#like in terms of medical accuracy it's one of the More accurate ones but still gets stuff wrong | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

mdmotalebhossainraju · 11 hours ago

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The Genius Wave: The Future of Innovation and Problem-Solving

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the 21st century, the need for groundbreaking innovation and effective problem-solving has never been more critical. As challenges grow in complexity, the solutions we devise must be equally transformative. Enter the concept of The Genius Wave"—a term that represents the fusion of human intelligence, cutting-edge technology, and collaborative approaches to solve the pressing problems of our time. This article explores the future of innovation and problem-solving, where the Genius Wave is reshaping industries, societies, and individuals.

Understanding the Genius Wave

The Genius Wave is not just a futuristic idea; it’s the convergence of several key trends that define the way we will innovate and solve problems in the coming years. At its core, it signifies an era where human creativity and advanced technology—such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and quantum computing—work together to amplify human problem-solving abilities. This wave combines the best of human ingenuity with the speed and precision of emerging technologies, enabling us to tackle complex challenges in ways previously unimaginable.

The term "The Genius Wave" captures the dynamic and transformative nature of these changes. The Genius Wave is an ongoing movement that is continuously building momentum, driven by an ever-expanding pool of knowledge, tools, and collaborative networks. It signifies a paradigm shift in how we approach innovation—one that breaks free from traditional boundaries and fosters a more holistic and interconnected approach to problem-solving.

The Role of Human Creativity

While technology plays a crucial role in the Genius Wave, it’s important to recognize that human creativity remains the driving force behind innovation. The human mind’s ability to think abstractly, connect disparate ideas, and imagine novel solutions is what propels the Genius Wave forward. In the context of problem-solving, creativity allows us to reframe problems, ask the right questions, and explore unconventional solutions.

The Genius Wave empowers individuals to unlock their creative potential by providing tools and platforms that enable collaboration and experimentation. For instance, crowdsourcing platforms and online communities encourage the pooling of ideas from diverse individuals around the world, leading to breakthroughs that wouldn’t be possible in isolated environments. This global exchange of ideas accelerates innovation and fosters a culture of shared problem-solving.

Technology: The Catalyst for Transformation

The rise of technologies like AI, machine learning, and quantum computing has dramatically altered the landscape of innovation. These tools act as catalysts that supercharge human problem-solving capabilities, making it possible to analyze data on an unprecedented scale, simulate complex scenarios, and automate processes that were once labor-intensive.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine LearningAI and ML have become integral to many industries, from healthcare to finance to manufacturing. These technologies are revolutionizing the way problems are approached and solved by providing the ability to process vast amounts of data, recognize patterns, and make predictions with remarkable accuracy. In healthcare, for example, AI algorithms are used to analyze medical images and diagnose diseases more accurately than human doctors. In business, machine learning algorithms help companies optimize their operations, reduce waste, and enhance customer experiences.

These technologies also enable continuous improvement. By learning from past experiences, AI and ML systems evolve and adapt to new challenges, making them powerful tools in the innovation process. This adaptability allows industries to stay ahead of emerging problems and respond quickly to changing circumstances.

Quantum ComputingWhile still in its early stages, quantum computing promises to open up new frontiers in problem-solving. Quantum computers can process exponentially more data than classical computers, enabling them to solve complex problems in fields like cryptography, material science, and climate modeling. For example, quantum computers could simulate the behavior of molecules to design new drugs or materials that were previously too difficult to model. In the future, quantum computing could play a pivotal role in solving some of humanity’s most pressing challenges, such as curing diseases, combating climate change, and achieving sustainable energy solutions.

Collaboration: The Power of Collective Intelligence

Innovation is no longer a solitary endeavor; it is a collective pursuit. The Genius Wave thrives on collaboration, where individuals, organizations, and even nations work together to address global challenges. This shift toward collaborative problem-solving is facilitated by digital technologies that enable real-time communication, information sharing, and joint experimentation.

Global Collaboration NetworksOnline platforms like GitHub, ResearchGate, and Kaggle allow individuals from around the world to collaborate on projects, share insights, and contribute to solving global problems. These platforms democratize access to resources and expertise, leveling the playing field and enabling anyone with an idea or skill to participate in the innovation process. The pooling of resources and knowledge across borders accelerates the development of new solutions, leading to faster and more impactful outcomes.

In addition to digital platforms, global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and poverty require coordinated efforts across governments, businesses, and civil society. The Genius Wave encourages cross-sector collaboration, where different organizations bring their unique perspectives and expertise to the table. For example, tackling climate change requires not only environmental scientists but also policy experts, engineers, and business leaders working together to create sustainable solutions.

The Role of Open InnovationOpen innovation is a key component of the Genius Wave. It involves sharing ideas, technologies, and processes across organizational boundaries to accelerate the development of new solutions. Companies and research institutions are increasingly embracing open innovation models, where they collaborate with external partners to tackle challenges more efficiently. This approach encourages knowledge exchange and fosters a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement.

The Future of Innovation and Problem-Solving

Looking ahead, the future of innovation and problem-solving will be shaped by the continued evolution of technology and the rise of new global challenges. As AI and other advanced technologies become more sophisticated, they will provide new tools for understanding and addressing complex problems. However, technology alone will not be enough. The Genius Wave relies on the human element—on creativity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to solving the problems that matter most.

Sustainability and Climate ActionOne of the most urgent challenges facing humanity today is the climate crisis. The Genius Wave offers a promising path forward, as innovative technologies like renewable energy, carbon capture, and climate modeling can help mitigate the effects of climate change. Moreover, AI and machine learning are being used to optimize energy consumption and improve the efficiency of renewable energy sources. However, solving the climate crisis will require collective action, with governments, businesses, and individuals coming together to implement sustainable practices and policies.

Health and Well-beingThe ongoing pandemic has underscored the importance of health innovation. The Genius Wave has already made significant strides in areas like vaccine development, diagnostics, and telemedicine. The future of healthcare will see even greater integration of AI, genomics, and personalized medicine, allowing for more effective and individualized treatments. However, ensuring equitable access to these advancements will require collaboration across sectors to address disparities in healthcare systems worldwide.

Social ChallengesSocial inequality, education, and poverty remain significant barriers to progress. The Genius Wave has the potential to address these issues through innovative technologies, such as online education platforms, social impact investing, and data-driven policy making. However, lasting change will require a collective effort to ensure that the benefits of innovation are shared by all.

Conclusion

The Genius Wave represents the future of innovation and problem-solving—an era in which human creativity, advanced technologies, and collaboration converge to address the world’s most pressing challenges. By embracing this wave, we can unlock new possibilities, foster a culture of innovation, and work together to create a better future for all. As we ride the Genius Wave, we must continue to prioritize creativity, inclusivity, and collective action to ensure that the solutions we create are not only groundbreaking but also sustainable and equitable.

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varonicaharvoth · 13 days ago

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4K USB Cameras for Medical Devices: Setting New Standards in High-Definition Patient Imaging

When it comes to healthcare, precision is everything. From diagnosing conditions to monitoring patient progress, the clarity and accuracy of medical images can directly impact treatment outcomes. But what if we could elevate this standard even further? Imagine medical devices that not only offer sharp, high-definition images but are also seamlessly integrated into existing systems for ease of use and efficiency. Enter the 4K USB camera—a game-changing technology for medical imaging that’s setting new standards in patient care.

Why 4K USB Cameras Are the Future of Medical Imaging

Medical professionals are often under pressure to make quick, accurate decisions. Whether performing surgery, conducting diagnostics, or simply evaluating a patient's condition, the need for precise, high-quality imaging is critical. Traditional camera systems in medical devices can sometimes fall short, especially in complex or delicate situations where fine details matter the most.

This is where 4K USB cameras shine. Offering four times the resolution of Full HD cameras, 4K USB cameras deliver stunning image clarity, which is crucial for applications such as dermatology, ophthalmology, and even endoscopic procedures. The enhanced resolution allows doctors to see finer details, making it easier to identify potential issues that might be missed with lower-resolution systems.

Addressing Pain Points in Medical Imaging

In medical imaging, there are several key challenges that healthcare providers regularly face, including:

Poor Image Quality: Many medical devices still rely on outdated camera technology that struggles to provide the level of detail needed for critical diagnostics. A blurry or pixelated image can obscure important information, leading to misdiagnoses or delayed treatments.

Complex Integration: Integrating new imaging technology into existing systems can be a daunting task. Many medical devices are difficult to upgrade, and a lack of standardization between different devices can complicate workflow and reduce overall efficiency.

Cost and Maintenance: High-end imaging systems, while powerful, often come with a hefty price tag. Additionally, maintaining these systems can require frequent service and calibration, which can lead to unnecessary downtime.

Portability and Convenience: Medical practitioners often work in environments where they need to move quickly or perform assessments at the point of care. Traditional systems may be bulky or difficult to transport, limiting their versatility.

4K USB cameras tackle these pain points in ways that older technology simply cannot. By offering ultra-high-definition image quality in a compact, easy-to-integrate format, these cameras provide significant advantages in terms of both performance and usability.

Superior Image Quality

One of the biggest selling points of 4K USB cameras in medical devices is their ability to provide crystal-clear images. This level of clarity is invaluable in specialties such as:

Dermatology: When examining skin lesions or other visual symptoms, dermatologists rely on high-definition imagery to accurately assess and diagnose conditions. A 4K USB camera ensures that no detail is lost, helping practitioners make more informed decisions.

Ophthalmology: Eye care professionals need precise imaging to evaluate the health of the retina, cornea, and other critical structures. With a 4K USB camera, they can capture ultra-clear images of the eye, improving diagnostic accuracy and patient care.

Endoscopy: During procedures like colonoscopies or laparoscopy, surgeons need to see small, subtle changes within the body. A 4K camera attached to an endoscope provides unrivaled detail, enabling more precise maneuvers and reducing the risk of complications.

The enhanced resolution of 4K USB cameras provides a higher level of confidence for medical practitioners. The improved image quality helps them detect minute anomalies, ensuring that no detail goes unnoticed.

Seamless Integration for Greater Efficiency

Another common challenge in healthcare is the complexity of integrating new devices into existing workflows. The introduction of a new imaging technology can disrupt a hospital's or clinic's operations if it requires major overhauls of current systems.

However, 4K USB cameras are different. Thanks to their plug-and-play USB connectivity, they can be easily integrated into a wide variety of medical devices, from microscopes to surgical instruments. This simplicity means healthcare providers can quickly adapt to the technology without needing extensive training or system upgrades.

Additionally, many of these cameras are compatible with popular medical software platforms, further streamlining the process. The convenience and ease of integration allow medical professionals to focus on what matters most—delivering quality care to their patients.

Cost-Effective Innovation

While high-resolution imaging technology traditionally came with a steep price, 4K USB cameras offer an affordable alternative without sacrificing performance. These cameras provide the same superior image quality as more expensive options, but at a fraction of the cost. This is particularly beneficial for healthcare facilities that may be working with limited budgets but still want to provide the best possible care to their patients.

Moreover, the low maintenance and long-lasting nature of 4K USB cameras help reduce long-term operational costs. Traditional medical cameras may require frequent service or recalibration, whereas USB cameras tend to be more robust, requiring fewer repairs and offering greater reliability over time.

For healthcare providers looking to upgrade their imaging systems without breaking the bank, 4K USB cameras offer a practical and cost-effective solution.

Enhancing Portability and Flexibility

Medical professionals often work in dynamic environments, requiring imaging technology that is flexible and easy to transport. 4K USB cameras are compact and lightweight, making them perfect for point-of-care applications. Whether a doctor needs to examine a patient in the clinic, perform a mobile assessment in the field, or document a procedure in real time, these cameras are up to the task.

In comparison to traditional imaging systems that may be bulky and require complex setup, 4K USB cameras can be plugged into a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer for immediate use. This portability makes them ideal for a wide range of healthcare settings, from emergency rooms to telemedicine consultations.

Real-Time Sharing and Collaboration

The integration of USB connectivity in 4K cameras also enables real-time sharing of high-definition images. This feature is particularly valuable in telemedicine, where remote consultations are increasingly common. A doctor in one location can share high-quality images with a specialist or team, ensuring that collaborative decision-making can happen efficiently.

Moreover, the ability to stream live images opens the door for medical training, allowing medical students and professionals to observe procedures in high-definition, regardless of their location. This fosters a learning environment that is both interactive and immersive.

Moving Forward with 4K USB Camera Technology

The advancements in 4K USB camera technology are revolutionizing the medical imaging field. Offering superior image quality, seamless integration, cost-effectiveness, and unparalleled portability, these cameras are poised to set new standards for patient care. By addressing the key pain points faced by healthcare professionals—such as poor image quality, high costs, and complex integration—4K USB cameras ensure that medical practitioners have the tools they need to provide the best possible care for their patients.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Medical Imaging

As healthcare continues to embrace technology, the role of high-definition imaging will only grow. With innovations like the 4K USB camera, the potential for more accurate diagnoses, better patient outcomes, and streamlined workflows is limitless. The healthcare industry is on the verge of an imaging revolution, and 4K USB cameras are leading the way.

#camera #technology #medical

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mordorintelligencemarketresearch · 2 months ago

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The Acute Ischemic Stroke Diagnosis Market: Key Trends and Industry Overview

The Acute Ischemic Stroke Diagnosis Market is projected to be valued at USD 2.20 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 3.14 billion by 2029, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.38% during the forecast period (2024-2029).

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) remains one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability globally. As a result, early and accurate diagnosis plays a pivotal role in ensuring timely medical intervention, which significantly impacts patient outcomes. The acute ischemic stroke diagnosis market is rapidly evolving, driven by advancements in diagnostic technologies, increased awareness, and the growing prevalence of AIS.

Market Growth Drivers

Rising Prevalence of Stroke Cases: The increase in sedentary lifestyles, hypertension, and diabetes prevalence globally has contributed to a surge in stroke cases, particularly ischemic strokes. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide. This alarming rise has pushed the demand for early and efficient diagnostic tools in healthcare settings.

Technological Advancements in Diagnostic Imaging: Innovations in imaging technologies, such as advanced computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), have revolutionized the early detection of acute ischemic strokes. The introduction of AI-assisted diagnostics and telemedicine capabilities are helping healthcare professionals identify stroke cases more quickly, reducing treatment delays. The evolution of portable imaging devices has also enabled faster stroke assessment in emergency rooms and rural areas.

Government Initiatives and Funding: Governments and healthcare organizations across the globe are increasing funding for stroke research, prevention, and diagnosis. Many initiatives focus on improving the accessibility of diagnostic facilities in underserved areas, which is expected to further boost the market's growth. For instance, the establishment of stroke care units equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools is on the rise in developed regions.

Growing Awareness About Stroke: As awareness regarding stroke symptoms and the importance of early intervention increases, more people are seeking medical attention within the critical time window, typically within the first few hours of symptom onset. This trend has contributed to the rising demand for fast and accurate diagnostic solutions in healthcare facilities.

Key Technologies in AIS Diagnosis

Computed Tomography (CT) Scans: Non-contrast CT scans remain the most widely used diagnostic tool for stroke detection due to their speed and widespread availability. CT angiography, which offers detailed images of blood vessels, helps identify blockages and assess the brain’s condition.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI provides a more detailed view of brain tissue and can detect ischemic stroke in its earliest stages. MRI techniques, such as diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), allow for the identification of stroke-related brain damage earlier than traditional CT scans.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET): While less commonly used due to cost, PET scans provide insights into cerebral metabolism and blood flow, offering valuable information for acute ischemic stroke diagnosis, especially in cases where other imaging methods are inconclusive.

Biomarker Testing: The development of blood-based biomarkers has become an area of interest for early stroke detection. Although still in the research stage, biomarkers may provide a non-invasive, rapid diagnostic method in the future, allowing for faster identification and treatment.

Challenges in the AIS Diagnosis Market

High Costs of Advanced Imaging Technologies: While advanced diagnostic tools like MRI and PET scans offer high accuracy, their cost can be prohibitive, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, limiting widespread adoption.

Limited Access in Rural Areas: In many parts of the world, particularly in developing countries, access to stroke diagnostic facilities remains limited. Rural healthcare infrastructure often lacks advanced imaging tools, resulting in delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Lack of Trained Professionals: Accurate diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke requires highly trained healthcare professionals, particularly in the interpretation of imaging results. The shortage of skilled radiologists and stroke specialists in certain regions can hinder effective stroke management.

Future Outlook

The acute ischemic stroke diagnosis market is poised for significant growth in the coming years, driven by continuous technological advancements and increasing awareness about stroke. Innovations such as portable imaging devices, AI-driven diagnostic tools, and biomarker-based tests are likely to shape the future of this industry.

As the global burden of stroke continues to rise, the demand for more efficient, accessible, and cost-effective diagnostic solutions will drive further investments and research in this sector. Expanding healthcare infrastructure in emerging economies, along with favorable government policies, is also expected to contribute to the market's expansion.

Conclusion

The acute ischemic stroke diagnosis market plays a critical role in reducing stroke-related morbidity and mortality by enabling timely and accurate identification of ischemic events. While challenges like high costs and access barriers persist, ongoing technological advancements and the growing recognition of early diagnosis are expected to propel the market's growth over the next decade.

In a healthcare landscape that increasingly values precision and speed, the acute ischemic stroke diagnosis industry is set to become a cornerstone of effective stroke management, saving lives and improving patient outcomes.

For a detailed overview and more insights, you can refer to the full market research report by Mordor Intelligence https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/acute-ischemic-stroke-diagnosis-market

#marketing

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mordormr · 2 months ago

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Exploring the Bladder Scanners Industry: Trends, Growth Drivers, and Market Outlook

The bladder scanners market size is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing prevalence of urological diseases, technological advancements, and the rising demand for non-invasive diagnostic tools. Bladder scanners, used primarily to measure the amount of urine in the bladder, have become essential in healthcare settings for diagnosing and managing conditions such as urinary retention, bladder dysfunction, and post-operative care. According to recent market research, The bladder scanners market is projected to be valued at USD 159.66 million in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 214.67 million by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.10% over the forecast period (2024-2029).

Key Growth Drivers

Rising Prevalence of Urological Disorders: The increasing incidence of urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder dysfunctions, and other urological disorders is driving the demand for bladder scanners. As the global population ages, conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and incontinence are becoming more common, further propelling market growth. Bladder scanners provide a non-invasive solution to accurately assess bladder volume, helping clinicians in early diagnosis and timely intervention.

Technological Advancements: Recent technological innovations in bladder scanner devices have improved their accuracy, ease of use, and portability. Ultrasound-based bladder scanners are increasingly favored for their ability to provide real-time imaging without causing discomfort to the patient. The development of wireless, hand-held bladder scanners with user-friendly interfaces has enhanced their adoption across hospitals, outpatient clinics, and home healthcare settings. These advancements are significantly boosting the market's expansion.

Increasing Awareness and Training in Non-Invasive Procedures: The medical community’s focus on reducing invasive procedures is growing, and bladder scanners are an important part of this shift. With rising awareness about the risks associated with catheterization, healthcare professionals are increasingly adopting bladder scanners as a safer alternative for diagnosing urinary retention. Training initiatives are being conducted to familiarize clinicians with the benefits and usage of bladder scanners, further driving demand.

Rising Demand in Geriatric Care: The aging population is one of the critical growth factors in the bladder scanner market. Older adults are more likely to suffer from conditions such as urinary retention, which requires frequent monitoring. Bladder scanners, which provide quick and accurate readings without the need for invasive procedures, are becoming essential tools in managing geriatric care in both hospital and home-care settings.

Government Support and Healthcare Investments: Governments and healthcare organizations worldwide are investing in improving diagnostic infrastructure, especially in developing countries. Increased healthcare spending and initiatives aimed at improving patient outcomes are likely to contribute to the widespread adoption of bladder scanners. Moreover, regulatory agencies are increasingly focusing on ensuring that diagnostic tools are safe, reliable, and accessible, which is positively impacting the bladder scanner market.

Market Challenges

High Initial Costs: One of the key challenges in the bladder scanner industry is the high initial cost of these devices. While they provide long-term savings by reducing the need for invasive procedures, the upfront expense can be a barrier for smaller clinics and healthcare facilities, particularly in developing regions.

Limited Awareness in Developing Regions: Although bladder scanners offer significant advantages, there is still a lack of awareness in certain regions, especially in rural and underdeveloped areas. Efforts to educate healthcare providers about the benefits of non-invasive diagnostic tools are necessary to expand market penetration in these areas.

Regional Market Dynamics

North America and Europe: Leading the Market North America and Europe are the dominant players in the bladder scanner market, driven by advanced healthcare infrastructure, high prevalence of urological diseases, and strong adoption of innovative medical devices. The presence of leading manufacturers and extensive research and development activities further contribute to the region’s market leadership.

Asia-Pacific: A Rapidly Growing Market: The Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness significant growth in the bladder scanner industry due to the rising aging population, increasing healthcare investments, and growing awareness of bladder health. Countries like China, India, and Japan are experiencing an uptick in demand as healthcare facilities expand their diagnostic capabilities and adopt more advanced technologies.

Conclusion

The bladder scanner market is poised for substantial growth in the coming years, driven by technological advancements, the growing need for non-invasive diagnostic tools, and the rising incidence of urological disorders. As healthcare providers seek more efficient, patient-friendly solutions, bladder scanners are set to play a critical role in improving patient outcomes. With increasing awareness, government support, and ongoing innovation, the bladder scanner industry is expected to expand, creating new opportunities for manufacturers and healthcare institutions alike.

For a detailed overview and more insights, you can refer to the full market research report by Mordor Intelligence https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/bladder-scanners-market

#bladder scanners market #bladder scanners market size #bladder scanners market share #bladder scanners market trends #bladder scanners market analysis #bladder scanners market forecast

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hazrafixx · 1 year ago

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Tech and the Future of Fitness: Wearable Health Tech

Tech and the Future of Fitness: Wearable Health Tech From workouts that are more akin to group exercise classes than treadmill-teeming gym facilities to wearable technology that collects physiological data for athletes or patients recovering from medical procedures, these innovations offer a glimpse into the next phase of the fitness industry. While the industry may be reminiscent of past fads, new technology is paving the way for digital disruption that will make fitness more community-oriented, hyper-personalized and accessible than ever before.

The most common type of fitness tech is the wearable tracker, which is worn around the wrist and connects to various smartphone apps that provide users with valuable fitness-related information. These include monitoring blood pressure and heart rate, counting calories and managing training regimens. Trackers that can also detect and respond to certain environmental factors, like weather or a nearby COVID-19 outbreak, can help people take more precautions in their everyday lives to avoid infections.

Despite being one technology viewer website of the most common types of wearable devices, trackers can still have their drawbacks, especially in terms of design and accuracy. Many are secured with straps that can rub against the skin or irritate it, and moisture or even sweat can affect their results. This is why manufacturers are working to develop more discreet, less invasive technologies that can gather accurate data without being too visible or uncomfortable for the user.

Companies, such as the personal technology ring maker Motiv and bio-sensing apparel company Omsignal, are designing rings, sports bras, tank tops and shorts that are embedded with sensors to track data like physical activity, heart rate and sleep patterns. Some even feature a haptic feedback system to let the wearer know when it's time to hit the gym.

While a few of these smart pieces are already on the market, some are still in development and are set to hit the streets within the next couple years. Stretchable artificial skin is on the verge of being developed, which could be used in clothing to monitor data points such as temperature, strain and movement. It's not only expected to revolutionize the fashion and textiles industries, but could be used for more specialized applications such as monitoring heart rates in patients during surgery or in virtual reality simulation exercises that can prepare military personnel for the stresses of combat.

While these technologies technology website can be beneficial to consumers, the fitness industry's biggest benefit may come from how they foster community and accountability. By encouraging users to share their progress on social media, these technologies can inspire a sense of competition and support in people trying to achieve similar goals. They can also encourage users to get more active by allowing them to see how they stack up against their friends and the fitness pros who create workout videos and challenges on popular platforms, such as Peloton and Strava. These tools are a great way to inspire people to keep up with their fitness journey, and it's a trend that will likely continue well into the future.

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leroylawpa · 1 year ago

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Understanding DUI Tests in West Palm Beach

When facing a DUI charge in West Palm Beach, understanding the testing methods and their accuracy is crucial. Before making any decisions, here are some essential tips related to DUI tests:

Act quickly: Time is of the essence when considering how to challenge a DUI charge based on test results.

Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights regarding testing procedures.

Hire an attorney: Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable attorney can significantly influence your case's outcome.

Read more about DUI Laws on Wikipedia

Breathalyzer Tests: Are They Always Right?

Breathalyzer tests are the most common method used to determine a person's blood alcohol concentration (BAC). These devices measure the amount of alcohol in one's breath to estimate BAC. However, several factors can affect the accuracy of breathalyzer tests:

Device Calibration: If the device isn't calibrated correctly, it can produce inaccurate results.

Medications and Mouthwash: Some substances, like certain mouthwashes or medications, contain alcohol, which can affect the results.

Certain physical conditions and environmental factors can also influence the outcome. It's essential to remember that while breathalyzers can provide evidence, they aren't infallible.

Blood Tests: The Gold Standard?

Blood tests are considered more accurate than breath tests. However, there are still potential issues to consider:

Chain of Custody: If the blood sample isn't handled or stored correctly, it can be compromised.

Laboratory Errors: Mistakes during the analysis can lead to inaccurate BAC readings.

It's crucial to understand these potential pitfalls when evaluating blood test results in a DUI case.

Field Sobriety Tests: Subjective by Nature

Field sobriety tests are a series of physical and cognitive tasks that officers ask suspected impaired drivers to perform. These might include:

Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) Test: Checking the eyes' movement.

Walk and Turn Test: Assessing balance and coordination.

Because these tests rely on officer observation, they can be subjective, and results can vary based on the individual's physical condition or the environment.

Urine Tests: Less Common but Still Used

Urine tests are less commonly used for DUIs due to their less reliable nature. Factors affecting accuracy include:

Time Delay: Alcohol concentration in urine can differ from blood alcohol levels.

Diet and Hydration: The individual's hydration level can dilute or concentrate the urine sample.

Despite their limitations, urine tests can still provide evidence in DUI cases, especially when other tests are inconclusive.

Hair Testing: Checking for Long-Term Use

Though not typically used for DUI cases, hair tests can detect drug or alcohol use over more extended periods. They're not ideal for determining recent impairment but can provide information on long-term substance use.

Saliva Testing: Emerging Method

Saliva tests are becoming more popular due to their non-invasive nature. However, their reliability is still being studied, and they might not be as accurate as blood tests.

Passive Alcohol Sensors: Detecting Alcohol in the Air

These sensors are often incorporated into police flashlights or clipboards and can detect alcohol in the air around a person's mouth. While they can't provide exact BAC readings, they give officers probable cause for further testing.

Hypothetical Case

Imagine you're driving home from a gathering in West Palm Beach. A police officer stops you for a minor traffic violation. The officer suspects you've been drinking due to the smell of alcohol. You're subjected to a breathalyzer test, which indicates a BAC above the legal limit. However, you're confident you weren't impaired.

Upon hiring a skilled attorney from LeRoy Law, they uncovered that the breathalyzer used during your stop wasn't calibrated correctly. Additionally, you'd used mouthwash shortly before driving, which contained alcohol. These factors combined led to the inaccurate high reading. With this information, your attorney successfully challenges the DUI charge.

Key Takeaways on DUI Tests

No test is 100% accurate: Every DUI testing method has its limitations.

Knowing your rights can be a game-changer: Understand what you're required to submit to and what you can decline.

An experienced attorney is invaluable: A skilled DUI attorney can critically assess test results and challenge their validity.

How LeRoy Law Can Support You

Facing a DUI charge in West Palm Beach can be a daunting experience. At LeRoy Law, we pride ourselves on our deep understanding of the nuances of DUI tests. Our dedicated team will meticulously analyze every detail of your case, ensuring that any test inaccuracies or rights violations are promptly identified. Let us stand by your side, advocating for your rights and providing the legal experience you need.

FAQs

Can medical conditions affect DUI tests? Yes, some medical conditions like diabetes or GERD can affect breathalyzer results.

Is it possible to refuse a DUI test in Florida? Yes, but refusal can come with penalties, such as license suspension.

How often are breathalyzers calibrated? Ideally, regular calibration ensures accuracy, but the frequency can vary.

Can diet or eating patterns influence breath tests? Yes, consuming certain foods or fasting can produce substances that mimic alcohol in some tests.

What's the difference between a DUI and a DWI? Generally, a DUI is driving under the influence of alcohol, while a DWI can include other substances. However, the terms are used interchangeably in many jurisdictions.

Disclaimer

LeRoy Law tries to ensure the accuracy of this article. However, Florida Statutes change, case law changes, and as such, errors may occur. LeRoy Law assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions in this article. LeRoy Law encourages you to utilize our links to relevant Florida Statutes. Contact my office at [561.290.2730] if you have any questions or require legal assistance.

#LeRoyLaw #JoshLeRoy #WestPalmBeach #WestPalmBeachDUILawyer #KnowYourRights

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exelahrsolutions · 1 year ago

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Reasons to make HR and payroll data available for employees

HR and payroll data – every salaried professional is well aware of these terms, but how many of these professionals have access to it? It might vary from enterprise to enterprise. But isn’t the employee data supposed to be shared transparently with employees? Of course, yes! Yet, many organizations hide HR and payroll data from employees.

It can be problematic for employees when they are kept in the dark about their own data. There are many instances where employees get stuck into unnecessary jams or get stranded by payroll errors or HR management mistakes – just because they don’t have access to their personal employment data. Picture this – your employees are getting into critical medical situations and have no idea about insurance policies or deductions. Or, they have to chase HR professionals to correct some information; or even worse, employees find out they have been shorted on their check without knowing deductions.

An ineffective knowledge-sharing culture can cost large companies over $47 million in lost productivity annually.

All of this can be sorted with just one solution – let your employees access, update, and manage their own HR and payroll processing data. Built-up communication and transparency are perhaps the most valuable features of a successful work environment.

Companies with a high-trust environment gain two to three times higher stock returns and have 50% lower turnover rates than competitors.

The high-trust environment is where employees can collaboratively and transparently share knowledge. But, as simple as it sounds, many firms aren’t still on board. Here’s why organizations try to keep HR and payroll processing data from employees and how they can stop information from withholding.

The numbers

These numbers are everything you need to see and understand why it’s crucial to effectively and transparently share HR and payroll processing data with employees:

· Delayed salaries can adversely affect the job satisfaction and personal financial outlook of 70% of people.

· Allowing employees to verify payroll processing data before it gets credited helps employees (35%) plan finances more efficiently, (28%) trust their employer even more, and (24%) better plan for changes in wages.

· 30% of employees wish to review the accuracy of their pay before it hits their salary accounts.

· 90% of employees find it beneficial to have 24/7 access to their HR data, including payroll, in one place.

· 77% of employees are frustrated with the outdated technologies they use at work, and 67% would instead take a pay cut for something twice as good.

Also Read: Employee Engagement Starts with Accurate Payroll Outsourcing

Why do organizations keep HR and payroll data from employees

After going through all the numbers showing how adversely hiding employee data can affect both the organization and employees, the most obvious question that arises is why do most organizations hide employee information? According to a survey, the reason could be the fear of losing power or having the leverage to know unique information.

Other reasons might also include the following:

· Identifying knowledge as our own property.

· Worrying that we will be judged on the basis of what we know.

· Disliking or distrusting those who ask us.

In a nutshell, organizations hide information because they fear the potential costs of sharing it. But does information hiding really benefit organizations? Of course not!

According to a survey, people who engage in knowledge hiding are over 17% less likely to thrive at work or experience growth and learning.

Knowledge or information withholding from peers does not actually result in a competitive advantage. It instead makes employees feel psychologically unsafe. It is evident that without psychological safety, employees find it challenging to focus on work, develop meaningful relationships, or explore new working styles without worrying about failures or mistakes. Under such circumstances, employees often struggle to maintain a positive attitude and engage in learning opportunities.

How can organizations stop withholding HR and payroll data from employees?

The HR department has one unique mission to work toward employees’ needs and wants. On top of that, some companies solely work to simplify your HR processes by providing best-in-class HR services – including payroll. Hiding employment data from employees with a negative attitude is only going to harm. Organizations must establish cultures where employees feel comfortable expressing their concerns. Addressing employee issues that are making them feel cynical can help you gain back their trust and help alleviate that cynicism.

Third-party, anonymous surveys can also do wonders in helping you figure out why your HR and payroll management professionals hold cynical attitudes. The results will help you design and implement targeted practices to ensure the workplace is fair, hopeful, and trustworthy for everyone. Moreover, you can also arrange workshops or training for HR management and payroll management teams on understanding employee behavior.

Lastly, HR and payroll outsourcing can essentially turn out to be beneficial. You wouldn’t have to worry about sensitive employee data getting lost or stolen and still can effectively and transparently share with employees. HR outsourcing services ensure that all the records are secure and provide best-in-class platforms where employees can easily access, maintain, or change their HR or payroll data.

Though all of these changes seem easy, implementing those won’t be. Withholding HR and payroll data from employees is widely prevalent in the workplace, which will take time to fix. However, being patient and acknowledging reality can be your first step toward developing an ideal workplace.

Conclusion

Most organizations that provide HR services or payroll processing services are aware of the fact that they are dealing with the most sensitive part of an organization – people. Employees are the most valuable asset that companies can have; thus, it is incredibly critical to help them feel satisfied and happy – which directly affects employee productivity and engagement. While all of this is well communicated, most organizations still make the common mistake of hiding HR and payroll data from employees. This makes your employees feel insecure and less satisfied with the work culture.

Exela HR Solutions is a leader in HR outsourcing and payroll outsourcing services that can help simplify all your HR processes, manage data securely, and implement practices to make your workplace ideal. Our experts provide the best-in-class, unified platform where your employees can easily access and manage all their data. Talk to our experts to discuss your requirements and solution for the same. Get Exela HR Solutions today!

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for general information purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice. Laws governing the subject matter may change quickly, and Exela cannot guarantee that all the information on this site is current or correct. Should you have specific legal questions about any of the information on this site, you should consult with a licensed attorney in your area.

Source & to read more: https://bit.ly/3X1p3VC

#GlobalPayrollProcessing #HROutsourcing #hr #human resources #payroll #payrollprocessing #payroll outsourcing #global payroll outsourcing #hr otusourcing #HRO #HR Srevices #HR Solutions

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hlhproto · 2 years ago

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Vacuum Casting: Advancements in Technology and Applications

If you're still utilizing production tooling to produce low-volume, production-quality parts, you're likely aware of the time and cost involved. It's time to consider vacuum casting, a more advanced method that can produce parts of equal quality regardless of size.

Vacuum casting, also referred to as cast urethanes, involves creating a custom mold to produce small quantities of high-quality plastic or rubber-like parts. Liquefied material is then injected into the mold while under a vacuum, resulting in a precise and detailed piece with an exceptional surface finish.

Vacuum casting has come a long way in terms of application and technology. Still, low-volume part production remains beneficial to anyone looking to save time and money. Here are some of its most significant applications and technological advancements.

Where is it useful?

Cast urethanes have many useful applications today. One of its most common uses is rapid prototyping since it produces production-grade parts quickly and cost-effectively. Plus, it requires a low, upfront investment to help you save money during product development.

Given its versatility, molding can meet low-volume end-use manufacturing requirements. It delivers self-colored identical parts from a wide range of materials, like transparent soft rubber, PC, ABS, PA, PMMA, or PP. Vacuum casting lets you recreate the same part using production-quality materials for a range of industries, including industrial electronics, consumer products, and FMCG manufacturing.

Better technologies

Product designers, manufacturers, and engineers trust cast urethane molding to make high-quality precision parts with intricate details. With evolving technology, the applications of this molding technique continue to grow. Here are some important examples:

· Medical implants: The medical industry uses cast urethanes to make complex custom components like prosthetics and implants.

· Food packaging: Vacuum casting can produce custom packaging components and molding tools for food production.

· Automotive: Vacuum-cast automotive parts are highly detailed and accurate, making them in high demand for body panels, exhaust systems, and intake manifolds.

· Aerospace: Repeatability, accuracy, and ability to produce intricate details make cast urethanes ideal for fuel systems, air ducts, and exterior parts for aircraft.

Get cast urethanes from the experts!

Save time and get high-quality parts cost-effectively with our

vacuum casting

services here at HLH Proto! Get a quote or request a free project review, so we can tell you more about our process

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pathologyucgconference · 2 years ago

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Digital Pathology's Function And How Can It Help With Healthcare? To Learn More, Join us at the 10DIGIPATH202

Digital pathology exemplifies innovation and a dedication to excellence in healthcare, with a focus on supporting pathology training, clinical research, informatics, and the global practice of human pathology.

Through the digitalization of conventional analogue procedures, technology has significantly altered the pathology landscape. The following criteria can all be improved by the use of digital pathology, including patient safety, pathology workflow, service quality, and workforce factors:

accuracy of diagnosis Digital pathology minimises classification and diagnostic pathology errors and creates techniques for individualised medical care:

For the pathologist, high definition digital slides offer higher image clarity and more detail.

The ability for comparisons with digital slides from prior cases and a variety of viewing choices allow for far more precise and rapid findings for patients.

speedier and more effective procedures. Digital pathology reduces monotonous, repetitive, and mind-numbing work:

It enables doctors to concentrate on providing effective medical care for disorders that have been correctly diagnosed.

It enhances workflow, increasing productivity and scalability in the laboratory setting. With a dashboard view of data and annotations, pathologists can quickly review previous cases. This shortens the time it takes to retrieve, match, and organise data.

The benefits of digital pathology

There are several benefits associated with using digital pathology, and these benefits are assisting in the practice's widespread adoption and widespread application in lab settings.

enhanced analysis

To start, digital pathology provides better analysis. It offers automatic slide analysis methods that are unbiased, quick, and precise. Additionally, it gives researchers immediate access to earlier comparable cases, serving as data storage for long-term predictive analytics.

decrease in errors

Additionally, because digital photos are saved, breakages do not pose a threat to data due to the use of digital pathology, which reduces mistakes like misidentification.

improving imaging

Additionally, the procedure allows scientists to magnify the slides and see them from various perspectives, providing greater views of the materials. Additionally, it enables the annotation and measurement of numerous places of interest.

better results for patients

One of the key responsibilities of pathologists is to provide a diagnosis for a patient using tissue samples, leaving a crucial choice to one person or a small number of people. Even if the person assessing the samples is an expert, they are still susceptible to human error when diagnosing in this fashion.

Digital pathology can produce accurate diagnosis results quickly while also minimizing human error. Digital pathology's techniques enable it to expedite typical tasks without compromising the effectiveness of each task's execution.

Thank You For Visit My Blog.

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Reference Digital Pathology UCGConferences press releases and blogs

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obviouslygenuinely · 4 years ago

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Free Resources For Writers & Creators

This is a quick post of free resources that may help fandom creators (or creators in general). I’m sure many of these have been shared before. However, it doesn’t hurt to spread the word. A few quick points:

As a professional writer, I think this post will cater mostly towards writers.

I’m also a freelance photographer, so digital photography/editing/art sources are included, too.

I chose not to use any affiliate links in my post. I don’t want to profit from this, and I’m not sure that’s allowed on Tumblr anyways.

If I’ve listed a resource I haven’t used myself, I’ve made sure to state it.

Masterlists and/or huge resource compilations are marked with asterisks.

Alright, here we go! I hope you all find this post helpful. Happy writing/creating!

Research

All of these are free resources for research. I use most of them for my writing jobs because they are extremely credible. These are great for making accurate references in your fics/creations.

1.��***Research Resources For Writers***

Writer’s Write has an enormous database of research resources for writers. They are divided into 20+ categories such as:

careers

historical research

crimes and forensics

religion

Each category contains 10+ resources like websites, articles, tips, databases, and so much more. It’s the most comprehensive and organized free research tool I use.

2. PubMed

My go-to source for citing medical studies. You’ll find 30 million citations related to numerous physical and mental health issues.

3. BioMed Central

I don’t use this website as often, but I keep it in my bookmarks. It’s similar to PubMed - great for discovering current and former medical research.

4. Drugs.com

If you need to name a medication and/or refer to medication side effects, Drugs.com is a straightforward resource. It’s easy to navigate and understand.

It also has a tool that lists potential medication interactions. This is really useful for accurate descriptions of med combinations.

5. Merck Manuals Consumer Version

Merck Manuals started out in 1899 as a medical reference guide for professionals. This consumer version is really comprehensive and updated regularly. It includes definitions, studies, and more.

6. FindLaw

If you’re writing about legal topics, FindLaw is useful for learning about laws/procedures in reader-friendly language. Categories include:

accidents/injuries

criminal law

family law (divorce, custody, etc.)

Keep in mind that laws vary based on location! You’ll often find additional links to state-related laws within articles. I do recommend double-checking state/location-based legal resources for accuracy.

7. APA Dictionary of Psychology

This psychology dictionary is provided by the American Psychological Association. It covers 90+ areas of psychology and 25,000+ terms/definitions.

You’ll also find links to additional psychology databases, resources, and so on. The website is updated frequently to provide updated information.

8. U.S. Bureau Of Labor Statistics

If you’re writing about a character’s job/career in the United States, this is a great source for accuracy. For any job sector, you’ll find details about

education requirements

positions in the sector

average salary for positions

what the positions entail

I imagine there are alternatives for other countries, too!

9. Investopedia Financial Term Dictionary

My area of expertise is personal finance; all of my writing published under my name is in this niche. I still refer to Investopedia’s dictionary for help. It’s excellent for understanding/explaining financial terms in a way that your reader can understand.

10. MedTerms Medical Dictionary

This is the medical version of Investopedia’s dictionary. I use this source less frequently, but I find that it’s accurate and helpful. There are many similar references online if you search for “medical glossaries” or “medical dictionaries”.

11. Domain Authority Checker

I’m not sure if this one is too helpful for fic writers, but it’s one of my most used tools. Domain authority “a search engine ranking score developed by Moz that predicts how likely a website is to rank on search engine result pages (SERPs)”.

The Wikipedia page for domain authority (DA) explains it clearly and simply. To sum it up, websites with good DA scores are considered reliable and accurate. If I cite sources in my work. I always link to sources with good DA scores.

Writing/Editing

This section is the most thorough one. All of these are completely free tools for writing and editing any type of content. I currently use or have used all of these at some point in my career.

1. ***List Of Free And Open-Source Software Packages***

This Wikipedia page applies to multiple categories in my post. It’s a masterpost of free and open-source software for anything and everything. Software is divided up into categories and sub-categories. Some relevant examples include:

media

networking/Internet

image editing

file management

There are hundreds of free software links on the page, so you’ll need to do a bit of browsing. Start with the categories above to find software geared towards writers/creators.

2. OpenOffice

This is a free alternative to Microsoft Office. I’ve used it for nine years and love it. OpenOffice software includes free applications for:

text documents

spreadsheets

presentations

drawing

templates

There are many more tools with OpenOffice that I haven’t used. If you write offline, I cannot recommend it enough. Tutorials are readily available online, and the software is pretty user-friendly.

3. Evernote

I briefly used Evernote and found that it’s very user-friendly and helpful. Most of my colleagues use Evernote and recommend it for taking notes/staying organized.

(I’m personally not a fan of note-taking software or apps. My method is messy text documents with bullet point lists.)

4. Google Drive

This might seem like an obvious one, but Google Drive/Docs is my writing haven. It has the tools included with Microsoft Office and OpenOffice and then some. It’s great for collaborative writing/sharing documents, too.

5. Grammarly

I use the Premium (paid) version of Grammarly, but I also used the free version for years. It’s helpful for detecting simple spelling, style, and grammatical errors.

There are numerous ways to use it - desktop, copy/paste documents, and so on. I’m not a huge fan of how well it works with Google Docs, but they’re improving it/it’s moved out of beta mode.

If you’re interested in the paid version - which I highly recommend - wait to buy until a holiday pops up. They offer a major discount on the software for almost every holiday/special occasion.

6. Plagiarism Detector

This website is handy for scanning for plagiarism. You can scan your own work to ensure uniqueness, too. My clients are big fans of this tool.

(I no longer use this resource; I use a paid tool called Copyscape Premium. The low cost has a big return on investment for me.)

7. TitleCase

The name says it all. It’s free and simple! I’ll be honest - I’m terrible with proper title case. You’d think after a decade of writing I’d nail it. However, I use this tool pretty often.

8. Hemingway Editor

Hemingway Editor is an online and desktop editor. It’s excellent for scanning your writing to check for:

readability (a grade-level score is listed)

adverb usage

passive voice usage

complex phrase usage

estimated reading time

This tool is color-coded to make editing easy. For example, adverbs are highlighted in blue. I don’t use this as often as I used to, but it was essential for my early writing career.

9. Polish My Writing

This tool is very straightforward. You paste your writing into the text box. Spelling errors, grammar suggestions, and style suggestions are highlighted in red, blue, and green.

It’s great for double-checking your work alongside Grammarly or Hemingway. When using free editors, I recommend using at least two for higher accuracy.

10. OneLook Reverse Dictionary And Thesaurus

I’m going to use the definition directly from the website:

“This tool lets you describe a concept and get back a list of words and phrases related to that concept. Your description can be anything at all: a single word, a few words, or even a whole sentence. Type in your description and hit Enter (or select a word that shows up in the autocomplete preview) to see the related words.”

To put it simply, you can use the reverse dictionary/thesaurus to find those words/thoughts that are on the tip of your tongue. Use the tool to:

find a word based on the word’s definition (i.e. search for “inability to feel pain”)

find synonyms and related concepts

generate a list of category-specific words (i.e. search for “cat breeds”)

answer basic questions (i.e. search for “what is the capital of France?”)

The results can be hit or miss, but I usually find the information I’m looking for. It’s a solid resource any writer regardless of genre.

11. Word Frequency Counter + Phrase Frequency Counter

I cannot emphasize how much I love these tools. Repetition is the bane of a writer’s existence; it’s simply inevitable at times.

These two tools count the number of times you use a single word or phrase in a text document. Just copy/paste your document, hit submit, and you’re all set!

For the phrase frequency counter, you can scan for two-word to ten-word phrases.

12. Thesaurus.com

This is another tool that might seem painfully obvious. Combined with the word frequency counter, it’s such an essential resource for me.

It’s especially useful if you’re writing about the same topic multiple times (i.e. love, getting drunk, sex, etc.). I always use this combo of tools to ensure uniqueness.

13. Lists Of Colors

Are you stumped when trying to come up with unique shades of blue? Is describing your character’s hair or skin color difficult? This Wikipedia page has you covered. It contains:

lists of colors (alphabetically)

lists of colors by shade

lists of Crayola crayon colors

lists of color palettes

I typically use this resource for product descriptions, but I also used it for creative writing many times. It’s a lifesaver for all things color-related.

Free Photos/Images

Tons of creators need free photos/images for numerous reasons. All of these sources provide 100% free photos, illustrations, etc. that have a Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license. This means there’s no copyright whatsoever on them.

You can edit the images however you’d like, too. All of the images in my post are from the first source listed below. I made them black and white and added text.

(A lot of these sites have donate buttons for contributors. Donating a dollar here and there goes a long way!)

1. Unsplash

Unsplash is my personal favorite for high-resolution photos. It’s easy to navigate and has over 2,000,000 free images. Downloading an image is a one-click process, and you don’t need to create an account.

2. Pixabay

Pixabay is my go-to site for illustrations and vector graphics (they have photos, too). There are 1.9 million free images to choose from. You don’t need an account to download images, but I recommend creating one. It’s free and with an account:

you don’t have to complete a CAPTCHA every time you download an image

you can access higher-quality/larger/etc. versions of images

I often use graphics from Pixabay to create overlays and masks for mixed media art pieces.

3. PxHere

I’ve never used PxHere, but one of my writing clients recommends it. It seems very similar to Pixabay, and the interface is user-friendly.

4. Pexels

In my limited experience, Pexels seems to focus on “artsy” stock images/content. I found great high-quality images the few times I’ve used it.

5. Burst by Shopify

I haven’t used Burst, but it’s another free image site that a writing client recommended to me. It seems a little limited compared to the other sites, but it never hurts to add it to your toolbox!

Digital Art/Photo Editing/Etc.

This section seems brief, but the tools listed are pretty comprehensive and diverse. They are geared towards many creative needs/projects like:

Creating manips of people/etc.

Adding text to images.

Creating collages.

Digital illustration.

Advanced photo editing.

There’s something for everyone. In my experience, finding your favorites among these will take some trial and error.

1. Pixlr X and Pixlr E (app available)

Pixlr X and Pixlr E are both versatile free editing tools. Pixlr X is ideal for less experienced creators. Pixlr E is comparable to Adobe PhotoShop.

I’ve used both software formats for personal and professional art projects.

The Pixlr app is handy for making collages, adding filters/overlays, adding text, and so on. I’ve used it for creating fanfiction collages and similar projects. It’s super easy to use.

2. Remove Background by Pixlr

This is one of the easiest/fastest tools I’ve found for removing backgrounds from images. It’s perfect for creators who make manips using photos of people.

It takes literal seconds to use. The tool automatically removes the background. If you spot any mistakes, you can refine the results with brush/erase tools. Then you download the cutout and you’re all set!

Unfortunately, this feature isn’t available on the Pixlr app. There are a lot of smartphone apps for removing photo backgrounds.

3. GIMP

If you need a full-fledged Photoshop alternative, GIMP is excellent software. It’s not an online tool like most I’ve suggested; you’ll need to download it to your computer.

There’s quite a learning curve for it, unless you’re familiar with Photoshop already. Fortunately, the free video/text GIMP tutorials online are endless. I no longer use/need GIMP, but it’s a personal favorite of mine.

4. Paint.NET

Admittedly, I haven’t used Paint.NET, but my art/photography colleagues commonly mention it. It’s comparable to Photoshop and GIMP. It’s a web-based tool, and a quick Google search returns several tutorials for it.

5. Photopea

This is more or less a Photoshop clone, but it’s free and web-based. If you watch Photoshop tutorials, you can usually follow the same steps in PhotoPea.

I’ve only used it a few times; I have Photoshop so I don’t need it. Still, it’s very impressive - especially for a free tool.

6. PicsArt (app available)

PicsArt is a photo editing website and app; the app is much easier to use in my opinion. It’s a “fun” editing tool for photo manips, collages, and fan art in general. A lot of users post their art in the app, and I’ve noticed tons of cool fandom edits.

Some of the features are Premium (AKA cost money), but I don’t think they’re worth the extra cost. PicsArt also has a digital drawing app. I haven’t personally used it but it may be worth checking out!

7. Adobe Photoshop Express (app available)

(I’ll preface this by saying I have an Adobe subscription, so I have access to the “locked” features. I’ve used the free versions, but my memory of it is a bit hazy.)

Photoshop Express is a free web-based tool and smartphone app. The app is very user-friendly and can be used for detailed editing, adding filters, adding text, and so on.

I’m less familiar with the browser version; I only use it for the cutout tool when I’m feeling lazy. It seems to be a good fit for quick edits - filters, cropping, and so on.

8. Make PNG Transparent by Online PNG Tools

This tool is awesome for removing solid colored backgrounds. I use it to create graphics for mixed media art pieces. Here’s how it works:

upload an image

type the color your want to remove (name or hex code)

type the percentage of similar color tones you want to match (for example, 25% will remove your chosen color plus similar warm/cool tones)

the removed color is replaced with transparent pixels

If you want to make a JPG transparent, start with the website’s JPG to PNG Converter. There are a ton of useful free tools offered, but I haven’t tried out most of the others.

Wrap Up

That’s all I’ve got for now! If I think of additional free tools, I’ll add them to this post. Feel free to reblog with your own recommendations or message me if you’d like me to add anything.

I hope my fellow creatives find these too

#writer resources #writing #writblr #fanfiction #fanfic #creative writing #writing reference #writing resources #writer reference #obviouslygenuinely #creators #artists on tumblr #fandom #fan art

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a-dragons-journal · 4 years ago

Note

my friend made a carrd on kin terms and wants to make sure terms are correct as they aren't that interactive with the community yet being in it for years, the url is kinform. carrd. co ( I am not sure if links work )

- and in case my tumblr messes up again I wanna stay anon

A’ight, let’s go through this!

First off, I want to say: I really appreciate the effort your friend is putting into this, including going to the effort to have other people check their work! It’s a well-organized carrd, and I appreciate that they included a lot of less well-known labels! That being said, there’s definitely quite a bit of misinformation here - which is totally understandable, the misinformation has spread unfortunately far at this point. But hey, that’s why I’m here!

Incorrect info:

- “alterhuman: a general term for anyone who identifies as non-human, whether it be 'kin or 'link” (on Terms) “Alterhuman” is a much broader term than that - “Having an identity that is alternative to the common societal idea of 'human'; a person who identifies as such.” It covers anyone who has an alternative experience to humanity, or who experiences humanity in an alternative way from “normal”. It’s intentionally an extremely vague and broad term - it covers ‘kin, ‘links, ‘heartedness/kith/synpaths, plurality, daemonism, furry lifestylers, real vampires, endels, probably voidpunk, etc.

(There’s a whole conversation to be had here about how the alterhuman community was supposed to get away from centralizing the otherkin narrative but somehow ended up with that being a huge problem anyway, with it often feeling like it’s about nonhuman identity even though it’s not - but that’s a pretty long conversation, so we won’t go there xD)

- “astral limbs: the sensation of a body part that is not there in real life ; not to be confused with phantom limbs which is used by amputees” (on Terms) Astral limbs =/= supernumerary phantom limbs =/= phantom limb syndrome. What you’re defining is supernumerary phantom limbs, not astral limbs/shifts - astral limbs/shifts are where your astral body changes to match that of your kintype, which a) doesn’t always coincide with phantom shifts, and b) requires belief in astral bodies/the astral plane in the first place, which many ‘kin don’t hold.

Supernumerary phantom limbs is the sensation of having a body part that is not and never has been physically present, as opposed to phantom limb syndrome which is referring to limbs that have been amputated. It’s not “appropriating” language from amputees or anything like that like some people have tried to claim - supernumerary phantom limbs is a medical term. Astral limbs isn’t an accurate, adequate, or necessary replacement.

- copingkin: identifying with or as anything under fictionkin or otherkin for comfort and/or coping ; also referred to as comfortkin ~ also see copinglink (from Kin) I would strongly suggest removing this; it’s not an accepted term and pretty much never has been as far as I’m aware. You’re either copinglink, someone who chose their identity for coping purposes, or otherkin who happens to have a psychological explanation, if your identity came about as an unconscious/involuntary coping mechanism.

- fictionkin: identifying with or as a fictional character or race. (from Kin) Remove “with or”; it’s identify-as. If you don’t identify as them, you’re not ‘kin. Identifying strongly with, but not as, is ‘heartedness, not ‘kin. I would also suggest swapping “race” for “species,” if that’s what you meant, since that’s a pretty loaded term out of context.

- otherkin: identifying with or as non-animal/non-human and mythical creatures ; some have their own label such as songkin. (from Kin) Remove “with or”; it’s identify-as, as above^.

- kin is often involuntarily & spiritual, if you consider yourself kin but don't do these, see hearted or synpath (from Kin) ‘Kin is involuntary, full stop, but it’s not necessarily spiritual. Nor is the distinction between ‘kin and ‘heartedness/synpaths the voluntary/involuntary aspect; it’s that ‘kin is identify-as and ‘heartedness/synpath isn’t.

- aeslink relating to anything for aesthetic reasons ~ "i am angel & palace aeslink" copinglink strongly relating with a fictional character for comfort and/or coping. (from Other) ‘Links are voluntarily choosing to cultivate an identity as something else - character, species, or otherwise. It’s still identify-as, not “relating to,” it’s just voluntary where otherkinity is involuntary. It’s not any less serious or any less identify-as. 'Linking or otherlinking is defined as “voluntarily choosing to identify as nonhuman/a fictional character or species”.

- synpaths: strongly relating to a fictional character or race that you see a lot of yourself in, but not as strong as kin. (from Other) Remove “not as strong as ‘kin”; ‘kin isn’t “relating to” something in the first place, it’s identifying as that thing. I would also suggest swapping “race” for “species,” if that’s what you meant, since that’s a pretty loaded term out of context.

- therian: identifying with or as an animal or other living thing. (from Other) Remove “with or”; it’s identify-as, as with fictionkin and otherkin.

Suggested edits:

Things that aren’t necessarily wrong, but which I would suggest edits to anyway for clarity/accuracy.

- awakening: the moment one realizes they identify as a kintype/theriantype (from Terms) I would posit that an awakening isn’t necessarily a single moment in time; much more often it’s an extended process that can take weeks, months, or even years. There’s some overlap between “awakening” and “questioning” that way, imo.

- They also said “theriantype” multiple times where it should be “theriotype,” but that’s more of a typo thing than a content error.

- otherkin: identifying with or as non-animal/non-human and mythical creatures ; some have their own label such as songkin. (from Kin) Songkin is probably not a great example if this is intended for outsiders who are new to the terminology, since conceptkin is kind of hard to explain to begin with, but that’s my personal opinion.

- Cladotherian, therian, theriomythic, and phytanthrope should all be on the ‘Kin page, as they all technically fall under ‘kin.

- identity/ID, kinnie & kinning won't be added as they are terms created by the more newer kin community and aren't recognized/accepted terms for older kin, though some older kin may be okay with these terms. (from Terms) Personally, I don’t like calling them “the newer kin community” - the “kin for fun” people aren’t ‘kin, they’re misusing our language, that’s the entire point. “The “kin-for-fun” community” or just “terms being warped as part of misinformation” would probably be more accurate.

- Synpath can probably be included on the ‘hearted page, since synpath, kith, and otherhearted are basically all synonymous.

Suggested additions:

- A resources list may be worthwhile! Things like personal websites and perhaps a few trustworthy blogs/posts could be worth adding to that list (I have a kin resources tag here that may be useful to them if they want to do that!) This gives people a place to go if they want to learn more.

- The term otherlinker is probably a good one to add, given that copinglinker and a specific type of ‘link (aeslink) are both present but the larger umbrella term presently isn’t.

Out of curiosity:

not edits at all, I’m just curious, ha

- kintrope: a trait found in most of ones kintypes. (from Terms) I’m really curious where they found this term, it’s not one I’ve heard before!

I think that’s about all I can find - like I said, I really appreciate the effort being put into this carrd! There’s a lot of good terms on here, just some definition fixes that need to be made - it’s well-organized and very aesthetically pleasing, which is more than I can honestly say for a lot of carrds xD

Hopefully that’s all clear enough to be helpful - I’m more than happy to chat further about this or provide clearer definitions/suggested resources, if your friend wants! :3

#oh this def should've gone under a cut shouldn't it #oh well too late now it doesn't work very well in edits #asked and answered #anonymous #rani talks #side note if anyone is thinking about being mean to anon or carrd maker on this post: don't #they're clearly putting in a lot of effort and i appreciate that #i know this got kind of long with all the corrections and edit suggestions but y'all gremlins behave #we ain't jumpin people for making mistakes a'ight? we don't do that in this house

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stitch-n-time · 4 years ago

Note

Can you explain how the US housing laws work? You have me interested

Short answer: they don’t.

Longer answer (because I have to work tonight and truly don’t have like 8 hours to write the thesis, because you bet your ass I could):

There is actually an internal structure that the low income housing system has been built around that makes it nearly impossible to navigate, difficult to get into, and specifically works against the people that it was supposedly built to help.

I’m actually not quite sure where to start with this, so it’s going to be all over the place and bouncing back and forth, but that’s also kind of on brand for the low income housing system.

The system as we know it is very much a post WWII thing, so the info here will be from after that point. A lot of this will be in kind of broad, sweeping terms. But since the US is like 60 different states in a trenchcoat trying to sneak into an R-rated movie, very little of it actually covers the entirety of the country. There are also state and city levels of bullshit that people have to wade through. Most people don’t make it.

I’m going to use my own experiences as an example. But know that my experiences are NOT typical. When I started down this rabbit hole, I was a 30-ish year old white woman, a part time student, presented as a professional female on a daily basis, had a fairly stable income from a job I had held for years, and a vehicle (though making payments). All of this put together meant I had it pretty easy.

Some of that caused problems, though. The vehicle was a problem. It was a newer model gently used vehicle. According to the dealership, the previous owner had traded it in because it was a manual transmission and they wanted an automatic. When I bought it, it had less than 60k miles on it and was in excellent condition. In the eyes of the people who approve the paperwork and rubber stamp applicants for low income housing, I could get rid of that vehicle, and the moneys spent on the payments and insurance could go toward housing. Which would be reasonable, except most of the US doesn’t have public transportation at all. What public transport does exist is sketchy, rarely runs on schedule, and often does not go into residential areas. I COULD have gotten rid of the car, but that would have meant a 2 mile hike to the nearest bus station, 4 hours on a bus to get to class and 5 hours on the return trip twice a week, then a 2 mile hike home OR a 2 mile hike to the nearest bus station, 4.5 hours on a bus, another 2 mile hike to get to work, and the same on the return. At that point, I would have been spending more time on the bus than either at work or school, and might as well just live on the damned thing, since all I would have time to do at home is shower and MAYBE eat a sandwich?

But that’s also typical. Part of the laws as they are written specifically state that a person or household can not own physical properties that are over a certain value, because those properties could be sold in order to elevate the person/family’s lifestyle. That also makes household absolutely reliant on public transportation, which is simply not available in many poor areas.

Which goes into redlining, and systemic racism, which is a huge part of this, but is a whole ‘nother essay.

The fact that I was a student also worked against me. If a person can afford to go to school, they can afford housing. So why would you want/need help from the government? I’m just thankful that I was a part time student when the need for low income housing arose… If you’re a full time student, you are automatically denied on any application for low income housing. There are different legal designations for “low income housing” and “student housing”. They can not exist in the same housing complex for legal reasons. So if I had been taking one more class that semester, I would have been denied, and would have been homeless.

That in itself doesn’t sound terrible. And there’s reasons for the legal differences. But think about it… What if I had been in the last semester of school and something had happened? What about the people who are both enrolled in school and are working, trying to make ends meet, trying to be able to do something better, and either their lease is up or they get evicted or… I don’t know… their house burns down or a tornado hits or suddenly medical bills? If a person fills out that paperwork while still a student, even if they say “I’m graduating next month and want to move in the month after that” they still count as a full time student and would get denied. Which means leaving school and being spit out into the post graduate world probably without a job, while being denied help with keeping a roof over their head, when it’s absolutely necessary to have a physical address while searching for a job.

Which goes into the anti-homeless way of thinking, which is a huge part of this, but is a whole ‘nother essay.

I’m going to lump the “fairly stable income from a job I had held for years” and “presented as a professional female on a daily basis” into one, because they are directly related. I had worked my way through a trade school, and had been working in the medical field for nearly 4 years. The practice was open 4 days a week. I was there 2 days, the male counterpoint was there the other 2 days. If a client preferred one of us over the other, either they scheduled appropriately, or the doctor asked us to come in for that client’s appointment time. Because a large portion of the clientele were middle aged and older, as well as conservative, the dress code reflected accordingly. Since I actually REALLY liked the job, and the doctor and his family were pretty awesome people, I dressed and styled accordingly, on a daily basis. But because the number of hours on the clock varied with the number of clients scheduled for therapy appointments, there were times when those paychecks got mighty thin. There were absolutely trends of busy seasons and light seasons. Sometimes during that light season there were days when I would go to work for a couple of hours, go home until about 3PM, then go back for 2 or 3 hours. It was hard to pin that down.

Having to explain that I could not pinpoint an amount of annual income with any accuracy while filling out the application worked against me. And just about anybody who works in retail, food service, etc. - all the jobs that people with low incomes tend to have – will tell you that they suffer the same thing. Go into work, put in a couple of hours, and have the manager come tell you to go home because it’s not busy enough to justify having people on the clock. But without having an accurate estimation of annual income (that could be verified by their calling your employer) means that the application is denied. The general consensus is that if you can’t pinpoint your annual income, then you’re lieing on the application, which means you’re untrustworthy, and therefore don’t deserve to get the help you need to keep a roof over your head.

That conservative professional look helped me here, though. I went into the office dressed well, in khakis and a nice blouse, to fill out the application and speak to the people. While I was there, another lady came in to fill out an application. This is somebody who I happened to know personally. She was also a professional, who was arguably in a slightly better place than I was because her income did not fluctuate (though it was low, as she was recovering from a divorce and most of the family income had come from her ex husband), but she was “dressed down” in shorts and a t shirt. We made the same arguments. I ended up in an apartment, and she did not.

Honestly, I was actually lucky to get into an apartment. A lot of people don’t realize it, but even with things being classified as low income housing, it takes a LOT of money to get into places. Just like every other rental in the US, before you move in, you have to pay the first month’s rent. And a deposit. And if you have pets, another deposit. And the cost of having the electricity and water turned on. And depending on the specific details of the contract you have to sign, possibly trash pickup. And if you want internet, either you pay for that and get a modem through the ISP, or you pay extra on signing the lease. And if you want to do your laundry in your home (if there’s even a hookup), there’s an extra rental fee for a washer and dryer, unless you bring your own.

I got lucky. When I applied and was approved, this particular housing development was running a “special” - if you sign a lease, you get one month rent free to use within 12 months of signing. I had to use it immediately. With all the extra fees and everything else, I could either pay for the rent OR the deposit, but not both – so I paid the deposit and laughingly told them I’d like to use that free month on the first month, immediately, right now, please and thank you, now where’s my key? They almost turned me away at that point.

I honestly believe that if it hadn’t been for my professional clothing and the fact that I could point to a couple of scabs on my face, that I would have been denied at that point. (The scabs were from a dog. I had been renting a room from a “friend” who is no longer a friend. Her dog bit my face, and instead of punishing the dog, she decided I needed to move out that weekend. Note: this is literally the ONLY time I’ve had a dog bite me, despite having been around them most of my life, and this particular dog had snapped at multiple people before.)

Which goes into classism, which is a huge part of this, but is a whole ‘nother essay.

Now the thing that has been on my last nerve for a few years now is a good one. The laws state that if your household changes in any way, you have to fill out the application again. Doesn’t matter if you literally got approved the day before: you fill it out again. Because there have been household changes. It doesn’t sound terrible at all, but I know somebody who got evicted from low income housing and ended up homeless because his wife left. Suddenly the household size was smaller, but had the same income, and it was over the limit for the household size. Sorry not sorry you have to go. I know somebody who was evicted for “falsified paperwork” because she had a baby and was in the hospital for 2 weeks, so didn’t get the paperwork in on time. They ended up in a homeless shelter (in this city, homeless shelters are more expensive than a lot of low income housing). Now she’s in debt that she’ll probably never get out of, due to that.

What’s more is that the eligibility requirements to be able to pass those income thresholds change constantly. Out of curiosity, I tracked the changes over the course of a year. Just checking on the first of the month. In a single year, the income requirements changed 10 times. It’s not easy to keep track of, and there’s not much reason to track it unless it’s literally part of your job, in order to keep in compliance with the laws.

My own personal gripe is much less severe than that. I can’t get married. Technically, my fiance can’t live with me. On paper, he lives with his parents, miles away. But he spends most of his time in my apartment, which is under my name only, because I’m disabled (but ineligible for disability) and need his help. We’ve been together for a decade. We’ve been engaged for over 5 years. But if we get married, then the household changes, and we have to fill out the paperwork and get approved again. The thing is: if we put together our incomes into one “household” income, we would never be eligible for low income housing. Which means we would have to move out.

Moving out comes with it’s own difficulties. Because of the paperwork you have to sign to lease low income housing – and depending on where you are because 60 states in a trenchcoat – there are hoops to jump through. The lease in this particular development, you get a choice. If you break the lease you either a) pay the full amount of rent on the apartment through the end of the lease term or b) pay two months’ rent on the apartment after termination of the lease. So not only would we have to find other housing that we could afford (with all of the move in fees, deposits, transfer of service fees for utilities, bla bla bla), we would also have to pay 2 months’ rent on top of everything else. Which means either borrowing literally thousands of dollars from an individual – banks won’t do loans for this – or having to decide which bills get paid and which don’t while surviving off of ramen noodles for months at a time. Which… uh… would not work well with the man-thing’s diabetes.

Which all goes into respectability politics, and deciding whether or not poor people deserve to have stability and emotional fulfillment, which is a huge part of this, but is a whole ‘nother essay.

Now this may sound like a whole lot of personal whining. And it kind of is. But I can’t speak for anybody else. This is my personal interactions with these people and with the laws behind their behavior. But it’s the laws themselves that are written to be exclusive of the people that need help the most.

Homeless people can not apply, because they don’t have a current address.

Unemployed people can not apply, because they don’t have an income.

Full time students can not apply, because of the legal definitions of the different types of housing.

People with “disposable” property (such as cars) are often denied because they could turn those assets into monies.

People who rely on that “disposable” property for work are unable to take advantage of low income housing due to the above.

People of color who have been relegated to specific neighborhoods where public transportation is not available due to the redlining of the last century are unable to take advantage of low income housing due to the above.

People who do not have thousands of dollars readily available are denied because they can not pay both the deposit and rent.

People who face employment discrimination (even though it’s illegal) are denied because they can not provide proof of steady income.

People who have bounced from employer to employer are often denied for the same reason.

People who have successfully gained low income housing are often unable to change anything about their household.

People who have successfully gained low income housing are often unable to get out of it if their situation improves.

All of it is written into the laws surrounding the housing itself.

So…. Yeah. It doesn’t work. But if you want me to actually get into the nitty gritty, I can start actually researching. But somebody’s gotta pay me for it.

#long post is long #hey nonny nonny #what was that?

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elsarah · 5 years ago

Text

Hearing loss and the world of the d/Deaf

First of all, many thanks to @thelouistiti for your question about resources on hearing loss. I decided it would be better to write everything myself rather than sharing a compilation of links.

Deafness/hearing loss is huge topic and it's two-fold: there's the medical aspect and the cultural one. When talking about Deaf culture and community, I'll capitalize the "d" as is customary to make the distinction. I'll talk from a French perspective, and as a person with severe acquired hearing loss, who is currently learning sign language and making her first steps into the Deaf community.

If you feel I'm too vague, that I need to amend things, or if you just would like to chime in and talk about your experience, my ask box is open and I'll share your input.

For the Frenchies and French speakers here, I also suggest this episode of "C'est pas sorcier" which is about the d/Deaf world. It's old as balls (late 90s) and many things have evolved since (FSL is now considered an official language in France), but they talk about the different types of hearing loss (conductive and sensorineural), how the ear works, hearings aids, and they tackle a bit Deaf History in France. It's a good introduction.

Now let’s begin if you’re ready!

What's hearing loss, how is it measured and what are the different thresholds?

Hearing loss generally refers to the loss of acuity in one or both ears. A person with hearing loss will have difficulties singling out sounds in a noisy environment, understanding speech and pinpointing where a sound originates, hearing a TV and making phone calls. There are a number of factors that can cause hearing loss such as: exposure to noise, ageing, genetics, medication, infections, ear trauma, etc.

Hearing loss is measured by the number of decibels necessary to perceive a sound on a scale of 0 to 8000 Hz (low to high frequencies). One will be considered hearing impaired when unable to perceive a sound under 25 dB. There are 4 thresholds, or degrees of hearing impairment: mild (25 to 40 dB), moderate (41 to 70 dB), severe (71 to 90 dB) and profound (greater than 90 dB). At 120 dB, the loss is considered total.

Hearing loss isn't necessary uniform across all frequencies: some people will have no trouble hearing low frequencies without being able to perceive anything higher-pitched than 1000 Hz.

Someone shared this great picture showing where the sounds of everyday life fall on an audiogram:

Other than severity, hearing loss is also categorized in 3 main types: conductive, sensorineural and mixed (the latter being a combination of conductive and sensorineural).

Conductive hearing loss: the sound doesn’t reach the cochlea (the inner ear). The causes can be infections, a damaged eardrum, malformations, impacted earwax among others.

Sensorineural hearing loss: dysfunction of the inner ear. The sound is able to reach the cochlea, but isn't handled properly. The most common cause is the destruction of the hair cells in the cochlea.

There is another auditory disability that isn't exactly hearing loss but hinders one's ability to understand sounds: auditory processing disorder. People with APD have normal hearing and no damage to the inner ear, but the sound isn't processed properly by the brain.

I'm keeping this short, but the corresponding Wikipedia pages are quite exhaustive, with statistics and all.

How to tell if one is deaf or hard of hearing (HOH)?

Well, it's actually complicated and depends on the person. I've noticed everyone has their own definition of deaf and HOH. According to some people, only people with profound to total hearing loss should be called deaf. Medically, it seems that people with severe hearing loss can also be considered deaf. I've seen people say that you have to be born deaf to call yourself so. And I guess that among hearing people, many think deaf people are simply the ones communicating in sign language.

And there's my personal take: you call yourself what you feel best describes your hearing abilities and problems. I feel that if hearing loss severely hinders your social and professional life, you may call yourself deaf. The degree of your loss doesn't matter that much if you feel isolated by your disability.

And to hearing people: you don't get to have a say if one is deaf or HOH. Period.

What are hearing aids?

There are actually 2 kinds of hearing devices: hearing aids and cochlear implants.

Hearing aids:

They improve hearing by making sounds audible, for example by amplification. Their settings are custom-made for the wearer by an audiologist. They come in all shapes and sizes but there are 2 main families: Behind the ear (BTE) and In the ear (ITE) hearing aids. The former are composed of a case attached to an earpiece that fits inside the ear. The case rests behind the ear and contains the electronics, controls, battery, and microphone, while the loudspeaker, or receiver, may be housed either in the case or in the earpiece These are particularly recommended for more severe hearing losses, but they're very versatile. In the ear hearing aids devices fit completely in the ear bowl (no case behind the ear) and are more discrete. They're usually recommended for mild to some severe hearing losses

Hearing aids can't completely correct hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss reduces the sensitivity to sound and aids can only partially compensate by amplifying sounds. Conductive hearing losses tend to be better treated by hearing aids; the amplified sound is able to reach the cochlea, and the signals are transmitted normally to the brain.

Cochlear implants:

You know how I said sensorineural hearing loss was generally caused by the destruction of hair cells inside the cochlea? These hair cells are sensory receptors that trigger nerve signals when detecting sound waves. The cochlea then converts those sound waves into electric signals that travel to the brain through the auditory nerve. So with damaged hair cells, the signals can't properly reach the brain and the information will be incomplete.

A cochlear implant bypasses the outer, middle and inner ear and generates the electric signals. It doesn't produce noise and unlike hearing aids, it doesn't amplify it. The outer part is composed of a microphone, a sound processor and a coil. The mic takes in sound, then passes it to the processor that crunches the data into electric signals called "channels", which correspond to different sound frequencies. The data is transmitted to the coil, placed on the scalp. The signals are then transmitted as wireless signals to a receiver and electrode array surgically implanted into the cochlea. The receiver converts the waves into electric impulses and when the signals reach the electrodes, they trigger the hearing nerve connected to the brain.

(source: Blausen.com staff, 2014)

What an implanted person hears is what the brain interprets from the combination of these signals. The limited number of channels in a cochlear implant means the sounds are very different from natural hearing and it is necessary to teach the brain to hear after the surgery. It typically takes months of auditory training. The implant doesn't replace hair cells and can't relay pitch and timbre. Implantation is also irreversible. But it allows people with a very low level of hearing to hear speech and pick up different types of sound. When one doesn’t benefit enough from hearing aids, it’s often the last alternative.

It is believed that implanting congenitally deaf children at a young age gives better results, but this is a very controversial topic and I'll get back to it later.

In France, hearing aids are expensive and cochlear implants even more so, but partially reimbursed (fully for children) by social security.

Are deaf people mute?

It’s a common misconception. When you have hearing loss, your vocal cords aren’t impacted. Deaf people can speak, and some really well; they sometimes just choose not to because it can be difficult to regulate volume and pitch. Some deaf people get discriminated for their accent.

So please, ditch the word deaf mute (”sourd-muet” in French).

Can deaf people listen to music?

Yes, but not with the same accuracy. People with profound to total hearing loss will mostly feel the beat and vibrations. There are backpacks and vibrating floors specifically designed for this purpose. People with hearing aids can link them to their music devices with Bluetooth or just wear headphones. The only exception, I believe, is cochlear implants. As they can’t relay pitch and timbre, music isn’t perceived as accurately. It gets better once the ear is trained.

By the way, try to be mindful with deaf people about music and don't imply we miss out on something great. Some don't care, some are perfectly content with what little they can hear and feel. And those who lost their hearing later in life don't need reminding.

How do you manage in your daily life with hearing loss?

Firstly, I would like to stress that most of the issues faced by deaf and hard-of-hearing people are social, not medical, we don’t usually suffer physically from our condition.

Regarding adjustment, it's different for everyone. How the person copes depends on lots of factors, including early vs. late hearing loss, gradual vs. sudden, as well as the severity, the communication needs and the personality (acceptance vs. aversion to change). Hearing loss is also linked to feelings of depression, anxiety, frustration, social isolation and fatigue.

Hearing loss hinders access to education and job opportunities due to impaired communication. In France, the unemployment rate of people with severe hearing loss is almost 4 times the national average. There are extremely few universities which offer proper higher education in sign language. Much of the available higher education adapted to the deaf and hard-of-hearing is short-termed and still very oriented towards manual jobs. And it's not necessarily easier for mainstreamed oralist deaf/hard-of-hearing people who attend universities. As a consequence, deaf people have lower levels of education, with only 10% getting a higher education diploma compared to 30% of the general population.

Access to services, infrastructure and culture is also still a problem. A very important law was passed in France in 2005 in favor of people with disabilities. It guaranteed, among other things, access to all areas of social life: education, employment, housing, transportation and culture. But progress has been very slow. In France, in 2020 for instance, it's next to impossible to find French movies with French captions in cinemas. However, almost all foreign productions in theaters here are available in their original version with French subtitles. Close captions are subtitles specifically designed for the deaf and hard-of-hearing. They supplement the dialog with all the other audio cues: ringtones, music, languages, and so on. They're also more expensive and there are few sessions offering them. Regarding telecommunications, we had to wait until October 2018 for a national telecommunications relay service that allows us to make phone calls with communications operators (FSL interpreters) and speech recognition.

Social integration is extremely important to our well-being. A lack of accessibility may be the cause of a drop in self-esteem and confidence, as well as social withdrawal. Hearing loss has been linked to Alzheimer's disease and dementia, especially among isolated individuals. Prejudice and discrimination are also a problem, probably more towards signing deaf people because both “slurred” speech and the inability to speak are perceived as alien.

Look, lack of accessibility is a pain, but it really shouldn’t prevent us from living our lives to the fullest. The important thing is to not stay alone, even though it's sometimes easier said than done. There is a lot of systemic pressure to make hearing loss invisible. Invisibility is even a selling point for hearing aids, while implanting children at an early age is encouraged to raise them in the hearing world… Many HOH people don't get access to the community simply because they don't know it exists!

Do you have to learn sign language when you become deaf?

No, you don't have to. The later you become deaf, the more you'll tend to continue using speech. But in my opinion, it's worth considering learning sign language for people with acquired hearing loss, especially children, even if they are fitted with hearing aids. Why? Because hearing aids can't do everything and their performance is very limited in noisy environments. It's great to have another ace up your sleeve to communicate. Also, and it's my personal experience, it's comforting to be in touch with the deaf community and people who share your joys and problems alike.

This is a very sensitive and controversial topic within the Deaf community, which is why I choose to give my opinion on acquired and not prelingual hearing loss. Prelingual hearing loss refers to people who were born deaf or became deaf in their infancy, before the acquisition of language. It means parents must choose how they will educate their children, if they will have them fitted with hearing aids or implanted, follow a mainstream education or go to a deaf school…

Deaf and hard-of-hearing people may also use cued speech (”Langue Parlée Complétée” or “LPC” in French). Cued speech is a visual rendering of spoken words. Some phonemes like "t" and "d" or "p" and "b" can't be differentiated when reading lips (which deaf and HOH people often do automatically). Cued speech renders all phonemes visible through handshapes, known as cues. They are 8 handshapes to represent consonants and 5 positions around the face to represent vowels. Associating one handshape with one position will cue a whole syllable.

Why is there a Deaf culture? What does it entail?

Now, it gets complicated. And fascinating. I won't dwell too much on the subject because I'm basically a baby Deaf gal and I'm not qualified. But my ask box is open if you would like to chime in.

From the moment people share a language and a history, they'll also share a set of experiences and issues, values, good practices, and basically a mindset. So naturally, with sign language being a real language, taught from generation to generation - as well as surviving a century-long ban from schools in France - a whole culture emerged.

And I should even say cultures… every country has its own Deaf culture because it's also tightly connected to the host country's culture and local sign language. The word "house" isn't signed the same way in French and Chinese sign language for instance because architecture isn't the same.

Deaf culture is very militant as Deaf people don't think of hearing loss as a disability. Deaf people typically don't speak of hearing loss but of "Deaf gain". I mentioned that there is systemic pressure to make hearing loss disappear. For instance by implanting deaf children at a young age to teach them to speak and integrate them into the hearing community. Deaf people see this as the death of their culture and language. For many people with hearing loss, Deaf culture means comfort, pride and community. From the Deaf perspective, hearing societies often fail to understand Deaf people's abilities and culture. From this point of view, the lack of communication stems as much from the inability of most hearing people to use sign language as from deaf people's inability to hear.

Deaf culture is however an open culture, you can join at any point in your life, you don't need to be born into it. It usually starts when you learn sign language and get acquainted to other d/Deaf people. A lot of people with late hearing loss are unaware such a culture exists and it often results in a lower self-esteem, as they don't find support in the hearing world. Some hearing people, especially relatives who learned sign language or interpreters, may be considered part of the Deaf community.

I'm not enough of an expert to write a full paragraph on the subject, but just know that just as in any culture, the arts are also very important in Deaf culture, especially visual performances, like drama and sign singing (chansigne in French).

For instance:

youtube

Where can you learn sign language in France? Where can you practice? Do you have any online resources?

First things first, sign language isn't universal. There are almost as many sign languages as countries in the world, though some are more closely related than others. American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL) differ widely as they use different basic signing systems. There is something called International Sign Language (ISL), but it is only used when Deaf people from different cultures meet, for instance during international competitions.

Regarding French Sign Language (FSL), there are a lot of organizations and associations which offer lessons such as l'Académie de la Langue des Signes Française, International Visual Theatre, 2LPE, Visuel-LSF, etc. Unfortunately, many (especially cultural ones) are located in Paris, and more sparsely in big cities like Lyon or Toulouse. If you're lucky, some high schools offer sign language as a third language, which allows you to gain extra credit for your baccalauréat.

Learning French Sign Language is very expensive, around 220€ for 30 hours. Financing for sign language can be hard to find and there are hardly any discounts or reimbursement schemes for people with hearing loss. Obviously, you may learn sign language through less expensive options, such as meetings at Cafés signes, which are small gatherings in a bar and welcome hearing people as well as deaf and HOH people. It's best to know at least the basics and to avoid Signed French (sign language has a different syntax) and several Cafés are limited to people with a certain level, but several associations like La Parole aux Sourds welcome everyone.

Some libraries in Paris have a dedicated section for sign language and Deaf culture such as Bibliothèque Louise Walser-Gaillard (next to the International Visual Theatre), Bibliothèque Saint-Eloi, La Canopée, Bibliothèque André Malraux and Bibliothèque Fessart. Books are great and may include a lot of signs, but they don't render movements very well.

There are plenty of online resources. I personally use Elix when I need to find a sign. It's a participative dictionary and still a work in progress, so all signs aren't referenced. What I find nice is that they provide variations of the same word. For instance, the word "mom" has a lot of “synonym” signs, depending on the area you live in.

Youtubers are an option BUT make sure you choose channels managed by a member of the Deaf community, a certified teacher and not a student learning sign language. It's important. I like Mélanie Lemaistre who has 2 channels. Her main one is MélanieDeaf, where she raises awareness on culture and sign language. On Signe2mains, she teaches a lot of vocabulary. You may also be interested in Lucas Wild's videos in which he signs and provides captions. It's good for training. And finally, I discovered this channel when typing this post and found it really, really good. It teaches idiomatic expressions in FSL.

But the most important thing when you want to learn sign language, like any living language, is to meet actual deaf people to practice. You have to learn to express yourself with your body and your face, and it's not easy for everyone. When you take lessons, the first hours are usually dedicated to mimes. Sign language is different than mimes as the frame is limited to your upper body but you still need to work on it at first. Signing people typically don't appreciate when you finger spell a word to learn its sign, it's more respectful to mime it.

Where can I meet Deaf people and learn more about their culture?

You may learn more about Deaf history and culture during Open Door Days, when organizations like the INJS (Institut National des Jeunes Sourds, one of the oldest schools for the d/Deaf in Paris) organize guided tours.

In Paris, there is also an amazing center called International Visual Theatre, which is dedicated to visual arts. I take sign language lessons there (they're excellent) and often go and see their plays, which are in both French and FSL.

Every two years, the city of Reims holds a huge international Deaf culture festival named Clin d'Oeil. Thousands of d/Deaf people come from all around the world to meet during 3-4 days (usually in July). It’s dedicated to sign language and visual arts: drama, dance, sign singing (chansigne in French), cinema, mimes, street performances… The next edition will be held in 2021.

Deaf people also organize gatherings, for instance during the World Day of the Deaf, every year in September, when we march for our rights.

Regarding the media, France Télévisions has a program called "L'Œil et la Main". It's in FSL and subtitled in French. They address current news (#MeToo, Youtubers, gene therapy, etc.) from a deaf perspective. There's also a news website entirely designed for signing deaf people called Media'Pi. In FSL, "Pi" means everything that's typical or related to a situation or a person and there's no exact translation in French. If you understand French, this subtitled video explains what "Pi" means.

Do you have any movies, series, books, etc. to recommend?

To be perfectly honest, I have yet to find entertainment media about deafness and hearing loss that I like. But I do like when movies or series include deaf characters and d/Deaf actors into their ensemble. I haven't watched Switched at Birth, but I liked Sean Berdy in what I've seen of The Society so far. There's another young deaf actress, Millicent Simmonds, who was recently in 2 movies: A Quiet Place and Wonderstruck (I'd like to see the latter one). Marvel's The Eternals will also feature the first deaf superhero, played by Lauren Ridloff. But none of them really address deafness and Deaf culture. Which is also totally valid, it's nice to have characters where aren't defined by their disability. It's just that yes, sign language is nice, aesthetic through the roof, but what about the culture?

I didn't like Children of a Lesser God (a movie based on a play), which is supposedly one of the most famous representation of deaf people in movies. I think it didn't age well. But it made Marlee Matlin famous and allowed her to talk about Deaf issues and to give the community visibility. It's a must-see, basically, but you might not enjoy it.

In France, we have hardly any representation in the mainstream media, which is why I have high hopes about Skam France and I hope I can soon add it to the list. I however recommend this documentary: J'avancerai vers toi avec les yeux d'un sourd, which the director dedicated to the friend who had taught her sign language and who sadly passed. I don't think this was distributed in English but I could be wrong! There's also Marie Heurtin, a movie about a young deafblind girl who is sent to a convent, where Sister Sainte-Marguerite decides to take care of her.

The only popular movie with deaf characters that came out in theatres recently in our country was La Famille Bélier. It's quite infamous within the Deaf community as hearing actors who were specially trained in FSL for the movie played two out of the three main deaf characters. We're used to having our roles played by hearing actors, the same happened to the recent theatre production of Children of a Lesser God where two hearies played the main characters.

I know that many people think cinema and drama are all about the performance and that it's ok when hearing people play minority roles. It's not. Have you ever seen a deaf actor play a hearing character?

I'm short on fiction works about hearing loss and Deaf culture though; feel free to chime in if you have recs. In France, Emmanuel Laborit, a French Deaf icon who won a Molière in the 90s for her performance as Sarah Norman (the main character of Children of a Lesser God), wrote an autobiography, le Cri de la Mouette where she addresses her childhood memories and the shaping of her identity though sign language.

What would help d/Deaf people?

First and foremost: visibility! Let d/Deaf people speak for themselves, demand from production companies that they cast deaf people for deaf roles. If you are not seen, you are not known. Invisibility plays a big role in the negative perception hearing people have of hearing loss. I've seen people here saying that becoming deaf was their worst fear in the world. How sad.

Many people with hearing loss will spend their whole life with it. We have a long road before us and we don't want to fight it through. Give us positive representation, people to admire and to support. Give us good stories. Giving us visibility will also shine a light on our issues and our needs regarding accessibility. Keep that in mind and be proactive. You don't realize how tiring it is, when you are deaf, to organize your own accessibility at an event because nobody thought about it. Equal opportunities don't mean you have to treat us like you would treat abled people and just let us be (you know we are already aware we have the right to exist?). It means giving us the tools we need to thrive because we start with a pretty big impediment.

Don't let deaf people bear the brunt of the lack of communication, especially if they choose not to talk. You wouldn't do it with a foreigner. Use voice recognition or type your sentence on your smartphone, use mimes, but just try. A conversation goes both ways and we are the disabled ones, not you.

So that's it. That's the post. If you have questions, I beg you to ask them, my ask box will ALWAYS be open for his purpose. I had to keep this as short as possible and left many things aside, but I hope this will give you a good insight into hearing loss and the d/Deaf world.

#many thanks to my boyfriend for reviewing this #ilu honey #and many thanks to Gaëlle for explaining how this goddamn site works #Manon rambles

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