#key performance indicators benefits

[umlewis]

From the Racetrack To Space: IWC Schaffhausen and the Polaris Program Give Lewis Hamilton Astronaut Flight Training

Schaffhausen/Qatar, 26th November 2024: In a compelling new short movie produced by IWC Schaffhausen, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team driver Lewis Hamilton embarks on a flight training for astronauts. The same training was used to prepare the crews of the Inspiration 4 and Polaris Dawn commercial human spaceflight missions. During the training day, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion and IWC brand ambassador was accompanied by students from Dibia DREAM, a non-profit organisation fostering STEM education. Their presence is also a reminder of Lewis Hamilton's own incredible career journey spanning more than three decades and sends an inspiring message: you can be anything you want in life – a pilot on the racetrack, in the air or even in space.

One of the most successful racing drivers of all time, Lewis Hamilton is a multifaceted personality whose interests and ambitions extend far beyond his sport. The seven-time Formula 1 world champion is deeply fascinated by space and human space exploration. He has visited renowned space training facilities and repeatedly expressed his desire to take part in a space mission in the future if it serves a purpose and contributes to the betterment of all humanity. IWC Schaffhausen now teamed up with the Polaris Program and its Philanthropy Director and instructor pilot, John "Slick" Baum, to offer Lewis Hamilton an opportunity to experience the flight training that is part of the organization's programme of preparing astronauts for space. The Polaris Program, which is supported by IWC, recently completed the first of three human spaceflight missions. During their five days in orbit, the Polaris Dawn crew wrote history by successfully performing the first commercial spacewalk.

FLIGHT TRAINING IS ESSENTIAL FOR ASTRONAUTS

Fighter jet training has been at the heart of human spaceflight since the beginning. All early astronauts were fighter jet pilots, and experience in piloting a jet was an essential requirement for going to space. Flight training was also a key pillar in the preparation of the Inspiration 4 and Polaris Dawn crews for their missions. While the g-loads experienced in a jet or a rocket cannot be directly compared, as they affect the body in different ways, jet training still offers compelling benefits for astronauts. Most importantly, it allows the crew members to familiarise themselves with operating in a high-risk and high-consequence environment, similar to what they would experience during launch. While they are pressed down into their seats by several times their own body weight, they have to communicate with each other, go through extensive technical checklists, and monitor critical flight parameters – all while being mentally aware of their surroundings and prepared to act in case something unexpected should happen.

A COMPLETE SEQUENCE OF TRAINING MANOEUVRES

Lewis Hamilton's space training kicked off with an extensive briefing and inspection of the L-39 Albatros jet. John "Slick" Baum gave Hamilton a detailed overview of the manoeuvres they would fly and how they simulate different situations an astronaut experiences during a spaceflight. During their subsequent discovery flight lasting almost one hour, Hamilton and his instructor performed a series of manoeuvres. They practiced accelerations and decelerations to experience lateral g-forces, simulating the ascent of a rocket. They also practiced higher g-loads by banking or pitching the aircraft hard. A highlight was flying a parabola figure for a zero-g demonstration, during which Hamilton briefly experienced the feeling of weightlessness. A racing glove, which eventually began to float freely in the cockpit, was used as a zero-g indicator. In flight, the F1 pilot pulled a maximum of 7.5 g, which is more than astronauts typically experience on ascent. Hamilton wore a dedicated race suit featuring a "space mission" patch with his car number 44. He will wear the same suit during this weekend's race at the Lusail International Circuit in Qatar.

DIBIA DREAM STUDENTS SEND A POWERFUL MESSAGE

The training was also attended by a group of students from Dibia DREAM. This nonprofit organisation sparks social change through STEM education and recreational activities for underserved youth and has impacted the lives of 40,000 students across 32 states and twelve countries. The students spent the entire day engaging in a variety of activities related to space exploration. They also got a chance to meet with Hamilton and ask him questions prior to take-off. Their presence served as a powerful reminder of Hamilton's incredible journey, from his humble beginnings in karting at the age of eight to becoming one of the most acclaimed drivers in the history of motorsport. As the students cheered alongside the runway, they sent an uplifting message to youths around the world: you can be anything you want in life – whether it is a racing driver, a pilot, or even an astronaut.

[nenelonomh]

human resources management pt.3

this post is the third part to my little business exam revision series. the reason that i am making these posts is to study for my exam in a more enjoyable way.

part 1 | part 2 | part 4

today's post (written 27-05 and scheduled) focuses on pay and remuneration, performance appraisal, and recruitment and selection.

pay and remuneration

these two items make up one hrm topic. pay (generally) refers to wages, salaries, bonuses commissions, incentives, etc.. remuneration refers to monetary and non-monetary benefits such as sick leave and gym reimbursement. the purpose of pay and remuneration is to attract and retain employee talent, as well as to boost productivity and foster employee satisfaction.

let's focus on one example from pay and one from remuneration.

one example of pay includes commission, which refers to monetary incentives awarded to employees for hitting sales targets or other goals. the benefits of commission include increased employee motivation and potentially higher pay. however, customer satisfaction may be affected if employees are too focused on earning commission.

for remuneration, an example is paid time off. vacation days, sick leave, and other types of leave promote work-life balance and employee wellbeing. this may be costly for a smaller business, so remuneration packages must be well thought out and other departments (finance, marketing) must be worked with to achieve a well-rounded final package.

performance appraisal

performance management is a continuous process of identifying, measuring and aligning performance with the strategic goals of an organization. features of this hrm topic include clear goal alignment, continuous feedback, performance metrics, and KPIs (key performance indicators).

an advantage of performance appraisal is an increase in employee engagement because an employee's productivity directly correlates to their engagement experience. moreover, when performance appraisal is done well, businesses see a decrease in attrition rates. high employee turnover results in greater costs of hiring, lower productivity, and utilization of resources and time to train new people according to company objectives. performance appraisal works to combat this and reduce the cost of hiring.

performance appraisal may provide a challenge for companies since the basic system is to try and create a one-size-fits-all model. this simply does not work. employees might also feel demotivated due to perceived unfair evaluations during appraisal.

recruitment and selection

this is the largest hrm topic so far - and can be broken down into three main parts. internal recruitment, external recruitment, and the selection process.

internal recruitment is the action of filling roles through promotion and considering current employees to fill gaps. a business may choose to recruit internally because it can be cheaper, and quicker, and the business already knows the employee. this means that the employee is already familiar with the business and its operations. however, internal recruitment creates new vacancies - then, external recruitment must come in.

external recruitment refers to hiring employees who are not already in the company. this occurs when companies are looking for new perspectives/ideas, increased diversity, or when old positions need to be filled (when an employee has transferred/been promoted).

this can welcome a wider pool of applicants, fresh ideas, and increased experience and skills. however, external recruitment does not always result in recruiting a person who fits the job (or company).

in order to hire an employee, a hiring team must go through the selection process. it is a process that involves evaluating candidates based on their qualifications, experience, and other relevant factors to determine who is the most suitable for a particular job.

a proper structure is vital for effective and efficient recruitment and selection. here is the typical recruitment process: - identification of job vacancy - conducting job analysis - preparing recruitment documentation - advertising the vacancy

the general selection process: - shortlisting applicants - conducting interviews and assessments - selecting a successful applicant/s, and offering them the role

when performing recruitment and selection, the hiring team must decide how to assess a candidate. the two most common ways to do this is through an interview, or an assessment (or a combination).

interviews explore the applicant's personality and attitude - as well as discussion of their abilities and skills. although, this can be time-consuming, costly, and it doesn't always lead to the selection of the best applicant available.

assessments also look at the candidate's abilities, skills, personality and attitude, but in a more on-the-job way. the pressure from assessments may limit the applicant from exerting their true capabilities.

///

the hrm topics explored so far include demographic change, employee welfare, flexi-time, gig economy, immigration, pay and remuneration, performance appraisal, and recruitment and selection.

thank you for reading! i look forward to any feedback or questions from other ibdp business students (or anyone interested in business).

❤️ nene

image source: pinterest

[covid-safer-hotties]

US State Restrictions and Excess COVID-19 Pandemic Deaths - Published July 26, 2024

Key Points Question How did state restrictions affect the number of excess COVID-19 pandemic deaths?

Findings This cross-sectional analysis including all 50 US states plus the District of Columbia found that if all states had imposed COVID-19 restrictions similar to those used in the 10 most (least) restrictive states, excess deaths would have been an estimated 10% to 21% lower (13%-17% higher) than the 1.18 million that actually occurred during the 2-year period analyzed. Behavior changes were associated with 49% to 79% of this overall difference.

Meaning These findings indicate that collectively, stringent COVID-19 restrictions were associated with substantial decreases in excess deaths during the pandemic.

Abstract Importance Despite considerable prior research, it remains unclear whether and by how much state COVID-19−related restrictions affected the number of pandemic deaths in the US.

Objective To determine how state restrictions were associated with excess COVID-19 deaths over a 2-year analysis period.

Design, Setting, and Participants This was a cross-sectional study using state-level mortality and population data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for 2020 to 2022 compared with baseline data for 2017 to 2019. Data included the total US population, with separate estimates for younger than 45 years, 45 to 64 years, 65 to 84 years, and 85 years or older used to construct age-standardized measures. Age-standardized excess mortality rates and ratios for July 2020 to June 2022 were calculated and compared with prepandemic baseline rates. Excess death rates and ratios were then regressed on single or multiple restrictions, while controlling for excess death rates or ratios, from March 2020 to June 2020. Estimated values of the dependent variables were calculated for packages of weak vs strong state restrictions. Behavioral changes were investigated as a potential mechanism for the overall effects. Data analyses were performed from October 1, 2023, to June 13, 2024.

Exposures Age and cause of death.

Main Outcomes Excess deaths, age-standardized excess death rates per 100 000, and excess death ratios.

Results Mask requirements and vaccine mandates were negatively associated with excess deaths, prohibitions on vaccine or mask mandates were positively associated with death rates, and activity limitations were mostly not associated with death rates. If all states had imposed restrictions similar to those used in the 10 most restrictive states, excess deaths would have been an estimated 10% to 21% lower than the 1.18 million that actually occurred during the 2-year analysis period; conversely, the estimates suggest counterfactual increases of 13% to 17% if all states had restrictions similar to those in the 10 least-restrictive states. The estimated strong vs weak state restriction difference was 271 000 to 447 000 deaths, with behavior changes associated with 49% to 79% of the overall disparity.

Conclusions and Relevance This cross-sectional study indicates that stringent COVID-19 restrictions, as a group, were associated with substantial decreases in pandemic mortality, with behavior changes plausibly serving as an important explanatory mechanism. These findings do not support the views that COVID-19 restrictions were ineffective. However, not all restrictions were equally effective; some, such as school closings, likely provided minimal benefit while imposing substantial cost.

Proven by statistics: Masks save lives. Distance work saves lives. Remote options save lives.

[digitxlagency]

How Can You Improve Conversion Rates in Digital Marketing?

In digital marketing, conversion rates are the ultimate measure of success. Whether you’re aiming to increase sales, generate leads, or drive downloads, improving conversion rates ensures that your marketing efforts yield tangible results. Knowing the ways to effectively increase your conversion rate is essential for achieving these goals and optimising your campaigns.

This blog explores actionable tips and strategies to improve conversion rates, helping you create a seamless user experience that encourages your audience to take action. By implementing these strategies, supported by experts like a CRO agency, you can transform website visitors into loyal customers.

What Is Conversion Rate and Why Does It Matter?

A conversion rate is the percentage of users who complete a desired action on your website, such as making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or filling out a contact form. High conversion rates indicate that your audience finds your website engaging and your offerings compelling. It’s a key metric for measuring the success of your digital marketing campaigns.

If you’re looking for tips to increase your conversion rate, start by analysing your user journey and identifying potential barriers. Conversion rate optimisation (CRO) focuses on enhancing the user experience and aligning it with your audience’s intent.

Ways to Effectively Increase Your Conversion Rate

Here are proven strategies to boost your conversion rates in digital marketing:

1. Simplify Your Website Design

A clutter-free, user-friendly website improves navigation and encourages visitors to stay longer. Ensure your site is visually appealing, easy to navigate, and mobile-friendly. Use clear call-to-action (CTA) buttons to guide users toward the desired actions.

2. Optimise Landing Pages

Landing pages play a crucial role in conversions. Focus on:

Crafting compelling headlines.

Using high-quality visuals.

Highlighting benefits with concise, persuasive copy.

Test different layouts and designs using A/B testing tools to identify what resonates best with your audience.

3. Leverage Social Proof

Showcasing reviews, testimonials, and case studies builds trust and reassures potential customers of your credibility. People are more likely to convert when they see others have had positive experiences.

4. Improve Page Load Speeds

Page load speed directly impacts user experience. Slow-loading pages can frustrate visitors, causing them to leave before taking action. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to diagnose and improve performance.

5. Personalise User Experiences

Tailored experiences make users feel valued. Use tools to analyse user behaviour and deliver personalised recommendations, dynamic content, and targeted offers.

6. Streamline Forms

If your goal is lead generation, simplify your forms. Ask only for essential information to reduce friction and increase the likelihood of users completing the form.

7. Collaborate with Experts

Partnering with a conversion rate optimisation agency in Australia can help you implement advanced CRO techniques. Experts bring a wealth of experience, ensuring you maximise your marketing ROI.

Best Practices for Conversion Rate Optimisation

Test Regularly: Continuously test and tweak elements such as CTAs, images, and layouts.

Focus on Customer Pain Points: Address common objections or concerns within your content.

Analyse Data: Use analytics tools to track user behaviour and identify drop-off points.

Follow Up: Implement retargeting campaigns to engage users who didn’t convert initially.

Conclusion

Improving conversion rates in digital marketing requires a combination of user-centric design, data-driven insights, and effective strategies. By focusing on the ways to effectively increase your conversion rate, you can achieve better results and drive significant growth. For expert guidance, consider collaborating with CRO agencies or seasoned SEO marketing professionals who can help elevate your campaigns.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to increase conversion rate in digital marketing?

To improve conversion rates, optimise your website for user experience, create compelling CTAs, and use social proof like testimonials. Personalisation and faster page load speeds also make a significant difference.

Which three actions can improve your conversion rate?

Simplify your website design and navigation.

Leverage A/B testing for landing pages.

Highlight social proof to build trust.

How do you get a good conversion rate?

A good conversion rate comes from understanding your audience, delivering relevant content, and creating seamless user experiences. Regularly testing and refining your strategies is key.

What is the conversion rate for digital marketing?

Conversion rates vary by industry, but an average rate across industries is typically between 2% and 5%. With effective CRO strategies, it’s possible to exceed these benchmarks.

[dapacheckertool]

Free DA PA Checker Tool

One of the most important free SEO tools is the DA PA Checker tool, which can evaluate the Domain Authority (DA) and Page Authority (PA) score of either a website or a single webpage by owners, marketers, and SEO professionals. Moz developed metrics for ascertaining the strength and credibility of a website in terms of ranking potential on search engines like Google.

Key Characteristics of the DA PA Checker Tool Domain Authority (DA):  What is DA? Domain Authority refers to a grading scale between 0 and 100, which signifies the general power of a website's domain when concerning the potential of rank-ability in search engines. The higher the DA, the better is the possibility to rank. Why is DA Important? DA depends on the quality and amount of backlinks, the age of the website, the quality of its content, and overall user experience. Generally, more authoritative websites with higher DA scores have better results in search. Page Authority (PA):

What is PA? Page Authority scores the potential for a particular webpage to rank well in search. It's similar to DA but looks at pages, not your overall domain. Why is PA Important? PA becomes really useful when analyzing specific pages that need improvement about their SEO performance. A high PA might signal that it's a page that has strong backlinks and has content aligned closer to what your target audience is looking for. SEO Monitoring:

DA PA Checker has the capability of letting anyone know how any website or page is positioned in terms of its authority, which further guides optimization efforts. Checking DA and PA enables a user to know where his website or page lies in the competitive landscape and lets him decide upon an appropriate SEO strategy: improving content, acquiring backlinks or bettering user experience. Free And Easy To Use

Many DA PA Checker tools are available for free, allowing users to input a URL and get instant insights into the DA and PA metrics without needing advanced SEO knowledge. Some tools may offer additional features such as bulk DA PA checking, which is helpful for analyzing multiple URLs at once. How the DA PA Checker Works Input URL: The DA PA Checker needs a simple to use the URL of the website, or a particular page you'd like to research. Metrics Analysis: Check of DA and PA is carried out with some factors including; Backlink Profile: It outlines the number of high-quality, diverse backlinks that are pointing to the site Content Quality: Relevance and optimization of content on the page or domain. Social Signals: Social media engagement indirectly impacts DA and PA. Internal Linking Structure: The way in which a site links its pages. Display of Results: The tool provides DA and PA score along with other data like spam scores which would help users identify risks and drawbacks. Benefits of Using the DA PA Checker Tool Quick Grading: It allows users to instantly grade the authority of the own website or their competitors' sites, thus making decisions easier on the basis of choosing an SEO campaign.

SEO Tracking of Performance: This tool helps owners track progress against time by checking DA and PA. They can understand how well their SEO efforts are improving.

Competitor Comparison: The tool enables users to compare their site's authority with their competitors' sites, allowing users to uncover strategies in order to surpass those competitors in search rankings.

Develop Backlink Strategy: Because backlinks have major impacts both on DA and PA, this tool is going to highlight opportunities for the link-building strategy to improve both scores.

Limitations of DA PA Metrics Good DA and PA are certainly useful lagging indicators of SEO potential; however, they should be out of the focus of an SEO campaign. These metrics are proprietary to Moz and are not indicative of what happens within the algorithms of other search engines. Moreover, DA and PA scores fluctuate for a multitude of reasons including the factors of algorithm updates and shifts in the backlink profile.

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

Primary investigation on ram-rotor detonation engine

Detonation is a supersonic combustion wave, characterized by a shock wave driven by the energy release from closely coupled chemical reactions. It is a typical form of pressure gain combustion, converting chemical energy into thrust efficiently. The concept of harnessing detonation to improve thermodynamic cycle efficiency and enhance the performance of aerospace propulsion systems has been a subject of interest for many years. Since the 1950s, various types of detonation engines have been proposed, including pulse detonation engines, oblique detonation engines, and rotating detonation engines. However, these three types of detonation engines encounter challenges such as poor thrust continuity, high starting Mach numbers, and insufficient performance gains, which limit the widespread application of detonation propulsion technology.

In a recent article featured in the Chinese Journal of Aeronautics, Dr. Haocheng Wen and Prof. Bing Wang from Tsinghua University proposed a new concept for detonative propulsion, called the Ram-Rotor Detonation Engine, which is expected to break through the limitations of the above-mentioned detonation engines.

“The original intention of developing this new engine is to improve the structures of rotating detonation engines,” said Dr. Haocheng Wen, “this concept is also inspired by the ram-rotor compressor.” The ram-rotor detonation engine, abbreviated as RRDE, mainly consists of a rotating rotor with blades, and a stationary casing. The blades on the rotor are distributed in a helical symmetric manner. The combustible mixture undergoes compression, detonation combustion, and expansion within the variable cross-sectional channels between the blades.

The authors performed primary theoretical and numerical investigation on the RRDE. They established a theoretical model to analyze the relationship between the propulsion performance and parameters such as inlet velocity, rotor rim velocity, and equivalence ratio. It is indicated that for the stoichiometric hydrogen/air mixture, the total pressure gain of RRDE can exceed 3. Furthermore, they also conducted numerical simulations on the typical structure of RRDE and obtained the characteristic flow field and propulsion performance of engine. Their simulation results demonstrate that the detonation wave can stabilize and remain stationary within the blades by the given configuration, and can adapt to the variations in parameters such as the equivalence ratio within a certain range. “Our study primarily verifies the performance benefits and operation feasibility of the RRDE.” said Dr. Haocheng Wen.

The authors believe that the RRDE has several advantages, including a simple and compact structure, high efficiency, and the adaptability to a wide-range of flight Mach number. However, they also candidly acknowledge that the realization of the RRDE is confronted with numerous challenges that demand resolution, such as the stabilization mechanism of detonation wave, supersonic boundary layer interference, implementation of high-speed rotor, as well as thermal protection, etc. “Our team is conducting ongoing research on key scientific and engineering issues in RRDE.” said Prof. Bing Wang. They expect the RRDE can provide high-performance propulsion for the supersonic vehicles in the future.

IMAGE: Conceptual scheme of a supersonic vehicle using the ram-rotor detonation engine Credit Chinese Journal of Aeronautics

[1genofficial]

Make Gratitude A Habit: 1GEN's #GratitudeLog Initiative

In today’s fast-paced work environment, it’s easy to overlook the small victories and moments of joy that come our way. Recognizing this, 1GEN has taken a meaningful step towards fostering a positive culture by launching the Gratitude Log feature on the 1GENVERSE app.

We're taking a bold step towards cultivating a culture of appreciation and well-being with our innovative #GratitudeLog initiative. Launched on our cutting-edge 1GENVERSE app, this feature is set to redefine how we connect, reflect, and grow as a team.

The Power of Gratitude

Gratitude is more than just a polite response; it’s a powerful emotional practice shown to improve mental health, enhance relationships, and boost overall happiness. Research indicates that regularly expressing gratitude can lead to a range of benefits, including:

Improved Mental Well-Being: Regularly acknowledging what we are thankful for can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, leading to a more positive outlook.

Strengthened Team Bonds: Sharing gratitude fosters a sense of community and belonging among team members, creating a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels valued.

Increased Productivity: A culture of gratitude can enhance motivation and engagement, encouraging individuals to perform at their best.

Enhanced Communication: When team members express appreciation for one another, it opens up channels of communication, leading to a more collaborative environment.

The Impact on Team Members

By initiating the Gratitude Log on the 1GENVERSE app, 1GEN is making a significant investment in well-being. Here’s how this initiative can positively impact everyone involved:

Encouraging Reflection: Taking a moment to reflect on what we are grateful for helps shift our focus from challenges to opportunities. This practice can enhance resilience and adaptability, vital traits in today’s ever-changing landscape.

Boosting Morale: Seeing colleagues share their gratitude can inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of positivity throughout the organization.

Building Trust: When individuals express appreciation, it cultivates trust and respect. This strengthens team dynamics, making it easier to collaborate and innovate.

Creating a Positive Feedback Loop: As team members share their gratitude, it not only uplifts the individual sharing but also motivates others to recognize and appreciate their own experiences, fostering a culture of positivity.

The Motive Behind the Gratitude Log

The primary goal of the Gratitude Log on 1GENVERSE is to create an environment where appreciation is at the forefront of daily interactions. Here are some key motives driving this initiative:

Promoting a Culture of Recognition: At 1GEN, recognizing each other’s contributions is essential. The Gratitude Log is a platform that encourages team members to highlight each other's efforts, big or small.

Encouraging Vulnerability: Sharing gratitude requires a level of openness that can be transformative. It encourages individuals to express their feelings, fostering deeper connections and understanding.

Enhancing Workplace Satisfaction: Acknowledging the positives in our environment can significantly enhance satisfaction. The Gratitude Log serves as a reminder that there are always reasons to be thankful, even on challenging days.

Aligning with Core Values: This initiative aligns with 1GEN’s core values of empathy, teamwork, and continuous improvement. By cultivating gratitude, we strengthen our commitment to creating a nurturing workplace.

The Gratitude Log on the 1GENVERSE app is more than just a feature; it’s a movement towards a healthier, more positive environment. By encouraging individuals to share their moments of gratitude, 1GEN is enhancing individual well-being and nurturing a culture of appreciation that can lead to greater collaboration and success.

As we embrace this initiative, remember that gratitude is a powerful tool. By acknowledging what we are thankful for, we can create a brighter, more connected workplace—one gratitude post at a time.

So, let’s get started!

Ready to experience the power of gratitude?

👉 Download the 1GENVERSE app now

For Android

For IOS

Want to see gratitude in action?

👀 Check out our inspiring #GratitudeLog stories on the app!

Stay in the loop!

🔔 Follow us for more updates on how we're revolutionizing workplace culture through gratitude.

[tradesignalsbusiness]

Unlocking consistent returns: the power of forex signals

Understanding Forex Signals:

Forex signals are indicators or recommendations that provide insights into potential trading opportunities. These signals can be generated through manual analysis by experienced traders or through automated systems. The primary aim of these signals is to alert traders to potentially profitable trades based on specific criteria.

Types of Forex Signals:

Manual Signals:

Expert Analysis: Skilled and experienced traders analyze the market and provide signals based on their insights and strategies.

News-Based Signals: Events and economic indicators can significantly impact currency values. Manual signals may be based on breaking news and economic reports.

Automated Signals:

Algorithmic Trading: Using pre-programmed algorithms to analyze market conditions and execute trades automatically.

Copy Trading: Traders can automatically copy the trades of successful signal providers.

Advantages of Forex Signals:

Time Efficiency:

Forex signals save time by providing traders with pre-analyzed opportunities, eliminating the need for extensive market research.

Expert Guidance:

Access to the expertise of seasoned traders allows less experienced individuals to benefit from the knowledge of professionals.

Emotion Management:

Emotions can cloud judgment in trading. Following signals allows traders to stick to a predefined strategy without being swayed by emotions like fear or greed.

Diversification:

Signals often cover a range of currency pairs, providing diversification benefits and reducing risk.

Key Factors for Consistent Returns:

Risk Management:

Regardless of the accuracy of signals, risk management is crucial. Setting stop-loss orders and controlling the size of trades helps protect against significant losses.

Education:

Traders should understand the basics of forex trading to make informed decisions, even when using signals. Knowledge enhances the ability to assess and filter signals effectively.

Continuous Monitoring:

Markets can change rapidly. Regularly monitoring trades and adjusting strategies based on changing conditions is essential for consistent returns.

Choosing Reliable Signal Providers:

Not all signal providers are equal. Researching and choosing reputable providers with a track record of success is vital.

Challenges and Risks:

Market Conditions:

Signals may not perform well in all market conditions. Understanding the strengths and limitations of the chosen signals is crucial.

Over-Reliance:

Overreliance on signals without understanding the underlying market dynamics can lead to losses.

Scams:

The forex market is not immune to scams. Traders should be cautious and choose signal providers carefully to avoid fraudulent schemes.

Conclusion:

While forex signals offer a valuable tool for traders seeking consistent returns, they are not a guaranteed pathway to success. Successful trading requires a holistic approach that includes a blend of education, strategic thinking, and effective risk management. Traders should view signals as part of their toolkit and not as a standalone solution. When used wisely, forex signals can indeed contribute to achieving more consistent returns in the ever-evolving world of forex trading.

Source:

[solarpunkbusiness]

At the forefront of these efforts are phase-change materials (PCMs) which offer a novel approach to managing building temperatures. These materials are thermal media that can store and release significant quantities of energy by capitalizing on a material’s phase transition, such as from a solid to a liquid or vice-versa. The building facade has long been considered a promising application for PCMs, given their potential to enhance facades’ thermal performance. PCMs help control the thermal load of building envelopes—thus reducing operational energy—and assist in achieving and maintaining optimal thermal comfort levels. There are three classifications of PCMs: organic (e.g., paraffin wax), inorganic (e.g., salt hydrates), and eutectic (e.g., sodium chloride and water).

[...]

Despite these advancements, wider implementation of PCMs in construction remains a work in progress. However, the benefits PCMs bring are nothing new. For example, the Kaunas team refers to Socrates’ 2,500-year-old description of climate-attuned building methods when describing its strategies. “Back then, [Socrates] indicated that the northern wall of a building needs to be thicker compared to the southern, thus our idea that wall orientation is crucial when considering its structural composition is related to that of Socrates.” In this way, PCMs can represent just not a modern innovation but a continuation of a longstanding, commonsense, age-old aspiration to create buildings in harmony with their environments.

[actvpeople]

Why Does Erection Disappear?

Men's health and sexual activity remain some of the most discussed topics, raising numerous questions and myths. It is believed that a man's ability to maintain an erection can persist throughout his lifetime. If there are issues, it’s important to explore the causes. The author reviewed a one-hour interview with a renowned urology specialist and prepared a summary of the most relevant points for you. Key Insights into Men’s Health:

1. Testosterone: The Key Role in the Male Body

Testosterone is a hormone that defines men’s health in many areas. It impacts sexual desire, muscle mass, bone density, energy levels, and emotional stability. Its active form, dihydrotestosterone, is essential for maintaining erections and libido.

Belly fat is testosterone's enemy. Fat tissue produces an enzyme called aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen. This creates a vicious cycle: more fat – less testosterone – poorer metabolism.

Age-related changes. After age 35, testosterone levels naturally decline by 1-2% annually. Some men experience this process gradually, while others notice significant changes that may require medical attention.

2. How to Check Testosterone Levels

Accurate testing methods are essential for understanding testosterone levels:

The most accurate method – gas chromatography or mass spectrometry, though these options can be expensive.

Accessible option – saliva steroid profiling provides reliable insights into hormonal balance without complicated procedures.

Timing matters. Testosterone levels peak in the morning, making morning tests more accurate. For a comprehensive view, follow-up tests in the afternoon may be recommended.

3. Erection as a Health Marker

An erection is more than just a sexual function; it’s a window into vascular health. Disruptions may indicate blood flow problems or underlying health concerns.

Morning erection as a key indicator. The presence of regular morning erections is a strong marker of hormonal and vascular health. Its absence could signal issues with testosterone levels or blood circulation.

A warning for heart health. Impairment in the dorsal artery of the penis (approximately 1-2 mm in diameter) might signal issues with larger blood vessels.

Act promptly. If erections suddenly disappear without an apparent reason, consult a specialist immediately.

A warning for heart health. Impairment in the dorsal artery of the penis (approximately 1-2 mm in diameter) might signal issues with larger blood vessels.

Act promptly. If erections suddenly disappear without an apparent reason, consult a specialist immediately.

4. Insulin Resistance – The Silent Enemy

Insulin resistance occurs when cells lose sensitivity to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. This condition is linked to fatigue, weight gain, and reduced libido.

Recognizing early signs: fatigue, "brain fog," drowsiness, and declining productivity.

Preventive measures: cutting back on sugar and fast carbs, staying physically active, and monitoring blood sugar levels regularly.

5. Hormone Therapy: Myths and Realities

Modern hormone replacement therapies offer safe ways to manage testosterone levels:

Depot injections. These ensure steady testosterone levels for three months with a single dose.

Tadalafil-based medications (Viagra analogs) enhance blood flow and support vascular health, offering benefits beyond improving erections.

For holistic support of prostate health and hormonal balance, consider natural remedies like ProstaVive 👉 Learn more here.

6. Depression and Libido

Mental health has a significant impact on sexual function. Depression, low dopamine levels, and chronic fatigue can suppress sexual desire and performance.

Effective solutions: a combination of psychotherapy and medication can help restore libido and overall well-being.

7. Preventive Measures: Enhancing Men’s Health

Physical activity. Regular exercise promotes better blood circulation and hormonal balance.

Monitor your weight. Men with a waist circumference over 94 cm are more prone to hormonal imbalances.

Prioritize sleep. Testosterone production primarily occurs during sleep, making restful nights essential for maintaining hormonal levels.

Conclusion

Men’s health isn’t just about testosterone. A holistic approach that includes proper nutrition, regular physical activity, mental well-being, and routine health check-ups is crucial. Monitoring hormone levels and making lifestyle adjustments can help preserve not only sexual function but also overall quality of life.

Balancing hormones, managing weight, adopting healthy eating habits, and staying active are the cornerstones of long-lasting health and vitality. Embrace these steps to live a fulfilling and energetic life.

[usafphantom2]

Northrop Grumman releases update on the program and progress of the B-21 Raider

Fernando Valduga By Fernando Valduga 09/192023 - 6:00 p.m. in Military

At last week's Air, Space and Cyber Conference of the Association of Air and Space Forces, the leadership of the U.S. Air Force and the Department of Defense discussed the B-21 program in terms of effective program management, production readiness, and early integration of support elements as fundamental to the effective delivery of operational capacity.

In addition, the U.S. Air Force announced that Northrop Grumman has driven the B-21 engines, a significant milestone in the aircraft's ground testing program. Although the first flight of the B-21 is a data-driven event closely monitored by Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Air Force, key decisions and programmatic strategies are putting the program in a positive position in the future.

Production representative aircraft

A key to the overall program strategy established from the beginning was to build a first test article representative of production. Instead of a prototype, the first test article of the B-21 Raider was built with rigorous production processes on the same manufacturing line with the same tools that will be used to continue to shape the B-21 fleet. Exclusive to aircraft development programs, the first test article of the B-21 is equipped with its primary mission systems, such as communication and navigation systems.

The decision to build a highly representative test vehicle will allow Northrop Grumman and USAF to conduct a robust flight test campaign and discover what is necessary, in alignment with the program's execution strategy from the beginning.

"The B-21 program is an excellent example of how the industry can be a capable partner in providing systems that meet critical needs efficiently. The first test aircraft was built by our technicians using factory production processes; we are doing this learning and refinement in parallel, which will allow us to reach a stable and constant production more quickly," said Tom Jones, president of the sector of Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems.

Support influencing design

In addition to focusing on production in the early stages of the program, the B-21 program took into account the support during the design phase. In addition to boosting long-term efficiency, this approach also produces more short-term benefits.

“Given Northrop Grumman's focus on support at the beginning of development, the B-21 is much more advanced in technological data than we would normally expect in a new program at this time,” said Doug Young, vice president and general manager of the division, Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems. "Content development such as product support, material preparation and training is well underway, giving the B-21 an initial advantage in support and support operations before delivery to the user community."

Proven fidelity of the digital model

Developed with a digital line throughout the life cycle of the program, the B-21 Raider uses the latest in digital tools and resources, from design to development and testing and, finally, in support. This focus on the B-21 digital ecosystem, along with investment in laboratories and testing facilities, allowed the Northrop Grumman team to digitally model the B-21's performance before physical movements or needs.

As the B-21 undergoes several ground tests, digital models are surpassing industry standards with twice the accuracy. This is evident in the initial tests, with the first test article presenting the expected performance; the tests of the engines, weapon compartment doors, landing gear and control services demonstrated the expected results and indicate the effectiveness and value of digital modeling.

Defining the capacity of the sixth generation

The B-21 Raider is the world's first sixth-generation aircraft, supported by decades of experience in stealth technology and optimized for cutting-edge threat environments. With its open architecture and cloud technology application, the B-21 Raider was built for seamless incorporation of software updates and new features. Northrop Grumman has already demonstrated that the B-21 will be able to integrate third-party technology, supporting the maximum focus of the program on modernization and the need to keep the weapons system at the forefront of future threats.

The new approach of the program to the execution of the program, together with the effective application of digital technologies, demonstrates a focus on delivering exceptional capacity, effectively and efficiently.

Tags: Military AviationB-21 RaiderNorthrop GrummanUSAF - United States Air Force / U.S. Air Force

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Fernando Valduga

Fernando Valduga

Aviation photographer and pilot since 1992, he has participated in several events and air operations, such as Cruzex, AirVenture, Daytona Airshow and FIDAE. He has work published in specialized aviation magazines in Brazil and abroad. Uses Canon equipment during his photographic work throughout the world of aviation.

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[michaelespositostatenisland]

Michael Esposito Staten Island E-commerce Excellence: Strategies for Effective Influencer Marketing

In the fast-paced world of e-commerce, the role of influencer marketing has emerged as a game-changer. With the power to drive brand visibility, engagement, and sales, influencer marketing has become an indispensable strategy for e-commerce businesses looking to thrive in a competitive digital landscape. In this article, Michael Esposito Staten Island - Strategies for Effective Influencer Marketing, we delve into the strategies that can elevate your influencer marketing efforts and propel your e-commerce business to new heights of success.

The Power of Influencer Marketing in E-commerce

Influencer marketing has established itself as a powerful catalyst in the e-commerce industry. By leveraging the reach and credibility of influencers, brands can connect with their target audience in a more authentic and impactful way. With the right influencer partnerships, e-commerce businesses can amplify their brand message, build trust, and drive conversions. However, to harness the full potential of influencer marketing, a strategic approach is essential.

Crafting Compelling Content and Storytelling

One of the key strategies for effective influencer marketing in e-commerce is the creation of compelling content and storytelling. Influencers have the ability to craft engaging narratives that resonate with their followers. By aligning your brand message with the influencer's authentic storytelling, you can create content that captivates the audience and drives them to take action. Whether it's through visually appealing posts, engaging videos, or genuine product reviews, compelling content is the cornerstone of successful influencer marketing campaigns.

Authenticity and Relevance in Influencer Selection

The effectiveness of influencer marketing in e-commerce is largely dependent on the authenticity and relevance of the influencers involved. It's crucial to choose influencers whose values, niche, and audience align well with your brand. Authentic endorsements build trust, and when influencers genuinely support your products or services, their recommendations have a strong impact on their followers. By thoughtfully selecting influencers who naturally fit your e-commerce brand, you can ensure your message authentically resonates with your target audience.

Data-Driven Partnership and Performance Metrics

In the digital age, data-driven decision-making is paramount. When it comes to influencer marketing in e-commerce, leveraging data and performance metrics is crucial for evaluating the success of campaigns. By tracking key performance indicators such as engagement rates, click-through rates, and conversion metrics, e-commerce businesses can gain valuable insights into the impact of their influencer partnerships. This data-driven approach allows for continuous optimization, ensuring that influencer marketing efforts deliver measurable results.

Cultivating Long-Term Relationships with Influencers

Building long-term relationships with influencers is a strategy that can yield substantial benefits for e-commerce brands. Cultivating long-term partnerships with influencers, rather than opting for one-off collaborations, can foster ongoing brand advocacy and loyalty. Long-term relationships enable influencers to become genuine brand ambassadors, investing in the brand's growth and success over time. This approach fosters authenticity and consistency, ultimately strengthening the bond between the brand, the influencer, and their audience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, effective influencer marketing is a cornerstone of e-commerce excellence. By implementing strategic approaches such as compelling content creation, authentic influencer selection, data-driven performance analysis, and long-term relationship cultivation, e-commerce businesses can unleash the full potential of influencer marketing to drive growth and success. As highlighted in Michael Esposito Staten Island Influence in the Digital Age: Who Are Today’s Most Powerful Brand Builders?, embracing these strategies will not only elevate brand visibility and engagement but also position your e-commerce business for sustained success in the dynamic digital landscape.

[covid-safer-hotties]

Reference saved in our archive

TL;DR: Covid restrictions saved lives at the beginning of the pandemic.

Key Points Question How did state restrictions affect the number of excess COVID-19 pandemic deaths?

Findings This cross-sectional analysis including all 50 US states plus the District of Columbia found that if all states had imposed COVID-19 restrictions similar to those used in the 10 most (least) restrictive states, excess deaths would have been an estimated 10% to 21% lower (13%-17% higher) than the 1.18 million that actually occurred during the 2-year period analyzed. Behavior changes were associated with 49% to 79% of this overall difference.

Meaning These findings indicate that collectively, stringent COVID-19 restrictions were associated with substantial decreases in excess deaths during the pandemic.

Abstract Importance Despite considerable prior research, it remains unclear whether and by how much state COVID-19−related restrictions affected the number of pandemic deaths in the US.

Objective To determine how state restrictions were associated with excess COVID-19 deaths over a 2-year analysis period.

Design, Setting, and Participants This was a cross-sectional study using state-level mortality and population data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for 2020 to 2022 compared with baseline data for 2017 to 2019. Data included the total US population, with separate estimates for younger than 45 years, 45 to 64 years, 65 to 84 years, and 85 years or older used to construct age-standardized measures. Age-standardized excess mortality rates and ratios for July 2020 to June 2022 were calculated and compared with prepandemic baseline rates. Excess death rates and ratios were then regressed on single or multiple restrictions, while controlling for excess death rates or ratios, from March 2020 to June 2020. Estimated values of the dependent variables were calculated for packages of weak vs strong state restrictions. Behavioral changes were investigated as a potential mechanism for the overall effects. Data analyses were performed from October 1, 2023, to June 13, 2024.

Exposures Age and cause of death.

Main Outcomes Excess deaths, age-standardized excess death rates per 100 000, and excess death ratios.

Results Mask requirements and vaccine mandates were negatively associated with excess deaths, prohibitions on vaccine or mask mandates were positively associated with death rates, and activity limitations were mostly not associated with death rates. If all states had imposed restrictions similar to those used in the 10 most restrictive states, excess deaths would have been an estimated 10% to 21% lower than the 1.18 million that actually occurred during the 2-year analysis period; conversely, the estimates suggest counterfactual increases of 13% to 17% if all states had restrictions similar to those in the 10 least-restrictive states. The estimated strong vs weak state restriction difference was 271 000 to 447 000 deaths, with behavior changes associated with 49% to 79% of the overall disparity.

Conclusions and Relevance This cross-sectional study indicates that stringent COVID-19 restrictions, as a group, were associated with substantial decreases in pandemic mortality, with behavior changes plausibly serving as an important explanatory mechanism. These findings do not support the views that COVID-19 restrictions were ineffective. However, not all restrictions were equally effective; some, such as school closings, likely provided minimal benefit while imposing substantial cost.

[dingusbalingus]

Olimar's Voyage Log: Day 1

My name is Captain Olimar.

While traveling through space on an interstellar vacation, my ship was struck by a meteor. The collision had knocked me out, but when I awoke I found myself on the surface of a strange planet. Though I appear to have been mostly unscathed from the impact, the same cannot be said for my ship, the S.S. Dolphin. My diagnostics indicated the Dolphin had lost 30 of its most critical parts across this planet's surface upon entry into the atmosphere. To put it simply, I've been stranded here.

To make matters worse, my atmospheric sensors indicate this planet's environment contains high levels of poisonous oxygen. The life-support systems in my suit are able to keep me alive for now, but without a means to recharge them they won't last for much longer than a month. If I can't repair the Dolphin by then....

....There is hope in this dire situation, however. Shortly after I came to, I discovered a curious bulb dormant in the ground. When I approached it, the thing shot up from the ground as if it were waiting for me, and firmly planted long, slender struts into the soil below. Though I haven't a clue as to what this object even is, whether its alive or simply a machine, it resembles a vegetable on my home planet of Hocotate that we call an onion, thus I've taken to calling it an Onion, as well.

After this discovery, a second discovery immediately presented itself. The Onion had sputtered a seed shortly after its awakening. This seed took root in the soil and, after a brief moment in time, rapidly grew into a developed sprout. This sprout emitted a soft glow, and it swayed back and forth without benefit of wind. I don't know what exactly, some instinct or gut feeling, but something compelled me to uproot the plant from the soil. And when I did, I discovered something most extraordinary....

....what came out of the soil was a living creature, not a plant. It sported a leaf on its head supported by a long stem, and featured a pointed proboscis at the end of its face. The shape of this creature resembles the Pikpik brand carrots on my home planet that I adore, so like the Onion before it I've taken to calling this creature a Pikmin.

Despite my harrowing circumstances, I could not help but be intrigued by this Pikmin... It stared at me longingly, as if awaiting my beck and call. I quickly surmised a few key things about these Pikmin. The Onion seems to act as an incubator for Pikmin seeds. A local variety of flower near our location yielded a nutrient-rich pellet, in which the Pikmin seemed to instinctively know to harvest by the Onion. This is how the Pikmin reproduce; soon enough, I found myself with a small army of Pikmin under my command. The Pikmin seem to have a natural inclination toward cooperation, they form groups to perform tasks that would be impossible for an individual. Using their skills, I was even able to retrieve the Main Engine, the single most important part of my damaged craft. It was a stroke of pure luck I even found it nearby.

Nightfall on a foreign planet frightens me a bit, so I decided that the safest thing for me was to head for the sky. Though I obviously did not expect escape from this planet to be feasible at this point in time, I can at least hover in low orbit above the planet's surface. What I did not expect, however, was the Pikmin to follow suit. The Pikmin's Onion miraculously followed me into the stars. Perhaps the Pikmin cannot survive overnight on the surface, or maybe they've decided to join me for other reasons. Regardless, It seems they will help me again, tomorrow.

A dense forest is visible on the surface below. As it holds the keys to my survival, I name it the Forest of Hope. I explore it tomorrow.

[accountsend]

Expanding Horizons: Exploring New Markets for Business Development

Article by Jonathan Bomser | CEO | AccountSend.com

As your business matures, tapping into new markets—be they niche industries, emerging markets, or even geographical expansion—can be a lucrative strategy for growth. If you're contemplating business expansion, here are seven key points to keep in mind.

DOWNLOAD THE NEW MARKETS INFOGRAPHIC HERE

Research and Understand the Market

Before diving into a new market, invest time and resources in thorough research. Understand the market dynamics, customer preferences, cultural nuances, and the competitive landscape. Tools like global business expansion databases and data analysis software can provide valuable insights.

Evaluate Your Business's Capabilities

Assess your business's capacity to handle expansion. This involves reviewing your financial health, operational capacity, and the adaptability of your products or services to the new market. Also, consider if your current team can manage the expansion or if additional hiring is needed.

Build a Targeted B2B Contact Database

Having a robust B2B contact database is crucial for successful market entry. Gather verified contact info, including email addresses and phone numbers, of decision-makers in the new market. Reputable B2B data providers can assist in building a comprehensive contact database.

Develop a Tailored Marketing Strategy

One size doesn't fit all when it comes to marketing strategies. What works in your existing market may not be effective in a new one. Develop a marketing strategy tailored to the preferences and needs of your new market. This might involve a shift in messaging, promotional channels, or even product positioning.

Leverage Partnerships

Forming strategic partnerships can help you establish a foothold in the new market. Look for potential partners that complement your business and can help you reach your target audience more effectively.

Manage Risks

Entering a new market involves risks. Financial risk, reputational risk, and operational risk are a few examples. Identify potential risks and devise strategies to mitigate them.

Measure and Adjust

Once you've launched in the new market, it's vital to track your progress, measure success, and make necessary adjustments. Use key performance indicators (KPIs) that are relevant to your objectives in the new market.

In conclusion, exploring new markets is an exciting venture that can yield significant benefits. However, it requires careful planning, strategic thinking, and ongoing measurement and adjustment. With the right approach, you can successfully navigate this journey and achieve your business development goals.