#uros journal

[wyrdstonethenovel]

Towards East

AN: Wyrdstone is a serial fantasy novel updating every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday right here on Tumblr. Wyrdstone is a classic rival's fighting for the throne TM. With magic. And oaths. And gods. And tomb raiding. And of course, they gayz. The stakes are about to be raised. Enjoy:

XVIII. TOWARDS EAST 

Clavo overlooked the workmen’s crates, his dirty fingers running along the seams of his eyepatch. Nia took another small pace back; when Clavo was in a mood this dark it normally preceded violence. Foreman Vir watched nervously as the legate paced around the crates. He held up a golden bangle, delicate and masterfully crafted with fine gems, and hurled it against the far wall. Vir flinched. Clavo grabbed the crate off the table and threw it to the ground. “It’s all useless! Get it out of here.”

The foreman whistled and two legionnaires carried out the crates. Clavo wiped the sweat off of his scalp. “And there isn’t any other tunnel we can shove her into?”

Nia frowned. Vir looked down at his boots. “We’ve already searched everywhere.”

“Well it has to be here.” 

Vir fidgeted with his cap. “We get the orders where to dig from the legion. Our sources have run dry. We have dug everywhere you have ordered us to.” 

“I’m well aware, thank you.” 

“My men tell me that the legendary general is deceased. Stormlord bless him.” Vir continued. Clavo’s jaw tightened. “Sir. He was our last tie to—”

“Don’t you think I know that? I’ve already written to my father.” Clavo snapped. 

Lero crossed his arms. “Legate, are we in danger?” 

Clavo glowered at him. “This conversation does not concern you.”

“I think it does. Is my sister, your wife, your son in danger?” Lero pushed. “Legate,  what is the Conqueror making us look for?” 

Clavo straightened his spine and faced them and for the first time Nia could see near panic in his eye. “A star.” He said shortly. “The Conqueror has ordered me to procure him a star.” 

“A star?” Lero couldn’t contain his surprise. “The Emperor’s having you dig up the desert for a star? Like one in the sky?” He pointed to the ceiling of the burial chamber. “What does that even mean?” 

Vir held his hands up defeated. “Only his esteemed imminence knows.”

“Foreman.” Clavo growled. 

“Well, do you know what this mythical weapon looks like? For all we know you just shattered it into a million pieces!” Vir pointed to the broken bangle. 

“That girlish bracelet is not what the Conqueror covers.” Clavo scoffed. 

“How do you know?” Vir’s voice squeaked. 

“I’m supposed to know when I see it!”  

“That’s not enough to go off of!” Vir said. “We’ve been at this for years.”

“No.” Clavo admitted. “I suppose not.” 

“Did Legate Xur not keep careful accounts of the siege of Anu-Uro-Set?” Vir asked. 

“Of course he did.” 

“And do you not have these records?”

“No. I?” Clavo began to pace. His hands ran along his bald scalp. Nia and Lero exchanged nervous looks. “The legate was the last one alive to see the star. His records are kept with the other histories in the great libraries. We could ask him ourselves had he not just died.” Clavo grit his teeth. “If we could get our hands on the journals then it could lead us where we need to look. The journals are property of the scholars.” 

“I have men to spare.” Vir offered. “To grab them.”

“I cannot send some legionnaire with a matter this important.” The Legate quickly dismissed. “And I can hardly go myself. There is so much that needs to be done here. I’d need to send a representative from the house directly, to show the Governor the severity of the situation.” Clavo’s pale eye landed on Nia and Lero. 

“Me?” Nia squeaked. 

“Yes. You’ve already been instrumental in the search, whether or not you realized it. You’ll both go. I’ll write you a letter to deliver to the Governor personally. You will go to Ash-Kai and request copies of Legate Xur’s siege of Anu-Uro-Set. With luck it will give us enough time to locate the Conqueror’s tribute by the time he arrives.” 

He wanted to send her to Ash-Kai. Nia swallowed her objections. She was bound by her mercy to Clavo. If she did not go, her family would be punished. If she failed to succeed her family would be punished. If Clavo did not find the star, whatever that was, then her family would be punished by the Conqueror. The ugly severity of the situation weighed down on her shoulders. She looked at the panic in Clavo’s pale eye. Maybe they were in even worse danger than she had realized. The thought of it slid chills down her spine. 

By the time they left the necropolis it was already late afternoon. Lero said nothing as he saddled his horse, his anger mirroring her own. At the top of the crater Nia cleared her throat. “I’m going to ride for a while, clearing my head.” 

Lero turned his head sharply. “You pick now to run?” He whispered furiously. 

Nia schooled her chin. “I’m not running.” But the aker wants to murder Clavo, and I need to go before I let her. 

“Let her go Lero. It is by my mercy you breathe. She knows the stakes.” Clavo nodded, as if it was his will being carried out. 

Nia hated him. The aker’s rage was so sharp, so close to the surface that she kicked into Ajaxi’s sides. She had to get away from the man who had cost her everything. 

As she rode she allowed her fury to fester. She could not believe that Clavo would send her to the Kai’s. Nia held no love for the House. They had surrendered to the Conqueror during the war. It was their fault that she had no control over her life. That Cythe was a wife and her brother a soldier and her a thief. 

It was nearly an hour later when Nia spotted the vertical structure. She spurred Ajaxi forward. The two story guard tower sunk into the earth at an uneven angle. Its spire, which one would have born a flag and firepit, laid further off in the dunes. Nia dismounted at her respite. The watchtower had been one of the first structures she had added to her maps when she had first started searching for a way through the Dunelands. It was far enough into the dunes that Clavo’s men wouldn’t strive from their familiar trails to find it. She had claimed the old building as her own. 

The first floor was covered in a thick layer of sand. Ajaxi harrumphed and laid in the shade. Nia wiped down his coat and fed him. Once he was content Nia climbed the ladder up to the next floor. The square room bore a similar scene to many she had discovered over the past four years. Remnants from a violent struggle.  On the far wall a soot covered mural displayed a ram. The watchtower had once bellowed to the Great House of Xur. When Nia had first discovered the space, she had twisted her ankle tripping over a legionnaire’s shield. 

Nia undressed slowly, placing her clothes neatly inside one of the cedar chests. Although she was prepared for it, the aiya still hurt like hell as the aker manifested. Her bones cracked as they were stretched and reformed; her mouth bled as teeth broke through her tender gums. She sank into the dark red sand of the Tuat as her consciousness was clawed away from her. 

Some time later Nia awoke naked. Her memory of the aker had already faded, but there were new scratch marks on the floor tiles. Nia got dressed and muscled herself up to where the roof had once been. She sat on the petrified wood support beam and dangled her feet in the open air. 

Night fell over the Dunelands. She fell deep in thought. The Conqueror’s legionnaires had torched every settlement north of De-Asha during the Conquering. Xur was nothing but rubble and sun dried corpses. Where was there to go but Aker-San? 

Nia let out a frustrated sigh. It was only a matter of time before she displeased the Legate, or the aker got its vengeance. Nia wasn’t strong enough to possibly stop the monster. And where in the Empire could she possibly go? She was kerai. Her existence was a death sentence. 

She was hit by the Peddler’s clear disappointment. And then Lero’s. Honestly, the two of them would have gotten along swimmingly. 

Promise me you won’t abandon us Nia. 

Was it abandonment if it was just survival? 

Nia unsheathed the Peddler’s dagger and spun it on the beam. Instinctively she knew the blade faced east. Nia tilted her head back out to the Dunelands. She could search them for a thousand lifetimes and still not find the pathia. She stared overhead at the Ashenian sky, out into the Ker dunes and back at the blade. Nia spun it again. East. A third time. East. 

Nia sheathed the dagger and frowned. Something niggled at the back of her mind. Something Clavo had said about the records from the Conquering being kept in Ash-Kai? The Conqueror had killed the navigators; burnt their schools; confiscated their maps. What if the way to Aker-San was not in the Dunelands, but on Ashenian soil? 

When Nia arrived back to De-Asha the following morning, her first stop was to confirm her working theory. “You’re still alive.” Merka said from behind his stall. 

“Is that anyway to greet an old friend?”

Merka waved her in from the street. He lifted up the countertop and walked Nia through the alleyway to his residence. He waved her inside. Nia coughed into her hand. The sweet smell of opium that clung to Merka and around his home always gave her a headache. 

The front room of Merka’s hair was sparse, intentionally bare. A small alcove by the door held a shrine to the Ashenian lars. Thick rugs covered the mud brick floor. Upstairs Nia heard his girls chatting as they prepared for another workday. Nia eased herself down onto a colorful indigo and turquoise cushion. She knew beneath the rug was a trapdoor that led to an underground storeroom packed to the brim with treasure and opium. Nia watched the stout merchant return from the back of the house with two cups. She scrunched her nose at the bitter tea. 

“I was beginning to think the Legate finally tired of you seeing how infrequently I see you.”

“He keeps me busy.” 

Merka eased down on his own cushion. “And here I thought you were neglecting our friendship.”

“Our friendship has not been neglected.” Nia cupped her mug. 

“If you’ve come to ask a favor I have half the mind to report you to the Legate myself.” The merchant said. 

“So we can both lose our fingers?” Nia’s eyes darted to his missing pinky. 

Merka frowned. “One was plenty.” He eased back onto his elbow. “Tell me. What service can I provide you? Perhaps you can finally take up my offer and journey upstairs?” 

His look was downright lecherous. Nia’s cheeks pinked. “I think I’ll pass.” 

“I have boys. Girls, too.” He said after a moment. “Both, if you’d prefer.” 

“I prefer neither, old friend.” 

“Perhaps if you preferred one or the other you’d stop being so tense.” Merka laughed at her expression. 

“If only it were that easy.” Nia said tightly. She cradled the tea cup closer to her chest. “I’ve come to ask you a question concerning our arrangement.”

“Oh?”

“I-” She paused. “After the war, the navigators were wiped out. But the maps, they had to have gone somewhere, yes?” 

Merka startled. “Of course they did. The Conqueror ordered all the maps to be centralized in Ash-Kai.” Merka tilted his head to the side. “Certainly you already know this? How else do you think your precious legate gets his routes? As to others, well, with influence? The rest of the Houses trade in goods, but the House of Kai trades in knowledge.”

“Of course.” Nia said hurriedly. “The Empire works to keep those maps under lock and key.”

“They do. Hya, it wouldn’t do for the conquered to relearn how to navigate the Dunelands. Might spur some dangerous ideas.” Merka’s brows rose. “Why do you have such thoughts in your womanish skull? You cannot possibly be thinking of stealing from the Kai’s!”

“What?” Nia squeaked. “Come now Merka. I'm not that stupid.” 

Merka looked doubtful. “So I will not be seeing you for some time.” 

Nia leaned forward. “No. The legate is sending me on business.” 

“I see.” Merka’s eyebrows narrowed. “Why are you telling me this?” 

“That’s not all.”

“More treason? How delightful.” 

“I want to see the rest of my supply.” She flipped over her satchel on the table. It was the collection of grave goods she had been keeping at the watchtower. Fine jewelry; necklaces, rings, bangles, earrings; golden shras, thin knives. Nia had thought she would need the items later. Later was now. 

Merka picked at a small lion amulet, turning it over in his palms. “You are planning on leaving soon, aren’t you?” His voice was gruff, but there was some unspoken emotional undertone to it. Merka sorted through the goods, his hands flying in and out of his robes. Onyx, gold, ivory. “My clients will not be interested in all of this.” He said coolly, four fingers holding up a coin. 

“I understand.” 

Merka met her eyes. “But I will buy it all. On one condition.” 

Nia bit her lip. The aker stirred. “Name it.” 

“While you are in As-Kai, you must keep an ear to the ground for information. Anything you find you must share. It’s for business you see.” 

Business. Nia gulped, her eyes traveling to the stairwell behind him. Upstairs the girls were no longer laughing. She found her resolve. This was the trade she would have to make for her freedom. “I accept.” 

[vaginalprobioticsreviews]

URO Vaginal Probiotics Reviews: A Medical Evaluation Of The Intimate Health Game-Changer (Does It Truly Deliver?)

URO is a vaginal health supplement offered by the women's health brand O POSITIVE. The company claims that this capsule supplement "supports healthy vaginal odor and pH."

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We'll also provide a cost comparison to find the best retailer for URO and include real, unsponsored user reviews.

Although many consumers refer to URO as "URO vitamins," it is actually a probiotic supplement rather than a vitamin supplement.

The primary active ingredient in URO is the V-Positive Probiotic Blend, a mixture of four probiotic species with a total dose of 5 billion colony-forming units (CFU).

Probiotics might be effective in treating and preventing bacterial vaginosis (BV), which can lead to changes in vaginal odor. A medical review in the Clinical Microbiology and Infection journal noted:

In this URO Vaginal Probiotics Reviews, overall feedbacks are generally positive. Although the subject of vaginal odor may still seem taboo, we hope that using URO Vaginal Probiotics will help you decide if URO is a good fit for you.

[moglirejuve]

Dr. Amit Goel - Eminent Urologist and Pioneer in Robotic and Minimally Invasive Surgery

Dr. Amit Goel stands as a preeminent figure in the field of urology, with over 15 years of extensive experience marked by a commitment to clinical excellence and cutting-edge surgical techniques. Renowned for his expertise in uro-oncology, robotic surgery, laparoscopic procedures, and renal transplantation, Dr. Goel has garnered numerous accolades and recognitions for his invaluable contributions to advancing urological care.

Comprehensive Expertise in Urological Care

Dr. Goel's exceptional skillset encompasses a broad spectrum of urological conditions, positioning him as a sought-after specialist in his field. His proficiency in uro-oncology is particularly noteworthy, with a wealth of experience in treating cancers of the kidney, bladder, prostate, and testicles. He performs complex surgeries such as radical nephrectomy, radical cystectomy, and radical prostatectomy with precision and outstanding outcomes.

Furthermore, Dr. Goel's expertise extends to renal transplantation, where he excels in laparoscopic donor nephrectomy and the management of complications related to kidney transplantation. His mastery of minimally invasive techniques allows him to offer patients the benefits of faster recovery times, reduced pain, and improved cosmetic results.

Pioneering Advances in Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgery

At the forefront of technological innovations in urology, Dr. Goel has established himself as a pioneer in robotic and laparoscopic surgery. His exceptional skills in minimally invasive procedures have revolutionized the treatment of various urological conditions, including kidney stone removal, adrenalectomy, and tumor resection. By leveraging state-of-the-art robotic surgical systems, Dr. Goel provides his patients with unparalleled precision, dexterity, and surgical control, ultimately enhancing their outcomes and quality of life.

Comprehensive Care in Andrology and Female Urology

Dr. Goel's commitment to comprehensive patient care is further exemplified by his expertise in andrology and female urology. In the realm of male reproductive health, he offers advanced treatments for male infertility, erectile dysfunction, and penile rehabilitation surgeries, providing hope and solutions to those grappling with these delicate conditions.

Moreover, Dr. Goel's proficiency extends to addressing female urological problems, such as urinary incontinence and vaginal vault prolapse, ensuring that patients of all genders receive the highest quality of care tailored to their unique needs.

Dedication to Pediatric Urology and Research

Dr. Amit Goel's commitment to excellence transcends age boundaries, as he possesses extensive experience in performing surgeries for pediatric urological conditions such as undescended testis, hypospadias, and pyeloplasty. His gentle and compassionate approach, combined with his surgical prowess, ensures that even the youngest patients receive the best possible care and outcomes.

Complementing his clinical expertise, Dr. Goel is actively engaged in research, publishing papers in national and international journals, and contributing to the advancement of urological science. His unwavering dedication to scholarly pursuits underscores his passion for pushing the boundaries of knowledge and improving patient care through evidence-based practices.

Distinguished Career and Accolades

Dr. Amit Goel's illustrious career has been marked by positions at prestigious medical institutions, including serving as a Senior Consultant and Head of the Department of Urology and Kidney Transplants at Apollo Hospital, as well as a Consultant in Uro-Oncology and Robotic Surgery at the Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre. His expertise has also been sought after at esteemed facilities like Indraprastha Apollo Hospital and Fortis Hospital.

Dr. Goel's exceptional qualifications, including an MBBS, MS (General Surgery), and MCh (Urology), coupled with a Fellowship in Uro-Oncology and Robot Surgery, have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of his field. He is a certified member of esteemed medical associations, such as the Urological Society of India, the American Urology Association, and the European Urology Association, further solidifying his professional standing.

Additionally, Dr. Goel has been the recipient of numerous prestigious awards and recognitions, including the First Rank in 2011 for the Olympus European Resident Education Travel Fellowship and the First Prize in Paper Presentation at the International Cancer Congress in 2014. These accolades serve as a testament to his unwavering dedication, clinical excellence, and invaluable contributions to the field of urology.

Conclusion

Dr. Amit Goel's dedication to patient care, coupled with his clinical expertise, academic achievements, and pioneering spirit, has earned him a well-deserved reputation as a leader in the field of urology. Through his unwavering commitment to advancing surgical techniques, fostering research, and providing comprehensive care, Dr. Goel continues to redefine the standards of urological treatment, offering hope and healing to patients from all walks of life.

[curenishant]

Dr. Amit Goel - Urologist, Laparoscopic and Andrology Surgeon

Dr. Amit Goel is a highly respected Urologist with over 15 years of experience. He specializes in Uro-Oncology, Robotic Surgery, Laparoscopic Surgery, and Renal Transplantation. Known for his expertise in treating various urological conditions, Dr. Goel has received numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions to the field.

Areas of Expertise:

Urological Cancers: Dr. Goel has extensive experience in treating cancers of the kidney, bladder, prostate, and testicles. He performs surgeries such as radical nephrectomy, radical cystectomy, and radical prostatectomy.

Renal Transplantation: As a skilled kidney transplant surgeon, Dr. Goel is proficient in laparoscopic donor nephrectomy and managing complications related to renal transplantation.

Laparoscopic Surgery: Dr. Goel specializes in minimally invasive procedures for various urological conditions, including kidney stone removal, adrenalectomy, and tumor resection.

Andrology: Offering comprehensive care for male reproductive health issues, Dr. Goel provides treatments for male infertility, erectile dysfunction, and penile rehabilitation surgeries.

Female Urological Problems: Dr. Goel provides advanced treatments for female urological issues, such as urinary incontinence and vaginal vault prolapse surgery.

Pediatric Urology: Dr. Goel is experienced in performing surgeries for pediatric urological conditions like undescended testis, hypospadias, and pyeloplasty.

Research and Publications: Actively engaged in research, Dr. Goel has published papers in national and international journals, contributing to the advancement of urological science.

Work Experience:

Dr. Amit Goel has held various positions in prestigious medical institutions, including:

Senior Consultant and Head of the Department of Urology and Kidney Transplants at Apollo Hospital

Consultant in Uro-Oncology and Robotic Surgery at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre

Clinical Associate in the Department of Urology at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital

Senior Resident in General Surgery at Fortis Hospital

Qualifications and Certifications:

MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Urology)

Fellowship in Uro-Oncology and Robot Surgery

Certified member of esteemed medical associations, including the Urological Society of India, American Urology Association, and European Urology Association

Awards and Recognitions:

First Rank in 2011 for Olympus European Resident Education Travel Fellowship

First Prize in Paper Presentation at the International Cancer Congress in 2014

Dr. Amit Goel's dedication to patient care, coupled with his clinical expertise and academic achievements, makes him a sought-after Urologist committed to advancing the field of urology.

[lasersurgeoninahmedabad]

Dr. Kamlesh Ram: A Pioneer in Surgical Excellence 

In the realm of surgical excellence, few names shine as brightly as Dr. Kamlesh Ram's. He is a pioneer in Laser Proctology and Stapler Circumcision in Gujarat, renowned for his expertise in Laser, Laparoscopic, and General Surgeries. With an impressive educational background and a commitment to innovation, Dr. Ram has become a trailblazer in the field of surgical medicine. Dr Ram is the best laser surgeon in Ahmedabad. 

A Distinguished Educational Journey

Dr. Ram's journey to becoming a leading surgeon began with his educational foundation. He completed his MBBS at BJ Medical College, Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, followed by a specialization in MS General Surgery from NHL Medical College, VS Hospital, Ahmedabad. To expand his horizons and enhance his skills, Dr. Ram obtained the prestigious ECFMG (USA) certification.

A Commitment to Advancement

Dr. Ram's commitment to surgical advancement is evident through his various fellowships. He has honed his expertise through fellowships in Minimal Access Surgery, Gastrointestinal Endo-Surgeons, and the International College of Surgeons (USA). These experiences have enriched his knowledge and equipped him with the latest techniques and practices in the surgical field.

Patient-Centric Care

One distinguishing feature of Dr. Ram's practice is his unwavering focus on patient comfort. His passion for surgical advancements is intricately tied to his desire to improve the surgical experience for all patients. Dr. Ram believes that the journey to recovery should be as comfortable and minimally invasive as possible.

A Scholar and an Innovator

Dr. Ram's contributions to the surgical community extend beyond his practice. He has made significant contributions through published papers in national and international journals. Furthermore, he has shared his insights and knowledge by delivering lectures at various national conferences. Dr. Ram is not only a scholar but also an innovator, consistently striving to enhance surgical techniques and equipment.

In recognition of his professional and social contributions, Dr. Ram has received numerous prestigious awards. These accolades celebrate his dedication to excellence and his commitment to enhancing the lives of his patients through surgical care.

Dr. Kamlesh Ram is the best laparoscopic surgeon in Ahmedabad, and offers a wide array of treatments, including:

Laser Surgery

Laparoscopy

Uro Surgery

Vascular Surgery

Plastic Surgery and many more treatments. 

These services reflect Dr. Ram's versatile expertise and his dedication to providing comprehensive surgical care to his patients. Dr. Kamlesh Ram stands as a beacon of surgical excellence in Ahmedabad. His pioneering work in Laser Proctology, Laparoscopy, and General Surgery has earned him the distinction of being a leading Laser Surgeon and Laparoscopic Surgeon in the region. His unwavering commitment to patient comfort, coupled with a relentless pursuit of surgical advancements, sets him apart as a trusted name in surgical medicine.

For more details, visit at - https://www.drramsurgery.in/ 

Contact at - (+91) 635-969-8073

[drtarunjindal]

Nowadays, testicular cancer is becoming more common. But why? Read this blog to get your answer. For expert advice, contact the best robotic uro-oncology surgeon in Kolkata.

[delhiapollo]

Who is the best urologist in Delhi?

When it comes to the diagnosis and treatment of conditions relating to the urinary system (bladder, kidney, ureters, and urethra), the Apollo hospitals team includes some of the best urologists in Delhi with decades of training and expertise. The top urologists in Delhi and their staff provide great care at an affordable cost by utilizing the latest cutting-edge urological diagnostic and therapeutic technologies. Urologists at Apollo hospitals gather urine samples, conduct blood tests, and use imaging procedures to see inside the urinary tract to look for obstructions, tumors, and other abnormalities. These procedures include pyelograms, cystography, CT scan or ultrasound of the kidney, prostate/rectal ultrasonography, and renal angiography. In addition, they use cystometry and test urine flow. All this support the urologist’s ability to diagnose accurately and devise a suitable course of action. Expert care is provided for conditions involving the urinary system, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), urinary tract infections (UTIs), urinary incontinence, kidney, and urinary ureteral cancer, as well as erectile dysfunction (ED), hematuria (blood in the urine), overactive bladder, prostatitis (prostate gland swelling), interstitial cystitis (also known as painful bladder syndrome), and prostatitis.

One of India's top medical facilities, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, offers top-notch urology care among its many other medical specializations. Best urologists employed by Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals include:

Dr. Rajesh Taneja : Dr. Rajesh Taneja  is a highly esteemed urologist who has spent more than 10  years working at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Delhi. He is renowned for his skill in treating urologic malignancies, prostate illnesses, and kidney stones. For his exceptional work in the field of urology, Dr. Kumar has received numerous accolades. With over 30 years of experience , Dr Taneja is one of the most sought urologists in Delhi, he specializes in Robotic Uro Surgery with special interest in Inflammatory Bowel Disease ,

Dr. Anshuman Aggarwal : With more than 20 years of expertise, Dr. Aggarwal  is a highly qualified urologist. He has a long history with Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Delhi, and is renowned for his skill in treating difficult urological conditions like pediatric urology and cancers of the bladder and prostate. He  has published works & has been acknowledged for his contributions to the field of urology and has had work published in several medical journals.

Famous urologist Dr. N Subramanian has been working with Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Delhi for more than 20 years. He is an expert in treating difficult urological conditions such kidney stones, bladder cancer, and prostate cancer. He has received recognition for his contributions to the field of urology and has been published in numerous medical journals.

Thanks to a dedicated team of top urologists in Delhi, a cheerful and competent support staff, and a pleasant and comfortable environment, patients may feel secure and convinced that their medical concerns will be addressed professionally, with compassion, and empathy.

[o-wise-corvid]

Orin

1. Yes, but only after Jango’s charmed her into it and she will NOT do it by herself.

2. She’s a solid alto but she can sing lead if the key isn’t too high.

3. A piano. But not a grand one. One of those old family ones that is weathered with good memories and soft practice n

4. Never Be Enough

5. She does: Jango Fett. All I Ask of You.

6. Build That Wall- Bastion

7. Eowyn in spirit but also the Mortis Daughter; the latter is more um… direct in the nature of influence.

8. She would change taking Path to Yavin IV to rid it of Exar Kun’s haunting. She’d have taken Maul instead.

9. “Failure is only the opportunity to begin again.”

10. If not human, as she is, a dwarf.

11. She was “born” with a scattergun in her hand. But she is also very good with a spear and a lightsaber, which she was gifted by one of her sons’ friend: Ahsoka Tano.

12. The fact that they’ve had to make decisions that felt wrong no matter which way she turned. Also her temper. Her righteous anger.

13. Much Ado About Nothing

14. Absolutely

15. Wonderwoman

16. Dying. (She’s done it before.)

17. Her family is her rock and her joy. They’re really very close. Except her parents. One of them, she isn’t aware of at least. The other… she believes her “maker”, her “father”, is dead. And she is coming to hate him; he lied to her. He said he’d stay and she turned her back… and he was gone.

18. Her family. But also… herself.

19. Jane Eyre

20. Oh good Lord. Her and Jango were the quintessential “the love’s required, they’re both just idiots” trope.

21. Giving. Time. Gifts. Company. Anything a person she loves needs, she will give. If she can.

22. She’s not particularly clumsy or graceful. With Jango, she could slow dance to his humming for hours.

23. She doesn’t often have time. Between being a mother and just running a house and traveling with Jango… not really. The last book she read was a journal and it traumatized her quite a bit.

24. The support of her family and the unshakable knowledge that she’s in the right. Regardless of the repercussions, if she knows she’s doing the right thing, she won’t stop until it’s done.

25. She really is a very patient person. But if you threaten her family, she’ll kill you. That’s kind of mundane but she also will lose her crap about environmental exploitation and abuse. Nature… it’s part of her.

26. Not particularly.

27. Thinking with her heart and not her head.

28. She’s a very warm and motherly person. It’s hard to dislike her. Even the former Sith Lord Maul sees her as something of an older sister. She did save his life once and he’s never forgotten it. She also has a level of faith in him that he doesn’t know what to do with. Orin is like this with nearly everyone and she frequently knows *just* what to say to brighten the day for anyone she meets.

29. Her greatest strength is kind of the above. Her faith in the law she loves. And she loves HARD. It’s very difficult to lose this with her once you’ve earned it.

30. Her wild, brown curls.

31. Chai.

32. It depends. Stealing, murder, heck littering? Nah. Stealing to give someone food? Yes. Murdering a mass murderer? Yes. Never littering though😂

33. Jango Fett, her fiancé. Also Maul, her friend and surrogate brother. And possibly her other friend, Jedi Knight Pli’Khadi’Razna. Also Master Yoda.

34. Unfortunately, a former friend named Uro. He broke her trust.

35. A holocomm.

36. Orin’s parents are both, unfortunately highly selfish. Though at one time, her “father” wasn’t. He was fun-loving. Kind. Gentle. He would’ve done anything for “his children”. She doesn’t remember him though… not the good times, anyway.

Some OC Asks

Do they sing?

If they sing (or if not) what part do they sing?

If your OC were an instrument, what would they be?

What musical theatre ballad fits them?

If this OC has a love interest, what musical theatre duet suits them?

Which song off of your most recently played playlist are they?

What fictional character do you think most influenced them, or is most like them (intentionally or not)?

If they had the option to travel to the past and change one thing, would they? What would they change?

Pick a quote from Avatar: The Last Airbender that describes them.

What Middle-Earth race would they be?

What is their weapon of choice (literal or figurative)?

What do they most dislike about themselves?

If they existed in the real world (or if they do) what would their favorite Shakespeare play be?

Are they easily embarrassed?

What superhero are they most like?

What are they NOT afraid of?

How healthy are their familial relationships?

What are they terrified to lose?

Which Austen heroine/hero are they most like?

Are they a romantic?

What is their love language?

Are they a good dancer?

Are they a reader? What do they like to read?

What makes them feel more confident?

Are they quick to anger? What is most likely to make them angry?

Do they cry easily?

What is their hamartia (fatal flaw)?

Are they generally likeable? How do other characters typically react to them when first meeting them?

What do they consider to be their greatest strength? Is this actually their greatest strength, or is there something about themselves they don’t see?

What does your average person first notice about them?

If they were a tea, what tea would they be?

Rate on a scale of 1 to 10 how likely they are to commit a crime.

Who are they most likely to confide in?

Who is the LAST person they would confide in?

They are stranded on an island. In front of them is a box, and inside that box is one item of their choice. What is in that box? (Yes, I stole this from Agents of Shield.)

Which of their parents are they most like?

[buddynikki-blog]

yeah she’s gonna get along with them just fine i swear

[lsmithart]

‘The Present Body, the Absent Body and the Formless’ by Uros Cvoro

This text, taken from a 2002 copy of ‘Art Journal’ has proved pertinent to my theoretical and contextual understanding of Whiteread’s practice in a critical context. Cvoro discusses the ways in which familiarity informs responses from viewers, both positive and negative, whilst also exploring the domestic as having a relationship to the body and human identity. Through this somewhat complex text, Cvoro guides us to the ways in which Whiteread has opened many doors of possibility through her decision to materialise negative, or absent, spaces.

Notes:

Page 55 – ‘Materialised as a palpable imprint of absence, House also seemingly materialised burning issues in British politics, imprinting itself onto the public consciousness.’

‘The questions that House raised about the articulation of memory as a displacement of past into present, the tracing of absence, and the dialogue between the viewer’s body and the materialist of the object remain as pertinent as ever for any serious study of sculpture and memory. It is in this context that I propose to revisit House, with the hope of productively reopening some of these questions.’

‘House as a disruption of material space through solidification.’

‘House either acted as a symbolic substitute for the body of the viewer – an inverted, disrupted body – or represented the absence of the domestic body.’

‘There is a conceptual potential of House to dislocate the oppositions of work/beholder, text/reader, and object/subject.’

‘Bois and Krauss detach the trace of the formless from the visual form, thus undermining the proximity of the trace to the form and the possibility of the trace being absorbed by the form. Their point is that if the trace of the formless is independent of the visual form, it will eschew the binary logic of form and content.’ (Bois and Krauss, 1997).

Page 56 – ‘The lack of stable ground – the site of the trace that forces the structures of absence and presence to be always deferred – suggests an essential disequilibrium.’

‘Krauss suggests that Whiteread’s process of casting carries out the entropic congealing of the possibilities of meaning. The way Whiteread creates objects tests the spatiality of casts and produces anti-gestures that challenge our perception of space, solidity and objects.’

Page 57 – ‘Casts are what is left over after matter cools down and solidifies. As traces of trapped space and destroyed spatiality, casts embody the compression and congealing of “life”, meaning and the spatial intervals necessary to sustain them.’

Richard Shone, (1995). A Cast in Time: ‘A cast of an object traps it in time… displaying its own pasts of the object it replicates.’ ‘Shone does on to compare a cast to a death mask, in this regard with the cast standing as a palpable reminder of a particular space or object and a finite period of history. A cast is a connection to the past, a surviving reminder of memorial form governed by the structural possibility of its iteration and repetition.’

‘Between the “truth” of the object and its insufficient aestheticism, a cast is a parody and euphemism if its original. The unrelenting realism of its arrested image marks a space between impression and imprint, between presence and absence. If, as Derrida indicates, the supplement is the incomplete, intermediary component (the in-between), the process of casting is a repetition of this place between absence and presence. A cast is a supplement to the “original”, the coming of the mark of absence after the original has been removed (erased). In Whiteread’s case, the cast is literally the mark left by empty space (absence).’

‘House was supplementary to an original that came to be a space, nothingness, or void.’

‘The space becomes an undifferentiated, uniform material mass separated form life by its surface texture. Yet this very surface, at least in part, remains attached to the original mold though the markings and imprints left by the mold stuck to the cast.’

‘Whiteread’s casts nourish an indexical relation to the matrix by silently pointing to something that existed in a specific place. In other words, “these are plaster casts that are stuck in a posture of referring to the spot where the real thing existed in all its particularity.”’ – Bois and Krauss, Formless, page 180

‘When the formless is released in the slippery relationships between the cast and its mold, the material integrity of the object itself is called into question. In Whiteread’s work, the site functions as a text that is perpetually in the process of being written and read.’

Page 60 – ‘The materiality of House will be identified with slippages between the categories of object and body, public and private space, absence and presence.’

‘Shone suggests that Whiteread’s method of production is constituted by a set of revisions of the material object that offers a way to gain insight into the overlooked, mundane aspects of that object. The way in which Whiteread manipulated the materials and the materiality of her objects invokes the shaking and disturbing of material reality constituted through baseline concepts such as house and home, structure and foundation, and materials such as plaster and concrete.’ – Links to my progressing work based on site specificity and the structure/foundation/shell.

Nick Kaye, (2000). Site-Specific Art: Performance, Place and Documentation: ‘The displacement of the static environment it entails likens it to an event “in which the environment is problematised”. “The event comes between sign and object.” Whiteread’s art practice identifies the logic of materials as catalysts for processes of transformation and change, aligning the nature of materials with notions of event and performance.’ – Links to memory, materialising a memory through object.

‘Whiteread’s objects precipitate slippage between the processes and exchanges that constitute our experience of the world. These include the material affinities between the body, the object, and the environment it defines and by which it is defined. Her placement of materials operates against the attempt to read the interior of the work or the work through interiority.’ – Links to our inability to occupy the space which has been cast, directly linking the cast space to the body (the familiar).

‘House enacted a slippage between the experience of the inside and outside, site and object, public and private, home, materiality (solid space and actual home), and the body. Because it included the solidification of everyday space, it implicated and provoked the viewers’ presence and participation, only to disrupt then. It worked to disturb the viewers’ sense of their body’s physical integrity and spatial differentiation from the material object with which they were confronted.’ – Again, links to our inability to occupy the space which has been cast, directly linking the cast space to the body (the familiar).

Richard Shone (1995) – ‘In House, every spatial interval, every material mark can be final, and yet each of these “moments” retains a memory of the trace of the process of which it is part in the material. Thus, its materiality simultaneously suggests the processes of solidity of materials, historicity and memory, a phenomenological experience of the world, and at the same time a negation of all of these’.

‘Intersection between historical and memorial processes, a swinging motion that levitates between materials and events.’

Page 61 – Susan Best, (1999) The Trace and the Body: ‘The viewer’s body as the index of its absence and of the spatial structure in which that body operates, Best suggests that House configures space in such a way as to imply a relation to the body. House raises a sense of disturbance in the body, primarily as the result of its carnal effect and affect.’ The eliciting of “strong feelings of bodily discomfort” raised by House, the sense of immediate disturbance and unease caused by having a domestic space presented as solid object turned inside out, reflects the bodily endeavour to conform to space. This demonstrates that our response to the work “is indeed first a foremost a corporeal one”’. (Corporeal = relating to a person’s body). ‘We expect accommodation from House and we are disturbed when it is denied.’

‘House entailed a loss of the humanist subject and a “leaking away into the nondifferentiated.” (Boi and Krauss, 1997: p.171) Through a material reordering, it took the place of the body and became a witness to a palpable corporeal absence, leaving the audience as the intruder into private space. House became a nonhuman of the corporeal. It was also an attack on the body without an affirmation, where the humanist body was denied, excluded and turned into the formless.’ - Audience excluded from the object confuses our perception. We are forced to view the space/object as its own entity, the casting process charging it with traces, memories, remnants, an empathic exchange begins in order for the audience to understand and process what is before them.

Page 62 – ‘It had to be the other to the space it replaced in order to replace it. The very negation of the original produced a supplement, just as the very act of repetition articulated the freestanding condition of the signifier. House thus constituted a black hole in the viewer’s perception.’

‘In part, this assault was only possible because House was a reminder/remainder of a domestic and familiar space.’

‘It was, in Anthony Vidler’s (1995) words, a “silencing of the past life of the house,” where the traces of that former life were “rendered dead but preserved.”’ (p.12)

‘Home is the “mythical point of origin” that represents a crucial component in the constitution of identity.’ (Bird, 1995: p.122) – Familiarity and empathy through shared identity.

‘House materialised the fragile symbolic barrier between absence and presence and private and public, between things that should be hidden and things that should be shown.’

‘Leaving only the bare familiarity of things that ought to have been hidden but have come to light: the uncanny.’

“The psychopathology that lies beneath the everyday; the repressed fears, desires, prohibitions that lurk within social routines as the uncanny stalks the familiar, and the inanimate threatens to come alive.” (Vidler, 1995: p.71)

‘Viewers felt distressed because they experience the invasion of the exposed nakedness of House and realised that this could have been their house and their private space.’ – Forced empathy through direct familiarity – looking into their own lives.

‘Whiteread thus denied all chances of the nostalgic return to the womb by refusing access to domestic familiarity, even banishing the uncanny itself. If nostalgia marks a primal desire to return to the womb, then House was decidedly and extremely anti-nostalgic; it was a past to which one could not return.’

‘House was an impossible “lost” object of memory, a trace of a trace.’

‘Souvenirs are the traces that replace the event with narrative, and the desire for them arises from the impression of unrepeatability of the event, or longing for the vanished original.’ – Relevant to my 301 installation plans.

Page 63 – ‘It does not rely on memory to reproduce the past, it does not depend upon notions of revelation that refer to an originary site or mark a return to such a site: the economy of presence.’

‘This is an erasure (definition: the removal of writing, recorded material or data) because Whiteread’s object is a cast, an impression made by a void whose appearance is constituted by the erasure of such marks. The very structure of the sign is determined by the trace of what is forever absent.’

‘The presence of materiality of House took on meaning from its being an addition that replaced absence. It represented an irreversible past event, one that is always obliterated, a memory of what has never been present.’

REFERENCES:

Best, S., (1999). The Trace and the Body. The International Exhibition: Trace. pp. 172-176.

Bird, J., (1995). Dulce Domum. In: Artangel Trust, Bird, J., Lingwood J., (1995). Rachel Whiteread’s House. Phaidon Press. p.122.

Bois, Y-A. and Krauss, R. E., (1997). Formless – A User’s Guide. New York: Zone Books. p.171.

Cvoro, U., (2002). ‘The Present Body, the Absent Body, and the Formless’. Art Journal. pp. 54-63. Available at http://dx.doi.org/10.2307/778151.

Kaye, N., (2000). Site-Specific Art: Performance, Place and Documentation. London and New York: Routledge. p.3.

Shone, R., (1995). A Cast in Time. In: Artangel Trust, Bird, J., Lingwood J., (1995). Rachel Whiteread’s House. Phaidon Press.

Vidler, A., (1995). A Dark Space. In: Lingwood Artangel Trust, Bird, J., Lingwood J., (1995). House/Rachel Whiteread. London: Phaidon Press. pp. 12, 68, 71

[thelifeofkaiblog]

•*•*• 25th October 2018 •*•*•

What the f*ck are they doing to me?! Why do they keep messing up? Why do I keep having so much trouble with it? :(

More detailed recap: I had an appointment with Ms Yasmin (UCLH gynaecology) earlier this month. A week before, I called around to make sure it was for the hysteroscopy (a procedure to test my body’s reaction to anaesthesia and to take samples to help my hysterectomy case). They told me they were from her secretary team and the first appointment wouldn’t be a pre-surgery assessment (like I was told my referral would be), but Ms Yasmin’s team would be the team to do it. I was disappointed, but I still had to go.

Two days before the appointment, I got a call from someone else in her secretary team to say Ms Yasmin looked at my case and told them that her team doesn’t do what I’ve been referred for. I was devastated that it had taken them months to check this out. They said that all they could do was write a letter to Ms Elneil (the one who’s been referring me to people) telling her to refer me to someone else. It’s ridiculous because I’m left in the dark with no way to speed anything up for their mistakes.

I then got a call the next day (the day before my appointment) to reschedule the appointment. WHAT?! I told them I’d only just been called to cancel my referral to her team completely. They had no documentation of that call, but didn’t reschedule.

I’ve just been sent a letter RESCHEDULING WITH HER TEAM for January. WHAT IS HAPPENING?! I’ve called the booking team, but they don’t know. I’ve repeatedly called Ms Yasmin’s secretary team and it just keeps ringing until it hangs up - no chance to leave a voicemail either. So I called Ms Elneil’s secretary team and left a frustrated voicemail, asking someone in the know to call me to explain what the hell is going on.

Am I really that unlucky? I know I’m not the only one having any of these life issues (inc. job, body issues, relationship stuff, etc.) on their own, but all of them together? I just want ONE aspect of my life to be going positively consistently :/ I’m exhausted with everything being a battle :(

Just been told my pre-hysteroscopy appointment isn’t actually a pre-op appointment :(

•*•*• 26th September 2018 •*•*•

Knock me while I’m down. Just let the hits keep coming :( I’m frustrated that people are constantly trying to find other temporary methods, when we’ve tried a good few with no success and it’s a whole lot of medication that won’t even give me the result I need.

I’ve been pushing for this on and off for about 4 years and this has just proven that there hasn’t really been any progress. I’ve seen more specialists, but haven’t actually got any closer to having either of the surgeries I need to build a life for myself. I’m tired of it :(

I’m old enough to have numerous babies, join the army, drink myself to death, smoke, get permanent tattoos all over me, but not get rid of a uterus that has caused me nothing but almost daily trouble for 10 years.

[fistichappenings-blog]

How did a girl like me get here

A year ago I was introduced to boxing.

Two years ago my office moved and I joined a corporate gym next door that offered morning, lunch, and afternoon exercise classes including HIIT, strength, and yoga. I can’t say that I enjoyed any of it. I just knew I needed to incorporate exercise into my life. I have always been a bit overweight and self-conscious. I was never good at sports as a child and teenager and I was embarrassed by it. When I was in my early twenties I started PT and learnt about strength training and how to use gym equipment and the knowledge empowered me and I felt like I had more control over my body than I ever had before but still it wasn’t something I enjoyed. My motivation came from wanting my body to look a different way. I have dabbled in a number of other things including Taido, Hip Hop, dancing. The only exercise I can say I enjoyed was swimming. I could swim laps for hours. It was a form of meditation for me and one where I could push myself and improve by myself. Again though I did it to make myself slimmer and not much else.

A year ago a trainer joined my gym and started boxing classes. I found it difficult but immediately rewarding. I’m an incredibly uncoordinated person with little body awareness and boxing was a challenge. Much like my brief stint with hip hop dancing I found having to think and move at the same time a task but small improvements came quickly. It was a joy to see myself become more precise, faster and stronger. A few months later our trainer left and was replaced with a new one. I can remember being devastated at the time because I had found an exercise I looked forward to doing every day and a trainer I liked (which is hard btw! I’m a particular person!) and now he was leaving. I was sure our next trainer wouldn’t be as good and I was bloody grumpy. Our next trainer was Chris. He was better. Chris trains boxing in a way I found to be more challenging, more dynamic, and more joyful. Even though I have never had a boxing class that wasn’t difficult, I have never had a boxing class I didn’t love. Best of all (at least for my mental health) I found that I no longer boxed to be skinny or conventionally attractive. My motivation was simply to get better, to see where my body could take me, to be present and alive. I surprised myself when I realised I hadn’t thought about exercise as a slimming tool for months. Chris nurtured me in a way that I really responded to and that motivated me to push myself.

At the beginning of March (2019) I trialled a class at Darkside Gym, Sydenham. I wanted to box more than the available classes at my gym and I wanted to know what training to box for more than just burning calories was. I was nervous that the boxing I had done at my corporate gym might not be correct form; that I may have been taught a bastardised gym version, and that I would have to relearn all the basics. When I first walked in I suppose I found the look of the gym to be intimidating. I had never been in a boxing gym and it was a factory space with a well-worn vibe, the smell of sweat and mats, bags, and equipment that obviously saw consistent and hard use. The boxers there were all strong and fit and often covered in tattoos, some of them looked rough and no nonsense. But the intimidating look of the gym was in complete contrast to my experience from the very beginning. My first visit I found everyone to be welcoming, Andy the manager signed me in and gave me a pair of gloves, Uro the coach checked in with me before we started and let me know to just try my best and that he didn’t expect me to be able to do everything immediately. Every person I boxed with was surprisingly (to me) encouraging and generous. Uro would continue to check in with me throughout. The class was hard. The warm up especially was much harder than I was used to. But I was pleased to find that what I had learnt so far applied here too. I was sold on day one. It was so clear to me that everyone was here because they loved boxing and I just wanted to be a part of it.

Three and a half months later and I’m here falling more and more in love with boxing every day. I work a regular 9-5 job in the city. I box at lunchtimes at my corporate gym and box every evening I can get out of work on time and Saturdays at Darkside. I have started watching boxing movies, listening to boxing podcasts, watching matches, following boxers on Instagram and anything I can to learn more about a sport I’m so surprised to find inspires me. It occurred to me this Monday morning (I find Monday a common day to reassess your life) that it might be worth tracking my growth somewhere and starting to build a reference for myself of what I’m seeing, learning, struggling with, trying, consuming. I love a good diary and originally saw this as a physical training book but I figured an online journal will allow me to categorise my entries more effectively for reference and might be a good entry point for other people learning about boxing for the first time too because although it’s been about a year since I took up boxing I’m still very much a beginner. I know that my boxing journey (whatever it will be) is only just beginning but I’m excited to see where it takes me. I know it’s a little obsessive but these days I wake up and I think about boxing, I pack my work bag with two sets of gym clothes, gloves and sneakers, I leave the house and catch the train listening to boxing podcasts (right now I love Tris Dixon’s Boxing Life Stories), I go to work, box, eat, work, box again, go home to stretch, hard roller and pack my bag for the next day And now I’m gonna add writing this blog to the regimen. I’m not really any good yet and I want to train better than I do now (let’s say my eating is a problem for one) so I have so so much room from improvement but hopefully this blog will help me get there.

[semicolonthefifth]

Colonial Military General of the Aurora Station: Ethan Redding

Once serving several famous land-based skirmishes and battles against the Kronian Empire on both theirs and the UROE’s own systems, General Ethan Redding considered a late retirement from active service. “I’ve seen enough action, and frankly my feet are tired from all the moving.” He’s admitted, “I can leave it to more capable hands.” Honored, he was let go and sent back to his homeworld of Aurora to get some rest from the warring. Unfortunately, not long after, he was given a request by the Colonial Office of the UROE - as a temporary security officer over the colonization of the arid planet of Aurora. Not quite used to his retirement yet, he accepted the position in the hopes that the job would be uneventful.

Like everyone else, he expected no sentient life on the planet. Early scans showed no intelligent signs of life, with the most interesting sightings being reptilian creatures that roamed the vast red-colored deserts. Settlements were quickly made, and Redding mostly sat in his office to hand out the standard patrol and recon routes for his fellow officers. Things were calm with no issues dealing with the local fuana - yet this all soon changed when the native populace was discovered: the Deltan - giant, humanoid beings who live and breath like the ancient swordsmen of old Earth history. The discovery erupted from the colony and outward to the rest of the UROE systems, bringing both excitement and curiosity. Redding, meanwhile, was busy having to calm down the colonists, only for that act to be interrupted by UROE command who had a new task for the retired General: make first contact with the Deltans. After some personal debate, he set out to accomplish this mission with a small group of troops and civilian volunteers, and with a meeting in a clearing between them and a trio of Deltan natives. This meeting would be remembered as a major success, although a journal from Redding would recall it as, “--a laugh for the natives. They had fun, so that’s good.”

Over 2 years, as the Deltan and Human languages were shared, Redding would reluctantly become fast friends among the Deltans. In particular with their leadership, the honored Great Mother and her wedded partner, the titled “War God” Avgnar Baal. They enjoyed his stories of war-time success, as well found his calm, understated explanation of human civilization to be fascinating. There was a moment when things would turn hostile when the Kronian Empire landed on the planet and made contact, with fear that war would stretch onto this new planet. However, to everyone’s surprise, the Empress of the Kronian Empire was eager to know these natives herself. In a now iconic image, a photo was made of a meeting between General Redding, the Great Mother, Avgnar Baal, and Empress Waltraud - all of them sat down in calm discussion before the Aurora landscape. Unfortunately this peace would not last.

2 years since first contact, and war was coming close. Despite public knowledge, interactions between these three factions wasn’t entirely peaceful. The Deltan’s clan-based government brought plenty of issues, where some smaller clans would often attack human/Kronian camps for their supplies or land. Humans and Kronians, with little knowledge of Deltan customs and territory, were constantly making insults towards the natives with how they developed their colonies. Eventually, it all came tumbling when the Kronian Empire expanded deeply into Deltan lands, prompting a declaration of war by several Deltan clans. This war would spread into human owned colonies, which forced Redding to again take the role of General, and to fight against the growing Deltan threat. This war would barely last a year before a morale-destroying defeat in Satta land forced the Deltans to surrender.

Avgnar Baal would become missing from the final battle, and the Great Mother had to act as the face of her people’s surrender. Initial treaties were harsh towards the Deltans, with the Empress Waltraud demanding either full or majority surrender of Deltan lands to both themselves and the humans. This was talked down to only a minor 10% of Deltan lands, as the Kronian Council and UROE saw no reason to enact such a deal. However, this change did include an execution of the Great Mother, who made the claim of full responsibility over the initial hostile actions made by her people. With the Empress Waltraud and most war council members in agreement, despite a strong impassioned refusal by Redding, the decision was made: the Great Mother would be executed by firing squad, with the act organized by Redding.

General Redding would later hold an ineffective position over the further colonization of Aurora. His command was criticized heavily when thieving and corruption grew from the growing colonies, especially as he seemed to take no action to stop them. After 12 years of service working for the colony, he was let go for retirement; then when 3 years passed, just 15 years after first contact was made, he died from an illness. His final journal entrees still mentioned Aurora even in his last days alive.

Nearly a millenia after, General Ethan Redding would be remembered as an incompetent, war-hungry buffoon: who was a weak leader for both the colony and its wars, as well becoming the face for the terrible deeds done to the Deltan people.

[drtarunjindal]

Do you know that exercises can prevent urological issues? How? Read this blog by the Uro Oncology Specialist in Kolkata to know all about it.

[kn1dognose]

La communication canine: Comportement de détournement chez le chien

Educateur canin comportementaliste canin. Dresseur pour chiens et chiots La Ciotat dans le 13

Comportement de détournement chez le chien

Les comportements de détournement sont des comportements normaux qui semblent déplacés et sont affichés hors contexte. Ils surviennent lorsque le chien éprouve des émotions contradictoires et tente de détourner le stress, l'incertitude, l'anxiété ou la frustration. Certaines des causes possibles du comportement de détournement pourraient être la fatigue, le stress, une stimulation excessive ou une réponse à la pression. Ces comportements reflètent l'état intérieur du chien plutôt qu'une communication consciente. Cependant, selon le contexte et l'interprétation, certains langages corporels du chien classés comme comportement de détournement pourraient également être utilisés comme communication directe, ou pourraient être classés comme communication/réponse inconsciente due au stress. Par conséquent, il est essentiel d'observer tout le langage corporel affiché, les circonstances, les personnes impliquées et l'environnement avant de proposer des interprétations.

Le langage corporel particulier qui est utilisé pour la communication ou qui pourrait potentiellement être classé comme un comportement de détournement, selon l'interprétation, comprend le reniflement du sol, se secouer, un léchage des babines et un bâillement. Le léchage des babines et le bâillement peuvent être classés comme des comportements de détournement de niveau inférieur. On doit les interpréter comme une réponse au stress dans certains contextes.

Voici trois interprétations différentes d'un léchage de babines, selon le contexte : Un chien peut donner quelques léchages de babines en réponse inconsciente au stress s'il se sent mal à l'aise, par exemple s'il est assis chez un vétérinaire. Alternativement, un chien peut directement communiquer son inconfort ou essayer de calmer la situation en offrant un léchage de babines comme signal d'apaisement à la personne/au chien avec lequel il interagit. Le léchage des babines peut également être considéré comme un comportement de détournement dû à un conflit interne ; par exemple, un chien reçoit le signal de «rester en arrière» et, lorsqu'on lui demande de le faire, il se lèche les babines. Il peut offrir le léchage des babines parce qu'il se sent en conflit parce qu'il préfère aller de l'avant. Certains peuvent interpréter cela comme un détournement et d'autres peuvent l'interpréter comme une légère réponse au stress.

Si les comportements de détournement se produisent fréquemment, il vaut la peine de tenir un journal de 24 heures notant les activités quotidiennes de votre chien, y compris le repos, et les occasions où le comportement de détournement s'est produit. Tenir un journal fournira un aperçu des routines quotidiennes et pourrait vous aider à voir s'il y a un événement, une séquence ou une routine particulière qui déclenche le comportement. Tenir des notes précises dans le journal des activités de votre ménage et de votre chien donne l'occasion d'analyser et de repérer les zones qui peuvent être déséquilibrées. Si vous rencontrez des comportements de détournement graves, il est préférable de consulter un comportementaliste canin qualifié, qui évaluera la situation, vous donnera un aperçu précis et vous apportera un soutien continu.

Voici une liste de certains des comportements de déplacement possibles

Claquer l'air

Se gratter

Bouche (mettre en bouche les mains, les jambes ou les vêtements des gens)

Montage

Ramasser des choses pour les manger

Mastication

Rouler sur le sol

Lécher ou mâcher des parties du corps

Chien vérifiant sa région uro-génitale

Courir partout

Hyperactivité

Gratter le sol avec les pattes arrière

Renifler le sol

Se secouer

Se lécher les babines

Bâiller

Voici quelques exemples de situations où certains chiens ont manifesté un comportement de déplacement :

Deux personnes discutent sur un chemin dans le parc. La femme qui discute avec son amie a son chien en laisse à côté d'elle. Un jogger descend le chemin directement vers eux. Le chien se lèche les babines suivi d'un détournement de tête. Il détourne alors tout son corps du jogger qui approche. La femme est distraite par sa conversation avec son amie et ne réalise pas que son chien communique son inconfort par le langage corporel. Après le passage du jogger, le chien tombe soudainement au sol et commence à rouler sur le dos. La femme n'est pas consciente que l'approche rapide et directe du joggeur a amené son chien à déplacer une certaine anxiété en roulant. Elle pense que son chien est juste stupide.

Un chien dans un refuge ramasse sa couverture et commence à se déchaîner, faisant tourner la couverture furieusement chaque fois que les bénévoles passent devant son chenil avec des chiens qu'ils sortent en promenade. Il y a beaucoup d'activité, les chiens passant rapidement dans les couloirs et devant les chenils, faisant aboyer tous les chiens. Tout ce bruit et cette atmosphère frénétique affectent le niveau de stress de ce chien de refuge, ce qui amène le chien à montrer un comportement de déplacement.

Un chien adolescent se promène avec son tuteur. Ils font une longue promenade dans les bois, car le gardien a lu que brûler de l'énergie aide à garder un chien calme. Son jeune chien semble avoir du mal à s'installer le soir. Au milieu de la promenade, le jeune chien commence à mordre et à tirer sur la laisse. Il devient vraiment difficile pour le gardien de tenir la laisse, et si sa main gêne, le chien la prends en gueule. C'est frustrant pour le maître, qui s'attendait à une promenade calme dans les bois. Au lieu de cela, ces promenades plus longues semblent avoir l'effet inverse, son chien apparaissant surexcité et présentant ce nouveau comportement de bouche. Peut-être que cette promenade ne convient pas à ce chien, ou il peut y avoir d'autres facteurs qui contribuent à ce comportement. Cela dépend de l'individu.

Un chien qui a subi des abus dans le passé prend du temps pour s'acclimater et établir une relation de confiance avec de nouvelles personnes. Il est normalement présenté à de nouvelles personnes par des personnes connues. S'il est laissé seul trop tôt ou s'il est présenté trop rapidement à des inconnus, il commence à monter leurs jambes puis à mordiller les bras des gens, montrant son anxiété.

Une personne a laissé son chien sans laisse dans le parc. Elle regarde sa montre, se rend compte qu'elle est en retard et essaie d'appeler rapidement son chien afin de quitter le parc. Il prend son temps pour venir, et elle devient frustrée et appelle à nouveau, élevant la voix dans sa frustration. Appeler le nom du chien plus fort ne semble pas aider, car il s'est maintenant arrêté et renifle le sol. Cela pourrait être un signal calmant offert par le chien car il n'est pas à l'aise avec le ton de la voix de la personne et il souhaite calmer son maître. Ou il pourrait s'agir d'un comportement de déplacement en réponse à la pression que le chien pourrait ressentir de la part de son maître.

Quelques personnes arrivent suite à une invitation. Les gens viennent d'arriver et sont rassemblés sur le pas de la porte, échangeant joyeusement des salutations. Le chien de la famille se dirige vers son seau à jouets et ramasse un ours en peluche. Il commence à se promener avec lui dans sa gueule et le secoue. Le chien peut ressentir un certain malaise en raison de l'activité des personnes qui arrivent et du bruit que cela a causé. Il déplace une partie de l'anxiété/excitation sur ses jouets.

Un chiot assiste à un cours pour chiots avec son maître. Au fur et à mesure que la classe progresse, les mouvements du chiot s'accélèrent. Il halète, se lèche les babines et reste assise fréquemment pour se gratter le cou avec sa jambe arrière. Le maître se sent un peu frustré car il est difficile de garder longtemps l'attention du chiot. Le chiot peut ressentir un certain stress et peut trouver cette classe un peu écrasante. Il montre un certain comportement de détournement en se grattant fréquemment le cou. L'éducateur demande au maître de sortir de la classe pendant quelques minutes et de laisser le chiot faire une pause reniflement à l'extérieur. Le comportement de grattage semble s'atténuer lorsque le chiot se promène à l'extérieur, loin de l'activité de la salle.

Alors qu'il se promène en banlieue avec son maître, un chien peu à l'aise avec les chiens inconnus est abordé par un chien sans laisse. Ce chien ralentit son pas et se courbe autour du chien avec le maître. Les deux chiens se figent pendant quelques secondes, leurs corps se faisant face aux trois quarts l'un de l'autre et la tête tournée vers l'extérieur. Le chien qui n'est pas à l'aise semble assez grand ; ses oreilles sont dressées et il tourne rapidement la tête. Le chien sans laisse essaie de se courber lentement autour de l'arrière du chien inconfortable, mais il saute rapidement, toujours face au chien sans laisse, puis se fige en remuant la queue très rapidement. Il essaie à nouveau et il saute un peu plus loin. Il se rend compte qu'il est mal à l'aise et décide de s'en aller. Cela donne au maître l'occasion de repartir avec son chien aussi. Après que le maître soit parti avec son chien, il s'arrête et se tourne vers le chien sans laisse, qui est maintenant au loin. Il gratte la terre avec ses pattes arrière et laisse échapper quelques aboiements. Le chien peut déplacer une partie de la tension de cette rencontre inattendue en se grattant. Normalement, l'action de gratter avec les pattes arrière serait utilisée lors du marquage olfactif et lors du passage au pot, mais dans ce contexte, l'action semble déplacée.

Ce ne sont que quelques exemples; il peut y en avoir beaucoup plus.

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Credit: Universidad de San Martin de Porres

A multinational South American team from Peru, Brasil and Bolivia led by the Universidad de San Martin de Porres at Lima, Peru, published the first genetic study on the modern descendants of the imperial Inca lineages in the journal Molecular Genetics and Genomics.

The Inca people arrived in the Cusco valley, and in a few centuries, had established the Tawantinsuyu, the largest empire in the Americas. The Tawantinsuyu was the cultural climax of 6,000 years of Central Andes civilizations overlapping modern countries of Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, the South of Colombia and the North of Argentina and Chile. In contrast with the richness of archaeological and cultural evidence, pre-Columbian history vanishes in time as it intermingles with myths due to the lack of writing systems before the arrival of the European chroniclers.

Very little is known about Inca origins, and genetic information could help reconstruct part of their history. Unfortunately, the mummies and bodily remains of the Inca emperors, worshiped as gods, were burnt and buried in unknown locations due to religious and political persecution by the Christian conquistadors and inquisitors, so there exists no direct material for DNA analysis. "Thus, for now, only the genetic analysis of modern families of Inca descent could provide some clues about their ancestors," says geneticist Jose Sandoval, first author, working at Universidad de San Martin de Porres at Lima, Peru.

There were two foundational myths for the origin of the Incas before they settled in Cusco valley to build their capital city. One is that Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo, considered children of the Sun God and founder parents of the civilization, came from Lake Titicaca about 500 km southwards from the border of North Bolivia and South Peru, more or less the same region where the Tiwanaku empire existed a few centuries before. The second myth says that four Ayar brothers with divine powers came out from the caves inside of a hill in the area of Paccarictambo, 50 km south of Cusco, and only one of them, Manco, arrived to the Cusco valley. Concerning the succession of the rulers, most chroniclers mention only one patrilineal heritage; however, other authors think that succession was based on a complex selection of military and administrative skills, not necessarily by electing the son of a previous Inca.

"A unique patrilineal cluster would be expected in the first case. In the second case, two or more patrilineal patterns will be evident," says geneticist Ricardo Fujita, senior author, also at Universidad de San Martin de Porres. The research team included historian Ronald Elward, who studied documentation of 12 Inca noble families and followed up from the conquista times to their contemporary descendants. "Most of them still living in the towns of San Sebastian and San Jeronimo, Cusco, Peru, at present, are probably the most homogeneous group of Inca lineage," says Elward.

Markers for Y chromosomes and mtDNA were used for the genetic analysis of these families and compared with a database for 2400 native individuals from Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador and Brazil. "The results show distinctive patrilineal origins to two founder individuals who lived between 1000 to 1500 AD, a period between the decline of former Tiwanaku (south) and Wari (north) contemporary empires, and the rise of the Inca empire a few centuries later," says geneticist Fabricio Santos from the Universidad Federal de Minas Gerais at Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

The first patrilineal haplotype named AWKI-1 ("awki" means "crown prince" in the Quechua language) is found in the putative families descending from two earlier Inca, Yahuar Huacac and Viracocha. The same pattern of the Inca descendants was also found in individuals living south to Cusco, mainly in Aymaras of Peru and Bolivia. The second patrilineal haplotype, named AWKI-2, was found in one descendant of a more recent Inca, Huayna Capac, father of the two brothers (Huascar and Atahualpa) who were fighting a fraternal war over the empire at the arrival of the conquistadors. "AWKI-2 is also found in dozens of individuals from different locations in the Andes and occasionally in the Amazon, suggesting a populational expansion," says Dr. Santos.

"In addition to San Sebastian and San Jeronimo, most locations of AWKI-1, AWKI-2 were southwards to Cusco including the basin of lake Titicaca and neighboring Paccarictambo, in agreement with the two foundational myths of the Inca, probably two pictures at different times of the same journey with final destination Cusco," says Ricardo Fujita.

"It is also remarkable that in these contemporary Inca nobility families, there is a continuity since pre-Columbian times," says Ronald Elward. The analysis of their mtDNA suggested a highly varied matrilineal marker whose counterparts are found all over the Andes, reflecting a high genetic flow. "This probably reflects the political alliances by arranged marriages between Cusco nobility and daughters of lords of kingdoms and chiefdoms all over the empire," says Jose Sandoval.

This work is the continuation of several studies performed by the team to reconstruct South American history via genetics. Two published works included the unique ancient roots of the Uros, people from the Floating Islands of Lake Titicaca and the Quechwa-Lamistas in Peruvian Amazon. Modern Uros are Aymara speaking-people believed to be of the Aymara ethnia who profited from tourism on the floating islands. However, the team showed that they were genetically isolated people who had lost their original Uro language, shifting to the widely used Aymara language. On the other hand the Kechwa-Lamista are Amazonian people who speak the Andean Quechua language, presumed descendants of Andeans Chancas, former enemies of the Incas, and were chased by them toward the Amazon. DNA showed that they are actually descendants of linguistically different Amazonian people who were gathered by Catholic missions and were taught the Quechua language for a better evangelization.

"In some cases, genetics shows us something different than the official history. What is not written or badly written in historical records can be revealed by what is written in our DNA," says Ricardo Fujita. "This study is just the tip of the iceberg in trying to solve part of several enigmas of one of the most remarkable civilizations. The DNA of one Inca monarch's bodily remains or one direct descendant who lived at the beginning of the Spanish colonization could give more certainty about the Inca lineage, and our team is looking forward to it," says Jose Sandoval.

More information: José R. Sandoval et al, Genetic ancestry of families of putative Inka descent, Molecular Genetics and Genomics (2018). DOI: 10.1007/s00438-018-1427-4