#Medical advancements

[dinosaurcharcuterie]

It still kind of blows my mind that it's 29 years ago since my grandfather, two aunts, my mom, my uncle, the pharmacist and her treating doctor had to harass state health insurance to testify that my great-aunt would benefit from an at-home blood sugar meter, even if she didn't have type 1, as opposed to going to the doctor 3-5 times a day to have it measured. The thing was the size and weight of a brick, took several drops of blood to read, and the test strips were the size of my grade schooler pinky. It was accurate...ish. Text was gray on Nintendo screen green, and about the size of Arial 10. Three people were schooled on how to use it, in case it was necessary while she was unconscious. She had to pay for it herself as a pensioner who had never worked, and the entire family chipped in to make it happen, before they got on more of a first name basis with the ambulance drivers than they already were, what with there being just-in-case pastries in the house daily to "make sure those boys ate lunch".

Today I have my own blood sugar meter that I bought for less than 10 bucks "just in case". I've lost test strips down the back of the sofs and never had to be horrified about how much money I'd just wasted. My doctor just read out my hb1c value from a pinprick of blood in less than 2 minutes. The second I need constant monitoring, I'll get CGM sensors that work with my phone, paid out by insurance.

Most millennials are older than the concept of all kinds of diabetes being able to be monitored reliably, easily and affordably at home. It feels kinda unreal.

[abybweisse]

Blood Work (p1), Elitism, transmutation, and religious fear

⚠️ long post ⚠️

So, I now have a copy of Blood Work: A Tale of Medicine and Murder in the Scientific Revolution, by Holly Tucker. It's a reference for Yana-san, as she mentioned it in her old tuna.be blog around the start of the blue arc.

I see in the list of important people a mention of the real Dr. Moreau, and there's a later chapter about chimeras... so I know I'll be talking about that some, over this series of posts.

It's important here, too, because when researchers were first attempting blood transfusions in the 17th century, people were terrified about receiving blood from animals, like sheep and cattle. They thought that animal blood would transmute humans into human-animal hybrids. Even in the 20th century, some white people were terrified of receiving blood from black people, because they thought the blood could effect the race of their future children or grandchildren. Nonsense, of course, but they didn't understand.

17th century blood transfusions were generally performed by taking blood from a lamb or a calf. The barbers/physicians/researchers had no clue about blood types. Jean-Baptiste Denis successfully transfused blood from a lamb into a teenage patient. Then he made several successful attempts at transfusing from a calf to a "madman". The guy later died, and Denis was blamed. Turns out some doctors who didn't want him to succeed had actually poisoned that second subject with arsenic.

It wasn't even a matter of those physicians wanting his experiments to fail while theirs worked; no, they simply didn't want blood transfusions to become a practice. They were afraid of transmutation from animal blood, and they were afraid of what animal-to-human blood transfusions would reveal about humanity -- that we are truly just animals, too. The trial against Denis ended research into blood transfusions for about 150 years.

Blood types were still unknown in the late 18th century, when a physician wanted to attempt to revive George Washington's largely exsanguinated corpse with a transfusion of lamb's blood. FYI, he died on a December 14th, just like Prince Albert. His family refused the offer only because they feared sullying his body with animal blood, and they insisted his body must be left untainted and wholly together for him to be properly received into heaven. Such was the continued lack of understanding. Yana-san might have given Undertaker the idea to use blood transfusions in conjunction with other techniques for the reanimating and revival process from the account of what that physician wanted to do to Washington.

When blood transfusion research was in full swing, in the 19th century, they were starting to piece together the idea of blood groups, but they still didn't quite know about things like universal whole blood donor and universal whole blood recipient. There was a strong elitist element to this, so they generally thought like could only be compatible with like. They also still saw non-human blood as inferior, even if it might be compatible. The best compatibility was expected between twins and then between close relatives.

I have a feeling that Yana-san has played around with this bias, which would explain why real Ciel is only receiving AB (Sirius) blood, Canopus B, Vega O, and Polaris A. All those people at Sphere Music Hall are led to believe they are being treated as equals, when they are in fact being split up into a caste system where some "stars" are of a higher magnitude than others. And, at times, Blavat Sky and others have made it clear they see some blood types as being less worthy than others. By extension, some people are treated as less worthy. Blavat seems to realize that Sirius can receive blood from other blood types, because he gives "leftovers" of Vega and Polaris blood to the Sirius renal patients. It's possible that real Ciel doesn't know he can have any type of whole blood, but I suspect he knows and simply doesn't think anything else is good enough for him.

I'd also like to mention Snake and Finny here, since we know Finny was injected with something to increase his strength and other traits. Then we see Snake with various attributes that are associated with snakes. In either case (or both) we could be dealing with transmutation. It's not realistic in our world, but it might very well be possible in theirs. Each of them might have been injected with chemical cocktails derived from other animals: Snake from snakes and Finny from perhaps a few completely different species.

We now know Snake wasn't born a snake and turned into a human, but there's nothing to say he wasn't born human and "adulterated" with snake traits. There's also the weird story the freak show attendant claims: human mother and snake father. Maybe not an actual snake as his father but more like his mother being injected with snake blood or something... and that producing a hybrid child. Again, not what we'd consider possible, but the Kuroverse plays by different rules.

One other aspect I want to touch on in this post: Othello's and Grelle's fears regarding the very nature of human souls and existence. This is a form of religious fear, not too different from what George Washington's family feared. His family feared he wouldn't be accepted into heaven, while these two reapers fear humans might no longer even need souls, and that heaven may no longer matter to them. What would that mean for the existence of reapers, when their supposed salvation requires them to keep collecting souls?

Well, I'll probably talk about bias and fear again, as well as these other issues, but I'll stop here... for now.

[enbyaxolotl67]

List 5 things that make you happy, then put this in the askbox for the last 10 people who liked or reblogged something from you! Get to know your mutuals and followers :3

woah, this is cool!

My partner

my fandoms

Modern medicine

cult of the lamb

pirating

[i-drop-level-one-loot]

Reading all of the Kirtch stories makes me so so happy but a little bit sad knowing the reader will eventually pass away leaving my poor baby sad, like nooo I just want to be by my alien hubby’s side, babe please find a way to make me live forever 😭😭

Anywho stay amazing and I love everything about you and your work 🥰☺️☺️

Thank you!!!! ❤️

Kirtch wouldn't be lonely after his pet passed away, but that wouldn't stop him from extending their life as long as comfortably possible. Like, he wouldn't keep you hooked up to machines, but he would make sure you could still live actively and painlessly up into the 90's.

[reality-detective]

Some new technology that is having excellent results for people. 👇

https://www.eesystem.com/

I talked to Dr. Sandra Rose and Scott McKay the "Patriot StreetFighter" about this technology for about 2 ½ hours. Scott McKay is opening a huge venue in Dallas, Texas soon.

Another one heavily involved with this is Jason Shurka who I recently posted a video *Warning* about the next plandemic of the Avian Flu. Jason is located in Florida around Miami.

[lathifertility]

What is IVF?

In recent decades, advancements in medical science have revolutionized the field of reproductive medicine, providing hope and opportunities for couples struggling with infertility. One such groundbreaking technique is In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). In this blog post, we will delve into the intricacies of IVF treatment, exploring what it is, how it works, and the potential it holds for those seeking to build a family.

What is IVF?

In Vitro Fertilization, commonly known as IVF, is a fertility treatment that involves the fertilization of an egg with sperm outside the human body. The process begins by extracting eggs from a woman's ovaries and fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory dish. Once fertilization occurs, the resulting embryos are then implanted in the woman's uterus with the hope of establishing a successful pregnancy.

Understanding the IVF Process

Ovulation Induction: The first step in IVF involves stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Fertility medications are administered to enhance egg production, monitored through ultrasound and blood tests.

Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs are mature, a minor surgical procedure known as egg retrieval is performed. A thin needle is inserted through the vaginal wall to collect the eggs from the ovaries.

Fertilization: The collected eggs are then combined with sperm in a controlled environment, allowing fertilization to occur. This step is closely monitored to ensure the formation of healthy embryos.

Embryo Culture: The fertilized eggs, now embryos, are cultured and monitored for several days. The healthcare team assesses their quality before selecting the most viable embryos for transfer.

Embryo Transfer: In the final step, one or more selected embryos are transferred into the woman's uterus. This is a relatively simple and painless procedure that aims to establish a successful pregnancy.

Success Rates and Considerations

IVF success rates vary depending on several factors, including the age of the woman, the cause of infertility, and the quality of the embryos. While some individuals achieve pregnancy in the first cycle, others may require multiple attempts. It's essential to approach IVF with realistic expectations and to consult with healthcare professionals to understand individual circumstances.

Challenges and Emotional Aspects

Embarking on an IVF journey can be emotionally challenging for couples. The process involves physical, emotional, and financial commitments, and individuals may experience a range of emotions, from hope and excitement to disappointment and stress. Support from loved ones and mental health professionals can play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate these challenges.

Conclusion

In Vitro Fertilization has emerged as a beacon of hope for many couples facing infertility challenges.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Sonal Lathi Today If you are considering IVF treatment, Dr. Sonal Lathi is the perfect choice for you. She is a leading expert in IVF, and she is committed to helping couples achieve their parenthood dreams.

[swatik1991]

How Pawana Hospital Stays at the Forefront of Medical Advancements

In today’s fast-evolving world of medicine, staying ahead with cutting-edge technology, advanced treatments, and continuous innovation is essential for providing the best healthcare. At Pawana Hospital, we are committed to medical excellence, ensuring that our patients receive the latest and most effective treatments available.

From state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to minimally invasive surgeries and AI-driven healthcare solutions, Pawana Hospital remains at the forefront of medical advancements in the Maval region. Let’s take a closer look at how we integrate technology, expertise, and compassionate care to redefine healthcare excellence.

1. Investing in Cutting-Edge Medical Technology 🔬

Technology plays a crucial role in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Pawana Hospital continuously upgrades its facilities with world-class medical equipment to ensure the best outcomes for patients.

Key Technological Advancements at Pawana Hospital:

✅ MRI & CT Scan – High-resolution imaging for accurate diagnosis. ✅ Digital X-Ray & Ultrasound (USG) – Fast and detailed imaging for real-time assessments. ✅ 2D Echo with Carotid Doppler – Advanced heart and vascular diagnostics. ✅ Endoscopy & Laparoscopy – Minimally invasive procedures for quicker recovery. ✅ Cath Lab for Cardiac Procedures – Immediate response to heart attacks and vascular diseases.

💡 Why It Matters: ✔ Faster & more accurate diagnoses ✔ Early disease detection for better treatment outcomes ✔ Reduced need for invasive procedures

2. Advanced Surgical Techniques for Faster Recovery ⚕️

Pawana Hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art modular operation theatres that support minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgeries.

Innovations in Surgery at Pawana Hospital:

✅ Keyhole & Laparoscopic Surgery – Smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery. ✅ Laser Surgery for Urology & Gastroenterology – High precision with minimal downtime. ✅ Neurosurgery & Spine Surgery – Advanced procedures with real-time monitoring. ✅ Joint Replacement & Orthopedic Surgeries – Cutting-edge implants and robotic-assisted techniques.

💡 Why It Matters: ✔ Less pain and scarring ✔ Shorter hospital stays & faster recovery ✔ Lower risk of complications

3. AI & Digital Healthcare for Enhanced Patient Care 🤖

Pawana Hospital integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital healthcare solutions to improve patient experience, diagnosis, and treatment efficiency.

AI-Powered Innovations at Pawana Hospital:

✅ AI-Assisted Diagnosis – Faster detection of diseases like cancer and stroke. ✅ Telemedicine & Virtual Consultations – Remote access to expert doctors. ✅ Electronic Health Records (EHR) – Seamless access to patient history for better treatment planning. ✅ Automated Medication Dispensing – Reducing errors and improving efficiency.

💡 Why It Matters: ✔ Quicker and more precise diagnosis ✔ Access to expert care from anywhere ✔ Better patient safety and treatment accuracy

4. Super-Specialty Services Under One Roof 🏥

Pawana Hospital provides comprehensive super-specialty services, ensuring that patients don’t have to travel for specialized treatments.

Key Super-Specialty Services at Pawana Hospital:

✅ Cardiology & Cardiothoracic Surgery – Advanced heart care and interventions. ✅ Neurosurgery & Neurology – Treating complex brain and nervous system disorders. ✅ Onco-Surgery & Cancer Care – Multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment. ✅ Gastroenterology & GI Surgery – Advanced endoscopic and laparoscopic treatments. ✅ Pediatric Surgery & NICU Care – Specialized care for newborns and children.

💡 Why It Matters: ✔ Access to top specialists under one roof ✔ No need to travel for complex treatments ✔ Integrated & holistic patient care

5. Research & Continuous Medical Education 📚

To stay ahead in the medical field, continuous learning and research are essential. Pawana Hospital actively engages in medical research, training, and workshops to ensure our doctors and staff are updated with the latest global medical trends.

Our Commitment to Medical Research & Learning:

✅ Regular CME (Continuing Medical Education) Programs – Keeping doctors updated on new treatments. ✅ Collaboration with Leading Medical Institutions – Bringing international expertise to local healthcare. ✅ Clinical Trials & Research Studies – Advancing treatment options for patients.

💡 Why It Matters: ✔ Patients receive the latest and most effective treatments. ✔ Doctors stay ahead with innovative medical knowledge. ✔ Continuous improvement in healthcare quality.

6. Personalized & Patient-Centric Approach 💙

Beyond technology, Pawana Hospital believes in compassionate, patient-first care. We combine innovation with empathy, ensuring that every patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their needs.

How We Ensure Patient-Centric Care:

✅ Multidisciplinary Treatment Plans – Coordinated care from multiple specialists. ✅ Dedicated Patient Support Services – Guidance throughout the treatment journey. ✅ Holistic Wellness & Rehabilitation – Physiotherapy, nutrition counseling, and mental health support.

💡 Why It Matters: ✔ A more personalized healing experience. ✔ Better long-term health outcomes. ✔ Emotional and mental well-being support.

Conclusion: Leading Healthcare Innovation in Maval

At Pawana Hospital, staying at the forefront of medical advancements is not just about technology—it’s about saving lives, improving quality of life, and delivering world-class healthcare with compassion.

📍 Whether it’s advanced diagnostics, cutting-edge surgeries, AI-powered healthcare, or patient-centered care, Pawana Hospital continues to revolutionize medical services in Maval and beyond.

🌟 Looking for world-class healthcare? Visit Pawana Hospital—where innovation meets compassionate care.

Would you like any refinements or additional details? 😊

[exportersworldb2b]

How British Pharmaceutical Companies Are Shaping the Future of Medicine

Introduction

British pharmaceutical companies play a key role in shaping the global healthcare industry. From developing life-saving treatments to developing innovative drugs, the UK pharma industry has a long history of medical advancements. These companies invest heavily in research and development (R&D), ensuring that patients worldwide benefit from cutting-edge solutions. In this article, we explore how British pharmaceutical companies are leading the way in medical innovation and what the future holds for this ever-evolving sector.

The UK as a Global Leader in Pharmaceutical Innovation

The UK has been at the forefront of medical breakthroughs for decades. British scientists have been responsible for some of the most important discoveries in medicine, including penicillin and groundbreaking vaccines. Today, the UK pharma industry continues to thrive, contributing billions to the economy while improving global health.

Key Statistics

·         The UK pharmaceutical sector is worth over £44 billion annually.

·         British pharma companies invest heavily in R&D, with over £5 billion spent yearly.

·         The industry employs over 63,000 people, making it a major driver of innovation and economic growth.

Government bodies such as the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) ensure that new medicines meet high standards for safety and effectiveness. These regulations create an environment where innovation can flourish while protecting public health.

Cutting-Edge Research and Drug Development

Pharmaceutical companies in england are at the forefront of developing new drugs to treat various diseases. Their focus on R&D has led to significant breakthroughs in areas like oncology, neurology, and rare genetic disorders.

Notable Breakthroughs

·         Oncology: UK researchers have developed innovative cancer therapies, including targeted treatments and immunotherapies.

·         Neurology: Companies are investing in treatments for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other neurodegenerative diseases.

·         Rare Diseases: Gene therapies and specialized medications are being developed for conditions previously considered untreatable.

Advanced technology, including AI and big data, is also transforming drug discovery. Machine learning algorithms help researchers analyze vast datasets to identify promising drug candidates faster and more efficiently than ever before.

The Role of British Pharma in Vaccine Development

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of UK biggest pharmaceutical companies��in vaccine development. AstraZeneca, a UK-based company, was key in producing a widely distributed COVID-19 vaccine. The success of this vaccine showcased the UK's ability to respond swiftly to global health crises.

Ongoing research is focused on:

·         Developing vaccines for emerging infectious diseases.

·         Improving existing vaccines to enhance their effectiveness.

·         Expanding access to vaccines in low-income countries.

British pharmaceutical companies continue collaborating with global health organizations to ensure that vaccines reach those most need them.

Biotech and Precision Medicine in the UK

Biotechnology and precision medicine are transforming healthcare by offering personalized treatments tailored to individual patients. British pharma companies and biotech startups are working together to develop breakthrough therapies.

Key Developments

·         Personalized medicine uses genetic data to customize treatments, increasing their effectiveness.

·         CRISPR and gene therapy are being explored to treat genetic disorders at their root cause.

·         Stem cell research is leading to new approaches in regenerative medicine.

This shift toward precision medicine ensures that patients receive the right treatment at the right time, improving outcomes and reducing side effects.

Sustainability and Ethical Pharma Practices

As the world focuses on sustainability, pharmaceutical companies in England are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact and promote ethical practices.

Key Initiatives

·         Reducing carbon emissions by adopting greener manufacturing processes.

·         Developing eco-friendly packaging to minimize waste.

·         Ensuring fair pricing and access to medicines in developing countries.

Sustainability is becoming a priority, with companies investing in renewable energy and seeking ways to make pharmaceutical production more environmentally friendly.

Challenges and the Future of British Pharma

Despite its strengths, the UK pharma industry faces challenges that could impact its future growth.

Brexit and Regulatory Changes

Brexit has introduced new regulatory hurdles, affecting drug approvals and supply chains. However, British pharmaceutical companies are adapting by strengthening global partnerships and finding innovative solutions.

Supply Chain Disruptions

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains. To address this, UK pharma companies are investing in domestic manufacturing capabilities to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.

Future Trends

Looking ahead, British pharmaceutical companies are expected to focus on:

·         AI-driven drug discovery to accelerate innovation.

·         Regenerative medicine, including tissue engineering and cell therapy.

·         Nanotechnology for targeted drug delivery and improved treatment effectiveness.

Conclusion

British pharmaceutical companies are shaping the future of medicine through innovation, research, and sustainability. From groundbreaking drug discoveries to advancements in precision medicine, the UK pharma industry continues to lead the way. Despite challenges, ongoing investment and commitment to innovation will ensure that the UK remains a key player in global healthcare.

At Exporters Worlds, we understand the importance of connecting buyers and suppliers in the pharmaceutical industry. As a leading B2B marketplace, we help businesses find reliable partners and foster long-term relationships. Whether you're looking to source pharmaceutical products or expand your market reach, Exporters Worlds is your dedicated partner in success.

[forestchat]

Well once again I'm off on the hospital route so I thought about it and decided that I'm luckier than the characters in my stories. Medical knowledge has advanced in leaps and bounds over the last century and now they can cure - well almost - anything. I remember when they removed my carbuncle it was done on our dining room table and they used gas....ugh., and that was in the 1950's. Since then they have made leaps and bounds in other areas of medical treatment. Cancer is almost under control, and if caught early its possible to eradicate it. Diabetes is also under control and it will be possible to reverse it one day due to the research taking place. Alzheimers and Dementia are also under the microscope as well as Parkinsons. I was diagnosed with Parkinsons early and have been on tablets which have allowed me to carry on life as near normal as possible.

Although they have found cures or medicians that can at least cure or semi cure the diseases and even stop them at a certin stage and contain them for a few years, they are now looking into things in deeper depths. Asthma is almost sorted, now you have inhailers to help with an attack but back in the days of sail when medical knowledge wasn't always good they had rum and 'a bit between your teeth' whilst they removed a limb or bullitt from you. Anesthetic was nothing like it is today, and hygiene was not a priority.

So when you think about all the operations they can perform now and what they can actually mend or replace - and that's another thing which has advanced - since the begining of the last century, you have to admire the people who were and still are fighting for us all. Lots of our military would not be around today if it wasn't for these people, they would basically have been left to die. Artificial limbs and the ability to repair damaged eyes has enabled these brave people to continue living.

Then there's the reconstruction people who can rebuild faces and other bits that have been badly burnt or damaged. The other side of all this is that the general public have benefitted from their knowledge as well. My wife was having trouble with her eyes, cataracts were growing. The result was her optician referred her to the local hospital and they not only removed the cataracts but replaced the lenses. Her vision is now ok. So even there they are still researching.

But back in the days of sail it was oh so different. Then along came men like Dr Blackstock who after being pressed and learning about life aboard ship he studied medician. The interesting thing about this is that even though he became a Doctor and Fellow, he still went back to the sea, where his skills were most definitly needed.

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[rmnp-love]

My college roommate has CF and she used to spend a couple weeks every summer in the hospital on IV antibiotics for lung infections. And during winter, we had to be really careful to try not to get her sick.

She's been on the new drug now for years, she was in the clinical trials, and hasn't had a hospital admission since she started taking it.

i think we should be talking about the semi-recent advancements in cystic fibrosis treatment like all the time every day. there hasn’t been a drug like this since AZT medications for HIV infection it is truly fucking miraculous and very important

[link-layer]

The Power of Participatory Science: Engaging Communities in Discovery

In an era where scientific advancements shape our understanding of the world, participatory science—also known as citizen science—has emerged as a groundbreaking approach to research. This collaborative model invites everyday people, regardless of their formal scientific training, to contribute to real scientific endeavors. From tracking migratory birds to mapping distant galaxies, participatory science is democratizing discovery and fostering a deeper connection between science and society.

What Is Participatory Science?

Participatory science is a process where volunteers, often guided by professional researchers, collect, analyze, or interpret data to address scientific questions. It bridges the gap between the lab and the public, empowering individuals to play an active role in the pursuit of knowledge. Projects can range from local efforts, like monitoring water quality in a neighborhood stream, to global initiatives, such as classifying astronomical images through online platforms.

This approach leverages the enthusiasm and curiosity of non-scientists while expanding the scale and scope of research. With the rise of digital tools—smartphones, apps, and open-access databases—participatory science has exploded in popularity, making it easier than ever for anyone to get involved.

A Brief History

The roots of participatory science stretch back centuries. In the 19th century, amateur naturalists documented plant and animal species, laying the groundwork for modern ecology. One famous example is the Christmas Bird Count, launched in 1900 by the Audubon Society, which continues today as one of the longest-running citizen science projects. Volunteers across North America tally bird sightings each winter, providing invaluable data on population trends.

The advent of the internet supercharged this concept. Platforms like Zooniverse, founded in 2007, now host millions of volunteers who classify everything from wildlife camera trap images to historical weather records. What was once a niche activity has become a global movement.

Why It Matters

Participatory science offers a win-win scenario. For researchers, it provides access to vast amounts of data that would be impossible to gather single-handedly. A single scientist can’t monitor every river or observe every star, but thousands of volunteers can. This scalability has led to breakthroughs in fields like astronomy, ecology, and public health.

For participants, the rewards are equally compelling. Engaging in science fosters a sense of ownership and curiosity about the natural world. It’s hands-on education—learning by doing. Studies have shown that participants often develop a stronger appreciation for evidence-based thinking and environmental stewardship. Plus, it’s fun. Who wouldn’t enjoy stargazing with a purpose or spotting rare species in their backyard?

Take the case of eBird, a project run by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Birdwatchers worldwide submit observations, creating a real-time database that scientists use to track migration patterns and climate change impacts. Since its launch in 2002, eBird has amassed over a billion records, a feat no research team could achieve alone.

Real-World Impact

The contributions of participatory science go beyond data collection—they drive tangible outcomes. During the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill, volunteers with the Public Lab initiative used balloons and kites to capture aerial images of affected coastlines. Their grassroots mapping efforts provided critical information when official data was scarce, aiding cleanup and recovery.

In health, projects like Foldit have turned protein folding—a complex biochemical puzzle—into an online game. Players, many with no scientific background, have helped design new proteins and even contributed to HIV research, demonstrating that human intuition can complement computational models.

Environmental monitoring is another hotspot. Initiatives like iNaturalist encourage users to photograph and identify species, building a global biodiversity database. These observations have helped scientists discover new species and track invasive ones, informing conservation strategies.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite its promise, participatory science isn’t without hurdles. Data quality is a common concern—can untrained volunteers be as reliable as professionals? Researchers address this through training, standardized protocols, and statistical validation, ensuring that crowd-sourced data holds up to scrutiny.

Accessibility is another issue. While technology has broadened participation, not everyone has equal access to the internet or scientific tools. Projects must strive to include diverse voices, especially in underserved communities where local knowledge can enrich findings.

Looking ahead, the potential is boundless. Artificial intelligence could enhance participatory science by guiding volunteers or sifting through their contributions. Imagine an app that instantly identifies a plant species from a photo and suggests how to log it for research. Meanwhile, gamification—think leaderboards or badges—could boost engagement further.

How to Get Involved

Ready to dive in? The options are endless. Websites like SciStarter.org connect people to projects based on their interests, whether it’s counting penguins in Antarctica (via satellite images) or recording rainfall in their neighborhood. Local organizations, such as nature centers or universities, often host events too.

No PhD required—just curiosity and a willingness to contribute. Whether you’re a retiree with time to spare, a student eager to learn, or a family looking for a meaningful activity, participatory science welcomes all.

A Shared Journey

Participatory science is more than a research tool; it’s a movement that redefines who gets to “do” science. It reminds us that discovery isn’t confined to ivory towers—it thrives in backyards, parks, and communities. By inviting everyone to the table, it not only accelerates progress but also builds a more informed, engaged world.

So, next time you spot a butterfly or gaze at the stars, consider this: you could be the one to help unlock their secrets. In participatory science, we’re all explorers!

[abybweisse]

Hey Aby ! I have a question (actually, two) for you regarding bizzare dolls that came into my mind just recently, maybe you’ve answered this question before so i apologize in advance.

Firstly, why do you think the Star Lords exist in the first place ? Like, sure, they “take care” of the blood collecting centers, but what else ? Do you think they have any purpose other than this ? Are they part of something greater ? Because as of now it seems to me they’re actually a waste of energies for Undertaker (like, you know, having to harvest blood for all of them, making sure they’re healthy and don’t lose control…)

Second and last question, why the different blood types ? I’ll explain this better, if Undertaker’s main goal is to keep R!Ciel ‘alive’ why not collecting just Sirius blood and calling it a day ?

I take this opportunity to thank you for being the literal pillar and backbone of our fandom 🫶🏻 who knows what we would be without you ! Lots of love !

⚠️ long post ⚠️

Ok, so I've sort of answered these questions before, but I'll try to be more specific and in depth about it here.

Why the Star Lords to begin with?

There are several parts to this answer, and I'll go into some more details about each one:

The star lords exist because Undertaker wants to bring back real Ciel

Even this part of the answer requires looking at a few different aspects. Real Ciel is one of the star lords, so wanting to bring him back automatically explains why he's one of them. Bringing in other individuals can serve some purposes. Such as:

So real Ciel isn't the only one; he's not alone. It gives him the added bonus of having (loyal) allies to go up against our earl and his allies (particularly Baldo, Mey-Rin, and Finny). These star lords can fight very well (though that might not be the case for real Ciel, since he's apparently only getting AB blood transfusions. More on that later. And he might naturally not be as physically inclined or well-trained). We pretty much have to assume, by now, that Polaris is the one who kills Agni. Real Ciel shooting at Soma (who mistook the shooter for our earl) and Polaris (mistaken for Sebastian, probably) killing Agni turned Soma into an enemy. Much of the star lords' existence seems to be about getting rid of our earl's support system.

The others might end up serving real Ciel in some other way, too, such as collecting blood supplies from the other facilities; we know Vega (Layla/Al) and Polaris are sent off by Undertaker to do that. At some point, real Ciel wants one of them to act as his butler, and later Polaris seems to be filling that role, even though he was away and unable to serve as one earlier. Either way, Polaris identifies as a butler "even in death".

So there's a representative for each major blood type (more on that in part two). That's about religion (or occultism), symbolism, and balance. It's also about scientific research.

The star lords exist because Undertaker wants to make a point to our earl about the choices he makes (which I find very ironic).

Choosing Doll (to represent Canopus) might have something to do with wanting to make our earl feel guilty for her death... if he ever sees her or finds out about her return. We won't know what/how he finds out until we get back to him and he's receiving reports. We aren't quite sure yet who Polaris is, but I suspect he's a former Phantomhive butler, and that could make our earl feel bad about his death, too, even though there was no way for him to prevent it. (Mostly, someone like a former Phantomhive butler for Polaris would be for the fierce loyalty that could be achieved with his "episodes".)

The star lords exist because Yana-san needs to provide more adversity.

Undertaker might also see Doll as someone who could take Snake away from our earl, because of their history. And even if Undertaker doesn't have that in mind, Yana-san sure does; it makes sense from a writer's perspective to have each of our earl's helpers deal with something that exposes their emotions and/or weaknesses. With Doll, Snake feels a sense of belonging, while Finny feels guilt. Layla/Al is good to go up against Lau and Baldo because they likely wouldn't suspect a little girl (by all appearances) to be much of a threat. Polaris is so strong, fast, and flexible that Mey-Rin and Ran-Mao have no idea how lucky they are that they were gone by the time Polaris found out what had happened. Agni and Soma weren't as lucky, dealing with Polaris and real Ciel. 😢

The star lords exist because backers of Aurora Society begged and/or paid to have dead loved ones revived.

At least that's what I think in the case of Layla/Al. I suspect she might be Baron Heathfield's dead daughter. Undertaker agreeing to help restore Heathfield's family might be why Heathfield got involved with Undertaker and the Aurora Society. Not just to find the right "soul shape" for his wife... but also to somehow revive his daughter.

The star lords exist because Undertaker is still curious about humanity (life, death, souls, etc.).

He's continuing to experiment. Even though the main purpose seems to be to revive real Ciel, the effects are much wider in scope. They really are one big series of experiments. Some elements of what he's been working on (possibly with a helper, like Druitt, on the medical aspects):

Manipulating cinematic records. He started out -- probably long before real Ciel was killed -- just adding little snippets of himself to their records, much like the BDs on the ship. He says that when he started working on real Ciel his revival techniques weren't up to snuff (not nonexistent, just not strong enough), so he needed to make quick progress. The others on the ship weren't for that purpose, so they don't really count here. The murders at Weston gave him an opportunity to improve upon record manipulation. And so do the other lords of the stars. This gives him more time to cherry pick which "episodes" to use for each one.

Blood typing and transfusion technology. It is way more advanced (than it should be at this time) because of his work... or the work of whoever is helping him in the lab. It's already led to the development of dialysis machines, too, which brings in another money-making opportunity. The star lords might not have functioning hearts, bone marrow, livers, or kidneys, so the blood transfusions are an ongoing need.

Organ transplants. Experimentation continues with organ transplants, since the orphanage staff mentions something about how hard it is to match the kids up with the star lords based on aptitude. With organ transplants, matching blood type isn't always enough. The personality test doesn't guarantee any more precision, of course, either, but that's not exactly the purpose of that test. Also, transplanted organs don't last forever, even in living humans, so they probably last even less time in a BD. As a star lord wears out their transfused blood, they probably also wear out transplanted organs and other tissues.

Soul transplants. We don't have absolute proof just yet, but I do think Undertaker is also experimenting with transplanting souls into the star lords. On the ship, he says BDs can't do anything with the souls of the people they attack. And he says he can't make souls. However, he hasn't said he can't manipulate souls that already exist; definitely, he has soul manipulation abilities that the BDs lack, and I think he's testing the limits of his own abilities. He's also got Heathfield thinking that he needs to find a woman with a soul the same "shape" as his dead wife's. As I said before, I think Undertaker might be using Heathfield's dead wife as a test subject for soul transplants. I do think he wants to transplant a similar or same-shaped soul into each of the star lords. Either Layla has Al due to one of these experiments... or Undertaker chose Layla to be one of the star lords partly because she already has Al, and Undertaker wants to study this dual personality. His reasoning might go that if he could just transplant the right soul into a star lord, then that star lord would be truly revived... would be able to pump and clean the blood that's been transfused... would be able to make more blood for themselves... would be able to make better use of the organs they've received.

The star lords exist because Undertaker needs a gimmick to lure in people to give blood (whether or not they know that blood is being taken) and for patrons to donate money.

And that's where the different blood types become even more important.

Why the different blood types?

I suppose Undertaker could focus all the efforts on just getting AB "Sirius" blood for real Ciel. But there are benefits to collecting all four types in the ABO blood grouping system (ignoring Rh factor).

AB is rare, and it would still require blood typing a large number of people to figure out who has AB. Hence why they opened Sphere Music Hall and made it a mixing space for all walks of life, placed ads for maids of all backgrounds for Heathfield, offered state of the art medical services for veterans at Athena Sanatorium. and provided a shelter and rare education opportunity for orphans at F. O. L. And people would feel unwelcome if most of them (or any of them, really) were turned away. Making the facilities as inclusive as possible (particularly the music hall and Heathfield's manor) increases the likelihood of getting enough AB blood for real Ciel.

And since Undertaker (and whoever) now also has all this blood for A, B, and O, he should do something with it. By then, probably anticipating the fact that he'd have blood supplies for different recipients, he'd have selected the other three star lords to match the remaining blood types. Each star lord just sort of falls into place, most likely. Real Ciel has AB. "Polaris" is A, so that works. This girl Layla is unusual, plus she's got type O; great, let's bring her on board. And Doll happens to be B; perfect, now all four types are covered.

In the case of Sphere Music Hall, there's also a major occult aspect to it, and having these four portray worshipped individuals works out well to lure people in and gives each visitor a purpose. Even the lesser "stars" that make up the multitudes are useful. Truth is, most of them didn't even know about the star lords; they were too caught up in adoration for the idol singers. Built-in idolatry. Layer upon layer to shroud the star lords in mystery.

For a while, there was so much extra A and O blood that they could also distribute it to renal failure patients who donated money to Aurora Society. Like those old guys in Bath.

There's also the fact that a major truth about the ABO blood grouping system has been, so far, either ignored or misunderstood within the story. When it comes to whole blood transfusions, AB is the universal recipient, so real Ciel doesn't have to "starve" from the scarcity of his blood type. All this time, he could have accepted any of them. It actually all could have been collected for him... from anyone (again, ignoring rh factor). All this trouble to collect AB blood for him could have been avoided, but either the researchers don't yet know this fact, or they know but still aren't making use of it. There is also the possibility that even real Ciel now knows this, but he's refusing anything but AB due to elitist bias. Keep in mind that they have created their own caste system within this "blue cult", despite saying how everyone is welcome and to be treated equally. There's obviously a premium put on Sirius and Canopus. And there've been a few times where individuals talked down to anyone who wasn't amongst the cult's elite and described the vast majority of participants as lesser or "dim" stars.

I'm still waiting for someone (maybe Sieglinde?) to point this out to Undertaker (and whoever is doing the bulk of the blood work). So, part of the reason to have a star lord for each blood type might be to lead up to the revelation that they went through a bunch of completely unnecessary lengths... and to maybe show them that -- for all the knowledge they had -- they still knew so little.

Well, I hope this sufficiently answers your questions. 😂 I feel like I'm forgetting something, but after typing this much, I can't think too clearly about what that might be. 😮‍💨 😅

And thank you so much!! 😊

[polycrallc]

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