#pool chemicals on sale

[thepunkmuppet]

ordered my buffy and vampire mansion t shirts in 3XL and shock horror!! they were way too big to wear (like. I can’t even describe how big it was I looked like I was wearing a poncho) and I’ve had to return them and exchange for XL ones. #tboyproblems I guess lmfao going too big for dysphoria and then having to go way smaller 🤡

[onesourcepool]

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[sanctus-ingenium]

answering your asks vol 3

Full context for the Inprnt issue can be found here on this post , tl;dr my shop is closed until I receive my payments from inprnt in a timely manner and essentially won't reopen unless they clean up their act. Regarding the money they owe me outlined in that post, I still have not received it and on Friday I sent a support ticket in to inprnt demanding they send it soon. Haven't heard back since. I think where Inprnt is concerned, it's worth mentioning that they no longer send promotional emails (which used to be a regular occurrence) and there seems to be a complete lack of communication and the only thing about the site that regularly updates is the sale banner (ending soon!!! 🙄)

So honestly I'm of the opinion that the print on demand bubble has burst and that this method of selling art was a very short-lived feature of an internet that doesn't exist anymore. Think about it - I make money on a sale after having spent nothing on promotion, on materials, on postage fees, etc. It's so easy to game the system using bots or stolen art to essentially print free money that I'm shocked it even lasted as long as it did. Maybe I'm wrong but I won't tie myself to another print on demand service that's just going to pull the same old shit redbubble and inprnt have done this year, or one that requires me to constantly promo it like some kind of influencer on instagram or tiktok or whatever.

Will prints come back? I hope so. I am looking into local printing shops and considering the feasibility of handling the process myself but you must understand that if I do that, the price will rise. I won't have the ability to run constant discounts or eat a loss if I order 20 prints and only 7 sell. It is what it is.

And the actual worldbuilding asks below the cut lol:

(referring to this post)

Only if you want to! I've had a few people send me cool sketches and stuff via dms and it's always nice to see but you really shouldn't feel pressured to. After all it's not like I post my rough practice here lol (that goes on patreon ;)

-

I'm going to be SO real with you right now - I did not consider that at all. However I do know that tinting flames with various chemical compounds was a huge part of alchemy, part of the whole flashy show of it to impress the layperson. So sure, I bet they do throw in copper sulfate or various other chemicals to produce the coloured flames - these make a huge impression on witnesses who might not even have imagined such a thing possible, and also help identify a holy beast at a distance on a battlefield choked with smoke and dive-bombing serpents.

Fun fact, the flames come from the furnace wells, right. Each well is connected to specific systems, where it can most efficiently deliver fuel to the heart and onwards. So it is possible to 'read' the pattern of flame bursts from the furnace slits - they are not constant, but there'll be one every few seconds based on when the furnace tenders excite each well. You can tell at a distance, for example, that Leun is readying an acid spray, or rerouting power to the rear legs for a leap, or even what direction he's turning. It all runs at a slight delay, which is why the crew inside has to be SO closely coordinated.

-

@absolutely-flabbergasted Knights are allowed to reproduce but not marry, because it's sort of accepted theory that blood relatives of a knight will be 'accepted' by the knight's beast when the time comes. This is not true but it means that sometimes the knight's apprentices are their own children. The other parent is mostly another member of the church and usually not identified or considered important (unless they're a smith...). There are usually a decent number of known knight bastards running about.

Smiths are not allowed to have families or marry, because their first devotion should be to their art or their beast if they are assigned to one. If one tries, the kids are taken away, anonymised with new names, and put into the pool of potential novices in some other stable. Now, in reality some stables or churches are just not that strict and have a slightly different culture, so there's often an Open Secret about some master smith's illegitimate family or a priest's secret mistress. This is tolerated by the authorities to a certain degree but if it becomes too rampant there'll usually be a change of management and some sort of crackdown.

Families who give up their second born cannot stay in contact, but if the child becomes successful in some way (say, if the child becomes a knight) the families are sent tokens symbolising this which can be placed in the family/village shrine. This can be a huge point of pride, with some people faking the tokens just so that they can show off about their successful kids that are totally knight apprentices.

The reason they don't get to stay in touch with their children is due to the secretive nature of the church and its arts. The church has been at war with the neighbouring nations for a long time and only its mastery of engine work has kept it afloat, and nobody wants these secrets to fall into enemy hands. Particularly if your kid goes on to become a scribe, which is if anything an even more closely guarded profession than that of a knight (those engine diagrams don't draw themselves). The laity are usually quite devout and understanding of this. If they aren't, they might attempt to find their child, often without success.

If you want your church kid back: it depends. If you can prove to the church authorities that you need your child's labour to stay afloat or to carry on the family line, they might take that into consideration. Of course, the only children that return are the likes of sweepers, cleaners, altar boys, pages, etc. Nobody who might have witnessed any Secrets. The church is best understood as being in the middle of a cold war for the past few centuries (and sometimes just regular war) so it's far more closely guarded.

-

@kicks-tiktaalik-back-into-water

It's not likely. Even if the ventilation system worked perfectly, he is still from an older generation of holy beasts and no longer represents the pinnacle of the technology. Leun might have a less sophisticated ventilation system but everything else about him is head and shoulders more advanced - including the crew number he can take on. Leun only requires a single enginesmith in the heart, for example. This is because there's more automation of his systems, and he can actually manage to walk home from battle without anybody inside at all, just based on the knight's input (because the throne chamber is open to the air the knights are technically not inside the beasts). It's not preferable (it can damage the systems) but it is a huge bonus.

Think about how in the early days of commercial aviation, there could be as many as eight people working on the flight deck. In the 60s, a 3-person crew was standard; captain, first officer, and flight engineer. Today there are only two pilots needed. This is down to increased automation, and it means that it is cheaper to fly the plane - the airline has to hire fewer pilots, 'flight engineer' is a nonexistent role these days, and that means you need to train fewer people, have fewer people on call, feed fewer people etc etc. It is cheaper for the church to run Leun than it is to run Krokodilos and even though the church is wealthy, the money and resources are not infinite. Especially now, in times of plague. Leun, for all everybody sings his praises, is basically a reskinned Pantera with better systems - again, cutting costs, because now we can get all of Pantera's old enginesmiths to work on him instead of having to train up new ones on a brand new and wholly unique platform. It's as much a matter of logistics as it is innovation and technology.

[stranger-rants]

hey i was wondering if you had any headcanons (bc i always love how wonderful yours are 💕) about harringrove/metalsandwich and their domestic duties or strengths and preferences? like do the neighbors assume steve is the one who keeps such a lovely yard, when billy's the one tending and fretting over the flowerbed. did eddie ever buy those gargoyle yard ornaments? did steve go through an early 2000's phase and the other two had to talk him out of buying the molded hand-shaped chairs for the patio? what happens inside their home?

For some reason, Steve strikes me as the pool guy. I know it seems like something Billy would be good at and he is because of work but he didn’t grow up with a pool and he prefers the ocean. As far as buying the chemicals, measuring everything meticulously, opening and closing the pool, et cetera - that’s Steve. Steve and his sun visor and khaki shorts and flip flops going, “how’s the water?” Billy responding with, “I’m swimming in it, ain’t I?” Steve pumps his fist like a football coach watching his team score a touchdown. Dork.

Eddie is good at rigging things. Need Christmas lights up? He’s got it. He’s used to setting up PA systems for shows. To anyone else, his wires look like a chaotic mess of electronic spaghetti but he knows exactly where everything goes. So any household decorations that need some complicated setup automatically goes to him - and he loves it. Says it’s a puzzle for him to solve. If it were Billy, he would have rage quit a long time ago. Their house on Halloween is a sight to be seen.

Billy is the grill master. Just stands shirtless at the grill with a beer in one hand. He makes some good food too. It also means he doesn’t have to interact with anyone at the summer barbecue because he’s busy roasting vegetables and flipping burgers. Steve and Eddie know not to ask him when the food will be done or to break his concentration away from the grill unless they too want to be skewered alive. They can watch from the patio table and talk about more important things like how cute Billy looks in his little apron.

Steve has no sense of home decor. He thinks he knows but he doesn’t. Billy is a flea market bitch, Eddie is a ‘I found it on the side of the road’ bitch, and Steve is an ‘I ordered this from a catalog’ bitch. It gives their home an eclectic look, but every year they gotta get rid of a bunch of shit (they have a garage sale) and every time Billy and Eddie conspire to sell whatever weird lamp or vase or patio chair Steve bought for way too much money.

They all garden together, actually. They’re terrible to begin with, but learn how to do it together.

[dollsonmain]

New "houseperson" job posting from the Casino. I'd prefer that to cleaning the individual rooms, really. The part where it says you have to clean out the ash trays puts me off applying more than anything else. I don't want to work around smokers.

"Reports problems and safety issues to supervisor" could have been ONE bullet point, not added to almost every bullet point AND it's own bullet point.

Uses daily checklist to direct and record activities

Inspects entries including: door mats, trash cans and cigarette urns to ensure cleanliness standards have been met. Cleans and reports any problems to supervisor.

Maintains cleanliness of Lobby, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, dusting, picking up debris and trash, emptying trash cans.

Cleans assigned public hallways, policing for trash and/or debris; vacuums and dusts hallway furniture and fixtures and washes corridor windows on schedule. Reports problems and safety issues to supervisor.

Greets guests in hotel public areas as they are encountered, always smiling and conveying positive hospitality standards.

Assists with setting and arranging conference rooms in preparation for events and meetings, according to Sales department specifications. Cleans room(s) after each day’s use.

Cleans Public restrooms and maintains room supplies.

Maintains cleanliness of Pool area, reports problems to supervisor or Maintenance as appropriate to property standard. Is there a pool on property?

Uses floor machine to scrub tile floors and uses floor wax to polish floor after application.

Uses carpet machine to clean carpeting and remove stains

Cleans, vacuums, dusts and empties trash cans in staff offices. Also maintains cleanliness and supplies for Employee Break Area as may be assigned to include wipe down, sweeping, mopping, emptying trash and re-stocking.

Delivers clean linens and collects/removes soiled linen.

Re-stocks Housekeeping storage closets as needed

Makes up cribs and rollaway beds (along with room attendants) after use and prior to storage

Delivers Housekeeping supplies as instructed.

Assists Housekeeping staff with movement of heavy items such as mattresses.

Responds quickly and courteously to guest requests. Follows up to ensure guest satisfaction.

May be required to clean rooms as may be necessary.

Provides a professional image in appearance and behavior at all times.

Follows all company policies and procedures and actively participates in all hotel meetings, task forces, training and programs.

Thoroughly familiar with Emergency Procedures.

Familiar with HAZCOM as related to position. Follows all chemical and equipment safety handling procedures.

Always alert for Security and Safety issues and hazards and reports same immediately to supervisor.

.... jfc that's a lot to expect one person to do.

The only thing I really can't do is using the floor buffer. My back can't take the side-to-side motion which is why I had "no mopping" on my permanent profile in the army.

[jasondiana18]

How Roof Cleaning Services Can Save You Money in the Long Run?

Roof cleaning services may seem like an additional expense, but they can save you money in the long run by preventing potential damages, extending the life of your roof, and maintaining the overall integrity of your home. 

Here's how investing in roof cleaning services can be a cost-effective decision:

Preventing Structural Damage: Regular roof cleaning prevents the accumulation of debris, leaves, and other materials that can trap moisture. Moisture retention can lead to the growth of mold, mildew, and algae, which can compromise the structural integrity of your roof over time. By preventing these issues, you avoid costly repairs or even the need for a premature roof replacement.

Extending Roof Lifespan: The longevity of your roof is directly tied to its maintenance. Algae, moss, and lichen growth can eat away at roofing materials and lead to deterioration. Professional roof cleaning removes these harmful elements, preserving the quality of your roof and extending its lifespan. A well-maintained roof can save you the significant expense of a premature roof replacement.

Preventing Leaks and Water Damage: Clogged gutters and drainage systems can lead to water accumulation on the roof. This standing water can find its way into your home, causing leaks, water damage, and potential mold issues. Roof cleaning services ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear, preventing water from pooling and damaging your home's interior.

Reducing Energy Costs: A clean roof reflects more sunlight, reducing heat absorption. This is particularly important in warmer climates. When algae and other contaminants accumulate on your roof, they absorb more heat, leading to increased indoor temperatures. A cooler roof helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the strain on your HVAC system and ultimately lowering your energy bills.

Preserving Roof Warranty: Many roofing materials come with warranties that are contingent on proper maintenance. Neglecting your roof can void these warranties, leaving you responsible for any repair or replacement costs. Regular roof cleaning helps you fulfill warranty requirements, protecting your investment and potentially saving you from out-of-pocket expenses.

Enhancing Curb Appeal: A clean and well-maintained roof contributes to the overall curb appeal of your home. If you decide to sell your property, a well-maintained roof can significantly increase its resale value. Potential buyers are more likely to be attracted to a home with a clean and aesthetically pleasing exterior, potentially leading to a quicker and more lucrative sale.

Avoiding Algae and Moss Remediation: Once algae and moss take hold of your roof, they can be challenging to eliminate. Professional roof cleaning services can prevent the need for costly remediation efforts, such as pressure washing or chemical treatments. Regular cleaning stops these issues from escalating, saving you money on more extensive interventions.

Preventing Pest Infestations: Debris on the roof can create hiding places for pests like rodents and insects. Over time, these pests can cause damage to your roof and infiltrate your home. Professional roof cleaning removes potential habitats for pests, reducing the risk of infestations and the associated costs of pest control.

Reducing Insurance Premiums: Some insurance providers offer discounts for well-maintained homes. By investing in roof cleaning services and maintaining your home's overall condition, you may qualify for lower insurance premiums. Over time, these savings can add up, offsetting the cost of regular roof maintenance.

In conclusion, roof cleaning services are a proactive investment that can save you money in the long run by preventing structural damage, extending the lifespan of your roof, avoiding water damage, reducing energy costs, preserving warranties, enhancing curb appeal, preventing costly remediation efforts, avoiding pest infestations, and even qualifying for insurance discounts. By prioritizing regular roof maintenance, you not only protect your home but also make a sound financial decision that pays off over time.

[lunarcovehq]

Júlio César Carvalho is a werewolf that currently resides in Downtown and has been a Lunar Cove resident for all his life.

ITS THE END OF THE WORLD

GENDER/PRONOUNS: Cis Male, He/Him

DATE OF BIRTH: January 28, 1984

OCCUPATION: Figure Skating Instructor & Private Coach

FACECLAIM: Paulo Lessa

AS WE KNOW IT, AND I FEEL FINE

SPECIES: Werewolf

WOLF CLASSIFICATION: Beta (Born Wolf)

PACK AFFILIATION: Second In Command

WELCOME TO LUNAR COVE, JC CARVALHO

Trigger Warnings: Injury; Death; Alcohol References

The air pulsed electric—pungent with the hum of “magic” and warm with the piercing stench of chlorine. Hunched over a radiator, atop which a metal popcorn container was proving a proper cauldron, the boy, wrapped in a beach towel like a makeshift cloak, stirred his concoction with a plastic snorkel. The child mumbled an “incantation,” made-up words, voice low and steady, as the steam finally began to rise, until his mother’s firm hand was tugging him swiftly away and tossing the bubbling mixture into the air. As if on its own accord, then, a wave of water, twisting upward from one of the swimming pool models on display, surged to catch it in a frothing swell. It dragged the container down to the depths, a pool floor patterned with river rocks, where the toxic solution fizzled out harmlessly after a few moments.

Júlio César Carvalho, who had gone by JC his entire life, knew better than to touch the various chemicals on-sale in the swimming pool and garden store his family ran in Lunar Cove. And he certainly knew better than to touch the radiator, which had added enough heat to spark a reaction. Still, the boy’s mother was a witch, one with an affinity for water, and JC, huddled in their little brown kitchen, had watched her countless times brew potions atop their little porcelain stove. Observing the spectacle, but never participating, some part of him had decided that third-grade really was the proper opportunity to begin mixing up some of his own. But while his bloodline was certainly magic, JC himself was not; only child of a spellcaster, he was not one himself, nor would he ever be.

His father—who had turned his back on the pack following a land dispute and who was now floating eternally on the very precipice of full abjuration—had gifted his son with a solemn birthright, the dormant werewolf gene, maybe the only thing he had ever really gifted him. That gene had passed its persistent, winding way down through many generations, a lineage that traced itself to the decade following Lunar Cove’s very founding. 

And this family line had once been proud, even locally famous, mostly for the time Júlio César’s grandmother won several rounds on a game show in the 1970s, only to lose purposefully on an easy question and flee Hollywood just prior to the full moon. A recording of those very segments ran in an eternal loop on a box television near the pool store’s front counter, although keen viewers would notice she never did tell the host the name of her hometown. 

Still, the Carvalho gleam seemed to be fading by the time JC himself was born. The boy’s father, who had inherited the shop from his parents, certainly made sure of that, through a combination of public confrontations, of unsavory business dealings, and of, much to his family’s chagrin, a marriage to a true outsider, a non-local witch, who, despite her actual prowess, had made it more than clear she had no intention of joining the coven. 

And so, Júlio César himself grew up in an almost detached human way, touched by magic he could never use and aware of the sleeping wolf within, but with no real opportunity to engage with either of the legacies that had forged him.

Still, JC did try to find a place among his peers in Lunar Cove. He began participating in sports at a young age, starting with soccer but then transitioning to more physical ones like hockey and football, at least partly because his father was trying to foster some degree of masculine hardiness within him. He performed best on the ice, however, his preferred arena when compared to the field. The rink became a second home, enough so that his mother joked, from time to time, that ice itself flowed through his veins, perhaps a metaphor for her own familial affinity for water magic. 

Nevertheless, as JC’s teammates began reaching their growth spurts, the boy found he could not hit back quite as hard as they were now hitting him. He was quicker, though, agile. And the moment that would kickstart his eventual career came when an instructor at the local rink watched JC tug his arms inward, lift up his leg, and complete a respectable rotation despite his bulky hockey skates. 

The motion had been a joke, of course, a funny dance to entertain his friends, but the coach approached the boy’s mother and made mention of natural aptitudes. From there, JC did not need much convincing, as this new activity allowed him to stay on the ice even during the off-season. His father grumbled about it, about having to fund ice time and lessons, although his real disdain for the sport was rooted more in its lack of true physicality, its inability to toughen his son up. 

But as the months went by, Júlio César began devoting himself almost entirely to figure skating. He was attracted to the athleticism and to the freedom of it. This new hobby also gave the boy, a playground parkour folk hero, one who already had a bit of a hyperactive need to climb atop high things and jump off them, the designated allowance to leap as much as he wanted. 

And by the time JC was making his way through high school, he was skating and competing, to some success, at a junior level, all the while working various part-time jobs to pay his way when his father finally decided to do so no longer.

Despite his natural skill, though, JC was a small fish from a small pond. Attending community college during the day, working by night, and practicing in the meager hours in-between, he still convinced himself that he would one day see the Olympics. He did not come near to qualifying in 2002, and so, undeterred, he began working even harder towards 2006, trading his courseload for more hours at work to fund more sessions at the rink. His scores markedly improved, but that year, JC weathered the single most defining encounter of his life, one that would, at the very least, interrupt his momentum.

At an out-of-state competition, he, against his better judgement, went out for friendly drinks with two men he had outskated and outranked that same day. A friend of theirs, a rowdy, boisterous stranger, arrived, and alcohol led to a lowering of inhibitions for all involved parties. From there, an exchange of cruel words filled the pub. 

The fight eventually turned physical in the alleyway outside, and when the drunken new arrival threw back a fist to punch JC, the young werewolf stuck out his own hands and shoved him defensively backward, sending his attacker sprawling onto the pavement, where he hit his head on a raised piece of curb. 

Paramedics arrived to find Júlio César leaning over him, failing at first-aid. But the man never even made it to the hospital. And having him struck him down, then, accident as it was, JC found the wolf still sleeping within him suddenly and viscerally awakened. 

The incident caused something of a sports gossip scandal, and while JC himself was never charged, a number of witnesses outside the bar vouching for him, he still stepped back from his sport to return home. There, he would have to deal with the change due to arrive and accept a proper slap on the wrist for allowing the whole affair to happen in the first place. 

The young man did not, however, seek out his father. He sought out instead the pack, the one that had once been home to his ancestors. Deferential, humble, and nearly pleading, he, maybe even to his own surprise, found himself welcomed back into its fold with open arms, and he emerged, thus, as a full Beta among friends.

One or two skating blogs regarded JC with pity as he returned to the competition circuit, but as he stepped back onto the ice for the first time in many months, he did so with a strange and almost frightening new vigor. All at once, this once mid-level competitor, was stronger and faster; he could jump higher and farther. JC suddenly dominated, becoming something of a fan favorite for his frantic, risky style, but he also became more reckless, caring less for safety so long as he could keep maximizing his performance. 

While he was now boasting a clear record of victory, a minor injury caused by his own foolishness kept him once more out of the Olympic running, and feeling the approach of his thirties, his dreaded expiration date, JC soon pivoted to pairs, hoping to find a hopeful new niche. He became partners with Kim Binna, a young skater from his hometown he had seen compete in Nationals. 

Just as the two of them were beginning to find a real groove, however, JC overextended a jump and landed hard on his ankle, a much more serious injury that would end his burgeoning career. He returned home to Lunar Cove, moped, and eventually, just as he had done all his life, decided to move past it with every ounce of willpower he could muster. 

His local successes were notable. He began working as a skating instructor and coach at the same ice rink in which he had grown up, eventually helping kickstart a program that partnered with Lunar Cove’s schools to foster young talent. He served as a frequent guest at the local radio station, largely as a sports commentator. He volunteered to pick up trash along the shoreline and served as emcee at more than one pancake breakfast. 

And while JC, a hometown hero now in his own right, did not even speak to his father anymore, having at last abjured him following a blow-out fight, the television set in the swimming pool store suddenly played recordings of his winning long programs on a loop, rather than his grandmother’s quiz show.

It was not long before JC was appointed Saskia’s second in a move that seemed natural at the time. After all, he was good PR for the pack, publicly well-liked with a degree of celebrity and enough press training to serve a proper representative. Likewise, he had come to the pack submissively, without haughtiness or ambition, and in being welcomed by it, now held it in the highest regard. He would serve its best interests at all times. And finally, while JC, still the athlete, was capable of physically holding his own among in-fighting, he was not so threatening as to prove a potential usurper. 

The Alpha’s murder, however, catapulted his world into disarray. Standing in the shadow of her absence, Júlio César was the one to contact her son, Nico, to take her place, knowing that while he himself would be able to maintain peace temporarily, his own lingering injury, flaring over time, would prevent him from confidently shutting down any outliers who might try to wrestle away control.

Today, he still serves as Nico’s second. Fiercely protective, loyal, disciplined but recklessly dauntless, and equal parts compassionate and stern, he remains a wolf first and foremost, one who encourages those who look up to him to be the best versions of themselves they can be. That said, his loyalties lie with the pack, not with the Council at large, an admirable or dangerous trait depending on the individual one asks.

[nameless-brand]

Companies and their People of Interest::

Wayne Enterprises ::

Wayne Enterprises is an international conglomerate with a net worth of over 300 billion dollars. It is a company that was private, made public briefly, and became private again [ see Lucius Fox, self-reference and Wayne Industries goes Private again [6] ]. Its roots are here in Gotham City. The enterprise is separated into multiple divisions ranging from shipping, chemicals, manufacturing, health care, aerospace, and entertainment. However, its crown jewel is WayneTech, its research and technological arm. One could also consider it as its military arm.

Within Gotham City, Wayne Enterprises employs around 150,000 people. This means they hire around less than 1% of the city's population. My numbers might be wrong though, given how many divisions Wayne Enterprises has and not all of them named after Wayne - so this might be updated as needed later.

Note: Part of the reason why I had confidence in entering Gotham as a business is because out of all the divisions it has, Wayne Enterprises does not actually deal with supermarkets and groceries. Yes, there is a Wayne Foods, a less known subsidiary of WayneTech, but it is more for food and agricultural research. Otherwise, my approach might need to be reconsidered.

Bruce Wayne ::

The current owner and majority shareholder of Wayne Enterprises is Bruce Wayne. Orphaned at a young age, Bruce Wayne disappeared off the radar for several years only to reappear as a celebrity socialite and later take up the mantle of owner of Wayne Enterprises.

Tabloids love him, given how he hooks up with a new guy or gal almost every week, sometimes both. He's what you would expect from a guy born into a whole lot of money and not afraid of it running out - using it to make a spectacle of himself. Taking a dive into a pudding pool is one of his most recent spectacles on Twitter.

Despite his wastefulness, he isn't all that dislikable. Sure, he says some really dumb things like how last week he was surprised that people wait for clothes to go on sale to buy them. But he's never done anything particularly evil. No news of Bruce Wayne humiliating others, making people do things against their will, or endangering the public. And he's also established the Wayne Foundation, which is the largest, transparently operated, private foundation in the nation.

However, he is more ambitious - more dangerous - than he looks, given how perfectly he regained control of Wayne Enterprises after his reappearance. Of course, he also had Lucius Fox by his side the entire time, but a normal person would've just settled for getting his company back into private domain - not create a situation where he becomes the majority stockholder by far. It's a little bit of buried history given that it's over a decade old, but it's available if you look for it [ see Lucius Fox, self-reference ].

Note: Random thought. He probably will get canceled on Twitter someday, not through an immense moral failing on his part but through a dumb "let them eat cake" statement.

Lucius Fox ::

The current CEO and President of Wayne Enterprises. Since Bruce Wayne seems determined to never work a day again in his life, all of the work falls onto his CEO's shoulders, and he manages to do so spectacularly. To be fair, I really doubt Bruce Wayne would've helped much, given how competent Lucius Fox is - and I suppose Bruce has already done enough given how his shares were required to prevent a hostile takeover and the general philanthropic direction of the company.

Lucius Fox was known for his consultant services prior to his current position. Both an excellent businessman and entrepreneur, he is known for having the "Midas" touch and has a track record of working with failing companies and turning them into powerhouses in the industry.

---

There was a period of time where Wayne Enterprises ( Wayne Industries back then) was turned into a public company over a decade and a half ago, a decision made by its Board of Directors due to waning profits, as Bruce Wayne had not reached the age of majority to participate in the shareholder vote and wanted nothing to do with the company management during his time abroad - the shares he inherited from his family were considered absent for voting purposes. Lucius Fox was one of the many consultants for the public transition and declared that taking the company public would be dangerous for it. His warnings were left unheeded.

His predictions came true after a couple years when the board of Wayne Industries ended up in a proxy war with several prominent Gotham families and Reddick Industries through their undetected purchasing of stock through shell companies. Lucius Fox, having advised against the public offering, was again consulted, and he advised bringing Bruce Wayne back to participate in the shareholder meetings and votes which were to be done in person (a time before Zoom was common).

Bruce Wayne was recalled back to Gotham City. His 15% of stock was key to preventing a hostile takeover. It was around this time that Lucius Fox and Bruce Wayne got acquainted.

Over a period of four years, Wayne Industries lost over 60% of its value due to the in-fighting. The Board of Directors revealed themselves to be greedy which was why they went public in the first place, and the only reason why they hadn't accepted the other offers was because they believed they could milk the cash cow which was the company. Mass layoffs were a regular thing, and chunks of the company were getting sold over to the highest bidder. Eventually, in the face of potential bankruptcy, even the Board of Directors started selling their stocks at a premium.

And then all of a sudden, Wayne Industries makes an announcement that Lucius Fox will be the CEO and President of the company. And Lucius Fox declares in a public interview that Wayne Industries will be delisted - made private again. It is there that it is revealed that Bruce Wayne owns over 60% of the company and has agreed to the transition (this percentage later turned to 80% after the minority shareholders realized they would no longer have a voice in the company).

The rest is history. Wayne Industries becomes Wayne Enterprises, and Wayne Enterprises becomes a multi-billion dollar international powerhouse known for cutting-edge technology.

Note 1: I suspect Fox and Wayne did what the other Gotham families and Reddick Industries tried to do to Wayne Industries except better. They likely bought the stock of the hostile party through shell companies and then continued to pretend to be hostile to the company, constantly exerting pressure on the Board of Directors. As the company stock plummeted, members from the Board of Directors decided to sell too - and they'd buy up those up as well, naturally pretending to be the company during the votes. They continued to keep a delicate balance between the two with neither party realizing they were getting played. Once there was no chance either party would get the majority vote ever, that's when Fox and Wayne decided to reveal themselves. It's pretty ballsy. To be willing to watch the company bury itself into the dirt and have the confidence to bring it back up again.

Note 2: I want to poach Fox. Yes, I'm aware I don't have anything to tempt him with. But I still want to poach him. But if I can poach him, that'd mean he isn't loyal - and my desire to poach him would drop immensely despite Fox's talents. Such a dilemma.

[exactlydeliciousgiver]

How Many Grams Are in an 8 Ball? Essential Facts You Should Know

When it comes to illicit drug terminology, certain terms have become commonly understood within various subcultures. One of the most widely recognized terms is the "8-ball." While this term might initially bring to mind the black-and-white pool ball, in the context of drugs, it has a very specific meaning: an 8-ball is a reference to an eighth of an ounce of a substance.

What Does an 8-Ball Mean?

In the drug trade, how many grams are in an 8-ball quantity of a substance, most often cocaine or methamphetamine. The term originated from the standard unit of weight used in the black market, where substances like these are sold in smaller quantities to users. An eighth of an ounce (1/8 oz.) weighs about 3.5 grams, and this weight has been colloquially referred to as an "8-ball."

The History of the 8-Ball Term

The term "8-ball" is thought to have originated from the world of drugs, where dealers and users were looking for a quick, shorthand way to discuss quantities. Since an eighth of an ounce is a common measurement for smaller transactions in the illicit drug market, it became popular to refer to it as an 8-ball. While it is most closely associated with cocaine, it has also been used for methamphetamine and other drugs in the same context.

Why 3.5 Grams?

The 3.5-gram measurement is rooted in the fact that an ounce is a standard unit of measurement. One ounce is equal to about 28.35 grams, and dividing this into eight equal parts gives you a little more than 3.5 grams per part. This made the 3.5-gram portion ideal for smaller, street-level transactions, which often involved users purchasing small amounts of drugs for personal consumption. how many grams are in an 8-ball

8-Ball in Popular Culture

The term 8-ball has also gained prominence outside of the illicit drug trade, especially in popular culture, music, and films. It has been referenced in countless songs, TV shows, and movies, further embedding it in the lexicon. In some contexts, it is used to reference the drug itself, while in others, it might be more metaphorical, signifying risk, thrill, or danger.

However, it’s crucial to note that the term's association with illegal substances and the potential for addiction and harm cannot be ignored. Whether in cultural references or in the street economy, the use of an 8-ball remains inherently tied to dangerous activities and is not without its risks.

Understanding the 8-Ball's Role in the Black Market

For people involved in the illicit drug trade, how many grams are in an 8-ball is often a practical measurement that helps in making smaller, more affordable transactions. By purchasing an 8-ball, buyers can acquire a sufficient amount of a substance without needing to commit to purchasing larger quantities, like a full ounce. This allows for more flexibility in the buying process, particularly for casual users.

For those unfamiliar with drug transactions, it's important to recognize that buying drugs in these small quantities often leads to continued use and dependency. The illicit drug trade itself is rife with danger, and the substances traded are typically unregulated and often laced with other harmful chemicals.

Legal and Health Implications

While knowing how many grams are in an 8-ball might be important in certain contexts, the legal and health implications cannot be ignored. The possession, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs is a criminal offense in many parts of the world, carrying serious legal consequences. Additionally, the health risks associated with drug use are profound, including addiction, overdose, and long-term physical and mental health problems.

Conclusion

An 8-ball, in terms of weight, refers to 3.5 grams, which is an eighth of an ounce. It's a term widely recognized in the drug trade, particularly for substances like cocaine and methamphetamine. While it may have cultural relevance in music and movies, it’s important to understand the dark implications tied to its use. The 8-ball is not just a measure of weight, but a symbol of a larger, dangerous world of drug-related activities, which brings with it significant risks to health, freedom, and well-being.

[a1poolremovals]

7 Practical Benefits Of Backyard Pool Removal

Backyards are versatile spaces that can transform the way we use our homes. Many homeowners find that making changes to their outdoor areas opens up new opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and functionality. Altering the layout of your yard by pool removal Melbourne can have numerous advantages.

This guide explains the practical benefits of having your backyard pool removed, shedding light on why this change can be a game-changer for your property.

Enhanced Space for Versatility

One of the most noticeable benefits is the significant increase in usable space. Once a large feature is gone, you can reimagine your yard for other purposes. This extra space can accommodate outdoor seating areas, gardens, play zones for children, or even a small basketball court. The flexibility allows homeowners to design a yard that reflects their current needs and lifestyle, which might have evolved since the feature was first installed. A larger, open area also creates a more welcoming and functional environment for gatherings and family activities.

Reduced Maintenance Effort and Costs

Maintaining certain backyard installations can be both time-consuming and costly. From cleaning and repairs to chemical treatments and upkeep, these features often require regular attention. By opting to simplify your outdoor space, you eliminate the ongoing need for these tasks, saving countless hours and significant expenses in the long term. With less maintenance to worry about, you can spend more time enjoying your yard rather than managing its upkeep.

Lowered Utility Bills

Large outdoor features can have a considerable impact on your utility costs, especially during warmer months when their use tends to spike. For example, water and electricity expenses can add up quickly. By making changes to your backyard layout, you can reduce these recurring costs significantly. This adjustment not only benefits your wallet but also aligns with a more sustainable lifestyle by conserving resources and reducing energy consumption.

Improved Safety for Families

Backyards with certain features can pose risks, particularly for families with young children or pets. Eliminating potential hazards creates a safer environment where everyone can play and relax without constant supervision or worry. Whether it’s concerned about slips and falls or other accidents, a streamlined backyard design minimizes risks and provides peace of mind for parents and pet owners alike.

Increased Property Value and Market Appeal

Simplifying your outdoor space can make your property more attractive to potential buyers. While certain features might appeal to a niche market, a flexible and open yard has broader appeal, making it easier to attract interested buyers. This versatility allows future owners to envision their own use for the space, increasing the chances of a successful sale. Additionally, a low-maintenance backyard is often a key selling point in today’s real estate market, where many buyers prioritize convenience and ease of care.

Opportunity for Eco-Friendly Landscaping

Replacing older installations with eco-friendly landscaping solutions is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint. By introducing native plants, drought-tolerant gardens, or permeable paving, you can create a sustainable outdoor area that thrives with minimal water and care. These green initiatives not only benefit the environment but also lower your long-term costs. Additionally, sustainable landscaping can improve soil quality and encourage biodiversity, fostering a healthier ecosystem in your backyard.

Freedom to Create Your Dream Yard

Perhaps the most rewarding benefit of altering your backyard layout is the chance to start fresh and design a space that truly reflects your preferences. Whether you dream of a vegetable garden, an outdoor entertainment area, or a peaceful retreat surrounded by greenery, the newfound freedom allows you to turn those dreams into reality. With the constraints of older features gone, the possibilities are endless, giving you the ability to tailor your outdoor space to perfectly suit your current lifestyle.

Deciding to change your backyard layout can be a transformative experience that yields both immediate and long-term benefits. From reducing maintenance and utility costs to enhancing safety and increasing property value, the practical advantages are numerous. Moreover, the ability to redesign your outdoor area to align with your personal vision makes this decision even more rewarding. By reimagining your backyard, you not only enhance your property but also create a space that better serves your family’s needs and aspirations.

[openplotsmumbai]

Experience Nature and Sustainability with Our Farm Land in Bodhisettypally

If you’ve been searching for a way to reconnect with nature while investing in land, the farm land for sale in Mumbai Highway Hyderabad offers the perfect opportunity. Spread across 51 acres, the Bodhisettypally project combines natural living with modern amenities, offering you the chance to own a sustainable farm that is both eco-friendly and profitable.

Sustainable Living at Its Best

This farm lands in Mumbai Highway offers a unique lifestyle with plot sizes ranging from 3 to 20 guntas. Located just 45 minutes from Hyderabad, Bodhisettypally offers a peaceful and serene environment where you can live amidst fruit-bearing trees such as mangoes, coconuts, and guavas. Every plot is designed for optimal growth with drip irrigation and eco-friendly farming practices.

Expert Maintenance for 5 Years

One of the standout features of the Bodhisettypally project is the ISO-certified maintenance provided by natural farming experts. With this, your land is guaranteed to be taken care of for the first 5 years, ensuring that the produce remains healthy and thriving. Plus, you'll have lifetime access to the Natural Harvest Club, where you can learn about sustainable farming techniques, exchange ideas, and collect your harvested fruits and vegetables.

Pure Dairy and Organic Produce

For those who appreciate pure dairy products, Bodhisettypally offers a Gaushala with desi cows that provide fresh A2 milk, curd, and butter. You even have the opportunity to purchase a desi cow, allowing you to enjoy fresh dairy at home. This emphasis on sustainable dairy farming ensures that you get the highest-quality, chemical-free products.

A Hub for Recreation and Learning

Beyond farming, the Bodhisettypally project farm lands for sale in Mumbai Highway Hyderabad provides a variety of activities and amenities to make your life richer and more enjoyable. Engage in activities like kite flying, cycling, gardening, and even pottery. The project also includes rural games such as Kho-Kho and Tokkudu Billa, perfect for reconnecting with your roots. Enjoy the swimming pool, star gazing, and bullock cart rides for a complete rural experience.

Perfect Connectivity

Bodhisettypally offers the perfect blend of rural tranquility with easy access to the city. It is located in close proximity to key areas such as:

20 minutes from Sadashivpet

30 minutes from IIT-Hyderabad

45 minutes from the Outer Ring Road at Muthangi

60 minutes from Hyderabad’s Financial District

With such convenient connectivity, you can live in peace in farm lands in Mumbai Highway without sacrificing urban conveniences.

Build Your Future at Bodhisettypally

The farm land in Mumbai Highway Hyderabad offers a unique opportunity to live a healthy, sustainable life while still remaining connected to the modern world. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or want to start your own farm, Bodhisettypally provides the perfect environment to grow, relax, and thrive.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this sustainable farming revolution. For more information, contact us today!

[astralux1]

How Swimming Pool Pump Suppliers Help You Save on Repairs

Owning a swimming pool brings joy, relaxation, and the promise of fun-filled days with family and friends. However, maintaining your pool is essential to keep it functioning smoothly, and this includes taking care of its heart—the pool pump. The pump ensures proper water circulation, filtration, and chemical distribution, making it an integral component of your pool's health.

In this article, we will explore how swimming pool pump suppliers play a vital role in helping you save on repairs, providing insights into quality products, expert advice, and preventive maintenance tips. Let's dive in!

1. The Role of a Pool Pump in Your Pool System

Before understanding how suppliers can help, it's important to grasp why a pool pump is crucial. This device circulates water through the pool's filtration system, removing debris, distributing chemicals, and preventing algae buildup. Without a functioning pump, your pool water can quickly become cloudy and unsafe for swimming.

Ensuring the pump operates efficiently minimizes the likelihood of costly breakdowns. That’s where professional suppliers come into the picture, helping you make informed choices.

2. Quality Products That Last Longer

Reputable swimming pool pump suppliers stock only high-quality pumps and parts designed to last. Investing in a durable pump reduces the frequency of repairs and replacements, which can save you hundreds of dollars in the long run.

Many suppliers partner with trusted manufacturers to offer energy-efficient and robust models. By choosing a high-quality pump, you not only save on repairs but also benefit from reduced energy costs.

3. Expert Advice Tailored to Your Needs

Navigating the variety of pool pump options can be overwhelming. Suppliers bring invaluable expertise to the table, helping you select a pump that aligns with your pool’s size, type, and usage.

For example, choosing the wrong pump size can strain the motor and lead to premature failure. Suppliers help you avoid such pitfalls, ensuring you purchase the perfect fit for your needs.

4. Access to Genuine Replacement Parts

When a pump component malfunctions, replacing it with genuine parts is crucial to maintaining the pump’s efficiency. Reliable suppliers stock authentic replacement parts that are specifically designed for your pump model.

Using counterfeit or substandard parts can cause further damage, leading to frequent repairs. Trusted suppliers ensure you get components that extend the lifespan of your equipment.

5. Preventive Maintenance Tips and Support

Many swimming pool pump suppliers go beyond sales, offering preventive maintenance advice to help customers extend the life of their pumps. This includes:

Regular cleaning of the pump basket and filters.

Inspecting for leaks or unusual noises.

Monitoring water levels to prevent the pump from running dry.

By following these tips, you can avoid common issues that lead to expensive repairs.

6. Warranties and After-Sales Support

One of the key advantages of working with reputable suppliers is the warranty coverage they provide on their products. These warranties can save you significant repair costs in case of a defect or malfunction.

Additionally, suppliers often offer after-sales support, guiding you through troubleshooting or connecting you with professional repair services when needed.

7. Cost-Effective Repair Solutions

Suppliers with a strong industry reputation often maintain networks with skilled technicians. If your pump does require repairs, they can recommend reliable and cost-effective repair services.

Having a trusted supplier ensures that you won’t overpay for repairs or deal with inexperienced technicians.

8. Energy-Efficient Upgrades

Did you know that upgrading to an energy-efficient pool pump can save you money in the long run? Many modern pumps feature variable-speed technology, consuming less electricity compared to single-speed models.

Suppliers are well-versed in these advancements and can guide you in selecting a pump that reduces both operational costs and the need for repairs.

9. Seasonal Offers and Discounts

Swimming pool pump suppliers often provide seasonal deals and discounts on their products and services. By taking advantage of these promotions, you can purchase high-quality equipment at a lower price, leaving room in your budget for other pool maintenance needs.

10. Building a Long-Term Relationship with Your Supplier

Establishing a long-term relationship with your swimming pool pump supplier can prove beneficial over time. Regular customers often receive exclusive deals, priority service, and personalized maintenance advice.

Moreover, a trusted supplier becomes a go-to resource for all your pool-related needs, making maintenance more manageable and cost-effective.

Swimming pool pump suppliers are more than just vendors; they are your partners in ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your pool pump. From offering high-quality products and genuine parts to providing expert advice and cost-saving solutions, they play a pivotal role in helping you avoid expensive repairs.

By choosing the right supplier and following their guidance, you can enjoy a well-maintained pool, save money, and reduce the stress of unexpected repairs. The next time you’re in the market for a pool pump or parts, remember that investing in a reliable supplier is a smart move for your wallet and your pool’s health.

For More Details Visit Us…

Swimming pool Pump suppliers Dubai

[prachicmi]

The FRP Soft Stone Market will grow at highest pace owing to rising new construction projects

The FRP soft stone market has witnessed significant growth over the past few years due to its lightweight, easy installation, cost-effective nature and durability. FRP soft stone is a glass fiber reinforced plastic material that mimics the appearance of natural materials like granite, marble or limestone but is considerably lighter in weight. FRP Soft Stone Market Growth finds various applications as cladding on walls, facades and pool decks. FRP soft stones offer advantages like resistance to weathering, fire, chemicals, scratching and stains over conventional stone materials. With growth in residential and commercial construction globally, the demand for aesthetically appealing yet low maintenance exterior cladding materials is rising at a rapid pace. This drives the sales of FRP soft stones significantly.

The Global FRP Soft Stone Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 3.54 Bn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 8.0% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031. Key Takeaways

Key players operating in the FRP Soft Stone market are REVONO, MaterialSyi, MATLAB Architechtural Materials, and Steps Material. The global construction industry has been witnessing steady growth over the past few years with increasing development of residential, commercial and infrastructure projects worldwide. This rising construction activity is expected to fuel the demand for FRP soft stones that provide a natural look to buildings at lower maintenance costs. Market Trends

Lightweight trend - FRP Soft Stone Market Size and Trends are increasingly getting preference over conventional natural stones owing to their lightweight nature which eases installation processes and reduces infrastructure load.

Sustainability focus - Manufacturers are formulating FRP composite mixtures using recycled plastic and fiber content to develop eco-friendly products catering to the sustainability needs of the construction industry. Market Opportunities

Growing remodeling and renovation industry - Recovery in construction activities post COVID-19 pandemic is driving remodeling and renovation projects globally presenting opportunities. Emerging markets - Markets in Asia pacific and Latin America offer high growth potential attributed to rising construction spends and building construction boom in the regions. Impact of COVID-19 on FRP Soft Stone Market Growth The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the global FRP soft stone market. During the initial outbreak in early 2020, construction activities came to a halt across major countries which led to decline in demand for FRP soft stone products. Disruptions in the supply chain networks further aggravated the challenges. With lockdowns restricting people's movement, new construction projects were postponed. However, as the restrictions started easing from mid-2020, the market witnessed gradual recovery. Get more insights on, FRP Soft Stone Market

About Author:

Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)

[mi6011dhanushkanth]

I've listened to nearly all of the Oxford Sparks podcasts, including "THE BIG QUESTIONS," and I've taken note of a few that caught my eye.

1.Why am I killing my house plants? So the way that I like to explain this is that we as humans, if we find ourselves in a big deluge like a swimming pool, we’re able to move and go to the top of the water for air. But plants aren’t able to do that. If they’re rooted, they’re stuck where they’re rooted. They can move between generations, but a certain generation can’t necessarily move. So the plant has to adapt the way it grows to cope with different amounts of water. So a tropical plant and a desert plant have evolved completely different ways of dealing with water and so if you underwater a tropical plant, it might wilt and die. But a desert plant, if you overwater, that might have the same effect.

2.Can we talk to bees? So, we know quite a lot about how honey bees communicate with each other. One of the ways that they do that is through something called the waggle dance, which is a special little dance routine that they do to tell other bees the exact directions to some sort of, you know, flower source. Something delicious to eat. So that’s one kind of communication that we know about. We know also that insects communicate using pheromones. But I’m specifically looking at bumblebees, which are the cute, fuzzy bees that we find in many places in the world. And in the UK, we have a bunch of different species, which is really exciting. And we don’t know as much about what bumblebee communication looks like or how they’re communicating with each other in the nest using vibrations or other kinds of audible sorts of signals.

3.Does banning smoking work? I think there could be and there has been some kind of modelling by the Department of Health that has said that with this policy of raising the age of sale year on year, that we could see very, very low numbers of children smoking or young people smoking by 2040. It’s unlikely to be completely eradicated while cigarettes are available in some form because not everybody goes into a shop and buys cigarettes. But the thing is, as well as just stopping people from buying cigarettes, what this policy will do is basically denormalise smoking. It means that less people will be smoking. It’s just seen as less of a normal thing in our society to smoke, which we’ve seen happen over the years, and this is one of the reasons why youth prevalence has dropped. But any policies like this are just going to make it seem more unusual to be smoking as a young person.

4.Would you want to meet an alien? Well, no, and it’s a bit of a sad story, isn’t it? But, you know, at some level, we’re not, are we? I mean, if you look at… Nature is red in tooth and claw for a reason. That statement, “Nature is red in tooth and claw,” that statement is a fact, and it’s red because of iron. It’s the iron in the blood that makes it red. It’s a very rare resource now in the environment, compared to how life kicked off with.

And I guess that other aliens would probably have gone through the same sort of pathway. They might want iron, and where’s the most iron around right now? It’s in you and me, it’s in organisms.

5.How do you convert CO2 into jet fuel? Okay. So CO2 is a very stable molecule. Very low activity. And it needs hydrogen to react with CO2. In theory, they can react. Like a boy and a girl that wants dating. In theory they can, but because they’re separated by a river you have to build a bridge for them to meet. So the catalyst is like a bridge and you must find the right catalyst for CO2 to react with hydrogen to make aviation fuel or other chemicals. So this catalyst is very similar to a bridge. You must find a very good catalyst for CO2 to be used.

6.How has life expectancy changed after the pandemic? If you take a long view for the last 200 years, the progress has just been remarkable. We can expect to live twice as long as our ancestors, which is really amazing when you think about it. But there have been some signs of trouble on the horizon, especially in the US in about the last 20 years, where life expectancy improvements had really slowed down and even gone a bit backwards in the US. From 2014 to 2017, they saw declines, which is really unusual.

You know, in the last couple hundred years, we’ve seen this steady march of improvements of life expectancy except for, you know, the 1918 flu and the two world wars. So to see this unexpected decline in the US just, kind of, come out of nowhere was really startling to a lot of people. And the UK is doing better in absolute terms than the US. 7.Is the metaverse doomed? Well, there are many metaverses that are cropping up, insofar as we can think of any 3D space as potentially being immersive. So, Fortnite is a classic example now, where people go, and they both will play videogames – you know, running around, shooting, and zapping, and whatever – but also engage in trade, engage in, like, go to even libraries. There are special events that will happen. Ariana Grande, for example, did a really big thing in the Fortnite metaverse.

Minecraft is an example of a metaverse, where people go and they build things in a whole bunch of different servers. The servers, kind of, link together, and if you were to walk around with a headset, you may think of it as a metaverse.

So, does Facebook have a stranglehold? Not in the slightest. What Facebook does have is a lot of clout, and has spent a lot of money on their metaverse, or horizon worlds, as well as the design of avatars and their considerations of things like what would make a place safe, as well as what might make it profitable.

8.What makes the human brain so special? It’s pure anatomy. So, in this case what the sequence is sensitive to is the movement of water through the brain. And the movement of water through the brain doesn’t go everywhere unconstrained, it is constrained by the myelin, which is sort of the fatty tissue, the fatty substance around your white matter pathways, and that helps the conduction speed.

So, in certain diseases where that fatty substance is degrading, like multiple sclerosis, the communication between different parts of the brain isn’t very good anymore, but it has the advantage for us that it also doesn’t allow water through.

So if we can just find a way to track the movement of water through the brain, we have a way to reconstruct these tracks.

9.What is green steel? I could start comparing materials, but just to give you an example, when you speak about any material, one of the properties that we use is Young’s modulus.

Young’s modulus is basically telling how much your material will deform if you put a certain stress, a certain pressure on that material. That number for steel is 210,000 megapascal. It doesn’t tell you anything at this stage, but if you take aluminium, for instance, just that number for aluminium is 70,000. That number for concrete is 30,000 and for timber, it’s 10,000.

So we’re not talking about small differences here. We’re talking about multiplication factors between materials. That is why steel is- well, that is one of the reasons why steel is so incredible and irreplaceable.

So green steel would mean steel that has been produced based mostly on green energy, such as green electricity, for instance. So taking a very simple example, green steel would be steel that is produced through the electric arc furnace and that electric arc furnace would be using green electricity.

So hydropower, the sun, et cetera. Obviously, in this case, the environmental impacts that are associated to production of that steel are very low.

10.How does a pandemic end? Unfortunately not. I think one thing which people will find unsettling is one of the common responses that we see at the end of epidemics in the past is people saying, “This is not the end,” and waiting for what they call the ‘next wave’.

At the end of the 1918 influenza epidemic, actually what we see is the most common response to the end of an epidemic is waiting for the next outbreak to happen. Of course, it’s only when, many years later, it doesn’t happen, then people finally, retrospectively, can conclude: “Okay, the epidemic actually ended.” Sometimes they even conclude: “Okay, the epidemic actually ended 100 years ago.”

Unfortunately, (Laughter) one of the problems with being a historian is you realise just how difficult it is to predict the future, but at the same time, I think, we should take some reassurance in knowing that the end process is meant to be messy and that we should also think about what that means in terms of having a lot of patience and tolerance for people who might have different understandings of the end process than we do.

11.Why do we develop bad habits? That’s a very good question, and one we’re trying to study. There are the habits as we think of them, which is the colloquial one, the one that we use in everyday life, which is just how everyone talks about a habit: you’re doing the same thing, over, and over, and over again. You’re not paying attention to it, and you don’t think about it.

In science, we try and define them as actions that you do all the time, when you’re not even thinking about what the action is causing. So, the food is in front of you. You keep eating, even though you’re full, because you’re having a conversation with someone. Or you open your phone and you look at your Messenger app, even though that wasn’t what you were planning on doing. That’s what a habit is. It’s when you stop paying attention to what comes next.

It’s not easy. Habits themselves aren’t really good or bad. It’s the consequences of the action that tells you whether or not it’s a good habit or bad habit. Sometimes, a lot of things can start as a good habit, like exercising regularly, and it can turn into a bad habit: you exercise even when you’ve got work to do, because it’s such a habit to get up and go.

In science we tend to focus on good habits rather than bad, but that’s just because it’s easier to do positive outcomes than negative outcomes, in an ethical sense. But any behaviour that’s happening over and over again is a habit, so whether it’s good or bad.

12.How do you tackle hate speech one emoji at a time? We stated research emoji-based hate back in January. But hate speech or abuse expressed in emoji really came to the forefront of public attention over the summer, and that was following the Euros 2020 Final.

And I don’t know how many listeners are football fans, but basically what happened is three members of England’s team, who missed their penalties in the final, were really subjected to this torrent of emoji-ed abuse. So, monkey emoji, banana emoji, watermelon emoji, were just some of the racist content reported by users on Instagram and Twitter.

But the real challenge here is understanding context. So, the same emoji can have wildly different implications, depending on how it’s used in a sentence. If you use the monkey in a tweet talking about your favourite animal at the zoo, then that’s perfectly legitimate content, there’s no problem with that.

But then if you use the same monkey emoji to racially abuse England’s football players, then that use of the emoji comes with this whole history of racial slurs, discrimination and lived depression.

So, that’s where the challenge really lies, is that there is really no such thing as a hateful emoji, in and of itself, it’s not that much of a black and white distinction. It’s really how the emoji is used in a sentence.

13.Can we build an eco-friendly aeroplane? So, we have to keep the temperature at a much lower value than the melting point of the metals, of course, because you want to have a high safety factor, right? You don’t want to reach the temperature or even go nearby that value. So, what we are trying to do is to develop advanced cooling technologies that basically use part of the air that is sucked upstream the engine and a part of that air is used to cool down the components, like the rotating blades.

So, we machine very small holes on the outer casing, but also on the blades of the turbine. This air that is cold, much colder than the air coming from the combustion chamber, is then spilled into these holes and the cold air is creating a film that is protecting the materials. So, imagine you have the hot stream coming from your combustion chamber that is, basically, instead of touching directly the surface of the blades, the surfaces are protected by a film of cold air that is spilled through the holes.

14.Are video games good for my mental health? Oh my God, no. So, we found that people who actually play more video games are more likely to say that they feel happy. It’s entirely possible that happier people or people who have been happier in the last two weeks, they just have more time in their lives to play ‘Animal Crossing’ and ‘Plants vs. Zombies’. It’s a correlation, and, you know, correlation does not equal causation here.

So, we’re doing the kinds of studies right now where we follow the same players over time and look at what happens when you increase or decrease your video gameplay, how that impacts changes in your health and wellbeing, but yes. No, we’re quite a far way away from me saying that we should prescribe video games or something silly like that.

15.How do you grow the perfect tomato? you can pick your tomatoes from seed or from transplants. And so in places with shorter growing seasons, it’s likely you would use a transplant, but obviously whenever you’re just picking a transplant or a seed, you have to pick the type of tomato you want, right?

And so you have to think if you want to do sauces or you’re thinking tomatoes for salad, maybe you’re drawing some tomatoes and also think of like what you look for in a tomato. Do you want something sweeter, something more acidic, more balanced? What colour tomato do you like?

There must be thousands of tomato varieties. And so the choice is yours.