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What is diverticulosis?
Diverticula are small pouches, or sacs, that bulge outward through weak spots in your colon. They mostly form in the lower part of the colon. Diverticulosis is a condition in which you have these pouches. Most people who have diverticulosis do not have symptoms or problems. But sometimes the pouches can cause symptoms or become inflamed.What is diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is the name for the condition you have when one or more of the pouches get inflamed. Diverticulitis may come on suddenly. It can sometimes cause serious health problems.What is diverticular disease?
Diverticular disease is a condition that happens when the pouches cause:
- Chronic (long-term) symptoms
- Diverticular bleeding
- Diverticulitis or diverticulitis complications
Researchers aren't sure what causes diverticulosis and diverticulitis. They think certain factors may play a role in causing or increasing the risk for these conditions, including:
- Your genetics. Certain genes may make some people more likely to develop the conditions.
- Lifestyle factors such as:
- Diets low in fiber and high in red meat
- Lack of physical activity
- Taking certain medicines, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroids
- Having obesity
Researchers are also looking at other possible factors that may play a role in these conditions. Those factors include bacteria or stool (poop) getting caught in a pouch in your colon and changes in the microbiome in the intestines. Your microbiome is made up of the bacteria and other organisms in your intestines.Who is more likely to develop diverticulosis and diverticulitis?
Diverticulosis is common, especially as people age. More than one-third of U.S. adults between the ages of 50 and 59 have diverticulosis. More than two-thirds who are over age 80 have it. Most of those people will not have symptoms or problems. But some of them will develop diverticulitis.What are the symptoms of diverticulosis and diverticulitis?
Diverticulosis usually doesn't cause symptoms. But some people can have chronic symptoms such as:
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Cramping or painin the lower abdomen (belly)
Diverticulitis may cause acute symptoms such as:
- Abdominal pain, most often in the lower left side of your abdomen
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Fevers and chills
- Nausea or vomiting
The pain caused by diverticulitis is usually severe and comes on suddenly. Less often, the pain may be mild and worsen over several days.What other problems can diverticulosis and diverticulitis cause?
Some people with diverticulosis and diverticulitis may develop serious health problems (complications). Diverticular bleeding happens when a small blood vessel within the wall of a pouch bursts. The bleeding may be severe and sometimes even life-threatening.
People with diverticulitis can also develop serious problems such as:
- Abscess, a painful, swollen, pus-filled area caused by infection
- Fistula, an abnormal opening or passage between the colon and another part of the body, such as the bladder or vagina
- Intestinal obstruction, a partial or total blockage that keeps food, fluids, air, or stool from moving through your intestines
- Perforation, or a hole, in your colon
- Peritonitis, an infection of the lining of the abdominal cavity
Diverticulosis may be found when your health care provider is doing tests for another reason. Diverticulitis is usually found when you are having an acute attack.
To make a diagnosis, your provider will review your medical history, do a physical exam, and order tests. The tests may include:
- Blood tests
- Stool tests
- Imaging tests such as CT scan, ultrasound, or MRI
f your diverticulosis is causing chronic symptoms, your provider may recommend:
- High-fiber foods or fiber supplements
- Medicines to reduce inflammation
If you have diverticulitis without complications, your provider may recommend treatment at home. However, you probably need treatment in the hospital if you have severe diverticulitis, diverticulitis with complications, or a high risk for complications.
Treatments for diverticulitis may include:
- Antibiotics, except for very mild cases.
- A clear liquid diet for a short time to rest the colon. Your provider may suggest slowly adding solid foods to your diet as your symptoms improve.
- Medicines for pain. This is usually acetaminophen instead of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs may increase the chance of diverticulitis complications.
- Antispasmodic medicines to relieve spasms.
If your diverticulitis doesn't improve with treatment or if it causes complications, you may need surgery to remove part of your colon.Can diverticulitis be prevented?
Your provider may recommend lifestyle changes to prevent diverticulitis:
- Eating a diet high in fiber and low in red meat
- Being physically active on a regular basis
- Not smoking (and quitting smoking if you are a smoker)
- Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight
NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases | <urn:uuid:0d93f022-1eb3-4cff-8675-f81b6478d45b> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.medgend.com/medical-cure/diverticulitis | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474674.35/warc/CC-MAIN-20240227085429-20240227115429-00699.warc.gz | en | 0.907344 | 1,156 | 3.734375 | 4 |
The work of the Seneca Falls Convention on women’s rights did not go unnoticed in Nebraska. From the earliest days of statehood, there was a progressive contingent that argued women should be allowed to vote since the laws representatives wrote applied to women as well as men.
So when delegates gathered in 1871 to write a new constitution for the state, votes for women was one of five proposals submitted separately to the voters. There was at least enough support to get the question on the ballot. However, when the — all male — voters in Nebraska went to the ballot box, women’s suffrage got the lowest vote total of any of the five proposals, with only 22 percent of the vote.
The issue was far from dead. Suffrage was kept alive by the efforts of people like a young Canadian immigrant, Erasmus Correll, who had moved to Hebron, Nebraska in 1869. He and his wife, Lucy, founded the Hebron Journal in 1871. They were both strong supporters of equal rights for women. Erasmus provided space in his newspaper for women who wished to make their voices heard on the issue of suffrage, and he and his wife wrote regular columns supporting feminist causes. In 1877, Correll convinced Susan B. Anthony to come to Hebron to speak on behalf of women’s rights. Two years later in 1879, Elizabeth Cady Stanton came to Hebron to lend her support to the cause.
Mr. Correll was elected to the State Legislature in 1880 and introduced a women’s suffrage bill. It was defeated, but by then over 30 local women’s suffrage organizations had been formed in Nebraska. Soon after, the Nebraska State Women’s Suffrage Association was formed. Clara Bewick Colby, of Beatrice joined the crusade and would eventually become Nebraska’s leading female crusader for women’s suffrage.
In 1882, Correll introduced another women’s suffrage bill. This time his proposal was to submit the question of women’s suffrage to the voters. Clara Colby, who made several speeches before both houses of the legislature, was credited with convincing the representatives to pass the bill. But the amendment was again defeated.
In 1891, suffragists tried again. On March 6, suffragists packed the chamber floor and galleries as a bill was debated to extend suffrage to women — not in all elections, but only in elections for municipal (city) offices. But the opponents argued that with the secret ballot, letting women vote in municipal elections would cause "untold mischief". One paper reported,
"After wasting more than two hours of time, roll call on the bill commenced. Once the bill was defeated, the legislature could get down to solid work."
In 1914, the Nebraska Woman Suffrage Association launched an initiative campaign to place the issue on the ballot. Dr. Anna Howard Shaw, President of the National Woman Suffrage Association, visited Omaha during the 1914 campaign to support the initiative. She was a confrontational and controversial personality who verbally attacked a state judge who refused to allow Nebraska women to vote for the office of superintendent of schools, even though women could vote for school board members.
Shaw’s remarks provoked an angry response from Mary Nash Crofoot, the executive board chair of the opposition association. The pamphlet was entitled, "Lest Catholic Men Be Misled". There was some religious opposition to women’s suffrage.
Although all of Nebraska’s neighbors to the north, west, and south had passed full woman suffrage before World War I, the state’s electorate rejected proposed suffrage amendments to the Nebraska constitution three times — during the 1871 constitutional vote, in 1882, and in 1914. But the proponents did not give up hope. | <urn:uuid:fe3ef56c-1eac-4ddb-9510-976160d1196d> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.nebraskastudies.org/en/1900-1924/votes-for-women/the-struggle/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474674.35/warc/CC-MAIN-20240227085429-20240227115429-00699.warc.gz | en | 0.977972 | 787 | 4.125 | 4 |
In this post, we are going to cover various facts and researches related to music and the brain.
Music can change the world because it has the ability to change the people and is just like pure magic. When you are happy you just enjoy the music but when you are sad your brain starts understanding the lyrics.
Music is divine that speaks where the words can't and it touches everyone's heart.
As you all know we are highly addicted to music and it is a part of our life. Life without music would be blank.
It affects our brain, emotions, mood, behavior, skills, creativity, studies, mental and physical health.
Also, we need to agree that it affects our lives in both positive and negative way.
Here in this post, let's look at some of the ways by which music influences our behavior, mood and also emotions.
- Pop is the good genre as it makes you to fight depression, encourages you to do more. It is good for your soul.
- Listening to classical music increases visual attention.
- The enhancements to the neural system would continue to grow over the lifespan in case you start listening music daily.
- Musicians will be having the clear transition of syllables and faster neural responses when compared to non musicians.
- As per the journal's report, music has the power to take back your memory to two generations back. Classic genre has the ability to take you back to your teens.
- Increased cortisol levels lead to depression. If you listen to music when you are in stress it reduces the production of cortisol. Along with that meditation also helps to reduce the cortisol levels.
- The listening skills of those who learn music are more compared to non-musicians.
- A study done with 27 participants on dopamine and brain found that when you listen to your favorite music, it induces the release of more dopamine which is a crucial Neurotransmitter.
- Pharmalogical manipulation of dopamine causes both positive and negative musical responses.
- People when listen to music get chills due to the release of dopamine.
- Brain has the ability to reduce the vocals pitch. 20 out of 80 patients participated responded to the brain stimulation making audible vocalizations.
- A study on brain patterns with 14 musicians and 9 non musicians showed that blood flow in the brain can be increased through musical training.
- When you listen to music while learning physical activity it empowers the brain by altering its structure. When they studied this, they found that the volume of the cortex which is responsible for memory,learning, emotion, creativity etc, was highest in professional musicians, intermediate in amateur musicians, and lowest in non-musicians.
- Musicians have better and sensitive brains compared to non musicians. This is because there is 130% more grey matter present in the auditory cortex of the musicians brain which is responsible for hearing.
- The functions and structure of brain varies much in musicians and also their brain responds more quickly to sound.
- Musicians are better when it comes to identifying pitch and sounds. Musicians respond more symmetrically to music.
- Musical training improves and strengthens the brain's functionalities in people with learning and speech difficulties.
- Musicians have super powered memory and auditory skills.
- Musicians have a larger corpus callosum which is mainly responsible for movement and communication.
- Music helps you heal quickly by connecting with your emotions.
- Music may affect oxytocin levels in the body when you listen to your favourite music or when you enjoy live music, which is responsible for increasing the trust and bonding between people.
- Software workers productivity will drastically increase when they work after listening to music.
- When athletes listen to upbeat music before gaming it keeps them away from choking pressure.
- Study made to analyze surgeons' performance found that surgeons when listened to their own choice of music worked more fastly and accurately. It also boosted their speed and accuracy of task performance.
- Music boosts creativity. In one study some participants are allowed to listen classical music and remaining participants were not allowed to listen any type of music. Those listened music completed the tasks very creatively and enthusiastically.
- Musicians have more cognitive flexibility than non musicians.
- When you listen to instrumental music it boosts your productivity while mental performance can be improved by listening to lyrics. Listening music also increases physical performance and makes the repetitive tasks pleasurable.
- Music acts as a painkiller. When a person is sad listens to his favorite music it triggers the production of opioids, a natural pain reliever. So that they feel very calm and relaxed. The study revealed that classical genre is the most effective music to reduce the pain.
- The sound vibrations therapy on Parkinson's patients does a miracle by improving their walking speed and the physical condition.
- The live music which excites and thrills the body makes the patients recover their quality life.
- As per the different studies made, the people with stroke in the initial stages showed an improvement when listened to music which improved their immune system and reduced their stress. Thus music is proved as a pain killer.
- Comparable to non musicians, musicians have highly enhanced neural coding and faster cABRs(auditory brainstem response to complex sounds) with more precise response timing.
- UniversityHealthNews explored that the patients suffering from dementia and Alzheimer's are able to recollect the autobiographical memories and verbal memories when they are allowed to listen to music.
- Also, dementia patients were able to recognize the emotions when they listen to music.
- Music therapy decreases the depression, anxiety while improving skills, emotions in dementia patients.
- Also, a study revealed that in the people with middle to later stages of Alzheimer disease, singing a familiar song encourages conversion.
- Listening to sad music evokes positive emotions in the people who are suffering from depressions. Music stimulates emotions through specific parts of the brain.
The study made to analyze the impact of music on the bioelectrical oscillations of the brain
revealed the following results:
- Indonesian musical study revealed that music prominently increases the alpha activity in the brain and also cognitive processes. Imaging music elicits the posterior alpha activities because imaging has the power to enhance the alpha activity of posterior areas of the brain.
- Long term music therapy on comatose patients did wonders by increasing the amount of higher frequency waves (α + β) and it decreased the amount of lower frequency waves (δ and θ), which resulted in decreasing their quantitative EEG value δ + θ/α + β (1) 8. As the amount of high frequency waves increased, the brain starts its activity.
- Also, the research found that those patients who are suffering from unresponsive wakefulness when fed with music therapy, it reduced the theta/beta ratio and theta power, while shifting the dominant rhythm into the alpha band thus recovering brain integrity.
- It is strongly agreed that music activates the brain in unconsciousness people.
- In people suffering from major depression, schizophrenia, or anxiety symptoms, music therapy increases alpha and reduces beta activity over time, thus reduces their anxiety levels and makes them come out of their illness.
- The major advantage of music therapy with depression patients is – it increases the left frontotemporal alpha power, as well as in the left frontocentral and the right temporoparietal theta power. This process reduces their depression and helps them lead a happy life.
- Music therapy for patients with schizophrenia increased alpha activity in prefrontal, frontal, temporal, and parietal lobes and brought them back to the original state.
How does music affects brain, emotions, and mood?
Do you know music helps people in remembering things better?
Yes, it is!
- The 2007 study done by Stanford University revealed this truth – music always keeps engaging the parts of the brain associated with memory and hence it stimulates those nerves associated with it. The concentration levels always respond energetically with music.
- Listening to favorite music always increases the focus, keeps your mind calm. Listening to music while studying is highly beneficial as it makes your brain more attentive and makes you more focused, reduces retention, and maximizes the spirit of learning.
- Listening Hip Hop/Rap music while studying is dangerous, instead go with instrumental, classic, cinematic scores, binaural beats. Listening to these types of music maximizes your cognitive output, increases concentration, and keeps your brain focused.
- Listening to background music or to rain, auditory music, pleasant music improves memory and increases the heart rate.
- Touching music results in deeper memory encoding and modifies the visual perception of faces by combining both the auditory and facial properties together.
- Listening to music also enhances the positive thoughts by influencing arousal and mood.
- Listening to music decreases agitation, aggression, and many other negative behaviors. One to two months of music therapy on dementia patients showed improved emotional state, reduced behavioral problems, and also decreased caregiver distress.
The study revealed that listening to the classical genre is the best way to improve memory(long term memory) and concentration. It establishes an emotional connection and induces sensory experience.
Results indicated that people with more musical experience learned better with neutral music but tested better with pleasurable music.
ECG recordings in a study revealed the fact that the ability to track the pitch of a sound called pitch contour is very advanced in musicians as compared to non-musicians.
The study also showed a mixed demonstration on the hypothesis "music training is related to enhancements of mathematical skills" – the first-grade musicians with visual art skills who had a training of over 7 months showed amazing expertise in mathematics.
However, the fact still needs evaluation.
Musical training in kids accelerates the brain development at a faster rate with faster development of encoding of sound thus enhancing IQ and learning skills.
These kids will be very attentive, have stronger responses. This also helps in their language acquisition.
- Effect on music on Infants: A study made on a 4 week infant to examine its behavior of tongue protrusion in music and silence revealed that the infants protruded their tongues more actively when music was played compared to in silence.
The babies protruded their tongues even in the absence of their parents. So the study concluded that it was not the mimic the baby does rather it is connected with music.
2. Preschool-aged children: The study analysed the children's behavior in 2 computerized training programs, one for visual arts and another for music.
After training for 20 days, 90% of the students in the music group showed higher verbal intelligence. These improvements happened because of the positive impact of music on the brain's plasticity.
This happened due to the positive impact of classical music on children's mind. This also enhanced their technical abilities as well.
4. Primary school children: Effect of background music study on primary school children showed that the calming music impacted on children made them perform better on arithmetic and memory tasks.
But when disgusting music was played they reacted very aggressively and performed worst on both tasks. Thus this study concluded that the music changed the mood and reduced the stress by correlating with arousal and mood.
A study made to understand the effect of background music on pupils with age group of 12+ reported the following results:
- The pupils with an age of 12+ who are frustrated with educational needs and are unable to perform the manual tasks effectively were subjected to audio tapes of Mozart orchestral compositions.
- Their blood pressure, body temperature, and pulse rate were measured and the audiotapes were then adulterated in order to determine which stimulus had a positive effect on their physiology and metabolism.
- After adulteration of music the improvements in coordination, less stress and frustrations were observed. This is because Mozartian qualities stimulated the production of a chemical, endorphin in the limbic system of the brain which is responsible for physiological changes.
- In a study made by Scripps Howard News Service reported that rock music increases the adrenalin levels in humans and it makes the brain structure associated with memory and learning abnormal.
- Despite its downsides music acts as a mood changer for teenagers.
- According to university of Melbourne young people with depression would love listening to heavy music. They will isolate themselves from the outside world by blocking out themselves listening to the same music again and again. If they overdo it, they may end up committing suicide.
- Researches also showed that listening to violent lyrics increases the aggressiveness but listening to piano keeps you calm.
- Listening to sad music increases anxiety and neurosis.
- Most Awful Recording Studio Statistics That Fears Audio Producers
- 13 Music Genre Statistics That Every Music Lover Should Know
- 15 Horrifying Music Piracy Statistics and Facts You Need to Know
- 6 Best Music Genre Finder Websites to Check Genres of any Song
This is all about the facts and statistics related to music and the brain.
Perhaps the parents get worried if their children spend a lot time listening music. Now I think they have understood the impact of music on them and also its power.
Let your children learn music as it enhances their skills.
As the proverb says "If taken in excess, even divine nectar is also poisonous", it also has limits.
I hope you found this post helpful. | <urn:uuid:95ac4c17-3cde-44c8-8740-5a4fc0f4477f> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.soundmaximum.com/research-on-music-and-brain/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474674.35/warc/CC-MAIN-20240227085429-20240227115429-00699.warc.gz | en | 0.949318 | 2,744 | 3.578125 | 4 |
At the Heart of Pluto Lies a Nitrogen-Inspired “Lava Lamp”
Like the hot wax floating up in those retro lava lamps, the midst of Pluto’s “heart” is bubbling up with warm solid blobs of nitrogen.
Scientists have now discovered that Pluto’s surface is constantly renewing itself by a process called, convection.
The area known as Sputnik Planum on Pluto is covered with churning young “ice” cells that continue to spit-up new ones at the “heart” of this planet.
Thanks to the combining of computer models with topographic and compositional data gathered by NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft in July 2015, team members have been able to determine the depth of this layer of solid nitrogen ice and how fast that ice is flowing. In fact, the research shows these cells are ranging in size from 10 to 30 miles across (16 to 48 kilometers) and are estimated to be less than a million years-old.
William B. McKinnon from Washington University in St. Louis feels that for the first time ever, they can determine what those strange welts are on the surface of Pluto. They have even uncovered evidence that shows although planets can be located billions of miles away from Earth, they can still produce enough energy to create vigorous geological activity….of course, you need the “right stuff.”
What’s the right stuff?
The soft and pliable nitrogen that McKinnon and his colleagues feel are most likely buried several miles deep in the dwarf planet. The solid nitrogen under the surface is being warmed by Pluto’s modest internal heat. It then becomes buoyant, and rises up in great blobs — like a lava lamp — before cooling off and sinking again to renew the cycle.
The computer models have given scientists the data that demonstrates the broad convection cells turning into blobs and how the continuous overturning of these blobby-bits can evolve and merge over millions of years. This would account for the ridges that mark where cooled nitrogen ice sinks back down. It becomes pinched off and abandoned, resulting in Y- or X-shaped features in junctions where three or four convection cells once met.
According to a statement made by Alan Stern of the Southwest Research Institute in Boulder, Colorado;
“Sputnik Planum is one of the most amazing geological discoveries in 50-plus years of planetary exploration, and the finding by McKinnon and others on our science team that this vast area — bigger than Texas and Oklahoma combined — is created by current day ice convection is among the most spectacular of the New Horizons mission.”
Although, on Earth time the overturning of these cells may seem super-slow (cells recycle themselves about every 500,000 years) it is very fast in planetary-terms.
“This activity probably helps support Pluto’s atmosphere by continually refreshing the surface of ‘the heart,'” McKinnon said. “It wouldn’t surprise us to see this process on other dwarf planets in the Kuiper Belt. Hopefully, we’ll get a chance to find out someday with future exploration missions there.”
New Horizons is set on course for an ultra-close flyby of another Kuiper Belt object, 2014 MU69, on January 1, 2019 (pending NASA approval of funding for an extended mission).
Hopefully, the mission will give scientists even more knowledge of the mysteries just waiting to be discovered. And perhaps, it may even turn up more evidence of new planets or even take a close up look at some ancient objects.
Want more of Pluto? Check out this video for an up close look at this dwarf planet’s varying surface. | <urn:uuid:0682b135-a59e-45be-be33-cc13d054a2c3> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://osr.org/blog/news/heart-pluto-lies-nitrogen-inspired-lava-lamp/?currency=USD | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474746.1/warc/CC-MAIN-20240228211701-20240229001701-00699.warc.gz | en | 0.93566 | 777 | 3.75 | 4 |
What are Dog Burns?
Burns are painful wounds created by tissue damage from heat, chemicals, electricity, friction, cold, or radiation. While burns in general are uncommon in dogs, they can be serious—even life threatening and require immediate attention.
Types of Dog Burns
Thermal (heat) Burns
Thermal burns are caused by heat. When heat energy is applied to skin faster than the tissues can absorb and release it, the heat energy starts to directly damage skin cells.
The three forms of thermal burns and some common examples include:
Scalds are thermal burns that occur from contact to the skin with hot liquid or steam. Examples include boiling water, hot cooking oil, and steam from steamers or irons.
Contact burns are caused by touching a hot solid object. Common examples of contact burns in dogs include heating pads, stovetops, radiators, heat lamps, car mufflers, and hot pipes.
Flame burns occur when skin is exposed to an open fire. This can occur from any open flame, such as bonfires, open cooking flames, and house fires. In addition to their skin lesions, dogs with thermal burns from flame burns may also have lung damage due to smoke inhalation.
Chemical burns happen when the skin comes in contact with a chemical or chemical fumes that are corrosive, such as strong acids, drain cleaners, car battery acid, paint thinner, gasoline, pool chemicals, and more. When such chemicals meet the skin, they can destroy cells and severely damage superficial and deep tissues. Chemical burns can be as serious (or even more serious) than thermal burns. These chemicals can also cause serious illness if ingested.
Electrical burns occur when an electrical current touches one point on the body, with or without an exit point. The burn can char tissue at in the initial site or at higher voltage cause extensive tissue damage (necrosis). The most common cause of electrical burns in dogs is chewing on electrical cords. Unfortunately, the resulting electrocution can cause severe internal injuries to the dog’s heart and lungs.
Mechanical (Friction) Burns
Friction burns are also known as rope burns, carpet burns, and rug burns. These types of burns occur when skin is scraped off by mechanical contact with a hard surface such as roads or carpets resulting in both an abrasion and a heat burn. These can occur in dogs as mild wounds, such as quick turns on a carpet, or can be severe such as road rush due to being hit by a car.
Frostbite (Cold) Burns
The opposite of heat burns, cold burns are caused by severe or prolonged cold. Ice crystals form in and around the skin cells causing cell damage and death (necrosis). In dogs, the extremities (ear, tail, and digits) are most susceptible to frostbite.
Radiation burns are due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun (sunburns) or other sources. As radiation causes cell damage resulting in redness, high doses of radiation damage the cell’s ability to divide resulting in wounds or radiation burns. While sunburns are less common in dogs than people, they can occur, especially in hairless pups. However, the main source of radiation burns in pets is a consequence of radiation therapy used to cure or control cancerous tumors.
Burns are further classified based on the amount of skin layers affected and how deep the damage extends. The skin consists of three layers—epidermis (outermost), dermis (middle), and hypodermis (innermost, also referred to as subcutaneous layer). After the skin and subcutaneous layer, there are muscles, tendons, and bones. When burned, skin retains heat, so the specific classification or degree may not be apparent for up to three days after an injury.
Classifications for Burns
Superficial Burns (First-degree burns)
First-degree burns, also called superficial wounds, are superficial and are confined to the outermost layer of skin (epidermis). The affected area will be red, dry, and painful to the touch. These wounds typically heal quickly and completely, often within three to six days with minimal treatment and normally no scarring.
Partial-thickness Burns (Second-degree burns)
Second-degree burns are also referred to as partial thickness wounds and involve the epidermis and variable amounts of the dermis. These burns are characterized by blisters and drainage. With second-degree burns, healing takes months, wounds are at risk of infection, and scarring may be extensive.
Full-thickness Burns (Third-degree burns)
Third-degree burns, referred to as full thickness wounds, are full thickness injuries that have destroyed the epidermis and entire dermis down to the subcutaneous layer. The skin becomes leathery, charred, and lacks sensation. However, third-degree burns are less painful than first and second-degree burns because the nerves have been destroyed.
These burns form a dry, dark scab of dead skin called an eschar. Healing of full-thickness burns will be slow and prolonged with permanent scarring and a high risk of infection. Often, third-degree burns will require surgical treatment such as debridement and skin grafts. Severe burns can also cause systemic signs including shock, blood clotting issues, and multiple organ failures including liver failure, kidney failure, and damage to the heart and lungs.
Full-thickness Burns with Extension to Muscle, Tendon, and Bone (Fourth-degree burns)
Burns that extend beyond the dermis are sometimes classified as fourth-degree burns. These burns have the same characteristics as third-degree burns, but they affect deeper tissues such as muscles, tendons, and bones.
Are Burns in Dogs a Medical Emergency?
Burns may initially appear minor, but they can worsen within 72 hours. Depending on the type of burn, there may be other complications, such as damage to internal organs, trouble breathing, and irritation to the stomach or intestines. It is important to consider all burns to be medical emergencies; have your dog seen immediately by your veterinarian if It has been burned.
Treatment of Burns in Dogs
Burns are primarily diagnosed based on history and a physical examination. Since burns are not always immediately recognized due to your pet’s fur coat, the similar appearance of some burns to other wounds, and the delayed progression of some burns over the first three days, it is crucial to provide all history. Information may include any radiation therapy, recent surgical procedures where heating pads may have been used, exposure to fire or chemicals, and recent trauma. The more complete your history, the better the veterinarian will be able to determine the diagnosis.
Your veterinarian will also start with a thorough physical examination to assess for skin lesions (including blistering and eschars), all affected areas, and signs of trouble breathing, or systemic illness. If thermal burns are identified and the injury occurred within the past two hours, the veterinarian will likely start cooling the areas affected with cold water to limit the spread of tissue damage. Similarly, chemical burn wounds will likely be flushed with large amounts of water to stop the spread of tissue damage.
Mild burns may be treated symptomatically without further testing. A veterinarian may recommend topical therapy such as silver sulfadiazine, medical honey (e.g., silver honey), sugar dressings, and other antibiotic or wound healing ointments. After the pet has been examined, it is highly recommended to only apply topical medications as instructed by your veterinarian. Depending on the type and severity of burn, some topical therapies can make burns worse and cause the pet significant pain.
Never apply human ointments, topicals, or home remedies such as butter to burns. These products often contain ingredients toxic to dogs.
In cases of severe burns, a complete blood count, serum biochemistry, and urinalysis will likely be recommended. These tests will help your veterinarian assess your pet’s internal organ function (liver and kidney) as well as check protein levels, electrolyte levels, and assess dehydration. Your pet will likely need to be hospitalized and started on IV fluids to correct dehydration and shock.
Pain medications will be necessary to keep your pet comfortable. Infection of burn wounds is a major concern and periodic testing may be performed to help choose the correct antibiotics for your dog. Additional care may include oxygen therapy, plasma transfusions, and nutritional support.
While in the hospital, the veterinary staff will monitor your pet’s mental status, temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate and effort, and ECG. Repeat bloodwork will likely be performed to track any changes and help guide therapy. Daily wound therapy will be key component to therapy and may include bandage changes, debriding dead tissue, and hydrotherapy. Advanced surgical techniques such as skin flaps or grafts are also used to aid healing.
Recovery and Management of Burns in Dogs
Recovery and prognosis of a burn in dogs depends on the type and degree of the burn. However, another consideration with burns is the size of the burn, or how much of the total body surface area is affected. All animals with burns should be seen immediately by a veterinarian.
Minor burns may heal quickly in a few days with no complications or scarring, but severe burns may take weeks to months to heal with potentially life-threatening complications. If your pet does survive, scarring and wound contracture are the biggest complications to dogs with severe burns.
When considering burns in dogs, it is ideal to prevent them from happening in the first place. This may be accomplished by using around hot objects (cooking equipment and liquids), storing chemicals in a safe and secure location away from pets, removing of electrical cords from areas pets (especially puppies) have access, and keeping pets indoors during times of extreme hot or cold. If a burn does occur, seek veterinary care immediately.
Not sure whether to see a vet?
Fossum, Theresa. Small Animal Surgery. 3rd ed. Elsevier; 2007.
Silverstein, Deborah, Hopper, Kate. Small Animal Critical Care Medicine. 2nd ed. Elsevier; 2015.
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XML and SOAP are key components in digital business systems, respectively. XML serves as an XML-based markup language which defines guidelines for encoded documents into formats which are both human- and machine-readable, while SOAP helps facilitate communications among applications across networks.
XML is an industry standard format for organizing and structuring data. This format facilitates data exchange among various parties in an easily navigable fashion. Offering an extensible framework with tags and elements to organize hierarchically hierarchical representation of information. As an indispensable element of Web development, data storage, as well as configuration files, its usage has grown over the years.
SOAP, as an interoperability protocol, facilitates communications among various platforms and systems by outlining rules for structured data exchange between them. Utilizing XML formatted messages for message formatting purposes and HTTP as transport protocol – SOAP has found wide use across web-based services for exchanging both data as well as remote procedure calls.
Understanding the differences between XML and SOAP are vitally important to architects and developers in creating web services as well as data exchange methods. This content outline explores what distinguishes each one by exploring its structure types, purposes, benefits and differences while offering advice when to employ each system in specific scenarios and emerging trends within web services development.
What is XML?
Extensible Markup Language, more commonly referred to by its acronym of Extensible Markup Language (XML), is an open and standard way of representing structured data in documents that is both machine readable and human readable. XML was initially developed as an open standard way to encode structured information.
XML employs tags to distinguish elements within documents. Enclosed in angle brackets (>), these tags provide context and structure to data that’s nestled among them allowing complex relationships among various pieces of information.
Apart from tags, XML also supports attributes which provide more details about an element. Attributes typically represent their values using name-value pairs that can be added during tag opening of elements.
One of the primary features that makes XML stand out is its flexibility. Users are allowed to design custom tags and structures for documents, making XML suitable for various data formats and software systems. To further enable its adaptability, DTD and Schemas exist that define rules and restrictions regarding structure and content contained within an XML document.
XML documents can be processed and parsed by software programs, making them ideal for data exchange, storage and configuration purposes. As it’s independent from languages and platforms it facilitates interoperability among different systems and applications XML has found widespread usage both web development as well as industries including publishing, healthcare finance and publishing where structured data representation and exchange is crucial.
What is SOAP?
SOAP stands for Simple Object Access Protocol and serves to enable communication among programs via the internet. It outlines rules and principles for structuring, organizing and transmitting communications among components of software systems.
SOAP uses XML as its message format, offering an open and non-platform-dependent means of representing data. While HTTP is usually its transport protocol of choice, other transport protocols like SMTP or TCP may also be utilized.
The structure of a SOAP message consists of three main parts:
- Envelope: This is the outermost element of a SOAP message and defines the XML namespace for SOAP. It encapsulates the entire message and provides a container for the other elements.
- Header: The SOAP header is optional and contains additional information about the SOAP message. It can include data such as authentication credentials, encryption details or other application-specific information.
- Body: The SOAP body contains the actual payload of the message. It carries the data being exchanged between the sender and receiver. The body can contain any XML content, allowing for flexible data representation.
SOAP also defines a set of rules for processing errors and faults. If an error occurs during message processing, a SOAP fault can be generated and included in the response. This allows for standardized error handling and communication of exceptions between applications.
SOAP is commonly used in web services to enable communication and interoperability between different systems and platforms. An exchange system with a clearly-delineated framework for exchanging messages. It supports several operations, such as remote procedure calls (RPC) and request/response communications.
The benefits of SOAP include its language and platform independence, as well as its extensibility and support for security features. It has been widely adopted in enterprise-level systems and plays a crucial role in enabling integration between disparate applications and services.
Differences Between XML and SOAP
1. Purpose and Usage:
- XML: XML is a markup language designed for structuring and presenting hierarchical data structures in an accessible fashion. XML is flexible enough to accommodate many forms of organization that focus on data representation while offering adaptable frameworks to organize information efficiently.
- SOAP: SOAP stands for Structured Object Access Protocol and it enables applications on the internet to exchange structured data through structured calls on web services, thus providing interactions and communications among software components.
2. Structure and Syntax:
- XML: XML defines the syntax and rules for structuring data using tags, elements, attributes and nesting. Information presented using this format must be both human- and machine-friendly.
- SOAP: SOAP utilizes XML as its message format. It adds an additional layer of structure to XML by specifying the structure and elements of a SOAP message, including the envelope, header, body and optional fault elements.
3. Data Format and Content:
- XML: XML focuses on data representation and provides a general-purpose format for organizing and exchanging data. An infographic is an effective way of representing information such as dates, text and numbers hierarchically.
- SOAP: SOAP uses XML to structure the content of its messages. The data exchanged in SOAP messages is typically related to web service operations, such as function calls, request parameters and response data.
4. Transport and Protocol:
- XML: Although XML doesn’t outline an explicit method or protocol to exchange data, its format enables it to be utilized across many scenarios such as HTTP/FTP transfers and file storage systems.
- SOAP: SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol): SOAP is a network protocol designed to outline how messages should be formatted, transmitted, and processed over the network. While HTTP often serves as its transport protocol of choice for SOAP use cases, other protocols such as RFC 822 support its use as well.
5. Implementation and Compatibility:
- XML: XML is a general purpose language which can be implemented across numerous programming platforms and languages. It has widespread support and is compatible with different systems and applications.
- SOAP: SOAP requires specific implementation and support from both the sender and receiver applications. It relies on the availability of SOAP libraries or frameworks in the programming language or platform being used.
Important to recognize is the fact that XML and SOAP don’t conflict, both can exist alongside one another without conflict. SOAP messages typically utilize XML while its use for non-web services purposes can vary. The choice between XML and SOAP depends on specific application needs as well as standard communication needs within context of data exchange.
Implementing XML and SOAP
Implementing XML and SOAP involves utilizing the appropriate technologies and tools to work with these standards. Here are the steps involved in implementing XML and SOAP:
- Define the XML Schema or DTD: Determine the structure and constraints for your XML data by creating an XML Schema or Document Type Definition (DTD). These specifications define the allowed elements, attributes and their relationships.
- Create XML Documents: Generate XML documents that adhere to the defined schema or DTD. You can use text editors or XML-specific tools to create and edit XML files.
- Parse and Generate XML: Implement XML parsers in your programming language of choice to read and parse XML documents. Libraries like DOM (Document Object Model) or SAX (Simple API for XML) provide applications with tools for parsing and manipulating XML data within their applications.
- Choose a Programming Language and Framework: Select a programming language capable of supporting SOAP implementation, such as Java,.NET Framework or Python. Use SOAP libraries or frameworks specific to your chosen language, such as Apache Axis, Apache CXF or WCF (Windows Communication Foundation).
- Define Web Service Operations: Determine the operations and methods that your SOAP web service will provide. Specify the input parameters and expected responses for each operation.
- Generate WSDL: Write or generate a Web Services Description Language (WSDL) file that describes the SOAP web service, including the operations, input/output messages and service endpoints.
- Implement the Web Service: Write the actual code for your SOAP web service, incorporating the defined operations and their functionality. Use this SOAP library to efficiently process and compose SOAP messages.
- Test and Deploy: Test the SOAP web service to ensure its functionality and interoperability. Deploy the web service to a web server or application server that supports SOAP-based communication.
Integration of XML and SOAP:
- Use XML for Data Representation: Within your SOAP messages, use XML to structure and represent the data being exchanged. Define XML elements and attributes to encapsulate the payload of your SOAP messages.
- Serialize and Deserialize XML Data: Convert data objects to XML format (serialization) when sending SOAP requests or receiving SOAP responses. Deserialize XML data back into objects at the receiving end.
- Validate XML against Schema: Ensure that the XML data adheres to the defined XML schema or DTD by performing validation checks during parsing or before processing the data.
Remember to consider security aspects, such as authentication, encryption and data validation, while implementing both XML and SOAP to ensure secure and reliable communication between applications.
Best practices for using XML and SOAP
When working with XML and SOAP it is vitally important that best practices be observed in order to guarantee reliable, stable, secure applications. Here are a few recommended techniques for using both together:
XML Best Practices:
- Use Semantic and Meaningful Tags: Choose descriptive and meaningful tag names to enhance the readability and understandability of your XML documents.
- Follow XML Standards and Guidelines: Adhere to XML standards and guidelines, such as using valid XML syntax, well-formed documents and consistent indentation.
- Separate Data from Presentation: Keep your XML data separate from any presentation-related information. Use XML solely for data representation and adopt other technologies (e.g., XSLT, CSS) for transforming and presenting the data.
- Validate XML Documents: Validate XML documents against the corresponding XML schema or DTD to ensure the data conforms to the specified structure and rules.
- Minimize Redundancy: Avoid redundant data within XML documents to reduce the size of the files and improve processing efficiency.
- Use XML Compression: Consider compressing XML documents when transmitting or storing them to minimize bandwidth usage and storage requirements.
SOAP Best Practices:
- Design Granular and Cohesive Web Services: Aim for fine-grained web services with well-defined operations that adhere to the Single Responsibility Principle. This improves reusability and maintainability.
- Keep Messages Simple: Strive for simplicity in SOAP messages by including only the necessary data. Avoid including unnecessary metadata or excessive verbosity, which can impact performance.
- Use Document-Literal Style: Prefer the document-literal style for SOAP messages, as it provides a more straightforward and intuitive representation of XML data.
- Implement Error Handling: Properly handle SOAP faults and exceptions to communicate errors and exceptions effectively between applications. Include meaningful error messages and relevant error codes.
- Secure Communication: Employ secure communication channels (e.g., HTTPS) to protect the confidentiality and integrity of SOAP messages. Consider implementing message-level security mechanisms, such as encryption and digital signatures.
- Optimize Performance: Implement performance optimizations, such as caching, batch processing and asynchronous communication, to enhance the overall performance of SOAP-based systems.
- Maintain Versioning and Backward Compatibility: Plan for versioning and backward compatibility of your SOAP web services to ensure smooth evolution and interoperability with clients using different versions.
General Best Practices:
- Use Well-Established Libraries and Frameworks: Leverage established XML and SOAP libraries or frameworks provided by your programming language or platform to ensure compliance with standards and best practices.
- Documentation and Contracts: Document your XML schemas, SOAP services and their contracts (e.g., WSDL) to provide clear guidance and understanding to consumers of your services.
- Testing and Validation: Thoroughly test your XML and SOAP implementations using suitable testing frameworks and tools. Validate the correctness of your XML data, schema compliance and the behavior of SOAP services.
- Performance Optimization: Optimize performance by minimizing the size of XML and SOAP messages, using efficient XML parsers and employing caching and other performance-enhancing techniques.
- Monitor and Debug: Implement logging and monitoring mechanisms to track SOAP requests and responses for debugging, troubleshooting and performance analysis.
As long as you abide by best practice guidelines, both of your XML and SOAP implementations will be reliable, maintainable and efficient resulting in secure communication among systems as well as efficient representation and representation of data.
Future of XML and SOAP
The future of XML and SOAP is influenced by evolving technologies, trends and standards in the realm of web services and data exchange. While newer alternatives have emerged, XML and SOAP continue to play significant roles in certain domains. Here are some insights into the future of XML and SOAP:
- Persistence and Legacy Systems: XML will likely continue to be used for data persistence and integration with legacy systems. Many existing applications and systems still rely on XML for data representation and interoperability.
- Integration with JSON and other Formats: XML will likely coexist with other data formats such as JSON. XML-to-JSON conversion and interoperability mechanisms will be essential for seamless integration between systems using different formats.
- Simplified XML Standards: There might be a trend towards simplified XML standards, reducing the complexity of schemas and allowing for easier adoption and implementation.
- XML in Niche Domains: XML will remain prevalent in certain industries, such as finance, healthcare and government sectors, where XML-based standards and protocols are well-established.
- Shift to RESTful APIs: The industry has witnessed a shift towards REST (Representational State Transfer) APIs, which offer a lightweight and more flexible alternative to SOAP for web service communication. RESTful APIs are widely adopted and often preferred for modern applications.
- Integration with REST: SOAP may continue to be used in hybrid architectures where integration with existing SOAP-based services is necessary. Tools and frameworks that facilitate the integration of SOAP and RESTful APIs will gain importance.
- SOAP for Enterprise Systems: SOAP may still be relevant in enterprise environments that require the formal contract-based communication provided by SOAP’s WSDL and the standardized support for security and reliability features.
- Interoperability with Modern Standards: SOAP implementations might focus on enhancing interoperability with newer standards, such as OpenAPI (formerly known as Swagger), to bridge the gap between SOAP and RESTful services.
- GraphQL: As an API query language, GraphQL has quickly gained in popularity due to its flexible data fetching capabilities and ease of implementation. It provides an alternative solution for SOAP as well as REST APIs – potentially increasing acceptance rates of these forms of communication in certain scenarios.
- WebSockets: With increasing demands for real-time communication and bidirectional data exchange, WebSocket-based frameworks and protocols could become popular as real-time applications that offer bidirectional exchange become mainstream – thus diminishing SOAP’s need.
- Microservices and event-driven architectures: With event-driven architectures rapidly progressing, XML/SOAP could prove useful when interoperability or standardizing communication for distributed systems is required.
While XML and SOAP remain relevant in certain industries and applications, their usage could diminish in favor of lighter alternatives like RESTful APIs, JSON or new technologies that offer increased adaptability and lighter use cases. Companies should take their individual system needs as well as industry standards into consideration when choosing web and data exchange protocols for web applications or data transfers online.
Choosing Between XML and SOAP
When selecting between XML and SOAP it’s crucial to take your system or application’s individual needs and environment into consideration before making your choice.
Here are a few pointers before you make a final decision:
- Data Complexity and Structure: XML is well-suited for representing structured and hierarchical data. If your application requires complex data structures or requires adaptable formats, XML might be an appropriate solution. SOAP utilizes XML as its message format and is particularly useful for structured data exchange in web services.
- Interoperability and Standards: SOAP has been widely adopted as a standardized protocol for communication between applications and platforms. If your system needs to interact with other systems that use SOAP or if you require the formal contract-based communication provided by SOAP’s WSDL, SOAP may be the preferred choice. XML, being a versatile data format, can also support interoperability, but it may require additional effort to define and adhere to specific standards.
- Performance and Efficiency: XML can be verbose compared to other data formats, such as JSON. If your application has strict performance requirements or operates in resource-constrained environments, choosing a more lightweight and compact data format like JSON may be more suitable. It’s worth noting that performance optimizations can be implemented for both XML and SOAP to improve their efficiency.
- Ecosystem and Tooling: Consider the availability of libraries, frameworks and tooling for XML and SOAP in your chosen programming language or platform. Ensure that there is adequate support for parsing, generating, validating and processing XML and SOAP messages. Evaluate the maturity and community support of the tools available.
- Industry and Standards Compliance: Different industries may have specific requirements or standards that dictate the use of XML or SOAP. For example, in certain regulated industries like finance or healthcare, XML-based standards are prevalent, and adherence to these standards may be necessary.
- Future Scalability and Evolution: Consider the long-term scalability and evolution of your application. Assess whether XML or SOAP aligns well with your future integration needs, system architecture and potential technology advancements. Additionally, take into account emerging technologies and trends in the industry, as they may impact the relevance and adoption of XML and SOAP.
The choice between XML and SOAP depends on the specific needs of your application, including data complexity, interoperability requirements, performance considerations, ecosystem support, industry standards and future scalability. It’s also worth considering hybrid approaches where XML and SOAP can coexist with other data formats and communication protocols based on the specific use cases within your system.
XML and SOAP have been instrumental in enabling seamless data exchange across diverse platforms and systems. XML’s flexibility and SOAP’s standardization have paved the way for robust web services and APIs. As technology progresses, new data interchange formats may emerge, but XML and SOAP will remain crucial in legacy system integration and specific use cases.
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Picture this: a young child sits in the dentist’s chair, wide-eyed and curious, yet unmistakably nervous about what’s to come. This scenario is a familiar one in pediatric dentistry, a field that requires not just technical skills but a deep understanding of child psychology.
In this article, we’re going to explore various aspects of pediatric dentistry, offering valuable tips and insights not just for dental professionals who work with young patients but also for parents seeking to understand more about their child’s dental care.
From creating a welcoming environment to easing dental anxiety, we’ll delve into strategies that make dental visits a positive experience for children.
Understanding the Unique Needs of Young Patients
Child Psychology in Dentistry
Children are not just small adults; they have their own unique perspectives, fears, and needs. A child’s first few dental visits can shape their attitude towards dental care for years to come. Dental professionals must be adept at reading a child’s non-verbal cues and adjusting their approach accordingly. A frightened child, for example, might need more reassurance and a slower pace during their visit.
Trust is the cornerstone of any patient-dentist relationship, more so with children. Creating a rapport with young patients involves simple gestures like kneeling to their eye level, using a gentle tone, and offering them choices when possible, such as which toothbrush color they’d prefer for their cleaning. This not only makes them feel valued but also gives them a sense of control in an otherwise intimidating environment.
Effective Communication Strategies
The way dental professionals communicate with children can have a significant impact. It’s important to use language that is age-appropriate and avoid dental jargon. Instead of saying, “We’re going to use a scaler to remove plaque,” a more child-friendly approach might be, “Let’s clean the sugar bugs off your teeth to keep them strong and shiny!” This not only makes the explanation more relatable but also adds an element of fun to the procedure.
Educating Young Minds
Children are naturally curious, and this curiosity can be a powerful tool in pediatric dentistry. Explaining procedures in a playful, story-like manner can be very effective.
For instance, describing a dental cleaning as a “treasure hunt” for hidden food particles can turn a routine procedure into an adventure. Additionally, showing them the tools and letting them touch safe, non-threatening items like a mouth mirror can demystify the process and reduce anxiety.
Creating a Child-Friendly Dental Environment
The physical environment of a dental office plays a crucial role in a child’s comfort level. An office that features bright colors, engaging murals, or themes like a jungle or underwater adventure can captivate a child’s imagination and divert their attention from any potential nervousness.
Including a play area with toys and books suited for various ages not only entertains children while they wait but also signals to them that this is a place where they are welcome and can feel at ease.
Distractions and Comforts
Providing distractions like cartoons or music can be incredibly effective in easing a child’s anxiety during a dental procedure. Child-friendly headphones for listening to music or watching movies can help children disconnect from the procedure itself. Additionally, offering comfort items like a stuffed animal to hold during treatment can provide a sense of security and familiarity in a new environment.
Managing Fear and Anxiety in Young Patients
Understanding and recognizing the signs of anxiety in children is key for a pediatric dentist. Some children may be overtly afraid, crying or refusing to sit in the chair, while others may show more subtle signs like clinging to a parent, nail-biting, or quietness. Being able to identify these signs helps dental professionals tailor their approach to each individual child’s needs.
Once anxiety is identified, employing coping mechanisms can greatly aid in managing a child’s fear. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, guided imagery (asking the child to imagine being in their favorite place), or even a simple conversation about their favorite toys or movies can redirect their focus and help them relax. In some cases, employing sedation dentistry might be considered, always with the utmost care and only when absolutely necessary.
Dental Procedures and Treatments for Children
Preventive care is paramount in pediatric dentistry. Educating parents and children about the importance of regular dental check-ups and cleanings is essential in preventing tooth decay and other dental problems. This also includes guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques tailored to each age group, as well as discussions about healthy eating habits that support dental health.
Common Pediatric Dental Procedures
Pediatric dentists often perform a range of procedures, from routine cleanings and fluoride treatments to more complex interventions like fillings or orthodontics. For each of these, it’s important to explain the procedure in a simple, non-threatening way. For instance, describing a filling as “fixing a tooth’s boo-boo” can make the experience less scary. Emphasizing the painless aspect of these procedures with the use of local anesthetics or painless techniques can also help alleviate any fears a child may have.
Tips for Parents
Preparing a child for a dental visit begins at home. Parents can play a pivotal role by talking positively about the dentist and avoiding any language that might cause fear. Reading books or watching shows that feature characters having positive dental experiences can also be helpful.
It’s important for parents to answer any questions their child may have honestly, yet optimistically, to build a positive mindset about dental visits.
At-Home Dental Care
Good oral hygiene habits start young. Parents should encourage regular brushing and flossing from an early age. Demonstrating the techniques and turning the routine into a fun activity can make it more appealing. Regular discussions about why oral health is important and how it keeps “sugar bugs” away can also reinforce good practices.
Engaging with Young Patients: Practical Tips
Engaging children through interactive methods can transform a dental visit from a daunting experience to an educational one.
Using models of teeth and jaws to explain procedures, letting children handle safe dental instruments (like mirrors or brushes), and even allowing them to look at their dental X-rays can pique their curiosity and make the visit more enjoyable.
A reward system can be a powerful tool in pediatric dentistry. This could be as simple as a sticker or a small toy after a successful visit. These rewards not only give children something positive to look forward to at the end of their appointment but also help associate dental visits with positive outcomes.
Pediatric dentistry is more than just caring for a child’s teeth; it’s about creating a positive foundation for lifelong oral health. By understanding the unique needs of young patients, creating a welcoming environment, and using effective communication, dental professionals can make dental visits a positive experience.
Similarly, parents play a crucial role in preparing their children for visits and establishing good oral hygiene habits at home. Together, these efforts can help children view dental care as a normal, unthreatening part of their health routine.
We hope these tips and insights prove useful for both dental professionals and parents. Feel free to share your experiences or ask questions in the comments. For more information on pediatric dentistry and oral health, explore our other blog posts. Let’s work together to keep those young smiles bright and healthy! | <urn:uuid:a493108f-9083-459d-8f7a-3d46511111f1> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://articles.dentistsranked.com/pediatric-dentistry-tips-for-treating-young-patients/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.920953 | 1,560 | 3.515625 | 4 |
The Prelude to the Battle
After the Allied invasion of Normandy in June 1944, the Allies were on a steady march towards Berlin, Hitler’s capital. The Western Allies’ advance stalled due to supply shortages and logistical challenges, allowing German forces to regroup and launch a massive counteroffensive against the Allies in December 1944. It was one of the biggest battles fought during World War II and lasted for almost six weeks, leaving behind a trail of devastation. Want to know more about the topic discussed in this article? ww2 tours, filled with useful supplementary details to enhance your reading.
The German Plan
Hitler hoped that the weakening Allied forces would be unable to resist a vigorous attack. The Germans aimed to push the Allied front westward and retake the Belgian port of Antwerp. The plan was to surround four Allied armies and destroy them in the Ardennes forest. This would create a bulge on the eastern front, hence the name ‘Battle of the Bulge.’
The Allied Response
The Allied response was immediate, and troops were rushed to the bulging front. General Eisenhower, the Allied Supreme Commander, ordered the repositioning of troops from less active areas, such as southern France, to the north. He also made an urgent appeal to the Soviet Union to attack the eastern front and create a diversionary action to ease pressure on the besieged Allies.
The attack came on December 16, 1944, under cover of snow and fog. The Germans employed numerous tanks, artillery, and infantry units in a surprise attack on the Americans. By the end of the first day, the Allies had suffered severe losses and were at risk of losing the strategic city of Bastogne.
On the second day, General McAuliffe of the 101st Airborne Division was asked to surrender by German troops. His terse reply, “Nuts,” became the famous response that rallied the troops and became a symbol of American defiance. This incident epitomizes the American resilience and grit that was displayed during the battle.
The weather cleared, and by December 24, Allied air superiority was established. With the weather improving, the Allies could now resupply their troops using aircraft, and the Germans’ inability to counter Allied airpower made it impossible to achieve their strategic goals.
The Turning Point
The Battle of the Bulge concluded on January 25, 1945, with an Allied victory. Both sides suffered heavy losses, but the Germans took a severe blow, losing many skilled soldiers and weapons. Moreover, it completely derailed Hitler’s plans, and he was never able to launch another major offensive on the Western front.
The battle was widely regarded as the last major German offensive campaign of World War II, marking the beginning of the end of the Third Reich’s military power. It was a severe loss for the Germans and gave a significant morale boost to the Allies. It helped strengthen the Allies’ cause and also paved the way for the liberation of Europe.
The Battle of the Bulge was one of the deadliest battles of World War II, with over 100,000 casualties, including an estimated 20,000 American fatalities. It was a display of fierce fighting on both sides that left a devastating impact on the landscape and civilian populations of the region.
The battle and its aftermath also showed the resilience and tenacity of the American soldier. The Battle of the Bulge became a symbol of America’s commitment to democracy, freedom, and justice. It also made Americans realize that victory was possible, and it strengthened their resolve to win the war and prevent future military conflicts. It was a turning point in the war and had a profound impact on modern history that we still feel today.
In conclusion, the Battle of the Bulge stands as a testament to the courage, sacrifice and devotion of those who fought in it. Seventy-five years later, we continue to honor the memory of the brave men and women who fought for our freedom, and we remain grateful for their service, sacrifice, and timeless example of valor and patriotism. To uncover additional and supplementary details on the topic covered, we’re committed to providing an enriching educational experience. ww2 tours https://www.beachesofnormandy.com!
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Mao: The foundation of China today
Since 1982, the collective and sustained judgment of the Communist Party of China has been that Mao Zedong made political errors in formulating and promoting the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution. Nevertheless, the Party also has judged that Mao’s contributions to the revolution and the nation far outweighed his mistakes. He led the revolution to the taking of power and directed the revolution in power to a transition to socialism, which provided the foundation for the sovereignty of the nation and the modernization of the economy. China today stands on a foundation built by Mao.
The historical context: Mao and the Communist Party of China
In ancient and feudal times, the Chinese empire was one of the largest and most advanced in the world. And during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, the Chinese economy was advancing in technological development and economically expanding. However, not possessing an imperialist dynamic, the Chinese economy had no stimulus to the modernization of its agriculture and industry comparable to the impact of the European conquest and peripheralization of the world on the modernization of the agriculture and industry of Northwestern Europe (see “The Spanish and Portuguese conquest of the Americas, 16th century: The origins of the modernization of Northwestern Europe,” May 25, 2021; “The European conquest of Africa and Asia, 1750-1914: History must be understood, not ignored,” May 28, 2021). As a result, the Chinese economy stagnated during the nineteenth. The state became weak, incapable of rejecting the “unequal treaties” demanded by the Western imperialist powers, further reinforcing China’s stagnation and decline.
In the 1890s, with the evident incapacity of the traditional Confucian sociopolitical order to respond effectively to Western commercial and military penetration, many youth of the dominant landlord-gentry class rejected Confucian values and institutions. They were influenced by Western ideas, such as the notion that human progress in the form economic development occurs on a basis of individual initiative. However, they could not escape assumptions and emotions tied traditional Confucian moral values.
The Chinese radical youth of the era were nationalistic, in reaction to the imperialism of Japan and the European colonial powers, which were aggressively threatening China with territorial fragmentation. Their writings and protest activities reflected “a new nationalist commitment to China as a nation-state in a world dominated by predatory imperialist nation-states,” as expressed by Maurice Meisner. They hoped “to build a strong Chinese state and society that could survive and prosper in a hostile international arena.”
Mao Zedong was born on December 26, 1893, in the town of Shaoshan, in the southern province of Hunan. Mao was the son of a well-to-do peasant who was able to pay for his son’s education, including his board in a secondary school in the provincial capital. Mao took seriously his studies, and he was an avid reader. From 1913 to 1918, at the provincial normal school in a teacher preparation program, his political ideas began to take shape, which he expressed in an essay, “The power of the mind.” He wrote of the need for a strong centralized state, the importance of human will, and the need for Chinese intellectuals to encounter the thought of the West.
It was the period of the New Culture Movement, which was characterized by a total rejection of Confucian values and institutions. Its foremost proponent was Chen Duxiu, an ardent defender of French democracy and culture. The New Culture Movement, however, was isolated from the masses and politically powerless.
In 1917, at the age of 24, Mao was elected student of the year as well as head of the Student Association. He reactivated a night school for workers, and he organized a group of thirteen students in what later would become the Association of Studies of the New People. He was critical of some Confucian principles, but unlike many students and intellectuals of his generation, he did not completely reject Chinese traditions. He sought a synthesis of ancient Chinese customs and Western radicalism. His ideas were full of a patriotic spirit, and he supported a boycott of foreign goods.
Upon his graduation in 1918, Mao relocated to Peking, where he met Chen Duxiu of the New Culture Movement. Chen was a professor at Peking University and editor of an intellectual magazine, New Youth. Chen proposed the total transformation of Chinese culture, basing his projections on a mixture of Western ideas, including liberalism, democratic reformism, and utopian socialism.
Upon returning to Hunan in 1919, Mao participated in the creation of the Association of United Students of Hunan, and he drafted a call to protest the Versailles decision to grant German concessions in China to Japan. He published an article, “The great union of the popular classes,” in which he called for the uniting of workers, peasants, students, professors, women, and rickshaw drivers in support of a progressive agenda that would promote reforms at all levels.
The decision of the Western powers at the 1919 Versailles peace conference to transfer the German concessions in the Chinese province of Shandong to Japan had great political repercussions in China. It provoked an anti-imperialist movement by students, professors, workers, and merchants. Popular demonstrations, strikes, boycotts of foreign goods, and violent confrontations swept the cities of China.
The political turmoil enabled the pro-Western radical intellectuals to overcome their social isolation and political impotence. At the same time, many of the radical intellectuals experienced an intellectual conversion. They no longer looked to the “democracies” of the West as the ideal model; they turned away from Western liberal ideologies, which sanctioned the existing imperialist world order. They looked for guidance to Western socialist ideas and Marxism; articles on Marx and Chinese translations of the works of Marx and Lenin appeared in China from 1919 to 1921. Chinese intellectuals found in Marx a perspective for rejecting both Confucianism and Western imperialism. And they found empowering Lenin’s thought and the example of the Russian Revolution, which provided a basis for a concrete program of political action to propose to the people. The intellectuals were transformed into politically active nationalists, seeking to organize the people and lead them to effective political action.
In late 1919, Chen Duxiu, the leading intellectual of the New Culture Movement, converted to Marxism. In 1920, he and other Chinese Marxists organized small communist groups in the major cities of China. They sought to become a political voice in defense of the needs and interests of peasants and workers and to lead them to new forms of political action. In their conversion to Marxism, they continued to embrace many of the ideas of the disaffected and socially isolated intellectual class from which they emerged, including its anti-imperialist nationalism.
In 1921, Chen and another professor at Peking University, Li Dazhao, established the Communist Party of China, with the assistance of a representative of the newly formed Third Communist International in Moscow. Initially, most of the Chinese Communist Party members were the student followers of Chen and Li; the founding meeting had twelve delegates representing fifty-seven members, mostly students. Mao was among those at the founding meeting, one of two delegates of the province of Hunan. In spite of the assistance and advice of the Communist International, there can be no doubt concerning the Chinese initiative in the process, stimulated by reading Chinese translations of Marx and Lenin. After the founding meeting, Mao dedicated himself to various activities in Hunan: recruitment of Party members; the organizing and directing of an alternative school dedicated to unifying the intellectual and working classes; and the organization of workers, in accordance with the orthodox Marxist emphasis on the working class.
During 1922 and 1923, there was much debate among Chinese communists with respect to a united front with Chinese bourgeois organizations and parties. The Communist International was proposing the strategy, but most Chinese communists, including Mao, were not in agreement, believing instead that they should focus on the organization and education of the popular masses. However, inasmuch as the Communist Party of China at its Second Congress in 1922 voted for affiliation with the Communist International, the Party was obligated to adopt the united front strategy. In spite of his disagreement with the strategy, Mao joined the Nationalist Party of Sun Yatsen, and he was appointed in 1924 to the position of Secretary of the propaganda section of the Nationalist Party.
In 1925, now 32 years of age, Mao returned to his native town of Shaoshan, where he remained for seven months, conversing with residents with respect to local events. During this time, he encouraged the poorest of the local peasants to create an association. This experience led him to his first Marxist heresy. He arrived to the conclusion that, in the context of Chinese conditions, the peasants would play a central role in the revolution, and an agrarian program would have to be pivotal to the revolutionary project. In the early months of 1927, Mao wrote a report describing the peasant movement in Hunan and the revolutionary spontaneity of the peasants.
Mao’s evolving heterodox Marxism resulted from the conditions in China, which were not favorable for a bourgeois revolution or a proletarian revolution as conceived by Marx. Although a modern bourgeoisie had emerged in China as a consequence of Western imperialism, it was small and economically weak. It was primarily a commercial and financial bourgeoisie, and not an industrial bourgeoisie. It was dependent on foreign capitalism, in that it functioned as an intermediary between the Chinese market and foreign capitalist enterprises. Similarly, the proletariat was small. Most workers were employed in small shops, and they lacked proletarian class consciousness.
As developed in practice, Mao’s heterodox Marxism involved an armed struggle that began in the countryside and moved to the cities. It stressed the political education of the peasant soldiers, and a moderate agrarian reform program in territory controlled by the revolution. Radical intellectuals, with commitment to social and economic transformation, were the leaders of the revolutionary process.
Therefore, Mao adapted Marx to Chinese conditions, and he conceived the peasantry as central to the socialist revolution. He recognized that peasants, in spite of their great numbers, were a politically weak class, unable to formulate their grievances and defend their interests. Moreover, their experience was largely limited to the local, so they possessed a provincial outlook. However, the peasantry possessed resentment at the exploitation and abuse of the landlord gentry proprietors. Accordingly, Mao discerned that the peasants possessed a revolutionary spontaneity that could be channeled into effective political action, if they were organized and led by committed activists with revolutionary understanding and consciousness from other social classes.
From 1921 to 1949, the Nationalist Party, first led by Sun Yat-sen and later by Chiang Kai-shek, was the principal competitor of the Chinese Communist Party in attaining the support of the people. The two political forces to some extent shared the same goal of building a strong, modern state that would defend the nation in a hostile international environment dominated by colonialist and imperialist powers. In given political situations, they were allies; and in others, they were in conflict. Their conflict was rooted in the fact that the communists were committed not only to national unity and to national independence, but also to a social transformation that would emancipate the peasants from the landlord class and the workers from the comprador bourgeoisie.
Conditions in China as well as directions from the Communist International led to a formal alliance between the Communist Party and the Nationalist Party from 1924 to 1927. The alliance enabled the Communist Party to grow rapidly; its membership expanded from 500 in 1924 to 58,000 in 1927.
The Communist-Nationalist alliance was uneasy, because of fundamental ideological differences. Acting in accordance with this conflict over political goals, the Nationalist Army, led by Chiang Kai-shek, unleashed a bloody repression of the Communist Party and their affiliated workers’ organizations and peasant associations in 1927. The membership of the Communist Party was reduced to 10,000, with its leaders and members scattered and disorganized.
Inasmuch as the Communist Party had been crushed by military force, surviving Party leaders concluded that the revolution had to include a strategy of military struggle. In October 1927, Mao Zedong led the remnants of a defeated military force to a remote mountain area, and a force led by Zhu De joined them in 1928. Through the recruitment of local peasants on the basis of a proposed radical program of land redistribution, the Mao-Zhu army grew in numbers, such that by 1931 it had attained military predominance in the southern part of the Southern province of Jiangxi, where the Chinese Soviet Republic was proclaimed. From 1931 to 1934, the Chinese Soviet Republic implemented a land reform program, and it successfully administered a territory of 15,000 square miles with a population of three million.
The Chinese Soviet Republic was conquered by the Nationalist Army in the fall of 1934, forcing the Communists to abandon their base. In October 1934, Mao led 80,000 men (and 35 women) in a trek to the North, in what later would be celebrated as “the Long March.” Fewer than 10,000 survived the 6,000-mile, yearlong ordeal, which included regular battles with Nationalist troops and warlord armies. But a remnant did reach the northern province of Shaanxi in October 1935, and other forces soon joined it, such that by late 1936 the Red Army numbered 30,000, which, however, was much smaller than Nationalist forces.
From 1935 to 1937, in the interlude between the long march and the Japanese invasion, Mao and his comrades created study groups, gave presentations and lectures, and emitted publications. Mao was actively engaged in reading and critically reflecting on the studied texts, further developing his ideas and insights.
In this period, Mao arrived to the understanding that the unfolding of contradictions involving classes, political parties, and nations is central to the evolution of socialism in a given nation. Therefore, inasmuch as each country has unique contradictions, socialism will have different characteristics is different nations. In 1938, Mao declared:
“A Communist is a Marxist internationalist, but Marxism must take on a national form before it can be put into practice. There is no such thing as abstract Marxism, but only concrete Marxism. What we call concrete Marxism is Marxism that has taken on a national form, that is, Marxism applied to the concrete struggle in the concrete conditions prevailing in China, and not Marxism abstractly used…. Consequently, the Sinification of Marxism – that is to say, making certain that in all its manifestations it is imbued with Chinese characteristics, using it according to Chinese peculiarities becomes a problem that must be understood and solved by the whole Party without delay.”
The Japanese invasion of China in 1937 greatly benefitted the communist cause. The Nationalist Army was forced by the advancing Japanese army to abandon the major cities and retreat to the west; and in the countryside, the landlord gentry class, allied with the nationalist government, fled to the cities. For its part, the occupying Japanese army had control of the cities, but not the countryside. These dynamics gave the Communists, already experienced in working in the villages and skilled at guerrilla warfare, access to vast areas of the countryside.
The surge of popular support for the Communist Party of China during the Sino-Japanese War of 1937 to 1945 was based on the Party’s patriotic appeals for national resistance to the Japanese occupying forces. And it was based on its agrarian reform program of rent and tax reductions for tenant farmers as well as partial land redistribution. Meanwhile, the Nationalist government was discredited by its incapacity to effectively resist the Japanese invasion; and by its alliance with the landlord gentry class.
The war with Japan established the basis for an uneasy truce between the Communist Party and the Nationalist government, based on common opposition to Japanese occupation. When the Allied victory in World War II ended the occupation, civil war broke out in China. The Nationalists had four times as many soldiers as the Communists, and the Nationalists possessed superiority in military technology, mostly supplied by the United States.
However, the Communists enjoyed much more popular support. The Nationalist Party, during its period of rule of China from 1927 to 1949, had discredited itself by its collusion with foreign powers; its complicity with a declining and increasingly parasitic landlord gentry; its incapacity to respond to Japanese occupation during World War II; its lack of administrative control over its territory; and its notorious levels of corruption. Meanwhile, the Communists surged in popular support with effective administration of the countryside under its control and with guerrilla resistance to Japanese occupation. These dynamics paved the way for the taking of national political power by the Chinese Communist Party in 1949.
The transition to socialism from 1949 to 1978
When Mao Zedong, on October 1, 1949, proclaimed the People’s Republic of China, he declared not a bourgeois republic but a people’s republic, led by the working class and based on a worker-peasant alliance. At that historic moment, China was characterized by an extremely low level of industrial development, a technically backward system of agricultural production, high levels of poverty, and extreme inequality. In response to this situation, the revolutionary government of China initiated programs and measures that were designed to defend the needs and interests of the people, setting aside previous accommodation to bourgeois and foreign interests. Their goals were to establish greater equality in the distribution of property and in income and to increase the general standard of living through economic modernization and development.
In the countryside, the landed gentry was eliminated as a class, and land was distributed to individual peasant proprietors. The Agrarian Reform Law of 1950 confiscated the property of landlords, who had comprised four percent of the population and had owned thirty percent of cultivated land. It also confiscated institutional lands belonging to village shrines and temples, monasteries, churches, and schools; much of which was controlled indirectly by landlords. The confiscated land was distributed to landless and poor peasants. Middle peasants and “rich peasants,” on the other hand, were allowed to keep their lands and to continue renting to tenant farmers and employing labor, to the extent that the land worked by tenants and hired labor did not exceed what the peasant owners cultivated themselves. These measures were designed to promote more equality in land distribution in a form that did not disrupt agricultural production. Although there remained distinctions among poor, middle, and rich peasants, the differences in land holdings and income were relatively small. The measures were conceived as a first step; the full and wholesale collectivization of agriculture was planned, necessary to facilitate more technically advanced forms of agricultural production.
From the 1950 to 1955, the collectivization of agricultural was a voluntary and gradual process with three stages. First, the formation of mutual aid teams of six or more households that would assist each other in work on their individual farms. Secondly, the combination of mutual aid teams into lower cooperatives, which involved the pooling and cooperative farming of land alongside the preservation of individual private plots that each household would continue to own. Thirdly, amalgamation into advanced cooperative farms, with the elimination of privately owned farms. By 1955, sixty-five percent of peasant households had joined mutual aid teams, and fifteen percent had formed lower cooperatives.
In 1955, Mao pushed for an acceleration of the process of collectivization. He encountered resistance from the Central Committee of the Party, which believed that industrialization had not advanced sufficiently, and therefore, in the context of low industrial development, the collectivization of agriculture would not have beneficial effects with respect to production, and it could disrupt production. Mao, however, believed that the peasants possessed a spontaneous and active desire to advance more in the socialist road, and that the formation of cooperatives would stimulate the further development of industry. Mao was able to overrule the Central Committee by appealing to regional and provincial Party leaders. The Party announced the accelerated program proposed by Mao in October 1955. The voluntary formation of cooperatives occurred at an extraordinarily rapid pace during late 1955 and 1956, consistent with Mao’s sense of the revolutionary spontaneity of the peasantry. By the spring planting of 1957, 100% of peasant households belonged to advanced cooperatives; and private ownership of land was eliminated, except for small plots for consumption or for a limited private market. Production was not disrupted, and it continued to advance at a slow but steady rate.
Similar decisive steps in the socialist road were taken with respect to industry. Beginning in 1949, the commercial enterprises, banks, and industries of the Chinese comprador bourgeoisie, which was tied and subordinated to foreign capital, were confiscated without compensation and were nationalized. On the other hand, the national bourgeoisie, owners of smaller companies that represented a more autonomous form of capitalist development, were permitted to retain ownership, and they were encouraged to expand under strong state regulation that included the setting of prices and wages and control of trading. Such expanding space for private capital was necessary for increasing production, and it reached culmination in 1952-53. However, after 1953, the state nationalized the enterprises of the national bourgeois private sector, with compensation, such that the national bourgeoisie ceased to exist as a class. Following that date, with both the comprador and national bourgeois classes eliminated, private capital was confined to small-scale enterprises, such as self-employed handicraft workers and petty shopkeepers. The nationalization of industry was effective in promoting rapid industrial growth. Between 1952 and 1957, annual industrial growth was either 16% or 18%, depending on the measures used.
In addition, important steps in the socialist road were taken with respect to the organization of society. Autonomous mass organizations of workers, women, students, and peasants were formed, building upon and transforming preexisting organizations. In addition, resident committees and people’s militias were formed.
Thus, we see that the Chinese revolutionary leaders implemented a transition to socialism within eight years, doing so in stages. In agriculture, they at first took land from the landholders and distributed it to individual peasant households; then they moved to agricultural cooperatives. In industry, they first nationalized the companies of the comprador bourgeoisie, and then they moved to nationalization of those of the national bourgeoisie. At the same time, they developed mass organizations to facilitate that the people would have organized political voice and structures of political participation.
Therefore, the Chinese Revolution from 1949 to 1957 fulfilled its proclaimed goals of socialist transformation and economic modernization. During the period, the Revolution delivered on the promises that it had made to the people: it liquidated the ruling classes in the countryside and in the city; it established agricultural cooperatives and state ownership of industry; it reduced inequalities in land distribution and income; and it formed popular organizations.
However, further steps in protecting the social and economic rights of the people required the general improvement of the standard of living, which would necessitate the further modernization of the economy. As he developed his thoughts on this issue, Mao found himself once again not in agreement with the majority of the members of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China. The disagreements were over the pace of the formation of agricultural cooperatives, and over the type of industry that ought to be developed. On the one side, the Maoists accused persons in positions of authority of being “capitalist roaders” who sought to take the revolution in a capitalist direction. On the other side, a majority on the Party’s Central Committee believed that Mao and the Maoists were reckless utopians. Utilizing his support among the people, Mao prevailed in implementing his will. But the two projects that he promoted, the Great Leap Forward and the Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution, resulted in tragedy, chaos, and division. For further discussion of the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution, see my commentary of October 5, 2021, “The continuity of the Chinese socialist project.”
Mao Zedong died in 1976, at the age of 82, following a long illness. With the post-1978 emergence of Deng Xiaoping to a position of de facto head of the Party and the state, the Party turned to an evaluation of the legacy of Mao. In a resolution prepared with the participation of four thousand party leaders and theoreticians during a period of fifteen months and emitted by the Party on June 27, 1981, Mao’s leadership of the revolutionary struggle and in the socialist transformation of the first seven years of the People’s Republic were recognized and appreciated. At the same time, the resolution maintained that that from 1957 to 1976, Mao made ultra-Leftist, utopian, and unscientific political errors, which were responsible for the economic disasters of the Great Leap Forward and the catastrophe of the Cultural Revolution. The resolution affirmed that Mao’s contributions far outweighed his political errors, taking into account the fact that his leadership of the revolution had liberated the Chinese nation from foreign imperialism and had established the foundation for economic modernization.
Reform and Opening
Central to the vision of the Chinese socialism and the Communist Party of China as well as the understanding of classical European Marxism is the notion that the construction of socialism requires the development of the forces of production, so that the needs of the people could be met. By the late 1970s, it became clear to Party leaders that further development of the productive forces in China would require the implementation of reforms. As I wrote in my October 5, 2021 commentary:
The 1978 turn to reform and opening was made necessary by objective economic and social conditions in China. On the one hand, the achievements from 1949 to 1978 were enormous. China had been unified and liberated from foreign rule. Land had been distributed to peasants; and rural class relations had been transformed, which was accompanied by extensive irrigation of land. Women had been liberated from archaic, feudal cultural constraints. The literacy rate, which had been twenty percent prior to the revolution, had risen to ninety-three percent. And universal health care had been established; life expectancy increased by thirty-one years during the period. The poor in China had secure access to land and housing, so they were much better off than their counterparts in the developing world.
But on the other hand, China in 1978 was still a backward country in many ways. Approximately thirty percent of the rural population lived below the poverty line, dependent on small loans for production and state grants for food. Many did not have access to modern energy and potable water. The per capita income gap between China and the developed world was not narrowing. Although the ascent of Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan could be explained by geopolitical factors, and the relative wealth of Hong Kong and Macao can be explained by global economic dynamics, the contrasting socioeconomic situation of China with respect to its East Asian neighbors was undermining the legitimacy of the revolution in the eyes of the Chinese people.
For these reasons, the Party led the people in the forging of a new stage in Chinese socialism, which has had extraordinary progress in the development of the productive forces, which it attained through state-directed investment in key sectors in accordance with a long-range development plan. It was a matter of finding space for domestic and foreign private capital in a state-controlled economy. It was a question of making changes in the house that Mao built, even as it turned to strategies that the great Mao could not accept.
I have discussed the post-1978 reforms in previous commentaries: “The Continuity of the Chinese Socialist Project,” October 5, 2021; “China rises and USA falls: The key is state investment in industrial production,” March 11, 2022; and “China models a new type of socialism: The most advanced example of a new socioeconomic formation,” June 10, 2022.
Mao Zedong is one of the most challenging figures of the twentieth century. His life and revolutionary work leave us with a dilemma: which option is better? On the one hand, full collectivization of agriculture and the emphasis on the development of local rural industry oriented to the needs of the cooperatives and the rural population; and on the other hand, emphasis on the development of large-scale knowledge-intensive industry, capable of competing with the most advanced corporations of the world. China for the past forty years has opted for the latter, and it has become the most important actor on the world stage. This does not preclude renewed attention to the former option, in accordance with the vision of Mao, on the basis of a much stronger productive foundation than existed in Mao’s time.
Some leftist intellectuals and activists indulge in individualist and self-centered declarations that they are Maoists, even though they are far removed from the terrain of struggle in China. I believe that it is best to defer to the collective judgement of that political party that today makes history by leading China to a spectacular economic ascent and to a refoundation of relations among nations. That political party today judges that Mao made an important and necessary contribution in leading the Party to the taking of political power in 1949, and in leading the nation in the transition to socialism and in the establishment of a modern and sovereign nation from 1949 to 1957. But that from 1958 to 1976, Mao made serious ultra-leftist errors in promoting the Great Step Forward and the Cultural Revolution.
Humanity should be able to live at peace with the collective judgment of the Communist Party of China that Mao’s contributions greatly outweighed his errors.
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The National Institute of Health estimates that of the thousands of teens that develop eating disorders, 2.7 percent of them will have a lifetime prevalence of the illness without eating disorder recovery. On average, in teens ages 13 to 14, 2.4 percent will deal with eating disorders their entire life and of those developing an eating disorder between the ages 15 to 16, 2.8 percent may live their life with this illness, without treatment.
Mindful eating is an increasingly popular practice because it calls for a new way of thinking, one that can break the eating disorder cycle and change a teen’s relationship with food.
The Science Behind Mindful Eating
Mindful eating is the process of paying attention to experiences as they occur, helping individuals focus on their emotions and physical environment while also paying attention to all aspects of the food they are consuming.
Mindfulness is the basis for a number of therapeutic interventions that have been around since the 1970s. The practice is also based on the Buddhist tradition sati, which has been part of healing for centuries.
Much of the world has mindless eating habits. In other words, they are distracted as they consume food. Mindful training can teach teens and adults alike to live in the moment during meals so eating becomes a thought-provoking and sensory event.
Mindful eating is described as a way to listen to the cues the body sends about hunger and fullness. Hunger and fullness is based on two overall components:
- Meal duration
- Food type
In general, the brain expects meals to take at least 20 minutes. Quickly consuming food in 10 minutes or less will mean the brain thinks this person is not done even though they may have consumed enough for their body in the moment.
The brain also takes into account the flavors of the food, such as sweet or salty. This concept is known as the flavor point. There are appetite centers in the brain that activate when a person eats something salty. Once they activate that center, their brain will encourage them to keep eating until they reach their flavor point for salty tasting food.
Think of the appetite centers in the brain as cups. Once one drop of that flavor goes into the cup, the brain expects you to fill it. Someone eating processed sugar, for example, will keep eating it until the brain says stop. If they stop before then, they may continue to crave that flavor.
Food Choices and Satiety
Some foods bring a person closer to that satiety level than others. Nutritionists may assign satiety levels to foods to pinpoint ways to balance a meal in a mindful way.
The Mind-Gut Connection
Medical science is just now beginning to understand the connection that exists between the nervous system and the gut. Digestion is the complex process of breaking food down into nutritional components and energy. Studies indicate that doing other activities while eating interferes with that process, such as:
- Driving the car
- Watching TV
- Interacting on social media
The current theory is that when a person focuses on something other than their food, the digestive process actually stops. When this happens, they may miss out on the nutritional benefits of that food. It may even prevent the brain from filling those flavor cups so they eat more than they should. Mindful eating puts the mind where it needs to be — on the food, allowing the mind-gut connection to function correctly.
About Eating Disorders and Mindful Eating
An eating disorder is defined by disordered eating habits that have a negative impact on the physical and mental state of an individual. The key word there is disordered habits. One goal of eating disorder treatment is to break those disordered habits and replace them with positive behaviors, such as mindful eating.
Although constantly being researched, there is not a definitive answer as to why some individuals develop eating disorders, such as binge or compulsive eating. But, research indicates it is most likely a combination of factors such as:
Eating disorders tend to be more prevalent in families in which other individuals have already had an eating disorder. Eating disorders in teens can start at a young age. They may be a product of genetics, but the disorder may also be due to the habits children learn from their parents.
Interventions applied by eating disorder treatment centers work to empower teens to help them to understand and overcome their illness. Mindful eating practices are one of those tools.
Mindfulness is an important tool for those with eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, binge eating and compulsive eating. It strips down everything they know about eating and how their body manages hunger and rebuilds it in a way that helps young people make changes that last a lifetime. Understanding the principles of hunger and fullness leads to knowing what eating cues to watch for and why. Mindfulness-based eating disorder recovery programs are proving to be a successful way to help teens develop a more positive relationship with food.
Why Mindful Eating Matters in Eating Disorder Treatment
The body has a complex mechanism to control how much energy a person takes into their body in the form of food, yet, still, it is easy to defy. There are many different emotional and physical processes that go into eating behaviors, such as:
- How enjoyable a meal is
- Portion sizes
- Long-term emotions
- Surroundings, such as food advertisements
- Peer behaviors and pressure
- Physical activity
- Sense of self
Eating disorder treatment centers develop nutrition protocols based on the teachings of mindful eating to help develop positive behaviors in this realm.
Through mindful eating techniques, teens with eating disorders like anorexia or binge eating disorder become aware of physical hunger and satiety cues. They understand how they differ from emotional eating. Mindfulness-based therapy helps teens enjoy food while remaining present when consuming the food.
What Are Mindful Eating Practices?
The fundamentals of mindful eating include:
- Eliminating distractions during meals
- Slowing meals down with mindful awareness
- Using the senses while eating to feel the texture of the food, smell it, listen to the sounds of eating and to experience the taste
- Taking the time to appreciate food
Through mindful eating exercises, teens can learn to focus on actual hunger cues by identifying non-hunger triggers, such as emotions or cravings. They also find ways to cope with any negative feelings associated with food, such as guilt or anxiety. They learn to understand eating is about providing the body with nutrition and energy. With that understanding, they can replace the negative thought with positive responses.
Through mindful eating, consuming food is no longer a mindless act, but one that requires focus not just on the food but on the sensory processes involved in consuming it. Teens in eating disorder recovery learn to understand their emotional responses to food, by understanding and addressing their emotional triggers to food.
Of all the eating disorders, binge eating is the one most responsive to the mindful eating techniques. By definition, binge eating involves ingesting a large amount of food in a very short time without mindfulness or control.
A 1999 study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found mindfulness practices decrease emotional eating by almost two-thirds. It also reduced the severity of episodes.
Therapeutic Benefits of Mindful Eating
Mindful eating gives teens the power of choice. Eating disorders are chaotic. Mindfulness helps a teen step away from habitual patterns that cause chaos to discover new things. It empowers teens with the ability to make a conscious choice about their eating habits, as well.
Consider mindful eating a speed bump that slows things down and allows a person to think about why they want to eat without judgment or negative thoughts. It is simply a pause in the chaos that allows stabilizing thoughts to intervene.
Mindfulness as a Life Practice
Mindfulness techniques go beyond eating, though. Studies show that mindfulness meditation is an effective intervention for eating disorders in teens, as well. Mindfulness meditation involves mental training that improves the ability to focus the mind. It allows someone to pay attention to their body no matter what the circumstances.
Meditation is a straightforward process and takes only a few minutes at a time. Like most forms of meditation, it starts with finding a quiet place to sit. They listen to their breathing, feel the sensations of air moving in and out of their lungs. They notice the rise of the belly and hear their breath as it changes directions.
The intense focus that comes with mindful meditation teaches the practice of living in the moment. When they sit down to eat a meal, they switch on the meditation mode and focus on the process of eating and the food.
The combination of mindfulness meditation and mindful eating can reduce emotional eating and external trigger, two issues common in eating disorders in teens, especially eating disorders like anorexia that is rooted in negative thoughts.
Once a teen masters the practice during eating disorder recovery, they can carry it with them into more difficult eating situations, such as at restaurants or parties.
Mindful eating is not a cure for eating disorders. It is one of a combination of therapeutic interventions. Effective treatment requires a holistic approach that puts teens on a path toward recovery. During treatment, teens also undergo psychotherapy sessions and group treatments that include dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, body image, creative expression and self-esteem groups. They may also participate in contract groups and treatment for co-occurring disorders such as chemical dependency or trauma.
Participating in mindfulness meditation and mindful eating exercises creates a lifetime of effective habits that change a teen’s relationship with food. They develop a better understanding of why food is an important part of health and quality of life. They learn to appreciate how food is both nurturing and nourishing while increasing their awareness of the sensations of their body in order to cultivate good habits that will stick with them.
Eating disorders are a chronic concern for many teens. Introducing mindfulness into their treatment can create change that lasts a lifetime. | <urn:uuid:16d77f43-e45b-4dab-ae81-e42e24d8783c> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://clementineprograms.com/mindful-eating-improves-teens-lifetime-relationship-with-food/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.960475 | 2,018 | 3.765625 | 4 |
Concorde Education’s Household Science course shows that science is for everyone, everywhere.
“We should not teach children the sciences, but give them a taste for them”
– Jean Jaques Rousseau
Concorde Education introduces household science as an interactive course for students to gain access to all varieties of science integrated in the world around them. Our “Concorde Education” method is to allow students to see the world differently, by understanding the science behind everyday activities. We believe that learning can and should happen everywhere. This course begins as young as Kindergarten, to instill early on that education is exciting and fun.
This hands-on science course will allow students to investigate a variety of science topics and fields by conducting simple and safe science experiments using household items and ingredients. The content of these courses is adjusted based on the age and area of interest of the students and can focus on topics such as: Food science focusing on chemistry to understand thermodynamics and chemical changes of food in various cooking methods, and biology which includes dissections of common fruits and vegetables, nutrition, reading food labels as well as math to convert cooking measurements.
Students are engaged by science “Magic” tricks with static electricity, magnets, sleight of hand, optical illusions, and “tricking” the brain, and density experiments with items from around the house. For students excited by Aerodynamics, they will learn various paper airplane techniques.
Concorde Education understands that when students are intimidated by a subject, they tend to avoid it. This project-based, hands-on course remains in line with recent studies that “PBL has a dramatic impact on ESL, special education, and “at-risk” students showing significant growth compared to their peers in a traditional setting.” This course is especially beneficial for students who have struggled in science courses and are often unsure of their abilities to approach any subject. We equip students with the tools to try things on their own, and to take their learning into their own hands. | <urn:uuid:cbf1e575-b315-4095-84bb-72c34e6eedc9> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://concordeeducation.com/blog/concorde-educations-household-science-course/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.962214 | 421 | 3.78125 | 4 |
Language shapes sociability among the CSS. With language and expression, they interact with their environment, build symbolic resources for survival, and form their identity. Understanding sociability is thus crucial towards understanding an element of the street regarding these children.
It's a paradoxical reality for CSS: the discomfort in expressing affection and care. The harshness of street life often leaves these children wary of showing vulnerability. Expressing love or importance is seen as a sign of weakness, a contrast to their accustomed reality of mistreatment and abuse. They often lack the vocabulary for expressing care, leading to a significant gap between their intense emotions and the ability to articulate them.
The harshness of street life often leaves children wary of showing vulnerability. We can find similarities in the TV shows about the Vikings. Expressing the need for love is seen as a sign of weakness, and this may be true across cultures. They often lack the vocabulary for expressing care, leading to a significant gap between their intense emotions and the ability to articulate them. This should make us wonder: how do these children throw a tantrum?
The example of Ricardo is taken from an academic text by the scholar Riccardo Lucchini. Ricardo is a boy in street situations in a Latin American city. With regards to girls, Ricardo claims that there is no difference between them and boys. It is not their gender that distinguishes between girls and boys, but their skills and competences. It is often very difficult to distinguish a girl from a boy in younger CSS. When the girls start to get older, they are subject to constant threats of assault by adult men who do not belong to the same world but are also present on the street: police, criminals, passersby etc.
Sexist prejudices are subordinated to meritocracy on the streets. Indeed, each is given the opportunity to demonstrate his or her skills. As Ricardo says, girls take their place on the street, and this place is respected by boys because it is defined by competence. Boys can come to the defence of girls when they are assaulted. This protection is not given to all girls, but only to those who ‘deserve it’. The right to respect is not a natural right but one that is earned.
Verbal aggression among CSS is a complex mix of cognitive limitations and cultural influences. However, it's essential to understand that their coarse language and crudeness often serve as mechanisms for interaction regulation, rather than literal expressions of hostility. This form of verbal jousting helps in de-escalating potential violence, transforming words into a non-literal, competitive game rather than a precursor to physical confrontation.
Verbal aggression among CSS is a mix of cultural logic and cognitive limitations. Coarse language and crudeness often do not carry literal meaning. Crudeness often serves as a mechanism for the regulation of interactions. The form of verbal jousting helps in de-escalating potential violence, transforming words into a non-literal, competitive game rather than a precursor to physical confrontation.
Interestingly, with habitual use, coarse language loses its positive or negative connotations, morphing into neutral, rhythmic elements of speech. This evolution underscores the adaptability and resilience of these children in using language as a tool for survival.
Conversational skills are often more important than physical prowess, as mastery in verbal expression garners respect and admiration. However, individuals experiencing a multitude of conflicting emotions such as hope, fear, constraint, and freedom often find it challenging to articulate these feelings. This can lead to confusion not only for themselves but also for those outside their circles. This difficulty in communication often hampers the efforts of street educators and social workers in understanding and assisting them.
The children's orientation toward 'immediate gratification,' focusing on short-term rewards rather than long-term goals, is a behaviour that is often misinterpreted as a lack of emotional control or delinquency. In reality, it is a sophisticated adaptation to their environment, often serving as a means of competition for the resources they can extract from social workers and educators. | <urn:uuid:47eb283f-527e-4ea4-86fe-977b08600ba7> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://discourse.site/language-and-sociability/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.961903 | 824 | 3.625 | 4 |
Tuberculosis, or TB, is a disease caused by bacteria (germs) called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria can attack any part of your body, but they usually attack the lungs. TB disease was once the leading cause of death in the United States.
TB is spread through the air from one person to another. The bacteria are put into the air when a person with active TB disease of the lungs or throat coughs or sneezes. People nearby may breathe in these bacteria and become infected.
When a person breathes in TB bacteria, the bacteria can settle in the lungs and begin to grow. From there, they can move through the blood to other parts of the body, such as the kidney, spine, and brain.
TB in the lungs or throat can be infectious. This means that the bacteria can be spread to other people. TB in other parts of the body, such as the kidney or spine, is usually not infectious.
People with TB disease are most likely to spread it to people they spend time with every day. This includes family members, friends, and coworkers.
For More Information | <urn:uuid:690c102c-aae4-4f82-96f1-3a15a397de94> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://doh.vi.gov/health-topics/tuberculosis-tb/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.967255 | 231 | 3.734375 | 4 |
Surprisingly, the Ocean is not really as quiet as one would think.
The blue whale, the largest animal on earth, is also among the loudest animals in the ocean. In fact these large mammals can emit sounds that reach 188 decibels ( 48 decibels louder than a jet plane). That is 68 decibels above the pain limit for the human ear. Scientists believe that their sounds could hear from one end of the ocean to the other .
If that isn’t unbelievable enough, then you would be surprised to know that this little snapping shrimp generates more noise than blue whales by 30 decibels. In fact these little guys can make enough noises that can be heard for hundreds of miles, they can even disrupt the sonic transmissions of submarines. The pistol shrimp actually turn sound into a weapon used to capture its prey.
Given all of this information it is easy to see how human noise pollution can interfere with underwater communication of sea life. Scientists are initiating studies in order to understand this oceanic cacophony.
Video clip of scientists deploying hydrophones at several national marine sanctuaries to record oceanic noises.
Watch how the pistol shrimp fires a sonic blast to stun its prey in the video below.
Watch how the pistol shrimp generates this sonic blast in slow motion in the video below | <urn:uuid:506d6ba2-b2ff-4860-b329-e56101e92786> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://forscubadivers.com/photosvideos/marine-animal-noises-that-will-shock-you-video/?amp | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.920844 | 267 | 3.5625 | 4 |
01:30 PM to 04:10 PM W
East Building 122
Section Information for Spring 2024
Slavery and its abolition was one of the major issues in the United States leading up to the Civil War. Southerners saw slavery as a positive good for themselves and for the enslaved people they controlled. Abolitionists saw slavery as a blemish on the nation and were committed to bring it to an end. The participants of the Underground Railroad took direct action to undermine slavery by aiding enslaved people seeking freedom escape and start new lives. Reading the ideas and stories of the individuals who were a part of this interracial activist movement, investigating how the Underground Railroad worked on a day-to-day basis, and examining how historians have assessed this movement will provide the foundation for research class participants will do on the underground railroad and abolition. The Underground Railroad was a complex operation which over the years has had many myths connected to it. Sorting the myth from reality will enable students to better understand how historians assess research material and craft a thesis for their work. They will then apply these insights to the writing of their own research paper for the class.
View 2 Other Sections of this Course in this Semester »
Required Prerequisites: (HIST 300C or 300XS) and (ENGH 302C, ENGL 302C, ENGH 302XS, HNRS 110C, 110XS, 210C, 302C or 302XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.
Enrollment is limited to students with a major in History. | <urn:uuid:64aeb386-bf4f-4272-be7b-3b1ddde80178> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://historyarthistory.gmu.edu/courses/hist499/course_sections/99713 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.950347 | 327 | 4 | 4 |
Concept of Cyber Security, Issues and Challenges of Cyber Security02/12/2023 0 By indiafreenotes
In the ever-expanding digital landscape, the concept of cybersecurity has become paramount, as individuals, organizations, and nations increasingly rely on interconnected systems. Cybersecurity encompasses a broad range of practices, technologies, and policies designed to protect digital systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and data breaches.
In an era where our digital lives are intertwined with technological advancements, the concept of cybersecurity stands as a critical guardian of our digital existence. From defending against sophisticated cyber threats to navigating the challenges posed by emerging technologies, cybersecurity requires a dynamic and multifaceted approach.
As the digital landscape evolves, individuals, organizations, and nations must continuously adapt their cybersecurity strategies. The integration of advanced technologies, a proactive risk management approach, and international collaboration will be essential in fortifying our defenses against cyber threats, ensuring the resilience and security of the digital realm.
Cybersecurity refers to the practice of protecting computers, servers, networks, and data from digital threats and attacks. These threats can take various forms, including malware, ransomware, phishing, hacking, and more. The primary goal of cybersecurity is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of digital assets.
- Confidentiality: Preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information.
- Integrity: Ensuring the accuracy and trustworthiness of data.
- Availability: Ensuring that systems and data are accessible when needed.
- Authenticity: Verifying the identity of users and systems.
- Non-repudiation: Ensuring that actions or transactions cannot be denied by involved parties.
The threat landscape in cyberspace is dynamic and ever-evolving. Cyber adversaries continually adapt and develop new techniques to exploit vulnerabilities. Threats can originate from various sources, including state-sponsored actors, criminal organizations, hacktivists, and individual hackers.
Common Cyber Threats:
- Malware: Malicious software designed to harm or exploit systems.
- Phishing: Deceptive attempts to obtain sensitive information by posing as trustworthy entities.
- Ransomware: Software that encrypts data, demanding payment for its release.
- Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks: Overloading systems to disrupt services.
- Insider Threats: Malicious actions or negligence from individuals within an organization.
A fundamental principle in cybersecurity, defense-in-depth involves implementing multiple layers of security controls to protect against various threats. This includes firewalls, antivirus software, intrusion detection systems, and encryption.
- Risk Assessment and Management:
Identifying and assessing potential risks is crucial for developing effective cybersecurity strategies. Risk management involves prioritizing threats, implementing safeguards, and having contingency plans for potential incidents.
- Access Controls:
Implementing stringent access controls ensures that only authorized individuals have access to specific systems or data. This includes the principle of least privilege, granting individuals the minimum level of access necessary for their roles.
Encrypting sensitive data, both in transit and at rest, is a fundamental practice in cybersecurity. Encryption transforms information into a format that can only be deciphered by authorized entities, adding a layer of protection against unauthorized access.
- Security Awareness Training:
Human error remains a significant factor in cybersecurity incidents. Regular training programs to educate users about security best practices, recognizing phishing attempts, and understanding potential risks contribute to a more resilient security posture.
Challenges in Cybersecurity:
- Proliferation of Advanced Threats:
Cyber adversaries are employing increasingly sophisticated techniques, leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to evade traditional security measures. Detecting and mitigating these advanced threats pose significant challenges.
- Internet of Things (IoT) Security:
The widespread adoption of IoT devices introduces new vulnerabilities. Many IoT devices have limited security features, making them attractive targets for cyberattacks. Securing the IoT ecosystem is a complex challenge for cybersecurity professionals.
- Insider Threats:
Insiders, whether unintentionally or maliciously, can pose significant risks to cybersecurity. Organizations need to balance trust and security, implementing measures to monitor and mitigate insider threats without compromising employee privacy.
- Regulatory Compliance:
Navigating the landscape of varying cybersecurity regulations presents challenges for organizations operating globally. Compliance with standards such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and industry-specific regulations requires ongoing efforts to stay abreast of legal requirements.
Evolving Trends in Cybersecurity:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML):
The integration of AI and ML in cybersecurity enables more advanced threat detection and response capabilities. These technologies analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns, anomalies, and potential security incidents.
- Zero Trust Security Model:
The zero trust model assumes that no entity, whether inside or outside the network, should be trusted by default. This approach requires continuous authentication and verification, enhancing overall security.
- Cloud Security:
As organizations increasingly migrate to cloud environments, ensuring the security of cloud-based systems and data becomes a priority. Cloud security involves robust access controls, encryption, and continuous monitoring.
- Quantum Computing Threats and Solutions:
The emergence of quantum computing poses potential threats to current encryption methods. Cybersecurity researchers are exploring quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms to prepare for the advent of quantum computing.
Cybersecurity in India:
- Legal Framework:
India has enacted comprehensive cybersecurity laws, primarily governed by the Information Technology Act, 2000, and its amendments. The National Cyber Security Policy, launched in 2013, outlines strategies to enhance cybersecurity capabilities and safeguard critical infrastructure.
- Cybersecurity Initiatives:
India has taken significant steps to bolster its cybersecurity capabilities. Initiatives include the establishment of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), National Cyber Security Coordinator (NCSC), and the Cyber Swachhta Kendra for malware detection and removal.
- International Collaboration:
India actively participates in international forums and collaborations to address global cybersecurity challenges. Collaborative efforts include information sharing, joint exercises, and capacity-building programs.
Issues and Challenges of Cyber Security
Cybersecurity, while crucial in safeguarding digital assets, faces a myriad of issues and challenges due to the evolving nature of cyber threats, the complexity of digital ecosystems, and the relentless innovation of malicious actors. Addressing these challenges is paramount to ensuring the resilience and effectiveness of cybersecurity measures.
Sophistication of Cyber Threats:
- Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs):
Sophisticated adversaries, often state-sponsored or well-funded criminal groups, engage in APTs. These prolonged and targeted attacks aim to infiltrate systems, remain undetected, and exfiltrate sensitive information, posing a significant challenge to traditional cybersecurity defenses.
- Insider Threats:
Malicious actions or inadvertent negligence from individuals within an organization can lead to security breaches. Balancing the need for trust with measures to prevent and mitigate insider threats remains a complex challenge.
- Internet of Things (IoT) Security:
The proliferation of IoT devices introduces numerous security challenges. Many IoT devices lack robust security features, making them vulnerable to exploitation. Securing the interconnected web of devices poses a significant and ongoing challenge.
- Cloud Security:
As organizations transition to cloud-based infrastructures, securing data stored in remote servers becomes critical. Ensuring data integrity, confidentiality, and availability in cloud environments presents challenges, requiring robust security measures and protocols.
- Lack of Cybersecurity Awareness:
The human element remains a significant vulnerability. Insufficient awareness of cybersecurity best practices among individuals and employees increases the risk of falling victim to social engineering attacks, such as phishing and pretexting.
- Insider Threats and Employee Training:
Organizations often struggle with effectively training employees to recognize and respond to security threats. A lack of cybersecurity education can lead to unintentional security breaches and compromises.
- Diverse Regulatory Landscape:
Navigating and adhering to diverse and evolving cybersecurity regulations globally poses a challenge for multinational organizations. Ensuring compliance with standards such as GDPR, HIPAA, or industry-specific regulations requires ongoing efforts and resources.
- Legal and Ethical Considerations:
The legal landscape surrounding cybersecurity is continually evolving. Addressing ethical concerns related to privacy, data ownership, and surveillance while adhering to legal requirements presents an ongoing challenge.
- Legacy Systems and Infrastructure:
Many organizations still rely on legacy systems that may lack essential security features. Integrating robust security measures into outdated infrastructure poses challenges, as it may require significant investments and disruptions.
- Encryption and Decryption Challenges:
While encryption is fundamental to cybersecurity, the advent of quantum computing poses a threat to current encryption methods. Developing quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms is a technological challenge that requires ongoing research and development.
- Shortage of Skilled Professionals:
The cybersecurity workforce shortage is a critical issue globally. The demand for skilled professionals outpaces the supply, making it challenging for organizations to establish and maintain robust cybersecurity operations.
- Incident Response and Recovery:
Effectively responding to and recovering from cybersecurity incidents is a complex process. Organizations need well-defined incident response plans, but many struggle with creating and implementing comprehensive strategies.
Global Threat Landscape:
- Nation-State Cyber Threats:
State-sponsored cyberattacks pose a significant threat to national security and critical infrastructure. The attribution of such attacks and the development of effective deterrents remain ongoing challenges in the global arena.
- International Collaboration:
Cyber threats transcend borders, emphasizing the need for international collaboration. Establishing effective frameworks for sharing threat intelligence and coordinating responses among nations remains a complex diplomatic and technical challenge.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Cyber Attacks:
Adversaries leverage AI and machine learning to enhance the sophistication of cyber-attacks, making them more difficult to detect. Developing countermeasures that leverage these technologies for defense is an ongoing challenge.
- Internet of Things (IoT) Vulnerabilities:
As IoT devices become more prevalent, addressing the security vulnerabilities associated with these interconnected devices is a growing challenge. The sheer scale and diversity of IoT create a complex landscape for cybersecurity professionals.
Cybersecurity for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs):
- Limited Resources and Awareness:
SMEs often lack the financial resources and expertise to implement robust cybersecurity measures. Additionally, a lack of awareness about cybersecurity best practices makes them more susceptible to cyber threats.
- Supply Chain Security:
Securing the supply chain is critical for organizations of all sizes. SMEs, as integral components of larger supply chains, face challenges in ensuring the security of their operations and products.
Cybersecurity in Critical Infrastructure:
- Vulnerabilities in Critical Sectors:
Critical infrastructure, such as energy, healthcare, and transportation, faces heightened cybersecurity risks. Addressing vulnerabilities in these sectors is crucial for national security and public safety.
- Balancing Connectivity and Security:
Ensuring the security of critical infrastructure while maintaining the necessary connectivity for efficient operations is a delicate balance. Achieving resilience against cyber threats without sacrificing operational efficiency remains a challenge. Top of Form
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Throughout history, various types of mediums of exchange
have been used to facilitate trade and economic transactions. These mediums of exchange have evolved over time, reflecting the needs and preferences of different societies. In this discussion, we will explore some of the different types of mediums of exchange that have been employed throughout history.
1. Commodity Money
: Commodity money is a type of medium of exchange that has intrinsic value
. It consists of objects or substances that are widely accepted as a means of payment. Examples of commodity money include gold, silver, salt, shells, and livestock. These items were valued for their usefulness or scarcity, making them suitable for use as a medium of exchange.
2. Representative Money: Representative money is a form of currency that represents a claim on a physical asset or commodity. This type of medium of exchange emerged as a more convenient alternative to commodity money. Examples include banknotes backed by gold or silver reserves. The value of representative money is derived from the underlying asset
or commodity it represents.
3. Fiat Money
: Fiat money is a type of currency that has value solely because the government declares it to be legal tender
. Unlike commodity or representative money, fiat money does not have intrinsic value. Its value is based on the trust and confidence people have in the issuing authority. Most modern currencies, such as the US dollar or the euro
, are examples of fiat money.
4. Cryptocurrencies: Cryptocurrencies are digital or virtual currencies that use cryptography for security and operate independently of a central bank. Bitcoin
, the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, introduced the concept of decentralized digital currency. Cryptocurrencies are typically based on blockchain
technology and offer secure and transparent transactions. While still relatively new, cryptocurrencies have gained popularity as a medium of exchange in certain circles.
: Barter is a direct exchange of goods and services without the use of money. In barter transactions, individuals trade one good or service for another, based on their mutual needs and preferences. Barter was one of the earliest forms of trade and was prevalent before the introduction of currency. Although less common today, barter still exists in certain situations or communities where traditional monetary systems are not readily available.
6. Electronic Money: Electronic money refers to any form of money that exists purely in electronic or digital form. It includes various electronic payment methods, such as credit cards, debit cards, online banking, and mobile payment apps. Electronic money has become increasingly popular due to its convenience and ease of use in the digital age.
7. Local Currencies: Local currencies are alternative forms of money that are used within a specific geographic area or community. They are often created to promote local economic development and encourage local trade. Examples include community currencies, time-based currencies, and regional currencies. These local currencies aim to strengthen local economies by keeping money circulating within the community.
In conclusion, the different types of mediums of exchange used throughout history have evolved to meet the changing needs of societies. From commodity money and representative money to fiat money, cryptocurrencies, barter, electronic money, and local currencies, each type has played a significant role in facilitating economic transactions and trade in different contexts and time periods. | <urn:uuid:b73551fe-389c-4612-b53f-f00f4dfcf803> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://jittery.com/topic/Medium-of-Exchange/Types-of-Mediums-of-Exchange | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.953135 | 656 | 3.921875 | 4 |
Mycotoxins frequently contaminate grains and grain products used for animal feeds and human foods. On a global level- between 30 and 100% of all grain based feed and food samples are contaminated with measurable levels of mycotoxins.
Domestic animals such as cattle, pigs, chickens, and turkeys typically consume feeds which are about 50% grains. Mycotoxins consumed by animals can be absorbed by humans who eat meat, milk, and eggs from animals who eat contaminated feeds.
Mycotoxins are often found in bakery goods like bread and cake and in processed foods like soups and meat products which contain grain products and/or meat from animals who consume grains. Common mycotoxins found in human foods and feeds include aflatoxins (carcinogenic- from several Aspergillus species), zearelenone (an estrogen mimicking mycotoxin produced by some Fusarium and Gibberella species), DON (deoxynivalenol or vomittoxin- produced by Fusarium species which can induce nausea and vomiting), ochratoxins (toxic to the kidneys- produced by some Aspergillus and Penicillium species), and fumonisins (produced by some Fusarium species). Silage made from grains such as corn are often major sources of mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON or vomittoxin) in animal diets (Silage consists of grains, leaves and other plant parts which have been allowed to ferment).
Many countries have set maximum levels of mycotoxins to be allowed in animal feed and human foods. Cleaning and dry milling of grain can significantly reduce or increase mycotoxins levels compared to raw grains. Dry storage of grains and legumes (like soy and peanuts) can significantly reduce risk of mycotoxin contamination. Beer can also be a significant source of mycotoxins in the human diet. | <urn:uuid:ff4be9df-6e13-495e-bf9b-158f15b2d47c> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://knowthecause.com/mycotoxins-common-in-grains-and-grain-products/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.966326 | 398 | 3.640625 | 4 |
Starting in 1933, the New Deal Administration created HOLC (Home Owners Loan Corporation) to address the Depression’s foreclosure crisis by making low-cost loans available to home owners or buyers.
To ensure the safety of these loans, HOLC hired local real estate agents to create color-coded maps of every metropolitan area of the country. (See “Mapping Redlining”). Areas colored green were safest and red were riskiest. Even the most stable African American neighborhoods were “redlined.”
HOLC, the FHA, and other government agencies worked together with banks, appraisers, and the real estate sector to deny mortgages or housing loans to African Americans. The presence of one black entering a neighborhood could cause the entire community to be redlined–no housing loans available for anyone, black or white.
What that means today and why you should care:
From 1933 to 1968 (when the Fair Housing Act was passed) blacks were systematically denied the ability to invest in property, while whites could build equity in homes, and subsequent wealth. Today blacks have about 6-7% the wealth of whites (that’s “wealth,” not income).
The policy of redlining meant whites fled communities when blacks moved in, and segregation came to define America. Segregation costs cities a lot–both in real dollars and the resulting concentration of poverty and violence we see too often. (See Resources below.)
“Mapping the Disparities That Bred an Unequal Pandemic” by Jeremy Deaton and Gloria Oladipo, Bloomberg
“Rage, Riots, Ruin” by Tony Briscoe and Ese Olumhense, Photos and video by Terrence Antonio James, Chicago Tribune
“Racism’s cost for black homeowners: $48,000, new study calculates” by Christopher Ingraham, Washington Post
“Chicago’s lifespan gap: Streeterville residents live to 90. Englewood residents die at 60. Study finds it’s the largest divide in the U.S.” by Lisa Schencker, Chicago Tribune
“How Redlining Segregated Chicago, and America” by Whet Moser, Chicago Magazine
“Confessions of a Blockbuster” by Norris Vitchek as told to Alfred Balk The Saturday Evening Post, July 1962.
“The Cost of Segregation” The Metropolitan Planning Council report
“A Black and White City: How Race Continues to Define Real Estate in Chicago” Chicago Agent Magazine
“The racial wealth gap: How Africa-Americans have been shortchanged out of the materials to build wealth” Economic Policy Institute
“The Widening Racial Wealth Divide” by James Surowiecki, The New Yorker
The Peabody award-winning report
, “Kept Out,”
by PBS News Hour and Reveal, the Center for Investigative Reporting, exposed how Blacks received 1/3 the number of mortgages as Whites with the same financial profile.
The groundbreaking study, “The Plunder of Black Wealth,” puts a shocking dollar amount to the wealth stolen from Blacks due to redlining: systemic racism.
Block By Block, Neighborhoods and Public Policy on Chicago’s West Side
by Amanda I. Seligman | Buy on Amazon
Family Properties, Race, Real Estate, and the exploitation of Black Urban America
by Beryl Satter | Buy on Amazon
The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration
by Isabel Wilkerson | Buy on Amazon
As Long as They Don’t Move Next Door, Segregation and Racial Conflict in American Neighborhoods
by Stephen Grant Meyer | Buy on Amazon
The South Side, A Portrait of Chicago and American Segregation
by Natalie Y. Moore | Buy on Amazon
Making the Second Ghetto, Race & Housing in Chicago, 1940-1960
by Arnold R. Hirsch | Buy on Amazon
The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America
by Richard Rothstein | Buy on Amazon
The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness
by Michelle Alexander | Buy on Amazon
by Kenneth Jackson | Buy on Amazon
The Origins of the Urban Crisis
by Thomas Sugrue | Buy on Amazon
by Douglas Massey and Nancy Denton | Buy on Amazon
Great American City
by Robert Sampson | Buy on Amazon
Stuck In Place
by Patrick Sharkey | Buy on Amazon | <urn:uuid:b847aa33-f986-4dc9-a244-4a6fefc989bb> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://lindagartz.com/what-is-redlining/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.884794 | 954 | 3.890625 | 4 |
Introduction to Learning Methods
Learning is a lifelong journey that enables us to acquire knowledge, develop skills, and enhance our understanding of the world. However, not all learning is the same. Our approach towards gaining knowledge, known as our “learning method,” varies greatly. Recognizing the types of learning methods and their benefits can significantly enrich the learning experience and improve outcomes.
Understanding Different Types of Learning Methods
Various learning methods cater to different learning preferences. These include visual, auditory, reading/writing, kinesthetic, experiential, cooperative, and online learning.
Visual learners grasp information better when they see it. Diagrams, charts, graphs, and other visual aids are invaluable tools for these learners.
Benefits of Visual Learning Methods
- Visuals increase retention and recall.
- They can simplify complex information.
Auditory learners excel when information is presented in an auditory language. Listening to lectures, discussions, or audio recordings works best for these learners.
Benefits of Auditory Learning
- Auditory learning can enhance listening and note-taking skills.
- It allows for flexibility as learners can listen to material anywhere.
This method suits those who learn best by reading text or writing. Note-taking, reading textbooks, or writing essays are effective strategies for these learners.
Benefits of Reading/Writing Learning
- Reading enhances comprehension skills.
- Writing helps consolidate learning and improve written communication skills.
Kinesthetic learners learn best by doing. They benefit from practical activities, experiments, and physical movement.
Benefits of Kinesthetic Learning
- It provides a hands-on experience.
- It makes learning more interactive and engaging.
Experiential learning involves learning from experiences. This could be through internships, travel, or real-world problem-solving.
Benefits of Experiential Learning
- It connects theory with practice.
- It improves problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Cooperative learning occurs in group settings. Working in teams, participating in group discussions, and cooperative projects facilitate this type of learning.
Benefits of Cooperative Learning
- It improves interpersonal and team-working skills.
- It encourages diversity of thought and peer learning.
Online learning is facilitated by digital platforms. It includes webinars, online courses, and virtual classrooms.
Benefits of Online Learning
- It provides flexibility in terms of pace and location.
- It allows access to a wide variety of resources and courses.
Choosing the Right Learning Method
Identifying your preferred learning method can greatly enhance your learning efficiency. Reflect on your past learning experiences, consider the nature of what you’re learning, and experiment with different methods to discover which one works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of learning methods? There are several learning methods, including visual, auditory, reading/writing, kinesthetic, experiential, cooperative, and online learning.
What are the benefits of visual learning? Visual learning aids in retention and recall and can simplify complex information.
Is online learning effective? Yes, online learning can be effective, providing flexibility and access to a wide range of resources and courses.
What is experiential learning? Experiential learning involves learning from experiences, like internships, travel, or real-world problem-solving.
How can I identify my learning method? Reflect on your past learning experiences, consider the nature of what you’re learning, and experiment with different methods to find out your preferred learning style.
Can a person have more than one learning method? Absolutely! Most people use a blend of different learning methods. The key is to find the right balance that works best for you.
Understanding and leveraging the right learning methods can make the learning process more effective and enjoyable. Whether it’s visual, auditory, reading/writing, kinesthetic, experiential, cooperative, or online learning, each method offers unique benefits that cater to different learning preferences. So, why not embrace these diverse learning methods and embark on a more enriching learning journey?
For more information on Maggie Moo Music please visit www.maggiemoo-music.com | <urn:uuid:8268b498-152c-429d-a165-576cebd10cd5> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://maggiemoo-music.com/exploration-of-learning-methods-delving-into-types-and-benefits/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.902407 | 857 | 4.1875 | 4 |
Income distribution – definition and example
Income Distribution looks at how much different socioeconomic groups in a country earn. In other words, income distribution refers to the equality or smoothness with which people’s incomes are distributed.
Income distribution tells us much more about a country’s economy and its wage patterns than average income does.
It can tell us, for example, how big the income gap is between university graduates and other people. In other words, it gives us insight into levels of inequality within a country.
Pay vs. wealth inequality
There are many types of inequality. For example, pay inequality refers to just people’s wages and salaries. Wealth inequality, on the other hand, includes all people’s assets, such as property, land, gold, investments, etc.
Countries with a relatively unequal distribution of income find it harder to grow economically in a sustainable way.
This difficulty arises because severe income inequality can lead to reduced consumer spending, decreased educational opportunities for lower-income groups, and increased social tensions
The Oxford Reference Dictionary has the following definition of income distribution:
“The division of total income between different recipients. Functional income distribution is the division of income between the owners of the different factors of production. Personal income distribution is the distribution of incomes classified by size. Income distribution can be measured before and after the deduction of direct taxes and the addition of transfers.”
“Income distribution reveals what percentage of individuals are at various wage levels, information that can reveal more about overall wage patterns than average income can.”
Income inequality includes wages and other incomes, such as dividends, investment income, sales of things, etc.
Furthermore, income from investments and property tends to accumulate more significantly among higher-income groups, further exacerbating overall economic disparities.
The difference between the top and bottom incomes in a company is the wage ratio. For example, if the CEO earns $10,000,000 per year and average worker’s pay is $50,000, the wage ratio is 200:1.
GDP per capita and PPP
If a country has a higher GDP per capita than another, it does not necessarily mean it is richer. The one with the higher figure may be much more expensive. Therefore, after factoring in purchasing power parity (PPP), it may, in fact, turn out to be poorer.
Purchasing power parity looks at the relative value of a currency compared to others. In other words, what you can buy with one currency compared to other currencies.
Income distribution – extremes
Also, income distribution in the country with a higher GDP per capita may be more unequal.
There are two extremes when talking about the distribution of incomes: perfectly equal and perfectly unequal distribution.
If everybody has exactly the same income, we say that distribution is perfectly equal.
If just one person earns, while nobody else in the country has any income at all, distribution is perfectly unequal.
A country with perfectly equal distribution does not exist. Neither is there a nation with a perfectly unequal distribution.
The advanced economies are closer to perfectly equal distribution than the emerging or developing economies.
An emerging economy, such as China or Mexico, is a country that may soon become an advanced economy. We also call them emerging markets.
An advanced economy, such as the USA, UK, Germany, or Japan, is a ‘developed’ country.
Developing countries, such as Chad, Haiti, or Somalia, are the ‘poorest’ countries.
Video – What is Income Distribution?
This video presentation, from our YouTube partner channel – Marketing Business Network, explains what ‘Income Distribution’ means using simple and easy-to-understand language and examples. | <urn:uuid:e552c911-3a33-426e-aaed-becea60403c6> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://marketbusinessnews.com/financial-glossary/income-distribution/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.936369 | 777 | 4.1875 | 4 |
In mathematics, an equation is a math sentence that shows two expressions that are equal. Understanding that these two expressions must stay equal is foundational as kids begin to learn Algebra. It is also important and useful as kids begin to write proofs or solve more difficult problems, because sometimes an expression is not written in a convenient way. But re-writing it in a way that is still equal (i.e. doesn’t change the problem) is an incredibly useful technique and one that I think is often not taught or explained well in high school math classes. This equal or not equal place value sort is intended to help kids practice writing in expanded form, as well as reinforce the idea that expanded form is just another way to write the number. It is not something new or different.
*Please Note: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links and help support the work of this site. Read our full disclosure here.*
Understanding place value is an essential math concept for early math learners. It’s important as students begin to add and subtract larger numbers, compare quantities and make sense of more complicated math.
But it is equally important that kids understand that expanded form is just another representation of the same number.
As kids get older and the math more complicated, they will be better able to problem solve and think outside the box if they are able to think of numbers and expressions in other ways.
As a high school teacher, I often saw kids struggle with factoring. They wanted to memorize a procedure, or just guess random numbers based on examples they saw, without actually understanding what they were doing.
I tried to explain over and over again that factoring is just writing an expression another way. Re-writing it as two things multiplied together, just as 15 is equal to 5×3.
This is also good practice for students to get in the habit of checking their work. Most kids, once they have completed a problem, are done. Solving it was so much work, who wants to go back and actually check to see if it’s right?!
But checking for accuracy is a habit we should encourage from an early age. This activity will allow students to look for mistakes and practice “checking their answers.” They have to use what they know about numbers and evaluate what is written and determine if they actually are equal.
To Use the Equal or Not Equal Place Value Sort:
Very little prep is required for this super-hero themed lesson! Simply print the “equal” and “not equal” mats, as well as the equation cards. For durability, I suggest printing on card stock and laminating the pieces.
Then, cut out the mats and cards and let your students sort them based on whether or not the equations are equal!
I would encourage you to discuss the problems together (either as a class or in small groups) and be sure to ask students to explain why something is equal or not equal. This will allow them to explain in their own words what they understand about place value and expanded form.
A great way to get kids talking? Ask them to prove it. “Oh really? Those are not equal? Prove it!”
This would also be a fun partner activity. Have students split the set of equation cards and take turns sorting them, explaining their decision to each other as they go.
If you’d like to use this activity with your students, download it free below! Included in the download are the equal/not equal mats as well as 18 equation cards to sort (including numbers to the thousands place).
I hope this is a useful and meaningful activity for your students, and helps them understand the importance of place value, and checking their work!
For more place value activities, check out one of the following posts:
- Expanded Number Puzzles
- Place Value Lessons to use with the book, Sir Cumference and All the King’s Tens
Never Run Out of Fun Math Ideas
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A new report by US government agencies has warned that coastal flooding is bound to increase significantly over the next 30 years because of “alarming” rise in sea levels. It says the sea level along the coast of the US could increase by as 10 to 123 inches, or almost a foot, above today’s levels by 2050 because of rapidly melting glaciers and ice sheets, a direct result of climate change. This rise in sea level is a frightening scenario for those living near the shores. The report — an update to a 2017 report — has involved multiple American government agencies such as NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
The updated report, released on February 15, forecasts the sea level to rise for the next 130 years but for the first time also offers near-term projections. Government agencies at multiple levels of planning use these reports to inform themselves and chart out plans to cope with the effects of sea-level rise.
Titled ‘Global and Regional Sea Level Rise Scenarios for the United States’, the report stated that sea level along US coastlines will rise between 10 and 12 inches on average above today’s levels by 2050. The researchers developed the near-term projections by drawing data from how the processes that contribute to rising seas, such as melting glaciers and ice sheets, will affect sea or ocean levels.
According to NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, the report backs up earlier research and proves that sea levels have been rising at an alarming rate. Nelson added that immediate action was needed to “mitigate a climate crisis that is well underway”.
A NASA team has also developed an online mapping tool to visualise the report’s projections on a localised level across the US.
NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, described the report as a “global wake-up call” and said it gave people the information needed to act now to “best position ourselves” for the future. | <urn:uuid:ee397975-f0fc-409a-89c4-87c3e6326d46> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://newreportnews.com/2022/02/17/sea-level-along-us-coastlines-to-see-alarming-rise-of-10-12-inches-by-2050-states-report/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.951849 | 400 | 3.859375 | 4 |
Motivation and Emotion
Part V: Content Review for the AP Psychology Exam
Motivation is defined as a need or desire that serves to energize or direct behavior.
Learning is motivated by biological and physiological factors. Without motivation, action and learning do not occur. Animals are motivated to act by basic needs critical to the survival of the organism. For a given organism to survive, it needs food, water, and sleep. For the genes of the organism to replicate, reproductive behavior is needed to produce offspring and to foster their survival. Hunger, thirst, sleep, and reproduction needs are primary drives. The desire to obtain learned reinforcers, such as money or social acceptance, is a secondary drive.
The interaction between the brain and motivation was noticed when Olds and Milner discovered that rats would press a bar in order to send a small electrical pulse into certain areas of their brains. This phenomenon is known as intracranial self-stimulation. Further research demonstrated that if the electrode was implanted into certain parts of the limbic system, the rat would self-stimulate nearly constantly. The rats were motivated to stimulate themselves. This finding also suggests that the limbic system, particularly the nucleus accumbens, must play a pivotal role in motivated behavior, and that dopamine, which is the prominent neurotransmitter in this region, must be associated with reward-seeking behavior.
Four primary theories attempt to explain the link between neurophysiology and motivated 'margin-top:12.0pt;margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom: 2.4pt;margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;line-height:normal;text-autospace: none'>Instinct theory, supported by evolutionary psychology, posits that the learning of species-specific behavior motivates organisms to do what is necessary to ensure their survival. For example, cats and other predatory animals have an instinctive motivation to react to movement in their environment to protect themselves and their offspring.
Arousal theory states that the main reason people are motivated to perform any action is to maintain an ideal level of physiological arousal. Arousal is a direct correlate of nervous system activity. A moderate arousal level seems optimal for most tasks, but keep in mind that what is optimal varies by person as well as task. The Yerkes-Dodson law states that tasks of moderate difficulty, neither too easy nor too hard, elicit the highest level of performance. The Yerkes-Dodson law also posits that high levels of arousal for difficult tasks and low levels of arousal for easy tasks are detrimental, while high levels of arousal for easy tasks and low levels of arousal for difficult tasks are preferred.
The opponent process theory is a theory of motivation that is clearly relevant to the concept of addiction. It posits that we start off at a motivational baseline, at which we are not motivated to act. Then we encounter a stimulus that feels good, such as a drug or even a positive social interaction. The pleasurable feelings we experience are the result of neuronal activity in the pleasure centers of the brain (the nucleus accumbens). We now have acquired a motivation to seek out the stimulus that made us feel good. Our brains, however, tend to revert back to a state of emotional neutrality over time. This reversion is a result of an opponent process, which works in opposition to the initial motivation toward seeking the stimulus. In other words, we are motivated to seek stimuli that make us feel emotion, after which an opposing motivational force brings us back in the direction of a baseline. After repeated exposure to a stimulus, its emotional effects begin to wear off; that is, we begin to habituate to the stimulus. The opponent process, however, does not habituate as quickly, so what used to cause a very positive response now barely produces one at all. Additionally, the opponent process overcompensates, producing withdrawal. As with drugs, we now need larger amounts of the formerly positive stimuli just to maintain a baseline state. In other words, we are addicted.
The drive-reduction theory of motivation posits that psychological needs put stress on the body and that we are motivated to reduce this negative experience. Another way to view motivation is using the homeostatic regulation theory, or homeostasis. Homeostasis is a state of regulatory equilibrium. When the balance of that equilibrium shifts, we are motivated to try to right the balance. A key concept in the operation of homeostasis is the negative feedback loop. When we are running out of something, like fuel, a metabolic signal is generated that tells us to eat food. When our nutrient supply is replenished, a signal is issued to stop eating. The common analogy for this process is a home thermostat in a heating-cooling system. It has a target temperature, called the set point. The job of the thermostat is to maintain the set point. If body weight rises above the set point, the action of the ventromedial hypothalamus will send messages to the brain to eat less and to exercise more. Conversely, when body weight falls below the set point, the brain sends messages to eat more and exercise less through the lateral hypothalamus.
Homeostasis in Action
A good example of homeostasis is hunger. The body needs fuel, namely, food. If you do not eat for a while, you may notice that you feel hungry. Avoid eating for too long, and soon you will be famished and very motivated to eat.
HUNGER, THIRST, AND SEX
The homeostatic regulation model provides a biological explanation for the efficacy of primary reinforcers such as hunger and sex. The brain provides a large amount of the control over feeding behavior. Specifically, the hypothalamus has been identified as an area controlling feeding. This control can be demonstrated by lesion studies in animals. If the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) is lesioned, the animal eats constantly. The negative feedback loop that should turn off eating has been disrupted. If we damage a neighboring portion of the hypothalamus, the lateral hypothalamus (LH), then the animal stops eating, often starving to death. In more normal circumstances, leptin plays a role in the feedback loop between signals from the hypothalamus and those from the stomach. Leptin is released in response to a buildup of fat cells when enough energy has been consumed. This signal is then interpreted by the satiety center in the hypothalamus, working as a safety valve to decrease the feeling of hunger.
The feedback loop that controls eating can be broken by damaging the hypothalamus, but the operation of this mechanism raises the question of what is actually monitored and regulated in normal feeding behavior. Two prime candidates exist. The first candidate hypothesis is blood glucose. This idea forms the basis for the glucostatic hypothesis. Glucose is the primary fuel of the brain and most other organs. When insulin (a hormone produced by the pancreas to regulate glucose) rises, glucose decreases. To restore glucostatic balance, a person needs to eat something. If cellular fuel gets low, then it needs to be replenished. The glucostatic theory of energy regulation gains support from the finding that the hypothalamus has cells that detect glucose.
The Long and the Short of It
In reality, both glucose and body fat are probably monitored, with glucostatic homeostasis responsible for the starting and stopping of individual meals and lipostatic homeostasis responsible for larger long-term patterns of eating behavior.
The glucostatic theory is not without flaws, however. Blood glucose levels are very transient, rising and falling quite dramatically for a variety of reasons. How could it be, then, that such a variable measure could control body weight, which remains relatively stable from early adulthood onward? Another phenomenon inconsistent with a glucostatic hypothesis is diabetes, a disorder of insulin production. Diabetics have greatly elevated blood glucose, but they are no less hungry than everyone else.
A second candidate hypothesis is called the lipostatic hypothesis. As you might have guessed, this theory states that fat is the measured and controlled substance in the body that regulates hunger. Fat provides the long-term energy store for our bodies. The fat stores in our bodies are fairly fixed, and any significant decrease in fat is a result of starvation. The lipostatic hypothesis gained support from the discovery of leptin, which is a hormone secreted by fat cells. Leptin may be the substance used by the brain to monitor the amount of fat in the body.
There are several disorders related to eating habits, body weight, and body image that have their roots in psychological causes. Anorexia nervosa, which is more prevalent in females, is an eating disorder characterized by an individual being 15 percent below ideal body weight. Body dysmorphia, or a distorted body image, is key to understanding this disorder. Another related eating disorder is bulimia nervosa, which is characterized by alternating periods of binging and purging.
The Great Motivator: Thirst
Another great motivator of action in humans and animals is thirst. A human can live for weeks without food, but only for a few days without water. Water leaves the body constantly through sweat, urine, and exhalation. This water needs to be replaced, and the body regulates our patterns of intake so that water is consumed before we are severely water depleted. The lateral hypothalamus is implicated in drinking. Lesions of this area greatly reduce drinking behavior. Another part of the hypothalamus, the preoptic area, is also involved. Lesions of the preoptic area result in excessive drinking.
As mentioned earlier, biological drives are those that ensure the survival not only of the individual, but also the survival of the individual’s genes. Like that of feeding and drinking, the motivation to reproduce relies on the hypothalamus, which stimulates the pituitary gland and ultimately the production of androgens and estrogens. Androgens and estrogens are the primary sexual hormones in males and females, respectively. Without these hormones, sexual desire is eliminated in animals and is greatly reduced in humans.
THEORIES OF MOTIVATION
As discussed in the “biological bases” of motivation, early theories on motivation relied on a purely biological explanation of motivated behavior. Animals, especially lower animals, are thought to be motivated by instinct, genetically programmed patterns of behavior. These early theories, along with arousal theory and drive-reduction theory, have given us an understanding of nature’s role in motivating behavior.
Abraham Maslow proposed a hierarchical system for organizing needs. This hierarchy can be divided into five levels. Each lower-level need must be met in order for an attempt to be made to fill the next category of needs in the hierarchy, which is illustrated in the diagram below.
Needs arise both from unsatisfied physiological drives as well as higher-level psychological needs, such as the needs for safety, belonging and love, and achievement. Along with instincts, drives, and arousal, needs provide an additional explanation for motivation. Maslow’s hierarchy is somewhat arbitrary—it comes from a Western emphasis on individuality, and some individuals have shown the ability to reorganize these motives (as, for example, in hunger strikes or eating disorders). Nevertheless, it has been generally accepted that we are only motivated to satisfy higher-level needs once certain lower-level needs have been met. The inclusion of higher-level needs, such as self-actualization and the need for recognition and respect from others, also explains behaviors that the previous theories do not.
Self-actualization occurs when people creatively and meaningfully fulfill their own potential. This is the ultimate goal of human beings according to Maslow’s theory.
Cognitive psychologists divide the factors that motivate behavior into intrinsic and extrinsic factors: that is, factors originating from within ourselves and factors coming from the outside world, respectively. A single type of behavior can be motivated by either intrinsic or extrinsic factors. Extrinsic motivators are often associated with the pressures of society, such as getting an education, having a job, and being sociable. Intrinsic motivators, in contrast, are associated with creativity and enjoyment. Over time, our intrinsic motivation may decrease if we receive extrinsic rewards for the same behavior. This phenomenon is called the overjustification effect. For example, a person may love to play the violin for fun but when he is a paid concert performer, he will play less for fun and view using the violin as part of his job.
Intrinsic or Extrinsic?
We may read because we enjoy it. In this case, reading is a behavior motivated by an intrinsic need. However, we may read because we need to know some information that will be on a test. Here, reading is driven by extrinsic motivation.
An important intrinsic motivator is the need for self-determination, or the need to feel competent and in control. This need frequently conflicts with the pressures brought to bear by extrinsic motivators. The goal is to seek a balance between the fulfillment of the two categories of need. Related to the concept of self-determination is self-efficacy, or the belief that we can or cannot attain a particular goal. In general, the higher the level of self-efficacy, the more we believe that we can attain a particular goal and the more likely we are to achieve it, as well.
Although physiological needs form the basis for motivation, humans are not automatons, simply responding to biological pressures. Various theories have attempted to describe the interactions among motivation, personality, and cognition. Henry Murray believed that, although motivation is rooted in biology, individual differences and varying environments can cause motivations and needs to be expressed in many different ways. Murray proposed that human needs can be broken down into 20 specific types. For example, people have a need for affiliation. People with a high level of this need like to avoid conflicts, like to be members of groups, and dislike being evaluated.
Another cognitive theory of motivation concerns the need to avoid cognitive dissonance. People are motivated to reduce tension produced by conflicting thoughts or choices. Generally, they will change their attitude to fit their behavioral pattern, as long as they believe they are in control of their choices and actions. This will be discussed further in the Social Psychology chapter.
Sometimes, motives are in conflict. Kurt Lewin classified conflicts into four types. In an approach-approach conflict, one has to decide between two desirable options, such as having to choose between two colleges of similar characteristics. Avoidance-avoidance is a similar dilemma. Here, one has to choose between two unpleasant alternatives. For example, a person might have to choose between the lesser of two evils. In approach-avoidance conflicts, only one choice is presented, but it carries both pluses and minuses. For example, imagine that only one college has the major the student wants but that college is also prohibitively expensive. The last set of conflicts is multiple approach-avoidance. In this scenario, many options are available, but each has positives and negatives. Choosing one college out of many that are suitable, but not ideal, represents a multiple approach-avoidance conflict.
THEORIES OF EMOTION
Emotions are experiential and subjective responses to certain internal and external stimuli. These experiential responses have both physical and behavioral components. Various theories have arisen to explain emotion.
Emotion consists of three components: a physiological (body) component, a behavioral (action) component, and a cognitive (mind) component. The physical aspect of emotion is one of physiological arousal, or an excitation of the body’s internal state. For example, when being startled at a surprise party, you may feel your heart pounding, your breathing becoming shallow and rapid, and your palms becoming sweaty. These are the sensations that accompany emotion (in this instance, surprise). The behavioral aspect of emotion includes some kind of expressive it is the mind that interprets one situation that evokes a quickened heart rate and tears as “joyful” and another with the same responses as “fearful.”
One class of theories relies on physiological explanations of emotion. The James-Lange theory posits that environmental stimuli cause physiological changes and responses. The experience of emotion, according to this theory, is a result of a physiological change. In other words, if an argument makes you angry, it is the physiological response (increased heart rate, increased respiratory rate) that prompts the experience of emotion.
There are many reasons why we now know that this theory is incorrect. We know that a given state of physiological arousal is common to many emotions. For example, a person might feel tenseness in his or her body as a result of being nervous, scared, or even excited. How, then, is it possible that the identical physiological state could lead to the rich variety of emotions that we experience? Another common experience that conflicts with the logic of the James-Lange theory is cutting onions. The physiological response to cutting onions is watering eyes; however, this physiological response does not make us sad.
The Cannon-Bard theory arose as a response to the James-Lange theory. The Cannon-Bard theory asserts that the physiological response to an emotion and the experience of emotion occur simultaneously in response to an emotion-provoking stimulus. For example, the sight of a tarantula, which acts as an emotion-provoking stimulus, would stimulate the thalamus. The thalamus would send simultaneous messages to both the autonomic nervous system and the cerebral cortex. Messages to the cortex produce the experience of emotion (fear), and messages to the autonomic nervous system produce physiological arousal (running, heart palpitations).
The two-factor theory, proposed by Schachter and Singer, adds a cognitive twist to the James-Lange theory. The first factor is physiological arousal; the second factor is the way in which we cognitively label the experience of arousal. Central to this theory is the understanding that many emotional responses involve very similar physiological properties. The emotion that we experience, according to this theory, is the result of the label that we apply. For example, if we cry at a wedding, we interpret our emotion as happiness, but if we cry at a funeral, we interpret our emotion as sadness.
According to more recent studies by Zajonc, Le Doux, and Armony, some emotions are felt before being cognitively appraised. A scary sight travels through the eye to the thalamus, where it is then relayed to the amygdala before being labeled and evaluated by the cortex. According to these studies, the amygdala’s position relative to the thalamus may account for the quick emotional response. There are several parts of the brain implicated in emotional processing. The main area of the brain responsible for emotions is the limbic system, which includes the amygdala. The amygdala is most active when processing negative emotions, particularly fear.
Different sides of the brain also seem to be responsible for different emotional states. That is, the right brain is dominant in processing negative emotions, while the left brain seems to be more involved in processing positive emotions.
Although theorists have disagreed over time about how emotions are processed, there has been a great deal of agreement about the universality of certain emotions. Darwin assumed that emotions had a strong biological basis. If this is true, then emotions should be experienced and expressed in similar ways across cultures, and in fact, this has been found to be the case. A scientist and pioneer in the study of emotions, Paul Ekman observed facial expressions from a variety of cultures and pointed out that, regardless of where two persons were from, their expressions of certain emotions were almost identical. In particular, Ekman identified six basic emotions that appeared across cultures: anger, fear, disgust, surprise, happiness, and sadness. These findings suggest that emotions and how they are expressed are innate parts of the human experience.
The evolutionary basis for emotion is thought to be related to its adaptive roles. It enhances survival by serving as a useful guide for quick decisions. A feeling of fear one experiences when walking alone down a dark alley while a shadowy figure approaches can be a valuable tool to indicate that the situation may be dangerous. A feeling of anger may enhance survival by encouraging one to fight back against an intruder. Other emotions may have a role in influencing individual behaviors within a social context. For example, embarrassment may encourage social conformity. Additionally, in social contexts, emotions provide a means for nonverbal communication and empathy, allowing for cooperative interactions.
On a more subtle level, emotions are a large influence on our everyday lives. Our choices often require consideration of our emotions. A person with a brain injury to their prefrontal cortex (which plays a role in processing emotion) has trouble imagining their own emotional responses to the possible outcomes of decisions. This can lead to making inappropriate decisions that can cost someone a job, a marriage, or his or her savings. Imagine how difficult it could be to refrain from risky behaviors, such as gambling or spending huge sums of money, without the ability to imagine your emotional response to the possible outcomes.
THE ROLE OF THE LIMBIC SYSTEM IN EMOTION
The limbic system is a collection of brain structures that lie on both sides of the thalamus; together, these structures appear to be primarily responsible for emotional experiences. The main structure involved in emotion in the limbic system is the amygdala, an almond-shaped structure deep within the brain. The amygdala serves as the conductor of the orchestra of our emotional experiences. It can communicate with the hypothalamus, a brain structure that controls the physiological aspects of emotion (largely through its modulating of the endocrine system), such as sweating and a racing heart. It also communicates with the prefrontal cortex, located at the front of the brain, which controls approach and avoidance behaviors—the behavioral aspects of emotion. The amygdala plays an especially key role in the identification and expression of fear and aggression.
Emotion, Memory, Decision-Making, and the Autonomic Nervous System
Emotional experiences can be stored as memories that can be recalled by similar circumstances. The limbic system also includes the hippocampus, a brain structure that plays a key role in forming memories.
When memories are formed, the emotions associated with these memories are often also encoded. Take a second to close your eyes and imagine someone whom you love very much. Notice the emotional state that arises with your memory of that person. Recalling an event can bring about the emotions associated with it. Note that this isn’t always a pleasant experience. It has an important role in the suffering of patients who have experienced traumatic events. Similar circumstances to a traumatic event can lead to recall of the memory of the experience, referred to as flashback. Sometimes this recall isn’t even conscious; for example, for someone involved in a traumatic car accident, driving past the intersection where the incident occurred might cause an increase in muscle tension, heart rate, and respiratory rate.
The prefrontal cortex is critical for emotional experience, and it is also important in temperament and decision-making. It is associated with a reduction in emotional feelings, especially fear and anxiety, and is often activated by methods of emotion regulation and stress relief. The prefrontal cortex is like a soft voice, calming down the amygdala when it is overly aroused. The prefrontal cortex also plays a role in executive functions—higher-order thinking processes such as planning, organizing, inhibiting behavior, and decision-making. Damage to this area may lead to inappropriateness, impulsivity, and trouble with initiation. This area is not fully developed in humans until they reach their mid-twenties, explaining the sometimes erratic and emotionally charged behavior of teenagers. The most famous case of damage to the prefrontal cortex occurred to a man in the 1800s named Phineas Gage. Gage was a railroad worker who, at age 25, suffered an accident in which a railroad tie blasted through his head, entering under his cheekbone and exiting through the top of his skull. After the accident, Gage was described as “no longer himself,” prone to impulsivity, unable to stick to plans, and unable to demonstrate empathy. The accident severely damaged his prefrontal cortex, and while the reports about the change to his personality and behavior have been debated, this case led to the discovery of the role of the prefrontal cortex in personality.
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is responsible for controlling the activities of most of the organs and glands, and it controls arousal. As mentioned earlier, it answers primarily to the hypothalamus. The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) provides the body with brief, intense, vigorous responses. It is often referred to as the fight-or-flight system because it prepares an individual for action. It increases heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels in preparation for action. It also directs the adrenal glands to release the stress hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine. The parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) provides signals to the internal organs during a calm resting state when no crisis is present. When activated, it leads to changes that allow for recovery and the conservation of energy, including an increase in digestion and the repair of body tissues.
Many physiological states associated with emotion have been discussed. These include heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, sweating, and the release of stress hormones. An increase in these physiological functions is associated with the sympathetic (fight-or-flight) response. In order to measure autonomic function, clinicians can measure heart rate, finger temperature, skin conductance (sweating), and muscle activity. Keep in mind that different patterns tend to exist during different emotional states, but states such as fear and sexual arousal may display very similar patterns.
A concept related to emotion is the feeling of stress. Stress causes a person to feel challenged or endangered. Although this definition may make you think of experiences such as being attacked, in reality, most stressors (events that cause stress) are everyday events or situations that challenge us in more subtle ways. Stressors can be significant life-changing events, such as the death of a loved one, a divorce, a wedding, or the birth of a child. There are also many smaller, more manageable stressors, such as holidays, traffic jams, and other nuisances. Although these situations are varied, they share a common factor: they are all challenging for the person experiencing them.
As you may have inferred, the same situation may have different value as a stressor for different people. The perception of a stimulus as stressful may be more consequential than the actual nature of the stimulus itself. For example, some people find putting together children’s toys or electronic items quite stressful, yet other people find relaxation in similar tasks, such as building models.
What is most important for determining the stressful nature of an event is its appraisal, or how the individual interprets it. When stressors are appraised as being challenges, as one may perceive the AP Psychology Exam, they can actually be motivating. On the other hand, when they are perceived as threatening aspects of our identity, well-being, or safety, they may cause severe stress. Additionally, events that are considered negative and uncontrollable produce a greater stress response than those that are perceived as negative but controllable.
Some stressors are transient, meaning that they are temporary challenges. Others, such as those that lead to job-related stress, are chronic and can have a negative impact on one’s health. The physiological response to stress is related to what is referred to as a fight-or-flight response, a concept developed by Walter Cannon and enhanced by Hans Selye into the general adaptation syndrome. The three stages of this response to prolonged stress are alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. Alarm refers to the arousal of the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in the release of various stimulatory hormones, including corticosterone, which is used as a physiological index of stress. In the alarm phase, the body is energized for immediate action, which is adaptive for transient, but not chronic, stressors. Resistance is the result of parasympathetic rebound. The body cannot be aroused forever, and the parasympathetic system starts to reduce the arousal state. If the stressor does not relent, however, the body does not reduce its arousal state to baseline. If the stressor persists for long periods of time, the stress response continues into the exhaustion phase. In this phase, the body’s resources are exhausted, and tissue cannot be repaired. The immune system becomes impaired in its functioning, which is why we are more susceptible to illness during prolonged stress.
Richard Lazarus developed a cognitive theory of how we respond to stress. In this approach, the individual evaluates whether the event appears to be stressful. This is called primary appraisal. If the event is seen to be a threat, a secondary appraisal takes place, assessing whether the individual can handle the stress. Stress is minimized or maximized by the individual’s ability to respond to the stressor.
Research into stress has revealed that people generally show one of two different types of behavior patterns based on their responses to stress. The Type-A pattern of behavior is typified by competitiveness, a sense of time urgency, and elevated feelings of anger and hostility. The Type-B pattern of behavior is characterized by a low level of competitiveness, low preoccupation with time issues, and a generally easygoing attitude. People with Type-A patterns of behavior respond to stress quickly and aggressively. Type-A people also act in ways that tend to increase the likelihood that they will have stressful experiences. They seek jobs or tasks that put great demands on them. People with a Type-B pattern of behavior get stressed more slowly, and their stress levels do not seem to reach those heights seen in people with the Type-A pattern of behavior. There is some evidence that people with Type-A behavior patterns are more susceptible to stress-related diseases, including heart attacks, but may survive them more frequently than Type-Bs.
Olds and Milner
opponent process theory
Hunger, Thirst, and Sex
Theories of Motivation
need for affiliation
Theories of Emotion
Schachter-Singer two-factor theory
The Role of the Limbic System in Emotion
autonomic nervous system
sympathetic nervous system
parasympathetic nervous system
general adaptation syndrome
Chapter 14 Drill
See Chapter 19 for answers and explanations.
1.An example of a secondary drive is
(A)the satisfying of a basic need critical to one’s survival
(B)an attempt to get food to maintain homeostatic equilibrium related to hunger
(C)an attempt to act only on instinct
(D)an effort to obtain something that has been shown to have reinforcing properties
(E)an effort to continue an optimal state of arousal
2.An example of the Yerkes-Dodson law is
(A)the need to remain calm and relaxed while taking the SAT while letting adrenaline give a little boost
(B)performing at the highest level of arousal in order to obtain a primary reinforcer
(C)a task designed to restore the body to homeostasis
(D)the need to remain calm and peaceful while addressing envelopes for a charity event
(E)working at maximum arousal on a challenging project
3.A substance that can act directly on brain receptors to stimulate thirst is
4.Rhoni is a driven woman who feels the need to constantly excel in her career in order to help maintain the lifestyle her family has become accustomed to and in order to be seen as successful in her parents’ eyes. The factors that motivate Rhoni’s career behavior can be described as primarily
5.Which of the following is less likely to be characteristic of a Type-A personality than of a Type-B personality?
(A)A constant sense of time urgency
(B)A tendency toward easier arousability
(C)A greater likelihood to anger slowly
(D)A higher rate of stress-related physical complaints
(E)A need to see situations as competitive
6.Sanju is hungry and buys a donut at the nearby donut shop. According to drive-reduction theory, she
(A)has returned her body to homeostasis
(B)will need to eat something else, since a donut is rich in nutrients
(C)will continue to feel hungry
(D)will have created another imbalance and feel thirsty
(E)has raised her glucose levels to an unhealthy level
7.Jorge walks into a dark room, turns on the light, and his friends yell “Surprise!” Jorge’s racing heartbeat is interpreted as surprise and joy instead of fear. This supports which theory of emotion?
(A)The opponent-process theory
(B)The James-Lange theory
(C)The Cannon-Bard theory
(D)The Schachter-Singer theory
(E)The Yerkes-Dodson law
8.A person addicted to prescription drugs started by taking the prescribed amount, but then increased the dosage more and more to feel the same effect as when she first started. This progression is consistent with the
9.All of the following are symptoms of chronic stress EXCEPT
10.The hypothalamus does which of the following?
(A)Serves as a relay center
(C)Aids in encoding memory
(D)Regulates most hormones to be secreted
(E)Regulates fear and aggression
Respond to the following questions:
· Which topics in this chapter do you hope to see on the multiple-choice section or essay?
· Which topics in this chapter do you hope to not see on the multiple-choice section or essay?
· Regarding any psychologists mentioned, can you pair the psychologists with their contributions to the field? Did they contribute significant experiments, theories, or both?
· Regarding any theories mentioned, can you distinguish between differing theories well enough to recognize them on the multiple-choice section? Can you distinguish them well enough to write a fluent essay on them?
· Regarding any figures given, if you were given a labeled figure from within this chapter, would you be able to give the significance of each part of the figure?
· Can you define the key terms at the end of the chapter?
· Which parts of the chapter will you review?
· Will you seek further help, outside of this book (such as a teacher, Princeton Review tutor, or AP Students), on any of the content in this chapter—and, if so, on what content? | <urn:uuid:1f6ca0e1-30b2-4291-9378-e702a2157567> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://psychologic.science/general/ap_psychology_1/19.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.943047 | 7,156 | 3.90625 | 4 |
Online Learning Helps Kids Excel at School. Use Code: EXCEL23 to Get a 30-Day Trial.
What Grows on Trees? is a silly, imaginative tale of what does and doesn’t grow on trees.
The Start to Read! series helps children learn to read by presenting interesting stories with easy vocabularies. Words are repeated. Sentences are short. Rhyming words help children increase their vocabularies. Meaningful clues in the illustrations are abundant. After several readings with a partner, the child should be able to read alone. Most of all, the reading experience should be enjoyable.
Most of the vocabulary words in this story app, What Grows on Trees, are typically introduced in first grade. You may need to help your child with words that seem difficult.
Logging you in | <urn:uuid:33e01375-a126-48a1-a6e9-5c96e27586a8> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://schoolzone.com/products/what-grows-on-trees-ios-ebook | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.941225 | 172 | 3.84375 | 4 |
A team of scientists from Germany, Sweden, and China has discovered a new physical phenomenon: complex braided structures made of tiny magnetic vortices known as skyrmions. Skyrmions were first detected experimentally a little over a decade ago and have since been the subject of numerous studies, as well as providing a possible basis for innovative concepts in information processing that offer better performance and lower energy consumption. Furthermore, skyrmions influence the magnetoresistive and thermodynamic properties of a material. The discovery therefore has relevance for both applied and basic research.
Strings, threads and braided structures can be seen everywhere in daily life, from shoelaces, to woolen pullovers, from plaits in a child’s hair to the braided steel cables that are used to support countless bridges. These structures are also commonly seen in nature and can, for example, give plant fibers tensile or flexural strength. Physicists at Forschungszentrum Jülich, together with colleagues from Stockholm and Hefei, have discovered that such structures exist on the nanoscale in alloys of iron and the metalloid germanium.
These nanostrings are each made up of several skyrmions that are twisted together to a greater or lesser extent, rather like the strands of a rope. Each skyrmion itself consists of magnetic moments that point in different directions and together take the form of an elongated tiny vortex. An individual skyrmion strand has a diameter of less than one micrometer. The length of the magnetic structures is limited only by the thickness of the sample; they extend from one surface of the sample to the opposite surface.
Earlier studies by other scientists had shown that such filaments are largely linear and almost rod-shaped. However, ultra-high-resolution microscopy investigations undertaken at the Ernst Ruska-Centre in Jülich the theoretical studies at Jülich’s Peter Grünberg Institute have revealed a more varied picture: the threads can in fact twist together to varying degrees. According to the researchers, these complex shapes stabilize the magnetic structures, making them particularly interesting for use in a range of applications.
“Mathematics contains a great variety of these structures. Now we know that this theoretical knowledge can be translated into real physical phenomena,” Jülich physicist Dr. Nikolai Kiselev is pleased to report. “These types of structures inside magnetic solids suggest unique electrical and magnetic properties. However, further research is needed to verify this.”
To explain the discrepancy between these studies and previous ones, the researcher points out that analyses using an ultra-high-resolution electron microscope do not simply provide an image of the sample, as in the case of, for example, an optical microscope. This is because quantum mechanical phenomena come into play when the high energy electrons interact with those in the sample.
“It is quite feasible that other researchers have also seen these structures under the microscope, but have been unable to interpret them. This is because it is not possible to directly determine the distribution of magnetization directions in the sample from the data obtained. Instead, it is necessary to create a theoretical model of the sample and to generate a kind of electron microscope image from it,” explains Kiselev. “If the theoretical and experimental images match, one can conclude that the model is able to represent reality.” In ultra-high-resolution analyses of this kind, Forschungszentrum Jülich with its Ernst Ruska-Centre counts as one of the leading institutions worldwide.
Reference: “Magnetic skyrmion braids” by Fengshan Zheng, Filipp N. Rybakov, Nikolai S. Kiselev, Dongsheng Song, András Kovács, Haifeng Du, Stefan Blügel and Rafal E. Dunin-Borkowski, 7 September 2021, Nature Communications. | <urn:uuid:4c19f917-9e34-4c29-abc4-5e6e921915f1> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://scitechdaily.com/scientists-discover-new-physical-phenomenon-complex-braided-structures-made-of-skyrmions/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.923101 | 822 | 3.625 | 4 |
As digital technology continues to infiltrate our everyday lives, the risks associated with children utilizing this technology become more and more apparent. It’s easy to imagine a world in which our children are exposed to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, or even malicious online predators.
In order to protect our children from these dangers, it is necessary to create an environment at home that encourages safe online practices. This article will discuss five methods for protecting children online at home.
- Establish online ground rules and teach children basic online etiquette.
- Block inappropriate content and utilize parental control software.
- Teach children about online safety and the importance of personal information privacy.
- Monitor and manage social media usage, including moderating posts and overseeing types of accounts.
Setting Online Ground Rules
Establishing online ground rules for children is an important step in protecting them while using the internet at home. Parents need to be proactive in setting these rules, which should include blocking certain sites and making sure their child understands basic online etiquette. Blocking sites that contain inappropriate content or other potentially dangerous material is a must, as such content can have a long-term negative impact on a child’s development.
Additionally, parents should ensure that their child knows how to properly use social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, as well as other chat applications, which often require an understanding of proper etiquette when interacting with peers.
In addition to blocking sites and teaching online etiquette, parents need to make sure they have access to any passwords their children may be using for certain sites or apps so they can monitor their activity. They also need to educate their children about cyberbullying and online predators and remind them not to share personal information with strangers or post anything they wouldn’t want seen by the public at large.
Furthermore, parents should regularly discuss technology use with their kids so they know what kind of activities are acceptable and those that are not while browsing the internet at home.
Teaching Children How to Safely Navigate the Internet
Educating children on the safe usage of the internet is essential for their development. As digital technologies become increasingly prevalent, it is important that parents and guardians equip their children with the skills they need to navigate the online world safely. Teaching kids how to be tech savvy and raising awareness about cyberbullying are two key elements of online safety which should not be overlooked.
Parents should take an active role in teaching their children about digital etiquette and how to remain vigilant when browsing online. They should discuss topics such as avoiding suspicious websites, being mindful of what personal information they share online, and monitoring who can view their social media profiles. It is also important that parents ensure that their child’s device has appropriate parental controls installed so that they can monitor their activity and protect them from potentially harmful content or people.
Another way to help educate children about internet safety is through age-appropriate resources such as e-learning courses or educational videos. This will give them a better understanding of how to use technology responsibly while giving them access to up-to-date advice on staying safe online. Parents should also feel comfortable discussing any concerns they have about potential risks posed by using technology with their child in an open, honest dialogue.
Utilizing Parental Control Software
Utilizing parental control software is a key component of ensuring children are able to navigate the internet safely. Parental control software offers parents the ability to monitor and manage their children’s online activities, allowing them to vet online games, limit access to inappropriate content, and set screen time limits. This type of software also allows for the blocking of specific websites and provides three levels of filtering options: age-appropriate content, educational content, or unrestricted access.
Parental controls also extend beyond just accessing the internet; they can be used within gaming consoles as well. Parents can restrict in-game spending, restrict who their child interacts with in virtual gaming worlds, limit play times based on age rating recommendations, and prevent game downloads that have not been pre-approved by a parent.
Utilizing this type of technology allows parents to provide their children with an appropriate level of supervision while still allowing them freedom within a responsible framework. It also helps children learn how to make wise decisions on their own when browsing the web or playing video games without fear of stumbling upon something inappropriate or dangerous due to lack of supervision.
Monitoring Social Media Usage
Monitoring social media usage is an important part of ensuring appropriate online behavior. Parents should take steps to ensure their children are using social media safely and responsibly by moderating posts, flagging potentially inappropriate content, and overseeing the types of accounts their child has access to. It is also important for parents to be aware of the potential dangers associated with certain platforms and apps such as cyberbullying, sexting, or exposure to explicit content. In order to protect their child from these risks, parents should be proactive in monitoring what type of content is shared on their child’s account and who they are interacting with online.
It can also be beneficial for parents to set guidelines about how much time their child spends on social media as well as when it is acceptable to use it. This can help them keep track of when their child may be using the platform without supervision and allow them to intervene if necessary. Additionally, parental controls can also help limit a child’s access by blocking certain websites or apps according to age-appropriate guidelines.
Staying Up-to-Date on Online Trends and Issues
Staying abreast of the current trends and issues in digital media is important for families to ensure safe and responsible online behavior. Keeping track of scams, as well as age-appropriate content, should be a priority for parents when monitoring their children’s online activities. Technology is constantly evolving and it can be hard for parents to stay up-to-date with all the new developments, but it is necessary to protect children from potential risks they may face online.
Parents should pay attention to news reports on cybercrimes, data breaches, and other forms of online fraud. It is also important to understand how different platforms work; some social media sites have options that allow users to keep their posts private or limit who can view them. Parents should also use parental control software that allows them to block certain websites or set time limits for their child’s internet usage.
Families need to stay informed about any changes in technology that could potentially affect their children’s online safety. This includes being aware of emerging technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). It is essential for parents to understand the implications these technologies have on privacy and security so they can make informed decisions about what type of content their child consumes online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Age Should a Parent Start Enforcing Online Ground Rules?
Beginning online etiquette and digital literacy education early is key to successful protection of children online at home. Depending on the child’s level of maturity, a parent should start enforcing ground rules at around 8-10 years old.
How Can Parents Keep up With the Latest Online Trends and Issues?
Navigating the digital landscape can be a daunting task for parents. To stay abreast of online trends and issues, it is essential to familiarize oneself with concepts such as etiquette, cyberbullying, and safety protocols. Understanding these topics provides families with the necessary tools to protect their children in the ever-changing virtual world.
What Are the Best Parental Control Software Options?
When considering the best parental control software options, it is important to consider online education and digital literacy. Researching safety features, customization options, and user-friendly interfaces can help parents make an informed decision about which program may be most beneficial for their family.
How Can Parents Monitor Their Child’s Social Media Usage Without Invading Their Privacy?
Parents can ensure online security and foster digital literacy by establishing boundaries for their child’s social media usage. This allows them to monitor usage without invading privacy, respecting the child’s autonomy while providing guidance.
How Can Parents Teach Their Children to Be Safe Online Without Being Too Controlling?
Parents should focus on ensuring trust and instilling digital etiquette in their children, allowing them to understand the importance of online safety without being overly controlling. By promoting constructive conversations and open dialogue, parents can help foster a safe environment for their child to navigate the digital world.
As parents, it is our responsibility to take the necessary steps to ensure that our children are safe while online. We must set ground rules and educate them on how to navigate the web safely, using parental control software when needed and monitoring their social media activity.
Additionally, we must remain informed of new trends and issues in order for us to keep up with the ever-evolving digital world. By doing so, we can lay a strong foundation for our children’s future online safety – like an impenetrable wall around them – protecting them from the potential dangers of the internet. | <urn:uuid:1dc83c17-c852-4edd-bf34-4e3a15e1661c> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://securityzap.com/protect-children-online-home/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.936019 | 1,827 | 3.8125 | 4 |
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BEN SANTER, HENRY JACOBY, RICHARD RICHELS, AND GARY YOHE
Hardly a day passes without a popular article describing the latest scientific study of rapid changes in Antarctic glaciers and ice shelves, or the latest research highlighting a possible slowdown of the ocean circulation systemthat warms eastern North America and Europe.
Such tipping point references are now so commonplace that it’s easy to lose focus on the serious environmental, economic and social threats they present.
The notion of a tipping point is that there are thresholds in a warming climate system — climatic “points of no return” which, if crossed, will have serious climatic, environmental and social consequences difficult to stop or reverse over a single human lifetime. Crossing certain tipping points might have irreversible climatic consequences for centuries.
Risks are magnified because these potential tipping points are not completely separate from one another; they are part of an interconnected climate system. The warming caused by exceeding one tipping point, such as the rapid thawing of Arctic permafrost and release of greenhouse gases, will inevitably have knock-on effects, possibly breaching other tipping points sensitive to warming.
The scientific and policy concern is that by burning fossil fuels and warming the planet, humanity is moving ever closer to triggering multiple climate tipping points. Yet our understanding of how near we are to those events is still disturbingly uncertain.
We’d want to know if a meteor were on course to hit the only planetary home we have. Advance knowledge gives us the possibility of taking countermeasures.
Likewise, we want the best possible scientific understanding of how continued global warming may affect such critical things as the stability of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet. A warming-induced collapse of just this one ice sheet could raise global sea levels by more than 10 feet over the coming centuries, altering the coastal zones where billions of people live.
The search for greater understanding of tipping points lies in three separate lines of evidence that are the basis for current concerns: paleoclimate data, present-day observations, and computer models.
Paleoclimate is the study of “deep time.” It relies on climate information covering spans of history ranging from hundreds to millions of years. This information is painstakingly teased out of ice cores, ocean sediment records, tree rings, coral reefs and other sources. Paleoclimate records show that tipping points do actually exist. These critical climate thresholds have been exceeded in the past without any human intervention — for example, as Earth has slowly warmed while coming out of an Ice Age.
Unfortunately, there’s no single time in paleoclimate records that had precisely today’s atmospheric levels of greenhouse gases, today’s geographical distribution of continents and ice sheets, and today’s orbital parameters (i.e., tilt and gyroscopic wobble of Earth’s axis, along with the shape of the Earth’s orbital path around the Sun). Nor is there any paleoclimate analog for the large and rapid human-caused increase in carbon dioxide since the Industrial Revolution.
While “deep time” information can give scientists valuable clues about what conditions might be influential in triggering tipping points, the direct relevance of those clues to today’s unique climatic situation is uncertain.
The second source of tipping point information comes from direct observations of climate conditions and processes that influence tipping points, or from measurements that record key aspects of tipping-point behavior. Examples include monitoring the melting of Antarctic ice shelves by ocean warming, studying the release of methane from thawing permafrost, and taking the pulse of ocean currents at various latitudes and depths of the North Atlantic. All of these measurements yield insights into rates of change, potentially providing some advanced warning of unusually rapid change — a possible sign of uncomfortable proximity to a tipping point.
But observations also have their problems. We may not be measuring the things that are most informative about tipping points, or measuring often enough, or long enough, or in the best places. We don’t have dedicated networks for making such measurements.
The final source of tipping point information comes from computer models of the climate system. They can be used to study the past and possible future behavior of tipping points. Models are run with estimates of “deep time” changes in greenhouse gas levels, continent and ice sheet configurations, and orbital properties. The output from such simulations can tell us something valuable about the ability of models to capture key aspects of tipping point behavior evident in paleodata.
Importantly, models are also run routinely with future changes in atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases based on different storylines of future population growth, energy use, technological advances and international cooperation. Model simulations of 21st century climate change can tell us how close we might be to passing tipping points, and what physical processes might kick in as we approach them.
Models, however, have their own problems. Although they are the product of many decades of scientific development, involving thousands of scientists around the globe, models represent the incredibly complex real-world climate system in simplified numerical form. There will always be climate processes “lost in translation” of that complex reality into computer code.
Furthermore, the divergent modeling approaches used by different researchers contribute to uncertainty in what models tell us about how fast are we approaching tipping points.
So how can we better determine this, and improve the now-poor communication between the climate modeling community, those making observations relevant to tipping points, and paleoclimate experts?
We believe that part of the answer to these questions involves applying “lessons learned” from three decades of evaluating climate models. Since the early 1990s, the climate science community has used so-called “model intercomparison projects” (MIPs) to answer key questions about climate model performance. How successfully do they reproduce today’s average climate? Over time, have models gotten better at reproducing today’s climate? Are there relationships between how well models simulate today’s climate and the large “spread” in their projections of 21st century climate change?
Large international model intercomparison projects have been valuable for answering these and many other scientific questions. But MIPs, and the lessons learned from them, have not really been applied to the study of tipping points. We don’t have a coherent scientific program for comparing tipping point behavior across today’s state-of-the-art climate models, to determine which models are most suitable and reliable for studying specific tipping points. We should.
We need a clear, sober and concerted scientific effort to understand the risks posed by exceeding tipping points. These risks are becoming more serious with every tenth of a degree of global warming. Investment in a better understanding of tipping point risks might be the best investment humanity could now make in the effort to preserve a livable planet.
Source: The Hill
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Follow our latest news and services through our Twitter account | <urn:uuid:d0bf98e9-09ff-42cf-9d2d-55fe4dc9d1d8> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://smtcenter.net/en/archives/slider/tipping-into-the-danger-zone-we-need-to-learn-more-about-climate-tipping-points | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.927185 | 1,460 | 3.515625 | 4 |
Egypt, a land synonymous with ancient pyramids, pharaohs, and the mystique of the Nile, has been a cradle of civilization for thousands of years. However, Egyptian culture is not just a relic of the past; it’s a vibrant tapestry that weaves its rich ancient heritage with dynamic modern influences. This blend shapes a unique cultural identity that is both distinctly Egyptian and globally resonant.
1. Historical Legacy
The ancient Egyptians, known for their architectural marvels like the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, have left an indelible mark on the nation’s cultural landscape. The reverence for their ancient history is not just in preserving these sites but in the way their symbolism and stories permeate modern Egyptian life. Ancient Egyptian mythology, with gods like Ra, Isis, and Osiris, continues to be a source of artistic and literary inspiration.
2. Hieroglyphics to Modern Script
Hieroglyphics, the writing system of ancient Egypt, is one of the earliest forms of written communication. Though no longer used in daily life, its symbols and aesthetics influence contemporary art and design. The transition from hieroglyphics to the modern Arabic script, which is now used in Egypt, illustrates the evolution of language and communication in Egyptian society.
1. Islam and Coptic Christianity
Egypt’s predominant religion, Islam, significantly shapes its culture, visible in daily life through practices like prayer and fasting during Ramadan. The Islamic influence is also evident in architecture, with Cairo’s skyline dotted with minarets and Islamic art and calligraphy. Meanwhile, Coptic Christianity, followed by a minority, contributes to Egypt’s religious diversity. Ancient Coptic churches and monasteries are not just places of worship but also preserve unique art and history.
2. Religious Festivals and Celebrations
Religious festivals play a vital role in Egyptian culture. Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are celebrated with great fervor, involving community feasting and charity. Coptic Christians celebrate Easter and Christmas, with unique traditions and rituals. These celebrations are a testament to how ancient religious practices have adapted to modern times.
Family and Social Structure
1. Family Dynamics
The family remains a central unit in Egyptian society. Traditionally, extended families lived together, and while urbanization has led to more nuclear families, the extended family’s influence remains strong. Respect for elders and strong family bonds are hallmarks of Egyptian social life.
2. Role of Women
Women’s roles in Egyptian society have evolved significantly. While traditional roles are still prevalent, especially in rural areas, urbanization and education have empowered women to pursue careers and leadership positions. This shift reflects a blend of traditional values and modern perspectives on gender equality.
Art and Literature
1. Influence of Ancient Art
Ancient Egyptian art, known for its detailed and symbolic style, continues to influence modern Egyptian artists. This can be seen in the use of bold colors, pharaonic themes, and hieroglyphic motifs in contemporary art.
2. Contemporary Literature
Modern Egyptian literature is a vibrant field, with writers like Naguib Mahfouz, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature, portraying Egyptian society’s complexities. Literature serves as a bridge between the past and present, often reflecting on historical events while delving into current social issues.
Music and Dance
1. Traditional Music
Egyptian traditional music, with instruments like the oud and qanun, has a rich history. Classical Arabic music remains popular, often incorporating poetic lyrics that date back to ancient times.
2. Modern Music Scene
The modern music scene in Egypt is diverse, blending traditional sounds with contemporary genres like pop, rock, and hip-hop. This fusion reflects the broader cultural blend in Egyptian society.
1. Traditional Foods
Egyptian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Dishes like koshari, ful medames, and molokhia have ancient roots but continue to be staples in the modern Egyptian diet.
2. Culinary Evolution
The influence of globalization is evident in Egypt’s culinary scene, with international cuisines becoming increasingly popular. However, traditional dishes still hold a special place in the hearts of Egyptians, signifying the blend of old and new.
Fashion and Clothing
1. Traditional Attire
Traditional Egyptian attire, like the galabeya, reflects the country’s historical and cultural heritage. While such attire is less common in urban areas, it’s still worn in rural regions and during special occasions.
2. Modern Fashion Trends
In urban centers, fashion trends mirror global styles, showing the influence of western fashion. However, many Egyptians creatively blend traditional elements with modern trends, creating unique styles that reflect their cultural identity.
Technology and Innovation
1. Ancient Innovations
Ancient Egyptians were pioneers in fields like astronomy, mathematics, and medicine. This legacy of innovation has instilled a sense of pride and motivation in modern Egyptians to continue exploring new frontiers.
2. Contemporary Advances
Today, Egypt is actively embracing technology and innovation, with a growing tech industry and startups. This reflects a society that values its ancient past while eagerly participating in the global digital future.
Egyptian culture is a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern innovations. This unique combination creates a society that is deeply rooted in its historical past while dynamically engaging with the present. As Egypt continues to evolve, it serves as a testament to the enduring power of culture to bridge time, connecting the ancient and the modern in a seamless and vibrant tapestry.
Education and Academia
1. Ancient Centers of Learning
The ancient Egyptians were pioneers in education, with institutions like the Library of Alexandria serving as a global center of knowledge. This historical reverence for learning continues to influence Egypt’s educational values today.
2. Modern Education System
The modern Egyptian education system reflects a combination of traditional methods and contemporary approaches. Universities in Egypt, such as Cairo University and the American University in Cairo, are hubs of academic excellence, blending Egypt’s rich history with modern educational practices.
Media and Film Industry
1. Golden Age of Egyptian Cinema
Egypt’s film industry, particularly from the 1930s to the 1960s, was known as the “Hollywood of the Middle East.” Classic Egyptian films from this era continue to be celebrated for their artistic and historical value.
2. Contemporary Media Landscape
Today, Egypt’s media and film industry are vibrant and diverse, reflecting both local and global influences. Egyptian television series, films, and media outlets play a significant role in shaping contemporary culture and public opinion.
Architecture and Urban Planning
1. Ancient Architectural Marvels
Egypt’s ancient architectural wonders, like the temples of Luxor and Karnak, demonstrate a mastery of design and construction. These structures continue to influence modern architectural practices in Egypt.
2. Modern Urban Development
Contemporary Egyptian architecture and urban planning showcase a blend of traditional designs and modern aesthetics. Cities like Cairo and Alexandria are examples of this mix, with ancient landmarks standing alongside modern buildings and infrastructure.
Tourism and Cultural Exchange
1. Ancient Attractions
Tourism in Egypt is largely centered around its ancient attractions. Sites like the Valley of the Kings, the Pyramids of Giza, and the temples along the Nile draw millions of visitors each year, fascinated by Egypt’s historical legacy.
2. Modern Tourism Initiatives
Egypt’s tourism industry is not only about ancient history. Modern initiatives include promoting Red Sea resorts, eco-tourism, and cultural festivals, showcasing the country’s diverse contemporary appeal alongside its ancient wonders.
Sports and Recreation
1. Ancient Sports
Sports have been part of Egyptian culture since ancient times, with activities like swimming, fishing, and various ball games depicted in ancient art and literature.
2. Contemporary Sports Scene
In modern Egypt, football (soccer) is the most popular sport, followed passionately by millions. Other sports like squash, where Egypt has produced world champions, also have a significant following. Sporting events often become venues for expressing national pride and unity.
1. Ancient Environmental Practices
Ancient Egyptians demonstrated a deep understanding of their environment, as seen in their agricultural techniques and resource management. This respect for the natural world is deeply embedded in Egyptian culture.
2. Modern Environmental Initiatives
Today, Egypt faces various environmental challenges, including pollution and water scarcity. In response, there are growing efforts in sustainable practices, renewable energy projects, and environmental education, reflecting a modern approach to ancient wisdom.
Egypt’s culture is a remarkable fusion of its storied past and dynamic present. From the ancient pyramids to the bustling streets of Cairo, from traditional music to contemporary cinema, Egypt offers a unique glimpse into how a civilization can honor its ancient roots while embracing modernity. As Egypt continues to evolve and adapt, its culture remains a testament to the enduring nature of its heritage and the adaptability of its people. This blend of ancient and modern not only defines Egyptian culture but also offers a model for cultural preservation and evolution worldwide. | <urn:uuid:3ee638d2-825c-4261-a6e5-d92f682b5077> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://socialstudieshelp.com/exploring-egyptian-culture-ancient-roots-in-modern-times/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.918218 | 1,885 | 3.5625 | 4 |
The art of printing fabric was known as early as 300 BC (BCE) Printing is the art of colouring the surface of any item. Tattooing of body is one of the most common printing of olden days. The impression of object dipped in dyes on fabric is the basic technique of printing. Textile printing is defined as the ‘localized dyeing’ or restricted form of dyeing a particular area of cloth or design. Dyes or pigments are applied to produce attractive patterns or designs with one or more colours. Printing is quicker and cheaper method of colouring fabrics. Generally a pigment or paste is needed to print textiles. Printing is carried by different methods namely block, screen, stencil etc.
In printing, dyes or pigments are applied in the gel form to prevent the flowing of print design during printing and subsequent drying. Dyes are thickened by mixing it with gums or starches. This thickened dye solution is called as print paste. Print paste is composed of dyestuff, thickener, hygroscopic agents and auxiliary chemicals. Thickeners are added to improve the viscosity and better penetration of the dyestuff into the fabric. The thickener used for print paste preparation may be natural like starch, gum Arabic or synthetic polymers like polyvinyl alcohol and polyacrylamide. Hygroscopic agents used for print paste preparation are water soluble substances like urea and glycerine. They help the dye to enter into the fibre structure for fixation. Auxilliary chemicals such as solvents improve dye solubility and colour yield. Additional chemicals may be added depending on the f ibres and dyes. For example, citric acid may be added for acid dyes or alkali added for reactive dyes. Thickness and freshness of the printing paste are two important aspects to be considered for the quality and durability of printing. | <urn:uuid:10e27fe2-53a8-48b3-acf8-c9c5774de6c3> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://studymateriall.com/printing-what-is-printing-introduction-of-printing-what-is-printing-paste/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.945423 | 393 | 3.9375 | 4 |
Provide basic methodology for setting the thermal energy balance of systems. Equation of heat and mass balance. Deepening of the main physical phenomena and definition of mathematical models that represent them. Knowledge of main air treatments in HVAC systems. Design of heating and domestic hot water system for residential users. The knowledge of the features characterizing the architectonic acoustics. Particular attention will be paid to the link between the studied physical phenomena and their applications in the field of energy conservation, the global welfare of the occupants. This course aims to provide the skills that form the basis for a conscious design to issues related to energy and the environment.
The course includes the alternation between theoretical lessons and practical exercises on the issues developed in the classroom.
Fundamentals of Thermodynamics
a) The Thermodynamic System
International System of measurement units. Definitions and measurability of internal energy. The heat energy as a mode of exchange. The first principle of thermodynamics in expanded form.
b) state of equilibrium.
Magnitudes of physical condition and location. intensive and extensive quantities. Dependence of the work and the heat of the type of thermodynamic process. The entropic postulates. Reversible and irreversible processes. quasi-static transformations. Gibbs equation.
The second law of thermodynamics (Clausius and Kelvin).
c) The ideal gas
State equations. Specific heat at P and V constant. Transformations at T, P, V constant. adiabatic quasistatic. Entropy of an ideal gas. Notes on the behavior of real gases.
d) The diagrams of physical state.
The diagrams (P-T), (p-v), (t-s). Steam water. Major transformations of the water vapor.
Vapor title. The MOLLIER diagram (h-s) for the water vapor.
e) Direct and inverse cycles.
Cyclical Processes . Direct steam cycles (Rankine and Hirn), gas turbines and Joule Bryton cycles. The refrigerator cycle. isoentropic efficiency. absorption refrigeration cycles.
f) Moist air.
The fundamental values. psychometric diagrams for the humid air. The humid air transformations. temperature of saturation and dew point temperature. processes for summer and winter conditioning.
HEAT and hints of fluid dynamics
g) motion of fluids
Bernoulli equation. Similitude, dimensional analysis and modeling. Internal and external flows. Fluid flow in the ducts. Reynolds number. Flow regimes of a liquid in a conduit.
(Regimes: laminar, turbulent and transitional). Friction factor. Coefficients of dynamic and kinematic viscosity. Profiles of velocity .
h) Heat transfer by conduction
The Fourier postulated. The energy balance in a steady state . The flat plate; the multilayer planar walls (with and without thermal power generation). Electric analogy. The energy balance in the case of cylindrical symmetry. Insulated pipe. electrical analogy. The critical radius. Unsteady conduction: Biot number; method of concentrated capacity.
i) Heat transfer by convection.
external flow and internal flow to the surface. boundary layer. the boundary layer assumptions.
l) Forced convection:
dimensionless groups for forced convection and
similarity. dimensionless groups for the natural convection.
experimental dimensionless correlations for the forced heat convection to the main
heat exchange configurations of outside and inside surfaces of conduits.
m) Natural convection:
General consideration. constitutive equations for natural convection. Hypothesis Boussinesque. Natural convection in open spaces.
n) heat transfer by radiation
Emissive power. Irradiation. monochrome and overall . The black body: laws of
Planck, Stefan-Boltzmann, Wien. The coefficients of absorption, reflection, transmission and emission. Kirchhoff's law. The gray body. heat exchange between blacks bodies: the form factor.
ENERGY AND TECHNICAL SYSTEMS
o) HEATING SYSTEM
Combustion Background. Heat generators. Heat exchangers. Hydronic distribution networks. Pressure drops continuous and localized. Moody chart.
Darcy-Weisbach formula, Chézy, Colebrook, of Kutter and Darcy. Power of a machine
Operating hydraulic (pump). Calculation of the manometric prevalence and total of a pump. Characteristic curves. emission terminals. Hints on Control Systems
p) Elements of acoustics
Main acoustical parameters. Propagation of sound waves. Equivalent sound level. Spectral analysis. Sound-absorbing materials and structures. Passive acoustic requirements of buildings. | <urn:uuid:c57dce4a-de40-4278-a6a7-c2165e2bebe5> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://syllabus.unict.it/insegnamento.php?id=13174&eng | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.812564 | 983 | 3.65625 | 4 |
Emotional Support and Understanding
Adolescence can be an overwhelming period marked by identity exploration, self-doubt, and emotional turbulence. Having friends who understand and empathize with their experiences can offer a valuable source of emotional support. Friends become a safe space where teenagers can share their fears, insecurities, and triumphs without judgment. The ability to confide in and rely on friends during difficult times can alleviate stress and promote mental well-being.
Friendships provide teenagers with opportunities for self-discovery and personal growth. Interacting with a diverse group of peers allows them to explore different perspectives, challenge their own beliefs, and broaden their horizons. Through friendships, teens gain valuable insights about themselves, their interests, and their values, helping them shape their identities. Friends can inspire and motivate one another to pursue their passions, set goals, and strive for personal excellence.
Friendships serve as a training ground for developing essential social skills and effective communication. Teenagers learn how to navigate complex social dynamics, resolve conflicts, and cooperate with others. They discover the art of compromise, negotiation, and empathy, which are crucial skills in building healthy relationships later in life. The bonds forged during adolescence teach them the value of active listening, expressing emotions, and respecting diverse opinions.
Belonging to a supportive social circle contributes significantly to a teenager’s self-esteem and self-confidence. Friends provide validation, encouragement, and a sense of acceptance, which can boost their self-worth. By feeling valued and appreciated, teenagers gain the confidence to express their individuality, embrace their unique qualities, and overcome their insecurities. The presence of trusted friends acts as a buffer against feelings of isolation or loneliness.
Friendships create a tapestry of shared experiences and memories that teenagers cherish throughout their lives. Whether it’s embarking on adventures, participating in activities, or simply spending quality time together, these shared moments become the foundation of lifelong connections. The laughter, support, and camaraderie experienced with friends contribute to a sense of belonging and make teenage years memorable and meaningful.
Importance of Friendships can’t be overstated!
Friendship and a sense of belonging are indispensable for teenagers’ emotional, social, and personal development. Strong bonds with peers provide emotional support, foster personal growth, and build essential skills necessary for adulthood. By navigating the ups and downs of adolescence together, teens forge lifelong friendships that offer lasting support and companionship. Encouraging teenagers to cultivate and nurture meaningful friendships can help them navigate the challenges of their formative years with confidence, resilience, and joy.
We can help with this by giving your students the opportunity to open up, embrace their peers and see how each person has different skills that help the group overall. | <urn:uuid:072cb24f-17c7-4397-951f-3150b0acdbe9> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://teamworks.ie/friendship/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.933761 | 564 | 3.9375 | 4 |
James Webb Telescope captures stunning spiral galaxy in a field of galaxies
The Spiral Galaxy, captured by the James Webb Space Telescope, is located nearly 1 billion light-years away from Earth, in the constellation of Hercules.
A galaxy is held together by gravity and is a huge collection of gas, dust, billions of stars and their solar systems. Galaxies come in a variety of sizes, from small dwarf galaxies with only a few billion stars to giant elliptical galaxies with trillions of stars. Although most galaxies have elliptical shapes, a few have unusual shapes like toothpicks or even rings. Though many galaxies are located thousands or even millions of light-years distant from Earth, NASA, ESA and other space agencies have bridged this distance, with the help of its advanced tech.
The James Webb Space Telescope has been amazing us with its capabilities with each passing day. NASA's $10 billion space telescope has been capturing breathtaking images of far-off galaxies, star clusters, black holes and more. It has now added another feather in its cap by capturing a spiral galaxy called LEDA 2046648 which is located almost 1 billion light-years away from Earth in the constellation of Hercules. LEDA 2046648 can be seen behind the space crowded by various stars and other galaxies.
What is a Spiral Galaxy?
According to NASA, Spiral galaxies are actively forming stars that make up a large amount of all the galaxies in our nearby universe. They can be further divided into two groups: normal spirals and barred spirals. In barred spirals, a bar of stars runs through the central bulge of the galaxy.
JWST's amazing tech which captured the image
The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope's Near Infrared Camera (NIRCam) which is the primary camera onboard the telescope. It has three specialized filters and captures images in two different infrared ranges. Astonishingly, it is capable of capturing some of the farthest away near-infrared images ever obtained, detecting light from the first stars and galaxies. NIRCam also has coronagraphic and spectroscopic capabilities and is the primary tool for alignment of the telescope. | <urn:uuid:46b279c4-de8d-4d7a-84ac-314a64d65642> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://tech.hindustantimes.com/tech/news/james-webb-telescope-captures-stunning-spiral-galaxy-in-a-field-of-galaxies-71675327375023.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.955368 | 438 | 3.96875 | 4 |
Developing empathy is a hard concept for young kids. Using read alouds to teach students this SEL skill can help! Here is a list of some of my favorite books about empathy to use in the classroom.
This post contains affiliate links. Read my full disclosure here.
Stand in My Shoes by Bob Sornson
This book allows readers to make connections with what empathy means. It teaches students how to show that you are understanding someone else’s feelings or what they are going through.
We are All Wonders by R.J. Palacio
A companion to the popular novel, Wonder, for the younger crowd. The young boy in the story is different than other kids and how he uses his imagination to escape. An important book about showing empathy and kindness.
The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig
No one ever notices Brian. But, when a new boy arrives, Brian is the first to make him feel welcome. A story that shows how important just one act of kindness can be.
Grab this interactive read aloud for The Invisible Boy!
Those Shoes by Maribeth Boelts
A picture book that will be a mirror for some and a window for others. It is a powerful look into the life of a young boy who wants the shoes that “everyone” else has. His Grandma explains that they are too expensive. The young boy find outs who his true friends are and what he he truly needs, not wants.
I am Human by Susan Verde
This is the third book in the wellness series from Susan Verde. It shows that it is human to make mistakes. The book stresses the importance of empathy in way that resonates with young kids.
What are some other picture books about empathy that you read aloud in your classroom?
Check out this blog post for more picture books about social awareness skills!
Want to save this list for later? Pin the image below! | <urn:uuid:523dddd0-0858-47eb-b306-7cd9c6d654c5> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://thecolorfulapple.com/books-empathy/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.9382 | 394 | 3.703125 | 4 |
Even the most highly experienced economists frequently misinterpret macroeconomic data. The chances are slim that an individual investor will do better.
This advice runs counter to the investment culture created by the financial news cycle, but consider the odds: An investor must identify the correct macroeconomic forecast, of which there are many, and then make the correct investment selections, of which there are also many.
Instead, investors should understand the fundamental realities presented in microeconomic theory. It is a subtler and more established science with far fewer drawbacks than macroeconomics. As a result, there is less potential for significant investment error.
- An economy is an extremely complex and dynamic system.
- Microeconomics focuses on the decision-making processes of individuals and companies in response to current economic factors.
- Macroeconomics draws its conclusions from broad economic data such as the direction of interest rates and the unemployment rate.
Micro vs. Macro: Two Kinds of Economics
Macroeconomics is the study of the overriding factors that affect an economy. Inflation, interest rate changes, and unemployment numbers are examples. Macroeconomists study the impact of changes in these factors on the overall economic health of a nation and attempt to predict their long-term effects.
Microeconomics zeroes in on the individual decision-making processes of individuals and businesses. It is closely linked to psychology in its focus on human behavior and what influences it.
This modern distinction between microeconomics and macroeconomics is not even 100 years old, and the terms were probably borrowed from physics.
Physicists separate microscopic, or atomic, physics from molar physics, or what can be perceived by human senses. The idea is that microscopic physics describes how the world really is, but molar physics is a useful shorthand and a heuristic device to use in problem-solving.
Economics almost reverses the distinctions between the two. Most economists agree on the basic tenets of microeconomic analysis, but the field of macroeconomics grew out of dissatisfaction with the limitations that were perceived in the predicted outcomes from microeconomics.
There is no widespread agreement on the conclusions drawn from macroeconomic studies. Therefore, it is not shorthand for microeconomic truths.
How Each Field Works
Microeconomics concerns itself with individual households, companies, and industries. It measures the intersection of supply and demand in these narrow ranges and essentially ignores other factors to better understand real relationships.
Often presented graphically, a microeconomic analysis is largely based on logic and shows how prices help coordinate human activity toward an equilibrium point.
Microeconomics is particularly applicable to individual investing. It studies how individuals make choices based on changes in certain variables, such as prices and resources. Investors, too, make their own choices,
Macroeconomics proceeds in a very different manner. It attempts to measure economy-wide phenomena, primarily through aggregated statistics and econometric correlations.
In microeconomics, for instance, complicating variables must often be held constant in order to isolate how actors respond to specific changes. However, in macroeconomics, historical data is collected and then examined for themes of unexpected outcomes.
Therefore, macroeconomics requires a massive amount of knowledge to be done correctly. In some cases, macroeconomists do not even have the necessary tools for measurement.
Investors Need Micro, Not Macro
It is not even clear if investors need macroeconomics to make good decisions. Warren Buffett, the legendary investor, does not pay attention to economists or macroeconomics. He has said, “I don’t pay attention to what economists say, frankly.”
“You cannot get rich with a weather vane,” Buffett once said regarding macroeconomics. Not every investor or fund manager would agree with this sentiment, but it is telling when such a prominent figure confidently disregards the entire science.
An economy is an extremely complex and dynamic system. To borrow terms from electrical engineering, it is difficult to identify real signals in macroeconomics because the data is noisy. Macroeconomists frequently disagree about how to measure effectiveness or how to make predictions. A new economist is always popping up with a different interpretation or spin.
This makes it easy for investors to draw incorrect conclusions or even adopt contradictory indicators.
Investors Should Be Cautious
Investors can benefit from studying basic economics, but the limitations of the field present ample opportunities to be led astray. Economists often present their conclusions in a definitive manner to sound authoritative or scientific, but most economists make poor predictions. This does not prevent them from later making more proclamations despite the fundamental uncertainty of their field.
Investors should demonstrate more humility than economists, and this is where microeconomics can really help. It is not useful to try to predict where the S&P 500 will be in 12 months or what the inflation rate in China will be at that time. But investors can try to find companies with products that demonstrate a low price elasticity of demand, or identify which industries are most reliant on low oil prices or require high capital expenditures to survive.
Most investors buy corporate equity or debt, either directly or through a fund. Microeconomics can help identify which corporations are most likely to use their resources efficiently and generate higher returns, and the tools of analysis are easy to understand.
What Is Macroeconomics in Plain English?
Macroeconomics is the analysis of the factors that move an economy, for better or worse. These are the factors that can cause supply and demand fluctuations in the economy. They include inflation, productivity, unemployment, and fiscal and monetary policy changes, among other factors. Macroeconomists analyze these factors in order to understand past or current economic cycles and to predict future ones.
Most economists identify themselves as macroeconomists or microeconomists.
What Is Microeconomics in Plain English?
Microeconomics is the study of the behavior of individuals and businesses in relation to economic pressures and opportunities. This analysis generally focuses on supply and demand in a single industry rather than an economy as a whole. Individuals and families make decisions on purchases based on their perceptions of their immediate or short-term financial welfare. Companies make similar decisions to expand or pull back, hire or lay off, step up production or look for places to cut back. Microeconomists study these behaviors and draw conclusions about the probable effect of those behaviors on a product or an industry.
How Can Microeconomics Be Useful in the Real World?
If you’re an individual investor, you may be using microeconomics already without realizing it.
Say you’re considering investing in a company that makes electric vehicles. Your research indicates that some consumers are willing to switch to electric vehicles in order to reduce their carbon footprints. The government is offering a big cashback offer that reduces the cost of these vehicles.
In your research, you’ll probably come across microanalysis findings that are based on the data behind the headlines.
Is there a sufficient infrastructure for recharging in place? What percentage of consumers is turned off by the sticker price? What do current electric car drivers think about their vehicles?
The Bottom Line
Macroeconomics may be more ambitious, but so far it has a much worse track record than microeconomics.
Microeconomics provides the tools that allow investors to analyze the fundamentals of stocks they are interested in. This provides a clearer picture of how an investment may move, in comparison to the noise generated by macroeconomics. | <urn:uuid:4497bca6-424d-4ae6-bc81-2a3985ae7f94> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://todayheadline.co/microeconomics-vs-macroeconomics-investments/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.937818 | 1,532 | 3.703125 | 4 |
In anthropology, the term indigenous refers to the original inhabitants of a specific geographical area, a land, which has been occupied subsequently by migrants or colonists. Such later occupations and territorial disputes have, historically, been accompanied by ethnic, cultural, religious and linguistic tensions. Indigenous peoples are thus synonymous with the terms aboriginal and native, to which it is now often preferred, where the two latter terms have acquired pejorative connotations. There are many historical examples and, more importantly for the purposes of this chapter, many examples that are still currently sources of dispute. These may be found in the Americas, in Africa and in Australia and New Zealand, the well known sites of European imperialism and colonial settlement in the final centuries of the last millennium. They may also be found in China, in Central Asia and also in both 'old' and 'new' Europe. They are, in both the historical and the contemporary senses, intimately bound up with the concept of local knowledge and its relationship with globalisation, which is the focus of this chapter. This is why the anthropological perspective is necessary to understanding the impact of globalisation on local cultures and systems of education. As Kate Crehan points out in a recent book on Gramsci and anthropology, it is 'an interesting vantage point from which to examine the hegemonic ... and taken-for-granted certainties of what is commonly referred to nowadays as our 'globalized' world. All too often the term globalisation seems to involve the assumption that capitalism and democracy, as these have developed in certain societies in the North, represent a telos to which every human society everywhere is (or should be) aspiring (Crehan, 2002, p. 4). | <urn:uuid:d44d848e-de22-418b-a1b9-29ff6fd2883e> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://uat.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9781315254159-4/local-knowledge-globalisation-compatible-john-morgan?context=ubx&refId=874e5645-dd5f-410c-a68a-dae789633ede | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.965236 | 343 | 3.921875 | 4 |
The human brain is one of the most complex and intriguing organs in our body, responsible for allowing us to perceive, think, learn, and remember. Among its many amazing functions, memory stands out as an integral part of our consciousness, shaping our perception of the world, our sense of identity, and our ability to learn and adapt to new situations.
Memory comes in many forms and serves different purposes, ranging from innate reflexes and motor skills to conscious recall and complex cognitive processes. From our earliest childhood memories to the latest events we experienced, each memory is a unique blend of sensory input, emotions, and cognitive processing that intertwines with our personality and worldview.
Despite its ubiquity, the nature of memory remains a subject of intense scientific investigation, as researchers seek to unravel the mysteries behind its fundamental mechanisms, its limits, and its potential for enhancement and rehabilitation.
One of the most fascinating aspects of memory is its plasticity, the ability to change and adapt in response to new experiences and learning. Our brain is constantly rewiring itself, creating new connections and pruning old ones, to optimize its functioning and support our evolving needs.
For instance, neuroplasticity allows us to learn new skills, acquire new knowledge, and adapt to changing environments. It also underlies the potential for cognitive rehabilitation after injuries or illnesses that affect memory function, such as strokes, concussions, or neurodegenerative disorders.
Another intriguing aspect of memory is its associations with emotion and motivation. Many of our most vivid and enduring memories are linked to intense emotions, either positive or negative, that shape our attitudes, beliefs, and behavior. In fact, some researchers suggest that emotions may even enhance memory consolidation and retrieval, by activating brain regions and modulating neurotransmitters involved in memory processing.
Understanding the neural underpinnings of memory is a multidisciplinary endeavor that integrates insights from neuroscience, psychology, computer science, and other fields. For example, recent advances in brain imaging techniques have allowed researchers to visualize and probe the activity of specific brain regions implicated in memory formation and retrieval, such as the hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex.
Moreover, computational models of memory have provided theoretical frameworks to simulate and test various hypotheses about how memory works and why it sometimes fails. These models range from simple associative networks to complex architectures that integrate multiple memory systems, such as working memory, episodic memory, semantic memory, and procedural memory.
The study of memory has practical implications for many areas of human endeavor, such as education, medicine, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence. For example, educators can use evidence-based strategies to improve learning and retention for students of different ages and backgrounds, by leveraging the principles of cognitive psychology and neuroplasticity.
Similarly, clinicians can develop personalized interventions and therapies to restore or enhance memory function in patients with memory impairments, by tailoring the treatment to the specific underlying causes and mechanisms of their condition.
In conclusion, the world of human memory is a fascinating and dynamic field of research, full of mysteries waiting to be unlocked. By exploring the complexity and plasticity of memory, we can deepen our understanding of who we are, how we relate to the world, and how we can improve our cognitive abilities and well-being. | <urn:uuid:c834d25f-fd7d-4d17-8f45-b3153477adb5> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://usnn.com/the-fascinating-world-of-human-memory-unlocking-its-mysteries/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.928348 | 660 | 3.671875 | 4 |
Billions of years ago, life on Earth was mostly just sticky mats of great microbes living in shallow water. Sometimes these microbial communities made carbonate minerals that were encrusted together over many years to become layered limestone rocks called stromatolites. They are the oldest evidence of life on Earth. But the fossils do not tell researchers the details of how they formed.
Today, most of life is supplemented with oxygen. But these microbial mats were in place for a billion years before oxygen was present in the atmosphere. So what does life use instead?
Our team of geologists, physicists, and biologists found hints in fossil stromatolites that arsenic was the chemical of choice for ancient photosynthesis and respiration. But modern versions of these microbial communities still live on Earth today. Maybe one of those uses arsenic and could provide evidence for our theory?
So we joined an expedition of Chilean and Argentine scientists to search for live stromatolites in the harsh conditions of the high Andes mountains. In a small creek deep in the Atacama Desert, we found a big surprise. The bottom of the channel was bright purple and made of microbial mats of stromatolite thriving in the complete absence of oxygen. Just as the clues we found in ancient fossils suggest, these mats use two different forms of arsenic to perform photosynthesis and respiration. Our discovery provides the strongest evidence yet of how the oldest life on Earth survived in the pre-oxygen world.Modern organisms make oxygen during photosynthesis and use it for respiration, but other elements, such as arsenic, shown here as As, can also work. Christophe Dobraz, Anthony Bouton, Peter Fisher, CC BY-ND
Converting sunlight into energy
Over the past 2.4 billion years, photosynthetic organisms such as plants and cyanobacteria have used sunlight, water and carbon dioxide to produce oxygen and organic matter. By doing this, they convert the energy from the sun into energy for life. Other organisms breathe oxygen as they digest organic carbon, and gain energy for their breathing in the process.
Microbes in the ancient world also captured energy from sunlight, but their primitive mechanisms could neither produce oxygen from water nor use oxygen for respiration. They needed another chemical to do this.
From a biochemical perspective, there are only a few potential candidates: iron, sulfur, hydrogen, or arsenic. The lack of evidence in the fossil record and trace amounts of some of these chemicals in the primordial soup indicate that iron, sulfur, and hydrogen were not likely candidates for the first form of photosynthesis. This leaves the arsenic.
In 2014, our team found the first evidence that stromatolites were produced by photosynthesis and respiration with the help of arsenic. We collected 2.72 billion year-old pieces of stromatolite from a pre-oxygen world by digging into ancient coral reefs in outback Australia. Then we took these samples to France and cut them into thin slices. By measuring the x-rays that emerged from these samples when bombarded them with photons, we made a map of the chemical elements in the sample. If there are two types of arsenic in the map, this is a sign that life has been using arsenic for photosynthesis and respiration. In the remnants of ancient life we find plenty of both forms of arsenic, but not iron or sulfur.
This was baffling, but we wanted more evidence: a modern isotope to help prove our arsenic theory. No researcher has ever found a microbial mat community living in a place completely devoid of oxygen, but if we do find one, it could help explain how the first stromatolites formed when our planet’s oceans and atmosphere lacked oxygen.Samples from microbial mats contain high levels of arsenic and lithium, but no oxygen. Dangelo Duran, CC BY-ND
Modern microbes, their ancient analogues
The Atacama Desert in Chile is the driest place on Earth, surrounded by volcanoes and exposed to extremely high UV rays. It’s not much different from what Earth looked like 3 billion years ago and it doesn’t fully support life as we know it. Here – with the help of a team that spanned across four continents and seven countries – we found what we were looking for.
Or the destination is Laguna La Brava, a very salty shallow lake deep in the harsh desert. A shallow stream fed by a volcanic groundwater spring led to the lake. The riverbed was a unique deep purple. The color came from a microbial mat, which thrives quite happily in waters that contain unusually high amounts of arsenic, sulfur, and lithium, but lack one important element – oxygen.
Could these sticky purple blobs provide answers to an old question?A piece of microbial mat that lives at the bottom of the oxygen-free stream. Peter Fisher, CC BY-ND
We cut out a piece of the mat and looked for clues to the metal. A drop of acid made the minerals fizz – carbonate! – This microbial community was the stromatolite. So our team went to work, camping on site for several days at a time.
We measured the water and mat chemistry with our field equipment during the day, night, summer and winter. We didn’t find the oxygen once, and back in the lab we confirmed that the sulfur and arsenic were ample. Looking through a microscope, we saw purple photosynthetic bacteria, but the oxygen-producing cyanobacteria were eerily absent. We also collected DNA samples from the mat and found genes for arsenic metabolism.
In the lab, we mixed the microbes from the mat, added arsenic, and exposed the mixture to sunlight. Photosynthesis was happening. Microbes used arsenic and sulfur, but preferred arsenic. When we added a small amount of organic matter, a different arsenic compound was used for respiration and preferred over sulfur.
All that remains is to show that the two types of arsenic can be detected in modern stromatolites. We got back to France, and using X-ray emission technology, we made chemical maps from Chilean samples. Every experiment we conducted supported a robust arsenic cycle in the absence of oxygen in this unique modern stromatolite. This confirms, without a doubt, the idea that the fossil Australian samples we studied in 2014 bear evidence of an active arsenic cycle in deep time on our young planet.Laguna La Brava is closer to the Martian environment than most places on Earth. Peter Fisher, CC BY-ND
Answers are on Earth, leading to Mars
The extreme conditions of Atacama are so similar to the environments of early Mars and Earth that NASA scientists and astrobiologists are turning to the Atacama to answer questions about how life began on our planet, and how it might start elsewhere. The arsenic cycling mats we discovered at Laguna La Brava provide solid clues to some basic questions about life.
On board the Mars 2020 Perseverance rover currently propelling through space is a tool that can observe objects using the same process we used to create our object maps. Perhaps he will discover that arsenic is abundant in layered rocks on Mars, indicating that life on Mars also uses arsenic. For more than a billion years, it did so on Earth. Under the harshest circumstances life finds a way, and in this way we try to understand.
Peter Fisher, Professor of Marine Sciences, University of Connecticut; Brendan Paul Burns, Senior Lecturer, UNSWKimberley L. Gallagher, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, Quinnipiac University
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Lifelong foodaholic. Professional twitter expert. Organizer. Award-winning internet geek. Coffee advocate. | <urn:uuid:3fb0e502-fdd0-4e88-9657-7184f6196bec> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.aviationanalysis.net/ancient-microbial-life-used-arsenic-to-thrive-in-a-world-without-oxygen/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.935802 | 1,594 | 4.3125 | 4 |
What is non-allergic rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis is caused by the immune system over-reacting to allergens like pollen and dust. As a result, the membranes lining the nose can become irritated and inflamed, causing too much mucus to be produced. This can then drip down the back of the throat or block the sinuses. Plus, in response to an allergen, histamine production also increases which leads to symptoms like inflammation of the nasal passages and itching.
Non-allergic rhinitis is similar in that it too causes issues like swelling and congestion. However, the two conditions differ a little in terms of their causes because, as the name suggests, the symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis are not the result of an allergen. Instead, the problem can come about for a whole range of reasons.
What causes non-allergic rhinitis?
There is no definitive cause for non-allergic rhinitis however, there are many factors that can contribute to the problem.
Everyone has mucous membranes lining the inside of the nose that regularly produce mucus to help trap dirt and other things that may be harmful to the body. However, the weather sometimes affects this organised system which can result in the symptoms associated with non-allergic rhinitis. Moving from air that’s warm and humid, to air that’s very cold for example, can cause the membranes inside the nose to swell. This in turn leads to problems like a runny nose and congestion. Humid air can also dry out the nose and may again lead to the symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis.
The surrounding environment can have a significant impact on the nose and therefore on non-allergic rhinitis symptoms too. There are for example, a variety of things that can make symptoms of this condition worse such as things outdoors like smog, smoke, exhaust fumes, solvents, and aeroplane fumes. Indoor factors like dust, smoke from cigarettes, strong smells like perfume and air fresheners make also impact symptoms.
Your occupation may also contribute to the problem of non-allergic rhinitis because, if you are exposed to chemical fumes for example, this could cause irritation.
Colds and Flu
The most common cause of non-allergic rhinitis is a viral infection as a cold or flu attacks the lining of the nose and the throat to cause problems like a runny nose.
Occasionally, prescribed medications like aspirin, ibuprofen and medications for high blood pressure can cause non-allergic rhinitis.
Non-allergic rhinitis can also be caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy, puberty, menstruation, oral contraception use or in other hormonal conditions such as hyperthyroidism.
What are the symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis?
During a bout of non-allergic rhinitis, the blood vessels inside the nose expand and fluid builds up in the tissues of the nose. This then results in the main symptoms of the condition - congestion and a runny nose. However, these problems are often accompanied by a more uncomfortable set of issues as well, such as:
- Nasal pressure
- Reduced sense of smell
- Irritation or discomfort in the nose
- A crust develops inside the nose which may smell unpleasant and cause bleeding
These problems are very similar to what we’d experience during a cold or flu however, here the symptoms don’t seem to get better and are often deemed chronic.
As mentioned, there are also some similarities between allergic rhinitis and non-allergic rhinitis but nevertheless, the latter does not usually involve problems like an itchy nose, eyes or throat – these are instead exclusive to the problem of allergic rhinitis.
Being exposed to irritants like smoke, smog and exhaust fumes may increase the likelihood of developing non-allergic rhinitis.
The condition may also be triggered by exposure to certain fumes in the workplace such as solvents, chemicals and construction materials.
Hormonal changes increase the likelihood of allergic rhinitis developing so women are more at risk as such changes are common during pregnancy and menstruation.
Issues such as hyperthyroidism and chronic fatigue syndrome are known to sometimes cause or worsen non-allergic rhinitis.
For some people, emotional or physical stress may trigger the condition.
These are abnormal sacs of fluid that grow in the nasal passages and sinuses due to chronic inflammation. Small polyps aren’t particularly damaging but larger ones can block the air flow through the nose which makes it difficult to breathe.
This is an infection in the membrane that lines the sinuses and is caused by pro-longed nasal inflammation.
Middle Ear Infections
Congestion and increased fluid in the nose may lead to middle ear infections.
Treatment for non-allergic rhinitis
Non-allergic rhinitis, although not overly harmful, does involve an uncomfortable and irritating set of symptoms. However, there are a few things you can do about this.
It’s not always an easy task, but if you are able to identify the things that cause or worsen your symptoms, you can then attempt to avoid them. This may help to ease the problem so that you are able to continue your day-to-day life as normal.
To address the symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis, you could try our Sinuforce Nasal Spray which provides relief for nasal congestion and catarrh. Unlike traditional nasal sprays, it leaves the protective function of the mucous membranes intact. However, by including menthol it still helps to soothe the nose and reduce swelling in the nasal mucous membranes.
Invest in a Humidifier
It may be worthwhile investing in a humidifier as this increases moisture in the air to help counteract the effects of central heating systems which dry out the air. This may help to loosen mucus to help with congestion.
Visit Your Doctor
It can be difficult to diagnose non-allergic rhinitis but if symptoms are beginning to affect you day-to-day life, it may be time to visit your doctor to get some further advice. They’ll be able to do a blood test to check if you have the allergy and will then discuss your options from there. | <urn:uuid:63df1fc8-eee0-4ba8-bd81-eb66450308cc> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.avogel.co.uk/health/allergic-rhinitis/non-allergic-rhinitis/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.933318 | 1,320 | 3.546875 | 4 |
Landscape-scale conservation is an approach to conservation that considers and manages the ecological, social, and economic aspects of a particular landscape or geographic area as a whole. It involves the protection and management of natural resources, habitats, and ecosystems across large spatial scales, typically spanning multiple jurisdictions and land ownerships.
The key principles of landscape-scale conservation include:
Recognising the interconnectedness of habitats and ecosystems within a landscape and ensuring the continuity of ecological processes, such as the movement of species, flow of water, and dispersal of seeds.
Involving a wide range of stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, landowners, non-profit organisations, and scientists, in the planning and implementation of conservation strategies. Collaboration helps to build consensus, leverage resources, and coordinate actions across different sectors.
Employing a flexible and iterative approach to conservation that incorporates new information and allows for adjustments over time. Adaptive management involves monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of conservation actions and using that knowledge to refine strategies and improve outcomes.
Recognising that landscapes provide a range of services and benefits to both human communities and natural systems. Landscape-scale conservation aims to integrate conservation goals with other societal objectives, such as sustainable development, climate change mitigation, water resource management, and cultural preservation.
Conducting scientific assessments to identify key conservation areas, ecological corridors, and critical habitats within a landscape. This involves mapping and analysing data on biodiversity, ecosystem services, land use, and other relevant factors.
Establishing a network of protected areas that are strategically located to ensure representation of diverse ecosystems and species. These protected areas may include national parks, wildlife refuges, nature reserves, and other conservation designations.
Implementing habitat restoration projects, such as reforestation, wetland rehabilitation, or invasive species removal, to improve ecosystem health and enhance biodiversity within a landscape.
Promoting sustainable land use practices, such as sustainable agriculture, forestry, and fisheries, that minimise negative impacts on ecosystems while supporting local livelihoods and food security.
Influencing policy development and land-use decision-making processes to integrate conservation objectives into broader land and resource management strategies. This can involve advocating for supportive legislation, regulations, and financial incentives for landscape-scale conservation.
Raising awareness among the public, landowners, and stakeholders about the value of landscapes and the importance of conservation. This includes promoting environmental education, capacity building, and community engagement initiatives.
By considering the broader context and working at a landscape scale, conservation efforts can be more effective in preserving biodiversity, maintaining ecosystem services, and promoting sustainable development for both present and future generations. | <urn:uuid:082e7603-d34d-4f19-be13-cf98156cc718> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.awardaroo.io/short-reads/what-is-landscape-scale-conservation-and-how-is-it-applied | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.896262 | 536 | 3.90625 | 4 |
A functional group is an essential moiety in organic chemistry that causes the molecule’s unique chemical reactions. Regardless of the molecule’s remaining structure, the identical functional group will undergo the same chemical modifications. The reactivity of a functional moiety can be affected by its neighbors. It allows for the systematic analysis of chemical processes, chemical substance activities, and chemical synthesis progression.
Alpha carbon is the first carbon atom connected to the functional group; beta carbon is the second; gamma carbon is the third. A functional group can also be classified as 1o, 2o, or 3o depending on whether it is linked to 1, 2, or 3 carbon atoms. Hydroxyl, ether, ketone, amides, and amine are examples of functional groups.
Common functional group nomenclature
The functional group of an organic compound is first identified, which leads to the proper suffix. The longest carbon chain with the functional group is then picked, with the functional group receiving the lowest number in the chain.
Hydrocarbons contain carbon and hydrogen atoms, and such groups are sometimes known as hydrocarbyl groups. However, the types of bonds between two carbon atoms, including double and triple bonds, may differ. Because of the structure of the carbon-carbon bond, the reactivity of these groups varies. A long, branched alkane or a ring-structured alkane make up some groups, each with its name. Bornyl and cyclohexyl are two examples of such compounds. The hydrocarbon functional groups may have an ionic charge. Carbocations refer to positively charged structures, whereas carbanions refer to negatively charged hydrocarbons.
- Alkane – Methane (CH4)
- Alkene – Ethene
Haloalkanes are functional groups in which a carbon atom and a halogen share a bond. The prefix ‘halo-‘ is used to denote a halogen. The chemical CH3F, for instance, can be referred to as fluoromethane, with fluoro being the prefix. The strength and stability of the carbon-halogen bond depend on the halogen. Alkyl iodides, for instance, have a weak carbon-iodine connection. Still, alkyl fluorides have a stable and robust carbon-fluorine bond, and all alkyl halides, except for certain alkyl fluorides, readily perform nucleophilic substitution and elimination reactions.
- Ethyl bromide (CH3CH2Br)
- Methyl chloride (CH3Cl)
Ether is an organic molecule composed of an oxygen atom connected to two aryl or alkyl groups, which might be the same or different. Ethers have the generic formula R-O-R, Ar-O-Ar or R-O-Ar where
- R denotes an alkyl group
- Ar represents an aryl group
Symmetrical ethers, when two identical groups are connected to the oxygen atom and asymmetrical ethers when two different groups are attached to the oxygen atom, are the two types of ethers.
- CH3 – CH2 – O – CH2 – CH3 (Diethyl ether)
- CH3 – O – CH2 – CH3 (Ethyl methyl ether)
Functional groups are atom groupings inside molecules with structural properties independent of the other atoms in the compound. Examples include alcohol, amines, carboxylic acids, ethers, aldehydes, and ketones. | <urn:uuid:9f9c0a04-703c-40ee-b280-66a3f3ea410b> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.cointoons.com/functional-groups-in-organic-chemistry/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.88823 | 734 | 3.859375 | 4 |
To track ocean storms and dangerous waves, the Navy uses radar data from satellites that estimate wind speed and wave height. But accurate measurements of wave heights from space are difficult to make, and wave height in itself tells nothing about how violently waves are breaking on the ocean surface. Andrew Jessup, an oceanographer at the University of Washington, has developed a way to improve on, or at least augment, radar images. Shown here are infrared photos of the wake of a breaking wave. (Black-and-white photographs of the same wave are on the left.) The photos were taken by an infrared camera aboard a research vessel off southern California. Jessup wrote a computer program that uses images from standard infrared cameras to analyze temperature changes in the top layer of the oceans’ waters caused by breaking waves. Since the surface is a few tenths of a degree cooler than the water below, when a wave breaks, the warmer water beneath (orange and red) mixes with the cooler water above (blue and violet). The most powerful waves create the most mixing, so the images could be used to warn mariners away from choppy seas. Next summer Jessup plans to analyze infrared images of the ocean taken from a NASA satellite. | <urn:uuid:fd483814-ab85-4d9d-aa99-360e358d9844> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.discovermagazine.com/technology/breaking-waves | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.920516 | 246 | 4.21875 | 4 |
Earth's equator is midway between Earth's North and South Poles. If we imagine this line extended out into space, that is the celestial equator.
Just as Earth's latitude measures how far an Earthly location is north or south of the Earth's equator, declination measures where a planet is, north or south of the celestial equator. When a planet crosses the celestial equator, it is at 0° declination.
The Celestial Equator is the baseline measurement of Declination, similar but completely different from the Ecliptic which is the baseline measurement of Celestial Latitude.
Note: Earth's geographic equator and latitude are completely different from Celestial Latitude. | <urn:uuid:cee7995f-9b54-4643-8a59-06fd16ccd674> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.evolvingdoorastro.com/glossary/terms/sun-moon-earth/celestial-equator | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.894333 | 140 | 4.3125 | 4 |
The world’s poorest people are generally more dependent on forest biodiversity and ecosystem services than are people who are better off. In low- and middle-income countries, human populations tend to be low in areas with high forest cover and high forest biodiversity, but poverty rates in these areas tend to be high.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has estimated that 252 million people living in forests and savannas have an income of less than US$1,25 [about R19,19] a day. Overall, about 63% of these rural poor live in Africa, 34% in Asia and 3% in Latin America.
Understanding the relationship between poverty and forest landscapes is crucial to global efforts to fight poverty and conserve biodiversity.
On the one hand, poverty reduction and income growth can increase the demand for land-intensive goods and production, and intensify people’s desire to convert forest to pasture, cropland and living space. On the other hand, rising income can change occupational patterns away from land-intensive production, increase the demand for recreation and environmental quality, and strengthen people’s ability and willingness to conserve nature.
The impact of these forces are shaped by institutions and policies.
Forests contribute to food security in several ways:
Availability (actual/potential presence of food)
Approximately one billion people depend to some extent on wild foods such as game meat, edible insects, edible plant products, mushrooms and fish. Some studies indicate that in developing countries, these households tend to have the lowest incomes.
Although foods from forests have been estimated to represent less than 0,6% of global consumption, they are key to ensuring the availability of nutrient-dense foods and important vitamins and trace elements in many communities. Forests and trees outside forests also support food availability by providing fodder for livestock. Fodder thus contributes to food availability in two ways: livestock are a source of meat and milk, and they support agricultural production by providing draught power and manure, which can increase farm productivity.
Forests and their biodiversity also provide foods that contribute a wide range of macro- and micronutrients. Wild foods often contain high levels of key micronutrients. Forest fruits, for example, are rich sources of minerals and vitamins, while seeds and nuts harvested in the forest add calories, oil and protein to diets.
Wild edible roots and tubers serve as sources of carbohydrate, while mushrooms contain important nutrients, including selenium, potassium and vitamins. Leaves from trees and shrubs are among the most widely consumed forest products.
They serve as a rich source of protein and micronutrients, including vitamin A, calcium and iron, which are often lacking in the diets of nutritionally vulnerable communities. Moreover, most of the global supply of vitamins C and A and calcium, and much of the folic acid, comes from crops pollinated by animals.
Stability of food supply
Income and wild foods from forests provide a safety net during seasonal food shortages and in times of famine, crop failure and economic, social and political shocks.
Forest products are often available for extended periods, including during ‘lean’ seasons, when stocks of traditional agricultural products have run out and when money is in short supply.
In addition to providing measures for coping with short-term instability in food supplies, which can lead to acute food insecurity, forests and forest diversity provide ecosystem services for ensuring medium- to long-term stability of food supplies, which can prevent chronic food insecurity.
Part of this is through their support to sustainable agricultural, livestock and fishery production. Forests are crucial for maintaining biodiversity as a gene pool for food and medicinal crops in order to ensure long-term quality of diets.
Forest foods form a small (in terms of calories) but critical part of diets commonly consumed by rural, food-insecure populations. They also add variety to predominantly staple diets. In some communities that consume high levels of forest food, wild forest foods alone are sufficient to meet minimum dietary requirements for fruits, vegetables and animal-source foods.
The value of forest foods as a nutritional resource is not limited to the developing world. More than 65 million people in the EU collect wild foods occasionally and at least 100 million consume edible forest products.
Wild foods, particularly wild game and other forest products, are also commonly eaten in North America, and some are widely traded. The global market for edible mushrooms, for example, many of which are collected from forests, is estimated to be worth US$42 billion [R645 billion] a year.
Forest foods are of particular nutritional (and cultural) importance to indigenous communities. A study of 22 countries in Asia and Africa, both industrialised and developing, found that the average indigenous community uses 120 wild foods.
Nuts are among the most nutritionally concentrated of human foods, being high in protein, oil, energy, minerals and vitamins. The annual production of nuts that originate primarily or exclusively from forests is substantial in many countries.
Some nuts support subsistence for rural communities and forest dwellers, while others, such as the Brazil nut, are of considerable commercial importance. Trees and shrubs bearing edible nuts are often left standing on farmlands and homesteads after land clearance.
Redmond et al listed close to 1 800 species of insects, mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles used as wild meat around the world, many of them in tropical and subtropical forests.
Given that only 45% of these (around 800) were insects and that fish and shellfish were not included, the total number of forest animals hunted for food is likely to be significantly higher.
In rural forest communities and small provincial towns where cheap, domestic meat is largely unavailable but people have access to wildlife, wild meat is often the main source of macronutrients, such as protein and fat, and important micronutrients, such as iron and zinc.
A recent survey of almost 8 000 rural households in 24 countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America found that 39% of households harvested wild meat and almost all consumed it.
Wild meat accounts for at least 20% of animal protein in rural diets in at least 62 countries worldwide. Wild meat can be a particularly important source of protein, fat and micronutrients when other foods become unavailable, such as during economic hardship, civil unrest or drought.
The sale of wild meat in urban centres could also be a source of income diversification for hunting communities, notably in areas where protein from domestic livestock is scarce or expensive.
Similarly, trade in other wildlife products, such as hides as a by-product of harvesting animals for meat, can also provide a source of cash income for forest communities.
It is estimated that insects form part of the traditional diets of at least two billion people. More than 1 900 species have been used as food, with beetles (Coleoptera) representing 31% of the species consumed, caterpillars (Lepidoptera) representing 18% of the species consumed, and bees, wasps, and ants (Hymenoptera) representing 14% of the species consumed.
Rearing insects for food and feed is being explored as a way to alleviate pressure on wild populations and bolster food security on a larger scale. Countries such as Kenya and Uganda have successfully established cricket and grasshopper farming models.
A healthier planet
Forest and agricultural production systems often overlap (sometimes completely, as in agroforestry). Around 40% of global agricultural land has more than 10% tree cover.
Forests have far higher levels of plant and animal biodiversity than agricultural fields.
This helps improve the productivity and resilience of agricultural production systems located near forests. Forests are also crucial to water supply: an estimated 75% of the world’s accessible fresh water comes from forested watersheds.
Forests play an essential role in mitigating climate change, thus contributing to prevention of climate-related food insecurity.
Sustainably managed forest ecosystems can also help minimise the likelihood of agricultural losses from soil erosion, landslides and floods.
Finally, forests provide farmers with a local supply of agricultural inputs, such as fodder, fibre and organic matter, reducing the cost, financially and environmentally, of producing and transporting such inputs from more distant locations.
The views expressed in our weekly opinion piece do not necessarily reflect those of Farmer’s Weekly.
This report is an extract of ‘The State of the World’s Forests 2020. Forests, biodiversity and people’, published by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. | <urn:uuid:5f5e0e29-7722-44dc-8b69-f634bd33182c> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.farmersweekly.co.za/opinion/by-invitation/the-role-of-forests-in-global-food-security/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.951528 | 1,757 | 4 | 4 |
WASHINGTON - You’ve probably been hearing a lot about government shutdowns lately--but what exactly is a shutdown?
A shutdown happens when Congress is unable to agree upon 12 appropriations bills that keep different government agencies funded. Until that happens, Congress can avoid a shutdown by passing what’s known as a “continuing resolution.” A continuing resolution is a measure in which both sides agree to allow to keep government running for a set period of time with no budgets changes made so negotiations can continue. If Democrats and Republicans cannot agree to a continuing resolution, however, then a shutdown must occur.
When a shutdown happens all “non-essential” employees are sent home. That means many institutions such as national parks, monuments, and museums are closed. Unfortunately, employees of those agencies will have to go without a paycheck, although they typically receive back pay once the shutdown is over.
Essential services like the post office, the TSA, and the military stay up and running no matter what.
The majority of shutdowns are short, with most occurring over the weekend. Longer shutdowns, however, can have major economic consequences. The last major shutdown in 2013 was estimated to cost $24 billion in lost economic activity. | <urn:uuid:1171365a-8422-4fa1-ac7f-13a27315383f> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.fox26houston.com/news/heres-what-really-happens-during-a-government-shutdown | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.969217 | 253 | 3.828125 | 4 |
Did your child learn the skills they need to be ready for eighth grade? Here are some of the most important academic skills that kids acquire in seventh grade. If your child hasn’t mastered some of them, don’t worry. The important thing is that your child makes progress toward mastery. Choose a few areas to focus on this summer, but keep things low-key both for you and for your child. It’s more important that at-home learning be an experience that encourages your child to enjoy tackling challenges.
By the end of 7th grade, kids should be able to:
- Evaluate a piece of nonfiction writing and determine whether there is sufficient evidence and logic to support the main idea.
- Identify themes and central ideas in a work of fiction.
- Understand and use academic vocabulary words (see word lists for 6th grade, 7th grade, and 8th grade).
- Proficiently read and understand grade-level novels, short stories, poetry, drama, and nonfiction.
- Understand that writing involves several steps: planning, revising, giving and receiving feedback respectfully, editing, rewriting and, sometimes, trying a new approach.
- Be able to identify evidence and make inferences from the evidence presented. (Read more about finding evidence and drawing inferences.)
- Understand the difference between phrases, dependent clauses, and independent clauses and use them correctly in writing.
- Write informative and explanatory papers on science and social studies topics that include academic vocabulary words, concrete details gleaned from research, and reference to cause-and-effect relationships.
- Express their researched, fact-based opinions in argument papers, in which they also acknowledge — and use facts to argue against — opposing viewpoints.
- Give oral presentations of their research and writing in which they present their main ideas to their classmates aloud, using formal language, clear pronunciation, and at a volume loud enough for everyone in the class to hear.
- Solve multi-step math problems that involve negative numbers, fractions, decimals, percents, and rate.
- Use the four operations (+, -, x, ÷) on decimals, fractions, and percentages in a variety of different types of problems.
- Solve algebraic equations and inequalities with at least one variable (unknown number) as a prelude to algebra.
- Fluidly convert decimals to fractions (and vice versa) and place both on a number line.
- Know the formulas for the area and circumference of a circle.
- Understand the basics of probability, including the idea of random sampling and how to use that data to produce a “representative sample.” | <urn:uuid:e350c9e9-9f17-474c-ab78-a9239f616612> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.greatschools.org/gk/articles/what-your-7th-grader-should-have-learned/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.931121 | 555 | 4.03125 | 4 |
The weight of water limits how much can be brought on a long bike ride. There isn’t always an option to stop and fill up from a clean stream or drinking fountain, but water could be obtained from a different source: the air. Austrian industrial design student Kristof Retezár has created Fontus: a prototype of a water bottle system that condenses humid air into clean, drinkable water. His design made him a finalist for the 2014 James Dyson Award.
The Fontus attaches to the bicycle frame and consists of a condenser unit and a bottle for collection. There is a solar panel on top of the unit that powers the condenser. As the motion of the bike causes air to blow into a channel, the moist air is cooled, causing it to condense. The droplets roll back down the condensing unit, collecting in a water bottle mounted underneath.
A filter is fixed onto the opening where the air comes through, preventing bugs or dirt from damaging the components or getting into the water. However, the filter isn’t effective at removing pollutants in the air, which could contaminate the water. Until another filter is added to correct this problem, it shouldn’t be used in an urban setting.
Currently, the design is capable of producing a drop of water per minute, in air that is approximately 50% humidity with temperatures at least 20˚C (68˚F). Sadly, this means that it will take a considerable amount of time to produce enough water to drink. Retezár's home city of Vienna is not known for its humidity, so he was forced to conduct his experiments in his bathroom using steam from the shower. He predicts that areas with higher levels of humidity could produce as much as half a liter per hour.
The technology behind the design does not only apply to keeping thirst quenched; it could potentially save lives. Over 780 million people on the planet do not have reliable access to clean water, and the problem is predicted to worsen with the changing climate. Condensing humidity into drinking water could be a way to help curb that increasing demand.
Of course, this is not the first time a device has tried to draw the moisture out of humid air for drinking purposes. Warka Water towers in the Namib desert mimic beetles that drink the fog from the air. Eole Water uses wind turbines in the United Arab Emirates to cool air, condensing it into drinking water. Researchers in Peru have designed a billboard to condense humid air, dispensing the water at the bottom.
While it isn’t particularly hard to condense humid air into drinking water, developing a system that is practical and cost-efficient on a large scale is the limiting factor. The price of each Fontus device would likely run between $25-40 each, though that number will hopefully go down as the device is developed further. Mass production will also help drive down costs, and Retezár is currently investigating crowdfunding options that would make a larger production order more feasible. | <urn:uuid:8830c041-e36e-44e0-ad72-28e290d18b08> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.iflscience.com/bicycle-bottle-system-condenses-humidity-air-drinkable-water-26360 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.955517 | 620 | 3.5 | 4 |
Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are boards on which the electronic components are mounted and the connections between them are made electrically.
PCBs are commonly made of fiberglass FR4 material, but they also come in other variants like composite epoxy and ceramics. Depending on the rigidity of the base materials there are flexible PCBs, rigid PCBs, and rigid-flex PCBs. For more complex circuits which need a lot of connections between the component's wires, they will have to be routed in multiple layers of copper planes. This is achieved in multi-layer PCBs which come in 4/6/8...and all the way up to 60 layers.
A good PCB should have the following characteristics:
- Good Finishing
- No scratches on the board
- Copper should not be seen
Process OF PCB manufacturing:
The copper laminate sheet will be cut into the required shape as requested by the customer design.
CNC(Computer Numerical Control) Drilling:
Cut Boards will be drilled in CNC machinesmachine as per the design data for via’s and through hole connections. In case of multilayer pcbs this process is done at a later stage.
PTH(Plating Through Holes):
Drilled holes will go through an electroless chemical treatment process which builds the copper between the top and the bottom layer thus establishing an electrical connection between the two layers of pcb.
Photo Printing (Dry Film):
The design which is photo plotted on a film will be placed on the copper laminate board along with a photo-sensitive material to get imprinted onto the copper board after being exposed to light for a certain amount of time.
Only the design being exposed to light will have copper on it whereas the rest of the board where the design is not present will have the dry film.
Photo Printing Inspection:
Design will be inspected for accuracy of printing and any smudges will be inspected on the board.
Boards will be dipped in a bath with tin electrodes for an electroplating process which deposits the tin on copper exposedexpose areas. Now the boards are being prepared for the etching process.
Tin Plating Inspection:
Boards will be inspected after plating for any areas which havehas not got sufficient tin plating.
Boards will be treated in a chemical process that will remove the copper which is exposed along with dry films. The area which is coated with Tin will be preserved.
Copper etched boards will be checked for over-etching, track cuts etc.
PISM(Photoimageable Solder Masking):
Copper boards will be aligned under the screen and solder mask will be applied on the boards with colour requested by the customer (i.e white, green, red, blue, black), it will then be exposed to a UV light source for curing the paint.
Boards are then kept in an industrial oven for a specific time for the ink to cure completely which provides good adhesion to the circuit boards.
HAL (Hot Air Levelling):
Boards after masking will have the circuits printed on it and the component pads are exposed since copper will oxidise very quickly with air, it has been covered with a metal that stops oxidization and also provides good solderability. HAL processes typically use a combination of lead and tin in the 37:63 ratio to be coated on the copper.
Lead Free HAL:
Since the HAL process includes lead which is a heavy metal and most of the modern electronics is manufactured to exclude lead, tin along with silver combination is used in the lead-free HAL process.
Alternately ENIG/ ENIPG or other electroless gold process is also used as a surface finish process to stop oxidation of copper.
FPT(Flying Probe Tester):
Electrical functionality of the PCB will be tested in this machine i.e to make sure that the board does not have any defects and is performing the functions stated by the customer design as per the netlist provided.
Boards will be cut as per the shape provided by the customer design using a CNC machine that can achieve complex shapes.
Boards with just straight-line cuts will be processed in a V-grove machine, typically used in mass production panel format designs.
The boards will be vacuum-packed and are securely covered with bubble wrap and are put inside a box, ready to dispatch to customers.
The above PCB manufacturing process is only a high-level overview and various processesprocess involved in PCB making. This is not an accurate step-by-step process. For a multi-layer pcb there will be additional chemical process steps and vacuum press steps involved to fuse the different layers together.
Different Types of PCB Materials
PCB base materials come in various types other than FR4. Special materials for high-frequency applications are used which are PTFE composites or woven glass hydrocarbons from Rogers, Isola, Nelco are few examples. These materials are optimised for low loss tangents at high frequency and hence suitable for high-frequency systems in radars and other communication devices.
In summary, PCBs are the building blocks in any electronic device. It is found in our day-to-day devices like smartphones, refrigerators, air-conditioners, microwave units, water heaters, and cars without which we can't imagine living. It plays an important role in all our lives and also in the electronics and communications industry on a large basis. | <urn:uuid:a96a6d07-1c61-4070-9fcf-36cce15e2e17> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.lioncircuits.com/blog/posts/what-is-pcb | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.943679 | 1,134 | 3.765625 | 4 |
Although the Cherokee had supported the British during the American Revolution, elder tribal leaders elected to join a confederacy of other Southeastern Tribes that provided support for the United States’ suppression of the Red Sticks.
The fear of encroaching violence coupled with a desire to separate themselves from the actions of the Red Sticks led Cherokee leaders to accept the request for military assistance against the Upper Creek issued by the United States.
The Red Sticks, who derived their name from their red ceremonial war clubs, were a nativist or conservative faction of Creeks, predominantly from the Upper Towns, that rejected the relationship (with its subsequent selective cultural exchange) that the Lower Towns were fostering with the nascent United States. In August of 1813, following a series of skirmishes with the Mississippi Territorial militia, the Red Sticks overwhelmed Fort Mims (located in present-day Southwest Alabama) using weaponry provided to them by the British and Spanish. Upon defeating the militia garrisoned on the fortified plantation, the Red Sticks killed nearly every Lower Creek and white settler who had sought refuge there. The dramatic victory by the Red Sticks at Fort Mims sent reverberation across the United States that, ultimately, thrust the nation into the Creek Civil War.
The Cherokee, whose traditional lands bordered the Creek’s, were acutely aware that the conflict between the two Creek factions could spill into their own towns. The fear of encroaching violence coupled with a desire to separate themselves, in the eyes of the United States and its citizenry, from the actions of the Red Sticks led Cherokee leaders to accept the request for military assistance against the Upper Creeks issued by the United States.
In October of 1813, Cherokee men arrived for service under General Andrew Jackson (later referred to as “Sharp Knife” by American Indians). As the commander of the United States forces, Jackson initially used the Cherokee primarily as interpreters, guides, or scouts but faced with the onset of winter and the serial desertion of his white troops began to rely more heavily on his native allies for security.
The coalition of Indian and United States troops continued their advance through Red Stick Territory and in March of 1814 engaged in the most significant conflict of the Creek War: the Battle of Horseshoe Bend. The battle took place at the the Red Stick stronghold known as Tohopeka (located in present day Eastern Alabama). The site was a heavily fortified peninsula on the Tallapoosa River where the Red Sticks had cleverly created an elaborate barricade that prevented a frontal assault. The rear was protected by a river that was seasonally high and turbulent.
Led by Tuq-qua (“The Whale”) a group of three Cherokees swam across the Tallapoosa River, pilfered some of the Red Sticks beached canoes, and began ferrying their comrades across in order to strike at the rear of the Red Stick forces. The unexpected assault by the Cherokee caused some on the front line of the Red Sticks, entrenched behind their fortifications, to leave their position to engage the nearly 200 Cherokee warriors that had crossed the river. The opening allowed for the, eventual, successful frontal assault on Tohopeka. The Battle of Horseshoe bend proved to be the decisive struggle in the Creek War as the strength of Red Stick force was broken at Tohopeka.
Last updated: August 14, 2017 | <urn:uuid:43382fa6-8a1b-4377-8d73-d153e3e9ea72> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.nps.gov/articles/behind-the-sharp-knife.htm | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.970384 | 701 | 4.0625 | 4 |
An invasive plant species that harbours toxic sap and can cause permanent blindness has been found in Oxfordshire. Due to the severity of the symptoms it can cause, giant hogweed has been dubbed Britain's "most dangerous" plant.
Relatives of giant hogweed include parsley, carrot, parsnip, cumin and coriander, but unlike its relatives in the Apiaceae family, the sap of giant hogweed contains organic toxic chemical compounds which can cause serious irritation to skin.
Coming into contact with giant hogweed can cause side effects ranging from blisters and rashes to long-lasting purple blotches and disfiguration, YorkshireLive reports. Those unlucky enough to get the toxic sap in their eyes can even suffer permanent blindness.
A smattering of giant hogweed plants have been identified across Oxfordshire. According to WhatShed, the species can be found in Greater Leys, Clifton Hampden, Benson, East Hanney, Frilford and Buscot Park.
What is giant hogweed?
Originally introduced to the UK in the 19th century from the Eurasia region, giant hogweed is similar in appearance to cow parsley, but supersized. Experts at WhatShed say it can grow up to 20 feet tall, while each giant hogweed plant can spread out to cover a range of around two metres too, making it highly invasive.
With thick green leaves that can grow to five feet in width, giant hogweeds really live up to their name. An interactive map has been created to monitor giant hogweed in the UK.
What should you do if you come across giant hogweed?
The first rule for anyone who finds giant hogweed is to keep their distance as only the slightest touch can cause painful burns and blisters. However, if someone has come into contact with it, they should wash the affected area as quickly as possible and seek medical advice. Experts also advise trying to get indoors and away from direct sunlight as quickly as possible to reduce the risk of burning.
Although there is no statutory obligation for landowners to eliminate giant hogweed, local authorities will often take action to remove infestations in public areas. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) lists it on Schedule 9, Section 14 meaning it is an offence to cause giant hogweed to grow in the wild in England and Wales (similar legislation applies in Scotland and Northern Ireland).
Also it can be the subject of Anti-Social Behaviour Orders where occupiers of giant hogweed infested ground can be required to remove the weed or face penalties. Local Authorities have powers under certain circumstances to require giant hogweed to be removed.
- Ulrika Jonsson's secret health battle
- Oxfordshire hit by shortage of midwives
- Wallingford care worker takes on notorious SAS challenge
Want the latest health news straight to your inbox for free? Sign up to our daily newsletter here. | <urn:uuid:19932407-569e-4f08-964d-4430e99dd547> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.oxfordshirelive.co.uk/news/britains-most-dangerous-plant-can-7223830 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.942531 | 597 | 3.546875 | 4 |
There are already many reasons to celebrate this first half term in the languages department and not just the European Day of Languages and the Day of German Unity. We have had lots of fun working on our Quizlet flashcard sets. This year we have launched our use of Quizlet to practise and help our students with their vocabulary learning. Quizlet is a fantastic tool to make flashcards and practise vocabulary in a fun way. Just 10 minutes a day can make a huge difference to learning and Quizlet makes learning fun. Each week, our classes have vocabulary uploaded and it allows our girls to compete in a tournament to be the quickest at match up but also the most accurate in the quiz. We have also launched our active learn website which gives our students access to reading, listening and vocabulary tasks linked to our schemes of work. If you don’t have log-ins for Quizlet and Active Learn, please email email@example.com
Year 7 have enjoyed learning how to greet each other, give their name, age and say where they live. They have also learnt the German alphabet and even taught someone at their home the German alphabet. Lots of family members have enjoyed the teaching you have done, girls! Well done! Some Year 8 girls have started their learning journey in French and are really enjoying learning about greeting people, numbers and talking about family members and have made amazing progress in such a short space of time. Keep up the good work!
Curriculum Leader for MFL | <urn:uuid:aa8169d0-212b-411c-90e2-234559832d1b> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk/quizlet-2/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.973772 | 316 | 3.578125 | 4 |
Credit: Kansas State Univ.
It’s a cloak that surpasses all others: a microscopic carbon cloak made of
graphene that could change the way bacteria and other cells are imaged.
assistant professor of chemical engineering at Kansas State Univ., and his
research team are wrapping bacteria with graphene to address current challenges
with imaging bacteria under electron microscopes. Berry’s method creates a carbon cloak that
protects the bacteria, allowing them to be imaged at their natural size and
increasing the image’s resolution.
Graphene is a form of carbon that is only one atom thick, giving it several
important properties: it’s impermeable, it’s the strongest nanomaterial, it’s
optically transparent, and it has high thermal conductance.
“Graphene is the next-generation material,” Berry said. “Although only an atom
thick, graphene does not allow even the smallest of molecules to pass through.
Furthermore, it’s strong and highly flexible so it can conform to any
Berry’s team has been researching graphene
for three years, and Berry
recently saw a connection between graphene and cell imaging research. Because
graphene is impermeable, he decided to use the material to preserve the size of
bacterial cells imaged under high-vacuum electron microscopes.
The research results appear in the paper “Impermeable Graphenic Encasement
of Bacteria,” appears in Nano
The current challenge with cell imaging occurs when scientists use electron
microscopes to image bacterial cells. Because these microscopes require a high
vacuum, they remove water from the cells. Biological cells contain 70% to 80%
water, and the result is a shrunken cell. As a result, it is challenging to
obtain an accurate image of the cells and their components in their natural
and his team created a solution to the imaging challenge by applying graphene.
The graphene acts as an impermeable cloak around the bacteria so that the cells
retain water and don’t shrink under the high vacuum of electron microscopes.
This provides a microscopic image of the cell at its natural size.
The carbon cloaks can be wrapped around the bacteria using two methods. The
first method involves putting a sheet of graphene on top of the bacteria, much
like covering up with a bed sheet. The other method involves wrapping the
bacteria with a graphene solution, where the graphene sheets swaddle the
bacteria. In both cases the graphene sheets were functionalized with a protein
to enhance binding with the bacterial cell wall.
Under the high vacuum of an electron microscope, the wrapped bacteria did not
change in size for 30 minutes, giving scientists enough time to observe them.
This is a direct result of the high strength and impermeability of the graphene
Graphene’s other extraordinary properties enhance the imaging resolution in
microscopy. Its electron-transparency enables a clean imaging of the cells.
Since graphene is a good conductor of heat and electricity, the local
electronic-charging and heating is conducted off the graphene cloak, giving a
clear view of the bacterial cell well. Unwrapped bacterial cells appear dark with
an indistinguishable cell wall.
“Uniquely, graphene has all the properties needed to image bacteria at
high resolutions,” Berry
said. “The project provides a very simple route to image samples in their
native wet state.”
The process has potential to influence future research. Scientists have
always had trouble observing liquid samples under electron microscopes, but
using carbon cloaks could allow them to image wet samples in a vacuum.
Graphene’s strong and impermeable characteristics ensure that wrapped cells can
be easily imaged without degrading them. Berry
said it might be possible in the future to use graphene to keep bacterium alive
in a vacuum while observing its biochemistry under a microscope.
The research also paves the way for enhanced protein microscopy. Proteins
act differently when they are dry and when they are in an aqueous solution. So
far most protein studies have been conducted in dry phases, but Berry’s research may
allow proteins to be observed more in aqueous environments. | <urn:uuid:5ed9f9db-adec-4ecc-b6ab-261738fac38f> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.rdworldonline.com/all-wrapped-up-graphene-cloak-protects-bacteria/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.913156 | 911 | 3.984375 | 4 |
This set of Software Defined Radio Multiple Choice Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Interface Technologies”.
1. Architecture is a design, development, and delivery ____
a) control block
Explanation: Architecture is a framework in which a set of functions may be defined and developed through a set of components according to specified design rules. The three main units of representation are components, functions, and design rules.
2. Point set topology is a ____ with a family of ___ that have topological properties.
a) set, subsets
b) point, subpoints
c) point, subsets
d) set, subpoints
Explanation: A process may not have a vector space that maps control state to a software process. Such a process has a point set topology. The subset includes process over which the software operations are valid.
3. The family of subset is closed under ____
Explanation: The topological space includes a set X and a family of subsets. The subsets include the set X itself as well as an empty set. The family of subset is closed under union and finite intersection.
4. Given a set of four elements, the power set consists of ____ elements.
Explanation: Given a set with X number of elements, the power set consists of 2X number of elements. The given statement includes four singletons, six doubletons, four triplets, the set itself and an empty set.
5. Discrete topology includes only ____ in the topological space.
a) empty set
b) empty set and power set
c) power set
d) original set
Explanation: Discrete topology includes only power set in the topological space. On the other hand a topology containing only the empty set and the original set X is referred as power set.
6. The number of possible subsets of a power set originating from a set with X number of element is given by the expression ____
Explanation: The number of possible subsets of a power set originating from a set with X number of element is given by the expression 22x-2. This expressed is referred as double exponential. It is not possible for all candidate topologies to be closed under union and finite intersection. It is necessary to define finite interface topologies more compactly.
7. Given a set of interfaces, the empty set is a valid interface only if ____
a) all pins condition exists
b) only one pin at a time condition exists
c) no pins condition exists
d) power set condition exists
Explanation: The empty set is included in the topology when the interface works even when no input is provided. For example, a system enters into safe mode or reset mode when it is unplugged.
8. The ordered set of points in the topological space sharing some type of relationship are called ____
b) simplicial complex
d) s connected
Explanation: The ordered set of points in the topological space that is said to be adjacent by sharing some type of relationship is called simplex. Lower dimensionality simplexes induce higher dimensionality simplex. A simplex may be embedded in Euclidean space.
9. ____ describes the behaviour of a system in terms of relationship with external factors.
a) Logical view
b) Component view
c) Use case view
d) Deployment view
Explanation: The logical view defines object, classes, and interfaces. The component view is responsible for partitioning functionality. Use case view describes the behaviour of a system in terms of relationship with external factors. The deployment view defines the relationship of components with physical entities.
10. In incidental cohesion, functions share little relationship with each other.
Explanation: Cohesion is the relationship among elements within a module. In incidental cohesion, functions share little relationship with each other. It is the loosest form of coupling. Functional cohesion is the tightest form of coupling.
Sanfoundry Global Education & Learning Series – Software Defined Radio.
To practice all areas of Software Defined Radio, here is complete set of 1000+ Multiple Choice Questions and Answers. | <urn:uuid:8f3f9fa7-c545-4251-8772-ca5c776259da> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.sanfoundry.com/software-defined-radio-architecture-questions-answers-interface-technologies/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.860729 | 880 | 3.53125 | 4 |
The working of a robot is more or less similar to that of working of the human body. Human brain is similar to the Bot’s microprocessor, movement is similar to actuators and the heart is similar to the motor. Like our 5 senses even robots can be given 5 senses also known as perceptions like us, isn’t it amazing! Here are the workings in detail:
Working of a Robot in detail
For Humans, eyes are said to be the light of the whole system which is exactly similar to that of a robot because it is the source or input given to the bot to operate. A bot can be gifted with eyes when a pair of digital cameras is fitted on its head.
A self-driving car analyzes the road as similar to humans through the windshield by making use of the digital cameras where it interprets and controls the car with its artificial hands and legs where Lidar, Sonar, Radar, infrared detectors, GPS Satellite navigation are used.
Neural network is applied to the bot to identify emergency situations like detecting a group of children playing with a ball on the edge of the road and preventing accidents by steering the car at the right time and at the right direction.
Humans need ears to hear the music, sound, and even the echos where Robots make use of microphones to hear the same but the process varies as the sound is converted into electrical signals for further digital processing. There are certain frequency levels to determine the sound as a melancholic, scream, or singing.
It can differentiate two different persons by voice recognition software where the pitch, tone, and volume are the important parameters to be considered. The robot can also hear the sound and respond according to the mood of a person with machine learning techniques.
The most popular hearing bots that we use in our day to day life applies AI in it. Examples are Google Assistant and Alexa and both are equally competent to each other because of its high versatility.
Smelling is completely a chemical recognition process where molecules of vapors in volatile liquid or gas get into your receptive cells on the nose thereby stimulating the brain cells electrochemically in humans. There are various machines in the market to recognize chemicals like mass spectrometer and gas chromatographs.
Nose has been created by scientists which is also compatible with mobile phones to recognize the smell by using the pattern of digital signal.
Robots that can sense and process but lacks movement are simply computers but not robots. Humans move by the combined effort of muscles, tendons, bones, and nerves in the limbs. Movement is made possible in robots by using a pair of wheels co-ordinated and powered by motors that push them to roll over to go forward, backward, left, or right.
In factories, the movement or action of a robot is specific where it does the same routine task such as painting, welding, or laser-cutting in fibers where it is fitted with hydraulic or pneumatic arms.
Sony’s robotic AIBO dogs launched in 1999, is a robotic pet which is similar to a real dog for human companionship making use of stepper motors and servo motors for performing all the movements needed.
Cognition also means thinking. We always tend to think machines are more intelligent than us which leads to the coinage of the term “intelligent machine”. Cognitive robots achieve their goal by perfectly analyzing the environment thereby perceiving it and giving attention to the events and planning accordingly to complete the action needed and also continuously learning from the results.
Humanoid robots learn by imitating humans and evolve into cognitive robots through deep learning our lives and environment. | <urn:uuid:58dd1c8c-c941-4413-b570-7c5e60565307> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.studymite.com/robotics/working-of-a-robot | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473598.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221234056-20240222024056-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.945174 | 742 | 3.765625 | 4 |
FIND THE SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEMS BETWEEN YOUTH Why problem-solving skills are important Everybody needs to solve problems every day. But we’re not born with the skills we need to do this – we have to develop them.
When you’re solving problems, it’s good to be able to:
These are skills for life – they’re highly valued in both social and work situations.
When teenagers learn skills and strategies for problem-solving and sorting out conflicts by themselves, they feel good about themselves. They’re better placed to make good decisions on their own.
Problem-solving: 6 steps Often you can solve problems by talking and negotiating.
The following 6 steps for problem-solving are useful when you can’t find a solution. You can use them to work on most problems, including difficult choices or decisions and conflicts between people.
If you practise these steps with your child at home, your child is more likely to use them with their own problems or conflicts with others.
You might like to download and use our problem-solving worksheet (PDF: 121kb). It’s a handy tool to use as you and your child work together through the 6 steps below.
1. Identify the problem The first step in problem-solving is working out exactly what the problem is. This can help everyone understand the problem in the same way. It’s best to get everyone who’s affected by the problem together and then put the problem into words that make it solvable.
‘You’ve been invited to two birthday parties on the same day and you want to go to both.’
‘You have two big assignments due next Wednesday.’
‘We have different ideas about how you’ll get home from the party on Saturday.’
‘You and your sister have been arguing about using the Xbox.’
When you’re working on a problem with your child, it’s good to do it when everyone is calm and can think clearly. This way, your child will be more likely to want to find a solution. Arrange a time when you won’t be interrupted, and thank your child for joining in to solve the problem. | <urn:uuid:d83d6daf-cae1-42aa-9285-2a3c4cb4481b> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | http://azkurs.org/find-the-solution-to-the-problems-between-youth-v2.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.953417 | 483 | 3.53125 | 4 |
The Diversity of Bird Species in Grassland Habitats
Birding in Grassland Habitats
Grassland habitats are home to a diverse array of bird species, making them a popular destination for birdwatchers. These open landscapes, characterized by vast stretches of grasses and few trees, provide a unique environment that supports a wide variety of avian life. From the majestic raptors soaring above to the tiny songbirds hidden among the grasses, grassland habitats offer a rich and rewarding birding experience.
One of the most remarkable aspects of grassland habitats is the sheer number of bird species that can be found there. These habitats are known for their high biodiversity, with a wide range of birds adapted to the unique conditions of this environment. From the iconic prairie chickens performing their elaborate courtship displays to the colorful meadowlarks singing their melodious songs, grasslands are teeming with avian life.
One reason for the abundance of bird species in grassland habitats is the availability of food. Grasslands provide a rich source of seeds, insects, and small mammals, which attract a diverse range of birds with different feeding preferences. For example, the Western Meadowlark, with its long bill, feeds primarily on insects and seeds found in the grasses. On the other hand, the Northern Harrier, a raptor commonly found in grasslands, preys on small mammals such as mice and voles.
Another factor contributing to the diversity of bird species in grassland habitats is the availability of nesting sites. While some birds build their nests directly on the ground, others prefer to nest in the taller grasses or shrubs that can be found in these habitats. This variation in nesting preferences allows for a greater variety of bird species to coexist in the same area. For instance, the Grasshopper Sparrow constructs its nest on the ground, while the Savannah Sparrow builds its nest in the taller grasses.
Grassland habitats also provide important stopover sites for migratory birds. Many bird species rely on grasslands as a resting and refueling spot during their long journeys between breeding and wintering grounds. These habitats offer an abundance of food and shelter, making them crucial for the survival of migratory birds. For birdwatchers, this means that grasslands can be a hotspot for observing a wide range of bird species during migration seasons.
However, despite their importance for bird conservation, grassland habitats are facing numerous threats. The conversion of grasslands into agricultural fields, urban development, and the spread of invasive species are all contributing to the loss and fragmentation of these habitats. As a result, many grassland bird species are experiencing population declines and are at risk of extinction.
To protect and conserve grassland habitats and the bird species that depend on them, it is crucial to raise awareness about their importance. Birdwatchers can play a vital role in this effort by sharing their observations and experiences with others. By promoting the beauty and diversity of bird species in grasslands, we can inspire others to appreciate and protect these unique habitats.
In conclusion, grassland habitats are a treasure trove for birdwatchers, offering a remarkable diversity of bird species. From the unique feeding preferences to the varied nesting habits, grasslands provide a rich and rewarding birding experience. However, these habitats are under threat, and it is essential to raise awareness about their importance for bird conservation. By appreciating and protecting grassland habitats, we can ensure the survival of the diverse avian life that calls these landscapes home.
Tips and Techniques for Birding in Grassland Habitats
Birding in Grassland Habitats
Birding is a popular hobby for nature enthusiasts and bird lovers alike. It offers a unique opportunity to observe and appreciate the diverse avian species that inhabit our planet. While many birders are drawn to forests and wetlands, grassland habitats also provide an exciting and rewarding birding experience. In this article, we will explore some tips and techniques for birding in grassland habitats.
Grasslands are vast expanses of open land covered with grasses and other herbaceous plants. They can be found in various regions around the world, from the prairies of North America to the savannas of Africa. These habitats support a wide range of bird species, including grassland specialists and migratory birds that use grasslands as stopover sites during their long journeys.
When birding in grassland habitats, it is essential to be patient and observant. Unlike forests or wetlands, where birds may be more easily spotted due to their proximity to trees or water bodies, grassland birds can be more challenging to locate. They often blend in with their surroundings, relying on their cryptic plumage to avoid predators. Therefore, it is crucial to scan the area carefully and use binoculars to spot any movement or distinctive features.
One effective technique for birding in grasslands is to focus on areas with taller vegetation or patches of shrubs. These areas provide cover and food sources for many bird species. Look for birds perched on top of grass stalks or singing from exposed perches. Grassland birds are known for their melodious songs, so listening for their calls can also help in locating them.
Another tip for birding in grassland habitats is to pay attention to the time of day. Many grassland birds are most active during the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. These periods are often referred to as the “golden hours” for birding. During these times, birds are more likely to engage in courtship displays, territorial singing, or foraging activities, making them easier to spot and observe.
To enhance your birding experience in grasslands, it is beneficial to familiarize yourself with the specific bird species that inhabit these habitats. Grassland specialists, such as the Western Meadowlark or the Grasshopper Sparrow, have unique characteristics and behaviors that can help in their identification. Field guides and online resources can provide valuable information on the appearance, vocalizations, and habitat preferences of grassland birds.
When birding in grassland habitats, it is also important to respect the environment and minimize disturbance to the birds and their habitats. Avoid trampling on vegetation or disturbing nesting sites. Keep a safe distance from the birds to prevent unnecessary stress or disruption to their natural behaviors. Remember, the primary goal of birding is to observe and appreciate birds without causing harm.
In conclusion, birding in grassland habitats offers a fascinating and rewarding experience for bird enthusiasts. By employing patience, observation skills, and knowledge of specific bird species, birders can enjoy the beauty and diversity of grassland birds. Remember to be respectful of the environment and the birds themselves, ensuring a sustainable and enjoyable birding experience. So grab your binoculars, head out to the grasslands, and embark on a birding adventure like no other!
Conservation Efforts to Protect Bird Populations in Grassland Habitats
Conservation Efforts to Protect Bird Populations in Grassland Habitats
Grassland habitats are home to a diverse array of bird species, making them an important focus for conservation efforts. These open landscapes provide essential nesting, foraging, and breeding grounds for many bird populations. However, due to various human activities and habitat loss, these habitats are under threat, leading to a decline in bird populations. To address this issue, numerous conservation efforts have been implemented to protect and restore grassland habitats and ensure the survival of these bird species.
One of the primary threats to grassland habitats is the conversion of land for agriculture and urban development. As human populations continue to grow, the demand for food and housing increases, resulting in the destruction of grasslands. To counteract this, conservation organizations are working to raise awareness about the importance of grassland habitats and the need to protect them. By educating the public and policymakers, these organizations hope to promote sustainable land-use practices that minimize the impact on grassland ecosystems.
Another significant threat to bird populations in grassland habitats is the use of pesticides and herbicides. These chemicals are often used in agricultural practices to control pests and weeds, but they can have detrimental effects on bird species. Pesticides can contaminate the food chain, leading to the decline of insect populations that birds rely on for food. Herbicides, on the other hand, can destroy the vegetation that provides nesting sites and cover for birds. To mitigate these risks, conservationists are advocating for the use of alternative pest control methods that are less harmful to bird populations.
In addition to habitat loss and chemical threats, grassland birds also face challenges from invasive species. Non-native plants and animals can outcompete native species for resources, disrupt food chains, and alter the structure of grassland habitats. To combat this issue, conservation efforts focus on removing invasive species and restoring native vegetation. By restoring the natural balance of grassland ecosystems, these efforts create a more suitable environment for bird populations to thrive.
Climate change is another factor that poses a significant threat to grassland habitats and bird populations. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events can alter the composition and distribution of grasslands. This, in turn, affects the availability of food and nesting sites for birds. To address this challenge, conservation organizations are working to promote climate-resilient grassland management practices. These practices include restoring wetlands, implementing controlled burns, and creating buffer zones to protect grassland habitats from the impacts of climate change.
Furthermore, collaboration between different stakeholders is crucial for the success of conservation efforts in grassland habitats. Governments, landowners, farmers, and conservation organizations need to work together to develop and implement effective conservation strategies. This collaboration can involve the establishment of protected areas, the implementation of sustainable land-use practices, and the provision of financial incentives for landowners to conserve grassland habitats. By pooling resources and expertise, these stakeholders can make a significant impact on the preservation of bird populations in grassland habitats.
In conclusion, grassland habitats are vital for the survival of many bird species, but they are facing numerous threats. Conservation efforts to protect bird populations in these habitats focus on raising awareness, promoting sustainable land-use practices, mitigating the use of pesticides and herbicides, removing invasive species, addressing the impacts of climate change, and fostering collaboration between stakeholders. By implementing these strategies, we can ensure the long-term survival of bird populations in grassland habitats and preserve the biodiversity of these unique ecosystems. | <urn:uuid:f2bd011f-5119-464b-9427-4e471df98c40> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://antoniosjournal.com/birding-in-grassland-habitats/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.912553 | 2,117 | 3.609375 | 4 |
Unveiling the Wonders of Analog Computers
Welcome to our DEFINITIONS category, where we dive deep into various terms and concepts to help you broaden your knowledge. Today, we are unraveling the mysteries of analog computers. Have you ever wondered what they are and how they work? Well, sit back and prepare to be amazed!
- Analog computers are devices that process continuous data and use physical quantities to perform calculations.
- They excel at solving complex mathematical problems quickly and accurately.
Analog computers have been around for quite some time, and they are fascinating machines that paved the way for modern computing. Unlike their digital counterparts that process discrete data using binary code, analog computers process continuous data represented by physical quantities such as voltage, current, or mechanical movement.
So, what exactly sets analog computers apart from digital computers? Let’s explore it further:
1. Continuous Data Processing:
While digital computers work with discrete values (0s and 1s), analog computers operate on a continuous spectrum. They are designed specifically to solve mathematical problems where variables change along a continuous range, making them ideal for physics simulations, mathematical modeling, and complex calculations. Analog computers excel at providing real-time solutions and precise predictions.
2. Physical Quantities as Computation Elements:
Analog computers use electrical circuits, mechanical devices, or even hydraulic systems as computation elements. These physical quantities are used to represent and manipulate variables in mathematical equations. For example, voltage can represent a value, and by varying this voltage, analog computers can perform calculations. The use of physical components gives analog computers a unique advantage in certain types of mathematical calculations over digital computers.
As with any technology, there are pros and cons to consider when using analog computers:
Advantages of Analog Computers:
- Speed: Analog computers can rapidly perform calculations, making them highly efficient for solving complex mathematical problems.
- Accuracy: Due to their ability to process continuous data, analog computers can provide extremely accurate results.
Disadvantages of Analog Computers:
- Limited Precision: Analog computers are not as precise as digital computers, as they are prone to noise and errors in measurements and calculations.
- Limited Flexibility: Analog computers are specialized machines, and their capabilities are limited to specific types of calculations.
While the advent of digital computers eventually surpassed analog computers in popularity and versatility, analog computers still find applications in specific fields where continuous data processing is crucial. Some of these include control systems, electrical circuit analysis, and signal processing.
Now that you have a better understanding of what analog computers are and how they work, you can appreciate their contributions to the history of computing. These remarkable machines have paved the way for the complex digital systems we use today.
We hope this article has shed light on the wonders of analog computers and inspired your curiosity about the diverse and ever-evolving world of technology! | <urn:uuid:c2561bfb-7860-4abd-a4c4-445c1b4c9db3> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://cellularnews.com/definitions/what-is-an-analog-computer/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.91589 | 586 | 4.21875 | 4 |
A statistical term used to describe the relationship – specifically, the correlation – between the current value of a variable and a lagged value of the same variable from earlier time periods
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Serial correlation is a statistical term used to describe the relationship – specifically, the correlation – between the current value of a variable and a lagged value of the same variable from earlier time periods.
Serial correlation, also referred to as autocorrelation, is often used by financial analysts to predict future price moves of a security, such as a stock, based on previous price moves.
Correlation measures the strength of the relationship between variables, and serial correlation determines the relationship, if any, between the same variable measured over different periods of time.
If the current value of a security is found to be serially correlated with its previous values, then the correlation can be used to forecast possible future values.
Serial correlation measures the relationship between the current value of a variable and the values of the same variable from previous time periods.
The study of serial correlations is commonly used by financial analysts in creating financial models to help predict probable future prices of a stock or other financial security.
Positive serial correlations indicate that values are likely to change in future time periods in the same way, or direction, that they have in recent past time periods; Negative serial correlations indicate that values are likely to move in the opposite direction in future time periods compared to how the values have moved in recent past periods.
Measuring Serial Correlations
Serial correlations, when they exist, can be either positive or negative.
Positive serial correlations indicate that value changes between the current price of a security and future prices are likely to be similar to the value changes between recent past prices and the current price.
A negative serial correlation indicates that value changes between the current price and future prices are likely to move in the opposite direction as the value changes between past prices and the current price.
When the variable of a security’s current price and its price in a prior time period exhibit positive serial correlation, they display what is known as mean aversion.
Aversion from the mean indicates that price changes in the security are prone to following trends and that, over periods of time, they will show higher standard deviations than would be the case with no correlation.
There is a wide variety of complex statistical formulas that can be used to measure serial correlation; however, most formulas calculate serial correlation with values ranging from -1 to +1.
A serial correlation value of zero indicates that no correlation exists. In other words, there is no observable relationship or pattern that exists between the current value of a variable and its value during previous time periods. Values nearer to +1 indicate a positive serial correlation, while values between zero and -1 indicate a negative serial correlation.
Use of Serial Correlation in Financial Modeling
Detecting and implementing the use of serial correlations in building financial models has become increasingly popular since the initial widespread use of computer technology in the 1980s.
Investment banks and other financial institutions now regularly incorporate the study of serial correlations to help improve forecast models for investment returns by detecting patterns that may occur in price changes over time.
By improving the accuracy of financial models, the use of serial correlation measures can serve to help maximize returns on investment, reduce investment risk, or both.
The study of serial correlations did not actually originate in the financial services industry – it originated in the world of engineering. The first studies of serial correlations were studies of how signals, such as radio broadcast signals, varied over successive time periods.
After such studies proved fruitful, economists and financial analysts gradually began to consider serial correlations between the values of security prices and various economic metrics, such as interest rates or gross domestic product (GDP).
An example of how serial correlation can be used in predicting future price movements of a security can be found in momentum stocks.
Momentum stocks are stocks which, historically, have exhibited price movements that reveal sustained trends. That is, once a stock price begins moving in one direction, it tends to gain momentum and continue moving in the same direction over successive time periods.
Momentum stocks can be identified because they will exhibit positive serial correlation. The current price of the stock can be shown to have a positive correlation with the stock’s price in previous time periods.
An investor can use this knowledge to profit from buying into identified momentum stocks once they begin exhibiting a price trend.
The investor purchases the stock based on the assumption that future price changes will tend to resemble recent past price changes – in other words, the stock will continue trending for at least some time period into the future.
Thank you for reading CFI’s guide to Serial Correlation. To keep learning and developing your knowledge of financial analysis, we highly recommend the additional resources below:
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Gain unlimited access to more than 250 productivity Templates, CFI's full course catalog and accredited Certification Programs, hundreds of resources, expert reviews and support, the chance to work with real-world finance and research tools, and more. | <urn:uuid:cb94189b-1493-4b7f-b991-389a3f7691dd> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/capital-markets/serial-correlation/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.923534 | 1,149 | 3.6875 | 4 |
In 2018, the European Union set a new standard for data security: the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The GDPR lays out principles for sharing and re-using people’s personal, often sensitive, information. Companies who want to store or share this data have to comply with GDPR regulations. Innovations in language technology are now making it possible to safely process sensitive data. The solution: anonymising the information.
The process of anonymisation detects elements that can be used to identify a person (names, dates, addresses, etc.) and masks or removes them. These elements are called named entities (NEs). They must be masked or removed in such a way that the resulting text cannot be associated with the original individual or organisation. For small amounts of data, manual anonymisation might be a viable option. A person can adapt a text to such an extent that all sensitive, private information is masked or removed. However, this becomes infeasible when dealing with large volumes of text. In that case, anonymisation should be automated. As we will explain below, masking an NE consists of blackening it (e.g. using the label X) or using a more informative label such as PERSON. Replacing an NE with something else, such as a label, is also referred to as “pseudonymisation”.
Automated anonymisation involves two steps. The first step consists of detecting the NEs: to identify exactly which words or phrases should be anonymised. This is achieved using a system trained from manually annotated data. Manual annotation consists of reading through a certain amount of text, indicating which words or phrases constitute an NE, and adding information about the type (name, address, etc.). Based on these annotations, a model can be trained that “learns” not only which words or phrases constitute an NE, but also what type of NE they are.
The second step focuses on different strategies that can be applied to replace the identified NE. You can see a couple of examples below where personal data is either replaced by a label or by a similar word (for example replacing a person’s name with another name).
The choice of which replacement strategy to apply depends on the sensitivity of the data and on the purpose of the anonymised text. For example, option 3 returns a readable text, which makes life easier for a human reader. But in case the anonymised text will be fed to software for machine learning (for example a tool for producing summaries or for translating text), the use of a label may be more suitable.
Quality of anonymisation
Thanks to new technology, the quality of the output of machine learning models for anonymisation is improving. However, it is not (yet) possible to guarantee complete accuracy. It remains possible that an anonymisation tool either classifies too many words or phrases as an NE, or misses out a couple of them. In any case, the risk of identifying which people were described in the original text remains low, especially when the third replacement strategy is used. A hacker trying to steal information will not be able to identify which NEs are the result of anonymisation and which are not.
Anonymisation models can be built using general data, but even better results can be achieved when they are trained and used for specific domains. For example, based on medical data, a new model can be built that specialises in anonymising medical texts.
Purpose of anonymisation tools
The possibilities for anonymisation tools are endless. The techniques explained above can be applied in several sectors and industries. For example, anonymised data can be used to train artificial intelligence models, such as machine translation systems. Or large amounts of sensitive data can become accessible for research purposes. The translation industry can also benefit from tools for anonymisation, by processing translation memories.
In collaboration with various partners, CrossLang has conducted in-depth research in the field of anonymisation. For instance, a study was carried out in the framework of the ELRC Action (European Language Resource Coordination) of the European Commission.
The future has a lot in store for this field: as models’ results are improving, it will become increasingly safe to share and process large batches of data. Which, in the field of machine learning, is an exciting prospect! | <urn:uuid:d0e15816-9c51-4bb8-a5a8-fe4f67f9123a> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://crosslang.com/blogs/anonymisation-an-introduction/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.917778 | 881 | 3.609375 | 4 |
Today, let’s start with the cave fish Cryptotora thamicola. It’s a fish, that lives in a cave. Caves are pretty neat environments because they become isolated very quickly – like islands, but underground. So when animals get stuck in caves, they speciate and become unique. Speciation is the process through which one species becomes two. Usually this happens through part of the species becoming ‘accidentally’ isolated when the environment forms barriers (like mountains or oceans), but sometimes part of the species can migrate to a new place and isolate themselves and end up becoming a new species. There are other ways to become a new species, but they are less important for today’s story.
So, caves are special because they are really unique environments and animals that live in them have to become specialized and end up becoming their own species. That is what happened to the cave fish Cryptotora thamicola.
Cryptotora thamicola is special because it can climb waterfalls and also walk against the current in rivers. There are a few fish species that can walk out of water (like lungfish), but they do it using their tails to push them forward. Some fishes can climb waterfalls (like some Hawaiian gobies), but they do it by suctioning to the rock with their face.
Before we talk about why Cryptotora thamicola is different, we have to talk a little about anatomy. Remember this song “your leg bone’s connected to your hip bone… your hip bone’s connected to your back bone…”:
Your pelvis, and really the pelvis of every animal that lives on land (or had ancestors that lived on land) is made of three bones: ilium, ischium, and pubis. These three bones come together, or articulate, and give your femur (thigh bone) a way to rotate so that you can move your leg. Your pelvis is firmly attached to your spine so that everything is connected and muscles help support the connection and help move your legs.
Fish don’t have that because they don’t need to use their back fins for moving. The little bit of bone that holds their back fins is connected to their spines with muscle and not bone.
Our friend Cryptotora thamicola has evolved a bony hip, [convergent] to the ones we have as land dwellers. This bony hip helps support their back fins and gives them the stability and strength to move their body just like amphibians and reptiles do!
These are fish that walk like salamanders! This fish can show us how early tetrapods (animals that have 4 limbs) started being able to walk on land.
Supplementary video from the article.
Come back tomorrow for the Tale of Two Fish (Part 2). | <urn:uuid:6af74cc2-1fd9-4605-865f-998e4293899e> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://drneurosaurus.com/a-tale-of-two-fishes-part-1/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.96205 | 595 | 3.796875 | 4 |
As much as 20 percent of the global population could actually be better at exploration and curiosity, according to a new study published this week.
A team of Cambridge scientists published research in the journal Frontiers of Psychology earlier today that raises the possibility that dyslexia, which affects an estimated one in five people worldwide, could actually help the human species adapt and ensure future success.
"The deficit-centered view of dyslexia isn’t telling the whole story," lead author Helen Taylor said in a statement accompanying the paper. "This research proposes a new framework to help us better understand the cognitive strengths of people with dyslexia."
As of now, the World Federation of Neurology defines dyslexia as "a disorder in children who, despite conventional classroom experience, fail to attain the language skills of reading, writing and spelling commensurate with their intellectual abilities."
Yet Taylor's team thinks the condition might actually have an evolutionary upside, giving some individuals strengths at seeking out new information about the world instead of reinterpreting information that's already been mapped out.
This "explorative bias" associated with dyslexia, they argue, may have played a crucial role in our species' survival.
Taylor said that although there are challenges for people with dyslexia, the benefits outweigh them, if only society would view the cognitive parameters of the condition differently.
"We believe that the areas of difficulty experienced by people with dyslexia result from a cognitive trade-off between exploration of new information and exploitation of existing knowledge, with the upside being an explorative bias that could explain enhanced abilities observed in certain realms like discovery, invention and creativity," Taylor said in the statement.
Looking at the world differently can't be a bad thing, and many cultures throughout human history have looked at disability in a profoundly different way.
If the research holds up, let's hope we learn to put all that creativity to use as soon as possible.
More on health news: Vegan Snack Linked to Organ Failure
Share This Article | <urn:uuid:163a06c1-8b12-44a8-bee8-716bdd144ec2> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://futurism.com/neoscope/dyslexia-human-evolution-study | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.950545 | 414 | 3.6875 | 4 |
On World Zoonoses Day, Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Mark Schipp hashighlighted how the risk of zoonoses, diseases which can be transmitted tohumans from animals, can be reduced through practising good animal biosecurityand hygiene control procedures.
The bacterial disease leptospirosis is an example of a zoonotic disease ofworldwide importance. The disease has been reported in over 150 mammalianspecies around the world, including wildlife, rodents, cattle, pigs, horses,dogs, and people.
The Leptospira bacterium that causes leptospirosis is spread through theurine of infected animals. The urine can get into the soil or water andsurvive there for weeks to months, posing a risk to other animals and people.
“The large number of mice currently affecting areas of eastern Australia isincreasing the risk of leptospirosis, especially for people, cattle and dogs,either through direct contact with rodents, or via contact with stagnantwater, such as puddles and ponds which have been contaminated by rodenturine,” Dr Schipp said.
Although leptospirosis is relatively rare in Australia, it is more common inwarm and moist regions such as north-eastern New South Wales and Queensland,with the risk increasing in areas affected by flooding.
In affected areas, where there is exposure to infected urine of domestic andwild animals, leptospirosis can be an occupational and recreational hazard topeople.
This includes for those working in the agricultural sector, veterinariansdealing with potentially affected animals, or people swimming or wading incontaminated water.
“Avoiding contact with rodent populations and being aware of the potentialdisease risks when working or undertaking recreational activities in affectedareas is important,” Dr Schipp said.
“Veterinarians play a vital role in the control of leptospirosis by educatingfarmers and dog owners about the risks to cattle, pet dogs and to themselves.”
Dairy farmers should ensure their herd is vaccinated, provide protectiveclothing and appropriate barriers in the dairy to protect their staff, andkeep staff and visitors to the dairy to only those essential.
Vaccination of dogs against leptospirosis is an important method of diseasecontrol in this species and may reduce the zoonotic risk to humans.
“Diseases like leptospirosis highlight the importance of a One Health approachin recognising the interconnectedness of people, animals and our sharedenvironment, to addressing the complex challenges of preventing zoonoticdiseases,” Dr Schipp said.
“On World Zoonoses Day as we reflect on the risk of zoonotic diseases, we canall be part of the efforts to minimise and prevent the risks posed to humanand animal health by zoonoses through practicing good hygiene procedures wheninteracting with animals.
“Being aware of how zoonotic diseases can potentially spread from animals topeople can help prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases.”
- World Zoonoses Day is celebrated on 6 July 2021 in recognition of the achievements of renowned French chemist and microbiologist Louis Pasteur, who on 6 July 1885 administered the first rabies vaccination.
- Leptospirosis is a bacterial zoonotic disease which can be spread by the infected urine of rodents and other animals.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognised leptospirosis as an important zoonotic disease globally, that requires active surveillance.
- For further information on leptospirosis, visit:www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/leptospirosis.aspx www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0014/110084/leptospirosis-in-cattle-herds.pdf www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/factsheets/Pages/mouse-plague.aspx
Previous One single unspayed female cat and her offspring can produce morethan 400,000 cats in their lifetime.
Next Zoetis and Beyond Blue continue to support mental health and reducestigma around mental health in the veterinary industry | <urn:uuid:ac5780d0-af75-417f-b345-c5b86eaf9f65> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://gemepet.com/world-zoonoses-day-prolific-mice-numbers-highlight-risk-of-zoonotic-disease/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.915335 | 893 | 3.53125 | 4 |
Passover is celebrated by Jews every year, commemorating the anniversary of the Exodus from Egyptian slavery, as told in the Bible.
On the first night in Israel, Jews hold a Seder, and enjoy a ritual-rich 15-step feast, which centers around telling the story of the Exodus. Some highlights include: Drinking four cups of wine, dipping veggies into saltwater, children kicking off the storytelling by asking the Four Questions (Mah Nishtanah), eating matzah (a cracker-like food, which reminds Jews that when our ancestors left Egypt they had no time to allow their bread to rise) and bitter herbs, and singing late into the night.
Passover lasts for 7 days in Israel and 8 days in the Diaspora.
On Passover, Jews may not own or consume chametz, anything containing grain that has risen. This includes virtually all bread, pasta, cakes, and cookies. Prior to the holiday, homes are thoroughly cleaned for Passover, kitchens are purged, and the remaining chametz is burned or sold.
Passover is important to Jews, as it celebrates the birth of the Jewish nation.
How are Passover and Organized labour connected?
‘Let My People Bargain!’ Why Moses Was History’s First Union Representative | <urn:uuid:f77bb339-12e9-4939-9120-3153f737d133> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://global.histadrut.org.il/campaign/happy-passover/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.931002 | 268 | 3.796875 | 4 |
The Food Stamp
How did the Food Stamp Program begin?
The origins of the Food Stamp Program trace to the Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA) of 1933, which empowered the U.S. Department of Agriculture (UDSA) to make unprecedented interventions in food supply. The USDA became the nation’s largest purchaser of surplus agricultural goods, distributing the surplus to welfare providers, public schools, and other agencies who could, in turn, pass them on to hungry Americans. The surplus distribution program proved popular among producers and consumers alike, and it soon provided food to an estimated 11 million Americans. In 1939, the USDA expanded its distribution with a new direct-to-consumer program: food stamps.
What was the rationale behind the Food Stamp program?
The Food Stamp Program aimed to address the needs of two populations simultaneously: struggling families and farmers. Whereas previous programs distributed surplus goods mainly through welfare agencies, the Food Stamp Program was designed to maximize accessibility and efficiency by making those goods available through grocery stores and markets. By dispersing stamps directly to consumers, the program aimed to boost struggling families’ “purchasing power,” enabling them to visit the vendors they trusted and to purchase a wider-variety of low-cost foods which, in turn, would boost the finances of food vendors and stabilize crop prices.
How did the Food Stamp Program work?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) designed two types of discounted “stamps” that could be exchanged for food: blue stamps to be exchanged for surplus staples such as butter, eggs, grain, produce, and meat, and orange stamps to be exchanged for any foods of the same monetary value. Program participants were required to purchase orange stamps, and then received half as many blue stamps for free. The surplus goods eligible for purchase shifted depending on which sectors were in need of support. Grocers would then submit the stamps to USDA — or later participating banks — for reimbursement.
What was the impact of the Food Stamp Program?
The Food Stamp Program, piloted in Rochester, New York, soon extended to five additional counties in Ohio, Washington, Alabama, Oklahoma, and Iowa. At its peak, the Food Stamp Program was available in 1,741 counties in the U.S., encompassing nearly two-thirds of the U.S. population. While eligibility standards varied from county to county, the number of enrolled Americans reached 4 million by May 1941. The impacts were particularly profound in urban locations where, by one estimate, food stamps comprised as much as 4% of total food sales.
“The Food Stamp Program: History, description, issues, and options.” United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, 1985.
Who was excluded from the Food Stamp Program?
While the Food Stamp Program was widely popular, its true impact was limited. Eligibility was limited to those already enrolled in existing relief programs, including the elderly, family caregivers, and unemployed workers. Local governments could impose additional restrictions, including discriminating based on an applicant’s racial identity or denying someone from joining the program at all. The program required that already-struggling participants spend what little money they had to purchase orange stamps in order to receive additional blue stamps — a barrier to entry to many of those in need. At its peak, the program assisted 4 million Americans — had it been extended to all low-income families at the time, it could have reached up to 25 million.
“Analysis of Food Stamp Plans: a Supplemental Report Developed in the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Pursuant to Public Law 540, Eighty-Fourth Congress, Transmitted to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, January 3, 1957.” Washington, D.C: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture.
Why did the Food Stamp Program end?
The Food Stamp Pilot Program ended shortly after the United States entered World War II. Accelerated war production that created thousands of new jobs and the military’s mandatory draft reduced unemployment rates among those relying on food assistance in previous years. The war prompted the federal government to intervene in managing the nation’s food supply, including through rationing and an array of new nutrition and food assistance programs. The federal government ended its funding for the Food Stamp Program in 1943, and it was not revived again until the 1960’s.
The origins of the Food Stamp program can be traced to a pilot program launched by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 1939, which attempted to both help farmers struggling to sell their crops and American families struggling to afford food.
Featured Image: “Allentown Gets Food Stamp Plan. Mrs. Anna Papson makes a purchase with the stamps from John Lobus, grocer.” Allentown, Pennsylvania. Bettmann Archive/Getty Images.
The Food Stamp pilot program attempted to help both farmers struggling to sell their crops and American families struggling to afford food.
The Food Stamp
Galleries & Exhibits
- 11865-1925: Hunger in the Industrial City
- 21929-1940: America in Crisis and Recovery
- 31945-1965: WWII and the Paradoxes of the Postwar Era
- 41955-1980: The Fight for the Right to Food
- 51975-1996: The Unmaking of the Great Society
- 61997-Present: How It Is — And How It Should Be | <urn:uuid:c4b2d63b-3420-44ef-beb7-2fdfb43ee6ce> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://hungermuseum.org/exhibits/the-food-stamp-program/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.952507 | 1,130 | 3.875 | 4 |
Axel Timmermann, Director of IBS Center for Climate Physics, was involved in a new research study on the diversity of ancestral populations of Homo sapiens in Africa. This study led by a scientific consortium was founded that human ancestors were scattered across Africa, and largely kept apart by a combination of diverse habitats and shifting environmental boundaries, such as forests and deserts. Millennia of separation gave rise to a staggering diversity of human forms, whose mixing ultimately shaped our species.
While it is widely accepted that our species originated in Africa, less attention has been paid to how we evolved within the continent. Many had assumed that early human ancestors originated as a single, relatively large ancestral population, and exchanged genes and technologies like stone tools in a more or less random fashion.
In a paper published in Trends in Ecology and Evolution this week, this view is challenged, not only by the usual study of bones (anthropology), stones (archaeology) and genes (population genomics), but also by new and more detailed reconstructions of Africa’s climates and habitats over the last 300,000 years.
One species, many origins
“Stone tools and other artifacts – usually referred to as material culture – have remarkably clustered distributions in space and through time,” said Dr. Eleanor Scerri, researcher at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Human History and the University of Oxford, and lead author of the study. “While there is a continental-wide trend towards more sophisticated material culture, this ‘modernization’ clearly doesn’t originate in one region or occur at one time period.”
Human fossils tell a similar story. “When we look at the morphology of human bones over the last 300,000 years, we see a complex mix of archaic and modern features in different places and at different times,” said Prof. Chris Stringer, researcher at the London Natural History Museum and co- author on the study. “As with the material culture, we do see a continental-wide trend towards the modern human form, but different modern features appear in different places at different times, and some archaic features are present until remarkably recently.”
The genes concur. “It is difficult to reconcile the genetic patterns we see in living Africans, and in the DNA extracted from the bones of Africans who lived over the last 10,000 years, with there being one ancestral human population,” said Prof. Mark Thomas, geneticist at University College London and co-author on the study. “We see indications of reduced connectivity very deep in the past, some very old genetic lineages, and levels of overall diversity that a single population would struggle to maintain.”
An ecological, biological and cultural patchwork
To understand why human populations were so subdivided, and how these divisions changed through time, the researchers looked at the past climates and environments of Africa, which give a picture of shifting and often isolated habitable zones. Many of the most inhospitable regions in Africa today, such as the Sahara, were once wet and green, with interwoven networks of lakes and rivers, and abundant wildlife. Similarly, some tropical regions that are humid and green today were once arid. These shifting environments drove subdivisions within animal communities and numerous sub- Saharan species exhibit similar phylogenetic patterns in their distribution.
The shifting nature of these habitable zones means that human populations would have gone through many cycles of isolation – leading to local adaptation and the development of unique material culture and biological makeup – followed by genetic and cultural mixing.
“Convergent evidence from these different fields stresses the importance of considering population structure in our models of human evolution,” says co-author Dr. Lounes Chikhi of the CNRS in Toulouse and Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência in Lisbon.“This complex history of population subdivision should thus lead us to question current models of ancient population size changes, and perhaps re-interpret some of the old bottlenecks as changes in connectivity,” he added.
“The evolution of human populations in Africa was multi-regional. Our ancestry was multi-ethnic. And the evolution of our material culture was, well, multi-cultural,” said Dr. Scerri. “We need to look at all regions of Africa to understand human evolution.”
Did our species evolve in subdivided populations across Africa, and why does it matter?, E M.L. Scerri, M G. Thomas, A Manica, P Gunz, J T. Stock, C Stringer, M Grove, H S. Groucutt, A Timmermann, G. P Rightmire, F d’Errico, C A. Tryon, N A. Drake, A S. Brooks, R W. Dennell, R W. Dennell, R Durbin, B M. Henn, J L-Thorp, P deMenocal, M D. Petraglia, J C. Thompson, A Scally, L Chikhi, Trends in Ecology and Evolution, doi: 10.1016/j.tree.2018.05.005 (2018)
For further information or to request media assistance, please contact: KyoungMi Park, IBS Center for Climate Physics, Pusan National University (+82-51-510-7750, email@example.com) | <urn:uuid:92a8fb2b-0d3a-44a6-80c6-5e1e5faeddbb> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://ibsclimate.org/research-news/axel-timmermann-involved-in-a-new-research-study-on-the-diversity-of-ancestral-populations-of-homo-sapiens-in-africa/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.937359 | 1,129 | 3.984375 | 4 |
Sustaining our Streams: The Power of Water Harvesting in River Restoration
Tuesday May 30th, 2023
Written by Rosie Buckley
Rivers are critical to the health of our planet. Unfortunately, human activities such as industrialisation, urbanisation, and agriculture have significantly altered the natural flow of rivers, leading to the degradation of ecosystems, loss of biodiversity, and depletion of water resources.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of sustainable water management practices, and one promising approach to restoring degraded river ecosystems and promoting sustainable water management practices is water harvesting. This article will explore the power of water harvesting in river restoration and sustainable water management. By the end of this article, readers will have a better understanding of the potential of harvesting to sustain our streams and promote a more sustainable future.
What is river restoration?
River restoration is a critical process for improving the health of degraded river ecosystems. One essential component is restoring the natural hydrological regime of the river. This means ensuring that it will receive an appropriate amount of water at the right time, mimicking natural flow patterns. Water gathering can be a valuable tool for achieving this goal, as it allows for the capture and storage to be released into the river during dry periods. By restoring the natural hydrological regime, water harvesting can help to promote biodiversity and ecosystem services in the river ecosystem. For example, it can create suitable habitats for fish and other aquatic organisms, support the growth of riparian vegetation, and improve the quality of the river.
Water harvesting in river restoration
Water harvesting is a simple yet effective way to promote sustainable water management practices and restore a river ecosystem. It involves capturing and storing rainwater or surface runoff for later use. The good news is that there are several methods that anyone can do, regardless of whether they live in an urban or rural area.
The benefits of water harvesting
The benefits of water harvesting are numerous, including increasing soil moisture, and the prevention of local flooding. Additionally, it can help recharge groundwater, which is essential for maintaining a healthy river ecosystems.
Methods of water harvesting
One such method is to collect rainwater in barrels or cisterns. This is a simple and cost-effective way to collect and store rainwater that can be used for gardening, washing clothes, or flushing toilets.
A second method is to create a rain garden, which involves creating a shallow depression in the ground and planting native vegetation that can absorb rainwater and filter out pollutants.
Other methods that anyone can do include building swales or rain gardens along the contour of the land to slow down the flow of water and allow it to seep into the ground, or using permeable paving materials that allow rainwater to infiltrate the soil.
Ultimately, understanding the various methods and their benefits is crucial for promoting sustainable water management practices and restoring degraded river ecosystems.
Water harvesting in sustainable water management practices
Water harvesting can play a crucial role in promoting sustainable water management practices. It offers a solution to reducing the demand for freshwater resources, especially in regions experiencing water scarcity.
By capturing and storing rainwater or surface runoff, water harvesting can help improve the availability of water for agricultural practices and other uses. This, in turn, can lead to increased crop yield, improved food security, and support for rural livelihoods.
In addition, water harvesting can reduce the need for costly infrastructure investments in storage and transportation, making it a cost-effective solution for water management. Therefore, it is essential for policymakers and water managers to promote the adoption of harvesting practices as a key tool in achieving sustainable water management practices.
In conclusion, water harvesting offers a promising solution to promote sustainable water management practices and restore degraded river ecosystems in the UK. By capturing and storing rainwater or surface runoff, water harvesting can increase soil moisture, reduce soil erosion, and recharge groundwater. Additionally, restoring the natural hydrological regime can promote biodiversity and ecosystem services.
In regions with water scarcity, water harvesting can reduce the demand for freshwater resources, which can lead to improved agricultural productivity and increased food security. Therefore, it is crucial for policymakers, water managers, and other stakeholders to prioritise the adoption of these practices to ensure the long-term sustainability of UK river ecosystems and promote a more sustainable future for all. | <urn:uuid:9b70aadf-d697-4d9c-9d14-7d2ae8743b97> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://norfolkriverstrust.org/water-harvesting-for-river-restoration/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.92393 | 873 | 3.671875 | 4 |
In this digital age, programming has become a fundamental skill that opens a world of opportunities for children. Learning to code not only enhances problem-solving skills but also fosters creativity and innovation. However, teaching programming to kids requires a thoughtful approach to make it engaging and enjoyable. We will explore 10 techy tips to help kids learn programming effectively.
1. Start with Visual Programming
Programming can seem daunting for kids, but visual programming languages like Scratch and Blockly make it accessible and fun. These platforms use blocks and puzzle-like pieces to create code, making it easy for young learners to grasp the basics of programming logic.
2. Gamify the Learning Process
Kids love games, so why not turn programming into a game? Educational coding games like CodeCombat and LightBot make learning to code an adventure. They provide challenges, rewards, and a sense of achievement that keeps kids motivated.
3. Hands-On Coding Activities
Practical coding exercises are essential for building programming skills. Consider investing in coding kits like Raspberry Pi or Arduino to enable hands-on experimentation. These kits come with step-by-step guides that help kids build real projects.
4. Encourage Collaboration
Learning programming doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. Encourage kids to collaborate with friends or family members on coding projects. Teamwork not only enhances their coding skills but also teaches valuable communication and problem-solving skills.
5. Use Interactive Online Platforms
Online coding platforms like Code.org and Khan Academy offer interactive courses designed for kids. These platforms feature engaging tutorials and challenges that gradually build coding expertise.
6. Introduce Robotics
Robotics is a fantastic way to make programming tangible for kids. Robotic kits such as LEGO Mindstorms or Ozobot allow children to program robots to perform tasks, combining coding with robotics for an exciting learning experience.
7. Provide Real-World Projects
To make programming relevant, assign real-world projects that pique a child’s interest. For example, creating a simple website or a game can be a motivating way to apply programming skills to something they enjoy.
8. Celebrate Small Achievements
Acknowledge and celebrate every small coding achievement. Whether it’s completing a coding challenge or fixing a bug, positive reinforcement boosts a child’s confidence and enthusiasm for programming.
9. Keep It Fun and Playful
Programming should never feel like a chore. Keep the learning process fun and playful. Encourage kids to explore their creativity by letting them code their stories, animations, or interactive projects.
10. Support and Guidance
Lastly, provide consistent support and guidance. Be available to answer questions, help when needed, and showcase the vast career opportunities that programming can offer in the future.
Teaching kids programming is a rewarding endeavor that equips them with valuable skills for the digital world. By starting with visual programming, gamifying the process, and incorporating hands-on activities, you can make learning to code an exciting journey for children. Encouraging collaboration, using interactive online platforms, and introducing robotics further enrich the experience. Remember to celebrate achievements, keep it fun, and provide unwavering support on their programming journey. Programming for kids is not just about learning code; it’s about fostering creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. By following these 10 techy tips, you can make the journey of learning programming exciting and enjoyable for kids while setting them up for a bright future in the tech-savvy world. | <urn:uuid:41a932c9-95e1-4e77-b777-14af076e872b> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://teenycoders.com/10-techy-tips-to-learn-programming-for-kids/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.890894 | 721 | 4.125 | 4 |
Plasterboard continues to have several advantages of rising environmental consciousness and business obligation to this day. We’ll examine plasterboard in this article and see why it’s still so prevalent.
What Is Plasterboard?
Drywall (also called drywall) is a recyclable material created from plaster sandwiched between two layers of heavy-duty paper. It is used most frequently as the surface for a wall because it can be painted or papered and provides excellent soundproofing and good insulation.
The process of creating drywall was invented by Samuel Hoover in 1894, using felt paper instead of the recycled paper used today. Compared to traditional lime plaster, which required days of work to apply, drywall was faster, easier to install, and cheaper overall.
The finished product was still smooth after installation, which made it great for painting or papering. Today, you can find drywall in homes (where it is often called “plasterboards”), offices, art studios and even on tall ships and submarines.
What Is the Purpose of Plasterboard?
Plasterboard is attached to studs to build walls in residential home construction and lightweight framed commercial construction, but it can also be attached to masonry walls, including brick.
It also lines ceilings and builds architectural pieces like arches, eaves, and curving walls. Plasterboard can be used in commercial buildings to top off masonry walls above ceilings and to create columns to hide steel beams.
The characteristics of the various plasterboards vary, including:
- Soundless – Because of their thickness and gypsum core, some varieties of plasterboard reduce sound transmission. Compared to conventional plasterboards, specially designed plasterboards have a higher density core to limit sound transmission further.
- Nonflammable – By releasing chemically bound water when heated, the non-combustible core of the plasterboard wall slows the spread of heat and fire (a process similar to evaporation). Plasterboard acts as a heat-insulating barrier and has a low smoke density and flame propagation index.
- Easy to Install – Lightweight plasterboard makes installation quick and simple. As an alternative, hard plaster in masonry-built structures requires much more time to apply and produces more mess on the job site because it is a wet trade.
- Resistant to Mould and Moisture – The core of the wet area plasterboard has added elements that decrease moisture absorption, and it has a unique coating to prevent mould growth. It is perfect for bathrooms and kitchens since it resists moisture.
- Sustainable – A project’s carbon footprint can be reduced using plasterboard. Drywall lowers transportation expenses because of how light it is. Gypsum, the primary component, is a mineral that occurs naturally. Additionally, the plasterboard is recyclable, and the liner paper is produced using leftover cardboard and newspaper.
- Economical – Plasterboard can be easily made, and the materials that go into its creation—recycled paper, gypsum, a few additives, and water—are commonly accessible. Drywall products generally cost less than most other wall alternatives. Furthermore, because of its durability, maintenance is simple and affordable.
- Flexible – However, it also works well in various business settings, including offices and warehouses. Plasterboard is a standard component of residential construction. It is among the building materials with the most versatility.
This article has helped you learn that plasterboard is one of the most often utilised building materials in today’s construction. It is adaptable, affordable, sustainable, simple to install, non-flammable, and moisture and mould resistant compared to others.
Are you looking for plastering services in Queensland, Brisbane, or the Gold Coast? Get in touch with We Plaster And Recruit today. Our company can provide top-quality plastering services, giving you value for money! | <urn:uuid:e415cafa-782b-4b3b-95c9-91d1ee93cefe> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://weplasterandrecruit.com.au/plasterboard-for-building-construction/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.94282 | 809 | 3.5625 | 4 |
Ants live in an orderly society, and when one dies, its body releases oleic acid, which signals the rest of the colony that death has occurred. Almost immediately, this triggers the other ants into action: The ants gather up their dead comrades and carry the bodies outside the nest, placing them in a pile called a midden. They do this to protect the colony, and their queen, from any type of contamination.
Disposing of the dead:
- Ants aren’t alone in this type of behavior. Bees, for example, will push their dead right out of the hive.
- If ants are a problem, you don’t have to use strong chemicals. A mixture of Borax, sugar, and water sprayed around the foundation of your house will deter them.
- You could also scatter some cinnamon around places where you see ants -- they hate cinnamon. | <urn:uuid:cfedbb19-ed22-436c-9ca5-326e0ed6e0da> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.allthingsnature.org/do-ants-bury-their-dead.htm | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.931708 | 183 | 3.578125 | 4 |
Observe the diagram given below and label the parts A, B, C, D. Solution in Malayalam
Step by step video & image solution for Observe the diagram given below and label the parts A, B, C, D. by Biology experts to help you in doubts & scoring excellent marks in Class 11 exams.
Which one of the folowing features are applicable to bacteriophages?a)They are bacterial viruses.
b)They have double stranded DNA as a generic meterial.
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Observe the figure given below. Label the parts a,b,c and d.
Observe the following diagram and label A, B,C and D .02:59View Solution
Label a, b, c, d and e are given below in the diagram of synaptic transmission :- | <urn:uuid:92cd6028-2a38-4850-a5bb-6bd50fddf25f> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.doubtnut.com/qna/642939892 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.789082 | 472 | 3.5 | 4 |
Rational decision making process/scientific decision making process.
According to David Schwartz, decision making is made up of the following identifiable steps:
1. Find and define the problem and its process:
In defining a problem, it is important to consider not just the problem itself, but the underlying courses e.g. High staff turnover may be as a result of:
i) Poor pay
ii) Lack of career progression
iii) Poor leadership
iv) Unconducive work environment, etc.
The causes of the problem must be understood before they are addressed. Managers must be aware of the risks of dealing with the symptoms of a problem instead of the real problem.
2. Generate alternative solutions:
A problem can be addressed in several ways. It is best to generate as many ways of solving the problem as possible. This is of course subject to availability for time and criticality of the decision.
3. Gather enough information about the alternative solutions:
Managers need to gather as much information as possible about the various alternatives generated before picking or dropping any one of them. This assists in realistic appraisal of each alternative.
4. Analyze or evaluate the alternatives:
Equipped with enough information, managers are now in a position to critically and realistically evaluate each alternative. They consider the pros and cons of each alternative before picking/dropping any of the alternatives.
The following tools may be useful in the evaluation/analysis:
i) Cost-benefit analysis: – Options whose benefits exceed associated costs are considered in priority.
ii) Marginal analysis: products with higher marginal contributions considered in priority.
iii) Decision trees: Expected values of the various possibilities/outcomes considered.
5. Decide/select the preferred solution:
This entails selecting the alternative offering the highest promise of attaining the objectives. This is probably the highest stage in decision making process. Sophisticated evaluation techniques may be used. However, there is nothing to guarantee the success of the decision. Fear of making a wrong decision sometimes causes managers to be indecisive. Indeed, manager’s success depends on the quality decisions made by them.
6. Implement the preferred solution:
Once the choice has been made, the alternative is converted into action and implemented.
7. Evaluation of outcomes:
Evaluate the results to find out if the decision is successful in the light of changes in the business environment. | <urn:uuid:f84b641a-b1b6-4c5f-ab45-42008a5134f7> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.ebookskenya.com/identify-and-explain-the-steps-of-a-decision-making-process-in-an-organisation/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.922334 | 497 | 3.703125 | 4 |
Hypothesis Testing & Homework Help Online
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Hypothesis is making an assumption. In Statistics a Hypothesis or an assumption is taken first and then the Hypothesis is tested as how accurate it is or not. Hypothesis testing is a study based on statistical accuracy of an experiment. If the result is positive i.e. if the assumption is correct or approximate, then it is called Statistically Significant.
There are two types of statistical hypotheses
- Null Hypothesis: Denoted by H0, it is actually an assumption that the sample observations are purely from chance.
- Alternate Hypothesis: Denoted by H1 or Ha, it assumes that the sample is influenced by a non-random cause.
Reject the null hypothesis and accept the alternative hypothesis or Fail to reject the null hypothesis and state that there is not enough evidence to support the alternative hypothesis.
- When we test a hypothesis we proceed as follows.
- Formulate the null and alternative hypothesis.
- Level of significance has to be determined.
- The size of the sample has to be chosen.
- With the help of the table, determine if the z score falls within the acceptance region.
Statisticians follow a formal process to determine whether to accept or reject null-hypothesis, based on sample data. This process is called hypothesis testing and consists of four steps.
- State the hypotheses: The first step involves stating the null and alternate hypotheses. The hypotheses have to be stated in such a way that they are mutually exclusive.
- Formulate an analysis plan: The analysis plan describes how to use sample data to evaluate the null hypothesis. This evaluation focuses around a single test statistic.
- Analyze sample data: Find the value of the test statistic (mean score, proportion, t-score, z-score, etc.) described in the analysis plan
- Interpret results: Apply the decision rule described in the analysis plan. If the value of the test statistic is unlikely, based on the null-hypothesis, reject the null hypothesis.
Decision Errors – Two types of errors can result from a hypothesis test
- Type I Error: A Type I Error occurs when the researcher rejects a null-hypothesis when it is actually true. The probability of committing a Type I error is called the significance level. This probability is called alpha and is often denoted by α.
- Type II Error: A Type II Error occurs when the researcher fails to reject a null-hypothesis when it is false. The probability of committing a Type II Error is called Beta and is often denoted by β.
Decision Rules – The analysis plan includes decision rules for rejecting the null-hypothesis. In practice, statisticians describe these decision rules in two-ways with reference to a P-value or with reference to a region of acceptance.
- P-value: The strength of evidence in support of a null-hypothesis is measured by the p-value. Suppose the test statistic is equal to S. The P-value is the probability of observing a test statistic as extreme as S, assuming the null hypothesis is true. If the P-value is less than the significance level, we reject the null hypothesis.
- Region of acceptance: The region of acceptance is a range of values. If the test statistic falls under the region of acceptance the null-hypothesis is not rejected. The region of acceptance is defined so that the chance of making a Type I error is equal to the significance level.
The set of values outside the region of acceptance is called the region of rejection. If the test statistic falls under the region of rejection, the null-hypothesis is rejected. In such cases, we say that the hypothesis has been rejected at the α level of significance.
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This unit explores the mathematics of maps, including scale, coordinates and compass bearings.
|Teaching strategies and pedagogical approaches
|Differentiated teaching, Mathematics investigation, Explicit teaching
|Strand and focus
|Position and location
|AC: Mathematics (V9.0) content descriptions
Create and interpret grid reference systems using grid references and directions to locate and describe positions and pathways
Positioning and locating (P4)
© New Zealand Government. Free-for-education material | <urn:uuid:caa6a9ae-d153-43f9-b551-ccf3d9c3aab4> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.mathematicshub.edu.au/search/map-it/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.719908 | 124 | 3.609375 | 4 |
Water stress caused by intense heat can be detrimental to plant growth, especially for small and slow-growing vegetables. A lack of water can mean heat stress for these plants, leading to negative impacts on crop yield, quality, and harvest time. That’s why LoRa soil moisture sensors are a game-changer for farmers. With this technology, farmers can monitor soil moisture levels remotely and optimize irrigation practices for cost savings and environmental conservation. The accurate data provided by these sensors enables farmers and land managers to make informed decisions, thereby optimizing crop health and yield.
The importance of monitoring soil moisture in smart agriculture
Soil moisture monitoring is a keystone of smart agriculture, vital for ensuring plant health and the quality of our food. The evapotranspiration process regulates this moisture, as plants take water from soil to produce food. However, the amount of water taken varies by plant size and soil type. Insufficient moisture can lead to wilting and even death, while excessive watering can result in crop failure. Hence, sustaining optimal soil moisture levels through effective irrigation is vital for promoting crop growth and maintaining plant health.
The agricultural sector currently consumes 70% of the world’s accessible freshwater. Unfortunately, some 60% of this valuable resource is wasted due to leaky irrigation systems and inefficient application methods. To address these challenges, soil moisture monitoring emerges as a critical practice in smart agriculture. By implementing efficient monitoring techniques, farmers can optimize their irrigation routines, conserving water and energy while promoting the ideal growth conditions for crops, thereby increasing yields.
What is the LoRa soil moisture sensor
A wireless LoRa soil moisture sensor gauges soil moisture using Long Range (LoRa) radio-frequency technology. The sensor comprises a soil probe and a transmitter that conveys data to a gateway. The probe measures moisture, temperature, and electrical conductivity. The transmitter sends the data to a gateway, which then communicates with a cloud or remote server. Farmers can utilize the system to monitor soil moisture remotely and make adjustments to sustain ideal moisture levels for crop cultivation.
LoRa soil moisture sensors are useful in large expanses of land where wired sensors may not be feasible and expensive, or in areas without standard connectivity options like cellular or WiFi. These sensors transmit data wirelessly using LoRa technology, which enables long-range connectivity and minimizes energy consumption. All of these factors make them an ideal fit for settings in remote areas where transmitting data can be expensive and difficult. In summary, LoRa soil moisture sensors are a unique and valuable tool for smart agriculture applications.
Benefits of installing LoRa soil moisture sensor
If you’re looking for a better solution to keep track of your crops’ moisture levels, you might want to consider switching to LoRa soil moisture sensors. Unlike traditional sensors, LoRa sensors are low maintenance and more cost-effective, providing better coverage and reliability. By installing LoRa soil moisture sensors, you can enjoy the following benefits:
Unlike Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, LoRa technology has an impressive transmission range of up to 15 km in rural areas. This extended range makes LoRa the perfect solution for covering vast fields, vineyards, or orchards with minimal infrastructure. By deploying a single gateway and multiple sensors throughout your crop, you can remotely monitor soil moisture data from your laptop, smartphone, or tablet.
Low power consumption
LoRa technology uses ultra-low power consumption, making it ideal for battery-powered applications such as soil moisture sensors. You can expect several years of battery life from a single sensor, even with frequent data transmission.
Compared to other wireless networks, LoRa technology requires fewer gateways, making it a low-cost alternative for transmitting soil moisture data. You can connect multiple sensors to the same gateway, reducing both the hardware and data management costs. This makes it a viable solution for small to mid-sized farms where cost is an essential consideration.
With frequent data transmission from the sensor, you can monitor soil moisture data in real-time, even receiving push notifications or alerts in case of significant drops or spikes in moisture levels.
LoRa soil moisture sensors offer accurate measurement of soil moisture levels, providing useful data to farmers. This makes it possible to apply precise amounts of water to crops, reducing water waste and improving water usage efficiency.
Improved crop yields
LoRa soil moisture sensors help farmers optimize crop yield by providing data that can be used to fine-tune watering schedules and irrigation systems. Healthy and productive crops are achieved through maintaining optimal soil moisture levels, promoting resource efficient agricultural practices.
Applications of LoRa soil moisture sensor
LoRa soil moisture sensors are highly versatile devices that can be applied across a broad range of fields. They are particularly useful for maintaining optimal soil moisture levels that promote healthy plants, crops, and natural environments. Below, we will explore the most common applications of LoRa soil moisture sensors.
Large Scale Agriculture
One of the significant applications of these sensors is in large-scale agriculture. They help farmers to monitor soil moisture and develop irrigation plans accordingly. By maintaining optimal moisture levels in crops, farmers can improve yields and reduce water usage, making their farming more sustainable.
In greenhouse farming, LoRa sensors have become especially critical as they provide round-the-clock monitoring of soil moisture, thereby preventing crop damage. By combining these sensors with other environmental sensors, such as temperature and humidity sensors, automated systems can be created that optimize crop growth conditions.
Landscaping and Gardening
Landscaping and gardening professionals have also adopted LoRa soil moisture sensors in recent years. This is because the sensors help them to maintain the right moisture content for various plants, shrubs, and grasses. The sensors also alert them when soil conditions require their attention, enabling them to address the problem quickly.
Sports turf management
Sports turf management is another field where LoRa soil moisture sensors are becoming increasingly common. These sensors can help groundskeepers to monitor soil moisture levels and adjust watering schedules accordingly. With precise soil moisture monitoring, the sensors help to keep playing fields safe and playable.
Environmental conservationists have also recognized the value of LoRa soil moisture sensors. These sensors have enabled the monitoring of soil moisture levels in natural habitats, such as forests and wetlands. By tracking moisture levels, conservationists can better understand how water affects the ecosystem and take necessary measures to protect it.
Comparison with other soil moisture sensors
LoRa Soil Moisture Sensor has several advantages over other types of soil moisture sensors.
LoRa vs. traditional moisture sensors
Traditional moisture sensors, such as tensiometers and gypsum blocks, may require more laborious installation procedures. And the data they provide may not be detailed, resulting in poor decision-making. On the other hand, LoRa soil moisture sensors provide real-time and precise data that can be remotely managed with low maintenance.
LoRa vs. other wireless moisture sensors
When compared to other wireless moisture sensors, like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled sensors, LoRa moisture sensors have better deep-penetration and long-range capabilities. Moreover, LoRa devices are highly efficient, utilize minimal energy, and require less frequent battery replacement.
Installation and maintenance of LoRa soil moisture sensor
Installing and maintaining a LoRa soil moisture sensor is a relatively simple process. The following will outline the steps necessary for successful installation, as well as maintenance procedures to keep your sensor functioning optimally for data transmission.
Installation of the LoRa Soil Moisture Sensor is relatively easy. Here are the steps to follow:
- Start by choosing an accurate and level site for the sensor installation.
- Next is to bury the soil moisture sensor in the designated location using a tool and ensuring it is secure.
- Connect the sensor to a gateway device that communicates sensor data to the cloud.
- Finally, activate the sensor and check it’s functioning.
For maintenance, you should ensure to take the following steps:
- Check and replace the batteries when necessary.
- Ensure the sensors remain in optimum condition.
- Regularly check the data transmission.
LoRa soil moisture sensors are essential for farmers and stakeholders in the expanding field of precision agriculture. With benefits like improved crop yield, water conservation, and sustainability, these sensors have immense potential to revolutionize soil resource management and conserve water. Providing real-time moisture content wirelessly, LoRa soil moisture sensor allows easy optimization of irrigation strategies, precise crop management, and enhanced yield. An efficient and cost-effective solution, LoRa soil moisture monitoring solution is certainly worth considering for monitoring soil moisture content. | <urn:uuid:bc3e5bf3-e24e-4dba-96b3-e433ff4300c7> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.mokolora.com/lora-soil-moisture-sensors/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.890083 | 1,746 | 3.765625 | 4 |
The Cross River Gorilla, an emblematic species within the broader spectrum of western gorillas, has captivated the attention of zoologists and researchers alike. This particular gorilla species earned its designation as a distinct entity in the expansive realm of primates. The nomenclature was bestowed upon it by Paul Matsy, a distinguished mammalian gynecologist affiliated with the Zoological Museum at Humboldt University in Berlin. Matsy’s meticulous work, culminating in 3, marked the formal acknowledgment of the Cross River Gorilla’s status as a new species.
Cross River Gorilla Fact: Profile, Habitat, Lifespan, Food
The Cross River Gorilla stands as a testament to the delicate balance between survival and extinction, compelling researchers, conservationists, and the global community to join forces in unraveling the complexities of their existence and securing a future where these majestic creatures can thrive against the odds. The Cross River Gorilla’s physical characteristics weave a compelling narrative of evolution, adaptation, and the delicate balance between size and survival. As we delve into the intricacies of their existence, we unveil not just the story of a species but a reflection of the broader tapestry of life, urging us to take up the mantle of conservation with a renewed sense of urgency and responsibility.
Pioneering Research and Population Surveys
Despite its taxonomic recognition in 3, a comprehensive understanding of the Cross River Gorilla’s existence eluded researchers until 1987. It was during this pivotal year that the scientific community initiated regular surveys aimed at scrutinizing and comprehending the dynamics of this intriguing gorilla species. The delay in systematic population surveys adds an element of mystery to the Cross River Gorilla’s narrative, leaving a substantial gap in our knowledge of its behavior, ecology, and overall significance within the delicate balance of its ecosystem.
Exploring the Habitat of the Cross River Gorilla
Nestled within the intricate tapestry of Central and West African rainforests, the Cross River Gorilla claims its habitat in a realm of lush biodiversity. These elusive primates navigate the dense undergrowth and towering canopies of the Cross River region, navigating a delicate equilibrium with the myriad flora and fauna that define their surroundings. The intricacies of their habitat, often characterized by challenging terrains and intricate vegetation, contribute to the enigma surrounding the Cross River Gorilla’s lifestyle.
Lifespan and Reproductive Patterns
The Cross River Gorilla, like its fellow gorilla species, exhibits a lifespan intricately interwoven with the rhythms of nature. These majestic creatures, adorned with silver-backed coats, traverse the stages of life with a compelling narrative. From infancy, marked by tender dependence on their mothers, to the seasoned maturity where they assume leadership roles within their social groups, the lifespan of a Cross River Gorilla unfolds as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of these fascinating beings. Furthermore, delving into their reproductive patterns unravels a captivating saga of familial bonds and the perpetuation of genetic legacies within the heart of their rainforest abode.
Unique Habitat and Geographic Constraints
Nestled in the farthest reaches of the Western and Northern gorilla spectrum, the Cross River Gorilla’s habitat is a tapestry woven between the dense forests and towering mountains that mark the Cameroon-Nigeria border region, tracing the enigmatic path of the Cross River in Nigeria. This geographical confinement adds a layer of complexity to their existence, isolating them from their Western counterparts by a vast expanse of approximately 300 kilometers and maintaining a considerable distance of about 250 kilometers from the gorilla population in the Ebo Forest of Cameroon.
The Majestic Cross River Gorilla: Physical Characteristics
The Cross River Gorilla, a remarkable subspecies of the Western Gorilla, exhibits awe-inspiring physical attributes that distinguish it within the primate kingdom. Standing at an average height ranging from 165 to 175 cm (5 ft. 5 in. to 5 ft. 9 in.), adult males command a formidable presence in their natural habitat. This height, coupled with their robust build, underscores the sheer strength encapsulated in their sinewy frames.
The weight of these magnificent creatures adds to their imposing stature. Adult males boast a substantial mass, ranging from 140 to 200 kg (310 to 440 lbs), emphasizing the raw power they wield. This substantial weight serves as a testament to their dominance within the intricate social dynamics of gorilla communities. It’s not merely a number but a manifestation of the evolutionary adaptations that have allowed them to thrive in the challenging environments they call home.
In contrast, adult females of the Cross River Gorilla exhibit a more diminutive stature, standing at an average height of 140 cm (4 feet 7 inches). Despite their comparatively smaller size, these females play pivotal roles in the social fabric of gorilla groups, contributing to the intricate relationships and dynamics that govern their existence.
The average weight of adult female Cross River Gorillas is a notable parameter, averaging around 100 kg (220 lbs). While lighter than their male counterparts, this weight is still substantial and highlights the physical resilience required for survival in their demanding habitats. The intricate dance between size, strength, and agility characterizes the adaptations that have allowed this subspecies to endure in the lush, challenging landscapes they inhabit.
Evolutionary Significance of Size Disparities
The size disparities between male and female Cross River Gorillas reveal a fascinating tale of evolutionary adaptations shaped by the demands of their environment and the intricacies of social structures. The towering stature and considerable weight of adult males serve multifaceted purposes. They not only establish dominance within their communities but also provide a physical advantage when navigating the dense forests and challenging terrains that define their habitats.
In the realm of natural selection, these physical attributes confer a competitive edge to males during territorial disputes and mating competitions. The heftiness of their build becomes a symbolic representation of their prowess, echoing through the dense foliage as a testament to their evolutionary fitness. This intricate interplay between size, strength, and survival underscores the nuanced ways in which nature sculpts its creations for the perpetual dance of existence.
Conversely, the more modest dimensions of adult females speak to the varied roles they fulfill within gorilla societies. Their agility and smaller stature enhance their ability to navigate the intricate mazes of the forest with finesse. Furthermore, their significance lies not only in physical prowess but in the social intricacies they contribute to, fostering bonds, nurturing offspring, and ensuring the cohesion of the gorilla family unit.
Precarious Population Estimates
The Cross River Gorilla, existing on the brink of extinction, faces a dire reality with less than 250 mature individuals left in the world, according to the latest estimates. This scarcity propels them into the realm of the critically endangered, amplifying the urgency for conservation efforts. The precarious nature of their population underscores the need for meticulous scientific scrutiny and strategic conservation initiatives to ensure their survival in the face of mounting environmental challenges.
Microcosm of Activity Across a Vast Landscape
Intriguingly, these elusive creatures orchestrate their existence across a vast expanse of approximately 12,000 square kilometers, fragmenting their activities into 11 distinct zones. Recent field studies, however, have unveiled a layer of mystery by confirming sightings beyond their known territories, suggesting a potentially broader range than previously understood. This dispersion hints at the complexity of their social dynamics and the ever-evolving nature of their habitat, urging researchers to delve deeper into the nuances of their behavior and adaptability.
Genetic Insights: Connectivity Amidst Isolation
The intricate puzzle of the Cross River Gorilla’s distribution finds validation in genetic studies that highlight the presence of occasional genetic spills, maintaining connectivity between disparate populations. Despite geographical isolation, these gorillas manage to sustain genetic links, a testament to the resilience and adaptability ingrained in their evolutionary history. The revelation of genetic connectivity prompts a reevaluation of the conventional understanding of their isolated habitats, inviting further exploration into the genetic tapestry that binds these enigmatic creatures.
Capturing the Elusive: A Glimpse into Their World
A milestone moment unfolded at the age of 21, capturing the Cross River Gorilla in its natural habitat through professional videography. The elusive nature of these gorillas had shrouded them in mystery for decades, making this cinematic revelation a monumental achievement in the realm of wildlife documentation. The footage, set against the backdrop of a forested mountain in Cameroon, serves as a visual portal into the intricate world of the Cross River Gorilla, unraveling layers of their behavior and habitat dynamics that were previously veiled in uncertainty.
Conservation Challenges and Future Prospects
In the backdrop of the Cross River Gorilla’s captivating existence lies the pressing concern of conservation. The challenges faced by this species, ranging from habitat degradation to poaching threats, form a complex tapestry that demands urgent attention. Initiatives aimed at safeguarding the Cross River Gorilla and its habitat are paramount for preserving this unique primate species. As researchers strive to bridge the gaps in our understanding and conservationists work tirelessly to secure a sustainable future, the fate of the Cross River Gorilla remains intricately intertwined with the collective efforts of the global community.
Conservation Imperatives: Safeguarding the Cross River Gorilla
Understanding the physical intricacies of the Cross River Gorilla is not merely an academic pursuit; it carries profound implications for conservation efforts aimed at ensuring the survival of this endangered species. The size differentials between males and females highlight the vulnerability of specific demographics, urging conservationists to adopt a holistic approach that addresses the needs of both genders.
Preserving the habitats that sustain these majestic creatures becomes paramount, considering the nuanced ways in which their physical attributes are finely tuned to the ecosystems they inhabit. The dense forests of the Cross River region provide not just a backdrop but a lifeline for the gorillas, necessitating meticulous conservation strategies that encompass both environmental and social dimensions.
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- Tamarin Monkey – Pet | Facts | Diet | Habitat | Size | <urn:uuid:b60f8fef-b498-4f81-9a08-990e3f951d83> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.primatespark.com/cross-river-gorilla/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.889134 | 2,311 | 3.640625 | 4 |
Parasitism is a biological interrelationship in which the parasite exploits the host to cover basic an vital needs. In this interrelationship the parasite is benefited since it receives a service in change of nothing.
The brood parasitism is related to reproduction. The parasite's benefit is that eggs are incubated and chicks reared by the host. So the host does the hard work and it is most likely its own clutch will not prosper.
This relation has different properties. It is obligate when the parasite can no longer build its own nest and has no other alternative than turn to the nest of other birds. It is facultative if the parasites can either build their own nest o parasitize.
If the parasitic species targets only one species is said to be a specialist. If it affects several, a generalist. The term generalist is applied at population level, not at an individual level. Shiny Cowbirds Molothrus bonariensis are known to parasitize some 250 species in their distribution area, but does one Shiny Cowbird parasitize the same species or several?
If parasitism affects the same species it is intraspecific. If it affects another, it is interspecific. In the case of obligate parasites it is redundant to speak of interspecificity since parasites have no choice but lay eggs in other species' nests since they can not build their own nests. But facultative parasitism may be intraspecific, interspecific or both at the same time.
Most cases of facultative parasitism is found in anatids. If it is intraspecific all ducklings are alike, so they must be detected through DNA studies or watching the behaviour of ducks. We must add that in the case of ducks parasitism is much lighter since ducklings feed by themselves. The host only incubates eggs and is relieved from the hard task of feeding chicks.
Obligate parasitism occurs in approximately 1% of the bird species and is concentrated in only 5 families (Cuculidae, Estrilididae, Indicatoridae, Icteridae and Anatidae). The cuculids have the greatest number of parasitic species and anatids have only one.
Parasitism in the reserve
In the reserve we know about five parasitic species though we de not have records of all of them. They belong to three families: Cuculidae, Anatidae and Icteridae.
In all the cases parasitism was detected when the adopted fledglings were being fed by their fostered parents or within the clutch like in anatids.
Next all the parasitic species. In Cases of parasitism you can find all the records.
The shiny cowbird is a generalist but it is not known whether a female parasitizes several species (host-generalist relation) or only one (host-specialist relation) or if inside a population some females may be specialists and some others generalists. There are two hypothesis: if they follow their foster parents' imprinting they will be specialists. If they follow the type of nest they were reared in, they will be generalists. The Shiny Cowbird may lay white or spotted eggs, but their chicks are not mimetic. | <urn:uuid:e987a10e-b62a-4acb-910d-e16da0f01ab7> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.reservacostanera.com.ar/en/brood-parasitism?cama_set_language=en | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.949033 | 659 | 3.703125 | 4 |
Comma Splicing and Run-ons - KS2 - teaching resource
English Teaching Resources – Comma Splicing and Run-ons - KS2
English programme of study - Writing - vocabulary, grammar and punctuation
Comma Splices and Run-ons is a handy PowerPoint teaching resource designed to help students avoid making mistakes when using commas to separate clauses in a sentence. Content includes:
Comma splicing and run-ons explained.
3 solutions for correcting comma splicing and run-ons.
A comma splicing and run-ons activity with worksheet and example answers.
A link to an online comma splicing and run-ons activity
'Comma Splicing and Run-ons - KS2' is editable so that teachers are able to adapt the resource to meet the needs of each class they teach.
To preview this punctuation English teaching resource please click on the images opposite.
Related ResourcesOur Price : £1.99 / 2 Credits | <urn:uuid:42ac664c-5651-4d38-86fe-a7940fe33ba8> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.teacher-of-english.com/comma-splicing-and-run-ons-ks2-teaching-resources-1319.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.86562 | 200 | 3.71875 | 4 |
"The Country of October is the Birthplace of Cosmonautics", Soviet poster
On October 4, 1957, the Soviet Union stunned the world by launching the world's first satellite into space. Given that the USSR had only 12 years prior emerged from the utter devastation of World War II, Sputnik I was a remarkable achievement of Soviet science and socialism.
Just a month later on November 3, 1957, Sputnik II was launched.
In December 1957 USSR Magazine published the following account of the two historic voyages that ushered in the Space Age.
THE age of cosmic exploration was announced on October 4, 1957, with this terse statement: “The first satellite was successfully launched by the Soviet Union.” Sealed into the 23-inch brightly polished aluminum alloy sphere traveling in an elliptical orbit around the earth were more than instruments to record celestial data. The first earth satellite carried the substance of an old dream - interplanetary flight. Man was no longer earth -bound. He had made the first long step toward the stars.
Sputnik I was shot into an orbit extending from north to south. The altitude of this elliptical orbit ranged approximately from 170 to 560 miles above the earth. If the many revolutions of Sputnik were reproduced graphically, it would appear as though the earth were covered by a web of lines, because the earth itself rotates from east to west within its orbit. Every 96 minutes the satellite made a revolution of the globe.
The hermetically sealed sphere carried two radio transmitters and power sources. To the outer surface were attached four long aerials, eight to ten feet long. For three weeks the radio transmitters emitted the characteristic beep beep signals heard everywhere on the globe. Sensitive elements altered the strength of the signals and the ratio between their length and pauses to transmit changes taking place on Sputnik. When received, they were recorded for subsequent analysis.
To catapult the 184 -pound ball required a three-stage rocket of extra ordinary power. Sputnik I was placed in the nose of the rocket and sealed behind a protective cone. The carrier rocket with Sputnik I inside was launched vertically. Shortly after take-off, the rocket, following design, was arranged to gradually deviate from the vertical. Just previous to Sputnik's alignment in its orbit, at a height of several hundred miles, the rocket moved parallel to the earth at a speed of 26,000 feet a second.
When the rocket engine burned out, the protective cone separated from it and the satellite then moved independently in free flight. Both the carrier rocket and the protective cone accompanied Sputnik to revolve around the earth at approximately the same altitude. But the
rocket moved faster than Sputnik and the distance between them gradually increased each day.
Sputnik's orbit enabled it to be observed from all continents in a variety of latitudes. It would have been easier to launch a satellite on an orbit closer to the equatorial plane, using the speed of the earth's rotation on its axis to give extra impetus to the rocket, but it would have considerably scaled down the area from which such a satellite could be seen.
Observers in all continents tracked Sputnik and the carrier rocket. In the Soviet Union numerous scientific centers followed them by telescope, radar and direction finders and photographed them in flight. Members of radio clubs and thousands of amateur astronomers reported on Sputnik regularly. All data were collected and systematized to define the orbit and to chart the satellite's passage.
The development of Sputnik I drew on the ultimate in scientific and engineering knowledge. The problems that had to be solved were quite new in principle. The greatest difficulty was in designing a carrier rocket. Powerful engines capable of working under extremes of heat had to be devised. A precise and efficient system of automatic control had to be developed to align the satellite in its orbit.
That Sputnik I reached its orbit testifies to the accuracy of scientists in plotting the speed of the rocket's flight and its direction of movement. Any variation from the projected speed or departure from the direction of movement by as little as one degree would have meant failure.
On November 3, before the data gathered from the flight of Sputnik I had been fully evaluated, a second artificial earth satellite was launched in the Soviet Union.
Sputnik II contained numerous instruments for studying solar radiation in the short- wave ultraviolet and X- ray regions of the spectrum in addition to instruments for measuring cosmic rays, temperature and pressure. To help determine the effect of cosmic space on life processes, the satellite also carried an airtight container with a dog, an air-conditioning system, food for the animal and instruments for recording and transmitting to the earth the scientific data obtained. The equipment of the second satellite included two radio transmitters and the necessary power sources. The total weight of Sputnik II was 1,120 pounds, more than six times that of Sputnik I.
The maximum distance of the orbit of Sputnik II from the earth's surface was approximately 932 miles. Traveling at a speed of 26,240 feet a second, it circled the globe in 102 minutes. The creation of the earth's first artificial satellites was a natural link in the chain of achievements in science and engineering in the Soviet Union. To recall Russia forty years ago is to gauge the magnitude of this achievement. It telescopes the tremendous changes which have taken place in the way of life of an entire nation.
Education was a key which unlocked the door to a veritable treasure house of talent that had lain dormant. Two generations have produced an army of engineers and metallurgists, chemists and electronic engineers, physicists and mathematicians capable of working out all the intricate problems connected with launching an artificial earth satellite, and a highly developed industry ready to produce the most complicated apparatus their thinking could conceive.
The satellites are not only a symbol of the achievements of one country, they are symbolic of the cooperation of the scientists of all countries to give man greater control of the forces of nature. As such, they are a favorable portend for the future.
During the course of the International Geophysical Year many other satellites will be rocketed into space to provide more material for science. It is impossible to overestimate the importance of such space laboratories for relaying information on temperature, pressure, density of atmosphere and other data never before obtained by scientists, information that will help solve many of the unknowns of our earth and the heavens.
We live at the bottom of an ocean of air that envelops the earth. This ocean of the earth’s air lets through only isolated and narrow sectors of electromagnetic oscillations emitted by the heavenly bodies. Science has always dreamed of an observatory outside the atmosphere from which to study cosmic rays born in remote galaxies, ultraviolet rays, X- ray solar radiation, radio emissions. Artificial satellites will provide us with such observatories to investigate the physics of the upper atmosphere.
Satellites move within a field of terrestrial gravitation. In its turn this field is determined by the distribution of masses inside the earth and in the earth’s crust. By studying the satellites' motion we can draw vitally important conclusions about the structural composition of the earth whose crust we live on.
At an altitude several hundred miles above the earth the atmosphere is extremely rarefied. Nevertheless, the air has some resistance and therefore influences the satellites' motion. Study of this motion will give us data now unknown about the character of the top layers of our atmosphere. It will provide us with inestimably valuable knowledge on electrostatic fields of the atmosphere, on celestial microparticles, meteors and a host of other problems of both theoretical and practical bearing.
By far the most dramatic of horizons which the satellites open up, one which has stirred the imagination of the world — interplanetary travel—Sputnik I and II have moved out of the realm of fantasy into the laboratory of the scientist and engineer. The next step is in clear outline - a rocket to overcome terrestrial gravitation, to steer a course for the moon. | <urn:uuid:04c27810-01c4-4f80-a24c-70ca5215f0ed> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.theleftchapter.com/post/sputnik-i-launched-october-4-1957 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.953722 | 1,660 | 4.09375 | 4 |
The world’s most extraordinary episode of hyperinflation happened between 1919 and 1922 in post-World War I Germany.
To get the full picture of the events that led to rapid inflation by Germany’s post-World War I ruling regime, the so-called Weimar Republic, you have to go back to the Franco-Prussian War, in 1870. Prussia, a sort of proto-Germany, won the war quickly, taking only about six months to defeat France.
Prussia paid for the war by taking on debt, and the short duration of hostilities and decisive victory made it relatively easy for the new Germany (created out of the unification of Prussia with other German-speaking lands shortly after the war) to repay the debt.
Germans remembered that when they entered World War I to help Austria-Hungary fight the Triple Entente, an alliance of France, the UK, and Russia. The Germans assumed this new war would be fast, and that they would win. Both those assumptions turned out to be wrong.
To finance the new war, the Germans again took on debt. The war turned out to be long, bloody, and expensive, chewing up 50% of German production capacity.
After the war, Germany was loaded with debt. Additionally, the countries of the Triple Entente, especially France, demanded reparations to pay for the costs incurred. They demanded 132 billion gold marks (marks backed by gold). A huge sum. Payments from 1919 to 1922 were about 10% of Germany’s national income, or about as much as Germany’s entire pre-war government budget.
Germany Ran Huge Deficits
To keep the country operating post-war, the government began running huge deficits around 50%, and sometimes even more. Germany’s leaders chose to fund the deficits by selling debt to the national bank, the Reichsbank. The plan lowered foreign confidence in the Weimar government’s ability to pay its debts.
As a result, foreign investment crashed, and the value of the mark, Germany’s currency, sank. Thus began the first round of inflation. At the time, the German government levied its taxes in nominal terms. Inflation started rising so fast that when the government levied a tax, the value of the money demanded was much lower by the time it was actually collected. Revenues couldn’t keep up with rising costs, leading to even higher deficits.
In 1920 the Germans offered the Entente a plan to pay the war reparations at a rate of 2.24 billion marks a year. The proposal would have eventually balanced Germany’s budget, but the Entente demurred. Instead, they demanded 4 billion marks each year and threatened military occupation of Germany’s Ruhr region, its industrial heartland, if the Germans didn’t comply.
The Germans were left with no choice but to pay. However, they couldn’t easily tax their people any more than they already were, leaving revenue further behind spending. Germany’s creditworthiness declined again, spurring on inflation even more. To make matters worse, the Entente took Upper Silesia from Germany and gave it to Poland, subtracting some of Germany;’s GDP in the process.
German Foreign Minister Walther Rathenau, a Jew, was assassinated in 1922 by anti-Semitic radicals. Rathenau had been a much-respected figure in German economics, and his death shook confidence in Germany’s ability to manage its economy. The murder caused capital flight, and soon hyperinflation began, driving the value of the mark even lower.
At this point, Germany began printing money with gusto. The government decided to sacrifice the value of the mark to provide businesses with the liquidity they needed. Thomas Piketty explained this period of rapid money printing in his book, The Economics of Inflation, writing (my emphasis in bold):
But in the summer of 1922 the Reichsbank began to supply directly to commerce and industry the financial means, the need of which, in that period of credit crisis, was urgently felt. To mitigate this crisis the Reichsbank insistently counselled the business classes to have recourse to the creation of commercial bills,* which it declared itself ready to discount at a much lower rate than the rate of the depreciation of the mark, and even than the rates charged by private banks.
Indeed the official discount rate was 6 per cent at the end of July 1922; it was raised to 7 per cent at the end of August; to 8 per cent on September 21st; 10 per cent on November 13th; 12 per cent on January 18th, 1923; and 18 per cent in the last week of April 1923. It is enough to compare these rates with the increase in the dollar rate (a gold mark was worth 160 paper marks at the end of July 1922; 411 paper marks at the end of August, 1,822 at the end of November; and 7,100 at the end of April 1923) to be convinced that the policy of the Reichsbank could not but give a strong stimulus to the demand for credit and to the inflation.
To facilitate the money printing, the Reichsbank was running 1,783 printing machines by 1923. The mark’s value compared to gold, and gold-backed currencies like the dollar (at the time), plummeted.
Ultimately, France occupied the Ruhr after the Germans failed to make required coal deliveries dictated by the reparations package. In retaliation to France’s aggressive move, coal and steelworkers in the region went on strike, sending the entire country grinding to a halt. The Weimar government felt it needed to keep paying the workers to prevent the union members from starting a Bolshevik revolution, so they printed even more money, sending inflation skyrocketing even moe than before.
By November 1923, the mark was trading at 4,200 billion to one dollar. That’s when the government finally decided to peg its value to the dollar, ending the hyperinflation. Before the war, the mark-dollar exchange rate had been 4.2 to 1. And as recentty as 1922 it had been 1,500 to 1. It then took less than a year for the mark’s strength to fall from 1,500 to 1, to 4,200 billion to 1.
In the end, Germany’s decision to take on debt to start a war, and subsequently to run deep deficits to pay for it, destroyed the country’s economy. The price of gold soared in Germany during its hyperinflation. Those few Germans who still owned any gold (the government had strongly encouraged them to turn it in to bolster the Reichsbank) owned an asset that had held its value despite the inflation.
Gold, along with silver, tends to maintain its value in the face of inflation. That ability can act as an insurance policy in investment portfolios that own gold. With governments around the world today using higher deficits and the devaluation of currencies to fund spending, prudent investors should own precious metals in their portfolio today. | <urn:uuid:b13ad051-b354-4732-90a0-cf7864a53879> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.youngresearch.com/researchandanalysis/commodities-researchandanalysis/gold-an-insurance-plan-against-hyperinflation/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474377.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20240223085439-20240223115439-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.967101 | 1,463 | 3.9375 | 4 |
What is Himalayan Balsam?
Himalayan Balsam is an invasive plant species that is threatening our rivers and countryside. It grows along the banks of the Ouse, outcompeting native species and causing erosion.
Himalayan balsam can grow to more than three metres in height in a year and each plant can produce 800 seeds. These seeds are dispersed up to seven metres away from the parent plant, most frequently by humans and animals brushing past the ripe seedpods.
When large clumps of Himalayan Balsam form it shades the smaller plants from the necessary sunlight they need. The only plant likely to compete in these ares are nettles.
What is a Balsam Bash?
A ‘Balsam Bash’, involves pulling up the Himalayan balsam, to prevent it from setting seed and spreading further along the riverbank. Clearing a site like this reduces the amount that will grow in the same place in future years. Our Countryside team pull plants throughout June and always clean and disinfect their boots before going to different river sites to prevent the seeds dispersing far and wide.
What about the bees?
Himalayan Balsam is a good nectar source, and because it flowers late, it is widely loved by beekeepers. However, it is such a good source of nectar that often bees will visit Himalayan Balsam in preference to native plants. This means that native plants get a double hit by not being pollinated well, and also by being out-competed by the Balsam. This can lead to thick stands of Himalayan Balsam, with lower overall biodiversity, which die down in winter and leave areas prone to erosion. | <urn:uuid:cc9f3787-6bcb-4931-bd6f-8428c1ea684c> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://acastermalbis-pc.gov.uk/balsam/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.956382 | 358 | 3.984375 | 4 |
In a time of increased environmental awareness and sustainable practices, the importance of recycling and responsible waste management cannot be overstated. Industrial recycling plays a crucial role in preserving our planet’s resources and minimizing the negative impact of waste on the environment.
Among the various recyclable materials, used oil recycling stands out as a key process that not only reduces pollution but also offers valuable opportunities for reuse. Proper waste oil disposal, also called waste lubricant oil, is crucial in protecting the environment from potential hazards. This blog aims to shed light on best practices, and regulations, and provide a comprehensive guide to used oil recycling for industrial businesses.
Why Focus on Used Oil Recycling?
Used oil is a common waste product generated by a wide range of industries, including automotive, manufacturing, and machinery maintenance. It poses a significant threat to the environment if not properly managed.
Heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and other poisonous and cancer-causing substances are frequently found in these oils. When improperly discarded, used oil can contaminate soil, waterways, and groundwater, causing severe damage to ecosystems and human health.
For instance, burning waste oil can release air-polluting pollutants like sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulates. Waste oil can also contaminate groundwater and surface water, which is a problem for industries that depend on clean water, such as agriculture and power generation, as well as the quality of water that is available for drinking and irrigation.
Concerns about the quantities of used oil involved are raised by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) estimate that 200 million gallons of used oil are produced annually in the United States alone. By adopting effective used oil recycling practices, companies can mitigate these risks and contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Waste Oil Disposal & Collection: Regulations, Compliance, and Cost
To ensure effective used oil recycling, it is essential to adhere to relevant regulations imposed by local, regional, and national authorities. Here are a few key regulations commonly found in many jurisdictions:
Both the collection of used oil and its disposal are governed by stringent laws, which vary depending on the nation and region. These laws were put in place to ensure correct procedures, prevent harm to the environment, and safeguard public health. Fines and penalties may be imposed for disobeying them.
Under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), for example, controls the collection, transportation, and disposal of waste oil in the United States. Additionally, it specifies the conditions for appropriate labeling, storage, and disposal in authorized facilities.
Obtaining the necessary permits and licenses to handle, transport, and recycle used oil is important before starting any recycling or disposal process. Comply with local regulatory agencies responsible for waste management.
Maintain detailed records of used oil collection, transportation, recycling, and disposal activities. This documentation is often required for compliance audits and demonstrates responsible management practices.
Follow recognized recycling standards to ensure the quality and safety of the recycled oil. Verify that the recycling facilities you work with meet or exceed these standards.
How much is waste oil worth if it is intended to be sold on the market?
Its price might vary based on a number of variables, but in general, because of its lesser quality and contaminants, it is usually less expensive than virgin oil. Prices per ton might vary from a few dollars to over $200.
Some businesses could be able to sell their used oil, while others might have to pay disposal costs. So how much does it cost to dispose of waste oil? This may differ based on the kind of waste oil, the facility’s location, and the rules in existence.
Since it is quite usual for fines or penalties to be implemented for improper disposal, many businesses elect to pay for the oil to be collected and transported to a specialist infrastructure for recycling or correct disposal. This is frequently mandated by law.
In general, the cost of disposal can be substantial, particularly for large businesses that produce large amounts of waste oil.
A Guide to Used Oil Recycling
Set up a designated area for used oil collection. Encourage employees to bring their used oil to this area, ensuring proper containers and labels are provided.
Educate employees about the importance of proper used oil handling and recycling procedures. Train them on spill response protocols and waste management practices to ensure compliance and safety.
Transfer the collected oil into appropriate storage tanks, totes, or containers. Ensure that storage areas are well-maintained, secure, and equipped with secondary containment systems. Keep them in a well-ventilated, spill-proof area to prevent leaks and spills.
It is crucial to avoid mixing used oil with other substances like solvents, gasoline, or antifreeze. Mixing can render the oil unsuitable for recycling and increase the cost of treatment. It can also create hazardous chemicals and reactions that can lead to dangerous outcomes.
Partner with licensed and experienced waste management companies for safe and compliant transportation of used oil to recycling facilities. Choose reputable carriers who follow industry best practices.
Used oil recycling typically involves stages such as filtration, separation, and purification. Advanced processes like vacuum distillation and re-refining are employed to remove impurities and produce high-quality base oil for reuse.
The recycled oil can be used in a range of applications, such as fuel blending, lubricant manufacturing, or as an industrial burner fuel. Ensure compliance with regulations and seek expert advice for appropriate reuse options.
Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Regularly inspect storage tanks and containers for any signs of damage, leaks, or deterioration. Perform necessary maintenance promptly to prevent potential environmental hazards.
Used Oil Recycling & Transportation Services
Identifying if the waste you currently have is hazardous or non-hazardous should be one of your initial steps. With this, AllSource Environmental can be of great assistance.
AllSource Environmental works only with the most reputable, skilled, and legitimate permitted trash disposal firms as well as interested partners for your advantageous reuse streams since we are dedicated to a healthier environment. For your records, we can also give you all the necessary certificates of disposal. We are proud of how well we have documented the waste streams we handle.
We also oversee thousands of shipments annually from all over the United States. We understand that every transportation job is unique and we ensure to make it a smooth transaction for your company. If you’re in need of non-hazardous transportation or used oil recycling services, please contact us to discuss your specific needs. | <urn:uuid:893b2dfb-2936-473d-a466-5a817b6c6e3c> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://allsource-environmental.com/a-guide-to-used-oil-the-benefits-of-reusing-and-recycling/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.932866 | 1,346 | 3.609375 | 4 |
Auxiliary Services were organizations who provided amenities for Canadian soldiers overseas.
The Military Service of the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) began work with the Canadian military as early as 1866, providing services to the camps of men fighting against the Fenian Raids following the US Civil War. In 1871, the YMCA began to service Militia training camps, providing letter writing supplies, reading rooms, general entertainment, lectures, sports equipment, providing canteens and facilitating religious meetings. YMCA Staff went overseas in 1899 to support Canadian soldiers involved in the Boer War.
First World War
A variety of national organizations did volunteer and charity work during the First World War, including the Imperial Order of the Daughters of the Empire (IODE), the Red Cross, the YMCA, the YWCA, and the Women's Patriotic Leagues.
The YMCA established services overseas again in the First World War, as did British and later American chapters of the YMCA, setting up canteens and other services in the vicinity of the battle front for soldiers. Those services were broadly divided into five major areas; business, athletics, entertainment, education, and religion. While not identified with any particular church, the YMCA also worked initially in conjunction with the Canadian Chaplain Service to provide spiritual support.
Personnel of the YMCA were subsidized by the Canadian government, and operating funds came from canteen profits as well as public subscription. Operations in Canada tended to concentrate of raising funds for the overseas organization to provide services to soldiers in England (newly arrived soldiers from Canada, troops in training/training establishments, and convalescents returned from France and Flanders).
While six YMCA Secretaries had accompanied the First Contingent to the UK (with the honourary rank of Captain), there was great reluctance on the part of the British to permit them to go to the Continent. However, according to David Love's book A Call To Arms, "within a year they were able, through example of service and hard work, to justify their presence." The British War Office thereafter alloted six YMCA officers per Canadian division, while simultaneously refusing their inclusion in war establishments. The YMCA did not have Other Ranks on establishment so any help from non-commissioned personnel were borrowed from military units as needed and available until May 1917. At that time, a formal establishment overseas of 114 commissioned members and 265 non-commissioned personnel was approved, and increased over time as additional facilities opened, both on the Continent and in the UK. Some officers received pay and allowances from the YMCA, others from the Canadian government. In 1918, the Canadian Government formalized the role of the auxiliary services (see below). As part of the formal military establishment, the YMCA began to be administered as a department at Canadian Corps headquarters, with control of its own stores, equipment and offices, and the Senior YMCA officer taking his place in the chain of command, reporting to the Deputy Adjutant and Quartermaster General (DA & QMG) of the Corps.
Internally, the YMCA had an Executive Committee composed of department heads, senior officers in each Canadian Division, and the Senior Officer, who in turn reported to the Chief Supervisor, Canadian YMCA in London, who in turn reported to the National YMCA Council at home in Toronto.
The YMCA War Services offered soldiers much in the way of moral and physical comfort, helping provide entertainment, facilities and sports equipment for recreation, religious programs, as well as reading rooms, canteens, stationery and supplies for writing home, and reading material. The YMCA War Services were especially known for their tea service, where staff distributed hot tea (during both World Wars, tea was the staple beverage among military servicemen, as it was in the British Army) and biscuits, writing paper, reading material and other amenities, sometimes right in the front lines by the creation of YMCA dugouts.
The YMCA created the Red Triangle Club to provide overnight accommodations at minimal cost to Canadian soldiers on leave in French, English and Canadian cities, where writing rooms, travel information and services, storage for personal equipment, banking services, bathing facilities and barbers were made available.
The Canadian YMCA War Services also organized a "Dramatic School" in 1916, as part of their entertainment services to the troops; this school eventually created 19 separate shows which toured France and the UK, including the famous "Dumbells Singing Troupe".
The Canadian YMCA War Services raised $500,000, and with assistance from universities in Canada founded Khaki College (also known as Khaki University) in 1917, to assist veterans returning from the war to upgrade their education and employment skills to assist transition to civil life. According to the YMCA website, over 50,000 Canadian servicemen benefited from this program.
Formalization - 1918
The Canadian Government redefined the roles of the Auxiliary Services in 1918; the Canadian Chaplain Service was given sole responsibility for religious and spiritual matters, while the YMCA, Salvation Army, and Knights of Columbus Catholic Army Huts were authorized to handle all recreational matters.
Second World War
There were four primary National Voluntary Organizations active during the Second World War, following a Government announcement in Nov 1939:
The objective of these organizations was to care for the physical welfare of the men (while the Canadian Chaplain's Service cared for the spiritual welfare).
Civilian representatives of the services were permitted to serve in the field with units of the Canadian military, and wore uniforms with appropriate insignia; they did not hold rank in the armed forces and were referred to as "Supervisors", though they enjoyed officers' priviliges and were paid by the Government the same salary as a captain in the Army.
Brigadier W.W. Foster went overseas in late 1939 to co-ordinate the activities of these organizations, though it was "some time" according to the official Army history before "adequate Canadian services could be provided for the troops." In the interim, the British Navy, Army and Air Force Institute (NAAFI) canteens were used extensively by Canadian soldiers overseas. Canadian regimental funds were entitled to portions of profits made by NAAFI canteens patronized by Canadians in the same manner as British regimental funds.
A Directorate of Auxiliary Services, as part of the Adjutant-General's Branch, was established at Canadian Military Headquarters in the UK. Matters involving Army personnel in general were grouped under the Assistant Adjutant General (Personnel) including promotions, enlistments, discharges, prisoners of war, welfare, and Chaplain and Auxiliary Services.
A staff report by the Historical Officer C.P. Stacey outlined early organization in Jan 1941.
The Auxiliary Services in the UK were headed by Senior Officer, Auxiliary Services, who co-ordinated the various activities undertaken by a variety of voluntary patriotic organizations in Canada, including but not restricted to those mentioned above, as well as others located in the UK. Co-ordination of efforts was aimed at eliminating duplication and waste.
The Senior Officer, Auxiliary Services in 1941 was Major J.M. Humphrey, MC of The Canadian Grenadier Guards. His branch was designated section AG 7 of the Adjutant-General's Branch of Canadian Military Headquarters (CMHQ). Officers of the branch were combatant officers, including four Staff Captains (Auxiliary Services), one located initially at I Canadian Corps Headquarters and three for the 1st Canadian Division, 2nd Canadian Division, and Base Units.
The basic activity with which the Senior Officer, Auxiliary Services was concerned was the supply of comforts and entertainment for forces in the field.
The four "National Voluntary Organizations" listed above each had an executive officer with an office located in the same building as the Senior Officer. They oversaw the work of their Supervisors in the field. Despite being paid, the supervisors did not qualify for military pension benefits, which was a sore point for some who resigned over that point.
On 25 Jan 1941, the number of Supervisors in the UK was
At the end of Mar 1941, 65 supervisors in total were servicing 64,506 Canadian soldiers of all ranks in the UK, and by the end of 1943, there were 268 Army supervisors in total.
The services set up libraries, writing rooms (providing stationery to write home with), supplied motion pictures to units in the field, etc.
Two Auxiliary Services Supervisors were captured at Hong Kong with the Canadian contingent there in Dec 1941.
The YMCA eventually established 50 tea cars overseas, and 15 in Canada, to deliver hot tea and biscuits (the staple beverage of the Canadian Army in both wars, for soldiers in training.
According to the Canadian YMCA website:
In 1968, following the approval of the Defence Council granted the year before, the Canadian Forces Exchange System (CANEX) commenced business as a division of the Canadian Forces Personnel Support Agency (CFPSA) tasked with supporting the Canadian Forces (CF) operational effectiveness, contributing to morale, esprit de corps and unit cohesion.
CANEX operated merchandising operations (retail outlets) on military bases, similar to the American Post Exchange (PX). The aim of the CANEX was to ensure the availability of services and products priced competitively as well as generating revenue for their parent Bases, Wings (on Air Force installations) or Units.
CANEX was a unit of the Canadian Forces, and owned wholly by the Department of National Defence and government by policies coming directly from National Defence Headquarters unti 1990. In Mar 1990, CANEX was restructured as a line organization and began operation as a field unit of the Assistant Deputy Minister (HR-Mil). The NPP Board of Directors, which provided overall direction, was chaired by the Chief of the Defence Staff and included representation from all Commands of the Canadian Forces, with daily operations overseen by Regional Managers. CANEX continued operation into the 21st Century. | <urn:uuid:72dd249f-afa9-44da-bc22-3cf62e325bd6> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://canadiansoldiers.com/organization/auxiliaryservices.htm | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.976401 | 2,083 | 3.5 | 4 |
Rheumatoid Arthritis is a form of chronic inflammatory illness that can cause a severe hazardous effect on several parts of the human body. In some people, this particular condition might cause damage to a wide variety of human body systems including that of eyes, skins, heart, blood vessels, and lungs. Rheumatoid arthritis or this autoimmune disorder especially happens when the immune system mistakenly attacks the human body tissues. Unlike the regular damage or wear and tear caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis affects the inner lining of the joint while causing painful swelling that might result in joint deformity or even bone erosion. While several new medications have drastically improved all the treatment options, however, rheumatoid arthritis can still cause different types of physical disabilities.
Symptoms Of Rheumatoid Arthritis
All the symptoms and signs of rheumatoid arthritis might include:
- Swollen, tender and warm joints.
- Loss of appetite, fever, and fatigue.
- Severe stiffness in the joints is usually worse in the morning, especially after inactivity.
The initial phase of rheumatoid arthritis generally affects the smaller joints first, especially those joints that join hands to the fingers, or feet to the toes. As the disease progresses, the symptoms often spread to the ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, shoulders, and hips. In most cases, the symptoms occur on the same joints on different sides of the body. Approximately forty percent of the people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis experience symptoms and signs that don’t involve any joints. This disease can affect several non-joint structures such as:
- Bone marrows
- Salivary glands
- Blood vessels
- Nervous system
The overall symptoms and signs of rheumatoid arthritis might vary in severity and can even come and go. Furthermore, periods of increased disease activities called flares tend to alternate with periods of relative remission. Over a period of time, rheumatoid arthritis can even cause deformation and shifting in the place of joints.
How Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?
In most of the cases, Rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed by reviewing several symptoms, while conducting a physical examination and by doing lab tests and x-rays. It is always a great idea to diagnose this disease within the initial six months of the onset of symptoms. Remember effective treatment and diagnosis can help in the control or suppression of inflammation which can further reduce the damaging effect caused by this illness.
How To Manage Rheumatoid Arthritis And Improve The Overall Quality Of Life?
This particular illness might affect different aspects of life including leisure, work and even social activities. However, there are many low-cost strategies that are proven to increase overall life quality. Here are some recommendations that you need to follow if you are suffering from this disease:
- Try to get physically active
- Try to quit smoking
- Join some sort of effective physical activity programs
- Try joining self-management education classes
- Always maintain a healthy body weight
Finding that you are suffering from a chronic disease can sometimes be a life-changing event. It can even cause worry and a feeling of depression and isolation. In case you are suffering from any of these symptoms try getting in touch to a rheumatologist at the earliest. | <urn:uuid:3780a26e-2e1a-4331-84bb-13fb91342514> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://cureup.org/what-is-rheumatoid-arthritis/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.927796 | 682 | 3.546875 | 4 |
February 20th, 2017 by Zrinka Ljubešić
Plankton comes from the greek word planktos, meaning wanderer. It does not define a specific organism, but rather a specific life style. Plankton consist of all organisms dispersed in water that are passively driven by water currents or are subject to passive sinking process. Some of those organisms have an ability to produce oxygen and sugars using sunlight and CO2, just like terrestrial plants do. We call them phytoplankton (greek: phyton -plant ).
Phytoplankton are the wandering meadows of the ocean and an important base of the food web. Most of the phytoplankton are smaller than the width of the single human hair. They are feeding the hungry ocean, and the phytoplankton composition determines the diversity of organisms developing on the higher trophic levels like fish, birds and mammals. It is not only important for organisms living in the ocean, but it is crucial for all life on Earth. Consider the size of the oceans covering our blue planet for a moment – the amount of phytoplankton every second breath that we take the oxygen is produced by phytoplankton.
This is microscopic picture of a diatom called Leptocylindrus, a kind of phytoplankton. Phytoplankton feeds the ocean, and the phytoplankton composition determines the diversity of organisms developing on the higher trophic levels like fish, birds, and mammals. Colleen Durkin
How To Begin?
When it comes to phytoplankton, it is not just the quantity, but also the quality that matters. You may wonder how can researchers sample something that we cannot see that exists in an environment where we cannot be in? How can we catch something that is passively driven by currents and changing all the time? How can we get the insight of the abundance of some particles that are unevenly dispersed in an ocean? Since the discovery of the microscope scientists have been trying to find answers to those questions.
Here, on R/V Falkor we are combining traditional methods of phytoplankton analysis – such as preservation of water for later, onshore analysis under a microscope – with the new, recently developed methods of onboard image analyses. Discrete samples are taken with the Niskin bottles at the specified depth. The sampling depth is chosen according to the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of the water column that are measured by the instruments mounted on the rosette, and controlled from the science control room. Once the rosette is on deck, the samples are taken from the Niskin bottles and prepared to be either stored until they return to land, or analyzed on board. The great advantage of the onboard image analysis is that it lends an instantaneous snapshot of the phytoplankton composition and abundance, which allows you to adapt your sampling strategy and use the time spent on the ship in a better, more productive way.
Discrete samples are taken with the Niskin bottles in each CTD cast, at specific depths. The sampling depth is chosen according to the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the water column. SOI/Mónika Naranjo González
The flow-through system onboard the R/V Falkor allows us for continuous sampling of the surface water for physical, chemical and biological properties, including phytoplankton composition with Imaging Flow Cytobot. This amazing instrument samples from the flow-through system every 20 minutes, and takes images of particles contained in 5 mL (100 drops) of seawater. Therefore, as we steam through the Pacific or as we stop to conduct some other measurements, we are continuously gathering high-spatial information about phytoplankton abundance and composition. The advantage of taking images vs. looking at the cells through the microscope is that you can always go back to your sample if needed. That helps us that help to have comparable results and minimizes the error of phytoplankton counting and taxonomy misidentification.
The Imaging Flow Cytobot is one of the state-of-the-art technologies used on the current expedition. As Falkor sails, a pump runs seawater through the instrument, which takes pictures of all the particles present. SOI/Ivona Cetinić
Will the modern methods of high-resolution imaging ever substitute traditional microscopy? I would say – no. While continuous sampling techniques give us amazing insight into the spatial distribution of the phytoplankton and inform best sampling strategies, classical microscopy gives us insight into the detailed morphological characteristics that are needed to be seen from multiple angles to really be understood. The phytoplankton taxonomy is under constant revision and change as the new methodologies develop. With more knowledge and deeper insight, we do find answers to existing questions, but we also encounter more questions that need to be answered. The combination of the traditional and modern methods is the best strategy to understand the secrets of these beautiful oceanic wonders.
February 17th, 2017 by Antonio Mannino
A radiometer installed in the bow of Falkor takes color measurements from both seawater and sky. SOI/Kristen Carlson
Earth’s ocean is vast and deep, and we still need to study many things about it. To investigate and quantify biological and chemical processes, for instance, we need to determine the concentration and size of particles (living and non-living organisms) floating in the water, dissolved materials, and the diversity of organisms such as the microscopic photosynthetic phytoplankton. Their study requires both direct measurements by deploying instruments at sea or analyzing water samples, and satellite remote sensing.
Particles and dissolved organic materials scatter and absorb the sunlight that enters the ocean, which alters the ocean’s color. For instance, the first site that we sampled contained low abundances of particles including phytoplankton and dissolved organic materials, which translated to clear blue waters. Higher abundances of phytoplankton result in greener seas because of their chlorophyll pigments.
Sea to Space
Since 1978, NASA has applied satellite remote sensing to study phytoplankton. The image depicts chlorophyll concentrations in the ocean. NASA/Norman Kuring
Since 1978, NASA has applied satellite remote sensing to study phytoplankton though its experimental Coastal Zone Color Scanner. Several other sensors followed from 1997 to the present. By 2022, NASA expects to launch the next generation ocean color satellite sensor for the Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, and Ocean Ecosystem (PACE) which is currently being developed. This PACE sensor will provide unprecedented detail on the color spectrum and intensity of the light exiting the ocean’s surface, which will be used to infer a lot of information about our oceans, including the concentration and size of particles and dissolved organic materials, the diversity of phytoplankton, and rates of phytoplankton growth within the ocean’s sunlit surface layer.
To successfully apply the capabilities of the PACE sensor requires the development of relationships between ocean data (such as chlorophyll-a) and how it affects the color and the amount of light that will be measured by the satellite. One of our goals for participating on the Sea to Space Particle Investigation in the northeastern Pacific Ocean aboard Falkor is to collect biological, chemical and optical measurements in order to build these relationships.
To be able to do so, much of our work at sea involves development and evaluation of new methods and measurement capabilities to ensure that the data collected are of sufficient quality for application with satellite remote sensing. For example, to quantify phytoplankton growth rates, we are conducting experiments with phytoplankton and measuring the oxygen produced and carbon dioxide consumed over time.
Only satellite remote sensing can provide the comprehensive data sets across space and time needed to study the state of Earth’s vast ocean. The ocean moderates our weather, provides food, medicine, energy resources, recreation, and many other benefits. Improving our understanding of the ocean will help us better predict how it will change in the future.
Antonio Mannino, Oceanographer, installs a Coulometer in Falkor’s wet lab to measure particle productivity in water samples collected during the expedition. SOI/Mónika Naranjo González
February 15th, 2017 by Aimee Neeley
I always knew that one day I wanted to study the ocean, even though I grew up just north of Pittsburgh and had never seen the ocean. After graduating high school, I attended the College of Charleston in South Carolina where my plan from the start was to major in Marine Biology. I began my junior year in college with no idea what I wanted to do with this very broad degree. Then I took the required oceanography course – after that, oceanography and phytoplankton (aquatic plant life that is microscopic) were in my life permanently.
Aimee Neely, Biological Oceanographer, is studying particles using a FlowCam, an instrument that takes pictures of all the particles in the water flowing from a pump located in Falkor’s aft. SOI/Mónika Naranjo González
Phase 1: What Are Phytoplankton?
For an undergraduate project, I measured the response of several species of phytoplankton to different light intensities by measuring the concentration of their photosynthetic pigments, the compounds that collect light for photosynthesis. Pigments can also be used to identify specific groups of phytoplankton. During the second year of my Master’s program for marine biology, I participated in my first research cruise on a Canadian Coast Guard vessel that sailed from Dutch Harbor to Barrow, Alaska. I got my first taste of filtering, which is the collection of particles onto glass fiber pads that can be used for various analyses. Despite my initial bout of sea sickness in a near flat sea state, I was hooked.
In 2007 I pursued a research opportunity at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences where I was ship-bound once a month measuring the sulfur-based compounds made by phytoplankton that are thought to enhance cloud formation when they are outgassed to the atmosphere. For years, what I knew about phytoplankton was based on chemistry and physiology.
Samples filtered by Aimee will be processed back on land to measure different pigments in order to identify the planktonic organisms contained in it. SOI/Mónika Naranjo González
Phase 2: We Can Measure Phytoplankton from Space?
In late 2008, I left the beautiful island of Bermuda (crazy, right?) for Maryland to work at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. Before this time, I knew nothing about satellites or ocean color remote sensing. While working at NASA I have learned that everything in the ocean – dissolved compounds, phytoplankton, and particles – absorb and scatter sunlight. Using this information about the color of the light reflecting out of the ocean, we can translate this light into information about what types of phytoplankton are in the water column.
High temporal and spatial resolution observations in the global ocean are just not feasible as we are limited by time and resources. Therefore, we make use of additional tools to fill in the gap for global and regional oceanographic observations. Satellite ocean color observations provide global ocean coverage, reaching time and space beyond our capabilities with research vessels and, therefore, may fill in the data gap where field measurements are limiting.
A satellite image shows Falkor’s track and the colors in ocean water. Colors indicate the amount of chlorophyll, where red is the highest and blue the lowest. SOI/Mónika Naranjo González
Phase 3: Learning How To See Phytoplankton
Ground truthing of these measurements of phytoplankton types through ocean color remote sensing is necessary but challenging. We can use phytoplankton pigments to derive a certain amount of information but the addition of microscopy is ideal, as then we can see which species are in the water. One of the newer technologies in the field is imaging flow cytometry, a technology that combines the best aspects of microscopy, flow cytometry and digital imaging.
Water is fed through the instrument at a specific magnification wherein a camera can be triggered to take a digital image of each particle or phytoplankter that passed by the field of view. Imagine how high spatial resolution of these data will help us to ground truth the phytoplankton type products that we retrieve from satellite imaging. On the RV Falkor, we have two forms of this technology to sample, not only the surface of the ocean, but also at depth. Having never spent much time in front of a microscope myself, I am learning so much from the skilled scientists around me who can look at an image and almost immediately identify to which genus and/or species the phytoplankton belongs. I hope to gain this knowledge as I learn and use this instrumentation.
The Flow Cam is an instrument used by Aimee to identify particles in the water. Water is fed through the instrument at a specific magnification wherein a camera can be triggered to take a digital image of each particle or phytoplankter that passed by the field of view. SOI/Aimee Neeley
February 14th, 2017 by Mónika Naranjo González
Melissa Omand, interdisciplinary physical oceanographer from the University of Rhode Island’s Graduate School of Oceanography, was confronted with a conflict: it was time for an upgrade to her phone, but creating more technological trash did not feel right. Plus, the camera on her older phone was fantastic. Together with her first graduate student Noah Walcutt, she worked on optimizing better battery life, as well as fabricating an underwater housing and a lighting system for her “outdated” gadget. This to her remains the best part of her job: creating and testing new instruments, as well as repurposing existing ones.
Creating and testing new instruments, as well as repurposing existing tools, are some of Melissa Omand’s favorite aspects of her job. Melissa is a Physical Oceanographer currently sailing on board R/V Falkor. SOI/ Mónika Naranjo González
Melissa and Noah are working with two different novel instruments in this cruise. The first one is a time-lapse camera developed after repurposing her previous mobile. The phone will dangle at the base of a 150 meter wire, deployed as part of the Wirewalker assembly. For three or four days, the camera snaps pictures of the base of a sediment trap which collects falling particles called marine snow. Up until now, Melissa and her colleagues Colleen Durkin and Meg Estapa have been able to identify what kind of particles fall into the traps (and at what time this happens) by analyzing the material preserved in a special gel. They have also learned that particles fall in pulses as opposed to a steady flow. However, they are still not sure about which types of marine snow sink with each pulse, and how these are connected to the phytoplankton community above. They hope the images taken by the camera will provide a new piece to complete the puzzle that is carbon storage in the ocean.
Melissa Omand deploys the sediment traps as part of the Wirewalker, while Oliver Hurdwell observes closely. SOI/ Mónika Naranjo González
A second novel instrument Melissa has brought on board is a holographic camera. Unlike traditional photography, a holographic image is obtained when a laser beam hits an object and either bounces off of it or goes through it, bending the light. More a computer than just a camera, the instrument combines diffraction data with math in order to reconstruct the light’s journey after interacting with the object (in this case, a planktonic organism). Tracing the behaviour of the light provides an enormous amount of information about the object’s characteristics in three dimensions. The result is an image that allows the experts to focus on different planes, and not in just one single depth of field.
This is interesting both because it vastly increases the volume sampled by enabling the scientists to choose where to focus on a picture that has already been taken, and in that it enables a very exciting application: Virtual Reality.
Noah Walcutt examines the holographic camera installed in the CTD rosette. The camera is able to capture around 40 000 images in a single CTD cast. SOI/ Mónika Naranjo González
Cut a single hair a hundred times and you will get something resembling the size of a few microns. That is the resolution that the holographic camera can capture in a single photo: 16 photos per second, 100 particles per hologram in average, 40 thousand holograms per dip in the ocean. The numbers begin adding up fast, so Melissa knows it is time once again to create something from scratch: their own pathway for data management, processing and analysis. This is why she began working with Ben Knorlein, a computer scientist from the Center for Computation and Visualization from Brown University.
Not only is Ben in charge of designing an efficient way to deal with all of the information yielded by the holographic camera, but he is also the mastermind behind the software that allows scientists to step into the holograms and interact with the particles in a Virtual Reality environment. This has been the first time Ben has ever been at sea. He assists researchers in the deployment and recovery of scientific instrumentation, and more importantly, he is gaining a deeper understanding of what they are looking for, becoming familiar with their thought process and expectations. All of this experience is vital for Ben to improve the software so scientists can have faster access to the information they need to extract from each holographic image.
No other ship could have given the team the opportunity to work efficiently with these images on board. Falkor’sHigh Performance Computer enables Ben to process tens of thousands of images in a single day, generating data immediately. Each day Ben sits at his working station in the Dry Lab, fine tuning parameters and settings to offer Melissa and Noah new options. Once back ashore, this cruise’s intense collaboration will have made the trio tighter than ever, and they will walk away from Falkor carrying invaluable new information, instruments and software.
Ben Knorlein, Computer Scientist, observes Melissa Omand as she reacts to the first Virtual Reality experience created on board Falkor from holographic images of plankton suspended in the water. SOI/ Mónika Naranjo González
February 13th, 2017 by Stephanie Uz
Trying to sleep on a trampoline while somebody is jumping on it – this is how it feels during many nights at sea as the ship zig-zags in an imaginary box around our drifting instruments in the North Pacific during winter. This is when biological activity is lowest, but clearly there is no absence of physical forces, such as waves. Clearly.
The aim of this expedition is to find phytoplankton and measure their characteristics using light detectors, cameras and microscopes. From my perspective as an oceanographer who uses satellite data to explore large scale physical forcing of biology, this is a great chance to think about the smaller-scale forcing mechanisms that supply nutrients to the phytoplankton. And I am glad to get acquainted with the optical and biological instruments and methods being used and tested here at sea.
Hemispheric view by Suomi-NPP VIIRS on Feb 9, 2017 in true color. Clouds and airborne particles are white; ocean, blue. The ship’s track is shown in the red line. Station M is our last sampling site. NASA/ Norman Kuring
Slow Water, Low Biology
We began the campaign near Hawaii at the end of January in the North Pacific subtropical gyre, which has a predominate slow-moving circulation pattern that causes nutrient-depleted surface water. We experienced plenty of swell from distant storms – lab equipment had to be tied down, and chairs slid across the galley. Still, nutrient-rich deep water remained far below the well-mixed surface waters.
The water was exceptionally clear. Sunlight penetrated deeper than 150 meters (500 feet). In spite of the dearth of nutrients, our imaging systems revealed some phytoplankton! They appeared malnourished, but surprisingly diverse nonetheless.
In the absence of strong currents or other flow patterns, the Wirewalker instrument drifted westward making daily clockwise loops with the Earth’s rotation. I was excited to see its path mapped with inertial oscillations so clearly visible. Although they are always present, it is rare to see them this obviously as they are usually hidden by stronger forcing.
A plot of the Wirewalker’s track as it drifted freely at our second site for three days. Each point in the plot represents one hour. SOI/ Melissa Omand
Fast Water, More Biology
The end of our sampling campaign is approximately 250km (150 miles) west of central California over a site called ‘Station M.’ This location is typically more productive, being in the California Current that brings cooler water southward from the subpolar gyre.
Additionally, we arrived between low pressure frontal systems that have been pummeling the west coast with strong winds, rain and snow over the past month. These strong weather systems cause wind-mixing at the surface of the ocean, bringing nutrients up from depth. Sampling revealed a warmer, fresher top 30 meters (100m) above cooler, nutrient-rich water.
Immediately, the instruments monitoring phytoplankton and nutrients began registering significantly higher quantities than anything we saw earlier in the expedition: even more diverse and even more abundant. Collectively, this team has gathered an amazingly rich data set of measurements and images that makes the discomfort of sleeping on a trampoline all worth it.
Stephanie Schollaert Uz monitors the speed and direction of water flowing under the ship with the Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler. SOI/ Monika Naranjo Gonzalez | <urn:uuid:8e522f27-a118-4013-85e9-f256ab0893f0> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/blogs/fromthefield/tag/carbon-cycle/page/2/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.930651 | 4,650 | 3.6875 | 4 |
Glass is a unique substance with some unusual properties.
It looks like a solid, but is built like a liquid. It is easily breakable, but can be treated to become very strong. It resists most chemicals and can be formed into all kinds of shapes. Liquids and air cannot pass through glass. Light, however, can shine through most types of glass.
A world without glass is almost inconceivable, it plays an indispensable role in various scientific fields, in industry, and in telecommunications. It is used throughout the home, at work, and often in play.
The following resources and activities explore glass and its properties. They are appropriate for students at a primary or middle school level.
The Britannica “Glass” resource packs are accessible to schools who are subscribed to the Australian, New Zealand, Asian, UK and US versions of Britannica School. They contain age-appropriate articles, images, websites or videos on glass, different uses of glass, states of matter and more.
Resource Pack Links:
Britannica School (Australia) Primary level resource pack↗
Britannica School (Australia) Middle level resource pack↗
Britannica School (New Zealand) Primary level resource pack↗
Britannica School (New Zealand) Middle level resource pack↗
Britannica School (UK) Foundation level resource pack↗
Britannica School (UK) Intermediate level resource pack↗
Britannica School (US) Elementary level resource pack↗
Britannica School (US) Middle level resource pack↗
Britannica School (Asia) Elementary level resource pack↗
Britannica School (Asia) Middle level resource pack↗
Britannica School (Asia version in China) Elementary level resource pack ↗
Britannica School (Asia version in China) Middle level resource pack ↗
The following activities can be completed using resources found in the Britannica School ‘Glass’ resource packs.
- It is believed glassmaking was first discovered 4000 years ago in Mesopotamia. You can learn more about the origins of glassmaking by checking out the glass article on Britannica School or by exploring this glass making interactive. You will find glass everywhere you look, we are surrounded by it. Create a table on the uses of glass, its properties and what it is made of. Try sketching some items made of glass and labelling them. This might give you a closer look at the properties of glass.
- Create a definition for each of the following terms: translucent, transparent and opaque. Then name examples of objects for each term. If you lived in a cold climate like the Snowy Mountains in Australia or the South Island of New Zealand would you cover your windows in cellophane or foil? Why? Record your answers on the Transparency vs. Opacity worksheet.
- Is glass a solid, liquid or gas? Just because glass is hard doesn’t mean it is a solid. Glass is amorphous, it is neither a liquid nor a solid but shares both these qualities. Watch a video showing the recycling of glass (can be found on Britannica School) and explain how glass fits both states of matter. You can use diagrams to assist with your explanation.
Featured Image from BRITANNICA SCHOOL: The Prince Rupert’s Drop is a droplet of glass formed by the rapid cooling of molten glass in cold water. © Tyler A. Gordon. Accessed 24 Jun. 2022.
These activities and resources have been created using content from Britannica School, the go-to site for safe, comprehensive student research. Contact your librarian to find out if your institution already has access. Find out more about Britannica School or set up your own free trial.
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Sign up with your email for more free resources from Britannica. | <urn:uuid:ac97ec6d-983d-4296-bbf2-0f6a000e1f4a> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://elearn.eb.com/properties-of-glass/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.914597 | 791 | 3.984375 | 4 |
Ross Shaw from the Great Lakes Fishery Commission joined the Great Lakes Fishing Podcast for Episode #103. We discussed sea lampreys in the Great Lakes including how they were introduced, how they’ve affected the fishery, and what’s being done to stop the spread of sea lampreys.Sea lampreys have been around for more than 340 million years and have survived more than four major extinction events. That's astounding. What makes sea lampreys so adaptable?
Ross Shaw: Their lineage dates back 340 million years. So, even though sea lampreys are fish, they aren't exactly what you would think of when you think of a stereotypical fish. It looks almost kind of like a water snake combined with an eel. But unlike most fish, these guys don't have any paired fins. They don't have bony jaws. They're all cartilage. Those evolutionarily early adaptations in their body are what makes them such an adaptable species. They were native to the Atlantic Ocean and then invaded through the manmade shipping canals in the early 1800s, and then they were only in Lake Ontario for a while because they couldn't get past Niagara Falls. But once the Welland Canal was widened and deepened in the early 1900s that gave them an easy path right around the falls. Essentially, it was open season on many of the Great Lakes' commercial recreational and tribal fisheries. So, lake trout, whitefish, and pretty much anything that the sea lampreys could get their mouths on.
Once they were able to clear those falls, how fast did the sea lamprey population grow? How did that happen?
Ross Shaw: They were first in Lake Erie, but the problem wasn't noticed because the fishery wasn't as prominent. I believe that was primarily due to the industry that was along the waters there. So, there were not a whole lot of great habitats for the sea lamprey to establish there. And it wasn't until they reached Lake Huron and Lake Michigan that they started to do some damage and people started sounding the alarm on the sea lamprey invasion. By 1938, sea lampreys had reached Lake Superior, and the problem had come to almost nearly peak. At that point, the commercial and recreational, and tribal fisheries as well as coastal communities that depended on these fishing operations started sounding the alarm and talking to elected representatives to get both the United States and Canada to come together to deal with the sea lamprey problem.
What was that collaboration like?
Ross Shaw: Sea lampreys do not obey boundaries. There are six or seven Great Lakes US states, as well as two Canadian provinces that surround the Great Lakes Basin and many different tribal nations. So, there are many different jurisdictions around the Great Lakes. Because the sea lamprey problem was so pervasive and caused such a disruption to day-to-day life both the governments of the United States and Canada realized that they would have to come together. They weren't going to be able to handle this piecemeal like they previously did, having each jurisdiction handle things on its own and not communicating with other jurisdictions. They realized that they needed to come together and form an entity to work across the borders, and that's when the Great Lakes Fishery Commission was established… in 1955 when both the US and Canada finally came together to tackle the sea lamprey problem.
It's been almost 70 years since that happened. People today know that they're there and they know that they affect things. But can you paint the picture of what it was like in the 40s and 50s? How much of an effect was it? Can you put some numbers to that?
Ross Shaw: One of the sea lamprey’s favorite prey species is the lake trout. The annual commercial lake trout catches in Lake Huron and Michigan were around 5 million kilograms in the 1940s, and that dropped to nearly zero in the late 1950s. Lake trout were almost extirpated or eliminated from four out of the five Great Lakes, every lake except Lake Superior. The only reason they were still in Lake Superior is because that's the last lake that they(sea lamprey) invaded. It’s also the first lake where sea lamprey control was started. Lake trout, lake whitefish, and all these enormously important commercial and recreational fisheries were decimated. Of course, the associated coastal communities that depended on tourism that got money from marinas and other things like that, were also decimated.
What is the life cycle of a sea lamprey? How long do they live, and what are the different stages?
Ross Shaw: It's hard to put an exact number on how long sea lamprey will live. They hatch from their eggs, and then they go into what we call larvae or seeds. So, that's when these guys are small, about the size of your pinky, maybe even smaller. At that point, what they're going to do is swim downstream and into the stream bed. They're going to filter feed. So, at this point, they're essentially harmless. They're just buried in the stream bed filter feeding on phytoplankton, zooplankton, and other organic material in the environment. They're going to be in that stage from anywhere from three to five, and sometimes even up to as much as 10 years.
So, that stage really kind of throws a wrench into the calculation of how long sea lampreys live. That is the stage that primarily affects its lifespan the most. But after they spend that time in that larval stage, what they'll do is metamorphose. That's when they're going to develop eyes and that sucker mouth that everyone is so familiar with. That's when they'll swim downstream and begin their parasitic feeding phase. That's when they're going to go and do their damage. They're going to go out into the lakes and start feeding on fish. Each sea lamprey in that 12 to 18 months of their feeding phase is going to kill about 40 pounds of Great Lakes fish. After they're done feeding on fish, they turn into what we call the spawning adult.
Their digestive tract will shut down and they'll be focused on spawning and spawning only. What they're going to do is find a stream that has a good spawning habitat, and actually how they find that is super interesting. After they hatch and are buried in the stream bed, they actually excrete what's called a pheromone. It's this natural scent that they excrete and then this flows down the river out into the lakes. That's how sea lampreys in part, determine which streams they want to go to spawn. By smelling those freshly hatched larvae, they can determine that, oh, there's some good spawning habitat up there. Once they find a good stream to go up, they'll swim upstream. Then they make rocky, horseshoe-shaped nests.
Once they have made that nest, they'll intertwine. One will latch on top of the other and then the bottom one will latch onto a rock. They'll intertwine, wiggle, and then they will release their sperm and eggs downstream onto that rocky horseshoe-shaped nest. That's when the eggs will hatch and then the sea lamprey will die after they spawn. So, they kind of are similar to salmon in that way. That's part of the reason that once they're done feeding, they're focused on spawning and spawning only. That's because that's their essential goal in life. Once they're done feeding, they have one thing and one thing only, it's going to be spawning and dying. So, all said and done, we estimate it's about two years on top. However, that larval phase can be as little as five years to as many as 12 years.
Sea lampreys are native to the Atlantic Ocean. Fish in the Atlantic Ocean have built a defense against sea lamprey attacks that Great Lakes fish don't have. How do sea lampreys affect ocean fish when they attack them?
Ross Shaw: What the single lamprey will do is, if you see its mouth, it has over 150 razor-sharp teeth and a sucker mouth. They use that sucker mouth to latch onto the side of the fish, and it has a suction cup around the outside of his mouth. So, it latches on. It uses those over 150 razor-sharp teeth to dig into the side of the fish's flesh, and then in the center of the mouth here, you can see what's called the rasping tongue. And so that's what does the damage. Once they're attached to the fish, they use that rasping tongue to gnaw and bore a hole through the fish's scales and into its flesh. Once it's created that hole and the blood starts slowing, it's going to excrete an anticoagulant to prevent the blood from stopping.
The sea lamprey will sit on that fish and feed on it for as long as it wants. So, most of the time a sea lamprey will kill the fish that it's on. But if the fish does survive the seal lamprey attack, the sea lamprey will leave a nasty wound. That wound oftentimes becomes infected and will cause the fish to die or it'll make the fish more susceptible to predation. So, most of the time, if a fish is attacked by sea lamprey it's more often than not going to succumb to its wounds and die. So, we estimate about six out of every seven fish that are attacked by sea lamprey eventually die.
They are very lethal. Part of the reason they're so so problematic here in the Great Lakes is that out in the Atlantic Ocean, they have co-evolved with the much larger fish. So, they're feeding on fish the size of a tuna, or a shark. These are significantly larger fish and those smaller wounds that they're leaving on the fish, they aren't going to be killing that fish. It's more like a leech where it'll drink your blood and it'll come unlatched. It gets what it needs. It drinks your blood. But then you're left essentially harmless. You have the wound, but the wound heals over.
But when it's in the Great Lakes, think about the fish that it's feeding on. Think about a lake trout or a white fish. Those fish are magnitudes of times smaller than tuna and have not co-evolved with sea lampreys that are from the Atlantic Ocean. The wound that normally wouldn't be a problem on an oceangoing fish like a tuna is going to be much more problematic because of much higher mortality on the native fish here in the Great Lakes compared to those in the Atlantic Ocean.
We’ve been talking about lake trout, salmon, and whitefish. What other Great Lakes fish species are susceptible to sea lamprey attacks?
Ross Shaw: Part of the reason sea lampreys are so destructive is they are willing to eat just about anything that they can get their sucker mouths on. Scientists have proven that sea lampreys will have a preference for lake trout. But in the absence of those preferred species, they will attach to anything. They have attacked and killed fish as large as sturgeon to things as small as perch, bass, and walleye. They don't have a preference they just want something that has blood. If they can get their mouths on them they're happy with it.
How big do sea lampreys get?
Ross Shaw: On average, sea lamprey will grow 12 to 18 inches long. But in the Atlantic Ocean, where they're feeding on much larger fish, they'll get about two feet long. So, they do get significantly bigger in the Atlantic Ocean.
Do sea lampreys attack humans?
Ross Shaw: That is probably our most asked question and I'm happy to report that you can swim without fear. Sea Lampreys will only attack cold-blooded creatures. Fish, as we know, are cold-blooded creatures. Sea lampreys can detect what type of blood a particular organism has, and they will only attach to cold-blooded creatures. There have been stories from back during the peak invasions of the early 1900s. Supposedly, somewhere there was a swimmer, a woman who swam across Lake Ontario. The news headline was “Woman Emerges from Lake Ontario Covered In Lampreys.” While that probably did happen, I'd say the more likely cause of them attaching to that particular person was that they were more hitching along for the ride than actually drinking that person's blood. They are not interested in warm blood.
How are sea lampreys being dealt with on other bodies of water, such as New York’s Finger Lakes?
Ross Shaw: We have an entire division devoted to treating steel lampreys over in the Finger Lakes, our folks at the US Fish and Wildlife Service out in Vermont. We have a dedicated source of funding specifically for fighting sea lampreys in the Finger Lakes.
What Is being done to control sea lampreys on the Great Lakes?
Ross Shaw: We primarily use two control methods. The first one is what we call lampricides. So, what this is, it's a selective toxicant that we apply to streams where we know that there are high concentrations of those larval lampreys. We have our partner agencies at the US Fish and Wildlife Service here in the States, as well as the Department of Fisheries and Oceans over in Canada. Those are going to be our partner agencies who are going out and conducting the fieldwork. They send out agents with electrofishing backpacks. They kind of look like Ghostbusters. They have these little electric paddles that go out into streams. They'll tickle the sea lamprey out of the stream bed, and then depending on how many larval lampreys they find, they can use that data to extrapolate and determine the relative abundance of all the lampreys in that stream.
Once we determine which specific stream has the highest concentrations of lampreys what we'll do is we'll decide if this will be a good candidate for treatment. Once we're ready to apply the lampricide, we'll go up as far up the stream as the sea lampreys can get. Most oftentimes this is the first barrier up the stream. Whether it's a purpose-built dam to block sea lampreys or something like a hydroelectric dam. We'll go up to where we know they will not be able to get above, and then we'll just treat the stream down from there. We have these lampricides and what we'll do is we'll apply it at a very small concentration.
You're looking at the order of three to five to seven parts per million. Very, very small amounts. It's applied as a liquid via a perforated tube across the stream. We'll also go into little streams and creeks and tributaries and also apply different forms of this lampricide, sometimes in the form of just blocks, and just put those in these slow-running streams to let them slowly dissipate. We want to make sure we get every possible way into that river and out of that river to make sure all the lampreys that are going to be escaping this amid treatment. This is by far our most effective and efficient control method. But the downside to this is that it is extremely expensive.
We have to be very specific and very strategic about where we're going to apply the lampricides. The other control method that we use in concert with lampricides is barriers. These can be barriers that are purposely built to block lampreys or they could be any barriers that have a different function but also happen to block sea lampreys. Barriers help us limit the amount of stream miles that we have to apply the lampricide in.
Traps are another method we use to remove sea lampreys from streams. However, traps are not as efficient. They aren't so efficient that we classify them as a control method. So, primarily what we use traps for is for assessment purposes. What we'll do is we'll put these traps oftentimes at the base of dams and other barriers and then based on how many lampreys we get when they come upstream to spawn we can use that to help us determine the size of the sea lamprey population. Lampricides and barriers are the two primary control methods. But the Fishery Commission is investing a substantial amount of money into research into other control methods. For example, one interesting possible control method that is being explored is what we call pheromones.
So, I mentioned a pheromone that the larvae excrete to tell spawning sea lamprey there is a suitable spawning habitat. Some of our scientists have determined that sea lampreys have what we call an alarm cue, what we call a repellent pheromone. That pheromone that I talked about, that the larvae excrete, that's what we call an attractant pheromone. The larvae will excrete it, and then the lampreys come towards it. This alarm queue is what we call the repellent pheromone. As the name implies, it repels the sea lampreys. So, that's excreted by dead or dying sea lampreys to tell them to get out of here, you don't want to be here. There's a predator or something else that could put you in danger nearby.
And some of this research is looking into seeing if there are ways where we can use those attractant and repellent pheromones to improve that trapping efficiency. As I mentioned currently trapping isn't efficient enough to the point where it's making a substantial indent on the populations. Let’s say we have a fork in a river, and this is a really good spawning habitat and this side is a trap. We don't want them to go to the good spawning habitat. So, we might apply that repellent pheromone on that side of the creek and then put the attractant pheromone on the other side of the creek to help encourage them to get into the trap and increase that trapping efficiency. So, it's super interesting stuff and our researchers are doing great work. It'll be very interesting to see how lamprey control evolves in the coming decades.
Do people eat sea lampreys?
Ross Shaw: It's funny you mention that. When they first invaded, that is probably one of the first control methods they tried. There's a very famous picture of someone with some sort of spear or fork above a pot and they have kind of a disgusted look on their face. As the story goes, for people that have tried to cook them it's just quite frankly, disgusting. So, by all accounts, the meat is gray, mushy just otherwise, visually and taste-wise, unappetizing. We've had people that have tried to smoke them, people that have tried to fry them, and they still don't taste good.
In my opinion, if you're frying it and it still doesn't taste good, then you know something's wrong. So yes, they have tried to eat them, but unfortunately, they are not seen as a good species to eat. On top of that, even if they were edible you wouldn't want to eat the ones in the Great Lakes specifically, because they have high concentrations of heavy metals. So, some of these apex predators that they're feeding on like lake trout are accumulating heavy metals by eating the smaller fish. When the sea lampreys are drinking from those apex predators’ blood and bodily fluids, they're getting almost all the heavy metals straight into their system.
Since they have high concentrations of heavy metals, you wouldn't be able to eat them, even if you wanted to. I will say that over in the Atlantic Ocean, specifically in Europe, on the eastern coast of the Atlantic Ocean, lampreys are considered quite a delicacy. If you went to a restaurant and they had for fish that are market price, sea lampreys are that kind of fish. I know the Queen of England also makes a ceremonial lamprey pie every so often. So, it's not eaten here in the Great Lakes, and we don't want it to be eaten here in the Great Lakes. But if you wanted to, you could go over to Europe to see if you can find yourself some lampreys.
Do Great Lakes fish eat sea lampreys?
Ross Shaw: If fish did prey on sea lampreys, it would be in that larval stage where they're small and easily susceptible. As far as we understand, there isn't an established predator-prey relationship where fish are feeding on lamprey larvae so much that they're affecting the population. That's not to say that it couldn't happen. I would expect it to happen if a fish is right by some lampreys swimming out of their burrow. But as far as we understand, and as far as we've seen, there is no established predator-prey relationship. After we do these lamprey site treatments, and on some of these larger treatments we're killing lampreys on the magnitudes of millions or hundreds of thousands, they'll be floating all around the river and then you'll see fish come and eat those dead lamprey or seagulls will come down and eat them. So, they will feed on them opportunistically. But as far as an established predator-prey relationship it's not something that we've seen.
What would happen if we stopped lamprey prevention strategies? How long would it take before they took over again?
Ross Shaw: That's a great question. If we did stop, for example when we did in 2020, if you're not able to go out and treat, you're not going to see the effects immediately. So, the next year, because of that larval stage, they're going to be in that larval stage for anywhere from three to five years. It'll probably be about three or four years before you see a significant uptick in the population. We have done that previously. I believe it was the nineties when for whatever reason we were experimenting with stopping sea lamprey control. Within less than 10 years, we had seen a substantial uptick in lake trout wounding. You saw a decrease in the lake trout population.
So, you wouldn't see it immediately. But four or five years down the line, you would see the effects. You'd see more scars on the fish that you're catching. You would see decreased fish population numbers. Even though it's not something, you'd see an immediate effect of, it's something that needs to be ongoing. Even though we've reduced the sea lamprey populations by over 90% compared to the historic highs in the 1940s and 1950s, the sea lamprey is still out there. They are so widespread throughout the Great Lakes that we are sending control teams out there every single year to treat the most infected streams. if we stop that, the effects on the Great Lakes fishery would be enormous.
When they first invaded, they almost wiped out lake trout from the entire Great Lakes. The Great Lakes fishery in general has nearly been destroyed thanks to lampreys as well as other factors such as overfishing habitat destruction and pollution. But now, thanks to, in part, sea lamprey’s control the Great Lakes fishery is valued at over $7 billion. Even though you wouldn't see that immediate effect on the Great Lakes fishery, you would see it in four or five years. I think you'd quickly find out that you need to continue lamprey control.
How deep can sea lampreys swim in the Great Lakes?
Ross Shaw: Most of the time, they're going to be hanging out in the deeper parts of the water. They prefer the colder, dark parts of the Great Lakes. What's interesting about that is they will change the color of their bodies depending on what type or stage of their lifecycle they're in. When they're out in the lakes, down in the deeper parts of the water, they're going to be almost black or dark gray. Once it's time to spawn, they're hanging out in the shallow parts of the water, the silty streams. They're going to turn brownish-yellow. So, that's another reason sea lampreys are not attacking humans. If you're diving down into 100 or 200 feet of water you're going to see lampreys. But lampreys are not going to be swimming near the beach. They're not going to be like sharks coming up to you. Sea lampreys are only hanging out in the deeper parts of the water column.
What should you do if you catch a fish with a sea lamprey on it?
Ross Shaw: The first thing is to ensure that it is a sea lamprey. What a lot of people fail to realize is that in addition to the sea lampreys, there are actually four native species of lampreys in the Great Lakes. They're pretty easy to tell apart because the sea lampreys are going to be significantly larger than most of your native species. Only two of the four native species are going to be parasitic or attach to fish and drink their blood. Once you confirm that it's a sea lamprey, just cut its head off. Cut its head off and throw it back in the water. Chop it up. It doesn't matter how you do it. Just make sure it doesn't go back into the water alive.
Is it safe to eat a fish that has a sea lamprey bite?
Ross Shaw: It is safe to eat. People prefer to cut around the scar, so you don't necessarily see that on a filet that you're eating. But it is safe to eat.
If you want to know more about sea lampreys, you can go to the Great Lakes Fishery Commission website at glfc.org or watch the video below. | <urn:uuid:78c857eb-d804-491e-ac2b-745e6c91d320> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://fishhawkelectronics.com/blog/sea-lampreys-in-the-great-lakes/?setCurrencyId=1 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.98025 | 5,340 | 3.828125 | 4 |
Graffiti is writing or drawings that have been sprayed, scribbled or scratched illicitly, or otherwise on walls and in infinite number of surfaces. It is a method of communication and artistic creation that has existed prior to recorded history.
The San, also known as bushmen, date back thousands of years. They are direct descendants of the original population of early human ancestors who gave rise to all other groups of Africans and, eventually, to the people who left the continent to populate other parts of the world. Their paintings and rock carvings (collectively called rock art) are found all over Southern Africa in caves and on rock shelters.
Kilroy was here is an American culture expression that became popular during World War II and was typically seen in graffiti. The phrase, and the distinctive accompanying doodle — a bald-headed man (sometimes depicted as having a few hairs) with a prominent nose peeking over a wall with the fingers of each hand clutching the wall may have originated through United States servicemen, who would draw the doodle and the text “Kilroy was here” on the walls and other places they were stationed, encamped, or visited.
Graffiti art is now a part of the modern art movement and for a select few their works have become both popular and profitable. Much of the rise has been attributed to the New York City graffiti writer movement from the late 1960s to the late 1980s, also know as the subway train writing era.
This GAC program entitled A Brief History of Graffiti is a continuously evolving exhibition, interactive workshop and guest lecture series presented in classrooms, galleries and outdoor spaces by GAC and legendary New York City graffiti writers from the era.
For more information on presentations at schools, universities and galleries. | <urn:uuid:540ccf64-6e50-45a2-a9a8-c6708c437ff9> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://gacny.org/2020/05/a-brief-history-of-graffiti-art/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.973425 | 362 | 3.59375 | 4 |
Spatial query is a crucial GIS capability that distinguishes GIS from other graphic information systems. It refers to the search for spatial features based on their spatial relations with other features. This article introduces a spatial query's essential components, including target feature(s), reference feature(s), and the spatial relation between them. The spatial relation is the core component in a spatial query. The document introduces the three types of spatial relations in GIS: proximity relations, topological relations, and direction relations, along with query examples to show the translation of spatial problems to spatial queries based on each type of relations. It then discusses the characteristics of the reasoning process for each type of spatial relations. Except for topological relations, the other two types of spatial relations can be measured either quantitatively as metric values or qualitatively as verbal expressions. Finally, the general approaches to carrying out spatial queries are summarized. Depending on the availability of built-in query functions and the unique nature of a query, a user can conduct the query by using built-in functions in a GIS program, writing and executing SQL statements in a spatial database, or using customized query tools.
Yao, X. (2021). Spatial Queries. The Geographic Information Science & Technology Body of Knowledge (1st Quarter 2021 Edition), John P. Wilson (Ed.). DOI: 10.22224/gistbok/2021.1.10 | <urn:uuid:77e65508-6d46-4bf9-b9ca-a76e526019ad> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://gistbok.ucgis.org/bok-slide/spatial-queries | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.902146 | 287 | 3.859375 | 4 |
Political Science Class 12 Notes Chapter 10 Challenges of Nation Building
Challenges for the New Nation
India became independent in August 1947 immediately after independence, there were three challenges
in nation building
- The first and the immediate challenge was to shape nation that was united, yet accommodative of the diversity existing in the society and eradication of poverty and unemployment.
- The second challenge was to establish democracy.
- The third challenge was to ensure the development and well-being of the entire society and not only of some sections.
Partition: Displacement and Rehabilitation
- On 14th to 15th August, 1947, two nation-states India and Pakistan came into existence. Lakhs of people from both sides lost their homes, lives and properties and became victim of communal violence.
- On the basis of Muslim majority belt West and East Pakistan was created which were separated by a long expanse of Indian Territory.
- Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan also known as ‘Frontier Gandhi’ was the undisputed leader of the North-West Frontier Province (NWFP). Despite his opposition NWFP was merged with Pakistan.
- The portion of Punjab and Bengal caused the deepest trauma of partition.
Consequences of Partition
- The year 1947 was the year of one of the largest, most abrupt, unplanned and tragic transfer of population of human history as known.
- Minorities on both sides of the border fled their home and secured temporary’ shelter in ‘refugee camps’.
- Women were often abducted, raped, attacked and killed. They were forcefully converted to other , religion.
- Political and administrative machinery failed on both sides.
- There was huge loss of lives and property. Communal violence was on its culmination.
Integration of Princely States
- There were two types of provinces in British India—The British Indian Provinces (directly under the control of the British Government) and Princely states (governed by Indian princes).
- Immediately after independence there were almost 565 princely states. Many of them joined Indian Union.
- Travancore, Hyderabad, Kashmir and Manipur initially refused to join Indian Union.
- The then interim government took a firm steps against the possible division of India into small principalities of different sizes.
- The government’s approach was guided by three considerations
- The people of most of the princely states clearly wanted to become part of the Indian Union.
- The government was prepared to be flexible in giving autonomy to some regions.
- Consolidation of the territorial boundaries of the nation had assumed supreme importance.
Instrument of Accession
- The rulers of the most of the states signed a document called the ‘Instrument of Accession’ but accession of the Junagarh, Hyderabad, Kashmir and Manipur proved more difficult than the rest.
- After initial resistance, in September 1948, Hyderabad was merged with Indian Union, by a military operation.
- The Government of India succeeded in pressurising the Maharaja of Manipur into signing a Merger Agreement in September, 1949. The government did so without consulting the popularly elected Legislative Assembly of Manipur.
Reorganisation of States
- During national movement Indian National Congress recognised the demand of state reorganisation on linguistic basis.
- After Independence, this idea was postponed because the memory of partition was still fresh and the fate of the Princely states had not been decided.
- After a long movement, in December 1952 Andhra Pradesh was created on linguistic basis.
- Creation of this state gave impetus to reorganise states on linguistic basis. As a result, Government of India appointed States Reorganisation Commission in 1953.
- This commission accepted that the boundaries of the state should reflect the boundaries of different languages.
- On the basis of its report the Nstates Reorganisation Act was passed in 1956. This led to the creation of 14 States and 6 Union Territories.
FACTS THAT MATTER
1. The first speech of the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru at the hour of midnight on 14-15 August 1947 was known as famous “tryst with destiny” speech while addressing a special session of the Constituent Assembly.
2. Immediately after independence, there were many challenges in independent India that needed a solution i.e. a challenge to shape a nation as a united country, to develop democratic practices and to ensure development and well-being by evolving effective policies for economic development and eradication of poverty and unemployment.
3. On partition of India, two nation theory was propounded by Muhammad Ali Jinnah to create
a separate state for Muslims, resulted in Partition as India and Pakistan giving birth to many difficulties like problem of east and west, merging of NWFP, problems with provinces of Punjab and Bengal and the principle of religious majorities.
4. The partition of 1947 was most abrupt and unplanned which created and spread communal riots dividing country into various community zones, social sufferings to shelter in refugee camps, killing of women and separation of family members, except, it divided financial assets, employees and created conflicts between Hindus and Muslims.
5. British India was divided into British Indian provinces and princely states. Princely states enjoyed some form of control over their internal affairs under British supremacy.
6. After independence, integration of princely states into Indian Union became a great challenge due to problems like announcement by British to end paramountly over the states’ freedom to join either India or Pakistan. And the problems arose in Travancore, Hyderabad, Bhopal to further divide India.
7. The government’s approach was based on three considerations i.e. will of integration of people of princely states, a flexible approach to accommodate plurality and demands of region and concern about integrity of India with peaceful negotiations in a firm diplomatic manner by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Only four states’ accession was difficult i.e. Junagarh, Hyderabad, Kashmir and Manipur.
8. Hyderabad was the largest princely state under the rule of Nizam who was not argued to be integrated. But the society protested against the rule of Nizam. The central government had to interfere against Razakars and in September 1948. Nizam’s forces were controlled with the accession of Hyderabad.
9. Bodhachandra Singh, Maharaja of Manipur, made it a constitutional monarchy and became first state to hold elections under Universal Adult Franchises. But on sharp differences over merger of Manipur, the government of India pressurised Maharaja into signing an agreement in September 1949.
10. In the early years of reorganisation of states was felt linguistic states may foster separatism and create a pressure. Hence linguistic states were formed to change the nature of democratic policies which accepted the regional and linguistic claims and provided a uniform base to the plural nature of democracy.
11. The State Reorganisation Commission was formed in 1953 by central government to redraw the boundaries of the states on the basis to reflect boundaries of state on behalf of different languages and led to creation of 14 states and six union territories by giving uniform basis to state boundaries.
WORDS THAT MATTER
- Two Nations Theory: It was propounded by Muhammad Ali Jinnah to create a separate state for Muslims.
- British Indian Provinces: The Indian provinces which were directly under the British government before independence.
- Princely States: States ruled by Princes who enjoyed some form of control over their states internal affairs under the British supremacy.
- Razakars: A para-military force of Nizam was sent to respond people’s movement which had no bounds.
- Nizam: Ruler of Hyderabad was titled as Nizam who was world’s richest person.
- State Reorganisation Commission: It was appointed in 1953 to look into the matter to redraw the boundaries of states.
We hope the given CBSE Class 12 Political Science Notes Chapter 10 Challenges of Nation Building will help you. If you have any query regarding NCERT Political Science Class 12 Notes Chapter 10 Challenges of Nation Building, drop a comment below and we will get back to you at the earliest. | <urn:uuid:bdb2d965-11c1-4440-9ece-25d5cb15cce9> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://infinitylearn.com/surge/study-material/cbse-notes/class-10/political-science/class-12-political-science-notes-chapter-10-challenges-of-nation-building/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.960006 | 1,712 | 3.75 | 4 |
We all know that we SHOULD be getting enough sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults should be getting an average of between 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night in order to maintain good health and well-being. This recommended amount varies slightly between children and teenagers, who require more sleep, and older people, who generally require less sleep.
This doesn’t mean that if you do have a few late nights here and there you are going to damage your health permanently, but if a lack of sleep becomes a feature night after night, then it can become a real problem.
Not getting enough sleep not only affects you in the short term, but is a risk factor for longer-term and enduring health problems.
There may be many reasons which affect your ability to sleep the recommended amount including lifestyle, work life, physical and mental health, but it is important to eliminate as many factors as possible which are interfering with your ability to get a good night’s rest.
These are some of the short and long-term impacts that sleep deprivation can have.
1. Affects Your Memory and Brain
Getting enough sleep is essential for healthy cognitive function. It plays an important role in thinking, problem-solving, learning and memory. If you haven’t had enough sleep, your concentration the following day is likely to be poor and you may have difficulty focusing on the task at hand. This can be masked temporarily by using stimulants like coffee to trick our brain, but is likely to lead to a bigger crash later in the day when the caffeine wears off.
This reduction in cognitive function can affect your ability to perform tasks at work, concentrate in meetings, and remember important events. The impact of sleep deprivation on memory can be explained by its effect on the hippocampus – the region of the brain critical for storing new memories. Even one bad night’s sleep can impair the brain’s ability to retain information the following day.
Worryingly it can also impair your ability to drive safely, as it reduces your level of alertness and responsiveness.
Sleep deprivation can affect your learning capacity and ability for the brain to retain important information, this may lead to you becoming more forgetful. Various studies have shown the direct impact that sleep deprivation has on cognitive performance. Recently an Italian study concluded that sleep deprivation can actually cause brain cells to eat parts of the brain’s synapses.
Another study showed that people who had not had enough sleep reacted with stress and anger when trying to perform a simple cognitive task. This reaction was shown to be due to the Amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for controlling emotion, being 60% more active when a person has had a lack of sleep. This makes the individual more reactive to negative stimuli when overtired than they would be normally – it is more than just being grumpy!
To ensure optimum functioning of your brain, make sure that you get enough quality sleep. This allows the brain to recover and be ready for the following day. | <urn:uuid:bd6630f2-f264-477e-9cdd-adb8d4c776b0> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://medical-news.org/10-dangerous-side-effects-not-getting-enough-sleep/4019/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.964949 | 613 | 3.671875 | 4 |
A Researcher Shores Up Einstein’s Theory With Math
In 1915, in a series of lectures in Berlin, Albert Einstein introduced his theory of general relativity, using an equation to demonstrate that energy and matter affect the shape of space-time, causing it to curve. In 1963, the mathematician Roy Kerr solved the equation that Einstein had introduced in 1915 with a proof that described the space-time outside of a rotating black hole. In the decades since, researchers have tried to prove that the black holes that Kerr found are stable, or as the writer Kevin Hartnett put it in a 2018 Quanta article that if you jolt one it “shakes like Jell-O then settles down into a stable form like the one it began with.”
This spring, Professor Elena Giorgi proved exactly that. In a 900-plus-page paper that she co-authored with fellow mathematicians Sergiu Klainerman, of Princeton University, and Jérémie Szeftel, of Sorbonne University, Giorgi demonstrated that black holes are indeed stable. Had she and her fellow researchers found that black holes were not stable, it would have raised a host of problems for physicists, Giorgi said, and could have suggested that Einstein’s theory of general relativity was wrong.
Giorgi, who is originally from Italy, earned her PhD from Columbia in 2019. She spent two years at Princeton as a postdoctoral research associate before joining Columbia as an assistant professor in July of 2021. Columbia News caught up with Giorgi to learn more about her work on black holes and what her solution means for the field.
Can you sum up why the findings from your recent paper are so important?
What we demonstrated is the stability of this black hole that Kerr solved for when it is slowly rotating. Now, I'm a mathematician; we're in the math department. So why are we even talking about black holes? Because those objects are really a mathematical solution to Einstein’s field equation, which he introduced in 1915, when he discovered the theory of gravity. It's what made it possible for Einstein to go from his theory of special relativity, where there is absolutely no matter in the picture, to understand how it would operate in our universe where there are massive objects like stars. What I study is the mathematical properties of black holes. People who do physics and astrophysical observations and so on use these mathematical solutions to do their computations.
Why is it important for black holes to be stable?
Let’s take the example of a pendulum. A pendulum’s point of equilibrium is when it is facing down; you can oscillate it, but it always returns to that position.
But if you analyze the pendulum from a mathematical point of view, it actually has two points of equilibrium, points where it stays perfectly still and doesn’t oscillate. One is when it's downward. But the other point is when it’s upward, facing in the exact opposite direction with the pendulum’s weight 180 degrees above where a pendulum would normally hang. If you were able to put it exactly in its vertical position, it would remain there, it would not move. But of course, you know, I’ve never seen a pendulum in this position and the reason why I have never seen it is because it’s an unstable point of equilibrium. If you move it a little bit, it will fall down and start oscillating around its stable, downward point of equilibrium.
Wouldn’t it be able to stay directly upright if you used your hand to move it around and keep it balanced?
That’s different, because then you would be adding a lot of dynamics to the pendulum to keep it balanced in that vertical position.
The idea of stability is crucial in physical and mathematical objects such as the pendulum because the difference between being stable and unstable is the difference between something that is feasible and not feasible. It's unfeasible to find the pendulum in that upward position. Because in fact, we are never able to position the pendulum exactly in the upward position, because we will always have some error in positioning it. It can only be posed in our mind as a point of equilibrium, but not in the real world.
And how does that connect back to black holes?
Black holes are solutions to the Einstein equation, and they are the point of equilibrium for the Einstein equation. The Kerr solution came out in 1963, many years after Einstein’s equation was written down in 1915. That solution finds a point of equilibrium with Einstein’s equation that doesn’t change over time. But then the question is: Is that a pendulum facing down or a pendulum facing up? Because if it’s a pendulum facing up, then it’s a nice solution, but it can’t represent anything in the real world.
The physics community performed stability analysis for these black hole solutions in some simplified settings and did not find any sign of instability, so they deduced that black holes are stable, without really proving it. But it took about 60 years or so for the mathematics community to catch up and understand what the actual mechanism for this is.
Could we have assumed black holes were stable just by looking at them and observing that they do exist?
It's a very good question but observing black holes is not as simple as, you know, observing a cat. The way that images of a black hole are produced is that there’s an image captured by telescopes, but there’s also a blueprint that uses the Kerr solution. How do you interpret the data you see? By comparing it with your model. Some things are deduced by observation and others are assumed based on mathematics.
Were you always interested in outer space? Or did you come to it because phenomena in outer space posed the most interesting mathematical problems?
I studied mathematics in undergrad when I was in Pisa in Italy, and then I did a master's in mathematical physics in France. Since high school or even before that I always liked mathematics and physics, so I was looking for something that would bring them together.
And then, of course, black holes: Who doesn’t think they’re fascinating?
The month I started a PhD, which was September 2015, was when the LIGO’s first observation of gravitational waves happened. It was announced in February 2016. [That year, two observatories in Louisiana and Washington known as LIGO detected gravitational waves, ripples in space-time that Einstein’s theory predicted would occur, proving the veracity of his predictions.]
I was here. I was a student at Columbia and I remember I went to Lerner Hall, they projected the discovery of gravitational waves in February 2016. It was so exciting. Maybe it was a kind of destiny. This observation gave a big boost to the field, making it feel much richer than if you didn't have these observations. Some other areas of physics, like string theory, don't have these kinds of waves of data coming in from real observations.
What brought you to Columbia specifically?
I did my master’s in France, so I was already abroad in a certain sense. And I felt like I wanted to go somewhere else again. I always wanted to have an experience in the U.S., for example. I applied for PhDs very broadly. And I had some admission offers and then I visited Columbia and I was in New York. It was very hard to say no, it was so exciting. They showed me around the department and being in the city, with other students, I was convinced very quickly. Also because of the people here working on differential geometry and general relativity, Columbia made a lot of sense.
Do you feel like you follow developments from NASA and other space agencies particularly closely?
Not really. On a personal level, I love it, of course; I get all the newsletters. But those aren’t directly relevant to the work I do. I’m not a big stargazer.
The field of mathematics skews very male. Did you have strong female mentors coming up in the field? Do you see that as a role you want to play for young women mathematicians?
Mathematics indeed tends to be very male-dominated. Just to give an example, our department has only four full female professors out of 29, and there are other departments in the country where the ratio is even worse. I believe that having mentors you can relate to is very important, as it helps to nurture a sense of belonging when you are a student. I have been lucky to have been exposed to amazing scholars during my years as a graduate student at Columbia, who showed me different ways of being a mathematician. For my part, I can only hope to have a positive impact on younger people who are passionate about mathematics and physics, and I do my best to let them feel like they belong to this field. Because they do.
What do you miss the most about home, foodwise?
What I miss the most is ice cream, gelato. Here you can find some, but it’s downtown, or in midtown, and very expensive. But for pizza, I think I can find even better pizza here than in Italy. | <urn:uuid:e211f201-4798-47f6-b692-32c56a3328fe> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://news.columbia.edu/news/researcher-shores-einsteins-theory-math | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.970706 | 1,930 | 3.90625 | 4 |
Human microbes can survive on Mount Everest for a long time. American scientists studied soil samples collected at an altitude of almost 8,000 meters above sea level. They found bacteria and fungi adapted to the warm, wet environment of the oral and nasal cavities. Although they remain dormant, this discovery carries an important lesson for … future space explorers.
Microorganisms are present everywhere on Earth, because they perfectly adapt to even extremely unfavorable conditions. According to a study published in the scientific journal “Arctic, Antarctic, and Alpine Research”, bacteria and fungi that prefer moist and warm environments can also survive near the top of the highest mountain in the world.
Signature in the microbiome
The soil samples used in the study were collected at the South Pass (7,906 meters above sea level), which is one of the most popular routes to Mount Everest. Expeditions often set up their last camp here before attempting to reach the summit. Properly secured soil was sent to scientists from the University of Colorado in Boulder, and they analyzed its microbial composition using gene sequencing technology.
The researchers were not surprised to find a wealth of microorganisms. Among the identified species were e.g. genus mushrooms Naganishia, resistant to low temperatures and strong ultraviolet radiation that occurs at these heights. However, they were greatly impressed by the discovery of the DNA of organisms strongly associated with humans, including bacteria of the genus Staphylococcusoccurring on the skin and in the nose and streptococcuscommon in the mouth. Adapted to warm and humid environments, these microbes have proven resilient enough to survive dormant on ‘top of the world’.
“If someone blew their nose or coughed in this area, they could have left a trace like this,” explains Steve Schmidt, the study’s lead author. – The human signature has been frozen in Mount Everest’s microbiome.
Mount Everest and extraterrestrial life
The researchers previously conducted analyzes of samples taken in other cold and inhospitable places, from Antarctica and the Andes to the Arctic. Human-associated microbes did not show up in these places to the extent they were present in the Mount Everest samples. This is related to the heavy tourist traffic at this point in the Himalayas – the South Pass and other points can be places of accumulation of microorganisms, including those transmitted by man.
At high altitudes, microbes are often killed by ultraviolet light, low temperatures and low water availability. Most of them go dormant or die. Researchers speculate that this microscopic addition will have no apparent environmental impact on Everest. But the discovery shows that if humans will one day set foot on Mars or other celestial bodies, they will need to be extra careful.
“We can find life on other planets or moons, we just have to be careful not to contaminate it with our own,” adds Schmidt.
University of Colorado-Boulder
Main photo source: Shutterstock | <urn:uuid:484f5af8-1336-4cd0-9ea1-2674997aeb49> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://polishnews.co.uk/microbes-on-mount-everest-did-you-sneeze-near-the-top-your-microbes-will-stay-there-for-centuries/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.95153 | 604 | 3.765625 | 4 |
A Look at US History: Set 1
It’s essential to understand the founding and early history of the United States when learning about other US history. Why the American Revolution happened, what the US Constitution says, and the consequences of the Civil War all influenced more recent history and how the country is run today. Each book in this series presents an overview of one event or time in early US history, specially simplified and condensed for readers in need of help or review. Full-color photographs and historical images highlight important people and events included in the main content.
• Accessible language allows struggling readers to engage with important social studies
curriculum topics more easily
• Concluding timeline helps readers keep track of key dates
• Additional important people, events, and concepts are included in fact boxes | <urn:uuid:2eae302f-5c19-45fb-9c4d-f35cf182a385> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://rosenclassroom.com/series/A-Look-at-US-History-Set-1_0 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.921876 | 161 | 3.53125 | 4 |
The Equal Rights Amendment By Liz Jordan
In 2017, the AAUW CA Speech Trek contest topic asked if it was time to pass the Equal Rights Amendment. At that time, the amendment had been ratified by 35 of the required 38 states and was abandoned by most “rights” groups after the 1982 Congressional deadline passed. Over the next three years after 2017, three states ratified the ERA. First the Nevada legislature ratified the amendment in 2018, then Illinois in 2019, and in January of 2020 the Commonwealth of Virginia’s legislature ratified the amendment.
Also, at that time, the Trump presidential administration, through Attorney General Bill Barr and unfriendly to the idea of Equal Rights, asked the U. S. Archivist to not register Virginia’s ratification vote. What’s happened since then?
About 200 “rights” groups have mounted legal efforts on behalf of the Equal Rights Amendment. Equal Means Equal has picketed the White House and the Department of Justice. They have also engaged in lawsuits in cooperation with other rights groups. The ERA Coalition has lobbied, has filed lawsuits and has generally beaten the drum to get the current administration and the current Justice Department to move the ERA out of the Archivist’s office. AAUW has contributed to these efforts. To date, I have not found any comment by any administration official about the hesitancy/resistance to register Virginia’s vote, and, therefore, to bring the 28th Amendment into the U. S. Constitution.
On March 17, 2021, the U. S. House of Representatives voted to remove the ratification deadline time limit that was reached in 1982. That time limit was an artificial limit set by Congress, and therefore, subject to elimination by Congress.
The original language of the amendment stated that it would go into effect two years from the date of the last ratification vote. That date is January 27, 2022! However, the obstacle for the U.S. Archivist is the Barr memo.
Why do we still need this amendment? States all over the country, even California, have laws and practices that regularly discriminate on the basis of gender. States vary in their protection of rape victims over perpetrators, protection of sex-trafficking victims, claims of self-defense and other issues around domestic violence such as law enforcement’s equal application of restraining orders; states vary in employment protections of pregnancy, as well as reproductive rights, and, as always, equal pay for equal work.
Imagine if the Equal Rights Amendment were to become the 28th Amendment of the United States Constitution. How would the future differ from the past? It seems to this writer (who does not have a law degree) that the impact would build for decades, as suits are brought before the Supreme Court; the justices would apply this clearly and simply stated amendment, with no ambiguity, that discrimination on the basis of gender is illegal. Even the current court, in its apparent three liberal and five conservative justices make-up, would not be able to find legal loopholes, justifications or ambiguous applications; they could not dodge the difficult issues around gender equity. All matters around gender equity would be subject to strict judicial scrutiny, a judicial standard that applies at this time only to race and religion.
What could you do? Write or call your U.S. representatives and senators to get this amendment out of Archivist limbo. Write to the current administration. Support groups that are working on your behalf, such as those listed below. If you have friends and family in other states, urge them to also write to congress and to the President of the United States.
What organizations might you watch, in addition to AAUW, for information? These are the websites I have watched for the last four years. The first one is a great place to find the history and other factual information about the efforts to ratify this amendment. Equal Means Equal put out a wonderful film (of the same name – Equal Means Equal) in 2016 about the need to pass the amendment. Rent it from Amazon and invite friends to watch it with you. Call me and I’ll bring it to your house and show it for you. The ERA Coalition presents many informational webinars as well as weekly updates on the ERA in the news around the country.
To contact me, please see my contact information in the branch directory. | <urn:uuid:ac7ec2e4-326c-4963-9af5-389f2f5f9c6b> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://sacramento-ca.aauw.net/2021/12/28/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.964378 | 892 | 3.71875 | 4 |
Why Delta T measurement is so important
By far the most important parameter in surface preparedness evaluation of all is the Delta T, as it tells you the difference between the surface temperature and the dewpoint temperature. The smaller the difference, the more likely that moisture (or dew) will have condensed on the surface.
It is generally accepted within the industry that the Delta T should be at least 3°C (5°F) or higher for the coating to be applied.
How do you actually measure and calculate the key climatic parameters? There are two main methods you can follow.
The traditional method requires multiple pieces of equipment to complete.
The first piece required is the whirling hygrometer, also known as a sling psychrometer, and it is used to measure the wet bulb and dry bulb temperatures. These temperatures are then used to work out the dewpoint and relative humidity. Elcometer provides two types of hygrometers, but they work in pretty much the same way.
How does a hygrometer work?
Hygrometers consist of two liquid-filled thermometers positioned side-by-side in a rotating body. One thermometer is covered with a fabric “sock” or “wick” connected to a reservoir (this measures your wet bulb temperature), while the other is uncovered (this measures your dry bulb temperature).
Once you have your results, typically conversion tables are then used to determine the relative humidity and dewpoint temperature, like the ones supplied with the Elcometer 116 Hygrometers. Alternatively, the Elcometer 114 Dewpoint Calculator provides a quick and easy way to determine these values, and we show you how it works in our Elcometer 114 video: https://youtu.be/HLbuapAnoqA
Calculation Delta T with a digital hygrometer
However manual Hygrometers are still missing the all-important Delta T measurement, and to calculate this, you still need a surface temperature measurement – something a hygrometer can’t provide, meaning you’ll need a separate surface thermometer. Once you have your surface temperature, subtract your dewpoint temperature from it, and you have the Delta T.
A digital hygrometer makes this process very easy. It also continuously monitor and log the conditions as you paint, and instantly alarm if one of the parameters falls outside of the specified range.
it can continuously monitor and log the conditions as you paint, and instantly alarm if one of the parameters falls outside of the specified range.
Elcometer gauges for dewpoint temperature
Dewpoint Temperature is calculated by recording the surface temp (Ts) vs air temp (Ta) and its relative humidity (%RH). This difference (TΔ) is the determining factor in surface preparation for painting. The Elcometer 319 dew point meter can be used as a hand-held gauge or a stand-alone data logger – ideal for monitoring climatic conditions over a period of time. The Elcometer 114 Dew Point Calculator provides accurate values of Dewpoint and Relative Humidity (RH) from the wet and dry bulb temperatures measured by Whirling or Sling Hygrometers / relative humidity meters.
The Elcometer 308 digital hygrometer has been specifically designed for use in very hot climates where the surface temperature of the substrate can exceed the paint manufacturer’s recommended limits for successful painting Surface Temperature (Ts).
Observing climatic conditions like temperature, relative stickiness, dew point, and dampness is imperative for the successful adhesion of a coating. | <urn:uuid:3322b00b-3ab0-467f-ab2c-651788292e3e> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://testcoatings.ca/preparing-outdoor-surfaces-for-painting/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.89471 | 748 | 3.6875 | 4 |
Cocoa DID NOT Originate from Central America and It’s 1,500 Years Older
From the bitter, cold drinks of Mesoamerica to the vast array of sweet, creamy treats available today, our love affair with the rich cacao bean has ancient roots.
But scientists have learned that this relationship goes back much further than previously thought. Rather than originating in Central America some 3,900 years ago, new evidence suggests that South Americans were cultivating cacao about 1,500 years previously.
“Unequivocal” evidence, researchers reported Monday in the journal Nature Ecology & Evolution, shows the tropical trees were domesticated some 5,300 years ago at Ecuador’s Santa Ana-La Florida site.
Archaeological and anthropological evidence has created a familiar picture of ancient Mesoamericans drinking an acerbic cacao drink—and even using the plant’s seeds as a form of currency.
But recent genomic data showed the highest levels of diversity for the plant could be found miles away in South America. This research hinted that the domestic tree may have originated in the upper Amazon region in the continent’s northwest.
Evidence from ceramics found at the site confirmed the domestication and use of cacao in the area, which was once home to the Mayo-Chinchipe culture—an ancient community that lived in the Chinchipe basin of modern-day Ecuador and Peru.
Researchers found starch grains, traces of an alkaloid called theobromine that’s found in domestic cacao—but not its wild cousins—and tiny pieces of ancient DNA unique to the crop.
Native to Americas, the evergreen cacao tree is now largely cultivated in West Africa. It sprouts large, brightly colored seed-filled pods whose contents are pressed, roasted and ground to make a bevy of chocolaty delights.
Future study, the team wrote in Nature Ecology & Evolution, would try to trace how the domestic crop spread from the upper Amazon region to other parts of the Americas. The study authors did not immediately respond to Newsweek‘s request for comment.
In other chocolate news, motorists in Poland were frustrated when a tanker crashed into a barrier and spilled tons of liquid chocolate onto a major road a few weeks ago. In spite of the tough cleaning job ahead, police officers and fire fighters reportedly saw the funny side of the incident.
Other sweet treats have recently been causing trouble. Australia’s Melbourne Zoo recently weaned its animal inhabitants off fruit when they learned it was harming their teeth. “Cultivated fruits have been genetically modified to be much higher in sugar content than their natural, ancestral fruits,” head vet Michael Lynch told the Melbourne Age. The animals will now be chowing down on leafy greens and vitamin-packed pellets.
- Ghana to Expand Cocoa Rehabilitation with $200M World Bank Loan - February 18, 2024
- Ivory Coast Intercepts 1500 Bags of Cocoa at Guinea Border - February 17, 2024
- Valentine’s Post from Ghana for all Chocolate Lovers - February 14, 2024 | <urn:uuid:175a9433-1ee4-42c6-8475-6caf9448de71> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://thecocoapost.com/cocoa-did-not-originate-from-central-america-and-its-1500-years-older/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.941196 | 642 | 3.5 | 4 |
As teachers, ensuring our students can spell effectively is a fundamental part of their education. Understanding the importance of spelling and introducing it in early childhood development helps children build confidence in reading and writing as they grow older.
Teach your students the importance of proper spelling by providing opportunities for practice and making it a priority.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss why teaching spelling is so essential, tools you can use in the classroom, and tips for incorporating this vital skill into your curriculum.
Related: For more, check out our article on Can Phonics Help Spellings?
How Spelling Contributes To Literacy And Language Development
Spelling is an essential component of literacy and language development. Correct spelling is crucial in effective communication, ensuring written messages are conveyed accurately and clearly.
Poor spelling can negatively impact students’ confidence in writing and communication, hindering their academic and career opportunities.
Proper spelling also reinforces the connection between the sounds of words and their written forms, which aids in developing reading skills. Also, mastering spelling allows students to focus on words’ meaning and structure, improving their vocabulary and writing abilities.
Tips For Teaching Spelling In The Classroom
Teaching spelling effectively begins with breaking down words into their essential components. Introduce students to common prefixes, suffixes, and root words to help them understand how to spell unfamiliar words.
It’s vital to incorporate various teaching methods, such as visual aids, hands-on activities, and creative writing exercises, to engage students of all learning styles.
Frequent spelling tests and quizzes can help students practice their spelling and assess their progress, but be sure to provide meaningful feedback on their writing. Please encourage them to read widely to see different spelling patterns and to practice spelling commonly misspelt words.
Fun Activities To Engage Students When Teaching Spelling
Teaching spelling doesn’t have to be boring! You can incorporate several fun and engaging activities into your lesson plans to keep your students interested and motivated.
- Try word scrambles or crossword puzzles to help students practice and master difficult words.
- Use spelling games like Spelling Bingo or Hangman to keep them engaged and excited to learn.
- Get students to create their spelling stories or silly poems that use the spelling patterns they are learning.
- Use multisensory approaches such as magnetic letters, spelling with sand or salt, or tracing letters in the air.
- You can also incorporate a Spelling Bee and give prizes to the winners to motivate students to learn and practice their spelling skills.
The Importance Of Phonemic Awareness
Phonemic awareness is the ability to understand and manipulate individual sounds in words, a crucial spelling skill. It allows children to recognize patterns in spelling, decode unfamiliar words and sound out complex words.
The ability to break down individual sounds in terms translates into their ability to spell words accurately. Isolating and differentiating between sounds in spoken words is the first step to learning how to spell a word.
Children must understand the relationship between sounds and letters to spell a word. Phonemic awareness is a crucial skill to help children understand that relationship since it allows them to identify individual speech sounds, which is essential when translating the sound of a word into its written form.
Phonemic awareness is also vital for children as it helps with decoding and reading. By improving phonemic awareness, children learn not only how to spell words but also how to read new words. It enables them to recognize patterns in spelling, such as understanding that the “a” in “cat” sounds the same as the “a” in “bat.”
It’s an essential skill that rewards children with lifelong literacy, affecting their ability to communicate and understand complex ideas.
In short, phonemic awareness is crucial for spelling success, which helps build a solid foundation for developing language abilities. Phonemic awareness plays an essential role in spelling, and it’s always early enough for children to develop this critical skill.
There are several strategies that teachers can introduce to help children with spelling, including syllabication and visualizing words. These strategies can enable children to recognize and remember the structural makeup of a comment and how to spell it.
Syllabication involves breaking down words into smaller units, known as syllables, making it easier for children to remember and spell longer words. When teaching syllabication, teachers emphasize the importance of understanding that each syllable behaves as a unit, making terms easier to remember.
Teachers can also teach kids to recognize different syllable types, such as open, closed or mixed syllables, and use these building blocks when forming words.
Another strategy that can improve spelling is visualization. Visualizing words involves creating a mental image of the word’s structure and shape. For instance, children can imagine the word “daughter” as three separate parts, “daugh-ter,” which can help them understand spelling rules such as the “gh-sound” rule.
By visualizing complex words, children can remember them more efficiently, and this can improve their spelling as well.
Encouraging children to practice spelling words in context can also be helpful. By using words in sentences or other activities such as dictation and sentence completion, children can better understand how to use a comment in the proper context.
Learning to spell frequently used or commonly misspelt words can also help improve spelling.
Employing strategies such as syllabication and visualizing words can help children improve their spelling abilities. These strategies can build a strong foundation for spelling and language development, benefiting children throughout their lives.
The Value Of Using Technology
In today’s digital world, technology has become an essential tool for teaching and learning. Several technology-based spelling tools can help students learn to spell more efficiently.
For instance, online spelling games and apps, such as Spelling City or Grammarly, allow children to practice their spelling skills in a fun and engaging way.
Other tools, such as spell-checkers, can help students identify errors in their written work and learn from their mistakes. Technology provides a wide range of resources to help children develop their spelling skills, whether they are struggling with spelling or want to improve their spelling habits.
The use of technology can make learning more fun and convenient, providing children with valuable opportunities to enhance their spelling skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is it essential to learn spelling patterns in school?
A: Spelling patterns serve as a foundation for accurate spelling and improve a child’s ability to read and write. Through learning spelling patterns, children develop a deeper understanding of English and can communicate effectively in their writing.
Q: At what age should children start learning spelling patterns?
A: Children can start learning spelling patterns as early as kindergarten. However, when children have a solid foundation of phonics concepts, spelling patterns are typically taught more formally in first or second grade.
Q: Are there common spelling patterns that children should learn first?
A: Some common spelling patterns that children should learn first include short vowel patterns, long vowel patterns, r-controlled vowel patterns, and common prefixes and suffixes.
Q: How can parents help their children with spelling at home?
A: Parents can help their children with spelling by practising spelling patterns, allowing them to sound out words, and encouraging them to read frequently. Creating a positive and supportive environment that fosters a child’s willingness to learn is also essential.
Q: Can learning spelling patterns improve a child’s reading comprehension?
A: Learning spelling patterns is directly related to improved reading comprehension. When children can recognize and spell words accurately, they can better comprehend the meaning of the words they read. Improved spelling skills also increase a child’s confidence in their reading abilities. | <urn:uuid:273eb1ea-aac4-4ef5-a14b-3cad743faa63> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://theteachingcouple.com/teaching-spelling/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.940991 | 1,617 | 3.671875 | 4 |
DYSCALCULIA, A MATH-RELATED LEARNING DISORDER
Learning disorders are quite common in the general student population, with estimates that 1 in 10 people have been or will be diagnosed with a learning disorder. Each learning disorder is different and affects learners in unique and specific ways.
Today, we will take a brief look at dyscalculia, a math-related learning disorder.
What is dyscalculia and how does it manifest?
Dyscalculia is a learning disorder characterized by difficulties with math reasoning and calculations. It is not uncommon for students diagnosed with dyscalculia to also receive of diagnosis of one or more other learning disorders, but typically, students with this learning disorder have average abilities in speaking, reading, and writing.
Typically, dyscalculia manifests as difficulty counting, difficulties with basic arithmetic, and deficits in working memory, which is required to store important information to complete a math problem or calculations. Students with dyscalculia may also struggle to read longer number combinations (more than three digits) and will have a difficult time keeping track of a task or activity that involves math concepts (i.e.: time, calculating distance, size, and keeping score in sports or board games).
It is not unusual for students with dyscalculia to suffer from math-related anxiety. Math is inherently difficult for them, and as a result, they feel inadequately prepared to tackle their schoolwork. Exams and evaluations in math can lead to high stress, which further compounds the ability to successfully work through the required tasks.
Tutoring strategies for helping a student with dyscalculia
Tutoring is a great option for students with dyscalculia. The tutoring must be tailored to their specific struggles, and should be approached differently than in the classroom, especially since the traditional classroom teaching style is not adapted to address the complex ways in which dyscalculia affects learning.
For students with dyscalculia, math concepts should be simplified. While use of a calculator is not always recommended for the average student, its use should be practiced if dyscalculia is present as a calculator is essential to accommodate for the difficulties with working memory.
Most importantly, math tutoring should work on slowing down the teaching of the material. Students with dyscalculia often become disoriented and overwhelmed when working on math, and time constraints as well as outside pressures exacerbate these reactions. A tutoring style that is flexible and adapted is a best fit to help students with dyscalculia reach success.
For more information on this learning disorder, visit: dyscalculia.org | <urn:uuid:fc411bc1-a9fe-426a-b895-a14b69f1f6e1> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://tuteurcps.com/en/understanding-dyscalculia/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.962103 | 543 | 3.75 | 4 |
Nicotine is also a known carcinogen (cancer causing chemical). All tobacco products contain many carcinogens. As an example, a burning cigarette for has around 60 cancer causing agents that the user inhales as they are smoking. Others are exposed to these carcinogens by breathing second-hand smoke. Some of the poisons inhaled are arsenic, tar, carbon monoxide, ammonia, DDT, and cyanhydric acid, as well as many others.
Dip and chewing tobacco is sometimes thought of as a safer alternative than smoking because it contains fewer carcinogens; however, it contains more nicotine per serving. As a result, addiction is imminent and the chance of cancer of the head or neck is greatly increased when compared likelihood of developing lung cancer due to smoking, even among younger users. Furthermore, the type of mouth cancer one would get from dipping and chewing is very aggressive and will likely require extensive and facial deforming surgery.
Cancer statistics provide powerful incentive to stop smoking. Lung cancer is almost never felt by the person infected, so by the time it is detected it has already reached an advanced stage or spread to other surrounding organs. | <urn:uuid:8589d681-f09e-4603-901b-51b30f19ba58> | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | https://www.alphabehavioralhealthcenter.org/hs-30 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474544.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20240224180245-20240224210245-00799.warc.gz | en | 0.973366 | 230 | 3.59375 | 4 |
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