashing Pumpkins, Joe Henry and Madonna performed for the CD. The applicant should be a musician who has common public performances, or performed on a minimum of three broadly launched recordings (audio or audiovisual), or written music that has been performed on three broadly launched recordings, or revealed on three occasions. The applicant should demonstrate monetary want. This voltage has two functions: first, it supplies a energy source for an assortment of voltage-dependent protein equipment that is embedded within the membrane; second, it supplies a foundation for electrical signal transmission between totally different parts of the membrane. Numerous microscopic clumps known as Nissl our bodies (or Nissl substance) are seen when nerve cell our bodies are stained with a basophilic ("base-loving") dye. These constructions consist of rough endoplasmic reticulum and associated ribosomal RNA. Named after German psychiatrist and neuropathologist Franz Nissl (1860-1919), they're concerned in protein synthesis and their prominence might be explained by the fact that nerve cells are very metabolically lively. The cell body of a neuron is supported by a posh mesh of structural proteins referred to as neurofilaments, which together with neurotubules (neuronal microtubules) are assembled into bigger neurofibrils. Some neurons additionally contain pigment granules, reminiscent of neuromelanin (a brownish-black pigment that's byproduct of synthesis of catecholamines), and lipofuscin (a yellowish-brown pigment), each of which accumulate with age. Three Specific Examples of Laser Remedy Which Produces Nice Results. In a world which is surrounded by quite a lot of obstacles and obstacles to self-esteem and confidence, it is crucial that plainly the packages and vanity and confidence. Skin infections and blemishes, referred to as acne vulgaris is a large let down on this perspective and will require therapy for mild to extreme therapy options, as the laser remedy of acne marks. Acne vulgaris is a extreme pores and skin infection that usually occurs in adolescence, and generally the age of twenty. It mostly impacts the sebaceous glands of the skin areas. Self-confidence is a huge facet of the present time, and generally, sufferers will feel rather a lot like they Missed others about what they suppose. The German-born British physicist Arthur Schuster expanded upon Crookes's experiments by putting steel plates parallel to the cathode rays and applying an electric potential between the plates. The sector deflected the rays toward the positively charged plate, offering additional evidence that the rays carried damaging charge. Should you adored this article and also you wish to be given details relating to Alsuprun.Com kindly visit our own internet site. Nonetheless, this produced a value that was more than a thousand occasions higher than what was expected, so little credence was given to his calculations on the time. It is because it was assumed that the charge carriers had been much heavier hydrogen or nitrogen atoms. Schuster's estimates would subsequently grow to be largely correct. In 1892 Hendrik Lorentz advised that the mass of those particles (electrons) could be a consequence of their electric charge. Whereas learning naturally fluorescing minerals in 1896, the French physicist Henri Becquerel found that they emitted radiation with none publicity to an external power source. These radioactive materials turned the topic of much interest by scientists, together with the brand new Zealand physicist Ernest Rutherford who discovered they emitted particles.
Ruston Personal Injury Lawyer Accidents happen in a number of ways in Ruston, and throughout Louisiana. People sustain many different injuries when they are in an accident, including severe burns, broken bones, and traumatic head injuries, to name just a few. As a person recovers from an accident, they incur high medical bills, lost income when they cannot return to work right away, and other losses. If someone else caused an accident and you became injured, you should not be responsible for paying for your losses. Personal injury law allows you to file a claim against the liable party to obtain compensation for your injuries and other harm you sustained. Our Ruston personal injury lawyer can help you recover the full settlement you deserve. Car Accidents Car accidents are the most common type of personal injury claim filed in the state. Car crashes throughout Louisiana are governed by tort law, which means you must file your claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company. When doing so, you will also have to prove the other driver caused the accident, and you must also negotiate with the insurer for a fair settlement. Bicycle Accidents Cycling is a great way to get around Ruston. It provides a great form of exercise, and is an environmentally-friendly mode of transportation. Unfortunately, cyclists are at great risk when they are on the roads. Drivers do not watch for them as carefully as they watch for other types of vehicles. Bicycles are also much smaller than passenger cars and so, they can be more difficult to spot. Dog Bites Dogs are known as man's best friend, but that is not always the case. Dogs are unpredictable and they sometimes bite and attack without provocation. When they do, there are times when the owner of the animal can be held liable. In most cases, dog owners are strictly liable when their animal bites someone. This means accident victims do not have to prove the owner was negligent. The only two exceptions to this are when the victim provoked the animal first, or when the owner would not have been able to prevent the injuries. Truck Accidents Truck accidents are very different from other crashes on the road. Multiple parties can be held liable for a crash involving a commercial truck, injuries are more severe after a truck accident, and federal as well as state law will apply. Wrongful Death In the most tragic of cases, accidents are so severe that victims do not survive them. Wrongful death is defined as the death of any person resulting from another person's negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions. After a wrongful death, certain family members can file a wrongful death claim to obtain compensation for their losses related to the death. Call Our Personal Injury Lawyer in Ruston After an Accident Regardless of the type of accident you have been in, our Ruston personal injury lawyer at Rice & Kendig, LLC, can help. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our attorney and to get the legal help you need.
My hands are chapped, my fingernails are broken and my pointer finger is bleeding. Still though, I squeeze hard on the handwarmers buried deep in my down jacket. Northern New Mexico is proving to be an inhospitable place in early October. Attempting to find respite from the cold, I stand under a ponderosa pine with my fellow Southwest Studies group members. We are at the start of a hike through Valles Caldera. I still haven't digested the icy orange juice or hash browns, a special treat for Valiha's birthday. We ate in a hurry as we stood shivering in merciless wind this morning. As Georgia would say, "I can't be arsed" to do the hike. I miss the heat of the bus. Reluctantly, I trudge slowly along the trail, following the river. I can't relate to the wonderstruck awe of some of my group members, mostly the ones from tropical places who have never seen snow. Just a few months ago I hiked in the same valley with my sister and we enjoyed a picnic lunch on the bank of the river. The landscape is unrecognizable now. My feet slide on the wet granite and I link arms with Celeste for all five of the bridge crossings. At the end of the hike we arrive at a lookout spot and share a snack of sesame sticks and almonds. During the evening, after a dip in the hot springs and a dinner of bean burritos, our group huddles under a cluster of pinons. We are camped on a mesa. The view of the moon is unrivaled. She hangs wan and slender. She reminds me to loosen my grip of all the things I can't hold. She reminds me of the persistence of change. This year, like all years, I cling in vain to summer. I cling to the calls of cicadas, slow Sunday mornings, and the blessing of opulent sunlight against my skin. The moon pries my fingers from this, folds my fist around a mug of echinacea tea. When our plates are cleaned, we grow silent. And then, in the dark, a candle lit cake emerges, carried by one of the leaders. Valiha's face glows as she blows out the flames. We all help suck the frosting off of the eighteen candles. She asks us to give her a present: to take each other's hands. We do. Then, she says a prayer: "Thank you God for the burritos we had tonight- those were tasty. Thank you God for these amazing people here with me. Thank you God for the abundance you provide." We voice a collective "amen." Although I'm not acquainted with the God that Valiha prays to, I resonate with her prayer. We all do. In the night, swaddled in eight layers, tucked into a zero degree sleeping bag, I sleep soundly next to three girls I'm so grateful to have gotten closer to over the course of the week. From the surrounding tents people call out goodnights and iloveyous and see you in the mornings. Category: Student Blog Reflections on the South African Flag The following comments were shared with the UWC-USA community as part of the 2021 Welcome Dinner. Lwandile reflected on what the South African flag means. The South African flag is bright, bold, and certainly stands out. One of the most colorful flags in the world, the South African flag uses large shapes and vivid hues to share the story of the country: a story of freedom, unity and ubuntu(or rather compassion and humanity). The end of the Apartheid era marked a new beginning for South Africa. Choosing a new national flag was part of the negotiation process set in motion when freedom fighter Nelson Mandela was released from prison in 1990. The proclamation of the new flag would reflect the dawn of a new democratic era in South Africa. The significance of a flag resides in the value that humans give to it. When talking about the South African flag, the emotional meaning is very important. In order to understand how important the south African flag is for south Africa, we first need to know in which context it was approved. The flag was raised for the first time on the 26th of April 1994, the day in which the democratic elections were celebrated without racial discrimination. But let's go back a few years. South Africa proclaimed its independence from the United Kingdom in May 1961, but that did not mean the end of Apartheid. Apartheid is the name given to the segregation policy established in South africa in 1948 by the National Party (NP) and which the National African Congress (ANC) and the PAC (Pan-African Congress) demonstrated against. When the South African Republic was proclaimed, the country left the Commonwealth, but this did not mean the end of white domination nor the abolishment of the Apartheid regime. ANC and PAC leaders started their fight in favour of black people's rights and in 1963, two years after the proclamation of independence, 17 members of the ANC (including Nelson Mandela), were arrested and judged for treason. A year later, Mandela and other seven colleagues were sentenced to life imprisonment. From then onwards, the years of the greatest repression of the black population began. However, in the 80s internal changes occurred in the country (ranging from social movements and passive resistance to guerrilla warfare) and this, coupled with international pressure, changed the mood in the country. In 1986, president Botha of the NP announced that the South African parliament would "leave Apartheid behind them." Three years later, in 1989, Botha was succeeded by F.W de Klerk, who in his inaugural speech announced that he would revoke all discriminatory laws, and he would legalize the ANC, PAC and the Communist Party. In the same year, on the 11th of February 1990, after having been in prison for 27 years, Nelson Mandela was released. A contest was held to choose the South African flag on the occasion of Mandela's release. Nevertheless, none of the 7,000 models presented convinced the national Commission of symbols; and this is why a design from a proposal by Frederick G. Brownwell was finally chosen. His version of the flag was so well received that the interim version was made the final, national flag in the South African Constitution. Given the troubled historical context, it is remarkable that a consensual replacement for the former national flags was found. The new flag was seen as an enduring symbol of the modern South African state. While officially there is no symbolism to the colors, some thoughts are that the red, white, and blue come from the British and Dutch colonial flags, and the black, gold, and green are from the colors found in the flags of liberation groups, including Nelson Mandela's ANC (African National Congress) party. But what does the flag mean to me and to my people? What does it represent? The black isosceles triangle represents for me, the determination of Black people to thrive and triumph in troubling times, blue, representing truth and loyalty, red, the bloodshed during wars; bravery and strength, green, representing fertility of the land; love, hope, and joy for the land, yellow, appreciating the mineral wealth that is below the soil in which we reside and finally white, representing peace and honesty. The only concrete symbolism in the flag is the V or Y shape, which can be interpreted as "the convergence of diverse elements within South African society, taking the road ahead in unity". But are we really in unity? Although the flag represents important and powerful parts of my heritage and country, and although it represents a new era, post-apartheid, and is seen as a symbol of democracy and equity, it does not acknowledge the tremendous amount of work needing to be done. Because of the country's further decline in economic, political, and social change, the flag sometimes reminds me of and represents the apartheid ideologies. With the end of apartheid in 1994 the people of South Africa anticipated profound social and economic change. Yet twenty-six years later, much of the population lacks access to proper medical care and education. Despite improved access to clean water, housing, and roads, many South Africans feel that too little has changed since the apartheid era. The "rainbow nation," in most cases, represented by this very flag, is still racially divided in its electoral behavior, and the income gap between black people and white people is greater than it was in 1994. Leading political figures in the current ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC), are often accused of corruption. New political groups are calling for the nationalization and expropriation of land and resources from the white minority. Nevertheless, the constitution enshrines the rule of law, and has popular support across all racial divides. And so my question is, are the laws and institutions in place since 1994 strong enough to preserve democracy and the rule of law when the pace of social and economic change remains slow? Am I to be proud of the flag that I carry today? UWC is a great place to start asking these questions. The Welcome Ceremony is an opportunity for us not only to praise, celebrate, and acknowledge our cultures and nationalities together, but to also start or initiate these conversations that help us bring ourselves closer to our identities and who we truly are. These are the moments that are available for us to recognize the truth of where we come from, positive or not, and create a foundation for reconciliation amongst our different countries, within our own countries, and amongst ourselves. Shrin Ebadi: Battling for Rights In a series titled Nobel Perspective, UWC-USA students and recent alumni reflect on the Nobel Acceptance Speeches of past Nobel Peace Prize winners. They explore how the Nobel Laureate's view of the world matches events that unfolded since the prize was awarded and what still holds true for the UWC-USA community as it seeks to encourage students and alumni to be advocates for peace. Shrin Ebadi, who received the 2003 Nobel Peace Prize, declared that the honor would inspire women across the Muslim world to fight for equality in oppressive and patriarchal societies. The prize was awarded "for her efforts for democracy and human rights" in Iran and her "struggle for the rights of women and children." Born in 1947, Ebadi trained as a lawyer and received her master's from Tehran University before becoming the first female judge in Iran in 1969. Following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, she was dismissed from her role and assigned clerical positions because women were deemed unsuitable to serve as judges by the new leaders of Iran. Although Ebadi was given a higher role within the department of justice after she and other female judges protested this action by the regime, she was still not allowed to serve as a judge. In 1992 she obtained her lawyer's license and set up her own practice after years of struggle because the regime initially denied her license due to her gender and previous role under the Shah's rule. Since then, Ebadi has represented various high-profile cases involving the families of political victims, journalists, and child custody matters. In her 2003 Nobel Acceptance Speech, she claimed that "women constitute half of the population of every country. To disregard women and bar them from active participation in political, social, economic, and cultural life would in fact be tantamount to depriving the entire population of every society of half its capability. The patriarchal culture and the discrimination against women, particularly in the Islamic countries, cannot continue for ever." Although Ebadi did not make a prediction that almost 20 years later the situation for women would have become better, one cannot say that there has been a lot of progress either, especially in Islamic countries. Indeed the state crackdown on civil society, imprisonment of activists, internet and social media censorship, and the restrictions on operation of organizations are all obstacles to the women's rights movements in Iran and most other Islamic countries. However, the main obstacle is the discriminatory and patriarchal constitution in the Islamic Republic of Iran causing institutionalized discrimination for women and other marginalized groups. Therefore, as long as the constitution does not change, the rights for women in Iran will remain the same. At the same time as she questions her own country's human right treatments, she also boldly points out the hypocrisy of the nations who are founders and proponents of the rights that she is advocating for. "The concerns of human rights' advocates increase when they observe that international human rights laws are breached not only by their recognized opponents under the pretext of cultural relativity, but that these principles are also violated in Western democracies, in other words countries which were themselves among the initial codifiers of the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights," Ebadi said. Her criticism of the treatment of human rights in western states remains as relevant today. Recently, the EU court ruled that employers have the right to prohibit the wearing of "any visible form of expression of political, philosophical, or religious beliefs in the workplace." This decision was based on cases brought by two Muslim women in Germany who lost their jobs because of their religious beliefs of wearing a headscarf. This decision makes it more possible to continue to exclude Muslim women and other religious minorities from jobs in Europe. Ebadi said discrimination against women in the social, cultural, or political arena "has its roots in the patriarchal and male-dominated culture prevailing in these societies, not in Islam." It's not only Iran and other Muslim countries that have a patriarchal and male dominated prevailing culture; it's the rest of the world. By comparison, many western countries are advancing women's rights more effectively. But the comparison does not mean their work is completed. Everyone is responsible for protecting human rights, and in her speech, Ebadi reminds us that it's important to acknowledge fallacies and hypocrisies in 21st century politics across the world. At the United World College, we have a chance to acknowledge these weaknesses by having honest conversations with the cross-cultural student body. Recognizing and unwrapping these issues is the first step towards improving them. However, we all need to take the next step, which is committing to include and encourage everyone. Although we don't always get it right, I know from my experience at UWC that when everyone is encouraged to do more and be more — regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, or any other perceived differences — we are able to achieve great things as a society. By teaching people to include and encourage, we can start working towards a more equal culture. Parnian Ghaemi is from Sweden and Iran. She graduated from United World College-USA in Montezuma, N.M., this spring and will be studying political science and economics at Trinity College in Connecticut. At UWC she has particularly benefited from exposure to new ideas and diversity. She particularly enjoyed the lifelong cross-cultural friendships with students and teachers. Willy Brandt: A Power Fully in the Service of Peace In a series titled Nobel Perspective, UWC-USA students and recent alumni reflect on the Nobel Acceptance Speeches of past Nobel Peace Prize winners. They explore how the Nobel Laureate's view of the world matches events that unfolded since the prize was awarded and what still holds true for the UWC-USA community as it seeks to encourage students and alumni to be advocates for peace. In the Cold War, words exchanged between powerful politicians could change the entire world's fate in just minutes. But, what if words were used for the better, in peaceful dialogue rather than furious verbal confrontations? Willy Brandt, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1971 for "paving the way for a meaningful dialogue between East and West," pursued the policy of "change through rapprochement" and aimed to secure peace with his "new Ostpolitik." Brandt became chancellor of West Germany in 1969, and the career that preceded this office impressed people and politicians alike. Born in 1913 as the illegitimate child of a humble working-class family, his path took him from resistance against Nazism to a major contribution to the post-war political reconstruction and democratization of Germany. Brandt became an important — many would say iconic — figure in the Social Democratic Party, for which he became mayor of West Berlin, foreign minister, and chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany. He achieved meaningful steps towards reconciliation between East and West, and particularly between the two Germanies. This was not only significant in the context of the Cold War and the policy of détente, but also in the daily lives of Germans in Berlin. In his 1971 Nobel Lecture, Brandt outlined his perspective on Europe's role in peacekeeping around the world, and most importantly, his vision of foreign policy as peace policy. He made the promotion of meaningful, constructive dialogue between government and people of sharply distinct ideologies a fundamental aspect of his legacy. Brandt wanted to make his country "a power fully in the service of peace" and focused his efforts as a politician on "the transition from classical power politics to earnest peace policy." While his efforts were arguably crucial in maintaining stability and avoiding confrontation in the East-West relationship, his vision of a new, peaceful Europe, in which co-existence between East and West would be possible, eventually proved to be enabled through the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. This collapse was triggered by the military and economic superiority of the rival West, which is very much the contrary of what Brandt had envisioned to be the driving force behind the transformation of the European continent that he anticipated. Instead of continued rapprochement and détente beyond his administration, new crises evolved, setting the change for the pursuit of "classical power politics." His beliefs in peaceful dialogue and "new Ostpolitik" were ultimately not the determinative factor that led to a new Europe and the end of the Cold War. However, Brandt's vision and his actions cannot be described as unsuccessful. They might not have achieved their aims, but they left behind faith and hope in his so-called small-step policy. In 1971, Brandt said "small steps are better than no steps at all," and while he held bold, idealistic beliefs in a version of peace policy that consists of "dialogue rather than monologue," the restoration of trust, and the absence of violence, he recognized that the vision of a peaceful world is unlikely to be achieved in individual large steps. Rather, he trusted in a series of small-scale actions, which might sometimes feel meaningless to their performer, but which, in his view, were essential to the achievement of larger-scale change. With this policy guiding him, Brandt impacted lives, including Germans who could see their families on the other side of the wall over Christmas in 1963 and laid the foundation for the reunification of the two Germanies in 1990. His confidence in a small-step policy thus proved to have a meaningful impact on his career, German political history, and the lives of millions of Germans and Europeans. Brandt's career and his perspective can teach many students who come to UWC-USA an important lesson. Many students may hold bold, perhaps idealistic views, and we certainly all wish to affect change towards a more peaceful and sustainable world. Yet, actually being a changemaker doesn't always feel successful. In fact, it might often feel insignificant to keep pushing for small-scale actions, to be activists and allies. But the small-scale actions that we achieve as individuals and as a community are eventually what bring about meaningful, sustainable change. Willy Brandt, despite many controversies that also shaped his political life, essentially contributed greatly to a more peaceful world, and his "change through rapprochement" policy can and should be applied to today's political world, too. Only through constructive dialogue and the tolerance of ideologies that oppose our own values will we be able to maintain peace and only then will we, at UWC-USA and beyond, be able to truly live our mission. Marlena Samson '22 was born and raised in Germany, but international experiences, including studying in the United Kingdom at age 14 for a year, shaped her life. She is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to live the UWC experience at UWC-USA, and plans on continuing to learn from others when she goes to college. Marlena would like to study world politics and history. A Bat Made Our Year Fly Away Too Fast When in March 2020 the school closed down, I was heartbroken, as were many of my co-years and second-years. I could have had more sleepovers. I could have gone to Las Vegas more often. I could have hung out with second-years more. I could have put in the effort to hang out with the people I wanted to get to know. I could have cooked in the day room more. Could have. Could have wasn't good enough for my idea of life. The pandemic made every experience ten times harder than it would have been otherwise. I could only see the smile of my best friend through her eyes. I couldn't hug the people I hadn't seen for five months when I first saw them on the field. I could only stare out of my window during quarantine and hope that it will get better. But I knew one thing. When I heard that we had an ExEd requirement for May 2020, I thought it would be some simple project. What I didn't know was it would become one the best realizations I have ever had. Whatever happens tomorrow, we've had today. And I had today. This year, I had so many todays I can't even start to describe how grateful I am for them. The pandemic might not have been the easiest time for anyone, but it was a time for a challenge I didn't know I needed.* Because of COVID, I made 7 new friends at the beginning of my second year, and can proudly say I have barely any moments I truly regret. COVID was hard from every aspect, from the uncomfortable and funny mask-line sunburns on my face, to the health risks of the campus and our families outside the campus. Yet, in spite of it, I am glad I learned that I want more out of my life than could have, I want today. The ExEd journey has definitely been one of the most important aspects to the revelation. C L O S U R E: Student Dance Video Reflections on Bathrooms and Friends: Commencement Speech 2019 Commencement Speech – May 25, 2019 Morgan Bakinowski '19 In accordance with campus wide consensus, the Kili dormitory bathroom is quite a vile place. Leaky shower heads drip into shallow stagnant pools that collect by the drains. A particular aroma of musty towels and faintly perfumed soap engulfs the space. When you think of UWC-USA, it's a place often left off the promotional pamphlet or prospective student or donor postcard. It's something so seemingly ordinary – a necessary universal accommodation of any living space. It's not the beautifully manicured grounds, it doesn't carry a generous name, and it certainly doesn't have a Chihuly chandelier in it. However, when I reflect on my time here, recalling the most meaningful conversations I've had, the people I've grown to love, and the way in which my own opinion has evolved and blossomed – I am constantly brought back to that narrow, soggy little bathroom down the hall. This is because to me UWC-USA isn't about the things you'd expect. Before arriving, I dreamed of myself changing the world overnight, galvanized by my diverse peers as advertised online. When I read and the mission statement and came across the word "force"- I fell victim to the intrinsically human notion of a "before" and "after" mechanism. Before UWC-USA, I was a student. After UWC-USA, I would become a master of peace-making. However, life is seldom a cause and effect, black and white, or wrong or right matter. Change-making doesn't operate it a formula, and UWC – or anything else for that matter – doesn't guarantee solutions to differences. What I experienced in that dimly lit space wasn't something I'd take an IB exam on and pass or fail – defining my moral and arrant worth in the world and qualify whether or not I was able to change it. What I discovered was the beauty of individuality and how "peace" doesn't mean everyone having the same, hyper-liberal idea. How "peace" can be more accurately defined as coexistence rather than an absence of conflict. How "peace" can be achieved in literally any setting, even in the places we ~~relieve~~ ourselves. The most important part of any interaction is listening to what others have to say while sharing your own opinion with the mutual goal of enriching each other's understandings. I listened to my friends and peers pour their souls out into those ceramic sinks and quite often I found myself sharing experiences, opinions, and doubts of my own I wouldn't before even fathom speaking aloud. I realized the truths I had championed paired completely conversely with the convictions of others, but that at the end of the day, we'd both wash our faces and brush our teeth under the same turbulent taps. Languages, cultures, religions – they all amount to a unique cosmos of dissimilarity that we have witnessed provide a foundation for unmatched community strength here at UWC-USA. Examples of this phenomenon happened around every corner, in every classroom, and in every dorm – providing a constant reminder of the shared nature of the spaces we inhabited. Whether it was an exchange that lasted for hours standing in the mirrored doorways of the bathroom- or simply a "hello" or "goodbye" in brief passings to and fro – our witnessing forced the acknowledgement of the presence of others. 2am conversations about philosophy and existence rang over the sound of the shower heads' incessant dripping. Music from all over the world blared from every corner of the stalls. Human truth was humbled by living together, revealing the dirty, gritty, simple reality of a shared existence through this shared space. Illuminated through the accessibility of a bathroom, the truth of UWC-USA's impact was bestowed to me. To be a better citizen of tomorrow doesn't necessarily encompass doing something presumably extraordinary. Having the ability to share a space, despite differences, despite nationalities, despite beliefs – doesn't always require a revelation of extreme magnitude, and in itself is extraordinary. At the end of it all, tolerance and a celebration of variability gives us strength. Witnessing the power of human connection doesn't require an endowment fund or a castle, rather, it's the circumstance of bringing us all together and the simplicity of the experiences we share that shines light on what it means to be a better citizen of a community – whether it be as small as the Kili bathroom, or as profound as the world. Five Things Everyone Can Do to Live the Sustainability Part of the UWC Mission UWC Mission Statement: "UWC makes education a force to unite people, nations, and cultures for peace and a sustainable future." As a part of UWC-USA's experimental education (exed) program, the Enviro Group was established at the beginning of this school year to address issues of sustainability and energy consumption on our campus. The student-led group aims to communicate with policy-makers of the school as well as inspire the student body to be conscious about their daily choices on campus. The mission statement of Enviro Group extends the sustainability part of the larger UWC Mission statement: "Enviro Group aims to promote a more sustainable future by raising awareness of environmental challenges, encouraging sustainable actions and reducing our ecological footprint at UWC-USA and beyond." Below are some ways everyone can help promote sustainability, whether they are a UWC-USA student or not. 1: Transportation Transportation and especially flying are some of the biggest dilemmas in the lives of UWC-students when it comes to the sustainability part of our mission statement. Going home is an integral part of staying connected to our cultures and families, but we all could do something different at times. Try going outside your comfort zone, and look at the environment you are living in. All the 17 UWC schools are located in vastly different environments, and they offer numerous opportunities for spending a spring break, winter break, or even the summer within the country or the nearby region. Look for alumni who could host you, get to know local people and ask what they love about the place or apply for programmes that include board. Travelling across the region with a train or bus with your classmates can also provide unforgettable memories – with less greenhouse gases produced than flying home. 2: Rethink Your Diet The issues with dietary habits at UWC-USA can be somewhat more complicated when each of us has a very different view on how food relates to culture and values. However, the cold truth is that eating lots of meat- and dairy-based foods contributes to global warming significantly more than a plant-based diet. The animals need to be fed before they or their products end up on your plate, which is the single biggest reason why a vegan diet is so much less energy-intense than one based on animal products. There are as many different ways to be sustainable through eating as there are eaters: switch regular milk to soy or almond milk in your coffee and cereal, try filling up your plate from the salad bar instead of from the hot food station or double up on fruit to replace the dairy- and sugar-filled desserts. Giving up certain foods for life is not the only way, but be curious and try different things for once. (Check out the healthy and sustainable diet by EAT-Lancet Commission that is designed to feed 10 billion people. 3: Energy Consumption At least at the border between the great plains and the southern Rocky Mountains, where UWC-USA is located in Montezuma, water can be scarce sometimes. We all love long and hot showers but they require tremendous amounts of water and energy, plus they may annoy your dorm mates who would also like to shower. Make a shower playlist that is only two or three songs long if you tend to enjoy your shower parties a little too much. Or you could even put a timer on your phone. Go to the Hot Springs to warm up! Don't keep the water running when you soap your hands, brush teeth, and wash dishes. The electricity sources used on campus are also not really under the control of students, but remember to turn off the lights in your room when you're not there and only open the window when this can actually improve the temperature in the room. Keeping the blinds shut at night helps to keep the room insulated as well, which may prevent the need for an extra heater. 4: Circular Economy One of the greatest things about living on UWC-USA's campus in Montezuma, NM is the fact that nearly everything can be borrowed. From a screwdriver to a mixing bowl to a nice skirt to a phone charger – just ask around and you can avoid buying it. This saves you money as you don't need to buy new things and is also better for the environment: producing new consumer goods may be fundamental to Western capitalism, but we often neglect simple ways to share resources. 5: Know Where to Shop, and What to Shop For After you have figured the things you can borrow or buy from others (or even make yourself) you probably still need some things that you need to buy from the grocery store. While Wal-Mart is the easiest option, and that is where the school buses take us without further consideration, there are options to Walmart which has been accused of exploiting its workers and is the endless supply of too small and easily breakable plastic bags. Check out smaller grocery stores and those that possibly have local owners: usually they have a larger supply of local products and this way you can also boost the local economy. Support local farmers and check if there is an organic version of your favourite fruit or snack available. In the end, these are small decisions and habits that we can all work to adopt. Maybe we can't all do all of these things, but if we can commit to start putting three or four of these ideas into action, we can make a difference! Reflections on Project Week: Tucson and the Border Mangrove Project – Morgan Bakinowski '19 Morgan Bakinowski '19 developed and implemented a mangrove restoration project in her home community recently that involved (in true UWC fashion) education for local students, volunteerism for community members, and support from local businesses and schools. Morgan supplied UWC-USA with the following report of her work: Mangrove Project: Indian River Lagoon From humble beginnings at Alphabet Farms Preschool in Palm City, a large crop of red mangrove seedlings has been successfully transplanted into the Indian River Lagoon. After learning about mangrove ecosystems, environmental sustainability, and recycling, the kids at Alphabet Farms (ages 4 to 6) planted over 100 propagules last August in reused plastic milk jugs. With hard work, and the lives of the thousands of perishing fish and birds of the lagoon in mind, 100% of the initial crop survived. Even in preschool, a place many consider "square one" in education, Martin County is perpetuating a future generation of environmentally-aware leaders. The transplant, carried out with the help of the Environmental Study Center's Camp W.E.T, was also a huge success. 5th grade campers took to the river aboard the "River Scout" and dug holes for nearly 60 red mangrove seedlings. Focusing on the habitats these plants create, the kids learned about the enormous range of estuary creatures that depend on mangroves. They also focused on mangrove roots as areas for barnacle beds to grow and develop. While the sprawling roots help eliminate floating debris, barnacles filter the water further, fine-tuning water quality and combating the detrimental effects of the Lake Okeechobee discharges. With a record-breaking summer of rains and releases, the pressing threat of blue-green algae on biodiversity is becoming more and more apparent. Rather than waiting around for the day they could no longer swim in the lagoon or see the dolphins playing by the sandbar, these kids helped take a stand in the sand. The other 50 mangrove seedlings were donated to the Florida Oceanographic Center to be used for research and coastline rehabilitation. In a groundbreaking new project the FOC has launched, the mangroves will be transplanted in the middle of artificial oyster beds. By layering bags of empty oyster shells collected from local restaurants and bars, the shell formations will provide a place for new oysters to cling to. Adorned with a mangrove seedling in the middle, the roots will grow around the formation, ensuring that changing tides and intensifying storms won't impact the shoreline and suck up the sand. Think of it as a less dramatic, environmentally integrated sea wall, but without the negative implications of ecosystem disruption. These structured aids are helping to rehabilitate the estuary, creating more space for wildlife and safer, more biodiverse coasts for us all to enjoy. None of this would have been made possible if not for the support of this community. From wood and soil donated by our local HomeDepot and Pinder's nursery, to milk jugs and plastic containers divided from neighbors' recycling bins, this has truly been an uplifting example of a community coming together on multiple levels in order to face and deal with a pressing environmental problem. I hope people will see this project as an illustration of a new, mobilized, youth-based force of citizens we are all witnessing take action in Martin County. I want to be a part of a generation that cares about how our decisions impact the environment. After all, beyond just the health of our waterways, it's our futures we're protecting. Moving forward from the success of this year's crop, the plan is to double the seedlings for next year. I can't wait to collaborate with these schools and organizations again in order to have twice the positive impact."
During the Law School's Senior Day celebration on May 6, speakers addressed the Class of 2024 graduates with very personal messages to be true to themselves—even when faced with challenges—as they start to write the next chapter of their lives. "When all is said and done, most of us want to have a productive life that doesn't require us to constantly compromise ourselves and our core beliefs," said the Hon. Judith E. Levy, '96. "Yes, your clients may drive a particular argument or decision, but your work can be in harmony with your beliefs and your own strengths." Levy, who has served on the US District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan since 2014, drew on her own experiences in speaking to 325 JD students and 38 graduate students at Hill Auditorium. She cited a current period of uncertainty within some of the country's courts, saying that, as a judge, she is required to make decisions that are consistent with some opinions that do not appear to be grounded in law. "Our brand of constitutional democracy in the United States relies on judges to do our best to apply the Constitution and the laws that Congress has enacted to the facts of each case and come out with a fair decision," Judge Levy said. "Yes, our life experiences impact how we understand the facts and sometimes even what we think the law requires. But, fundamentally, our decisions should be understandable to the litigants and the public. And they should reveal that we care more about getting the decision right than following a partisan or other political agenda." In preparation for her speech, Levy said she looked back at the personal statement she wrote in 1993 for admission to the Law School, when she was 33 years old and "coming out of a 12-year period where I had been a full-time troublemaker and an elected union official here at the University of Michigan." Yes, our life experiences impact how we understand the facts and sometimes even what we think the law requires. But, fundamentally, our decisions…should reveal that we care more about getting the decision right than following a partisan or other political agenda." In that statement, she wrote that becoming a lawyer would offer her an opportunity for meaningful work "to move the dial closer toward justice." She also spoke of her bouts of cancer and the lessons she took away from that experience and others in her life. "I have learned how to continue onward and accept the setbacks and challenges I have faced, and it has served me well." Also drawing on personal experiences was student speaker Ewurama Appiagyei-Dankah, '24, who was selected by her fellow students to deliver the speech. Appiagyei-Dankah is a first-generation American who was very active in the Michigan Law community as a student-attorney for the Civil Rights Litigation Initiative, a fellow in the Program in Race, Law, and History, and co-editor-in-chief of the Michigan Journal of Gender & Law. In addition, she was admissions co-chair for the Black Law Students Association and a senior judge in the Legal Practice program. She spoke of the challenges that some of her classmates have experienced while in law school—from family crises to struggles with their own mental health. She also paid tribute to Brendan Jackson, a Law School classmate who is seriously ill. The most important thing we can do for each other in this life is show up. Show up for people's pain and for their joy. Look first to the humanity in the people around you." Appiagyei-Dankah acknowledged the difficulty of balancing personal challenges with the arduous work of being a law student. "Forget work-life balance—we're told that the balance should always tip in favor of work," she said. "I can't tell you how many times I've talked with someone who felt crushed under the weight of those expectations. I certainly have. And we are feeling that way before we've even fully entered the profession." However, she added, allowing professional obligations to come first will cause more harm than good and advised her fellow students that, when the going gets tough, not to go it alone. As a student, it was that kind of support that helped her. "The most important thing we can do for each other in this life is show up. Show up for people's pain and for their joy. Look first to the humanity in the people around you. Share in the mess of being a human being with other people because those moments are what make us most fully alive." Appiagyei-Dankah, who will serve as the ACLU of Michigan's West Michigan Legal Fellow after graduation, also gave a shout-out to her fellow public interest law students. "It takes fierce dedication to follow this path. And I've been so lucky to be with you during this journey." A very proud alumna of Michigan State University, Appiagyei-Dankah joked that she wasn't sure if she would have the same feelings for the University of Michigan that she did for her undergraduate alma mater when she started law school. "But after the three years I've spent learning and growing here, I've realized that Michigan Law and, more importantly, the people who make this the special place that it is, will forever be a part of me."
2 School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei Universityersity of Technology, Anhui, Hefei 230009, China 3 Zhongnan Universityersity of Economics and Law, Wuhan, Hubei 430073, China July 31, 2020 Copyright The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are cited. August 24, 2020 August 24, 2020 Download Citation: Jia, Y., Chen, Y., Yan, P., Huang, Q. (2021). Bibliometric Analysis on Global Research Trends of Airborne Microorganisms in Recent Ten Years (2011-2020). Aerosol Air Qual. Res. 21, 200497. https://doi.org/10.4209/aaqr.2020.07.0497 Cite this article: In recent years, exposure to bioaerosols—airborne particles of biological origin—has become a significant public health concern. Hence, this study aims to provide a bibliometric analysis of global trends in research on airborne microorganisms in the last ten years (2011–2020). Using the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection database, a total of 1087 articles published during this period were selected for analysis. Firstly, we identified 11 co-citation clusters: potential pan microbiome, bioaerosol science, beneficial microbe, urban area, fungal microbiota, wastewater treatment plant, airborne microbial aerosol, modern practice, composting facilities—a review, airborne microbial biodiversity, and acidic electrolyzed water. Based on the co-occurrence between keywords in this literature, we concluded that particle-attached microorganisms, community structures of urban airborne microbes, and biological aerosols have inspired the hotspots in research during recent years, which suggests that bioaerosols are currently a popular topic in the field of air microbiology, with bacteria being the most frequently studied airborne microorganisms. We also discovered that interest in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has continually risen during the past eight months, with the number of relevant articles exceeding 19,880, of which 106 have been frequently cited. Analyzing 500 recent publications on this topic, we found a high co-occurrence of COVID-19, pandemic, and coronavirus as well as of anxiety, depression, and stress. The greatest number of articles on airborne microorganisms in the last decade have been contributed by the USA, followed by China and France. Moreover, according to this metric, the leading institutions are Colorado State University and Peking University, and the top three journals are Applied and Environmental Microbiology, Atmospheric Environment, and Science of the Total Environment. The annual publication volume for this subject shows an increasing trend, indicating that interest in airborne microorganisms continues to grow. Our bibliometric analysis reveals the recent research hotspots and topic trends in air microbiology, thus offering potential clues for further examination.HIGHLIGHTS Airborne microorganism, Air quality, Web of Science (WoS), Human health, COVID-19 In recent years, with the frequent occurrence of extreme weather events such as disaster, air quality has attracted more and more public attention. The atmosphere is essential to maintain life on Earth. Microorganisms are ubiquitous in the air, including not only bacteria and fungi, but also viruses that may be harmful to human health. There are various forms of microorganisms in the air, which can float in the air as a single cell or attach to atmospheric particles (Yoo et al., 2017). Previous studies have shown that there are tens of thousands of microorganisms in every cubic meter of air (Tignat-Perrier et al., 2019). Microorganisms in the air, especially in indoor air, have potential effects on human health (Brodie et al., 2007; Yoo et al., 2017). Many bacteria and viruses (in particular, coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19] attracted attention) can rely on air as a medium to cause epidemic diseases (Fan et al., 2019; Parat et al., 1999). For example, COVID-19, which broke out in Wuhan in early 2020, can enter the air through droplets and cause infection through human respiration (Stadnytskyi et al., 2020). COVID-19 can be spread through droplets, saliva and airborne particles (Adjorlolo and Egbenya, 2020). Due to the rapid spread of COVID-19 and its great harm to human body, people pay more attention to air microorganism once again. A paper entitled "Surviving Sepsis Campaign: Guidelines on the management of critically ill ads with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)." In the case of rapid spread of COVID-19, how to achieve effective prevention and control, infection control means, and according to the resources and feasibility of control suggestions (Alhazzani et al., 2020). Many articles have reported the effects of COVID-19 on human health, such as liver and intestine (Juliao-Baños, 2020; León-Gómez, 2020). At the same time, many researchers focus on air quality changes during the epidemic period and the effects of regional climatic condition on the spread of COVID-19 at global scale (Berman and Ebisu, 2020; Iqbal et al., 2020). Because of the characteristics of microorganisms staying in the air for a long time, the scope of infection is wider and the possibility of infection is increased. Especially in recent years, PM2.5 and PM10 are focused on, and the attached microorganisms are considered to cause the transmission of allergy, respiratory diseases and infection (Cao et al., 2014). It is reported that bacteria and dust in the air of pig farms cause respiratory diseases, irritating eyes and nose, and accompanied with allergic symptoms (Crook et al., 1991; Lin and Ma, 2010; Zhao et al., 2014). The study reported the composition of microorganisms in the air near the sewage treatment plant, the source of bacterial transmission, and assessed the risk to human health. It showed that the types and concentrations of air microorganisms are significantly different in each stage of water treatment, and may cause employees and residents to produce chronic respiratory diseases (Yang et al., 2019). Additionally, the types and quantity of microorganisms vary with seasons, places, weather and urban economic level (Fang et al., 2020; Rao et al., 2020; Tignat-Perrier et al., 2020). Airborne microorganisms not only exist in the air and stay in the air for a long time, but also migrate with the airflow and other meteorological conditions. The chemical composition of PM10 in southeastern Italy was reported (Romano et al., 2020). Through 16S sequencing to determine the microbial community structure, it was found that the seasonal variation of atmospheric particulate matter was one of the reasons for the seasonal variation of atmospheric bacterial community. Similarly, the association between microbial composition, chemical composition, and other environmental factors in the Turkish air was studied (Després et al., 2012; Lang-Yona et al., 2020). This paper studied the bacteria in the air of the central Mediterranean region, including the main distribution of bacteria, bacterial abundance and biodiversity from winter to spring. The results showed that bacterial abundance increases in convective weather (Romano et al., 2019). Moreover, hospitals and health centers are a more dangerous and complex environment, and microorganisms with greater potential impact on human health may exist in the nearby air. Some researchers took air samples from the wards of pulmonary tuberculosis patients to observe whether there was Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). The results were positive, indicating that there was Mycobacterium tuberculosis in the air (Wan et al., 2004). Also, previous studies have shown that forest air samples contain Phytophthora infestans, which can cause ulcers in humans (Jung et al., 2018). The results hold that there are not only viruses and bacteria in the air with potential health risks, but also that both the mobility of air and air pressure make it more difficult to prevent these diseases. Due to the complexity and diversity of air microorganisms and their potential impact on air quality and human health (Brągoszewska et al., 2019), the topic of airborne microorganisms is very important and deserves more attention. There are many journals and magazines related to a specific field, and thence it is very difficult to have a comprehensive understanding. Thus, bibliometrics came into being. Through bibliometric tools, we can analyze the research hotspots and trends of a certain field. It will help researchers to better capture the authoritative articles in this field, grasp the overall direction of the field more quickly, and explore hints and clues (Fahimnia et al., 2015). Although many papers about airborne microorganisms have been reported, few attempts have been carried on this field from the perspective of bibliometrics. This study analyzed the articles about airborne microbes from WoS database in recent ten years. Our data are retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (from 1985 to 2020) (www.webofknowledge.com/WOS), which includes the world's leading scholarly journals, books, and proceedings in the sciences, social sciences, and arts and humanities. WoS includes the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCIE), SSC, the Arts & Humanities Citation Index (A&HCI), Ei Compendex, MEDLINE and other core journals. Although the search results of different core databases are different, WoS has become the preferred database because of its many advantages. For example, a) the citations of all publications can be searched and obtained, b) organizations related to the author of the article can be searched, and c) the citation report can be created according to the search results. Moreover, most bibliometric tools support data formats exported from WoS. It is necessary to select search keywords and check whether the search results are consistent with the expected topics. Here, through searching with airborne microorganism in the subject terms, a total of 1607 related articles are screened out. Subsequently, the year was selected as the screening criteria, and 1087 articles were selected from the last ten years (2011–2020). To avoid problems caused by the update of articles in the database, our search is fixed on July 13, 2020. Since WoS can export up to 500 records at a time, all the search results are exported in three times. In the present study, many bibliometric indicators, such as the cooperation network between different institutions and the co-occurrence network of keywords, were utilized to evaluate the topic from different aspects. Several tools/software were adopted to perform bibliometric analyses. For instance, CiteSpace (version 5.3.R126.96.36.1998; http://cluster.cis.drexel.edu/~cchen/citespace/) was used for citation and co-citation analysis (Synnestvedt et al., 2005). Having fantastic visualization styles and being capable of loading and exporting information from many sources, VOSviewer (version 1.6.15; https://www.vosviewer.com/) was employed to construct and visualize bibliometric networks. Moreover, to show the importance of the articles in the database, two other concepts including average citations per item and h-index were introduced. Average citations per item refers to the average number of articles cited in all search results. And h-index means that h papers/journals have been cited at least h times. Co-citation reflects the relationship between two cited documents. In other words, when two documents appear in the same article's references at the same time, the two articles form a co-citation relationship. In this study, we analyzed 1087 articles on airborne microorganisms from 2011–2020. Using clustering, log likelihood ratio (LLR) algorithm and term frequency–inverse document frequency (TFIDF) weighting technology, the network was divided into 11 co-citation groups. The results were shown in Fig. 1. These clusters were marked by their citer index entries. From large to small, these clusters are: beneficial microbe, potential pan microbiome, bioaerosol science, urban area, fungal microbiota, wastewater treatment plant, airborne microbial aerosol, modern practice, composting facilities—a review, airborne microbial biodiversity, and acidic electrolyzed water. Among them, the most cited article was about Beijing smog incident, namely "Inhalable Microorganisms in Beijing's PM2.5 and PM10 Pollutants during a Severe Smog Event" (Cao et al., 2014). Obviously, this research on the particle-attached microorganism has attracted widespread attention. At the beginning of 2020, a large-scale outbreak of the new coronavirus disease 2019 caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus has attracted worldwide attention since its discovery. The virus can attach to aerosols and atmospheric particles, and spread rapidly from person to person through respiratory tract (del Rio and Malani, 2020). The topic of the second most cited article is about the difference between land use types and the community structure of air microbes in the air near the surface (Bowers et al., 2011). The subject of the third most cited document is about atmospheric aerosol particles, in which the main components of biological aerosols (including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and algae) were examined in detail (Després et al., 2012). So, in recent years, the research hotspots in air microorganisms mainly focus on particle-attached microorganisms, the community structure of urban air microbes, and biological aerosols. Fig. 1. Co-citation of literature. The top 11 clusters are clustered by CiteSpace software. The selection criteria are: top 50 per slice, LRF = 2, LBY = 8, e = 2.0. These clusters are labeled by index terms from their cities, and each cluster is represented by different colors. Generally, keywords highlight the core content of a paper, through which we can understand the theme and search engines can find relevant papers easily. By considering the co-occurrence of keywords in several papers, the relationship between the subjects represented by the literature collection can be disclosed (Lozano et al., 2019). Here, to facilitate analysis, the parameters were set as follows: The counting method is "Full counting," the standardized method adopts "Association strength," and the minimum number of occurrences of a keyword is 20. Among 4839 keywords in the 1087 articles, 87 keywords meet the screening threshold, which were further divided into 5 clusters in the network through calculating the co-occurrence link strength between a group of keywords and other groups of keywords. The co-occurrence network of keywords was depicted in Fig. 2. Among them, the keywords microorganism, bioaerosol, and bacterium are the top three keywords, and the frequency of co-occurrence is 387, 249 and 234 respectively. It indicated that bioaerosol is a hotspot and current trend in the field of air microbiology, and the most studied species of airborne microorganisms are bacteria. It should be noted that the minimum COVID-19 can be 40 nm and the average size is 100 nm; it reaches the level of nanoaerosol (Leung and Sun, 2020). Fig. 2. Co-occurrence network of keywords. (a) 5 clusters are obtained by clustering keywords by using VOSviewer software. The timeline is displayed in the lower right corner. Each circle represents a keyword, and the size of the circle represents the co-occurrence frequency of the keywords obtained by clustering. The color of the line indicates the year, and the shorter the line, the higher the frequency of the two keywords connected. (b) The keyword co-occurrence graph of 500 newly published articles is divided into 9 clusters and 62 items. This indicates that COVID-19 is a component of bioaerosol. In addition, air quality, indoor air quality, health, prevalency, infection also appear in the first few keywords, and viruses can also be adsorbed on particles and aerosols, affecting air quality and human health. Compared with bacteria, fungi and aerosols, the frequency of virus occurrence is relatively less, which indicates that the virus has not attracted widespread attention in the past period of time. The bacteria, fungi and viruses in PM2.5 and PM10 were identified. 48 bacteria, 2 fungi and 4 viruses were found. Among these microorganisms, several can cause allergic and respiratory symptoms, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Aspergillus fumigatus, and human adenovirus C (Cao et al., 2014). The results are consistent with the previous studies (Froehlich-Nowoisky et al., 2016). Perhaps, because the pathogenic bacteria in the aerosol can cause many human diseases (such as allergies and respiratory tract especially for specific occupations) (Kim et al., 2018), the topic of bioaerosol has attracted such high attention. Interestingly, the dominant time scale for publishing articles on this type of topic mainly ranged from 2015 to May 2016. This might result from that there were more air pollution incidents around the world during this period. It has aroused people's extensive concern. The co-occurrence analysis of COVID-19 was carried out with 500 articles published recently. The results are shown in Fig. 2(b). Besides COVID-19, pandemic and coronavirus, the co-occurrence frequency of anxiety, depression and stress was high. This shows that in addition to the epidemic itself, researchers also pay attention to the psychological health impact of COVID-19 (Duan et al., 2020; Van Rheenen et al., 2020), especially the mental health problems of teenagers (Duan et al., 2020; Gribble et al., 2020). Each country and institution may have different research focus. To identify the similarities and differences among the countries and institutions in the field of air microbes, the countries and institutions in the literature are clustered according to the number of citations and displayed by thermal map (Figs. 3(a) and 3(b)). A total of 81 countries have participated in the investigation of airborne microorganisms. When the minimum number of documents of a country is set as 5, 42 countries meet the criteria. With 212 articles and 5031 citations, the USA is the dominant country in this field with 195 papers published and 2536 citations; China ranked second. And France took the third position with 77 papers and 1179 citations. Notably, the number of published articles and citations of the top three cited countries far exceeds that of other countries. This indicates that the USA, China and France are more concerned about airborne microbes and maybe in the leading position in this issue. Moreover, in the dataset of this study, a total of 1392 institutions participated in the research field. According to the number of citations, the first name is Colorado State University, with 14 papers and 857 citations. The second is Peking University, from which the number of published articles is 26 and the number of citations is 709; the third is Seoul National University, with 18 articles and 289 citations. Besides, the number of papers published by Colorado State University is small, but the citation frequency is high. It implies that the quality of articles in Colorado State University is relatively high, or the points of the articles are more interesting. According to the comprehensive ranking of the total connection strength between each institution and other institutions, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Peking University occupied the top three leading institutions. This demonstrated that these institutions have carried out extensive scientific cooperation. Fig. 3. Heat maps of leading (a) countries and (b) institutions. By using the VOSviewer software, the leading countries and institutions in the field of air microorganisms are obtained by sorting the institutions and countries according to the cited amount. As displayed by thermography, the number of citations is depicted as color from blue to red. And the redder the color is, the more dominant it is in this field. To further examine the cooperation among countries and institutions, the cooperation network was constructed according to the data in the literature collection and shown in Figs. 4(a) and 4(b). The results suggested that China and the USA are more active, not only in the number of citations or cooperative relations but also in the forefront of research. The focus of research mainly includes South Africa, natural source, breeding farm, case-control study, and silver-modified TiO2. As shown in Fig. 4(b), the top three active institutions are Chinese Academy of Sciences, Peking University and University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the focus of these institutions harbors precipitation, bioaerosols, airborne microorganisms, Asian dust, and metadata. Moreover, there is relatively more cooperation among countries from 2011 to 2016, and mainly focus on precipitation, biological aerosols, airborne microorganisms, Asian dust, metadata, and microbial communities. The above results indicated that on the topic related to airborne microbes, the cooperative relationship between the state and the institution was closer during 2011–2016. But on the whole, the cooperation relationship across countries and institutions is deficient. Given that environmental problems are not the responsibility of a single country, this provides us a hint that environmental research and improvement require more collaboration and joint efforts. Fig. 4. Network of cooperation among different institutions and countries. The collaboration networks were constructed according to the authors' (a) countries and (b) institutions. The right side represents the cluster label. The larger the node circle, the more countries or institutions in the cluster. To investigate the activity of journals in the field, source journals of the literature were analyzed. When the minimum number of citations is set to 90, among the 9035 sources, 94 sources meet the threshold and were divided into 4 clusters. To make the graph more intuitive, the max lines was set to 500. The network of source journals is shown in Fig. 5. Based on the analysis of the source journals, Applied and Environmental Microbiology (Appl. Environ. Microbiol.) ranked first with 2423 citations, followed by Atmospheric Environment (Atmos. Environ.) and Science of the Total Environment (Sci. Total Environ.). The results suggested that the quality of articles in these three journals is relatively high in the field of air microbiology. Furthermore, Table 1 shows the top seven journals ranked according to the number of citations. h-Index means that h articles in the journal have been cited for at least h times. It is a relatively popular index to evaluate journals. It is more reliable than the average value because it is not affected by the highest value. Obviously, these journals are very important for this research field. Fig. 5. Co-citation network. The node circles represent different journals. Different colors denote different clusters, and the distance between lines indicates the co-citation intensity of journal pairs. Especially for the researchers who are new to airborne microorganisms, these journals are undoubtedly more important references. In particular, Aerosol and Air Quality Research (AAQR), which focuses on aerosols and air quality, has a citations of 268 and total connection strength of 11,065 about air microorganisms, which is in the upper middle position. The results show that AAQR has a leading level in the field of air microorganism, which guides the research direction of scholars. 1087 articles on airborne microorganisms published between 2011 and 2020 were selected from the Web of Science Core Collection database and analyzed for their keywords, authors, affiliated institutions, and countries of origin in order to identify hotspots and trends in research during the last decade. First, the co-citation in these publications reveals 11 clusters, viz., potential pan microbiome, bioaerosol science, beneficial microbe, urban area, fungal microbiota, wastewater treatment plant, airborne microbial aerosol, modern practice, composting facilities—a review, airborne microbial biodiversity, and acidic electrolyzed water. Second, analysis of keyword co-occurrence network in this field suggests that the recent hotspots in research have been related to microorganism, bioaerosols, and bacterium, with the 500 newest articles also indicating strong concern over psychological issues in children due to COVID-19. To successfully cope with this virus, we must not only treat the physical symptoms and control the infection rate but also address mental health and the effects of economic depression and severe, albeit brief, lifestyle changes. Applying the number of citations as a metric, the USA, followed by China, dominates the field of air microbiology; the leading institutions are Colorado State University and Peking University, which have contributed 14 and 26 articles, respectively; and the top three journals are Applied and Environmental Microbiology (Appl. Environ. Microbiol.), Atmospheric Environment (Atmos. Environ.), and Science of the Total Environment (Sci. Total Environ.). The annual publication volume for the subject of airborne microorganisms shows an increasing trend during the study period, peaking in 2019 with 49 articles (Fig. 6), and the number of citations has likewise steadily grown. Thus, we anticipate that interest in this topic will continue to rise over the next few years. This study has several shortcomings. First of all, we chose the Web of Science Core Collection as our sole data source, thereby excluding articles listed in other databases. Second, as the study period was 2011–2020, the publications for this year (2020) are incomplete. Third, our analysis uses the number of citations as a key indicator, but this number gradually increases as more articles are published. These issues are difficult to avoid in bibliometrics; nevertheless, they warrant better solutions in the future. Overall, our bibliometric analysis establishes the recent research hotspots and topic trends in air microbiology, thereby offering potential clues for related investigations.1 INTRODUCTION 2.1 Data Source 2.2 Search Strategy 2.3 Data Analysis 3.1 Co-citation Analysis 3.2 Co-occurrence Network of Keyword 3.3 Analysis on Major Countries and Institutions 3.4 Analysis on Cooperation Network of Different Countries and Institutions 3.5 Analysis on Source Journals 4.1 Discussion of Results Fig. 6. The total number of papers published and the corresponding number of citations in the last ten years. The annual number of articles published and the corresponding number of citations in 1087 articles are summarized. The left label is the annual number of publications, and the right label is the annual citation frequency. 4.2 Limitations Aerosol Air Qual. Res. 21 :200497 -. https://doi.org/10.4209/aaqr.2020.07.0497
Project description Insight into cell type evolution Animals contain a diversity of cell types with distinct phenotypes and functions. Although these cells contain the same genome, different epigenetic, regulatory and transcriptional attributes endow them with this remarkable phenotypic diversity. The EU-funded ModEvoCell project is focusing on the evolution of the traits that define cell diversity. Researchers will study the transcriptome and map the regulatory regions of different cells of various placozoan species across phylogenetic divergence. Results will help generate a model of cell type evolution, shedding light on how different cell types emerge and diversify. Cell types with distinct functions coexist and cooperate within a single animal, eventually contributing to the endless forms most beautiful that define the animal kingdom. These cell types are complex phenotypes defined by multiple traits—ontogeny, morphology, regulatory and transcriptional states, etc.—that are ultimately encoded by the same genome, and are thus subject to the evolutionary process. Therefore, to study the diversity of cell types from an evolutionary perspective we need to first understand the patterns of conservation and divergence in the various traits that determine cell phenotypes. Among these traits, gene regulation is uniquely amenable to be systematically catalogued and compared across species, and it is an ideal candidates to support a model of cell type evolution. Here I propose to investigate the evolution of animal cell types in a multi-species comparative framework. I hypothesise that, by characterising the cell type and transcriptomic programmes of various species along a spectrum of phylogenetic divergence times, I will be able to infer a data-driven model to quantify the influence of regulatory divergence on cell type evolution. To that end, I will build cell type diversity atlases of six placozoan species and resolve their transcriptomic states at single-cell resolution using scRNA-seq, genome-wide profiling of regulatory regions (ATAC-seq and regulatory motif discovery), and gene regulatory network modelling. Placozoans are a uniquely well-suited model for this research: they have a strongly conserved yet profoundly simple bauplan, composed of few cell types, that can be fully resolve at the whole-organism level using single-cell transcriptomics. This taxon-rich survey across multiple species and cell types will allow me to address the fundamental question of how cell types emerge and diversify, and it will provide a theoretical basis to understand how regulatory divergence ultimately results in phenotypic innovation. Fields of science Funding Scheme MSCA-IF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF)Coordinator 08003 Barcelona
Kindlins serve as mechanosensitive adapters, transducing extracellular mechanical cues to intracellular biochemical signals and thus, their perturbations potentially lead to cancer progressions. Despite the kindlin involvement in tumor development, understanding their genetic and mechanochemical characteristics across different cancers remains elusive. Here, we thoroughly examined genetic alterations in kindlins across more than 10,000 patients with 33 cancer types. Our findings reveal cancer-specific alterations, particularly prevalent in advanced tumor stage and during metastatic onset. We observed a significant co-alteration between kindlins and mechanochemical proteome in various tumors through the activation of cancer-related pathways and adverse survival outcomes. Leveraging normal mode analysis, we predicted structural consequences of cancer-specific kindlin mutations, highlighting potential impacts on stability and downstream signaling pathways. Our study unraveled alterations in epithelial–mesenchymal transition markers associated with kindlin activity. This comprehensive analysis provides a resource for guiding future mechanistic investigations and therapeutic strategies targeting the roles of kindlins in cancer treatment. Similar content being viewed by others Cancer poses an ever-increasing threat and is projected to become more dead in the coming years1,2. The severity of this multifaceted disease arises from its ability to enable malignant cells to migrate swiftly, protrude into tissues, invade, metastasize, and resist chemotherapy3,4. This complex interplay of processes is influenced by numerous factors, including mechanical forces originating from the extracellular matrix (ECM)5. These crucial cell-ECM interactions are majorly mediated through specialized structures known as focal adhesions as well as hemidesmosomes, dystroglycan complex, and syndecans, which act as mechanosensory hubs that translate external mechanical cues into intracellular rearrangements and chemical signals6,7,8. Among the myriad of proteins participating in these intricate processes, the kindlin family of mechanosensing adapter proteins has emerged as a crucial player9,10. The kindlin family of FERM domain-containing proteins comprises three members, kindlin 1, 2, and 3, which are encoded by the FERMT1, FERMT2, and FERMT3 genes, respectively. Kindlins play a pivotal role in conveying extracellular signals by physically interacting with structural proteins, receptors, and transcription factors, ultimately triggering a cascade of chemical responses within cells11,12,13. Notably, these proteins are closely linked to virtually every facet of cancer biology, influencing tumor-microenvironment interactions, cellular metabolism, cell cycle progression, transcriptional regulation, and even the regulation of cancer stem cells14,15,16,17. In recent years, the role of kindlins in cancer has gained attention for two main reasons. First, kindlins act as adapter proteins to connect multiple cancer-promoting pathways, in addition to their known role in integrin activation12,13. For example, experiments have revealed that kindlin2 can regulate Hippo signaling by modulating the nuclear localization of YAP18. Additionally, kindlins regulate breast cancer growth and metastasis through the TGFβ/EGF signaling axis19. It also influences cancer cell stemness via the Wnt/beta-catenin and Hedgehog pathways20,21. Kindlin1, on the other hand, independently regulates IL-6 secretion and hence the immune microenvironment in breast cancer22. Cancer-specific metabolic regulation, such as proline biosynthesis,is also governed by Kindlin216. Furthermore, all of these kindlins are involved in growth factor induction, tumor promotion and angiogenesis23,24. With mounting evidence supporting the involvement of kindlin family proteins in numerous cancer-associated pathways, further exploration of their roles is imperative.Structural disruptions in these proteins could have a global impact on mechanochemical signaling, leading to disruptions in mechanical homeostasis25. Second, as a mechanosensitive adapter protein, kindlin connects extracellular mechanical cues with intracellular chemical events26. Therefore, understanding the role of kindlins in cancer will help us decipher the intricate interplay between tumors and their microenvironment. This approach will be crucial for developing precision therapy for cancer treatment, especially for overcoming chemoresistance and cancer recurrence.Given their extensive involvement in various cancer-associated pathways, there is a compelling need to delve deeper into the roles of kindlin family proteins in cancer. Mutations in these proteins can significantly impact their mechanochemical signaling capabilities, potentially disrupting global mechanical homeostasis within cells27,28,29. Understanding the consequences of such genetic alterations, especially in mechanosensitive proteins such as kindlins, is essential for unraveling the intricate mechanisms underpinning cancer progression. Conducting pan-cancer analysis of gene families allows for a holistic understanding of shared genetic alterations or discerning context-specific variations, uncovering divergent roles across cancer types and informing targeted therapeutic strategies tailored to the unique characteristics of individual genes within the family30,31. We also conducted a comprehensive pancancer analysis of kindlin genes using data from the TCGA, COSMIC, and ICGC databases across 33 cancer types (Supplementary Note 1)32,33,34. We employed structural and functional genomic tools to investigate the influence of Kindlin family proteins on mechanochemical signaling in various cancers. Our results highlight the role of kindlins in processes related to tumor progression, metastasis, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition, suggesting that they participate in essential mechanosensitive pathways. Furthermore, our study suggested a potential link between kindlin dysfunction and adverse survival outcomes. Utilizing normal mode analysis (NMA), we predicted how cancer-specific mutations in kindlin proteins may impact their stability and flexibility, potentially influencing downstream signaling pathways. This structural genomics approach establishes associations with clinical parameters, providing evidence for the potential mechanochemical importance of kindlins across diverse cancer stages and subtypes. Kindlin alterations are found across multiple cancer types We conducted a pancancer integrative analysis of kindlin alterations using TCGA/ICGA/COSMIC data (Supplementary Fig. 1). Three types of kindlin family genes were significantly altered in 32 different cancer types, with FERMT1 being the major contributor (29%), followed by FERMT2 (the kindlin2 gene, 26%) and FERMT3 (the kindlin3 gene, 20%), for which the z score cutoff was ±1.96 (p < 0.05). Kindin alterations can be attributed to either the amplification of FERMT genes or changes in their mRNA expression (Fig. 1a). Kindlin expression levels are known to be associated with mechanically regulated cancer invasion and metastasis35,36. It is worth considering that kindlins are differentially expressed in normal tissue. In our sample cohort, we found that both FERMT1 were overexpressed in 11 cancer types including CESC, LUAD, STAD, ESCA etc. but underexpressed in 6 cancer types (Fig. 1b). FERMT3 expression is predominantly hematopoietic lineage specific under normal conditions. However, in cancer, it is found to be overexpressed in KIRP, BRCA, CHOL and HNSC (Fig. 1b). Downregulation of FERMT3 is seen lung, pancreatic, and thyroid cancers (Fig. 1b). Interestingly, FERMT2 expression was significantly lower in the tumors than in corresponding normal samples except for SKCM and HNSC (Fig. 1b). FERMT1 expression increased with increasing stage of cancer progression in BLCA, COAD, LUSC, and STAD (Supplementary Note 2; Supplementary Fig. 2). A stage-specific decrease in FERMT2 mRNA expression was not pronounced except in renal cancer, LUAD, or BRCA. An increase in FERMT3 mRNA expression was associated with a significant stage-specific increase only in renal cancer and uveal melanoma (Supplementary Fig. 2). To determine whether the mRNA expression was consistent with the protein abundance, we analyzed the CPTAC pancancer proteome data from TCGA cohort by comparing tumor and tumor-adjacent normal tissue. Kindlin1 protein expression decreases in most cancer samples. However, kindlin3 protein expression exhibited a combination of up-and downregulation in a cancer-specific manner (Fig. 1c). To determine the cause of these differences, we examined the expression levels of the kindlin-associated miRNAs in cancer samples (Supplementary Tables 1, 2, Supplementary Data 1). These results indicate that miRNA-mediated kindlin expression occurs in a cancer-specific manner and suggest feedback-like looping occurs between kindlin expression and miRNA expression. This connection of the kindlin/miRNA axis to cancer progression and chemoresistance is consistent with experimental evidence37,38,39. These alterations in kindlins are related to the overall genomic alterations in the samples (Fig. 1d(i)–1d(iv)). With increasing mutation frequency in cancer samples, the FERMT2 and FERMT3 expression levels increase significantly, while the FERMT1expression level shows an inverse trend (Fig. 1d(iii)) similar to that of the MSI MANTIS score (Fig. 1d(ii)). Conversely, the fraction of genome alterations (Fig. 1d(i)) and aneuploidy score (Fig. 1d(iv)) were negatively correlated with FERMT2 and FERMT3 but positively correlated with FERMT1 expression. We investigated copy number variations (CNVs) in FERMT genes across 33 cancer types and observed that, with a few exceptions (LAML, THCA, and PRAD), most cancers exhibitsignificant CNVs, primarily in the form of heterozygous alterations (Supplementary Fig. 3). Specifically, FERMT1 and FERMT3 exhibit heterozygous amplification, while FERMT2 tends toward heterozygous deletion. Additionally, we explored the expression of DNA methylation, a pivotal regulator of Kindlin gene expression, in 14 cancer types (Supplementary Fig. 4). FERMT2is hypermethylated, which is particularly notable in KIRP. Conversely, FERMT1 generally demonstrates hypomethylation across tumor types, except for prominent hypermethylation in BRCA. Interestingly, hypermethylation of FERMT1 and FERMT2is a survival risk marker in various cancers, including LGG, ACC, KIRC, and SARC. To determine the correlation between kindlin mRNA expression and cancer prognosis, we conducted survival analysis for each kindlin in a pancancer cohort. Elevated FERMT1 expression was associated with significantly lower overall survival, as indicated by a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.9 (Fig. 1e(i)). Conversely, the expression of FERMT2 and FERMT3did not appear to have a clear connection with overall survival (Fig. 1e(ii), 1e(iii)). Notably, increased FERMT2 expression may be linked to reduced disease-free survival (Fig. 1f(i)–1f(iii)), suggesting a potential role in chemoresistance or cancer recurrence, as suggested by ref. 40 Individual cancer analyses revealedFERMT1 as a prognostic marker in PAAD (p = 0.03, HR = 1.6) and SKCM (p < 0.001, HR = 1.7) (Supplementary Fig. 5). A lowerFERMT2 expression may correlate with reduced survival in BLCA (p = 0.0036, HR = 1.6) and STAD (p = 0.034, HR = 1.4) patients (Supplementary Fig. 6). FERMT3 overexpression was found to be a prognostic factor for LAML (p = 0.001, HR = 2.5), while FERMT3 underexpression was found to predict the prognosis in SKCM (p = 0.0019, HR = 1.52) (Supplementary Fig. 7). Kindlin mutations are linked with tumor progression and metastasis As depicted in Fig. 2a, mutation frequencies in Kindlins were identified across 31 cancer classes, with 15%, 14%, and 12% for FERMT1, FERMT2, and FERMT3, respectively. Coding somatic mutations consisted of predominantly missense mutations in various cancers, followed by silent and frameshift mutations (Fig. 2b), distributed throughout their sequences (Fig. 2b). Notably, the FERM domain of FERMT3exhibited a notably high mutation frequency. Moreover, FERMT2contains a mutational hotspot, particularly within the F1 domain. Analysis of tumor stage-specific mutations revealed a similar trend for all kindlins, with concentrations of mutations occurring at tumor stages T2 and T3 indicating their impact on tumor development rather than onset (Fig. 2c). FERMT mutations were also significantly more common in the metastatic M0 stage than in the later stage, suggesting that FERMT was involved before metastatic onset (Fig. 2d). We assessed the potential impact of mutations in the regulatory region on mRNA expression by evaluating the extent of loss of function, gain of function, or alteration of function compared to wild-type functionality, inferred from recurrence and multiplicity in tumor samples41. The majority of high-impact noncoding mutations in FERMT1 and FERMT2 primarily stemmed from the 5'UTR and upstream sequence (Fig. 2e). These regulatory mutations contribute to a consistent decrease in the expression of FERMT1 and FERMT2. Moreover, FERMT3exhibited increased expression (Fig. 2e). Furthermore, the impact of regulatory upstream or downstream mutations across FERMT3 remains low, in contrast to certain start-lost, stop-lost, stop-gained, splice-region, and intronic mutants that maintain a high impact (Fig. 2e). The Kaplan‒Meier curve demonstrated that FERMT mutation was significantly associated with increased survival (p = 0.0003, HR = 1.932) (Fig. 2f). Further analysis revealed that the FERMT1 and FERMT3 mutations posed almost the same survival risk, which was greater than the FERMT2 mutation-associated risk (Kruskal‒Wallis rank sum pvalue: FERMT1-FERMT2, 0.0058; FERMT2-FERMT3, 0.0002; FERMT1- FERMT3, 0.2945) (Fig. 2g). Mutations affect the structure‒function dynamics of kindlins Kindlin isoforms exhibit ~54% sequence identity and ~70% sequence similarity, but they are structurally similar (Supplementary Fig. 8). To study the effects of these mutations on the structural stability of kindlins, we calculated the ΔΔG values of all the cancer-specific mutated conformations of all kindlin types. Since the mechanochemical activity of kindlins comes from their domain-specific flexibility, we calculated the change in vibrational entropy (ΔΔS) of the mutants relative to that of the wild-type version. Our analysis revealed four different populations of these mutants: both high flexibility and high stability (Q1), low flexibility and high stability (Q2), both low flexibility and high stability (Q3), and high flexibility and low stability (Q4) (Fig. 3a). We also observed a trend toward decreasing stability with increasing flexibility (p < 2.2e-16; σFERMT1 = −0.7470601; σFERMT2 = −0.8190608; σFERMT3 = −0.7077385) (Fig. 3a). Furthermore, we classified the mutants into five categories—very high, high, moderate, low, and slight—for each stabilizing and destabilizing cohort (Supplementary Fig. 9, Supplementary Data 2–4). According to our computational prediction with SIFT42, up to 50% cancer-specific mutants of all kindlins might be loss-of-function or pathogenic (Fig. 3b). Most of the loss-of-function mutants were generated from regions with very high stability/low flexibility or very high flexibility/very low stability, i.e., Q2 and Q4, respectively. ΔΔG analysis of multiple mutants also revealed a common destabilizing effect for all the kindlins (Fig. 3c). All the kindlins showed significant oligomerization ability. However, as the oligomerization of Kindlins has not been fully elucidated43, we analyzed both the dimeric (Fig. 3d) and trimeric (Fig. 3e) forms of Kindlins via homology modeling. Changes in the oligomerization properties of the mutants are also evident from the prediction of dimerization and trimerization affinities. Kindlin2 significantly gained dimerization affinity in almost all cancer-specific mutants but lost trimerization affinity in all the other mutants (Fig. 3d, e). In contrast, kindlin3 mutants exhibit more stable trimerization but weaker dimerization than the corresponding mutants (Fig. 3d, e). On the other hand, kindlin1 mutation had a mixed effect on dimerization and trimerization, suggesting altered kindlin-oligomer functionalities (Fig. 3d, e). Phosphorylation is an important aspect of kindlin functionality and has been validated experimentally at the T8 and T30 positions for kindlin1; at the Y193, S159, S181, and S666 positions for kindlin2; and at the T482 and S484 positions for kindlin344. Computational predictions employing a support vector machine-based machinelearning algorithm on 3D mutated structures45 indicated complete loss of the T8 and S484 mutation sites in kindlin1 and kindlin3, respectively. For FERMT2, all the frameshift mutants showed complete loss of the Y193 and S666 phosphorylation sites (Supplementary Tables 3–5). These structural effects on phosphorylation correlate with patient-specific phosphorylation levels. According to the phosphor-proteomic tandem mass tag (TMT) data, an overall decrease in phosphorylation was observed for all three kindlins, unlike in FERMT2, which suggested that the elevated phosphorylation levels (Supplementary Fig. 10) were plausibly due to altered phosphorylation sites. Overall, this dysregulated phosphorylation plausibly arises due to perturbed kinase activity on these proteins, a signature of tumor cells46. Kindlins coalter with their interactome to shape the global genomic signature in cancer Kindlin subtypes can form massive interaction networks due to their function as adapter proteins to connect many biological processes. Mutations in these proteins can alter their interactions, and their interactors might also be altered in cancer samples, triggering a synergistic effect. Hence, we evaluated the co-alterations of associated interactors in cancer (Fig. 4a–c). The name of the physical interactors corresponding to each kindlin, were identified from STRING and BioGRID database47,48. In the FERMT1-altered samples, SKIC3 and SKIC2exhibited greater coalterations than did the unaltered samples (Fig. 4a). In the sample cohort with FERMT2alterations, we found a similar pattern of coalterations in different partners, including CTNNB1 and PFKM (Fig. 4b). FERMT3was mostly coaltered with EXOSC10 and ILK (Fig. 4c). Furthermore, these coalteration behaviors revealed robust mutually exclusive alterations in all the kindlin isoforms (p value < 0.001, q < 0.001, log2 odds ratio: FERMT1-FERMT2 > 3, FERMT2-FERMT3 = 2.77, FERMT1-FERMT3 = 1.93). Alterations in all of these kindlins coexist with a global genomic shift. Differential gene expression analysis revealed that many genes were upregulated by kindlin1 and kindlin3 alterations, while fewer genes were overexpressed in the case of kindlin2 (Fig. 4d–f). On the other hand, the number of underexpressed genes was significantly greater in the kindlin2-altered cohort than in the kindlin1 and kindlin3-altered cohort. Interestingly, these kindlin alterations did not result in the expression of any commonly overexpressed genes. In contrast, 115 genes were commonly downregulated in all three kinds of kinase alterations (Fig. 4g). Kindlin2 alterations were associated with the most significant number of uniquely overexpressed genes. In comparison, kindlin1 alterations were associated with the most significant number of uniquely downregulated genes, indicating the differential role of kindlin1 in cancer (Fig. 4g). Alterations in kindlin levels coincided with significant changes in crucial cancer hallmark genes (Fig. 4h). To measure synergistic effects, we introduced the concept of coalteration dynamics, which represent the average impact of coalterations among the interacting partners in a specific biological process. For instance, we assessed the coalterations of cancer hallmark gene sets related to kindlins, indicating the coalteration dynamics between cancer hallmarks and kindlins. Our analysis, encompassing 39 hallmark genes, revealed the most pronounced coalterations with FERMT2 (average coalteration dynamics = 14.98), followed by FERMT1 (average coalteration dynamics = 11.08), with FERMT3 exhibiting the least coalteration dynamics (average coalteration dynamics = 5.35). This highlights the notable association of kindlin alterations with cancer hallmarks, suggesting their involvement, either directly or indirectly, in promoting cancer. Kindlin-related alterations are associated with cancer hallmark pathways In our study, we conducted a comprehensive network analysis of Kindlins using CancerGeneNet to explore their impact on nine crucial cancer hallmarks49. By analyzing Kindlin1 and Kindlin2 individually, we observed that the alterations in both were associated with essential angiogenesis-activating pathways, such as the TGF, TNF, and VEGF signaling pathways (Fig. 5a, b). Alterations in the expression of these two kindlins cooccur with the inhibition of apoptosis through distinct signaling pathways, including the YAP1, NFkβ, and FOXO pathways. Furthermore, these genes are correlated with the negative regulation of differentiation—Kindlin1 via the polycomb repressor complex/MAP kinase pathway and Kindlin2 through a MYOD1-dependent mechanism (Fig. 5a, b). Kindlin2 alterations are associated with NOTCH1 activation, possibly through enhancing differentiation and cell proliferation via SRC-dependent activation of STATtranscription factors and RAC1 (Fig. 5b). When DNA repair was downregulated, alterations in the expression of both kindlin genes were positively correlated with each other, possibly through the GSK3β pathway or TP53-mediated mechanisms (Fig. 5a, b). Both genes demonstrated associations with promoting immortality through MYC, AKT1, SRC-dependent mechanisms, and telomerase activation (Fig. 5a, b). In the context of metastasis, Kindlin1 was correlated with the activation of the β-catenin and MAPK pathways, while Kindlin2 was correlated with β-catenin and Ezrin activation (Fig. 5a, b). Kindlin1 exhibited a predominant negative correlation with glycolytic pathways in a JNK-dependent manner, whereas Kindlin2 exhibited a positive correlation with glycolysis by influencing hexokinase (HK) and phosphofructokinase (PFKM) (Fig. 5a, b). Although Kindlin3 appears to take a seemingly distinct path in oncogenic signaling, correlations indicated its association with the inhibition of glycolysis by targeting hexokinase, similar to Kindlin1 (Fig. 5a, c). Its alterations correlate with angiogenesis through integrin and TGF signaling, simultaneously cooccurring with cell death in a FOXO- and BCL2-dependent manner. Inhibition of differentiation cooccurs with Kindlin3 alterations, possibly through the DNMT3A, EP300, and CEBP transcription factors or through integrin-PTPN signaling (Fig. 5c). Kindlin3 alterations could also govern DNA repair by deactivating either the ubiquitin ligase complex or DNA polymerase δ through integrin-dependent pathways (Fig. 5c). Furthermore, these alterations might correlate with cancer cell proliferation primarily through integrin-dependent mechanisms involving LATS, PI3K, CREB binding protein, or STAT transcription factors (Fig. 5c). Apart from the abovementioned genomic level analysis, we examined how Kindlins contribute to ten major cancer-associated pathways at the patient level (Fig. 5d). Similar to FERMT2 but to a lesser extent, FERMT1 alterations are associated with the inhibition of apoptosis, cell cycle progression, the DNA damage response, and the androgenreceptor pathway. Moreover, the FERMT3-altered patient cohort exhibited major activation of apoptotic pathways. Kindlin-altered patients also exhibited alterations in the PI3K/AKT, mTOR, RTK, MAPK, and hormone signaling pathways. Notably, FERMT3 and FERMT2 alterations were significantly associated with epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) (Fig. 5e). Our analysis revealed strong links between EMT-promoting processes, such as UV response downregulation, TGFβ expression, angiogenesis, and hedgehog signaling, and alterations in 33 cancer types. Conversely, EMT-inhibiting pathways, such as DNA repair, oxidative phosphorylation, and P53 tumor suppression pathways, negatively correlate with Kindlin-related alterations. Kindlin alterations also align with EMT-related immune responses, underscoring their role in protecting EMT phenotypes from immunosurveillance (Supplementary Fig. 11). Kindlins cooperate with the cancer mechanome and related biological processes We used weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) to identify modules of genes that exhibited coordinated expression patterns across kindlin-altered samples (Fig. 6a–c)50. In cancer, this approach can reveal clusters of genes that work together in specific biological processes or pathways, providing insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer development and progression. We found that kindlinalterations correspond to distinct gene clusters compared to their unaltered counterparts. Although there was no difference in the number of clusters among the kindlins or between the altered and unaltered cohorts (19 for each), the size of the clusters (number of genes in each cluster) varied among the patients. Furthermore, the association among the clustered genes was also altered in kindlin-altered samples compared with control samples, which was also visualized from the 1-TOM-based dendrograms. Interestingly, the clusters of kindlin1 and kindlin2 alterations were somewhat similar, while those of kindlin3 differed in terms of their gene composition (Fig. 6a–c). This helps to identify hub genes within kindlin coexpression modules in cancer, reflecting aimportant role in mechanotransduction and mechanochemical pathways. In the context of our study, mechanotransduction and mechanochemical pathways were considered two connected but distinct phenomena. Mechanotransduction involves specialized sensors within or on the cell membrane that detect mechanical forces such as tension, compression, shear stress, or stretching. These sensors, exemplified by integrins, then relay signals to trigger various cellular responses. On the other hand, mechanochemical pathways refer to signal modules that can be indirectly influenced by mechanical cues, whether extracellular or intracellular. This category encompasses pathways such as the p53 and mTOR pathways. Kindlins act as interlinks of major cellular pathways, including other mechanosensitive or mechanochemical proteins directly linked to kindlins or through kindlin interactors. Our meta-analysis revealed 53 mechanotransducing proteins of the integrin pathway and 62 mechanochemical proteins, encompassing transcription factors, receptors, ion channels, cytoskeletal proteins, and other types. Differential gene expression analysis revealed that the mechanotransduction protein-encoding genes were most highly expressed when kindlin3 was altered, followed by when kindlin2 was altered (Fig. 6d–f). On the other hand, in terms of kindlin1 alteration, almost half of these genes were overexpressed, and the other half were downregulated (Fig. 6d). Most of the mechanochemical proteins were coaltered with all the Kindlins (Fig. 6g). Kindlin alterations mostly cooccur with ACTN1, ADGRs, DNMT1, RAC1, TMX4, and TP53. Additionally, the mechanochemical protein-forming genes exhibited a very high degree of coalteration with the FERMT2gene, followed by that withFERMT1, and least common with FERMT3 (mean coalteration dynamics = 19.3, 12.34, and 9.92, respectively). Most of these coaltered partners were cytoskeletal proteins or transcription factors (Supplementary Data 5). To determine how kindlin alterations might perturb signaling cascades, we performed pathway enrichment analysis of all the kindlins from the TCGA cohort (Fig. 6h). GO enrichment was found for biological processes and Reactome pathways, as both of these involve the most significant number of updated pathways related to kindlins. We observed that Kindlin alterations in cancer corresponded to highly enriched positive regulation of proteincomplex assembly, cell migration, and integrin activation (Fig. 6h). However, the most negatively enriched pathways were involved in cell aggregation and cell‒cell adhesion, suggesting their role in metastasis (Fig. 6h). Pathway enrichment further revealed greater enrichment of GTPase signaling and reorganization of cellular junctions but a decrease in the cellular response to Ca2+ (Fig. 6h). Precision oncology faces two key challenges: comprehending tumor diversity and predicting changes in intracellular complexity driven by the evolving microenvironment51,52. Tumor heterogeneity can lead to chemoresistance and tumor relapse. Recent research has provided a mechanical basis for these events53,54. Mechanosensitive adapter proteins, such as kindlins, are vital for connecting external mechanical forces with internal cellular events, functioning like molecular clutches55. Any alterations in these proteins can disrupt the cellular balance, potentially fueling malignancy. This integrative pancancer analysis of kindlin genes was motivated by three major aspects. First, it is imperative to recognize that the Kindlin family comprises multiple closely related proteins (structural similarity ~98%, sequence similarity ~68–73%). However, these genes exhibit a significantly differential expression pattern in different cancers compared to normal tissue. For example, while predominantly known as a hematopoietic lineage-specific protein56, Kindlin3 is overexpressed in certain solid cancers, as this finding raises questions about the underlying molecular mechanisms that determine its expression (Fig. 1b). Second, by studying all Kindlin family members collectively, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of their potential complementary and synergistic roles in cancer biology. This includes examining how different Kindlin proteins may interact with each other or with other cellular components to influence cancer cell behavior, tumor progression, and response to therapy. Pathway-specific alteration analysis revealed the combined effect of all the kindlins, especially kindlin2 and kindlin3, on the activation of EMT accompanied by the inhibition of the DNA damage response (Fig. 5d). In addition, kindlins play a role in cellcycle arrest, a common signature of EMT associated with increased ribosome biogenesis57. However, it is also interesting how kindlin3 affects cancerhallmark pathways in an integrin-dependent manner, unlike the other two pathways (Fig. 5c). Third, previous studies have proposed a role for kindlins in tumor heterogeneity, chemoresistance, and relapse40. These phenotypes are associated with cancer stemness58. Our analysis revealed that kindlin expression correlated with decreased potency and hence a plausible role in tumor stem cell differentiation (Fig. 6i). Similarly, cancer stemness was also negatively correlated with kindlin alterations(Fig. 6j). This in turn might cause heterogeneity to drive chemoresistance and relapse38, which was also anticipated because high kindlin2 expression causes poor disease-free survival, indicating tumor recurrence (Fig. 1f)59. This differentiation is related to EMT promotion and metastasis60, both of which are increased in kindlin-altered samples. The mutational impacts of kindlins are also interesting. Although we found that dimerization mostly stabilizes kindlin2 and destabilizes kindlin3, the opposite trend occurs during trimerization. Kindlin oligomerization is hypothesized to inhibit integrin binding61. Considering this, a mixed mutation-specific effect is expected in a patient-specific manner, and to be precise, no trend can be obtained in terms of an oligomerization-dependent effect. However, the overall mutational spectrum indicates altered flexibility and stability and associated mechanochemical alterations. This is further reflected in kindlin-mediated signaling pathways. Our integrative analysis revealed a significant increase in the expression of genes associated with mechanically modulated biological processes such as cell migration, focal adhesion assembly, and cell-matrix interactions (Fig. 6h). The expression of mechanochemical pathway genes was also significantly coaltered with that of all three kindlins, revealing the effect of mechanical perturbations on chemical signals. For example, metabolism in cancer is mechanically regulated62,63. We found that, in one instance, kindlin2 activates glycolysis (Fig. 5b); however, it decreases the TCA cycle in an SRC-dependent manner (Supplementary Fig. 12). The computational data related to kindlin family alterations and mutational and stability analyses presented in our work strongly coincide with those of previous experimental studies. We found that kindlin2 expression is increased in breast cancer and activates epithelial–mesenchymal transition, which was also found by Sossey-Alaoui et al. and Xue et al.39,64. It has also been reported that lossoffunction of kindlin2 and kindlin3 leads to cell adhesion deficiency, suggesting the importance of kindlin lossoffunction in their interactions and pathophysiology65. Previously, in the case of PAAD, kindlin downregulation was shown to contribute to intratumoral heterogeneity44. Based on the nature of the kindlin distribution in normal tissues, we observed genomic alterations in cancers originating from different tissues. These findings led us to propose a plausible role for changes in kindlin family genes in regulating tumor heterogeneity. This heterogeneity corresponds to the activation of different cellular properties within tumor cells. We have shown that kindlin-mediated biochemical alterations arise from combined alterations in kindlins and their networks. Kindlin-mediated cancer-specific upregulation or downregulation of miRNAs can also be important for inducing malignancy and metastasis37,38. Our analysis suggested an interesting feedbackloop mechanism involving kindlin and miRNA expression, which has also been shown in breast cancer malignancies45. We observed that miRNAs regulated by kindlin2 also target kindlin1 or kindlin3 (Supplementary Table 4). Another interesting observation was the correlation between total mutations and kindlin-1 and kindlin-3 expression levels, as well as the lack of correlation between increases in genomic mutations and kindlin-2 expression. This finding supports the kin-mediated regulation of genomic instability, as was found experimentally by Zhao et al. for breast cancer46. In summary, our analysis unveils the crucial role of mechanosensitive adapter proteins such as kindlins in orchestrating the intricate interplay between external mechanical cues and internal chemical events that drive cancer progression. These alterations likely stemmed from (1) overexpression and heterogeneous amplification; (2) fundamental changes in the structural properties of kindlins, encompassing their stability, flexibility, and force transmission capabilities; and (3) functional characteristics, including phosphorylation events and loss of functional domains. While our findings strongly imply a potential role of kindlins in cancer, it's vital to stress the need for extensive experimental validation. Most analyses here directly involve patient samples, indicating kindlin involvement in cancer. However, predictive studies, such as mutational effects and identifying loss- or gain-of-function, require validation. Thorough investigations, encompassing structural analyses, biochemical assays, and cellular studies, are essential to validate and contextualize observed associations. Additionally, the novel cancer-specific pathways of kindlins identified in this article warrant further experimental validation. This comprehensive approach will bolster the reliability and depth of our understanding, closing the gap between correlation and causation in the intricate relationship between kindlins and cancer progression. Nonetheless, kindlins are indispensable mechanochemical adaptersthat have substantial influence on a spectrum of cancer signaling pathways. This underscores their potential as promising targets for innovative mechano-modulatory cancer therapeutics, offering context-dependent avenues for intervention and treatment strategies. Dataset curation and analysis Preliminary patient RNAseq, CNV, and DNA methylation data were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas32 (n = 10597). Cancer-associated somatic mutations were obtained from the Catalog of Somatic Mutations in Cancer (COSMIC)34 (n = 24712), and a dataset of multiple mutations per donor was curated from the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC)33 database. Along with the kindlin isoform donors (n = 1045), mutation-specific expression data (n = 268) from 18 cancer cohorts were also found in the ICGC dataset. For the latter, initial data were filtered for donors who possessed high and low functional impact mutations only, leaving out donors with mutations of unknown impact. Comparative Kindlin gene expression analysis of tumor and normal samples was performed using the TCGA cancer cohort and corresponding GTEx normal tissue data, leading to a comparative analysis of 17 cancer types. Finally, kindlin mRNA expression was studied as a function of tumor stage (AJCC) and metastasis stage code (AJCC), which are two clinical attributes for cancer patients. Pancancer protein expression (massspectrometry) data were obtained from the CPTAC dataset for 12 types of cancer. We were able to obtain 1272 and 808 tumor and tumor-adjacent tissue samples, respectively. To analyze the protein expression data, we studied the relative protein abundance as determined by the TMTlog2 ratio. Similarly, for phosphorylation analysis, we obtained tumor and tumor-adjacent data from 1272 and 782 samples, respectively. We estimated the phosphorylation alteration as follows (Eq. 1): Consequently, relevant microRNAs and their expression were analyzed in the context of cancer via systematic analysis of primary literature and textmining of high-throughput experimental data from miRDB (http://www.mirdb.org/)66 and miRCancer (http://mircancer.ecu.edu/)67 to determine the differences between mRNA expression and protein expression patterns. Survival analysis We used Kaplan‒Meier (KM) plots to analyze overall and disease-free survival based on gene expression. The data were originally sourced from the TCGA/ICGC cohort (n = 9498) and utilized in the KM plotter OF GEPIA survival analysis tool68. To ensure accuracy, we excluded samples (n = 193) that overlapped. For mutation status-specific overall survival plots, we employed data from the TCGA study (n = 2583), for which mutation profiles were available. Mutated variant analysis COSMIC data were separately fetched for all the kindlin isoforms, and their pointmutation data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) databases. Overlapping samples were excluded, for a total of 981 samples were estimated for the analysis.From the consensus transcript sequences of all kindlin isoforms, multiple mutations per transcript of all these isoforms were also documented, with n = 38. These multiple-nucleotide variants (MNVs) were further analyzed and filtered manually exhaustively looking for variants that appear- a. in the same individual, b. in the same haplotype, c. in cis position, d. within the window size of 2 basepairs69. The functional impact of the single-nucleotide mutations was assessed by the Sorting Intolerant from Tolerant (SIFT) algorithm42. Cancer-specific mutational stability characterization The monomeric structures ofkindlin1 (Q9BQL6), kindlin2 (Q96AC1), and kindlin3 (Q86UX7) were derived from AlphaFold70. Dimers and trimers were prepared for each of the probes by performing homology modeling on trRosetta71. Structural homology was further checked using POSA72. Substitution and frameshift mutations were incorporated using v. 2.5.2 PyMOL and the transformed-restrained Rosetta (trRosetta), respectively. Perturbations in the dynamics and stability of all the kindlin proteins as a function of mutations were categorized by the Elastic Network Contact Model–based NMA (ENCoM–based NMA)73 to estimate the change in stability (ΔΔG) and entropy (ΔΔS). The ENCOM-based NMA approach takes into consideration the distinct nature and consequent effects of specific amino acids on the dynamics of the structure59. Moreover, the involvement of vibrational normal modes and entropic analysis within the NMA method represents an approach to characterizing protein structure dynamics and the effect of mutations74. Classification of stabilizing and destabilizing mutants The mutants' stability, compared to their respective wild-type structures, was determined by calculating changes in free energy (ΔΔG values). We compiled ΔΔG values for all mutants and repeated the data according to the mutation frequency across all cancer types. We created distinct subsets for mutants that stabilized (ΔΔG (+ve)) and destabilized (ΔΔG (−ve)). The entire dataset was classified by ranking mutations based on their ΔΔG values, arranging them in percentiles (Eq. 2). n = number of samples below a particular value; N = total number of samples; P = percentile of that particular value. In the stabilizing dataset, we categorized the 0–25 percentile region (P1) as low, the 25–75 percentile (P2) as moderate, and the 75–100 percentile (P3) as high. Conversely, in the destabilizing dataset, we classified the 0–25 percentile region (P1) as high, the 25–75 percentile (P2) as moderate, and the 75–100 percentile (P3) as low. As statistics commonly use the median as the dividing point between the higher and lower halves of a dataset, we calculated the median for the P1 region in the stabilizing group and the P3 region in the destabilizing group, averaging their magnitudes (Eqs. 3 and 4). Similarly, we computed the median for the P3 region in the stabilizing group and the P1 region in the destabilizing group, averaging their magnitudes as well. Mutants with ΔΔG values below the average for the low category were labeled as slightly stabilizing, while those with ΔΔG values exceeding the negative of the average for the low category were considered slightly destabilizing, as depicted in Supplementary Fig. 9. Consequently, both single nucleotide mutants that stabilize and destabilize were sorted into five categories: very high, high, moderate, low, and very low. For further downstream analysis, we only considered mutations that were highly stabilizing and highly destabilizing. Structural analysis of cancer-specific variants The characteristic deviation of the stability and flexibility of the mutant (mut) variants against the wild-type (WT) counterparts was determined using the ENCoM-based NMA method74. In our analysis, ΔΔG and ΔΔS were calculated as follows (Eq. 5): where a positive value of ΔΔG indicates stabilization and a negative value indicates destabilization. Similarly, for ΔΔS, a positive value indicates increased flexibility, while a negative value indicates decreased flexibility. Preliminary data collected from all cancer-associated somatic mutations via this method were subsequently filtered to screen for mutations that corresponded to a ΔΔGENCoM value of ≥+1.24 and ≤−1.24 for further analysis (as highly stabilizing and destabilizing mutants). We used PhoS3D45 to examine the effects of the experimental validated kindlin phosphorylation sites on phosphorylated proteins via 3D pdb coordinates. The effects of cancer-associated substitution mutations on the ability of monomeric Kindlin to form dimeric and trimeric structures were also predicted via symmetric C2 docking75 and C3 docking of the monomer, respectively, employing a hybrid algorithm of template-based and ab initio free modeling and docking75.The binding affinity (BA, kcal/mol) of dimerization or trimerization was calculated as follows (Eq. 6): (+) vs. ΔBAsuggest destabilization and unfavorable, whereas a (−) vs. value indicates stabilization and is favorable for dimerization and trimerization. Copy number variation analysis We gathered copy number variation (CNV) data for FERMT1, FERMT2, and FERMT3 from both the TCGA and ICGC cohorts. In the CNV analysis module, we computed the percentages of various CNV types and assessed their correlation with mRNA expression for each gene within each cancer type. The raw data were processed with GISTICS2.076 to obtain cancer-specific CNV statistics. However, we determined the correlation between CNV and mRNA expression by analyzing raw CNV data alongside gene-specific mRNA expression from individual samples. We categorized the CNV variations into two subtypes: homozygous, which indicates CNV occurring in both chromosomes, and heterozygous, representing CNV occurring on only one chromosome. We obtained percentage statistics based on these CNV subtypes using GISTIC-processed data. The correlation calculations were performed using the raw CNV and mRNA RSEM data. Methylation data analysis Cancer-specific methylation data were obtained from the NCI Genomic Data Commons for 33 cancer types. Among them, only 14 cancer types contained paired tumor vs. normal data for FERMT1, FERMT2, and FERMT3. A differential methylation analysis was conducted, considering cancers with at least 10 tumor-normal pairs, using Student's t test. The resulting p values were adjusted using FDR, with significance considered at FDR ≤ 0.05. For methylation-specific survival analysis, patient methylation data were combined with overall survival data. Methylation levels were categorized into high and low groups based on the median methylation. Hazard ratios were estimated through Cox regression analysis. If the Cox coefficient >0, high methylation was indicative of worse survival; conversely, low methylation indicated better survivability. The association between mRNA expression and methylation data was assessed by merging the data using TCGA barcodes for each sample. Pearson's correlation coefficient was employed to test the relationship between paired mRNA expression and methylation. P values were adjusted for FDR, with significance defined as FDR ≤ 0.05. DEseq and GSEA We conducted genomic characterization by performing differential gene expression analysis and gene set enrichment analysis utilizing the Python package pyDESEQ277. Our primary aim was to identify sets of genes that exhibited either high or low expression levels under specific experimental conditions. We used The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data for 33 cancer types. Our experimental conditions involved comparing altered vs. unaltered states for each kindlin gene. This analysis yielded a list of genes that displayed significant differential expression, accompanied by their log2 (fold change) and p value in the altered cohort compared to the unaltered cohort. In cases where not otherwise specified, the cutoff for log2-fold change was set at 1.5. Subsequently, following the generation of a ranked list of differentially expressed genes for each specific comparison of interest, we conducted gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Additionally, we utilized the same dataset and experimental conditions to perform pathway enrichment analysis, leveraging the Python package GSEApy78. We employed the GO Biological Process 2023 pathway set, with the permutation type set to 'phenotype' and the method set to'signal_to_noise'. The output of this analysis provided us with a list of biological processes, accompanied by their normalized enrichment scores (NES) and adjusted p values. The enriched pathways were ranked based on their NES values, considering the processes with a p-value less than 0.05 as statistically significant. Coalteration analysis We conducted a coalteration analysis of TCGA patientsample data for all genes within the direct and indirect physical interactomes of FERMT1, FERMT2, and FERMT3, sourced from BioGRID4.4 (https://thebiogrid.org/). Additionally, we identified Kindlin-associated mechanochemical proteins through a meta-analysis of text-mined articles (Supplementary Data 5), and hallmark genes were sourced from the MsigDB79. The coalteration analysis assessed the extent of the coalterations of these mechanosensitive proteins and hallmark genes in the kindlin-altered and unaltered TCGA cohorts, quantified using the term mean coalteration dynamics defined as follows (Eq. 7): Here, X = mean coalteration dynamics of a gene set; A% = percentage of samples altered; U% = percentage of samples unaltered; N = number of genes in the set. Pathway alterations were applied for both functional mutations in kindlin-associated genes. The global percentage of pathway activity for a particular pathway and for a particular kindlin was calculated as follows (Eq. 8): Cancer-specific pathway alteration analysis We used reversed-phase protein array (RPPA) data from the TCPA cohort, which consists of samples included in the TCGA cohort. We utilized these data to calculate scores for cancer samples across 32 different cancer types. Our analysis focused on ten key cancer-related pathways, including apoptosis, cell cycle progression, DNA damage response, EMT, hormone ER, hormone AR, TSC/mTOR, RTK, RAS/MAPK, and PI3K/AKT pathways. To prepare the data, we employed replicate-based normalized (RBN) RPPA data, which were median-centered and further normalized by standard deviation across all samples for each component. This normalization allowed us to obtain relative protein levels, facilitating pathway alteration comparisons. The pathway score is then the sum of the relative protein level of all positive regulatory components minus that of negative regulatory components in a particular pathway80. We followed the same protocol followed by ref. 81. We categorized gene expression into two groups based on median expression levels: high and low. To measure the difference in pathway activity scores (PAS) between these groups, we used Student's t test. The resulting p values were adjusted for false discovery rate (FDR) with a cutoff of FDR < = 0.05. For a specific gene, Gene X, if PAS X (high) > PAS X (low), it suggests that Gene X activates the pathway. Conversely, PAS X (high) <= PAS X (low) indicates that Gene X inhibits the pathway. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis We utilized the Python package pyWGCNA to perform a weighted gene correlation network analysis82. We began by assessing the degree of gene coexpression similarity between two genes, represented as a and b within a given sample i. This similarity was quantified as Tab, which corresponds to the absolute value of their correlation coefficient. To further gauge the strength of the correlation between these genes, we applied a power function, resulting in a correlation measure known as Mab, where Mab = \|Tab\|β. A gradient approach was used to ensure that our analysis remained scale-independent and to assess the average connectivity. This approach involved systematically adjusting the power value (β) across a range from 1 to 20 to identify the optimal β value that would yield a network displaying a high degree of scale independence, exceeding the threshold of 0.80. The optimal β value was used to construct a scale-free network. Next, we transformed the adjacency matrix into a topological overlap matrix (TOM) and computed the corresponding dissimilarity values (1-TOM). We utilized hierarchical average linkage clustering analysis to identify distinct modules within the network, applying dynamic tree cut to the gene dendrogram with specific criteria, including a cutoff height of 0.975 and a minimum module size of 30 genes. Meta-analysis of Kindlin-associated Mechanochemical signaling We conducted a thorough electronic search of research papers using specific terms such as mechanochemical signaling, mechanosensitive transcription factors, mechanosensitive receptors, and mechanochemical ion channels. In Google Scholar, we found 17,800 articles for mechanochemical signaling, 31,400 for mechanosensitive transcription factors, 60,700 for mechanosensitive receptors, and 49,500 for mechanochemical ion channels. In PubMed, we found 417, 325, 1443, and 2241 articles for these terms, respectively. We eliminated duplicate articles and focused on those specifically related to proteins associated with mechanochemical or mechanosensitive signals (Supplementary Fig. 13). To further refine our analysis, we cross-referenced the included study references and considered proteins mentioned multiple times only once. We shortlisted relevant abstracts and then investigated the association of these proteins with Kindlins using the extended interactome network of FERMT1, FERMT2, and FERMT3 obtained from BioGRID. We categorized the mechanochemical proteins into two groups: Level-1, which is directly associated with Kindlins, and Level-2, which is associated with Kindlin interactors. This final list includes 20 mechanochemical transcription factors, 4 mechanochemical ion channels, 6 mechanosensitive receptor proteins, 13 mechanosensitive cytoskeletal proteins, and 14 proteins with other functions. We obtained information about the major cellular processes involving these genes from GeneCards and individually extracted and recorded these data in a predefined form. These data also specify the type of protein, its primary cellular function, and its association with Kindlin (Supplementary Data 5). Cancer stemness and potency measurements We used the machine learning-based protocol of Malta et al. to quantify the stemness of each cancer patient sample83. In brief, the mRNAsi algorithm measures the stemness of samples according to the mRNA expression signature, whereas the mDNAsi algorithm measures stemness from the DNA methylation pattern. Stemness-associated tissue potency was measured using the SCENT algorithm84. These values were correlated with kindlin expression (z score) using a linear regression method. Statistics and reproducibility All the analyses were performed on TCGA pan-cancer dataset (n = 10,953) unless mentioned otherwise. For all differential analyses, altered samples (n = 3161 (FERMT1); 2910 (FERMT2); 2168 (FERMT3)) were investigated with respect to corresponding kindlin-unaltered samples (n = 7792 (FERMT1); 8043 (FERMT2); 8785 (FERMT3)). Number of overexpressed (n = 2405 (FERMT1); 2375 (FERMT2); 2376 (FERMT3)) and underexpressed (n = 2380 (FERMT1); 2376 (FERMT2); 2376 (FERMT3)) samples were constant for all expression-based analyses. Mutation analyses were performed on all three kindlin mutated samples (n = 627) unless mentioned otherwise. Protein expression and phosphorylation analysis were performed n = 1272 CPTAC tumor samples and n = 808 tumor adjacent normal samples.Statistical analyses were performed using R version4.2.1, R version4.0.3 (http://cran.r-project.org/) and Origin Pro (https://www.originlab.com/). Routine statistical tests were employed to validate the statistical significance of the differences. These methods included the log-rank p test and Cox proportionalhazards model for generating Kaplan‒Meier plots with 95% confidence intervals. The Kruskal‒Wallis test was used to compare survival probabilities based on mutations across all Kindlin isoforms. Unpaired two-tailed t tests were used for comparing different population groups, while one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni posthoc correction were applied to evaluate statistical significance among various cancer types at a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. Furthermore, Z scores were calculated to assess gene expression changes, with a cutoff value of ±1.96. We used -log10 (FDR) fold enrichment with an FDR cutoff of ≤0.05. To verify correlations for nonparametric and parametric variables, we employed Spearman's and Pearson's correlation coefficients, where values ranged from +1 (highest correlation) to −1 (lowest correlation), with 0 indicating no correlation. Linear regression was used to analyze the relationship between two variables. In cases involving different populations, we determined significant sample numbers using a power test, considering a power level greater than 0.8 tobe adequate. Reporting summary Further information on research design is available in the Nature Portfolio Reporting Summary linked to this article. Data availability Pancancer patient-specific omics data files are available from the respective websites of the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) (https://dcc.icgc.org/) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) (https://portal.gdc.cancer.gov/). Normal tissue gene expression data are available at GTEx (https://gtexportal.org/home/). The corresponding TCGA proteomics data can be accessed from CPTAC (https://proteomics.cancer.gov/data-portal, https://proteomic.datacommons.cancer.gov/pdc/). Pancancer kindlin mutation data can be found in the COSMIC database (https://cancer.sanger.ac.uk/cosmic). The miRNA and TCGA alteration data were obtained from the miRDB (http://www.mirdb.org/) and miRCancer (http://mircancer.ecu.edu/), respectively. Secondary data such as those generated during our analysis are available from https://github.com/SML-CompBio/KINDLIN-PANCAN. The source data are also available with this article as Supplementary Data files and from https://github.com/SML-CompBio/KINDLIN-PANCAN. Code availability The respective software and packages used in this study are described with the corresponding methods and their links. 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Malta, T. M. et al. Machine learning identifies stemness features associated with oncogenic dedifferentiation. Cell 173, 338–354.e15 (2018). Teschendorff, A. E. & Enver, T. Single-cell entropy for accurate estimation of differentiation potency from a cell's transcriptome. Nat. Commun. 8, 15599 (2017). Priyadarshi, S. SML-CompBio/KINDLIN-PANCAN: pan-cancer analyses suggest Kindlin-associated global mechanochemical alterations. Zenodo https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10775631 (2024). The results published here are based upon data generated by the TCGA, ICGC, COSMIC, and ENCODE projects. We thank Technical Research Center, S.N. Bose National Center for Basic Sciences,Mphasis foundation, and Ashoka University for support and funding. S.H. thanks SERB core research grant for funding. D.C. thanks DBT for funding and support through the DBT-JRF fellowship. Author information Authors and Affiliations D.C. and S.H. designed the project. A.M. contributed significantly to the experimental design. D.C. and D.M. handled the COSMIC dataset. D.C., D.M., A.M. and S.P. handled the TCGA dataset. R.B. and S.W. handled the ICGC dataset. D.C., D.M., S.P., A.M., R.B. and S.W. analyzed the data. D.C., S.P. and D.M. constructed the codes. A.M., R.B. and S.W. performed the meta-analyses. D.C., A.M. and S.C. wrote the manuscript with suggestions from all the authors. D.C., D.M. and S.P. participated in figure preparation. Corresponding authors Ethics declarations Competing interests The authors declare no competing interests. Ethical approval In compliance with ethical standards, the analysis in this study employed pre-existing datasets, specifically TCGA, ICGC, and COSMIC, for which ethical approval and informed consent from patients had been previously acquired. As this study does not involve the generation of new data, additional ethical approval was not required. The methodologies adhered to the applicable policies, regulations, and guidelines outlined by TCGA, ICGC, COSMIC, and other databases governing the analysis and reporting of their datasets. Peer review Peer review information Communications Biology thanks Priyanka Rana and the other, anonymous, reviewer(s) for their contribution to the peer review of this work. Primary Handling Editors: Eve Rogers and George Inglis. Additional information Publisher's note Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations. Rights and permissions Open Access This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which permits use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons licence, and indicate if changes were made. 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Log In YEAR 6 UK Maths - UK Sats Style Exam Revision Class experience US Grade 5 What will be taught? In this lesson, learners will explore a variety of exam/quiz-type questions designed to prepare and support year 6 students in answering exam questions with increasing confidence. What topics will I cover? The class will cover areas of maths typically found in exams for 10-12-year-olds. How is the class structured? This is a group lesson where we will go through a different cluster of exam questions each week, break down the questions, and give learners the chance to... I have taught Year 6 for over 10 years and have proven excellence in results in both schools in London and internationally. A little more about me: I am an experienced classroom primary / elementary school teacher and head of year. I have taught in London, North Africa and the Middle East and am now based in the U.S. With many years of experience and enjoy helping children progress in their academic journey. I pride myself on ensuring that the materials are educational and engaging and that children leave the lesson knowing more than they started. Progressing and moving forward with confidence. I have also completed many training courses to help children become better writers, readers, speakers and mathematicians. I am looking forward to you joining me! Homework Offered Exam type questions or more practice with a topic your learner needs more help with.0 - 1 hours per week outside of class Assessments Offered I will be providing feedback.Grades Offered In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses: There will be times that I will send links to useful videos. In order to access some of the resources you will need to have access to Youtube. You will not need to have a Youtube account and the links will be sent through the. Outschool platform. Children will need to be supervised when watching Youtube videos, YouTube's Terms of Service You must be at least 13 years old to use the Service; however, children of all ages may use the Service and YouTube Kids (where available) if enabled by a parent or legal guardian. Permission by Parent or Guardian If you are under 18, you represent that you have your parent or guardian's permission to use the Service. Please have them read this Agreement with you. Nearpod From time to time, optional NearPod activities will be provide for self-paced completion outside of class. What is NearPod? NearPod is an app approved by Outschool. It can be be accessed with a code and link provided by the teacher. Nearpod is free with an account that parents / guardians will need to set up. Games will be interactive for the learner, support from the parent might be needed at first until learners get used to it but parents / guardians are always encouraged to check activities to ensure they are appropriate for their family's needs. If NearPod is used during a live class, then the teacher will give notice of this in the classroom. There will also be occasional, optional assessments will be available in NearPod. Solve me math puzzles This website offers engaging and interactive math puzzles and challenges that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills. SplashLearn - SplashLearn is an interactive educational platform offering engaging math lessons and games for elementary school students, utilizing adaptive learning technology to personalize content and foster a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. Top Mark Maths Topmarks is an online resource for parents, offering a wide range of educational games and activities designed to support children's learning across various subjects. My name is Mrs. Kaye. I am an experienced and fully qualified primary / elementary school teacher. I teach mainly 1:1 math, English language) and reading. I also teach 7 plus, 11 plus, NAPLAN (Australia) and UK Year SATs prep as well as helping... Group Class weekly1x per week 45 min Completed by 2 learners Live video meetings Ages: 10-12 3-8 learners per class
Dr. Sandy Gluckman, an integrative child therapist, and Dr. Alina Olteanu, an integrative pediatrician, know all too well that treating only the symptoms does not heal children's chronic health or behavior problems. Together, they offer a natural approach to medicine in Dallas and Frisco, Texas. One that includes integrative pediatrics, a functional medicine approach and psychological treatment for childhood issues such as ADD, ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. Doctors Gluckman and Olteanu are educating their patients about the fact that compartmentalized medicine does not work because it does not treat the whole person and is, therefore, unable to bring about long-term, sustainable health and wellness. They teach their patients how they have been 'trained' by the medical world to think of themselves and their children as made up of separate parts, and when one part is not working well, we seek a doctor who specializes in treating that particular part. In the years gone by, this sounded like a great idea, but medicine has evolved to the understanding that we are ONE integrated system where all the parts depend on and affect each other for health and wellness. Did you know that there are several hundred medical specialties? This means that doctors are practicing compartmentalized medicine, treating only the symptoms they want to see, instead of treating the spirit, body, and brain together as one. Doctors, Sandy Gluckman and Alina Olteanu, are showing patients the limitations of this approach by combining their areas of expertise and practicing spirit-body-brain medicine. A patient could go to a neurologist for bad migraines or to a gastroenterologist for chronic constipation. Still, if these doctors are only treating the symptom and if no one is taking a step back and looking at the entire person, spirit-body-brain, the health issue resurfaces or gets progressively worse or new and different symptoms appear. Of great concern to this unique duo of doctors is what this approach is doing to children who are grappling with learning, behavior, or mood challenges. Many children are labeled with all kinds of diagnoses and treated for the label. But a child is SO much more than his or her diagnostic label. No matter what symptoms adults or children have, there are always three layers of healing: Physical body healing This is influenced by genetics also by our lifestyle and diet, digestion, sleep, exercise. It includes everything we put into our mouths, onto our skin, and breathe into our lungs as well as including the way we use technology. Brain healing Optimizing brain health includes eliminating environmental toxins and improving nutrition through healthy diet and nutritional supplements, like omega 3 for example. Because the brain and the gut speak to each other, healing the brain also includes our gut health and microbiome. There is no coincidence, for example, that the majority of children with learning, behavior, or mood problems have some gut problems and vice-versa. Children with tummy discomfort frequently are anxious or moody. Brain healing is also influenced by the beliefs we carry, the thoughts we think, the feelings we have, and how we behave. Spirit healing The Gluckman-Olteanu spirit-body-brain approach is based on the scientifically proven fact that feeling good, behaving positively, loving life flows from a healthy inner spirit. Conversely, a hurting spirit creates a hurting body and a hurting brain. While the concepts of the "physical body" and "brain" seem self-explanatory, let us share with you what we mean about a child's spirit. This is the energetic essence of your child. It is the uniqueness of who the child is. One more major factor Chronic stress is the root cause of the majority of health issues. Stress throws the spirit, body, and brain off balance and triggers symptoms in each of the three layers of healing. Dr. Alina Olteanu describes it this way: 'Attempting to heal any disease without addressing the real underlying root cause, which is the stress level, is like trying to put out a fire with a water hose while also pouring gasoline over the fire.' Parent-Child Relationship There is a myriad of reasons why we can be stressed, but in the case of a child, the most primary cause of stress is a parent-child relationship that is not meeting the child's unique needs. As Dr. Sandy Gluckman likes to say: "Our children arrive with the perfect parenting manual. They have come to teach us. We need to learn from then what works for them and what doesn't.' With all the love in the world, parents can inadvertently hurt their children's spirit, either by not understanding their children's unique needs or by not being healthy themselves. A healthy parent-child relationship starts with healthy parents, in spirit, body, brain. Parents cannot give their children what they don't have, or more precisely, what they are not. We cannot expect our children to be happy, self-confident, brave, calm, and peaceful if we don't embody those qualities in ourselves. - Treating just one symptom, in isolation, does not lead to true healing. - A child's spirit-body-brain health starts with a healthy parent and a healing parent-child relationship. Contact Dr. Sandy Gluckman, PhD at at 972 758 1246, firstname.lastname@example.com, or visit www.drsandygluckman.com; Dr. Alina Olteanu, MD, PhD at 214-736-1954, firstname.lastname@example.com, or visit www.wholechildtexas.com Dr. Sandy Gluckman is a parenting therapist for families that have children with learning, behavior and mood challenges. She uses an integrative approach, which she calls 'spirit-body-brain medicine' for treating children with Anxiety, ADHD, Defiance, Depression, Low Motivation and Low Self Esteem, and much more. Her practice is called Parenting That Heals. This blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed healthcare provider. Contact Dr. Sandy Gluckman in Dallas (Frisco) Texas at 214-682-8980 or firstname.lastname@example.com. She is the author of the book: Parents,Take Charge: Healing learning, behavior and mood challenges without medication. A 3-Step Program. Subscribe to my YouTube Channel and Facebook page where you will learn powerful parenting tools for healing your child. You May Also Like... 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A Comparative Analysis: Marriage Duas vs. Love Spells Last Updated on January 29, 2024 In Nigerian culture, the concept of 'Marriage Duas vs Love Spells' holds significant importance, symbolizing unity, family values, and societal stability. A comparative analysis will be conducted to explore the differences between marriage duas and love spells. This blog post aims to shed light on the contrasting approaches in seeking love and marriage blessings. Marriage is deeply rooted in Nigerian culture, serving as a cornerstone of society. It unites individuals, families, and communities, ensuring continuation of bloodlines and cultural traditions. Elaborate ceremonies, traditional rituals, and dowry exchanges highlight the significance of marriage. Now, let's delve into the topic at hand – comparing marriage duas and love spells. Marriage duas are fervent supplications to seek blessings and guidance from the Almighty, asking for a compatible and harmonious partner. This approach focuses on prayers and maintaining a strong connection with God throughout the process of finding a suitable spouse. On the other hand, love spells are more associated with supernatural forces and spells cast by practitioners to manipulate feelings, desires, and actions. People believe love spells actively control others' free will, fostering affection or attraction between two people. The purpose of this blog post is to educate readers about the different methods used in seeking love and marriage in Nigerian culture. By understanding the contrasts between marriage duas and love spells, individuals can make informed decisions and respect cultural traditions when seeking love and lifelong partnerships. Basically, marriage plays a vital role in Nigerian culture and is a significant milestone in people's lives. By exploring the differences between marriage duas and love spells, this blog post aims to provide insights into the diverse approaches taken to find love and blessings in marriage. Read: Authentic Sources for Marriage Duas: A Scholarly View Marriage Duas: Enhancing Successful Marriages Marriage Duas hold a significant place in Islamic tradition, serving as powerful supplications to seek blessings for matrimony. In Nigeria, cultural and religious practices deeply root these prayers, emphasizing the significance of a harmonious union. Definition and Explanation of Marriage Duas in Islamic Tradition Marriage Duas, also known as prayers, are devout expressions seeking divine intervention and guidance for a successful marriage. Believers actively seek Allah's blessings for lifelong companionship, using these supplications to connect with Him. The Cultural and Religious Significance of Marriage Duas in Nigeria In Nigeria, where Islam holds great influence, marriage duas are of tremendous cultural and religious importance. They reflect the local customs and beliefs associated with matrimony. These prayers are performed during wedding ceremonies and signify a commitment to a prosperous married life. The Process of Performing Marriage Duas Performing marriage duas involves a ritualistic process that emphasizes devotion and spirituality. The supplicant engages in a state of purity, facing the Qibla (the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca), reciting specific verses, and pleading for matrimonial blessings. Examples of Common Marriage Duas Used in Nigeria Nigeria's rich cultural heritage has led to the formation of diverse marriage duas that exhibit varying regional influences. Examples include dua for love and compassion between spouses, dua for fertility and healthy offspring, and dua for protection against evil influences. Beliefs and Expectations Associated with Marriage Duas People believe marriage duas strengthen bonds, resolve conflicts, enhance love, commitment, and protect unions from external influences. Analysis of the Effectiveness and Limitations of Marriage Duas Marriage duas have been regarded as effective tools in fostering successful marriages. The deep faith associated with these supplications instills a sense of responsibility and commitment in couples. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that marriage duas alone cannot guarantee a harmonious relationship, as other factors like communication and understanding are equally essential. Generally, marriage duas hold substantial cultural and religious significance in Nigeria. They encompass a deep spiritual connection with Allah, seeking His blessings for a prosperous married life. Couples must understand that, for a successful marriage, they should complement prayers with effective communication and other crucial elements. Read: Best Times and Conditions to Recite Your Marriage Duas Gain More Insights: From Pre-Wedding to Post-Honeymoon: Books for Every Stage Love Spells Definition and explanation of love spells in African traditional beliefs Love spells are rituals or incantations performed in African traditional beliefs with the aim of attracting love or influencing the feelings of a specific person towards the spell-caster. Cultural and historical context of love spells in Nigeria Love spells have a long-standing history in Nigerian culture, deeply rooted in traditional beliefs and practices. They are often influenced by spiritual and mystical traditions passed down through generations. Love spells, embedded within the African traditional beliefs, hold a significant role in Nigerian culture. These spells serve as a form of spiritual intervention to influence love and attract desired romantic partners. The belief in the power of love spells is deeply ingrained in the cultural and historical context of Nigeria. The process of casting love spells The process of casting love spells involves a range of rituals, incantations, and ingredients. Spell-casters follow specific instructions, combining elements such as herbs, candles, and personal belongings to enhance their intentions. These rituals are believed to channel energy and direct it towards the desired outcome. Common love spells used in Nigeria There are various types of love spells used in Nigeria, each serving a unique purpose. Some love spells aim to attract a specific person, while others focus on enhancing existing relationships. People often seek love spells to reignite passion or recover lost love, obtaining them from traditional healers, spiritual leaders, or online sources. Beliefs and expectations associated with love spells When it comes to beliefs and expectations associated with love spells, many Nigerians place significant faith in their power. People believe love spells forge strong bonds, deepen affection, and can even lead to marriage, overcoming obstacles for desired romance. Effectiveness and limitations of love spells in promoting successful marriages However, it is important to approach love spells with caution. While some individuals claim to have experienced positive results, the effectiveness of love spells in promoting successful marriages is debatable. Love spells cannot address underlying issues or guarantee long-lasting love. They should be seen as a spiritual aid, complementing sincere efforts in building and maintaining relationships. Essentially, love spells hold a significant place in African traditional beliefs, particularly in Nigeria. They are deeply intertwined with the cultural and historical context and have unique rituals and practices. While love spells may generate hope and provide temporary relief, it is crucial to approach them with a realistic perspective. True love and successful marriages are built on genuine connections, communication, and understanding, surpassing any supernatural intervention. Read: Gender-Specific Marriage Duas: What Men and Women Say Comparative Analysis Comparison of the Purpose and Intentions behind Marriage Duas and Love Spells People use marriage duas for blessings and guidance in happy marriages. Love spells manipulate feelings and emotions. Similarities and Differences in the Rituals and Practices of Marriage Duas and Love Spells Typically, people recite specific prayers and supplications for marriage by invoking Quranic verses or religious texts. On the other hand, love spells involve the use of charms, potions, or incantations to influence the emotions and actions of the desired person, often with the intent to make them fall in love or stay committed. Both practices involve a belief in spiritual intervention, yet marriage duas emphasize divine guidance and blessings, while love spells focus more on manipulating someone's feelings. Cultural and Social Implications of Relying on Marriage Duas and Love Spells for Marital Happiness Relying solely on marriage duas and love spells can have significant cultural and social implications. In some cultures, the use of marriage duas is considered a common practice, rooted in deeply held religious beliefs. It provides a sense of hope and faith in the divine, promoting a stronger marital bond. However, the reliance on love spells can have negative consequences. It can foster unhealthy and manipulative relationships, disregarding the free will and autonomy of individuals involved. Long-term Impact of Marriage Duas and Love Spells on Relationships and Marriages Marriage duas can create a positive impact on relationships by fostering a sense of spirituality and mutual support. They can contribute to a stronger emotional connection and enhance communication between partners. In contrast, love spells can lead to a false sense of attraction and attachment, which may eventually fade away. Such spells may ultimately damage relationships, as they are built on manipulation rather than genuine feelings. Ethical Considerations of Using Marriage Duas and Love Spells as Interventions in Relationships Using marriage duas as an intervention in relationships is generally considered ethical. It involves seeking divine blessings and guidance, which aligns with religious practices. On the other hand, love spells raise ethical concerns as they infringe upon individual autonomy and manipulate emotions without consent, potentially causing harm to all parties involved. Personal Opinion on the Effectiveness and Appropriateness of Marriage Duas and Love Spells In my opinion, marriage duas can be effective in promoting marital happiness as they rely on spirituality and the power of prayer. They encourage personal growth and nurture a deeper connection between partners. On the other hand, love spells are inappropriate and ineffective as they disregard consent and manipulate feelings. Genuine relationships should be built on trust, mutual respect, and free will. In general, a comparative analysis of marriage duas and love spells reveals significant differences in their purpose, rituals, and impact on relationships. While marriage duas can enhance a relationship, love spells can be destructive and unethical. It is essential to prioritize healthy communication, mutual respect, and genuine emotions in seeking marital happiness. Read: Stories of Success: Real-Life Impact of Marriage Duas Learn More: How Traditional Nigerian Ceremonies Honour the Institution of Marriage In this blog post, we have explored the concept of marriage duas and love spells, and conducted a comparative analysis between the two. Marriage duas, firmly rooted in Islamic beliefs, actively seek Allah's blessings and guidance for marital success. On the other hand, love spells are based on the idea of manipulating someone's feelings to create a desired outcome. Through our analysis, we have identified some key differences between marriage duas and love spells. Marriage duas emphasize the importance of trust, communication, and mutual understanding in a relationship. They promote a spiritual connection between spouses and encourage them to work together to overcome challenges. In contrast, love spells rely on external forces and attempt to control the emotions and actions of individuals without their consent. These spells can be seen as manipulative and may lead to an unhealthy and unsustainable relationship. In a nutshell, it is essential for individuals to reflect on their own beliefs and practices regarding marriage and relationships. While some may find solace in marriage duas and the spiritual aspect of their faith, others may opt for different approaches. It is crucial to prioritize respect, consent, and open communication in any relationship, regardless of one's beliefs. As readers, we encourage you to explore your own beliefs and practices surrounding marriage and relationships in Nigeria. Engage in open discussions with your partner, seek advice from trusted sources, and consider the values that resonate with you. By understanding and prioritizing the foundations of a healthy and sustainable relationship, we can work towards building fulfilling marriages and fostering strong bonds in our communities.
Living In A Mindful Universe: A Neurosurgeon's Journey Into The Heart Of Consciousness Download 2 Dr. Eben Alexander 2:27 I think the best way to put it is I struggled a lot with my faith, you know, the long career and neurosurgery left me really confused about how conscious awareness could survive the death of the brain and body. I really just couldn't see how that could happen. And of course, as I explained in my book, Proof of Heaven, which is the first book I wrote about all of this, you know, I was sent into a dark night of the soul for eight years before my coma, that has to do with the fact that I'm adopted, that's a huge part of the backstory and is very relevant to major discussions of my indie and its aftermath and understanding. But turns out as I described, and proof of heaven, in February of 2000, when I was, you know, I had long ago, decades earlier, excepted my birth mother was not looking for me. So I quit writing letters to the children's home. But then it was a school project for my older son, Evan, the fourth, he was in sixth grade, in Dover, Massachusetts, and he had some family genealogy project. And he said, Dad, we just have to have more information from your birth family. So I wrote another letter to the children's home. And this is where I got the shocker. And I explained it all in the book in detail, but in a two minute phone call, I got a call from a social worker that shocked me, right to the core. She basically said, your birth parents got married. I never ever had remotely suspected that I'd always heard they kind of went their separate ways and thought I was just looking for my birth mother thought my birth father was totally out of the picture. But they got married. And not only that they'd had three children, but that the youngest sister had passed over two years earlier, that would have been in 1998. And according to the social worker, they were still grieving her loss. So it was not a good time for me to come back in their lives. Turns out that really has nothing to do with the actual communications. But given the kind of obscuration of all this with North Carolina laws, trying very hard to prevent reunions of adoptees with their birth parents. It was a real uphill battle and that perceived rejection from my birth mothers what sent me into that dark night of the soul. I stopped saying prayers. My kid, two boys at night I stopped taking them to church I basically became very agnostic, I would say, not totally atheistic, but just like, how can it be and that just sent me into darkness. So, turns out again, a huge part of the story explained in the book is that I did meet my birth family about a year before my coma. And that was absolutely crucial for the unfolding of all the events of the coma journey, and the understanding of the aftermath. But needless to say, my coma journey showed me very clearly how consciousness can survive the death of the brain and body. And not only that, it showed me a very rich realm of kind of interconnection, and, you know, one that fully in some ways kind of violated a lot of my religious preconceptions, even though I'd kind of abandoned them in the year 2000. With that rejection, you know, I'd never entertain thoughts and things like reincarnation, but my Indy he showed me very clearly that our souls come back again and again, that it would be foolish to think that all that soul work could be accomplished in one incarnation. And of course, then I had to do all the heavy duty homework into the scientific evidence for reincarnation, to start to realize the bigger picture. But what emerges from all of this is just a much grander vision of the nature of reality that is perfectly aligned with modern science, and a very refreshing kind of viewpoint to the world at large. But it also indicates we have a responsibility for our choices. And you know, we're bound together through this force of love that so many indie ears have discovered. And yet you don't necessarily see that the way we act in these bodies in this lifetime, these lifetimes. So that's where we all need to learn some deep lessons about this, that were the tip of the spear of those lessons being near death experiences and things like life reviews. Living in a Mindful Universe: A Neurosurgeon's Journey into the Heart of Consciousness download 2 Dr. Eben Alexander 6:47 The most important thing to point out is there's one anomaly in my case that's atypical for indies, and that is that I was amnesic. I had no memory whatsoever for Eben Alexander's life. I had no words, no language, none of those religious preconceptions of Eben Alexander, none of the scientific knowledge of Eben Alexander, everything was wiped clean, it was an empty slate. And it took me months to really understand why that would be. I mean, I came to realize, of course, indies are always tailored for the individual to help answer their deep and profound soul questions. And that's why I think mine took took the role that it did, but it involved that necessity of the amnesia. Now, very briefly, I'll tell you that the experience that I've described in great detail and many talks that are out there on the internet that also in the book, Proof of Heaven, and the follow up books map of heaven and living in a mindful universe. But the journey itself in this amnesic state began in the earthworms I view very primitive course unresponsive around that seemed to go on for ages. But I was rescued from that by a slowly spinning white light that came packaged with a perfect musical melody. And that ushered up like a wormhole into this brilliant Ultra real gateway Valley. Now the gateway Valley had many earth like features. I was a speck of awareness on a butterfly wing, there was this lush, incredible kind of meadow surrounded by forest down below us. Lush plant life, buds, blossoms, flowers, all of this very richly dynamic, alive, no sign of any death or decay. I remember 1000s of beings down in this meadow, lots of joy and merriment and dancing and festivities, all being fueled, because up above are these hooping orbs of angelic choirs that were emanating these chants, anthems hymns that we just thunder through my awareness. Another crucial feature of that stage of the journey was I wasn't alone, there was a beautiful young woman on the butterfly wing with me and those who've read proof of having realized that the very end of the book four months after awakening from coma, I actually discovered the identity of that beautiful woman, but at the time, I didn't know who she was, but her message to me and it was delivered telepathically in this rich kind of emotional identity of communication. You are deeply loved and cherished forever, you have nothing to fear you are cared for. I think that was kind of the ultimate message I was to bring back to this world, that and everything else about, you know, being able to have this when my brain was documented to have such destruction that I could that brain could not have made any kind of dream or hallucination. And that's all confirmed in a case report on my medical records that came out 10 years after my coma by three physicians not involved in my care, that case report. It's in the Journal of Nervous and Mental disease September 2018. But they make it very, very clear that my brain was was far too damaged from the all the data, neurologic data of my illness, to have come up with anything in terms of phenomenal experience, much less the most robust, meaningful, detailed, ultra real experience I've ever been through in my life. Now it turns out thought that was a stepping stone as we say, Gateway Valley, to higher and higher levels. And I remember seeing all of four dimensional spacetime collapsing down, then all of that spiritual realm, including a different cause causal ordering that I call deep time very important to understand. Earth time is only kind of a shared consensus, time flow. But ultimately, in the spiritual realm, there's a more kind of fundamental marker of progression of soul growth and evolution of consciousness that occurs in deep time. But in the next phase of my journey, all of that collapse down to and to another wormhole that was engendered by the music of the angelic choirs. I ascended into the core realm, the core was infinite inky blackness, but filled to overflowing with a divine healing love of that creator god source. I mean, that's what indie ears prophets and mystics have encountered. For 1000s of years across all belief systems in these journeys, of it shows there's more to the universe than just the physical world. And that's exactly what I bathed in. I mean, that beautiful ocean of love is something that any indie IR comes back and realizing there's nothing to fear about death, it's really kind of that returning to source and that beautiful oneness. And anyway, I cycled through these regions multiple times, I could use the memory of the music itself to conjure up these various portals between levels. But I was always told in the core will teach you many things, but you'll be going back, you're not here to stay. And there came a time when that was true. And I tried to remember the musical notes, the melody, to conjure up that light portal that took me from the earth or my view up into the gateway Valley, and it wouldn't happen. And that was towards the very end of the journey. That's when I saw 1000s of beings going off into the distance, heads bowed, some holding candles, his murmuring energy coming from them. And the surprise of that was, I was now back in this murkiest early realm, the earth for my view. And yet, I still felt the incredible sense of love and connection, and spiritual home of all those beings around me and my writings. When I wrote it up weeks later, I said, that was the power of prayer. That was that was what I was sensing from all those beings. And it was helping to guide me back to this world. There were six faces I saw at the very end. And they're important because they were vertical time anchors. There were a people, family and friends who were in the ICU in the last 24 hours of coma. And for all the elaborate reasons, I go into detail in the book to explain it. But they showed me that the vast majority of the coma journey which seemed to go on for months or years, I mean an extraordinary journey, even though it happened in seven Earth days in my time in coma. But that return, finally, coming back to this world was the sixth face that I saw as a 10 year old boy, and it turns out it was my son bond, I did not recognize him. My amnesia was still absolutely preponderant in this in this journey. But his pleading with me he'd been outside the room, where the doctors held the family meeting on day seven of coma where I had not been making any progress of 10. They estimate a 10% chance of survival early in week 2% At the end of the week, no chance of recovery. And that's why they recommended stopping the antibiotics bond overheard that conversation came running down the hallway realizing now is much worse than what he'd been told. And he pulled open my eyelids when I looking over there when down there neither pupil working. Anybody in medicine knows that's a horrible picture. I promise you I did not see him with my eyes hearing with my ears, but he's pleading with me, Daddy, you're going to be okay, Daddy, you're going to be okay. I didn't understand the words, but the emotional engagement and the pleading is what got through and that is what impelled me to come back to this world. Even though I had no idea what I was coming back to. When I did opening my eyes and that ICU room. My mother, my sisters, my son's at the bedside, I had no idea who these beings were, the amnesia was still absolutely active. But the amnesia resolved quickly words and language came back over hours and days childhood memory over days and weeks. All my semantic knowledge physics, cosmology, neuroscience over two months. And in the book Living in a mindful universe, we go into a lot of detail about the importance of that part of the discussion. In that many neurosurgeons are finally getting to a point of realizing, you know that long term memories do not seem to be stored in the brain at all. Out of the million plus craniotomy. We've done brain resections. Over the last century, there's never been a case of long term memories being removed with any part of the brain being removed. It's a very important point that we explain it in living in a mindful universe, especially in that appendix on memory in the brain. It's kind of the last nail in the coffin of materialist neuroscience, that memory is not stored there. But of course, we also realize now that the brain serves as a filter. It's not the producer of consciousness, but it allows primordial consciousness. And so that's where the whole discussion from a scientific perspective gets very, very interesting. But I've spent the 13 years since my coma, trying to make sense of this journey in a way that helps me explain it. And that has also involved an intense program of meditation an hour to a day, using sacred acoustics. binaural beat Brainwave Entrainment for their very deep meditation to help develop my relationship with much of what I first discovered within my MBE.
National Character Area 59 Wirral - Detailed Statements of Environmental Opportunity This section expands on the Headline Statements of Environmental Opportunity and provides further detail on each of the Statements of Environmental Opportunity. SEO 1: Work with natural coastal processes to conserve and enhance the dynamic estuarine and coastal landscape, with habitats such as intertidal mudflats and sand flats, coastal salt marshes and coastal sand dunes, while addressing climate change and safeguarding wildlife. For example by: - Enabling natural and dynamic coastal and estuarine processes to function, so that the coastline and estuary can respond to the constantly changing patterns of accretion and erosion, allowing the formation of intertidal flats, coastal salt marshes and sand dunes to continue. - Seeking opportunities to enhance the area's intertidal habitats, including coastal salt marsh and mudflats, to provide effective defences against wave energy and enhance their natural flood defence mechanisms. - Monitoring and researching coastal processes to gain a deeper understanding of coastal sedimentary systems to aid the prediction of the likely effects of sea level rise, and working with partners to find ways of enabling these dynamic processes while maintaining the coast and estuary. Provide opportunities for education about coastal processes and the influence of climate change, to improve public understanding of the many features and functions of the estuary and coast. - Protecting the distinctiveness of coast and estuary, enhancing sense of place and conserving the internationally, nationally and locally important coastal and estuarine habitats and the wildlife species they support, such as the visiting bird populations. - Looking for opportunities to restore and create coastal habitats, such as delivering managed realignment schemes to create coastal salt marsh or other wetland habitats, to avoid any potential net loss of habitat from 'coastal squeeze' and to contribute to landscape character. - Enabling habitats to adapt to coastal change and climate change, enabling natural movement of sand dune habitats, preventing further fragmentation and ensuring their sound management. - Managing coastal cliffs, allowing natural processes of erosion where appropriate (including the slumping of unprotected soft cliffs around the Dee Estuary), to retain geological/geomorphological and biological interest. - Working with the local fishing community to promote sustainable fishing practices so that fish stocks and marine ecosystems are maintained and restored. - Working with water companies and industry to reduce the level of nutrients and other pollutants discharged into watercourses and the estuary and ensuring that sewage discharges are treated appropriately. - Ensuring that connecting links are provided between the estuary and inland areas, maintaining migratory routes for species such as sea and river lamprey, Atlantic salmon, sea trout, smelt and eels and making sure that their passage is unobstructed by physical barriers or poor water quality. - Maintaining and enhancing the mosaic of inland habitats such as wet grassland and coastal and flood plain grazing marsh, which is integral to supporting coastal wildlife. Maintain and enhance the mosaic of farmland in the coastal hinterland to provide for birds, including waders such as curlew and pink-footed goose. SEO 2: Conserve and enhance the rolling countryside, punctuated by low sandstone outcrops, with significant lowland heathlands, woodlands and other wildlife habitats, while maintaining the long, open views over the coast and estuary that contribute to the varied sense of place. For example by: - Maintaining and enhancing the mosaic of semi-natural habitats, including lowland heathland, grassland and wetland habitats such as coastal and flood plain grazing marshes. - Taking opportunities to link and expand semi-natural habitats, especially wetlands and lowland heathlands, thus creating strong habitat networks, providing corridors and stepping stones that will increase resilience to climate change by reducing fragmentation and enabling species movement. - Introducing appropriate management to sustain lowland heathland communities and to improve lowland heathland biodiversity, giving due regard to individual habitat features such as the patches of bare ground that are required by some species. Re-establish habitat links between adjacent lowland heathland sites. - Encouraging better management of woodlands and creating new woodlands, prioritising planting to increase, buffer and link existing patches of habitat. - Maintaining viewpoints where there are long, characteristic views, including those over the coastline, the Dee Estuary, the Clwydian Range and the Mersey; and maintaining the sense of inspiration. - Protecting landscape features that contribute to sense of tranquillity, such as the area's coastline of coastal salt marshes, intertidal sand flats and coastal sand dunes, as well as its small areas of mixed woodland, sandstone outcrops, parkland and estates. - Managing development around the urban fringe and within rural settlements to enhance the distinctive character and countryside setting of the rural landscape. - Encouraging the use of appropriately designed sustainable urban drainage systems to manage water run-off at source, to help to manage flood risk and water quality and to increase biodiversity and adaptation to climate change. - Looking for opportunities to create floodwater storage areas on the Wirral (both on and off line) in order to reduce flood risk in areas located downstream and to provide other environmental benefits such as habitats for wildlife. SEO 3: Work with landowners and land managers to support sustainable food production in the farmed environment while enhancing and strengthening the mosaic of farmland features including ponds, trees, hedgerows and red sandstone walls, to enhance biodiversity and improve soil and water quality, strengthen resilience of habitats to climate change and enhance landscape character. For example by: - Encouraging sustainable food production to contribute to the economy, while delivering other benefits such as maintaining soil condition and water quality and conserving soils that sequester and store carbon. - Managing agricultural change to protect and support the Wirral's distinctive character and wildlife habitat. - Encouraging cultivation practices that will benefit wildlife such as farmland bird species, including restoring or creating wet grassland habitat for breeding birds and providing mosaics of overwintered stubbles, spring-sown cereals, buffer strips and extensively managed grass for year-round bird habitat. - Protecting the area's small woodlands and copses, restoring broadleaved woodlands and ensuring that woodland is managed sustainably for multiple benefits including carbon storage and climate change adaptation. - Seeking opportunities to incorporate hedgerow restoration and tree planting within farmland areas where they will improve ecosystem services that underpin food production; provide feeding, breeding and hibernation habitat for pollinators and beneficial predator species; provide stepping stones and corridors for wildlife; and enhance the landscape. - Conserving and restoring boundary features such as traditional red sandstone walls and hedgerows and hedgerow trees that characterise the landscape and support biodiversity. - Conserving and restoring the networks of infield ponds (marl pits), pond margins and pond landscapes, which are of historical and wildlife interest. - Ensuring that horse paddocks are integrated into the agricultural landscape. - Seeking opportunities to improve water quality in the area by working with farmers to minimise diffuse and point-source pollution, preventing agricultural nutrients and pesticides from polluting freshwater and other sources. Consider the use of buffer strips and trees to prevent sediment from polluting watercourses. - Maintaining good soil quality and preventing soil erosion through measures such as well-timed cultivations and access onto land by machinery and stock to prevent compaction and poaching, particularly on the most vulnerable soils. SEO 4: Safeguard and interpret Wirral's heritage, history, archaeology and geology to enhance the character of the landscape and improve people's understanding and enjoyment of the historic environment. For example by: - Increasing awareness of geodiversity linking to coastal change, allowing for the interpretation of coastal geomorphological processes, to raise awareness and improve understanding of the dynamic coast and estuary. - Deepening appreciation among landowners and the public of the links between geology, landscape, wildlife habitat and past land uses, bringing attention to their relevance to sustainable development. - Conserving geological sites and ensuring that significant geological and landform features are sufficiently documented and protected to enable the continued study of Wirral's geodiversity. - Providing access to sites of geological or geomorphological interest, where possible. Provide interpretation of the geology and its role in developing the character of the Wirral's landscape and further research and understanding of the area's geology. - Where coastal processes reveal historic sites, encouraging the capture and recording of historic and archaeological information for future study. - Protecting and restoring Scheduled Ancient Monuments and other historic and archaeological features and increasing public engagement, enjoyment and understanding of the historic environment. - Conserving traditional farm buildings and other buildings of historic importance to ensure a better understanding of past land use and to retain evidence of the relationships between features for the future, while conserving wildlife associated with buildings, such as bats and barn owls. - Appropriately managing the historic environment for its contribution to local character and sense of identity and as a framework for habitat restoration and sustainable development. - Respecting local settlement patterns and building materials to avoid the loss of historic evidence in the landscape, while developing sustainable access to towns and villages for visitors, promoting Wirral's history and heritage. - Promoting interpretation to help visitors and local people to gain an improved awareness and understanding of the key historic features within the area. - Managing woodland parcels and pockets of ancient semi-natural woodland to safeguard historic features. SEO 5: Enhance people's understanding and enjoyment of the natural environment, providing interpretation and educational facilities and opportunities for experiencing wildlife, with a strong network of green infrastructure, which will bring health and wellbeing benefits for both residents and visitors. For example by: - Seeking opportunities to enable both residents and visitors to enjoy access to the coast and countryside and its associated recreation opportunities, by providing good facilities and interpreting the area's natural and geological heritage. - Ensuring that tourism and leisure activities are conducted in an environmentally sustainable manner, providing interpretative and educational materials and facilities, while reducing recreational disturbance by careful management of activities, ensuring that sensitive ecosystems such as coastal sand dunes and coastal salt marshes are not negatively impacted by increased recreation and access. - Encouraging sustainable recreational and educational access to enable more people to understand and appreciate the dynamic estuary and coastline, the landscape, the historic interest and the wildlife, while conserving the special qualities and features of these areas. - Enhancing the rights of way and cycle route network to enable greater access for all abilities, promoting sustainable access routes that contribute to people's health and wellbeing, improve people's understanding of the area and link public footpaths and settlements. - Supporting the development of a successful England Coast Path that encourages better public access and is sensitive to the features that are found on or along the coast. Seek to provide the best and most continuous cross-border links for pedestrians and cyclists in relation to the England Coast Path, the Welsh Coast Path and other routes. - Protecting and enhancing the quality of recreational facilities and access opportunities for users of all abilities, particularly at the coast, country parks, Local Nature Reserves, golf courses and other outdoor sports facilities, while seeking to minimise disturbance, particularly to bird populations and designated sites. - Developing initiatives to encourage local communities to enjoy their local greenspace, to take action to improve it and to benefit from the recreation and health benefits that it affords them. - Promoting active involvement through a wide range of volunteering opportunities and other activities to benefit habitat management and community awareness and understanding and to provide other benefits such as improving health and wellbeing, social inclusion, and learning and personal development. - Connecting greenspaces with semi-natural habitats where possible, providing communities with recreational greenspace and wildlife corridors. Enable access in particular by people from areas where there is little public open space, such as north-east Wirral. - Providing networks of green infrastructure, thus creating a high- quality environment to improve resilience to climate change, support biodiversity, provide recreational and educational opportunities, enhance the landscape, create local routes for walking and cycling and provide accessible natural greenspace for people close to where they live and work. - Encouraging golf courses to manage their land sympathetically for the benefit of wildlife, spreading good practice from courses already doing so.
Have you ever wondered about the digital currencies that are reshaping the way we perceive money and finance? The realm of cryptocurrency and tokenization is not just a buzzword; it's a transformative force that's redefining the way we transact, invest, and interact in the digital age. So, fasten your virtual seatbelts as we dive into the captivating world of cryptocurrency and tokenization. Understanding Cryptocurrency: Digital Gold of the 21st Century Cryptocurrency, often referred to as "crypto," is a digital or virtual form of currency secured by cryptography, which is the art of encrypting and securing information. Cryptocurrency, at its core, represents a virtual currency, and one of the primary tools you'll need to interact with it is a Crypto Wallet. This digital tool isn't just a storage space; it's a gateway that allows users to manage, store, and conduct transactions with their cryptocurrencies. Think of it like an advanced digital bank account tailored for the crypto world. For heightened security, every crypto wallet is protected by a Private Key, which can be thought of as a highly secretive password. This key is so private and sensitive that even the wallet holder should handle it with the utmost care, as losing access to it means potentially losing access to one's digital assets. Conversely, there's a Public Key, which isn't secret. This is what you share with others when you want to receive cryptocurrency. They'll use your public key to send funds, but they won't have access to your holdings. Connected to the public key is the Wallet Address—akin to an account number in traditional banking—helping direct transactions and ensuring funds arrive in the right crypto wallet. Now, with all these safety measures, you might wonder, 'What if I forget or lose my private key?' This is where the Seed Phrase comes into play. It's a series of words, often randomly generated, that acts as a master recovery tool. Should you misplace access to your wallet, this phrase, when entered correctly, will restore all your assets and data. Always keep it offline and in a safe location; it's your last line of defense in ensuring uninterrupted access to your cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin, created by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto in 2008, was the pioneering cryptocurrency that kicked off this digital financial revolution. A Brief History of Cryptocurrency: From Bitcoin to Altcoins To understand the significance of cryptocurrencies, let's embark on a brief historical journey. Bitcoin, introduced in 2009, was the first cryptocurrency and remains the most well-known. It brought the concept of decentralized digital currency into the mainstream. However, as the digital ecosystem evolved, so did the cryptocurrency landscape. Thousands of alternative cryptocurrencies, often called "altcoins," emerged with unique features and use cases. Some popular altcoins include Ethereum, Ripple (XRP), Litecoin, and Cardano, each with its own technology and value proposition. Cryptocurrency vs. Traditional Money: A Paradigm Shift Cryptocurrency challenges the traditional financial system in several ways. Known as FIAT currency in the web3 space, it is traditional money issued by governments, such as dollars or euros, not backed by physical commodities but derives its value from government decree or trust in its issuing authority. Here's a comparison: - Decentralization: Traditional currencies rely on central authorities like central banks, which control the supply and regulate the currency. Cryptocurrencies, on the other hand, operate on decentralized networks, reducing the need for intermediaries. - Transparency: Cryptocurrency transactions are recorded on a public ledger called the blockchain, providing transparency and traceability. Traditional financial systems often lack such transparency. - Accessibility: Cryptocurrencies can be accessed and used globally with an internet connection, making them inclusive and accessible to anyone with a smartphone or computer. - Security: Cryptocurrencies use cryptographic techniques to secure transactions, making them highly resistant to fraud and hacking. - Ownership: When you hold cryptocurrencies, you have full ownership and control of your digital assets. Traditional bank accounts may be subject to restrictions and fees. Tokenization: Digitizing Real-World Assets Now, let's delve into the concept of tokenization, which is closely linked to cryptocurrency but takes the digitalization of assets a step further. Tokenization involves representing real-world assets, such as real estate, art, stocks, or even commodities, as digital tokens on a blockchain. Within the realm of tokenization, there are two primary types of tokens: Fungible and Non-Fungible. Fungible tokens are interchangeable with others of the same kind, much like how one dollar bill is the same as another dollar bill. These tokens maintain uniformity, and their value remains the same between units. On the other hand, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) are unique and distinguishable from each other, much like an original piece of art. Each NFT represents a distinct value or asset, ensuring its authenticity and rarity on the blockchain.Imagine a piece of prime real estate being divided into digital tokens. Each token represents a fractional ownership stake in the property. These tokens can be bought, sold, and traded on blockchain-based platforms, allowing investors to access previously illiquid assets with ease. Tokenization offers several advantages: - Fractional Ownership: It enables fractional ownership of high-value assets, making them accessible to a broader range of investors. - Liquidity: Tokenized assets can be traded 24/7, increasing liquidity and reducing the time and effort required to buy or sell. - Transparency: Ownership and transaction records are recorded on the blockchain, ensuring transparency and reducing fraud. - Accessibility: Investors worldwide can participate in tokenized asset markets, removing geographical barriers. The Synergy of Cryptocurrency and Tokenization: The Future of Finance Now that we've explored both cryptocurrency and tokenization, it's time to understand how they complement each other to shape the future of finance. - Cryptocurrency as the Fuel: Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum serve as the fuel for tokenized ecosystems. They provide the means of exchange within blockchain networks and are often used to acquire tokenized assets. - Smart Contracts: Smart contracts are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code. They play a crucial role in tokenization by automating the transfer of digital assets when specific conditions are met. For instance, a smart contract can automatically distribute rental income to token holders of a real estate property. - Token Creation: To tokenize real-world assets, new tokens are created on blockchain platforms. These tokens represent ownership stakes and are used to facilitate ownership transfer. - Token Standards: Cryptocurrencies and tokens adhere to specific standards within blockchain ecosystems. Ethereum, for example, has its own token standard called ERC-20, which defines the rules and functionalities of tokens built on the Ethereum blockchain. - Benefits of Tokenization for Investors: Tokenization offers investors the ability to diversify their portfolios with a broader range of assets, reducing risk. It also provides increased liquidity and transparency. Challenges of Cryptocurrency and Tokenization: Navigating the Digital Frontier While the potential benefits of cryptocurrency and tokenization are compelling, there are challenges to overcome: - Regulatory Landscape: The regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies and tokenized assets varies by country and is evolving rapidly. Legal and compliance issues are a major concern for industry participants. - Security: Although blockchain technology is highly secure, the human element can introduce vulnerabilities. Phishing attacks, wallet hacks, and scams pose risks to cryptocurrency holders. - Volatility: Cryptocurrencies are known for their price volatility, which can be a double-edged sword. While it offers opportunities for gains, it also presents risks of significant losses. Real-Life Examples: How Cryptocurrency and Tokenization Are Changing Industries Let's explore some real-world applications of cryptocurrency and tokenization: - Real Estate: Platforms like RealT tokenize real estate properties, allowing investors to buy and trade fractional ownership stakes in properties. - Art and Collectibles: Projects like Rarible and SuperRare enable artists to tokenize their digital art, creating unique digital collectibles that can be bought and sold. - Finance: DeFi (Decentralized Finance) platforms like Aave and MakerDAO use cryptocurrency and tokenization to provide decentralized lending, borrowing, and trading services. - Supply Chain: Companies like IBM's Food Trust use blockchain and tokenization to track the origin and journey of products, ensuring authenticity and reducing fraud. - Equity and Stocks: Companies like tZERO are exploring the tokenization of traditional assets like stocks and bonds, making them accessible on blockchain platforms. The Future of Finance: Embracing Cryptocurrency and Tokenization As we conclude our journey into the fascinating world of cryptocurrency and tokenization, one thing becomes clear: these technologies are transforming the way we think about money, assets, and investments. They offer new opportunities for financial inclusion, transparency, and ownership. While challenges persist, the potential benefits are too significant to ignore. The future of finance is being shaped by the digitalization of assets and the rise of decentralized currencies. Embracing cryptocurrency and tokenization is not just an investment choice; it's an exploration of the digital financial frontier, where the possibilities are as vast as the digital universe itself. So, whether you're a seasoned digital explorer or a curious novice, the journey into the world of cryptocurrency and tokenization is nothing short of exhilarating. It's a reminder that the financial world is ever-evolving, and the future is as promising as it is transformative. As we navigate this digital frontier together, let's embrace the opportunities and possibilities that cryptocurrency and tokenization bring to our financial landscape. 🚀✨🌐
Out of the thousands of former and current LPGA members, only eight have been black. Some LPGA officials have plans to change that. "We know we have a long way to go… and we also know change won't happen overnight," said Roberta Bowman, Chief Brand and Communications Officer of the Ladies Professional Golf Association. "But by taking a systematic approach, and thinking [about] diversity, racial diversity at every level and opportunity in the player development pipeline, we think is the key for sustainable results." Originally played in the 1700's, the game of golf has been popular for centuries. It was first introduced in Scotland, where Queen Mary decided that she loved the sport and ordered for the first golf course to be built. She failed, however, to include one detail. The golf course, widely known as St. Andrews Links, was exclusively dedicated to men and barred women from attaining membership. While the decision to create the first golf course was critical to the game's widespread success, it was also detrimental to the future of inclusivity within the culture of the sport. Had St. Andrews Links included both men and women from its establishment, it would have set precedence for future diversity and inclusivity standards in golf. While it is unknown exactly how the game traveled to the United States, many believe that Scottish immigrants introduced it sometime around 1788. As golf grew in popularity, exclusive American golf clubs became more prominent. For decades, these clubs, like their predecessors, completely excluded women and people of color. Lack of hope for women in golf remained until two centuries later, when the first golf tournament for women was held in 1811 in Scotland. The first golf tournament for women in America did not occur until 1894. In 1917, the United States Golf Association incorporated a Women's Tournament Committee which was major for the success of American women in golf. The committee overlooked all USGA women's golf tournament rules. After this committee was created, female golfers began to thrive on their newfound support system. In 1891, Shinnecock Hills Golf Club opened in New York and became the first golf club in the United States to welcome female golfers. The United States Women's Amateur Championship was held at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in 1900. While this club was a step in the right direction for improving gender equality, other issues of diversity and inclusion remained. The golf club, for example, was named after the Shinnecock Native American tribe because it was partially built on their reservation. For decades, members of the Shinnecock Native American community did not support the decision to use their sacred land without permission. During an interview conducted by USA Today, the Shinnecock tribe's spokesperson stated, '"We've been beaten over the head since 1640, when they (colonists) came with a plan to take our land. But are still here. No matter what, we are still here.''' In recent years, decisions have been made in efforts to rectify past injustices. The USGA made a move to honor Native American heritage in golf with the Oscar Bunn golf facility, named after the first Native American professional golfer. This was a step in the right direction for inclusivity and acknowledging excellence within the Shinnecock community. Gender equality was further normalized in 1950 with the founding of the Ladies Professional Golf Association. Roberta Bowman, Chief Brand and Communications Officer and former leader of the diversity, inclusion, and equity strategy for the LPGA, offered her thoughts on the LPGA's gender equality accomplishments. "As the world's longest-running women's professional sports organization, we are a proof point that being intentional around diversity really works," Bowman said. "Ten years ago, fifteen percent of new players in golf were female, today that's closer to thirty-five percent and we're very proud of building a pipeline of women and girls in golf. We also are golf's global golf tour where today we have women from fifty different countries playing golf. " She added that the organization is being "as deliberate and intentional about racial diversity as we've been about gender diversity," helped by other efforts such as Black Girls Golf and Women of Color Golf which seek to introduce more diversity in both the player and teacher level. "[These efforts are] starting at the youngest levels," Bowman said.
Navigate the legal landscape confidently with insights into the Affidavit Form for Income Certificate – its structure, significance, and drafting essentials. In the world of legal documents, the Affidavit Form for Income Certificate stands as a crucial tool for individuals seeking to authenticate their income status. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of this form, shedding light on its purpose, importance, and the essential components that make it a vital document for various legal and administrative processes. Understanding the Affidavit Form for Income Certificate Definition and Purpose The Affidavit Form for Income Certificate is a legal document through which an individual declares and affirms their income details under oath. Its primary purpose is to provide an official statement of income, often required for a range of activities such as availing government subsidies, educational admissions, or applying for loans. Legal Validity Understanding the legal validity of the Affidavit Form is crucial. When properly executed, it carries legal weight, serving as a sworn statement that can be presented as evidence in legal or administrative proceedings. This legal validity enhances its credibility in various contexts. Structure of the Affidavit Form for Income Certificate Personal Details The form typically starts with a section for personal details, including the individual's name, address, date of birth, and other identifying information. This ensures clarity and accuracy in associating the affidavit with the concerned individual. Income Declaration A detailed section is dedicated to declaring the individual's income. This includes sources of income, earnings, and any additional financial details relevant to the income certificate application. Clarity in this section is vital for the accuracy of the income assessment. Notary or Judicial Stamp To validate the authenticity of the affidavit, a space for notary or judicial stamp is included. This step involves getting the affidavit notarised by a notary public or a judicial officer, adding an official seal and signature to confirm its legitimacy. Date and Signature of the Deponent The deponent, i.e., the individual making the sworn statement, must provide the date and their signature. This further reinforces the commitment to the accuracy of the information provided in the affidavit. Importance of the Affidavit Form for Income Certificate Government Subsidies and Benefits One of the primary uses of the income certificate obtained through the affidavit is to avail government subsidies and benefits. This can include financial assistance programs, healthcare benefits, or housing schemes that are income-dependent. Educational Admissions Many educational institutions require income certificates as part of the admission process. The affidavit form serves as a reliable document for verifying the financial status of applicants, ensuring fair distribution of scholarships or fee concessions. Loan Applications When individuals apply for loans, especially those with income-related criteria, the income certificate obtained through the affidavit is a crucial document. Lenders use it to assess the borrower's repayment capacity and determine the loan amount. Legal Proceedings In legal matters such as divorce or inheritance, income certificates can be required to ascertain the financial standing of the involved parties. The affidavit form, being a sworn statement, holds weight in legal proceedings. Drafting an Affidavit Form for Income Certificate Accuracy and Completeness When drafting the affidavit form, accuracy and completeness are paramount. Every detail provided, especially in the income declaration section, should be precise and up-to-date to ensure the legitimacy and acceptance of the document. Professional Assistance Given the legal nature of the affidavit, seeking professional assistance is advisable. Legal experts or notary public services can guide individuals in properly drafting and notarising the affidavit form, ensuring compliance with legal standards. Notarisation Process Understanding the notarisation process is essential. After completing the affidavit form, individuals must take it to a notary public. The notary public will verify the individual's identity, witness the signing of the document, and affix an official seal. In the tapestry of legal documents, the Affidavit Form for Income Certificate emerges as a crucial thread, weaving through various aspects of an individual's life. Whether it's unlocking government benefits, securing educational opportunities, or facilitating financial transactions, this form empowers individuals by providing a legally recognised statement of their income. Vakilsearch plays a pivotal role in this empowerment by offering professional assistance. Understanding its structure, importance, and the nuances of drafting ensures that individuals navigate the complexities of legal and administrative processes with confidence, guided by Vakilsearch's expertise. 1. What is the purpose of the Affidavit Form for Income Certificate? The Affidavit Form for Income Certificate serves to declare one's income under oath. It is a legal document used for various purposes, such as availing government benefits, educational admissions, loan applications, and legal proceedings, providing an authenticated statement of an individual's financial status. 2. How is the legal validity of the Affidavit Form ensured? The legal validity is ensured through the swearing of an oath and notarisation. When an individual signs the Affidavit Form for Income Certificate in the presence of a notary public or judicial officer, it becomes a legally binding document, accepted as evidence in legal or administrative proceedings. 3. What are the key components in the structure of this affidavit form? The structure includes personal details, income declaration, a space for notary or judicial stamp, and the date and signature of the deponent. This ensures clarity, accuracy, and legal validity in presenting a detailed statement of income under oath. 4. How does the Affidavit Form for Income Certificate benefit educational admissions? Educational institutions often require income certificates during admissions. The affidavit serves as a reliable document for verifying applicants' financial status, facilitating fair distribution of scholarships, fee concessions, or other financial aid based on income criteria. 5. Why is professional assistance advisable when drafting this affidavit form? Professional assistance is advisable due to the legal nature of the affidavit. Legal experts or notary public services can guide individuals in accurately drafting and notarising the form, ensuring compliance with legal standards and enhancing its credibility in various contexts. Read more,
Who invented terahertz stone? Terahertz is a man-made crystal that was invented by Japanese scientists. It is an attractive stone, similar in appearance to Black Obsidian, and one of its main properties is the protection that it provides against electromagnetic smog and environmental pollution. Where is terahertz made? The terahertz stone, an ore produced by extracting silica from sand or quartz was discovered by Japanese scientists a decade ago to have a terahertz vibration frequency which lies between that of microwaves and far infrared light on the electromagnetic spectrum with its frequency ranging from 0.1 to 30THz. What is terahertz bracelet? The bracelet, made up of shiny silvery beads purportedly infused with "Terahertz" energy, is currently a popular costume jewelry item in Japan and Korea. These man-made crystals are also marketed as health-enhancement tools, mainly to protect the wearer from harmful radiation and electromagnetic smog.
What happens to local institutional arrangements regarding access and use of communal land under the forces of agricultural commercialization? Taking Khwaykham village in Phongsaly province, Laos as a case study, this paper sheds light on this question as farm households in the settlement have progressively transitioned to commercial farming, specifically tea cultivation. Traditionally, farm households' access and rights to use the land were embedded in their swidden agriculture practices. The adoption of tea has increasingly fixed land use rights, Search results Showing items 1 through 9 of 15998.- Library ResourceJanuary, 2023Global Library ResourceJanuary, 2023Global Rice is a vital food crop in Tanzania, both for household consumption and commercial retail. Contract farming is an important agricultural tool through which farmers and larger investors are linked to increase production and quality of crops, benefiting both the farmers and investors. This chapter uses the relational model to look at the relationships in two rice contract farming schemes in Tanzania: Kapunga Rice Plantation Limited and Mtenda Kyela Rice Supply. The empirical data is from household surveys and interviews from the Mbeya region in 2015. Library ResourceJanuary, 2023Global Library ResourceJanuary, 2023Global Indigenous Peoples lands cover over a fifth of the world's land surface and support high levels of biodiversity. However, for centuries Indigenous Peoples have suffered from deprivation, often dispossession, and even cultural genocide, a process continuing today in some regions. Biodiversity hotspots, global areas of high endemicity that are heavily threatened by habitat loss and other human activities are also affected by conflict. Although covering only 2.4 % of the world's surface, over 80 % of armed conflicts occurred in biodiversity hotspots between 1950 and 2000. Library ResourceJanuary, 2023Cameroon Environmental policies ought to be integrated into economic sectors for successful outcomes. We assess to what extent Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation (REDD +) is integrated into land-use sectors driving deforestation in Cameroon. REDD + governance has been extensively examined, including the challenges of a multisectoral approach to tackle the drivers of deforestation, especially those lying outside the forestry sector. Library ResourceJanuary, 2023Myanmar Measuring and understanding gender differences in property rights is key to informing policy decisions and guiding investments aimed at fostering gender equality. However, there are a myriad ways of assessing property rights. Firstly, we assess which indicators to use and why it matters, focusing on rural Myanmar. Myanmar provides an interesting setting, as a large part of the population customarily follows joint property rights in marriage and upon dissolution of marriage and inheritance. Library ResourceJanuary, 2023Kenya Library ResourceJanuary, 2023Global Library ResourceJanuary, 2023Global On July 4, 2023, the launch meeting of the International Forum of Low-emission Agrifood Systems (IFLEAS), jointly initiated by China Agricultural University, the CGIAR Research Initiative on Low-Emission Food Systems (Mitigate+), and the Beijing Representative Office, was held in Beijing. Xin Xian, vice president of China Agricultural University; Qian Keming, research fellow of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and former vice minister of commerce; Qin Hu, vice president and chief representative of the Beijing Office of EDF, delivered the opening speeches. Library ResourceJanuary, 2023Kenya The evidence base for the effectiveness of gender-transformative approaches (GTAs) in agriculture and food system interventions is small and weak, and many studies do not focus on specifically evaluating these approaches and methods. While the very limited quantitative evidence suggests that interventions that integrate GTAs have weak or no effects on many outcomes for women's empowerment outcomes (including gender norms), qualitative evidence shows that, in some instances, shifts in gender roles could eventually lead to change in gender norms. Land Library Search Through our robust search engine, you can search for any item of the over 64,800 highly curated resources in the Land Library. If you would like to find an overview of what is possible, feel free to peruse the Search Guide.
Considering the challenges faced by high school students planning to obtain higher education, it is always advisable to research the student debt landscape as early as possible. In fact, it is never too late to research how to deal with student debt. You should start as early as high school, but also while attending college, or even if you are already in the workforce. This research will play a crucial role in avoiding pitfalls and will mentally prepare you to embrace uncertainties in your education and career journey. For example, Before College - Check with your family where you stand in terms of college funds. Commit to saving for college as much as possible with something as simple as opening a high-yielding savings account, working while in high school, or even pursuing dual enrollment without compromising grades. - Consider inexpensive colleges along with dream schools that may be more expensive. Keep in mind that graduate school will add to costs so it may be better to save tuition to obtain a bachelor's degree. Another option is to get an associate degree from a community college and then transfer to a well-renowned university to finish the bachelor's degree. - Additionally, keep in mind that in-state tuition is significantly less expensive than out-of-state tuition. During College - Accurately complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This will open the door for you to secure grants, scholarships, and student loan options. - Use scholarship websites and databases to find non-federal grants, and scholarships, and do not forget to search for funding opportunities offered by your university, college, or alumni. - If you must take student loans, make sure to maximize the subsidized student loans that defer interest payments until after you graduate. Do your best to avoid private student loans that have minimal consumer protections and higher interest rates. - The most crucial decision during college is to select a major. Especially, if you are passionate about a major that does not have high-income potential, then it is extremely important to minimize student debt. For this, you can: - Find a job utilizing your network or through work-study programs. - Consider taking a semester or two off to work and save more money to pay for tuition - Carefully manage your budget to live as frugally as possible. - Diligently explore scholarships and internships to offset costs and acquire as much experience during school while also getting a head start on building your professional network. - Consider colleges and universities that offer co-op majors where you work and complete your degree at the same time to secure money and experience along the way. After College - Be very careful in selecting your first job. If at all possible, focus on long-term career potential vs. short-term income. This is easier if you were able to minimize student debt. - Keep yourself updated with current events happening around the world and understand what implication they could have on your career choice. You surely do not want to end up in an industry or sector where job prospects are declining. - Find a side hustle to increase your income. - Upskill through additional certifications, licenses, or courses to increase your earning potential. - Explore refinancing student loans. There are lenders who can help lower your monthly student loan payments, but they typically have difficult qualification criteria. A better option is to have your debt paid off by refinancing the with Defynance ISA. You will be qualified based on your income and other factors and will never need a co-signer. The Defynance career and life support ecosystem could also help you with career prospects, credit improvement, mental health, and other financial resources and tools.

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