#and they haven’t shown any growth in that department

[lookingforhappy]

Yeah I agree on the five & Viktor main characters thing bc they’re the plot drivers and the series basically revolves around their abilities but also because they represent the heart of the shows conflict through their relationship. Two estranged siblings who used to know each other well and were close once but struggle deeply to trust and/or reconnect due to traumas, but still they try anyway.

Or something

Honestly if they stopped making the show revolve around apocalypses (the thing five is trying to stop and the thing Viktor can’t help but cause) then we wouldn’t have this problem (I’m glaring at the creators if u couldn’t tell lmao)

But in all honesty s1 may feel like the characters aren’t on track but the beauty of it is that the second you try to pull one of the characters out of their designated place in the plot the whole thing rearranges itself.

For example, If five never comes back then Viktor has no reason to go looking for him at the academy which means he doesn’t bump into Allison phoning Patrick which means they don’t argue and Viktor doesn’t call pogo to check on Allison so Allison doesn’t realise her cruelty and try and make things up to Viktor meaning she doesn’t meet or research Leonard so doesn't go to find Viktor and so doesn't get her throat slit.

i know there are technically no individual "main" characters of tua bc it's an ensemble show but five and viktor always Feel very Main Character to me bc they're the only ones actively participating in the overarching plot and everyone else is lost in the weeds doing whatever the fuck

like take season 1. five shows up and is like Okay! i will now figure out how to prevent the apocalypse from happening. kill temps commission goons. find the owner of the glass eye. make a deal with the handler to get insider commission info and save the fam. turn back time. etc etc etc. and viktor is like yes, i will stop taking my evil power suppression pills and date the guy five has been looking for all season and also explode the goddamn moon.

whereas luther & allison are like omg what if we were two estranged adults thrown back into close quarters and we were both siblings lol 😳 😳 and diego is going on a revenge quest for his fridged cop gf and klaus is on a sidequest to the goddamn vietnam war and also having a brotherly bonding moment with his beloved dead brother ben 😭

[dira333]

Act my Age - part 8

Scotty x Reader

Time flies.

One week passes, then another and all of a sudden your brother bursts into your room, announcing that you have to postpone all plans for the evening.

“We’re celebrating. You managed to stay sane during your first month here.”

You stare at him in surprise.

“I’ve already been here a month?”

“Yeah. You didn’t notice?”

“No, I did not.” You grab your lipstick and head back into the bathroom, adamant on getting the look just right. It’s surprising what a bit of color can do to you and you like the feel of it on your lips.

“If you don’t tell Mr. Scott that you can’t come to his lessons tonight, I will.”

“How do you even know there’s a lesson going on tonight?” You ask from the bathroom.

“Because I’m a genius and you’re dropping hints. You wear this specific lipstick only on the days you have lessons.”

“Not true, I wear it on other days too. Also, it’s the only one I own.”

“Shush. Also, there’s a pattern in which Mr. Scott plans his lessons and I’ve cracked it.”

“No, you don’t.”

“Shush, commoner. You’re the one who writes the dates down in her PADD and leaves tiny little hearts next to his name.”

You drop your lipstick and jump out of the bathroom, but your brother is waving the PADD over his head already, a triumphant smirk on his lips.

“Stop hacking my PADD!”

“Your password is Scott, how could I not hack it?”

You grab your PADD from him and stuff it into your bag, hopeful against your better knowledge that this might keep your brother away from it.

“Well, what are you going to do?”

“What?” You look up to your brother watching you with interest.

“What are you going to do? I mean, I know how you feel about him. I might have tried to set you up with Gray, but that doesn’t mean I don’t know you. That’s not just liking him anymore. But I think you’re doing it wrong.”

You don’t know what you want to do. Laugh at his words or try to take his bluntness serious.

“I don’t remember you ever having a relationship that lasted longer than two weeks.”

“At least I had relationships. I’m just trying to give you the male view of things.”

“The male view?” You ask, fighting back a chuckle, “I’ve already heard the Vulcan, the Arcadian and the female view, how about yours?”

“Well, you’ve never missed a lesson. You’re making it too easy for him. Does he still think you’re a newbie who he has to train?”

“No!” You pause, “Yes? I mean, I don’t know, I think he does.”

“And are you a newbie?”

“In the engineering field yes.”

“But you aren’t in the engineering field,” he reminds you, “And you haven’t shown any interest in it before. If you want to have some fun with him, your plan might work, but if you want to have a relationship with him, he needs to see your worth.”

“My worth?”

“Yes! You’re Commander Spock’s right hand. You plan away missions and they’re successful. And that bacteria thing you’ve worked at, you said you found something.”

“Sure, but I don’t think I can impress him with a system for anaerobic bacteria growth.”

“But you would stay true to yourself.”

You sigh and grab your bag.

“I will try to follow that advice.”

You walk towards the door, waving your brother off when he calls after you.

“Don’t forget to cancel the lesson! I’m bringing drinks, you choose the movies!”

-

“Lieutenant Y/N,” Spock greets you when you enter, his eyes flicking over your face to check the color of your lips before meeting your own steady gaze.

“I appreciate your eagerness to learn about the technology we work with every day, but I fear it is getting out of hand.”

You stiffen and take a step closer, lowering your voice to give yourself as much privacy as you can get on a ship like this.

“What are you implying, Commander?”

“You have set your focus on this engineering training. You have lied to me at least twice this month, trying to mask those lessons. What are you hoping to get out of this? A place in the engineering department?”

You bite your lip and take a breath.

“I am sorry that I lied to you, Commander.”

“You should be. Vulcans do not lie, and as I have grown to know you, I found it highly illogical of you to lie in a situation where you must have anticipated that I’ve already known the truth.”

You look down at your feet and up again.

“I was just trying to be on par with him.”

“By stripping yourself of the credit and worth you’ve earned? It sounds like a child’s plan and not that of an individual who is capable of leading the next mission.”

“Capability is not attractive to everyone,” you disagree and he quirks an eyebrow.

“But confidence is. Lieutenant Y/N, you’re going to lead tomorrow’s Away Mission. I want your recommendations by nine hundred and Dr. McCoy’s report of your health by eleven hundred.”

You take the PADD he hands you, unable to speak for a moment.

And when you find your voice, he’s left the lab.

-

You step into Lab 5, PADD in hand and a pen behind your ear that you pull out to play with whenever you feel nervous again.

“Lieutenant Pimentel?” You ask the first Lieutenant that crosses your way. Lab 5 is loud, crowded and hot. The temperature is wanted, as most of the science officers here have majored in botany.

The Lieutenant turns, eyeing you with giant, grey eyes, before nodding and pointing ýou in the right direction.

“Lieutenant Pimentel? Hi.” The girl turns around, the big black safety goggles sitting snuggly on her face giving her a rather alien appearance, but she seems to be able to see you through them.

“Oh my- Lieutenant Y/N! I’m- I was at your press conference! I mean the meeting you did when you came here? Your studies are amazing, especially the New Vulcan plants, the Pelargonium Sidoides, I’ve read your article about them, does their juice really-?”

“Yes, they do.” She squeals in excitement and throws her fist in the air, before realizing that you haven’t come around to talk about awesome plants with her.

“Shoot, I’m sorry, what did you want to talk about?” She pulls her goggles off and puts her gloves away, leading you to a spot at the far edge of the lab, where you can talk without having to raise your voice.

“I’m putting together an away mission. Sinar is a Class M planet. A thick hull of stone shields the flora and fauna from the radiation of their two suns. I’ve seen your aptitude charts and I doubt there’s anyone as crazy about plants as you.”

Pimentel’s eyes grow to the size of saucers.

“You’re letting me down to Sinar?”

“You’re going to do something stupid down there?”

“NO! Absolutely not! I’ve- I’ve dreamt of going down there, I mean, everyone dreams of going down there, are you sure you want me?”

“Absolutely sure. You have a twin sister on board?”

“Yes, yes, she’s a helmsman.”

“Qualified enough to steer our shuttle through that stone hull?”

“Crazy enough to try it.”

“I’ll put her on the team then. I need your health report by eleven hundred, don’t let me down.”

“I won’t.”

You turn around to leave, but Lieutenant Pimentel moves fast and catches your elbow.

“Lieutenant?”

“Yes?”

“Why are you giving me this chance? I mean, I’m not a newbie, but there are more qualified people on board?”

“I can’t imagine anyone better suited for a job like this than someone who loves it. You don’t half-ass a job you love.”

She smiles at that.

“Thank you.” She offers you her hand to shake. “I’m Tayla by the way. My friends call me Tay.”

“Y/N. Beware of my brother.”

She blushes. “Oh, I’ve met him already.”

-

You choose Gray as the only needed engineering officer for the mission. He is number three on your list of suitable officers. Number two is your brother, who refuses to set foot on a shuttle and talks himself out of it by taking on a three-day job somewhere on the ship. Number one is Mr. Scott, but you can’t build confidence and try to woo him at the same time.

Gray’s answer reaches your PADD the moment Dr. McCoy steps towards the Bio-Bed you’re sitting on, a frown on his face and a tricorder in his hand.

“Put that thing away.”

You follow his orders and sit still, a task that is made incredibly difficult when the door swishes open and a cheerful Scottish accent cuts through the comfortable quiet of a calm med-bay.

“Ach, Lass, what did ye get yaself into this time?”

He steps towards the bed, completely ignoring the Doctor.

“Nothing,” you mumble, aware of the fact that the beeping sound of the tricorder increases in volume the closer Mr. Scott steps. Your heart is definitely betraying you now.

“I have to get checked out for an away mission?”

“An away mission? Ye’r helping?”

“Y-yes,” you agree and Dr. McCoy actually stops in his movement to look at you and chuckle. You send him the meanest glare you can, hoping he will pick up the message. You don’t know if he does, but at least he keeps his thoughts to himself.

“Wait, is it that one to Sinar.”

“Yes?”

“Oh, that’s good. Gonna keep an eye on ye. Donnae wanna ge’ ye hurt.”

He claps a warm hand on your knee and smiles down at you.

“Doctor, I’m gonna take a look at my guy over there, if that’s alrigh’ with ye?”

“Go on and talk some sense into him.” Dr. McCoy grumbles and gives you a hypo right when you try to turn your head to look after Mr. Scott.

“Ow,” you rub the spot on your neck.

“Serves you right,” the Doctor grumbles, putting his stuff away, “telling him you’re helping on the mission when you’re the one responsible for that nonsense. Darlin’, you might be too young to know that, but a real man doesn’t need you to put yourself down to flatter him.”

You glare at him again but this time you choose anger to mask the hurt in your eyes.

“Thank you for your kind advice!” You snap and slip off the bed, “Next time I want to be treated like a little kid, I’ll tell you in advance so you can store some sugar-free suckers for me… Are we done here? Good.”

You step out of the med bay, stomping down two hallways before leaning against the white walls, feeling your anger seep away and the anxiety creeping back. No matter how nice the lipstick looks, you’re still young and somewhat inexperienced in some things.

You sigh and pull your PADD out of your bag to read Gray’s message is. The only problem is that it’s not from Gray.

Helping Spock with getting the Crew together, Lass? Diligent as ever. But I have to tell you that Gray got lungworms yesterday. As his superior officer, I will take up the job for him. Gonna send the health report to Spock to spare you the work. Scotty

The next thing you say comes from deep within your heart.

“Shit…”

[deonideatta]

hi hi i heard you like chief kim and i'm here to get all the intel on why it's a good drama 😊 and what you love about park jae bum's other dramas 😊 pls let me know if there's romance bc that's the oxygen i breathe when i watch a show 💕

Hello!!! Thank you for asking me about Chief Kim!!!! I can go on about it for ages lol. This got a bit long so i’m putting it under a cut

Chief Kim (aka Good Manager) is a comedy office drama with 20 eps, and it aired in 2017. There isn’t a main romance plotline, but don’t let that put you off! It’s an incredible drama in so many ways. (tho there is a subtle romance side plot, but it doesn’t involve the main character and it’s never the main focus, though it is cute). It does feature a bromance that was so great that the two actors literally won an award for it tho lol, so there’s also that!

In a way, the general premise is somewhat similar to Vincenzo in that it’s the main character and an unlikely team of others fighting a big corporation. The comedic tone is also more or less the same. The drama follows Kim Seong Ryong (the titular Chief Kim, played by Namgoong Min), a man with a talent for handling numbers who goes from running a seedy accounting firm to quite accidentally becoming a champion of employees rights in one of the biggest corporations in the country. He originally joins the company with the goal of embezzling a lot money and moving abroad, but he gets swept up in office politics surrounding high executives and the sinister goings on surrounding the position he was recruited for, as well as the shady things the higher-ups want him to do and the suspicion of the other members of his department. Eventually he starts to work alongside them to fight the corruption of the higher ups, and quickly becomes the bane of top management’s existence by being so incredibly annoying that they begin to regret hiring him.

It’s the kind of drama that really gets you to laugh, while still being incredibly heartwarming. The main character is so unashamedly funny, and the character dynamics are all so warm, and none of it ever seems forced. The first tag for the drama on MyDramaList is “character development”, and that says a lot! There’s so much growth that goes on for all the characters, even some of the villains! It’s especially funny because to begin with all the good things Kim Seong Ryeong does are completely by accident, and he’s annoyed but also pleased with all the attention it gets him. Over time he begins to own it, and begins to actively try to stand up to the corrupt people at the top of the company. The other highlight for me besides the humor is definitely the characters. From the eccentric main character, to the no-nonsense second in command in his department Yoon Ha Kyung, to the aggressive finance director Seo Yul who is always eating (one of my all time favourite characters, played by 2PM’s Junho), to the janitor lady who always roasts everyone, there isn’t a single dull character, whether good or bad. And Seo Yul gets one of the best character arcs I’ve ever seen in a kdrama. You get to watch the characters struggle and triumph, and you feel for them because their struggles feel so real, and the drama really gets you invested in them. You see the ways in which they fight to survive as normal working class citizens and you want them to win.

It differs from Vincenzo in that the main character isn’t considered evil and loses his less savoury traits over the course of the drama (his character arc is one of becoming a more upstanding citizen), and the message is one of fighting against corporate greed using the corporate system against itself in order to make things better for the average working citizen. But there’s the same plotting, and the same feeling of rooting for the protagonist team to win as you watch them plot and plan. I never rewatch things, but i’ve rewatched Chief Kim twice already and i’m looking forward to rewatching it again soon (just writing about it is making me want to rewatch it right now lol). It especially hits well for me because i love office dramas, and the humor and the bromance are just right. (Also, not entirely related, but it’s the first drama Kim Seonho was in!)

Another Park Jaebum drama i can definitely recommend is The Fiery Priest! It’s also a comedy action drama with 20 eps (released in 2019), and it follows Kim Hae Il (Kim Nam Gil), a catholic priest with a real temper, as he works to solve the mystery surrounding the death of a senior priest. No romance there either, but it’s got the same humor as Chief Kim and Vincenzo, and the same overarching found family trope (that really shines for this one). It’s darker than Chief Kim, but not as dark as Vincenzo. The plot is very intriguing, and it’s the kind of drama you feel compelled to keep watching to see what happens next. And the host of characters in that drama is still one of my favourites to this day. Every character was incredibly written, and they all played vital roles in the overall story. Again, lots of character development all round, and great character arcs not just for the main character (even for a few of the villains!). Plus it was lovely to watch the various characters interact, get closer, and build relationships. Such an iconic squad. Not to mention how funny it is?? And the fight scenes??? In fact, I enjoyed it so much that when I checked Park Jaebum’s page on MyDramaList after watching it around June last year and saw Vincenzo as an upcoming project, I added it to my plan to watch list immediately even though there was only a single line of synopsis lol. It’s also got an absolute banger of a soundtrack!

When you think about it, all three (Chief Kim, TFP and Vincenzo) can be simplified to “guy with dubious past sets out to fight corruption and creates a great support circle in the process”. All three are dramas of finding people who care about you and are willing to fight alongside you, and fighting for your convictions/what you think is right. Each main character starts out as a somewhat solitary figure, and you get to watch as they each find people who are willing to fight alongside them and support them. What exactly those specific convictions are varies in each drama, but Park Jaebum writes the character development arcs incredibly each time, and the relationships between the characters are so real and so satisfying to watch. And yet the integrity of the main character in each drama is never compromised either, it’s shown that they can grow and become better without losing themselves. The growth is also in the way that they learn to work with and rely on others, because teamwork makes the dream work. And then to cap it all off he lets them have victories, and he makes it SO satisfying??? There are highs and there are lows, and you feel all of those right there with the characters, which makes the victories feel so so good. In each we see the ensemble cast get involved with the fight and the plotting, and we get to see all their epic plans and their execution, and the victories they win that build up over time. And it’s so satisfying to me! I love it a lot, just thinking about it is making me smile lol. It also shows how well humor and darker/more serious plotlines/events are balanced in the dramas, neither is compromised in favour of the other, but it always works so well that the humor never feels forced or out of place. As someone who doesn’t like overbearingly dark shows, I really appreciate that. They all give you lots to laugh at, while not losing any of the plot to the funny.

Of course there are differences, notably the romance, and the fact that Vincenzo is bad vs bad rather than good vs bad like the other two. They deal more with redemption (especially The Fiery Priest), but that works for the stories that are being told, and it’s very well executed.

It’s worth noting that Park Jaebum also wrote Good Doctor and 4 seasons of God’s Quiz. I haven’t checked those out yet, but I’ve heard good things about all of them. He also wrote Blood, I haven’t seen that one either but opinions seem to be split on how good it was. All of those are medical dramas (which is the reason I haven’t watched them lol, i can’t stand medical dramas) from before 2017, when he wrote Chief Kim. It seems he’s been on a roll since then, good for him and good for us lol. You can see everything he’s written on his MyDramaList page.

Overall I enjoyed the Park Jaebum dramas I have seen for first and foremost the comedy, but also for the warmth of the character relationships and for how well developed/written each character is. And I love how he balances the humor with more poignant/darker moments, I laughed a lot watching all three dramas, but I’ve cried over each of them as well. It’s a good balance to have, it gives you a good plot to be interested in, but doesn’t keep you stressed and sombre the whole way through. I’ve seen people say that Vincenzo wouldn’t be as good if it wasn’t so wacky, and I fully agree. It’s the same for both TFP and Chief Kim, and that balance is definitely what I appreciate most in Park Jaebum’s dramas. I know I will laugh, but I also know I will get an incredible plot and incredible characters, and that’s really important for me. Plus I know I can trust that there will be a good ending because the writer cares about his characters.

I definitely recommend checking out both TFP and Chief Kim after Vincenzo is done, especially since they’re so similar in terms of comedic tone and basic plot direction. If you ever get to watching either of them feel free to hmu to chat about it!! There’s lots of plot stuff that can be can discussed.

lol this got v long (i have lots to say about how much i love these dramas haha), but I hope it’s helpful!!!

[gascon-en-exil]

FE16 Black Eagles (Edelgard) Liveblogging

Up through Chapter 4. At this early stage the plot is nearly identical, so I have to say on the matter.

I haven’t made use of any of the NG+ features yet. I’m stockpiling Renown to finish off the saint statues, and while it’s true that pretty much the whole cast looks better post-timeskip I found it too odd to have them walking around like that during the school phase. It’s also off-putting that you can only toggle the appearances of characters in your current party, so those from the other houses can’t be updated along with them.

Starting with the Lions clearly spoiled me, because I’ve noticed that the Eagles are slightly weaker across the board. Caspar is nowhere near as tanky as Dedue, Ferdinand has taken longer to get going than Sylvain, and while Edelgard is a great frontliner she can’t compare to how Dimitri’s utterly broken growths. As expected the Eagles are as a whole better in the magical department and are proving to be quite flexible in that regard; Hubert and Dorothea both have strong 1-3 range spells, and Linhardt and Dorothea both have Physic for heals that can just about match Mercedes when used in conjunction. Hubert surprised me the most, as I’m so used to heavy and inaccurate dark magic that’s pretty much worth using only for its overpowered gimmick spells (FE7 Luna, FE13 Nosferatu). Hubert’s accurate, fast enough to double around half the time, and as mentioned versatile with Mire’s 1-3 range.

I’ve been challenging myself not to use Byleth at all, mostly because I did it once before and I’m utterly bored with him. The only problem with this that I can see is that it will hinder support grinding, but Byleth has so many opportunities to build support outside of combat that it hasn’t shown itself to be that big a deal.

Edelgard’s first support with Byleth is locked until later in the game. I remember people were theorizing that supporting her was necessary to get her route, but I think that’s been disproven.

Character/Story observations

So far it’s all been much the same as my Lions playthrough, which in itself is a bit strange. I still put down Lonato’s rebellion, this time with less context, and next chapter I’ll be heading off to kill Sylvain’s brother. Dedue and Sylvain are still the ones introducing basic monastery features during the first exploration session too. For all that Edelgard/the Eagles were the favored house in pre-release marketing and get the most overall story focus in the war phase, it’s the Lions who have that privilege in the school phase. You just can’t get away from all the crushing personal drama in Faerghus.

Outside of supports the only notable story difference is that Edelgard expresses vague approval for Lonato’s actions after he’s been killed. Of course she’s also playing coy about stringing along the Western church and commanding the Death Knight, but that’s only something that comes from reading spoilers online the hindsight of a second playthrough.

On supports: Ferdinand is a pompous ass with his heart in the right place, and I kind of love him. Too bad he’s only got the one same-sex option, but I guess he’s secretly got a goth kink? Forays into loving women aside I also find Dorothea very relatable; she hunts for sugar daddies because she knows her looks will fade, and she’s not above propositioning dense men like Caspar who think they’re going to get sex but instead get roped into manual labor. Hubert is...weird. I can’t tell if the severe pseudo-vampire thing is all an elaborate act or it’s just naturally creepy and abrasive. Caspar and Linhardt don’t resemble Ike and Soren at all in personality, so their relationship is more of an aesthetic callback than anything.

And...right, Bernadetta. Why is she the fandom’s newest #1 waifu? Are that many straight men seriously attracted to women with absolutely no social graces who are under the impression that everyone wants to (literally) kill them? I’m aware of her abusive family life and I presume her supports will involve less screaming and running away as they progress, but at this point I find her very annoying.

[lunafeather]

Hey there! :) I was wondering : do you think there's any chance Rio wanted Beth to shoot him to trap the cop, made her understand that, and that they were both in on this? He says "just like we practiced", she only starts getting angry after that, she's a great liar, and she knows that's there's a camera that he's aware of. I can't imagine Rio really forcing her to kill Turner, not any more than her actually wanting to pull the trigger: that's just not the characters development we've seen.

So I know this is a popular theory going around, and honestly... I kind of wish this was a theory I believed in because it would make me hate the finale a whole lot less. If it ended up being true? I would have issues with it because it would be retconning things a bit to explain the finale away, and would be twisting the characters in a way they have not been shown to be, but I also would be happy that it went in a different direction than the one it currently seems to be going.

In short, no, I don’t think there’s a chance of it because I don’t think canon supports it. For one, it requires Beth and Rio to have openly and directly communicated about something which -- so far -- they literally haven’t been able to do. For them to go from speaking in half truths and riddles and revealing as little info as possible to keep the upper hand, to Rio willingly approaching Beth and laying out a plan with specific steps and instructions for her to follow, Beth actually agreeing, and them pulling it off without a hitch is just... it’s not plausible. It would be a huge shift in their current dynamic that would make no sense and have no shown character growth to explain it.

For two, there’s too many holes in the narrative. Kidnapping Beth would be unnecessary -- why not just put the bag over her head right outside the door and lead her in, if they wanted Turner to believe Rio kidnapped her and she was there against her will? Why 3 shots and not just 1? For the drama? Because she really shoots him, they wouldn’t be able to risk using blood packs or something fake because if Turner did anything out of expectation, he could discover something like that. So Beth would have had to really shot him, and while Rio is a Class A Dramatic Bitch™, I highly doubt he would come up with a plan where he willingly gets shot in the chest.

And three, how does this situation playing out benefit Rio or Beth if they faked it? I mean... I guess it could make Turner think they hate each other, but how does that get Turner off their backs? Wouldn’t it just get him more involved?  Rio isn’t stupid enough to think that Turner would back off of Beth just because she saved his life. If anyone who really truly supports this theory has some reasons why it would benefit our pair, please let me know because I am genuinely curious, and maybe I just haven’t thought of anything!

I think “just like we practiced” was in reference to teaching her how to shoot, I think she was in shock up until the moment she gets angry, and I think she was too caught up in the moment to remember there was a camera in the room. Yes, Beth is a great liar. Do I think she could pull this off? Probably. I don’t think Rio would have forced her to kill Turner, but I do think he would have possibly pressured her or tried to scare/manipulate her into doing it. And then I think he would have killed Turner himself if she didn’t follow through.

I agree, though, that it does not at all sync with the character development we’ve seen: Rio has consistently been patient with Beth, he may get frustrated or annoyed, but he remains patient and does not lose his temper the way he did in this scene. Nothing Beth has done in two seasons has shown Rio that she is ready to shoot and kill anyone, in fact, the last two seasons have shown she will never be ready to. It’s an OOC assumption on Rio’s part (he even points out in 2.08 that they have different departments, and his is killing/physically handling shit).

Hopefully Season 3 gives us some more insight... and I wouldn’t be totally opposed to them retconning some stuff to fix the shit in the finale.

[protectrightwhales]

Ways to Help Protect North Atlantic Right Whales

North Atlantic right whale #2910, a male first seen in 1999, (top), swims with Ruffian (#3530), a 15 year old male, in Cape Cod Bay on December 19, 2018. #2910 has been entangled in fishing ropes at least once before and Ruffian has been through two bad entanglements, the first of which happened when he was only about four years old and left him with significant scarring on the top of his head, his back and his flukes. He was freed from snow crab trap ropes and a large snow crab trap off the coast of Georgia in 2017 that he had been forced to carry all the way from Canada. credit: Center for Coastal Studies, permit #19315-1

1. The lobster and crab industries are responsible for a majority of North Atlantic right whale deaths. We go into much more detail on this in our Entanglement in Fishing Gear page but the fact is, these industries are driving North Atlantic right whales towards extinction and causing massive suffering along the way. We recommend avoiding anything caught in traps or gillnets to avoid contributing to the deaths of these whales. We must decide as a nation whether consuming fish and crustaceans is worth the suffering and possible extinction of these whales as it has unfortunately become clear that the industry is not changing their practices to help these whales. When we stop eating these foods we can feel good knowing that we are no longer supporting an industry that is violating the Endangered Species Act by killing these whales. 2. If you are piloting a boat remember that it is illegal to be within 1,500 feet of North Atlantic right whales. If you find yourself within the zone, depart immediately at a safe, slow speed. We recommend avoiding as many trips on boats as you can, whether it be personal watercraft or cruise ships. The large amount of ships in the ocean not only kill and injure whales by colliding with them, they also create noise pollution. The oceans are quite literally too loud for whales to be able to properly communicate with each other. 3. When it comes to making decisions on purchases we recommend trying to buy locally-made, or at least American-made products, so that they don't have to be brought in on a container ship. The continued use of these cargo ships risks more ship strikes that kill and injure North Atlantic right whales and all other species of whales that inhabit the ocean. In one study of whale deaths around the world, researchers discovered that ships 80 meters or longer were responsible for more deaths than any other type of ship. 4. Avoid single-use plastic as much as possible and join (or conduct your own!) beach cleanups around you whenever you can. A full clean-up is ideal but if you can only grab a few things while you're there here's a few key things to pick up: plastic bags, rope and netting and anything with a loop on it (shipping straps, plastic 6-pack rings, etc.). Plastic bags look like jellyfish when they're in the water so they are a particularly bad thing for any species that eats jellyfish including sperm whales and sea turtles. The rope, netting and any items with an enclosed loop such as six-pack rings are ingestion hazards and they could entangle sea life as well so removing these and cutting them up before properly disposing of them is crucial. 5. Don't flush tampon applicators, q-tip sticks or any sort of plastic in toilets. These items float to the surface during sewage treatment and even though sewage treatment has improved over the years, lots of plastic doesn't get filtered out and ends up in the ocean. Ingestion of plastics has been documented in at least 56% of cetacean species, with rates of ingestion as high as 31% in some populations. Plastic never truly biodegrades and is a major problem in the oceans. In 1985, it was estimated to kill up to 100,000 marine mammals every year and plastic pollution in the oceans has significantly increased since then. The full impact is currently unknown as many deaths from plastic pollution happen out at sea so it's most likely even worse than we know. 6. Reducing our consumption of fossil fuels is another important action you can take to help these whales. Oil tankers strike whales and the burning of fossil fuels emits greenhouse gases that contribute to rapid warming of North Atlantic right whale habitat. One of the worst threats from these industries is the seismic blasting that's used to find pockets of oil and gas. It's devastating to marine life and increased levels of underwater noise have been shown to cause high levels of stress in North Atlantic right whales. There are many things you can do to make your home energy efficient during warmer months and in cooler months so we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. There are also key things you can do to reduce the energy usage of electronics in your home or office. Switching to LED light bulbs and purchasing Energy Star-rated appliances are also important ways to reduce energy usage. And, when it comes to your car, there are many things you can do to increase fuel efficiency. 7. When it comes to lawn care, natural is the way to go. Pesticides and fertilizers are unnecessary and should be avoided. Pesticides are toxic to sea life and fertilizers cause severe damage when rain washes them into waterways and storm drains that carry them out to the ocean. The NOAA's 5-year review of North Atlantic right whales released in 2017 stated, "There is evidence that some contaminants, particularly those in flame retardants (polybrominated diphenyl ethers), detergents and pesticides (alkylphenol ethoxylates), disrupt endocrine pathways and reproduction in animals." The report also noted that a 2010 study "analyzed blubber samples taken from five North Atlantic right whales that stranded along the eastern U.S. and Canada, and detected the presence of organochlorines, PCB's, and brominated flame retardants in all five samples." 8. In addition to avoiding pesticides and fertilizers, it's best to avoid as many man-made chemicals as possible such as flame retardants, harmful cleaners that don't properly break down and as many pharmaceuticals as possible. Many chemicals don't get properly filtered out during sewage treatment and end up in lakes and the oceans when the effluent is pumped out of the treatment center. Phosphates, which are in many cleaning supplies, encourage plant growth which use up the oxygen marine life needs. They have been banned or reduced in at least 16 states but are still legal in a majority of states. Unfortunately, just because a product is legal in some areas doesn't mean it's safe. Many chemicals, such as PCB's, have been banned later on after they were found to have been dangerous but should have been banned much sooner. The long term effects of many chemicals, and the effect of chemicals combining with others (the synergistic effect) is currently unknown. It's better for our health and the health of all the species that inhabit the oceans to use natural cleaning products that don't contain harmful chemicals. 9. When new regulations need public comments, new legislation needs notes of support (or opposition) or petitions need signatures we will send out the word a few different ways. We are on Facebook and Tumblr. And, if you haven't read our Facts page yet we recommend checking that out as well. We talk about some of the things listed above with more depth, context and information so you can find out the details about what these whales are up against and how you can help them. 

10. Remember that the law that bans approaching a North Atlantic right whale within 1,500 feet also applies to paddle-boarders, kayakers, swimmers, light aircraft and drone pilots (even those with FAA licenses). A special research permit from NOAA is required to be within 1,500 feet of these whales, for their own protection (and yours as getting near them can be incredibly dangerous). No one, including the writers of the actions listed above, is immune from mistakes but if we change now and get into good habits regarding these things then we can give these whales a fighting chance. Our actions are hurting these whales but it doesn't have to be that way, the change can start with us, right here and right now. These whales need as much support as they can get so we thank you for looking for ways to take action!

[supplier-of-peptidesz]

HGH Side Effects, Results, Legality, and More

By George Spellwin

Dear Friend and Fellow Athlete,

For decades, Human Growth Hormone (HGH) has been referred to as the "fountain of youth". It's been used by bodybuilders to cut fat, enhance steroid cycles, and recover from workouts faster. So it's easy to see why many look at HGH as some sort of wonder drug. But just exactly what is HGH? More importantly, what can it do for you, and is HGH safe to use? Keep reading this guide as you'll learn about HGH side effects, HGH results, is HGH legal, HGH vs steroids, and a step by step guide on how to mix HGH - complete with pictures.

What is Human Growth Hormone?

HGH (a.k.a. somatropin or GH) is created by the pituitary gland, and its primary function is to help our bones, muscles, organs, and tissues properly grow during our early years. And it's important that, during childhood and teenage years, your HGH levels remain balanced so that you don't become a dwarf or eight feet tall. HGH benefits don't stop when you're young, though, because you also need plenty of this hormone to keep your muscles full and strong, regulate metabolic functions, have a healthy immune system and repair your skin.

Unfortunately, our body's HGH peaks when we're adolescents and begins to decline from here. This is especially the case when we reach our 30's, as HGH levels begin dropping much faster at this point. Over time this leads to some unsightly byproducts of aging, like more body fat, less muscle, decreased bone density, worse skin appearance, fatigue and decreased brain function.

HGH Results and Benefits

Given all the bad things that happen when our bodies produce less HGH, one huge benefit of this drug is that it can reverse or at least improve aging. Now, this isn't to say that you're going to live to 120 just because you take HGH injections, but you should start to look and feel more youthful by using this drug.

HGH can also help build lean mass. Notice I said "lean" (fat-free) mass because studies have shown that HGH may have little to no impact on muscle growth (1) (2). Even research performed on athletes in training have yielded no proven muscle-building results (3). However, this isn't to say that HGH has absolutely no place in the bodybuilding community because, as I'll later discuss, you can combine it with anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) for really powerful results.

This may be especially true in the fat-loss department, where one study revealed that HGH is better than testosterone for melting body fat. The research showed that older men who received HGH injections lost 13% body fat, as compared to the 5.8% fat reduction in the testosterone group (4). Perhaps even more interesting is that those using testosterone and HGH together lost 21% of their body fat.

Another bonus to Human Growth Hormone is that it helps you recover from both workouts and heal from injuries faster. The latter is great for anybody who's dealt with nagging injuries for years that they want to heal finally. As for the faster workout recovery time, well, any athlete can appreciate being able to train harder and more frequently. Imagine how much more muscle you could gain if you worked each muscle group twice every 10 days, rather than the standard of once per week.

HGH Side Effects

As if I haven't already discussed enough great things about HGH, yet another is that you shouldn't experience any side effects with it. Contrast this to AAS, which can have severe side effects depending upon the dosage.

Water retention and joint pain are probably the worst side effects of HGH that you'll experience. Luckily, the joint pain shouldn't be unbearable in most cases, and the water retention will subside when your HGH cycle is over. Some minor problems that you could experience include cold-like symptoms, fatigue, and headaches when using this drug.

One serious issue that you should consider is if your family has a history of cancer. If so, you should definitely visit a doctor and get checked out for cancer because, while GH isn't proven to cause tumors, it can accelerate the growth rate of existing tumors.

Another serious issue is acromegaly, or the thickening of your jaw, fingers, and toes. Acromegaly can lead to the lengthening of your fingers and toes, and cause you to develop the dreaded "square jaw" appearance that many HGH users have - making you look like a hairless Neanderthal However, it should be mentioned that this is normally only a problem in those who abuse high dosages of GH for long periods of time. By keeping dosages reasonable, you should keep your normal human appearance too.

HGH has somewhat of a mixed effect on your cholesterol levels. A study performed on older men and women showed that their LDL (bad) cholesterol levels decreased; however, their triglyceride levels increased (5). One more concern worth mentioning is that those using this drug are also at more risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome (6).

Is HGH Legal?

HGH is illegal in most countries concerning recreational or performance-enhancing use. In the United States, for example, anybody who illegally sells or prescribes Human Growth Hormones faces up to 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The only way to legally obtain this drug is by getting a prescription for either child growth deficiency or adult growth hormone deficiency. Despite how HGH is not legal in most countries, that doesn't stop many people from getting their hands on it.

Also, keep in mind that all major sports governing bodies have banned GH. Sure, this compound doesn't produce noticeable strength-boosting capabilities (7). But its ability to enhance fat loss, improve workout recovery time, and heal old injuries certainly has some use to athletes. For a while, HGH testing wasn't available to sports leagues because there was no reliable way to test it. However, that's changed quite a bit, and all major professional sports have HGH testing available now.

How to get HGH?

If you don't have a prescription to buy HGH, or a doctor willing to prescribe it to you, then the black market is your other option. There are some underground labs that offer HGH products to anybody through the internet. However, as the term "black market" suggests, you must always be careful when buying HGH online. After all, it could be underdosed, fake, or even an entirely different compound.

One more thing to consider when you buy HGH is that the real version only comes in lyophilized powder, and it must be administered through subcutaneous (into the fat just under the skin) injections. You'll often see some different products offered, ranging from HGH pills to HGH spray - these are complete garbage! Somatropin is a fragile molecule that's really unstable and doesn't stay composed very long at room temperature. If you shake HGH too hard, this can also reshape it and form something entirely different from Human Growth Hormones. Long story short, don't buy HGH pills, patches or sprays.

HGH vs. Steroids

Because Human Growth Hormone and anabolic steroids can both help you build muscle and strength, they are commonly lumped together. However, this is a mistake because they are very different from each other.

First off, HGH is a protein-based hormone produced in the pituitary gland (base of brain). It's made of 191 amino acid chains and controls a number of functions like cell reproduction and repair, and growth of tissue and bones. HGH side effects are typically mild and less threatening than steroids, with the most common problems being high blood pressure, headaches, joint pain, and water retention.

Testosterone, on the other hand, is a sex hormone that's made in the testes. Forming the foundation of all anabolic steroids, testosterone plays a big role in protein synthesis, boosts strength and improves muscular endurance. Anabolic steroid side effects are pretty serious, with users potentially experiencing gynecomastia (man boobs), high blood pressure, high cholesterol, liver toxicity, low sex drive, low natural testosterone and/or water retention.

As you can see, HGH and AAS are quite different from each other in many respects. However, they do share some similarities, namely that they're synthesized naturally in the body, and they're both necessary parts of human development.

HGH for Bodybuilding

Because HGH was and is widely used by bodybuilders and athletes over the years, it's assumed that it has incredible muscle-building and strength-boosting benefits. However, as discussed before, research has yet to conclude that you'll gain any significant muscle mass through HGH (8). But then again, bodybuilders don't take HGH because they've been fooled by public opinion.

This drug has some good effects on fat loss and workout recovery - two huge qualities that bodybuilders benefit from HGH. And these effects are only enhanced when you include GH in an anabolic steroid cycle. Think of AAS as regular-grade gasoline, adding HGH would turn them into higher, premium-grade fuel. You can get better results from anabolic steroids, and use less of them just by incorporating HGH.

So how does HGH work? As mentioned before, GH is secreted by the pituitary gland, usually when you're sleeping or during high-intensity workouts. Once secreted, the activity of HGH normally only lasts for around 10-20 minutes. During this short duration, it binds to fat cells, causing them to break down into triglycerides and preventing these fat cells from uptaking lipids. HGH also binds to muscle cells, leading to the release of growth factors and multiplication of the cells.

Another bodybuilding benefit of HGH is that it travels to the liver and induces the secretion of Insulin-like Growth Factor One (IGF-1). When IGF-1 is released, it stimulates protein synthesis in muscles and encourages amino acid uptake. Research suggests that these actions help to create a moderate anabolic effect that GH lacks on its own (9). IGF-1 also acts very much like insulin and can increase the metabolism of carbohydrates. Higher IGF-1 levels lead to carbs being converted to glucose and used as energy, rather than being stored as fat.

From an overall standpoint, HGH isn't magic for bodybuilders that will help them build pounds of muscle and rapidly drop their body fat into the single digits. However, GH does provide some quality benefits in the way of protein synthesis, nutrient shuttling, and fat loss - all helping you attain a better physique, especially when combined with anabolic steroids.

HGH for Women

Given that most anabolic steroids cause virilization (development of male sexual characteristics) in women, there's a common stereotype that ladies shouldn't use Human Growth Hormone either. But did you know that women actually produce more HGH in their bodies than men?

HGH is safe for women at lower dosages, and they can see some nice results concerning increased energy levels, fat loss, healthier skin, and wrinkle reduction. As indicated in this EliteFitness Forum thread, a good HGH dosage for women without major side effects ranges from 0.5 - 1.5 IU's per day.

HGH Price

Aside from its illegal status, another big roadblock that keeps people from using GH is the high price. It's a great compound to mix with an anabolic steroid cycle...if you can afford it. But for many bodybuilders, it's a little pricey to add just for fat-loss and recovery purposes.

The cost varies based on the brand you're ordering, but it's common to pay anywhere from $3 to $4 per IU of high-quality somatropin. So if you were to buy a supply of 500 IU's, you'd end up paying between $1,500 and $2,000 on average. As I'll discuss below, a typical HGH dosage for bodybuilding is 5 UI's per day, which works out to about $15-$20 for daily use. Maybe you don't have to be a millionaire to afford this, but it's certainly not cheap for a non-muscle building compound.

One more thing to be aware of here: if the price is unbelievable, then don't believe it. Quality HGH - that with 191 amino acid chains - is fairly expensive to produce, so underground labs aren't going to sell it for the same price as Dianabol. If you do find really cheap HGH ($1 or less per IU), it's probably the weak, 192-amino-acid-chain product known as somatrem.

How to use HGH

Okay, so now that we've discussed all the highs and lows of HGH, it should be reiterated that this is an effective drug for certain bodybuilding purposes. This is especially the case when you combine HGH with testosterone, which gives you a great synergistic effect for fat loss and workout recovery. Plus, if you're middle-aged, and beyond, you can't overlook the anti-aging effects of this drug either. That said, let's go over what you'll need to know to run a good HGH cycle by answering some common questions.

What HGH Dosage should I take?

There's no one-size-fits-all formula for how much HGH you should use, and a lot of this has to do with the quality of the product. However, there are some rough guidelines that you can follow until finding out what works for you.

With quality Serostim, you can see pretty good bodybuilding results with just 3-4 UI's a day. With "blue tops" (generic) HGH, you'll probably need 5-6 UI's before you start seeing decent results. If it's really low-quality product, you might even need 7-8 IU's to get the same effect as 3-4 UI's of Serostim.

Assuming you're just using HGH for anti-aging and general health benefits, you can get solid results with only 2-3 UI's per day.

How should I cycle HGH?

As I discussed before, HGH makes for a good drug to stack with AAS. Plus, because this compound doesn't shut down your natural testosterone production like anabolic steroids, you can run it far longer. It's recommended that you use HGH for a minimum of 20 weeks to get solid bodybuilding results.

Again, the quality will greatly determine how much you should use every day. The guy discussed in the thread gets blue tops HGH. Blue tops HGH is a generic made product from China; so I'm betting he's going to need around 5 IU's to get the same results as 3 IU's of a pharma-grade product. As an experienced steroid user, he also stacks HGH with testosterone enanthate, Equipoise, and Dianabol in one cycle, and then testosterone e., Deca Durabolin and Turinabol in another AAS cycle. In all, he runs HGH for 47 straight weeks before stopping use.

When should I take HGH?

When you take HGH, injections will largely depend on your age. Men aged 20 to 50 should release a fair amount of GH at night while they're sleeping; so taking this drug before bed will only suppress your natural output and result in wasted product. That said, most younger and middle-aged men should use HGH in the morning so that you essentially have two HGH spikes - one while you're sleeping and one in the early morning.

For those older than 50, or with a condition that affects a normal release of HGH, you should take it right before bed. This allows your body to mimic the normal pattern of GH release that you'd have with a properly functioning pituitary gland.

How often should I take HGH?

Some people take HGH 7 days a week, which provides good results; however, I don’t think this is necessary. When you get the biggest surge of natural GH in your life, it is during puberty, and it's often in irregular spurts, not a steady source.

A 5 day on / 2 day off pattern is the best route, but most people fall into the (bad) habit of doing it Mon-Fri and then Sat and Sun off - this isn't very good.

This spreads the doses out, but never so you go longer than one day without a dose. I have done it both ways - this schedule and the every day (7 days per week) schedule - and there is really no difference at all with the results...except the above schedule makes your GH supply last longer. Overall, though, the results and benefits are exactly the same. Also, when taking more than 4 IU's of HGH per day, try dividing it into two doses; one in the AM upon rising and the other half at 4 p.m. in the evening.

More than 10 IU's of HGH daily, then divide into four doses: AM, noon, 3 p.m., 6 p.m.

Higher than 10 IU's of HGH daily is not encouraged for the average trainee, and even for the elite trainee until much research has been done. After all, going this high requires T4 supplementation and very often incorporating insulin since the only reason to go higher than 10 UI's of HGH is for forced bulking.

How is HGH Measured?

IU (international units) is a standard measurement concerning amount/quantity, not strength. 10 UI's from a 4mg compound will be weaker than 10 UI's from a 6mg product.

Now consider that when HGH is constituted, we normally use 1ml of bacstat water, which is 100 UI's. So a generic HGH vial that is claimed to be 10 UI's is now effectively 100 UI's due to the water measurement in it. Kind of confusing for sure, which is where I suspect a lot of the complaints about a certain brand of HGH being underdosed originate from. Simply because they do not tell you what strength the product is; instead they hide behind the "IU" claim of so many IU's per vial.

How do I mix HGH?

First of all, you need the following supplies:

One Insulin syringe

One bottle of Bacteriostatic water

One Injection Syringe

[odgaardli2-blog]

My New Partner Has A Little PenisAt Least, It's Little To Me

Penile enhancement methods are designed to boost the size of the cavernous cylinders of the penis or to stimulate blood flow to increase hardness. A amount of the real advantages of the penis enhancement exercises will be growth in your capability to keep more powerful and more long-lasting erections each period (which makes you capable efekty to endure much longer in bed), gain in the quantity of sperm you generate if ejaculating and gain in your general sex control and screen. In stimaxin recenzja , I've tried to reassure stressed guys that male organ size doesn't matter to the substantial majority of women. At the same time ask any woman what they are searching for in a long lasting relationship and penis size comes a lot further down than personality, give thanks to God or some of us would be in gdzie kupić the willy stretching out department really. To measure your flaccid duration you require to measure your male organ when it can be in flaccid state (non-erect). Smoking cigarettes raises the risk of cancers of the penis. Start stretching out the penis, until you experience it extend in bits. While gettin' it on with your bad personal this Valentine's Day, no longer efekty forget to stay covered by using the correct condom size and plenty of personal lubrication End up being sure to measure, then verify out the suitable condom for little penises selection from Condom Depot. Here you'll make use of your hands to extend your penis without providing you any discomfort. There are some sex positions that you ought to do your greatest to prevent when you have a male organ that is missing in size. Different factors of male organ enlargement surgery stimaxinsklep are important to different individuals. Penis enlargement is a continuous procedure, and blood circulation is definitely a vital component of this procedure. Although many studies have got shown that those emotions are all in guys brains ,” as even well-endowed men cope with feelings of penis shame , that sense of dysmorphia can lead to eating disorders, depression, and stress and opinie anxiety. I noticed many penis exercisers posting in wellness discussion board that it will take them around season or two to get their preferred penis size. For example, the objective of the intimate interaction with a one-night partner is likely to end up being pleasure 20 Females identify that infection dangers are higher from a one-night partner 21 While ladies adjust their habits for this risk, being less most likely to indulge in anal sex 22 and even more most likely to use condoms 23 with one-night companions cena, such dangerous habits themselves are frequently experienced as pleasurable 24 On the additional hands, genital intercourse constantly causes tears in the vaginal mucosa 25 especially in the delicate posterior fourchette 26 , so ladies may prefer a smaller sized penis less most likely to worry their physiology for regular, long lasting friends. Although there was quite a bit of variability in both shoe size (which ranged from 5.5 to 13 in Western european sizes) and male organ length (which ranged from 6-18 cm, or 2.4-7.1 in .), there was no correlation between them. All converted out to have efekty normal-size penises. This plan concentrates on working out the individual parts of the penis to increase its size and offers developed particular exercises for that. My penis is certainly redacted when hard is usually that a great size I'm 11 and haven't eliminated through puberty. The global globe record for male organ size skutki uboczne is usually held by Jonah Falcon at 13.5 inches. The Guardian reviews that the average size of an set up male organ is definitely 5.16 in ., and only about 5 percent of measurements in the study were found to be abnormally large or small. But I guess there is certainly a reasonable quantity of stigma around guys and their penises, I suppose it's something that they probably do experience comfy speaking about in the same method. Study on male organ stimaxinsklep extending methods is definitely limited. However, I have got observed that males with small penises are extremely committed and like to proceed for women who LOVE big dicks. As occurs with men who have got little penises and don't know how to make use of them, I also ended up out often, which is certainly not a woman's favorite point. I don't like it when sexual aptitude efekty is certainly conflated with male organ size, either. Porn gives off the basic idea that having a huge penis is something to be celebrated, placing guys who have them at the best of the sexual meals chain.

[devereuxxo-blog]

The Fact About hair regrowth That No One Is Suggesting

Genuine final results acquire plenty of time for you to present. Not forgetting, If the hair is thinner, so you started out undertaking a thing over it, it will eventually just take time for the new “regrown” hairs to be seen. step to remedies have to have time to grow. Once again, most shampoos that declare to halt hair loss and grow new hair are absolutely nothing a lot more than snake oil. Persist with substances which can be clinically tested to work and backed by scientific analyze. Which one is better? That’s a tricky phone and, devoid of wanting to dodge the question, our view is you can’t go Improper with either a single. The massive 3 is usually a common version of a fantastic all-around merchandise and you'll want to see precisely the same, or no less than quite identical, results in the Large three and large 5. Also, always pay attention to a product’s listing of ingredients to make sure that it doesn’t have anything which can lead to an allergic response. In this particular section the epidermal cells lining the follicle channel continue to grow as standard and may accumulate round the base on the hair, temporarily anchoring it set up and preserving the hair for its natural objective with out taxing the human body's sources required throughout the growth section. One of many positives of shopping for a hair-loss shampoo that contains the majority of the crucial components in preventing hair loss is that individually purchasing the ingredients isn’t Value-effective. A bottle of castor oil costs in the $twenty to $30 selection, For illustration. Surgical strategies to treat baldness are high-priced and may be agonizing. Doable threats incorporate bleeding and scarring. The answer, to get brutally sincere, is no. Blend that with The truth that many shampoo producers are hungry for a quick buck and make Fake statements about elements that haven’t been proven to operate, and you have a market place which might be treacherous to navigate. You can find even fake assessments – which is a complete added layer of deceit when you think about it. two. Like I proposed inside the short article, using Nizoral 2x a week and working with One more shampoo to the listing within the remaining days might be the most beneficial tactic. For anyone who is balding or see thinning hair, then obtaining the very best hair loss shampoo is important for regrowth. When there are plenty of motives for men’s hair loss, like genetics, stress, vitamin deficiencies and surplus styling, there are numerous superior hair growth shampoos, conditioners, and products which can prevent loss and even aid grow hair back again. Prior to deciding to seize just any bottle of hair-loss shampoo from the shelf – and a lot of don’t work, which we’ll touch on a bit afterwards – there are actually belongings you need to have to remember: Hi there pals I would want to share my practical experience here regarding the onion juice. I am 39 yr previous, 3 to 4 several years back again I started dealing with hair falling and dull hair so I commenced making use of coconut oil each day nonetheless it didnt support me much, Later my hair stated turning white and accompanied by losing it. I was greatly worried about it. I couldnt afford to pay for transplanting hair that point so i did analysis on net and I stumbled on onion juice. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-SiXXn3EKKI2t7btdwEplw used it on my scalp for two days and saved overnight but it was really uncomfortable to sleep so i started out it making use of each morning on my scalp and held it for fifty percent one hour then I'd personally clean it with water no shampoo or no soap i used i didnt even massage my hair Considerably mainly because it could split so I might pour three to 4 mug of lukeworm h2o h2o on my head. I did this action for around 6 to 8 months quite consistently. It worked nicely. Quick result was it cured my Long-term dandruf trouble within two times my hair turned properly whilst combing. The method for implementing hair loss shampoo is similar to regular shampoo, i.e., you implement it to damp hair, massage it into your scalp and rinse it. I've a full head of hair but am almost 23 and want to attempt to keep my hair as entire and thick as feasible for so long as probable. I was likely to start out making use of a single of those shampoo’s pre-emptively do you believe this would be a good idea?

Fascination About hair fall solution

As a recent well being trend, quite a few think about critical oils to be an overrated treatment. On the other hand, there are a variety of evidence-backed important oils which might be a great addition to the hair treatment schedule. seventeen/ Rogaine would make the hair-growing phase very last for a longer period, and enlarges and matures slim hairs. However it would not function for everyone. Why you ought to stay away from hair dyes: Artificial hair dyes incorporate harsh chemical compounds like ammonia, hydrogen peroxide,  p-phenylenediamine, which often can irritate the scalp and cause strain on hair follicles. You'll be able to remind oneself to say these affirmations whenever you are combing your hair or stroking it or massaging it. Deliver it love and talk to enjoy and care and you will be surprised at how speedily the thing is the effects. Overlook advertising and marketing ploys and hoopla. With lots of hair growth products and solutions in the marketplace, it’s easy to get confused. https://www.wikihow.com/Prevent-Hair-Loss ’t choose a shampoo simply because it's a few great opinions on Amazon – hunt for a manufacturer that’s been proven to grow hair and has actually many hundreds of constructive reviews from users. As We all know hair is mainly composed of proteins, and lack of protein will sluggish the hair growth, and can even lead to brittle hair. Iron is an additional crucial nutrient for healthier hair growth. This selection of microbes which make up the human body is known as the microbiome and we are merely locating out how critical a balanced microbiome is for Total overall health (and hair well being.) Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that can help guard in opposition to the oxidative stress due to no cost radicals (6). You’re concerned about dropping your hair, and you need an easy and simple way to prevent, or even reverse your hair loss with a hundred% certainty and good results fee. More than the class of six months, the members have been instructed to use their assigned treatment for their scalp everyday. They frequented the investigate facility in the beginning to establish baseline, and then at a few months and 6 months for development checking. This shampoo brings together the key benefits of biotin, zinc, and coconut oil to produce the growth of new hair although restoring skinny, ruined strands. This B-Intricate Method stimulates hair follicles to be able to inspire your hair to start out growing again. The trouble is, DHT is really a natural, ordinary and healthy hormone that most of us need to have and is in fact developed from testosterone by using an enzyme referred to as 5-alpha-reductase. You can find also the secondary have an effect on to take into account. This is often in the event the allergic reaction can direct on to hair follicle miniaturization since it triggers inflammation during the scalp which narrows the hole by which the strand of hair grows. Resource. The system by which lasers function – even though described intimately earlier mentioned – be can additional conveniently discussed. LASER is definitely an acronym Which means gentle amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. In the use of concentrated gentle beam, lasers can penetrate the hair follicles.

Not known Details About hair loss cure

Use a mixture of two egg yolks and two tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil on your own scalp. Depart it on for 15 to twenty minutes. Clean it out with cold water after which shampoo your hair. In addition to the following tips, consider some home solutions for instance Indian gooseberry or amla oil, fenugreek paste, a mayonnaise hair pack, and various healthy hair Concepts. As this oil is sort of viscous, mix the castor oil using an equal amount of coconut, olive, or almond oil. Massage your scalp with it and leave it on for 30 to forty five minutes. Then shampoo your hair. For these reasons, a selfmade shampoo manufactured making use of natural components can be a more sensible choice, particularly if you will be shedding a great deal of hair and wish to regrow regardless of what hair you've dropped. You received’t will need any conditioner right after washing hair with shikakai because it’s naturally moisturising. With just one use, you are able to expect a balanced scalp and comfortable, shiny and bouncy hair. Stay effectively hydrated. Ingesting drinking water might help your hair grow additional vivid and healthier. Similar to other elements of Your entire body, your hair is considerably impacted by dehydration. Additionally, Those people are the principle substances you want to see in almost any shampoo that’s supposed to cease hair loss, encourage growth and block the effects of testosterone on follicles. Like minoxidil (aka Rogaine), Ketoconazole has actually been recognized as a very good hair loss treatment. Ketoconazole is the leading component in several anti-dandruff and regrowth shampoos, and analysis with the National Institute of Health (NIH) has shown that the typical usage of a two% Ketoconazole shampoo can cause elevated hair density and dimension. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GA-ohYGt3c , alopecia areata normally starts off as a single quarter-sized circle of perfectly clean bald pores and skin. These patches usually regrow in a few to 6 months devoid of treatment. At times, white hair temporarily regrows and after that gets to be darkish. The top shampoos for hair growth consist of 4 important ingredients. The following elements are already tested to not just slow or reduce hair loss in Adult males and women, but to efficiently produce new growth to stop thinning and balding. Whatever little herbs youtube channel select, make sure it contains the subsequent components. All the information talked about Here's strictly informational. This great site won't provide clinical guidance. Talk to with the health care provider or other well being treatment provider in advance of making use of any of the following tips or treatments. Study far more. Never brush your hair when its damp. Your hair is a lot more elastic when moist so your hair has a far more likely chance to break off. Test an oil therapeutic massage. Incorporating oil to your equation aids circulation much more than a regular head therapeutic massage. The oil helps you to unclog hair follicles and allow new growth to come back in. Once or twice weekly, plan to use oil to massage your head. It’s least complicated to get it done within the shower, then rinse absent the oil if you’re finished. Rated the most effective shampoo for hair regrowth in 2017 and all over again in 2018 by business gurus, Ultrax Labs Hair Surge is really a brand that’s profitable plenty of awards for its Remarkable-high quality merchandise. This business has built pretty an impact on heads everywhere you go, and warrants to be at the best of our checklist.

The hair fall Diaries

I am struggling from alopecia since five years l have applied plenty of medication right up until now no gain Is there any good medical for it Shea Moisture is a properly-identified brand within the organics attractiveness care sector. https://www.pinterest.com/healthhomeremedies/steptoremedies/ is ideal known for generating African black soap that can help with lots of ailments for instance acne. This shampoo through the models stays real towards the natural branding. Add additional water if wanted. Switch off the warmth, cover the pot and go away it to ‘steep’ until finally it cools. more info out the herbs. Performed. (You may pour the liquid into a squeeze bottle for simple use.) The ingredients in Jardin Sante shampoo involve natural oils like black seed oil, biotin, and pumpkin seed extract. This mixture preserves the natural oils produced by the scalp that moisturizes roots from the hair. The mineral oils incorporated also nourish roots of hair, particularly if They can be dry. Limited braids and ponytails can pull challenging plenty of on hairs to make them fall out. If this transpires, it is best to pick hairstyles that put considerably less pressure on hair. Carrying out this quicker will help in order to avoid lasting damage. These beauty products and solutions can be found with out a prescription, are relatively economical ($20-$40 range), and very Protected with small possibility. Usually these can be utilized in addition to medical treatments like Rogaine, Propecia, and hair transplants, and they are a fantastic short-term measure to tide one particular above for Specific events. Non-scarring hair loss also comes about in conditions exactly where there is Actual physical or chemical harm to the hair shaft, leading to breakage. Occasionally, it could be necessary to do a biopsy of the scalp to differentiate these conditions. Often, a doctor may perhaps pull a hair to examine the looks of the hair shaft plus the percentage of growing hairs (anagen phase). This information will focus on the non-scarring different types of hair loss. The Human Body Quiz will let you learn about your minimal-acknowledged overall body elements! Take this quiz to learn more regarding your system and what goes on within. You received’t find any sulfates, parabens, or other harsh chemicals which can exacerbate hair loss On this products. The components are all natural and holistic, for example apple cider vinegar, black castor oil, Shea butter and keratin proteins. The Shea butter moisturizes the scalp as well as the keratin strengthens the roots from the hair. Some individuals have issues growing their hair over and above a certain length given that they have a short active phase of growth. However, people with incredibly extended hair have a long active section of growth. It's important to try to eat well through chemotherapy, and get the aid you may need each for the duration of and soon after treatment. https://www.facebook.com/steptoremedies/ can obtain information from a health care provider right before use if desired. This shampoo and conditioner will do away with your have to use various hair care products to manage hair loss. You can experience noticeable results in a issue of weeks. This problem is unusual in wholesome Grownups. Bald places ordinarily exhibit damaged-off hairs accompanied by a dermatitis. Oral antifungals can penetrate the hair roots and cure the infection, and then hair grows back. Sharing hats or combs and brushes may possibly transmit tinea capitis. Preservatives such as methyl and propylparaben are put in the shampoos to extend their shelf everyday living. step to remedies in addition to synthetic perfumes might bring about an allergic pores and skin response. And they might also influence your hormonal equilibrium, which often can, subsequently, end in hair loss.

hair loss in women Can Be Fun For Anyone

A substance produced by bees, Propolis was discovered to help you hair growth in mice. A group of experts from Hokkaido University in Japan triggered a great deal of buzz in hair loss circles pursuing their discovery. As with most prescription drugs, there are actually side effects. Make sure you speak with your physician about Propecia to view whether it is ideal for you. Propecia cannot be used by women of childbearing possible since the drug could potentially cause delivery defects. Also, it will not be productive in older women. A more robust drug In this particular identical course is Avodart (dutasteride). Vitamin A – which happens to be an antioxidant and allows make sebum that contributes to thicker, shinier hair. More Physical stress Almost any physical trauma—surgical procedure, a vehicle accident, or simply a extreme disease, even the flu—might cause non permanent hair loss. This will bring about a type of hair loss termed telogen effluvium. Hair includes a programmed existence cycle: a growth section, rest phase and shedding stage. Sudden excess weight loss is a kind of Actual physical trauma that may lead to thinning hair. This may materialize although the weight loss is ultimately very good in your case. It’s possible that the load loss alone is stressing Your whole body or that not having ideal may lead to vitamin or mineral deficiencies. Have struggled for lengthy with bald patches on front. I'll check out over the remedies to see when they get the job done, of which i will be so grateful of the information. In the meantime, the many antioxidants existing while in the Manetabolism Plus hair formulation assistance to improve the immune program and, hence, spark a natural energy Raise. Coconut oil performs the best for my style of hair. I have thick hair so Should you have thick hair also I'd personally recommend to employ coconut oil. I saw end in about two weeks. Get ready an herbal infusion by steeping any of these herbs in very hot h2o for 10 to 20 minutes. Utilize it as a closing rinse immediately after shampooing and conditioning your hair. In combination with encouraging hair growth, it is going to improve your hair and make it gentle and workable. https://twitter.com/steptoremedies/ in our article content just isn't meant to swap a a person-on-a person connection with a qualified health and fitness care Experienced and is not intended as professional medical tips. The 1st indicator of catagen will be the cessation of melanin production in the hair bulb and apoptosis of follicular melanocytes.[7] In the end, the follicle is 1/six its original size, producing the hair shaft to generally be pushed upward. While https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2qyANB8KS64 isn't growing throughout this stage, the length of the terminal fibers improve in the event the follicle pushes them upward. Telogen period[edit] On the other hand, all B vitamins are essential for The body to transform foods into Electrical power, but additionally essential for a wholesome nervous method. Many thanks heaps for your ideas with the hair issues. I'm likely to start out these days by hoping the egg mask… We’ll communicate a good deal about biotin During this submit, and with superior reason. Biotin would be the ‘X’ Issue regarding healthful hair and located from the vast majority of greatest hair growth supplements. It’s a drinking water-soluble B vitamin that encourages not just healthier hair but will also nutritious hair and skin.

The best Side of hair fall

Find out about hair loss in women and Guys. Explore hair loss triggers and treatments in addition to how to avoid hair loss. I exploit some both of those daily – and nevertheless I haven’t recognized many hair returning in – I HAVE observed that an entire large amount much less is falling out. I utilized to see a lot of hair within the tub or in my hand following drying. Ideally some little one hairs will begin so clearly show by themselves before long. The American Hair Loss Affiliation stated it’s crucial that women which have a record of hair loss of their loved ones to get made aware about the potential results of beginning Handle supplements on standard hair growth. One of many positives of shopping for a hair-loss shampoo that contains most of the important ingredients in combating hair loss is that individually purchasing the components isn’t Charge-successful. A bottle of castor oil expenses from the $twenty to $30 selection, for instance. The psychological harm connected with hair loss is, For a lot of women, in depth, specifically in a society the place hair-loss in men – though commonly undesired – is kind of an acknowledged actuality of daily life. You may encourage hair growth by protecting healthy hair by way of a superior diet program and good hair care. Certain herbs can help make your hair grow faster, too. Preferred hair growth solutions and natural solutions for hair loss Hair loss typically takes place when the cycle of hair growth and hair shedding is disrupted. We’d like to listen to your remarks pertaining to hair loss shampoos. We wish to hear what you're thinking that and we promise to reply instantly. Often https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-the-Right-Hair-Loss-Option who be concerned about shedding their hair start off noticing hairs on their own pillow or from the sink, not knowing they've generally been there. I have struggled with my hair for a very long time now. I am speedily approaching my 40s and I've lousy hair top quality. A short while ago, I've also seen that my hair has stopped growing since it utilized to. A several years ago I went to your salon with a every month foundation. Now, it takes me Pretty much two months prior to I even must cut my hair! No less than a month of course. But I’d often give not less than 6 months ahead of I’d evaluate any hair loss merchandise. The seek for the holy grail of hair loss cures continues. How near are we, really? However, not as near as we’d hope my Close friend. The one thing to complete for now's soldier on Using the lower than excellent possibilities right up until the white knight of hair loss experts rides in that has a cure for us all. They then ought to make a choice from two paths: healing the pores and skin (making epidermis) or building hair. It is there in which Follica sees the window of chance, where by they're able to stimulate the cells to do the latter and regenerate new and a lot more hair. Critically, the things works, and it's garnered plenty of consideration considering that remaining introduced to the industry. It had been rated the best “Shampoo for Hair Regrowth Stimulation” in 2016 and is successful for guys and women (and is among only some caffeinated hair shampoos produced for both of those sexes).

Little Known Facts About hair growth vitamins.

Fortunately, deficiency and deficiency similar signs and symptoms are fixed merely by either having it orally or by obtaining it by way of the following foods: To start with, consider the listing of issues earlier mentioned that I mentioned which can damage microbes and try to minimise these in your life. A very powerful minerals to your hair are: Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc and Iron. Before using them to start with get your blood examination finished to understand For anyone who is actually deficient. Using needless vitamins and minerals could also damage One's body and hair. Although hair loss might be attributed to some professional medical situations like alopecia, it’s also a natural Section of growing older. As seen over, elevated doses from the E. Cava extract have been shown to inhibit 5AR; and, though not as effective as finasteride, the outcome are still promising. Amla is among the Indian berries. Nevertheless it needs a Distinctive point out simply because this berry is probably the maximum resources of vitamin C (ten occasions much more than an orange). Femina has become capturing the essence on the Indian girl for 58 years now, and has progressed along with her over the years bringing the whole world to her doorstep. And now, here's your prospect to find the dope on every little thing--from stars and trend, magnificence and wellness, to Way of living and interactions--shipped on to your inbox. As well as pro guidelines, polls, contests along with other interactive content and a complete ton extra! Drink carrot juice each day for swift hair growth. The hair incorporates the speediest growing tissues in the body and vitamin A is needed to the growth of each cell. In addition it aids the scalp in manufacturing the natural sebum oil which keeps it plus the roots healthier to boost hair growth. Maple syrup, Probably the unlikeliest shampoo ingredient, soothes and nourishes even though it concurrently handles bacterial buildup and overgrowth. Previous, castor oil aids to provide the carrot seed oil deep into the scalp, as well as moisturizes and hydrates on its own. The treatment may be fairly unpleasant and may lead to pores and skin thinning while in the injected sites. Prednisone, an oral steroid, might be an efficient treatment for alopecia areata, but its prospective Negative effects contain weight attain, metabolic abnormalities, acne, and menstrual issues. Its beneficial effects are frequently only short-term. Surprisingly the number of white hair have also lowered in the last handful of yrs (I am able to’t level to at least one single detail that I do/did, Potentially little of every little thing has aided). I'll start off my quest to search out my allergies and to alkaline my physique. My nails will also be particularly ridged and split vertically. My skin could also use some balancing. Total, Thanks! I’ve learnt a great deal of from you. Could God bless you, Often! Some examples of hair affirmations are: my hair is healthy and growing quickly, my hair cells are rejuvenating, I acquire excellent care of my hair Being a hair loss treatment approach that appears straight outside of science fiction, laser therapy also called Reduced-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) remains in its earliest phases of review and use.

[rainybirdsweets]

The Chemistry of Life: The Plastic in Cars

Even if cars soon start running entirely on electricity or hydrogen, they'll still need 100 gallons or more of oil to make their plastic parts, such as seats, dashboards, bumpers, and engine components. And some day that plastic may be recycled back into fuel.

Cars of old were mostly steel, but the use of lightweight alternatives has dramatically increased in the last couple of decades. Whereas almost no plastic could be found on a car from the 1950s, today's automobiles have more than 260 pounds (120 kilograms) of plastic on board, according to the Transportation Energy Data Book.

"It is expected that high oil prices and strict CO2 standards will accelerate the growth [in plastic use]," says Aafko Schanssema from PlasticsEurope, a plastic industry group based in Belgium.

Plastics improve fuel economy by reducing weight, but they also require petroleum as a raw ingredient.

"Plastics are in fact solidified oil," Schanssema explained.

Although different plastics have different recipes, it takes roughly 0.4 gallons of crude oil to make 1 pound of plastic. Globally, around 8 percent of the oil that comes out of the ground is used to make plastic.

The average car is a mix of materials: glass windows, rubber tires, lead batteries, copper wires, as well as traces of zinc, magnesium, tin, platinum and cobalt.

However, steel is still the single most important material in cars. It is strong, durable and malleable. On the flip side, though, it is relatively heavy. For this reason, car manufacturers have been trimming down on its use.

For domestic cars, the percentage of weight in steel and iron has dropped from 75 percent in 1977 to 63 percent in 2004, according to the Department of Energy's Transportation Energy Data Book.

Some of the steel has been replaced by lightweight aluminum, whose percentage has grown from 2.6 percent in 1977 to 8.6 percent in 2004. Plastic has seen a similar rise in prominence, going from 4.6 to 7.6 percent over the same 27-year period. (In Europe, the average car currently has closer to 11 percent plastic, Schanssema said.)

A 2005 PlasticsEurope study showed that every pound of plastic in a car replaces roughly 1.5 pounds of traditional materials.

Based on this weight reduction, the same study calculated that plastics provide a fuel savings of about 3.8 percent. However, cars haven't improved their gas mileage by that much.

"On the whole, U.S.-made cars have increased in total weight, so that whatever effect can be ascribed to plastics has been more than offset," said Michael Renner, a senior researcher for Worldwatch.

Renner thinks an emphasis on particular parts misses the bigger picture: the total size and power of new vehicles have been going in the "wrong direction" for many years. He does agree, however, that "the continued development of lightweight materials will still be critical."

Recycle plastic

Even if plastics can mitigate some of the fuel use, they are not exactly loved by environmentalists.

"The production of plastics is of course highly energy-intensive and polluting," Renner said. But he added that the same is true for steel and aluminum production.

One concern is that plastic recycling is not as fully developed as metal recycling of vehicle parts. Composite plastics are especially hard to separate and thus make available for re-use.

However, to Schanssema's thinking, this would not justify making cars from heavier metal parts,

"When looking at environmental impact from a life-cycle approach, it has been found that about 95 percent of the environmental impact of a car is during the so-called 'use phase,'" he said. "End-of-life contributes only marginally to the impact."

Besides reducing weight, plastics help to streamline the shape of vehicles, improve the performance of tires and increase the safety of windshields and fuel tanks.

Still, there are ideas for making plastics more sustainable. One way might be to use bio-degradable plastics, or ones that come from renewable resources, such as corn or sugarcane.

Another option is to recover the energy from discarded plastic parts. The company Plas2fuel, based in Washington state, can make a gallon of oil from melting down 8 pounds of plastic. In March, this process was used by Oregon-based Agri-Plas to turn plastic waste into 8,200 gallons of oil.

Ironically, then, the plastic in electric cars and fuel cell vehicles might one day be recycled into oil that could be burned in gasoline-powered cars.

We have customers ranging from manufacturing immaturity to international corporations that have as long a history in plastic parts as Rosti does. That said, we do have customers that surprise us and have been able to teach us about a particular design or material application. We value these interactions, as nothing is ever black and white. There are always compromises and trade-offs to be made. Conversely, we also have customers that believe they have “been there and done it all,” so extra care must be taken to prepare supporting evidence for our proposals. This would include simulation data, past product data, theoretical calculations, prototype tooling and other information.

Moisture conditioning Processors and end users who use nylon have become very familiar with the effects that water absorption has on that material. In applications where high loads are generated, such as in snapfit assemblies, nylon that is still close to its dry-as-molded state may exhibit brittle failure, and we have learned that this failure mode can be mitigated by conditioning the parts to bring them up to their equilibrium moisture content. This frequently solves problems with the assembly process. The moisture conditioning process takes many forms. Some simply pour a prescribed amount of water into molded parts contained in a moisture-proof package such as a polybag. Others prefer placing saturated paper towels into the package with the nylon parts and allowing the water to migrate out of the paper and into the nylon. Some go as far as boiling the parts. This not only increases the moisture uptake rate, but also ensures that the moisture is absorbed more uniformly throughout the wall of the part. While rapid moisture conditioning is a legitimate method for improving the impact resistance of nylon products, there should be concerns with using it indiscriminately. A nylon product may be temporarily brittle while it comes to equilibrium with the atmosphere. But it may also be brittle because the material has been degraded during the molding process. In such situations, the brittle condition is not simply a temporary symptom of low moisture content, but rather is a permanent condition brought about by reduced molecular weight. The problem is that this shortcoming can be covered up by pumping large amounts of moisture into the polymer. Under such conditions, the polymer becomes sufficiently flexible so that it no longer appears to be brittle. But a moisturizing process that is performed rapidly often introduces more moisture into the polymer than it can retain in the long term. If this happens, then when the excess moisture comes back out of the polymer, the brittle condition can return, usually after the part has gone into the application. Failure in the field This occurred in an application involving a critical part in a consumer product. Parts produced in an unfilled nylon 6/6 were received from the molder that appeared to be more brittle than usual. The explanation was that the parts had been molded just a few days earlier. It was winter in a northern state where the indoor humidity was very low and therefore moisture uptake was slow. The corrective action was to moisture condition the parts. However, this was done very aggressively, and the final moisture content of the conditioned parts was 3.2%. The parts worked initially, going through the assembly and testing process without any obvious problems. However, once in the field the parts began to fail. When the product was brought back in for evaluation, the moisture content of the product had declined to 1.5-1.6%. Field experience has shown that this is a consistent value that is obtained for parts that have been allowed to come to a true equilibrium with ambient surroundings. It will be higher in extremely hot, humid environments or in situations where the part is immersed in water or used in close proximity to water, but in most cases a part molded in unfilled nylon 6/6 can only hold about 1.5% water by weight. This experience contradicts a lot of the data published by material suppliers showing the conditioned moisture content at 2.5%. But much of this early work was performed using accelerated techniques that had a tendency to introduce more moisture into the polymer than it could hold in the long term. Field experience shows that values of 1.5% for an unfilled material are much closer to the norm. It is also important to emphasize that this value is by weight of polymer. If a material contains 33% glass fiber, then one-third of the polymer has been replaced by an inorganic material that is not hygroscopic, and therefore the amount of water that this compound can hold will be proportionally lower.

Cost Benefits

One of the biggest drivers of change across any industry is the cost of production. If there are lower cost alternatives that provide the same or better results, naturally a company should pursue those. When it comes to metal-to- plastic conversion, perhaps the biggest advantage of plastic parts is their ability to potentially provide an overall cost savings of 25-50% over metal.

Also, using plastic often streamlines the number of secondary operations commonly associated with metal parts and reduces the number of assembly steps required. With plastic, OEMs have the ability to combine multiple components into a single molded part design, as opposed to making numerous individual components out of metal and welding or fastening them together. OEMs can even create complex plastic parts with tight tolerances that require no secondary machining using scientific molding processes. Having fewer production steps and less assembly time can provide a significant cost savings, as well as provide more design flexibility.

Time Benefits

In addition to streamlining assembly, injection molding gives manufacturers the time-saving advantage of having the color and surface finish ready to go right out of the mold, instead of tacking on time-consuming steps afterwards, as is the case with metal parts. Also, the injection molding process typically has faster cycle times (more parts made per machine hour) than metal components, all while producing repeatable, durable parts.

Weight Benefits

Plastic parts are typically 50% lighter than their metal counterparts, and provide more production quantity — that is, you get more more parts per pound with plastic versus metal.

[ichaisme]

Coco: Still They Linger

Note: I have not been able to shake my Coco obsession yet, so the only good course of action HAS to be fanfic, right? Continuation of the movie where Miguel can still see the dead come next dia de muertos. I would appreciate any and all commentary on my writing, good or bad! It’s been like... 5 years since the last time I wrote a fanfic, so I gotta get my butt back in gear. This first chapter establishes the problem within the context of the end of the movie. All following chapters are beyond it.

The first time Miguel realized anything was amiss was the next Día de Muertos. The dead didn’t really have many opportunities to come back to the land of the living besides that, after all. They did the usual: set out offerings on the ofrenda, spread the petals, visited Mamá Imelda’s grave… and there it happened. The first of the dead began to cross.

Miguel found the trip rather bittersweet now. The visit itself took on a new meaning now that he knew Imelda herself could witness it… but it hurt knowing Hector couldn’t. They didn’t even know if Ernesto de la Cruz gave him the kindness of a grave, if he simply dumped him in a dark alley, or buried him in a shallow hole that didn’t deserve the title of ‘grave’. Worst of all, they couldn’t remedy it. Miguel would have to die before he’d get the opportunity to ask about WHERE it happened (not that he would even dare. The poor man didn’t need the reminder). He was so lost in his unusually quiet reflection that he didn’t notice the skeletons at first, but as they passed, the all too familiar orange glow drew his gaze… and he couldn’t stop staring. Unconsciously he reached to grab his abuelita’s arm, in silent reassurance that no, he wasn’t seeing things. He was still here in the land of the living… and yet… there THEY were. Visible. It seemed the dead hadn’t yet forgotten him either. The couple he stared at soon realized they were the targets of his gaze.

“You can still SEE us, niño…?” The man asked. Miguel gave them a slight nod, eyes widening in shock. As the pair murmured worriedly between them, Elena broke his silence.

“What’s wrong, Miguel?”

He jumped a bit, “Oh! Abuelita… I just… I miss her.” Her expression softened, and she gave his hand a light squeeze as she stifled tears.

“I do too. But that is why we have Día de Muertos! She can see we are happy and healthy and take our offerings.”

“Right…”

Already his attention drifted, desperately searching the crowd of incoming skeletons for one in particular. One that, in the weeks leading up, he’d been praying had survived. Miguel almost glanced over him entirely in his search when he arrived. Hector… He looked good! Great even! His bones no longer looked sickly yellow and held together in places by tape. The markings on his face were bright and lively. His clothes were modified and patched so that they looked almost new… even his walking had improved. Now he understood why he’d been so embarrassed by him imitating his gait before. Imelda and Coco walked on either side of him, and he seemed… so happy.

It almost pained him to catch his attention. Still, they had to know. What if something from the curse still lingered somehow? He tossed his head back towards town, making sure he caught the meaning before standing.

“Abuelita, I’m not feeling very well, lo siento… I’ll be right back.”

“Be quick. Día de Muertos is a time for family.”

He nodded and left the cemetery.

               For the first time in many, many years, Hector didn’t have a scheme.  His family waited for him on the other side of the gate, just as nervous for the result as he was. Coco, his darling daughter, told him she’d kept his head from the torn photo Miguel had shown him. Theoretically, there should be nothing to worry about. He should show up on the database, on the ofrenda for the first time in over 90 years, and he should be able to cross.

Should.

The lack of certainty is what scared him the most. The guard gave him a wary look as he approached with his hat in his hands, trying to figure out his angle. He always had one. Yet… this time, he just stood there, signature awkward smile on his face as it scanned him. The quiet gasp and affirmative bing! From the computer told him everything he needed to know. He could barely hear her congratulations, and everything up until he stepped on the marigold bridge passed in a happy blur. That very first step solidified it. This was happening. He was crossing the bridge, not futilely sinking through it. Seeing Santa Cecilia again… it was a dream come true.

Admittedly, the dream wavered slightly at the immediate sight of the massive monolith that was Ernesto’s mausoleum. Imelda scowled at it, but as they walked around the edge to reach her grave, they noticed the wooden FORGET YOU hung around his bust’s neck. Hector felt a small pang of satisfaction. Of course, Ernesto wouldn’t be forgotten, but… it did make him feel a little better that he wouldn’t get the satisfaction of a well-loved remembrance. He didn’t realize he’d been staring until Coco tugged lightly on his arm. He gave her a smile and a kiss on the forehead before they moved on.

               While Hector didn’t recognize anyone but Miguel around Imelda’s grave, Coco happily filled him in.

“Oh, papá! Look, there is my daughter Elena next to Miguel, and Miguel’s parents Luisa and Enrique, and oh, so cute… it’s baby Socorro!” She kept pointing and naming names, Hector smiling and trying to commit the names and faces to memory. He had a lot to catch up on… but he also had a lot of time to remember them now. Once he’d been acquainted with the entire visiting family, he let his attention wander to Miguel. He didn’t look at all different appearance-wise, and—

Oh, dios mío, what is he staring at?

It seemed like he was looking right at him, but that was impossible! The curse was broken, he was CLEARLY grabbing… Elena’s? arm… He looked behind him, but really the only thing remotely interesting was Ernesto’s mausoleum up the way.

/Hector./ The man’s eyes widened as Miguel mouthed his name and gestured towards town before leaving.

“Aw, Miguelito doesn’t feel well..” Rosita tutted, but Hector shook his head.

“He can see us.” All the chatter from the other dead relatives came to a stop, staring at Hector in shock.

“…That’s not possible,” Imelda said sternly. “If he could still see us, then we didn’t break the curse.”

“Imelda, he mouthed my name and gestured for me to follow him! He can see us, I’m sure of it.”

Oscar grimaced, “The man at the department of family reunions did say..”

“..’more or less’,” Felipe finished. “There could be some…”

“Side effects.”

Hector sighed, “Then I’m going after him.”

               He ran after Miguel before they could give further argument. To his surprise, he heard footsteps behind him, and a glance soon told him that Imelda decided to follow. While they weren’t far behind, he decided the best way to figure out if Miguel could see them was to actually speak to him.

“Ey, Chamaco, espere!”

Much to Imelda’s shock, he did slow down and wait for them to catch up. All doubt vanished from her mind once he turned to face them.

“Oh good, you actually came…” Miguel said in relief. “So, I can still you! That’s… good? Bad?”

“We don’t know,” Hector admitted. “Has anything else been weird with you since that night?”

He shook his head, “No… I mean, I haven’t grown any, but I just haven’t hit my growth spurt yet. Maybe I should be taking ‘vitamins’ more seriously…”

Hector groaned, pinching where the bridge of his nose would be. “…Who did Oscar and Felipe say told you about the curse before, Imelda?”

“The man in the department of family reunions.”

“Then that’s who we need to see.”

Miguel grimaced, “…Do we have to? Papá Hector, it’s your first Día de Muertos with your family again… Can’t it wait?” The reminder gave him pause, and he gave Imelda a nervous look. She considered their options, then gave a curt nod.

“He’s gone a year so far and he’s fine. A couple more hours won’t hurt.”

               They enjoyed their time watching their family (and Hector certainly enjoyed Miguel’s wonderful performance… and his mariachi uniform); by the end, he’d nearly forgotten about Miguel’s little problem. When Miguel went to bed and gave them all a wave and a murmured goodbye, however, he was reminded of what they had to do.

Next stop: Department of Family Reunions.

[csthrive21]

INDIA VISION 2035

“If you Play Small, you Stay Small”

India, a country so old and rich with History that even super computers of the modern world cannot document its significance. The land has its reputation for the culture and diversity seen in various divisions of the country. A population of over a billion and a half does the needful in accommodating the above said diversity and boy haven’t they been vocal? Well, truly living in the lines of “Vocal for Local”

Quite often the common notion of the word “BIG” has been associated with being “powerful”, but is that quite the case with India? It surely is a very big country in landmass but the concept of power is more often not synonymous with India’s international presence. The country’s political system has been built on the core of Democracy and has been termed as the largest Democracy in the world with the highest vote bank. The power invested in the people of the country is massive in terms of electing their representatives which is largely due to its massive population. It can be said that a huge population can sometimes be a blessing if they were all skilled enough to make the best of the country’s resources but a majority of India’s vast population is illiterate and have no access to basic standards of living. Poverty looms large in the rural areas and there is a massive income disparity between different classes of people. The country has an infamous record for ranking low in multiple human development indexes and has not shown any considerable improvement in the quality of living for different sections of people in all these years.

Fast forward to the present timeline, India is one of the fastest growing economies in the world and has a multitude of large-scale development schemes to put the country on the map as a global leader and a super power.

The Indian Government is currently working on a number of futuristic visions for development and one of the most Important development goals was the “Vision 2020” pioneered by Former President A. P. J. Abdul Kalam according to which no citizen will fall under the poverty line but unfortunately that goal was not reached and there are revised versions introduced which are slowly been put into effect by the government. One of the main visions is that India aims to become a 5 Trillion Dollar Economy in the year 2025 and this an important element for India becoming a super power in the span of the next 15 years.

For India to become a super power by 2035, there are four areas of focus to reach the goal and they are-

1. Economy

2. Defence

3. Space Research & Development

4. International Relations

Situational Analysis

ECONOMY

India’s GDP was estimated at Rs. 33.14 trillion (US$ 452.74 billion) for the second quarter of FY2020-21, against Rs. 35.84 trillion (US$ 489.62 billion) in the second quarter of FY2019-20.

India is the fourth-largest unicorn base in the world with over 21 unicorns collectively valued at US$ 73.2 billion. By 2025, India is expected to have 100 unicorns by 2025 and will create 1.1 million direct jobs.

India needs to increase its rate of employment growth and create 90 million non-farm jobs between 2023 and 2030's, for productivity and economic growth. Net employment rate needs to grow by 1.5% per year from 2023 to 2030 to achieve 8-8.5% GDP growth between 2023 and 2030.

Main Economic Objective (next 15 years) – India is currently recovering from the Corona Virus pandemic and the economy was hit really hard. Despite the situation, India’s GDP is expected to reach US$ 5 trillion by FY25 and achieve upper-middle income status on the back of digitization, globalization, favourable demographics, and reforms.

India is also focusing on renewable sources to generate energy. It is planning to achieve 40% of its energy from non-fossil sources by 2030, which is currently 30%, and have plans to increase its renewable energy capacity from to 175 gigawatts (GW) by 2022. Investment into Renewable sources is just one potential areas for development but there is a dire need for investments into other important industries over the course of 15 years

DEFENCE

The Indian Defence Forces are one of the best in the world with an established Army, Airforce and Navy departments. Indian Defence personnel are highly disciplined and trained to work in high skill combat missions as they have done so in the past. India has been involved in a number of conflicts after independence and the important ones were against the arch rival and neighbour, PAKISTAN, Jammu and Kashmir being the longstanding warzone for these nations. The various wings of the Indian Armed forces are:

1. Indian Army

2. Indian Navy

3. Indian Air Force

4. Indian Coast Guard

5. Central Police forces to name a few

Defence Technology in India however, is not highly developed and is in the first few stages of achieving big break throughs. The Majority of India’s defence technology is Imported from other countries, be it weapons or missiles or equipment for the personnel. Russia is the most important defence partner for India and makes up for India’s inability to provide inhouse/domestic defence technology. Some defence technology development organisations are:

1. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) - Responsible for General development on Weapons, Communication, Equipment &Gear and other defence related technologies

2. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)- Develops and Manufactures Combat aircrafts and Helicopters

3. Ordnance Factory Board –The Board in charge of the ordnance factories manufacturing arms/weapons in India

4. Private Defence Manufacturing Companies +Defence start-ups. etc

These companies have been essential in defence upgradation but have not been utilised to the best of their abilities due to lack of investments and innovation. This retards India’s ability to produce Defence technology domestically and increases its dependence on foreign imports.

Main Objective (next 15 years) – To effectively improve and adapt indigenously developed Defence Technology into the armed forces and to execute defence schemes introduced by the government

SPACE RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

The Indian Space Research Organisation is the apex Space development body in India and has conducted several missions like Chandrayaan 1(2008) & Chandrayaan 2 (2019), Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan, 2013-14, ongoing) and ASTROSAT (Astronomy Satellite) to name a few.

India’s recent Anti Satellite Missile Defence system, called Mission Shakti, testing was a huge success and it officially marked ISRO’s entry into the list of Space Super powers with NASA, Roscosmos and Chinese National Space Administration who have the same technology. This was a joint operation between DRDO and ISRO

Indian space agencies have matched with other super powers only in a few areas and need more structural and research-based missions to mark itself as a super power in the Space division. ISRO is looking to send Indians to space by 2022 and are working on a large-scale mission called Gaganyaan. To further fulfil the goal of becoming a super power, ISRO is working on the following projects:

1. Chandrayaan-3

2. Lunar Polar Exploration Mission

3. Mangalyaan 2

4. Gaganyaan, To name a few.

More importantly, Indian Government made an announcement providing an opportunity for Private Companies to invest and develop technology for ISRO and related Space Programs

Main Objective (next 15 years)- ISRO must successfully Plan, Develop, Organise, Expand and Execute many more space programs and space related policies (Public and Private) to help the economy in the next 15 years

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

India post-independence has developed crucial diplomatic relations and partnerships with countries from all major continents and have been significantly influential in the cultures of their partners. Indian presence internationally is minimal as compared to the P5 nations in terms of Trade, Security, Technology, Skilled Human Capital and Geopolitical Situations. Surely there is a water body named after the country but no high regional power to assertively mark their presence as a regional power. If India should emerge as a global power with international policies and importance, the country must first gain regional cooperation and must build on a very strong role in the subcontinent.

India has a long-standing geopolitical crisis with Pakistan and China, this is treated as a threat to India’s national Security and has retarded relations with these countries. Pakistan is the main concern as the relations are very strained.

Additionally, in terms of India’s global presence, India is not a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and neither is it a part of the G7 /G8.

Main Objective (next 15 years)- India must become a regional power with regional cooperation and must find ways to resolve its regional Geopolitical problems. India must also find a way to become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Furthermore, India should find ways to improve its international trade partnerships

TASK AT HAND

PLEASE NOTE -This entire write up is a macro research finding by a Special Development Commission (SDC) under the NITI AAYOG and will serve as the base for the Indian Government’s Road path to become a super power

According to the Special Development Commission, the proposal is to create a Vision for India to become a superpower in the year 2035. The Government might or might not Accept your proposal for your Vision 2035 Proposal.

YOU are the Chief Strategist of the Special Development Commission (SDC) under the NITI AAYOG and you will be presenting this Vision 2035 Proposal to the Prime Minister of India, Shri. Narendra Modi

You are required to cover the following topics:

1. ECONOMY

a. Indigenous Industries to be targeted to reach the goal of a 5 trillion-dollar economy (Mention the scope of Development in the chosen Industries)

b. Pick any 3 regions in India to be set as Special Economic Zones (SEZ’s) and provide reasons for selecting the same. List out the incentives that will be given by the government to the companies

c. Strategies to attract higher FDI in Manufacturing and Services sector

d. Strategies to Improve the Rural Economy in India and increase their contribution to the GDP

2. DEFENCE

a. Strategies to increase the contribution of DRDO and Ordnance factories to produce more weapons and defence technology Locally

b. New factories and Defence R&D facilities to be established (Region selected +Nature of the establishment)

c. Form Military Collaborations with countries of your choice and present a strategy to set up Military bases in those countries (Minimum 1 country, maximum 2)

3. SPACE RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

a. Introduce Collaborations with Private Space Development Companies in India for ISRO and related space programs

b. Provide new plans to establish a large-scale SPACE Education, Training and Development Centre. (under ISRO, you can add any private or public partnerships as necessary)

4. INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

a. Form a Trilateral Agreement between INDIA, CHINA and PAKISTAN with the following areas to be covered:

1. Geopolitical Negotiation strategies over Jammu& Kashmir and Arunachal Pradesh

2. Potential Trade agreements (Should be within Foreign Policy)

b. Strategies to become a member of the UNSC.

Deliverables

1. A Report with the above-mentioned topics

2. Extra Deliverables as deemed necessary

Deadline - 2pm

For any queries, contact

Harish S Kumar: 9916083725

Naman Maheshwari: 8861194608

[brain-garden-blog]

Stop Taking Adderall, Start Playing Video Games

Doctors could soon prescribe screen time for children with ADHD.

In the video game Project: EVO, you navigate roiling river rapids while dodging rapidly shifting obstacles and connecting with friendly flying characters. To earn stars and advance to the next level, you have to demonstrate multitasking mastery. Unlike other games that reward these kinds of skills, in this one you must prove to the game’s algorithm that you have made a leap in neurological function.

This is no ordinary entertainment — it’s a video game designed to lessen the symptoms of ADHD. And one day soon, it may be available by prescription and reimbursed by your insurance company.

The creator of Project: EVO, a Boston-based tech company called Akili Interactive, is betting that video games, often blamed for exacerbating behavioral and mental conditions, could actually provide successful treatments for ADHD. And it won’t just be kids playing on doctors’ orders. People on the autism spectrum, seniors with Alzheimer’s, and patients recovering from brain injuries may also benefit from playing games targeted to their specific neurological deficiencies.

Akili is working with the University of California, San Francisco’s Neuroscape Lab to build on the success of a game called Neuroracer, developed by UCSF neuroscientist Adam Gazzaley, which was shown to be a powerful tool for cognitive enhancement in adults aged 60 to 85.

In a 2013 study featured on the cover of Nature, Neuroracer’s multitasking features were shown to lead to improvements in real-life tasks that required working memory and sustained attention. In that game, players steer a virtual car while carrying out other actions that challenge their executive functioning. After 12 hours of this training, seniors were able to consistently beat 20-year-old novice players. The results were so astonishing that Gazzaley, a strikingly fit and even-keeled 40-something, became a darling of the Silicon Valley self-optimization set, a sort of med-tech celebrity who regularly speaks at tech conferences and dazzles the media with his plain-spoken charisma.

Over the past 12 years, Gazzaley and his team have collaborated with designers and artists to develop a range of video games that might be able to treat a wide range of brain disorders. Now with investment backing from PureTech Health, an R&D and venture creation firm, Gazzaley and the Akili team are charging into unknown terrain: securing approval from the Food and Drug Administration for a video game.

It’s a slow, deliberate process that’s at odds with the shoot-first way tech is usually developed. The FDA requires any kind of drug or medical device to go through multiple phases of large-scale, randomized, double-blind clinical trials that must all succeed. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of legal and procedural details that must be airtight, so Akili has 11 full-time employees working in its compliance department. Now in the final Phase 3 trial, the Project: EVO game is close to becoming the first prescription-based video game.

If it gets approved, the implications are big. Prescription video games could become an enormous market even though they face the perception that screen time is generally not beneficial. And they could give children with ADHD an intriguing alternative to the stimulants that are prescribed for them with astonishing regularity.

Safeguards

Matt Omernick heads up product development for Akili, and was recruited by Gazzaley while he was executive art director at LucasArts. Omernick says the rigorous FDA approval process will assure medical professionals that the game is beneficial. “Get to market fast is not the strategy, and our investors know that,” he says. “Hopefully we will be the first to define a very new industry — digital medicine.”

Aside from a company called Posit Science, which is in talks with the FDA about using video games to treat various cognitive disorders, competition is virtually non-existent. However, persuading doctors and regulators is a steep uphill climb because several companies, including Lumosity and Neurocore — which counts Education Secretary Betsy DeVos as chief investor — have come under attack for making false claims about their benefits. Gazzaley himself has been among the critics.

The very idea of using video games therapeutically goes against the “you’ll rot your brain” conventional wisdom that is in fact validated by numerous studies. While some research has shown that playing video games consistently can lead to significant improvements in vision and attentiveness, even more studies demonstrate the negative effects of screen time, including serious addiction — particularly for those with ADHD, attention problems, and anti-social tendencies.

It’s a slow, deliberate process that’s at odds with the shoot-first way tech is usually developed.

Omernick says that Project: EVO has built-in safeguards to ensure that it’s only used for one 30-minute session per day, so kids can’t get addicted to it. It stops functioning entirely after the daily session. He stays away from the swirl of controversy surrounding kids and screen time by taking a very pragmatic approach: “No matter what, video games are not going away, and this is one that is actually beneficial for your brain,” he says.

Kids who are prescribed the game will go through behavioral and neurological assessments first. Then, they’ll play the game on an iPad for half an hour a day, five days a week, for four weeks. The game is entertaining and visually immersive, offering up the kind of rewards that kids are familiar with from other video games. At the start of the training, a cartoon character in a lab coat explains the session’s objectives. Players learn to position and tilt the tablet to control an avatar traveling through outdoor environments while hitting targets and avoiding distractors. Even for me, a neurotypical 39-year-old, the game is fun, challenging, and hard to put down.

Unlike an over-the-counter game, in which all players have to do the same things to advance to higher levels or earn rewards, Project: EVO is a completely individualized tool for each player. It measures neurological skills such as perceptual discrimination, visuomotor tracking, and multitasking ability, says Omernick, and players move on only “once you demonstrate that you’ve actually changed something neurologically. So the game pushes you to improve a part of your brain, like a personal trainer.”

After the four weeks of gaming, the players are once again thoroughly assessed for attention, processing speed, and reaction times. The clinical team asks parents to report kids’ symptoms, observes how the children behave during the month, and interviews the kids themselves about how they are feeling and how they believe they might have progressed. The Project: EVO pilot study results released last April showed significant improvement in attention abilities for all participants, and sustained effects for up to nine months.

Other possibilities

The Akili team is also setting up similar studies with autism spectrum disorder, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and traumatic brain injury. Last December, Akili announced promising results in a study of a digital screening platform that detects biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease. The device, called AD Screen, is also in late-stage clinical trials.

But unlike with ADHD, this space is a bit more well-traveled. Posit Science has offered a cognitive enhancement game, BrainHQ, for five years. The Southern California branch of AAA offers older drivers a chance to complete 10 hours of training in the game in exchange for a discount on their auto insurance, says Posit Science CEO Henry Mahncke; he believes that health insurance discounts for patients who complete brain training will soon follow. Some of the exercises in BrainHQ, when combined with other treatments, have been shown to reduce the risk for dementia and even to help people with early Alzheimer’s.

Gazzaley says that most of the Akili games in development offer preventive potential as well, possibly protecting kids from developing ADHD, or lessening cognitive decline in adults. In fact, he maintains that the games could enhance cognitive abilities in everyone. The Neuroscape team is now working with school systems in the San Francisco Bay Area to train students to perform better academically using its video games.

But it’s not yet clear what the overall experience would be like for people who just pick up the game on their own, without a prescription for a certain condition. Among the details that haven’t been nailed down: Would non-prescription users have access to Akili’s clinical team as well? Would it be prohibitively expensive?

Cutting back on meds

It’s clear that parents and medical professionals are looking for an alternative way to treat ADHD. Diagnoses of hyperactivity disorder have skyrocketed in the past decade, affecting an estimated 11 percent of kids ages 4–17. About half of these kids take powerful drugs to lessen their symptoms and make them more amenable to classroom learning, following rules, and staying still.

Prescriptions of Adderall, Ritalin, and related drugs are up 28 percent since 2007. These drugs often present side effects, ranging from loss of appetite and weight to cardiac irregularities and slowed growth. They’re also widely used illegally off-label for their stimulant effects among the college set. It’s not yet fully understood how these drugs affect the developing brain, making each child a walking experiment. Adding to this, concern is growing that the ADHD diagnosis — which has criteria that are subjectively determined by clinicians — is incorrect about a third of the time, leading millions of kids to take drugs that they don’t really need. So Project: EVO offers a completely new framework for helping ADHD kids.

The idea that a video game could replace or reduce pharmaceutical treatments makes more sense when you consider that social, rather than behavioral and neurodevelopmental factors, frequently influence diagnosis. It’s the youngest kids in a classroom cohort who are more likely to be labeled hyperactive. Black and brown kids are diagnosed more often than their white classmates. To put it in historical perspective, hyperactivity wasn’t even acknowledged before compulsory schooling began in the 19th century. In many respects, children have become the target of modification because — let’s face it — fundamentally changing the social and environmental structures that negatively influence their behavior is more than a bit daunting. It’s widely acknowledged that in less rigid environments, children appear to evidence ADHD symptoms much less.

It’s clear that parents and medical professionals are looking for an alternative way to treat ADHD.

Emory University physician and anthropologist Mel Konner has proposed that ADHD is a matter of what’s known as evolutionary mismatch. The trait of short attention may have once provided survival advantages, but in the modern context it has become maladaptive because our environment is so different from the context in which Homo sapiens evolved, and our genes haven’t caught up. “These kids have hunter-gatherer brains in the modern context,” he says. “The testing regime in schools, coupled with the cutbacks in outdoor recess and art programs means that we are making the mismatch worse.”

Some solid research has found that kids with ADHD show significant improvement after getting regular outdoor play in natural settings, essentially recreating the hunter-gatherer lifestyle in small doses. And adventure sports disproportionately attract people who can successfully channel their ADHD energies into mountain climbing or paragliding. Similarly, Posit Science CEO Mahncke says that cognitive decline in seniors could be caused by lifestyle factors. Most people in the developed world are now sedentary, and our professional lives involve becoming narrowly focused on one type of task, in one place. Even if that task is intellectually demanding, that intensity is not what keeps our brains sharp. “Humans are one of the most adaptable animals — we can live anywhere — and what sustains us and maintains our brain health is constant new learning and adapting to environments,” Mahncke says.

But health professionals find it hard to write a prescription for an environment or a lifestyle. Take the idea of outdoor play — how much is effective? What kind of play is best? Are some spaces more beneficial than others? And what about the majority of people who don’t have easy access to wilderness?

That’s why Gazzaley thinks a video game prescription will likely be the most reliable treatment alternative for ADHD — and eventually for other disorders. “With almost 100% of newly diagnosed cases of ADHD, parents are asking: ‘Is there anything else I can do for my child besides drugs?’” Gazzaley says. “Our goal is to be on the pharmacy shelf next to Adderall. Any doctor will have the ability to prescribe our video game, which has a delivery system that is better than any drug.”

- by Jessica Carew Kraft

[paleorecipecookbook]

7 Ingredients to Avoid in Deodorants (Plus 5 Best Natural Brands)

Like many popular makeup brands, soaps, shampoos, and other body “care” products, deodorants contain a slew of chemicals capable of doing untold damage to your body. In fact, many are rated as carcinogenic by multiple health agencies, yet still remain unregulated in the cosmetics industry.

So what are these dangerous substances hiding in the smell-good pastes and gels you’re rubbing under your arms every day? Are are you putting your health at serious risk by using them?

Toxin Overload

You might be wondering how it’s possible for something as basic as underarm paste to be so dangerous. After all, you’re not eating it, right?

Unfortunately, putting on deodorant could be even worse for you than if you were actually eating it. When you eat something, your body produces enzymes to help break it down and, if it’s toxic, flush it from your body. But when you rub something on your skin, it can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream without any kind of filtration.

Chemicals in your deodorant can go straight from your blood to your organs and cells where they can accumulate and cause side effects ranging from hormone disruption to cancer. Luckily, studies are starting to reveal the dangers of these chemicals so that they’re easier to avoid.

7 Ingredients to Avoid in Deodorants

These are the seven most common ingredients to watch out for when you’re shopping for deodorants.

1. Aluminum

Aluminum is one of the most common antiperspirants (aka sweat-stoppers) used in deodorants. Aside from simply blocking your body’s natural ability to sweat out toxins, aluminum comes with a host of other scary side effects.

To begin, studies have shown that aluminum has what is called a genotoxic profile, meaning it can cause alterations in DNA and have an influence over which genes are turned on or off. In this case, research has revealed that aluminum could mess with the genes regulating estrogen and the development of breast cancer. (1)

Scientists have also noted that one of the most popular areas for breast cancer to form is in the upper, outer quadrant of breast tissue, suggesting evidence for “applied cosmetic chemicals in the development of breast cancer,” like deodorants. (2)

Other research has linked aluminum exposure to bone abnormalities, neurotoxicity, and Alzheimer’s. (3)

2. Parabens

Parabens are a group of chemicals used as preservatives in deodorants, soaps, shampoos, lotions, and toothpastes. You may have seen them listed as ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, isobutylparaben, and methylparaben.

Far from harmless, parabens have actually been banned from use in food in the European Union, as they have been found to disrupt hormones, leading to reproductive and developmental problems. (4)

Other research shows that parabens can mimic estrogen by binding to estrogen receptors in cells. While this may not have an immediate effect, continually being exposed to parabens that trick your body into thinking it has excess estrogen can trigger tumor growth and increased breast cell division, which could be a recipe for breast cancer. (5,6)

3. Propylene Glycol

Propylene glycol is a synthetic solvent used in deodorants as a stabilizer, moisturizer, and preservative. Aside from being used in food and other beauty products, it’s also the main ingredient in antifreeze.

While studies haven’t found it to be as dangerous as some of the other chemicals on this list, propylene glycol has still been found to cause skin irritation and possibly kidney damage. (7)

4. Sulfates

Sodium-lauryl sulfate and sodium-laureth sulfate are emulsifiers used in a wide range of household and cosmetic products, including shampoos, toothpastes, enemas, and, of course, deodorants. Their ability to clean surfaces also makes them popular ingredients in cleaning products, including drain cleaners.

Sulfates have also been shown to cause skin and eye irritation, while acting as “corrosive” skin irritants by stripping skin of its natural oil barrier. (8)

5. Triclosan

Triclosan is an antibacterial ingredient used widely in all kinds of cosmetic products, most notably soaps and hand sanitizers. Unfortunately, it is also added to deodorants to help kill odor-causing bacteria.

Aside from being blamed for helping to create antimicrobial resistance in bacteria, triclosan has also been linked to cancer development and progression. (9,10)

6. Phthalates

Phthalates, or “fragrance” as they appear on most labels, are a class of chemicals that give deodorant and other cosmetics a particular smell. While they might make your underarms smell like roses, their side effects are anything but rosy. Several studies have linked them to infertility, testicular problems, obesity, asthma, allergies, fibroids, and even breast cancer. (11)

7. Talc

Talc is an anti-caking agent added to many beauty products and powders. Unfortunately, some forms of talc have been shown to be contaminated with cancer-causing asbestos fibers. And while cosmetic grade talc exists, it is still labeled as toxic and carcinogenic by the Environmental Working Group. (12)

5 Deodorant Brands You Can Trust

Learning about harmful ingredients in your deodorant can be overwhelming. However, before you panic, know that there are tons of natural deodorant options available!

Check out your options below and try out a few. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at a DIY all-natural deodorant recipe.

1. Primal Pit Paste

Primal Pit Paste is crafted with organic ingredients like beeswax and essential oils for a smooth glide-on. All of their blends are free from aluminum and artificial fragrances, but this doesn’t mean they lack in the smell-good department. They feature jasmine, lavender, spice, coconut, lime, and even an earthy blend of sandalwood, frankincense, and black pepper for men.

You can choose from three variations: jars, sticks, or minis, as well as different levels, with “Sensitive” containing the most soothing botanicals, and “Level 3” containing extra baking soda for maximum “stink stoppage.”

2. Primal Life Organics Stick Up™

Primal Life’s deodorants use simple blends of aluminum-free baking soda, virgin coconut oil, arrowroot, essential oils, and bentonite clay to fight odors and absorb excess moisture. They also offer sensitive blends without baking soda to minimize irritation.

3. Schmidt’s

Schmidt’s deodorant blends are ahead of the game when it comes to fragrance options and combating wetness. From rose and vanilla to magnesium and charcoal, choosing which one you want will probably be your most difficult decision. Luckily, they offer a travel-size pack of five that you can purchase as a sampler.

Each of their deodorants come in stick form (good news for those of you that don’t like the pastes) as well as jars and a fragrance-free option.

4. Primally Pure

Primally Pure uses all organic ingredients and aluminum-free baking soda in their deodorant blends. With a unique base of tallow from grass-fed cows, coconut oil, and beeswax, this deodorant has been said to glide on smoother than other natural deodorant brands.

In addition, they also offer a good selection of scents using essential oils, including lemongrass, tea tree, and lavender, while rounding out their collection with a blend for sensitive skin. If you can’t choose, try out their awesome sample pack for $24 to see which one your underarms like best.

5. FATCO Stank Stop™

FATCO deodorants combine coconut oil and aluminum-free baking soda to neutralize odors, while adding in tallow from grass-fed cows and shea butter to nourish and moisturize your underarm skin. Lavender and clary sage essential oils round out the mixture with a fresh, flowery scent.

Along with a paste, FATCO also offers a “pit spritz” option that contains odor-killing raw apple cider vinegar in its base.

DIY Deodorant Recipe

If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind indulging in a few minutes of creative pit-chemistry in your kitchen, then you’re going to love this DIY deodorant.

However, before you get started, keep in mind that some people experience slight underarm irritation from the baking soda in natural deodorant recipes. If this happens, try cutting the amount of baking soda in half.

DIY Coconut + Shea Butter Deodorant

Ingredients:

Small glass jar for storage 3 Tablespoons coconut oil 2 Tablespoons shea butter 3 Tablespoons baking soda 2 Tablespoons arrowroot starch A few drops of essential oil, such as lavender, orange, rose, etc.

Instructions

Using a double boiler, gently heat the shea butter and coconut oil until they’re just melted. Remove from heat and stir in the arrowroot, baking soda, and essential oil. Pour into your glass container and let the deodorant solidify (to speed this up, put it in the fridge). You can either keep this stored in the fridge or on your countertop. Keep in mind that the consistency will vary depending how warm or cool your home is.

The post 7 Ingredients to Avoid in Deodorants (Plus 5 Best Natural Brands) appeared first on PaleoPlan.

Source: http://ift.tt/10qRbxJ

[jobsearchtips02]

What to Make of the Numbers in the May Jobs Report

Many of the gains came in restaurant work as 2.5 million jobs were added in May and the unemployment rate fell to 13.3 percent.

Cumulative monthly change in jobs since September 2010

Job losses in March and April nearly wiped out the previous 113 months of job gains, but May showed a partial comeback.

+20 million

+22,106,000 jobs

from Oct. 2010 through Feb. 2020

+15

+10

+5

‘12

‘14

‘16

‘18

‘20

130 million total jobs

in September 2010

+20 million

+22,106,000 jobs

from Oct. 2010 through Feb. 2020

+15

+10

+5

130 million total jobs in Sept. 2010

‘12

‘14

‘15

‘17

‘19

‘11

‘13

‘16

‘18

‘20

By Ella Koeze·Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

June 5, 2020Updated 2: 49 p.m. ET

The job market halted its pandemic-induced collapse in May as employers brought back millions of workers and the unemployment rate unexpectedly declined.

Tens of millions remain out of work, and the unemployment rate, which fell to 13.3 percent from 14.7 percent in April, remains higher than in any previous postwar recession.

But employers added 2.5 million jobs in May, the Labor Department said Friday, defying economists’ expectations of further losses and offering hope that the rebound from the pandemic-induced economic crisis could be faster than forecast.

Major stock indexes surged on the news, and President Trump hailed the report in a series of tweets on Friday morning.

Still, economists warn that it will take far longer for the economy to climb out of the hole than it did to fall into it. Job openings have begun to rise but remain far below normal levels. Millions more people have been laid off in the weeks since the data released Friday was collected in mid-May. And the trillions of dollars in government assistance that have helped keep the economy on life support may be nearing their end.

“We might have climbed one rung of the ladder out of the hole, but it’s still a long ladder,” said Ian Shepherdson, chief economist of Pantheon Economics.

The Labor Department cautioned that data-collection issues that have plagued the agency throughout the crisis continued last month. Some temporarily jobless workers were characterized as “employed” in May; had they been counted correctly, the department said, the unemployment rate would have topped 16 percent.

By Ella Koeze·Employment rates are seasonally adjusted. | Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Even if they didn’t anticipate the May rebound, many economists had expected that unemployment would begin to ease as states reopened and businesses called employees back to work.

More than half of the month’s job gains — 1.4 million — were in restaurants and bars, many of which received assistance under the government’s Paycheck Protection Program. Friday’s report suggests that program, along with other elements of the government’s response, helped offset at least some of the economic damage caused by the shutdown, which should allow for a faster rebound.

“The economy is still being very much buffered by stimulus,” said Michelle Meyer, head of U.S. economics at Bank of America. “When that starts to wane we will learn a lot more about the underlying health of the recovery.”

[How do you feel about going back to work? Share your story.]

At Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, a Florida-based chain of more than 150 sports bars, business was down 62 percent in April, when its dining rooms were closed nationwide and its only business came from takeout. But only a handful of the chain’s restaurants have closed permanently, in part because nearly all of its franchisees received Paycheck Protection loans.

“The damage would have been much greater without PPP, I can tell you that,” said Chris Elliott, the chief executive.

Now business has begun to pick up as states gradually allow restaurants to reopen. In the last week of May, sales were down about 15 percent, Mr. Elliott said, and customers appear eager to eat out again.

Still, the longer-run outlook is uncertain. If business stays at its current level, many franchisees will struggle to eke out a profit, he said, and at half the locations, sales are still down more than 50 percent. That won’t be sustainable for long.

“There are going to be franchise owners that if they can’t reach 15 percent, or it doesn’t improve incrementally over time, they’re going to get fatigued, and I think some of them are at risk of just throwing in the towel,” Mr. Elliott said.

Job growth in May was concentrated in sectors hit hardest in the early stages of the crisis, such as leisure and hospitality and retail. But manufacturing, health care and professional services all added jobs as well — another good sign for the recovery because it suggests that the damage has not spread as deeply into the economy as many feared.

Still, employment in nearly every sector remains far below where it was before the crisis began. Many economists expect an initial rebound in at least some kinds of business. But it isn’t clear how strong that surge will be, or what will come after.

“It’s the jump and then the crawl, and the question is how high is the jump and then how long does the crawl take,” said Nick Bunker, who leads North American economic research at the Indeed Hiring Lab.

Updated June 5, 2020

How many people have lost their jobs due to coronavirus in the U.S.?

The unemployment rate fell to 13.3 percent in May, the Labor Department said on June 5, an unexpected improvement in the nation’s job market as hiring rebounded faster than economists expected. Economists had forecast the unemployment rate to increase to as much as 20 percent, after it hit 14.7 percent in April, which was the highest since the government began keeping official statistics after World War II. But the unemployment rate dipped instead, with employers adding 2.5 million jobs, after more than 20 million jobs were lost in April.

Will protests set off a second viral wave of coronavirus?

Mass protests against police brutality that have brought thousands of people onto the streets in cities across America are raising the specter of new coronavirus outbreaks, prompting political leaders, physicians and public health experts to warn that the crowds could cause a surge in cases. While many political leaders affirmed the right of protesters to express themselves, they urged the demonstrators to wear face masks and maintain social distancing, both to protect themselves and to prevent further community spread of the virus. Some infectious disease experts were reassured by the fact that the protests were held outdoors, saying the open air settings could mitigate the risk of transmission.

How do we start exercising again without hurting ourselves after months of lockdown?

Exercise researchers and physicians have some blunt advice for those of us aiming to return to regular exercise now: Start slowly and then rev up your workouts, also slowly. American adults tended to be about 12 percent less active after the stay-at-home mandates began in March than they were in January. But there are steps you can take to ease your way back into regular exercise safely. First, “start at no more than 50 percent of the exercise you were doing before Covid,” says Dr. Monica Rho, the chief of musculoskeletal medicine at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago. Thread in some preparatory squats, too, she advises. “When you haven’t been exercising, you lose muscle mass.” Expect some muscle twinges after these preliminary, post-lockdown sessions, especially a day or two later. But sudden or increasing pain during exercise is a clarion call to stop and return home.

My state is reopening. Is it safe to go out?

States are reopening bit by bit. This means that more public spaces are available for use and more and more businesses are being allowed to open again. The federal government is largely leaving the decision up to states, and some state leaders are leaving the decision up to local authorities. Even if you aren’t being told to stay at home, it’s still a good idea to limit trips outside and your interaction with other people.

What’s the risk of catching coronavirus from a surface?

Touching contaminated objects and then infecting ourselves with the germs is not typically how the virus spreads. But it can happen. A number of studies of flu, rhinovirus, coronavirus and other microbes have shown that respiratory illnesses, including the new coronavirus, can spread by touching contaminated surfaces, particularly in places like day care centers, offices and hospitals. But a long chain of events has to happen for the disease to spread that way. The best way to protect yourself from coronavirus — whether it’s surface transmission or close human contact — is still social distancing, washing your hands, not touching your face and wearing masks.

What are the symptoms of coronavirus?

Common symptoms include fever, a dry cough, fatigue and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Some of these symptoms overlap with those of the flu, making detection difficult, but runny noses and stuffy sinuses are less common. The C.D.C. has also added chills, muscle pain, sore throat, headache and a new loss of the sense of taste or smell as symptoms to look out for. Most people fall ill five to seven days after exposure, but symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as many as 14 days.

How can I protect myself while flying?

If air travel is unavoidable, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself. Most important: Wash your hands often, and stop touching your face. If possible, choose a window seat. A study from Emory University found that during flu season, the safest place to sit on a plane is by a window, as people sitting in window seats had less contact with potentially sick people. Disinfect hard surfaces. When you get to your seat and your hands are clean, use disinfecting wipes to clean the hard surfaces at your seat like the head and arm rest, the seatbelt buckle, the remote, screen, seat back pocket and the tray table. If the seat is hard and nonporous or leather or pleather, you can wipe that down, too. (Using wipes on upholstered seats could lead to a wet seat and spreading of germs rather than killing them.)

How do I take my temperature?

Taking one’s temperature to look for signs of fever is not as easy as it sounds, as “normal” temperature numbers can vary, but generally, keep an eye out for a temperature of 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. If you don’t have a thermometer (they can be pricey these days), there are other ways to figure out if you have a fever, or are at risk of Covid-19 complications.

Should I wear a mask?

The C.D.C. has recommended that all Americans wear cloth masks if they go out in public. This is a shift in federal guidance reflecting new concerns that the coronavirus is being spread by infected people who have no symptoms. Until now, the C.D.C., like the W.H.O., has advised that ordinary people don’t need to wear masks unless they are sick and coughing. Part of the reason was to preserve medical-grade masks for health care workers who desperately need them at a time when they are in continuously short supply. Masks don’t replace hand washing and social distancing.

What should I do if I feel sick?

If you’ve been exposed to the coronavirus or think you have, and have a fever or symptoms like a cough or difficulty breathing, call a doctor. They should give you advice on whether you should be tested, how to get tested, and how to seek medical treatment without potentially infecting or exposing others.

How do I get tested?

If you’re sick and you think you’ve been exposed to the new coronavirus, the C.D.C. recommends that you call your healthcare provider and explain your symptoms and fears. They will decide if you need to be tested. Keep in mind that there’s a chance — because of a lack of testing kits or because you’re asymptomatic, for instance — you won’t be able to get tested.

Friday’s report sent mixed messages on those questions. The number of workers reporting that they were on a temporary layoff or furlough fell by 2.7 million, a sign that employers are calling back workers. But the number of people reporting they had lost their jobs permanently rose, by about 100,000.

“That is a concerning sign for the length of the recovery because every layoff that turns permanent makes a full recovery harder,” said Daniel Zhao, senior economist at the career site Glassdoor. “The surprise to me in this report is that the recovery was earlier than we expected. But the next question is whether it will be faster than we expected.”

When Mike Lowe flew to Florida in early March to visit his mother, he had a successful freelance business doing web and graphic design, and a part-time gig in dog day care. A week later, he arrived home in Portland, Ore., to a text message from the dog business telling him not to go into work. He was let go entirely within days, even as his freelance clients began calling to cancel orders.

Two and a half months later, Oregon has begun to reopen, but Mr. Lowe, 51, is treading water. One freelance project looks likely to resume soon, but another client, a local bar, told him this week that it would shut down permanently — its business relied on live music, which seems unlikely to come back anytime soon. The owner of the dog day care says she hopes to bring him back at reduced hours but isn’t sure when business will rebound sufficiently to make that possible.

“I’d say I’m just in wait-and-see mode at the moment,” he said.

Percent change in jobs from previous month, by industry

The leisure and hospitality industry, which includes restaurants, had a severe loss in April but bounced back the most in May.

By Ella Koeze·Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Like many laid-off workers, Mr. Lowe is able to get by largely because of the $600 a week in extra unemployment pay that Congress approved as part of its emergency funding bill in March. But that benefit is set to run out at the end of July, and it is far from clear that Congress will extend it. Economists warn that pulling away support too early could stall the recovery.

“Right now, the government is plugging a good deal of that hole for households, but how long will that last, we don’t know,” said Ellen Zentner, chief U.S. economist for Morgan Stanley. She noted that the unemployment rate will almost certainly still be elevated in August, adding, “It’s a very tough time to pull support away from households when the unemployment rate is still that high.”

Even now, as some businesses start to bring back workers, layoffs are continuing. Nearly two million workers filed first-time claims for state unemployment benefits last week, more than double the worst week of any previous recession. State and local governments cut nearly half a million jobs in May, and millions more such layoffs are likely in coming months in response to plunging tax revenues.

In Jackson, Mich., a small city about 70 miles west of Detroit, the school board voted last week to cut more than 40 positions in response to a multimillion-dollar budget shortfall. Jeff Beal, the district’s superintendent, said he worried about the impact the cuts would have on education and on the local economy. But he said the district had little choice.

Among the cuts: the assistant superintendent for human resources, which means Mr. Beal will have to inform laid-off workers himself.

“Now that that position has been eliminated, that responsibility falls to me,” he said. “I’m going to have to make a lot of very personal, very painful phone calls this week.”

%

from Job Search Tips https://jobsearchtips.net/what-to-make-of-the-numbers-in-the-may-jobs-report/