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Neonicotinoids Found in Honey from Six Continents Researchers tested nearly 200 honey samples from six continents and found that 75 percent contained neonicotinoids. Overall, the diminishing honeybee population is a complex issue – there are a variety of different subspecies around the world, each with different food sources, predators, and environmental issues. It’s unlikely that there’s a single smoking gun of a cause; scientists have already found more than 60 potential stress factors that could be causing a loss of nearly 50 percent of hives. But neonicotinoid pesticides are certainly among the most commonly cited threats, with a variety of research building a solid case for this, piece-by-piece. The newest study on the topic comes from a group of Swiss researchers whose work was just published in Nature. Relying on citizen science, they tested 198 different samples of honey from six continents. (Antarctica is devoid of bees.) A whopping 75 percent of all those samples, across all six continents, tested positive for neonicotinoids – and 45 percent contained two or more different types. Exactly how harmful neonicotinoids are to human consumption is even less understood than how harmful they are to bees. When neonicotinoid residue showed up in drinking water in Iowa City, scientists went looking for evidence that the stuff is dangerous, but clear proof is hard to find. Studies show that there’s a possibility that these pesticides are harmful, but in what dose and in what way? More research is needed. That said, the evidence regarding neonicotinoids and bees is stronger. There’s research indicating that neonicotinoids kill bees’ braincells, preventing them from being able to gather food and reproduce, and that the presence of the compound can decrease bee population density and bumblebee colony growth. (For a quick primer, read this). And new research indicates that the pesticides reduces a bee’s ability to lay eggs. This latest honey study is just one more piece in the overall quest to find out what’s hurting the bees – and goes to show how widespread the neonicotinoid problem is. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License. Want to republish a Modern Farmer story? We are happy for Modern Farmer stories to be shared, and encourage you to republish our articles for your audience. When doing so, we ask that you follow these guidelines: Please credit us and our writers For the author byline, please use “Author Name, Modern Farmer.” At the top of our stories, if on the web, please include this text and link: “This story was originally published by Modern Farmer.” Please make sure to include a link back to either our home page or the article URL. 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Articles can be republished in print under these same rules, with the exception that you do not need to include the links. When sharing the story on social media, please tag us using the following: - Twitter (@ModFarm) - Facebook (@ModernFarmerMedia) - Instagram (@modfarm) Use our content respectfully Modern Farmer is a nonprofit and as such we share our content for free and in good faith in order to reach new audiences. Respectfully, No selling ads against our stories. It’s okay to put our stories on pages with ads. Don’t republish our material wholesale, or automatically; you need to select stories to be republished individually. You have no rights to sell, license, syndicate, or otherwise represent yourself as the authorized owner of our material to any third parties. This means that you cannot actively publish or submit our work for syndication to third party platforms or apps like Apple News or Google News. We understand that publishers cannot fully control when certain third parties automatically summarize or crawl content from publishers’ own sites. Keep in touch We want to hear from you if you love Modern Farmer content, have a collaboration idea, or anything else to share. As a nonprofit outlet, we work in service of our community and are always open to comments, feedback, and ideas. Contact us at [email protected].by Dan Nosowitz, Modern Farmer October 12, 2017 Modern Farmer Weekly Innovations, ideas and inspiration. Actionable solutions for a resilient food system. ExploreNecessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and are used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies.

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Since time immemorial, the port of A Coruña has been the maritime entrance for the faithful and pilgrims from northern Europe who wish to travel the world-famous Way of St. James—one of the most important pilgrimages in Europe that has a particular itinerary with an extensive route starting from the so-called Balcony of the Atlantic. The origins of this pilgrimage go back to the beginning of the ninth century, when the tomb of St. James the Greater was discovered. Over time, the city of Santiago de Compostela was born and grew around it. A short time later, the significant transit of faithful from the interior of the Iberian Peninsula and the rest of Europe would begin. Many of these faithful arrived by sea. Thus, the port of A Coruña was established as one of the most important in Europe. However, the person who gave this route a real impact was the English pilgrim William Wey, founder of the famous Eton College in the city of Windsor. William Wey disclosed the route in great detail in 1456 as a guide for the faithful from Wales, England, Ireland, France, Brittany, Normandy and the rest of Europe. Thus, the pilgrimage route was baptized as The English Way in his honour. Over the centuries, The English Way has become an important tourist epicentre, not only for the hundreds of thousands of faithful who travel it every year but also for tourists who want to enjoy the beauty of Galicia as well as its exquisite gastronomy. A pilgrimage full of beauty and heritage value The pilgrimage along The English Way, starting from A Coruña, is usually done on foot or by bicycle. It starts at the imposing Church of St. James in the historic centre of the city. Pilgrims arriving by boat can be guided by the Tower of Hercules lighthouse, which is the most visible point from the sea. Upon disembarking in the Parrote port, the faithful will find a spectacular trail of places and monuments of great tourist interest including Maria Pita Square. This route, which crosses the entire isthmus and the city's Marina promenade, reaches Ourense Square and continues until it reaches Cuatro Caminos along an urban route. From there, the path begins to show the spectacular views offered by the A Coruña countryside. This route, which runs through the entire municipality of A Coruña, ends at O Portazgo in Culleredo, over 6.8 kilometres. From there, another 68 kilometres remain to reach Santiago de Compostela. From A Coruña to Bruma The first stage of The English Way—a total route of 73.7 kilometres of moderate difficulty—runs along the O Burgo Promenade in Culleredo and continues through Alvedro, then ascends through the parish of Sigrás. Little by little, the pilgrims enter the countryside on trails through spectacular medieval bridges and Romanesque churches. This beautiful trail runs through Carral, Abegondo and Ordes until it reaches Bruma in the municipality of Mesía. The first stage is a 32.4-kilometre journey in which pilgrims can stay in Sergude, a parish located in the municipality of Carral. From Bruma to Siguero The second stage starts from the chapel of Bruma, where the ruins of an old hospital for pilgrims are treasured, and enters Ordes through places full of paths and mills amid beautiful native trees until reaching Sigueiro along a 24.2-kilometre journey. From Sigueiro to Santiago de Compostela The last stretch, 16.1 kilometres, begins on the banks of the Tambre river (enormously popular thanks to its excellent gastronomy and great beauty) and enters the towns of Marantes and A Lameira. Leaving the countryside behind, it returns to the urban environment until arriving in Obradoiro Square, in front of the Cathedral of Santiago.

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Protopteryx was a primitive bird that existed 130 million years ago. This fossil illustrates the exquisite feather detail present in many recent fossils from northern China. Tiouraren BY RICHARD SCHNEIDER AND NICK CARTER The origin of the avian body plan is not something bird watchers often think about. With so many species to find and identify out there, what does it matter how they originated? However, the story of bird evolution is a fascinating one, and understanding it can bring great enrichment to the hobby of birdwatching. What Makes a Bird Let’s first consider the attributes that make birds unique. A key feature is the feather, which is not found in any other living animal. Though feathers look a bit like hair — indeed both are made of keratin and grow in skin follicles — they’re very different in both structure and development. In addition, birds have a distinctive skeleton featuring lightweight hollow bones, a large keel-shaped breast bone to anchor wing muscles, and a rigid airframe created through the fusion of several bones. Most of these anatomical features are adaptations for flying. So are some of the unique organ systems of birds, including a highly efficient respiratory system. In birds, air is directed to a system of air sacs that work in combination to supply the lung with fresh air during both inspiration and expiration. This is much more efficient than our mammalian lung, which inflates and deflates with each breath, leaving behind a considerable volume of stale air with each cycle. Let’s now rewind the clock and explore the evolutionary history of birds, paying particular attention to when and how the unique features of today’s birds were acquired. This is now one of the best understood evolutionary transitions in the history of life, thanks largely to spectacular fossil discoveries made over the past couple of decades. We’ll begin our story with the reptilian ancestor of birds, the archosa urs. This branch of reptiles arose just before the start of the Mesozoic Era, roughly 250 million years ago. Here we find one of the first preadaptations to flight: the unidirectional lung.2 Of course, it wasn’t used to support flight at that time, nor did it have the full complexity of the modern bird lung. Nevertheless, this is when the basic architecture of the bird respiratory system originated, marking a key point of departure from the simpler in-and-out lungs used by mammals. Not long after the appearance of archosaurs, the Earth experienced a mass extinction event that wiped out a large proportion of all species. (This was a different extinction event than the one caused by a meteor 66 million years ago). Archosaurs survived the mass extinction, and with the ecological slate largely wiped clean, they rapidly diversified into many lineages. One of these new groups was the dinosaurs, from which birds later descended. The only other descendants of the archosaurs that survived to the present day are the crocodilians, which means that crocodiles are today the closest living relative of birds. Birds are Dinosaurs The early stages of dinosaur evolution saw the development of another critical preadaptation for flight: feathers.3 Recently discovered fossils indicate that feathers were present in several dinosaur lineages and possibly in their close relatives, the pterosaurs. These early feathers were not used for flying. They were single-filament structures that would have looked a bit like fur and were presumably used for insulation and display. More complex forms of feathers evolved later, particularly within the avian dinosaur lineage. The branch of dinosaurs directly ancestral to birds were the Theropods, originating around 230 million years ago. Theropods were bipedal, which was another useful preadaptation for flight in that it left the arms free to evolve into wings. Most members of this group were carnivorous. Indeed, the dominant predators for much of the Mesozoic were Theropods, including iconic dinosaurs such as Tyrannosaurus and Allosaurus. As the Mesozoic Era progressed, many of the fundamental features of the avian body plan took shape within the branch of Theropods that eventually gave rise to birds.4 These features arose through stepwise transformations over millions of years. A key change was the progressive hollowing of bones, which reduced skeletal weight. Another was the fusion of the collar bones into a single wishbone (furcula), which would later be important in providing stability for flapping wings. The respiratory system became increasingly efficient, with the expansion and refinement of the air sac system. And there was progressive development of warm-bloodedness, with a higher metabolic rate. By the mid-Jurassic, around 160 million years ago, the avian branch of Theropod dinosaurs — the Paraves — had acquired almost all the adaptations necessary for flight. However, it should be noted that none of these preadaptations evolved to support flight. Evolution does not plan ahead. Instead, each new attribute was in some way helpful to the animals that existed at the time. Though the Paraves had acquired a large suite of preadaptations for flying, they were not yet capable of powered flight. One of the well-known families is the dromaeosaurs, or “raptors,” made famous in the Jurassic Park movies. Some early raptors were tree-dwellers that may have been capable of gliding. Microraptor of China, which bore wings on the front and hind limbs, is one of many examples. Others became larger, ground-based predators. Velociraptor from Mongolia is the most famous example, but several raptor species have also been found in Alberta. Birds Take Flight Some members of the Paraves were very birdlike in appearance, with small body size, crouched posture, folding wings with vaned feathers, large eyes, and braincases approaching the proportions seen in modern birds. At this point, the line between birds and dinosaurs begins to blur, forcing us to think about what we mean by the word “bird.” By historical convention, the dividing line between reptiles and birds has long been associated with Archaeopteryx, initially discovered in Germany in 1861. Archaeopteryx possessed a curious mixture of classic bird features, such as feathers and wings, but also retained sharp claws on the hands, a long bony tail, teeth, and other reptilian characteristics. To the scientists of the day, working with a very limited fossil record, Archaeopteryx was seen as the critical “missing link” in bird evolution. Thus, Archaeopteryx was taken to be the first bird and this label has carried through to modern times. However, based on recent fossil discoveries it is now clear that no real dividing line exists between dinosaurs and birds — it’s an evolutionary continuum.5 This implies that the choice of what to label the “first” bird is largely arbitrary. Whether Archaeopteryx could fly, rather than glide, remains a point of debate, but recent research suggests that it could. In either case, it is around this time, 150 million years ago, that the avian branch of dinosaurs did acquire powered flight.1 By this time, all the necessary anatomical preadaptations for flight were in place, so it was mainly a matter of applying existing attributes to a new purpose. The details of this process are still being refined, but it’s clear this was not a one-off event involving a single species. Rather, this was a period of intense evolutionary experimentation involving flight that involved multiple species. To be clear, early birds like Archaeopteryx had nowhere near the flight ability of modern birds.6 Much evolutionary tinkering was still required before the modern bird form was reached. Like an avian Model T, Archaeopteryx had all the fundamental components and was able to get from point A to B. But it was still a long way from a Ferrari. Many of the refinements that occurred after early birds began to fly involved the perfection of muscle-driven flight.1 A key feature was the development of a keeled sternum to support large flight muscles. Another was the development of a pulley-like system involving the shoulder joint that provided more power to the upstroke when flying. The tail was reduced in size and eventually fused into a single, small, triangular bone. There was also further increase in metabolism and refinement of the respiratory system, which were needed to meet the high energy demands of flight. A treasure trove of new fossils from China show that a highly diverse avian fauna existed by the early Cretaceous, around 130 million years ago.1 This included the Neornithes group directly ancestral to modern birds as well as several other bird lineages, such as Enantiornithes, which were “cousins” to today’s birds. The Enantiornithes were in fact the most abundant, widespread, and diverse bird group during this period. However, all members of the Enantiornithes went extinct during the mass extinction that marked the end of the Cretaceous (66 million years ago), leaving no representatives among today’s birds. The differentiation of the Neornithes into the major orders of modern birds began in the late Cretaceous. The first to branch off were the ratites, represented today by birds such as ostriches and rheas. Next was the fowl group (Galloanseres), including both waterfowl and landfowl. The evolutionary branching of the remaining bird orders is complex and has not been fully worked out. The mass extinction event at the end of the Cretaceous caused by a meteor impact was an important driver of bird evolution. This event served as a filter, weeding out many early bird lineages and killing off all other dinosaurs. Exactly why certain bird lineages survived and others did not remains unclear. With many ecological niches available to exploit after the mass extinction, the surviving bird lineages underwent another evolutionary radiation, producing many new forms. But these new forms were simply variations and refinements of the basic bird body plan, completed in the mid-Cretaceous with the last common ancestor of all living birds (i.e., the Neornithes). Attributes arising after this last common ancestor are not found in all birds and so are not foundational. What makes matters confusing is that many attributes of modern birds arose independently within different bird orders, in a process called convergent evolution. For example, swallows and swifts look very similar, but swallows are a type of songbird whereas swifts are related to hummingbirds. More generally, adaptations for specific lifestyles (e.g., nocturnal, raptorial, pelagic) have evolved multiple times. In summary, the avian body plan was pieced together over 250 million years of evolution rather than in one burst of innovation. Many key attributes — including the unidirectional lung, feathers, warm-bloodedness, and lightweight bipedal skeleton — evolved at an early stage of evolution for reasons that had nothing to do with flight. But once these preadaptations were in place, they became a winning platform that not only allowed dinosaurs to fly under their own power, but to survive the late Cretaceous extinction event and become the Earth’s most diverse terrestrial vertebrate, with over 10,000 species. The story of birds is complex yet fascinating and we are fortunate to live in a time when new discoveries are always around the corner. The next time you see a chickadee at your bird feeder, consider that you are looking at a type of dinosaur — an intriguing thought. They’ve survived a lot since the Cretaceous, and now we must think and act accordingly so that the species we have left will continue to thrive. Richard Schneider is a conservation biologist who has worked on species at risk and land-use planning in Alberta for the past 30 years. He currently serves as the Executive Director of Nature Alberta. Nick Carter is a writer, photographer, and naturalist from Edmonton. From birds and bugs to flowers and fossils, Nick is always seeking out the natural wonders of this province and sharing his enthusiasm with others. This article originally ran in Nature Alberta Magazine – Fall 2023.

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UW-Green Bay faculty member makes a ‘moss’ exciting discovery In the average lawn, moss is rarely a welcomed sight. (Usually indicating poor soil nutrient levels and drainage issues.) But in Keir Wefferling’s world, as curator of the Fewless Herbarium within UW-Green Bay’s Cofrin Center of Biodiversity, encountering moss is not only welcomed but occasionally transformational. That was the case one morning this fall when he, along with a couple of eager volunteers, Joan Berkopec and Ron Eicchorn, trekking through a sedge meadow and fen in northeastern Wisconsin, happened upon Paludella squarrosa or “tufted fen moss”. To any passing hiker with an untrained eye—just another plant. But this expedition’s mission was to perform a preliminary bryological (mossy things) survey of the region. And even to Wefferling’s well-trained eyes, this was a mossy thing he had never seen before. “When I saw it, I didn’t know what it was. I knew it was a moss and I knew it was a moss I’d never seen before. It was just unique looking.” Wefferling knows his plants. In fact, that’s why he’s here—starting in August 2020 as an assistant professor and Herbarium curator. Since then, an interest in moss has grown on him. “I started my studies with the flowering plants and then got into ferns. Only in the past year, while exploring Wisconsin, have I really begun to appreciate mosses. I would say moss is under-appreciated and not just in its usefulness to humans. They’re cool and valuable in their own right.” What’s also underappreciated is the Fewless Herbarium’s wealth of about 45,000 painstakingly dried, cataloged plant specimens tucked away in the basement of Mary Ann Cofrin Hall next to the Richter Museum of Natural History (also part of the Cofrin Center for Biodiversity, housing animal specimens). As Wefferling explains, much like the plants themselves, this is a museum that leads a quiet existence. “All the specimens are in cabinets. To look at a specific plant you go to that cabinet and pull out the folder, bring it to a table and open it up to look at that plant.” But that doesn’t mean that the work going on, or the plants collected inside, aren’t important. “The museum isn’t just to hold specimens, just to sit there. Herbarium specimens are actively used for research; borrowed and loaned to other herbaria, potentially all over the world. We ship specimens to other herbaria, and somebody may borrow them for one or two years.” Internship opportunities also exist for graduate students in Environmental Science and Policy— a flourishing program with currently more than 30 students. And as for any undergraduate student who enjoys collecting and time spent with pressed plants, work-study opportunities are also available. Plans are in the works to photograph, digitize and upload the collection to a free and open portal to make the collection more accessible. That information would help clarify the understanding of the geographic and ecological relationships of plants throughout the region. And that effort aligns with one of the University’s core strategic priorities to make a profoundly positive impact on the environment of our region. As far as the impact of discovering Paludella squarrosa in Wisconsin? Wefferling will be presenting his findings at the Wisconsin Wetland Association meeting next February. Plus the exact location of the moss remains as closely held as a coveted morel mushroom patch. And for those who ask the inevitable “so what?” Wefferling’s answer rings true to the mission of all universities—that making a fresh discovery, even of a humble moss, and creating new knowledge is always eventful. “It’s never been found—at least not by botanists—in the State over all the years of exploration and scientific study. And it’s presumably been here the whole time. Of course it may be known by people of First Nations, and is therefore not a “discovery” so much as a “discovery to Western Science.” Whatever the case, the recorded knowledge of our regional flora is apparently—and excitingly—incomplete.” Stay tuned for the next chapter in search of the lost moss. By Michael Shaw, Marketing and University Communication

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Merak village, Ladakh: American scientists have warned that a massive solar storm could hit Earth and affect electronic communications. What will be the impact on India? To understand the situation, NDTV’s science editor Pallava Bagla traveled to the highlands of Ladakh, where India observes the sun, and spoke to Dr. Annapurni Subramanian, director of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. A solar storm is a sudden explosion of particles, energy, magnetic fields, and matter that is blasted into the solar system by the sun. An incoming solar storm could disrupt communications and satellites. Indian scientists are monitoring the incident, and experts from the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) said they have informed Indian satellite operators to take all precautions. The next few days will be crucial for Earth as a storm heads toward the blue planet. “The (solar) flare that occurred a few days ago is similar to the one that occurred in May in terms of intensity,” Dr. Subramanian said. “So we would expect some interference to occur in the magnetosphere. But it will take a few days before it hits the Earth, so we want to wait and see. We’ll see if something happens tonight.” “We will take some action tomorrow night,” she said. Added. “The prediction is that it may or may not happen. We’ll have to wait and see,” Dr. Subramanian said. A strong solar storm in May produced aurora borealis across the Northern Hemisphere. When a solar storm is directed toward Earth, it can cause a large disturbance in the Earth’s magnetic field called a geomagnetic storm, which can cause radio interference, power outages, and beautiful aurora borealis. However, they do not directly harm anyone on Earth, as Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere protect us from the worst storms.

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Gordon Hull / Philosophy and Religious Studies / UNC Charlotte Sub-Saharan Africa in general, and Uganda in particular, face chronic hunger and food insecurity. Despite steady gains since the end of Idi Amin’s dictatorship, and according to data collated by the World Resources Institute, the average Ugandan had about 600 fewer calories available per day to eat than the global average, and the average annual variation in food supply (caused by factors such as drought, displacement of people, etc.) is almost double the global average. Many people thus live at a food-subsistence level, and can easily and precipitously be plunged into extreme hunger. Cereal imports and food aid account for almost 6% of total consumption. At the same time, agriculture is by far the most important part of the Ugandan economy: in 1990, agricultural workers comprised almost 85% of the total workforce, and accounted for almost 43% of the country’s total economic activity. Changes in the agricultural sector, then, affect most of the population, and not only in terms of food supply. The depth of Uganda’s poverty is striking. According to Iowa State University’s Center for Sustainable Rural Life: - 82% of the population lives on less than one dollar per day - 40% lack reliable access to sufficient healthy food - 39% of children under the age of five are stunted - The CIA estimates that 35% of the population lived below the poverty line as of 2001 (CIA Factbook). (Although these numbers are bleak, they are significantly better than sub-Saharan African averages, and the Ugandan economy has been growing steadily, achieving a 5% real growth rate in 2006 (CIA Factbook)). The political situation in Uganda is unstable, and the country has been involved in two devastating recent conflicts: - The Second Congo War – a conflict in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire) that, although almost invisible to Westerners, cost the lives of an estimated 3.8 million people from 1998-2003. - Uganda also faces an ongoing insurgency in its northern provinces by the “Lord’s Resistance Army,” a group accused of widespread torture, rape, abduction, and use of child soldiers. Fighting between the LRA and the Ugandan government has resulted in somewhere between 1.2 and 1.7 million internally displaced persons (CIA Factbook). Against this already challenging background, Uganda now faces a new problem: a rapidly spreading bacterial banana wilt (banana Xanthomonas wilt (BXW)). This banana wilt has devastating effects on affected plants and areas. A study of its effects in one district since 2001 showed that, among other things (this data is verbatim from the executive summary of Community Coping Mechanisms): - 97% of respondents report a reduction in production of between 65% and 80%; - Labour needs to produce bananas have reduced by 70%; - Number of Matooke traders in local markets have declined by 50% or more; - Volumes of banana being marketed have reduced by 75% while the price has increased 50%; - Changes in uses of banana have been reported in 90% of households, many socio-cultural uses of banana having declined sharply; - Coping strategies of households include reducing food intake, reducing external expenditures on education, health and clothing, changing crop production (especially to annual crops), switching to banana cultivars that are less susceptible to the disease, switching goods for transportation or marketing, abandoning and selling processing businesses, migration to other areas. In sum, BXW presents a serious threat to the food security of millions of people. It also presents a policy conundrum: one way to combat the effects of BXW would be to genetically engineer a resistant strain of banana. In May of 2015, Uganda’s parliament passed a law enabling the development of GMO bananas (there already is one that is resistant to BXW), as well as GM coffee and other modified crops. The bill was and is controversial, as anti-GM activists have lined up against pro- activists in familiar ways. Additionally, open data groups are reporting having educated farmers in how to avoid BXW without any technology more basic than cellphones (which almost everyone has). 2. History of BXW and GMO Bananas The debate over GMO bananas in Uganda goes back at least 10 years. Andrew Leonard (formerly of Salon) describes the possible scenarios and some arguments both ways in the following piece, which you should read: “A Plague on African Bananas,” Salon.com, Oct. 11, 2006. Further points can be found in Clark, Mugabe and Smith (cited below, but you don’t need to read them), who note that (p. 22): - As of 2004, there were no GMOs in Uganda - Ugandan officials expressed concern about seeding problems with Monsanto’s GM cotton - The issue does not seem just to be the presence of GMOs in the cotton – it’s that the domestic cotton crop is long-staple lint whereas GMO cotton is short-staple. Long-staple has a higher export value to Europe; thus, contamination would lower the value of the cotton, independently of concerns about the presence of GMO’s. - Uganda lacks containment and confinement facilities for evaluation of GMO’s, and other aspects of a regulatory infrastructure (e.g., institutional biosafety committees, p. 23) are also lacking. 3. Preliminary Questions - To what extent do Western countries (like the U.S.) have a moral responsibility to address food insecurity (or other basic needs) in developing countries? In considering this question, you might want to consider (a) the question abstractly, (b) the question in light of past colonialism, (c) the question in light of agricultural globalization, and (d) what role the government of the U.S. ought to play in promoting the agendas of companies like Monsanto. - Is genetically modified food morally acceptable (in general)? Construct an argument both for and against the permissibility of developing and using genetically modified food. - Ideal vs. non-ideal theory: On the basis of Leonard’s analysis, what reasons are there to think that the introduction of GM bananas in Uganda might be a special case? What ethical principles (if any) warrant treating this case differently? - Should a country be allowed special rules for indigenous GMO but not for imports? - Who are some of the relevant stakeholders in determining the appropriate decisions? What are their presumed interests? 4. The Precautionary Principle Uganda has both signed and ratified the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (May 24, 2000 and Nov. 30, 2001, respectively). Among other things, the Protocol contains language which affirms the “precautionary approach” to the introduction of GM organisms. The Protocol refers specifically to Principle 15 of the 1992 Rio Declaration on Environment and Development. The Principle (which I’ll call the “precautionary principle,” “PP” for short) states: PP: In order to protect the environment, the precautionary approach shall be widely applied by States according to their capabilities. Where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation. The Cartagena Protocol refers to this Principle in several places, and adds a clause about risk assessment which might serve to clarify it (“URA,” for “using risk assessment”). URA: Lack of scientific knowledge or scientific consensus should not necessarily be interpreted as indicating a particular level of risk, an absence of risk, or an acceptable risk. Uganda, then, officially subscribes to both PP and RA. Consider the following questions - State in your own words what you think PP implies as a decision procedure. How, in particular, should one operationalize a “lack of scientific certainty” – what burden of proof should take the place of “certainty?” - How might one operationalize the first clause (about “according to their capabilities”)? What if anything does this imply about import of GMO’s into developing countries? - How do risk assessment and PP differ as decision procedures? What does each seem to value most highly, and how do their procedures serve to protect that value? - How might URA be taken as a clarification of PP? - How should PP and URA guide the development of Uganda’s regulatory infrastructure? What results do they give on the question of the introduction of GM bananas? Of GM cotton? 5. Democracy and Public Science Consider the following passage: Science in general and genetic engineering in particular are not evolving in a sociopolitical vacuum. The African public and politicians have (or should have) a direct interest in scientific advances and technological developments associated with genetic engineering, yet they are not participating in the debate. In many countries of the region there are obstacles to citizens’ participation in the debate on the impacts of GM crops and the potential role of genetic engineering in solving food insecurity. Considerable institutional space in the debate has been taken by isolated groups of non-governmental organizations opposed to GM crops and purporting to speak for the African rural poor, and groups of scientists who espouse the benefits of the new technology for the poor. It is unlikely that the two groups—anti and pro GM crops groups have the attention of millions of farmers in Africa. The general public and farmers in particular are not informed about the nature of the technology, its potential benefits and risks, and rarely do they participate in deciding on what crops or problems biotechnology research and development should focus on …. With the intensifying debate on GM crops, confusing counter claims from pro- and anti-GM activists, and often passive reactions by African governments, the public is likely to lose confidence in the scientific enterprise and overall decision-making authorities. What are required in the region today are processes that will legitimately bring the voices of the public to inform and change the focus and content of the current debate. (Clark, Mugabe and Smith, 29-30) And discuss the following questions based on it: - What normative value underpins the argument? How might this value in turn be justified? - What argument is made in the text for why this normative value should be supported? Is this a good reason? - Is the value in question one of importance for setting science policy? Construct an argument both ways. - To what extent should “scientific” concerns drive policy, and should they override public concerns, when those concerns are clearly not based on any scientific evidence? - Agriculture and Food: Uganda. World Resources Institute/Earth Trends – Country Profiles (visited 3/20/07) - CIA. The World Factbook – Uganda (visited 3/20/07) - Clark, Norman, John Mugabe and James Smith. Governing Agricultural Biotechnology in Africa: Building Public Confidence and Capacity for Policy-Making. Africa Center for Technology Studies, 2004. - Community Coping Mechanisms in Response to the Banana Bacterial Wilt: Effects in Mukono District. International Development Research Center, 2006. - Leonard, Andrew. “A Plague on African Bananas,” Salon.com, Oct. 11, 2006

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Many dog owners have wondered why their furry friends have a peculiar habit of licking blankets. It’s a behavior that can be puzzling, but there are scientific explanations for it. In this article, we will explore the main reasons why dogs lick blankets and provide tips on how to prevent this behavior. Why Do Dogs Lick Blankets? The Main Reasons and What to Do Dog owners often ask questions about their pets’ blanket-licking habits. They wonder if their dogs lack certain nutrients, if the behavior is bad and needs to be stopped, and if there are any health risks associated with it. Understanding the context in which the behavior occurs is crucial in finding the answers. 1. Itchy Skin Due to Allergies Dogs may lick their blankets excessively if they are allergic to something in their environment. Allergies can cause intense itchiness, and dogs will often lick the affected areas to relieve the discomfort. Common dog allergens include pollen, mold, dust mites, cigarette smoke, and certain food ingredients. When a dog with allergies comes into contact with the allergen, they may lick their skin, which only worsens the itchiness. The saliva from licking further irritates the skin and causes inflammation. To cope, dogs resort to licking blankets, furniture, or anything within their vicinity. 2. Lack of Essential Nutrients Just like humans, dogs require a balanced diet to maintain their health. A lack of certain nutrients can lead to various health problems, including skin and joint disorders. Dogs that are fed low-quality kibble or table scraps may develop obsessive licking behavior as they try to compensate for the nutrient deficiency. It’s important to provide your dog with a nutritious diet that includes high-quality protein, essential fatty acids, carbohydrates, calories, and a variety of fruits and vegetables. Consulting a vet or dog behaviorist is recommended to determine the most suitable diet for your furry friend. 3. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Some dogs may develop obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), resulting in excessive licking of blankets, carpets, and furniture. OCD in dogs is diagnosed when normal behaviors become excessive and interfere with the dog’s quality of life. This disorder is often triggered by stress and can be seen in high-stress environments like shelters or homes with multiple dogs. Dogs with OCD use licking as a way to cope with anxiety. The licking provides them with a sense of calm and relief. If you suspect your dog has OCD, consult a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. Behavior modification and medication, such as serotonin reuptake inhibitors, may be prescribed. 4. Digestion Complications Licking blankets can be a sign that your dog is experiencing digestion complications. Dogs have sensitive digestive systems and can develop stomach problems such as gastritis or pancreatitis. Ingesting toxic substances can also lead to excessive licking as dogs try to induce vomiting. Food intolerances and allergies can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs. If you suspect that your dog is experiencing digestion complications, take them to a vet for a proper diagnosis. A change in diet may be necessary to alleviate the symptoms. Pica is a condition in which dogs compulsively eat non-food items, such as dirt, rocks, and sometimes blankets. This condition is rare but can be dangerous as it may lead to intestinal blockages or toxicity. Nutrient deficiencies, boredom, and stress are believed to be the causes of pica. Treating pica involves addressing any nutrient deficiencies, providing a balanced diet, and removing the objects that the dog is attracted to. Mental stimulation, exercise, and creating a stress-free environment can also help manage this behavior. 6. It Enjoys the Taste Some dogs simply enjoy the taste of blankets, especially if they have a salty residue from human sweat and dead skin cells. Dogs have a keen sense of smell and may lick blankets to feel closer to their owners when they’re not around. How to Stop Dogs From Licking Blankets and Furniture If you’re concerned about your dog’s excessive licking of blankets, there are several steps you can take to help stop this behavior. - Provide your dog with a nutritious and balanced diet that meets their specific needs. Consult a veterinarian to ensure your dog is getting all the necessary nutrients. - Offer mental stimulation and prevent boredom by providing toys, puzzles, and interactive games. - Monitor your dog’s licking patterns to determine the cause. Excessive licking may indicate an underlying health issue that requires veterinary attention. - Ensure your dog gets regular exercise to burn off excess energy and reduce stress. - Consider crate training as a way to provide a safe and secure space for your dog when you can’t supervise them. - Use bitter sprays or deterrents to discourage licking behaviors. - Seek guidance from a veterinarian or dog behaviorist if your dog’s licking persists or becomes uncontrollable. Frequently Asked Questions Why do dogs lick pillows and blankets? Dogs may lick pillows for the same reasons they lick blankets. It could be due to boredom, anxiety, or a diet deficiency. The taste of sweat and dead skin cells on pillows and blankets may also attract dogs. How do I stop my dog from licking the carpet? To stop your dog from licking the carpet, first determine the underlying cause. If it’s due to boredom or anxiety, provide mental stimulation and exercise. Consult a veterinarian if the licking is excessive or persists. You can also try using bitter sprays to discourage your dog from licking the carpet. Why is my dog suddenly licking everything? If your dog suddenly starts licking everything, it could be due to boredom, anxiety, or a diet deficiency. Providing mental stimulation, exercise, and a nutritious diet can help alleviate excessive licking. If the behavior continues, consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and guidance. In conclusion, dogs lick blankets for various reasons, including allergies, nutrient deficiencies, obsessive-compulsive disorder, digestion complications, and pica. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial in addressing the behavior. With proper care, a balanced diet, mental stimulation, and exercise, you can help your dog overcome excessive licking of blankets and furniture. Do you have additional tips on how to stop dogs from licking blankets and furniture? Share them in the comments section below.

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Twins Pregnancy Signs and Symptoms Many women wonder in the early stages of pregnancy if they could be carrying twins or more. If there has been a previous pregnancy, it's common to compare pregnancies, and if abdominal size or weight gain seems to be more than a previous pregnancy, the thoughts of twins can really make some people quite anxious. However, in the case of a subsequent pregnancy, it's important to remember that the pregnancy may show faster because the uterus and ligaments have been stretched by the previous pregnancies. Although it differs from woman to woman, some of the more common signs and symptoms of multiple pregnancy include: Larger, faster weight gain Early weight gain of up to ten pounds in the first trimester can result due to increased blood volume and uterine size. By the end of the second trimester, most mothers of twins have gained fifteen to twenty-five pounds, whereas singleton pregnancies usually produce gains of ten to twenty pounds. | A large for date uterus. If your uterus seems to be growing more rapidly than expected for your due date, a multiple pregnancy may be suspected. Other possible causes of a larger than expected uterus include: a miscalculated due date, an excessive amount of amniotic flued, or the presence of uterine fibroids. | Measuring large for gestational age Increased uterus size can be a strong indicator of multiple pregnancies. However, most women measure larger and show earlier with subsequent pregnancies, so don't be alarmed if you can't fit into your jeans after six weeks of pregnancy with your second child even if you didn't wear maternity clothes until twenty weeks with your first baby. | Severe morning sickness More than half of multiples moms have morning sickness which tends to be more severe than for a singleton pregnancy | Fetal movement early in the pregnancy There is considerable disagreement among medical professionals as to whether a woman carrying twins is more likely to feel movement earlier. But many moms do claim that those early flutters and flips were their first clue that they might be having more than one. | Your care provider hears two or more heartbeats as early as ten to 12 weeks. Depending on the position of the babies, a practitioner may be able to hear two or more separate heartbeats. However, since the heartbeat of a single fetus may be heard at several locations, only if the heartbeats are different in rate is a diagnosis of multiple pregnancy made. | Abnormally high results from an AFP test For many mothers who do not experience any other extraordinary symptoms, this is the first thing that raises suspicions for them and their physicians. The AFP test measures a protein secreted by the fetal liver. More than one baby increases the amount of this protein in the mother's blood, and will produce a "high" result. Because a high result can also suggest abnormalities with a single baby, a doctor will usually schedule an ultrasound for further determination of the situation. | Nurturing one baby drains a body's energy, but carrying around two, three or more can be even more exhausting. It's easy to dismiss the increased fatigue. If you've never had a baby before, you might be surprised by your lack of energy, but not realize it is out of the ordinary. If you have had previous singleton pregnancies, you might attribute the tiredness to being older or maintaining the responsibilities of family and work. However, fatigue is probably the most common complaint of mothers of multiples. | Mothers of twin find that they retain more water than with singleton pregnancy | Exaggerated pregnancy symptoms. With twins, the typical signs and symptoms of pregnancy can be magnified. | Predisposition to having twins. There are several factors that make a woman more likely to have twins including: twins in the mother’s family, advanced age, the use of fertility drugs to stimulate ovulation, and in vitro fertilization. | How did you know that you were expecting twins? Was it the quick weight gain? Or did you just have a feeling? Perhaps you didn't suspect anything until you saw one...two! babies at your ultrasound appointment. Whatever your tale, go to Pregnancy Stories to share what this experience has been like for you. Hear about other women who are having twins in the forum |

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What Does It Mean If "A" Is Inversely Proportional To "B"? It means there is some constant K such that A = K/B This means that there is a linear relation between A and B. References & Definitions Didn't find the answer you were looking for? Ask a Question

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Download as PDF- LO1: Define risk assessment, hazards, controls and risks LO2: Explain and describe the hierarchy of controls LO3: Describe the concepts and techniques of risk assessment LO4: Describe the steps of a typical risk assessment LO5: Explain how to use a risk matrix LO6: Describe additional elements of the risk assessment process LO7: Explain how management of change can cause and prevent injury in the industry LO8: Understand the purpose of risk intervention systems LO9: Explain how to safely carry out an intervention LO10: Explain the importance of reporting and lessons learned Oil & Gas Industry No prerequisites are required to sit this course. The assessment is taken during the course and is within the expected duration. The course is available in the following languages: English; Norwegian; Turkish A hazard is anything that has the potential to cause harm. This could mean harm to you or others, damage to property or harm to the environment. Risk is the likelihood of that harm occurring.

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What is in the large ribosomal subunit? The large subunit of the prokaryotic ribosome sediments at about 50S, and it contains one large RNA (23S rRNA), one small RNAS (5S rRNA), and about 35 different proteins, most of them in single copy. What is the function of the large subunit of the ribosome? The large ribosomal subunit catalyses the key chemical event in protein synthesis, peptide bond formation. The catalytic active site is in the bottom of a deep cleft, open on one side to allow binding of tRNA substrates. What is large and small subunit of ribosome? In bacteria, the small subunit (called the 30S subunit) consists of 21 proteins and a length of rRNA called 16S RNA, while the large subunit (called the 50S subunit) consists of 31 proteins a length of rRNA called the 23S RNA and a length of rRNA called the 5S RNA. What is large subunit and small subunit? Ribosomes contain two different subunits, both of which are required for translation. The small subunit (“40S” in eukaryotes) decodes the genetic message and the large subunit (“60S” in eukaryotes) catalyzes peptide bond formation. What are ribosome subunits? Ribosomes are composed of two subunits with densities of 50S and 30S (“S” refers to a unit of density called the Svedberg unit). The 30S subunit contains 16S rRNA and 21 proteins; the 50S subunit contains 5S and 23S rRNA and 31 proteins. Ribosomal subunits are composed of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and proteins. What are the different subunits of ribosome? Ribosomes consist of two subunits, small and large (30S and 50S in bacteria). The small subunit interprets the genetic information by selecting aminoacyl-tRNAs cognate to the mRNA codons in the decoding center. Which among these is the largest subunit of bacterial ribosome? Among the large ribosomal subunit (RPLs), 18 proteins are universal, i.e. found in both bacteria, eukaryotes, and archaea. What is the subunit of ribosome? What are the two subunits of ribosome? What is the largest subunit of a prokaryotic ribosome called? Structure. 50S, roughly equivalent to the 60S ribosomal subunit in eukaryotic cells, is the larger subunit of the 70S ribosome of prokaryotes. The 50S subunit is primarily composed of proteins but also contains single-stranded RNA known as ribosomal RNA (rRNA). How do the large and small subunits of a ribosome come together during translation? A ribosome is composed of two subunits: large and small. During translation, ribosomal subunits assemble together like a sandwich on the strand of mRNA, where they proceed to attract tRNA molecules tethered to amino acids (circles). Do ribosomes have 2 subunits? What is the small unit in ribosomes? The ribosome is a large ribonucleoprotein complex made up of two subunits. The small subunit of the ribosome includes the activity that decodes the genetic message . The small subunit guides the interaction between messenger RNA (mRNA) and anticodon-ends of transfer RNAs to read the genetic information stored in genes with exquisite fidelity. Which structure begins to assemble the ribosomes? The assembly of the polypeptide begins when a ribosome attaches to a start codon located on the mRNA. Then tRNA carries the amino acid to the ribosomes, which are made of rRNA and protein and have three bonding sites to promote the synthesis. What does ribosome subunits, small, archaeal mean? In Archaea, the small ribosomal subunits have certain structural features (‘bill’ and ‘lobes’) also seen in Eukarya but not in Bacteria. Archaeal ribosomes are composed of 30S and 50S subunits that join to make a 70S particle. They contain 3 rRNA molecules (16S, 23S and 5S) and up to 68 ribosomal proteins. What part of human body is similar to ribosomes? A human body’s cells are similar to ribosome’s because ribosome’s make protein and are cells make other cells.

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What were the economic impacts of the 2004 tsunami? Also, the island reported devastating economic loss in millions of dollars due to hotels, housing, public utilities, and fishing damages. More than 300 deaths were reported and 5,000 displaced. Tsunami killed ten people with unknown number missing along with significant economic damages. What was an economic impact of the Indian Ocean tsunami? In terms of the death toll and the number of displaced people, this was the worst natural disaster in recorded history in Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Thailand. The total economic cost of damage was estimated at US$ 9.4 billion. In Aceh the cost of damage (US$4.5billion), was almost equal to its GDP in the previous year. How much money in damage did the 2004 tsunami caused? The Boxing Day tsunami of 2004 is the deadliest and most destructive tsunami in recorded history, claiming the lives of over 230,000 people in 14 different countries and damaging over 14 billion US dollars worth of property. How much damage did the Indian Ocean tsunami cost? The Impacts An astonishing roughly quarter million people (227,899) were killed or missing and presumed dead, including tourists, making this the deadliest tsunami in history. About 1.7 million people were displaced. Total damage was estimated at roughly $13 billion (2017 dollars). What are the economic impacts of tsunamis? Loss of income in the local economy and future losses from the destruction of infrastructure will be a problem for some time to come. The total financial cost of the tsunami could be millions or even billions of dollars of damage to coastal structures and habitats. What is the economic impact of earthquakes? Effects of an earthquake Social impacts | Economic impacts | | Long-term impacts | Disease may spread. People may have to be re-housed, sometimes in refugee camps. | The cost of rebuilding a settlement is high. Investment in the area may be focused only on repairing the damage caused by the earthquake. Income could be lost. | What are economic impacts of tsunamis? How do tsunamis affect the economy? Economy Immediately following a tsunami disaster, many businesses will be unable to trade because of destruction to premises, stock, machinery, facilities, transport networks, supplies and loss of staff. What are the economic impacts of a tsunami? How much money did it cost to rebuild after the 2004 tsunami? The disaster generated a massive aid and reconstruction program, with around 463 non-government organisations and agencies spending around $7.5 billion. This made post-tsunami Aceh one of the largest reconstruction projects in the developing world. Australian donors and the government gave more than $1 billion. What are the economic effects of tsunamis? What effects do tsunamis have on the economy?

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A potential new strategy to prevent breast cancer in women carrying a faulty BRCA1 gene has been discovered by Walter and Eliza Hall Institute researchers (L-R) Professor Geoff Lindeman, Ms. Emma Nolan, Professor Jane Visvader.Credit: Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Australia Australian researchers have discovered that an existing medication could have promise in preventing breast cancer in women carrying a faulty BRCA1 gene. People who carry a faulty BRCA1 gene are at high risk of developing aggressive breast cancer. Currently many women with a gene mutation choose surgical removal of their breast tissue and ovaries to reduce their chance of developing breast and ovarian cancer. By pinpointing the cells that give rise to breast cancers in women who have inherited a faulty version of the BRCA1 gene, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute researchers have identified that the drug denosumab may have potential to prevent breast cancer from developing. If confirmed in clinical studies, this would provide a non-surgical option to prevent breast cancer in women with elevated genetic risk. Using samples of breast tissue donated by women carrying a faulty BRCA1 gene, Ms Emma Nolan, Professor Jane Visvader and Professor Geoff Lindeman were able to pinpoint the cells that give rise to breast cancer. The research, which also involved researchers at the Australian familial cancer consortium kConFab and US biotechnology company Amgen was published in Nature Medicine. Cancer precursor cells in BRCA1-mutant breast tissue had many similarities to aggressive forms of breast cancer, said Ms Nolan, who is a PhD student at the institute enrolled through The University of Melbourne’s Department of Medical Biology. “These cells proliferated rapidly, and were susceptible to damage to their DNA — both factors that help them transition towards cancer,” she said. “We were excited to discover that these pre-cancerous cells could be identified by a marker protein called RANK.” Find your dream job in the space industry. Check our Space Job Board » Professor Lindeman, who is also a medical oncologist at The Royal Melbourne Hospital, said the discovery of RANK as a marker of cancer precursors was an important breakthrough, because inhibitors of the RANK signalling pathway were already in clinical use. “An inhibitor called denosumab is already used in the clinic to treat osteoporosis and breast cancer that has spread to the bone,” he said. “We therefore investigated what effect RANK inhibition had on the cancer precursor cells in BRCA1-mutant breast tissue.” The research team showed that RANK inhibition switched off cell growth in breast tissue from women with a faulty BRCA1 gene and curtailed breast cancer development in laboratory models. “We think this strategy could delay or prevent breast cancer in women with an inherited BRCA1 gene mutation,” Professor Lindeman said. “A clinical trial has already begun to investigate this further.” “This is potentially a very important discovery for women who carry a faulty BRCA1 gene, who have few other options. Current cancer prevention strategies for these women include surgical removal of the breasts and/or ovaries, which can have serious impacts on people’s lives. To progress this work, denosumab would need to be formally tested in clinical trials in this setting as it is not approved for breast cancer prevention,” Professor Lindeman said. Professor Visvader said the discovery had its basis in more than a decade of investigations of breast stem cell function. “By thoroughly dissecting how normal breast tissue develops, we have been able to pinpoint the precise cells that are the culprits in cancer formation,” she said. “It is very exciting to think that we may be on the path to the ‘holy grail’ of cancer research, devising a way to prevent this type of breast cancer in women at high genetic risk.” Source: Walter and Eliza Hall Institute Journal: Nature Medicine - Emma Nolan, François Vaillant, Daniel Branstetter, Bhupinder Pal, Göknur Giner, Lachlan Whitehead, Sheau W Lok, Gregory B Mann, Kathy Rohrbach, Li-Ya Huang, Rosalia Soriano, Gordon K Smyth, William C Dougall, Jane E Visvader, Geoffrey J Lindeman. RANK ligand as a potential target for breast cancer prevention in BRCA1-mutation carriers. Nature Medicine, 2016; DOI: 10.1038/nm.4118

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Autonomous cars are going to be the future. Some cars out there on the road already have the technology. Many more manufactures are gearing up to release these cars eventually. Whether you are ready or not, there are going to be many self-driving cars on the road in the near future. Start thinking of the future so you will be prepared for the changes that may come when that happens. How-to Prepare Yourself for Self-Driving Cars : The Future of Cars What Are They? First, it is important to know what exactly an autonomous car is. These cars use sensors, cameras, machine learning and computer programs to drive just like a car would drive with a human behind the wheel. However, these cars do not need a person to actually drive the car, hence the term ‘self-driving cars’. Companies like Tesla, GM Cruise and Argo AI are just a few of the companies designing and building these cars. There are some versions already being tested on the roads. While not all of the autonomous cars will be electric, most will be. One day in the future, you may have a driverless car take you downtown or to the airport. Ride-share companies like Uber and Lyft are preparing for then autonomous cars become the new normal. Having cars that no longer need drivers will really reduce these company’s operating costs. According to research company Frost and Sullivan, the driver represents the single largest expense in non-autonomous ride-sharing. A driver costs 80% of the total per mile cost. That is a huge incentives for these ride-share companies to quickly work towards this new technology. Many people think that self-driving cars will be the end of car ownership. It is impossible to fully predict this, but the thought is that people will no longer need to own a car when most of them are autonomous. The new cars will be able to come by, pick you up, and take you wherever you want to go. The majority of time, a vehicle is just setting around and parked. The concept of car sharing autonomous cars would reduce the overall number of cars. Car ownership is expensive, so getting to reduce or remove car payments, gas, and insurance payments could be very beneficial. Forward thinking car insurance companies are already making strides to determine what car insurance will look like when these autonomous vehicles fully hit the road. Self-driving cars are coming in the near future. While there will be a bit of a transition period as this new technology becomes mainstream, it won’t take much to prepare yourself for when these vehicles are everywhere.

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Report: The Formidable Power of Algorithms Needs Regulation Like New York’s Most of us are somewhat aware of just how much algorithms are in touch with if not in control of our lives. Our day-to-day routines in some civilized countries are guided and decided by programs that are making more and more decisions over our lives. This concept was well stated in the first paragraph of a piece written by Khari Johnson for wired.com and in arstechnica.com. The WIRED story explains the misuse of AI on many levels. Johnson reports steps being taken to correct some overreaches by biased algorithms. “Algorithms play a growing role in our lives, even as their flaws are becoming more apparent: a Michigan man wrongly accused of fraud had to file for bankruptcy; automated screening tools disproportionately harm people of color who want to buy a home or rent an apartment; Black Facebook users were subjected to more abuse than white users. Other automated systems have improperly rated teachers, graded students, and flagged people with dark skin more often for cheating on tests.” Those listed above are just a few of these issues that AI is allegedly responsible for. There has been some attempt at oversight of AI. An AI Bill of Rights if you will. But the problem of trying to rein in AI boundaries is nationwide and worldwide. There has been proportionately very little done by way of legislation. There have been municipalities in California that limit the use of facial recognition in certain instances. And even in areas around Boston, AI has seen limited use allowed in some departments of law enforcement. Now New York City has limited the use of AI in how a person is hired or evaluated for any job. European Union lawmakers are considering legislation requiring inspection of AI deemed high-risk and creating a public registry of high-risk systems. Countries including China, Canada, Germany, and the UK have also taken some steps to regulate AI in recent years. Slanted Algorithms Impact Varied Areas Algorithms are used to decide sentences in court cases. They decide if you get a loan for a new truck. Did you know they will decide the type of health care you receive or how your operation is accomplished? But many of these algorithms will be more in your favor if you have white skin, or a better job, or the right education in your background. Or a big one is an algorithm that prefers men over women in some scenarios. A revamped version of the Algorithmic Accountability Act, first introduced in 2019, is now being discussed in Congress. According to a draft version of the legislation reviewed by WIRED, the bill would require businesses that use automated decision-making systems in areas such as health care, housing, employment, or education to carry out impact assessments and regularly report results to the FTC. A spokesperson for Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), a cosponsor of the bill, says it calls on the FTC to create a public repository of automated decision-making systems and aims to establish an assessment process to enable future regulation by Congress or agencies like the FTC. The draft asks the FTC to decide what should be included in impact assessments and summary reports. Johnson’s piece goes into detail about some of the movements being seen across industries and governments alike. This movement is one that hopefully makes algorithms more friendly overall, and fairer in every case, it is asked to scrutinize. The many reports this year regarding AI and its oversight include those from Cornell University and Microsoft. These researched subjects are also recommending better oversight all across the board while it’s still possible. Julia Stoyanovich, an associate professor at New York University who served on the New York City Automated Decision Systems Task Force states, “I really believe that this cannot be a space where all the decisions and fixing comes from a handful of expert entities,” she says. “There needs to be a public movement here. Unless the public applies pressure, we won’t be able to regulate this in any way that’s meaningful, and business interests will always prevail.” If you see something in your algorithms, say something. It will help the next person and it will improve the range and use of AI. read more at arstechnica.com

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Decide on one particular lady – a historical figure, a fictitious character, or a contemporary particular person – who you’d like to converse with for an hour and make clear your choice. Why does this individual intrigue you? What would you converse about? What thoughts would you question her?While this prompt is optional, we might generally suggest creating it-it really is one more chance to assistance Barnard realize who you are and what you provide to the campus and group, as well as to differentiate on your own from other applicants. Below, we are going to give some information on how to tactic just about every choice, with examples and analysis to illustrate. Prompt 3A: Barnard’s Range, Fairness and Inclusion mission statement claims “Our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and fairness has the possible to disrupt and transform entrenched procedures and wondering. ” In what strategies have you challenged ideas, tactics, or areas? What did you discover from these ordeals? (250 words and phrases)While “In what means have you challenged thoughts, practices, or areas?” can perhaps refer to any way you have carried out so, you may most likely have an less difficult time producing a stronger essay for this prompt by concentrating on ordeals that relate to anything a lot more related to core beliefs or values. - Just how do you publish a thesis affirmation to obtain convincing essay? - What exactly is school applying essay? - Examples of the repercussions of plagiarism? - Do you know the optimum revision tips for an essay? For illustration, technically, crafting about the time you challenged your robotics team’s style and design techniques fits inside of the prompt’s scope, but that will most likely be a more challenging essay help with writing a paper to compose nicely, except your influence and insights are pretty profound. So while you will not essentially have to write about one thing straight or of course similar to what people often first imagine of with range, fairness, and inclusion (see illustrations under), some matters have higher possible for simpler depth and reflection than other folks. Finally, we’d typically recommend exhibiting that you have an understanding of how to problem thoughts, practices, or spaces in ways that are very likely to lead to productive discussion and expansion (no matter if your have, or that of other people). Example:I grew up hearing my mother say she owed her good results in daily life to religion and really hard perform, and my grandma’s normal reminders to “often speak to the Bhagwan (gods). “Unconvinced, I felt intimidated by my family’s faith. I observed religion as a divider, specially given the discussions in my Indian group on the Hindu/Muslim conflict. I repeatedly questioned Hinduism. Why was faith a risk-free haven for men and women in a way it never ever was for me?I enjoy confronting the mysterious, so, the natural way, I went looking for an reply, and uncovered it even though attending on the internet solutions at a Unitarian Universalist church, which worshiped “electricity” as a substitute of god. Unitarians also question religion, browsing for truth just like I am. But their views, which they brazenly voiced, had been different. One particular woman required to practice Christian lectio divina for her buddy recovering from colon most cancers. Another wanted to consider Buddhist meditation. I was relaxed, which manufactured me open to participating with men and women and their concepts. I eventually noticed how faith could carry hope and peace. It wasn’t our widespread perception in electrical power, but our perception in neighborhood. - What the heck is the obvious way to began an essay? - What exactly is the significance about outlining an essay? - How will you supercharge your creating expertise? - How would you publish a literature check? The realization changed my outlook on my Hindu family. We may possibly not imagine in the identical gods, but we have the exact same wish for a secure area.

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Africa is a continent of immense potential and diversity, home to a young and vibrant population. With over 60% of its people under the age of 25, Africa’s youth represents a tremendous demographic advantage. However, unlocking this potential requires a concerted effort to skill up the youth and women, providing them with the tools and opportunities they need to drive economic growth, innovation, and social progress. In this blog, we will explore the importance of skilling up Africa’s youth and women and the initiatives that are making a difference. The African Youth Advantage Africa’s youth is its greatest asset. This demographic advantage presents an opportunity to harness the energy, creativity, and ambition of young Africans to transform the continent. However, this potential can only be realized if adequate investments are made in education, skills development, and job creation. Education for All: Access to quality education remains a challenge in many parts of Africa. To skill up the youth, governments and organizations must prioritize improving the education system, ensuring that it is inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of gender or socioeconomic background. Technical and Vocational Training: Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programs play a crucial role in preparing young Africans for the job market. These programs equip them with practical skills and knowledge needed in various industries, from agriculture to technology. Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Encouraging entrepreneurship and fostering innovation are key components of skilling up Africa’s youth. Programs that provide mentorship, funding, and support for startups are essential for nurturing the next generation of African entrepreneurs. Empowering women in Africa is not just a matter of gender equality; it is an economic imperative. Women make up a significant portion of the continent’s workforce and are essential contributors to their families and communities. Access to Education: Just like for the youth, ensuring that women have access to quality education is fundamental. Educated women are more likely to participate in the labor force and contribute to economic growth. Closing the Gender Gap: Eliminating gender-based discrimination and biases in the workplace is essential. Companies and organizations should implement policies and practices that promote gender equality and diversity. Supporting Women Entrepreneurs: Supporting women in entrepreneurship is crucial for economic development. Access to finance, mentorship, and networking opportunities can help women overcome the barriers they often face when starting and growing businesses.

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https://skillupseedafrica.org/2020/06/17/aenean-tortor-atisus-viverra-adipiscing/

2024-11-07T15:28:19Z

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Free shipping on $50+ orders & free returns! Free sample with any purchase! Join Barrier Benefits to earn exclusive rewards. A healthy skin barrier is like a shield. It protects the body from microbes, irritants, and allergens. Incredible research has shown that hydrating and protecting the skin barrier can help reduce a newborn’s chance of developing food allergies, asthma and eczema later in life. Recent studies have also shown how a healthy, functioning skin barrier can reduce our chances of developing chronic diseases. Dr. Julia Carroll, board-certified dermatologist at Compass Dermatology shares her thoughts on the skin barrier’s protective role. Why is it important to strengthen the skin barrier at birth? We assume that a baby’s skin barrier is healthy when they are born but it actually takes time for the skin barrier to develop – this can take a few months after birth. In fact, 75% of children with food allergies at 2 years of age had a weak skin barrier when they were born. New clinical research shows that a strong skin barrier is the key to stopping other health issues like food allergies, asthma and hay fever from developing. So applying a lipid rich moisturizing cream will help fortify the barrier. *(J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2015 Apr;135(4):930-5) What is inflamm-aging? As we age, we experience low levels of inflammation. Scientists at UCSF and San Francisco Veterans Administration (VA) Health Care System have shown that a weak skin barrier can cause body wide inflammation. This inflammation can even lead to chronic diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Scientists found that cytokines levels increased as we age. These scientists wondered if the increase in inflammation in the body was due to a weak skin barrier or a low immune system or poor gut health. They conducted a study* with 33 patients over the age of 58. Subjects applied a skin cream with three types of lipids (cholesterol, free fatty acids and ceramides) twice a day for 30 days. The results showed that using the cream lowered participants’ cytokine levels to those of a 30-year olds. The results suggest that inflamm-aging can be reversed with an effective skin barrier regimen. The cream also improved skin hydration, lowered pH, and repaired the permeability barrier. *Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, March 5, 2019. Why is skin barrier health so important? In both studies, we see that moisturizing with a lipid rich cream can help strengthen the skin barrier and thereby decrease asthma, allergies and even inflammation that can lead to chronic diseases. The fact that we can apply a topical cream and prevent these health issues from occurring is really promising. What are three things we can do to protect our skin barrier? 1) Keep it simple. You don’t need a 10-step skincare routine; wash your face once a day with a gentle, sulfate free cleanser. 2) Use a moisturizing product line that is rich in natural lipids and has a combo of ceramides, fatty acids and cholesterol for both the face and body. The Skinfix Barrier+ facial regimen is formulated with skin-similar lipids and is clinically proven to increase the quantity of lipids in the skin barrier by a significant 23.6% in 28 days (that's nearly a 1% increase each day). 3) Use sunscreen. Taking these three steps will help your skin barrier function better and play a protective role against inflammation and disease.

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https://skinfix.com/blogs/the-fix/inflamm-aging

2024-11-07T16:18:56Z

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When it comes to electrical systems, understanding how a Wiring Diagram 3 Way Switch works is crucial for any DIY enthusiast or professional electrician. A Wiring Diagram 3 Way Switch is a detailed schematic that illustrates the connections between the various components in a three-way switch setup. By following this diagram, you can effectively wire a three-way switch system to control a light fixture from two different locations. Why Wiring Diagram 3 Way Switch are Essential Wiring Diagram 3 Way Switch are essential for several reasons: - They help you understand the circuit layout and connections required for a three-way switch setup. - They ensure proper wiring and prevent electrical issues that could lead to safety hazards. - They serve as a reference guide for troubleshooting and maintenance tasks related to three-way switches. How to Read and Interpret Wiring Diagram 3 Way Switch Reading and interpreting a Wiring Diagram 3 Way Switch may seem daunting at first, but with some guidance, it becomes much easier: - Identify the components in the diagram, such as the switches, light fixture, and power source. - Follow the lines connecting the components to understand how they are wired together. - Pay attention to the symbols and labels used in the diagram to ensure proper connections. Using Wiring Diagram 3 Way Switch for Troubleshooting Wiring Diagram 3 Way Switch can be a valuable tool for troubleshooting electrical problems in a three-way switch system: - Use the diagram to trace the connections and identify any loose or faulty wiring. - Check for continuity and proper voltage at each connection point to pinpoint the source of the issue. - Refer to the diagram to make necessary repairs or adjustments to resolve the problem. Safety Tips and Best Practices Working with electrical systems and using Wiring Diagram 3 Way Switch requires caution and adherence to safety protocols: - Always turn off the power supply before working on any electrical wiring to prevent electric shock. - Use insulated tools and equipment to avoid accidental contact with live wires. - Double-check your connections against the diagram to ensure accuracy and prevent short circuits.

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2024-11-07T16:56:43Z

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One of the commonly asked questions from my clients, readers and viewers is: “should I go gluten-free?” The answer might surprise you. Currently, 1 percent of the U.S. population holds a diagnosis for Celiac Disease and an estimated 6 percent have non-Celiac gluten sensitivity. These individuals are advised to avoid gluten for medical purposes. As for the other 93 percent of us – chances are gluten is perfectly safe. In fact, avoiding gluten-containing foods may put you at risk for nutritional deficiencies. What is gluten exactly? The word “gluten” has been demonized by the media and I am here to set the record straight. Gluten is simply a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. It gives bread dough elasticity and the ability to rise during baking. Besides certain bread and grains, it can be found in foods and products that are lesser known to us like certain candies, soy sauce, beer and even makeup. Who needs to avoid gluten? There is a subset of the population who need to avoid gluten for medical purposes: those with Celiac Disease or a non-Celiac gluten sensitivity. When individuals with Celiac Disease consume gluten, their body mounts an immune response that results in damage to the small intestine where most nutrient absorption occurs. As a result, this can lead to long-term nutrient deficiencies including iron and calcium, which can put them at risk for anemia and osteoporosis, respectively. Some individuals have not been medically diagnosed with Celiac Disease but may still experience some of the symptoms of Celiac when consuming gluten-containing foods such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. If you suspect you are sensitive to gluten or have Celiac Disease, it is best to get tested by a doctor and then determine the proper course of action, including foods to eat and avoid, and proper supplementation if needed. It is possible to live a perfectly healthy life if you are avoiding gluten with the help of a doctor and registered dietitian. I don’t have Celiac Disease or a sensitivity to gluten– should I avoid it? No need to. There is little to no evidence other than testimonials that suggest going gluten-free can help you boost energy, lose weight or feel overall healthier – claims that are typically associated in the media with going “gluten-free.” Why avoiding gluten could be hurting you if you don’t have Celiac Disease or a gluten sensitivity While going “gluten-free” seems to be the trend, it may be doing more harm than good. For one, gluten-free products are not automatically healthier. In fact, they are typically more processed and not to mention, more costly. Additionally, going gluten-free can set you up for nutrient deficiencies if not done right. Breads and cereals are a significant source of fiber and B vitamins in the American diet. Fiber is important for keeping your digestive tract healthy and more Americans aren’t eating enough. Listen to your body As a registered dietitian, I promote listening your body’s needs over diet trends. If you find you do better without consuming gluten, get tested to determine the best course of action and work with a registered dietitian to ensure you are meeting your nutritional needs. If you feel find consuming gluten-containing foods, no need to fret! — Mia Syn, M.S., R.D.N. Mia is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and blogs at nutritionbymia.com

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https://smartlifebites.crispygreen.com/why-you-probably-dont-need-to-go-gluten-free/

2024-11-07T16:58:50Z

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In the latest episode of “The Chopra Well,” Dr. Deepak Chopra delves into the profound concept of existence and its inherent wonder. The renowned author and spiritual teacher explores the importance of maintaining a sense of awe and surprise at the very fact of being alive, drawing inspiration from various philosophical and literary sources. Table of Contents The Perpetual Surprise of Existence Dr. Chopra begins by recounting a powerful quote from Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel Prize-winning poet and philosopher: “That I exist is a perpetual surprise.” This sentiment, Dr. Chopra explains, served as a catalyst for his own spiritual journey. It highlights the often-overlooked marvel of existence itself, which many take for granted in the hustle and bustle of daily life. The Curse of Familiarity The discussion then turns to what Dr. Chopra terms “the curse of familiarity.” As individuals grow older, the initial wonder and curiosity of childhood often give way to routine and mundane existence. This familiar pattern of life can lead to a state of sleepwalking through one’s days, failing to engage with the deeper questions of being and losing touch with the magic of the world around us. Reigniting Wonder and Presence To counter this spiritual malaise, Dr. Chopra advocates for reigniting a sense of perpetual surprise at the fact of existence. He suggests several practices to cultivate this mindset: Practicing mindfulness and presence in the moment Engaging in philosophical inquiry Cultivating gratitude for life and consciousness Embracing a beginner’s mind, approaching each day with fresh curiosity. By adopting these practices, individuals can move from being passive observers to active participants in the grand mystery of being, fostering greater empathy, appreciation for the natural world, and resilience in the face of life’s challenges. The Power of Sharing and Engagement Dr. Chopra emphasizes the importance of sharing thoughts and experiences with others as a means of deepening one’s own awareness and engagement with life. This process of sharing helps to cultivate wonder, presence, and gratitude, effectively waking individuals up from their spiritual slumber. Practical Steps to Cultivate Wonder Dr. Chopra offers several practical suggestions for cultivating a sense of wonder in daily life: Engaging with nature and observing the natural world Exploring new experiences and stepping out of one’s comfort zone Appreciating art and music Seeking out beauty, including moral beauty and exceptional virtue in others Participating in group activities like concerts and community gatherings Slowing down to reflect on the miracle of existence Dr. Chopra concludes by quoting the poet Rumi: “Exchange your cleverness for bewilderment.” He argues that true spiritual awakening comes from embracing the confusion and awe that arise from contemplating the mysteries of existence and death. This state of bewilderment, far from being a weakness, is presented as a “holy experience” that can lead to profound joy and gratitude for the gift of life. Readers are encouraged to watch the embedded video above to fully experience Dr. Chopra’s inspiring message and to reflect on how they might incorporate these teachings into their own spiritual journeys. Some of the links on this site are affiliate links. This means that if you click on the link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products and services that we believe will add value to our readers. Thank you for your support!

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2024-11-07T17:07:38Z

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Is Bardarbunga Volcano eruption near? Cracks and sinkholes appeared in the ice that encases Iceland’s Bardarbunga volcano. The volcano, which has been on orange alert for days, sits several miles under the Dyngjujökull glacier. Several 3.5-mile long rifts in the ice have been spotted by volcanologists during a monitoring flight on Wednesday, August 27, 2014. Moreover, the scientists observed calderas resulting from the collapse of the volcano itself. Moreover, 50-feet deep sinkholes and 10 to 15 circular fractures were also spotted during the same flight. Although not a definitive definitive eruption sign… the volcano is active! The large cracks in the ice and the other signatures were seen in the same area where seismic activity has ramped up over the last two weeks. Seismologists have been concerned about a possible eruption, particularly as earthquakes grow in size and frequency. Wednesday alone saw at least two tremors above magnitude 5 at the volcano. Some 500 quakes have hit the area since midnight.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

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2024-11-07T15:44:57Z

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Chapter 1: What is Qualitative Research? Should I use qualitative research? When planning your research project, try to answer the following six questions suggested by Punch (1998: 244–5): - What exactly am I trying to find out? Different questions require different methods to answer them. - What kind of focus on my topic do I want to achieve? Do I want to study this phenomenon or situation in detail? Or am I mainly interested in making standardized and systematic comparisons and in accounting for variance? - How have other researchers dealt with this topic? To what extent do I wish to align my project with this literature? - What practical considerations should sway my choice? For instance, how long might my study take and do I have the resources to study it this way? Can I get access to the single case I want to study in depth? Are quantitative samples and data readily available? - Will we learn more about this topic using quantitative or qualitative methods? What will be the knowledge pay-off of each method? - What seems to work best for me? Am I committed to a particular research model which implies a particular methodology? Do I have a gut feeling about what a good piece of research looks like? Review any research study with which you are familiar. Then answer the questions below: - To what extent are its methods of research (qualitative, quantitative or a combination of both) appropriate to the nature of the research question(s) being asked? - How far does its use of these methods meet the criticisms of both qualitative and quantitative research discussed in this chapter? - In your view, how could this study have been improved methodologically and conceptually? This exercise requires a group of at least six students, divided into two discussion groups (‘buzz groups’). Imagine that you are submitting a proposal to research drug abuse among school pupils. Each buzz group should now form two ‘teams’ (Team I = QUANTITATIVE; Team II = QUALITATIVE). - Team I should formulate a quantitative study to research this topic. - Team II should suggests limits/problems in this study (Team I to defend). - Team II should formulate a qualitative study to research this topic. - Team I should suggest limits/problems in this study (Team II to defend). - Both teams should now come to some conclusions. This exercise will also focus upon drug abuse among school pupils. It can be done in buzz groups or by individuals. Consider in turn, how a positivist, naturalist and constructionist might: - Define a delimited research problem on this topic - Suggest a particular methodology.

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https://study.sagepub.com/silvermaniqd6e/student-resources/exercise-workbooks/chapter-1-what-is-qualitative-research

2024-11-07T16:40:16Z

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So we've talked a lot in this series about how computers fetch and display data, but how do they make decisions on this data? From spam filters and self-driving cars, to cutting edge medical diagnosis and real-time language translation, there has been an increasing need for our computers to learn from data and apply that knowledge to make predictions and decisions. Free Video Activities for Class TODAY Save yourself some time and frustration. Get 14 activities you can copy and assign to your students right away in our Teaching with TEACHFLIX ebook! BONUS: You'll get FREE teaching ideas in your inbox every week.

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https://teachflix.org/machine-learning-and-artificial-intelligence/

2024-11-07T15:20:17Z

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Robert Fulton Birthplace Fulton's original birthplace was destroyed by fire in 1822 and rebuilt from the rubble. The home's rustic kitchen and dining area. A portrait of Fulton with a drawing of the Clermont and a drawing of his submarine design. A replica of the Clermont built to celebrate the 100th anniversary of its launch. Civil War period actors relax on the grounds of Fulton's Birthplace. A Civil WA\ar re-enactment has become an annual event at the site. Backstory and Context The Fulton family arrived in Lancaster, from Ireland, in 1735 and later purchased the 400-acre farm on which Robert Fulton was born in 1765. However, the farming venture proved less than fruitful and the family moved back to Lancaster soon after young Robert was born. By 1782, Fulton was living in Philadelphia where he earned a living as a painter of miniatures (small paintings for lockets or display) and landscapes. He eventually tired of this endeavor and sought greater challenges in Europe. He arrived in London in 1786 and stayed with a famous artist and friend of the family, Benjamin West. He continued to paint to earn money and indulged his hobby of mechanical exploration. The canal craze had just hit England and Fulton designed and patented an inclined plane for canal boats and a dredging machine. He also met textile magnate and utopian engineer, Robert Owen, who listened to Fulton’s ideas on steam power and agreed to fund his experiments. In the late 18th century, Fulton moved on to Paris where he designed and built a submarine called the Nautilus which plied the waters of the Seine. He also built an initially successful steamboat which later sank. He returned to the U.S. in 1806 and, financed by Robert Livingston, who he met in Paris, continued to experiment with steam powered watercraft. In 1807, he successfully launched the Clermont on the Hudson River in New York. However, this was not the first steamboat launched in America, John Fitch had successfully tested one in 1787. What Fulton gets credit for, and deservedly so, is creating the first commercially successful steamboat, as the Clermont continued to ferry passengers between New York City and Albany. He went on to build the first steam powered war ship, the Demologos, and built the first steamboat that travelled from Pittsburgh to New Orleans. Fulton died in 1815 after contracting pneumonia after saving a friend from the icy Hudson River. He is buried in the Trinity Church Cemetery in New York City. As for his birthplace, the 2.5 story rubblestone and mortar farmhouse and acreage was purchased by the Swift family who retained possession until the 1960s. The farmhouse was destroyed by fire in 1822 and rebuilt from the remaining rubble. The state acquired the property in 1969 and it was restored to its 18th century appearance by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. It was then deeded to the Southern Lancaster County Historical Society in 2017. The site, aside from the stone farmhouse, also contains the society’s archives warehouse, a former tobacco barn that now houses a small gift shop, a granary, and a newer building that contains restrooms and a garden shed. Greenwood, Richard. "National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form." United States Department of the Interior/National Parks Department. November, 1963. Accessed January 29, 2019. https://npgallery.nps.gov/NRHP/GetAsset/NHLS/66000670_text Wright, Mary Ellen. "Society volunteers preserve Robert Fulton birthplace, history of southern Lancaster County." LancasterOnline. June 23, 2017. Accessed January 29, 2019. https://lancasteronline.com/features/together/society-volunteers-preserve-robert-fulton-birthplace-history-of-southern-lancaster/article_7cb1ea4c-57ff-11e7-bd88-672a8061c505.html "Robert Fulton Birthplace." Southern Lancaster County Historical Society. Accessed January 29, 2019. http://www.southernlancasterhistory.org/robert-fulton-birthplace "Robert Fulton." Encyclopedia.com. Accessed January 29, 2019. https://www.encyclopedia.com/people/science-and-technology/technology-biographies/robert-fulton

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://theclio.com/entry/74403

2024-11-07T17:23:12Z

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After producing plenty of elephant dung and other manure for years, Prague Zoo has capitalized on its expertise by creating a new permanent exhibit on the world of animal excrement. It displays information and samples of everything from fossil turds, also known as coprolites, from extinct animals to the excrement of modern-day gorillas, lions, elephants, horses, turtles, wombats, camels and other animals, all in various sizes, shapes, textures and colors. Zoo director Miroslav Bobek, whose surname literally means “poop” in Czech, says he was inspired by American George Frandsen and his online museum . The exhibition coincides with the zoo’s publication of a new edition of the “Encyclopedia of Excrements.” The zoo has been selling elephant dung to gardeners as fertilizer for years. The Associated Press contributed to this article.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://thehornnews.com/new-exhibit-lets-zoo-visitors-peek-at-the-poop/

2024-11-07T15:59:43Z

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en

Writing fiction is (almost) everybody’s cup of tea. Many of us, those born before our mothers took to Tik-Tok to learn everything, should have aged listening to stories of kings, queens, giants, gods, ghosts, and children from our mothers, grandmothers, fathers, and grandfathers (cannot ignore elder siblings). Weaving fictional stories, creating characters, making them appear real, and keeping listeners engaged with imagination are some tasks that humans have been successfully doing for thousands of years. Inspiration for imagination may come from various sources – real events, legends, folklore, memories, one’s own life and many others. However, imagination has been the forte of many for long. Imagination, as we can observe and clearly understand, plays an essential role in developing any fictional work. Characters, plot, twists, conclusions, climax or anti-climax – imagination can be handy in bringing to the readers something they can remember and cherish after reading the works of fiction. In the eyes of structuralists, however, imagination plays a minor role in fictional work because nobody can write anything new. People can write, rewrite and rewrite again. The knowledge, they believe, is limited. Signs and signified are also limited. And, above all, language is limited. So, they think everything is subdued in front of language and nothing new can take place in terms of literary work (because everything has been said before, this or that way). And this theory, I believe, challenges and pins down the importance of imagination very badly! Well, discussing the roles of imagination in the work of fiction, we can deliberate on many technical aspects that imagination can be played to bring in by the authors. For instance, imagination liberates writers from the constraints of reality (and truth) and thus enabling them to explore what-ifs and possibilities within the realms of their fictional world. It allows for the creation of alternative histories, speculative futures, and fantastical scenarios. Imagination encourages authors to push the boundaries of what is known and accepted, fostering innovation and creativity. In other roles, imagination allows writers to use symbolism and metaphor to convey deeper, broader, and more complex meanings and explore abstract concepts. Through imaginative language and imagery, expert authors and even new ones can evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and communicate complex ideas in ways that resonate with readers and add more satisfaction (catharsis) to their reading experience. And there are many roles of imagination in the construct of fiction that many authors employ and execute in many different ways. Whatever the structuralists may communicate via their essays and papers, imagination does play a vital role in the works of fiction (and the same cannot be denied). Structuralism has many facets but its curtailing the role of imagination and other crafts of fiction is something that many may not digest easily. The theorists who practise this theory often ignore all other aspects of a work of literature and zoom in on linguistic capabilities. In linguistic interpretation, things are limited to meanings and the ascribing words – a parrot is a parrot and a dove is a dove. However, when we add the ingredient of imagination, the dove symbolises peace and the vulture symbolises predator, violence and death. However, if we focus on language alone and ignore the imaginative qualities, the interpretation may become dry and lifeless. To conclude, we can understand that imagination adds colour and life to language. To offer readers a vivid world and many things to ponder and discuss, a certain layer of imagination is required. And it has always been in fashion. Name any celebrated work of literature and you will find the role of imagination (in various lengths and breadth). William Wordsworth used imagination to extend the lessons of life. Coleridge used imagination to add diversity to his poetry and that could offer many things to readers. John Keats lived in the world of his imagination that brought to life the Greek civilisation from the yonder years. T S Eliot’s use of imagination, though meagre compared to other authors and poets, added height to his considerations and ruminations. The world, to be honest, is better with imagination. The world, life and one’s thoughts, devoid of imagination, become straight, dried, and unpleasant – you can pick up the examples from a widespread canvas of literature. By Ashish for Thoughtful Critic

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://thoughtfulcritic.com/opinions/role-of-imagination-in-fiction-something-some-theorists-often-ignore/

2024-11-07T17:05:09Z

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en

In the world of gardening, understanding the life cycles of plants is a game-changer. Whether you’re planting flowers, vegetables, or shrubs, knowing whether a plant is an annual, perennial, or biennial will help you give it the best care and know what to expect throughout the growing season. It’s like learning the rhythm of each plant—some are fast, some take their time, but all play an important role in creating a vibrant, ever-changing garden. Annuals are the plants that live fast and give you instant results. These are the plants that go from seed to full bloom in just one growing season. Once they’ve flowered and produced seeds, their life cycle is complete, and the plant dies. But during that single season, they give it everything they’ve got. Think of those bright, colorful flowers that fill garden beds in the summer—marigolds, petunias, zinnias, and cosmos. These are all annuals, and so are many of the vegetables we grow for harvest, like beans, tomatoes, and basil. There’s something incredibly satisfying about growing annuals. They grow quickly, flower profusely, and keep going until the season ends. If you want instant color, annuals are the way to go. You can plant them in the spring, and by early summer, your garden will be bursting with flowers. And because they grow so fast, you can experiment with different types of flowers and colors every year. One year you might go for bold reds and oranges, and the next year you might want to try soft pastels or a more subtle combination of whites and blues. Annuals give you the freedom to redesign your garden each season, and they’re perfect for adding quick bursts of color to any space. But with annuals, the joy is short-lived. At the end of the season, they’ll die, leaving behind seeds for the next generation. If you want the same flowers next year, you’ll need to replant them. That’s why many gardeners like to collect seeds from their favorite annuals, ensuring they can continue growing them year after year. Even though they’re short-lived, the fact that they give you so much in such a short time makes them one of the most popular choices for gardeners looking for high-impact results. Now, let’s talk about perennials. If annuals are the short bursts of energy, perennials are the steady, reliable growers. These plants live for many years, going through cycles of growth and bloom before entering a period of dormancy in the winter. When the weather warms up again, they come back to life, stronger and more established than the year before. Plants like daylilies, hostas, peonies, and lavender are all perennials, along with many shrubs and grasses. What’s wonderful about perennials is that once they’re planted and established, they keep coming back. You don’t have to replant them each year, which makes them an excellent investment if you’re looking to build a long-lasting garden. In fact, many perennials improve with age. They grow larger, produce more flowers, and become the backbone of your garden’s design. With proper care, some perennials will live for decades, becoming more beautiful as the years go by. However, perennials take their time. While annuals will bloom quickly, perennials often spend their first year or two putting down roots and getting established. You might not see much action above ground during that time, but underground, the plant is building a strong foundation. Once they settle in, though, they reward you with dependable blooms that return year after year with less effort on your part. One thing to remember about perennials is that their blooming periods can vary. Unlike annuals, which often bloom continuously, many perennials have specific times of the year when they’re at their best. Some might bloom in early spring, while others peak in midsummer or late fall. That’s why many gardeners plant a variety of perennials with staggered bloom times, ensuring that there’s always something in bloom no matter the season. A well-planned perennial garden will give you a changing landscape throughout the year, with different colors and textures coming to life as the seasons progress. Between the quick bloomers and the long-lasting perennials, we have biennials. These plants have a life cycle that spans two years. In their first year, biennials focus on growing leaves, roots, and stems. They look healthy, but you won’t see any flowers just yet. That comes in the second year, when they bloom, set seed, and then complete their life cycle. After that, the plant dies, but by then it has usually produced seeds that will grow into new plants, continuing the cycle. Biennials like foxgloves, hollyhocks, and some varieties of parsley require a bit more patience, but their second-year blooms are often spectacular. They tend to grow tall and produce lots of flowers, making them a striking presence in any garden. Even though you have to wait a year for the flowers, biennials can add an extra layer of interest to your garden, especially if you allow them to self-seed and keep coming back year after year. One of the best ways to create a garden with constant beauty is to combine annuals, perennials, and biennials. Annuals give you instant color, filling in gaps while your perennials are still getting established. Perennials, once they’ve matured, become the foundation of your garden, coming back year after year and providing reliable blooms and structure. And biennials add a touch of surprise with their two-year cycle, offering something new to look forward to. As you plan your garden, think about how you can use these different types of plants to your advantage. If you love changing things up every season, annuals will give you the flexibility to redesign your garden each year. If you’re more interested in building a garden that gets better with age, perennials are the way to go. And if you like the idea of watching a plant develop over time, biennials offer a unique opportunity to observe their two-year rhythm. Understanding the life cycles of plants is one of the most helpful things you can do as a gardener. It helps you know what to expect and how to care for your plants as they grow, bloom, and rest. With annuals, you’ll need to replant each year, but you’ll be rewarded with fast, abundant blooms. With perennials, you’ll need a little patience at first, but they’ll repay you with long-term growth and beauty. And with biennials, you get the best of both worlds—a plant that grows in stages, giving you a chance to enjoy its development over time. By mixing annuals, perennials, and biennials, you can create a garden that’s always full of life, color, and interest. Each plant brings something different to the table, and together, they create a garden that evolves and changes with the seasons. Whether you’re looking for quick results or long-term satisfaction, understanding these life cycles will help you make the right choices for your garden. And as you grow more familiar with the rhythm of your plants, you’ll find that gardening becomes not just about growing things, but about building a deeper connection with the natural world around you. When you understand the life cycles of plants, you’re no longer just planting seeds or bulbs—you’re setting the stage for a garden that will bloom, rest, and renew itself year after year. Each type of plant, whether it’s an annual that brings instant joy or a perennial that matures over time, has its own unique contribution to the garden. By appreciating these differences, you’ll be able to design a garden that feels vibrant and alive in every season, one that grows with you as you learn and explore the rhythms of nature.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://tomatobucket.com/chapter-8-the-life-cycles-of-plants/

2024-11-07T15:56:02Z

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en

The holidays are a time for family and friends; a time of relaxation and joy (and probably a little bit of stress); and a time for reflection on the past year and of hope for the year ahead. The holidays are also a time of significant environmental impact. In the U.S., household waste increases 25% between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. This waste includes about 28 billion pounds of food and over 6 billion holiday cards. From food and decorations to gift wrapping to the gifts themselves, each decision we make affects the environment. No matter what holiday you celebrate, these tips will help you reduce your impact and celebrate a little more consciously. Shop Local and Secondhand In 2021, U.S. holiday retail sales are forecasted to be between $843.4 billion and $859 billion. With each order you place, an environmental impact is made. In 2018, 900 million packages were delivered between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day by USPS alone. According to the EPA, about 30% of all greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. come from transportation. Globally, the fashion industry accounts for about 10% of carbon emissions and 20% of wastewater. With this information in mind, here are a few ways to reduce impacts from your gift choices: - Shop local. Instead of looking to Amazon or department store websites, head outside and browse your local retail stores. If you can take alternative modes of transport to get there, like walking, biking, or taking the gondola or bus, it's even better. - Shop secondhand. Browse thrift stores, vintage stores, and antique shops for quality finds. The average person keeps a garment for less than 3 years. By shopping secondhand, you are extending the product's lifespan and reducing its environmental impact (and yours). - Choose sustainable materials. Look for products made from more sustainable materials like organic cotton, hemp, recycled fibers, and FSC certified wood products. The two largest impact phases for apparel products are typically the raw materials phase and the consumer use/care phase. Support local businesses while reducing your carbon footprint. Don’t forget your reusable bag when you shop! Wrapping paper is the go-to packaging for holiday gifts. About 4.6 million pounds of wrapping paper are used in the U.S. each year. Unfortunately, most wrapping paper is not recycled. It's time to get creative with packaging - no artistic experience needed. - Recyclable wrapping paper. The good news is that most wrapping paper is recyclable. This includes wrapping paper that is plain or has a printed design and is non-laminated (a.k.a. does not have a glossy finish). The fancier the wrapping paper, the less recyclable it is. Wrapping paper with glitter, foil, plastic, sequins, or a non-paper texture cannot be recycled. It also cannot be recycled if it has gift labels, tape, ribbons, or bows still attached. - Reuse packaging. Save your gift wrap, boxes, bags, ribbons, and bows from this year's festivities and reuse them next year and the year after. It's also one less cost during the holidays. - Use old maps, newspapers, and magazine articles. Try wrapping gifts in papers you already have around the house. If you saw a particularly funny comic strip or interesting article in the newspaper, consider using it to wrap a gift for someone who would enjoy it as well. - Fabric wraps. Use scarves, fabric scraps, cloth napkins - any type of fabric you have around the house - to wrap presents. It serves as great reusable packaging while also allowing you to get as creative as you want with fabric type, wrapping style, and print. Consider Experiences over Things Taking a page out of Marie Kondo's book, I want you to think about the items you own and the products you plan to buy this holiday season. Do they spark joy? If not, are they essential? Now think about your favorite memories. Do they revolve around a product, quality time with friends and family, or a time of self-care? This holiday season, consider giving the gift of an experience over a product. Mountain Village has incredible experiences available right outside your door: For those seeking relaxation, the community offers spa packages and yoga classes; for the more adventurous spirit, explore skiing, mountain biking, and stand-up paddleboarding; and for the social butterfly, consider a restaurant or brewery gift card or concert tickets. For a gift that keeps on giving, consider gifting a 14-week CSA share through Mountain Village’s Farm to Community Program or making a donation - either time or money - to your favorite non-profit or charity. Learn more about all that the community has to offer! Let's talk energy. In December alone, the average U.S. household will use about 65 kWh of electricity for holiday lights and spend an additional $12 on their energy bill. This amount of electricity is equivalent to driving 116 miles or charging 5,603 smartphones. Collectively, Americans are projected to use 3.5 billion kWhs for holiday lights, spending $645 million dollars on electricity for the month of December. Luckily, you can decrease your energy consumption and save money through these easy fixes: - Replace your incandescent lights with LED lights. LED lights are 75% more efficient than traditional lights and last 25 times longer. - Recycle your old holiday lights. Check out the recycling programs through Holiday LEDs and Christmas Light Source. - Turn off the lights. When string lights are on, try turning off the other lights in your house. Chances are you won't need all of the typical sources for adequate lighting. Don't forget to turn off the interior and exterior lights when you go to bed. Not only does this save energy, but it is safer as well. Christmas Trees - Real is Better than Fake; Potted is Better than Cut If you celebrate Christmas, an essential part of your home is presumably a Christmas tree. In the U.S., 25 to 30 million real trees and over 10 million artificial trees are sold each year. In evaluating which tree to get, consider the following: - Real trees - Over 350 million Christmas trees are currently growing in the U.S., thereby supporting American jobs and local economies. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, the U.S. Christmas tree farming industry employs over 100,000 people at over 15,000 farms. - Christmas trees mitigate climate change. The trees take about 7-10 years to grow. During their lifetime, the trees and soil remove carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) from the atmosphere in a process called carbon sequestration. - When the trees are cut down, one to three seedlings are typically planted in one tree's place. This continues the cycle of absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. These tree farms also help preserve land and protect it from being developed. - Real trees are recyclable and compostable. San Miguel County is hosting a Holiday Tree Recycling Event from December 26 through January 31. The collection site is about a 10-15 minute drive from Mountain Village and 100% worth it. - Consider renting or buying a real potted tree. This option allows for the trees to be reused each year and to continue to grow, thereby absorbing carbon dioxide year over year and contributing to a healthier environment for all. For a local option, check out Seas of Trees' Potted Christmas Tree Fundraiser. - Artificial trees - 80-85% of artificial trees are manufactured in and imported from China. These trees travel between 8,000 to 13,000 miles to get from the factory to your door, producing greenhouse gas emissions along the way. - The carbon footprint of an artificial tree is about 10 times greater than that of a recycled or composted real tree. - Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and/or polyethylene (PE) plastics are the main ingredients in artificial trees. These plastics are known to have significant health risks, particularly PVC which has been linked to birth defects, hormone disruption, and cancer. The State of California even requires to be some labeled with the warning: “This product contains chemicals including lead, known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm”. - They are extremely difficult to recycle. Most recycling facilities in the U.S. do not have the capabilities to separate the materials for recycling. PVC trees are especially difficult to recycle because of the combination of chemical additives used to produce PVC. - Artificial trees made from recycled plastic are better that those made of virgin plastic. Recycled plastic eliminates the need for fossil fuels used in plastic production and extends the life cycle of the existing plastic material. If you already have an artificial tree, use it for as long as possible and for at least 8-12 years. The longer you use the tree, the smaller your carbon footprint. If you are debating which tree to choose, a real tree is the way to go.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://townofmountainvillage.com/blog/how-to-green-your-holiday/

2024-11-07T16:47:26Z

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en

Modern Python Projects Transcripts Chapter: Your code editor Lecture: Testing Python code VSCode, also has a nice side menu for running your tests, but by default, it's not visible. So, to enable it, we have to open the command palette and run Python configure tests. From this list, we have to select which testing framework we're going to use. In this course, I will be using pytest because it's much better than the building unit tests. So, let's go ahead and select pytest right now. And now we have to select the directory that contains your tests. Normally, you would store them in a folder called Tests or something like that. But here, I only have one test file that it's in the root folder. So, let's go ahead and select root. If you don't have pytest installed, you might get a pop up saying that you should install pytest. I went ahead and I installed pytest using pip. As you can see, it's already installed. If you already had pytest installed and you had no warning, or maybe if you selected a different testing framework, you should now see that we have a different icon on the sidebar. This is the testing menu. We only have one test file, and there is this great question mark next to it because those tests have not been run yet. So test around them. And as you can see, all three tests are passing, and we also have the check mark above each of them. That's a very optimistic scenario, but usually you will have some tests that are failing So let's try to modify one of our tests and see what happens. As you can see when one of the tests is failing, you have an indication right above the test. But also in the sidebar. We can now, for example, debug this test to see what's going on. If we click here, we get the output from the debugging, but we can actually do a bit more. For example, we can put break points in our tests. Let's copy this line so the break point doesn't exit because that was the last line in our file. And let's put a break point here and let's rerun Let's Save It first. And now let's rerun it. So now we have this debug toolbar on the top, and if we go to the debug side panel, you can see that we have the same debug information and as we had in the previous lesson, so we can investigate local variables, we can watch some of the variables. We still have the surname from the previous lesson, so let's remove it. So let's stop debugging session and let's go and fix our test. You can see it's still greyed out, because we haven't run this test after we modified it. So, let's run it. And as you can see, our tests are green again. There are a few other useful tools in the sidebar, so you can run all the tests. We can debug them, you can discover test. So, for example, if we create a new file, VSCode didn't detect this test file. So, if we want to add it to the sidebar, we just have to run discover test again. And now we have our new file. So, let's rerun all the tests and all of them are passing. I will talk more about pytest later in this course, we're gonna have a chapter related to pytest and testing in general. But right now I can already tell you that pytest accepts a configuration file called pytest.init I'm telling you this right now because if you create a pytest.init VSCode will actually respect options from that file. So, let's give it a try. Let's go to our folder. Let’s add the new file, and let's add the configuration option here. So, first we need to write pytest. For example, we can add an option that will make pytest fail after the first failed tests. So, we don't want to run all the tests if we know that one of them failed. Let's make it stop after the first failure. We can achieve this by adding --maxfail=1. to the adopts parameter. Let's go back to our testing tab and let's rerun all the tests. Since they're passing, nothing has changed. So, let's change some things here. Let's change all those tests to make them fail, As you can see, After the first Test failed, the other two didn't run. So, when we fix it, we can rerun it, now this one passed, this one failed, and since this one failed, the last one was not rerun. So, that's how you can use the testing menu in VSCode

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://training.talkpython.fm/courses/transcript/modern-python-projects/lecture/320308

2024-11-07T17:13:02Z

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Anti-poverty measures must be better supported, more comprehensive, and scale-able. From 1990 to 2019, the number of people living in extreme poverty (defined as $1.90 per day by the World Bank) fell from 1.9 billion to 648 million. Much of this progress has been reversed because of Covid-19. The epidemic will have pushed about 150 million people back into extreme poverty by the end of 2021. However, even before Covid-19, the world was not on course to eradicate severe poverty within the next decade. Long before the epidemic, progress on poverty reduction had slowed, with global poverty rates dropping by less than half a percentage point per year between 2015 and 2019. Even if Covid-19 had not been developed, 537 million people would have been living in severe poverty in 2030, suggesting that the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 1, would have been missed. Decades of planning, executing, advising on, and changing poverty reduction initiatives have given us insights into how to make anti-poverty programs and policies more effective at BRAC, the world’s biggest Global South-led NGO. First and foremost, initiatives must reach the poorest of the poor. Access to social programs and services is difficult for people living in extreme poverty. They are less likely to have bank accounts, fixed addresses, or official identity, all of which could be required for registration. They also endure social stigma as a result of obtaining government assistance, and they frequently lack enough information about the programs for which they are eligible. In low-income countries, 79 percent of the lowest-earning quintile receive no support at all. Governments and their partners must devise policies and programs that overcome the challenges that people living in severe poverty confront and incorporate them into existing social safety nets to guarantee that support reaches those who need it most. Second, initiatives must give people in extreme poverty the tools they need to build long-term resilience. Governments and their partners must do more than just increase basic needs provision. They must also invest in allowing those living in extreme poverty to get the skills and resources they require to avoid relapsing into poverty. This strategy is critical in times of crisis, as our team at BRAC found while advising the Philippine government on a recent anti-poverty initiative in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank. During the epidemic, the program connected members to national government financial assistance and local government food assistance. Meanwhile, it gave them the tools and skills they needed to diversify their income streams. As a result, even under stringent lockdowns, 76 percent of participants were allowed to continue working. Third, initiatives must address poverty as a complicated and context-dependent problem. Extreme poverty has many faces. The many areas of deprivation that individuals living in extreme poverty endure, from lack of clean water and electricity to malnutrition and social marginalization, must be taken into consideration in a precise description. These deprivations, as well as the measures required to alleviate them, differ by population and geography. Governments and their partners must develop more holistic solutions that empower disadvantaged people to address their particular problems based on an assessment of characteristics connected to individual geographies and socioeconomic settings. Fourth, these programs must involve local communities and governments, whose active engagement can enable anti-poverty policies better reflect people’s daily experiences and earn local support. Including civil society in the process can also help to hold the government accountable and maintain demand for more effective policies and services. Local governments can also assist national governments and their partners in identifying and supporting marginalized households. Fifth, governments and their partners must figure out what works and what doesn’t, and then adjust their programs accordingly. Governments and their partners must commit to monitoring, evaluating, and learning from anti-poverty policies as they are implemented, then revising them as needed, to optimize the impact of anti poverty intervention at scale. Such evaluations should start by establishing the concepts that guide the creation of programs. Then, with those ideas in mind, program components must be adjusted and tested, with the results closely monitored. Governments and their partners can only ensure that the programs they deploy have a long-term impact and modify to suit the unique and evolving needs of their people through evidence-based adaptation. This will have to be a team effort. Anti-poverty initiatives and policies can become more inclusive, flexible, and comprehensive if the international community takes these steps. Governments, in addition to engaging civil society and academics, require development players, such as multilateral institutions and donor countries, to assist them in closing resource gaps until they can mobilize adequate domestic resources on their own. Many low- and middle-income countries simply do not have the fiscal room or state capacity to pursue large-scale poverty-reduction initiatives on their own. From guaranteeing gender equality to advancing sustainability to boosting nutrition, SDG 1 is inextricably linked to the other SDGs. If we are to recover from Covid-19’s reversal of decades of progress in these areas, we will require cross-cutting measures that promote numerous areas of development at the same time. The only way to avoid leaving many people behind is to make anti-poverty efforts more well-funded, holistic, and successful at scale. Source – The Kathmandu Post

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://tyrocity.com/latest-news/how-can-anti-poverty-measures-be-strengthened-2na8

2024-11-07T15:35:17Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

Extracting data from documents has always been a challenging task, especially when dealing with unstructured data that doesn’t fit neatly into rows and columns. From invoices and contracts to reports and emails, businesses handle vast amounts of documents that need to be processed efficiently. Manual data entry is slow, costly, and prone to errors, which is where document extraction AI steps in. This technology uses artificial intelligence to automatically pull relevant data from documents, transforming how information is managed and utilized. Understanding Document Extraction AI Document extraction AI is a specialized form of artificial intelligence designed to identify, extract, and organize information from various types of documents. Unlike traditional methods that rely heavily on structured templates or rigid rules, AI-driven extraction systems can handle unstructured or semi-structured data with much greater flexibility. These systems use machine learning models, natural language processing (NLP), and computer vision to make sense of text, images, and other data within a document. The core process involves several stages: - Document Ingestion: The document is first ingested into the system, either as a scanned image, PDF, or any other digital format. - Preprocessing: To ensure accurate data extraction, the document undergoes preprocessing steps like de-skewing, removing noise, and improving image quality. This step is crucial for enhancing the readability of documents, especially those with poor scan quality or complex layouts. - Text Recognition and Extraction: Using OCR (Optical Character Recognition), the AI reads the text from the document. Advanced systems go beyond basic OCR by recognizing the structure and context of the content, identifying key sections, fields, or entities that need to be extracted. - Data Parsing and Structuring: Once the text is recognized, the AI parses it to extract relevant information, such as dates, names, numbers, or any other fields required. It then structures this data according to predefined formats, ready for integration into databases, spreadsheets, or other software systems. - Validation and Verification: Extracted data is often validated against rules or databases to ensure accuracy. For example, a date format might be checked for correctness, or extracted information might be cross-referenced with existing data to avoid duplicates. Benefits of Document Extraction AI - Increased Efficiency: AI-powered extraction is much faster than manual data entry, allowing businesses to process large volumes of documents in a fraction of the time. - Cost Reduction: By automating the extraction process, businesses can significantly reduce labor costs and minimize the errors associated with manual data handling. - Scalability: These systems can easily scale up to handle increasing volumes of data, making them ideal for businesses experiencing growth or those dealing with fluctuating document loads. - Enhanced Accuracy: AI models are trained to recognize patterns and context, which helps reduce errors in data extraction and improves overall data quality. - Improved Data Accessibility: Extracted data can be easily integrated into various systems, making it accessible for further analysis, reporting, or decision-making processes. Challenges in Document Extraction AI Despite its many advantages, document extraction AI also faces several challenges: - Handling Diverse Document Types: Documents come in all shapes and sizes, with varying formats, languages, and complexities. Ensuring the AI can accurately process diverse documents remains a significant challenge. - Quality of Source Documents: Poorly scanned documents, handwritten notes, or documents with unusual fonts and layouts can hinder the accuracy of AI extraction. - Privacy and Security Concerns: Handling sensitive documents requires robust security measures to ensure data privacy and compliance with regulations like GDPR. - Initial Setup and Training: Training AI models requires a substantial amount of data and expertise, which can be a barrier for some organizations. Extracta.ai: A Tool for Automating Data Extraction One notable tool in the realm of document extraction AI is Extracta.ai. Designed to tackle the complexities of unstructured documents, Extracta.ai uses advanced AI algorithms to automate the extraction of relevant data from various document types, including invoices, contracts, and reports. It stands out for its user-friendly interface and the ability to handle a wide range of document formats without extensive customization. Extracta.ai’s system employs a combination of machine learning and NLP to recognize and extract key data points with high accuracy. What sets it apart is its adaptability; it learns from each document it processes, continuously improving its extraction capabilities over time. This makes it particularly useful for businesses that deal with a high volume of diverse documents, as the system becomes more effective the more it’s used. Additionally, Extracta.ai offers seamless integration with other business tools, allowing extracted data to flow directly into existing workflows or databases. This integration capability simplifies the data management process, making it easier for organizations to utilize their data without extensive manual intervention. The Future of Document Extraction AI The future of document extraction AI looks promising, with ongoing advancements in AI and machine learning set to further enhance its capabilities. Here are some trends to watch: - Improved NLP and Contextual Understanding: As NLP models become more sophisticated, AI will better understand the context and nuances within documents, leading to even more accurate data extraction. - Greater Customization and Flexibility: Future tools are likely to offer more customization options, allowing businesses to tailor extraction models specifically to their unique document needs without extensive technical knowledge. - Enhanced Security Features: As data privacy continues to be a priority, future document extraction tools will incorporate stronger security measures to ensure compliance and protect sensitive information. - Integration with Other AI Technologies: Combining document extraction AI with other AI technologies, like predictive analytics and RPA (Robotic Process Automation), will create more comprehensive solutions that go beyond extraction, adding value through data insights and automated decision-making. - User-Centric Design: With a focus on usability, future tools will aim to be more intuitive, making it easier for non-technical users to harness the power of AI in their daily tasks. Document extraction AI is transforming how businesses handle data from documents, offering a faster, more accurate, and scalable alternative to manual processes. With tools like Extracta.ai leading the way, the barriers to efficient document processing are falling, enabling businesses of all sizes to make better use of their data. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect even greater advancements that will further simplify the extraction process and unlock new opportunities for leveraging document-based information. Also Read: https://usatimenetwork.com/

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://usatimenetwork.com/document-extraction-ai/

2024-11-07T16:08:36Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

Classically, researchers in basic medical science have had two tools: in vitro cultures and animal models. The challenges posed by their limitations are many. Cells taken out of the human body and grown in a petri dish won’t behave exactly as they do within a real organ of the body. Animal models are not as highly complex as the human body, and they cannot capture the heterogeneity of human beings. Today, however, basic science research is experiencing a revolution with the creation of organoids, 3D miniature cellular, and functional replicas of our bodily organs. Organoids, grown from a tiny biopsy of cells from a patient, encompass the heterogeneity of the human organ and reveal the interaction of the cells with one another. “Now, we have the closest model to the real thing, which enables us to study human disease in the best way,” explained Myriam Grunewald, Ph.D., head of the Hadassah Medical Organization’s newly established Organoid Center within Hadassah’s Wohl Institute for Translational Medicine. Dr. Grunewald shared the above explanation of classical medical science research and the significance of this revolution during the webinar “Honey, I Shrunk the Organs,” episode four of Hadassah International’s series “50 Shades of Health: A Journey Into the Future of Medicine.” Dr. Liron Birimberg-Schwartz, medical director of the Organoid Center, and pediatric pulmonologist Dr. Alex Gileles-Hillel joined Dr. Grunewald in describing how organoids, in mimicking human organs, have the potential to enable physicians to better treat a patient with targeted therapy. Dr. Birimberg-Schwartz explained that, in the 1980s, cystic fibrosis (CF) genetic mutation was discovered that causes a protein to malfunction, leading to a buildup of thick mucus, which, in turn, causes breathing difficulties and lung infections. Medicines were developed to treat the condition, but the drugs did not work on all patients. While doing a fellowship in Toronto, Canada, Dr. Birimberg-Schwartz recalls, she had a very ill CF patient for whom none of the current medicines were any help. Using organoid technology, she and her colleagues tested different drug combinations and discovered one that restored the patient’s protein function. “I understood then how significant this research is and how much we can affect patient outcomes,” she said. “I kept thinking that we have to do this faster.” Dr. Gileles-Hillel, in his webinar presentation, explained that “an organoid is a versatile platform for replicating lung disorders.” In collaboration with Dr. Hans Clevers of the Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, he is using organoids to investigate the different ways that movement of the cilia, the fine cleansing hairs in our airways, is compromised in CF so that the cilia can’t move mucus and pollutants out of the lungs. Once the organoids illuminate how cilia from a particular patient are functioning, the goal is to determine what will make them function more efficiently, Dr. Gileles-Hillel noted. Dr. Clevers, the first to identify living adult stem cells in the intestines, used them to develop the first organoid. Perhaps one of the most fascinating elements of the organoid discovery is that with one adult stem cell a scientist can not only develop a fully grown miniature organ that mimics the actual human organ but also, as Dr. Birimberg-Schwartz noted, create an unlimited number of organoids. As long as an organ has adult stem cells, that organ can be recreated in an organoid. Furthermore, “these organoids begin to develop in a day or two,” she said. “Depending on the complexity of the experiment, scientists will have enough cells for their research either within weeks or in a month or two.” Dr. Grunewald and her colleagues are now establishing a bank of organoids representing different organs and individuals with a variety of genetic backgrounds. The goal is to capture as many diseases as possible, she noted. Each organoid is frozen and then, on-demand can be defrosted and used to either answer a basic scientific question—how bacteria in the gut triggers the formation of tumor cells, for example—or to help a physician decide which drug to give a patient to achieve the best outcome. As Dr. Birimberg-Schwartz reported, using organoid technology, researchers can test 120 drugs or drug combinations at a time and then tell the clinician, “This is the drug regimen I recommend you try first.” What next? A few years down the road, it’s likely that organoids will be used not only for information but also to heal organs. An intestinal organoid, for example, replete with regenerating adult stem cells, maybe re-implanted into a patient, locate the site of a lesion, and repair it. Organoid technology is clearly racing forward. Watch the full webinar here:

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://v2023.hadassahinternational.org/what-are-organoids-welcome-to-a-revolution-in-basic-medical-science/

2024-11-07T15:31:47Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

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Pterygium is a growth of fleshy tissue (has blood vessels) that may start as a pinguecula. It can remain small or grow large enough to cover part of the cornea. When this happens, it can affect your vision. Pterygium is believed to be caused by a combination of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun, wind, and dust. Symptoms of pterygium can range from mild to severe. They include: The diagnosis is made by slit-lamp examination of the wing-shaped limbal growth at the characteristic location within the palpebral fissure. The diagnosis is most often clear clinically, but histopathologic confirmation is performed routinely, as there can be associated dysplasia of the overlying tissue. In many cases pterygium does not need to be treated. However, if your eyes are uncomfortable or your vision is affected, you may need treatment. Your ophthalmologist can treat the discomfort, redness, or swelling from a pterygium with lubricating or steroid eye drops. If a pterygium grows large enough to cause problems, your ophthalmologist will probably recommend surgery to remove it. Once the pterygium is removed, your surgeon may transplant a thin piece of normal tissue onto the affected area. This technique helps reduce the chance that your pterygium will grow back. The best way to keep pterygium from coming back is to avoid sunlight, dryness, and dust.

<urn:uuid:8a563ff3-eab0-4b3e-b3eb-e1cd2bfb317c>

CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://verdiereyecenter.com/services/corneal-diseases/pterygium

2024-11-07T15:39:50Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

The Mobile World Congress (MWC) is one of the largest technology events in the world, where industry leaders and innovators showcase the latest technologies and services. In 2023, one of the key themes at the event was the importance of online privacy and security, and several VPN services were presented as a solution to this issue. At the event, there was also a panel discussion on the future of VPN services. The panelists discussed the evolving landscape of online privacy and security, and how VPNs can play a crucial role in protecting users’ data. They also discussed the challenges of providing a reliable and fast VPN service, especially as internet speeds continue to increase. The future trends and technologies that may shape the VPN landscape in the years to come: As more people become concerned about online privacy and security, the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) has grown significantly in recent years. VPNs offer a way for users to protect their online activities from prying eyes, and as technology continues to evolve, so do the features and capabilities of VPNs. In this article, we will explore some of the future trends and technologies that may shape the VPN landscape in the years to come. Improved Encryption Protocols One of the most significant trends in VPN technology is the development of improved encryption protocols. VPNs use encryption to protect user data, and as cyber threats become more sophisticated, so too must the encryption protocols that VPNs use. The adoption of new encryption protocols, such as WireGuard, which is designed to be faster and more secure than existing protocols, is likely to become more widespread in the coming years. Artificial intelligence (AI) is being integrated into a wide range of technologies, and VPNs are no exception. AI-powered VPNs can help to improve performance and security by learning from user behavior and adjusting their settings accordingly. For example, an AI-powered VPN could automatically switch to the most secure server location based on the user’s browsing habits. Split tunneling is a feature that allows users to route some of their internet traffic through the VPN while other traffic goes through their regular internet connection. This can be useful for users who need to access both local and remote resources, as it can help to improve network performance and reduce latency. As remote work continues to grow, split tunneling is likely to become more popular. Decentralized VPNs are a new type of VPN that uses a peer-to-peer network to route traffic, rather than relying on centralized servers. This can help to improve privacy and security, as there is no central point of control that could be compromised. Decentralized VPNs are still in their early stages, but they are likely to become more popular as users become more concerned about data privacy. The rollout of 5G networks is set to transform the way we use the internet, and VPNs are no exception. 5G VPNs can provide faster speeds and lower latency than traditional VPNs, making them ideal for users who need to transfer large amounts of data quickly. As 5G networks become more widespread, 5G VPNs are likely to become more popular. The MWC 2023 highlighted the growing importance of VPN services in today’s digital world. As more people become aware of the risks associated with online activities, such as data breaches and identity theft, the demand for VPN services is likely to increase. The VPN services presented at the event showcased the latest innovations in the market and demonstrated that there are a range of options available to suit different needs and preferences. VPNs are a crucial tool for protecting online privacy and security, and the future looks bright for VPN technology. The adoption of new encryption protocols, AI-powered VPNs, split tunneling, decentralized VPNs, and 5G VPNs are just a few of the trends and technologies that are likely to shape the VPN landscape in the years to come.

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https://vpnw.com/vpn-services-take-the-spotlight-at-mwc-2023-a-look-at-the-latest-offerings-and-future-trends/

2024-11-07T16:02:57Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

Cryptocurrency Explained: A Beginner’s Guide to Digital Assets In recent years, cryptocurrency has emerged as a transformative force in the world of finance and technology. Yet, for many beginners, the concept of cryptocurrency remains shrouded in mystery. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll unravel the complexities of cryptocurrency, providing a comprehensive overview of digital assets and how they function in the modern financial landscape. Understanding Cryptocurrency: Cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual form of currency that relies on cryptographic techniques for secure transactions and operates on decentralized networks known as blockchains. Unlike traditional currencies issued by governments, such as the US dollar or euro, cryptocurrencies are decentralized and independent of any central authority or government control. Key Concepts of Cryptocurrency: Blockchain Technology: Cryptocurrencies are built on blockchain technology, which serves as a decentralized ledger that records all transactions across a network of computers. Each transaction is securely encrypted and verified by network participants, ensuring transparency and immutability. Decentralization: Cryptocurrencies operate on decentralized networks, meaning they are not controlled or regulated by any single entity. This decentralization eliminates the need for intermediaries, such as banks or financial institutions, and provides greater security and transparency. Cryptographic Security: Cryptocurrencies use cryptographic algorithms to secure transactions and control the creation of new units. Public and private keys are used to authenticate users and authorize transactions, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of digital assets. Digital Wallets: To store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies, users utilize digital wallets, which are software applications that securely store public and private keys. Digital wallets come in various forms, including desktop, mobile, web-based, and hardware wallets. Mining and Consensus Mechanisms: Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are mined through a process called proof-of-work, where miners compete to solve complex mathematical puzzles to validate transactions and add them to the blockchain. Other cryptocurrencies may use alternative consensus mechanisms, such as proof-of-stake or delegated proof-of-stake, to achieve consensus and validate transactions. Bitcoin (BTC): Often referred to as digital gold, Bitcoin is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, valued for its scarcity, security, and decentralization. Ethereum (ETH): Ethereum is a decentralized platform that enables the creation of smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps), making it a popular choice for developers and businesses. Ripple (XRP): Ripple is a digital payment protocol that facilitates fast and low-cost cross-border transactions between financial institutions and banks. Litecoin (LTC): Litecoin is a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency known for its faster transaction times and lower fees compared to Bitcoin. Cardano (ADA): Cardano is a blockchain platform designed for the development of decentralized applications and smart contracts, offering scalability and security features. Investing in Cryptocurrency: Investing in cryptocurrency involves buying, holding, or trading digital assets with the expectation of generating a profit. Cryptocurrency investment strategies vary depending on individual risk tolerance, investment goals, and market conditions. Some common investment strategies include long-term holding, dollar-cost averaging, and active trading. Risks and Considerations: While cryptocurrency offers exciting opportunities for investment and innovation, it is essential to be aware of the associated risks and considerations. Volatility, regulatory uncertainty, security vulnerabilities, and market manipulation are among the risks that investors should consider when participating in the cryptocurrency market. Conclusion: Cryptocurrency represents a revolutionary paradigm shift in the way we think about money, finance, and technology. By understanding the key concepts, popular cryptocurrencies, investment strategies, and associated risks, beginners can navigate the world of digital assets with confidence and make informed decisions about participation in the cryptocurrency ecosystem. As the cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve, education and awareness will play a crucial role in empowering individuals to harness the potential of this groundbreaking technology.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://warnaing.website/cryptocurrency-explained-a-beginners-guide-to-digital-assets/

2024-11-07T16:57:12Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

Analysis of spatial distribution patterns indicative of spread of leafroll disease ARC Plant Protection Research Institute Kasdorf, G G F Grapevine leafroll disease is a serious disease of grapevines worldwide, and has a number of viruses associated with it. In the South African Plant Certification Scheme for Wine Grapes, valuable Vitis scion and rootstock clones are subjected to a procedure to eliminate any potential viruses occurring in them. Such virus-free material remain susceptible to re-infection by viruses and are protected against this using various procedures (e.g. isolation distances, regular indexing, rouging etc.) through a number of generations of multiplication in a certification scheme. The ultimate aim being to supply nurseries and producers with the best available planting material. In practice however grapevine leafroll disease symptoms are encountered in the field in these protected generations as well as in production vineyards within relatively short periods of time. Yearly, large scale screening of nuclear material (1st generation after virus-elimination) using various techniques, have shown that known viruses are completely eliminated by the procedures used, and these plants, kept in tunnels, remain virus free. The major problem is the re-infection of Vitis material once planted in open fields. This study aims to: - identify the major sources of virus causing re-infection, and the means of spread of the viruliferous vectors in the field by determining the spatial distribution of grapevine leafroll disease infected plants within young (one to five year old) mother block vineyards and foundation blocks - to test the maxim that the only virus important in the spread of leafroll disease in South Africa is grapevine leafroll-associated closterovirus 3 (GLRaV-3). The spatial distribution of the disease is determined by recording the disease status of plants, plotting this in two-dimensional representations and then analysing these by various statistical models for spread patterns. Where feasible, such patterns were then correlated with on-ground features (e.g. proximity to severely infected vineyards, prevailing winds etc.). Samples of infected material from each block representing re-infection from different possible sources are analysed by immuno-electron microscopy (IEM). Based on these results the most important reservoir of virus and means of spread will be identified and strategies developed to minimise this spread. This approach is likely to have a larger impact over a shorter term than to attempt control of the vector directly without this information. Pietersen, G. 2001. Winetech Grapevine Virus Workshop, 3 May. Pietersen, G. 2001. Presentation at the Winetech Grapevine Virus Workshop. 30 August, Stellenbosch, South Africa. Pietersen, G. 2001. Paper presented at the 25th National Congress of the South African Society for Enology and Viticulture. 15-18 November, Somerset West, South Africa Pietersen, G. 2002. Presentation at the Winetech Grapevine Virus Workshop, 6 May, Stellenbosch, South Africa Pietersen, G. 2002. Presentation at the Winetech Information Day. 8 May, Worcester, South Africa Pietersen, G. 2002. Winetech Information Day, 9 May, Paarl.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://winetechlibrary.co.za/analysis-of-spatial-distribution-patterns-indicative-of-spread-of-leafroll-disease/

2024-11-07T15:36:11Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

Exploring the outdoors is a fun learning experience for kids of all ages. This activity will encourage children to observe the world around them by looking for natural items and collecting them in a unique and reusable container. Enjoy getting outdoors in every season, while enhancing your child’s powers of observation with this Spring Scavenger Hunt activity, straight from the pages of the WinterKids Guide to Active Outdoor Learning, Preschool Edition (Spring Forward, Week 1). Step 1: Find an Egg Carton To get started, search through your recycling bin and find an empty egg carton. Can’t find one? An empty muffin tin will work too! Step 2: Download and Print Our Pre-Designed Labels Choose from one of our templates of items to search for, or create your own to suit your surroundings. We’ve included a guide for inside the egg carton cover and a creative image for the outside of your child’s “treasure box” to make it extra special. Step 3: Attach Labels to Your Egg Carton (or Muffin Tin) Cut out the template you’ll be using, then follow the instructions included on the templates to glue or tape them to your egg carton. If you’re using a muffin tin, simply cut the squares out of the guide you decide to use and attach inside each cup. Step 4: Start Hunting! Hunt for a Variety of Natural Objects: Hunt for Natural Objects in a Rainbow of Colors: Hunt for Shapes & Textures: Fill in the Blanks to Create Your Own Nature Hunt: Get creative! Here are some fun adaptations to get you started:

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://winterkids.org/blog/how-to-create-fun-nature-treasure-hunts-using-egg-cartons/?campaign=501792

2024-11-07T15:41:40Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

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Listening is a big challenge because you spend over 45% of your communication time listening. If you are not a good listener, you will be a less effective communicator. If you strengthen your listening skills you will be able to communicate more effectively at work. Listening bad habits Make a note of the listening bad habits that you are sometimes guilty of when communicating with others. Have a look at the list below and make a note of which you might be guilty of, be honest with yourself! - I speak over people - I finish people’s sentence - I offer lots of advise - I make up my mind before I have all the information - I take too many notes - I don’t give a response - I am impatient. - I try to talk about myself - I think about what I am going to reply when people are speaking How many have you ticked? Did you realise before that you do these things? Why do you think you do these things? Do you think you are a good listener? Why/why not? How to become a better listener… Active listening is the best way to listen to others. Active listening means, as the name suggests, actively listening. This means fully concentrating on what is being said rather than passively ‘hearing’ the message of the speaker. Active listening techniques - Building trust and establishing rapport - Demonstrating concern - Paraphrasing to show understanding - Non-verbal cues which show understanding such as nodding, eye contact, and leaning forward - Brief verbal affirmations like “I see,” “I know,” “Sure,” “Thank you,” or “I understand” - Asking open-ended questions - Asking specific questions to seek clarification - Waiting to disclose your opinion - Disclosing similar experiences to show understanding Positive speaking checklist - Be positive - Make sure your listener understands you and ask them questions - Explain things in a logical order - Make eye contact - Try not to fidget - Wait your turn - Eye contact - Appropriate distance from speaker - Smile and nod - Don't fidget - Encouragements such as "mmmm" or "yes" - Question the speaker Below are some questions to test your understanding. - Where would the best place be to have a deep conversation? (Why have chosen this option? What makes it a good place for a deep conversation?) - On a train - At a busy bar - In a quiet library - At a coffee shop - How can you show someone you are listening? - Keep your arms at your side, rather than crossed. - Nod, rather than trying to react with your face - Be completely quiet until it’s your turn to speak - Make eye contact at least 10 seconds before looking away - True or False: If someone says something you disagree with, it’s best to keep your counter arguments to yourself.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://wordsforlife.org.uk/activities/listening/

2024-11-07T17:04:15Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

Temperatures are higher threshold of National Weather Service “extreme” weather service danger”category when heat index more than 125 degrees Fahrenheit is expected to affect about 8 million people in USA it year. But by 2053 13 times so much people — 107 million — will be experience which is extremely dangerous heataccording to climate studies research group First Street Foundation. ” results indicate that the incidence of extreme heat growing all over the country in absolute and relative terms“, the study says. Temperature in some areas will increase more how in others, including the so-called “extreme heat beltstretching from Texas to way to the Great Lakes, non-commercial study found. Over 100 million Americans in this is region will experience temperatures above 125 degrees (52 degrees Celsius) during the hottest periods of in year, more than 10 times expected number currently. Using a peer-reviewed extreme heat model The First Street Foundation used property level data to find the hottest seven days of in year currently and compared it with the equivalent in 30 years. On average, the seven hottest days will increase to 18 by 2053, the researchers say. found. But in southern half of country, number of the hottest days will rise to about 30 – meaning that there was once the hottest week. of in year It will be the hottest month by the 2050s, according to a study. Miami-Dade County in Florida will see the biggest shift ever in extreme temperatures where the hottest seven days of in year in 2023 (heat index of 103 degrees) will occur on 34 days in 2053. Other locations in Florida and along the Gulf Coast, most likely experience more than 30 extra days of heat readings above 100 degrees by 2053, study found. Number by country of county is expected to reach heat index of 125 degrees at least once a year will jump more than 20 times 50 in from 2023 to 1023 in 2053, according to the study. Probability of local heat waves – defined as temperatures well above normal for three days in a row also growing across the country, but highest along the west coast, according to the study. “Interestingly, the impact of successive local hot days is likely to occur in west coast states, while the states in The Midwest, Southeast, and East Coast are the most risk of exposure to extremely dangerous temperatures, which means that virtually the entire country is exposed to the growing dangers associated with with heat exposure,” the study says.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://worldweeklynews.com/extreme-heat-belt-will-affect-over-100-million-americans-in-in-next-30-years-old-research-finds/

2024-11-07T17:07:02Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

Ocean acidification faster than ever Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions that contribute to global warming are also turning the oceans more acidic at the fastest pace in hundreds of thousands of years, according to the US National Research Council. “The chemistry of the ocean is changing at an unprecedented rate and magnitude due to anthropogenic CO2 emissions,” the council said. “The rate of change exceeds any known to have occurred for at least the past hundreds of thousands of years.” Ocean acidification eats away at coral reefs, interferes with some fish species’ ability to find their homes and can harm commercial shellfish such as mussels and oysters and keep them from forming their protective shells. Source: Planet Ark, 23 April 2010

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.airclim.org/acidnews/ocean-acidification-faster-ever

2024-11-07T16:13:23Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

Say What?? Understanding How Your Equipment Works Here is the second installment of Say What??. If you haven’t read the first installment you can get caught up here. Most homeowners know the importance of having a well-running furnace and air conditioner however, many can become overwhelmed when a technician starts throwing out complex, industry-specific, terms and acronyms. The following are a few you may hear and will hopefully give you confidence the next time you’re talking to your favorite HVAC technician. MERV is short for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. You’ll most likely hear this acronym when talking about your furnace’s air filter. Summed up simply, there is a number assigned to every air filter. The higher the number, the better the filter is at filtering out airborne irritants and pollutants. So a MERV 11 filter is going to filter better than a MERV 7 filter. However, bigger isn’t always better. Each furnace has a specific amount of airflow that’s needed to run properly. You need to make sure that the filter you use falls within the MERV range recommended by the furnace manufacturer. ERV is the acronym for Electronic Recovery Ventilator. Sometimes referred to as whole-house ventilation, an ERV can help get fresh air from outside into your home. It also can dehumidify and pre-cool the outdoor air before it comes into your home during warmer months and will pre-heat and humidify the outdoor air in colder months. While your furnace is listed to have a certain number of BTUs, which explains how much energy it needs to heat your home, that’s not what you’ll see on your utility bill. You’ll probably see how many THERMS you used over the previous month. The utility company isn’t concerned too much about how much energy is generated from the gas your furnace uses but rather the volume. A damper is used to restrict airflow to specific areas of your home. Some can be manually opened and closed, but most commonly dampers are used when a house is zoned. They automatically open and close based on what the temperature settings are on the thermostat. DRAFT INDUCER MOTOR This motor’s job is to pull gas and air out of the furnace and vent it out of the system and your home. You may have two PVC pipes sticking out of your home which supply and exhaust air for your furnace. The inducer motor turns on when your thermostat calls for heat and cycles to remove any combustibles that may be present in the furnace from the last time it was running. It continues to run until the temperature the thermostat is calling for has been met. Photo from www.dtesupply.comIf you’ve ever seen the inside of your furnace while it’s running you may have wondered how the flames can run horizontally when fire usually is burning up. The draft that this motor creates is what causes those flames to burn horizontally. Phone: (262) 728-1655

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.airsystemshvac.com/say-what-part-two/

2024-11-07T15:39:46Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that blends virtual computer-generated elements with the physical world to enhance or add information to a user's perception of reality. It uses devices such as smartphones, tablets, or head-mounted displays to overlay digital information on the real world. AR can be used to change behaviour by creating interactive and engaging experiences that motivate users to take action. For example, AR can be used in healthcare to educate patients about their health conditions and encourage them to adopt healthy habits. By making health information more interactive and accessible, AR can help patients understand and retain information more effectively. In the field of education, AR can also be used to make learning more interactive and engaging, helping to increase student engagement and motivation. By adding virtual elements to physical learning materials, AR can help students to visualize complex concepts and ideas, making it easier for them to understand and retain information. In the gaming industry, AR can be used to create new and unique gaming experiences that can change player behaviour by making games more immersive and engaging. By adding virtual elements to physical environments, AR can create new opportunities for exploration, problem-solving, and skill-building. AR has the potential to change behaviour by creating engaging, interactive experiences that can educate, motivate, and entertain users in a variety of contexts. So what's keeping you? Let's Change behaviour with augmented reality today.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.arplayground.com.au/post/change-behaviour-with-augmented-reality

2024-11-07T15:37:40Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

Doodling is a fun, inadvertent way of expressing oneself. It’s one of the most common and underrated art form. Most people view it as something to do when they are bored but it can materialize into fantastic pieces. Everyone has their own doodling style; and so it falls into the category of art! Doodling is a piece of drawing developed from a random, visual starting point like a squiggle and can be used to break with patterns of thinking which often ends with a surprising and fresh result. Doodle art form is a creative manifestation which propels individuals into pushing their imagination. The history of doodling can be traced back to the 5,00,000-year-old doodles, essentially in the form of cave paintings and zigzag markings carved by our ancestors. These existed long before anyone knew the alphabet, as a tool to tell stories from one generation to the other. One of the oldest abstract markings ever found was discovered in Indonesia. One cannot talk about the history of doodle art without mentioning Leonardo da Vinci. His bizarre mechanical inventions, drawings about life in the womb and cross sections of animal skeletons are showcased in many museums across the world. As one tries to spot the genius behind his many inventions, stunning paintings and abstract drawings, it would appear that the scribbles and sketches in his sketchbooks are the key elements to unleash creativity. A recent experiment found that those who doodle are more likely to reach a creative ‘flow’, resulting in a positive influence on writing tasks as well as visual reasoning. Researchers have discovered that people enter an absorbed state of consciousness when sketching, which boosts productivity and the ability to solve problems creatively. For a long time, doodling has been downplayed as an absent minded sketch, passing time as one idly chats on the phone or drifts off during meetings. However, a lot of artists who are applauded for their stellar illustration work, claim that doodles are the base of these illustrations. Doodle art is being widely used as an important element in graphic designing for billboards, mobile advertising, television, etc. It’s abstract and unique characteristics has its fan base increasing by the day as it makes the messages conveyed seem more friendly, relaxed, and humane. Some famous doodle artists in India are Angel Bedi aka The Filmy Owl, Sadhika Gupta aka Delhi Doodler, Doodles by Mansha Abhinav Kafare and more. Their creativity and unique designs have received much appreciation on social media.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.artsindia.com/blogs/news/doodle-art

2024-11-07T16:23:36Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

Food safety is an important part of providing school children with acceptable, safe, and nutritious meals. There is evidence that improvements are needed in the area of food safety in schools, and that few schools have implemented Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) programs. The purposes of this study were to determine the attitudes of school foodservice directors toward food safety and the use of HACCP programs in school foodservice and to identify the challenges to implementing food safety and HACCP programs. A focus group was conducted to generate a list of challenges to implementing food safety and HACCP programs. As a result, a three-part written questionnaire was developed. For Part 1, school foodservice directors’ attitudes toward food safety and HACCP programs were determined. For Part 2, the challenges to implementing food safety and HACCP were investigated. For Part 3, demographic information about directors and their districts was collected. Questionnaires were mailed to a randomly selected national sample of 800 district school foodservice directors. A total of 461 questionnaires were returned for a response rate of 58%. Factor analysis was conducted on 11 attitude and 19 challenge statements to determine any underlying factors. The significant factors that emerged for the attitude scale were HACCP disadvantages, certification advantages, and certification disadvantages. Three significant factors emerged for the challenges scale: resource management, employee motivation, and employee confidence. Multiple regression analysis was used to determine relationships among variables. The school foodservice directors responding to the questionnaire either did not perceive the challenges identified by the focus group as problematic in their district, or they were unsure if these challenges impacted their district. In general, the directors had a positive attitude about food safety and the use of HACCP programs in their districts. However, the majority (70%) of directors did not have a HACCP program in place, and many were unsure of what HACCP was or how to apply it in their operations. In response to an open-ended question about how food safety could be improved in their district, 29% of the directors indicated that they needed more time and 22% indicated that more money was needed for training. Other areas mentioned included improved employee attitudes and incentives, facilities/equipment modifications, increased staffing, and more training. It is apparent that school foodservice directors need assistance in developing and implementing HACCP programs. Mentoring of younger school foodservice directors and providing HACCP resource materials would support HACCP implementation. The goal of the school foodservice program is to serve meals that are acceptable, safe, and nutritious (Neill, 1980). Food safety certification of employees and implementation of a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) program are two ways to achieve these goals. Hwang, Almanza, and Nelson (2001) found that only 14% of Indiana school corporations had implemented HACCP programs and that 37% had no employees certified in food safety. The limited use of HACCP programs and the number of schools having no employees certified in food safety indicate that school foodservice directors may face challenges when implementing these programs. The food safety certification process was initiated to establish minimum standards of food safety practices and provides information necessary to train employees in food safety and implement a food safety system (American Food Safety Institute, 2000). Several factors appear to limit the extent to which employees are certified. Speer and Kane (1990) conducted research with state food protection directors in 50 states. They found that challenges to certifying employees were time, limited funds, and the perceived burden of certification. The rural nature of some states also presented a challenge to the certification process. Further, these directors stated that managers did not appear to be motivated to put food safety practices into effect, and believed that certification would not change these practices. However, a study by Penninger and Rodman (1984) found that certification of managers improved food safety practices in 20 foodservice facilities surveyed. The success of a HACCP program also depends on the education and training of employees on the importance of their role in maintaining food safety. An understanding of HACCP and the related prerequisite programs, as well as a commitment from management, must be established to make HACCP successful (King, 1992). In their study of school foodservice in Indiana, Hwang et al. (2001) found that HACCP programs were more likely to be implemented in larger schools where the manager had food safety certification and sanitation-training programs were in place. They found that time, labor costs, and training funds were obstacles to implementing HACCP programs. The attitude of foodservice employees toward food safety is critical to a successful food safety program. According to Howes, McEwen, Griffith, and Harris (1996), attitudes, knowledge, and monitoring are important factors for decreasing foodborne illness outbreaks. Cochran-Yantis et al. (1996) studied the attitudes and knowledge of 300 restaurant operators that had favorable and unfavorable records of health inspections. They found that managers in restaurants with favorable health code records had a higher level of knowledge and a more positive attitude toward food safety than did managers in restaurants with unfavorable records. Research shows that foodservice managers view food safety as important, yet they perceive a need for additional education in that area. Holdt (1992) found that, overall, managers of university foodservice operations rated food safety as an important job function and believed that learning more about food safety was worthwhile. Those managers with 11 or more years of foodservice experience demonstrated a more positive attitude toward food safety, compared to managers with less experience. Sneed and White (1993) found that school foodservice managers and directors/supervisors rated health and safety laws, inspection, and enforcement as high continuing education needs. Perceived needs for continuing education were positively correlated with education levels, as well as with years of “general” foodservice experience and “school” foodservice experience. While it appears that school foodservice managers believe that food safety is important, there is evidence that improvements in food safety are needed and that HACCP is an area of confusion to many foodservice employees. Further, there are a limited number of current studies related to food safety and HACCP in school foodservice. The purposes of this study were to determine the attitudes of school foodservice directors toward food safety and the use of HACCP programs in school foodservice, and to identify the challenges to implementing food safety and HACCP programs. Focus group. Twelve school foodservice directors in Silicon Valley, CA, who also were members of the Northern California School Food Service Association, were invited to attend a focus group. The purpose of this group was to develop a list of school foodservice directors’ perceived challenges to implementing food safety and HACCP procedures in school kitchens. A set of questions was developed to guide the focus group discussion (Krueger, 1994; Krueger, 1998). During the two-hour session, participants identified challenges to implementing food safety and HACCP procedures. Ideas were recorded on note pads and the session was tape recorded and transcribed. To ensure completeness and accuracy of the list of challenges, the list was mailed to a random sample of 15 school foodservice directors for review. This sub-sample was obtained from Market Data Retrieval’s list of district school foodservice directors. Market Data Retrieval is a company that maintains national databases used for marketing purposes. Changes were made to the challenges based on feedback from these directors. This list was used to develop the challenges section of the written questionnaire. Written questionnaire. A three-part written questionnaire was developed following the focus group. Section 1 of the questionnaire investigated school foodservice directors’ attitudes toward food safety certification and HACCP programs. School foodservice directors were asked to indicate their level of agreement to the statements using a five-point rating scale (1=strongly agree to 5=strongly disagree). Section 2 of the questionnaire investigated the challenges to implementing food safety and HACCP programs in school kitchens as perceived by school foodservice directors. This section included the list of challenges generated by the focus group. A five-point rating scale (1=never a problem to 5=always a problem) was used for respondents to rate the level of impact of each challenge. Section 3 of the questionnaire gathered demographic data about the school district and the school foodservice director. These data provided a description of the sample and were used to test relationships of demographic variables with attitudes and challenges variables. The questionnaire was pilot-tested by 10 school foodservice directors. The random sample was chosen from school foodservice directors who were members of the Northern California School Food Service Association. The questionnaire and a cover letter explaining the purpose of the study were mailed to the school foodservice directors. The questionnaire was evaluated for clarity, appropriateness of content, ease of completion, and questionnaire length. Feedback from the pilot test was used to make revisions to the questionnaire. The research protocol and questionnaire were reviewed by the Institution Review Board for the Protection of Human Subjects at Oregon State University and was approved prior to data collection. Study sample. A national random sample of district school foodservice directors was selected for the study. School foodservice directors who participated in the pilot test were not included in the study. The sample again was purchased from Market Data Retrieval. The total database for district school foodservice directors was 7,012. Eight hundred school foodservice directors were selected for the sample using simple random sampling. The sample size was calculated based on recommendations of Dillman (2000). He indicates that a population size of 6,000 and 8,000 requires 361 and 367 responses, respectively, for a±5% sampling error. The researchers estimate that the response rate will be about 45%; thus, a sample size of 800 would be appropriate. The following four-step procedure outlined for mail surveys by Dillman (2000) was used for the research: - An advance-notice letter was mailed to the study sample. - After one week, a cover letter, questionnaire, and business reply envelope were mailed. Each questionnaire had a three-digit code for follow-up purposes, and confidentiality was assured in the cover letter. - After one week, a follow-up postcard was mailed. - Three weeks after the second mailing, another cover letter, questionnaire, and business reply envelope were mailed. Data were analyzed using SPSS ver. 9. Frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations were calculated for all items on the attitudes and challenges to food safety and HACCP implementation scales. For demographic data, frequency of responses and percentages were calculated. A principal axis factor analysis with varimax orthogonal rotation was performed to determine dimensionality of items on the attitudes and challenges scales. Upon completion of the factor analysis, a Cronbach’s alpha was calculated to estimate internal consistency for each factor identified for both scales. Multiple linear regression using the forward stepwise technique was used to determine relationships among attitudes, challenges, and demographic variables. A probability of equal or less than 0.05 was used for all tests of significance. The focus group was held on a weekday morning and lasted approximately two hours. Five school foodservice directors attended. The mean school district size was 17,420 students. The school foodservice directors were employed in the foodservice industry for a mean of 18 years. The mean length of time the directors were employed in school foodservice was 14 years. The mean length of time the directors were employed in their current position was nine years. The directors identified challenges to implementing food safety and HACCP procedures in school foodservice. Employee buy-in, employee motivation, training and education of employees, and employees’ comfort level with food safety were regarded as essential to implementing successful food safety and HACCP programs. Further, the ability of school foodservice directors to find time to address food safety issues also was considered important. Demographic Profile of the Survey Sample A total of 461 of the 800 questionnaires mailed were returned, for a response rate of 58%. The majority (72%) of the school foodservice directors were between 36 and 55 years of age, and 83% were females. The majority (53%) of the school foodservice directors had some college education or a bachelor’s degree. Approximately two-thirds (68%) of the directors had been employed 16 or more years in some segment of the foodservice industry, while 57% of the directors had 15 or fewer years of direct school foodservice experience. More than one-half (59%) of the school foodservice directors responding were employed in school districts ranging in size from 1,001-5,000 students, and 82% of these districts used onsite foodservice production systems. The majority of school foodservice directors (70%) did not have a HACCP program established. The remaining foodservice directors either had developed or were in the process of developing a HACCP program in their school district. Seventy-one percent of the school foodservice directors responding had earned some kind of food safety certification. This is higher than the 55% of Indiana school foodservice directors/managers who were food-safety certified (Hwang et al., 2001). This could be due to the fact that this study was conducted about two years later, and there has been an increased emphasis on food safety over that time. Half of these school foodservice directors (50%) obtained their food safety certification through the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation’s ServSafe(r) course. Attitudes of school foodservice directors related to food safety and HACCP implementation. Responses from the school foodservice directors to the attitude statements are represented in Table 1. The school foodservice directors were in positive agreement with the statements regarding the benefits of certification. They also were in positive agreement about the benefits of continuing education in food safety for themselves and their employees. However, they were neutral on the statement regarding the time and money required to certify employees. Thus, time and money for food safety certification may not be major challenges in school foodservice. These results are consistent with the findings of Sneed and White (1993) and Holdt (1992), whose studies found that directors/supervisors and managers rated continuing education in food safety as important. While Speer and Kane (1990) found that barriers to certification included time and money, they did not appear to be barriers for these respondents. The directors’ responses also varied regarding the use of HACCP programs. Again, the directors were in positive agreement with the statements regarding the benefits of HACCP. Statements addressing the time and money required to implement a HACCP program received neutral scores; thus, these factors do not appear to pose a major problem in HACCP implementation in school foodservice operations. This may be an inappropriate conclusion; however, as 70% of the directors have not implemented HACCP, they may have no idea about the time and cost requirements. Further, many of the directors commented that they were unfamiliar with HACCP. Some directors reported that they would like to implement a HACCP program, but need additional resources to do so. These results are consistent with the analysis of King (1992), who stated that many foodservice operators are unfamiliar with HACCP or unclear about how to apply HACCP programs in their operation. A principal axis factor analysis with varimax orthogonal rotation was performed on the items in the attitude scale. The five factors identified were: Factor 1=food safety education (α=0.80); Factor 2=HACCP disadvantages (α=0.90); Factor 3=certification advantages α=0.79); Factor 4=HACCP advantages (α=0.78); and Factor 5=certification disadvantages (α=0.65). Multiple linear regression was performed with each of the factors on the attitude scale as a dependent variable. The independent variables were: - district size; - education level; - years employed in foodservice; - years employed in school foodservice; and - food safety certification. The model was significant (p<0.05) for Factors 2, 3, and 5. Food safety certification was significant for all three factors, and age was a significant for Factor 3 (Table 2). The independent variables accounted for a moderate amount of the variance (R²) in the three factors: Factor 2=0.21; Factor 3=0.31; and Factor 5=0.26. The analysis for the attitude scale revealed that when school foodservice directors were certified, they did not view time and money as being disadvantages to employee certification and implementing HACCP programs in their district. Further, directors who were not certified portrayed a stronger attitude that certification did not improve employee food-handling practices. Also, younger directors and those who were not certified agreed that improved food-handling practices were an advantage to employee certification. Challenges to implementing HACCP programs. The responses of school foodservice directors to challenges to implementing food safety and HACCP programs are presented in Table 3. In general, the school foodservice directors were in agreement with the challenges identified by the focus group. The directors rated most of the statements at the middle range of the continuum of always a problem and never a problem. The statement that the school foodservice directors rated as being the most problematic in their district was that employees are nervous about taking the food safety exam. A related item, “employees do not feel comfortable with change,” was rated as “sometimes a problem.” The other item that earned a higher-than-neutral rating was “inadequate time for sanitation and safety courses and in-service training for employees.” Thus, employee focus is the area that most needs to be addressed. A principal factor analysis with varimax orthogonal rotation was performed on the challenges scale. The three factors identified were: Factor 1=resource management (α=0.85); Factor 2=employee motivation (α=0.86); and Factor 3=employee food safety certification confidence (α=0.71). Multiple linear regression was performed for each factor on the challenges scale. The independent variables were: - district size; - education level; - years employed in foodservice; - years employed in school foodservice; and - food safety certification. The significant variables for the challenges scale are presented in Table 4. These variables accounted for a small percent of the variance in each factor. The analysis revealed that younger school foodservice directors and directors with more education perceived resource management and employee motivation to be more of a challenge to implementing food safety and HACCP procedures in their district than did other directors. Further, the directors perceived that the larger the district size, the less confident employees are about food safety. These findings are consistent with the literature. According to Zuckerman (1988), a shortage of qualified foodservice employees makes following and monitoring food safety practices difficult. Also, the responsibility for monitoring food safety now is placed upon employees who are younger and less experienced than employees in the past. Lipowski (1999) also reported similar findings. With the increase of retiring school foodservice directors in the year 2000, qualified potential directors willing to fill these positions have not been readily available. Therefore, future directors may not have adequate knowledge and skills related to food safety and HACCP programs. Improving food safety. The school foodservice directors were asked to complete the following open-ended statement: “I could improve food safety in my district if….” Fifty-one percent of the directors who responded indicated that the greatest obstacles to improving food safety are time and money. This included lack of time for the directors to monitor food safety procedures and lack of funds to send employees to food safety training. Other challenges were reported, including: - employee attitude; - lack of adequate facilities; - lack of staff; - more time needed for employees to attend training; - directors need more help; - lower employee turnover; - more money for training staff; and - not having a HACCP program in place. Challenges identified with this question were consistent with the challenges identified by the focus group. The majority of school foodservice directors did not have a HACCP program in place, and many were unsure of what it was or how to apply HACCP principles to their operation. There appear to be challenges to implementing these programs, and efforts need to be made to overcome these challenges. Resources on HACCP programs and their implementation in school foodservice clearly are needed. Information about HACCP needs to be better disseminated to school foodservice directors in a format that they can take and use. For example, sample standard operating procedures related to HACCP implementation could be developed and distributed. Model HACCP programs designed specifically for school foodservice would be useful resources. State agencies, the National Food Service Management Institute (NFSMI), and the American School Food Service Association could provide information. These resources should address the time and money challenges that school foodservice directors face. Programs and materials related to HACCP need to be presented in a practical, realistic, and step-by-step manner. If school foodservice directors are expected to implement HACCP in its entirety, the process may be too overwhelming and may not occur. If a realistic timetable and process were developed, implementation could be facilitated. Based on these results, it is apparent that younger and less-experienced school foodservice directors need assistance in handling the food safety challenges encountered in school foodservice. Younger directors were more likely to be college educated, which may mean they have a greater awareness of the need for implementing HACCP programs, although they may need technical assistance. New directors should complete courses related to food safety and HACCP program implementation. A key focus area would be on motivating employees to follow standard operating procedures related to food safety. Additionally, mentoring of younger school foodservice directors by more experienced directors through networking at conferences, telephone calls, site visits, and other means would serve as a reference and support system for these directors. Foodservice directors need to be encouraged to participate in food safety courses that already exist. They need to be providing these programs to their employees, beginning when employees are hired. The biggest challenges identified were items related to employee nervousness about taking food safety certification examinations and not feeling comfortable with change. Improving employees’ confidence in their food safety knowledge and their ability to make changes is one area that school foodservice directors should focus attention. Training, supervision, and feedback all are strategies that might improve employee confidence and ability to implement HACCP programs. While these strategies are related to the time barrier that was identified, the time required to make these changes might be good investments in the long term. Further, additional research needs to be conducted to determine models for HACCP implementation that are successful in school foodservice. More research on ways to overcome challenges also would be useful. The authors thank the School Food Service Foundation (now the Child Nutrition Foundation) for funding this research through the Hubert Humphrey Research Grant. We also wish to acknowledge all of the school foodservice directors who supported this research by participating in the focus group, pilot test, or survey.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.asfsa.org/giampaoli1/

2024-11-07T15:49:46Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

The fall season is really a transitional time for bass and we often can let ourselves get fooled into thinking the conditions we perceive above water as having the same immediate impact in the water. As in the spring, our best tools in trying to figure out where the bass are in the fall, and why they are there, are a temperature gauge used in conjunction with a depth finder. In fact in most of Texas we really have three distinct stages of fall patterns. The first occurs in the part of fall in which there is really little difference with afternoon temperatures from those of late summer. In some years this period can extend until the first appreciable cold front of mid or late October. The difference that makes this period unlike summer is the unavoidable lengthening of the nights. Even with hot daytime temperatures, the longer, cooler nights have several affects. These include causing the water temperature to begin to drop. The impact will begin to occur more noticeably in back-ups or shores, which have the least exposure to the hotter afternoon sun. Evidence of this effect may not be apparent to us, but it signals a coming change of season to bass. The other aspect of shorter days is to trigger the instinct of animals that a change is coming, and this does not necessarily have anything to do with daytime temperatures. During the summer, bass often have become organized on larger lakes into varying size schools. These bass stage in given areas where there are concentrations of the number one summer food source - shad. These areas are also usually associated with some sort of structure. The bass that have been schooling in a given area of a lake often tend to gradually drop their daily periods of schooling activity back to later periods during the day as the nights begin to lengthen. It is not uncommon once the mid-stage of fall occurs (once the first fronts of October have actually made it through), on lakes where schooling activity occurred most of the day in the late summer to find that the bass are only aggressively breaking on shad in the late afternoon (after the effect is felt of the afternoon sun). In fact I have seen this carried to the extreme example on several lakes when in the last hour of the day the fish suddenly began to break where none had shown signs of chasing anything during the day. These were not flukes since the same pattern would occur late in the season for several weeks until a major front shut it down. The impact of the cooling effects of the longer nights trigger bass in many lakes to begin a shift or migration. This movement is toward the back of coves, up creeks, or to a shallower staging area. The shad also tend to make similar shifts at this time that probably plays a large role as an additional attraction for the bass to make their move. I make this point regarding shad because they are still the main forage bait for bass in most major reservoirs during the two earliest phases of fall. Because of this very fact, crankbaits are particularly lethal for finding schools of bass in the early and mid-fall periods. Since the schools are working on shad, this message should therefore tell you that the bait color most productive will be silver chrome, bone, or white. A lipless crank such as a Rat-L-Trap or Hot Spot is particularly lethal during the fall. The other thing to remember when fishing in the fall is that while you can still get more hits on smaller plugs, you will catch larger fish on larger baits. During the fall the food sources that hatched in the spring including the baitfish, have reached a more mature size so you can afford to throw a larger bait. Another advantage the bass fisherman has in the fall is that the water temperature is still warm thus a feeding bass will tend to have a larger strike zone than that same fish will often have in the colder water of winter. Topwater baits are also ideal lures to work in the fall periods. If you go back to the concept that most potential food sources have reached a more mature stage and size then it follows that a large topwater such as a Zara Spook should, and will, get strikes. The place to present a topwater during the fall is not only in shallower water or along banks or vegetation, but fishing them over deeper water brush will also produce. The buzz word in fall patterns is shallower and while in most cases we tend to think toward shallower water, it can also mean deeper water bass rising to a shallower strata in standing cover such as flooded brush or trees. If you think about it, a buzzbait is actually a cross between a crank and a topwater bait. If bass feed actively for longer periods during the fall and have a larger strike zone then it is not a surprise as to why a buzzbait gets plenty of attention from fall bass. Bass will tend to respond during midday periods in response to the degree of brightness. If the fish are not moving during a very bright day, you likely will have to shift to a soft plastic to get strikes during midday. However, in the fall even these baits will often be successfully fished in considerably shallower water than you would have fished them during midday in the summer. A variation with summertime fishing also occurs in that during the fall bass will tend to be shallower for longer periods. They will also tend to be more active for longer periods during cloudy days, and often do not drop back to deeper midday holding areas at all. A cloudy day in the fall often means big-time action all day long and in the same area early to late. A good rule of thumb is: the more stained the water, the shallower the bass may be during fall patterns. During mid- and late fall, the use of a temperature gauge is critical. What we feel as air temperature has nothing to do with water temperature. At least the effect of air temperature should be remembered to require sustained periods of lower temperature to really drive the water temperature appreciably downward toward the wintertime lows. I have caught bass on topwaters in Rayburn and Toledo Bend when I was wearing a windbreaker and sweatshirt. The water temperature was still in the mid-70's and the fish did not mind one bit breaking on a chugger. It is not that much of exaggeration to remember the advice I was given by a longtime bass fisherman who told me that if the surface warms enough in the afternoon for turtles to sun themselves, you can catch some shallower strata bass. There is one other variation which begins to occur in the late fall and that is the effect on the pattern of bass becomes more dramatic with the passage of each major cold front. While the passage of early season fronts may have little noticeable effect other than to cause the schooling bass to break later in the day, the passage of stronger fronts in the late fall season cause considerable problems. These fronts, like those in the winter, can shut down feeding for extended periods as well as put bass into "close holding" patterns very tight to cover. The other major change in late season patterns is that bass begin a shift toward their deeper water holding patterns of the winter season. So the fish are again in transition. As with the shift toward the shallows in early fall, the shift back toward deeper water occurs in stages. In other words some bass may shift more rapidly than others in the same lake. Of course this is where you have to work through the pattern where you are fishing. The good news is that bass, like most animals, tend to feed more actively in order to store resources for the winter. Thus the early, mid-, and even the late fall periods offer some of the best action of the year. The shift of bass and baitfish from the backs of the coves tends to follow the "trails" that they used earlier in the fall to go back to the shallower water. These may be contour lines, or most often will be along creek channels. As mentioned bass are not in constant movement so a fisherman has to figure out where, along these routes, the bass may be at a given time of the season. The fish going toward shallower areas in the early fall are usually feeding on migrating shad. There is often a change in food pattern as they move in the opposite direction toward winter holding areas. I convinced myself of this by having seen the same thing on several lakes, in that after several strong cold fronts, bass will school on bream. I have never seen these bass "bust" water as they do in warmwater conditions when chasing shad, however there was no doubt as to what they were doing. If the water is either stained, or if I am fishing a 12-foot plus channel, I will work a chartreuse or white Little George vertically. This technique is particularly good when you are fishing after a frontal passage and the bass are holding in tight schools. These bass will often be on the bottom, feeding on bream that have concentrated in the channel in response to the frontal passage. During the periods between fronts, I rely heavily on a firetiger crankbait. The game plan is to follow either a creek or contour line from shallower to deeper water until I find the holding depth of bass for that particular day. Once this has been achieved, you can begin to find matching areas on the lake and they will also produce. The keys to establishing a late fall pattern include water temperature, depth, sometimes wind direction, and the color of the bait. Obviously soft plastics and jigs will produce in the fall, but the prior discussions I have presented emphasize the unique features of fall fishing in that the fish are often in aggressive feeding patterns. Under such conditions one option for taking advantage of the aggressiveness is to fish with presentations that allow you to find holding patterns by rapidly covering the most water. The attitude of the fish during most of this season makes them particularly vulnerable to this type of fishing. You will note the one thing I've mentioned several times is the impact of a frontal passage on fishing. However, just as in the spring, the fall passage of a front indicates a contrast in air temperature. Along these boundaries is where major storms occur and in our part of the state this means lightning, possible tornados, and certainly straight line winds. So be aware of the weather conditions you are likely to encounter on the trip, not only as it may affect the bass but also how it may affect personal safety. No limit is worth getting put in that big livewell in the sky yourself.

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Vitamin D deficiencies are associated with a host of negative health implications. Bumping up intake can help in most cases, leading to better overall health and lower risk for plenty of health conditions. Except irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS. Previous research has suggested a potential link between vitamin D levels and IBS symptoms, but a new study is saying not so fast. While vitamin D supplementation may correct deficiencies and offer a variety of benefits, they do not reduce severe IBS symptoms. Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic digestive disorder that can cause stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. Symptoms can fade in and out for most, however, they can severely affect the quality of life for many sufferers. People with severe symptoms may suffer from severe anxiety about leaving home, for example, if symptoms flare up. Symptoms can also be extremely painful and hit hard out of nowhere. There are no current treatments for IBS. The best tool is to try and manage it by avoiding trigger foods or situations. Researchers looked at 135 IBS patients. About half were given a vitamin D oral spray, while the rest were given a placebo. They all followed the assigned protocol for 12 weeks. Even though adequate vitamin D levels were restored in the vitamin D group, they experienced no improvements in the severity of their IBS symptoms or their quality of life. The study was published in the European Journal of Nutrition. Unfortunately, there is not a lot you can do to relieve the symptoms of IBS. The best option is to avoid trigger foods and situations that lead to flare-ups. Treatment is ultimately management. Identifying foods that may lead to severe symptoms, and avoiding them, may help. Finding ways to manage stress may also have some effect on limiting flare-ups and the severity of symptoms. According to this new study, however, vitamin D won’t help.

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2024-11-07T16:49:31Z

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Knee pain is one of the common complaints affecting people of every age. It can be caused by injuries, like torn cartilage or a ruptured ligament. Most types of knee pain, especially minor ones, respond properly to self-care measures. Knee braces, orthopedics, and physical therapy may help to relieve your pain. Common Knee Issues Most problems in the knee are caused by continuous wear and the aging process. Other problems result from a sudden movement or injury that strains the knee. Other common problems may include the following: 1. Torn cartilage Trauma to your knee may tear the connective tissue pads, enhancing stabilities and serving as shock absorbers. Cartilage tears often occur with sprains. And treatment might involve wearing braces during physical activities to protect your knees from further injuries. Surgery can also be required to repair those tears. Osteoarthritis is a popular arthritis type, which affects the knees. It can be caused by too much stress on your joint, like being overweight or repeated injury. Rheumatoid arthritis may also affect your knees by inflating the joints. It often affects individuals at an earlier age when compared to osteoarthritis. Inflammation at the tendons can result from overusing tendons during activities like cycling, jumping, or running. Tendonitis of the patellar tendons is referred to as the jumpers’ knee. It usually happens with sports, like basketball, when the force of hitting the ground strains your tendons. Who Are at a Great Risk? Individuals who are obese or overweight are at great risk for experiencing knee pain. For each pound, your knees must absorb extra four pounds of pressure when climbing stairs, running, or walking. Other factors, which may increase your risk of getting chronic pain are age, physical exercise/athletic activity, and previous trauma or injuries. The severity and location of knee pain can vary. This may depend on the root of the pain. Symptoms and signs, which at times accompany knee pain, are the following: - Incapability to straighten a knee - Crunching or popping noises - Instability or weakness - Stiffness and swelling - Warmth and redness to the touch Why See a Specialist Pain management is a vital aspect of treatment plans for aiding recovery and lessening discomfort. A pain management specialist is aware of the full range of relieving pain and how to combine several options to alleviate pain. Treatment done as part of a multimodal and comprehensive plan can help even when every treatment fails to work. And the best part is that your pain management specialist will help diagnose pain as well as treat it effectively and safely. Treating Pain at Home Your physical therapist or doctor may recommend home care so as to relieve your knee pain. Some of the options your doctor can recommend are the following: - Topical treatments, like muscle rubs or creams - Practicing gentle exercises and stretches - Applying ice packs or heat - Taking OTC pain relievers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen Knee pain is caused by several causes, ranging from medical conditions to injuries. But regardless of what type of knee pain you have, ensure your knees are evaluated by a medical doctor to ensure the problem isn’t serious.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.bewareofhealth.com/what-knee-pain-is-and-how-to-ease-it-at-home/

2024-11-07T17:18:21Z

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What's a commercial bank? A commercial bank is where most people go to do their everyday banking. Commercial banks give businesses and individuals a place to store their money while having access to credit and loans. Again, since one of the reasons a bank operates is to make money, most financial institutions focus on profits from the same customers they serve day to day. Commercial bank definition According to Bankrate, a commercial bank is viewed as a “for-profit financial institution that accepts deposits, offers loans, and provides other financial services to its customers.” A commercial bank’s money essentially belongs to its customers, who can withdraw their funds at any time, even on short notice. Because of that, commercial banks offer credit for shorter lengths of time with the backing of real, concrete securities that are easy to sell. Now that you know what a commercial bank does, the truth still stands: most of us have no idea how banks really make a profit. When you consider the fact that a bank holds onto your money — and that of other customers — how do banks actually afford to keep the lights on, remain in business and turn a profit? Here’s a 101 primer on how banks make money and have the ability to lend that money out to their customers. Read on to learn more! How banks make money When you open a savings or checking account at a bank, your money doesn’t just sit there. Every time you make a deposit, your bank “borrows” the money from you to lend it out to others. Think about all those auto and personal loans, mortgages, and even bank lines of credit. Sadly, money doesn’t grow on trees, so the bank uses your money to help fund these loans temporarily. In turn for your generosity (that most of the time you are unaware of), you get paid back in the form of interest — sort of a courtesy for trusting that financial institution with your money. Bigger banks are also often made up of separate branches that focus on different types of customers and services. For example, commercial or retail banking branches may offer more common bank services, such as checking and savings accounts or giving out personal and business loans. If you belong to a credit union that isn’t motivated by profit margins, you may see more interest paid to you. Or, in the case of an online checking or savings account, there are no branch locations and minimal overhead costs. This means that you may see more money in the way of automatic savings and other perks. At this point you might be wondering: How can money in the bank be loaned out and available to withdraw at the same time? Don’t worry. Your money hasn’t vanished on you. Banks don’t lend out all the money they have on deposit. They’re required to keep enough money on hand to handle transactions and withdrawals. Your funds are also protected and insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Where do banks get money to lend to borrowers? Now it’s time to look at the several different ways banks make a profit to lend to their customers. When you deposit money in your bank account, banks use that money to loan out to other people or businesses. The banks charge them interest, which they collect as their profit. The bank pays you a certain amount of interest in exchange for keeping your deposit. However, they collect even more interest on the loans they issue to others, and this is where they make most of their money. The bank pays you a certain amount of interest in exchange for keeping your deposit. However, they collect even more interest on the loans they issue to others, and this is where they make most of their money. If you’re on the borrowing side, banks lend money to you and receive extra interest when you repay the loan. You may experience this with your car, personal, or home loans. Businesses also pay interest on loans, and many bank customers pay interest on their credit card debt. A defaulted asset is an asset that is 30 or more days delinquent in the payment of principal, interest, fees, or other amounts payable under the agreeable terms of the item. A common banking practice is to sell or auction off items put up as collateral on defaulted loans. This may be a house that’s been foreclosed on or a car that’s been repossessed. So, where does the unclaimed collateral go? You guessed it. The money garnered from the sale or resale of the items is funneled back into the bank’s budget.d collateral go? You guessed it. The money garnered from the sale or resale of the items is funneled back into the bank’s budget. Another huge portion of a bank’s monthly income is made off of various fees paid by their customers. Oftentimes, for example, charge account maintenance fees or penalty fees if your monthly balance falls under a specified amount. Fees are attached to everything from account transfers to canceled checks. And, of course, there’s the dreaded overdraft fee for those times you might try to spend more money than you have in your account. In fact, in 2019, large banks made more than $11.68 billion from customers in bank fees, particularly from overdraft fees. Depending on the type of credit card you have, you may also be responsible for an annual card fee, and that’s not counting late fees or inflated interest rates if you carry a balance from month to month. Brick-and-mortar banks may also charge teller fees, fees to obtain bank statements, vault and safety deposit box fees, and other application and loan fees.This may seem like too many fees to handle, but remember, not all banks are fee driven, and choosing the right place to hold your money is important to your financial success. Interchange fees are the amounts paid between banks for the acceptance of card-based transactions. For example, if you use your debit card to make a $20 transaction, $20 is withdrawn from your bank account. But that’s on your end. Merchants, on the other hand, are typically charged a transaction fee by both your bank (the card issuer) and the merchant’s bank for electronic payments. This is yet another way for financial institutions to make money. Interchange fees are also a way your bank/card issuer can afford to come up with the money to pay out credit card rewards, like cashback. Additional ways banks make money There are other avenues banks take to make their profit, such as: - Investing their funds — In addition to making money on customers’ investments, banks invest their own money to turn a profit. - Advisory or consulting services — Banks can also make money by becoming an adviser or consultant for outside businesses by assisting them with financial goals and strategies. - Earning commissions — Banks may have partnerships or relationships with other financial institutions like brokerages and investment services that pay them a commission to refer their customers. Where do banks put their money? Banks typically don’t stash away your money. They actually quickly lend it out to someone who can use it when you don’t. Again, no need to worry about getting your money when you do need it. Your funds are protected, and the government would step in if your funds were for some reason not available. However, there’s a limit to how much deposit insurance covers. In the U.S., it’s $250,000 per account. Anything over that amount raises a bigger question, but if it’s anything less, you’re covered. The money the bank does keep on hand for withdrawals is usually kept in safes or vaults on site. The remainder of their funds are tied in investments, being used to pay bills or being loaned out to customers of that bank. What’s the largest source of income for banks? The largest source of income for most banks is the interest earned from various loans or credit cards used by borrowers. It’s always a good idea to be conscious of the interest rates on credit cards you apply for or on the loans you are taking out. High interest rates could accumulate large amounts of debt for yourself, and large amounts of money for the bank to keep in their pocket. When do banks make money from deposits? When you deposit money in the bank, you receive a rate that is under the prime rate on that deposit. In today’s market you might be making about 3.2%, which is to encourage you to leave your money in the bank, where the bank has access to use it. In the meantime, the bank lends your money out through a variety of ways, all at an interest rate over the prime rate. Even though the bank doesn’t own the money that is deposited or lent out, it makes money on, guess what? The interest payments! Where do banks invest their money? There are over 6,000 commercial banks that accept deposits and invest those funds within the guidelines given by federal and state agencies. Banking institutions are required to maintain reserves up to 10% of their deposits. The remainder is usually invested in real estate loans, commercial and consumer loans, and government securities. As you’ve now learned, banks make their money in many ways. Several of these factors may cross your mind when choosing where to store your finances. However, keep in mind that banks are also in the business of making you money. Remember, the relationship between you and your bank of choice should be mutually beneficial, where it’s able to make its money without making you incapable of reaching your financial goals, especially at the bank’s expense. Ready to make that decision? Check out the Chime Checking Account and see if it’s the right move for you and your hard-earned cash.

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https://www.chime.com/blog/how-do-banks-make-money/

2024-11-07T16:20:49Z

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Personal, Social & Health Education Through our curriculum, our school environment, our school ethos and the strength of our relationships, we strive to promote pupils’ self-esteem and emotional and physical well-being and help them to form and maintain worthwhile and satisfying relationships, based on RESPECT for themselves and for others, at home, at school, at work and in the community. Through our curriculum we want our pupils to know and understand what constitutes a healthy lifestyle, positive relationships and develop a growing awareness of a broad range of safety issues. All Saints Primary School has adopted the PSHE Association’s suggested Programme of Study which has been promoted and endorsed by the DfE. This has been developed in conjunction with all school stakeholders, and sets out learning opportunities for each key stage, in three core themes: - Health and Wellbeing: Being healthy (sleep, diet, exercise), mental wellbeing, Internet safety and harms, recognising and managing feelings, basic First Aid , changes in adolescence - Relationships: Identity and diversity; families, friendship and positive relationships (including Relationships and Sex Education); good manners, communication; kindness and humility (including Anti Bullying); empathy, compassion and forgiveness - Living in the Wider World: Rules, respect, citizenship and democracy, keeping safe, developing independence, personal finance, careers and influence of the media

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2024-11-07T16:41:12Z

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For any organization, crisis PR is an important function. The best thing to do, of course, would be to prevent it from happening. In today’s modern communication landscape, a negative review, comment, or article can go viral in minutes and lead to crisis scenarios before an organization can think of a response. Crisis management should handle threats to an organization sequentially. Important issues during a crisis are public safety, financial concerns, and damage to the reputation of an organization. We list below the types of crisis scenarios that an organization needs preparation for. This type of crisis occurs when an organization wrongs its customers. When this happens, an organization needs to respond immediately and clearly define what action it would take. For instance, in 2018, Starbucks faced a racial discrimination issue. Two black men, Donte Robinson and Rashon Nelson, were arrested while they were waiting for a friend after a staff member called the cops on them. Social media created uproar, followed by in-store protests. The issue was racial bias. CEO Kevin Johnson issued a statement stating his position on the matter, calling the act ‘reprehensible’ and wanting it fixed. The response was that Starbucks closed 8,000 stores across the United States so that their staff could receive racial bias training. The brand lost around $12 million in profit when the store shut down briefly. But it was more important for them to repair their relationship with the customers. The act involved sacrifice and went down well with the public. Each year, approximately 2 million workers across the country report that they have been a victim of violence at work. It costs businesses around $130 billion every year. An organization needs to ensure that its workforce prepares for violence so that it reduces casualties and responds promptly during a violent incident. It is the duty of an organization to keep its workforce on the premises safe. Security measures need implementation. Fake News and Misinformation The rise of social media has also led to an increase in information, both real and fake. On social media platforms, people share conspiracy theories and unscientific stories which spread like wildfire. There are also video recordings of people saying and doing things that they never did. This escalates to crisis scenarios when they go on to become more than harmless entertainment and can impact the reputation of an organization. Such content and news should not be left unregulated and should be penalized. Financial crisis scenarios can be caused by several factors. A recession potentially impacts an organization. Products can lose their popularity and there could be poor management of funds. Institutions such as these it is important to let the public know that an organization is active and will remain so when things improve. An organization must remain connected with its current and potential audiences.

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https://www.dmnews.com/pr-marketing-crisis-scenarios/

2024-11-07T16:16:42Z

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In “Machine intelligence in non-invasive endocrine cancer diagnostics”, Nicole Thomasian et al. discuss how endocrine cancers, which develop from hormone-producing cells, need to be properly diagnosed in order to be effectively treated. However, the present techniques to do so, such as biopsies and imaging, can be intrusive, expensive, and time-consuming. Through the analysis of vast volumes of information including imaging, genetics, and clinical records, machine intelligence (MI) has the potential to enhance the diagnosis of endocrine cancer. MI can employ radiomics, which utilizes algorithms to extract information from medical pictures, to find patterns suggestive of malignant tumors. Genomic analysis can also be used to find mutations or cancer-related biomarkers. However, before being used in the clinic, MI needs to obtain a large representative dataset and give doctors the ability to interpret complicated algorithms. Despite this, MI offers the potential to non-invasively, precisely, and quickly diagnose endocrine malignancies. In low-resource situations, where there may be a shortage of medical personnel or insufficient infrastructure for diagnostic tests, MI has the potential to increase access to healthcare and can be applied to other areas of medicine. By analyzing vast amounts of data and forecasting the spread of the disease, MI can also assist in the diagnosis and management of infectious disorders like COVID-19. The article also discusses potential ethical issues with MI's application in global health, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the possibility that MI would worsen already-existing health disparities. As a result, the authors stress the significance of developing and using MI responsibly, including making sure that technology is planned and applied in a way that is equitable, transparent, and respects human rights. If all the ethical concerns are addressed, MI has the power to significantly enhance access to healthcare for underprivileged groups and have a positive impact on global health. Thomasian, N. M., Kamel, I. R., & Bai, H. X. (2022). Machine intelligence in non-invasive endocrine cancer diagnostics. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 18(2), 81–95. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41574-021-00543-9.

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2024-11-07T16:34:47Z

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Education AI Tool AI Lesson Plans AI Lesson Plans is an innovative platform that utilizes generative AI to help educators create custom, age-specific lesson plans quickly and efficiently. The tool offers benefits such as time savings, subject matter expertise, customizable lesson assistance, textbook eidetic memory, and support for multiple lesson plan formats.Key Features:Generative AI: Utilize generative AI technology to create custom, age-specific lesson plans quickly.Time Savings: Save significant time in lesson planning, allowing for a better work-life balance.Subject Matter Expertise: Access a top expert in all subjects, ensuring comprehensive and accurate lesson plans.Customizability: Create personalized lesson plan templates to align with personal teaching style and educational standards.Textbook Recall: Easily retrieve information and references from textbooks for lesson planning.Multiple Formats: Support for one-click creation of common lesson plan formats.Use Cases:Lesson Planning Efficiency: Streamline and expedite the lesson planning process.Engaging Resources: Create more interactive and engaging lesson plans.Personalized Teaching: Tailor lesson plans to individual teaching style and students' needs.Adaptability: Easily adjust lesson plans to different teaching formats or educational standards.AI Lesson Plans revolutionizes the traditional lesson planning process by leveraging the power of generative AI. This tool was manually vetted by our editorial team. Copied to clipboard! You should log in to send your comment.

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2024-11-07T15:40:13Z

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en

New federal data that for the first time attempt to catalog how many times students were isolated or restrained—by a school employee or with a device—show that, in many cases, those techniques are applied disproportionately to students with disabilities, particularly black students with disabilities. As part of its most recent data collection, the U.S. Department of Education’s office for civil rights asked more than 72,000 public schools to report how many students were isolated or restrained for the purpose of keeping them from harming themselves, classmates, or school employees. Although such techniques most often are associated with special education, the data show they are used with all students. Among the findings: Of students with disabilities who were mechanically restrained—which might mean being handcuffed, tied down, strapped to a chair, or held with equipment for that purpose—a disproportionate share, 44 percent, were black. Only 21 percent of the overall population of students with disabilities are African-Americans. African-American students represent 21 percent of the students with disabilities, but 44 percent of students with disabilities who were subjected to mechanical restraint during the 2009-2010 school year. NOTE: Numbers have been rounded. SOURCE: U.S. Department of Education, office for civil rights And, of all 38,792 students physically restrained by school staff members, nearly 70 percent were students with disabilities. While it is expected that more students with disabilities than other students would be restrained, that disparity was shocking, said Russlynn H. Ali, the Education Department’s assistant secretary for civil rights. Every two years, her office requires a sample of districts across the country to answer questions about subjects including course enrollment and participation on athletic teams and in college-entrance exams, all broken down by race, gender, and whether students have a disability. The data the OCR gathered, from the 2009-10 school year, encompassed more districts than ever—nearly half of all districts, a large enough swath to include 85 percent of the country’s public school students. Ms. Ali asked schools to start reporting restraint and seclusion data, in part because of public input and concerns about the practices raised in 2009, when the Washington-based National Disability Rights Network issued “School Is Not Supposed to Hurt.” That report describes episodes of restraint and seclusion that led to students’ deaths, such as that of a Michigan teenager with autism who was restrained for more than an hour by four school employees. What the numbers, analyzed by Education Week and the Education Department, indicate: Of the 131,990 instances of physical restraint tallied by the data collection, 78.6 percent involved students with disabilities, compared with 21 percent for other students. Yet just 12 percent of the 42 million students in the data set have disabilities. “Certainly the data are really alarming,” Ms. Ali said. Schools were also far more likely to isolate students with disabilities. Of the 111,417 instances of seclusion in the survey, 61.7 percent were of students with disabilities, compared with 38.3 percent for other students. The data are imperfect. Most publicly available data are rounded to obscure student identities. Numbers available online don’t match some of the department’s figures. It’s still powerful information, some disability-advocacy groups said. They argue incidents of restraint and seclusion may even be underreported because schools were unused to gathering the data. At the least, the numbers should dispel any idea that the use of restraint and seclusion is isolated, said Ron Hager, a senior staff lawyer for the National Disability Rights Network. The group published its second update to “School Is Not Supposed to Hurt” on March 6, the same day the federal restraint and seclusion data were released. The group’s first report led to congressional hearings, a request from U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan that states develop or revise policies governing their use, and a Government Accountability Office report. Bills that would regulate and limit restraint and seclusion have been introduced in Congress, but they have stalled. In the meantime, states have passed a patchwork of laws regulating those practices on their own. In its latest report, the disability-rights network calls on the Education Department to produce clear guidance on when restraint and seclusion should be used. The department said last week that it was developing a technical-assistance paper outlining best practices for using restraint and seclusion. Not everyone agrees that such methods need federal regulation. Last week, the American Association of School Administrators issued its own report, “Keeping Schools Safe: How Seclusion and Restraint Protects Students and School Personnel.” It relates incidents in which restraining students was delayed and the result was injuries to teachers and administrators severe enough to prompt visits to the emergency room. It also cites parents who attest that, without the use of restraints and seclusion, their children would have been institutionalized. “This is not something schools use to punish children,” said Sasha Pudelski, the government-affairs manager for the Alexandria, Va.-based AASA. “It’s something the school used when behavior-management techniques fail and the situation becomes untenable.” The AASA does not support any federal legislation on the issue, but Ms. Pudelski admitted that sometimes the practices are misused. “The unfortunate reality is, there are individuals in school systems that make a variety of mistakes—sometimes intentionally—that hurt children,” she said. “We would never support those actors.” The proposed legislation provides for training, which may be lacking in some cases where students or staff were injured, said Lindsay E. Jones, the senior director of policy and advocacy services for the Arlington, Va.-based Council for Exceptional Children. She said the new data will inform a conversation that, until now, has been based largely on news reports and on stories shared by school employees and parents. “Right now, all we have are dueling anecdotes—and they’re all awful,” Ms. Jones said. “This is a step in the right direction.” Nirvi Shah, Writer contributed to this article. A version of this article appeared in the March 14, 2012 edition of Education Week as Restraints on Pupils Variable

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https://www.edweek.org/leadership/restraints-on-pupils-variable/2012/03

2024-11-07T16:45:23Z

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Silver nanowires surprise researchers with their unexpected ability to self-heal. Can they be used in flexible electronics? With its high electrical conductivity and optical transparency, indium tin oxide is one of the most widely used materials for touchscreens, plasma displays, and flexible electronics. But its rapidly escalating price has forced the electronics industry to search for other alternatives. One potential and more cost-effective alternative is a film made with silver nanowires—wires so extremely thin that they are one-dimensional—embedded in flexible polymers. Like indium tin oxide, this material is transparent and conductive. But development has stalled because scientists lack a fundamental understanding of its mechanical properties. Espinosa and his team investigated the material’s cyclic loading, which is an important part of fatigue analysis because it shows how the material reacts to fluctuating loads of stress. “Cyclic loading is an important material behavior that must be investigated for realizing the potential applications of using silver nanowires in electronics,” Espinosa said. “Knowledge of such behavior allows designers to understand how these conductive films fail and how to improve their durability.” By varying the tension on silver nanowires thinner than 120 nanometers and monitoring their deformation with electron microscopy, the research team characterized the cyclic mechanical behavior. They found that permanent deformation was partially recoverable in the studied nanowires, meaning that some of the material’s defects actually self-healed and disappeared upon cyclic loading. These results indicate that silver nanowires could potentially withstand strong cyclic loads for long periods of time, which is a key attribute needed for flexible electronics. “These silver nanowires show mechanical properties that are quite unexpected,” Espinosa said. “We had to develop new experimental techniques to be able to measure this novel material property.” Source: Northwestern University

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https://www.engineering.com/the-self-healing-properties-of-silver-nanowires/

2024-11-07T16:46:30Z

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The original Templars were founded in the 12th Century to guard pilgrims on their way along the dangerous roads that led to Jerusalem. Its members were effectively armed monk-like knights who were granted certain legal privileges and whose status was backed by the church. They were reputed to be the possessors of great wealth and power. King Philip IV In 1306, King Philip IV expelled all Jews from France, seizing their property and confiscating the monies owed to them. Philip’s devotion to St. Louis was witnessed that same year by elaborate ceremonies in his honor, and Louis’s anti-Semitic proclivities might have inspired Philip to act against the Jews, whose usefulness as a source of regular revenue had in any case been exhausted by his earlier repeated impositions. Clement on throne | In 1311, Council of Vienne was convened to pass judgment. Most of its 300 members thought the charges unproved but Philip himself testified to the order's guilt. Then, the Bull Vox in excelsis, dated March 22, 1312, written by Clement, was read. In this Bull, "the pope said that though he had no sufficient reasons for a formal condemnation of the order, nevertheless, because of the common weal, the hatred borne them by the King of France, the scandalous nature of their trial, and the probable dilapidation of the order's property in every Christian land, he suppressed it by virtue of his sovereign power, and not by any definitive sentence." Many of the knights were executed, and the order's wealth was confiscated. Although the order's assets were meant to devolve to the Hospitallers, they were appropriated by Philip. The guilt or innocence of the Templars is one of the more difficult historical problems, partly because of the atmosphere of hysteria that had built up in the preceding generation and the habitually intemperate language and extravagant denunciations exchanged between temporal rulers and churchmen, and partly because the subject has been embraced by conspiracy theorists and pseudo-historians. Clement V died in April 1314. According to one story, while his body was lying in state, a thunderstorm developed during the night and lightning struck the church where his body lay, igniting the building. The fire was so intense that, when it was extinguished, the body of Pope Clement V was almost completely destroyed. He is buried at La Chaise-Dieu in Auvergne.

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https://www.esotericdaily.com/2017/03/notes-on-king-philip-iv-pope-clement-v.html

2024-11-07T16:28:41Z

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The IS process has now universally replaced almost all others. It is not certain whether ‘IS’ denotes its inventors, Ingle and Smith, or its main characteristic which is independent synchronized units with a synchronized gob distribution system to each section (i.e. Individual Section). IS machines can comprise several sections and 10 & 12 section or 16 to 20 section tandem machines are now common. The machine can operate on the blow and blow or press and blow principle and double gob production, i.e. delivery of two gobs of glass at the same time is common. Triple and quadruple gob machines are also increasingly used. The machine is currently capable of producing more than 600 containers per minute. Most bottles and jars are now made automatically by one of the two methods shown below. Molten ‘gobs’ of glass are delivered into a mould known as a ‘blank’ or parison mould. A puff of compressed air blows the glass down into the base of the mould to form the neck or ‘finish’ part of the bottle or jar. A second blast of compressed air is then applied through the already formed neck of the container to form the ‘parison’ of pre-form for the bottle against the walls of the parison mould cavity. The thick walled parison is then transferred to the final mould during which time the surface of the glass ‘reheats’ and softens again enough to allow the final container shape to be fully formed against the walls of the final mould cavity by the application of either compressed air or vacuum. The container is then removed and transferred to an annealing oven (lehr) where it is reheated to remove the stresses produced during forming and then cooled under carefully controlled conditions. Molten ‘gobs’ of glass are delivered into the parison mould and a plunger is used to press the glass into the parison shape. The final mould stage of the process is the same as that described for the Blow and Blow Process. Due to the first stage pressing process the glass distribution overall is better controlled. Narrow neck press and blow is in fact equal to the press and blow process. Due to improved plunger material, which is now capable to withstand the high temperatures, it became possible to make those plunger thinner and therefore capable to penetrate the narrow necks of the bottle’s parison. Because parison pressing provides better glass distribution equality, thus better wall thickness equality, NNPB was one of the major process improvements in recent bottle production leading to potential weight reductions. Selecionador de produtos

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https://www.eurotherm.com/pt-br/glass-manufacture/container-glass-forming-process/

2024-11-07T15:35:56Z

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Particles come in many shapes and sizes. Analyzing particles in food ingredients and correctly characterizing them is important because they can greatly affect the taste, appearance, stability, and processability of the final product. CP Kelco, a leading producer of specialty hydrocolloids based in San Diego, manufactures a variety of texturizing and stabilizing ingredients for food processors. Flow Imaging Microscopy (FIM) allows them to quickly and easily detect particle variations and ensure top quality products. He’s called the fixer. Many companies have one. He may be the ace maintenance mechanic who gets the call when a machine goes down unexpectedly. Or maybe he’s the process engineer who invariably is the one who figures out why a batch failed to meet specifications. At CP Kelco, it’s Ross Clark, Distinguished Research Fellow. He’s the fixer. For the San Diego, California-based supplier, Clark is assigned the tough questions, as well as those he poses himself. Flourishing in a capacious job title that many a scientist would envy, Clark is free to pursue answers to the most vexing challenges, to follow hunches and see where the trail leads. In fact, it was a hunch about the behavior of particles in movement in a customer’s powder eductor that most recently caught Clark’s interest. For the materials in question, operators had already effectively adjusted airflow to resolve occasional powder-flow blockages. Meeting product quality specifications was never at risk. No one even thought there was a problem. Yet Clark suspected that particle shape variation from batch to batch was causing some amount of variability. To compare individual particle shapes, Clark could study laboratory samples using a microscope. It would take hours to prepare samples, set up slides and measure any particles found, all the while knowing that some particles would be hidden by others and that they would be squeezed into shapes and sizes that differed from how they were formulated. Substantial reliance on human judgment also troubled Clark. “Manual microscopy was just too cumbersome and slow. It was difficult to see more than a handful of particles, certainly not enough to get a statistically significant sample,” Clark says. At a rheology trade fair he found a way to improve the process. “When I saw the FlowCam®, I thought, ‘this is so cool!’ Now, I can get 10,000 images of individual particle in less than a minute.” The Tools of a Detective The FlowCam flow imaging microscope detects the presence of particles and cells in a sample, takes a high-resolution digital image of each one and saves the images and measurement data for review and analysis. Combining the high speed of flow cytometers and the visual capabilities of microscopy, the system images thousands of particles in seconds while measuring up to 30 different particle properties, from basic morphological measurements such as area, length, width, diameter, volume (ESD) and aspect ratio to advanced types such as circle fit, elongation, perimeter and roughness. Using the FlowCam, Clark quickly proved correct his hunch about particle morphology affecting powder flow. Though the product met all required specifications, the screening method used to measure particle size — and that also is used throughout the dry products industry — was unable to recognize the shape of individual particles, allowing the product to meet the size specification despite variations in shape. This is significant because pneumatically conveyed particles of different shapes flow differently. A spherical or oddly shaped particle, for example, moves differently in an airstream than a flat or square particle such as a crystal. “Most people just don’t know enough about how particle morphology affects product performance or flow characteristics to ask the question,” Clark says. “Seeing digital images of individual particles on the FlowCam provided the documentation I needed to prove what was happening.” Further Steps Taken Clark then used the FlowCam to compare the size and shape of xanthan gum samples produced at two different plants. Batches from both plants met screen-size specifications and appeared identical, yet the customer experienced performance variations from one batch to the next. By imaging thousands of particles supplied from each location, minor differences in particle size distribution were revealed, documented and addressed. While mesh screens set a ceiling on the particle size they cannot account for very small particles and dust. “The FlowCam has advanced measurement technology beyond what people are used to measuring,” Clark says, “so the metrics people have traditionally used to assess quality are probably outdated for most manufacturers, especially for those offering products where particle characterization is as important as it is for gums.” Pictured above: xanthan gum and cellulose gum particles imaged by the FlowCam Xanthan gum, guar gum, pectin, carrageenan, cellulose gum and other CP Kelco products are used to impart thickening, stabilizing, suspending, texturizing and other properties to foods, beverages, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and personal care products. Careful formulation, production, and packaging are required to meet dispersability, hydration rate, powder flow and other key performance characteristics. Yet all of these are affected by individual particle size and shape. Similarly, agglomerated particles and blends such as pectin blended with sugar — or xanthan gum blended with guar gum — demand compatible particle sizes to ensure they remain locked together. If they become separated, required characteristics aren’t delivered. “The worst part of a particle size or shape issue is that it probably never occurs to the processor to check gum particle size or shape or that of any other ingredient. Instead, the recipe or the machinery are blamed,” says Clark. Making It Good Practice Clark typically shares particle images with customers, distributors and colleagues all over the world via email. Seeing actual images on screen after years of working with these products in formulation, manufacturing or packaging projects causes quite a reaction. To ready samples for a run through the FlowCam, Clark devised a procedure that suspends product within a clear paste, ensuring each particle remains still, yet visible, to the flow cell for detection and imaging. “Every product is different and every problem I study is different. I tried a number of approaches, using different magnifications, before determining the most effective way to get the sharpest product images,” says Clark. “Most particle analyzers base their measurements on an idealized model where every particle must be considered a round sphere,” says Clark. “The FlowCam ... bases its measurements on the actual size and shape of the particle.” Originally published in Processing Magazine Download our eBook, The Ultimate Guide to Flow Imaging Microscopy, which explores a variety of methods for analyzing particles and discusses issues associated with particle analysis.

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https://www.fluidimaging.com/blog/optimizing-processes-food-ingredient-particle-shape-analysis

2024-11-07T16:16:41Z

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In a wide lawn or near a lake, weeping willows make a picturesque addition to the landscape. Unfortunately, they have several liabilities that may make them unsuitable for most homeowners. If, however, you have the right conditions, weeping willows can become an elegant addition to your garden. Weeping willows (Salix babylonica) are native to China and central Asia. They grow throughout the U.S Hardy zones 2 through 9. The trees were used by Native Americans to relieve headaches and soreness. Here’s everything you need to know about how to grow these stunning trees. How Fast Does a Weeping Willow Tree Grow? Willow leaves are lance-shaped and turn yellow in the fall before dropping. They grow to be three to six inches long and the tree’s bark is gray and rough, with deep, long ridges. The tree blooms in late winter or spring and flowers known as catkins appear. A weeping willow tree can grow to be 50 feet tall and wide, with long, pendulous branches. Weeping willows have a fast growth rate and can grow more than 24 inches in one year. They have a short lifespan of 30 years (on average). They may live up to 50 years if taken care of well. In a fertilized lawn, weeping willows usually don’t need additional fertilizer. You can add fertilizer in the spring only if the growth seems slow or the leaves are pale. Provide ½ cup (with a 10-10-10 formula) fertilizer spread on the lawn under the canopy of the tree. The fertilizer should balance an equal ratio of phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen. - Phosphorus assists in the growth of stems, roots, and flowers. - Potassium is an all-rounded health booster. - Nitrogen contributes to the growth of the foliage on the tree’s famed weeping branches. If you prefer to use something organic, steer manure will work for you. It contains all the main nutrients mentioned above. A weeping willow plant can grow in full sun to partial shade. 4 hours of direct and unfiltered sunlight every day is best for the growing tree. If you’d like to grow this beautiful tree, make sure you: - Set the tree in the hole and make sure it’s straight. - Do not add compost, manure, or fertilizer to the hole. This will only encourage the roots to circle, rather than spread out. - Fill the hole half full with soil. Add two gallons of water and fill the hole with the remaining soil, tamping it down firmly. - Create a 3-foot circle that will prevent weeds from growing. You can do this by adding mulch to the base of the tree. - Use 2 to 3 inches of bark for mulch and also stake the sapling to create a straight tree if need be. When it comes to the propagation of the Salix babylonica, it is done through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be at least two feet long. When the mature willowing tree is dormant, cut from the base, and take from it. Take cuttings from the tree when temperatures are below 32 degrees Fahrenheit at night. You can also do this when the leaves have fallen in autumn. You may place the cuttings into the soil in early spring or late winter. Ensure the soil is moist during the entire growing season. This allows the cuttings to develop healthy roots. If you want your tree to have more vigor, you can prune it in February or March by snipping all its branches. This triggers new ones to sprout. You may also want to prune while the tree is young. This will see to it that there is only one central leader. Train the tree to have wide branch crotches as this prevents breakage. Willows are susceptible to wind damage as the tree is somewhat brittle. You can watch how to grow a weeping willow tree here: Weeping willows can tolerate most soil types including: - Compact soil You must ensure the soil has good drainage. When dealing with willows, trees prefer soil that is slightly acidic and moist. If the soil in your area is too alkaline, you can add some organic matter. This will help lower the pH. Water the tree weekly during the first year after planting. Once established, a willow plant can tolerate some dryness, although they may drop leaves. They grow best with regular moisture. If your tree is planted in an irrigated lawn, it should get plenty of water. This is why they are often planted near streams, lakes, or ponds. They like standing water and the far-reaching root systems are useful in clearing up a puddle. If there is a section of your garden that is prone to floods, willows can help clear this up. Where Do Weeping Willow Trees Grow Best? The weeping willow tree needs a wide area to grow. These trees need a yard or wide swath of lawn to stretch into because they can reach 50 feet in height and width. The roots can stretch wider than the tree. They are drawn towards the nearest abundant source of water. The roots are also attracted to nutrients around a septic system in the soil. They grow well near water but have some drought tolerance. This means you don’t worry about having to plant them right near a pond. They can handle the cold winter and also tolerate the heat in summer. As long as you water them often. Weeping Willow Pests and Problems Weeping willows are afflicted by pests, including the gypsy moth, aphids, and borers. These insects are difficult to control, especially on large trees. Try spraying a program designed for the specific pest that afflicts your tree. You should place a collar around young trees. Willow plants can also tempt rabbits, deer, and elk. They also suffer from several diseases including: - Willow scab - Willow blight - Crown gall - Root rot - Leaf spots - Black canker - Tar spot - Powdery mildew These diseases can cause branch or twig dieback, defoliation, and in some cases tree death. Plant disease-resistant trees and provide adequate water to keep the tree healthy. Rake up and remove leaf litter promptly. This will help control the spread of diseases in your garden. Weeping willows have invasive, shallow roots. They can stretch up to three times the length from the trunk to the canopy of the tree. These roots often lie near the surface and can cause bumps in the lawn. They can even crack cement sidewalks and patios. The roots can also damage underground sewer and plumbing lines. Leaf Litter and Low Lying Branches Like most fast-growing trees, willows have brittle wood that’s prone to breakage, especially if you live in an area with harsh winters, ice storms, and high winds. Prune the tree annually to remove dead or damaged wood. Also, remove suckers and branches that grow vertically. The long whip-like branches break easily in the wind and can create a lot of leaf litter. Should I Plant a Weeping Willow Tree? Who doesn’t love the weeping willow with its graceful, ground sweeping branches? They are a great addition to the scenery in any landscape. You only need to be cautious of where you plant them. They aren’t great near the pool or next to the house. They need a wide area to grow and should be planted where the twigs won’t interfere with children’s play or pedestrian travel. Keep them away from your pool so that you don’t have to be clearing leaf litter often. Because the configuration of willow branches make them easy to climb, children love to do so. The fantasy-like, enclosed space off the ground is a fun place to play. Be cautious, you don’t want them falling off the brittle branches. Although the Salix babylonica is the most popular in landscapes, there are some related species worth your attention. The Wisconsin weeping willow (Salix babylonica x Salix pentachdra) is a good tree for wet sites and open areas. It can grow to be 30 to 40 feet tall and wide. You can also try the cultivar “Elegentissima”. This variation has even longer branches. Both of these types can be grown in zones 4 through 9. What about a willow with brazen, golden twigs? The Golden weeping willow (Salix alba “Tristis”) grows in zones 3 through 10. It can grow to a height of 50 to 70 feet tall and wide. In the fall its green leaves turn golden which adds to the ornamental interest. If you are looking for a tree that is both magical and practical, a weeping willow is your answer. Their plenteous foliage and large size make them glorious sheltering trees. They are a great source of shade, comfort, and refuge. Their grace and allure evokes a sense of wonder and delights the senses. Learn More About Gardening and Growing Trees Gardening Channel provides quality tips and advice for gardeners that they can use daily. You don’t have to be a pro, it is our job to help you get there. If you are new to gardening or want to try out a few ideas, browse through our large collection of articles to get you going. If you are curious about other trees, check out: Photo from WikiMedia

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2024-11-07T15:44:16Z

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Former journalist and skeptic Lee Strobel has discovered something very interesting about science. Far from being the enemy of faith, science may now provide a solid foundation for believing in God. Has science finally discovered God? Certainly new discoveries in such scientific disciplines as cosmology, cellular biology, astronomy, physics and DNA research are pointing to the incredible complexity of our universe, a complexity best explained by the existence of a Creator.Written by Lee Strobel and Garry Poole, this six-session, 80-minute DVD curriculum comes with a companion participant’s guide along with a leader’s guide. The kit is based on Strobel’s book and documentary “The Case for a Creator” and invites participants to encounter a diverse and impressive body of new scientific research that supports the belief in God. Weighty and complex evidence is delivered in a compelling conversational style. The six sessions include: Science and God; Doubts about Darwinism; The Evidence of Cosmology; The Fine-Tuning of the Universe; The Evidence of Biochemistry; and, DNA and the Origin of Life.

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https://www.goldenagebooks.org/shop/the-case-for-a-creator-the-film-with-lee-strobel-dvd/

2024-11-07T16:46:53Z

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There is a major exhibition on Gustav Klimt and on the Vienna Secession at the Pinacothèque in Paris. The exhibition ‘In the Time of Klimt, the Vienna Secession’ is shown from the middle of February until the middle of June in 2015. The Vienna Secession was formed in 1897 by a group of Austrian artists including Gustav Klimt, Koloman Moser, Josef Hoffmann, Joseph Maria Olbrich, Mark Kurzweil and so on. The Vienna Secession included painters, sculptors and architects as well. Gustav Klimt had a major part forming the Vienna Secession and he was also the first president of the organisation. The exhibition shows the development of the Viennese art from the end of the 19th century through the beginning of the Viennese Secession to the first years of Expressionism. The exhibition shows the most outstanding works of the Vienna Secession and visitors have the chance to get to know better the works of Gustav Klimt. The exhibition mostly focuses on the major works by Gustav Klimt such as Judith I or the Beethoven Frieze but the exhibition has a particular attention on the beginning of the Vienna Secession and on the different painters influence on art from this period of time as well. The exhibition ‘In the Time of Gustav Klimt, the Vienna Secession’ is shown at the Pinacothèque in Paris from 12th February to 21st June in 2015. 28 Place de la Madeleine, 75008 Paris, France

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2024-11-07T15:26:34Z

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Can exercise cause more hair growth? Ok, so we can’t actually say that exercise makes your hair grow more. But we assure that we didn’t trick you into thinking that it does because exercise DOES help with healthy hair growth and also a healthy head of hair. But it doesn’t cause it directly. Rather, it’s the total body result of exercise that contributes to great looking hair. What we need to understand is that the normal hair growth process can be inhibited by mental and physical health problems (the most common one is stress). We all know that exercising helps to reduce stress. In this case, this is what regular exercise can do for your body and hair: Exercise benefits the entire body as it strengthens your cardiovascular system and reduces the risk of some medical conditions (diabetes, heart disease and hormonal changes due to stress and menopause) all these can affect hair growth. . Basically: Healthy body = healthy hair, glowing skin and strong nails. Exercise helps to reduce stress and guess what? Hair is affected by stress. When we are stressed, our bodies produce cortisone which is a stress hormone that can cause hair loss. Exercising on the other hand produces serotonin, a hormone that helps to reduce stress. Hence the less stressed we are, the healthier our hair will be. The production of new cells in our bodies increase and there’s a slower breakdown of proteins when we sleep. This means regular exercise helps us sleep better which promotes better and more efficient cell renewal and ultimately a nice head of healthy hair. Happy nourished follicles Each hair follicle and root contains blood vessels that supplies the hair with oxygen and nutrients to enable healthy growth. Working out increases blood circulation and body temperature. As more blood flows throughout the body, more nutrients and oxygen are supplied to the scalp, thus improving hair growth. How much exercise do you need to do? The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate cardio exercise a week, or at least 75 minutes of vigorous cardio exercise a week to maintain a healthy heart and veins. If this sounds too much for you, start small: even a 15 minute brisk walk around your block or neighbourhood three to four times a week will be beneficial. Remember that any type of exercise that elevates your heart rate and makes you break a sweat will optimise circulation and reduce inflammation. It’s the easiest, cheapest and the most convenient remedy to look and feel great! Our range or safe and natural shampoos and conditioners will help to supplement your current exercise regime to give you great looking and healthy hair. They won’t only wash the sweat and grime out, they’re filled with antioxidants and minerals that will treat your scalp and moisturise your hair. Browse the range here: https://www.hairprint.asia/collections/shampoo-conditioners

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Outdoor Classroom and Education HFCA is committed to developing the whole child and expanding learning outside the classroom--literally and figuratively. In addition to our nationally recognized outdoor classroom, students in fifth through seventh grades have the opportunity to participate in overnight outdoor education experiences. There are so many benefits of being unplugged and experiencing the wonder of God’s creation. A significant component of these overnight trips is a focus on team building. Each trip creates a supportive environment where students can bond with both teachers and other students. - Fifth and sixth grade students annually visit the NIU Lorado Taft Field Campus where they experience multidisciplinary activities by interacting with the natural world. During this 3-day, 2-night trip, students participate in supplementary activities that support our HFCA science curriculum. Included in these activities are orienteering and the usage of GPS technology, a simulation of the food energy cycle, an exploration of the rock and minerals, and wilderness survival. - Seventh grade students visit Timber-lee Christian Camp in East Troy, Wisconsin, where they experience many challenging activities that test their knowledge and understanding of the earth, life and physical sciences while also strengthening team building skills. During their 3-day, 2-night stay, students participate in zip-lining while also analyzing speed and velocity as affected by weight, attend classes on energy through a hands-on Energy Workshop, and explore the unique characteristics of various reptiles and mammals during Animal Encounters. Students also explore math and physics concepts by engaging in archery, a high ropes course, and rock climbing. Holy Family Catholic Academy believes that the environments in which children learn, play, and explore are foundational to their childhood experiences. We are proud to be the first Preschool-Grade 8 school in the entire Chicago area to be certified as an outdoor classroom by Nature Explore, a collaborative project of the Arbor Day Foundation and Dimensions Educational Research Foundation. The HFCA Outdoor Classroom consists of nine distinct areas that complement HFCA's innovative curriculum and expose students to a broad range of disciplines that go beyond textbooks and beyond the classroom. During free play, students develop important skills in critical thinking, creativity, and self-direction. Our outdoor classroom is truly a unique place to play and learn by: - expanding learning outside the classroom is consistent with HFCA's data-driven approach to our curriculum. Studies support that exposing students to nature: - helps improve students' concentration, - boosts creativity and collaboration, - nurtures the mind, body, and soul, - teaches students the importance of caring for God's creation, a major tenet of Catholic Social Teachings. - aligning with the International Baccalaureate mission and our goals of: - developing students’ natural curiosity, - promoting an independent spirit to explore new roles and ideas, - emphasizing the importance of intellectual, physical, and emotional balance needed to achieve personal well-being. States Susie Wirth, Nature Explore Outreach Director, "Holy Family Catholic Academy has shown tremendous leadership in growing the next generation of environmental stewards. Their commitment to providing research-based and nature-rich learning offers a wonderful example to educators throughout the country." Read more at: The Nature Explore Classroom at Holy Family Catholic Academy

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Summer brain drain is a reality for students (and parents!) alike. Although it comes with different names, including the summer slide and summer learning loss, they all mean the same thing. According to ThirdSpaceLearning.com, the answer to the question of “What is summer brain drain?” is as follows: “…over the summer vacation children are likely to forget a lot of the information and knowledge they have picked up over the past academic year.” Although the definition is helpful, what’s most important is discovering how to avoid it so that children can stay sharp and ready for fall while still enjoying fun in the sun. The overarching strategy is to keep families engaged with mentally stimulating activities and routines, and here are tips and hints. First, don’t panic! There are plenty of ways to help kids to keep learning all summer along, including summer reading programs at your local library. Reading helps children to solidify vocabulary words they learned in school while picking up new ones. To help your child even more, ask them to give you a five-minute summary of each book they read. This will help them to organize and vocalize thoughts while getting assistance with any unfamiliar words. Next up, incorporate math into everyday activities like talking about prices at the supermarket or creating questions about nature on your walks. Ask how many packs of burgers you can buy for $10 if they cost $2.50 apiece or how many leaves would be on a tree if each of the 10 branches has 20 of them. Recipes can do double duty as your children first read the instructions and then measure ingredients. ProdigyGame.com notes how you can “even make an exotic culinary masterpiece to discuss new flavors and cultures!” Mayo Clinic, meanwhile, shares how the park is a wonderful place to find built-in science learning opportunities. Your children can identify different trees, leaves, insects, rocks, clouds, weeds, and wildflowers. Free apps like Merlin will help them to identify birds by their song or appearance and, when the Cleveland Metroparks or the Lorain County Metroparks hold programs, take advantage of them to learn even more from a trained naturalist. Relevancy, Repetition, and Rewards Those are the three Rs discussed in an article published by Cleveland19.com. To keep learning going during the summer and to prevent a slide, relate learning activities to their interests to create engagement. One-and-done isn’t going to be enough, so use repetition; with reading, for example, 15-20 minutes daily is recommended. Then, reward your children for their engagement—perhaps by a trip to a science museum or their favorite park. Ongoing Learning With Horizon Education Centers Although knowing the answer to the question of “What is summer brain drain?” may be important, here’s what really matters: prevention. At our child care centers, we offer engaging, age-appropriate opportunities for learning throughout the entire year with infant care, toddler programs, preschool programs, school-age programs, and summer camp.

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Get Creative with Spice: Experiment Your Food With Flavor Secrets And More. Written by Green Jeeva on 20 Feb, 2023 “Vegetables, herbs, and spices. If you can combine those ingredients, that would be the best dish you’d ever cook!” ~ Rinrin Marinka. Spice is “a seed, fruit, root, bark, or other plant substance primarily used for flavoring, coloring, or preserving food.” Spices are distinguished from herbs, the leaves, flowers, or stems of plants used for flavoring or as a garnish. According to ancient medicine, spices have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Spices are used in medicine as well as in cooking. They are known to have several properties that are beneficial to human health. Spices Are Historic Around 9000 BC, settlements in the Indus Valley and Mesopotamia from Judea to Egypt’s Nile Valley began using spices in food, medicine, and cosmetics. Organic herbs & spices were initially used as food preservatives by humans. They soon discovered that many of these plants aided in the treatment of wounds, aches, and other common ailments. - Unlike in the past, when monopolies dominated the spice trade, the spice trade is now relatively decentralized. - Spices and herbs are frequently used in cuisine around the world to enhance flavor and introduce new flavors. - Spices can be found everywhere, including in space: spices were added to astronaut food for the United States space shuttle program in 1982. - The information age (mid-twentieth century) heralded a new era of global cuisine sharing. - Curious home cooks are increasingly preparing meals from various ethnic backgrounds with an expanding array of spices. - According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), spice consumption in the United States has increased exponentially over the last half-century, with spices such as ginger and chili pepper being used more frequently than ever. There is also renewed interest in the medicinal properties of spices and herbs. According to 2015 data, 5-10% of adults in the United States use botanical supplements for health benefits, such as spices. “Spices and herbs can help flavor foods while reducing added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium, and they can also `add to the enjoyment of nutrient-dense foods, dishes, and meals that reflect specific cultures,” according to the 2020-2025 US Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Why do we season our food with spices? So, here’s a list of reasons why we use spices in our cooking: - Spices improve the flavor and taste of food. - Spices are nutritious. - Spices aid in food preservation. Here are some commonly used spices in cuisines all over the world: - Black Pepper - Black Cardamom - Cumin seeds - Chilli Pepper - Coriander powder - Curry Leaves Ten ways to savor additional flavors. - Use ginger, chamomile, or peppermint to make a warm, comforting tea. - Combine turmeric and ginger in a warm glass of plant-based milk to create “golden milk.” - Add turmeric to stews and sautéed veggies. - Use ice cube trays, olive oil, and herbs to freeze oregano, rosemary, basil, and thyme. Then, place the tray in the freezer. - Fenugreek seeds can be added to oatmeal and smoothies. - Sprinkle freshly cooked rice with chopped parsley or coriander or add it to your salads. - Cinnamon should be sprinkled on the cereal. - Add cayenne, black pepper, or minced garlic to omelets or scrambled eggs to improve them. Let’s dig deep into the most used spices. This ancient spice is a potent antioxidant and has a long history of medical use. The distinctive therapeutic properties of cinnamon are attributed to the bark’s potent essential oils. - Use a cinnamon stick as a stirrer in coffee, tea, or hot cocoa, or add it to a stew with meat. - On cereal, squash, rice pilaf, and oatmeal, sprinkle a little ground cinnamon. - Apples, bananas, melons, and oranges can also be sprinkled with cinnamon and brown sugar. Researchers have noted for 30 years the frequency of chronic disease among individuals who consumed turmeric more than those who didn’t. They have also noted that curry powder contains a significant amount of turmeric, an essential ingredient in Asian cuisine. - Cooking rice calls for 1/4 teaspoon of water. - Before cooking vegetables in a pan or stirring a stir-fry, add a half teaspoon to the oil. - Chili, chicken soup, or potato soup all need a dash. - Mix the ingredients and pour over roasted cauliflower to make a nice egg salad. - Sprinkle a little seasoning on popcorn or other snack mixtures to add a fresh flavor. Ginger is a popular flavoring in cakes, cookies, bread, and beverages. It’s also tasty in sauces and fruit dishes and popular in Asian cuisine. - Suck on one to two pieces of crystallized ginger for motion sickness. - Grate fresh ginger over cooked vegetables or tofu, or sprinkle with powdered ginger. - Stir-fry with sliced ginger. - Rub ground ginger into meat before grilling to help tenderize and flavor it. - steep a coin-size piece of fresh ginger into your tea to help tenderize and flavor it. - Sprinkle acorn squash or sweet potatoes with ground ginger and brown sugar before baking. Coriander, also known as Chinese parsley, is derived from the coriander plant’s sweet, nutty seeds (not to be confused with cilantro, an herb that comes from the strongly scented leaves of the coriander plant). - In a peppermill, combine coriander seed and peppercorn. - Coriander can be coarsely ground and rubbed into meats or fish before cooking, adding to the flavor secrets. - Season stews, casseroles, marinades, vinaigrettes, and pickled dishes with whole or ground seeds. Nutmeg is an evergreen tropical tree native to eastern Indonesia’s Molucca or Spice Islands. “Nutmeg” means “musky” and refers to a fragrance. Nutmeg is high in aromatic oils, minerals (copper, potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, zinc, magnesium), B-group vitamins, and flavonoids, which are potent antioxidants. - It goes well with both savory and sweet dishes; it is best to add it at the end of the cooking process because heat weakens the aroma. The Bottom Line Spices are an essential part of our daily diet and have a long history. It’s easier to envision a single meal with spice in it. They have been used for thousands of years for flavor enhancement, health benefits, and food preservation. Spices, in a nutshell, are the essence of life, balancing flavors from everyday ingredients and elevating them to an entirely new flavor profile while serving our dietary needs and promoting wellness.

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Our parental skills begin with pregnancy (or afterwards in case of adoption) and go on until the the adulthood of our kid, supporting its emotional, intellectual, physical and financial development. Being and becoming a parent is not an easy task, as no one really prepares us for it and usually we try to do our best using the example we experienced with our own parents. All the phases of becoming a parent imply different psychological factors, that sometimes may be source of stress and anxiety, and can be difficult to deal with. As our role as parent is very delicate it is important to recognise if we have difficulties in achieving this role and ask for help when needed. Pregnancy implies 9 months of many intense changes and thoughts. The body of the woman keeps on changing and growing in order to host the new little creature, and for a limitate amount of time is not under her control. Pregnancy is the moment of waiting and preparing mentally for the changes the the new born will bring and it can be associated with physical and psychological stress. Sometimes contradictory emotions and worries can be present. Some worries may be related to the changing body and fear of the moment of the delivery; worries and expectations can invest as well the baby and his health, the couple and our ability of being a good mom. Especially during pregnancy women fantasise about how the baby could be, about his physical features and about his temper. These nine months are very important for the couple to prepare mentally and also practically to the arrival of the baby. If you want to know more about the effect of stress in pregnancy click here. Giving birth and Post-partum From the moment of the delivery, all the changes imagined and fantasised during pregnancy effectively come true. The new parents finally meet the fantasised baby who is often different from who they imagined. They find themselves in the new role of being parents, of taking care of a little creature and trying to understand its signals and needs. Furthermore, a significant reorganisation of time-management and the couple habits are needed. Western cultures often idealise becoming a parent as a moment connoted only by great joy and happiness. But sometimes this image is very different from the feelings of the new mom, who may feel shaken and overwhelmed by these changes, these new responsibilities and the expectancies of others. Post-partum, because of these psychological changes and of hormones fluctuations, is a moment of high risk for experiencing depression. Over 70% of women experience depressive but transient symptoms (the so-called baby blues), but around 20% of them develops a real post-partum depression, a severe condition that must be treated as soon as possible as it has severe consequences on the cognitive and emotional development of the kid and on the life of the woman. Indeed risk factors are having already suffered from psychiatric problems, genetic predisposition, an unwanted pregnancy, relational problems with the partner, lack of social support, stressful life events. If you want to know more about women and depression click here. The arrival of the new born can be a source of stress for the new father as well. Lately researches have focused also on paternal postpartum depression, that interestingly seems as frequent as the maternal one; indeed the paternal role has become more and more active and important in the caring of the new kid. The first years of the kid The first years of the toddler are crucial for his cognitive and affective development, as these are the years where attachment gets established. Attachment is that special bond that links the new mum and her kid and that allows the newborn to have its needs satisfied in order to survive and be protected from dangers. Sure enough, the role of parents in their kids’ growth is teaching their kids to protect themselves, recognise dangers and apply self-defensive strategies. This means allowing their kids to experiment “dangers”, guiding them through and explaining them what is happening. For dangers I mean also little frustrations and the first limits. Not exposing kids to little frustrations (appropriate for age and development abilities) may create children who will believe that the world is always a safe place, that they will always see their desires satisfied and that other people will always protect them; and this kind of belief will not help them to adapt to the real world. Parents have the delicate role of finding a balance between protection and exposure to “dangers”, balance that must be continuously adjusted with the growth of the kid, its new-learned skills and its growing independence. Little by little the kid start exploring the world and the first separations can be difficult to deal with. If you want to know more about the guilt of being a working mother click here. In finding this balance they should consider their kids’ “proximal zone of development”, that means that particular set of skills that can be trained and learned in a particular moment of the developmental stage of the kid. Parents should protect and confort their kid when he is not able to do it by himself and teach him how to self-confort, in order to become independently able to deal with his own emotions. It is not an easy task understanding the toddlers abilities and skills; they are easily misinterpreted so it can happen to provide excessive unnecessary help or not providing it at all. Repeated experiences of failing in interpreting the toddler needs and requests can influence the establishment of the attachment style. If you want to know more about the types of attachment style click here. Usually our parenting style is influenced by many factors, e.g. the attachment with the kid itself, social and familiar factors, and the parental style we experienced with our parents. Knowing the impact of our early experiences in the way we relate to our kid is very important, as it can allow us to understand if a negative influence is present and change it through to an appropriate specialistic support.

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To help child care providers create and maintain safe and healthy environments for children, the Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Education offers many tools and resources, including free child care health consultation and training services in addition to the items listed below. Resources for all child care providers - IDOA Personal Appliance and Space Heater Guidelines - Indiana emergency response planning guide for child care providers - Flooding and mold - Flooding and mold (Spanish) - How to wash your hands properly - Como lavar sus manos apropiadamente - Health and safety fact sheets from the Child Care Health Consultant program - Policy templates and other resources from the Child Care Health Consultant program - Online trainings through I-lead and Spark - Communicable diseases National health and safety resources Fourth edition is now available - The National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education provides free resources and publications for families and child care providers, including Caring for Our Children: National Health and Safety Performance Standards; Guidelines for Early Care and Education Programs, 4th Edition. A joint publication of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Public Health Association and the NRC, CFOC4 is an essential resource for health and safety best practices. - OnSafety is the official blog of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Read OnSafety to stay current with the latest safety information and important messages (including product recalls) that will keep you, your family and the children in your care safe. - Healthy Child Care is a web-based resource directory from the Environmental Protection Agency. The website provides information and resources on asthma, chemical hazards, environmental tobacco smoke, green cleaning, indoor air quality, lead, mercury, mold, pesticides, plastics and other environmental health information topics for child care. - Autism Awareness and Acceptance in Early Childhood Education is a web page from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Early Childhood Development. It includes information and resources related to Autism Spectrum Disorder and the role that early care and education professionals play in diagnosis and intervention. - Learn the signs. Act early is a web page of resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC's "Learn the signs. Act early." program aims to improve early identification of children with autism and other developmental disabilities so children and families can get services and the support they need. The program has free downloadable materials that support providers and families in identifying and supporting the achievement of developmental milestones.

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What Are Scorpions? Scorpions are arachnids unique to this side of the Rockies. People in the Northeast won’t even understand what it is like to see them hiding in your shoes, to find one in the garage, or to come close to stepping on one outside. Scorpions are dangerous insects that you can get to know a little better from a distance. What Do Scorpions Look Like? Scorpions have an unmistakable appearance. The arachnids, which means they are related to spiders and mites, are usually brown, black, or red in color, and they have a menacing appearance. Scorpions are between 2 and 3 inches long. The scorpion’s long, slender tail is nearly as large as the body and it curls up the back of the scorpion. Attached to the tail is a venomous stinger. Scorpions gave two large front pincers. Where Can You Find Scorpions? Scorpions like to hide. They prefer to hide under: - And debris Anyone in the West, South, and Southwest know that you can’t hide your shoes outside your tent when camping because scorpions like to hide in there too. Scorpions in Texas can be found indoors and outdoors. They do, however, require soil to survive because they are burrowing arachnids. Scorpions need to stay cool. To do that, they are most active at night and can be found in: - Under decks - And in sheds What Do Scorpions Eat? Scorpions are carnivorous. They eat insects and small rodents to survive. Scorpions can adapt to harsh climates and environments, which is why they have survived for millions of years. Scorpions can slow down their metabolism in harsh conditions so they don’t have to eat as often. Centruroides scorpions, which are found in Texas, are not burrowing insects. They are foragers, feeding on: - Dead plants - Fallen trees - And other debris You may ask yourself do scorpions pose a threat to me or my family? Are Scorpions Dangerous? Yes, the scorpion’s defense system is their venom. They use this venom to kill their prey and to protect themselves from predators. If they are disturbed by people or animals, they will sting. The stinging causes significant swelling around the sting. Not all stings are lethal, but they can cause swelling, tenderness, and pain for several days. Scorpions in Texas are not considered lethal to humans, but their stings can cause pain and allergic reactions. Texas scorpions like the Striped Bark Scorpion are the most common scorpion in Texas. The Striped Bark Scorpion’s stings are painful and may last for several days as well as cause swelling and itching. Does Innovative Pest Control Offer Scorpion Control? Yes, the only effective way to manage and control scorpions is with professional scorpion control services. Not only can they control scorpions, but they can control the insects that scorpions eat, and professionals can create a plan to prevent scorpions from invading in the first place. Scorpion Prevention Tips To help prevent problems with scorpions on your East Texas property, consider the following prevention tips: - Seal cracks and openings in the exterior of your home. - Set traps around the perimeter of your home. - Spray an insecticide to deter scorpions. - Do not leave shoes outside. - Clear yard debris away from the outside of the home. - Call the professionals at Innovative Pest Control for effective pest management and control strategies. If you need a scorpion exterminator in Texas, contact our pest control company at (903) 326-7395. Visit our pest control reviews to see why customers choose our Texas pest control service when they need the best exterminator for scorpions in Texas.

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Northern Rough-winged Swallow Common Name: Northern Rough-winged Swallow. Scientific Name: Stelgidopteryx Serripennis. What to look for? A bird whose coloring is simply described as “plain!” The Northern Rough-winged Swallow has a plain brown back and dusky throat. They won’t stand out in flocks of other brighter colored swallow species. It is a small, but long-bodied bird. It has a small head and bill. Its wings are long and relatively broad and pointed. The tail of a Northern Rough-winged Swallow is short and very square. Both sexes are quite similar. Where can they be found at Carillon Stonegate Pond? Jetting over our ponds! Northern Rough-winged Swallows may be seen intermixed with the Tree and Barn Swallows darting above the surface of Carillon Stonegate Pond. And if you are out for a walk this Spring, you may find several over our ponds. How big are they? The Northern Rough-winged Swallow averages just over 5approximately 5 ½ inches in length. And their wingspan is just over eleven (11) inches. They weigh approximately 0.5 ounces. What are their flight patterns? Northern Rough-winged Swallows are very agile fliers. Their flight style is called "Flap-gliding" where short bursts of flapping are alternated with intervals in which the wings are extended in a glide. Northern Rough-winged Swallows – like Tree and Barn Swallows - live much of their life on the wing - drinking, feeding, courting, and even mating in mid-air. They are acrobatic fliers, making sharp twists, turns, swoops, and lunges. Northern Rough-winged Swallows often cruise low, flying just a few inches above the ground or water. Their wingbeats are slower, more deliberate, and fluttery than other swallows. During glides they tend to hold their wings straight out from the body with less of a bend in the wing than other swallows. How else do they behave? Like many swallows, Northern Rough-winged Swallows also drink and even bathe on the wing, dipping down to take a mouthful of water or touch their belly to the surface for a quick rinse. At nest sites, males often perch nearby to defend the nest from intruders, especially during nest construction and egg laying. Outside of the breeding season they frequently mix with other swallow species that we observe on Carillon Stonegate Pond. What’s for dinner? The Northern Rough-winged Swallow is an insectivore. It only eats insects. They feed on a wide variety of flying insects, especially flies. Other insects on its dining menu include beetles, wasps, wild bees, winged ants, some moths, damselflies, grasshoppers, and a few spiders. Where do they take up residence? Northern Rough-winged Swallows can be found across most of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Central America. They are common throughout the United States and southern Canada during the summer - and they spend time here in Illinois. You can find Northern Rough-winged Swallows residing near lakes, ponds, and rivers. Where do they breed and nest? Northern Rough-winged Swallows usually breed in Spring. They nest in burrows created by other animals - such as kingfishers, squirrels, and other Swallows - in clay, sand, or gravel banks, typically near water. They are more solitary than other Swallows and do not nest in colonies. Northern Rough-winged Swallows have a single brood annually. The female will lay from four (4) to eight (8) eggs. The incubation period is about sixteen (16) days. Young leave the nest about three (3) weeks after hatching. Where do they migrate? Yes, they are seasonal travelers. The Northern Rough-winged Swallow is a “neotropical migrant". They leave their breeding range in the fall and travel south in flocks of mixed swallow species to winter in Mexico and Central America. Northern Rough-winged Swallows fly from their North American breeding grounds such as Illinois by late summer. They return here as early as March or April. Because both fall and spring migrations extend over many weeks, large concentrations of migrating Northern Rough-winged Swallows are unusual. What is their conservation status? There is low conservation concern. However, according to the North American Breeding Bird Survey, Northern Rough-winged Swallow populations have declined throughout their range by about 18% over the last several decades. Partners in Flight estimates the global breeding population at 18 million. Northern Rough-winged Swallows rate a 10 out of 20 on the Continental Concern Score. Do they make any interesting sounds? Northern Rough-winged Swallows are generally silent. Its song is a faint, gurgling, and hoarse sound. Here is a link to the sounds of the Northern Rough-winged Swallow. Interesting Facts About the Northern Rough-winged Swallow Swallow: The name 'Rough-winged' comes from small serrations on the outermost wing feathers (see 3rd photo). The genus name of the Northern Rough-winged Swallow is Stelgidopteryx, which means "scraper wing"; the species name, serripennis, means "saw feather." The oldest recorded Northern Rough-winged Swallow was approximately 6 years old. For more information on the Northern Rough-winged Swallow and sources of information used in this blog (these are the sources that I am using to learn as I blog), please visit All About Birds, Audubon Society, Birdweb and the Missouri Department of Conservation. And the Cornell Lab of Ornithology provides a wonderful source of information for anyone interested in learning more about birds. The Carillon at Stonegate community is very fortunate to have a variety of wetland, forest and prairie environments conducive to a variety of birds and other wildlife, plants and insects. Our community and the Kane County Forest Preserve do an exceptional job in maintaining this natural environment – both for the benefit of the birds and wildlife and for our residents to enjoy. Take a hike and see what you can find – and identify!

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How to Become a Veterinary Technician Do you love animals? Have people commented that you seem to “have a way” with them? Do your friends come to you when they have a question about their pets? Becoming a veterinary technician is a great career for animal lovers who want to get into the field without having to spend a lot of money and seven to nine years getting a veterinarian degree. If you’re wondering how to become a vet tech, you’re in the right place. Vet tech schools will teach you the knowledge and skills required to support veterinarians. On this page we’ll discuss what a vet tech does, the outlook for this career, salary ranges, the education and certification required, and how to find a job. What Does a Vet Tech Do? A veterinary technician has many responsibilities. Their days are filled with a variety of tasks. They greet patients and discover the reason for the visit. They take the pet’s temperature, look in the ears and eyes, and listen to the heart in order to provide basic information to the veterinarian. While a veterinary technician can’t make diagnoses, prescribe medications, or perform surgical procedures, they assist in surgery, monitor heart and respiratory rates, monitor recovery from anesthesia, and give medications. On any given day they may draw blood and place catheters, take X-rays, take the appropriate samples for a variety of lab tests, and document results for the vet to interpret. Veterinary technicians work in the same places as veterinarians. They support veterinarians in private practices, animal hospitals, zoos, and wherever vets practice. Medical and biomedical research labs also hire vet techs, although they’re usually called research lab techs or animal lab techs in these settings. While their duties are similar to other vet tech positions, jobs in experimental research aren’t for everyone, especially those who gain much of their job satisfaction from helping to heal individual animals. Still, these labs hire qualified techs and may even pay a higher rate than other lab tech positions because the job can be emotionally difficult. Successful veterinary technicians love animals and have a strong interest in health and medicine. They have good animal-handling abilities, have excellent communication skills, interact well with the public, and pay attention to details. Veterinary Technician Salary and Career Outlook Veterinary technician salaries can vary significantly, but according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2017 the median annual wage was $16.06 hourly, or $33,400 annually. The annual salary range was from $22,880 to more than $49,000. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top-paying states for vet techs are: State | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage | Connecticut | $20.85 | $43,360 | New York | $20.60 | $42,840 | Alaska | $19.79 | $41,160 | Massachusetts | $19.69 | $40,950 | California | $19.08 | $39,690 | The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the states with the highest employment levels in this job are: State | Employment | Texas | 10,570 | California | 9,780 | Florida | 8,070 | Pennsylvania | 5,650 | New York | 4,660 | There are multiple ways to advance your career and increase your earnings after starting as an entry-level vet tech: - Get a research-related job. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that veterinary technicians working in research positions often earn more than those working in other fields. - Become a veterinary technician specialist (VTS) — a vet tech who specializes in a particular area, such as surgery or dentistry. For more information, see the Advanced Degree section - Become a teacher for a vet tech program. - Write for industry publications or websites. - Continue your schooling and go on to become a vet technologist, veterinarian, or animal scientist. What Is the Difference Between a Veterinary Technician and a Veterinary Technologist? You may have heard of veterinary technologists and wondered how they are different from veterinary technicians. Actually, there is a lot of overlap between the two — they perform many of the same jobs, and salary ranges and career outlooks are similar for both. However, veterinary technologists usually have a four-year bachelor’s degree, while veterinary technicians only need a two-year associate degree. In addition, many more vet technologists work in advanced research-related fields. For more details about the differences and similarities, refer to the Occupational Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Veterinary Technician Requirements To become a veterinary technician, you’ll need to complete an accredited two-year associate degree program. There are also four-year programs for becoming a veterinary technologist. In addition to academic studies, practical experience that includes assisting veterinarians, learning to work with difficult animals, and learning to manage emotions while maintaining a professional manner in stressful situations is part of the training for veterinary technicians. This experience is typically gained by working in a veterinary hospital or clinic. Vet Tech Credentialing Each state has different requirements for credentialing veterinary technicians. Some states certify, some license, and some require registration. Although these terms have different definitions (see below), the main thing to remember is that they all refer to granting permission for a person to work in the state as a vet tech. Certification is the recognition of achieved standards. It is typically bestowed by a non-governmental agency, such as a professional association or independent board. It is also generally voluntary — that is, it is not necessarily a requirement. However, in some states, certification is required for vet techs. Licensing is permission given by an appropriate authority to do something. It is different from certification in that it is not voluntary. Registration provides a means for a government agency to keep track of practitioners. It may or may not be required for practice. In addition, often there are no specific criteria for registration. The terminology used to recognize a credentialed vet tech varies based on the credentialing requirements. An LVT is a licensed veterinary technician. An RVT is a registered veterinary technician. A CVT is a certified veterinary technician. And one state, Tennessee, uses the term LVMT, which is a licensed veterinary medical technician. Because having so many terms can be confusing, the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) recommends the use of the term “credentialed veterinary technician. However, this terminology is not yet in widespread use. Here’s a table of the credentialing requirements (and terms) for each state as of January 2019: States that certify (CVT) | Arizona*, Arkansas*, Colorado, Florida, Idaho*, Illinois*, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi*, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Oregon*, Pennsylvania*, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin*, Wyoming | States that license (LVT) | Alabama, Alaska, Delaware, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, North Dakota, South Carolina, Tennessee (referred to as LVMT), Texas, Virginia, Washington | States that require registration (RVT) | California, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, West Virginia | States with no credentialing requirements | Connecticut, Utah | *States in which certification is required rather than voluntary NAVTA has facilitated the development of specialty organizations (called academies) that provide programs in various specialties. When candidates complete the program, they become certified as a veterinary technician specialist (VTS) in their specific discipline. Specialties include clinical practice, equine medicine, surgery, emergency and critical care, surgery, anesthesia, dentistry, internal medicine, zoological medicine, and behavior. Basic requirements include graduation from an accredited technician program. Some specialties require a four-year degree, approval to work in the state in which you wish to practice, and on-the-job experience (usually at least three to five years). NAVTA has information about the various specialties and links to the different academies that provide certification. Vet techs enter the field with an associate degree, but candidates in most states are required to pass a credentialing exam. In most states, the test used is the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE®) from the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB). Scores are submitted directly to the student’s state board. Some states also require applicants to pass the state’s own practical exam in order to be licensed. When doing your research about schools and programs, you may want to check with the school about specific state requirements — or check with the state directly. It’s important to understand that in order to take the VTNE® you have to first verify your eligibility with your state. You’ll then complete an AAVSB application form, provide proof of citizenship, provide a copy of your diploma from an accredited program, and pay the required fees. The exam is given only on specified dates, and all of this preparation can take some time, so plan ahead. Vet Tech Programs - Introduction to Veterinary Technology — introduces the field of veterinary technology, including basic information about topics such as animal behavior, medical terminology, and occupational safety - Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology — focuses on anatomical structure and biological systems, as well as function and interrelation of the muscular, skeletal, nervous, respiratory, and other systems of common pets and farm animals - Veterinary Radiology and Imaging — explains X-ray terminology, production technique and safety; discusses how to assure high-quality diagnostic radiographs with minimal radiation exposure - Microbiology — focuses on the importance of microbes in animal health and disease; may include laboratory exercises on how to develop and test hypotheses and to think critically about observations - Veterinary Clinical Pathology — covers laboratory safety, operation of lab equipment, collection and processing of samples, hematology and coagulation, blood chemistry, urinalysis, and cytological techniques - Veterinary Pharmacology — explains the uses, effects, and modes of action of drugs in the treatment of clinical disease in animals - Animal Diseases — focuses on topics related to animal health and disease management: animal health indicators, causes of disease, methods of disease transmission, disease diagnosis, and disease prevention - Veterinary Anesthesia and Surgery — explains the basics of animal anesthesia used in surgical procedures, including drugs and equipment for anesthetic administration, recovery, emergencies, and preoperative and postoperative patient care - Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care — focuses on emergency and critical care skills for quality care of animals in emergency situations, as well as treatment options for a variety of emergency and critical care situations - Veterinary Office Management and Client Communication — introduces procedures and tasks performed in a veterinary office, including fundamental concepts of effective communications and providing superior customer satisfaction Your program will also have practical experience requirements; this experience may be called an internship, externship, preceptorship, or practicum, depending on your program. This real-world experience is designed to prepare you for high-quality service and responsibilities. The degree of support in this area can vary significantly: Some schools arrange internships, others leave it up to the student to make their own arrangements. Online Vet Tech Degree If you’ve wondered whether there are veterinary technician programs available online, the answer is yes. However, as with on-campus schools, practical, hands-on experience is also required. It’s less likely that an online program will provide support you in arranging internships, so if you think you’ll need assistance with this part of the program, make sure to ask about it when you talk to a school that interests you. How to Find a Job as a Vet Tech Working at a vet’s office is a great way to realize your dream of working with animals. These jobs can be competitive, but the following tips may help you increase your chances of getting one. - Target your search. Clinics that work primarily with small animals are more likely to have openings because their operations require more manpower. You’ll certainly want to watch the classified ads, but don’t rely solely on them. Jobs aren’t always widely advertised. Use your network. Who do you know who knows a veterinarian or someone who works at a veterinary clinic? Would they be willing to mention you to their contacts or make an introduction? - Be active. Don’t wait on your network. Mail introductory letters tailored to specific clinics and include your resume and references. If possible, deliver them to the clinic in person. If you get the opportunity to speak to the office manager or vet, tell them of your interest in working with them and say you hope they’ll consider you if they ever need help. - Volunteer. If you have the time, volunteer at a clinic. It’s a good way to get to know the people and learn the clinic’s operations. It will give you an opportunity to show them you’re a knowledgeable, responsible team member and help you get a foot in the door. - Participate in internships. Try to get an internship to get job-specific experience, even if the internship is unpaid (if this is financially feasible for you). If you do a great job, you may be able to transition it into an offer of full-time employment with the same employer. Even if you can’t, you’ll have gained valuable real-word experience that will help you in securing employment elsewhere. - Be willing to start at the bottom. Most clinic employees learn the business from the ground up. Be willing to take on tasks like cleaning cages and handling basic daily care. Listen well and work hard to prove yourself, and chances are you’ll get an opportunity to take on tasks with more responsibility and move up to assisting the vet. - Get positive attention. When you have a job interview or have a chance to connect with a professional who spends a little time with you and answers questions, whether you get a job or not, send a thank you note immediately. Even if there isn’t an opening at the moment, they’ll be more likely to remember and call you later because you’ve made a good impression. - Don’t give up. Keep making contacts, keep sending out your resume and keep trying to get interviews. It can take time and effort to find an opportunity, but if you get discouraged, just remember this quote from the author Napoleon Hill: “Patience, persistence, and perspiration make an unbeatable combination for success.“ Written by Gwen Duzenberry Gwen Duzenberry has a master’s in reading education and an MBA in project management. In addition to developing training materials for Fortune 500 companies, she worked in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and technology before becoming a freelance writer 14 years ago.

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The healthiest countries in the world include Singapore, Italy, Australia, Switzerland, Japan, Israel, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden and Germany. Singapore has topped the list of World's healthiest countries, while India has secured the 103rd position, according to a recent report. The list ranks countries using data from the United Nations, the World Bank and the World Health Organization and the Bloomberg rankings gave each country with a population of 1 million or more a health score and a health-risk score, the Independent reported. The health score is based on factors such as life expectancy from birth and causes of death, while health-risk is based on factors which could impede health such as the proportion of young people who smoke, the number of people with raised cholesterol and the number of immunizations. Singapore came top with an overall score of 89.45 percent, Italy ranked second healthiest with 89.07 percent and Australia came third with 88.33 percent. The UK also failed to reach the top 20, ranking at number 21 with a score of 76.84 percent, behind Belgium, Ireland and Norway. India ranked 103rd with an overall score of 22.17 percent and ranking 145, Swaziland came last with 0.26 percent. The data is a useful guide for policy makers, who might look at the practices of higher-scoring countries to improve their own countries' health scores, as per the World Economic Forum. The word "healthy", however, is open to interpretation, the WEF stress, saying a ranking defining "healthy" by "quality of life" rather than "life expectancy" might include lower-income countries which report higher levels of life satisfaction. The study also revealed a global rise in the consumption of healthy food, such as fruit and vegetables, but this was overtaken by a concerning increase in the amount of junk food being eaten. The healthiest countries in the world include Singapore, Italy, Australia, Switzerland, Japan, Israel, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden and Germany. The least healthy countries in the world include Swaziland, Lesotho, Democratic, Republic of Congo, Chad, Mozambique, Burundi, Malawi, Angola, Uganda and Cameroon.

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Florida's manatees are dying at unusually high rates this year, and experts are warning that the sustained loss of a key food source is severely threatening the iconic marine mammals. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's most recent report, which spans Jan. 1 to May 28, recorded 761 manatee deaths so far in 2021. Researchers say this year's alarming die-off could surpass the record 804 manatee deaths that were tallied in 2018, NBC News reported. "If this continues through the rest of the year, this is going to be one of the highest mortality years ever," said Jon Moore, a marine biologist and oceanographer at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. Moore said the main issue is worsening water quality in Florida's waterways from wastewater contamination and nutrient runoff that trigger toxic red tides and overgrowths of algae, known as algal blooms. These recurrent problems are killing off seagrass, seaweed-like plants that grow underwater and are a main food source for manatees. Read the full story at NBCNews.com.

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Neurodegenerative Disease Symptoms Neurodegenerative disease symptoms vary from person to person, but most often, treatment is aimed at managing the symptoms. Medications are prescribed to control the physical and mental symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases. However, there is no cure for neurodegenerative disease, and treatments cannot slow down its progression. In many cases, the symptoms of neurodegenerative disease will worsen over time, so it is essential to seek out medical care early. What is the most common neurodegenerative disease? Neurodegenerative diseases are conditions where nerve cells gradually die. This happens due to changes in the cell’s structure or function. At first, the condition may be mild and unnoticeable, but as the number of dying neurons increases, the symptoms will become more severe. Eventually, patients will lose their ability to think clearly or walk independently. There is no known cure for neurodegenerative diseases, but treatments exist to help alleviate symptoms. Neurodegenerative diseases can be divided into four major groups. These categories are amyloidoses, tauopathies, a-synucleinopathies, and TDP-43 proteinopathies. Symptoms and prognosis of each disease vary widely, and many patients will have a variety of symptoms. The most common type of neurodegenerative disease in the United States is Alzheimer’s disease. It affects more than five million people in the United States. While there is currently no cure, UT Southwestern Medical Center offers comprehensive care for patients with this disease. What are the signs of neurodegenerative disease? Neurodegenerative diseases cause cells of the nervous system to die, and they are typically progressive and incurable. Many of these diseases are inherited, but others are caused by certain environmental or lifestyle factors. While there are no cures for these conditions, medications can help manage symptoms and sometimes slow the disease’s progression. In addition to their physical symptoms, neurodegenerative diseases typically lead to declines in cognitive function and loss of independence. Some symptoms of neurodegenerative disease include the following: excessive or lack of blinking. This may be due to an energy deficit in the central nervous system or brain. Another common sign is facial drooping, which may be indicative of mitochondrial dysfunction. Patients with early neurodegeneration may also show postural tremors. What are the top 10 neurological diseases? There are many different types of neurological diseases. Some are genetic, while others are caused by a physical or psychological problem. Learn about the symptoms of these diseases so that you can properly diagnose them and start treatment. These diseases can also be caused by bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infections. Some risk factors for these diseases include genetics, age, smoking, and drug use. You should also stay active and eat a healthy diet to help prevent the symptoms of many neurological diseases. There are hundreds of millions of people around the world who suffer from one or more of these diseases. Stroke is one of the most common diseases and is responsible for more than 6 million deaths annually. Most stroke deaths occur in low and middle-income countries. Epilepsy is another common disease affecting at least 50 million people. Dementia is another common neurological condition and affects an estimated 47.5 million people. Another common neurological disease is migraine. Can a blood test detect neurological problems? Blood tests are important tools in the detection of neurological disorders. They detect abnormalities in the brain and blood, and monitor therapeutic drug levels. Blood tests are also useful in the diagnosis of dementia and other neurological disorders. They can be conducted online, and results are usually available in 24 to 48 hours. Neurological disorders are often hard to diagnose. However, new technologies are making it possible to identify them more easily. Researchers are using various methods to diagnose neurological disorders, including chemical and metabolic tests. Some of them can be done in the doctor’s office, while others are performed in specialized facilities. Many of the tests are inexpensive and carry low risk. Some may take several days to process, so the results are not immediately available. Genetic testing is another tool that can be used in the diagnosis of neurological disorders. It can identify the genetic changes responsible for the disorder. The most common inherited neurological disorder is Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, which causes degeneration of nerves. The symptoms of this disorder include muscle weakness and lack of coordination, especially in walking. Other symptoms include high-arched foot or hammer toe.

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If you think about the value of trees, you might think about the smaller benefits of having them, such as making your yard look nice or providing shade on a hot summer. But did you know that trees have a dollar value of their own? Yes, you can put a monetary value on trees even after a tree has been taken down in an emergency, such as after a storm or high winds. You may even be able to recapture your loss through an insurance claim or as a deduction from your federal income tax. How Can I Find Out What My Trees Are Worth? Want to know the value of your trees? A tree care professional can use industry guidelines to determine their worth. These guidelines have been widely adopted in the field and are recognized by insurance companies, the courts, and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in most cases when looking to claim a loss. Most people might not be aware that in addition to the aesthetic functions of trees, they also serve a less obvious function that contributes to their value such as: - Summer cooling – Trees can provide shade when the sun is at its highest point, and positioned the right way through either planting or selective tree trimming, trees offer coverage to your home and contribute to lower energy costs - Winter warming – A tree shading your home in summer is obvious, but how do trees help warm your home in winter? Deciduous trees, or trees that lose their leaves seasonally, can warm your home in winter because as the sunlight comes through the branches, it directly warms your home and reduces the need to heat your home through other means - Sound barrier – Is your home positioned near a roadway? Having a row of trees between your home and the road reduces noise pollution - Air conditioning – Trees can release terpenes, which are considered nature’s “climate air conditioners” and produces an albedo effect that causes more sunlight to be reflected back into space, naturally cooling the air - Windbreak – Planting conifer trees at the north and northwest portions of a property helps to create a windbreaker and reduce the amount of harsh wind that flows around a home - Glare control – In urban or suburban areas where there is an abundance of pavement, trees reduce glare from these surfaces which often reflect light - Wind filtration – Often referred to as a shelterbelt, a group of trees that acts as a filter on a property such as a farm can help filter out odors - Wind deflection – Trees bend in the wind and redirect the air upward and over the tree - Wind obstruction – Like a windbreak, trees that obstruct the wind completely block wind from making it through the barrier Claiming Loss or Damage to Trees The IRS defines a casualty loss as “a loss resulting from an identifiable event of sudden, unexpected, or unusual nature.” If vandalism, a vehicle accident, or a storm suddenly destroys your tree, this may qualify as a casualty lost. To determine if you can claim a tree’s value in a loss, you should first consult your homeowner’s insurance policy to determine the amount and kind of coverage you have. The insurance company will be able to have an appraisal made by a competent tree and landscape professional who will factor the following into his or her evaluation: - Tree size – The size and age of a tree may mean that it is not replaceable. If a tree is too large to be replaced, it will likely affect the value of the tree after a loss - Tree species/classification – Valuable trees are those that are hardy, durable, highly adaptive, and tree from objectionable characteristics (i.e. healthy trees). These variables will likely factor into your final appraisal - Condition of tree – A healthy, well-maintained tree has a higher value and this condition will thus factor into your appraisal - Location of tree – If your tree served a function or benefit in its location, that will play a part in the value it holds to the property

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The Art and Science of Osteopathy: A Journey through Dr. Andrew Still's Vision Osteopathy, a holistic approach to healthcare, has steadily gained recognition and popularity over the years. Developed by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in the late 19th century, osteopathy combines both art and science to promote wellness and healing. In this blog article, we will delve into Dr. Still's contributions to osteopathy and explore why this discipline is so beneficial. We will also discuss the evolution of osteopathy in the USA, including the transition of osteopaths into medical doctors.Dr. Andrew Still: The Pioneer of OsteopathyDr. Andrew Taylor Still, born in 1828, was a visionary medical practitioner. He was deeply dissatisfied with the conventional medical practices of his time, which often relied on harsh treatments like bloodletting and toxic substances. Driven by a desire to find a better way to heal, he embarked on a lifelong journey of discovery, culminating in the development of osteopathy. Holistic Philosophy: Dr. Still believed that the body has an innate ability to heal itself and that the key to optimal health lies in maintaining balance within the body. His holistic philosophy emphasized the interconnection of the body's systems, including the musculoskeletal, circulatory, and nervous systems. Osteopathic Principles: Dr. Still formulated four fundamental principles of osteopathy: a. The body is a unit: The body functions as a whole, and all parts are interconnected. b. The body is capable of self-regulation and self-healing: The body's natural mechanisms can maintain and restore health. c. Structure and function are reciprocally interrelated: Dysfunction in one part of the body can affect its function and vice versa. d. Rational treatment is based on these principles: Osteopathic treatment aims to restore balance and facilitate the body's self-healing mechanisms. Why Osteopathy is Beneficial Personalized Care: Osteopaths take a patient-centered approach, considering the individual's unique physical, emotional, and environmental factors. This personalized care can lead to more effective treatment plans. Non-Invasive Techniques: Osteopathic treatment primarily relies on manual techniques such as manipulation, stretching, and massage. These non-invasive methods can reduce the need for surgery or medication, making osteopathy a safe and gentle option. Pain Management: Osteopathy is particularly effective in managing musculoskeletal pain, including conditions like back pain, arthritis, and sports injuries. By addressing the root causes of pain, osteopaths help patients achieve lasting relief. Improved Overall Health: Osteopathy can enhance the body's natural ability to heal itself, leading to improved overall health and well-being. Patients often report increased energy levels, better sleep, and enhanced immune function. Osteopathy in the USA: Transition to Medical DoctorsIn the early 20th century, osteopathy faced challenges in gaining recognition and legitimacy in the United States. Osteopaths were often viewed as alternative healthcare providers, and their scope of practice was limited. However, as research and understanding of osteopathy grew, a significant change occurred. Merger with Allopathic Medicine: Osteopathic medicine evolved to incorporate many aspects of allopathic (conventional) medicine. Osteopathic physicians (DOs) began to receive similar training and education to their MD counterparts. Full Medical Practice Rights: Over time, DOs gained full medical practice rights, including the ability to prescribe medication, perform surgery, and practice in all medical specialties. Recognition and Acceptance: Osteopathic medicine is now widely recognized and accepted in the United States. DOs and MDs have largely integrated into the same healthcare system, with both sharing a commitment to patient-centered care. Osteopathy, with its roots in the pioneering work of Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, offers a unique and holistic approach to healthcare. Its emphasis on treating the body as a whole and its focus on the body's self-healing mechanisms make it a valuable addition to modern medicine. The evolution of osteopathy in the USA, from a distinct field to an integrated part of healthcare, reflects its growing importance and acceptance in the medical community. Osteopathy continues to provide numerous benefits to patients, promoting wellness and improving the quality of life for many.Ann Shivas brings over 9 years of invaluable experience in the field of Osteopathy. Her journey has taken her across the globe, where she has had the privilege of working closely with professional athletes, aiding them in their pursuit of optimal health and performance. Ann's passion for Osteopathy extends beyond the limelight, as she is dedicated to sharing her extensive knowledge with her local community in Comox Valley, Courtney, and Cumberland. Through her work, Ann aims to raise awareness about the remarkable benefits of Osteopathy and its potential to transform lives. For those seeking to experience the advantages firsthand, appointments can be conveniently booked online via this link: Book Now.

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https://www.onthegoosteo.com/post/the-art-and-science-of-osteopathy-a-journey-through-dr-andrew-still-s-vision

2024-11-07T16:17:26Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

With a greater focus on asteroids and objects from deep space, as well as the possibility of a collision with Earth, astronomers have arrived for the first time at a planet that may have lost its atmosphere as a result of a collision with a massive object. A team of astronomers has discovered an Earth-like planet that may have lost some of its atmosphere owing to a collision 200,000 years ago. Astronomers from MIT, the National University of Ireland Galway, and Cambridge University uncovered evidence of the massive collision in a neighboring star system, only 95 light-years away from Earth. The star, known as HD 172555, is roughly 23 million years old, and astronomers believe its dust shows indications of a recent collision. According to the study published in the journal Nature, massive impacts are what cause planets like the early Earth to reach their ultimate mass and attain long-term stable orbital arrangements. One significant prediction is that these impacts will generate debris. The astronomers reported “detection of a carbon monoxide gas ring co-orbiting with dusty debris around HD172555 between about six and nine astronomical units — a region analogous to the outer terrestrial planet region of our Solar System.” Astronomers have been intrigued by star HD 172555 owing to the peculiar composition of its dust, which presumably includes substantial amounts of strange minerals in grains that are considerably finer than astronomers would anticipate. The study’s lead author, Tajana Schneiderman, a graduate student in MIT’s Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences, combed through data from Chile’s Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA) for traces of carbon monoxide surrounding nearby stars. The ALMA observatory is a network of 66 radio telescopes whose spacing can be changed to improve or reduce picture resolution. “When people want to study gas in debris discs, carbon monoxide is typically the brightest, and thus the easiest to find. So, we looked at the carbon monoxide data for HD 172555 again because it was an interesting system,” Schneiderman said. After a thorough review of the data, the researchers discovered carbon monoxide, which accounted for 20% of the carbon monoxide detected in Venus’ atmosphere. The gas was circulating in vast quantities, shockingly near to the star, at around 10 astronomical units, or 10 times the distance between Earth and the sun. The presence of such a massive volume of gas surrounding the star demanded an explanation, and the researchers worked on many possibilities. Astronomers considered scenarios in which the gas was created by the debris of a freshly born star, as well as one in which the gas was produced by a close-in belt of ice asteroids, but both were rejected. The best fit scenario considered by the study is that the gas was leftover of a massive impact. “Of all the scenarios, it’s the only one that can explain all the features of the data. In systems of this age, we expect there to be giant impacts, and we expect giant impacts to be really quite common. The timescales work out, the age works out, and the morphological and compositional constraints work out. The only plausible process that could produce carbon monoxide in this system in this context is a giant impact,” Schneiderman said in a statement. The team believes the gas was expelled by a massive collision at least 200,000 years ago, which was recent enough that the star did not have time to totally destroy the gas. Based on the quantity of the gas, the collision was most likely huge, involving two proto-planets around the size of the Earth. Astronomers believe that the collision was so powerful that it blasted off a portion of one planet’s atmosphere, resulting in the gas observable today. Research paper | https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-021-03872-x

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https://www.physics-astronomy.com/two-planets-collide-in-outer-space-one-of-them-loses-its-atmosphere/

2024-11-07T16:59:29Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

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Youth are not fine; the absence of mental illness does not imply well-being. The true goal should be to raise children who live lives of purpose, have internalized values, and have strong relationships. In its last two strategic plans, the Department of Education did not mention “character” or “virtue.” When rugged individualism can only support self-centered virtues like curiosity and confidence, it is at its worst. In schools, developing social and emotional competence is essential. It is also insufficient to teach children soft skills to make them feel better or smarter. Children who advocated for higher levels of social responsibility were less likely to be aggressive toward their peers. It is most likely because the intervention strengthens school relationships and indirectly promotes a more equitable and just environment. Character education can help children develop moral character while reducing anti-social behavior, which is becoming a growing public concern. He claims it can be incorporated into the curriculum and has been shown to improve educational attainment and problem-solving skills. Perry believes that if we want a more just, equitable, and compassionate world, we must educate more just, humane, and ethical people.

<urn:uuid:47545c82-38ae-4b2f-9adf-be1884b7ed0b>

CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.pioneeringminds.com/pqposts/forgotten-power-character-education/

2024-11-07T16:18:23Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

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Have you lost a tooth? Does it make you feel embarrassed or self-conscious about your smile? Does it feel awkward when chewing and eating? Do you wish you had better, more natural chewing function and the ability to enjoy all foods? So, DENTAL IMPLANTS is the answer to all your problems. Dental implants can change all of that.Dental implants perform and look just like natural teeth; no one will ever know you are having permanent dental implants. It increases comfort, function and confidence while speaking, eating and smiling. What are dental implants? Dental implants are metal posts or frames that are surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath your gums. Once in place, they allow your dentist to mount replacement teeth onto them. Procedures involved in placing dental implant:- 1. Placement of the implant. 2. Abutment Placement. 3. Placement of final crown which will replace the 4. Missing tooth crown. Implant supported denture has many advantages over regular dentures, such as added stability and ability to chew foods. Implant-supported dentures also make it easier to talk. And just as importantly, you won’t worry about your denture falling out of your mouth when you chew your food. Oral Care Tips For Implants:- Most dental implants are successful, and there are a few steps you can take to help ensure success and make your implant last : - Practice good oral hygiene – brush twice a day and floss once daily. Using interdental brushes, brushes that slide between teeth can help clean the hard to reach areas around your implant. - Quit smoking – smoking can weaken the bone structure and can contribute to implant failure. - Visit your dentist – cleanings and exams every six months can help ensure your implant is in good condition, and that it stays that way. - Avoid chewing on hard foods –don’t chew on hard items such as ice and hard candy because they can break the crown and your natural teeth.

<urn:uuid:56bedcab-20d2-46b1-93de-0f9c23b5a445>

CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.practo.com/healthfeed/dental-implants-30990/post

2024-11-07T17:30:28Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

Let’s talk about… Ableism and Representation Ask 18-year-old Rachel to describe herself and she’ll tell you how much she loves pop artists like Olivia Rodrigo and Tate McRae, and is quick to gush about her favourite musical Dear Evan Hansen. As a lover of all things creative and musical, it’s not surprising that Rachel has been in her fair share of school productions, like Beauty and the Beast. As a writer, a storyteller, she’s now taking that passion for using her words to university as a journalism major. In fact, she’s particularly passionate about the stories that are all too often untold, which reflect her own experiences as an Asian woman with cerebral palsy. You have a lot of different interests, so what interests you about the Dear Everybody campaign? I am Asian, and when I look at TV shows, or movies, or musicals, all the disabled representation is of white people. As an Asian person, I’m really excited to promote intersectional representation because I think it’s so important. In addition to my disability, I also have other aspects of me that are also marginalized. How would you describe ableism? As a disabled person, there’s the assumption that just because I use a wheelchair, people think I’m less capable. So, I don’t define ableism as discrimination against those who are different from you in ability. My definition of ableism is that society disables us. Society is built for the white, able-bodied male, so I think society disables us more than we disable ourselves. As a disabled person, I’m not helpless. Disability isn’t a plotline. I am an individual. Please stop putting me in a box. Let’s talk about that: what does ableism look like when it comes to disability and representation? Connections are part of the reason why disabled people are not represented in the media because we don’t have the opportunity to go to these places because, news flash, they’re not accessible. So, I think we’re limited in the media because we don’t have the connections. When you cast us, the casting office isn’t accessible and we’re passed over for an easier option, like someone who is not disabled and we’re going to put them in a wheelchair. I think that’s what limits us. Just because I have a different way of doing it doesn’t mean I can’t do it. And I don’t think they realize that they are being discriminatory. I think people are like, “Oh, I’m giving this opportunity—I want to increase representation,” but they go about it 300 different wrong ways, and eventually, it’s like: no, that’s not the way you do it. We need shows and movies where disability is not a plot line or a stereotype. Again, my life is not for you to laugh at. Everything that I go through is something that I go through on a daily basis. You don’t get to laugh at that. You don’t get to ridicule it. What other ways does ableism occur in society? When people call those who look like me the R-word—I’m not cognitively affected by my disability, and even if I was, it’s not right for you to call me that because it limits who I am to you. Similarly, we always say, “I was paralyzed with fear,” but paralysis is an actual condition some people live with. Maybe say, “I was so fearful I couldn’t move,” instead. We need to use words that don’t have negative connotations for others. Do you have any more advice for people just starting to challenge ableism in their own lives? You need to look around. You need to listen. You need to observe. You need to talk to people. You don’t shy away from them. I’m not an alien. I am a human with flesh and blood, just like you. Please stop staring at me like I’m a complete alien. You need to take the time to listen and to actually care about people that are not you and that look different from you. You need to listen to our stories, listen to our voices. If you don’t, the world is never going to change. If we listen to everyone’s story, we are going to make this world a better place because it’s going to be more inclusive and more loving.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.projectinclusion.ca/ableism-representation/

2024-11-07T15:08:18Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

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According to the World Health Organisation, clusters of infant pneumonia cases in China have not documented any "unusual or novel pathogens." WHO reported that Beijing has ascribed an increase in influenza-like illnesses to the relaxation of Covid restrictions; the organisation had requested additional case data. Nonetheless, it advised Chinese citizens to take precautions such as receiving vaccinations and donning masks. In recent days, local media outlets have reported that hospitals are overburdened. The World Health Organisation (WHO) issued a statement on Wednesday requesting additional information from China regarding media reports and data from ProMed, a global outbreak surveillance system concerning concentrations of children in northern China who have undiagnosed pneumonia. Pneumonia is a broad medical term that denotes a pulmonary infection accompanied by inflammation. It may be caused by a wide variety of bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The World Health Organisation (WHO) issued a statement later on Thursday stating that no "unusual or novel pathogens" have been detected in China and that the increase in respiratory infections spreading in the country's north was caused by "multiple known pathogens." The WHO reported that northern China has experienced a rise in influenza-like illness since October, relative to the same period in the previous three years. The WHO stated that it is maintaining close communication with the Chinese government and is carefully monitoring the situation. Daily, a specialised WHO team examines tens of thousands of internal surveillance reports and media reports pertaining to circulating diseases in various countries. The experts are then tasked with determining whether further information is required, given the potential for the situation to escalate into a global public health emergency. However, it is not customary to publicly disclose the request for additional information. This has traditionally been accomplished via confidential channels between the World Health Organisation and health authorities within a nation. Undoubtedly, the United Nations agency is cognizant of the fact that individuals may be more apprehensive regarding viruses that have been reported in China in the near future due to the recollection of Covid-19. Additionally, the WHO is attempting to increase its transparency in the wake of the pandemic. The United Kingdom's health security agency (UKHSA) stated that the situation was being attentively monitored. Similar fever-like illness outbreaks occurred in other nations, including the United Kingdom and the United States, after pandemic restrictions were lifted. Prof. Francois Balloux of the Genetics Institute at the University College of London stated, "China is probably experiencing a major outbreak of childhood respiratory infections now, as this is the first winter following their lengthy lockdown, which must have drastically reduced the circulation of respiratory bugs and, consequently, immunity to endemic bugs." According to Professor Paul Hunter from the University of East Anglia (UEA), the current state of knowledge is insufficient to establish a conclusive diagnosis regarding the source of the infections. He further stated, "In general, this does not appear to be an outbreak caused by an entirely novel virus." Had it been the case, I would anticipate a substantial increase in the incidence of infections among adults. Adult infections are uncommon, indicating that they may have developed immunity due to previous exposure.

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https://www.rivercitycards.com/news/china-denies-unusual-or-novel-pathogens-despite-who-respiratory-outbreak-inquiries

2024-11-07T15:44:33Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

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Gardening and yard work can be great ways to get outside and get some exercise, but they can also put a strain on your spine if you're not careful. Here are some tips on how to properly care for your spine while gardening or doing yard work: Warm-up before you start: Just like any other physical activity, it's important to warm-up your body before you start gardening or doing yard work. Take a short walk or do some stretching to loosen up your muscles and prepare your body for the work ahead. Use proper body mechanics: When you're lifting heavy objects, such as bags of soil or mulch, make sure to use proper lifting techniques. Bend your knees and lift with your legs, keeping your back straight. Avoid twisting your back while carrying heavy objects. Take breaks: Don't overdo it! Take frequent breaks to rest and stretch your muscles. Avoid staying in the same position for too long, which can put unnecessary stress on your spine. Use ergonomic tools: Ergonomic tools, such as padded kneelers, can help reduce the strain on your spine while gardening or doing yard work. Look for tools that are designed to reduce strain on your back and joints. Vary your tasks: Don't spend too much time doing one particular task. Vary your tasks to avoid repetitive strain injuries. Switch between planting, weeding, and pruning to give different parts of your body a break. Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of water while gardening or doing yard work. Dehydration can lead to muscle cramps, which can put a strain on your spine. Wear supportive shoes: Wear shoes with good arch support and cushioning to help absorb shock and reduce the strain on your spine. By following these tips, you can help reduce the risk of spinal injuries while gardening or doing yard work. If you do experience back pain or other symptoms, consult with your chiropractor or healthcare provider for personalized advice on managing your condition. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy a healthy and pain-free summer in your garden or yard.

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.seintegrativehealth.com/post/gardening-and-your-back

2024-11-07T16:53:25Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

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World Politics Review Frida Ghitis - 10 Feb 2011 Observers of the uprisings in Egypt, Tunisia and other countries in the Arab world have focused with great excitement on the role played by new media, suggesting the events demonstrate the power of social networks to build a revolution. The rebellion, they say, was a uniquely 21st-century product of Twitter, Facebook and even Wikileaks. The reality, however, is much more complex. Many factors came into play to unleash the chain reaction that came crashing into Cairo's Tahrir Square. Some of those factors are as new as the iPhone, others as old as the slingshot. But what made the long-simmering popular resentment against the government build and come together with such force was the convergence of these disparate factors, all driven by the world's continuing integration -- the process we know as globalization. The uprisings may have important links to Silicon Valley. But they are just as closely tied to events and decisions in places as seemingly unrelated as Australia, Pakistan, Washington and Beijing. Among the forces propelling the revolt is one that has received little attention: the worldwide spiraling of food prices. Oppression is more easily endured when it comes with prosperity; when it is accompanied instead by worsening poverty and hunger, the seeds of discontent start sprouting. When anger and frustration reach the bursting point, it overpowers the fear of confronting a repressive regime's brutality. It is that fear that had prevented the people from revolting years, even decades earlier. Rising prices for indispensable commodities have caught impoverished people the world over in a maelstrom they have no power to control. Poverty and hunger have fueled revolutions throughout history. Now it was Egypt's turn. Unlike the impact of Twitter, Facebook, and Wikileaks, this is an age-old story. But the causes of this particular steep climb in food costs are historically unprecedented. And the reason it has pounded Egypt with such force is also different from previous waves of inflation. Egypt, a country of 80 million, imports most of the food it eats. Rising food prices cut into meager family budgets and put giant holes in the national treasury. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization has just reported that its Food Price Index has reached the highest level since its inception more than two decades ago. Prices have climbed without a breather for seven months. For people living in the stagnant economies of the Middle East, the rise in prices comes without the silver lining of future growth that helps consumers in other developing countries weather the squeeze on their wallets. The tightening financial situation added intensity to longstanding anger over corruption, police brutality, and political charades. By contrast, in place like China, Brazil, and India, the economies are booming. The cost of living is rising, but the possibility of emerging from poverty is tangible. While it's true that economic growth has not benefited everyone in those countries and others, it is also true that many have gained, creating the anger-easing prospect of at least a chance at a better future in growing economies. In fact, it is a bitter irony that prosperity in places such as China is one of the many causes of inflation in Egypt. The current wave of inflation is also the result both of rich countries' efforts to emerge from the global recession and of devastating natural disasters. When the U.S. Federal Reserve decided to inject more money into the American economy to avoid a "double dip" recession, it fueled a wave of speculation in commodities markets that stoked inflation. The phenomenon was so clearly visible that Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke defended himself from charges that his "quantitative easing" policy was behind the rekindled inflation and the revolts in Tunisia and Egypt. Bernanke pointed instead to "excess demand pressure in emerging markets" -- in other words, all those new shoppers in Shanghai and Bangalore, who are pushing up prices for everyone. That's what happens when globalization links all markets. Food prices have also increased because of supply problems due to natural phenomena. The scorching drought in Russia and the devastating floods in Pakistan and Australia, among other weather disruptions, have cut the available amount of food for sale. Less food supply and more demand means higher prices. And in a fully globalized market, it means inflation for shoppers in Cairo, Alexandria, and Tunis. Making matters worse is America's policy of using grain to produce ethanol. Ironically, in its effort to reduce dependence on oil from the unstable Middle East, Washington has diverted grain from food markets, adding to social unrest and instability in the Middle East. With countries like Egypt spending so much of their resources on food subsidies, their budgets came under pressure, adding to economic challenges and unemployment in a region that already has the world's highest levels of unemployment. Even with economic growth improving, the dismal employment prospects -- including for university graduates -- added to the rising despair. When economies stirred, all it did was raise expectations and ultimately add to the sense of frustration. Efforts to modernize the economy, in order to make it more competitive and to create more jobs, only added to the hardships of the poor, fomenting instability. It is no wonder then that, since the political earthquake began in North Africa, governments in Jordan, Algeria, Syria and others have reversed cuts to food subsidies and put off planned economic liberalization. Where the new media platforms came into play was in turning that simmering frustration into politically productive street demonstrations. Live television and internet connections helped raise the awareness of the population about the conditions in their countries relative to other places, and it helped communicate to Egyptians the astounding message of the Tunisian revolution: that dictators can be toppled. Without the efforts of internet activists, the revolution might have taken longer to occur. But if Twitter and Facebook provided a temporary launch vehicle, it was the fuel of economic frustration and anger that turned the revolt into a lasting, broad-based national movement with the power to bring real change. Frida Ghitis is an independent commentator on world affairs and a World Politics Review contributing editor. Her weekly column, World Citizen, appears every Thursday. <!-- End of HubSpot Logging Code -->

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.sikhphilosophy.net/threads/world-citizen-globalization-fuels-the-arab-uprising.34451/

2024-11-07T17:23:06Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

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What is Apache Kafka? Apache Kafka is an open-source distributed event streaming platform designed to handle real-time data feeds. It enables the building of real-time data pipelines and streaming applications, acting as a highly scalable messaging system that can publish, subscribe, store, and process streams of records. What are the challenges associated with Apache Kafka? Apache Kafka, while powerful, comes with its own set of challenges. These include managing the complexity of Kafka clusters, ensuring data consistency and reliability, handling high throughput, and addressing latency issues. Operational overhead and the need for specialized skills to manage and scale Kafka deployments are also significant challenges. Why is Apache Kafka important? Apache Kafka is crucial for organizations that need to process large volumes of data in real time. It provides a reliable and scalable platform for building event-driven architectures, enabling businesses to react to events as they happen. Kafka’s ability to integrate with various data sources and systems makes it an essential component in modern data infrastructure. What does an architecture using Apache Kafka look like? An architecture using Apache Kafka typically consists of producers that send data to Kafka topics, consumers that read data from those topics, and brokers that manage the persistence and replication of data across the Kafka cluster. The architecture may also include stream processors that transform or aggregate data on the fly. What are the main benefits of using Apache Kafka? Apache Kafka offers several key benefits, including: - High throughput and scalability - Durability with built-in replication - Flexibility in processing real-time and historical data - Flexibility: Supports various data formats and processing models. How do you use Apache Hadoop in the cloud? Using Apache Hadoop in the cloud involves deploying it on cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. Cloud deployment offers advantages such as elastic scaling, managed services, and reduced infrastructure costs. What are the risks associated with Apache Hadoop? The risks associated with Apache Hadoop include data security issues, high costs for skilled personnel, and complexity in managing and optimizing large-scale deployments. Why are alternatives to Apache Hadoop insufficient? Alternatives to Apache Hadoop may lack the same level of scalability, fault tolerance, and flexibility. Many alternatives do not provide the comprehensive features required for handling complex big data environments. How does Apache Hadoop work? Apache Hadoop works by distributing data across multiple nodes in a cluster, where it is processed in parallel using the MapReduce programming model. HDFS ensures data redundancy and high availability, while YARN manages resources and job scheduling. What are the key strategies for Apache Hadoop? Key strategies for Apache Hadoop include: - Efficient Data Partitioning: Dividing data into smaller, manageable blocks. - Effective Resource Management: Using YARN to optimize resource allocation. - Regular Monitoring and Tuning: Continuously monitoring performance and making necessary adjustments. - Data Security: Implementing robust security measures to protect sensitive data. What is Apache Hadoop used for? Apache Hadoop is used for big data processing, data warehousing, and large-scale analytics. It is ideal for environments that require high-throughput data analysis and processing. Which big companies run Apache Hadoop? Many big companies, especially those in the technology, finance, and retail sectors, use Apache Hadoop for their data processing and analytics needs. These include major corporations like Facebook, Yahoo, and LinkedIn. What use cases are best suited for Apache Hadoop? Use cases best suited for Apache Hadoop include: - Data Warehousing: Consolidating data from various sources for analysis. - Big Data Analytics Processing large datasets for insights and decision-making. - Business Intelligence: Supporting complex queries and reporting for business insights. - Predictive Analytics: Enabling machine learning and predictive modeling on large datasets. - Distributed Applications: Supporting applications that require global distribution and fault tolerance. Further questions can be added from related questions on Google searches. Is Apache Hadoop SQL or NoSQL? Apache Hadoop is not a database but a framework for distributed storage and processing. It can work with both SQL (via Hive) and NoSQL data formats. Why is Apache Hadoop so fast? Apache Hadoop is fast due to its parallel processing capabilities and efficient data distribution across clusters. However, while it is fast, there are cost efficiency issues that simplyblock can address. How data is stored in Apache Hadoop? Data in Apache Hadoop is stored in HDFS, which splits data into blocks and distributes them across the cluster. Each block is replicated to ensure fault tolerance and high availability. What is one of the main features of Apache Hadoop? One of the main features of Apache Hadoop is its ability to scale horizontally, allowing organizations to add more nodes to handle increased data volumes without significant changes to the architecture. Is Apache Hadoop an in-memory database? No, Apache Hadoop is not an in-memory database. It uses disk-based storage through HDFS, but it employs techniques like in-memory computation with frameworks like Spark for faster processing. Why Apache Hadoop is better? While Apache Hadoop is known for its scalability and performance, other issues such as cost efficiency are where simplyblock fits in, offering optimized solutions for Hadoop deployments. What is important when operating Apache Hadoop in the cloud? When operating Apache Hadoop in the cloud, it is crucial to ensure robust storage solutions. Storage plays a vital role in maintaining data integrity, availability, and performance. Why is storage important for Apache Hadoop? Storage is important for Apache Hadoop as it ensures data redundancy, high availability, and fast data retrieval. Efficient storage solutions are essential for handling large datasets and ensuring smooth operations. How Simplyblock helps with Apache Hadoop? Simplyblock helps with Apache Hadoop by providing optimized storage solutions, cost-efficient deployment options, and robust performance tuning strategies. Why Simplyblock for Apache Hadoop? Simplyblock s the ideal choice for Apache Hadoop due to its e2xpertise in data storage, cost optimization, and cloud deployment strategies, ensuring maximum performance and efficiency. Ready to optimize your Apache Hadoop deployment? Contact simplyblock today for expert solutions and maximize the performance and efficiency of your data processing framework.

<urn:uuid:a5a472c5-0eae-467f-b724-33b101bfdf6a>

CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.simplyblock.io/supported-technologies/apache-kafka/

2024-11-07T17:10:35Z

s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-46/segments/1730477028000.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20241107150153-20241107180153-00345.warc.gz

en

Embedded systems in industrial environments must meet real-time requirements more and more today. emtrion provides you with different approaches, like the solutions Xenomai and Preempt_RT, to meet the quantitative requirements of real-time systems. Since these approaches all have different advantages and disadvantages, we analyze all planned environments in advance and match the design to meet its requirements. What are embedded systems? Embedded systems are embedded computer systems that fulfill a specific function within a larger system. They are part of a device or machine. In contrast to ordinary computers, embedded systems are limited to specific tasks. Nowadays, we find them almost everywhere, for example in smartwatches, microwave ovens, construction machinery, transportation systems, medical devices, or production facilities. Embedded systems are among the core components of Industry 4.0; they enable the digital automation and control of machines, processes, devices and similar systems. Characteristics of embedded systems are: - Specialized functions: embedded systems are designed and optimized for a specific task or function - Real-time operation: many embedded systems must operate in real time, which means they must respond deterministically to events as they occur - Resource constraints: embedded systems often have to make do with very scarce resources in terms of memory, computing power and energy consumption. They are therefore designed to be particularly efficient - Long service life: many embedded systems are designed for a long service life and must function reliably for years or even decades - Interface integration: embedded systems are often closely integrated with the hardware in which they are embedded. They use special interfaces and protocols to communicate with other parts of the system 対応製品 | STM32F4, STM32F7, STM32MP1 |

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.st.com/ja/partner-products-and-services/real-time-systems.html

2024-11-07T15:55:40Z

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en

Older people often fear an early form of Alzheimer’s disease. They notice that they have recently become unusually forgetful or absent-minded. By that we do not mean normal forgetfulness, which may increase with advancing age and often has to be distinguished from a lack of concentration. In a precautionary check, we ascertain whether or not this early form of Alzheimer’s disease can be discerned in these symptoms. The check includes a neurological examination, an electroencephalogram and psychological test checks. These check-up examinations help us to establish whether the patient is suffering from a brain power deficit that goes beyond the normal level for his/her age (see Alzheimer’s disease).

<urn:uuid:a7e59ae9-26ef-4525-ac42-426a658e9a91>

CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.stahl-nerven.de/brain-fit-check-2/

2024-11-07T16:03:35Z

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en

Say what? Scientists are trying to catch a lightning bolt with a giant laser Researchers from the University of Geneva hauled a huge laser atop a mountain to shoot it at the sky, and act as a high-tech lightning rod [July 12, 2021: Andreas Thoss] A team of researchers from the University of Geneva have hauled a huge laser atop a mountain to shoot it at the sky, and act as a high-tech lightning rod. The ultrashort-pulsed laser is steered in the sky, builds a plasma channel, and that guides the flash to a huge telecom antenna on the Swiss mountain Säntis. A typical lightning rod can protect an area with a diameter of its height (maybe up to 100 meters). So, a laser lightning rod 1000+ m high could protect an area the size of a rocket launch site or the approach path of an airport. The scientific leader of the project is Jean-Pierre Wolf, a professor from Geneva University and the former CEO of Elight, which was the startup that built a commercial weather lidar in the early 1990s. While he had more than 30 years of experience in atmospheric laser research, it took a laboratory accident in Michigan in 1996 to set him off onto a new idea. There, in the lab of Gérard Mourou and Donna Strickland, a mirror was broken and leaked intense short-pulsed laser radiation. Surprisingly, this laser beam made a kind of filament in air. It was a plasma, but not limited to a focal point. They played around and created a longer filament. Then, they went out on the floor—they could tweak the laser to create a filament as long as the whole floor, which was almost 100 ft., as the legend says. At that time, they did not try to reproduce the plasma channel outside. However, there were others who did try that. In the 2008 French-German project Teramobile, the team managed to trigger electrical activity in thunderclouds, but they did not succeed completely, as their plasma channel did not live long enough for “real” lightning bolt guiding. An American team from the University of Arizona (UA; Tucson, AZ) and the University of Central Florida (UCF; Orlando, FL) tried it in 2014 with a femtosecond pulse followed by a nanosecond pulse. They all had great results on a scale of a few meters in a laboratory setting, but not in free nature. A lightning bolt needs milliseconds to build up on a scale of hundreds of meters. And that has not been established—yet. It takes a big laser to catch a lightning bolt Lightning forms when turbulent air within a thundercloud violently tosses around ice crystals and water droplets, stripping electrons from their atoms and creating separate zones with opposite electric charges. These electric fields can become very strong, and because opposite charges attract, they can connect through a discharge of electricity -- what we call lightning. To catch lightening a very powerful laser is required. The project's laser delivers 720 mJ pulses at a repetition rate of 1 kHz. The pulses are in the picosecond region, creating intensities at the terawatt level in the focus. By contrast the most powerful lasers in the world today are 1000 times more powerful in the 10 petawatt range. The laser mimics and enhances this natural scenario by generating an electric field so strong that it rips electrons off their atoms directly, setting up the opposite charges that are necessary for lightning to form. The beam will run alongside the existing transmission tower -- which is over 120 meters (about 400 feet) tall. The idea is to make the clouds discharge lightning in a controlled way. "That's why we call it a laser lightning rod," said Wolf. Will they catch a lightning bolt? Jean-Pierre Wolf said at a recent press conference, “The atmosphere is always quite different from what we have in the lab” and “we will learn a lot about lightning mechanisms.” But he is optimistic that after 25 years of attempts, it will work this time. They just have to wait for a thunderstorm. "This is one of the places in Europe that's struck by lightning the most," explained Wolf. "There is a radio transmission tower there which gets struck 100 to 400 times a year. So it's an ideal place to make our proof-of-concept experiments." The laser system for the laser lightning rod has a footprint of approximately 3 × 8 m. It has been brought to the top station of the Swiss mountain Säntis Clearing the sky Laser lightning research has been funded for more than 25 years. In Europe, there were grants from German, French, and European research organizations, and in America it was a Department of Defense grant. Within the new Laser Lightning Rod project, there are seven participants, including Airbus and the space company ArianeGroup. “Ground to satellite laser communication is of increasing importance. We would try to open them a clear optical channel in a cloud.” It remains an old dream to control a lightning bolt. Now watch the Swiss sky for a very straight flash this summer. If you see it, well, then it has happened. For more technology stories check out our New Innovations section at The Brighter Side of News. Like these kind of feel good stories? Get the Brighter Side of News' newsletter. Tags: #New_Innovation, #Lasers, #Lightening, #The_Brighter_Side_of_News

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CC-MAIN-2024-46

https://www.thebrighterside.news/post/say-what-scientists-are-trying-to-catch-a-lightning-bolt-with-a-giant-laser/

2024-11-07T15:33:03Z

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German models of communal housing development may offer solutions to U.S. housing problems. The United States does not have a housing problem. It has multiple. Germany, however, has pioneered a different way: baugruppen. Baugruppen, meaning “building groups,” allow individuals to pool together money to finance, design, and create their own community of homes. Groups of residents forming baugruppen remove developers from the planning process to take a more active role in setting their own designs and social rules for their communities. In Vauban, a neighborhood in Freiburg, Germany, baugruppen are the predominant form of housing. After the city of Freiburg purchased the Vauban land in 1990, local grassroot leaders successfully advocated that the city include citizen participation in the planning of the neighborhood’s design. As a result, the city council made baugruppen the housing norm and set a goal to make the neighborhood a “sustainable urban district.” Groups of 10 to 50 families were then able to form baugruppen in Vauban—either by proposing their own or by answering calls for proposals from the city. Vauban keeps costs down for residents by stating the cost of the land upfront to avoid bidding wars and giving priority to citizens over developers. And, by cutting out the developer from the process, citizens save approximately 25 percent on construction costs compared to those who used commercial developers. Vauban also uses baugruppen to make the city more sustainable. A working group sets building efficiency standards, and the city compares the abilities of each group to meet Vauban’s sustainability goals, such as social diversity and ecological soundness. Many buildings in Vauban now meet or exceed efficiency standards, hit net-zero goals, and use passive designs to heat and cool homes without using electricity. Some scholars have praised Vauban as “the world’s most successful model for sustainable urban development.” One architecture professor commented that Vauban’s ability to keep prices low and choose baugruppen that meet sustainability goals changed the priority of the city from how to use land to make the most money to how to use it to meet residents’ needs. Some co-housing models exist in the United States, but co-housing is still rare and tends toward rural, single-family homes compared to baugruppen, which tend toward urban, multi-story and multi-family buildings. Although baugruppen could help combat U.S. housing problems, four challenges exist to bring them to the United States. First, the success of baugruppen in Germany partially stemmed from receptive local governments. In the United States, because building plans and housing developments require government approval, interested groups of residents would need local governments to be open to their ideas. Second, zoning laws may also pose a problem between residents and governments. A report from the American Planning Association found that in the United States, exclusionary zoning—a practice that restricts what types of homes may be built in an area, often to the detriment of historically marginalized groups—significantly threatens the ability of multifamily housing, the most common form of baugruppen buildings in Germany. Third, some urbanists expect that, because this form of housing is relatively unknown in the United States, banks may be reluctant to lend to residents, which would mean residents would need to self-fund their baugruppen. And regulations adopted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) may impose roadblocks by requiring investors in large real estate developments to be accredited—a qualification people can only meet by having high incomes, assets, or professional certifications—and limiting the number of non-accredited investors on large real-estate projects to 35. These SEC requirements could inhibit many everyday people from pooling their investments for baugruppen. Finally, some observers criticize baugruppen as possible only for communities that have enough money and knowledge to develop them. Florian Urban, a professor of architectural history at the Glasgow School of Art, has noted that, although baugruppen are excellent models of community participation in city planning, the German citizens that have made up baugruppen are often “moderately wealthy” and “privileged.” Despite these challenges, German baugruppen have nonetheless shown successes in meeting sustainability goals, lowering housing costs, and making communities more social. As Kristy Wang, a principal at Community Planning Collaborative, and Benjamin Grant, lecturer in real estate and design at UC Berkeley, have noted, although “the baugruppen concept is no silver bullet,” it can still help diversify buildings and meet the needs of U.S. families.

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https://www.theregreview.org/2023/10/04/wong-germanys-success-in-community-development/

2024-11-07T16:08:08Z

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Hair dye is a ubiquitous part of many people’s beauty routines, but it can also have some serious negative effects on our health. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of hair dye and explore how harmful permanent hair colors can be. A Brief History of Hair Dye The use of hair dye dates back thousands of years, with evidence of its use found in ancient Egyptian tombs. Initially, hair dye was made from natural ingredients like plants and oils, which were used to change the color of one’s hair. However, over time, the development of synthetic dyes has led to a shift away from these natural products. The Dangers of Permanent Hair Color Permanent hair colors are the most damaging type of hair dye, as they contain chemicals that can penetrate deep into the hair shaft and cause damage to the hair follicle. These chemicals can also be absorbed through the skin and cause allergic reactions or other health problems. One of the main concerns with permanent hair color is its potential link to cancer. Research has shown that long-term use of these dyes may increase the risk of certain types of cancer, such as bladder cancer, leukemia, and lymphoma. The Risks of Semi-Permanent Hair Color Semi-permanent hair colors are a safer alternative to permanent dyes, but they still contain some chemicals that can cause damage. These dyes are designed to last for 6-10 shampoos, depending on the type and quality of the product. However, even semi-permanent dyes can cause allergic reactions or other health problems in some individuals. Natural Hair Dye Alternatives If you’re concerned about the safety of hair dye, there are several natural alternatives that you can try. Henna is a popular option, as it’s been used for centuries to dye hair and has been shown to be safe and effective. Other natural options include indigo, chamomile, and coffee. The Science Behind Hair Dye So, how do permanent hair dyes work? The process involves the use of chemicals that penetrate the hair shaft and change its color. This is achieved through a process called oxidation, which occurs when the dye comes into contact with the air and other substances in the environment. The Consequences of Using Permanent Hair Dye Using permanent hair dye can have serious consequences for our health and well-being. Some of the potential risks include: - Allergic reactions to the chemicals used in the dye - Damage to the hair follicle, leading to breakage or loss of hair - Increased risk of cancer, particularly bladder cancer - Skin irritation or other allergic reactions What Can You Do Instead? If you’re concerned about the safety of permanent hair dye, there are several alternatives that you can try. Here are a few options: - Natural hair dyes: Consider using natural hair dyes like henna or indigo to change your hair color. - Temporary hair colors: If you want to try a new color without making a long-term commitment, consider using temporary hair colors. - Hair glosses and toners: These products can add shine and color to your hair without the risks associated with permanent dyes. While hair dye can be a convenient way to change our appearance, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks involved. By understanding how harmful permanent hair colors can be, we can make informed decisions about our beauty routines and take steps to protect our health and well-being. Frequently Asked Questions Q: Are all hair dyes created equal? A: No, not all hair dyes are created equal. Permanent hair dyes contain chemicals that can cause damage and increase the risk of cancer, while semi-permanent dyes may be safer but still pose some risks. Q: Can I get a natural hair dye at my local beauty supply store? A: It’s possible to find natural hair dyes at some beauty supply stores or online. However, it’s essential to do your research and ensure that the product you choose is safe and effective. Q: How often should I use permanent hair dye? A: To minimize the risks associated with permanent hair dye, it’s recommended to limit use to once every 4-6 weeks. Q: Can I get a permanent hair dye if I have sensitive skin or allergies? A: If you have sensitive skin or allergies, it’s best to avoid using permanent hair dye altogether. Consider using natural hair dyes or temporary hair colors instead. Q: Are there any safer alternatives to permanent hair dye? A: Yes, there are several safer alternatives to permanent hair dye, including natural hair dyes like henna and indigo, as well as temporary hair colors and hair glosses and toners.

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2024-11-07T15:49:06Z

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Oregano is one of the most popular herbs in Mediterranean cuisine, known for its intense and stimulating aroma. With over 45 species to choose from, oregano has become a staple in many kitchens around the world. In this article, we will explore how to cultivate oregano in both indoor pots and outdoor gardens. What is Oregano? Oregano is a type of aromatic herb that belongs to the Limiaceae family. The most commonly cultivated species are Origanum vulgare (common oregano) and Origanum majorana (majorana). These plants have been used for centuries in cooking, medicine, and spiritual practices. Why Grow Oregano? Oregano is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes, from fish to salads, meat to pizza. Its pungent flavor adds depth and complexity to many recipes. Growing oregano at home allows you to have fresh herbs on hand year-round and enjoy the benefits of its medicinal properties. Benefits of Oregano Oregano has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also known to boost the immune system and reduce stress. The essential oils extracted from oregano leaves have been shown to have antimicrobial effects against certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Growing Oregano: A Step-by-Step Guide Choosing the Right Container Select a container that is at least 6-8 inches deep to accommodate the plant’s root system. Make sure the container has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil. Preparing the Soil Use a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for herbs. Mix in some compost or manure to improve soil fertility and drainage. Place the oregano seeds or seedlings in the soil and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. If planting seeds, sow them about 1/8 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart. Thin out seedlings to 6-12 inches apart as they grow. Lighting and Temperature Provide indirect sunlight (4-6 hours/day) and maintain temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to become scorched. Feed your oregano plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month. You can also use organic fertilizers like fish emulsion or compost tea to promote healthy growth. Growing Oregano in an Outdoor Garden If you have the space, growing oregano in an outdoor garden can be a rewarding experience. Here’s how: Choosing the Right Location Select a spot that receives full sun (6-8 hours/day) and has well-draining soil. Avoid planting in low-lying areas where water may collect. Preparing the Soil Add compost or manure to improve soil fertility and drainage. Mix in some organic matter like peat moss or perlite to improve soil structure. Space oregano plants 12-18 inches apart, depending on their size. Plant them in clusters of three to five plants for better growth and flavor. Watering and Fertilization Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Feed with a balanced fertilizer once a month. You can also use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Combining Oregano with Other Herbs Oregano pairs well with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, and lavender. Plant them together in a single container or garden bed to create a fragrant and flavorful herb garden. Here are some popular oregano combinations: - Thyme and oregano: A classic combination for Mediterranean-style cooking. - Rosemary and oregano: Pair these two herbs for a fragrant and aromatic herb garden. - Lavender and oregano: Combine these herbs for a calming and relaxing herb garden. Tips and Variations - You can grow multiple oregano plants in the same container to make a gift basket of fresh herbs. - Oregano is also known for its medicinal properties, including reducing inflammation and improving digestion. - Experiment with different varieties of oregano, such as Greek or Italian oregano, for unique flavors and aromas. Common Problems and Solutions - Pests: Watch out for aphids, spider mites, and fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap to prevent infestations. - Diseases: Treat fungal diseases with fungicides specifically designed for herbs. Remove infected leaves and stems to prevent the spread of disease. Growing oregano at home allows you to enjoy this versatile herb year-round. By following these simple steps, you can cultivate delicious and fragrant oregano in both indoor pots and outdoor gardens. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, growing oregano is an easy and rewarding experience that will bring flavor and fragrance to your cooking. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - What is the best soil for growing oregano? Oregano prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0. - Can I grow oregano indoors year-round? Yes, but make sure to provide sufficient light and maintain temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). - How often should I water my oregano plant? Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. - What are some common pests that can affect oregano plants? Watch out for aphids, spider mites, and fungal diseases like powdery mildew. - Can I harvest oregano leaves before they reach maturity? Yes, you can pinch off individual leaves or stems to encourage bushy growth and prevent flowering. - How do I propagate oregano plants from seed? Sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are around 6 inches tall. - Can I grow multiple varieties of oregano together? Yes, but make sure to choose varieties that have similar growing conditions and requirements. - How do I store fresh oregano leaves for future use? Freeze or dry oregano leaves in airtight containers to preserve their flavor and aroma.

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2024-11-07T16:02:15Z

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As we explore the world of aquatic life, it’s natural to wonder how fish breathe. Do they truly “breathe” like humans do? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of respiratory systems in fish. How Fish Breathe: An Overview Fish breathe underwater using their branchial respiration system. But what exactly are branchies, and how do they work? The branchiae are two openings located on either side of a fish’s head. These organs play a crucial role in absorbing oxygen from the water. Branchial Respiration in Fish The branchiae in fish have thin, lacy structures called lamellae that separate the oxygen from the water. Water flows into the branchiae, where it picks up oxygen and passes through the lamellae to enter the fish’s bloodstream. At the same time, the deoxygenated water is expelled back out of the branchiae. The Rhythmic Motion of Branchial Respiration Just like humans inhale and exhale air by expanding and contracting their lungs, fish use a similar motion with their branchiae. The branchiae open and close in a rhythmic pattern, allowing for efficient oxygen exchange. This rhythmic motion is crucial for maintaining the delicate balance between oxygen intake and carbon dioxide expulsion. Branchial Structure and Function While all fish have branchiae, the structure and function of these organs can vary significantly between species. Some fish, like dolphins and whales, do not have traditional branchia-like structures, but instead use a system similar to that of humans to absorb oxygen from the air. In contrast, other fish, such as sharks and rays, have more complex branchial systems that allow for greater flexibility in their feeding behaviors. The Importance of Branchial Respiration Branchial respiration is essential for the survival of most aquatic animals. Without this system, they would not be able to extract oxygen from the water, leading to rapid exhaustion or even death. The evolution of branchial respiration has allowed fish to thrive in a wide range of aquatic environments, from shallow tide pools to deep-sea habitats. Adaptations for Depth and Pressure As fish live at greater depths, they need to adapt their branchial systems to cope with the increasing pressure. Some species, like deep-sea fish, have developed more robust branchiae that can withstand the crushing force of water pressure. In contrast, shallower-water fish often have less robust branchiae that are better suited for the gentler pressures found in these environments. The Role of Branchial Respiration in Fish Migration Many fish species migrate long distances to reach their breeding or feeding grounds. During these migrations, they need to conserve energy and maintain optimal oxygen levels in their bodies. Branchial respiration plays a critical role in this process, as it allows fish to extract oxygen from the water at a rate that matches their metabolic needs. Diversity of Fish Respiration While all fish have branchiae, there is a remarkable diversity of respiratory systems within this group. From the highly efficient gas exchange system of the gills in sharks and rays to the more primitive branchial respiration found in some teleosts, each species has evolved its own unique solution for extracting oxygen from the water. Artificial Branchiae: The Future of Human Respiration? Imagine being able to “breathe” underwater like fish. Researchers and engineers have been exploring the concept of artificial branchiae for years, with the aim of developing a device that could extract oxygen from water. While we’re still far from achieving this goal, significant progress has been made. Current Developments in Artificial Branchiae Several prototypes have been developed, including devices called “Like a Fish” and “Donkey artificial gill.” These early attempts use silicone membranes to mimic the function of fish branchiae. However, there are still challenges to overcome before such technology can be widely adopted. For example, the mechanical stresses imposed by water flow on these devices need to be addressed. Potential Applications for Artificial Branchiae The development of artificial branchiae has far-reaching implications beyond just human respiration. This technology could revolutionize industries like tourism and exploration by enabling people to stay underwater for longer periods without the need for cumbersome equipment. Imagine being able to explore the ocean floor or scuba dive without the constraints of limited air supply. As we continue to explore the wonders of aquatic life, it’s clear that fish breathe in ways both familiar and alien to humans. While our respiratory systems differ significantly, understanding how other creatures adapt to their environments can inspire innovative solutions for our own needs. With continued advancements in artificial branchiae technology, who knows what exciting possibilities may lie ahead? Frequently Asked Questions Q: Do all fish have branchia-like structures? A: Yes, all fish have branchiae, but the structure and function of these organs can vary significantly between species. Q: How do dolphins and whales breathe underwater? A: Unlike fish, which use branchial respiration, dolphins and whales rely on a respiratory system similar to ours, with lungs that absorb oxygen from the air. Q: What is being done to develop artificial branchiae technology? A: Researchers and engineers are working on developing devices that can extract oxygen from water using silicone membranes or other materials. Q: Can artificial branchiae be used for human respiration in the future? A: While significant progress has been made, there are still challenges to overcome before such technology can be widely adopted. Q: What are some potential applications for artificial branchiae technology? A: The development of this technology could revolutionize industries like tourism and exploration by enabling people to stay underwater for longer periods without cumbersome equipment. Q: Are branchia-like structures found in other animals besides fish? A: Yes, some terrestrial animals like anellids and artropodi also have branchial-like structures that allow them to absorb oxygen from their environment.

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Shabbat Around the World You can learn about them through my unique, digital-story / lesson-plan series that It Gets You and Your Students Involved! "K-Gr 4–This historical fiction picture book introduces the Jewish holiday of Tisha B’Av through the story of Luis de Torres, a Spanish converso who escaped Spain by sailing with Columbus. It is 1492, and Luis (born Yosef), a Jew forced to convert to Catholicism, is leaving Spain to find religious freedom. He signs on as a translator aboard the Santa Maria. The ship is scheduled to depart July 31, the deadline for all Jews to leave Spain. July 31 is also Tisha B’Av, a holy fast day that commemorates the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. It is a bad omen to depart that day, and the weather is ominous. There are other concerned Jewish crew members, and ultimately, when the departure date is delayed, the Jews are permitted to stay aboard to avoid arrest. The text effectively introduces the expulsion of the Jews from Spain and Tisha B’Av in an age-appropriate, comprehensible way. Centering the story on Torres, a real person, gives this a personal and empathetic feel. The art has a layered, collage look, with backgrounds done in full bleed, muted, textured colors. Averill uses color effectively, depicting the belowdecks and stormy day in dark foreboding colors. Characters are clothed in appropriate period dress, and Columbus is recognizable. Back matter separates fact from fiction and gives more information on the Jewish Expulsion and Tisha B’Av. VERDICT An excellent introduction to a lesser-known holiday and historical event. Jewish schools and libraries will want to add it, and it is a worthwhile addition for public libraries as needed." School Library Journal "The story is compelling and well told and the illustrations appear accurate for the period. The storm sequences are especially gripping…The title, ‘Luís deTorres Sails to Freedom’ is an outstanding introduction to the Spanish Inquisition and the observance of Tisha b’Av… The book presents an important part of Jewish history for children to think about." AJL News and Reviews "In this work of historical fiction, readers get a glimpse into the life of Luis de Torres, Christopher Columbus’s interpreter, who may have been a converso, a hidden Jew. In this story, he is trying to escape the Spanish Inquisition by joining the expedition. When the ship is scheduled to leave on Tisha B'Av, an important Jewish day of mourning, Luis convinces the commander to wait for better weather and better luck. Beautiful illustrations and brief back matter enhance the exciting story." AJL Holiday Highlights spring 2023 "This impassioned and impressive picture book shares the struggles the Jewish people of Spain faced during the Spanish Inquisition…Centered around Tisha B’Av readers will learn more about this important day in Jewish history and how it is observed. Highly recommend.” Liza Wiemer, Liza’s Book Corner, Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle "An excellent story to help Jewish children understand the Sefardic past.” HaLapid, Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies' quarterly magazine "...a fast-paced picture book that combines the drama foreshadowing the American Revolution, the heroic Maccabee fight for freedom, and Sephardic Hanukkah customs" Association of Jewish Libraries "Just like any celebration of Hanukkah/"Janucá", there are many ingredients contributing to this appealing new book. Jewish multiculturalism, community support in the face of adversity, and a thirst for freedom all add up to an engaging story about a Jewish American past." Jewish Book Council "A fast-paced picture book that combines the drama foreshadowing the American Revolution, the heroic Maccabee fight for freedom, and Sephardic Hanukkah customs…the author has done fine research to tie the date of the famous Boston Tea Party to Hanukkah in 1773…readers can enjoy this lively historic vignette while feeling proud to see Jews at the founding of our nation." Association of Jewish Libraries "This delicious tale of friendship and freedom features bold and highly expressive illustrations… It authentically and positively represents Jewish culture, with an emphasis on Sephardic traditions and Hanukkah celebrations…Jewish values of kindness and friendship are demonstrated in an age-accessible way. Finally, the pre-Revolutionary setting is an added bonus, offering a glimpse of Jewish life in a less familiar era." Sydney Taylor Shmooze "…this is a book that combines years of research with the kind of imagination that will have children reading this book over and over." Donald Harrison, San Diego Jewish World "“The Boston Chocolate Party” is a children’s book that entertains while teaching a little history about Jews in colonial America… The book shows how Sephardic families at the time of the Boston Tea Party celebrated Chanukah…In an endearing story line…Joshua realizes that his family’s chocolate business can be his friend’s ticket to a better life. Who can resist a story where chocolate saves the day!" Bracha Schwartz, The Jewish Link "In this heartwarming illustrated tale, set in colonial times…two parallel stories unfold: One is the enduring bond between Joshua and his friend Isaac, who moved to Boston. The other draws connections between Hanukkah, that recalls the ancient Maccabees’ fight for religious freedom and the Colonists’ fight for freedom." Boston Jewish Journal "…this is the story of Spanish and Portuguese Jews who came to the United States to escape religious persecution, bringing their then-unheard-of chocolate recipes with them... It's the story of the Boston Tea Party, of Chanukah, and of how people fight for their right to live and practice their beliefs freely and without oppression. It's a story of family and friendship at the holidays, even in difficult times. What more could you want?" "I adore historical fiction stories where I can learn something new, and "The Boston Chocolate Party" is no exception. Not only does this story illustrate how hot chocolate became popular in America, but it also introduces readers to the Sephardim." Good Reads with Ronna "This delightful picture book is based on a true story but has a folk tale flavor. Set in Jerusalem in the early 20th century, it tells of a clever horse who delivered the challah on her own when the baker’s boy felt too ill to drive the cart. Bright, engaging illustrations bring the characters and setting to life, as Soosie travels through historic Jerusalem in this finely crafted, heartwarming story." AJL Holiday Highlights List Spring 2021 "A heartwarming tale with an abundance of kindness, love, and tradition." “Lehman-Wilzig’s lovely story, Halberstadt’s evocative, richly colored art, and the atmosphere of Jerusalem, itself, combine to teach young readers about responsibility, honesty, and loving animal-care. It’s a beautifully rendered simple story on the surface but it’s a complex one, too, redolent of caring relationships between animals and people and filled with a sense of Shabbat peace… This highly recommended story would make a wonderful read-aloud and is an excellent resource for educators, parents, animal lovers, challah connoisseurs, and those — like Soosie — who love to wander the streets of Jerusalem.” Michal Hoschander Malen Editor, Young Adult & Children’s Book Reviews Jewish Book Council "This combination bible story and recipe book succeeds through its breezy narrating tone and its ethnic foods. The author retells 14 popular stories from Tanakh and matches them with foods described, implied or relevant to the specific story. Older readers will like the hip and slightly fresh tone of voice, and thus will like rereading the stories. The text is accurate and interjects little known details of familiar biblical portions. The language has a distinct cadence. The vocabulary is strong...Recipes are chosen with charm as well as appropriateness...fun and food and bible in a neat package aimed at older elementary readers and cooks. Recommended for Grades 2 to 6. Ellen Cole Sandra Kitain "What could be more fun than family cooking together, especially with a book that actually offers new food ideas and puts them in a Jewish context. Tasty Bible Stories is a collection of ancient Torah tales told in a very modern tone...With each retelling (all are short, about two pages), the reader also gets really cool recipes." Detroit Jewish News Hilary Belz Amazon Reader Reviews "Although not lengthy, this paperback is a terrific resource for families or religious school teachers. The recipes are easy enough for kids to make largely on their own and are very appealing taste-wise. Adding a food dimension to Bible studies makes the lessons more memorable and interactive. I use it regularly with my class and wish I'd had it when my kids were young!" "What an informative, amusing and captivating book for young and old alike. The stories are so fun to read, using modern slang. The illustrations are so colorful and attractive. The recipes are a nice switch from what you would find in a typical children's cookbook. It would make a nice birthday or Chanukah gift." Customer Review "This is exactly what I was looking for! I am a chef and a Religious Education Director. I get to combine my love for God and my love for cooking and share it with the children!" Patricia Nettleton *** | "Keeping The Promise by Tami Lehman-Wilzig, for 6-10 year olds, is the beautifully illustrated and beautifully crafted story behind the scroll taken by Ilan Ramon, Israel's first astronaut, into space." Best Jewish Books of 2004 *** "Keeping The Promise is a beautiful book with a beautiful message." *** Cleveland Plain Dealer *** Jewish Women International *** The Reading Teacher *** The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books *** "This is a beautifully illustrated work and a beautifully crafted true story." *** "This story of a tiny Torah scroll that survives the Nazis to accompany Ilan Ramon on the doomed Columbia mission is one that all children, especially Jewish children should hear. The themes of hope and promise are universal. There are true heroes in this world and Rabbi Dasberg (z"l) and Ilan Ramon (z"l) are two of them." C. Danziger *** | "Charming illustrations bring to life a by-gone era, as Nina tells the story of her family's Sabbath lace tablecloth, which has been handed down from generation to generation. In Vienna, Austria, her great-great-great grandmother, Lotty Gross, a celebrated lace maker, made a beautiful lace tablecloth to welcome the Sabbath Queen to her home on Shabbat. Nina tells what happened when the Empress Elizabeth saw the exquisite tablecloth and insisted on buying it to use at her palace receptions. Once she found out the tablecloth's importance to Lotty, the Empress proved to have a heart. She sent it to Lotty to use it every weekend, and left it to Lotty in her will when she died. Now Nina's grandmother has given Nina's mother the tablecloth, and they have told Nina that someday it will be given to her. Jewish Book World Netanya Hoffman *** Gloria Deutsch Amazon Reader Review "This heart-warming and meaningful story will appeal to children, mainly girls ages 7 - 10 years of age. It begins with Nina, a girl of about 7-8 years of age, who proudly announces that her mother has inherited a family heirloom, a lace tablecloth made by her great, great, great Grandma Lotty. Nina is pleased to share that this lovely item had once belonged to the Empress Elizabeth of Austria. Nina recounts the history of how her great, great, great Grandma Lotty had become a lace maker and made the lace tablecloth. She lets us know its significance: it was used for Shabbat, to honor the Sabbath Queen on Friday nights. The story is beautifully illustrated in colorful and striking detail by Ksenia Topaz. The artistic and realistic images tremendously enhance the enjoyment of the story... a very pleasant ending to this very charming book. Most highly recommended." Erika Borsos | "This beautifully spun tale provides a wealth of teaching possibilities by recounting a family's devotion to a single lemon tree and the effect it had on the five generations that followed. Through the great-great-grandson's version of his grandfather's recollections, we experience the world of Eastern Europe's Jews and their hardships. More importantly, Lehman-Wilzig confirms the importance of Judaism and its principles within the daily village culture. A single lemon tree not only provides an entire village with sustenance and a bit of luxury, it serves to reveal the lessons of Torah, the value of caring acts, the responsibility to one's family, to one's community and the earth...The combination of Mishna, text and artwork provides an entire lesson plan. The book also features an activity page which asks the reader to discover their family tzedakah heirlooms. Part of Gefen's new series of Jewish Heirloom Stories, this delightful picture book is a treasure." Jewish Book World "Only sweet lemons are served up in this charming children's parable...Mayer Aaron Levy and His Lemon Tree, a story within a story, conveys the concept of tzedakah. Perfect for young children, the endearing book by Israeli author Tami Lehman-Wilzig teaches an important lesson without ever sounding preachy...Mayer Aaron Levy and His Lemon Tree kicks off a new series conceived and written by Lehman-Wilzig for Gefen publishers. Called Jewish Heirloom Stories, each original folktale revolves around a Jewish value that is designed to bond multiple generations. Each concludes with an activity calling for children to sit down with their parents and grandparents to write their own story on a similar theme. If this is an indication of what's to come, bring on the others." Liz Harris "A very special book about charity is Mayer Aaron Levy and His Lemon Tree by Tami Lehman-Wilzig...the story teaches children not only the importance of giving but also about appreciating what they have." Netanya Hoffman "This lovely and heart-warming story by Tami Lehman-Wilzig provides a great example of the benefits of sharing to children ages 7 - 11. When a person does a good deed for someone, especially those less fortunate, it represents how G-d cares for all of creation. This type of caring reverberates throughout the community and often has far reaching consequences as demonstrated so nicely by this story. The book is a joy to read because it teaches a great lesson. It is also a joy to view the realistic and colorful artwork by Ksenia Topaz who beautifully illustrates each page of this book." Erika Borsos *** | Zvuvi the fly and cousin Zahava lead a tour of Israel's sights and historical venues from Jerusalem to Tel Aviv, from the coastal beaches of Netnaya and Eilat through Haifa and the Galilee, north and south to Tiberias and the Dead Sea. Topaz's joyfully rendered watercolor scenes accompany a chatty text with both tour guides leading the way. Readers are alerted to the wonders, beauty and history while also asked to search for the "tour flies" as they are hidden within the various scenes. This oversized format, with its many, layered views of the country, will serve as a good introduction for anyone planning a visit with children...Zvuvi and Zehava are likeable guides, and the overall design and wealth of information make this a friendly introduction to the country. Kirkus Reviews *** Zvuvi and Zahava, two flies who live in Israel, travel the country showing readers historical, cultural, and natural sites. They have a few close calls with flyswatters, but for the most part enjoy zoos, beaches, cable cars, and other locales. Detailed paintings give a good sense of place... On several pages, readers are challenged to find tiny images of Zvuvi or Zahava that have been incorporated into long-shot scenes-hints are provided in the back matter... This whirlwind, very simplified tour covers a lot of ground. School Library Journal In Zvuvi's Israel, author Tami Lehman-Wilzig gives us a fly-eye's view of the Land of Israel as buzzing Zvuvi wings his way across the country with his cousin Zahava. They hover over the Western Wall, nibble falafel and slide down the waterfall at Banias. Recalling the popular Where's Waldo? books, readers must search for Zvuvi in the pictures-he may be scuba diving in Eilat or skiing down Mount Hermon. Author and artist have created a charming challenge. How would you like to take a "straight-as-the-fly-goes" tour of a foreign country? Author Tami Lehman-Wilzig enables us to do exactly this. Zvuvi, which means "fly" in Hebrew, is just that--a fly! He meets his cousin Zahava at the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem, Israel, and together they zoom to various other cities in Israel, such as Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Eilat, stopping to see various sights along the way, including the Soreq Cave, Dor Beach, Upper Galilee, Mt. Hermon, Qumran (where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found), and the Dead Sea. Jewish children especially will be interested in learning more about these places, but even a lot of non-Jews who have studied the events recorded in the Hebrew Scriptures will enjoy seeing what many of those places are like today. There are both a glossary to explain the meanings of certain words used in the text and a map to help readers follow the route that Zvuvi and Zahava take. Also, on several pages, many of the colorful illustrations by Ksenia Topaz contain a "find the fly" exercise that kids will like to do (and if you can't find them, there are some hints on the last page). This is a really neat book to get a "fly's eye view" of the nation of Israel. *** In Zvuvi's Israel...our guide pays a flying visit to the key sights, from the Wall to Dolphin Reef, including such lesser-known attractions as Haifa's Maritime Museum and the Canada Center ice-skating rink in Metulla. Zvuvi would get on well with Matthew Buzzington, since he and his companion Zahava are flies. See if you can spot your onomatopoeic tour guide in Ksenia Topaz's detail-packed illustrations. An effective first guidebook for ages five to 11. The Jewish Community Online *** | This book is fun! North American Ashkenazi Jews often feel that the way they (we) celebrate holidays, tell stories, and sing songs is the only way/the best way/the real way to do them. But it's not, and after reading this book I think everyone will be ready to cook something new, play a different game, sing a different song. After a quick history lesson, we are told a couple of things that I didn't know-"Store your candles in the freezer to make them for longer". And for lighting the Hanukkah candles, in Sephardi households, "only the head of the household lights the hanukkiah". The "Hanukkah-Israel connection" is made much more clear-"once again, a small number of Jews relied on strategy not one, but many mighty armies surrounding them." Then we take a virtual trip around the world. In Israel, the city of Modi'in holds an annual relay race from Modi'in to Jerusalem in which a torch is passed from one runner to the next. In New York City, a family does "something different every day" of Hanukkah-a night to bake cookies, a music night, a movie night, a night to give to charity, a night to invite friends for a sleepover, and a night to exchange gifts. In Istanbul, we get a new song ("Ocho Candelas") and a new recipe for "burmelos"-fried fritters. In Samarkand,Uzbekistan, "it is customary for sodas to bring their families to their parents' homes to celebrate the first night of the holiday." We get a little vocabulary lesson (Bivi, grandmother, and Bobo, grandfather) and a recipe for jarkoff, traditionally served on the holiday. From Turin, Italy, there is a link between Tisha b'Av and Hanukkah-the first being sad, the destruction of the Temple, and the secondbeing the joyful rededication. The recipe is for Precipizi a honey-covered sweet. In Australia Hanukkah comes in the summer, so the recipe is for a New York Blizzard, a vanilla ice cream/milk combination. In Warsaw Poland, we get potato latkes; in Nabeul, Tunisia, we don't get a recipe, but we do learn about the Festival of the Daughters. The book concludes with a Hanukkah Potpourri and a nice glossary. Recommended. This tour of Hanukkah includes information on its historical significance and the ways in which it is celebrated in places like New York City, Turin, Sydney and Warsaw. After an introductory section about the history, terminology and customs associated with the holiday, the book features a story of a child living in each city. Each section explains how he or she will celebrate the holiday and offers brief historical summaries of Judaism in each region as well as recipes for dishes like burmelos, precipizi and latkes. The informative sections are nicely balanced against the more festive elements. Publisher's Weekly *** Hanukkah traditions from several countries are outlined in this compilation of lesser-known commemorative customs. A generic history of the holiday is followed by eight fictional short stories related to a specific city around the world. From a torch relay in Modi'in, Israel, where the Maccabees' struggle began, to a concert in Istanbul sung in the Sephardic language of Ladino, to a summery outdoor celebration in Sydney, to a Samarkand, Uzbekistan, custom of dancing for eight nights in different homes, the stories relate unique practices. Sidebars include each city's past and present Judaic presence and influence as well as recipes. Wehrman's soft muted paintings, which sketch out maps, traditional dress and foods, add a further instructional element to the fictional prose. A "Hanukkah Potpourri" offers one-paragraph descriptions of ten additional observances. Kirkus Reviews *** This companion to Passover Around the World (2006) provides a history of Hanukkah's origins, a discussion of current traditions, and fictional stories (set in Israel, the U.S., Turkey, Uzbekistan, Italy, Australia, Poland, and Tunisia) highlighting the ways in which contemporary families celebrate the Festival of Lights. For each country the author includes a large map, full-color paintings, a nation-specific historical sidebar, and a holiday recipe; an appended section provides briefer information about local customs in additional countries. Some rituals will surprise readers in colder climates-a torch relay in Israel and an outdoor carnival in Australia, for example-but similarities such as singing, lighting candles, and enjoying fried foods also emerge. Although South America is not represented and no source notes are provided, the engaging text and attractive illustrations will make this a good choice for families wishing to explore diverse ways of celebrating. Booklist *** Move over latkes, make room for precipizi. And sufganiyot, debla cookies and burmelos. These are among the traditional sweets eaten in Jewish homes from Italy to Israel, Tunisia and Turkey during the eight-day Festival of Lights. Recipes for the treats are featured in "Hanukkah Around the World" by Israeli-American children's writer Tami Lehman-Wilzig. The illustrated travelogue takes young readers to eight faraway places around the globe. Hanukkah Around the World is rich in descriptions of the festival of lights as it is celebrated in Modi'in (Israel), New York, Istanbul, Samarkand (Uzbekistan) and Turin (Italy)-wherever Jews make their homes. Author Tami Lehman-Wilzig includes songs in Ladino, Hebrew, Yiddish, English and Russian-and recipes for tasty treats from sufganiyot (doughnuts) to bourekas. Each community celebrates with joy, united by shared history. Descriptions of games and dances abound and Vicki Wehrman's illustrations are lovely. "Hanukkah Around the World" by Tamar Lehman-Wilzig, with illustrations by Vicki Wehrman, is an excellent encyclopedic journey to several exciting places across the globe for kids in first to third grades. The book is part geography, part Jewish culture and heritage primer, and part glossary of Chanukah terms and concepts wrapped around stories that illustrate the diversity of Jews and Jewish ritual. Maya especially liked the chapter on Chanukah in Istanbul, where the character Molly dreams of burmelos, fried fritters. Tablet Magazine *** | In spring, migrating storks always stop at young Maya’s kibbutz on their way back to their European homes. When one stork breaks its wing on some netting in a kibbutz fish pond, Maya becomes the bird’s advocate; with help from her father, the stork becomes a surrogate mother to a nestful of needy stork chicks. Lehman-Wilzig (Zvuvi’s Israel) immerses readers in rhythms of kibbutz life from the very first page, and she never makes a big deal of Maya’s confidence and competence: when the girl pulls out her walkie-talkie and sends out the alert, “S-O-S. Stork in net,” it’s the most natural thing in the world. U.K.-based illustrator Shuttlewood works in watercolors, an ideal medium for a story that takes place entirely outdoors. She renders her human characters in a somewhat simple style, as if reserving the detailing for the birds at the center of the story. And handsome they are, with a magnificent, snowy wingspans tipped in black, and bright red legs and beaks. It’s easy to why Maya devotes her considerable intelligence and energies to them. Ages 3–8. Illustrator’s agent: Advocate Art. (Sept. July 28, 2014 Tami Lehman-Wilzig's book, Stork's Landing, is a new book about Israel's massive bird migrations and what happens to one stork whose wing is broken when caught in a net protecting the kibbutz fishpond. It's based on a true story (with fictional development). The story is beautifully illustrated in vibrant watercolors. The book teaches good Jewish values regarding Tzaar Baalei Chaim (ethical treatment of animals) and perseverance. T. Rieser, Amazon Review Enchanting !! The story and pictures blend beautifully to tell about nature, and man's place in it. The migration of birds over Israel, that narrow land connection between Europe,Asia, and Africa, is brought to life for children of all ages. As a mother and educator, I loved it !! Naomi Resnik, Amazon Review An environmental theme unites nine Jewish bible stories enhanced with a variety of science and nature activities. The religiously focused narrative begins by stating that God’s “perfectly planned planet” has been misused by humankind. Biblical figures such as Noah, Abraham, Joshua, Joseph and Moses demonstrate how the Bible is filled with ways to preserve and respect the earth. From Noah’s Ark and the flood, illustrating the beauty of the planet’s biodiversity, to Joshua’s need for sunlight to successfully defend the people of Gibeon with solar power, each scene is connected to a contemporary interpretation through introductory paragraphs and child-oriented projects. For example, noise pollution is addressed through the story of how Joshua destroyed Jericho first by surrounding the city walls with silence and then by using the loud trumpet blasts to crack the ramparts reinforcing the walls. This is followed by a simple science experiment that will observe whether two identical plants will grow differently under soothing classical and loud hard rock music. Biblical scenes done in gouache against white or pastel backgrounds alternate with easy-to-achieve directives in white panels set against a background that look like green handmade paper. A final “potpourri” section deals with biblical laws and practices for a plethora of eco-friendly practices. A credible, ethical approach to teaching environmental science and responsibility under a Judaic umbrella.(Religion. 5-9) "In this vibrant picture book, Lehman-Wilzig (Tasty Bible Stories) invites readers to travel the globe as she explores how Jews from different cultures celebrate Passover...the author provides a child-centric anecdote or family story, a sidebar containing basic historical, political and geographical information, and a recipe from the area...After reading this book, families may well want to add a new twist - or dish - to their own traditions." "‘The strategy--developed by God--was to hit Egypt with plague after plague, until the ruler Pharaoh finally gave up and let the Hebrews go.' In casual prose and full-page, handsome paintings, this picture book about how Jews celebrate Passover also takes a quick look back at the Jewish Diaspora and its history in the U.S., Gibraltar, Turkey, Ethiopia, India, Iran, Morocco, and Israel. For each country, there is a large clear map; a short history of when, where, and why Jews settled there; and a fictionalized story, illustrated with a painting of a contemporary family seder. The back matter includes a few more traditions, lots of recipes, and a glossary...For kids slightly older than the usual audience for holiday picture books, this accessible title will encourage families to talk about the diverse traditions and connections." American Library Association "This global exploration of the Passover celebration takes a multicultural look at the Passover Seder, examining the customs and traditions associated with the holidays in eight different countries on four different continents. This is an intriguing idea: it makes perfect sense, in light of the way traditions hold sway at holidays, to use the holiday focus to explore the different traditions of Judaism in a number of countries." The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "After briefly telling the story of Passover: a celebration of freedom, and devoting a double-page spread to the special foods and objects which go on every Seder table worldwide, Lehman-Wilzig explores different Passover customs in eight countries around the world. There is a boxed paragraph of facts about each country, and individual stories showing families following their traditions in: America, Gibraltar, Ethiopia, Morocco, Turkey, India, Iran, and Israel, with a Seder on a kibbutz. She includes Passover recipes from around the world, such as "Diane Ben -Efraim's Kneidels" from Israel, "Good Morning Matzah Brie," "Yummy Mashed Potato Kugel", and "Granny Fanny's Cold Egg Soup," from America, as well as "Savta Mazal's Stuffed Dates" from Morocco, and "Madre's Burmelos" from Turkey. A section called Passover Potpourri provides more interesting brief information about different Passover customs in Egypt, Hungary, Poland, Ashkenazi customs from Europe, and customs practiced by possible descendents of Crypto Jews in Texas and Mexico. Handsomely illustrated with colorful maps and gently muted paintings which support the informative, well-organized text, the book ends with a Glossary in which most of the words are translated from Hebrew, as well as Yiddish, Farsi, and Spanish. This can be used by teachers with their classes, and by parents to give them new ideas for recipes and traditions to add to their Passover celebrations. For ages 8 - 12. Jewish Book World "Jewish-American children will be intrigued by the practices in Ethiopia, India, Turkey, and Gibraltar, among other places that are not known for their Jewish populations...Unusual facts and recipes are included." School Library Journal "An actual brick on the Seder plate? That's only one of the intriguing Seder traditions that Tami Lehman-Wilzig has gathered for Passover Around the World, her delightful new book." Jewish Woman Magazine "Tami Lehman-Wilzig's book uses short story vignettes, easy-to-digest maps, inviting illustrations and simple recipes to draw young readers into the topic of how Passover customs differ around the world." Jewish News Weekly of Northern California "Children a little older will be interested to learn of Passover customs in different communities, and will enjoy the descriptions in Passover Around the World by Tami Lehman-Wilzig, illustrated by Elizabeth Wolf...It can be used as a source book, and no doubt parents will learn from it as well. Each of the eight countries can serve as a separate story, and will pique interest and discussion. They let young children know that although the Passover story is the same for Jews all over the world, details of the rituals vary." Chicago Jewish Star Amazon Reader Review "Thought this was a lovely and interesting way to learn about Passover around the world. The recipes make it a fun book for the parents. The illustrations and maps make it very real for any age. They are very beautiful and educational. This book makes a great gift for grandparents to give to their grandchildren." January 23, 2007 The traditional family Hanukkah celebration is here adjusted to include an autistic boy’s interpretation. Jacob’s brother, Nathan, can be quite vexing, especially when he repeats himself constantly. Jacob’s mother has explained that Nathan’s “mind is wired differently” and that he “just looks at things in his own way.” On the first two nights of Hanukkah, Jacob is excited to welcome new neighbors Steven and parents to their candle-lighting ceremony. He quickly regrets it when, to his acute embarrassment, Nathan blows out the candles despite being told they are not like birthday ones. Playing dreidel also proves to be less than enjoyable when Nathan fixates on the spinning and ignores the rest of the game. Yet when confronted by Steven—“your brother is weird” —Jacob counters with the defiant response that Nathan’s autistic (not, as Steven mishears, "artistic") behavior helps his family see the world just a bit differently. Softly outlined illustrations offer snapshot views of family gatherings while also capturing emotional expressions of surprise, chagrin and enjoyment, as reflected in the arc of the story line. A creative final scene encompasses both the traditional menorah lighting as well as a birthday-like candle celebration atop a tray of jelly doughnuts. This inclusive holiday story offers a realistic perspective on one family’s ability to embrace an autistic individual with respect and compassion. (author’s note)(Picture book. 6-8) Online Review: August 17, 2011 Print Issue Review: September 1, 2011

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Rising more than 200 metres above the vast, deserted plains of the Atacama desert, the second tallest building in Chile sits in such a remote location that it looks, from a distance, like the sanctuary of a reclusive prophet, a temple to ancient gods or the giant folly of a wealthy eccentric. Instead, this extraordinary structure is a solar power tower that is being built to harvest the energy of the sun via a growing field of giant mirrors that radiate out for more than a kilometre across the ground below with a geometric precision that is reminiscent of contemporary art or the stone circles of the druids. Still under construction, the Atacama 1 Concentrated Solar Power plant is a symbol of the shift from dirty fossil fuels to a cleaner, smarter way to generate electricity in Chile which is leading the charge for solar in Latin America thanks to its expanses of wilderness and some of the most intense sunlight on Earth. Following the global climate change deal signed in Paris earlier this month, the $1.1bn project is a source of hope because it demonstrates how far renewable technology has come. But – amid reports of its Spanish owner Abengoa’s financial difficulties – it is also a reminder of how the energy transition is increasingly challenged more by financing uncertainties than engineering obstacles. The main structure – which is already taller than London’s Gherkin or New York’s Trump Tower – is almost finished. The next big challenge will be to lift one of the heaviest slabs of steel ever made – the 2,000-tonne solar receiver – to the top with hydraulic jacks. This will be used to heat a pool of 50,000 tonnes of molten salt up to temperatures of 565C during the day so it can continue to drive turbines through the night. All that is needed after that is to polish the 10,600 heliostatic mirrors so that they can reflect sunlight up to the tower. The end result will be the dream of sustainable energy supporters – a solar facility that can provide baseload power generation of 110 megawatts (MW) for 24 hours a day. Although there are other, bigger concentrated solar power plants in the US, this is the first in South America and is believed to be the largest anywhere in the world to use a single tower and locally mined salt for thermal storage and to drive its turbines. The company says the kilowatt hours of solar power per square kilometre in Atacama is more than 30% higher than anywhere else it operates, including the US, Spain and South Africa. The sun is so powerful in this 1,100m-altitude desert that it can be dangerous. Along with a harness, helmet and boots, the essential safety items for visitors are dark glasses and industrial-strength sunblock lotion. Despite the heat, security guards on the perimeter have have thick uniforms that cover every inch of their skin. With only two or three cloudy days per year, the intensity and constancy of the light have drawn a growing number of solar companies to the Atacama, which is becoming one of the world’s leading centres of renewable energy. The transformation has been eye-opening. As well as the concentrated solar power, the plant also has a 100MW of conventional photovoltaic generation, as well as a production line where assembly workers turn out 36 heliostats each day. They are then lifted on to trucks and transported to the field of mirrors. “Can you imagine what it was like when I first arrived here three years ago? There was nothing. No animals. Not even a scorpion,” recalls Herrera, who said his company was now planning new plants in the north and south of the country. “Chile and South Africa are now the biggest growth areas for our company’s solar power division.” That ambition may have to be put on hold. Despite the strong position of the Atacama 1 plant, which has a 20-year contract at a fixed and profitable price to sell to the local grid (which will then uses most of the electricity to meet the demands of industry, such as Chuquicamata, – the world’s biggest open pit copper mine), Abengoa is perilously deep in debt. Following an over-leveraged global expansion, the company filed earlier this month for preliminary protection from creditors. Even before the restructuring was announced, company executives acknowledged that Atacama 1 was a stretch because there are no direct subsidies in Chile. “This will be an iconic project that reduces 840,000 tonnes of carbon emissions per year,” said Ivan Araneda, general director of Abengoa Solar Chile. “But we have to compete with conventional generation, so we have the challenge of reducing costs to be more competitive. The financing for these facilities is a challenge.” The plant’s future is now in doubt while the company reorganises. But the spread of solar in the Atacama is not reliant on one player. In the past eight years, the share of non-conventional renewable energy (wind, solar and biomass) in Chile’s energy mix has risen from 1% to 11% and continues to grow at the rate of about 600MW per year. The government, which offers long-term contracts to private sector bidders, said it was confident of achieving its target of 20% by 2025. Costs are falling rapidly. “Renewables are now as competitive as conventional energy, and we don’t have subsidies. Instead, we have a natural subsidy of great photovoltaic potential,” said Paula Estevez, the international affairs chief at the Ministry of Energy, who said one-third of energy projects under construction were solar. Clusters of blue photovoltaic panels are now an increasingly common sight, as the Guardian saw near Copiapo, a city about eight hours’ drive south of the Atacama 1 plant through a desert that is covered in some stretches with purple, yellow and red flowers as a result of unusual El Niño floods earlier this year. There are several solar plants on this energy corridor, including the 101MW facility in Amanecer, which is currently the largest operating in Chile. On a broad plain between sand dunes and rocky crags are 312,000 panels that track the sun throughout the day. Owned by US firm SunEdison, it is a low maintenance operation: only 15 workers are needed to clean and monitor the modules. With prices fixed for two decades, long-term profits are guaranteed. This has brought in a flood of investment. Further along the road are two other SunEdison plants. Rival firms, including First Solar, are building other facilities nearby. “It’s amazing how quick the growth has been,” said Caminho Galleguillos, an engineer at the Amanecer plant. With so much interest, the government tenders have been oversubscribed, driving down bidding prices. “Chile is a unique market in that solar is cheaper than coal. This will influence what will happen. We see it as a strategic market and a market leader in the solar field,” said Carlos Barrera, vice-president of SunEdison, aims to generate 600MW at its plants in Chile by the end of 2016. Such rapid growth has excited environmental campaigners , who see non-conventional renewables as an alternative to dams as well as a possible source of revenue for the nation and energy for the entire region. “In solar alone, we have 1,000 gigawatts of generation potential, but domestic demand is less than 20GW. In future, we could export energy to other Latin American countries,” said Patricio Rodrigo, the executive director of the Chile Ambiente corporation. There is certainly enough sunlight. But the dream of using Atacama to power swaths of South America is still a long way from being realised. Transmission networks are insufficiently developed to send the electricity even to Santiago, let alone neighbouring nations. In the near future, Chile plans to link its northern and central grids. But beyond that, any cross-border network expansion will have to contend with the Andes mountain range. That is a tough but not insurmountable challenge. The engineering skill is there. The technology is there. And the sunlight is certainly there. All that is needed is the finance. But as Abengoa has discovered to its cost, without money the lights can quickly dim on even the brightest solar plans.

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Meet Your Expert Guide: Sue Martin Sue Martin, an accomplished market analyst with decades of experience, will be your expert guide in this beginner’s guide to market analysis. With a deep understanding of various industries and trends, Sue’s insights and guidance will help you navigate the complex world of market analysis and make informed decisions. Understanding Markets and Market Analysis . In the realm of business and investment, having a deep understanding of markets is essential. Markets refer to the specific areas or industries where buyers and sellers transact. Let’s delve into various market types and explore their descriptions, examples, and growth potential. Local markets: These markets are characterized by transactions taking place within a specific geographical area, such as a city or region. For instance, a farmer’s market in a small town would be an example of a local market. The size and growth potential in these markets may depend on the community’s demographics, needs, and local competition. a. Description and examples: Local markets are typically small-scale and have a tight-knit community. They cater to the specific needs of the local population. For example, farmers’ markets offer fresh produce and locally made goods. b. Market size and growth potential: Explanation of market analysis: Understanding markets: Market analysis involves examining various aspects of a market, such as its size, trends, and competition. This process helps businesses and investors make informed decisions about product development, marketing strategies, and investment opportunities. Market analysis provides valuable insights into the competitive landscape and consumer preferences, enabling businesses to tailor their strategies for success. For investors, understanding markets can help identify lucrative investment opportunities. b. Key components: Market analysis starts by understanding the market itself, including its size, growth potential, and demographics. This information informs business decisions regarding target audiences, product development, and marketing strategies. Examining the competition helps businesses identify their unique selling points and differentiate themselves from competitors. This analysis also provides insights into potential partnerships or collaborations that can benefit both parties. Understanding customer preferences, behavior patterns, and demographics is essential to creating effective marketing strategies and catering to their needs. Market analysis can help identify untapped markets or niche audiences that may offer growth opportunities. I Market Size and Growth Analysis Market size and growth analysis is a crucial aspect of any business strategy. It helps businesses understand the current state and future potential of their market. Two common methods for calculating market size are top-down and bottom-up approaches. Explanation of Market Size Calculation Methods Top-Down Approach: In this method, the total market size is estimated by starting with the overall market and then narrowing it down to a specific segment. For example, if we want to find the market size of the smartphone market in the US, we would first estimate the total mobile phone market size and then subtract feature phones to get the smartphone market size. This method is useful when dealing with large markets or industries. Advantages: Top-down analysis provides a broad perspective of the market and can help identify potential opportunities and trends. It is also useful in industries where data on smaller segments may not be readily available. Disadvantages: Top-down analysis can lead to inaccurate results due to the large assumptions made at the beginning of the process. It can also be time-consuming and resource-intensive. Bottom-Up Approach: In this method, the market size is calculated by aggregating the individual sales of all the segments in the market. For example, to find the total smartphone market size in the US, we would add up the sales of all smartphone brands in the country. This method is useful when dealing with smaller markets or specific product categories. Advantages: Bottom-up analysis provides accurate and detailed information about the market. It is also more time-efficient as it requires less data collection compared to top-down analysis. Disadvantages: Bottom-up analysis may not provide a comprehensive view of the market as it only focuses on specific segments. Discussion on Market Growth Analysis Trends, Cycles, and Drivers: Market growth analysis involves understanding the factors that influence market size over time. This includes identifying trends, cycles, and drivers. Trends refer to long-term changes in consumer behavior or technology that impact the market. Cycles refer to periodic fluctuations in demand or supply, such as economic cycles or seasonal trends. Forecasting Techniques and Challenges: There are several techniques for market forecasting, including regression analysis, time series analysis, and expert opinions. Regression analysis involves analyzing the relationship between different variables to predict future trends. Time series analysis uses historical data to identify patterns and trends in the market. Market forecasting can be challenging due to the many variables involved and the uncertainties associated with future events. Factors that can impact market growth include economic conditions, technological advancements, regulatory changes, and competitive dynamics. Real-life Examples of Successful Market Size and Growth Analyses: One successful example of market size and growth analysis is the case of Apple’s iPhone. When Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone in 2007, the smartphone market was relatively small. Apple used a bottom-up approach to estimate the market size by analyzing the sales of early adopters and enthusiasts. The success of the iPhone led to rapid growth in the smartphone market, with Apple dominating a significant share. Competitor analysis is a crucial aspect of any business strategy. It helps companies understand the market landscape, identify potential threats and opportunities, and develop effective competitive strategies. In this context, it’s essential to first identify the different types of competitors: These are businesses that offer similar products or services to your own. For instance, a local pizzeria and a chain pizza restaurant in the same area would be direct competitors. Indirect competitors offer alternative solutions that might satisfy the same customer need as your product or service. A good example would be a restaurant offering a buffet instead of a la carte meals versus a pizza place. Strategic competitors are those who have the potential to negatively impact your business through their actions, even if they don’t directly compete with you. For example, a large retailer that enters your market and begins selling a similar product at lower prices can be considered a strategic competitor. Competitive forces (Porter’s Five Forces) Threat of new entrants: The threat of new entrants refers to the ease or difficulty with which new competitors can enter your market. High barriers to entry make it challenging for new businesses to enter, while low barriers encourage competition. Bargaining power of buyers: Buyers have significant bargaining power when there are many alternatives available in the market, or when their purchases represent a large portion of your revenue. Conversely, if buyers have limited options and need your product/service, your bargaining power is stronger. Bargaining power of suppliers: Suppliers hold significant power when they have limited competition or when their products are essential to your business. Conversely, if you have multiple suppliers to choose from, or if your product can be produced in-house, your bargaining power is stronger. Threat of substitutes: Substitute products or services can satisfy the same customer need, making your own offering less desirable. For example, a person might choose to prepare their meals at home instead of eating out. 5. Competition rivalry: The level of competition among existing players in the market can significantly impact your business. High competition might result in price wars, advertising battles, or innovative product development. Competitive positioning strategies: Cost leadership involves achieving the lowest possible cost structure in your industry, allowing you to offer competitive prices and attract price-sensitive customers. However, this strategy requires significant operational efficiencies and economies of scale. Differentiation involves offering a unique value proposition that sets your business apart from competitors, making it an attractive choice for customers willing to pay a premium. The challenge lies in creating and maintaining a sustainable differentiation advantage. Focus involves targeting specific customer segments or geographic areas, allowing your business to cater to their unique needs more effectively than larger competitors. However, this strategy requires deep understanding of the selected market and strong execution. Hybrid strategies combine elements of cost leadership, differentiation, and focus to create a unique competitive advantage. For instance, McDonald’s offers consistent pricing while differentiating itself with its branding and customer experience. Understanding customer segments and target markets Customer analysis is a crucial aspect of marketing strategy, focusing on identifying and understanding different customer segments and target markets. Customer segments are distinct groups of customers who have similar needs, preferences, behaviors, or demographic characteristics. Examples include age groups, income levels, geographic locations, and psychographics (interests, values, lifestyles). Target markets, on the other hand, are specific segments that a business aims to reach and serve with its products or services. Understanding these groups enables businesses to tailor their offerings, messaging, and marketing efforts accordingly. Customer behavior analysis: needs, preferences, pain points, buying patterns To effectively cater to customer segments and target markets, businesses must deeply understand their customers’ behavior. This includes identifying customer needs, preferences, and pain points. Customer needs are the wants or requirements that drive their behavior, while preferences refer to the things they like or dislike. Pain points are the problems or challenges they face that a business can potentially solve. Additionally, analyzing buying patterns provides valuable insights into when and why customers make purchases. Data collection methods: surveys, interviews, focus groups, etc. Gaining these insights requires collecting and analyzing data from various sources. Methods include: surveys (structured questionnaires), interviews (one-on-one conversations), and focus groups (group discussions). These methods can be conducted in person, online, or over the phone. Social media listening and customer relationship management (CRM) systems are also valuable sources of data for understanding customer behavior. Customer satisfaction and retention strategies Armed with this knowledge, businesses can implement strategies to improve customer satisfaction and retain customers. Measuring and improving customer satisfaction involves setting goals, tracking performance using metrics like Net Promoter Score (NPS) or Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI), and taking action to address any issues. Strategies for customer retention include providing exceptional customer service, personalizing communications, offering loyalty programs, and continuously improving products or services based on feedback. For instance, Amazon uses customer data to personalize recommendations and offers based on browsing and purchasing history. Apple‘s focus on user experience (UX) and creating an ecosystem of interconnected products has fostered strong customer loyalty. Starbucks‘s rewards program incentivizes repeat visits and offers personalized recommendations based on individual preferences. VI. Market Analysis Tools and Techniques Market analysis is a crucial aspect of any business strategy. It helps companies understand their target market, competitors, and industry trends. In this section, we will discuss various market analysis tools and techniques. SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. It is a strategic planning tool used to help a company or organization identify and understand its internal and external factors. SWOT analysis involves identifying the following four key areas: - Strengths: internal qualities that give an organization an advantage over others - Weaknesses: internal shortcomings or areas for improvement - Opportunities: external opportunities that the organization can exploit - Threats: external factors that could negatively impact the organization The advantage of SWOT analysis is that it provides a comprehensive view of an organization and its environment. The disadvantage is that it can be time-consuming and may require a significant amount of resources. Starbucks, for example, used SWOT analysis to expand its business by identifying new opportunities in the food industry and improving its operational efficiency. PESTEL analysis is a framework used to analyze the external environment in which an organization operates. It stands for Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal. PESTEL analysis involves examining the following six areas: - Political: government policies, laws, and regulations - Economic: economic conditions, interest rates, exchange rates, and inflation - Social: demographic trends, social norms, and cultural values - Technological: technological developments and innovations - Environmental: natural environment, climate change, and resource availability - Legal: laws, regulations, and ethical considerations The advantage of PESTEL analysis is that it helps organizations understand the external factors that can impact their business. The disadvantage is that it can be difficult to identify and prioritize the various factors. Amazon used PESTEL analysis to expand its business by identifying new markets, adapting to changing consumer behavior, and investing in new technologies. Porter’s Five Forces and Other Competitive Frameworks Porter’s Five Forces is a framework used to analyze the competitive environment in an industry. It consists of five forces: - Threat of new entrants: ease or difficulty of entering the market - Bargaining power of suppliers: influence of suppliers over prices and quality - Bargaining power of buyers: influence of buyers over prices and quality - Threat of substitute products or services: availability and attractiveness of alternatives - Competitive rivalry: intensity of competition among existing players Porter’s Five Forces helps organizations understand the competitive dynamics of their industry and identify potential strategies to improve their competitive position. The advantage of Porter’s Five Forces is that it helps organizations identify the key factors that drive competition in their industry. The disadvantage is that it may not be suitable for all industries or businesses. Apple used Porter’s Five Forces to maintain its competitive position by focusing on product innovation and customer loyalty. Market Segmentation, Targeting, and Positioning Strategies Market segmentation, targeting, and positioning strategies help organizations identify and reach their desired customer base. Market segmentation involves dividing a market into smaller groups of consumers with similar needs or characteristics. Targeting refers to selecting one or more segments to serve, while positioning refers to how an organization differentiates itself from competitors in the chosen market. The advantage of market segmentation, targeting, and positioning strategies is that they help organizations tailor their marketing efforts to specific customer segments. The disadvantage is that they can be resource-intensive and require significant research and analysis. Coca-Cola used market segmentation, targeting, and positioning strategies to expand its business by creating new product lines for different customer segments and tailoring its marketing efforts to each segment. Recap of Market Analysis Importance and Key Components: Market analysis is an essential tool for investors, traders, and businesses seeking to make informed decisions in the financial world. By understanding market trends, economic indicators, and competitive landscapes, one can identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and adapt strategies accordingly. Key components of market analysis include: - Technical Analysis: – examining historical market data and price movements to identify trends, patterns, and support/resistance levels - Fundamental Analysis: – evaluating economic, financial, and other qualitative data to assess the intrinsic value of securities - Economic Indicators: – quantifying the overall health and direction of an economy through various statistical measurements - Competitive Landscapes: – assessing the competitive environment, including competitors, market share, and pricing strategies Encouragement for Continuous Learning and Practicing Market Analysis: Market analysis is a constantly evolving process, with new data, trends, and tools emerging regularly. As such, it’s essential to continuously learn and practice market analysis techniques to stay informed and competitive. By dedicating time each day or week to reviewing market data, reading industry news, and refining your skills, you’ll be well-positioned to make better decisions and adapt quickly to changing market conditions. Call to Action: Start Analyzing Markets with the Knowledge Gained from This Guide: Now that you’ve gained a solid foundation in market analysis, it’s time to put your new skills into practice. Start by selecting a security or market sector of interest and conducting a thorough technical, fundamental, and competitive analysis. Utilize the resources and tools mentioned in this guide to help guide your research and interpretation of data. Remember that market analysis is an ongoing process, so be sure to revisit your analysis regularly and update your strategies as necessary. Closing Thoughts by Sue Martin: “Market analysis is an art and a science, requiring both creativity and discipline. By mastering the techniques outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to making more informed decisions and achieving greater success in your investments and trading pursuits. Remember that knowledge is a continuous journey, so always strive to learn, adapt, and grow.” – Sue Martin, Market Analysis Expert To further your learning, consider joining industry organizations, attending seminars or webinars, and engaging with other market analysis professionals. Good luck on your journey to becoming a skilled market analyst!”

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The institution of higher learning in the United Kingdom is widely recognised for its design and calibre, accommodating students of different ages and academic backgrounds. Primary education, secondary education, further education, and higher education are its four main divisions, further subdivided into "Key Stages." Compulsory education mandates that pupils attend school until the age of sixteen, provided they fulfil curricular requirements and assessments. This post will go into great detail about these phases and what makes them special. Key Stages of Education The UK education system requires children to attend primary and secondary education from ages 5 to 16, divided into several key stages: - Key Stage I: Ages 5-7 - Key Stage II: Ages 7-11 - Key Stage III: Ages 11-14 - Key Stage IV: Ages 14-16 UK Primary Education In the United Kingdom, elementary education also referred to as primary school, covers Key Stages I and II and lasts from the age of five to the age of eleven. Primary schools, frequently situated on the same site, may have distinct divisions for younger and older students. Key Stage I (Ages 5-7) Key Stage I encompasses the first two years of primary education: - Year R (Reception): Age 4-5 - Year 1: Age 5-6 - Year 2: Age 6-7 (Year when SAT testing occurs for Key Stage I) Basic literacy and numeracy skills development is the main focus of the curriculum throughout these early years. In basic science, art, and physical education classes, students are taught basics in reading, writing, and mathematics. To set up pupils for future academic achievement, a focus on developing a caring environment that encourages curiosity and a love of learning. Key Stage II (Ages 7-11) Key Stage II includes the following year groups: - Year 3: Age 7-8 - Year 4: Age 8-9 - Year 5: Age 9-10 - Year 6: Age 10-11 (Year when SAT testing occurs for Key Stage II) A greater emphasis is placed on improving students' reading and numeracy skills during these years as the curriculum becomes more regimented. Subjects like science, geography, and history are studied in more detail by students. They also advance their knowledge of foreign languages, information and communication technology (ICT), and personal, social, health, and economic education (PSHE). Because they are not bound by the National Curriculum, private schools could have different curricula than state schools. In the UK, Key Stages III and IV are covered in secondary school, which runs from year 7 to year 11. Students who complete secondary school are ready for post-secondary education, which leads the way in global rankings and provides various educational programs. Key Stage III (Years 7-9) Years 7 and 8: These years are part of the senior school in some independent institutions and the junior school in others. Pupils study core subjects such as English, maths, science, humanities, and a modern language, with additional elective options. A broader range of courses is covered in the curriculum in years 7 and 8. Students continue studying the main topics while delving into electives such as design technology, music, theatre, art, and physical education. This stage is essential for determining the students' interests and strengths, which will guide their decisions in the future. Key Stage III's foundational education paves the way for the later pursuit of a bachelor's degree. Year 9: This year is pivotal as it marks the transition from junior to senior school and sets the foundation for the GCSE programme. Students start to concentrate more on topics that will be covered in their GCSE coursework during Year 9. This year is a transitional year leading up to the demanding GCSE curriculum. Schools frequently offer advice to assist students in choosing courses that correspond with their long-term academic and professional goals. Key Stage IV (Years 10-11) GCSE Programme: Beginning at age 14, students in Years 10 and 11 study 9–12 subjects, including electives and required courses like science, maths and English. For admittance to universities and future schooling, the GCSE results are essential. For admittance to undergraduate degree programs, GCSE results are especially significant. The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) program is a two-year comprehensive study that ends with tests. Usually, students study a combination of required and elective courses. English language, English literature, maths, and at least one science (physics, chemistry, or biology) are considered core subjects. Students can explore interests in elective disciplines, including business studies, art, music, geography, history, and more. Intensive 1-Year GCSE: Designed for international students aged 15 and up, this programme allows them to complete their GCSEs in one year, focusing on fewer subjects. International students who need to transition into the UK education system or catch up can benefit from the intense GCSE plan. These courses focus on fundamental subjects and critical abilities required for post-secondary education, condensing the two-year GCSE program into a year. IGCSE: This international programme prepares pupils for A-Level and IB exams, covering five to seven subjects, including science, maths, and English. The IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) is recognised globally and follows a similar structure to the GCSE. It benefits international students, providing a broad and balanced curriculum that prepares them for advanced studies. University Preparation (Years 12-13) Through A-Level or IB programs, post-secondary education in the UK prepares students for further and higher education. A two-year A-Level curriculum, with specialisation in three or four areas related to the chosen university degree, can be started by students at sixteen. Higher education establishments across the globe, including those in the UK, accept A-Level results. Comprehensive study of selected subjects is possible with the A-Level program. Students usually choose their courses based on what the university requires and their professional ambitions. English literature, mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, history, geography, and modern languages are among the common A-level courses. Getting into a university requires passing the A-Levels, especially for selective programs. International Baccalaureate (IB) Students can choose from disciplines to study with the IB Diploma Programme. It has six disciplines (theory of knowledge, extended essay, creativity, activity, and service) and a required core program (three at a higher level and three at a standard level). Written exams are given to students after their courses. The IB curriculum is renowned for emphasising holistic education and having high academic standards. It promotes the growth of students' research abilities, critical thinking, and global perspectives. The three main components—the Extended Essay (EE), the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS)—are intended to improve students' critical thinking and analytical abilities and better equip them for college and beyond. Internationally, IB qualifications are recognised by higher education institutions for their contribution to the development of well-rounded, intellectually prepared pupils. Unique Aspects of the UK Education System The UK education system offers several unique features: - Free Early-year Education: For nearly nine months, a child who is three or four years old is entitled to fifteen hours of complimentary nursery instruction. - Free School Meals in Key Stage 1: Free meals are provided to all students in Year 1, Year 2, and Reception. - State Education is Free: Children ages five to six can receive free education from state institutions, which can save parents money by offering first-rate facilities. - National Curriculum: Guarantees consistent academic requirements for all elementary and senior schools. - Independence for Children: Promotes autonomy and independence as evidenced by many secondary school students who commute alone. - High Productivity: The UK is renowned for its inventiveness and originality, which helps students' self-esteem and understanding of the wider world. - Encouragement for Further Education: Worldwide, companies, and educational institutions hold UK credentials in the highest respect. - Free Education for European International Children: When a child from the EU enrolls in a state school, they are entitled to free education. - Well-organised School Terms: Three terms make- up the academic year, with half-term vacations to improve performance and learning. - Global Recognition: The UK is acknowledged as a welcoming and diverse country for international students. - Private Schools: Approximately 7% of schoolchildren attend private schools, which require payment of fees. These schools are independent of the National Curriculum and may have variability in teacher qualifications. Both domestic and foreign students find the UK educational system intriguing because of these distinctive qualities. A strong and encouraging learning environment is facilitated by emphasising free education during the formative years, the curriculum, and the promotion of independence. The Contribution of International Students to the UK’s Economy Despite the £4.4 billion cost of housing them and their dependents, a recent analysis suggests that international students beginning their studies in 2020–2021 might contribute up to £41.9 billion to the UK economy. The net benefit of £37.4 billion highlights the financial advantages of foreign students, who also support the employment and education system in the UK. New laws prohibiting dependents, which take effect in January 2024, might influence funding for higher education and the national economy. International students, who not only bring financial contributions but also enhance the intellectual and cultural panorama of UK institutions, are a major draw for higher education establishments. They improve the standing of UK universities internationally, bring a variety of viewpoints, and promote intercultural understanding. There are worries about the long-term effects on the UK's reputation abroad and financial stability due to the possible decline in foreign enrolment brought on by the new regulations. Offering a wide range of options for students at every level, the UK's education system is thorough and well-organised. It is a popular place to study because of its well-known worldwide standing, distinctive qualities, and the large economic contributions made by international students. In addition to preparing students for success in the classroom, the system also fosters independence and a global perspective, which makes it a great option for students looking to continue their education in a vibrant and encouraging setting. The UK has a very advanced educational system, and a bachelor's degree is a key degree in the academic hierarchy for students who want to continue their education there. Anyone who wishes to study in the UK is more than welcome because it is a varied and accepting nation for anyone seeking to enhance their knowledge. Furthermore, this could provide students who want to move to the UK or start their firm with a basic grasp. By understanding the structure and benefits of the UK education system, pupils and parents can make informed decisions about their educational paths, ensuring a fulfilling and successful academic journey. Institutions like the College of Contract Management, in addition, offer fantastic chances for individuals seeking to focus on areas like contract management, quantity surveying, or construction management to advance their professional potential. The college provides a range of courses that meet the high educational standards of the United Kingdom and give students the tools they need to succeed in the global market.

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Nitrate—the oxidized form of dissolved nitrogen— is the main source of nitrogen for plants. It occurs naturally in soil and dissipates when the soil is extensively farmed. Thus, nirtrogen fertilizers are applied to replenish the soil. However, these nitrates can be toxic, especially when they enter the food chain via groundwater and surface water. In California, the State Water Resources Control Board lists nitrate as one of California’s most challenging and growing water problems. Nitrate Contamination Overview Nitrate contamination occurs in surface water and groundwater, leaching into the soil and from there into the water supply from various sources. Irrigation water containing fertilizers is a common culprit as are septic systems, wastewater treatment plants, dairies and natural conditions. Although a necessary nutrient for plants, high nitrate levels in people can harm the respiratory and reproductive system, kidney, spleen and thyroid in children and adults. It is particularly harmful to infants. In California, nitrate is one of the most common groundwater contaminants. While 98 percent of the state’s community water systems meet all primary drinking water standards, between 10 to 15 percent of the public wells exceed the state’s standards for nitrate. They in turn have to be treated or blended with high-quality water. A recent report found 680 community water systems serving 21 million people in California had contaminated groundwater including nitrate. Most are in the eastern San Joaquin Valley, and in Kern, Madera, and Tulare counties, particularly in rural, economically disadvantaged communities. Responding to Nitrate Contamination Tackling nitrate contamination directly is difficult and expensive. Nitrate is expensive to remove from drinking water supplies, especially in public and private systems that rely on untreated groundwater and do not have the necessary water treatment infrastructure. For example, a 2011 report by the Pacific Institute estimated the cost of cleanup in California to be $150 million. There are some regulatory controls in place that address salinity, including nitrates, but it is generally agreed that a much more comprehensive approach is needed. Meanwhile, there are also local efforts to handle nitrate. The Central Valley Water Board, for example, addresses nitrate in groundwater through four programs: - irrigated lands, minimizing discharge from irrigated agricultural lands - CV Salts, aiming to develop and implement a salinity and nitrate management program - groundwater quality protection strategy, providing a roadmap for future regulatory and control activities - dairy programs, focusing on control and abatement of nitrates to groundwater

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At Windwhistle Primary School we recognise that English is essential to everyday life and it is vital that our pupils become confident speakers, readers and writers in order to be successful in education, but also in the wider world. Our ambitious curriculum is built on a wide range of quality texts, which will enrich the children's understanding of both the spoken and written word. Lessons are designed to include a wide range of writing opportunities , with skills and concepts taught being developed year on year so that children are provided with deep knowledge and understanding which will be essential as they move forward into the world. Within the Early Years, the systematic teaching of phonics is at the heart of our approach to the teaching of reading and writing. Phonics is a way of developing the ability to read quickly and accurately; in the Foundation Stage and in Key Stage 1, it is taught every day to give our children a solid foundation in their decoding and segmenting skills.

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It is important to educate yourself about clean energies if you are interested in saving the planet. Find reliable experts who can help you, talk with other homeowners and use the Internet to do more research on solar energy. Keep reading to find out more about solar power. If you perform regular maintenance on your solar power system, it will function well for a long time. You should inspect your equipment at least once a month, and wash the surface of the panels carefully. Don’t think twice about hiring a professional to inspect and clean your solar energy system for you, however this can also be done on your own. You can integrate solar energy into your home’s current energy source. Get yourself a couple of solar energy lights if you want to use them for landscaping purposes so that you can save some energy. You can find them at your local hardware store or mass market retailer. Just insert them into the ground, and you’re good to go. You don’t have to worry that you’ll be tearing up your whole roof if you decide to use solar power. You can make good use of solar energy with simple systems like standalone outdoor lighting. These lights are connected to small solar panels that harvest power during the day and provide you with enough power to keep your home lit up during the night. Don’t waste your time with pushy salespeople. Doing your own research and asking a lot of questions will help you to make the most informed and best decision for you. If you make a rash purchase, it could be very costly. With a modern system, you can enjoy the benefits of solar even in a cloudy, cold climate. The temperature is irrelevant as long as your panels are safe and they are getting proper sunlight. As a matter of fact, lots of people claim that they have incredible solar power on cloudier days. Sun tracking panels are the most efficient available. These systems can track the sun for optimum efficiency. While it may be more expensive, the energy it produces is worth it. If you have resources and room for it, sun tracking panel systems are the way to go. These systems will follow the sun as it moves during the day. The cost is relatively steep compared to a fixed option, but the benefits more than outweigh the costs. Do a careful estimation of your energy usage needs and how many panels you will need with someone who knows all of the points to consider. Depending on your location, solar panels may not be worth the investment. Be sure to look before you leap. Study all the financial and technological specifications carefully. Take the time to look at the numbers before deciding to invest in solar energy. Solar panels might not be a good option if you cannot count on optimal exposure to sun rays in your area or if you use more power than a regular solar energy system can generate. When you buy first and do the math later, you may not like the outcome. Have solar panels installed in the best positions to get more sun during the whole year. If you don’t know where to place them, take time to track where the sun’s path is and consider each seasonal change. Install your solar panels so they receive the most sun throughout the year. If you are not sure of how you should place them, you should take some time to track the path of the sun and take into consideration the changes that occur with each season. Solar photovolatic panels can decrease your heating bill, as can solar water heating. If you can count on five hours of sunlight a day, you should consider investing in photo-voltaic panels. Solar water heating can reduce your bill if you have a swimming pool that is heated. You can reduce the amount you spend on electricity by using solar panels or installing a solar water heater. Photo-voltraic panels work best in areas that get 5 hours of direct sunlight daily. If you have a heated pool, solar water heating can cut down on how much you spend. New homes are a great place to start with solar power. Solar energy is quickly becoming one of the most popular forms of energy due to the amount of money that can be saved by using it as well as the positive impacts that it brings to the environment. If you have not yet looked into this energy source, now is the time to do so. If you want to take baby steps into the solar energy arena, consider starting with an attic fan that is solar powered. Using a temperature sensor, a solar fan automatically cools the air in your attic. This can help reduce energy costs by removing heat. It’s also solar powered, so you don’t have to pay to power it. If you want to take baby steps into the solar energy arena, consider starting with an attic fan that is solar powered. An attic fan will sense the temperature and turn itself on when your attic reaches a specific temperature. This is a great way to keep your home cool, without incurring any additional costs. Additionally, as it is solar powered, your power bill will go down, not up. If you have purchased your own home, consider investing in a complete solar energy system. Solar panels are a pretty hefty financial obligation, especially considering how often people move. You don’t want to lose your home or still be paying on solar panels if you decide to move. Consider pathway lighting if you are interested in getting your feet wet with solar energy. The lights power up all day and then brighten the path at night. It is simple to install then and make outdoor spaces charming. Installing pathway lighting is an affordable way to take advantage of solar energy. Pathway lighting involves using small lights that absorb the sun’s energy whenever it is out, and when it’s not, they glow. They are not very difficult to install, and they can add some charm to your outside area. If you are interested in a certain type of solar panels, you should find out when this technology was designed. Make sure that the solar panels that you invest in are recent technology because older solar systems are still being sold but are will not give you optimum output. While the outdated technology is cheaper, the new technology is more efficient. Solar panels can get quite pricey, so try to purchase the minimum number needed for your energy use. Have an expert do an audit of what your energy usage is. This can help you find the ways you waste energy so you can change them. This can help you cut down on the amount of solar panels that you will need. If you are considering investing in solar panels, you should start monitoring the weather. If your area gets unobstructed sunlight for a minimum of five hours each day, your home can get what it needs from solar panels. During the winter, if you have snow on your roof or if most of the days are overcast, you should consider other options in green energy. Keep your distance from pushy solar panel salespeople. These types of salespeople are pretty common in this industry. Simply tell them that you will consider it and then move on. If they tell you it’s a fantastic deal at the time, then it will probably be the same deal at a later time. Decisions made under pressure are rarely smart ones. If you are a resident of the American southwest, solar power is likely a great idea for you. This sunny part of the nation is ideal for the use of solar energy to power whole homes and businesses. Now is the time to seriously consider switching to solar power. Before deciding if solar panels are right for you, assess the amount of shade that is present around your house. You may not want to go with solar energy if there is shade over your home often. You might not be able to produce enough energy and could benefit better from a different green energy option. Adjust your panel angles whenever there is a change of season. The amount and angle of sunlight changes with each season. By adjusting the angle of the panels, you can maximize the amount of sunlight that you can capture and improve the cost effectiveness of your investment. If you do not want to invest in a full-scale solar energy system, invest in a solar-powered water heater. Remember that water heaters can be a significant portion of total energy costs. With lower up front costs than a full system, solar water heaters will show a quicker return on your investment. Dry your clothing outside. This is an older idea that works just as well. Running the dryer can be costly; instead, hang any clothes on sunny days. This will save you money and hassle on drying. Conduct some research into the background of any prospective solar power firm. You want to be sure that the company you give your business to will still be there to help you in ten or twenty years. Also, find a company that offers a quality coverage plan. Always check out the reputation of any company before hiring them to install and maintain your solar panels. You want to do business with someone that is likely to still be around in 20 years. This ensures your warranty is good down the road. Energy bills for a growing family can be high. Kids use many electronic devices, like their mobile phones, computers, and televisions, and it can be quite a challenge to get them to remember to save energy. This is why it makes sense to switch over to solar energy and reduce that monthly bill. Solar energy is a subject that quite a few people have been interested in at one time or another. However, there are many people who still have a lot to learn regarding solar energy. The things you went over above will allow you to know that you have a solid foundation to work off of when it comes to solar energy. Solar energy is booming today! Solar power is, actually, a great way to save money on your power bills. Try and find local solar energy companies that will provide you with support as you need it.

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In his newest book, John Woman (377 pages; Grove Atlantic), Walter Mosley reflects on truth versus perception as embodied in the life of a man who reinvents himself into the novel’s title character. Raised by a white mother with a habit of running away and a bedridden black father nearing death, Cornelius Jones experiences a childhood that is nothing if not difficult. As a boy he’s forced to pay his family’s bills by posing as his father (the first of more alter identities to come), assuming his job as a projectionist at a silent movie theatre. The pressure of covering up his identity leads to a fateful encounter with his boss one evening in the projection room, resulting in a crime that will dog Cornelius. From this opening, the novel leaps in time to when Cornelius has become John Woman, a professor of history at the New University of the Southwest. His class is titled “Introduction to Deconstructionist Historical Devices,” a subject seemingly prompted by his father’s interests in the validity of history. In his lectures, Woman focuses on the reliability of history and how it ties into each student’s individual life. Though his insight is renowned and admired by students and teachers alike, Woman is nonetheless admonished by many in the same community, creating no end of trouble for him, trouble made even more pointed by the specter of what happened in that projection room years ago. As the narrative often returns to Woman’s scholarly lectures and conversations, one particular observation could serve as the core concern of the entire novel: History is only, is always little more than an innuendo, a suggestion that we decide to believe or not … We shall fail because history is that unsteady ground I spoke of. It is not a rigid truth but an ever-changing reality. If it were an ironclad actuality then we would be able to learn from it. But all we can do is learn about its edges, insinuations, and negative spaces. This understanding seems to be of comfort to Woman as he undergoes great tribulations near the end of the novel. That “ever-changing reality” of history is directly reflected in his identity, profession, relationships—his life in its entirety. Through the character of John Woman, Mosley demonstrates that truth is nothing more than the perception of itself, which can be terrifying or, oddly enough, consoling. In the end, the dramatic irony of John Woman leads us to question what we really know to be true, perhaps even bringing us to sympathize with the so-called “criminals” we have been told to vilify by society.

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Oncothermia is a widely used and researched method of targeting cancer cells by passing both focused and controlled heat, and an electric field, through cancer tissue. Published data shows that, when used as a complementary therapy along with traditional medical therapies, oncothermia can significantly improve patients’ conditions, prolong survival and enhance quality of life. Oncothermia can be used with all stages of cancer. It is mainly used with metastatic cancer and advanced solid cancers that are inoperable. See also Hyperthermia. The difference between Hyperthermia and Oncothermia lies in how the heat is used. Conventional hyperthermia disperses the heat. Oncothermia, on the other hand, focuses on the tumour. In this way it captures the cancer cells by the frequency they emit. The treatment is more focused and effective. The area of the body affected by the cancer is positioned between two electrodes. An electric field is generated by the two electrodes. Since cancer cells have a higher conductivity than normal cells, the electric field flows predominantly through the cancer cells, that is, it flows selectively through cancer cells. The combination of deep heat and the electric field leads to changes in the cancer cell membrane which in turn triggers cell death (known as apoptosis) as well as other effects including: The immune response to oncothermia has been shown to have an effect on distant metastases as well as at the site of the primary tumour; this is known as the abscopal effect. There are differences between oncothermia and classical hyperthermia at both cellular and physiological level: Oncothermia can be used with all stages of cancer although its main use is with metastatic cancer and advanced solid cancers that are inoperable. Some publications on Oncothermia: The safety and pharmacokinetics of high dose intravenous ascorbic acid synergy with modulated electrohyperthermia in Chinese patients with stage III-IV non-small cell lung cancer. Modulated Electrohyperthermia in Integrative Cancer Treatment for Relapsed Malignant Glioblastoma and Astrocytoma: Retrospective Multicenter Controlled Study. Upregulation of heat shock proteins and the promotion of damage-associated molecular pattern signals in a colorectal cancer model by modulated electrohyperthermia. The use of heat to treat cancer dates back to about 3000 BC. There are several ways to apply heat to tumour cells. Oncothermia is an advanced technique in the field of hyperthermia and is based on the work of Dr. András Szász, a professor of biophysics. Oncothermia is currently used in 32 countries worldwide with over 200,000 treatments delivered every year. There are many scientific publications showing the benefits of oncothermia in different cancers. Please see below for some of these. More studies can be found in the Oncothermia journal here. Oncothermia is usually used as a supportive treatment, combined with orthodox chemotherapy or radiotherapy, or with other approaches. Research shows that oncothermia enhances the effects of chemotherapy and reduces the risk of resistance to chemotherapy drugs. More publications on Oncothermia: Treatment outcome analysis of chemotherapy combined with modulated electro-hyperthermia compared with chemotherapy alone for recurrent cervical cancer, following irradiation. In vitro comparison of conventional hyperthermia and modulated electro-hyperthermia. Electro-hyperthermia up-regulates tumour suppressor Septin 4 to induce apoptotic cell death in hepatocellular carcinoma. Combined treatment with modulated electro-hyperthermia and an autophagy inhibitor effectively inhibit ovarian and cervical cancer growth. Comparison of biological effects of modulated electro-hyperthermia and conventional heat treatment in human lymphoma U937 cells. Modulated electro-hyperthermia enhances dendritic cell therapy through an abscopal effect in mice. Modulated electro-hyperthermia induced loco-regional and systemic tumor destruction in colorectal cancer allografts. Oncothermia: a new paradigm and promising method in cancer therapies. Current status of Oncothermia therapy for lung cancer. Hyperthermia versus Oncothermia: Cellular Effects in Complementary Cancer Therapy. Clinical and economic evaluation of modulated electrohyperthermia concurrent to dose-dense temozolomide 21/28 days regimen in the treatment of recurrent glioblastoma

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Perfectionism is more than just a desire to excel or achieve high standards; it’s a complex personality trait that can significantly impact one’s mental well-being. At its core, perfectionism involves setting unrealistically high standards for oneself and a persistent fear of not meeting those standards. Individuals with perfectionistic tendencies often engage in harsh self-criticism, striving for flawlessness in various aspects of their lives. The relentless pursuit of perfection can take a toll on mental health, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and even depression. The constant pressure to meet unrealistic standards can create a cycle of dissatisfaction, negatively affecting relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life. Recognizing the impact of perfectionism is the first step towards seeking effective coping mechanisms. Definition and Types of Perfectionism Perfectionism manifests in different forms, and understanding its various types is crucial for effective intervention. While some individuals exhibit “adaptive perfectionism,” which can drive them towards success, others experience “maladaptive perfectionism,” where the pursuit of perfection becomes a hindrance. The nuanced nature of perfectionism requires tailored approaches for coping and management Common Signs and Symptoms Identifying the signs and symptoms of perfectionism is essential for both individuals and mental health professionals. These may include an intense fear of failure, a persistent need for approval, excessive self-criticism, and difficulty delegating tasks due to a belief that no one else can meet their standards. Recognizing these indicators early on can facilitate timely intervention and support. The Role of Psychiatrists in Mental Health - Overview of Psychiatrists’ Expertise Psychiatrists are medical doctors specializing in mental health, equipped with the knowledge and skills to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions. Their expertise extends beyond medication management, encompassing various therapeutic modalities aimed at addressing the root causes of psychological challenges. - Addressing Mental Health Challenges, Including Perfectionism Perfectionism often coexists with other mental health issues, such as anxiety disorders and mood disorders. Psychiatrists play a crucial role in assessing and understanding the interconnectedness of these challenges. Through personalized treatment plans, they can provide resources and strategies to cope with perfectionism, fostering a healthier mindset and overall well-being. IV. Coping Strategies for Perfectionism A. Therapeutic Interventions - Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) stands as a cornerstone in treating perfectionism. This evidence-based therapeutic approach helps individuals identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with perfectionistic tendencies. CBT equips individuals with practical skills to challenge and change their perfectionistic beliefs, fostering a more realistic and adaptive mindset. - Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is another therapeutic modality that can be effective in addressing perfectionism. DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness strategies, providing individuals with tools to manage intense emotions and improve interpersonal effectiveness. By integrating acceptance and change-oriented strategies, DBT helps strike a balance between self-acceptance and personal growth. B. Medication Options and Their Role While medication is not a standalone solution for perfectionism, it can be a valuable component of a comprehensive treatment plan. Psychiatrists may prescribe medications, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications, to alleviate symptoms associated with perfectionism, such as chronic stress or anxiety. The decision to include medication in the treatment plan is individualized, considering the unique needs and preferences of each person. C. Lifestyle Changes for Managing Perfectionism In addition to therapeutic interventions, lifestyle changes can significantly contribute to managing perfectionism. Encouraging individuals to cultivate self-compassion, practice mindfulness, and establish realistic goals can create a more balanced and fulfilling life. Incorporating hobbies, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and fostering supportive relationships can also play a pivotal role in reducing the impact of perfectionism on mental well-being. V. Seeking Help in Orlando A. Availability of Psychiatrists in Orlando Orlando is home to a diverse range of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists specializing in various areas. The availability of psychiatrists in the Orlando area ensures that individuals seeking help for perfectionism and related issues have access to qualified professionals with expertise in mental health. B. How to Find a Suitable Psychiatrist Finding the right psychiatrist is a crucial step in addressing perfectionism. Potential ways to find a suitable psychiatrist in Orlando include seeking referrals from primary care physicians, consulting with insurance providers for in-network options, and utilizing online platforms that provide information about mental health professionals in the area. VI. Personal Stories and Testimonials A. Real-Life Experiences of Individuals Coping with Perfectionism To truly understand the impact of psychiatric support in managing perfectionism, it’s invaluable to explore the real-life experiences of individuals who have navigated this journey. These stories highlight the challenges faced, the coping strategies employed, and the transformative power of seeking professional help. By sharing these narratives, we aim to foster a sense of connection and inspiration for those currently grappling with perfectionism. B. Positive Outcomes Through Psychiatric Support Examining positive outcomes achieved through psychiatric support reinforces the effectiveness of seeking professional help. Individuals who have engaged with psychiatrists in Orlando share their journeys of overcoming perfectionism. These success stories emphasize the importance of a comprehensive approach, including therapy, medication when necessary, and lifestyle adjustments. Through psychiatric support, individuals have not only managed perfectionistic tendencies but also cultivated healthier perspectives on achievement and self-worth. A. Recap of the Role of Psychiatrists in Addressing Perfectionism In summary, psychiatrists play a pivotal role in addressing perfectionism by offering a range of therapeutic interventions tailored to individual needs. From evidence-based therapies like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to judicious use of medications and advocating lifestyle changes, psychiatrists provide comprehensive and personalized treatment plans. Their expertise extends beyond symptom management, aiming to empower individuals with the tools needed for long-term well-being. B. Encouragement for Seeking Help and Resources in Orlando As we conclude, we want to emphasize that seeking help for perfectionism is a courageous and transformative step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. If you or someone you know is struggling with perfectionism in Orlando, the resources and support are readily available. Reach out to local psychiatrists, mental health professionals, and support networks to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. Remember, perfection is a journey, not a destination. With the right support and resources, individuals can cultivate resilience, self-compassion, and a balanced approach to achievement. Your mental well-being matters, and Orlando’s vibrant mental health community is here to help you thrive. Thank you for joining us on this exploration of perfectionism and the resources available in Orlando. May this information serve as a guide and encouragement for those on the path to mental wellness.

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