#It is harder to detect with rapid tests

[freetheshit-outofyou]

The Paris Gun

The Krupp arms-making dynasty was founded in Essen upon the fortune amassed by Arndt Krupp, who settled in that city in 1587. His son Anton expanded the family’s endeavors into making firearms during the Thirty Years’ War of 1618-1648, and the family progressively expanded its operations over the ensuing decades. In 1811, Friedrich Krupp (1787-1826) established a steel casting facility, and, although he successfully began casting steel in 1816, he expended considerable funds in the process. His son, Alfried (1812- 1887), continued his father’s work and eventually re-established the family fortune. By its nature steel was very difficult to cast, and internal faults were often impossible to detect through existing testing procedures. Defective cast steel pieces were also much more dangerous to crews than iron cannons, as the softer iron tended to split or burst with less energy than the harder steel, which more often ruptured with deadly violence. The Krupp firm’s success in casting steel was considered one of the major metallurgical achievements of its day.

Beginning in 1844, Alfried Krupp began experimenting in machining guns from solid cast steel blanks and in 1847 produced his first steel cannon. That same year he presented a steel gun to the King of Prussia, Frederick Wilhelm IV (1795-1861)-an act of entrepreneurial generosity that later won an order for 300 field guns. He went on to display a 6-pounder muzzleloading gun at the Great Exhibition of 1851 and began experiments in developing breechloading weapons. In 1856, Krupp introduced a 90mm field gun fitted with a transverse sliding breechblock that fit through a corresponding slot in the rear of the barrel.

Germany subsequently made the transition to rifled breechloaders during the 1860s, a move that gave it a distinct artillery advantage during the 1870-1871 Franco-Prussian War. Shortly after the war it adopted 78.5mm guns for its horse artillery and 88mm pieces for field use. The logistical difficulties associated with supplying two sizes of ammunition in the field and recent advances in metallurgy and gun design then led to the Model 73/88 system, which used the 88mm caliber for both horse artillery and field use and the later Model 73/91 system, utilizing nickel steel barrels. The Model 73/91 was finally superseded by Germany’s answer to the French 75-the Model 96 or Feldkanone 96 neur Art.

The development of specialized antiaircraft artillery also intensified during the war. The first documented use of antiaircraft artillery occurred as early as the siege of Paris during the Franco-Prussian War in 1870. At Paris, the Prussian commander von Moltke ordered weapons from Krupp in order to shoot down balloons in which the French were trying to sail over the Prussian lines. Krupp eventually delivered a number of single-shot, caliber 1-inch rifles that were mounted on pedestals bolted to the beds of two-horse wagons; they theoretically could follow the balloons on the ground while maintaining a steady firing rate. The Krupp pieces were relatively ineffective, yet at least one French balloon was apparently downed by their fire.

The rapid proliferation of powered military aircraft at the turn of the century, however, spurred an equally dedicated effort to neutralize the threat of air attacks. During the 1909 Frankfurt International Exhibition, Krupp unveiled three antiaircraft guns in a bid to monopolize the emerging market. These included a caliber 65mm 9-pounder and a 75mm 12-pounder. Krupp claimed that the largest, a pedestal-mounted 105mm gun intended for shipboard use, achieved a maximum ceiling of 37,730 feet. The caliber 65mm gun had an 18,700-foot range, could elevate 75 degrees, and its carriage had unique hinged axles that allowed the wheels to be pivoted to a position perpendicular to their traveling position. With the trail spade acting as its axis, this arrangement enabled the crew to traverse the piece 360 degrees to track enemy aircraft. With a claimed maximum ceiling of 21,326 feet, the caliber 75mm gun was mounted on a truck bed, thus giving it a high degree of mobility. Not to be outdone, Erhardt, Krupp’s closest domestic competitor, also exhibited a 50mm quick-firing antiaircraft gun mounted in an armored car’s turret.

The period also witnessed considerable experimentation in antiaircraft shells and fuses. Krupp introduced a high-explosive shell for its 3-pounder equipped with a “smoke-trail” fuse, an early tracer round that both aided the crews in sighting and was an effective incendiary against the hydrogen-filled airships of the period.

During World War I the Germans continued to experiment in antiaircraft weaponry, beginning in 1914 with the 77mm Ballonen-AK. The Ballonen-AK was then, in turn, followed in 1915 by the 77mm Luftkanone, a basic 77mm field cannon barrel mounted on a rotating scaffolding. The more effective Krupp 88mm FlaK entered service in 1918 and eventually became the inspiration for the famous World War II German “Eighty-Eight.”

Popularly named after Alfred Krupp’s daughter, the 41.3-ton, 420mm “Big Bertha” had a horizontal sliding block and fired a 1,719-pound shell up to 10,253 yards. Big Bertha required five tractors to transport its components, and it had to be assembled on site. In conjunction with a number of Austrian Skoda 305mm howitzers, the L/14 was first used with devastating effect against Liege in August 1914; it saw other action on both the Western and Eastern fronts. Owing to its relatively short range and vulnerability to Allied fire, Big Bertha was obsolete by 1917. Another heavy piece, the 211mm Mörser was adopted in 1916. It weighed 14,727 pounds and fired a 250-pound shell up to 12,139 yards.

Designed by Krupp engineers and adopted in 1918, the Paris Gun used the basic 380mm Max railroad gun barrel fitted with a barrel liner and lengthened 20 feet. The 210mm Paris Gun weighed 1,653,470 pounds and mounted a 2,550-inch barrel with a horizontal sliding block. It fired a 264-pound shell up to 82 miles. Crewed by naval personnel, the Paris Gun was so powerful that it fired its shells into the stratosphere, where the thinner atmosphere exerted less resistance, allowing such long ranges. The stress on the bore, however, wore the barrel significantly, and each succeeding projectile had to have progressively larger driving bands and heavier powder charges to compensate for the increasing windage. Although hugely inefficient in the final analysis, the Paris Gun’s greatest value lay in its use as a propaganda tool rather than an artillery piece. Source

[use-your-telescope]

When Everything's Made to be Broken - Chapter 5: I'm Looking for a Sign

Summary: Theo begins the onboarding process for becoming an Avenger, and finds some time to sneak away.

Author's Notes: Sorry this is so late in the day! It has been a hectic weekend. This chapter (and the next) really focus on Theo, so there isn't much Loki... but he will be back soon!

If you enjoy, please reblog!! I'm a lil' blog (less than 100 followers, haha) and reblogs really help me out <3 Also, feel free to send me a message or comment if you want to be added to the tag list.

Next chapter should be coming November 12th!

Content Warnings: Canon-typical fighting (there's a training session).

Word Count: 5,525

Read on AO3 | When Everything's Made to be Broken Masterlist

Song: Good to Be Alive - PVRIS

Learning how to swim but the lands are dry Feeling like a shark, If I stop I'll die Things are lit and the blood's on fire Underneath the buzz of the telephone wire All my friends are doing fine While I’m looking for a sign Is this body even mine? Feels good to be alive but I hate my life

Onboarding with the Avengers was akin to drinking from a firehose.

Every waking moment was full - between orientation at the SHIELD Hospital, procedural trainings, mission briefings, and combat simulations, Theo hardly had a moment to breathe, much less think.

Either way, Theo had no interest in showing that the rapid pace was throwing her off her game. Instead, she bit her tongue and kept her wits about her, vigilant for even the slightest indication that something was amiss. Theo wouldn’t speak unless spoken to, and if spoken to she gave the impression of polite compliance - now that she was in the thick of things, stirring the pot would only make it harder to get this over with.

However, there was one element which she protested… Despite her insistence otherwise, part of Theo’s onboarding required being equipped with new armor. 

She hadn’t needed armor before, so it seemed silly. If anything, she needed clothes that let her move freely and without detection. However, Fury insisted that Theo needed additional protection in the event that her magic wasn’t enough. The result was Theo, standing in Tony Stark’s lab, regretting every decision that led her to that moment as the overly smug engineer combed over her appearance with a shit eating grin.

“So, Rapunzel-” Tony leaned back against a table in his lab, crossing his arms. “I hear you need some armor.”

“That depends on who you ask.” Theo’s eyes scanned the room as she crossed her arms, leaning her weight on one foot. “Fury sure thinks so. I’m not convinced.”

It seemed like a standard engineering lab. A mixture of concrete, steel, and glass surrounded them, while harsh lights glared down from above. Scattered around the lab were more computers and machines than anyone knew what to do with, and various employees mulling about as they worked on assorted tasks. One person sautered metal, while another ran tests on what Theo could only assume was the newest rendition of Tony’s infamous suit. Clattering keys, clanking metal, and multiple beeps echoed throughout the sterile space. A metallic smell, tinged with chemicals and burning filled the air.

“Well, that’s where I come in.” Tony winked, picking up some kind of glass tablet and waving it at her. “If you ask nicely, I might even let you customize it.” 

Theo rolled her eyes. “Asking you nicely sounds like too much work.”

“Don’t listen to him.” A woman appeared from around the corner, walking up to the pair with a swagger and a blinding smile that contrasted her umber skin. Her braided hair was twisted up into space buns, which combined with her brightly colored outfit made it painfully obvious just who Theo was speaking to. “I’ll make you better armor, and I’ll let you add whatever features you want without having to ask.” 

Shuri Udaku, the princess of Wakanda. 

For the first time that Theo could remember, she was, officially, starstruck.

“We haven’t officially met…” Theo offered a wry smile and nod to the princess, doing her best to keep her cool.

“I’m Shuri, princess of Wakanda and head of the Wakandan Design Group.” She stuck a hand out to shake, smiling brightly with just a hint of something amusing in her eyes. “Colonizing gave him a big ego, but what he would make is nothing compared to what I can make you.”

Theo couldn’t stifle the laugh that bubbled out of her from the dig at Tony.

“Oh, I like you. I’m Theo.” She took Shuri’s hand, offering a firm shake while praying her hands weren’t too sweaty.

Tony pouted, giving Shuri a dirty look; Shuri smirked at him.

“So what does this armor making process entail?” Theo glanced between the pair, waiting for further instruction.

“First, we’ll have you spar with one of our guys; get a sense for your style. From there, we’ll draw up a base set. You’ll give it a trial run, push the boundaries so we can see what works and what needs adjusting.” Tony explained, watching Theo as she continued observing her surroundings. “Then, we’ll make a final version.”

“Okay…” Given Shuri’s comments on building better armor, Theo suspected Shuri wasn’t her partner. Then again, it didn’t look like anyone there was ready to practice fighting - certainly none of the lab staff, who all but ignored Theo’s presence. Maybe she would be fighting Tony or one of his robots? 

“Okay what?” Tony tapped on the tablet a few times.

“Am I sparring now?” Theo raised her eyebrows at him expectantly as she shrugged, glancing around the room. “I don’t see anyone who looks like they’re ready to fight, much less a space to fight in. Unless you want me to break your equipment, which is probably pretty expensive… Then again, you’re the Avengers’ Sugar Daddy. It’s probably pocket change for you to replace these.”

Shuri snorted at Theo’s comment.

“You’re not fighting here.” Tony rolled his eyes, pressing away from the table and gesturing for Theo to follow. “We have a training lab. Your partner will meet you there.”  

That explained why she was told to come to the lab in clothes she could exercise in. Theo trailed behind, almost having to jog in order to keep up with Tony. “Who am I sparring against?”

Tony stopped in front of a door, pressing some sort of code into a keypad on the wall. The door hissed as it slid open, revealing none other than Captain America himself. 

Oh shit.

Steve smiled, waving to the trio as they entered. Theo, on the other hand, froze in place, her stomach dropping into her feet. Couldn’t they have picked someone with magic, at least? 

“He’ll go easy on you to start.” Tony winked, turning to lead them into another room. 

Theo’s face must have betrayed her reaction - this was not going to go well, but not for the reason Tony Stark thought. 

“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Theo gulped, eyes darting between the others.

“We’ll start simple.” Steve reassured her, following along with the group.

Fury must have held back on explaining Theo’s abilities if he was so calm about their impending duel.

The room that Tony brought them to was empty, save for a collection of cameras around the room and a table filled with sheets of stickers, each no larger than a pea. Mats covered the floor, presumably so that anyone who went down fighting was less likely to be hurt. 

Cute, but a few mats weren’t going to be much help when it came to fighting a mage.

“So, how this works: the cameras will track your motion.” After gesturing to cameras around the room, Tony held up a sheet of stickers. ”These will be stuck to you so we can get a sense of your movements. You fight, then we use the data to design your gear.” 

The thought of sensors stuck all over her body made her cringe. Of the many roles she expected to fill, lab rat was not one of them.

Fury fucking owed her for this. 

“Oh joy...” Theo sighed, resigning herself to her fate. “Fine, let’s do this.”

Shuri brushed past Tony, grabbing the sensors. “I will handle this - I have just the touch.” She smirked at Theo. As she began to place the sensors, she leaned into Theo and whispered, “Kick his ass - I can fix broken white boys.” 

Yes, Shuri was her kind of person.

Theo snickered, but held still so Shuri could continue placing sensors. Shuri made quick work of the task, her touch gentle but firm as she secured each device to Theo’s skin.

Once all the sensors were in place, they were ready to begin. 

“In the interest of full disclosure, I’ve never ‘just sparred’ before.” Theo spoke up, circling around Steve. 

She absolutely had sparred before - hundreds of times. But this way, if she accidentally went too far, she had an excuse. Besides, Steve didn’t have magic, and only fought with a shield.

Really, this was not a fair fight.

“I’m durable, don’t worry.” Steve offered a charming smile. “I can do this all day.”

Theo shook her head, gesturing with one hand to conjure her weapon. Runes slid down her arm, twisting around each other in the air until a blade of shadow appeared in her hand. “I’ve dulled my weapon so it’s not going to slice you open, at least.”

“Awfully kind,” Steve winked, lowering himself into a ready stance. “Ladies first.”

Well, here goes nothing.

Theo took a deep breath, stepping forward and offering the first swing. 

Steve leapt back, darting forward to attempt a blow of his own. 

Theo nimbly jumped to the side, swinging her blade down and landing clean on Steve’s back.

As Steve was knocked to the ground he spun around, attempting to kick out Theo’s feet from beneath her.

Theo leapt over his kick, pressing forward to a somersault in time to pop up and block a punch, taking another swing with her blade.

The two fell into a rhythm of trading blows. Steve certainly had his merits as a fighter - if they were in hand-to-hand combat, he easily could have kicked her ass. But this wasn’t hand to hand combat - Theo had her weapon to give her some distance, and if nothing else she was damn good at dodging anything and everything that attempted to hurt or kill her.

If this was all that was involved, she could do this all day… Well, as long as her lungs held up okay. 

“Are you going to use any of your magic?” Steve grunted, dodging a blow from Theo as he kicked at her.

“I try to only use it against other magic users.” Theo replied, bringing her blade down to block the kick. 

As if he took Theo’s response as a challenge, Steve picked up the pace. Still, Theo had yet to break a sweat. What she lacked in brute strength, she more than made up for in endurance and agility. 

The sensation of being watched by someone new led Theo to do a scan of her surroundings as she blocked a punch from Steve. 

Her instinct was spot on - not just one person, but three new people. Maybe it was a bit of ego, or a flair for the dramatic, but if there was a larger audience… Well, Theo could show off a little bit and it wouldn’t hurt anyone. 

“It seems we have an audience…” Theo commented, tumbling backwards before teleporting behind Steve and hitting him from behind.

“I thought you didn’t use magic against non-magic users.” Steve coughed, then spun around to find her smirking at him. 

Steve threw a punch, only to have it go right through her - it was an illusion. He frantically scanned the room again to find Theo leaning up against the wall, arms crossed as she dangled her sword from her right hand.

“Well, we have an audience.” She repeated with a wry shrug, pointing to the new arrivals with her blade. “Can’t let the new girl disappoint.”

Standing in the entrance, Wanda, Bucky, and Loki watched the two spar. Wanda appeared to be amused by the interaction; Bucky was laughing at Steve, and Loki… 

Well, Theo wasn’t sure if he was amused, unimpressed, or bored.

“Alright, so this should get interesting now, right?” Steve turned to face Theo again, straightening up and squaring his shoulders.

“Perhaps.” Theo kept a straight face as she pushed off the wall, preparing for Steve’s next move.

“Theo, remember what I said – I can fix broken white boys!” Shuri jeered.

A smirk flickered across Theo’s lips. 

Bucky doubled over, howling with laughter as Steve let out a huff.

As long as she stuck to the celestial magic, she’d be fine. 

Steve rushed towards her.

Adrenaline rushed through Theo’s veins. It had been a while since she’d really had a chance to show what she could do; the prospect of flexing her skills felt almost liberating.

No, she needed to keep it under wraps. 

Singing under her breath, a wisp of white shot through her sword. Once Theo stopped, the melody continued to reverberate from the blade, haunting yet almost impossible to hear.

Steve launched forward to throw a blow, but Theo was too quick - she spun and took him down from behind with the hilt of the sword.

“Is your sword singing?” 

“Magicians don’t reveal their secrets,” Theo winked. She jumped back, curling her fingers to gesture for Steve to come get her.

Steve rushed forward, only to find himself shocked with cosmic energy. What the-?” He froze mid-motion, dropping to the ground. “

Shit.

“I didn’t hurt you too bad, did I?” Theo dryly inquired, cocking her head to the side.

That was too strong.

“Well, it wasn’t pleasant…” Steve shook his head, staggering briefly before he returned to his feet. “It’s fine - I can do this all day.”

Yeah, that was stronger than it should have been. But why?

“Sorry, I’ll try to temper it a bit,” Theo apologized, while praying it wasn’t obvious that she used more than she intended.

“Don’t go easy on me.” Regaining his composure, Steve resumed charging at her and throwing blows. Theo took a more defensive approach, focusing solely on dodging blows instead of doing damage while she tried to figure out what made her spell so potent.

“Not to be weird, but what phase is the moon in right now?” Theo tried to make the question as casual as possible, hoping it would come off as small talk and nothing more.

“Don’t tell me you do that horoscope shit.” Tony groaned from the sideline.

“There’s nothing wrong with horoscopes, grandpa.” Theo feigned offense, but she was grateful for Tony’s ignorance as to why she might ask the question. “Besides, Astrology is more real than the stock market.”

Shuri snorted.

“It’s a new moon tonight,” Wanda answered. Theo glanced over to catch the Scarlet Witch staring at her phone, lips pursed as she studied whatever was on the screen.

Well, that explained the magic surge.

“Good to know.” Theo kept a casual tone to her voice, rhythmically moving as she dodged and parried Steve’s attacks.

They sparred for another few minutes; Theo continued to stay away from offensive spells, but occasionally threw in an illusion or teleported so they wouldn’t suspect anything. Even if she wasn’t giving them the best data to build her gear with, she wasn’t going to pull out all the stops until it was actually necessary.

Besides, she didn’t really need the armor in the first place.

“Alright Rapunzel, I think we’ve got enough data to start.” Tony announced, tapping the screen of his tablet with a flourish..

Steve dropped his offensive stance, straightening up while he caught his breath.

“Good match.” The friendly smile Steve flashed indicated that he didn’t seem too upset about being shocked.

“Likewise.” Theo returned the nod as her shadow blade vanished. 

All in all, it wasn’t the most intense workout she’d ever had, but she did get a bit sweaty and was a little out of breath. Maybe Steve was stronger than she gave him credit for. After all, he was a super soldier. 

Then again, she assumed that fighting a super soldier would require enough exertion to make her asthma flare up; given she was still breathing alright, perhaps he also went easy on her.

Whatever - she wasn’t going to dwell on the subject.

Shuri returned to help remove the sensors.

“You held back on him.” She raised an eyebrow at Theo, sending the sorceress a pointed glance before stepping behind Theo to remove the sensors on her back.

Unsure of how else to respond, Theo simply shrugged. “I don’t need to add to my body count.”

Shuri sighed, skepticism written on her features as she leaned around Theo to set the sensors on the table. Perhaps the princess had a better sense of Theo’s powers than she let on. “I told you, I can fix broken white boys.” 

Yeah, but she couldn’t fix a pile of dust.

“I don’t think killing Captain America would be a good way to start my tenure as an Avenger…” Theo raised a challenging brow.

Shuri laughed; apparently she thought it was a joke. Theo offered a thin smile.

“One of these days I will get you down here and test you without limits so I can design you the ultimate armor.” Shuri chided, though she still smiled at the newcomer.

Theo offered a curt nod. “Maybe.”

Shuri’s expression told Theo that she took the answer as a challenge.

At the sensation of a bead of sweat trickling down her temple, Theo grabbed the hem of her t-shirt and yanked it up to dry her skin. As she dropped the fabric, she caught Loki studying her. A sense of curiosity peeked through his piercing gaze, cool green eyes glinting beneath the lights. 

Theo wondered what ran through his mind. Was he trying to figure out if she was actually a threat? Or was he more focused on where she came from?

Once the sensors were off, Theo started towards the door. She had no interest in socializing, plus she wanted nothing more than to shower and wash the sticky, gritty sweat off her skin. 

“Hey Theo, we’re about to head to dinner - do you want to come?”

Enthusiasm colored Wanda’s voice; when Theo turned to face the witch she found Wanda smiling hesitantly, hands shoved in the pockets of her hoodie.

“I appreciate the offer, but I think I’m going to pass,” Theo feigned an interest in the invite, even as she turned it down. “I’m still getting settled in and all.” 

A pang of guilt shot up in Theo at the sight of Wanda’s falling face. She could empathize with the pain of rejection; there were countless times when Theo was a little girl when she asked Rae to play with her, but Rae would decline because she was busy with lessons and far too old to play games. Back then, Theo was too small to understand why, but she could still feel how her chest would twist from being turned down. 

This, however, was different. Between the appearances at her show, the game, and the invites to hang out, it was obvious that Wanda had ulterior motives. After all, Theo was there when Fury told the Avengers that their mission was to get Theo to stay - and what better way to rope her in than to try and be her friend?

Rather than dwell on the matter, she offered a small wave and hurried out of the lab.

This could not be over fast enough.

Lost big dreams that I really don't need Everything I love is gonna find a way to leave Got good friends that I never can see Always on the run while my plans are free I been staying up all night Shaking needles out my spine But the doctor says I'm fine Feels good to be alive but I hate my life

Living on-site was a non-negotiable of the deal (much to Theo’s dismay), but she had to admit it was convenient - she never had to worry about shit going down on the subway when her workplace was an elevator ride away. 

Regardless of where she actually lived, there was one thing she needed to do before anything else: set up a portal to her Mémère’s house. The ritual of creating one long-term portal was tedious, but once set up the long-term portal’s convenience far outweighed the nuisance. Theo visited the family’s matriarch often enough that having a travel method faster than public transit was a necessity, especially with the distance between them. After all, it wasn’t like she had the time to fly back and forth between northern Michigan and New York every weekend.

Creating the portal wasn’t hard; the big challenge was figuring out where to put it. She didn’t want it in her bedroom, since Mémère and Max occasionally used the portals she set up to come visit and the last thing she needed was for them to walk in on her in any number of compromising positions. However, she didn’t want to set it in a location where people would question why she had a misty oval in her wall. After an unnecessary amount of debate, she opted to place it along one of the walls in her main room and take advantage of some well-placed curtains to hide the addition.

With the portal in place, it was time for a field trip.

The crisp air of northern Michigan was a far cry from New York’s heavy, thick skies. It was easier to breathe - not just because there was a lot less pollution, which was notable for someone like Theo, whose lungs were sensitive to smog - but because the nearly silent, still world around her made it easier for the tension to melt from her shoulders and to relax with each inhale and exhale. Michigan was the opposite of New York City, a constantly bustling metropolis where it was all too easy to get lost in the shuffle. 

Theo stepped through the portal to find herself in her grandmother’s equipment shed. That was intentional - no one would think to look there for a portal. Weaving between the farm equipment, she pushed the worn wooden door open and stepped outside. 

Around her, the evergreens that towered above swayed in the breeze, wind whispering through the branches. In front of her stood the farmhouse, with white weathered siding, wide windows, and a wraparound porch that Theo had spent countless nights sitting on. To her left, a worn path led from the porch down to a small beach with a dock, while the waves of Lake Superior lapped up on the shore. She didn’t have to look behind her to know an old, worn out barn stood in its same place, though it had been years since any animals were kept inside.

Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted two vehicles parked along the dirt drive - a red pickup truck and a green subaru outback.

Max must have been visiting.

Theo crossed the distance and ascended onto the porch, approached the front door, gripped the worn brass door knob and turned the handle, pushing her way inside.

“Hello?” Poking her head inside, Theo glanced around the living room to find it empty. She stepped inside, closed the door, and toed off her shoes. The sound of clattering dishes echoed from the kitchen, while two voices floated above in animated conversation.

“Ah, my bichette!” A raspy voice called out, followed by the shuffling of feet. Just before Theo reached the hallway, a petite elderly woman appeared. 

Mémère had seen more than her fair share of life in her many years on Earth, and it showed. Her tan, papery skin held deep wrinkles and age spots dotted themselves across her cheeks and forehead. In the almost fifteen years since Theo had left for college, the matriarch of the Durand family had aged considerably - every time Theo saw her, she swore that Mémère shrunk another inch. Mémère moved considerably slower than in the past, undoubtedly her advanced age catching up to her. Still, she had a bright spark in her amber eyes and a sharp wit that could not be deterred. 

“Hi Mémère,” Theo greeted, embracing her grandmother. Though it had only been a week or so since they’d last been together, it seemed like the elderly woman’s bones were even more prominent, jutting into Theo’s flesh as they hugged. “I saw Max’s car outside - is he here too?”

“Of course I am.” Max appeared over Mémère’s shoulder, arching an eyebrow at his older cousin. “One of us has to keep things in order while you’re off playing superhero.”

“Oh come on, it’s not like–”

“Now now, I do not need you two squabbling to take up my Saturday,” Mémère said, pointedly glaring at the cousins before gesturing for everyone to enter the kitchen. “You both are doing wonderful things, and I’m happy to have you both home. I’ll put some coffee on and we can all catch up. Leenie, have you had lunch? I don’t have many options at the moment, but I can make sandwiches.”

“You’re not going to ask if I’ve had lunch?” Max scoffed, to which Mémère rolled her eyes. 

“My caneton, you’ve been here all morning. I know you haven’t had lunch.”

“Sandwich sounds lovely.” Theo answered, trying not to laugh at Max’s feigned offense.

As they stepped into the kitchen, everything was familiar - the same butcher block countertops, the same painted cabinets. Holiday cards were stuck to the fridge with magnets, and a picture of Theo at her college graduation still hung on the door. Things were so much simpler then.

“So, tell us all about your first days as an Avenger - are you settling in? Have you made any friends?” Mémère gave her a knowing wink, making her way to grab sandwich meat and cheese from the fridge. Theo retrieved plates out of the cabinet, setting them on the counter. 

Theo couldn’t stop herself from laughing at Mémère’s questions. “I’m not really there to make friends, Mémère.”

“No, but you have to live and work with them.” Even if she moved a bit slower than she did ten years ago, Mémère was still sharp enough to pick up on Theo’s unspoken hesitations. “You’d be smart to befriend them, or you may be miserable for the foreseeable future.” 

Sure, Mémère was probably right, but Theo was not about to admit that aloud.

“How are you handling things out here?” Theo changed the subject. “The shed looks like it’s seen better days.”

“Oh, things are fine - Max comes by almost daily to help with things around the farm; he also helps with running errands and such.” Mémère waved a hand dismissively, while Max gave Theo a shit eating grin. “Father Tim - you remember him - he’s also around a lot to help with things.”

Surprisingly, Max did not interject with some snarky comment.

Theo nodded. “And you’ve been okay, health-wise?”

Mémère smiled, though Theo picked up a hint of sadness in her eyes. “I’m fine, bichette. Still kicking. Still here to tease you endlessly.”

Theo laughed softly, shaking her head. “I can’t imagine you doing anything else...”

A silence fell in the room as the final condiments were set out on the countertop.

“This is less fancy than the restaurants you probably go to in New York, but hopefully it still tastes good.” Mémère joked, gesturing to the spread of sandwich toppings. “I’ll let you build your own, so it’s just how you want.”

Theo laughed. “Just because I agreed to join the Avengers doesn’t mean I now scoff at a sandwich.”

While Theo and Max put their sandwiches together, Mémère made sure they each had a cup of coffee poured and at the table. Once the trio assembled their meals, they each took their regular chairs at the kitchen table.

“What have you done so far?”

“Nothing exciting, really.” Theo palmed the ceramic mug in front of her, eyes following the curls of steam as they floated upward. “A lot of onboarding crap. I was supposed to spar with Captain America and that was, uh, interesting. Next week I’m supposed to start doing interviews and shit, but I don’t really get why I’d waste my time with those when I have actual work to do.”

“Told you, playing superhero.” Max interjected, to which Theo scowled.

“I don’t think it’s a waste.” Mémère mused. “Now the world can learn of your gifts. You’ve spent far too long trying to conceal them.”

Mémère always thought the best of Theo, and that went for her magic as well. Despite disagreeing, Theo gave up on trying to convince her otherwise a long time ago.

“Are they gifts?” Theo pondered, studying the barn through the window panes. “There are a lot of people who think they’re curses.”

“They are what you choose to make them.” Mémère reminded her granddaughter. “You’ve chosen to make them gifts, to use them to help people.”

Theo nodded, though she didn’t entirely agree with Mémère’s assessment. She knew Max probably didn’t agree either. The council certainly didn’t.

“How’s work, Max?” Theo tried to change the subject. 

“It’s fine.” Max paused to take a bite of his sandwich. “No complaints.”

“And Ellie, Katie? How are they?”

“Good. Katie’s daycare is now preparing her to start preschool.”

Theo nearly dropped her coffee cup at the news.

“Seriously? She’s a toddler.”

“She’s three, and she’s way ahead of her developmental milestones. The staff think it’s a good idea. Ellie agrees. She’s a pediatrician, so it’s her job to know that kind of stuff.” Max shrugged as if he was completely unaffected by the prospect of his child starting preschool.

“This is what happens when two doctors have a baby, I guess.” Theo muttered to herself. 

Theo may have been the one in the Avengers, but Max was always the responsible and cautious one. It was pretty common for the council members to lament that Theo was the next in line - they claimed it was because she was a loose cannon and unpredictable; that wasn’t the real reason, but none of them would admit the truth to Theo or Mémère’s faces. Still, they weren’t wrong when they pointed out that Max was steadfast and rational. He naturally embodied the characteristics of a wise leader.

Maybe that’s why he was so pissy about her accepting the Avengers gig - until that point, Theo was the one living in Max’s shadow.

Mémère must have sensed the tension between cousins, because she took over the conversation from there. Even if things between Theo and Max were always tense, conversation with Mémère came easily. Beyond trying to catch up on what had happened in Michigan since Theo’s last visit, Mémère had plenty of her own questions about Theo’s transition to being an Avenger. 

Even if they weren’t Theo’s favorite questions, she owed Mémère real answers.

Once they finished their sandwiches, Theo stood and collected the dirty plates, bringing them to the sink so she could wash them.

“How long are you visiting for?” Mémère asked, still sitting at the table.

“Just the afternoon - figured I’d use my first moment of free time since starting to see how things were here, plus grab some stuff to bring back with me.” Theo said, letting out a sigh. “I didn’t tell anyone I was leaving, so I imagine I don’t have long before they start looking for me. They’re kind of obsessive like that.”

“Well, you know where your room is - It’s always ready, whenever you need it. Feel free to head up whenever.”

Given Theo could hardly sneak away for an afternoon, she found it hard to imagine she’d need the bed anytime soon.

Setting the last plate on the drying rack, Theo made her way upstairs. Over all the years she had been here, the whole house had barely changed - same furniture, same photos, same faded wallpaper covering the walls. Her feet carried her down the hall, almost on autopilot as she made her way to her old bedroom. Standing in front of the entrance, Theo took a deep breath, turned the knob and opened the door. 

Inside, the room was still a breath of fresh air - pale yellow walls, big windows with sheer curtains. A queen size bed with a patchwork quilt sat in one corner; one of Theo’s old guitars from when she was here before remained in another corner. Her old Van Gogh poster was still on the wall above her dresser.

Despite remaining exactly as she left it, there was no dust to be found - Mémère must have cleaned the room while she was gone.

She always kept the room ready in case Theo needed to come home.

Theo’s heart twisted at the thought. It was almost enough for her to say “fuck it” and stay – at least for one night. After all, it had been a long time since she actually visited for more than a day or two, and the Avengers needed her, not the other way around; she could make them wait.

However, her cell phone quickly reminded her that wasn’t an option.

“Anyone seen Rapunzel?” The Avengers group chat lit up.

Theo rolled her eyes, but replied anyway.  “Visiting a friend. Be back later.”

Whether she wanted to or not, Theo knew - the show must go on.

So tied up and tired of this self-inflicted fight In spite of, I light up, to leave my demons I tell myself I'm fine while I'm looking for a sign Is this body even mine? Feels good to be alive but I hate my life

[mesolawcenter]

What Is Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma in 2024? | Learn More

Introduction Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is one of the three main types of mesothelioma, known for its aggressive nature and poor prognosis. It differs significantly from other types of mesothelioma due to its cell structure, making it more challenging to diagnose and treat. This article delves into sarcomatoid mesothelioma, its characteristics, symptoms, and treatment options.

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1. What Is Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma? Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is a rare subtype that occurs in the mesothelial cells lining organs, especially the lungs.

Cell structure: Spindle-shaped cells that grow more rapidly than other mesothelioma types.

Prevalence: Accounts for about 10-20% of mesothelioma cases.

2. How Does It Differ from Epithelioid Mesothelioma? Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is more aggressive and harder to treat than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Epithelioid mesothelioma: Has a better response to treatment and a more structured cell arrangement.

Sarcomatoid: Cells are disorganized, leading to a faster spread.

3. What Are the Symptoms of Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma? Symptoms are similar to other mesothelioma types but tend to progress more rapidly.

Common symptoms: Shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue.

Advanced signs: Weight loss, difficulty swallowing, fluid buildup.

4. How Is Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma Diagnosed? Diagnosing sarcomatoid mesothelioma can be difficult due to its resemblance to other cancers.

Imaging tests: CT scans, MRIs to detect tumor location.

Biopsies: Essential for confirming cell type through microscopic examination.

5. What Are the Treatment Options for Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma? Treatment focuses on slowing the disease’s progression and managing symptoms.

Common approaches: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, palliative care.

Surgery: Rarely an option due to the spread and structure of sarcomatoid cells.

6. Why Is the Prognosis for Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma Poor? Its aggressive nature and resistance to treatment contribute to a challenging prognosis.

Median survival time: Ranges from 6 to 12 months post-diagnosis.

Research focus: New therapies and clinical trials aim to improve outcomes.

Conclusion Sarcomatoid mesothelioma presents significant challenges due to its aggressive cell structure and rapid progression. Understanding its characteristics and pursuing early diagnosis can help in managing symptoms and exploring treatment options.

FAQs

Is sarcomatoid mesothelioma more aggressive than other types? Yes, it tends to grow and spread faster than other mesothelioma types, making it harder to treat.

Can sarcomatoid mesothelioma be misdiagnosed? Yes, its cell structure can resemble other types of cancers, leading to potential misdiagnosis.

What is the best treatment for sarcomatoid mesothelioma? There is no definitive best treatment, but a combination of chemotherapy and radiation is commonly used.

Is sarcomatoid mesothelioma linked to asbestos exposure? Yes, like other mesothelioma types, asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.

Can sarcomatoid mesothelioma occur outside of the lungs? It primarily affects the lungs but can also occur in the lining of the abdomen or heart.

Are there any new treatments for sarcomatoid mesothelioma? Immunotherapy and clinical trials are being explored for more effective treatment options.

[best-testing-lab-uae]

The Role of Antibiotic Testing Labs in Dubai's Food Safety Regulations | +971 554747210

In today's globalized world, ensuring food safety is a paramount concern for consumers, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies alike. The presence of antibiotic residues in food products has raised significant public health concerns, leading to a need for stringent testing and regulation. In Dubai, antibiotic testing lab play a vital role in upholding food safety regulations, contributing to the protection of public health and facilitating trade. This blog explores the essential functions of these labs, the methodologies they employ, and their contributions to Dubai's food safety landscape.

Understanding the Importance of Antibiotic Testing

Antibiotic testing is crucial for detecting the presence of harmful residues in food, particularly in meat and dairy products. The use of antibiotics in agriculture can lead to residue accumulation in food products, posing serious health risks to consumers. These risks include allergic reactions, disruptions in gut microbiota, and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can render common infections harder to treat. Thus, testing for antibiotic residues is not just a regulatory requirement; it is a public health imperative.

Key Roles of Antibiotic Testing Labs

1. Ensuring Compliance with Local and International Regulations

Dubai's antibiotic testing labs are at the forefront of ensuring that food products comply with local and international safety standards. Regulatory bodies, such as the Dubai Municipality and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, set stringent guidelines for permissible levels of antibiotic residues in food products.

Local Standards: The UAE has implemented the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) standards, which outline acceptable limits for antibiotic residues in food items. Antibiotic testing labs play a crucial role in monitoring compliance with these regulations.

International Standards: Many countries have their own regulations regarding food safety, guided by international organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Codex Alimentarius Commission. Compliance with these standards is essential for facilitating trade and protecting consumer health.

2. Conducting Comprehensive Testing

Antibiotic testing labs utilize advanced methodologies to detect antibiotic residues in various food products. Some of the primary testing techniques include:

A. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

HPLC is a widely used technique for separating and quantifying different antibiotic residues in food samples. This method allows for precise detection of multiple antibiotics simultaneously, making it ideal for comprehensive testing.

B. Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS)

LC-MS combines the strengths of liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry to provide high sensitivity and specificity in detecting antibiotic residues. This method is particularly effective for analyzing complex food matrices, ensuring accurate results even in trace amounts.

C. Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)

ELISA is a rapid screening method that detects specific antibiotic residues using antibody-antigen interactions. This technique is often employed for preliminary testing due to its speed and cost-effectiveness.

3. Supporting Food Safety Initiatives

Antibiotic testing labs in Dubai are essential for supporting various food safety initiatives aimed at ensuring consumer protection. These initiatives include:

A. Surveillance Programs

Through ongoing surveillance programs, antibiotic testing labs monitor food products available in the market. These programs are designed to identify potential risks and ensure that food products meet safety standards. Regular testing helps detect non-compliance early, preventing contaminated products from reaching consumers.

B. Risk Assessment and Management

By analyzing data collected from testing, labs can identify trends in antibiotic residue presence and assess potential risks associated with specific food products. This information is vital for regulatory authorities to develop risk management strategies and implement necessary regulations.

C. Educating Stakeholders

Antibiotic testing labs also play a role in educating food producers, suppliers, and consumers about the importance of responsible antibiotic use in agriculture. By providing training and resources, labs help stakeholders understand the significance of compliance with food safety regulations.

4. Facilitating International Trade

Dubai is a global trading hub, and compliance with international food safety standards is critical for accessing global markets. Antibiotic testing labs contribute to this by:

A. Providing Certification

Testing labs offer certification services that confirm food products meet local and international safety standards. This certification is crucial for food manufacturers seeking to export their products, as it assures importing countries of the safety and quality of the food.

B. Enhancing Market Access

By ensuring that food products comply with stringent safety regulations, antibiotic testing labs enhance market access for local producers. This not only benefits businesses but also boosts the local economy by fostering trade relationships.

5. Addressing Public Health Concerns

Antibiotic testing labs are instrumental in addressing public health concerns related to antibiotic resistance. By monitoring food products for antibiotic residues, these labs help mitigate the risks associated with the overuse of antibiotics in agriculture.

A. Public Awareness Campaigns

Testing labs often engage in public awareness campaigns to educate consumers about the risks of antibiotic residues in food. These campaigns emphasize the importance of sourcing food from reliable sources and encourage responsible antibiotic use in agriculture.

B. Collaborating with Health Authorities

Collaboration with health authorities enables testing labs to share data and insights related to antibiotic resistance. This information is vital for developing public health policies and strategies to combat antibiotic resistance effectively.

Future Directions for Antibiotic Testing Labs in Dubai

As the landscape of food safety regulations evolves, antibiotic testing labs in Dubai must adapt to emerging challenges and technologies. Future directions may include:

Integration of Advanced Technologies: The incorporation of technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning can enhance data analysis, improve testing accuracy, and predict trends in antibiotic resistance.

Strengthening International Collaborations: Collaborating with global testing labs and organizations can facilitate knowledge sharing and the adoption of best practices in food safety testing.

Expanding Testing Capabilities: As new antibiotics are developed and used in agriculture, labs must continuously expand their testing capabilities to ensure comprehensive monitoring of food safety.

Emphasizing Sustainable Practices: Encouraging sustainable agricultural practices among food producers will help reduce the reliance on antibiotics, contributing to overall public health and safety.

Conclusion

Antibiotic testing labs in Dubai play a crucial role in upholding food safety regulations and protecting public health. By ensuring compliance with local and international standards, conducting comprehensive testing, supporting food safety initiatives, facilitating international trade, and addressing public health concerns, these labs are instrumental in creating a safe food supply chain. As the challenges of food safety continue to evolve, Dubai's antibiotic testing labs will remain at the forefront of ensuring that consumers have access to safe, high-quality food products, thereby contributing to the well-being of the community and the global marketplace.

[kbc-78]

Warning Signs of Heart Valve Disease

Heart valve disease occurs when one or more of the heart’s valves do not function properly, disrupting blood flow through the heart and to the rest of the body. Recognizing the warning signs early is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. For expert evaluation and care, consult Dr. Kartik Bhosale, a leading Heart Specialist in Pune.Here are the key symptoms and warning signs of heart valve disease:

Shortness of Breath:

Description: Difficulty breathing during normal activities or while lying down.

Why it happens: Valves that don’t open or close properly can cause the heart to work harder, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs, which makes breathing difficult.

Fatigue and Weakness:

Description: Feeling unusually tired or weak, especially during activities that didn’t cause fatigue before.

Why it happens: Reduced blood flow from the heart can lead to lower oxygen levels in the body, resulting in fatigue.

Swelling (Edema):

Description: Swelling in the ankles, feet, legs, or abdomen.

Why it happens: Poor valve function can cause blood to back up in the veins, leading to fluid retention and swelling.

Chest Pain or Discomfort:

Description: Pain or discomfort in the chest, which may feel like pressure, tightness, or a squeezing sensation.

Why it happens: Insufficient blood flow to the coronary arteries or the heart working harder than normal can cause chest pain.

Irregular Heartbeat (Arrhythmia):

Description: Sensation of a rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat.

Why it happens: Damaged valves can disrupt the heart’s normal rhythm, leading to palpitations or arrhythmias.

Dizziness or Fainting:

Description: Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or fainting.

Why it happens: Inadequate blood flow due to valve disease can reduce the oxygen supply to the brain, causing dizziness or fainting spells.

Heart Murmur:

Description: An unusual sound is heard during a heartbeat, often described as a whooshing or swishing noise.

Why it happens: Turbulent blood flow through a faulty valve can produce a murmur, detectable through a stethoscope.

Unexplained Weight Gain:

Description: Rapid weight gain over a short period.

Why it happens: Fluid retention due to heart valve disease can lead to noticeable weight gain.

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any symptoms of heart valve disease, it’s important to consult with Dr. Kartk Bhosale. Early detection and treatment can prevent complications and improve outcomes. Dr. Kartik Bhosale, a renowned Chest Pain Specialist in Pune, can provide a thorough evaluation, including tests like an echocardiogram, electrocardiogram (ECG), or chest X-ray, to diagnose the condition accurately.

Risk Factors:

Dr. Kartik Bhosale emphasizes recognizing risk factors for early heart condition detection and effective management.

Age: Risk increases with age.

History of heart conditions: Previous heart attack, heart disease, or rheumatic fever.

Congenital heart defects: Being born with heart valve abnormalities.

Infections: Conditions like endocarditis can damage heart valves.

Chronic conditions: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes.

Conclusion:

Heart valve disease can seriously affect your health if untreated. Dr. Kartik Bhosale, Best Cardiologist in Pune, advises that recognizing warning signs and seeking prompt care can help manage the condition and maintain heart health. Regular check-ups and awareness of risk factors are crucial for early diagnosis. Consult Dr. Kartik Bhosale if you have any heart health concerns.

[aimixcrushingsolution]

Common Challenges and Solutions in Limestone Crushing Operations

Limestone is a crucial raw material in various industries, particularly in construction, agriculture, and manufacturing. However, the process of extracting and crushing limestone is fraught with challenges that can hinder productivity and efficiency. These challenges, if not adequately addressed, can lead to significant downtime, increased operational costs, and reduced product quality. Understanding these common issues and implementing effective solutions is vital for optimizing limestone crushing operations and ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality materials.

Material Hardness and Equipment Wear

Understanding the Impact of Limestone Hardness

Limestone, while generally considered a relatively soft sedimentary rock, can vary significantly in hardness depending on its mineral composition. This variability in hardness presents a challenge in the crushing process, as harder limestone can cause increased wear and tear on crushing equipment. Jaw crushers, impact crushers, and cone crushers, commonly used in limestone crushing, can suffer from rapid wear of critical components like liners and blow bars when processing harder limestone. To mitigate this issue, it is essential to conduct thorough material testing before the crushing process begins. By understanding the specific hardness and abrasiveness of the limestone being processed, operators can select the most appropriate crushing equipment and wear-resistant materials. Additionally, implementing a regular maintenance schedule and using high-quality wear parts can extend the lifespan of crushing equipment, reducing the frequency of costly replacements and minimizing downtime.

Optimizing Equipment Maintenance

Regular maintenance is critical to addressing the wear caused by varying limestone hardness. This includes routine inspections of crushers and the replacement of worn parts before they fail. Predictive maintenance techniques, such as vibration analysis and thermography, can be used to detect early signs of equipment fatigue and prevent unexpected breakdowns. Investing in training for maintenance personnel to recognize and respond to wear patterns is also a prudent strategy, ensuring that wear-related challenges are managed proactively. Find more.

Material Handling and Dust Control

Challenges in Efficient Material Handling

Efficient material handling is another common challenge in limestone crushing operations. Limestone’s tendency to form sticky, cohesive masses can lead to blockages in hoppers, conveyors, and screens, disrupting the continuous flow of material through the crushing plant. These blockages can slow down production, increase the risk of equipment damage, and necessitate frequent manual intervention to clear obstructions. To address this, it is crucial to design material handling systems that minimize the risk of blockages. This can include using larger feed openings, incorporating vibrating grizzly feeders to pre-screen material, and employing conveyors with steep inclines to prevent material buildup. Additionally, implementing automated systems to monitor and control material flow can reduce the likelihood of blockages and improve overall operational efficiency.

Effective Dust Control Measures

Dust generation is an inevitable byproduct of limestone crushing operations, and it presents significant health, safety, and environmental challenges. Excessive dust can cause respiratory issues for workers, reduce visibility on-site, and lead to environmental compliance issues. Furthermore, dust can settle on machinery, leading to accelerated wear and the potential for equipment malfunction. To combat dust, operators should implement comprehensive dust control measures, including water sprays, dust suppression systems, and enclosed conveyors. Installing dust collectors and filters in critical areas can also help capture airborne particles before they spread. Regularly cleaning and maintaining dust control equipment ensures its effectiveness and contributes to a safer, more compliant work environment.

Consistency and Quality of Crushed Limestone

Achieving Uniform Product Quality

Consistency in the size and quality of crushed limestone is paramount, particularly when the material is destined for use in critical applications such as concrete production or road construction. However, achieving uniformity can be challenging due to variations in feed size, crusher settings, and equipment performance. Inconsistent product quality can lead to customer dissatisfaction and potential rejection of material, impacting profitability. To ensure consistent product quality, operators should implement rigorous quality control measures throughout the crushing process. This includes regularly calibrating crushers to maintain the desired output size and using screening equipment to separate oversized or undersized particles. Additionally, adopting real-time monitoring technologies can provide immediate feedback on product quality, allowing operators to make adjustments on the fly and maintain consistent output.

Leveraging Advanced Technologies

The use of advanced technologies, such as automated control systems and machine learning algorithms, can further enhance the consistency of crushed limestone. These technologies can optimize crusher settings based on real-time data, ensuring that the material meets the required specifications with minimal human intervention. Investing in such technologies can lead to significant improvements in product quality, operational efficiency, and overall customer satisfaction. In conclusion, the challenges associated with limestone crushing operations—material hardness, equipment wear, material handling issues, dust control, and achieving consistent product quality—can be effectively managed with the right strategies and technologies. By addressing these challenges proactively, operators can optimize their crushing processes, reduce operational costs, and deliver high-quality limestone products that meet industry standards and customer expectations.

[highdemandelectrical]

8 Benefits of Modular Electrical Fit Out Systems for Commercial Buildings

Modular commercial electrical fitouts Sydney systems have emerged as a revolutionary approach to managing electrical installations in commercial buildings. These systems offer a range of advantages over traditional wiring methods, making them increasingly popular among architects, engineers, and building owners. Here are eight key benefits of modular electrical fit out systems for commercial buildings: 

Flexibility and Scalability

One of the most significant benefits of modular electrical systems is their flexibility and scalability. As commercial buildings often undergo changes to meet evolving business needs, the ability to easily reconfigure the electrical layout is crucial. Modular systems allow for quick adjustments without extensive rewiring, making it simple to add, remove, or relocate electrical components.

This flexibility extends to the integration of new technologies. With the rapid advancement of smart building technologies, having an electrical system that can seamlessly incorporate new innovations without significant disruptions is invaluable. For example, adding new lighting controls, sensors, or even upgrading the building’s automation systems can be done more efficiently with modular setups.

Enhanced Safety

Safety is paramount in any electrical installation. Modular systems are designed and manufactured under strict quality control standards, ensuring a high level of safety. The pre-assembled nature of these systems reduces the risk of human error during installation, and the use of standardised components minimises potential hazards.

Modular systems often incorporate advanced safety features such as circuit breakers, surge protectors, and fault detection systems. These components are designed to work together seamlessly, providing a robust safety net that is harder to achieve with traditional wiring. In environments where safety is critical, such as healthcare facilities or data centres, this benefit is particularly important.

Reduced Installation Time

Modular systems come pre-assembled and pre-tested, which significantly reduces the time required for installation. This is particularly beneficial for commercial projects where time is a critical factor. Faster installation not only shortens project timelines but also minimises disruption to ongoing business operations.

The reduction in installation time also translates to cost savings. Labour costs are lower because fewer hours are needed for installation, and the faster turnaround means businesses can start operations sooner. For sectors where every day counts towards revenue, this advantage is particularly compelling.

Cost Efficiency

While the initial investment in modular electrical systems might be higher than traditional wiring methods, the long-term cost savings are substantial. Reduced labour costs, minimised downtime, and lower maintenance expenses contribute to overall cost efficiency. Additionally, the ability to quickly reconfigure the system without major investments further enhances its economic benefits.

Consider the total cost of ownership when evaluating these systems. Over time, the savings from reduced energy consumption, fewer disruptions, and less frequent maintenance can outweigh the initial costs. For large commercial buildings, these savings can be quite significant, impacting the overall financial health of the operation.

Simplified Maintenance

Maintenance of modular electrical systems is straightforward and less time-consuming compared to traditional systems. The modular design allows for easy access to individual components, facilitating quick identification and resolution of issues. This reduces downtime and ensures that electrical systems remain operational with minimal disruption.

In addition to easier access, modular systems often include diagnostic features that can alert maintenance personnel to potential issues before they become major problems. Predictive maintenance is easier to implement with modular systems, as components can be replaced or upgraded without affecting the entire system.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Modular electrical systems can be designed with energy efficiency in mind. These systems often incorporate advanced technologies such as smart sensors and automated controls, which optimise energy usage and reduce wastage. Improved energy efficiency not only lowers operational costs but also contributes to sustainability goals.

Energy-efficient systems are not just good for the environment; they are also good for the bottom line. With rising energy costs, businesses are increasingly looking for ways to reduce their consumption. Modular systems provide a pathway to achieving these goals, offering features such as occupancy sensors, daylight harvesting, and demand response capabilities.

Future-Proofing

With rapid advancements in technology, commercial buildings need electrical systems that can accommodate future upgrades. Modular systems are inherently adaptable, making it easy to integrate new technologies and innovations without overhauling the entire system. This future-proofing capability ensures that buildings remain up-to-date with the latest electrical standards and practices.

The ability to future-proof is particularly important in sectors such as technology and manufacturing, where staying current with the latest advancements is essential for maintaining competitiveness. Modular systems allow for easy upgrades and expansions, ensuring that the electrical infrastructure can support new equipment, technologies, and processes.

Aesthetic and Space Efficiency

Modular electrical systems are designed to be compact and discreet, which enhances the aesthetic appeal of commercial spaces. The streamlined design reduces clutter and makes better use of available space, creating a cleaner and more organised environment. This is particularly important in modern commercial buildings where aesthetics and functionality go hand in hand.

In addition to aesthetics, space efficiency is crucial in commercial buildings where every square foot counts. Modular systems can be designed to fit within existing architectural elements, reducing the need for bulky conduit runs and large electrical rooms. This frees up valuable space for other uses, such as additional workstations or storage areas.

The adoption of modular electrical fitout systems in commercial buildings offers numerous advantages, ranging from flexibility and cost efficiency to improved safety and energy efficiency. As businesses continue to seek innovative solutions to meet their dynamic needs, modular systems stand out as a forward-thinking approach that delivers significant long-term benefits. By choosing modular electrical fit out systems, commercial building owners and managers can ensure their facilities are equipped to handle the demands of today and the challenges of tomorrow.

[oliviadlima]

Communication Platform-as-a-Service (CPaaS) Market Growth, Share, Analysis

According to a new report published by Allied Market Research, titled, “Communication Platform-as-a-Service (CPaaS) Market” was valued at $10.2 billion in 2021, and is estimated to reach $80.2 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 23.1% from 2022 to 2031.

CPaaS Industry is a cybersecurity defense practice that aims to deceive attackers by distributing a collection of traps and decoys across a system’s infrastructure to imitate genuine assets. The aim of communication platform as a service is to prevent a cybercriminal that has managed to infiltrate a network from doing any significant damage.

Furthermore, growing trend of mobility and BYOD as well as demand for personalized and streamlined customer interaction to achieve high customer satisfaction is boosting the growth of the global CPaaS market. In addition, increase in use of chat bot sales in communication platform as a service positively impacts the growth of the communication platform-as-a-service market. However, internet bandwidth & technical glitch issues and increasing security concerns are hampering the communication platform-as-a-service market growth. On the contrary, increase in use of technological advancement is expected to offer remunerative opportunities for expansion during the communication platform-as-a-service market forecast.

Depending on enterprise size, the large enterprise segment holds the largest communication platform-as-a-service market share as large enterprises are adopting communication platform as a service to protect all their infrastructures. However, the SMEs segment is expected to grow at the highest rate during the forecast period, owing to increase adoption of cloud computing in the past few years.

Region-wise, the communication platform-as-a-service market size was dominated by North America in 2021, and is expected to retain its position during the forecast period, owing to, increase demand for sophisticated communication platform technologies. However, Asia-Pacific is expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period, owing to increasing government investments in digital transformation.

The CPaaS market size has witnessed stable growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, owing to rise in demand for digital support, fraud detection solutions, and various other solutions during the pandemic situation. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in changes in model performance, as more continuous monitoring and validation is required to mitigate various types of risks, compared to static validation and testing methods, which, in turn, drive the development of advanced machine learning models. In addition, with rapid digital transformation, various governments have introduced stringent regulations to protect end users data such as General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). However, COVID-19 pandemic is making it even harder for larger companies to keep pace, and even more difficult for midsize and smaller companies to adopt AI and cloud technologies, owing to long development timelines and high investment requirements. 

Inquiry Before Buying: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/47844

In addition, with the pandemic eventually receding, sales and service organizations will have to continue accommodating new attitudes and behaviors and take immediate action to meet customer expectations in the post-crisis era. Furthermore, the telecom sector, in particular, is playing a vital role across the globe to support the digital infrastructure of countries amid the COVID-19 pandemic. For instance, according to Fujitsu’s Global Digital Transformation Survey in 2021, offline organizations were damaged more, while online organizations witnessed growth in online demand and an increase in revenue. 69% of the business leaders from online organizations have indicated that they witnessed an increase in their business revenue in 2020. In contrast, 53% of offline organizations saw a drop in revenues. Furthermore, technologies such as IoT, chatbots, and other voice assistants collate massive volume of data to generate significant insights, which can provide cost-saving opportunities, thus propelling the growth of the market. Moreover, investments in deep learning is becoming popular day-by-day, owing to increase in attention toward data to help organizations to find out the future performance of the firm to take corrective measures at an early stage in case of any probable crisis in future, which, in turn, is contributing toward the growth of the market. Furthermore, algorithms used for getting meaningful insights from real-time and historical data are helping enterprises in handling various critical issues related to customer insights during the COVID-19 pandemic, which is driving the growth of the market. With the rapid spread of COVID-19, majority of people faced sudden surges in demand for financial resources, owing to sudden increase in panic among public, which, in turn, increased the number of transactions performed at a time. This, in turn, augmented the demand for AI and advanced technology in customer engagement solution to smoothly regulate the delay. Thus, these are the factors driving the growth of the market during COVID-19 pandemic.

KEY FINDINGS OF THE STUDY

By enterprise size, the large enterprise segment accounted for the largest communication platform as a service market share in 2021.

Region wise, North America generated highest revenue in 2021.

Depending on component, the solution segment generated the highest revenue in 2021.

The key players profiled in the communication platform-as-a-service market analysis are are Accenture, 8x8 Inc., ALE International, Avaya Inc., Bandwidth Inc., Infobip Ltd., IntelePeer Cloud Communications LLC, Plivo Inc., Sinch, Twilio Inc., and Vonage America, LLC. These players have adopted various strategies to increase their market penetration and strengthen their position in the communication platform-as-a-service industry.

About Us: Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of “Market Research Reports Insights” and “Business Intelligence Solutions.” AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain.

[aditi-jagtap-pune]

Early Intervention for Heart Disease in Babies: Aditi Jagtap Pune

The birth of a baby is a moment of joy and celebration for families. However, when a child is born with a heart defect, it can be a devastating and challenging experience. Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common birth defect, affecting approximately 1 in every 100 newborns worldwide. The good news is that with early intervention and advancements in medical technology, many babies born with heart disease can lead healthy and fulfilling lives. In this blog, we will explore the importance of early intervention for heart disease in babies, the types of heart defects they may face, and the cutting-edge treatments available to give them a fighting chance at a normal life.

Understanding Congenital Heart Disease

As per Aditi Jagtap pune, Congenital heart disease refers to a range of structural heart defects that occur before birth. These defects can affect the heart’s walls, valves, or blood vessels, leading to improper blood flow. While some defects are minor and may not require treatment, others can be life-threatening if left untreated. Understanding the different types of congenital heart defects is crucial for early diagnosis and intervention.

Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD): VSD is the most common type of congenital heart defect. It involves a hole in the wall (septum) that separates the heart’s lower chambers (ventricles). This hole can disrupt normal blood flow, causing the heart to work harder and potentially leading to heart failure.

Atrial Septal Defect (ASD): ASD is another common defect, where there is a hole in the septum that separates the heart’s upper chambers (atria). This condition can cause oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood to mix, leading to oxygen deficiency in the body.

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF): TOF is a complex heart defect involving four abnormalities: a ventricular septal defect, a narrowed pulmonary valve, an enlarged right ventricle, and an aorta that overrides the ventricular septal defect. Children with TOF may experience severe cyanosis (bluish skin due to low oxygen) and require immediate intervention.

Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA): In TGA, the two main arteries that carry blood out of the heart are reversed, leading to oxygen-rich blood returning to the lungs and oxygen-poor blood circulating throughout the body. This defect often necessitates surgery shortly after birth.

Early Diagnosis is Key

Early diagnosis of congenital heart disease is critical for effective intervention. While some heart defects can be detected during routine prenatal ultrasounds, others may not become apparent until after birth. Newborns are screened for CHD using pulse oximetry, a non-invasive test that measures the oxygen levels in the blood. Abnormal readings can be an indicator of a heart problem, prompting further evaluation.

In some cases, symptoms of congenital heart disease may not manifest until a baby is a few weeks or months old. These symptoms can include:

Rapid breathing

Difficulty feeding and poor weight gain

Bluish skin or lips (cyanosis)

Fatigue or excessive sweating during feeds

Persistent cough or wheezing

Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or around the eyes

Parents and caregivers should be vigilant for these signs and seek medical attention promptly if they notice any concerning symptoms in their infant, says Dr. Ranjit Jagtap Daughter.

Early Intervention and Treatment Options

Once a congenital heart defect is diagnosed, early intervention becomes paramount. Treatment options depend on the type and severity of the defect but may include:

Medications: Some infants with heart defects may require medications to help the heart work more efficiently, reduce fluid retention, or control blood pressure.

Catheter-Based Procedures: Many congenital heart defects can be treated using minimally invasive catheter-based procedures. Cardiac catheterization involves threading a thin tube (catheter) through blood vessels to the heart, where the defect can be repaired or closed.

Open-Heart Surgery: In more complex cases, open-heart surgery may be necessary to correct the defect. Surgeons can repair or replace heart valves, close holes in the heart, or reconstruct malformed blood vessels.

Heart Transplant: In rare cases where the heart defect is severe and cannot be effectively treated through other means, a heart transplant may be considered.

The specific treatment plan will be determined by pediatric cardiologists and cardiac surgeons, taking into account the baby’s age, overall health, and the complexity of the heart defect.

Advancements in Pediatric Cardiology

Over the years, remarkable advancements in pediatric cardiology have significantly improved the outcomes for babies born with heart defects. Some of these innovations include:

3D Printing: Cardiologists can create 3D-printed models of a baby’s heart from imaging scans, allowing for better preoperative planning and simulation of surgical procedures.

Hybrid Procedures: Combining catheter-based interventions with traditional surgery has led to innovative hybrid procedures that are less invasive and often result in quicker recoveries.

Fetal Interventions: In some cases, heart defects can be treated while the baby is still in the womb through fetal interventions, reducing the severity of the defect before birth.

Pediatric Cardiac Imaging: Advanced imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans, provide detailed insights into heart anatomy and function, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.

Support for Families

Caring for a baby with congenital heart disease can be emotionally and physically taxing for families. It’s essential to seek support from healthcare providers, social workers, and support groups. Many organizations and foundations also provide resources, information, and financial assistance to families facing the challenges of managing heart disease in their infants.

Conclusion

Early intervention for heart disease in babies is a life-saving approach that can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life. Thanks to Dr. Ranjit Jagtap Daughter, many infants born with congenital heart defects can go on to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. As parents, caregivers, and healthcare professionals work together, we can continue to advance our understanding and treatment of congenital heart disease, offering hope and a brighter future for these young patients.

[sophiaseo34]

CI/CD for Seamless Mobile App Development

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, mobile applications have become an integral part of our lives. However, the complex nature of mobile app development, encompassing multiple platforms, devices and rapid changes in user expectations, poses unique challenges for developers. This is where Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) step in as a transformative approach. The application development team uses CI/CD, which embodies a culture, guiding principles, and practices, to release code changes more often and consistently. CI/CD enables the software development team to concentrate on satisfying business goals while assuring code quality and software security by automating integration and delivery. By the end of this article, you will clearly understand how CI/CD is revolutionizing the mobile app development landscape and what it means for the future of app delivery.

Benefits of CI/CD for Mobile Apps

Mobile application development has unique challenges, from ensuring compatibility across diverse devices and operating systems to delivering timely updates that keep users engaged. Adopting a Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) approach in mobile app development brings many benefits in addressing these challenges head-on. Let's explore the advantages that CI/CD offers to mobile app developers and organizations.

Accelerated Time-to-Market: 

CI/CD automates the build, testing, and deployment processes, reducing manual intervention and human error. This results in quicker release cycles, enabling developers to get new features and bug fixes into the hands of users faster, gaining a competitive edge in the dynamic app market.

Consistent Quality: 

Mobile apps must perform seamlessly on many devices, screen sizes, and operating system versions. CI/CD ensures rigorous automated testing across various configurations, reducing the chances of regression bugs and providing a consistent user experience.

Early Detection of Issues: 

CI/CD facilitates frequent integration of code changes into a shared repository. Automated tests are executed at every integration point, enabling early detection of defects. This proactive approach minimizes the chances of critical issues slipping through the cracks and becoming harder to fix later.

Automation: 

Traditional app deployment often involves manual steps that can lead to errors and delays. With CI/CD, these processes are automated, eliminating manual intervention and allowing developers to focus on innovation and code quality.

Efficient Bug Resolution: 

When bugs are detected early, they are easier and quicker to fix. CI/CD's automated testing catches issues in the early stages of development, leading to efficient bug resolution and reducing the likelihood of post-release surprises.

Implementing CI/CD in Mobile App Development

Implementing Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) in mobile app development requires careful planning, configuration, and integration of various tools and processes. By following best practices and leveraging suitable tools, you can establish a robust CI/CD pipeline that automates workflows, ensures code quality, and accelerates app delivery. Here's a step-by-step guide on implementing CI/CD in mobile app development.

Select CI/CD Tools:

Choose a CI/CD platform that supports mobile app development, such as Jenkins, Bitrise, CircleCI, or GitLab CI/CD.

Consider platform compatibility (iOS, Android), ease of integration, and available features.

Set Up Version Control:

Use a version control system (e.g., Git) to manage your mobile app's source code.

Create a repository and establish branching strategies (e.g., feature branches, release branches) to manage code changes.

Define Build Configuration:

Configure build scripts using build automation tools like Gradle for Android and Xcode for iOS.

Specify dependencies, resources, and build settings in the configuration files.

Automated Testing Setup:

Implement unit tests, integration tests, and UI tests for your mobile app.

Integrate testing frameworks such as JUnit (Android) and XCTest (iOS).

Configure test scripts to run automatically as part of the CI/CD pipeline.

Configure CI/CD Pipeline:

Create a CI/CD pipeline in your chosen tool.

Define stages such as code compilation, testing, code analysis, and deployment.

Set up triggers to initiate the pipeline on code commits or pull requests.

Automated Code Analysis:

Integrate code analysis tools like SonarQube to ensure code quality and identify issues.

Configure code analysis rules to enforce coding standards and identify potential bugs.

Environment Configuration:

Configure environment variables and settings for different deployment stages (development, testing, production).

Use environment-specific configuration files to manage API endpoints, credentials, and other variables.

Automated Deployment:

Configure automated deployment steps for your app.

Use app distribution platforms like Google Play Console (Android) and App Store Connect (iOS) to automate app releases.

Feedback and Monitoring:

Set up notifications and alerts to receive feedback on pipeline status and test results.

Monitor the pipeline performance and track key metrics.

Future Trends in Mobile CI/CD Pipelines

The landscape of mobile app development is continually evolving, and as technology advances, so does the field of Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD). Embracing emerging trends and innovations can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of mobile CI/CD pipelines. Here are some future trends to watch out for in mobile CI/CD:

Serverless CI/CD Pipelines:

Serverless computing models, like AWS Lambda and Google Cloud Functions, are gaining traction for running CI/CD tasks.

Serverless pipelines offer scalability and cost savings by executing tasks only when needed, optimizing resource utilization.

Artificial Intelligence and Automation:

AI-powered testing tools are expected to become more prominent, automating complex testing scenarios.

AI-driven code analysis tools can identify code patterns and suggest optimization, security enhancements, and bug prevention.

Low-Code/No-Code Development:

As low-code/no-code platforms become more prevalent, mobile app development becomes more accessible.

CI/CD pipelines must adapt to accommodate these platforms and ensure the quality of apps built using them.

Continuous Testing and Monitoring:

Real-time monitoring and continuous testing will become integral to CI/CD pipelines.

Automated visual testing, load testing, and performance monitoring will be essential for delivering flawless user experiences.

GitOps and Infrastructure as Code (IaC):

GitOps, a methodology using Git as a single source of truth for infrastructure and deployment, will influence CI/CD practices.

Mobile CI/CD pipelines will incorporate GitOps principles to manage infrastructure and deployments as code.

Hybrid and Multi-Cloud Deployments:

Organizations are adopting hybrid and multi-cloud strategies for their apps.

CI/CD pipelines must support seamless deployment across various cloud providers and on-premises environments.

Conclusion

Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) have transformed the landscape of mobile app development, offering a systematic and automated approach to building, testing, and deploying applications. By embracing CI/CD practices, mobile developers can overcome the challenges of compatibility, speed, and quality inherent to the dynamic mobile app market. Implementing CI/CD in mobile app development involves selecting the right tools, setting up version control, configuring automated testing, and creating a seamless pipeline for the build, test, and deployment stages. 

Ready to elevate your digital presence and streamline your development processes? At NodeSol Corp, our expert team specializes in crafting tailored solutions that blend cutting-edge technology with creative innovation. Whether you're seeking robust web applications, dynamic mobile experiences, or seamless e-commerce platforms, NodeSol is your partner of choice. Let's collaborate to transform your vision into reality. 

[mindclassic]

Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae - CRE

Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is a growing concern for healthcare systems worldwide. CRE is a family of bacteria that have acquired resistance to a class of antibiotics known as carbapenems. These are used to treat infections caused by drug-resistant organisms. CRE infections have an association with high mortality rates, long-term disability, and increased healthcare costs. As such, it is essential to develop effective strategies to control CRE. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued guidelines to prevent the spread of CRE in healthcare facilities. These strategies include infection control measures such as hand hygiene, contact precautions, environmental cleaning, and antimicrobial stewardship. Furthermore, the CDC is advocating for further research into new diagnostic tests and treatments for CRE infections. Creating Awareness About the Threat Furthermore, public health agencies should develop effective communication strategies to increase awareness of the threat posed by CRE and the importance of infection control measures. Taking all of these measures together, it is possible to reduce the spread of CRE. There is the possibility of improving the outcomes for the infected. The battle against Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is one of the greatest challenges facing the healthcare community today. CRE infections are growing significantly, with a surge in infection rates due to the development of highly resistant organisms. CRE infections are particularly difficult to treat due to their high levels of resistance to common antimicrobial agents, including carbapenems. The situation is dire, as CRE infections are associated with increased rates of morbidity and mortality. Strategies to Reduce Spread To address this growing crisis, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has developed several strategies and interventions to reduce the spread of CRE infections and improve patient outcomes. These include strengthening infection prevention and control measures, developing effective antibiotic stewardship programs, and promoting the proper use of existing antibiotics. Additionally, the CDC has also developed new treatments and strategies to fight CRE. These include the development of novel antibiotics and vaccines. In addition to these interventions, healthcare providers must work together to combat the spread of CRE. By implementing the aforementioned interventions, healthcare providers can ensure patients receive the best possible care and reduce the spread of these deadly infections. 1. Introduction The battle against Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is an ever-changing challenge facing healthcare providers globally. These organisms' resistance to many antibiotics has made them one of the most dangerous and hard-to-treat infections in medicine. Reports of CRE infections have soared in recent years, necessitating new prevention and control strategies. These strategies must incorporate early detection, judicious antibiotic use, and better infection control practices. To limit the spread of CRE, prompt diagnosis, rapid isolation, and proper hygiene practices are key. To effectively combat CRE, there must be a better understanding of its epidemiology, pathogenesis, and transmission. In this article, we provide a primer on the current state of CRE and review strategies for CRE infection prevention. 2. Overview Combating Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is a daunting challenge. First spotted in the 1980s, these Gram-negative bacteria are a global health risk due to their drug resistance and prevalence. CRE cause severe infections that are often fatal, and spread quickly in hospitals due to their infectiousness and ability to survive in the environment. The most pressing issue is their antimicrobial resistance, making them harder to treat. If left unchecked, the threat posed by CRE could have devastating consequences. To tackle this issue, it is essential to find new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat CRE infections. 3. Risk Factors Combating Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is a formidable task. Studies have identified risk factors for CRE spread, such as poor hand hygiene, inadequate cleaning of hospital surfaces, and the use of antibiotics without stewardship programs. Patients with impaired immunity or recent antibiotic exposure are particularly vulnerable. Healthcare workers, especially those exposed to antibiotics, can also transmit CRE to other patients. To control the spread of CRE, there is an urgent need for new strategies. These include frequent handwashing, rigorous cleaning of hospital surfaces, appropriate antibiotic stewardship programs, and education on judicious antibiotic use. Additionally, healthcare practitioners should consider using closed systems for intravenous treatment and hemodialysis to further reduce the risk of CRE spread and its impact on patient health. 4. Diagnosis Diagnosing Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is a major challenge for healthcare workers and patients. This infection is complex and quickly evolving, making it hard to treat and diagnose. To identify CRE, healthcare professionals must take a comprehensive history, conduct physical examinations, and run laboratory tests. They should evaluate the patient's risk factors, run tests to detect the bacteria, and use imaging studies to check for organ involvement. Laboratory tests include blood tests, urine tests, throat swabs, and biopsies. Blood tests can detect bacteria in the bloodstream and help identify species. Urine tests and throat swabs can detect bacteria, while biopsies can detect bacterial masses in tissue. Imaging studies, such as X-rays, CT scans, and ultrasounds, can reveal abscesses or organ involvement. These tests can confirm CRE diagnosis, but it is still a difficult infection to diagnose and treat. Healthcare workers must stay vigilant in their fight against this potentially deadly infection. 5. Prevention Preventing Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) requires a multidisciplinary approach both within and outside the healthcare setting. It's a complex task due to CRE's ability to evolve and spread quickly. Implementing infection control measures, prudent antibiotic use, and health care education are vital in this battle. Hand hygiene, contact precautions, surveillance, and reporting of CRE cases are strategies used to control dissemination. Additionally, research-based strategies are needed to prevent the spread, reduce antibiotic use and develop treatments. Education of healthcare workers and the public about the dangers of CRE is also essential to reduce illness and death. Tackling the prevention of Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae is a challenge, but one that must be addressed to control the spread and impact of this serious pathogen. 6. Treatment Treating Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) presents a major challenge in the healthcare system, due to the rapid emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Prevention is the best way to fight CRE, with hand hygiene proving highly effective in reducing nosocomial infections, which account for many CRE cases. To be effective, hand hygiene needs to be frequent and thorough, including proper cleansing and drying. Healthcare workers must be trained to recognize the signs of CRE and act appropriately. Other preventive measures include contact precautions, environmental cleaning, and safe waste disposal. Hand hygiene is an important tool in preventing CRE, and when done correctly, can be effective in combating its spread. 7. Research Fighting Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) requires research. And, in fact, it has been identified as on the rise, potentially developing into a global health crisis. Healthcare providers are particularly concerned because CRE's resistance to carbapenems, a class of antibiotics used to treat serious infections, significantly limits treatment options and renders many infections untreatable. So, to battle this resistant bug, new treatments, and effective prevention strategies are essential. Scientists and healthcare professionals are leveraging new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, to identify new antibiotics and molecular targets to counter drug resistance. Public health surveillance systems, like CDC's National Healthcare Safety Network, are used to track CRE's spread and inform prevention strategies. Other CRE surveillance programs collect data to inform research and treatment options. Conquering CRE is an urgent and complex challenge. However, innovative research tools and programs offer hope in the fight against this resistant bug. 8. Conclusion As the number of Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) infections in healthcare settings continues to rise, fighting it is becoming harder. Researchers have explored strategies like enhanced sanitation, antimicrobial stewardship techniques, and diagnostic tests, yet there is still much to discover to create effective control tactics. Further study is needed to pinpoint the factors that contribute to CRE spreading in healthcare settings and preventive approaches to address them. To protect patients from this highly resistant pathogen and its potential effects, healthcare providers must stay alert. By carrying out current sanitation practices, following antimicrobial stewardship practices, and using effective diagnostics, we can make sure CRE remains a challenge to conquer, not an unbeatable enemy. Overview Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is a major public health crisis. While CRE can be found in healthcare settings, it is particularly threatening in long-term care facilities, where it can spread quickly among vulnerable populations. Healthcare providers should remain aware of the risk associated with this dangerous superbug in order to reduce its spread. There is a dire need for infection control measures, including effective hand hygiene. Additionally, healthcare providers must keep current on the latest guidelines on the prevention of CRE and ensure that they are following best practices. The fight against CRE requires a multifaceted approach, and it is necessary for healthcare workers to be vigilant and remain informed in order to protect their patients and their communities. Image by Freepik Read the full article

[keytoinfo]

Coronavirus - Symptoms of COVID-19 and How to Prevent It

Coronavirus – Symptoms of COVID-19 and How to Prevent It

Is Coronavirus Is A Type of virus A coronavirus is a type of virus that causes various illnesses, from respiratory infections to pneumonia. Known as COVID-19, this virus is airborne, making it easy to spread from person to person. The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to those of the common cold, but they are more serious and can lead to pneumonia if not treated early. COVID-19 is a new type of…

[ibelongtowrath]

tw covid

my ex tested positive for covid yesterday & like the dumb bitch i am i was in his bed on friday night akskdjdbdb so i was directly exposed for multiple hours (we didn’t know he had it, he thought it was just a cold)

i have a mild sore throat so now i’m waiting on my results isolating at home, my rapid test was negative but that doesn’t mean i’m in the clear, i am very very very nervous

[niche-drama]

Chess Drama: The PIPI Saga

Part 1: Setting the Stage

It’s September of 2020, half a year into the pandemic. It’ll be months before there’ll be vaccines for COVID-19, and all the “normal”, “respectable” chess tournaments have been on hiatus, because they dare not meet IRL and they’re too set in their ways to go virtual.

Online chess events with less clout but bigger prize pools have stepped forward to fill this gap, including the “PRO Chess League” (PRO being an acronym for Professional Rapid Online), a team-format championship where teams from different places compete against each other for a title.

This year, the winners of the tournament are a shock: the Armenia Eagles, a lesser-known team even in this lesser-known format for pro-level chess. Their all-star for the tournament is GM Tigran Petrosian (no, not the former World Chess Champion by that name, but another guy whose dad named him after the former champion), who won three of the four games he played and tied the fourth - an almost unbelievably good result at the top level of chess.

In fact, it was so unbelievable that even one of the other players in the tournament started to imply that he didn’t believe it.

GM Wesley So (a top-10-in-the-world grandmaster who was playing for the St Louis Archbishops in this tournament, who won 2nd place) commented on the chess.com article announcing the Eagles’ win with this:

The “secret gin” was a reaction to Petrosian’s joking interview comment that he’d achieved his results in this tournament because he’d had a glass of gin to drink as he played.

The second part of the comment, though, is a deeper cut. On chess.com, often instead of publicly banning titled players who’ve been found to cheat, they’ll just contact those players and ban them privately.  Basically “your account won’t show that you’re banned, but never log in again if you want it to stay that way”. In other words, Wesley was implying that:

Andriasian and Sargsyan had been cheating in a previous event and were quietly told to leave town, and

Petrosian had possibly achieved this result by committing the same sin.

Part 2: Wait, cheating at chess?

Yes, it’s possible. To oversimplify... it’s like copying the answer to a hard test question off your genius deskmate, except the “deskmate” is your desktop computer. Chess programs have been better at chess than humans for decades now; in theory, all you need to do to beat a human is enter the game into Stockfish and see what it thinks is the best move.

In practice, it’s much harder than that. Try logging into a chess website and rocketing up the ranks by copying the computer’s homework, and you’ll be banned pretty quickly. It turns out that computer moves don’t look like human moves, and people playing computer moves don’t behave like people playing their own moves either; the big chess websites all have secret sauce to try to detect cheaters, or to investigate games where they think cheating has occurred.

Of course, in an officially organized, professional event, the most straightforward way is just for the players to be watched while playing, so that it’s clear whether or not they have Droidfish open on their phones - whether by a live tournament rep in the player’s house, or just by setting up enough cameras that the judges can see what’s going on. That’s the “proctoring” that Wesley mentions in his followup comment to the thread:

The PRO Chess League finals, despite being an online-native event, only requires the players to set up a single facecam - not the multi-camera setup that would be necessary to see what the contestants are actually doing. And the “single facecam” video from the event does show Petrosian repeatedly glancing down at... something... during the tensest moments of his games.

Part 3: Classics of Post

Early the next morning, Tigran Petrosian catches wind of the conversation going on in the article comments, and decides to reply to Wesley’s accusations. But the way he chooses to do it, well... take a look for yourself.

This pretty much instantly ascended to copypasta status in the chess fandom. The /r/chess subreddit had to install an automod to remove reposts of it. Meanwhile, /r/AnarchyChess installed a bot to automatically post it whenever any of the main characters or catchphrases of this story were mentioned.

Wesley accepts the offer for an IRL money match, with a final snide remark: “You are clearly the king of online chess, man. But I will dare fight you over-the-board.”

Unfortunately, the “PIPI Invitational”, as GM Hikaru Nakamura called it in a Twitch stream, ends up not happening. Later that day, chess.com and the Pro Chess League make a joint announcement that, after conducting an investigation, they determined that Tigran Petrosian was, in fact, cheating in the semifinals and finals of the tournament. Petrosian is banned from the PCL for life, the Eagles get tempbanned, and the prizes get redistributed... thereby proving Petrosian right that, one way or another, “liers will kicked off”.

[simplysplendidiferous]

The Delights of Poison

Post 1

What’s covered: 3 different types of poisons you can use in your stories to kill off characters, plus what these poisons do and how they can be utilised by your characters. (sources are at the bottom of this post)

Hello fellow writers and welcome to the glorious art of poison, an area of murder I reckon is most overlooked. When you think of murder, you probably imagine guns, knives, axes, etc. The problem with these tools? They’re messy, they’re gory, they’re easily traced. Unlike poison. I personally love writing murder-by-poison just because there are so many different ways you can use them. You want a long-lasting, painful death, to make your characters suffer? Poison’s got your back. You want a slow and quiet death, so you can easily escape the crime scene and be in a different country by the time the victim is even dead? Poison is knocking on your door.

Here is a list of my top three favourite poisons to use in your writing.

First, honourable mentions: Thallium, Polonium-210, Mercury

Coming in at number 3, we have arsenic. Perfect murder weapon if you’re writing a story set sometime in the past (i.e 1880′s) , where detection of arsenic was much harder and slower than it is today with modern technology. If you’re writing a modern-set story, I’d personally stay clear of arsenic. It is too easily detected and isn’t used as often as it was throughout human history. 

Arsenic is a metalloid (Atomic Number 33). When mixed into food or drink, it is colourless, odourless and tasteless. This means characters can easily be tricked into consuming it. Symptoms of a large dose resemble fatal food poisoning, meaning that detection of the poison may be overlooked as a bad serve of chicken at a restaurant. However, given in smaller doses over a large period of time, symptoms of arsenic poisoning are subtle and slow-progressing (perfect if your killer needs a quick getaway- they can be on the other side of the planet before anyone suspects a thing) including confusion, weakness, paralysis and death. 

Arsenic is absorbed through the small intestine. The body mistakenly substitutes arsenic for phosphate. This causes havoc in 200 enzyme-based systems in the body, that are necessary for metabolism to function. 

In second place, we’ve listed Ethylene Glycol. Ethylene Glycol is sweet tasting, (although we would not recommend trying this theory for yourself- it is number 2 on a list of best poisons for a reason). It’s also used as antifreeze in cars which means it’s readily available for most people (well, how convenient). 

Your character’s body will seem fine for a few hours after ingesting this poison, when actually, their body will be breaking down the poison into other toxic substances. Eventually, your character will feel groggy, tired and fatigued, experience abdominal pain and then slip into a coma. 

A by-product that ethylene glycose breaks down into is glycolic acid. This causes a dangerous and fatal condition called metabolic acidosis. This is when someone’s blood becomes too acidic, preventing all chemical reactions that make up their metabolism from functioning as they should. It also creates calcium oxalate crystals in the kidneys, which literally tear up tissues in the kidney. Sounds delightful. 

And finally, cyanide takes first place. Cyanide is often said to be the most deadly poison. It’s incredibly fast acting- a big enough dose in a variety of forms can kill in hours and even minutes. It can be tested for in blood, but the patient would be long dead before lab results were able to come in. Cyanide is any chemical that has a carbon-nitrogen bond, and not all these chemicals are poisonous. In fact, cyanide can be found in foods like almonds and soy, and they are completely safe to consume. It’s also a by-product of metabolism in our human bodies! We exhale it in small amounts when we breathe. However, cyanide does come in deadly forms, including:

Hydrogen cyanide: pale blue or colourless liquid or gas

Sodium cyanide: a white powder

Potassium cyanide: also a white powder

Important note: Cyanide in all forms is said to smell like bitter almonds. 

Teachable Moment: You’re likely to find these poisonous substances in burning buildings/ fires.

Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include weakness and fatigue, difficulty breathing, nausea, seizures, cardiac arrest, headaches and confusion, fainting/ passing out and ultimately, death. A character’s symptoms will vary depending on the size of the dosage, the form of cyanide and the length of their exposure. 

Acute Cyanide Poisoning: Quite rare, and usually from accidental exposure. Symptoms will be sudden and severe, including cardiac arrest, seizures, fainting and breathing difficulties. 

Chronic Cyanide Poisoning: large amounts of exposure to hydrogen cyanide (specifically, 20-40 parts per million) of a long period of time. Symptoms gradually increase in severity over time. Primary symptoms include vertigo, headaches, flushed skin, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting. Secondary symptoms may include dilated pupils, weak and rapid pulse, difficulty breathing (shallow and slow) and clammy skin. Condition left untreated may lead to comatose states, blue lips and skin, irregular heart rate and death. 

Cyanide in small doses may not be deadly, as the body can get rid of the poison by sticking a sulphur ion onto it, converting the cyanide into a chemical called thiocyanate, which can exit the body through urination. However, in large doses, the body gets so overwhelmed it can’t turn all the cyanide into thiocyanate. This starts preventing cells from using oxygen and eventually, these cells begin to die off. Lack of oxygen means that the heart, respiratory system and central nervous system (the spinal cord and brain) can’t function properly. 

Any questions? Anything to add to this post? Message us! We’re happy to help. You can also message us if you have any ideas for future posts (grammar tips, sentence structure, how to write an introduction, how to write an essay, etc)/ need help researching a specific idea (e.g. murder weapons from the Middle Ages, dress from the 1800′s, the life of Henry the 8th, etc.) for your stories and writings. We love to hear from you!

Happy writings,

simplysplendiferous 

sources: Healthline, American Chemistry Council What The Science SciShow

[janumun]

Your NSFW headcanons for ikerev guys were amazing! Can I request some for Arthur, Le Comte and Issac? Thank you!

Thank you! And yes, you can have them, Nonny. I hope you like them!

Arthur Conan Doyle

Being the creative mind behind the infamous detective Sherlock Holmes, Arthur is, understandably, somewhat of a sleuth himself. He takes note of and picks up all clues and intimations provided to him, makes use of his skilled prowess and impressive brain power at solving mysteries to puzzle out any and all conundrums that come his way, including you.

Arthur has been taken with you from the very start. You’re a quandary he’s willing and eager to explore all over. His virtuosity of the art of perception comes out keener in bed. He’s watching every movement, every flicker – the litany of emotions blossoming across your face in rapid succession – and you bet he’s taking mental notes.

Your brows slant downward as if in a frown when you’re aroused, as if you’re trying to concentrate through the haze of pleasure he’s assaulting your body with. When Arthur’s fingers dip into you, hit you in that one right spot, oh the glorious way you moan has him shuddering just at the sight of it. The way your body seems to chase after his fingers, the way it seems to want to mould itself to his digits…

Your hands are reaching for your parted mouth, fisting themselves to secure your muffled screams, trap them within your throat, even as moans spill out, regardless of your best efforts.

Your usual perfectly disposed hair (he knows how you like to keep yourself in order and he loves that about you), a scattered crown of tangled locks splayed onto pastel sheets, the blush high on your cheeks as you trap him with your come-hither looks and by Jove, if he isn’t coming undone at just the sight, groaning out your name, even as he’s pushing your legs apart to plunge himself deep inside of you.

“Truly, you’re one fascinating study, my dear.”

Speaking of not so surreptitious surveys of your partner’s body, you know, for a fact, that Arthur is sensitive to licks at the back of his fangs, right where tooth meets gum. Slide your tongue against those canines, which almost always slip out when your favorite detective is aroused. He’s letting out small low groans into your mouth, a full body shudder taking him at times, before he’s kissing you harder to try and distract you away from his weakness.

He positively loves being exposed by you but he’s also a sore loser, so –

 Sex has more than once been initiated from harmless draft-readings and/or helping this author out with a new book plot. You’re almost convinced he calls you over to ‘help’, only to have his wicked ways with you.

“Ah Monsieur, I beg you not to do this,” you plead softly, pinned between the settee and Arthur. The ghost of fangs slipping across your neck has you shivering involuntarily in his grasp, tilting your head just a bit even as you struggle to remain in character.

“You were the one who put them up to this, were you not, sweet bird?” His voice is tight, low, in restraint of his feigned anger but the sound still sends a rush of heat to your core.

“Not going to deny it?” Amused intonations; rough hands slide across your body and underneath your shirt to test bare skin and you let that moan, held back long, escape.

Arthur’s face moves to sit against your ear, mouth moving over the delicate skin. “Then, perhaps, sweetheart, I shall try scrounging these answers from your body,” he whispers, fingers skirting in between your legs.

He continues to extract all relevant information for a long sweet time.

Arthur is was a well-known skirt-chaser. You the whole damn mansion know that. What is not common information, however, is that Arthur is a soft-hearted man beneath the layers and layers of flirting and debauchery he likes to drape himself in.

Despite coming across as a cool headed, well put together womanizer, Arthur is anything but that. He’s a fucking mess inside and hence, heavily relies on you during the earlier stages of your relationship to get him through his very serious shit. He doesn’t believe he’s worthy and he’s afraid to grasp on too tight, lest you slip away through his fingers like the sands of time did all those human years ago.

So, cuddles. Bring your arms around him from behind as you both lie in bed when you hear those soft hitched noises catching in his throat with still plaguing nightmares. Best for a lonely, broken man. Best to put all of his pieces together, one little shard by little shard at a time. Be patient, he’s a good man.

These emotional sessions often lead to even more emotional love-making/worshiping. He’s turning around in your embrace, hands blindly reaching for your face, lips dropping a desperate flurry of kisses across your mouth, hot and achingly passionate; it hurts your heart but also makes its’ beats flutter around in its cage, alternately.

“I love you, you know,” his voice is raspy, broken; his hands a fire trekking across your aching flesh.

“I love you too, Arthur – mm…”

“… Say it again. Call me by name, tell me you love the man you call Arthur so lovingly it breaks his heart but oh, darling, it also mends it so well.”

Let me break it up here before this turns more sob than spice.

 Le Comte De Saint-Germain

Literal embodiment of: “Gentleman in the streets, scoundrel in the sheets.” Do not be fooled by that congenial smile. Seriously, ask Leonardo about it.

That is not to say he’s putting up a genteel front. The current Comte is a good man, who genuinely cares for you and for all his residents. The perfect gentleman, he offers you a hand to help you get off those carriages you’re not used to every single time without fail, walks on the busier side of the road so as to prevent people from bumping into you, lends you his coat will not listen to any protests when he sees you’re cold, patiently listens to and helps you out with any and all of your problems.

Indeed, in true respectable fashion, he’ll wait for you both to exit that extravagant affair you were invited to, before he’s pinning your body, gentle in his grip though he is, you know the look in his eyes is no joke, you’re already trapped and frozen in place, mesmerized against the wall of an out-of-way alley.

“Pardon me for my uncivil conduct; I could simply not ignore your longing looks anymore, ma belle.” His breath is warm, voice an inferno seeking to make you fall deeper into its embrace. He’s nuzzling his nose against your cheek, toying dangerously with your emotions and your heart is beating out of sync, hearing him murmur so close to your ear. You did not think he noticed your pining gaze on him while he was being swarmed by all those high society ladies, vying for his attention, despite him being spoken for.

“It was not my intention to make you sad, won’t you consider forgiving me?”

You’re breathing - gasping really - your forgiveness into his mouth, hot tongues sliding out to meet halfway. He’s moving to crowd you further against the wall, cold stone digging into your back but you don’t care. Nothing matters when the Count’s mouth is on yours, making your thoughts turn to cotton, even as his hands are moving away from their grip on your wrists to ghost across your body in slow stimulating motions.

You can hardly contain your lust for him, protesting weakly when he finally pulls away to suggest you both make way towards home now.

How can he leave you hanging like this?

As mentioned above, the Count was not always the proper man he is now. He used to be a much wilder thing, a part of his unending life he doesn’t wish to speak of much. You refuse to believe Le Comte is anything but good-natured the first time Leonardo brings up the subject with you, albeit jokingly. You think Leonardo’s statements might have some modicum of truth to them, now that you’ve had a few cough romps with Saint. Germain of your own.

 Mild breath play in bed. Him on you that is.

 The Count hasn’t drunk from humans in well over a century. You’re his first in a long, long while.* The hedonism he derives from sinking his fangs into your temptingly soft flesh, the burst of blood in his mouth, your arousal mixing in with the scent of your blood, your moans as you arch yourself into him, desperate hands clawing at his back to pull him closer: this man drives you wild.

During such pleasurable instances, he’s sometimes reaching a hand out to trace along your wind pipe, touch light and exploratory, eliciting such erotic sounds from you, it’s as if he’s fingering your pussy instead of just harmless touches to your person.

Fangs within you, he feels you peak, wrapping a hand around your throat, lightly pressing in; the thrum of your carotid, well and loud against his palm. It’s incredibly stimulating for him and he’s harder for you than ever.

 Encourages you being vocal in bed.

“Does it feel good? How does it feel when I touch… here.” You’re shaking in his arms, voice suppressed by the overwhelming pleasure, fingers touching you this way and that. His mouth is trailing along the vertical canvas of your body, kissing and nipping at the skin underneath, lovingly, speaking his pleasure against your hot skin. His lips halt at a spot just above your pelvic bone, peppering kisses at the side of your abdomen, open mouth feeling for the pulse that runs deep within, before sinking his fangs into you. You’re throwing your head back to let out a low keening moan, followed closely on heels by a raw guttural chuckle from the man.

“Your cries are music to my ears. Mm… scream for me once more, mon mignon. Just like that…”

Have I mentioned how he loves the taste of your blood and your pleasure as you come profusely into his mouth as he eats you out? Yeah.

��Le Comte de Saint-Germain, father figure of this mansion full of unruly kids historical figures, loves to be bossed around by you.

“Wanting me to kneel at your feet while you look down at me with such naughty eyes…. Ah… forgive me for speaking out of turn, Mistress.” He’s looking up at you, feigned regret over his handsome features but you catch that glow of mischief in his aureate eyes, sending a hot wave of arousal straight to your groin. He’s the one at your mercy, body bound as it is, and yet –

“Why do you look at me that way?” His lips are curving into a smile as he says so. “Do you wish to scold me for my bad ways, Mistress?”

 Isaac Newton

 One subby precious boy you love to dote and tease on.

You’re Isaac’s first proper romantic partner. All his life, nothing except the world’s great mysteries and apples have caught his interest.

It’s not that he actively avoids romantic entanglements or anything; it’s just that he has never really stopped to think of intangible concepts like love. His complex intriguing world of equations and calculations keep him happy and content, not to mention he’s an awkward mess around you.

You send all his mental and bodily functions into chaos just by being near, his brain and dick go haywire, he doesn’t know what to do with himself. You’ve got to be the teacher and guide in this relationship and bring out his true potential.

Too shy to ask you for it but Isaac loves the taste of you. The first time you gave him a proper kiss, the man’s mind was blown. He was letting out small low groans into your mouth, tongue eager and sloppy against yours, hands almost spasmodic as they rushed to feel you, your body underneath his fingertips. You are truly an exciting phenomenon for him.

You finally moved away from him, only to find him a flushed disaster.

He loves the taste of you and I do mean taste, folks. Always up for face fucking, your dripping pussy on his mouth. Even better if you rock your hips a bit as his tongue delves into you, his cautious hands curving to the shape of your hips as he holds you down on him. You taste almost as good, or perhaps even better, than his apples!

Really into pegging. Not gonna lie, boy was terrified of the idea the very first time you introduced him to this whole new world.

“Wha- you mean to tell me, you i-inside my… ah… like- like that?!” His voice is low and hushed as he continues. “How does that work…?” Oh, Gravity Boy is curious alright.

 Likes doing it when you’re both lying on your sides. Him spooning you, face red and buried into the intoxicating scent of your hair as he slips into your wetness, moaning at the heady rush of pleasure that shoots up his cock to spread throughout the rest of his body.

 Isaac is snapping his hips ruthlessly fast and haphazard as he nears orgasm, hand reaching around to thumb at your clit, wanting to come together with you. He loves the feeling of you going overwhelmingly tight around his dick, sending him hurtling to his end. Make your little astronomer see actual stars.

 He despises Arthur’s and Dazai’s nick names for him “Don’t call me, Ai-chan!” but when you called him Ai-chan once teasingly, Isaac stopped dead in his tracks, turning towards you as if worked by cogwheel, his eyes going almost comically wide before his cheeks flared up like twin apples. He muttered something under his breath while you watched on amused. Suffice to say, he doesn’t mind you calling him by pet names, especially in bed. (Newt, Zack, baby, call him anything and enjoy his adorable reactions)

 “Are you feeling a little lonely down here, Isaac?”

“Mmph…” Mute nod, his fist stuffed into his mouth as he tries to keep quiet for you, your finger circling his weeping tip.

 “Be a good boy for me Zak and keep quiet, will you?” you croon lovingly, moving to take him into your mouth. He’s jerking and thrusting his hips into you, moans muffled at your request.

You’re a fool if you undermine the wolf within Isaac Newton, just because he’s a tame quiet man most of the time.

Isaac has a bad habit of getting lost in books and knowledge (once he finds texts to his liking), burying himself in some forgotten corner of the library for hours on end, and if he cannot find the library empty enough, he’s boarding himself up in his room to soak up all of that scientific wisdom.

Concentration disturbed only by the slow burning at the back of his parched throat, he realizes he hasn’t eaten… in a while. His eyes drift toward the Rouge you left him earlier… when was that?

He’s getting to his feet, tunnel vision taking him, as he rushes out of the room in search of you.

Once he finds you out there somewhere, dusting at the windows of the long hallway - your face lighting up in greeting before you register his expression – he’s grabbing you by the arm to drag you into one of the nearby rooms, or if his thirst is positively red-hot, he’s pushing you against the window pane then and there, looking up to meet your eyes, long enough to obtain your understanding and consent, before his hands are curling around you neck, pushing your hair to the side. Fangs greedily sinking into the flesh at your shoulder, he thirstily takes in huge mouthfuls of blood, you taste so good to him, all of you, you’re his philtre.

Even in his depraved state, his thoughts are coherent enough to not take too much from you, although the same can’t be said for your body. He’s slamming it back against the window, grip unrelenting as he drinks from you, the pleasure and ecstasy of having him inside so overwhelming, you’re left gasping breathlessly against his hard frame.  

Pray, Arthur doesn’t catch a glimpse of you two on his way out of the mansion. Isaac’s never going to hear the end of it then. Arthur will tease the poor apple to within an inch of his life.

Once the red haze has washed away, however, he’s apologizing for being too rough even though you assure him you’re alright. He’s taking extra care to be gentle with you over the next few days. Whenever he reaches out to kiss your mouth, or when you’re making love, he’s moving to caress the sides of your neck where light crescents still remain due to his earlier ‘mishandling’. Expect him to drop kisses all over your body in worship and remorse.

.

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*Since Le Comte’s a pure-blood and we all love some good ‘vampiric foreplay’ as Arthot so correctly puts it, I went with the idea of a human requiring more than a bite from a Greater Vampire to turn. We don’t have any specific details to draw from, in canon either, so this is my version of it. 

[A/N: Longer than my last HCs. I got so thirsty over Comte and Arthur RIP me.I hope I didn’t end up comprising the apple cheeked little physicist for those two suave men. 

ALSO, I want you to know I’m working on your request @psychobitch18. I’m halfway through Ray and hope to have it finished, ideally within the next 24-48 hours; longer if I end up stuck with some extra pediatric classes.]