The Hub of Being (62) Glossary

The difference between the right word and the almost-right word is like the difference between lightning and the lightning bug. ~ American author Mark Twain

~ : approximately.

3-age system: an archeological sequential periodization of human prehistory and early history, comprising the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age.

4D (aka spacetime): the 4 dimensions of everyday experience: 3 of space (3D) + 1 of time. See HD and ED.

abiogenesis: the study of how life arose from inert matter.

abstraction: a thought stream involving symbolic representations. Compare concept, idea.

actuality: the world experienced sensorially. Contrast reality.

acupuncture: a medical treatment of bodily stimulating lengyre pathways, typically via needles.

Age of Enlightenment (aka Age of Reason): an intellectual movement in the 17th–18th centuries to reform society via reason, challenging concepts rooted in tradition and faith. The Age of Enlightenment was sparked in the late 17th century by various philosophers, notably Spinoza, Locke, and Voltaire, along with Newton. The Scientific Revolution occurred concomitant with Enlightenment.

altricial: animal species that are relatively immature and immobile at birth or hatching, and so require parental care. Many mammal species are altricial. Contrast precocial.

anticipate: to make some preparation for an expectation.

apriorism: an assumption (a priori principle).

arachnid: the Arachnida class of invertebrates, with 8 jointed legs. There are over 100,000 named species, including spiders, harvestmen (aka opiliones, daddy longlegs), scorpions, solifuges (aka camel spiders, wind spiders), ticks, and mites.

arcminute: an angular measurement of 1/60th of 1°.

arthropod: an invertebrate with an exoskeleton, a segmented body, and jointed appendages. Arachnids, crustaceans, and insects are arthropods. There are an estimated 6 million distinct arthropods. Arthropods comprise over 75% of animal species.

ashram: a secluded building used for Hindu religious instruction.

asleep (aka sleep): the state of consciousness where the body is in repose, not dreaming.

astral (theosophy): a supersensible extra-dimensional plane of existence.

atheistic naturalism: the belief that there is no God, only the material natural world.

awake: the state of consciousness where the body is interactively receptive to stimuli and the mind is ecologically aware.

awareness: the quality of being conscious in the present moment.

axiom: an assumed self-evident truth requiring no proof.

bacteria (singular: bacterium): a domain and kingdom of single-celled prokaryotes, abundant in most ecosystems. Bacteria play vital roles in various facets of the biosphere.

Beelzebub: a demon; in the Bible, another name for Satan.

Bernoulli’s principle: a fluid-dynamics principle that a speed increase of fluid transpires with a decrease in pressure or a drop in the fluid’s potential energy; named after Daniel Bernoulli, who described the principle in 1738.

Bhagavad Gita (~5th–2nd century bce): a Hindu text of a dialogue between Indian prince Arjuna and his guide and charioteer Lord Krishna.

binocular vision: the vision capability in an animal with 2 eyes to perceive a 3D image. See peripheral vision.

biology: the science of life.

biota: the organisms in an environment.

boson: a quantum that carries a fundamental force according to quantum physics’ Standard Model; named after Satyendra Bose. Contrast fermion.

brain: an animal organ central to nervous systems, located within the head.

Bronze Age (~3300–1300 bce): the middle period of the 3-age system, noted for the metallurgical production of bronze; the Stone Age preceded, the Iron Age followed.

calculus: the mathematical study of change.

caloric theory: an obsolete theory that considers heat as a self-repellent fluid (called caloric) that flows from hotter bodies to colder bodies. Caloric was also thought of as weightless gas which could pass through presume pores in liquids and solids. Caloric theory was ousted by thermodynamics, a mechanical theory of heat, in the mid-19th century.

category: a group of related concepts.

cerebellum: a region of the vertebrate brain instrumental in balance and motor control.

chakra: a lengyre center within an organism.

chameleon: a distinctive and highly specialized clade of Old World lizards, with over 200 species. Many chameleons can change color at will.

chaos theory: the study of dynamic systems highly sensitive to initial conditions.

chemistry: the study of matter, especially chemical reactions.

chordate: an animal in one of the following groups: fish, amphibian, reptile, bird, tunicate, lancelet, or mammal; an animal with tadpole traits during some period of its life cycle.

chromosome: an elaborately coiled package of genetic material within a eukaryotic cell.

ciliary (aka c-opsin): the type of photoreceptor used by vertebrates for vision. Compare rhabdomeric.

classical physics (mechanics): the Newtonian model of physics, notably gravity as a force of attraction; epitomized by Newton’s 3 laws of motion, and the laws of thermodynamics. Compare modern physics.

cockroach: a typically large insect with a broad, flattened body and relatively small head. 30 of the 4,500 species are considered pests, as they are inclined to live in human habitats.

cofactor: a molecule that binds to a protein to have the protein perform a task. Enzymes are typically activated by cofactors, which essentially act as helper molecules. The molecule may either be an inorganic ion or organic (coenzyme).

cognitive load: the instant level of mentation.

compose: to form the substance of.

comprehension: grasping with the intellect.

conceptualize, conceptualization: mentally resolving perceptions into a concept.

conductor (chemistry): a material amenable to containing moving electric charges. Contrast insulator, resistor.

cone cell: a color-sensitive photoreceptor in the mammalian retina, so-called for the cell’s conical shape. Contrast rod.

conformal geometry: the study of angle-preserving (conformal) spatial transformations.

conservation (genetics): preservation of a genetic trait through generations (of cells or offspring).

conservation of energy: the 1st law of thermodynamics, which states that the total energy in a closed system is constant.

conservation of mass: a law of physics and chemistry that the total mass of matter is conserved in a closed system, which the universe is presumed to be. Matter may seemingly be destroyed, but its mass remains constant.

consistent: recognizable from recall as similar.

construal (noun): an interpretation; an exegesis.

construe (verb): construct an interpretation.

consume: to engage in via sensation; to use or enjoy something.

convergent evolution (aka parallel evolution): the independent evolution of similar traits in organisms of different clades.

correlation: the fact that multiple phenomena coincide. Contrast causality.

cosmic inflation: a myth about the early cosmos, claiming that the universe had a near-instantaneous massive inflation 3×10–36 seconds after the onset of the Big Bang. Cosmic inflation outrageously violates physics as understood.

cosmogony: a conjecture about the origin of the universe.

cosmology: the study of the universe.

cosmopolitan (biogeography): a taxon with species in a broad range of biomes.

counterfactual: contrary to facts.

Counting Crows (1991–): American popular music group from Berkeley, California.

craftwork: the process or result of manipulating matter into a certain configuration. Compare sociowork, symwork.

crustacean: a large group of arthropods, including barnacles, krill, crabs, crayfish, shrimp, and lobster. Most crustaceans are aquatic, but some, such as woodlice, are terrestrial.

culture (biology): the transfer of knowledge among conspecifics, and from one generation to the next.

culture (sociology): a system of shared abstractions, beliefs, values, mores, and rituals among a tribe of humans. Culture represents common symbolic expression in a social context.

Darwinism (aka natural selection): the disproven hypothesis of Charles Darwin that evolution transpires only over millions of years by random rearrangements of matter that create species which endure or are eliminated via competition with other species (“natural selection” via “survival of the fittest”).

Natural Selection almost inevitably cause much Extinction of the less improved forms of life. ~ Charles Darwin

data: factual information.

daydream: an indulged reverie.

dendrite: a branched projection from a nerve cell employed in intercellular communication.

depolarization (cytology): an electrical change in a cell’s membrane potential that makes it more positive, thereby removing the polarity that arises from the accumulation of negative charges on the inner membrane and positive charges on the outer membrane. Contrast hyperpolarization.

desire: mental want. See motivation.

dialectic: a method of analysis/argument for resolving a conceptual inquiry via eliminating alternative hypotheses by exposing their contradictions, thereby verifying a single hypothesis which is not self-contradictory.

dichromacy: having 2 types of color vision receptor. Compare monochromacy, trichromacy, tetrachromacy.

diffuse reflection: radiation reflection with scattering.

discrete (mathematics): quantized, countable.

disordered hyperuniformity: coherent patterning within an apparently disordered system.

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid (C5H10O4): a double-stranded molecular chain that serves as a physical storage medium for basic templates to build bioproducts. DNA is supposed the molecular-level carrier of genetic inheritance. See RNA.

dragonfly: an extraordinarily successful flying insect predator, with over 5,900 extant species. Dragonfly hindwings are broader than their forewings.

dream: mentally generated perception during sleep. Compare hallucination.

dreaming: the asleep state of consciousness filled with dreams.

ED: extra dimensions (or extra-dimensionality); the dimensions of existence beyond those that are perceptible and measurable. See 4D and HD.

Edo Period (1603–1867): the period when Japan was ruled by the Tokugawa Shogunate. The Edo period was characterized by socioeconomic stability, refinement of the arts and its popular enjoyment, sustainable forest management and an isolationist foreign policy.

egenetics: (the idea of) intelligence represented by nuclei acids and associated molecules.

electromagnetism: the fundamental force responsible for giving matter its sizzle via electrical charge.

elephant hawkmoth (Deilephila elpenor): a large moth found in the British Isles, and across Europe and Asia all the way to Japan. Elephant hawkmoths have trichromatic color vision, and excellent scotopic (night) vision.

emergence: the way that complexity arises from a multiplicity of simple interactions. The idea of emergence has been around at least since Aristotle, who expressed that the totality of reality is greater than the sum of its parts (a non-reductionist sentiment). More elementally, emergence refers to actuality becoming phenomenal on an infinitesimal (Plank time) moment-by-moment basis.

emotion: a feeling evolved by cognition into a sustained state.

emotive cognition: appraisal of the ambiance of a situation based upon one’s empathic temperament and experience.

empathy: an imaginative projection of another’s mental state.

empirical: originating in, or based upon, observation or experience.

empiricism (epistemology) (aka verificationism): the presumption that knowledge derives solely from sensory experience. See neopositivism.

endorphin (portmanteau of endogenous morphine): a mammalian endogenous opioid neuropeptide produced to relieve pain.

entertainment: stimulation from experience not wholly expected.

enthalpy: a thermodynamic system property, equal to internal energy plus the product of the system’s pressure and volume.

entropy (physics, particularly thermodynamics): the tendency of energy to dissipate and equilibrate (dissipate to equilibrium); the natural physical tendency toward disorder.

environment: a designated spatial region or conceptual realm.

epistemology: the study of knowledge, including its origin, nature, methods, and limits.

epithelium (plural: epithelia or epitheliums): 1 of the 4 basic types of animal tissue, the others being connective, muscle, and nerve. Epithelial tissues line the surfaces and cavities of bodily structures and form many glands. Epithelial cells secrete, selectively absorb, protect, and transport. Epithelial tissue does not have blood vessels, instead receiving nourishment from underlying connective tissue via an extracellular matrix (basement membrane).

eukaryote: an organism with internal cell structures (organelles). All multicellular life is eukaryotic. Compare prokaryote.

event: a perceived process with an outcome.

evil: a moral wrong; wickedness.

evolutionary biology: a subfield of biology concerned with the organic processes of evolution.

exorcism: the exiling of evil spirits.

expectation: awaiting an event or outcome considered at least likely if not certain. See anticipate.

experience (noun): a conceptualized event.

fact: recall of an experienced event. The idea of fact as objective reality is laughable.

What is perceived in pure awareness, unaffected by desire or fear, is fact. ~ Nisargadatta Maharaj

faith: belief in absence of fact.

family (biological classification): a major group of shared morphological similarities. In the generally accepted system, family is above genus and below order. For example, maple trees (family) are hardwoods (order), angiosperms (class), vascular plants (phylum), plants (kingdom).

fascism: a form of radical authoritarian nationalism that came to prominence in early 20th-century Europe, originating in Italy during World War 1. Economically, fascists favor state control of capitalism, with policies designed to achieve autarky (self-sufficiency).

feeling: a perceptual reaction that may develop into an emotion via emotive cognition. Compare emotion.

field: an energy associated with a spacetime point.

fignorance: fact ignorance. Compare pignorance. See ignorance.

flicker fusion threshold (aka flicker fusion rate): the psychophysical frequency at which intermittent light stimulus is perceived as steady by a human.

fly: a small flying insect with a single pair of wings, adapted for aerial agility.

fovea (aka fovea centralis): the spot of sharpest color vision in the human eye, by virtue of being packed with cone receptors, each with its own dedicated neuron. See foveola.

foveola: a 0.35 mm in diameter spot in the center of the human fovea, with the densest packing of cones in the retina, thereby affording the highest visual acuity.

free surface: a coherent interface layer in a fluid owing to no parallel shear stress.

frustration: an emotive state of dissatisfaction arising from a thwarted desire.

Gaia: a theory by English environmentalist James Lovelock that Earth acts as “a single physiological system.”

Evolution is a tightly coupled dance, with life and the material environment as partners. From the dance emerges the entity Gaia. ~ James Lovelock

ganglion: a cluster of nerve cells.

gas: a fluid that may be airborne.

gauge boson: a quantum force carrier.

general relativity: a geometric physical theory that treats gravity as a property of spacetime, based upon the mass of objects; proposed by Albert Einstein in 1915. Gravity distorts 4D spacetime extra-dimensionally under general relativity. See relativity, special relativity.

gestalt: (viewing) the whole being as greater than the sum of the parts involved; organization and organized activity with a coherence greater than can be attributed by summation of employed components. See synergy.

Gestalt psychology (aka gestaltism): a school of psychology with the central principle that the mind naturally creates a worldview through self-organizing tendencies.

ghost: the confused soul of a dead being that haunts its previous existence.

Goldstone mode: spontaneous breakdown of continuous symmetry. Named after Jeffrey Goldstone.

guanine (G) (C5H5N5O): a nucleobase of DNA & RNA.

guņa: a quality (thread) of being according to Hindu philosophy. The 3 guņas are sattva (goodness, harmony, construction), rajas (passion, activity), and tamas (chaos, discord, destruction).

guru: a realized teacher.

habitat: the environment in which a species population lives.

happiness: a mood of well-being. Compare bliss.

HD (holistic dimensionality): the totality of cosmic dimensions. HD refers to the universe having more than the 4 dimensions (4D) experienced. HD = 4D + ED, where ED = extra (spatial) dimensions.

Heaven: a common religious notion of a residence for souls departed from corporeal existence. Mythologies about Heaven are extensive. Some include a bifurcation, based upon divine judgment, that good souls ascend to Heaven, while bad souls descend to Hell, a place of eternal torment.

heliocentrism: the theory that the Sun is the center of the solar system, around which planets orbit. Historically called the Copernican principle.

Hellenistic period (323–31 bce): a period in ancient Greek history between the death of Alexander the Great and the emergence of the Roman Empire, signified by the Battle of Actium.

hemispherectomy: surgically removing a hemisphere of the brain.

Higgs field: the field that imparts mass to all particles via the Higgs mechanism. Quantum physics’ Standard Model requires that every particle in the universe swims in the Higgs field, interacting at different strengths, and so having different masses. Massless particles don’t feel the Higgs field, and so carry no weight. The particle representing the Higgs field is the Higgs boson.

Higgs mechanism: the continuous process whereby gauge bosons acquire mass via spontaneous symmetry breaking. The Higgs mechanism exemplifies the basic mechanism by which Nature is composed: universal fields localizing, with local fields quantizing into particulate form.

Hinduism: the dominant religion of India. Hinduism is based upon a compilation of diverse texts, the earliest of which date to the 7th century bce, though most are later (late bce). Such diversity means the Hinduism is an umbrella term, housing numerous religious offshoots.

Hiroshima (Japan): a city on the southern part of Honshu, Japan’s largest island. Hiroshima was the target for the first nuclear holocaust, when the United States dropped an atomic bomb on it on 6 August 1945.

holographic: semblances where components reflect the whole.

holy: devoted to goodness and having a divine quality.

homeostasis: a regulatory process by which an organism strives for holistic health.

Hugenot: a 16th–18th century French Protestant inspired by the writings of John Calvin (Calvinism).

hydrocephalus: an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain.

hylozoism: the hypothesis that all matter is in some sense alive.

hymn: a religious song written in adoration of a deity or deities. A person who writes hymns is a hymnodist.

hyperpolarization (biology): a change in a cell’s membrane potential that makes it more negative. Contrast depolarization.

hyperuniformity: regularity in density fluctuations in a many-body system. Disordered structures at small scales which possess a “hidden order” at larger scales are hyperuniform.

hypostasis: an underlying state or substance of fundamental reality that supports all else.

idea: the representation of a concept.

idealism (aka subjective idealism, empirical idealism): the monistic epistemology that all of life’s experiences, and what can be known of reality, are entirely within the mind. Compare neutral monism. See energyism.

illusion: mistaken perception; something deceptive by a false impression.

imagine: to form concepts which are not adherent to sensation.

imagination: the faculty for forming counterfactual mental images and perceptions. Compare dream.

impulse: an urge driven by the subconscious.

infinitesimal (mathematics): something so tiny that there is no way to measure it.

infinity (∞): the idea of something unlimited. Mathematics often treats ∞ as a special number, but that is a conceptual error. Infinity is beyond numerics.

information: an esteemed apprehension of an order among concepts.

insect: a class of arthropods with a 3-part body (head, thorax, and abdomen), a chitinous exoskeleton, 3 pairs of jointed legs, a pair of compound eyes, and a pair of antennae. Insects are a diverse group, with over a million known species.

instant: existing now, in the present moment; immediate.

intensive property (aka bulk property): a physical property of a system that does not depend upon system size or materiality. Examples include temperature, density, hardness and refractive index. American physicist and chemist Richard Tolman introduced the terms intensive property and extensive property in 1917. Contrast extensive property.

interaction (physics): see force.

interface: the boundary between phases or systems.

introspection (aka metacognition): awareness of cognition; (the capability of) reflectively examining one’s own thoughts and feelings. Compare mindfulness.

intuition: direct apprehension. Contrast phenomenon.

iris (physiology): the thin, circular structure in an avian or mammalian eye which controls the diameter of the pupil, thus determining the amount of light reaching the retina.

Iron Age (~1300–500 bce): the last (3rd) principal period of the 3-age system, noted for widespread use of iron and the development of steel. See Stone Age, Bronze Age.

Isa Upanishad: a short Upanishad comprising prose mantras.

Japan: an island nation off the eastern coast of China, comprising 6,852 islands.

Jesuits (aka Society of Jesus) (1539–): a male Catholic order belonging to the congregation founded by Spanish priest Ignatius of Loyola. Ignatius emerged as a religious leader during the Counter-Reformation, where his absolute obedience to the Pope held him in good stead with the Church.

Judaism: the monotheist religion of the Jews.

karma (Hinduism, Buddhism): the moral quality of actions by humans.

Kelvin (K): an absolute temperature scale. Kelvin is the primary measurement unit in the physical sciences. 0 K is the temperature at which all thermal motion ceases, from a perspective of classical thermodynamics.

Kelvin has the same magnitude as Celsius, though at a different offset. Absolute zero (0 K) is –273.15 °C.

The Kelvin scale is named after Irish-born engineer and physicist William Kelvin, who expressed the need for an “absolute thermometric scale.”

kōän: a technique in the practice of Zen Buddhism intended to thwart the mind, and so afford intuition.

krebiozen (aka Carcalon, creatine): a hoax chemical cancer treatment using extract of a horse serum inoculated with the bacterium Actinomyces bovis, which causes lumpy jaw in cattle; developed by Yugoslavian doctor Stevan Durovic.

kinetic theory: a physical theory which characterizes gas as a system of energetic particles.

kingdom (biological classification): the taxon above phylum and below domain. Conventionally, there are 6 kingdoms: archaea, bacteria, protists, fungi, plants, and animals.

know: to directly perceive, and thereupon understand; to recognize the meaning of a concept.

knowledge: cognition of facts or principles about Nature. Compare knowlet, omniscience.

knowlet: cognition of some subject matter. Compare knowledge.

kōän: a paradox posited in Zen Buddhist practice to engender abandonment of reason for intuition, and thus clear the way to enlightenment.

Korean War (1950–1953): a war that started when North Korea, backed by the Soviet Union and China, invaded South Korea. Within 2 months South Korea was on the verge of defeat. The US provided 88% of the military personnel and almost all of the armaments in the UN-sponsored fight against North Korea. The war ended in a territorial stalemate, with an armistice signed, but to this day no peace treaty.

lamina propria: a thin layer of connective tissue that is part of the moist linings of mucous membranes.

learning: the process of constructing a conceptual framework.

lengyre (aka vital energy, chi (Chinese), prana (Hindu)): an organism’s life-energy gyre.

life: anything capable of perceiving its environment.

logos: Heraclitus’ term for Ĉonsciousness. See Tao.

love: adoration of a concept.

macula (aka macula lutea): a yellow, oval-shaped spot near the center of the retina of the human eye, with the fovea at its center.

magnetic moment (aka local moment): the torque a magnet will experience in an external magnetic field.

magnetoencephalography: a technique using sensitive magnetometers to record magnetic fields produced by electrical currents in the brain, thereby allowing mapping electromagnetic brain activity.

mahasamādhi: intentionally leaving the body to die.

manifestation: an outward perceptible expression of Nature. Compare phenomenon.

mantra: a resonant vibration used to attain transcendence.

mass (classical physics): a measure of matter’s inertia (resistance to a change of motion); alternately, a measure that an object of matter has gravitationally.

mass (quantum mechanics): the energy level at which an elementary particle may make an observable appearance.

materialism (psychology, economics): a worldview valuing material consumption and possessions. See matterism.

mathematics: the systematic treatment of relations between symbolic entities.

Matryoshka doll: a set of hollow wooden dolls of decreasing size, which can be placed one inside another.

matterism (aka (philosophical) materialism): the monistic belief that reality is made of matter. Matterism supposes that the mind is a figment of something substantial. See naïve empiricism, naïve realism. Contrast energyism.

māyā (Hinduism, Buddhism): misperception of reality by not considering it an illusion.

meditation: a practice intended to achieve a transcendental state of consciousness. Yoga is intended as a physical form of meditation.

Meiji era (aka Meiji period) (1868–1912): the period in Japan immediately following the end of the Tokugawa Shogunate (Edo Period). The emperor was restored preeminence while the country modernized economically in the wake of threat of foreign incursion, especially by the United States. Japan became the 1st industrialized Asian nation.

mentation: mental activity.

mentotype: the psychological constitution of an organism, including cognitive orientations and capacities, awareness loci, and worldview. Compare phenotype.

Mesolithic (20–5 tya): the final period of foraging in human cultures as the predominant lifestyle, before yielding to agriculture.

metabolism: cellular chemical reactions which provide energy for vital processes.

metabolite: a chemical product of metabolism.

metaphysics: the study of first principles, including ontology and cosmology. Metaphysics is closely related to epistemology.

microbe: a microorganism, too tiny to be seen without a microscope, often a single-celled prokaryote. Microbes include archaea, bacteria, and fungi.

microbiome: the endosymbiotic, microbial community that comprises every eukaryotic organism, especially multicellular eukaryotes. Commensal prokaryotic inhabitants are essential to eukaryotic life.

microsaccade: a tiny, jerky, involuntary eye movement. Microsaccade amplitudes vary from 2 to 120 arcminutes. Compare saccade.

mind: an intangible organ for symbolic processing.

mind-body: the mind & body as an integral life form.

mindfulness (aka mindfulness meditation): the practice of paying attention to the prattles of the mind, which has ignorantly been popularized as a form of meditation when it is nothing of the sort. Compare introspection, metacognition.

model: a mathematical construct.

modern physics: post-Newtonian conceptions of physics, including Einstein’s relativity theories and quantum models. Compare classical physics.

moiety: a small molecule of a chemical functional group.

molecule: a combination of atoms.

moment (physics): an expression involving the product of a distance and a physical quantity which accounts for how the physical quantity is situated.

monochromacy: having a single type of cone cell (color receptor) in the eye. Compare dichromacy, trichromacy, tetrachromacy.

monotheism: the belief in a singular god. Contrast polytheism.

motivation: a stimulus that causes an organism to behave in a certain way. See desire.

mucous membrane (aka mucosa): a membrane of epithelial cells over a layer of loose connective tissue.

mudra: a symbolic or ritual hand position or gesture in Hinduism and Buddhism.

Mundaka Upanishad: a primary Upanishad, and one of the most widely translated. As with other Upanishads, the Mundaka chronology is unclear, but perhaps the 6th century bce.

myoelastic-aerodynamic theory: a theory of vocalization corresponding with Bernoulli forces (negative pressure) on elastic tissue folds muscularly controlled (myo refers to muscles).

mystical: non-empirically obscure. The commonly bandied definition of involving something supernatural needs to confine itself to magical.

natural science: natural philosophy coupled to the scientific method.

natural selection: a meaningless term acclaiming Darwinism, popular among religious evolutionary biologists who should know better. See Darwinism.

Nature: the exhibition of existence. See coherence.

nature (of): the essence; the basic constitution.

Nazism (aka National Socialism): the ideology and practices of the 20th century German Nazi party, characterized by fascism and antisemitism.

near-death experience: an experience near death. People who have near-death experiences may physically cease to function for some duration before reviving.

neocortex (aka neopallium, isocortex): the part of the mammalian brain active during higher-order mentation, such as sensory perception, cognition, motor command generation, spatial reasoning, and language.

neopositivism (aka logical positivism, logical empiricism): a Western philosophical view embracing epistemological empiricism. Neopositivism sprouted in Berlin and Vienna in the late 1920s and gained widespread acceptance in scientific circles since the mid-20th century. Contrast panpsychism.

neurobiology (aka neuroscience): a pseudoscience that equates nerve cell activity with mentation. Compare neurology.

neuron doctrine: the notion that neurons are the cells of intelligence.

neutral monism (aka neumonism): the epistemology that the essence of existence is neither material nor mental, but energetic. Compare idealism. See energyism.

nocebo: a belief provoking illness or death; the opposite of a placebo.

non-equilibrium statistical mechanics: see statistical mechanics.

object: something manifest as cohesive matter.

observation: active perception.

ocellar: relating to, or connecting with, an ocellus.

ocellus (plural: ocelli): a simple invertebrate eye.

ocelloid: a subcellular eye found in warnowiids, with subcomponents analogous to the lens, cornea, iris, and retina of eyes.

ommatidium (plural: ommatidia): a facet of a compound eye comprising 1 or more photoreceptor cells innervated by a single axon, providing a single picture element.

omniscience: (the idea of) having comprehensive awareness and comprehension of Nature. Compare knowledge.

ontological argument: a philosophical argument for the existence of a supreme being.

ontology (philosophy): the study of the nature of reality. Compare phenomenology.

opsin: a light-sensitive protein.

organism: a life form.

osteoporosis: a disease of progressive bone mass and density loss.

ouroboros (aka uroboros): an ancient symbol of a dragon or serpent eating its own tail which symbolizes the eternal cycle of existence.

out-of-body experience (obe): an experience of awareness from a perspective which is outside of one’s physical body.

panpsychism: the idea that a consciousness and mind is inherent in all things. Panpsychism is one of the oldest philosophical theories and was the prevailing orthodoxy until the mid-20th century, when supplanted by neopositivism. Compare hylozoism, animism.

paracosm: a detailed imaginary world.

paranormal: not explainable via matterism.

Parkinson’s disease: a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system, initially affecting the motor system, but leading to dementia in its advance. Named after James Parkinson, who published a report on the disease in 1817.

particle (physics): a point in spacetime, typically used to ascribe a quantum. Contrast wave.

pea: the small spherical seed of the pod fruit of the pea plant (Pisum sativum), an annual plant.

perceive, perception: mentally integrating sensory input (sensation) using memory. Perception is a 3-stage process: 1) turn a sensation into a symbolic representation, 2) identify the representation using memory and categorization, then 3) derive meaning, especially regarding affinity or avoidance. See conceptualization.

peripheral vision: vision in animals with 2 eyes that occurs outside focal gaze. See binocular vision.

perspective-ignorance: see pignorance.

phenomenal: known through perception. Contrast intuition.

phenomenology (philosophy): the study of the nature of phenomena, experience, and consciousness. See ontology.

philosophy: a set of consistent definitions pertaining to a system which yields a hierarchical construal. The term philosophy derives from the ancient Greek for “love of wisdom.” There are 3 branches of philosophy: natural, moral, and metaphysical. Natural philosophy, which evolved into science, concerns Nature. Moral philosophy deals with the principles of ethics. Metaphysics considers first principles, such as ontology, and is intimately connected with epistemology.

photobleaching (aka fading): photochemical alteration of a pigment molecule such that it cannot fluoresce (emit light).

photoisomerization: the molecular behavior of changing isomer upon photoexcitation (absorbing a photon).

photopic vision: sight under well-light conditions. Contrast scotopic vision.

photoreceptor (cell): a specialized cell capable of visual phototransduction.

photosynthesis: (an organism) converting sunlight into energy.

phototransduction: the 4-step cellular process of converting light into a sensory signal. See transduction.

phylogeny: the evolution of a particular group of organisms.

phylum (biological classification) (plural: phyla): the taxon above class and below kingdom. Phylum typically refers to a uniquely identifiable body plan. See family.

Physarum: a genus of slime molds.

physical model: a typically geometric or algebraic mathematical model yielding a mathematical description of the embodied phenomena.

placebo: a simulated medical treatment intended to inspire the recipient, thereby provoking the placebo effect of working to relieve or even cure the targeted affliction. The term placebo originated with an old Latin word for “I shall please.” In medieval times, a placebo opened the Catholic Vespers for the Dead, which were sung by hired mourners for a funeral; sycophants who wept crocodile tears on behalf of the family. This gave placebo the odious meaning of a toady. The term took its medical context in the early 19th century, when placebos were remorsefully employed. Placebos’ efficacy gradually transformed their moral worth.

Planck time: the theoretical limit of temporal measurement; the time required for light in a vacuum to travel a single Planck length: 5.391 x 10–44 seconds.

Planck unit: a system of natural units used in physics, particularly Planck length and Planck time; named after German physicist Max Planck.

plasma: the most prevalent of the 4 fundamental states of matter; the others being gas, liquid, and solid.

poison ivy: a rash caused by allergic reaction to urushiol, a sap produced by plants in the Toxicodendron genus (poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac).

polymath: a person of encyclopedic learning.

polytheism: the belief in multiple gods. Contrast monotheism.

population: a group of conspecifics within a geographical area.

post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): a terrifying event in the past echoing onto present awareness.

prāņā: the Sanskrit word for “life force.”

prāņāyāma: a breathing technique.

precocial: animal species with relatively mature and mobile young from the moment of birth or hatching. Many, though not all, arthropods, fish, amphibians, and reptiles are precocial. Contrast altricial.

presence (spirituality): a felt external (ED) spirit.

primary metabolite: a compound produced by a plant that is essential to its survival. Compare secondary metabolite.

problem: a dynamic not understood for which a solution is sought (problem-solving). Whereas problem-solving which shapes matter is craftwork, entirely abstract (non-material) problem-solving is symwork (of symbolic representations).

prokaryote: an organism that lacks a cell nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles. While prokaryotes are strictly single-celled, most can form stable, aggregate communities, such as a biofilm. Compare eukaryote.

prophet: a guru that teaches reality and the consequences of ignorance.

protostome: a clade of animals comprising annelids (segmented worms), arthropods, and mollusks. The sister clade of protostomes are deuterostomes, from which evolved echinoderms (e.g., sea urchins) and vertebrates.

psyche: the psychological structure of an organism, especially as a motive force.

psychedelic: a substance which can induce hallucinations.

psychic: relating to mental projection.

psychology: the study of the mind, leading to philosophy about the mind. There can be no science of the mind. An individual psychology is characterized by mental and behavioral habits.

pupil (physiology): the variably sized hole in the center of the iris that allows passage of light to the retina.

quantum (physics) (plural: quanta): an infinitesimal chunk of ripple in a localized energy field considered as a particle (via quantization).

quantum field theory (aka quantum theory, quantum mechanics): a theoretical framework explaining subatomic interactions from a particle perspective.

quantum mechanics: see quantum field theory.

quantum tunneling: a quantum overcoming its 4D classical confines to move itself through an HD wormhole.

quietude: the state of consciousness characterized by being awake with a quiet mind (nattermind subdued). See enlightenment.

realization (aka unity consciousness): an enlightened state of consciousness with an abiding experience of the unicity of Nature. (Note that the term enlightenment is sometimes used for realization. No knowledgeable distinction may be made between enlightenment and realization by those not having attained unity consciousness.) Compare enlightenment, coherence consciousness.

reflection (physics): the partial or complete rebound of an energy wave from a surface. See specular reflection, diffuse reflection, retroreflection.

reflection (psychology): the process of contemplation, incorporating memory.

refraction: energy wave deflection due to passing from one medium into another, each medium having a distinct velocity. Contrast reflection (physics).

reincarnation: the idea that souls cycle through incarnations; common in many spiritual belief systems, though not a mainstream belief in Abrahamic religions (monotheistic religions which include Judaism, Christianity, and Islam).

remote viewing: long distance visual perception. Compare out-of-body experience.

Renaissance (14th–17th centuries): the European intellectual and cultural movement from the mid-14th century (after the Black Death) into the 17th century, characterized by collective nostalgia for classical antiquity, though it ended up with skepticism toward traditional thought. The Renaissance affected the arts, religion, politics, philosophy, and science.

resonance (physics): a periodic synchrony.

retina: the light-sensitive layer of tissue lining the inner surface of the eye.

retinal (aka retinaldehyde, vitamin A aldehyde): one of many forms of vitamin A. Retinal binds to the rhodopsin, providing the chemical basis of animal vision.

retinal bipolar cell: an intermediary nerve cell type between photoreceptors (rod and cone cells) and ganglion cells.

retinal ganglion cell: a nerve cell type near the inner surface of the retina that receives visual information from photoreceptors.

retroreflection: radiation reflection back to its source with minimal scattering.

rhabdomeric (aka r-opsin): the type of photoreceptor used by protostomes (e.g., insects) for vision. Compare ciliary.

rhodopsin (aka visual purple): a pigment-containing light-sensitive protein that converts light into an electrical signal (phototransduction).

risk sensitivity: the capability of an organism to discriminate between stable and unstable environments.

robber fly (aka assassin fly): a fast, medium-to-large, powerfully built, bristly fly in the Asilidae family (in the order Diptera, the true flies), with 7,000 described species. Robber flies are notoriously aggressive predators; hence the name. They prey on other insects as ambush hunters. Some robber flies resemble bumblebees, which these flies attack. Their disguise abets predation in affording close proximity before moving in for the kill.

rod (cell): a black-and-white photoreceptor in the mammalian eye that receives 1 photon at a time. 1 of the 2 types of the photoreceptor cells in the retina (the other being cone cells).

rule: a regulating principle.

saccade: a quick, simultaneous movement of the eyes. Compare microsaccade.

sādhanā: some exercise aimed at spiritual awakening; a term from the yogic tradition. All one needs to do for spiritual awakening is to witness what is going on without interference from nattermind: to live in meditation. Meditation as a practice is simply a form of rest (away from nattermind) which acclimates the system to silence and transcendental consciousness.

saint: a holy guru.

Sanskrit: the primary liturgical language of Hinduism.

scallop: a cosmopolitan marine bivalve mollusk.

schema: a general representation.

Scientific Revolution (1543–1687): a label by historians to ascribe the era in which modern science emerged. The 1543 posthumous publication of Copernicus’ essay on heliocentrism is commonly cited as the start date, and Newton’s 1687 publication of Principia (Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy) considered its completion.

scotopic vision: sight under low light. Contrast photopic vision.

scotopsin: the protein moiety in rhodopsin.

sea urchin (aka sea hedgehog): a small, spiny, globular marine animal, closely related to the sand dollar.

secondary metabolite: a specialty compound produced by a plant for ecological purposes. Compare primary metabolite.

selective attention: the ability to screen out useless visual information so as to focus on a target.

sentience (aka sentiency): conscious witnessing without cognitive engagement. Sentience is the ability of consciousness to perceive awareness itself.

set (mathematics): a collection of symbolic representations.

set theory: a branch of mathematical logic dealing with sets.

shear stress: coplanar stress in a material cross section. Whereas normal stress arises from a force vector component perpendicular to a material cross section, shear stress arises from a force vector component parallel to a cross section.

sleep (aka asleep): the state of consciousness where the body and mind are in repose.

sleepwalking (aka somnambulism, noctambulism): a sleep disorder of combined sleep and wakefulness, where people asleep perform activities usually done only while awake.

slime mold: a protist that reproduces via zoospores.

sociowork: the process or result of mentally manipulating social relations. Compare craftwork, symwork.

solipsism: the irrefutable argument that only the self can be proven to exist; universally ignored.

soul: individual consciousness; the part of an organism capable of passively witnessing its own mentation (introspection); more transcendentally, the perpetual essence of a life form.

sound: a vibration propagating as an audible wave of pressure.

special relativity: a physical theory of measurement positing that the speed of light provides an inertial frame of reference; proposed by Albert Einstein in 1905. See general relativity.

specular reflection (aka regular reflection): radiation reflection where each ray reflects from a surface at the same angle as its incidence.

spectral gap: the energy difference between the ground state and the 1st state of excitement in a system.

spin (quantum physics): the mathematically hypothesized internal rotation of a subatomic particle; a form of intrinsic angular momentum. Each particle type has a specific spin. In the Standard Model, only the Higgs boson is presumed without spin.

spirit (spirituality): a soul other than one’s own.

spirit plane: the dimensions where extra-dimensional (ED) life resides.

Standard Model (quantum physics): a quantum field theory focused on fundamental subatomic quanta and their interactions. The Standard Model is known to be incomplete.

Stargate Project (1978–1995): a US Army project to investigate psychic phenomena for military and intelligence applications. Remote viewing was the primary work.

Stoicism: a Hellenistic philosophy emphasizing self-control as a means for a virtuous life.

Stone Age (roughly 3.4 mya–3300 bce): the 1st principal period of the 3-age system, noted for use of stone tools, prior to the advent of metalworking. See Bronze Age, Iron Age.

strong force: the bosonic force binding matter together. Contrast weak force.

subconscious (aka unconscious): mentation that one is not aware of (not conscious of): below the threshold of awareness. Compare conscious.

subjective idealism: see idealism.

supernatural: beyond Nature.

supralinear: greater than linear.

superluminal: faster than light.

sutra: a focal meditation technique.

sweat bee: a bee attracted to salt, particularly human sweat.

symbiorg: a eukaryotic organism, including the microbiome that symbiotically populates the organism as a host.

symbiosis: 2 dissimilar organisms in continual interaction, often in a mutually beneficial association (mutualism).

symwork: the process or result of manipulating symbolic representations into a certain configuration. Compare craftwork, sociowork.

syrinx: the unique vocal organ of birds.

Tao (Chinese philosophy and religion): the order of Nature; may also be considered a synonym for Ĉonsciousness. See logos.

taxon (plural: taxa): a classification of organisms.

teleology (evolutionary biology): the obvious and well supported theory that adaptation is goal oriented.

teleology (philosophy): the doctrine that final causes (ends or purposes) exist. Socrates, Plato, and Kant argued in favor of teleology.

tensor: a geometric object describing linear relations between other geometric entities (vectors, scalars, tensors). A tensor is a geometric entity particularly entangled with other tensors. Tensors are a tautology of entanglement.

tensor network (aka tennet): a network of tensors.

terminal lucidity: a brief revival of mental clarity just before death by those suffering severe neurological or psychological illness.

theory: fact-based explanation about the relations between concepts. See physical theory. Compare hypothesis.

theory of everything: the holy-grail physics theory that unifies all (known) phenomena.

thermalization: the process of matter moving toward thermal equilibrium with its environment.

topographic memory: a memory involving spatial orientation.

torque: the tendency of a force to rotate an object about an axis.

trait (biology): a biological feature, either in form or function.

transcendence (consciousness): the state of consciousness where the mind is quiet while the body is resting but receptive to stimuli.

Transcendental Meditation® (TM): a meditation technique popularized by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. TM employs a mantra as a mental vehicle to facilitate transcendence. TM descends from an ancient lineage of Indian meditative practices.

transduction (physiology) (sensory transduction): conversion of a sensory stimulus from one communicable form to another.

trichromacy: having 3 types of color vision receptors. Marsupials and primates are the only known mammalian trichromats, with different receptor types for red, green, and blue wavelengths. Some insects, such as honeybees, are trichromats, but their reception is shorter wavelengths: green, blue, and ultraviolet. Trichromats can distinguish 1 million colors. Compare monochromacy, dichromacy, tetrachromacy.

truth: conformity with reality. Compare theory.

unconscious: autonomic mental processes which are not conscious. The term unconscious was coined by German philosopher Friedrich Schelling in 1800. See subconscious. Compare conscious.

understand: to develop a sense of contextual meaning.

universal mind: the idea of showtivity via a unified field of mentation; a synonym for coherence.

Upanishads (aka Vedānta) (from the 7th century bce): a collection of ~200 texts which contain philosophic concepts central to Hinduism.

uranium (U): the element with atomic number 92; a silvery-white metal that is weakly radioactive because all its isotopes are unstable.

vacuum energy: the underlying energy of 4D empty space. Vacuum energy is the ground state from which 4D virtual particles arise. Vacuum energy is an HD phenomenon.

vagus nerve (aka pneumogastric nerve): the longest and most complex of the 12 paired, cranial, neural cables in the human body; part of the parasympathetic nervous system. The vagus nerve conveys 80–90% of sensory signals about the body’s organs to the central nervous system. Vagus nerve activity correlates with sensory input and motor control. The term vagus stems from the Latin word for wandering.

Vedas, The: a collection of hymns and other Sanskrit spiritual texts written 1500–300 bce; the earliest literary record of the Indo-Aryan civilization. The Vedas become the canon of Hinduism.

vibration: a periodic oscillation about an equilibrium.

virtual particle: a hypothesized HD quantum that significantly affects the properties of 4D quanta. Virtual particles supposedly pop in and out of 4D as a manifestation of vacuum energy: a phase shift in appearance between 4D and ED. See ghost field.

vision: the sense of sight through visible light.

vitalism (biology): the doctrine that there is a vital energy specific to living organisms, distinct from chemical and physical forces; a well-known fact generally rejected by scientists.

vitalism (natural philosophy): the doctrine that living organisms are fundamentally different from non-living objects in having a life force. Compare animism.

vocal cord (aka vocal fold): either of 2 folds of a mucous membrane that extends across the interior cavity of the larynx.

vocalization: sound production by an animal through its respiratory system.

warnowiid: a family (Warnowiaceae) of unicellular protists with ocelloids.

wasan: a distinct mathematics developed in Japan during the Edo Period, without knowledge of Western mathematics, but contemporaneously making the same discoveries.

weak force: the bosonic nuclear force that transforms matter from one variety of into another and causes matter to decay. Contrast strong force.

willmind: volitional mentation. Contrast nattermind.

Wizard of Oz, The (aka The Wonderful Wizard of Oz): a 1900 fantasy novel by American novelist L. Frank Baum. The Wizard is a humbug who is shamed into helping Dorothy return to her home in Kansas. The Wizard of Oz is best known in its 1939 film adaptation, staring Judy Garland.

World War 2 (aka WW2, 2nd World War) (1939–1945): a global war between 2 alliances – the Allies and the Axis – that involved over 30 nations. The primary Allies were Great Britain, the United States, and Russia. Germany, Italy, and Japan were the Axis powers. ~85 million people perished.

wormhole: a shortcut in spacetime, allowing entanglement.

xenoglossy: the ability to speak an unfamiliar language.

yin-yang: the traditional Chinese concept of interdependent dynamic forces composing Nature, dating to the 14th century bce or even earlier. Yin is the receptive principle, Yang active.

yoga: a Hindu school of philosophy advocating and prescribing mental and physical disciplines for attaining realization.

yogi: a person who practices yoga.

Zen: a school of Buddhism that developed in 6th century China. Zen was introduced into Japan during the 12th century. Westerners are most familiar with Japanese Zen Buddhism, with initial interest sparked by the visit of Japanese Zen Buddhist monk Soyen Shaku to the World Parliament of Religions in 1893, held in Chicago. Zen emphasizes the individual attainment of enlightenment via intuitive insight into the nature of reality.

zero (0): an absence of quantity; mathematical nothing.

Zohar: the primary text of Kabbalah, a mystical Judaist tradition.

zoospore: a motile asexual spore that gets around by flapping its flagellum.


uploads///Eurozone GDP Growth Remain Unchanged in Q

Why the Eurozone GDP Didn’t Change in 4Q15

Eurozone GDP at 0.3% for 4Q15

The Eurozone (HEDJ) GDP (gross domestic product) remained unchanged at 0.3% for the fourth quarter of 2015. GDP for the third quarter of 2015 was also 0.3%. This figure indicates that there was no increase in business activity in terms of goods and services during the fourth quarter of 2015. It also indicates there was no increase in demand for goods and services.

The Eurozone’s (EZU) (FEZ) main problem is that it’s struggling with deflation. The fall in energy and commodity prices is the major factor behind deflation. However, the recent recovery in commodity and energy prices may provide some positive impact on the economy. Recent steps taken by ECB (European Central Bank) president Mario Draghi may help boost growth and bring inflation into the economy.

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Draghi’s QE program for Eurozone growth

On March 10, 2016, the ECB cut its deposit rate, moving it deeper into negative territory, from -0.3% to -0.4%. It charged banks more to keep their money with the ECB. It was in line with Market expectations. However, it surprised the Market by cutting its other two interest rates.

The refinancing rate was cut by 5 basis points to 0%. The marginal lending rate was cut to 0.25% from 0.3%. The marginal rate is the rate used by banks to borrow from the ECB overnight. The ECB increased the monthly asset buying program to 80 billion euros from 60 billion euros. This was more than the Market expected. It expected about 70 billion euros.

The higher level provided by Draghi indicated that the economy might be slowing at a faster pace than the expected level. There might be more downside risk for the economy. Draghi is doing more on the QE (quantitative easing) side, because QE wasn’t very effective in the past. All the major indexes fell on March 10, 2016, due to the speculation. Major stocks of the Eurozone such as SAP (SAP), Siemens (SIEGY), and Volkswagen (VLKAY) fell 0.35%, 0.28%, and 0.2%, respectively, that day.

In the next part, we’ll see what France’s industrial production indicated for January 2016.

More From Market Realist


Human Evolution Today

human evolution

So, how are genes and genetic mutations relevant to understanding human evolution? Scientists agree that the nature of human evolution today is unlike anything in the past.

Most notably, the primary determining factors for the reproductive success that Darwin highlighted in his theory for natural selection are now culture and technology because, as previously mentioned, evolution can’t keep up with the speed of modern life.1

Consider how well humans are adapted to computer screens, rigorous work schedules, processed food, and big cities filled with pathogens and low in plant life. In fact, the most prevalent issues in modern life put into question how the intricate system that supports complex metabolic pathways falls victim to health issues like insomnia, heart disease, and diabetes.

human evolutionHowever, human progress and technological advancement has its perks. Researchers believe that humans have the potential to knock out disadvantageous traits without evolution with the use of rapidly-involving genetic technologies.

Still, a society working to knock out neurodegenerative disorders like Huntington’s and Parkinson’s and discover the cure cancer overlooks the little things like the food it’s eating or the air it’s breathing.

Somewhere down the line, progress became limitless, but so did unhealthy lifestyle habits. This part of human evolution comes later than the dawn of man and begins with the Agricultural Revolution, followed by the Industrial Revolution, and finally, the Urban Revolution.

A brief look into these times of progress sets up the story for where humans are today.

By Jesse Waddell

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TNI Logo The NELAC Institute

Section: 4.1

TNI Response:  The use of the term “method” within the definition of Field of Proficiency Testing (FoPT) (2009 V1M1, 3.6) is only included to accommodate EPA’s drinking water program where PTs are required per method for the drinking water analytes referenced in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), specifically 40 CFR 141.  The use of the term “technology” within the definition of FoPT (2009 V1M1, 3.6) only refers to the determinative analytical technology; preparative techniques/methods are not part of this definition. In addition, the Note in Section 5.1.1 of V1M1, states the following: “…If the laboratory is accredited for multiple test methods that use the same technology within a field of accreditation, the laboratory is not required to analyze a PT sample for each test method, except for fields of accreditation for the drinking water accreditation matrix for which a PT sample per test method is required…”  Therefore, using the example provided, for each analyte in the same matrix, the TNI standard only requires PTs for one ICP method (200.7 or 6010B) to maintain accreditation for both ICP methods and one ICP-MS method (200.8 or 6020) to maintain accreditation for both ICP-MS methods.  V1M1 of the 2016 standard was revised to include this statement "An unacceptable score for the reported test method will result in an unacceptable score for all test methods for that accreditation FoPT.

Question:  A laboratory in our program has requested accreditation to measure analytes in biological tissue.  The question is "If biological tissues are not listed as a matrix for the current NELAC Fields of Proficiency Testing, are proficiency tests of solid and chemical materials acceptable to demonstrate proficiency for testing biological testing?"

TNI Response:  Biological tissues are not a matrix in the TNI FoPT tables, as such there would be no proficiency testing requirements for this matrix.  The 2016 standard clearly indicates only analytes in FoPT tables are required.


The Economics of Reliability - Global Refining

Over 85% of the world’s industries are experiencing difficult markets as the world continues to go through one of the worst economic downturns in history. Roughly one third of the world’s economy is directly affected by the reliability of operations. From energy to water, reliability can mean the difference between being an industry leader and bankruptcy.

Pinnacle analysts take data from the oil refining industry and dive into how that key sector is being affected by reliability today and the differences across the world. Through this report, we explore key indicators of reliability, identify which companies seem to be leading the pack in reliability optimization, and explain the trends that are driving reliability in this sector.


VS Code LogoVS Code Rocks

Customizing Typography in VS Code

- 3 minutes to read

If VS Code is your main editor, having a clean UI can bring a productivity boost. Changing the typography can help give cleaner text and allow you to focus on the content at large rather than the text alone. I am going to go over some neat fonts as well as some other tweaks to 1-up your VS Code typography skills.

Table of Contents

As well, given this is my first post in 2019, I want to wish everyone a happy new year. I took a hiatus to give myself a bit of time to rest during the holidays but I am back now and will be back to the weekly schedule.

Configurable Font settings

Starting out trying to figure out what settings are configurable can be done by opening the Settings UI (cmd+, or ctrl+,) and searching for “font”. The ones that I’ve found that are of main customize include the following.

  • Font family: The font family can be changed to any font that is installed on your system. I’ll get into a few fonts others and I recommend.
  • Font size: the size of the font in pixels. Given I have a large display, I tend to have my font size at 18px so it is fairly reasonable to read from a distance.
  • Font weight: The weight of a font whether you wish for a thin or bolder font style. It maps to 100-900 similar to the font-weight CSS attribute.
  • Line height: This defines the line height in pixels of the font. The default is 0 which means it will use the default line height of the font according to the font size it is at currently, but it can be customized if you want the lines spaced out even further.

Recommended Font Families

There are plenty of fonts that are made specifically for coding. The ones I am recommending go between free to commercial licenses for the font, so don’t go out of your budget to buy one of these fonts if you cannot afford it.

Fira Code

First off is a free font named Fira Code. It is a font developed by Nikita Prokopov which was based on Fira Mono which was developed by Mozilla for Firefox. If you notice, the font includes Ligatures which I will get into later. This is the font I particularly use and gives a crisp feel to the text.

Dank Mono preview

Next is Dank Mono which was developed as another coding font. It’s a commercial font but it only costs £40 for a license which is about $50 USD. Compared to Fira Code, Dank Mono, which you also will see in a few other fonts, has italicized all of the keywords across various languages so you can differentiate keywords from variables or function names.

Operator Font

Finally, Operator is the last font. It has a similar feel to Dank Mono but is a much more full fleshed font that you can also use in graphic design. While Dank Mono has only two font styles, Operator has a bunch of fonts including it’s a monospace style to be used in text editors. That said, given it is a more full-fleshed font, the license costs between $200-$600 so it can get fairly expensive, but given you look at your editor all day, it may be a good expense. As I said previously, don’t overdo it if it is not in your regular budget.

Font Ligatures

As mentioned earlier, Fira Code has a concept of Font Ligatures. As seen in the image above, sets of symbols can switch into custom characters when displayed. For instance, when you write !=, fonts that include ligatures, it will be converted to an equals sign with a slash in the middle of it as if you’d write it in a mathematical expression. There are plenty of other ligatures across various languages and give a cleaner look to visualize the symbol as a single item rather than the individual characters. To enable this, search for “Font Ligatures” in the settings panel and click on the checkbox to enable it. With such, the font family needs to support font ligatures to have ligatures be displayed.

Overall, having a clean font to read when using VS Code is one of those essentials that you don’t think about often, but helps out in the long run.


Q& A | Separation, Child Custody and Parenting

Q&A with Lisa Wagner, Principal and Managing Director, Doolan Wagner Family Lawyers.

Are you separating and want to know what’s best for your children?

Here are our trusted answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about separation and child custody.

Q: What’s the difference between a Parenting Plan and Parenting Orders?

A: A parenting plan is a written agreement that sets out parenting arrangements for your child(ren). These arrangements are usually determined by you and your former partner privately at a mediation or following some negotiation. If you and your former partner want to vary your Parenting Plan, you are able to do so at any time. However, it is important to note that a Parenting Plan is not a legally enforceable agreement and is not binding on parties.

Parenting Orders are arrangements that have been approved by the Court and as such are binding on both parties. Parties are able to vary the arrangements outlined in the Orders, provided both parties consent.   In the event there is disagreement regarding the Orders, you or your former partner can make an application to the Court seeking that the Orders be varied or set aside. There is a high threshold parties need to satisfy the Court in order to vary or set aside Orders.

Q: My partner and I have split up and I want to move interstate / overseas with my kids. And what about travel? Do I need my partner’s permission?

A: The short answer is yes.

There are laws in Australia regarding relocating with children. These laws apply even if there are no formal Court Orders that govern any agreement you and your former partner may have reached regarding parenting. Therefore, if you are seeking to move overseas or interstate with your children, this should be discussed and negotiated with your former partner. Moving overseas or interstate falls under the umbrella of “parental responsibility” as it is a major long-term decision that will impact your children. If there is no agreement, then you may be required to file a relocation Application in the Federal Circuit Court or Family Court.

Additionally, if you and your partner have separated it is best to ask for their permission to take your children interstate or overseas, even if it is only for a short holiday. Providing your partner with notice and an itinerary of travel will assist in reducing any fears your partner has that you may not return the children and is also a good co-parenting approach.

If you intend to relocate or travel with your children without the other parent’s permission, you should seek legal advice prior to doing so.

If your children are taken overseas or interstate without your consent, you should seek legal advice immediately.

Q: Can parenting orders be varied?

A: The Court is usually reluctant to vary parenting orders. However, in circumstances where both parties consent to the change or the Court determines it is appropriate to change the Orders, your final parenting orders can be varied.

In order for the Court to vary an existing parenting Order it must be satisfied that there has been a significant change in circumstances. Examples of what constitutes a significant change of circumstances may include one of the following:

  1. If either you or your former partner is seeking to relocate with your children;
  2. If the current Orders were made without all the relevant information having been made available to the Court prior to the making of those Orders;
  3. If you and your former partner have since consented to new parenting arrangements, such as entered into a parenting plan and the current Orders are no longer reflective of the actual arrangements for your children;
  4. If a substantial period of time has elapsed between the Orders being made and the Application being brought;
  5. If there has been allegations of abuse;
  6. If you or your former partner, or one of your children are of ill-health.

If one of the above circumstances applies to you, the Court will carefully consider what is in the best interest of your children prior to varying your parenting orders.

Q:  Do I still have to pay child support even though the kids are living with the other parent?

A:  Yes, you do. Whether or not the children live with you or the other parent, both of you are responsible for the financial support of your children. The amount that would be payable, however, is largely dependent upon the number of nights that the children spend with each parent, as well as the parents’ respective incomes.

With respect to meeting this obligation, you or the other parent can obtain an Administrative Assessment from Services Australia (formerly, the Child Support Agency) or alternatively, reach a private agreement amongst yourselves. Should you wish to document this agreement, a Child Support Agreement can be prepared which is registered with Services Australia and sometimes with the Court. Such an Agreement can include not only periodic child support, but also outline how you both will meet non-periodic payments (for example, in relation to the children’s extra-curricular activities, private health insurance, school fees and the like).

Q: Do I have a right to see my children?

A: In Australia, the short answer is that you do not have any right grounded in law to see your children. Family law in Australia, governed largely by the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) (“the Act”) adopts a child-centric approach, focussing on the rights of your children and your responsibilities to your children as a parent rather than your rights as a parent. Your children have a right to enjoy a meaningful relationship with both of their parents. This will usually involve your children spending time with each parent, however there is no rule, presumption or “starting point” that your children will spend equal or “50:50” time with each of their parents. Furthermore, the paramount consideration of the Court in determining a parenting arrangement that is in the best interests of your children is to protect your children from harm or being subjected to or exposed to abuse, neglect or family violence. You have responsibilities for your children however you do not have a right to see or spend time with your children. Your children have a right to have a meaningful relationship with both of their parents if it is safe for them to do so and they will not be at risk of harm.

Doolan Wagner Family Lawyers offer specialist family law advice in St Leonards on Sydney’s North Shore.  We have a dedicated team of experienced family lawyers prepared to handle your matter effectively and efficiently, providing reliable, direct and practical advice. If you have recently separated or have a Family Law enquiry, please contact us on (02) 9437 0010 or email at enquiries@familylawyersdw.com.au

About the Author: Lisa Wagner is Principal  and Managing Director of Doolan Wagner Family Lawyers.

Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisawagnerdwfl

This post is only intended as an overview or comment on current issues that may interest you and are not legal advice. If there are any matters that you would like us to advise you on, then please contact us on (02) 9437 0010.

What you need to know about family therapy sessions if you are separated.

Parenting matters are often very stressful for all parties involved, children included. It is also an area that is fraught with complex emotional issues and can become increasingly complicated, particularly when the children begin entering into young adulthood.

The challenge in these sort of cases is to assist parents to recognise the need to support their children, whilst at the same time ensure that the children maintain a meaningful relationship with both parents, having regard to the paramount considerations outlined in Section 60CC of the Family Law Act 1975.

In some parenting matters, it is not unusual for one or more than one child to resist contact with one of their parents. The reason for the resistance can sometimes be nuanced and challenging for the Court to respond to. Whilst the Court can make any Orders it feels is in the child(ren)’s best interest, it is futile to make such Orders without first understanding (and dealing with) the emotional issues and/or trauma the child or children may have. In those instances, it is in the parties’ interest that they and/or the children consider attending family therapy.

In the event the parties do undertake family therapy in the context of separation, the next question is whether that therapy will be reportable or non-reportable.

So what does reportable family therapy and non-reportable family therapy mean in the context of family breakdown?

As the name suggests, reportable family therapy is where the family therapist will report to the Court as to the progress of the therapy. In some cases, a Court will direct families to engage in family therapy where the parties are made aware, at the outset, that the therapist will be called on to provide evidence to the Court. They may also be required to outline the parties’ progress with family therapy.

In some other circumstances, the Court may order parties or the child(ren) to participate in non-reportable family therapy. This means that the parties and the children attend upon a therapist in a completely confidential setting, without the fear that any information disclosed at those sessions will be disclosed at some point in the Court matter.

When and how is family therapy accessed?

Whilst there is no set rule as to when family therapy should be considered, it is often best introduced relatively early in any famiy law matter. Insodoing it allows underlying and important issues to be therapeutically addressed and possibly resolved or narrowed as quickly as possible, and without the need for unnecessary and often blunt Court intervention.

Although, it should be noted that parties can begin family therapy at any stage in the matter, and indeed, it is often encouraged by the Court.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of reportable family therapy?

There are clear advantages and disadvantages with respect to engaging in family therapy which is reportable to the Court, as follows:

  1. If an Independent Children’s Lawyer is appointed, they would be able to speak with the family therapist on a regular basis to discuss ongoing issues and challenges, the progress of family therapy, and whether there are any matters or concerns the Court should be made aware of.

  1. Following on from the above, should the Court become aware of any issues which arise in family therapy, it is able to make Orders which deal with this issue. For example, if one party has anger management issues, then the Court could order a party to enrol and participate in an anger management course to address this challenge.

  1. In the event that a Court orders a Family Report to be conducted in a matter, then the expert appointed to prepare the report would be able to speak with the family therapist and better understand the complexities of the issues in dispute.

  1. The family therapist would likely have access to Court material, which would allow them to be better informed of both parties’ allegations. Meaning, they would not be limited to only one party’s account. This can overcome problems that can arise should a “complete picture” not be available. For example, in the case of Maher & Mills (2015), it was found that the family therapist involved was providing the child with counterproductive counselling as he was accepting unconfirmed allegations of sexual abuse from only the mother. Eventually, his evidence was found to be inadmissible as he had “lost professional impartiality” in accepting the mother’s evidence unquestioningly.

  1. Some parties may feel apprehensive or appear to be disinterested in the process, especially in circumstances where the Court may become aware of the issues addressed during family therapy. As a result, parties may be less receptive to opening up to the therapist and meaningfully engaging in the therapy. Alternatively, parties may also be deliberately selective in what they say to the therapist as they know it may contradict what was said to the Court.

  1. When children (who are often significantly affected by parental separation) meet with a therapist, it is often a very delicate and fragile relationship. So when a practitioner reports on matters discussed with that child, it may damage their relationship, which might prevent any real progress from developing in the future.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of non-reportable family therapy?

Similarly, there are advantages and disadvantages of engaging in non-reportable family therapy. They include:

  1. By ensuring that the family therapy is completely confidential, it allows the parties (and the children) to feel as though they are in a safe space to discuss the issues in dispute, and in some cases, to allow a party to confront and accept any damage, they may have inflicted (whether consciously or unconsciously).

  1. Non-reportable family therapy ensures that the important relationship between the practitioner and the party is protected as it avoids the risk that parties (and more importantly, children) may feel betrayed by a practitioner disclosing private information to the Courts. In the case of Hastings & March (2019), the trial Judge was asked to determine whether to permit into evidence the Subpoena material of a family therapist who had been treating the children for a number of years. The judge had serious concerns about the “potential damage to the therapeutic relationship” between the children and the therapist and as such upheld the objection and did not allow the material into evidence.

  1. The Court (and if applicable the Independent Children’s Lawyer) would be unable to discuss family therapy with the practitioner. This also includes an expert who has been appointed to prepare a family report, which means that the report could potentially not contain crucial information that would be relevant for the Judge to make a determination.

  1. The family therapist may not be provided with all the necessary and relevant information in order to provide an effective therapeutic service, and in turn, his or her involvement with the family may actually be more harmful than beneficial.

In conclusion, whether family therapy is reportable or non-reportable, it is evident that any additional assistance by an experienced family therapist would be a vital resource for families undergoing separation. However, parties should carefully consider at the outset, if possible, whether any family therapy that is appropriate for them (and their children) to participate in, should be reportable or non-reportable.

About the Authors:

Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn: Lisa Wagner

Anthony Saba is a Family Lawyer at Doolan Wagner Family Lawyers. Anthony has worked for the past five years exclusively in family law in two other specialist CBD family law firms before joining Doolan Wagner Family Lawyers. He has experience in many other areas of law including commercial disputes, criminal matters and care and protection work.  Anthony has acted in complex property matters and parenting matters including difficult relocation matters and in matters where domestic violence has factored heavily. Anthony is currently completing his Masters in Family Law.


Elan Fitness

A good air change in the 800 m2 power and athletics area at Elan Fitness in Wennigsen, DE, has contributed to the members not "pausing for breath".

In 2016, KE Fibertec provided an efficient air distribution in the fitness center, where the many different types of activities presented great challenges.

The choice fell on a KE-Inject Medium Velocity (MV) hybrid system. A total of 19,900 m³/h of air was distributed in three rooms of different size.

Please let us know if you have any questions


• Marcus Baxby

Keto for CrossFit?

As some of you may know, my training at the moment involves CrossFit, usually 3 or 4 times per week.

Without boring everyone about why I enjoy it so much, there are a few things you need to know about CrossFit.

CrossFit involves strength, cardiovascular endurance, stamina and skills (mainly around Olympic weightlifting and gymnastics).

It is almost always performed at high intensities.

From a physiological point of view, this means that it uses all three main energy systems –

the PCr system (for explosive efforts of less than 10 seconds, eg. An Olympic lift),

the anaerobic glycolytic system (for up to three minute high intensity efforts),

and the aerobic system, for longer, low-moderate intensity efforts.

CrossFit generally consists of combinations of exercises, in an ‘interval’ format, meaning that the first two systems are predominantly utilised for the majority of workouts.

The aerobic system will be utilised as well, but mostly in the background, or during longer, ‘single modality’ workouts such as a long run, bike or row (or combination thereof).

ATP is the energy currency of the body, meaning that to have energy to do anything, we need to produce ATP.

The PCr system utilises the small amount of creatine phosphate that is stored in the muscles.

This generates ATP rapidly, but is in limited supply, meaning that the capacity of the PCr system is limited to around 10 seconds, and that it is used for short, explosive efforts.

In CrossFit, this could be an Olympic lift, a max effort squat, or an explosive jump.

Supplementing with creatine monohydrate has huge benefits for this system, and improves maximal strength, and the ability of the body to recover from maximal efforts.

The anaerobic glycolytic system does not use oxygen, but uses glucose (hence anaerobic glycolytic),

The glucose is broken down into ATP and pyruvate. The pyruvate, in turn, is broken down further into more ATP, producing even more energy.

This system is utilised for ‘prolonged’ high intensity exercise, usually lasting between 10 and 30 seconds, but sometimes up to 3 minutes in well-trained individuals.

In CrossFit, this system is relied on a lot.

As we said, the anaerobic glycolytic system uses glucose.

The main source of glucose is… carbohydrates in the diet.

We will come back to this.

The final system is the aerobic system, which relies on oxygen, combined with the oxidation of either carbs, or fats, or both.

Because CrossFit uses all three energy systems (the PCr, anaerobic glycolitc and aerobic systems), glucose is required in order to perform these types of workouts.

I came across an article recently (from a popular CrossFit news site), which had the title ‘if you’re serious about CrossFit, you should try Keto’.

For those not familiar, ‘Keto’, aka the ketogenic diet, is a protocol whereby carbohydrates are kept at extremely low levels (less than 10% of total calories), protein is relatively low (between 15-25% total calories) and fat is jacked up to between 60-80% of total calories.

For context, fat normally comprises about 20 – 35% of total calories.

A classic keto meal

The idea behind the article was that people on Keto diets would:

a. Lose weight

b. Not lose strength; and

c. Become able to utilise fat instead of carbohydrates for exercise

So let’s dissect each of these one by one

a. Weight loss

People on ketogenic diets do often lose weight, that’s true.

However, as has been proven in the research time and time again, nobody loses weight independent of energy balance.

There is sometimes greater adherence to a keto diet (often because of mistaken beliefs about its ‘magical’ properties), which leads people to stick to it for longer.

Thereby eating fewer calories.

And losing weight.

A calorie deficit remains the principle.

Keto is just one method.

b. Not losing strength

The author (who by the way identified himself as a ‘Certified Ketogenic Health Coach’, not a nutritionist or doctor – vested interest anyone?) did, to his credit, cite some scientific research.

However, the studies on the effects of keto were not long enough for strength to be lost, didn’t study enough people (only 12 participants) and as we know, the most important factors in muscle and strength are a) training and b) protein, both of which the participants continued to broadly the same degree.

The studies didn’t prove what he thought they did, and while people didn’t lose strength on average, they did lose some leg muscle mass, which could negatively affect performance had the study been carried out over a longer period of time.

c. Utilising fat instead of carbohydrate

This is the crux of the argument, and where a good understanding of performance nutrition is required.

The first thing to say is that the body, under normal circumstances, utilises fat at relatively low intensities.

Walking, slow running, carrying out daily chores.

It’s also very important to note that we are talking about fat from food – NOT fat tissue on the body.

Carbs, on the other hand are the body’s preferred fuel source, particularly at higher intensities.

Now, the author correctly identified that lower carb diets increases the body’s ability to use fat for fuel.

But his understanding stopped there.

When carbohydrates are low (like they are in a keto diet), the body has no option but to use fat instead, even at higher intensities.

This is known as becoming ‘fat adapted’.

Restriction of carbohydrates means that the body is forced into using fat for fuel, instead of carbohydrates.

This can happen in as little as 5 days.

The body may also start to utilise protein for making glucose, instead of dietary carbohydrates (again, because it has no choice when there are no dietary carbohydrates!)

This is a process called gluconeogenesis, and this is a rare, and a much less efficient way of producing glucose.

Becoming fat adapted can be useful (and can a crucial part of becoming a better endurance athlete).

The reason for this, however, is not because fat is a superior fuel source, but because it is useful for the body to be able to switch effectively between fat and carbohydrates for fuel at appropriate times.

This ability to switch between carbs and fats at the appropriate time is known as ‘metabolic flexibility’

Increasing metabolic flexibility can be a crucial part of a training programme, particularly where endurance is involved.

An over-reliance on carbohydrates as a fuel source could be damaging to performance, as energy supplies may run out quickly, particularly in longer events, and therefore it is useful to be able to use fat at appropriate times.

The longer the body is able to use fats, the more the carbohydrates are spared, and remain stored for when they are needed most.

This can be beneficial for longer distance events, as if the body is able to oxidise fat at higher intensities, muscle glycogen (stored carbohydrates) is saved for later, or more intense portions of the race, such as hill climbs or sprint finishes.

It’s worth noting that endurance exercise itself increases fat adaptation, but there is some evidence that reducing carbohydrates for some training sessions can further increase the capacity to utilise fat at higher intensities.

Team sports, endurance athletes, and yes, CrossFitters, can all benefit from doing some training sessions with low carbohydrate availability so as to increase their ability to utilise fat as fuel – particularly for endurance-based sessions.

Several methods of training with low carbohydrate availability have been explored in the research, and much of the literature, as well as many of the discussions amongst practitioners within performance nutrition, now centre upon the way in which carbohydrates are periodised in order to maximise the response from a training regimen.

Training with low carbohydrate availability stimulates the machinery used for fat metabolism, and improves aerobic, oxidative metabolism capacity within cells.

Train Low is the most popular carb periodisation strategy, and usually involves training first thing in the morning, without eating, particularly a longer cardio session.

Another strategy is to do a glycogen depleting session, not eating carbohydrates afterwards (thereby not replenishing muscle glycogen), and doing another session later in the day.

For much longer sessions, athletes could start a session with low carbohydrate availability, then eat some carbs (such as an energy gel or energy drink) during the session, so that carbs are available for the end of the session.

A combination ‘Sleep Low’ strategy involves doing a glycogen-depleting session in the afternoon or evening, not replenishing carbohydrates afterwards (just eating protein), then going to bed, and waking up to do another training session.

The strategy can therefore be adapted to the specific athlete.

However, while it is useful to have the ability to use fat where appropriate, it’s ALSO useful to be able to burn carbohydrates at higher intensities.

The research that has been done in this area shows that, while athletes who reduced carbohydrates on a chronic basis burned more fat (became fat adapted), their performance either stayed the same or got worse.

In addition, reducing carbs long-term, such as with a ketogenic diet, means that the ability to burn carbohydrates at high intensities is actually lost.

So you become unable to burn carbohydrates at high intensities, when they are most needed.

You lose your ‘top gear’ so to speak.

To circle back to the start, CrossFit is mostly performed at high intensity.

And carbohydrates are the fuel source that works best at those high intensities.

So yes – you can still do CrossFit on a keto diet.

(as in, you will be physically able to).

But if you want to optimise performance, and perform at your best, you will need carbohydrates.

So if you’re serious about CrossFit?

Don’t do Keto.

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Knutsford, Cheshire, England, United Kingdom

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eco friendly apartment

Zero waste is the goal for those hoping to leave a smaller carbon footprint. How can 68% of the earth’s population that lives in urban areas reduce their waste? Here are seven tips for an eco-friendlier, waste-free apartment.

The First Step

You will realize the amount of trash created in your apartment once you start to pay attention. Make a list either on your phone or a re-writable board. Jot down what you are throwing away; after a week of tracking, you will find that many of the items you are tossing do not have to be food for landfills.

One of your first investments to create an eco-friendly apartment should be a set of reusable bags. For about 99 cents each, you can buy lightweight, washable bags that are made from recycled polyester at Ikea. Put all of them into one and keep it at the door, when you grab your keys, you will see the bag and poof, and no more grocery bags tossed in the bin. Use the bags for all your errand–not just the grocery store. Because they are washable, you do not have to worry about cross-contamination.

Where Does It Go?

If you live in an apartment building that has a trash chute, be mindful of the items you send down. Generally, there is only a chute with a large bin at the bottom that is picked up and emptied in a landfill. Solid, non-re-cyclable materials are the types of articles that should be in a landfill. At present, there are enough landfills to accommodate the trash our country produces at the current rate for another 20+ years.

As John Cox, a neighbor to the Frey Farm Landfill says, “Nobody wants a landfill. Everyone needs one.” According to David Biderman, executive director and CEO of the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA), “Landfills are essential parts of our national infrastructure. It’s essential that they operate properly to protect health and the environment.”

Separate Your Waste

Many apartment complexes, whether you live in a trendy neighborhood like Chicago’s Wicker Park or New York City’s West Village, have large dumpsters in a back corner that you walk your garbage to, and others have trash valet services. This process involves someone rolling a large cart down may be warned or fined for putting your trash out on a wrong day. When you sign your lease, it is wise to ask about waste removal. Many trash valet companies will ask you to separate landfill trash from recyclable waste, and you may be required to use a specific colored trash bag for each type of waste. Regardless of how your trash gets moved to a dumpster, remember to separate items into recyclable or landfill containers.

Herbs and Green Plants

One of the easiest and most fun ways to cut down on waste is to plant an herb garden. You will enjoy the benefits of fresh herbs, the convenience of having herbs and vegetables right on your windowsill or counter, and, most of all; there will be no excess plastic to dispose of. Try some of the tips from A Piece of Rainbow to grow vegetables from the scraps you would usually toss. For easy to follow directions and a list of basic supplies check out the DIY Network.

Not only do houseplants add to your visual décor, but they are immensely beneficial to your health. NASA did a study on the effects of houseplants in small spaces and found that many plants remove chemicals from the air. Carbon dioxide, benzene, and formaldehyde a just a few of the harmful toxins trapped by plants. Your grandmother’s ivy had a serious job to do.

Compost Your Wet Trash

The process of composting helps keep food out of landfills. This is a good idea because decaying food creates methane gas, which contributes to the greenhouse effect. If composting sounds difficult or at the very least like something only done on farms, check out this entertaining and informational video on In an apartment, a countertop composter is an easy product to use.

Cleaning Tools and Green Cleaning Products

Cleaning may not be anyone’s favorite chore. One way to help create a more healthful cleaning day is to use compostable tools. When a compostable scrub brush reaches the end of its usefulness, toss it in your compost bin. It will decompose along with last week’s banana peels. Plastic brushes are not any better, but they take thousands of years to decompose.

Use washable rags–possibly made from old tee-shirts–instead of rolls of paper toweling to wipe up spills. Green cleaning supplies are significantly safer to use and pose no risk to the environment when rinsed down the drain.

The process of creating an eco-friendly, waste-free apartment only takes a little thought and planning and will help you achieve a healthier environment for you and your family.


Ribbed Balloon Sleeve Split Hem Bodycon Dress

$7 ($25)
Sorry, this product is currently out of stock.
See more at prettylittlething.com

nThis bodycon dress is versatile for any occasion Featuring a terracotta ribbed fabric with balloon sleeves and a split hem team this with chunky boots and hoop earrings to complete the look nLength approx 85cm 33 5 n Based on a sample size UK 8 nModel wears size UK 8 EU 36 AUS 8 US 4 nModel Height 5ft 9 n


Pazhassi Tomb

Pazhassi Tomb is a simple but beautiful tomb built in Mananthavady, Wayanad. Pazhassi tomb is situated 37 kilometers from Sulthan Bathery, 32 kilometers north east from Kalpetta, and just a kilometer away from Mananthavady. Pazhassi tomb is built as a memorial for the Veera Pazhassi Raja. Veera Pazhassi Raja who was famously known as the Lion of Kerala. Pazhassi raja was a key player in the Indian independence revolution against British.
Pazhassi Raja, heir of Kottayam royal family, was one among the pioneers in revolt against the East India Company. He carried out guerilla type warfare attacks against British and carried out a long tenure of revolution against British.
There is a cave by name Pulpally cave near Pazhassi tomb. It was in this Pulpally cave that veer Pazhassi raja took refuge till the time British captured him. During the end of 1805, veer Pazhassi raja was killed by British in a ferocious encounter. The point of cremation of Pazhassi raja is where the Pazhassi tomb was constructed as a memorial for him. Nearby Pazhassi tomb is the Pazhassi museum which has a sword that is believed to be from Pazhassi era. Tourists who love to visit places of historical importance should make it a point to visit this place without fail. Multi cultural visitors can also enjoy the beauty of this tomb and visit the museum to know more about the cultural heritage of Kerala.

Near Mananthavady-1km, Pick an auto from Mananthavady.
The nearest airport is Karipur Airport (Calicut International Airport) at Kozhikode, which is about 100 km away from Mananthavady city. Karipur is connected to many Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai. Direct flights are also available from Karipur to many gulf countries like Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
Railway Station:
The nearest railway station is at Kozhikode about 100 km away from Mananthavady. Kozhikode is very well connected to all major cities in India and frequent direct train services are available to Chennai, Bangalore, Trivandrum and Kochi.

Tourist Place to Visit in Wayanad District, Kerala


Scattered Showers & Storms Continue

The stalled out frontal boundary responsible for the periods of showers and thunderstorms will continue to impact the weather around the Sauk Valley today and beyond. Some locally heavy rainfall is still possible with any of the storms around the area today.

Looking at rainfall totals from the last 12 hours (6pm Monday through 6am today) you can see a good swath of widespread amounts over an inch.

Leftover showers this morning will give way to mostly cloudy conditions for the remainder of the morning. This afternoon a few peaks of sunshine will be possible along with the chance for more scattered showers and thunderstorms, especially towards the evening hours. Highs today are expected to be in the lower 70s.

Tonight the front attempts to move to the north of the area, but continued chances for showers and thunderstorms will still be around. Lows around 59.

Wednesday the front finally moves to the north of the area and temperatures get quite a boost with windy conditions. There may be a few leftover showers and storms in the morning, but by the afternoon hours a few peaks of sunshine will be likely with highs near 80 degrees.

Daily chances for showers and storms continue through the rest of the week. It doesn't look like we'll get a break until early next week when a cold front finally moves through the area.


Negotiable instruments (1)

Negotiable instruments are written and signed documents which represent an intangible right of payment for a specified sum of money, either on demand or at a defined time. If correctly drafted, often using specific language defined by law, such a document becomes negotiable (=freely transferable). This quiz tests your understanding of the vocabulary of negotiable […]

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