#Top 10 scale model company

[csanflower]

are you my soulmate?

pairing: idol/model! jungkook x part time staff! reader

genre: fluff, sfw

wc: 2.7k

synopsis: You offered to do some part time work for a Calvin Klein shoot to earn some quick cash. The job was simple. Do whatever the higher ranked people told you to do. You expected a simple job like making coffee or ordering lunch for the staff. You definitely did not expect the biggest star in the world following you around like a puppy, thinking you’re his soulmate just because a bell rang when you crossed paths with him…

*inspired by jungkooks comment abt hearing bells ring when he meets his soulmate ^^ BUT NOTE THAT THIS IS NOT SOULMATE AU

“y/n, thank you so much for helping us out! Our shoot today is extremely important for the company and we needed all the help we could get! You are aware of who the model is, right?” Sejin, your overall manager for the shoot today approached you as you entered the shooting area.

You immediately noticed how large scale this shoot was, compared to the other shoots you’ve been to before. As a college student interested in the modelling sector, you had always tried to find opportunities to get yourself familiarised with the industry, and at the same time earn some money to pay off your school fees. Thus you’ve dabbled in helping out with basic chores for shoots, such as buying coffee for the staff, organising the mess on the tables, or the occasional touch up of the model’s makeup. However, all of the shoots you’ve been to so far have been small scale, quick shoots, unlike this shoot which seemed to have about 100 staff members in a rush to get ready. Whoever the model was must have been a huge figure.

“Sorry, this job was kind of last minute so I didn’t have time to read up on the information. Who is the model?” You replied Sejin with slight embarrassment.

“It’s fine, no need to be sorry. The model is Jeon Jungkook of BTS! Do you know how many fans this guy has? This shoot is going to make our company stocks rise to the max!” Sejin laughed out loud at the mere thought of company stocks rising.

Jeon Jungkook? Wow. Who didn’t know Jeon Jungkook? He was the most famous and desired man in the whole South Korea — in fact maybe the whole world. Your jaw hung open. You were going to see Jeon Jungkook? Sure, you were probably not going to reach within a 10 meter radius of him as a small staff, but you were gonna be in the same room as him. You weren’t a big fan of him but you had heard of how famous he was. Jeon Jungkook was a household name. You’ve personally heard your mother and siblings fangirling over him. Who would have known that y/n l/n, the only one in the l/n family who did not fangirl over Jeon Jungkook would be meeting him first. You laughed to yourself, imagining your family’s reaction when you tell them about it.

“Ah, y/n, the shoot is about to start, i’m about to get busy. Could you do me a favour and help me get my file for todays shoot? It’s in my office, you should know where it is.”

“Sure! I’ll go now!” You immediately replied, hoping to do good job so you could get on his good side. You bowed at him quickly, before rushing to his office.

When you reached his office, you immediately found the file, with big, bolded letters written on it. “For Jungkook shoot! Extremely important!” You were about to grab it and leave, when you notice a golden bell beside it, with a post it note written on it. “Bring to the shoot! In case I need to get everyone’s attention since nobody ever listens to me anymore!” You laugh at the note, grabbing both the bell and the notes as you head out of the office.

As you walked in the hallway, you suddenly got a text message from sejin. You placed the bell on top of the file and barely balanced it with your left hand, as your right hand held your phone to read the message.

Help me take the bell too please! Thank you!! - Sejin

You inwardly praise yourself saving a trip back, trying to type a response to sejin with your right thumb.

Just as you were about to hit send, you suddenly felt a hard chest in front of you, harshly colliding into it, sending you to the ground.

Ding! The loud sound of the bell resonated in the empty hallway as it hit the ground.

“What the hell…” You rub at your painful head as you lay on the floor, rushing to get up to grab the file before its contents fly around.

Dischevelled, you grab the file and bell, hugging it close to your chest as you glared up at the person who caused the mess.

You definitely did not expect to see a pair of doe eyes looking at you curiously, with a glint of excitement in them. His mouth was open slightly in awe, as if he just saw an angel. But your jaw hung wider than his when you realised you just bumped into THE JEON JUNGKOOK?

“Oh…OH MY GOD! I’m so so so sorry!” You quickly sobered up, standing up and bowing at him multiple times. You avoided eye contact as you walked past him and tried running away in embarrassment.

But before you could leave, you felt strong, large hands grabbing your wrist.

“W-wait! Don’t go… who are you? Are you my soulmate?”

When you heard what he said, you almost burst into laughter. What? Soulmate? What was this famous star on? Was the most famous guys in the world really asking you if you were his soulmate? You let out a muffled laugh, trying your best to hold it in as you say, “Excuse me?”

“T-the bell. It rang when we bumped into each other. It’s fate.”

You finally let out your laughter at that, laughing uncontrollably at what you thought was a joke, until you noticed his hardened stare and realised maybe he was not joking.

“Um the bell rang because it fell on the floor… I don’t think we are ‘soulmates’, sorry man.” You said awkwardly.

The both of you stood in silence, staring at each other. After 30 seconds, the awkward tension started getting to you and you slightly bowed before walking away back to the shoot.

If you thought that would be the the end of the very weird experience, you were very wrong. As you walked, you could feel a presence behind you. Using your peripheral vision, you were 100% sure Jeon Jungkook, the world’s most desired bachelor was following you around like a puppy. You were starting to get annoyed, the other staff were starting to notice and the attention was definitely not what you needed. You whipped around, face to face with Jungkook.

“Why are you following me?” You ask infuriatingly.

At your annoyed tone, he lets out a small smirk, suddenly having some newfound confidence.

“I’m not following you, I’m going the same way as you.”

You let out a frustrated sigh, turning around and stomping at a quicker pace to the shoot area. Of course, he was still following you closely.

When you reached the shoot, you felt an instant relief with the amount of people bustling around.

“Jungkook is here!”

“What! Where?”

“Jungkook!”

The moment Jungkook entered the room behind you, people immediately took notice of him, running to be by his side and crowding around him. You took the opportunity to blend with the crowd and get away from him.

As you turned back to look at him, you noticed he was looking around for you, after losing you in the crowd. His eyebrows were slightly furrowed as he carried a small frown on his face, eyes glancing around the room trying to find you.

For a guy who could get any girl he want, he seemed weirdly obsessed with you. Did he really think you were his soulmate because of the bell? Maybe he was just playing with you like with other girls. You were just a nobody to him after all. You place the thoughts at the back of your head as you get back to work, finding Sejin.

“Thanks y/n, you can go take a lunch break. I’ll text you if I need you!” Sejin seemed satisfied at your swift pace as he released you for a break.

You give him a small smile as you walk out to the cafeteria with a sigh of relief. Taking one last glance at Jungkook, he still seemed to be trying to find you, with a small cute pout on his face as he seemed slightly frustrated at his futile attempts.

You sat down on an empty bench as you chewed on your sandwich, glad that you could take a short break before the real demands start coming in when the shoot gets busy.

Emergency: Contact some models to see if they’re available ASAP. Part time models OK. Get a variety. Jungkook being picky. He doesn’t want to work with Nari. - Sejin

You furrowed your eyebrows at the message. Jungkook didn’t want to work with Nari? Nari was the biggest female model in Korea. Why didn’t he want to work with her? She was ‘the most beautiful girl in Korea’ and every man loved her. Why did he have to be so uncooperative and make my job so hard? You quickly messaged your model contacts, asking them to come as soon as they could.

Of course, all of them immediately accepted. Who wouldn’t be dying to get an opportunity to model with Jungkook? You led the 4 models to the shoot, noticing the grim and dark mood as soon as you entered. You could tell there was tension due to Jungkook’s lack of cooperation.

When sejin noticed saw the models, his face immediately lighted up.

“Jungkook! The models are here! You can choose any of them to be your partner! These girls are all highly esteemed models and they are all experienced! Any of them would be a great partner!”

You could feel the girls beside you fixing their posture and making a juice pose as they awaited in anticipation for Jungkook to see them.

Jungkook looked up from his phone in disinterest, quickly skimming over the models until his eyes landed on you. Immediately, you noticed a glint of sparkle in his eyes, a child like smile on his face as he pointed at you.

“I want her.”

You instantly tensed up, staring at sejin in shock. You could feel the rest of the staff’s shock as well. You wanted to climb into a hole and die from the tension. Why did he have to cause so much problems for you?

“A-are you sure jungkook? Y/n is a beautiful girl but she’s a staff, not a model…”

You looked at Sejin in desperation, slightly shaking your head and telling him with your eyes that it was a no. However, Jungkook was relentless.

“If it’s not her, i’m not doing this shoot.” He said nonchalantly.

You wanted to smack his handsome little face so bad. You should have just stayed home today. Sejin walked over to you, pulling you aside apologetically.

“I’m so sorry y/n, but you know how important this shoot is to us. Could you please help us out this once? It’s just for today. We will pay extra and it’ll be a great experience! You want to work in the modelling industry in the future right? You could hear desperation in his tone.

You thought about it. Of course this would be a great experience for you, but you were so unprepared. What if you didn’t do well? Or worse what if his fans hated on you? You couldn’t handle that. But with Sejin staring at you so desperately, you felt that the guilt of rejecting him would kill you on the inside. You knew how excited he was for this shoot.

“Fine.”

“Thank you! Thank you so much y/n! Here take this file and read up on the looks for the shoot. I’ll bring you a makeup and stylist team ASAP. The shoot will start immediately when you’re ready!” He handed you a file with immense gratitude written on his face.

You reluctantly grabbed it from him, making your way to the makeup room as you tried to avoid the heated jealous stares of the girls around you. You glared at Jungkook as you walked past him, receiving a smirk in return.

When you reached the makeup room and sat on the model’s chair for the first time, you flipped through the file, reading the contents, your eyes widening and jaws dropping when you read it.

“Underwear shoot???!!”

You stared at yourself in the mirror after you had gotten your makeup and styling done. You were only wearing Calvin Klein underwear and a Calvin Klein jean jacket. Were you really about to do this? Of course, you looked hot. This was probably the hottest you have been in your whole 21 years of your life. But you were so nervous. You sucked in a deep breath, telling yourself: You have to do this well. This will give you many opportunities. Just suck it up.

You walked out awkwardly, feeling the heat of everyone’s stares. You could especially feel Jungkook’s heated stare.

“y/n! You look great! Come here! Let’s start the shoot!” Sejin commented in excitement when you came out.

You awkwardly walked over to in front of the camera where Jungkook was already waiting.

“Ok, y/n, I need you to sit on Jungkook’s lap and grab his neck while looking up innocently at the camera.”

You looked at Jungkook who had a smug look on his face as he waited for you to approach him. You tried not to stare down at Jungkook’s sudden exposed abs. Sucking up your embarrassment, you did as Sejin said.

Unexpectedly, the shoot went smoother than you expected. You managed to do many of the poses Sejin told you to do, even the intimate ones. Sejin even commented that you were a natural. Looking at the pictures taken, you also noticed that you somehow had a natural chemistry with Jungkook, with all your pictures with him seeming natural, like a real couple. In one of the pictures, you were straddling Jungkook as you both stared into each other’s eyes as if you both loved each other. You felt yourself blush as you stared at the picture. Despite the slight embarrassment, you couldn’t help but feel a new sense of pride when you were praised by everybody there, even staff members who previously did not even acknowledge your presence.

“And that’s a wrap! Thank you to everyone!” Sejin shouted.

You felt a flush of relief feel your body, a sense of tiredness taking over your body as you could finally relax.

You slowly got up from Jungkook’s shirtless body, looking away from him. You could still sense him staring at you as you walked away to change out of the uncomfortable undergarments.

After removing the extravagant makeup and changing into comfortable clothes, you walked out of the shoot feeling much more relaxed. You looked at the time on your phone, noticing it was already 11pm. Everybody must have already left by now.

You let out a content sigh, thinking back on the stressful day.

“y/n, wait! Dont go yet!”

Just as you were about to step out of the building, you heard a panicked voice behind you.

You turn around, seeing Jungkook who was panting hard as he bent down to catch his breath. He had changed into more comfortable clothing, with a hoodie and sweats, without any makeup on his face. Yet with such a natural look, he seemed so much more attractive to you. He must have ran after you if he was panting so much.

You crossed your arms, playfully smiling at him as you asked him why he stopped you. You felt a newfound sense of comfort with him after the shoot with him, maybe because you had been in such intimate positions with him.

“I-I need to tell you something. T-there’s something wrong with your phone. It doesn’t have your number in it…” Jungkook seemed nervous.

You looked at him in confusion, not understanding.

“W-wait! I mean there’s something wrong with my phone! It doesn’t have your number!” Jungkook hit his head in frustration, seeming actually annoyed at himself for not pulling off his pickup line correctly.

“So what do you want me to do about it?” You ask with a playful smirk on your face.

“You can fix it by giving me your number.” He said with a shy smile, still slightly embarrassed from his failed pickup line, as he reached out his phone to you.

You laughed out loud at his shyness and relentless determination. Jungkook laughed along with you shyly as you both shared a moment in the sweet darkness of the night.

You grabbed his phone from his hand, typing out your phone number.

*HII IM NEW TO TUMBLR i may make a part two depending on how wrecked i am after seven comes out :’)

[veganism]

The genocide is also experimentation on living beings

Israel is currently testing new weapons in Gaza, some of which will soon be sold globally as "battle-tested," according to Antony Loewenstein, an author who has written a widely acclaimed book on the issue.

For years, the Israeli defense sector has used Palestine as a laboratory for new weapons and surveillance tech, he told Anadolu, adding that this is also the case in the current ongoing war on Gaza.

One of the main reasons why "many nations, democracies and dictatorships support Israeli occupation" of Palestine is because it allows them to buy these "battle-tested" weapons, asserted Loewenstein, author of The Palestine Laboratory: How Israel Exports the Technology of Occupation Around the World.

Another aspect of Israel's war on Gaza has been the use of artificial intelligence technology, he said.

According to Loewenstein, AI has been one of the key targeting tools used by the Israeli military in its deadly campaign of airstrikes, leading to mass killings of Palestinians-now over 28,500-and damage on an unprecedented scale.

The current war on Gaza is "inarguably one of the most consequential and bloody," he said.

He described Israel's use of AI against Palestinians as "automated murder," stressing that this model "will be studied and copied by other nation-states" and Tel Aviv will sell them these technologies as tried and tested weapons.

In the last 50 years, Israel has exported hi-tech surveillance tools to at least 130 countries around the world.

To maintain its illegal occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem, and blockade of the Gaza Strip, Israel has developed a range of tools and technologies that have made it the world's leading exporter of spyware and digital forensics tools.

But analysts say the intelligence failure during the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attacks casts doubts over Tel Avis's technological capabilities.

Israel's reliance on technology "is an illusion of safety, while imprisoning 2.3 million people under endless occupation," said Loewenstein, who is Jewish and holds Australian and German nationalities.

He described Israel's response in Gaza as "apocalyptic," stressing that the killings of Palestinian civilians, including children and women, is "on a scale of indiscriminate slaughter."

- 'BLOOD MONEY'

Loewenstein, who is also a journalist, said Israel has honed its weapons and technology expertise over decades as an occupying power, acting with increasing impunity in the Palestinian territories.

This led a small country like Israel to become one of the top 10 arms dealers in the world, he said, adding that Israeli arms sales in 2021 were "the highest on record, surging 55% over the previous two years to $11.3 billion."

In his book, Loewenstein explores thoroughly Israel's ties with autocracies and regimes engaged in mass displacement campaigns, and governments slinking their way into phones.

The Israeli NSO Group sold its well-known Pegasus software to numerous governments, a spyware tool for phones that gives access to the entire content, including conversations, text messages, emails and photos even when the device is switched off.

Israeli drones were first tested over Gaza, the besieged enclave that Loewenstein referred to as "the perfect laboratory for Israeli ingenuity in domination."

Surveillance technology developed in Israel has also been sold to the US in the form of watch towers now used on the border with Mexico.

The EU's border agency Frontex is known to have used Israeli drone technology to monitor refugees.

Loewenstein explains in his book that the EU has partnered with leading Israeli defense companies to use its drones, "and of course years of experience in Palestine is a key selling point."

"So again, one sees how there are so many examples of nations that are wanting to copy what Israel is doing in their own area in their own country on their own border," he said.

These technologies and "are sold by Israel as battle-tested," he said.

In other words, he contends that Palestinians essentially have become "guinea pigs," and despite some nations and the UN publicly criticizing the Israeli occupation, in reality "they're desperate for this technology for themselves for their own countries."

"And that's how in fact, the Palestine laboratory has been so successful for Israel for so long," he said.

In his exhaustive probe into Israel's dealings with arms sales around the world, he noted that the country has monetized the occupation of Palestine, by selling weapons, spyware tools and technologies to repressive regimes such as Rwanda during the genocide in 1994 and to Myanmar during its genocide against the Muslim Rohingya people in 2017.

"This to me is blood money. I mean, there's no other way to see that and again, as someone Jewish, who has spent many, many years reporting on this conflict, both within Israel and Palestine but also elsewhere, it's deeply shameful that Israel is making huge amounts of money from the misery of others," he said.

"This is not a legacy that I can be proud of."

- 'NO NATION ACTUALLY HOLDING ISRAEL TO ACCOUNT'

Profiting from misery is to some extent the nature of what capitalism has always been about, but Israel does this with a great deal of impunity, "because Israel does what it wants," said Loewenstein.

"There is no accountability, there is no transparency, there is no nation actually holding Israel to account," he added.

Israel's regime is shielded from any political backlash for years to come because nations are reliant on Israeli weapons and spyware, said the author.

Israel may not be the only player employing surveillance technology that leads to human rights violations, but it still plays a dominant role, which is why Loewenstein insists that it deserves singular attention.

Israel's foreign policy has always been "amoral and opportunistic," he said, calling on all nations to take a stand and hold Israel accountable, and acknowledge that the world is buying what Israel is selling.

[mariacallous]

Wreckage of the Titan’s innovative carbon fiber hull was found separated into three distinct layers, US National Transportation Safety Board engineer Donald Kramer has told a Coast Guard hearing into the fatal implosion of the OceanGate submersible in 2023.

Although Kramer would not offer an opinion on what caused the hull to delaminate into separate layers, he testified to multiple problems with the hull, beginning with its manufacture in 2020.

Using samples of carbon fiber saved from its construction, as well as dozens of pieces recovered from the seabed, the NTSB gave the most complete picture to date of the experimental nature of the Titan’s hull.

After the Titan’s first hull was found to have a crack and delamination following deep dives in 2019, OceanGate switched manufacturers to replace it.

The new manufacturer, Electroimpact, used a multistage process to wind and cure the five-inch-thick hull in five separate layers. Each layer would be baked at high temperature and pressure before being ground flat, having an adhesive sheet added, and another layer built on top. The idea of this multistep process was to reduce wrinkles in the final hull that the company believed had caused test models to fail short of their design depths.

However, Kramer testified that the NTSB found several anomalies in the fresh hull samples. There was waviness in four of the five layers, and wrinkles that got progressively worse from layer to layer. The NTSB also found that some layers had porosity—gaps in the resin material—four times larger than specified in the design. It also recorded voids between the five layers.

On Monday, Roy Thomas, a materials expert from the American Bureau of Shipping, told the hearing: “Defects such as voids, blisters on surface, and porosity can weaken carbon fiber, and under extreme hydrostatic pressure can accelerate the failure of a hull.”

OceanGate did not make any additional test models using the new multistage process.

The NTSB was able to recover many pieces of the carbon fiber hull from the seafloor, one still attached to one of the submersible’s titanium end domes. In a report issued simultaneously with Kramer’s testimony, the NTSB noted that there were few, if any, full-thickness hull pieces. All of the visible pieces had delaminated into three shells: the innermost of the five layers, a shell made of the second and third layers, and another with the fourth and fifth layers. Like an onion being peeled, the hull had largely separated at the adhesive joining the layers.

The scene was set for Kramer on Monday, with testimony from Phil Brooks, OceanGate’s director of engineering until March 2023. Brooks was asked about a loud bang that had been heard when the Titan surfaced from a successful dive to the Titanic in July 2022.

About 10 minutes after the submersible surfaced, its crew and passengers heard a bang “as loud as an explosion,” according to a witness last week. When the Titan returned to its support ship, Brooks downloaded data from acoustic sensors and strain gauges mounted on its carbon fiber hull.

Five of the eight acoustic sensors captured the noise. The other three showed nothing and were likely nonfunctional, according to Kramer. On Monday, NTSB investigators noted that the acoustic sensors had not recorded useful data for several preceding dives.

The strain data, measuring stretching in the hull, also showed a shift coinciding with the bang. Brooks had seen a similar but larger change in strain just before an earlier scale model of the Titan’s hull failed dramatically in testing. “A sudden shift is something to be concerned about,” he testified. “But it was fairly minor, on two out of the 16 strain gauges.”

Brooks also admitted, however, that three of Titan’s strain gauges had never worked since it was rebuilt and that he was “probably not” qualified to decide on the significance of the change in the strain data. Brooks trained as an electronics engineer and computer scientist, and he deferred on mechanical issues to CEO Stockton Rush, one of five people who died in the Titan.

Brooks said that Rush believed that the bang originated in an external metal frame that held the hull and that Rush gave the go-ahead for future dives. “Without my being a qualified mechanical engineer, his explanation sounded plausible,” said Brooks.

One former OceanGate engineer told WIRED they thought the bang could have been layers in the carbon fiber parting or the hull separating from the titanium end rings: “The degree of the separation can’t be known, but it could have been the beginning of the end.”

The Titanic dives continued without Brooks or Rush doing any further investigation of the noise or consulting with outside experts.

“We didn’t see any further shifts in strain data. No loud bangs,” said Brooks. “Nothing with the acoustic monitoring that seemed out of the ordinary.”

In fact, Kramer’s own analysis of strain data showed that the changes persisted for at least the next three dives. The NTSB did not have sensor data from the Titan’s 2023 missions.

At the end of the 2022 dives, Brooks lobbied to bring the Titan back to OceanGate’s headquarters for testing. “We really wanted to bring the sub back to Everett, Washington, and look for cracks,” he testified. “It was frustrating because it was left at St. John’s [in Newfoundland] at the dock. We were told it was cost-prohibitive. They were low on money.”

A maintenance log for the Titan shows no repairs or adjustments were made to the submersible between late July 2022 and late March 2023.

The hearings continue this week, although it will likely be many months before the Coast Guard issues its final report into the accident.

[datascience-from-the-trenches]

On March 14th, 2023, OpenAI launched GPT-4, said to be the latest milestone in the company’s effort in scaling up deep learning. As part of its launch, OpenAI revealed details regarding the model’s “human-level performance on various professional and academic benchmarks”. Perhaps none of these capabilities was as widely publicized as GPT-4’s performance on the Uniform Bar Examination, with OpenAI prominently displaying on various pages of its website and technical report that GPT-4 scored in or around the “90th percentile,” or “the top 10% of test-takers”.

This paper begins by investigating the methodological challenges in documenting and verifying the 90th-percentile claim, presenting four sets of findings that indicate that OpenAI’s estimates of GPT-4’s UBE percentile are overinflated.

Summary of results:

The 90% percentile estimates are heavily skewed towards repeat test-takers who failed the July administration and score significantly lower than the general test-taking population.

data from a recent July administration of the same exam suggests GPT-4’s overall UBE percentile was below the 69th percentile, and 48th percentile on essays.

GPT-4’s performance against first-time test takers is estimated to be 62nd percentile, including 42nd percentile on essays.

when examining only those who passed the exam (i.e. licensed or license-pending attorneys), GPT-4’s performance is estimated to drop to 48th percentile overall, and 15th percentile on essays.

[dracolupus628]

Big News! My Store is Now Live!

Hello, All! I have been trying to set up my own little store, where I can sell my handmade chainmaille crafts. After several months of preperation, toil, and fighting technology, the store is fully operational! It can be found at https://lupuscrafting.com.

Below, you can find a collection of the products you can find on the site. Everything is handmade by me, and I create each object custom for each order.

  Two examples of the chainmaille necktie, a fun way to incorporate a little fun into your outfit

A scale mail bag- The only one on the market that is proper scale mail, using rings to secure each scale! Useful for many purposes, such as dice bag, coin purse, or a bag for any small trinkets you can find. The bag is lined with fabric to protect whatever you put in it from abrasion.

Two dragons, of different sizes- A wonderful little friend to keep you company, debug code, or decorate your desk! Like everything here, the colours are completely customizable. The green one is 25 in (60cm) long, while the black and blue one is 10 in (25 cm) long, perfect to fit in your pocket!

One of the many models of earrings I have. A wonderful gift for mother’s day, or to make your friend feel extra cool!

These are just a small collection of the products available at the link above. On top of the listed products on the website, I do custom orders! Just contact me at lupuscrafting@gmail.com, describe what you would like to be made, and we will work together to make your vision come to life!

[thepastisalreadywritten]

Titanic: First ever full-sized scans reveal wreck as never seen before

Titanic departing Southampton on 10 April 1912

By Rebecca Morelle and Alison Francis

BBC News Climate and Science

17 May 2023

The world's most famous shipwreck has been revealed as never seen before.

The first full-sized digital scan of the Titanic, which lies 3,800m (12,500ft) down in the Atlantic, has been created using deep-sea mapping.

It provides a unique 3D view of the entire ship, enabling it to be seen as if the water has been drained away.

The hope is that this will shed new light on exactly what happened to the liner, which sank on 15 April 1912.

More than 1,500 people died when the ship struck an iceberg on its maiden voyage from Southampton to New York.

"There are still questions, basic questions, that need to be answered about the ship," Parks Stephenson, a Titanic analyst, told BBC News.

He said the model was "one of the first major steps to driving the Titanic story towards evidence-based research - and not speculation."

The Titanic has been extensively explored since the wreck was discovered in 1985.

But it's so huge that in the gloom of the deep, cameras can only ever show us tantalizing snapshots of the decaying ship - never the whole thing.

The new scan captures the wreck in its entirety, revealing a complete view of the Titanic.

It lies in two parts, with the bow and the stern separated by about 800m (2,600ft). A huge debris field surrounds the broken vessel.

The scan was carried out in summer 2022 by Magellan Ltd, a deep-sea mapping company, and Atlantic Productions, who are making a documentary about the project.

Submersibles, remotely controlled by a team on board a specialist ship, spent more than 200 hours surveying the length and breadth of the wreck.

They took more than 700,000 images from every angle, creating an exact 3D reconstruction.

Magellan's Gerhard Seiffert, who led the planning for the expedition, said it was the largest underwater scanning project he'd ever undertaken.

"The depth of it, almost 4,000m, represents a challenge, and you have currents at the site, too - and we're not allowed to touch anything so as not to damage the wreck," he explained.

"And the other challenge is that you have to map every square centimetre - even uninteresting parts, like on the debris field you have to map mud, but you need this to fill in between all these interesting objects."

The scan shows both the scale of the ship, as well as some minute details, such as the serial number on one of the propellers.

The bow, now covered in stalactites of rust, is still instantly recognisable even 100 years after the ship was lost.

Sitting on top is the boat deck, where a gaping hole provides a glimpse into a void where the grand staircase once stood.

The stern though, is a chaotic mess of metal. This part of the ship collapsed as it corkscrewed into the sea floor.

In the surrounding debris field, items are scattered, including ornate metalwork from the ship, statues and unopened champagne bottles.

There are also personal possessions, including dozens of shoes resting on the sediment.

Parks Stephenson, who has studied the Titanic for many years, said he was "blown away" when he first saw the scans.

"It allows you to see the wreck as you can never see it from a submersible, and you can see the wreck in its entirety. You can see it in context and perspective. And what it's showing you now is the true state of the wreck."

He said that studying the scans could offer new insight into what happened to the Titanic on that fateful night of 1912.

"We really don't understand the character of the collision with the iceberg. We don't even know if she hit it along the starboard side, as is shown in all the movies - she might have grounded on the iceberg," he explained.

Studying the stern, he added, could reveal the mechanics of how the ship struck the sea floor.

The sea is taking its toll on the wreck, microbes are eating away at it and parts are disintegrating.

Historians are well aware that time is running out to fully understand the maritime disaster.

But the scan now freezes the wreck in time and will allow experts to pore over every tiny detail.

The hope is that the Titanic may yet give up its secrets.

[amoradevid]

Top 10 Laravel Development Companies in the USA in 2024

Laravel is a widely-used open-source PHP web framework designed for creating web applications using the model-view-controller (MVC) architectural pattern. It offers developers a structured and expressive syntax, as well as a variety of built-in features and tools to enhance the efficiency and enjoyment of the development process.

Key components of Laravel include:

1. Eloquent ORM (Object-Relational Mapping): Laravel simplifies database interactions by enabling developers to work with database records as objects through a powerful ORM.

2. Routing: Laravel provides a straightforward and expressive method for defining application routes, simplifying the handling of incoming HTTP requests.

3. Middleware: This feature allows for the filtering of HTTP requests entering the application, making it useful for tasks like authentication, logging, and CSRF protection.

4. Artisan CLI (Command Line Interface): Laravel comes with Artisan, a robust command-line tool that offers commands for tasks such as database migrations, seeding, and generating boilerplate code.

5. Database Migrations and Seeding: Laravel's migration system enables version control of the database schema and easy sharing of changes across the team. Seeding allows for populating the database with test data.

6. Queue Management: Laravel's queue system permits deferred or background processing of tasks, which can enhance application performance and responsiveness.

7. Task Scheduling: Laravel provides a convenient way to define scheduled tasks within the application.

What are the reasons to opt for Laravel Web Development?

Laravel makes web development easier, developers more productive, and web applications more secure and scalable, making it one of the most important frameworks in web development.

There are multiple compelling reasons to choose Laravel for web development:

1. Clean and Organized Code: Laravel provides a sleek and expressive syntax, making writing and maintaining code simple. Its well-structured architecture follows the MVC pattern, enhancing code readability and maintainability.

2. Extensive Feature Set: Laravel comes with a wide range of built-in features and tools, including authentication, routing, caching, and session management. 

3. Rapid Development: With built-in templates, ORM (Object-Relational Mapping), and powerful CLI (Command Line Interface) tools, Laravel empowers developers to build web applications quickly and efficiently.

4. Robust Security Measures: Laravel incorporates various security features such as encryption, CSRF (Cross-Site Request Forgery) protection, authentication, and authorization mechanisms. 

5. Thriving Community and Ecosystem: Laravel boasts a large and active community of developers who provide extensive documentation, tutorials, and forums for support.

6. Database Management: Laravel's migration system allows developers to manage database schemas effortlessly, enabling version control and easy sharing of database changes across teams. Seeders facilitate the seeding of databases with test data, streamlining the testing and development process.

7. Comprehensive Testing Support: Laravel offers robust testing support, including integration with PHPUnit for writing unit and feature tests. It ensures that applications are thoroughly tested and reliable, reducing the risk of bugs and issues in production.

8. Scalability and Performance: Laravel provides scalability options such as database sharding, queue management, and caching mechanisms. These features enable applications to handle increased traffic and scale effectively.

Top 10 Laravel Development Companies in the USA in 2024

The Laravel framework is widely utilised by top Laravel development companies. It stands out among other web application development frameworks due to its advanced features and development tools that expedite web development. Therefore, this article aims to provide a list of the top 10 Laravel Development Companies in 2024, assisting you in selecting a suitable Laravel development company in the USA for your project.

IBR Infotech

IBR Infotech excels in providing high-quality Laravel web development services through its team of skilled Laravel developers. Enhance your online visibility with their committed Laravel development team, which is prepared to turn your ideas into reality accurately and effectively. Count on their top-notch services to receive the best as they customise solutions to your business requirements. Being a well-known Laravel Web Development Company IBR infotech is offering the We provide bespoke Laravel solutions to our worldwide customer base in the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia, ensuring prompt delivery and competitive pricing.

Additional Information-

GoodFirms : 5.0

Avg. hourly rate: $25 — $49 / hr

No. Employee: 10–49

Founded Year : 2014

Verve Systems

Elevate your enterprise with Verve Systems' Laravel development expertise. They craft scalable, user-centric web applications using the powerful Laravel framework. Their solutions enhance consumer experience through intuitive interfaces and ensure security and performance for your business.

Additional Information-

GoodFirms : 5.0

Avg. hourly rate: $25 

No. Employee: 50–249

Founded Year : 2009

KrishaWeb

KrishaWeb is a world-class Laravel Development company that offers tailor-made web solutions to our clients. Whether you are stuck up with a website concept or want an AI-integrated application or a fully-fledged enterprise Laravel application, they can help you. 

        Additional Information-

GoodFirms : 5.0

Avg. hourly rate: $50 - $99/hr

No. Employee: 50 - 249

Founded Year : 2008

Bacancy

Bacancy is a top-rated Laravel Development Company in India, USA, Canada, and Australia. They follow Agile SDLC methodology to build enterprise-grade solutions using the Laravel framework. They use Ajax-enabled widgets, model view controller patterns, and built-in tools to create robust, reliable, and scalable web solutions

      Additional Information-

GoodFirms : 4.8

Avg. hourly rate: $25 - $49/hr

No. Employee: 250 - 999

Founded Year : 2011

Elsner 

Elsner Technologies is a Laravel development company that has gained a high level of expertise in Laravel, one of the most popular PHP-based frameworks available in the market today. With the help of their Laravel Web Development services, you can expect both professional and highly imaginative web and mobile applications. 

      Additional Information-

GoodFirms : 5

Avg. hourly rate: < $25/hr

No. Employee: 250 - 999

Founded Year : 2006

Logicspice

Logicspice stands as an expert and professional Laravel web development service provider, catering to enterprises of diverse scales and industries. Leveraging the prowess of Laravel, an open-source PHP framework renowned for its ability to expedite the creation of secure, scalable, and feature-rich web applications. 

      Additional Information-

GoodFirms : 5

Avg. hourly rate: < $25/hr

No. Employee: 50 - 249

Founded Year : 2006

Sapphire Software Solutions

Sapphire Software Solutions, a leading Laravel development company in the USA, specialises in customised Laravel development, enterprise solutions,.With a reputation for excellence, they deliver top-notch services tailored to meet your unique business needs.

     Additional Information-

GoodFirms : 5

Avg. hourly rate: NA

No. Employee: 50 - 249

Founded Year : 2002

iGex Solutions

iGex Solutions offers the World’s Best Laravel Development Services with 14+ years of Industry Experience. They have 10+ Laravel Developer Experts. 100+ Elite Happy Clients from there Services. 100% Client Satisfaction Services with Affordable Laravel Development Cost.

     Additional Information-

GoodFirms : 4.7

Avg. hourly rate: < $25/hr

No. Employee: 10 - 49

Founded Year : 2009

Hidden Brains

Hidden Brains is a leading Laravel web development company, building high-performance Laravel applications using the advantage of Laravel's framework features. As a reputed Laravel application development company, they believe your web application should accomplish the goals and can stay ahead of the rest.

     Additional Information-

GoodFirms : 4.9

Avg. hourly rate: < $25/hr

No. Employee: 250 - 999

Founded Year : 2003

 Matellio 

At Matellio, They offer a wide range of custom Laravel web development services to meet the unique needs of their global clientele. There expert Laravel developers have extensive experience creating robust, reliable, and feature-rich applications

     Additional Information-

GoodFirms : 4.8

Avg. hourly rate: $50 - $99/hr

No. Employee: 50 - 249

Founded Year : 2014

What advantages does Laravel offer for your web application development?

Laravel, a popular PHP framework, offers several advantages for web application development:

Elegant Syntax

Modular Packaging

MVC Architecture Support

Database Migration System

Blade Templating Engine

Authentication and Authorization

Artisan Console

Testing Support

Community and Documentation

Conclusion: 

I hope you found the information provided in the article to be enlightening and that it offered valuable insights into the top Laravel development companies.

These reputable Laravel development companies have a proven track record of creating customised solutions for various sectors, meeting client requirements with precision.

Over time, these highlighted Laravel developers for hire have completed numerous projects with success and are well-equipped to help advance your business.

Before finalising your choice of a Laravel web development partner, it is essential to request a detailed cost estimate and carefully examine their portfolio of past work.

[exhausted-archivist]

@csphire replied to your post “Heights Based off Official Model Scales, Dev...”:

I will have to politely disagree on your Varric estimate. I happen to have that stature and measured it from the top of his head down his straightest leg which is around 37 cm or 14.5 inches. Times that by four will put him at 148 cm or 4'11 ish. Granted that's almost five feet but I added the half-inch to account for the fact his head is tilted down slightly. You may want to readjust your other numbers accordingly.

​Hey! Thanks for the input!

I'm not saying they're canon, aside from Bull's height their is no canonical mention of height; these are calculations based on the measurements of the models I have or that people have provided me. Or in Solas's case, rough estimates based on the provided information and soda cans in this image.

If you want a breakdown of the methodology and math I put it under the cut.

To start off with, all conversions of the 1:4 scale is based on the assumption that Gaming Heads isn't rounding down (taking a 1.9 and saying 1) or up too much (taking a 1.3 and making it a 2). In either their conversion of scaling down or in the description of items.

This is also assuming they aren't skewing their scaling to force perspectives or achieve a certain look. I'm relying on the scaling being accurate and true to a 1:4 scale. As I'm not the modeler, the company producing it, or involved beyond a consumer I can't confirm that.

As for my math, I got my numbers from someone who has the figure. They said their base was under 2 inches, Bianca added 1.5 inches height to Varric, which amounts to 3.5 inches so knocking that off of 17 and we get 14.5, which is what we got for the model: 14.5 inches with his head down. Like you we rounded it up .5 inches to account for straightening his head which would bring him to 15 inches, which is how I got the 5'3.

I was using this calculator to double check my conversions and it panned out to 5'3.

In regards to your numbers, I will admit to being a little unsure if you're saying that the model is 14 inches and became 14.5 after you accounted for an upright head. But if his model is 14 inches prior and then 14.5 after the adjustment Varric would by the 1:4 scale be 4' 9.96" / 147.26 cm or if you round up in feet 4' 10 / 147.31cm. If the model is 14.5 before the adjustment, then you should have the same math as I do.

Either way, I'm not saying anyone has to adopt these figures or that they are solid canon by any means, not even Bull's height which is specified in canonical sources.

Far from that, I shared the calculations because I personally find them a bit more reliable (and amusing) than relying on game models. Especially based on cut scenes since they will sink or float models to achieve an aesthetic angle. BioWare only knows that Inquisitions models especially aren't on any consistent scale. As seen with Iron Bull's model, which isn't proportionally 8' tall along with the fact there are limitations of game modeling where most models are sharing the same body mesh and rig.

[moonsinkfoxgirl]

hi! i remember you once talked about being into gunpla and as a new gundam appreciator i have been thinking of buying a couple of kits but it all seems so intimidating? i dont really get the “grades” and idk if i should have some tools at home already or if i can just order the kit without needing extra tools? also im in europe too and i thought they would be super expensive but i found them for like €10 so im worried i am on a scammy website and idk how to tell 😭 (the website i found is called hlj.com btw idk). anyway sorry this is a lot i just feel very lost and intimidated maybe you have some advice on how to get started?

Uhhh.. as of right now I do not own a single gunpla yet. I ordered a couple but unfortunately I'm still waiting. In any case, I'll gladly answer your questions as far as I can:

Hobby Link Japan is legit, the reason the gunpla are cheap is that the company isn't based in Europe meaning you'll be the one to pay the import tax, so an HG model is around 10 euros; as opposed to e.g. if you buy from riseofgunpla.com, which is a french site, then you pay ~10 bucks extra but you will not have to worry about the shipping company charging you taxes plus a fee because they paid the taxes for you. I still think hlj comes out cheaper in total, but I'm not sure.

As for the grades, you probably want to start out with HG, which stands for High Grade, which is basically the standard tier: 1/144 scale (so ~13 cm tall, though of course the exact size depends on the exact model), and they cost around 1500 Yen (plus minus some depending on the exact model), which comes out at ~10 euros, plus whatever cut your international/european store wants to make their little profit on top.

Then there's:

SD (Super Deformed) which is for like chibi style ones with huge heads, they're also relatively cheap iirc.

RG (Real Grade) also 1/144, but more realistic and more expensive

MG (Master Grade) 1/100, which are bigger ~19cm, and cost ~double I think?

FM (Full Mechanics) also 1/100 but maybe slightly cheaper? and only for specific Gundam shows? I'm not sure tbh, they're not on the same list as I get my info from

PG (Perfect Grade) 1/60, ~30cm sized ones where you get to pay money in the triple digits

As for tools I heard you want a side cutter (ideally one made for modeling), some kind of box cutter or otherwise sharp knife (ideally one for modelling), and a pair of tweezers (for stickers). And maybe some fine sand paper, or files made for modeling. You can probably get that kind of stuff from any local shop that sells model kits (whether they sell gunpla or not). Or I think there's complete tool sets for that kind of stuff on amazon. I'm probably just gonna see if I can raid my dad's model train toolbox.

[designiconarchitects]

Shaping Skylines: The Essence of Architecture Firms in India

India, being one of the cultural and historical giants, offers a prime glimpse into transforming architectural practices over the years. While elements of natural features run through the country, man-made constructions vary from majestic Mughal buildings to skyscraping modern architectural wonders. Contemporary architecture firms in India are leading this huge transformation, infusing innovation with tradition to create spaces that are meaningful and utilitarian. This blog aims at identifying and discussing the very core of Indian architecture firms and hence, here we will delve into what makes Indian architecture firms integral to the nation’s urban and rural landscape and explore why some architects are considered among the top 10 architects in India.

The Contribution of Architecture Firms to India’s Growth

The best architecture firms in India are not only about architectural designing of structures; they focus on the enhancement of the quality of life and transformation of the concepts of urban and rural works. These firms play a pivotal role in:

Urban Planning: Due to the increase in the rate of urbanization, architects are faced with some of the hurdles today like limited space, environmental conservation and infrastructural growth in India.

Sustainability: Most of the architecture firms understand the significance of green design and therefore implement efficiency in the use of renewable energy, green products and efficient waste disposal.

Cultural Preservation: The best practices of the companies who have adopted the capabilities include the integration of contemporary architecture with what is traditional in India to foster the design history of India’s architecture.

Key Features of Top Architecture Firms in India

The best architecture firms stand out because of their:

Innovative Designs: They embrace modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, building information modeling and eco efficient construction.

Client-Centric Approach: Leading organizations understand and seek to meet their clients’ needs and provide solutions to them.

Social Responsibility: Most companies give their best efforts in community development activities thus making a point that architecture enhances the welfare of society in its broad sense.

Spotlight on India’s Iconic Structures

Few of the nation’s most prominent landmarks are proof of the prowess of architecture companies. Think about the ornate architecture that the Lotus Temple in Delhi represents or the slender architectural finesse of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai. Those creations are examples of how architecture makes humans excited and provide functional use.

Top 10 Architects in India: Leading the Way

Indian architectural visionaries are widely renowned and are immersed in the architectural skyline across the country. The top 10 architects in India are known for their path-breaking contributions to the field. These architects and the firms they work for have reshaped how we see our environments. Though they are different and unique in terms of style, the one thing that makes them most alike is their commitment to excellence and innovation.

designICON Architects: With over two decades of experience, they are experts in architecture and interior design, transforming spaces with creativity and functionality.

Charles Correa: Celebrated for his sustainable designs that seamlessly blend modernism with Indian traditions.

B.V. Doshi: The first Indian architect to win the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize.

Hafeez Contractor: Renowned for his towering skyscrapers and large-scale urban projects.

Raj Rewal: Known for his strikingly modern yet culturally rooted designs.

Brinda Somaya: A pioneer in blending heritage conservation with contemporary architecture.

Christopher Benninger: Famous for his institutions and city master plans.

Shilpa Architects: Leaders in sustainable architecture and design.

Morphogenesis: A firm that excels in eco-sensitive projects across India and beyond.

Studio Lotus: Specialists in delivering transformative designs rooted in India’s heritage.

The Future of Architecture in India

As India marches forward as an upcoming economic powerhouse, its architecture will continue to evolve. The future of architecture firms in India lies in:

Smart Cities: Developing tech-enabled, sustainable urban environments for the increasing populations.

Green Architecture: The use of environmentally friendly resources and approaches to counter climate change.

Affordable Housing: Meeting the need for more homes while having to provide affordable, yet innovative solutions.

Cultural Innovation: Preserving traditional architecture while embracing global influences.

In Short,

Being an architect is simply not just designing; they shape the way we live, work, and interact with our environment. This ability puts them in a position to combine aesthetics with functionality and sustainability ensuring that their work stands the test of time. Whether you’re drawn to the magnificence of historical landmarks or the sleek modernity of contemporary buildings, the contributions of architecture firms in India cannot be overstated.

Source URL: Blogspot.com

[craftsmencrusher]

Top 5 Vertical Shaft Impactor in India

In sectors including mining, road building, and construction, Vertical Shaft Impactors (VSIs) are vital crushing devices. These devices are made to break down materials into tiny pieces, creating manufactured sand and premium aggregates for a range of uses. Finding the top 5 vertical shaft impactor in India has become essential for companies trying to boost output and cut expenses because to the growing demand for accuracy and efficiency. As a pioneer in the sector, Craftsmen Industries provides dependable and cutting-edge VSI solutions that are suited to business requirements.

Why Vertical Shaft Impactors Are Essential

VSIs' great efficiency, consistent particle size, and low energy usage have completely changed the crushing business. They are essential to the production of aggregates for concrete, asphalt, and other building supplies. Furthermore, they are essential for large-scale operations due to their versatility in handling a variety of materials, such as ores and hard rocks. Selecting one of the top 5 vertical shaft impactors in India guarantees maximum performance and value for companies looking for the best outcomes.

Features of Top-Performing VSIs

The best vertical shaft impactors share several key features:

Durability: Designed to withstand harsh conditions and heavy workloads.

Efficiency: High crushing efficiency with minimal energy consumption.

Low Maintenance: Simplified designs that reduce operational downtime.

Versatility: Capability to process a variety of materials with precision.

Craftsmen Industries integrates these features into its VSI models, ensuring their products are among the top 5 vertical shaft impactor in India.

Craftsmen Industries' Vertical Shaft Impactors

The Vertical Shaft Impactors (VSIs) from Craftsmen Industries are a standard in terms of performance, dependability, and innovation, meeting a variety of crushing requirements. These highly technologically advanced machines are excellent at creating manufactured sand and high-quality aggregates, which are necessary for mining, road construction, and construction projects. The VSIs from Craftsmen Industries are distinguished by their sturdy design, energy-efficient functioning, and versatility in handling a range of materials, including recyclable materials and hard rocks. Craftsmen companies' VSIs are a popular option for Indian companies due to their exceptional design, unparalleled after-sales support, and maintenance services. Their impactors are widely trusted in the industry and regularly produce outstanding results with little downtime.

Why Choose Craftsmen Industries?

Because of its dedication to quality, innovation, and client happiness, Craftsmen Industries stands out among the top 5 vertical shaft impactor manufacturers in India. The VSIs produced by the company are renowned for their extended service life, strong construction, and energy efficiency. Furthermore, Craftsmen Industries offers top-notch post-purchase assistance, guaranteeing smooth operations for its customers.

Conclusion

In crushing operations, choosing the appropriate VSI is essential to producing high-quality results and saving money. By providing cutting-edge solutions that are among the top 5 vertical shaft impactors in India, Craftsmen Industries has made a name for itself. Craftsmen Industries continues to be the best option for companies wishing to invest in dependable and cutting-edge crushing technology.

https://craftsmencrusher.com/top-5-vertical-shaft-impactor-in-india/

https://craftsmencrusher.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Vsi-1536x1536.png

[helmsportal]

saas lms platforms | Helms Portal

Helms Portal provides a comprehensive SaaS LMS platform that simplifies learning management. With its user-friendly interface, customizable modules, and scalable features, it helps organizations create engaging and effective training programs for employees and learners alike https://helmsportal.com/

In today's fast-paced digital era, organizations are increasingly turning to Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions to meet their diverse learning and development needs. A prominent example of this innovation is the SaaS-based Learning Management System (LMS) platforms. These platforms have transformed the way businesses deliver, manage, and track employee training and development. As businesses continue to evolve, the need for scalable, efficient, and user-friendly training solutions becomes more critical. Let’s explore how SaaS LMS platforms like Helms Portal are revolutionizing the corporate learning landscape.

What is a SaaS LMS?

A SaaS LMS is a cloud-based software solution that allows organizations to manage and deliver training programs online. Unlike traditional LMS solutions, which require on-premise installations and heavy IT infrastructure, SaaS LMS platforms are hosted on the cloud. This means that users can access the platform anytime, anywhere, without the need for complex setups or maintenance. The flexibility of these platforms makes them ideal for companies with remote teams or multiple locations.

Key Features of SaaS LMS Platforms

Scalability SaaS LMS platforms are designed to scale with the growth of an organization. Whether a company has 10 employees or 10,000, these platforms can easily handle increased user load without performance degradation. This scalability ensures that organizations do not outgrow their learning systems as they expand.

Cost Efficiency Traditional LMS solutions often require significant upfront investments in hardware, software, and ongoing maintenance. In contrast, SaaS LMS platforms operate on a subscription-based model, which eliminates the need for hefty capital expenditures. This pay-as-you-go approach is particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized businesses, offering them the flexibility to only pay for what they use.

Ease of Use and Accessibility SaaS LMS platforms are designed with user experience in mind. They feature intuitive interfaces, making it easy for administrators to set up courses, track progress, and generate reports. Employees can access training materials from any device, enhancing convenience and engagement.

Integration with Other Tools SaaS LMS platforms like Helms Portal offer seamless integration with a variety of business tools, such as HR software, payroll systems, and performance management systems. This integration ensures that training is aligned with employee performance and organizational goals, streamlining the learning process.

Data Security and Compliance Security is a top priority for SaaS LMS platforms. These platforms offer robust encryption, secure data storage, and compliance with industry standards and regulations, such as GDPR or HIPAA, ensuring that sensitive training data is kept safe.

Benefits of SaaS LMS for Businesses

Improved Employee Engagement SaaS LMS platforms enable organizations to provide a more engaging learning experience through features like gamification, social learning, and interactive content. Employees are more likely to stay engaged and motivated when they can access training at their own pace and convenience.

Centralized Learning Hub SaaS LMS platforms centralize all training materials, making it easier for employees to find the resources they need. This centralization ensures consistency in training and allows administrators to track employee progress more effectively.

Enhanced Reporting and Analytics SaaS LMS platforms come with powerful analytics tools that allow businesses to track training progress, assess employee performance, and identify knowledge gaps. These insights help companies make data-driven decisions about their training programs.

Helms Portal: A Leading SaaS LMS Solution

Helms Portal is one of the most advanced SaaS LMS platforms available today. It provides organizations with a powerful, flexible, and easy-to-use solution for employee training and development. From onboarding to compliance training, Helms Portal offers a range of features that cater to the diverse needs of businesses. Its robust analytics tools, seamless integrations, and focus on user engagement make it a top choice for businesses looking to enhance their learning programs.

Conclusion

SaaS LMS platforms, such as Helms Portal, are redefining the way businesses approach employee training and development. With their scalability, cost efficiency, and ease of use, these platforms are empowering organizations to deliver more effective learning experiences to their employees. As businesses continue to embrace digital transformation, the demand for SaaS LMS solutions will only grow. By leveraging these platforms, organizations can stay ahead of the curve, ensure continuous employee growth, and foster a culture of learning and innovation.

[datasciencecoach]

Top Skills Every Data Science Student Should Master in 2024

If you're a student aspiring to build a thriving career in data science, you're not alone. With the demand for data scientists in India skyrocketing, learning the right data science skills is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. But where do you start, and which skills will truly set you apart in the competitive job market?

In this blog, we’ll break down the top data science skills for students and how mastering them can pave the way for exciting opportunities in analytics, AI, and beyond.

Why Learning Data Science Skills Matters in 2024

The future of data science is evolving fast. Companies are hunting for professionals who not only know how to build machine learning models but also understand business problems, data storytelling, and cloud technologies. As a student, developing these skills early on can give you a strong competitive edge.

But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with this ultimate skills checklist to ace your data science career!

1. Python and R Programming: The Core of Data Science

Every data scientist’s journey begins here. Python and R are the most popular programming languages for data science in 2024. They’re versatile, easy to learn, and backed by huge communities.

Why Master It? Python offers powerful libraries like NumPy, pandas, and scikit-learn, while R excels in statistical analysis and data visualization.

Pro Tip: Start with Python—it’s beginner-friendly and widely used in the industry.

2. Data Wrangling and Preprocessing: Clean Data = Good Results

Real-world data is messy. As a data scientist, you need to know how to clean, transform, and prepare data for analysis.

Essential Tools: pandas, OpenRefine, and SQL.

Key Focus Areas: Handling missing data, scaling features, and eliminating outliers.

3. Machine Learning: The Heart of Data Science

Want to build predictive models that solve real-world problems? Then machine learning is a must-have skill.

What to Learn: Supervised and unsupervised learning algorithms like linear regression, decision trees, and clustering.

Bonus: Familiarize yourself with frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch for deep learning.

4. Data Visualization: Communicating Insights

Your ability to convey insights visually is just as important as building models. Learn tools like Tableau, Power BI, and Python libraries like Matplotlib and Seaborn to create compelling visualizations.

Why It Matters: Executives prefer dashboards and graphs over raw numbers.

5. SQL: The Backbone of Data Manipulation

Almost every data science job in 2024 requires SQL proficiency. It’s how you extract, query, and manipulate large datasets from relational databases.

What to Focus On: Writing efficient queries, using joins, and understanding database schema design.

6. Cloud Computing: The Future is in the Cloud

AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud are dominating the data science space. Knowing how to use these platforms for data storage, machine learning, and deployment is a game-changer.

Start With: AWS S3 and EC2 or Azure ML Studio.

7. Business Acumen: Turning Data into Decisions

Technical skills are great, but understanding business needs is what sets you apart. Learn how to frame data science problems in a business context and communicate your findings effectively to non-technical stakeholders.

Your Shortcut to Mastering Data Science Skills

Excited to start your journey? Learning these skills on your own can be overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’ve curated a list of the Top 10 Data Science Courses in Chennai that can help you master these in-demand skills faster. These courses are designed for students like you who want to learn data science the right way and land high-paying jobs.

Take the first step toward becoming a data scientist. Click the button below to explore our Top 10 Data Science Courses in Chennai and find the program that fits your learning style and career aspirations.

Explore Courses Now

Don’t wait—start building these skills today, and let your data science journey begin!

[fab-rico]

Discover Top 10 Laundry Franchise Brands in 2025

1. Fabrico — Personalized Laundry Solutions

Fabrico stands out due to its individual method of garment maintenance. They are renowned for their environmentally-friendly practices, Fabrico offers stain removal dry cleaning, as well as alteration.

Key Features:

Solutions for customizing garment care.

Sustainable practices that are environmentally friendly and eco-friendly products.

Our commitment to providing the highest level of customer satisfaction.

Investment Required: Approx.28 lakhs

Fabrico is an ideal choice for entrepreneurs who are looking for an environmentally sustainable and detailed laundry business.

2. Tumbledry — India’s Renowned Laundry Franchise

Tumbledry has become the most popular brand name for high-end laundry and dry cleaning services. It is backed by the latest technology and an emphasis on eco-friendly detergents, the Tumbledry provides the best outcomes.

Key Features:

More than 500 outlets spread across more than 360 cities across India.

Complete services that include Dry cleaning, ironing and folding.

Customer-centric operations ensuring impeccable service quality.

Investment Required: Approx. 35 lakhs

With its proven track record and efficient process, Tumbledry offers a fantastic opportunity for franchise investors.

3. UClean — Revolutionizing Laundry Services

UClean has transformed the industry of laundry with its unique approach and technology integration. The company offers dry cleaning, laundry and repair of shoes, UClean combines convenience with the highest quality.

Why UClean Stands Out:

Mobile app that is user-friendly and on online platforms that allow for easy service.

Fast turnaround, without sacrificing quality.

The emphasis is on operations that are driven by technology.

Investment Required: Approx. 32 lakhs

UClean is a scalable and a tech-savvy franchise model ideal for entrepreneurs of today.

4. Pick My Laundry — Hassle-Free Laundry Franchise

Pick My Laundry is known for providing reliable door-to-door washing as well as dry-cleaning services. The advanced cleaning techniques they employ and top-quality laundry products guarantee perfect outcomes.

Highlights:

Delivery and pickup services that are seamless to make it easy for customers.

A network of 200+ sites across India.

Pay attention to the smallest of details and the care of your garments.

Investment Required: Approx. 30 lakhs

Pick My Laundry is ideal for entrepreneurs looking to establish a business with solid credibility and trust from customers.

5. Pressto — Premium Dry Cleaning Franchise

Pressto is a top brand in India’s dry and laundry cleaning industry. By combining cutting-edge technology with expert know-how, Pressto excels at delivering superior service.

Why Choose Pressto?

Professionalise with stain removal as well as the restoration of garments.

A loyal customer base based on trust and high-quality.

Modern cleaning techniques to achieve superior results.

Investment Required: Approx. 30 lakhs

The reputation for Pressto’s name is well-established, making it a great investment for investors.

6. Clean Craft — Leading Laundry Franchise in India

Clean Craft stands as one of the most prestigious washing franchises across India known for its dedication to customer satisfaction and quality. Utilizing top-quality cleaning equipment and high-tech products and highly trained employees, Clean Craft makes sure that the clothes are handled with care and attention to detail.

Why Choose Clean Craft?

A proven business model for rapid scaling.

Present in more than 10 locations and ambitious plans to expand to 800+ by 2030.

Support for franchise partners that is comprehensive.

Investment Required: Approx. 18 lakhs

Clean Craft is a top choice for entrepreneurs who want to establish themselves in the dry and laundry cleaning business.

7. Laundrywala — Trusted Laundry Franchise in India

Laundrywala is a trusted franchise that provides a full range of dry cleaning and laundry services that include folding and ironing. Their efficient operations and skilled staff ensure that your clothes receive the best treatment.

Why Laundrywala?

Utilization of environmentally friendly detergents and modern technology.

Complete training and support for franchisees.

Service-first philosophy for seamless delivery.

Investment Required: Approx. 15 lakh

Laundrywala’s cost-effective investment and its effective model make it a fantastic option for business owners who are just starting out.

8. Dhobiwala — Growing Laundry Franchise

Dhobiwala is an rapidly growing dry cleaning and laundry brand recognized for its dependability and green approach. Their experienced staff and modern facilities provide unbeatable service quality.

Highlights:

Complete services that include laundry, dry cleaning, and steaming.

Focus of sustainable methods.

Rapidly expanding franchise network from 2018.

Investment Required: Approx. 32lakhs

Dhobiwala provides a lucrative franchise model for entrepreneurs who are passionate about sustainability and customer service.

9. The Laundry Basket — On-Demand Laundry Service

The Laundry Basket specializes in convenient and effective laundry solutions that are efficient and convenient. They are known for their quick turnaround times the company serves customers in the major cities of Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Kochi.

Why Invest in The Laundry Basket?

More than 6 years of expertise in the laundry industry.

Services that are cost-effective and with an focus upon customer service.

A dedicated team that ensures precision and care for your garments.

Investment Required: Approx. Rs 22 lakhs

Laundry Basket Laundry Basket is a popular option for investors looking to buy an established laundry franchise.

10. Washmart — Comprehensive Laundry Solutions

Washmart is among the most renowned laundry and dry cleaning franchises, renowned for its innovative cleaning strategies and environmentally-friendly practices. From cleaning shoes to laundry Washmart has a wide array of services.

Key Features:

Concentrate on the latest machines and environmentally friendly detergents.

A reputation for reliability and quality of garments.

The focus on customer satisfaction ensures that you are always satisfied.

Investment Required: Approx. 12 lakhs

The low cost and extensive service offerings makes it a lucrative business as a franchise owner.

Final Words — Choosing the Best Laundry Franchise

The top 10 dry cleaning and laundry franchises above offer outstanding opportunities for entrepreneurs from India. With successful business models, a strong customer base, and extensive support for franchisees, these brands have the potential to grow indefinitely.

Before deciding on the best franchise, take into consideration factors like the budget you have set, your location and your individual preferences. By investing in a reliable laundry franchise, you’ll be able to profit from the increasing need for professional clothing care and start a profitable company in 2025.

Know More about Fabrico-

Laundry franchise business in India Best Laundry Franchise in India Laundry franchise business

[dertaglichedan]

Zillow's price estimates are screwing up homebuying

When Zillow debuted in 2006, the fledgling site bore little resemblance to the real-estate behemoth it is now. There were no options to find an agent, get a mortgage, or request a tour — the search portal couldn't even tell you which homes were actually for sale. There was, however, the Zestimate: a "free, unbiased valuation" for 40 million houses around the US, based on a proprietary algorithm. Half the single-family homes in America suddenly had a dollar figure attached to them, and anyone could take a peek. Zillow's site crashed within hours as a million people raced to ogle at the results.

The initial rush was a sign of things to come. Nowadays, the Zestimate is arguably the most popular — and polarizing — number in real estate. An entire generation of homeowners doesn't know life without the algorithm; some obsessively track its output as they would a stock portfolio or the price of bitcoin. By the time a seller hires a real-estate agent, there's a good chance they've already consulted the digital oracle. For anyone with even a passing interest in the housing market, the Zestimate is a breezy way to take the temperature. Keep tabs on mortgage rates all you want, but they can't tell you that your house has appreciated 20% over the past year, or that your annoying coworker's property is worth more than yours.

Many industry insiders, however, regard the number as a starting point at best and dangerously misguided at worst. Real-estate agents recount arguments with sellers who reject their pricing advice, choosing instead to take the Zestimate as the word of God. One meme likens its disciples to adults who still believe in Santa. Zillow itself lost hundreds of millions of dollars during the pandemic when it relied on its algorithm to buy homes at what turned out to be inflated prices, part of an ill-fated attempt to flip homes at scale.

...

The Zestimate is both everywhere and an enigma. About 104 million homes, or 71% of the US housing stock, have a little dollar figure hovering above them on Zillow's website. One of them is the house in Austin where I was raised until the age of 10. It's not for sale, but right underneath the address, in bold, is the Zestimate. Next to it is a "Rent Zestimate," or the amount the owner could probably charge a tenant each month. You can click to see a graph of its Zestimate over the past decade — the Zillow-fied value of my childhood home rose a staggering 72% from May 2020 to its peak in May 2022 but has since dropped 24% from that top tick thanks to the chill running through the Austin market. In just the past 30 days, the Zestimate has dropped by $4,455. Ouch.

Just how accurate are those numbers, though? Until the house actually trades hands, it's impossible to say. Zillow's own explanation of the methodology, and its outcomes, can be misleading. The model, the company says, is based on thousands of data points from public sources like county records, tax documents, and multiple listing services — local databases used by real-estate agents where most homes are advertised for sale. Zillow's formula also incorporates user-submitted info: If you get a fancy new kitchen, for example, your Zestimate might see a nice bump if you let the company know. Zillow makes sure to note that the Zestimate can't replace an actual appraisal, but articles on its website also hail the tool as a "powerful starting point in determining a home's value" and "generally quite accurate." The median error rate for on-market homes is just 2.4%, per the company's website, while the median error rate for off-market homes is 7.49%. Not bad, you might think.

When you think of the Zestimate, for many, it gives a false anchor for what the value actually is.

[oilgasenergymagazine]

Kuwait’s $33 Billion Oil Investment: A Bold Bet on Future Demand

Source: bloomberg.com

Category: News

  

Expanding Oil Production Amid Energy Transition

Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) has unveiled a bold plan to invest 10 billion dinars ($33 billion) over the next five years to boost its oil production capacity. The state-owned firm aims to increase output from 3.2 million barrels a day in 2024 to 4 million barrels by 2035. Chief Executive Officer Sheikh Nawaf Al-Sabah emphasized that these investments are essential not just to maintain current capacity but to meet long-term global oil demand.

Kuwait Petroleum Corporation’s vision aligns with other producers like TotalEnergies SE and Vitol Group, who remain optimistic about oil’s role despite a global energy transition toward renewables. However, the International Energy Agency predicts oil demand could plateau by 2030 due to increased electric vehicle adoption. Sheikh Nawaf counters this by asserting Kuwait’s position as a reliable, low-cost, and low-carbon producer capable of meeting future supply needs.

Currently, Kuwait ranks among the world’s top 10 oil producers, pumping around 2.5 million barrels daily, ahead of fellow OPEC members like Nigeria and Libya. Sheikh Nawaf stressed the need for global producers to replace 3 million barrels of capacity annually, likening this challenge to “bringing out a new Kuwait every year.”

Financing Ambitions and Strategic Investments

To support its ambitious program, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation plans to diversify its funding sources, exploring innovative financing models such as pipeline monetization deals. Sheikh Nawaf revealed that KPC might follow examples set by Saudi Aramco and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), which used “lease and leaseback” agreements to unlock capital from domestic and international investors.

Despite exploring external funding options, KPC has ruled out entering equity markets, unlike Aramco. Instead, it will focus on efficiency measures, including merging upstream and downstream units and allowing local firms to handle non-core activities. The company also plans to establish a new fuel-trading unit in Dubai by 2025.

Kuwait Petroleum Corporation’s broader strategy includes a 20 billion-dinar investment program covering petrochemicals, upstream, and refining. The company is also committing $110 billion toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, focusing on carbon capture, solar power, and low-carbon production methods.

OPEC Quotas and Regional Competition

A significant hurdle for Kuwait’s expansion lies in OPEC+ production quotas, which currently cap its output at 2.4 million barrels per day. While modest increases are expected in 2024, Kuwait remains committed to building spare production capacity as a safeguard against global disruptions.

Kuwait Petroleum Corporation’s optimism is reflected in its operations at the Al-Zour refinery, which opened two years ago. The 615,000-barrel-per-day facility has exported 26 million tons of oil products to 67 countries, with a notable focus on supplying jet fuel to the European Union, where Kuwait now meets over 12% of annual demand.

This investment push mirrors moves by regional competitors like the UAE, which has also ramped up capacity expansion, sometimes leading to tension within OPEC. Unlike Saudi Arabia, which has scaled back its expansion plans, Kuwait sees a gradual energy transition, underscoring the importance of oil for decades to come. Sheikh Nawaf likened calls to abruptly end fossil-fuel production to “jumping out of a plane and trying to invent a parachute on the way down,” highlighting the need for a balanced approach.

Through its aggressive investment strategy, Kuwait aims to cement its position as a key player in global energy markets while navigating the challenges of the energy transition.

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