Business Observer for the week of July 12 – The Fayetteville Observer

Posted on by

Achievements, promotions and recognition

Strictly Business: A roundup of business and retail news right to your inbox.

On the job

Caroline Glackin, an assistant professor in the department of management, marketing and entrepreneurship of Fayetteville State Universitys Broadwell College of Business and Economics, has been named associate editor of entrepreneurship for the International Journal of Instructional Cases. Glackin will serve a three-year term.

Interventional pulmonologist Adam Belanger has joined FirstHealth Specialty Services and Pinehurst Medical Clinic in practice with Michael Pritchett. Originally from Vermont, Belanger earned his undergraduate degree from Boston University and attended medical school at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. He completed an internal medicine residency at Washington University in St. Louis. He recently completed a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine as well as additional training in interventional pulmonology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Spring Lake Alderwoman Soa Cooper was elected to the board of directors of the N.C. League of Municipalities, representing District 7. Fayetteville City Councilman Johnny Dawkins is a board member representing large cities.

Ulysses Taylor, a professor of accounting and chairman of the department of accounting, finance, health care and information systems, has been named interim dean of the Broadwell College of Business and Economics at Fayetteville State University. The appointment was recommended by Lee Brown, former dean of the college, who will become interim provost on Aug. 1. Taylor has been a member of the FSU faculty since 1992 and a department chairman since 1997. He is a former board member of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce and Fayetteville/Cumberland County Economic Development Alliance. He chairs the FSU Development Corp. and is a board member and treasurer of Capitol Encore Academy, a charter school. Taylor received his bachelors degree in business administration in accounting from FSU, an MBA from East Carolina University, and a law degree from North Carolina Central University School of Law.

Grants

Cape Fear Valley Health has been awarded $149,747 by the North Carolina Healthcare Foundations COVID-19 "Fill the Gap" Response Fund. The money will help fund behavioral health support for frontline health care workers, enhanced discharge support for underserved patients, and increasing nursing coverage to allow additional breaks in COVID-19 treatment units.

Community Care of the Lower Cape Fear has received a $350,000 grant from the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services Division of Public Health-Womens Health Branch to improve maternal morbidity and mortality rates in Perinatal Care Region V. Funding supports the Perinatal Nurse Champion program, focusing on maternal health initiatives to identify guidelines and educate providers in the states birthing hospitals, community health centers, health departments and physician practices. The agency covers Cumberland, Robeson, Harnett, Hoke, Bladen, Sampson, Moore, New Hanover, Brunswick, Columbus, Montgomery, Richmond and Scotland counties.

Read the original post:

Business Observer for the week of July 12 - The Fayetteville Observer

An 80-year-old doctor and longevity expert shares his 5 habits for a longer life: ‘It’s never too late to start’ – CNBC

Posted on by

If you could prolong your life by a few more years (or even live to be 100), would you do it? I can't think of many people who would say no.

I've devoted my entire career to geriatrics, a field that specializes in the care of older adults. I helped start one of the first geriatrics programs in the U.S. at Harvard Medical School, and I'm currently a professor of medicine and public health at Brown University.

Having been a geriatrician for 55 years, the one question I'm constantly asked by folks of all ages is, "What are the most important everyday habits that can lead to a longer, more vibrant life?" I've given a lot of guidance on this to my patients, and I've seen positive results in people who follow them, including myself.

I celebrated my eightieth birthday this year, and I'm still going strong. I feel about as healthy and sharp as I did a decade ago. (Even my medical school interns don't stand a chance at beating me in squash, a sport I play several times a week.)

At 80, I've outlived the average American's life expectancy, which, for the first time in 100 years, has been on the decline. In 2014, our anticipated lifespan was 78.9 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In 2017, it dropped to 78.6 years.

If you ask me, the biggest drivers are obesity, physical inactivity, smoking and substance abuse.But the good news is that it's never too late to change your lifestyle.

Here are some of the simplest things you can do nowto increase your chances of living a longer, healthier life:

I believe in the power of a Mediterranean-like diet (think: a combination of Italian and Greek dishes).

According to theDietary Guidelines for Americans, this plant-based diet filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats can help prevent chronic disease and promote overall health.

I like to think of the Mediterranean diet as more of a lifestyle routine than a strict plan you follow for a while and then abandon, because it can be hard to keep up with. Want a T-bone steak every month? Go for it! But try to avoid processed and fast foods. Include seafood, lean meats and nuts in your meals instead.

Fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines and albacore tuna, are staplesfor a goodMediterraneandiet. They're rich omega-3s, which research shows can help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. The American Heart Association recommends two 3.5-ounce servings of fish (particularly the fatty kind) weekly.

Extra-virgin olive oil, another staple of the diet, canhelp prevent heart attacks, stroke and cardiovascular death, even among people at higher risk.

Studies have shown that obesity and physical inactivity are two of the biggest contributors to diseases and a shortened lifespan. Fight back with exercise, which not only improves physical function, but also helps reduce the risk fordepression,canceranddiabetes.

TheAmerican Cancer Societyrecommends two and a half to five hours of moderate physical activity (e.g., walking, gardening) a week, or one to two and a half hours of vigorous physical activity (e.g., running, aerobics) a week.

I gravitate toward squash and anything else that gets my heart and respiratory rates up. But just 30 minutes of walking every day can make a difference.

Start moving now and keep it up. It can help add years to your life.

As everybody already knows, smoking has deadly consequences. It can cause health issues like heart disease, cancer, lung disease and emphysema, among many others. Research shows that even "light smoking" (as little as one cigarette a day) can greatly increase your risk of dying early.

But the benefits of quitting smoking start pretty quickly. The risk for a heart attack drops sharply just one year after quitting, according to the CDC. And, after two to five years, the chance of stroke could fall to roughly the same as a non-smoker.

Another thing: Don't be fooled into thinking vaping is a healthier alternative. Although there's limited research on the long-term effects of vaping, a recent study found that using e-cigarettes damages arteries in the same way that traditional cigarettes do.

Preventive care can help uncover health issues early, so schedule wellness exams as often as your health care provider recommends.

Some of the most important screenings and exams include cholesterol, blood pressure, skin cancer, and breast and cervical cancer for women (pap smears begin at age 21, mammograms start at 40). Depending on your family history, your doctor may suggest others.

Keeping up with these annual visits is a chance to review your lifestyle choices (e.g., diet, exercise habits, smoking status, alcohol use) and common behavioral health problems (e.g., stress, anxiety, depression). It's also an ideal time to talk about specific screening tests that you probably never even knew about.

You can discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of certain tests or vaccinations to help make a shared decision about whether or not you want to have them. The key is to stay better informed and engaged about your ongoing health.

I can't stress enough the importance of protecting your mental health.Studiesshow that having a major mental illness can shorten your lifespan by 14 to 32 years

If you're concerned, ask your general physicianto give you amental health assessment, which can help pinpoint problems.

Also, make time for stress relief activities, such as meditation and yoga. Engaging in meaningful hobbies and connecting socially with other people can have a powerful influence on your mental well-being and happiness.

It may be hard do some of these things during a pandemic (and with social distancing orders in place), but don't underestimate the power of video calls with friends and relatives; seeing people, even on a small screen, can be emotionally rewarding.

Richard W. Besdine, MD, is a Professor of Medicine and Health Services Policy and Practice at Brown University.He is a member and former president of theAmerican Geriatrics Society.Dr. Besdine has authored more than 125 scholarly publications on aging, and trained in internal medicine, infectious diseases and immunology at Boston's Beth Israel Hospital and Harvard Medical School.

Don't miss:

Go here to see the original:

An 80-year-old doctor and longevity expert shares his 5 habits for a longer life: 'It's never too late to start' - CNBC

5 Things ‘Childfree’ People Want You To Know | HuffPost Life

Posted on by

Survey data rarely distinguishes between the involuntarily childless and the consciously childfree, but 2014 census figures reveal that 47.6 percent of women between age 15 and 44 have never had children the highest rate ever tracked. By age 40 to 44, 19 percent of women remain childless, according to a 2014 Pew report.

Now, a new study looks into how people come to this decision. It reveals the decision is rarely a one-time conversation, as past research has suggested, but instead an ongoing discussion a person has internally and with a partner.

Amy Blackstone, a gender sociologist at the University of Maine who specializes in childfree research, hopes that her study helps question the assumption that little boys and girls will grow up to become parents. Breaking down this assumption would give them space as they grow up to decide whether or not parenting is the right choice for them.

Right now, girls in particular, but girls and boys both, are raised to imagine themselves as parents of children, she explained. But if we more critically thought about the question of whether or not to parent, then everyone would have the opportunity to make the choice thats right for them.

Of course, the childfree would benefit if we made it a choice rather than an assumption, Blackstone continued. But I think parents would benefit, too.

Blackstone conducted a small, qualitative study to explore how 31 people 21 women and 10 men, all but two of them straight made their decision to stay childfree. She conducted 60- to 90-minute interviews on their decision-making process, the response they got from others and their reflections on their choice.

Blackstones finding that the choice is not a snap judgement but rather a complex and ongoing conversation pushes back on criticism that childfree people are selfish or flippant about their decision not to parent. It also sheds light on how different genders approach the choice and provides some insight into how friends and family help shape a persons decision.

Read on for five observations from Blackstones study, in the words of participants, that get to the root of how people decide to be childfree. All the names from the study are pseudonyms.

1. Childfree people do not make their decisions lightly.

HuffPost/Canva

I think everybody could say that to get where we are [and maintain our childfree status] has been a constant decision-making process because every relationship you enter into, especially romantically, thats the expected thing. Youre constantly making a decision about remaining childfree. Janet

Its not a decision where youre like, Okay, todays the day that I dont want kids. ...Its a working decision. April

My partner and I have discussions about Do you think you want to [have children] or not. ... Time has gone by ... and we see the things that are important to us and how we want to live our life. And we see a child as a completely changing point. Sarah

I think Ive always been deciding that I dont really want kids. Annie

I think this was kind of a decision that weve made more than once. You know, at the different times of your life. Weve been together now eighteen years so, Id say once every five to six years the topic has come up and I think itll probably stop coming up now, given our ages. One of us will say, So, you want em now? and the other will say No, no, not really. Is anything going on that would make us want them? No. No. Robin

2. Theyve observed parenting up close and they dont like what they see.

HuffPost/Canva

At first I grew up assuming that you have kids. You got married and it would happen. But I have older sisters and while growing up, I noticed that [my two much older sisters] put off having kids for a long time. So it became obvious to me that having kids was kind of a choice as opposed to inevitability. Then my two younger sisters got pregnant accidentally and I saw what that did to their lives, where they didnt have good jobs and [their partners] didnt have good jobs. They had to make [do] and even now ... twenty years later, theyre finally just actually starting to be able to live their life ... And so it just kind of gradually to me became like, Im not gonna have kids. Gradually for me it became, Yeah, I dont think I need kids. Steve

I think part of it is as my friends started to have kids, that made me go, Oh I dont think this is for me. Because even if I had wanted kids before that, once they started having kids and losing their freedom and their individuality, that really was a big point for me. It was like, that does not look like the fun, happy family stuff that you think about when youre young. I think that was a big part, when my friends started having kids, that was when I started thinking, Im checkin out of this. Janet

I was sort of observing families around me and wondering if I wanted to be a part of that dynamic in our world. ... A lot of people with children didnt look happy. ... The majority were definitely stressed out. There was something there that was not inviting me to participate in this lifestyle process. Kate

My brother was in a very bad marriage ...The marriage was going downhill and they tried saying Well lets have kids cause thats what we do or This will make things better, and so they had a kid. Two years after that they got a divorce. And my brother loves his daughter but he also says at the same time that, as bad as this is, that he wishes that he never had her. ... And once, talking to my sister, she said that when she comes home at night, she picks her daughter up from daycare and her daughter says I want to go back to daycare because I have more fun there. I guess I dont want to do it. Thats [what my sister goes through] a pretty crappy feeling. And [what my brother went through] reaffirmed it. Cory

3. For women, environmental and social responsibility often play a part...

HuffPost/Canva

[Not having children] is responsible. Instead of this kind of blindly following the societal expectation, of this is what you are suppose to do, [not having children] means really taking a lot of factors into consideration. I think about all kinds of stuff. Like I camped over the weekend and I saw the trash factor that people with kids had left and let build up from so much over use of a campsite. I think about stuff like acceptable population levels. April

Im really just concerned about our world. ... Diving more deeply in the social issues, I really think that the world is against the child right now. At this time in our social structure right now its not going to be a good thing to have children. We cant bring them up healthfully. Kate

I was a very environmentally conscious child and my big thing at the time was population control, so that was kind of a forming quality of [my decision not to have children]. Kim

4. ...While mens decisions tended to be internally motivated.

HuffPost/Canva

Not having kids is an obvious outcome of our choices. I want to be able to travel, I want to be able to do things that I would not be able to do if I had kids. ... Its just one of the many choices that you make in the balancing act of your life. ... And, you know, its a rational response to what it means to have a kid and what impact [being a parent] has on the rest of your life. Steve

5. They put a lot of thought into what it means to be a parent.

HuffPost/Canva

People who have decided not to have kids arguably have been more thoughtful than those who decided to have kids. Its deliberate, its respectful, ethical, and its a real honest, good, fair, and, for many people, right decision. Bob

I would like it to be considered a decision just like any other. Barb

I wish more people thought about thinking about it. ... I mean I wish it were normal to decide whether or not you were going to have children. Tony

What to keep in mind about this small study

Nancy Molitor, a practicing clinical psychologist and assistant professor of clinical psychiatry and behavioral science at Northwestern University Feinburg School of Medicine, commended Blackstone for diving into the little-researched and little-understood subject of deciding to become childfree. She was also intrigued by the way gender appeared to affect a persons decision-making.

However, she noted that given the small, homogenous sample and the fact that participants werent selected at random, its next to impossible to draw any general conclusions about the larger childfree population in the U.S. or around the world. The gendered patterns Blackstone observed, for example, need to be validated and confirmed in a much larger population. Some of this is inherent in qualitative research, which lacks the randomized samples and control group that underpins quantitative research. But qualitative research still has its place in the sciences, especially for emerging topics, because of its ability to raise the profile of new ideas, ask questions and generate new hypotheses for future research.

This is a small, self-selected group, Molitor said. That doesnt mean its not interesting, but its hard to speculate whether this would have results that would stand up in a larger sample taken from folks in rural Mississippi or the Midwest.

Molitor called for long-term studies to see if and how childfree people in their 40s (the upper limit of the ages in Blackstones study) change their minds as they enter their 50s. Molitor also said that it would be interesting to continue research on the childfree community by examining regional and generational differences across a wider, randomized population.

A lot of [childfree] research goes back to the 90s, she explained. I can say from my own experience and research that studies that were done in the 90s and their decisions about childfree might be very different from a young woman who is a millennial who is making that decision now in 2016.

Since publishing her research in The Family Journal, Blackstone has interviewed 44 more people, expanding the diversity of her participant pool beyond the mostly white, straight and middle or upper class respondents in her original cohort. She hopes to continue debunking myths and assumptions about childfree people with future research, which will hopefully create a world where childfree people dont have to defend their choice to others or suffer socially for it. Blackstone herself is childfree, and manages a blog she founded with her husband called Were {not} having a baby!

People dont really know what to do with us, Blackstone said. Sometimes we get left out of, for example, events at friends houses if there are children involved, because people assume that we dont want to be involved. It can be a kind of lonely existence.

Read more here:

5 Things 'Childfree' People Want You To Know | HuffPost Life

More women like me are choosing to be childfree. Is this the age of opting out? – The Guardian

Posted on by

Imagine a world in which, one day, you learned youd eventually be expected to give birth to, then raise, an ostrich. It would be a long-lived ostrich, one residing with you inside your home for at least 18 years.

This large, growing bird would require a great deal of care daily, exhausting, heroic care, for which you wouldnt be paid, nor, in general, well supported. In fact, youd probably have to take time off from work; if youre a woman, your ability to earn a post-ostrich livelihood would most likely be curtailed, perhaps severely. Plus, there would be the expense of ostrich daycare, ostrich violin lessons; in the future, god help you, ostrich college. Did you catch the part where youre physically birthing the ostrich? It would tear open your body as it emerged from either between your legs or a gash sliced across your stomach, this larger-than-usual, speckled ostrich egg.

Then, imagine that, despite the pervasive societal expectations, you realized one day that you could opt out of having an ostrich. You never wanted the bird in the first place. Imagine how much more natural it might feel if you could just not.

Im starting with illustrative ostriches because Ive learned, over the years, that people tend not to believe me if I indicate that I dont feel, and have never felt, the urge to have children. Indicate, because I rarely say it outright. If directly asked, I respond, Oh, I dont know, not yet, as if theres a question about it as though I havent been certain, all my life, that Im at least as disinclined to parent a child as I would an ostrich. I equivocate with the hope of heading off the arguing, the unsolicited assurances about what my body wants and how I should live my life: Youll change your mind, Im often told. Hey, you never know.

Except I havent; I do. Thus, ostriches.

But how can this be so difficult to believe? My position should be, by now, plausible: the American fertility rate is at a historic 35-year low. The so-called replacement rate the national birthrate believed to be optimal for population renewal and stability is 2.1 babies per couple; today people with wombs are expected to have 1.71 children in their lifetimes. And that 1.71 estimate came before the pandemic; in this changed world, in which it seems all the parents of young children I know are having by far the hardest time of their parenting lives, it seems likely that fertility rates will keep falling.

Until recently, though, the US experienced more robust fertility rates than did other developed countries. We can thank immigrants for this: since 1970, any growth in annual births in the US is attributed to immigrant parents. Gretchen Livingston, from Pew Research Center, notes that if immigrant moms had not been in the States, [the] overall number of births would have actually declined in that time.

Since the 2008 recession, however, the total fertility rate has fallen by close to 20%. This dwindling rate has demographers worried: an aging population with a disproportionately small base of working adults is one more susceptible to the vicissitudes of the economy or a new coronavirus.

Looking around at the state of this country, as well as the world, it doesnt seem particularly surprising that the birthrate would be declining. Parenting in the US is especially costly and difficult, for one. And then theres the climate crisis: in a 2018 New York Times poll, a third of Americans of childbearing age cited climate change as a factor in their decision to have fewer children.

Based on my experiences, Id say one-third sounds, if anything, low. Im in my thirties; a significant majority of my friends still dont have children, and many say the climate is a serious consideration. Since the pandemic started, friends whod been unsure if they wanted children have begun saying theyre leaning more decisively toward not. If I look at a still younger set of people, the college students and graduate students Ive frequently encountered while teaching and publicly speaking, Id say the one-third figure sounds lower still, and how could it not be? In the absence of massive systemic change, it seems possible that ecological collapse will happen within college students lifetimes, and they know it.

Prospective parents also see the deficit in other, essential kinds of support, community, fellowship, help. In the Atlantic, Alia Wong argues that Americas low fertility rate is a sign that the country isnt providing the support Americans feel they need in order to have children. Even without a life-upending pandemic, trying to have a baby without consistent, legally enforced societal and medical support is indeed very hard. Or, as Anna Louie Sussman posits in the New York Times: It seems clear that what we have come to think of as late capitalism that is, not just the economic system, but all its attendant inequalities, indignities, opportunities and absurdities has become hostile to reproduction.

Could this falling birthrate eventually affect how childfree people are viewed in the US? (Childfree, Ill emphasize, not childless a lot of people without offspring prefer to reserve the term childless for those who are unable to have children.)

With plenitude, comes acceptance, even normalcy, until the childfree seem unremarkable something like that?

It might be unlikely. Throughout history, people without children women, especially have often been persecuted, mistreated, pitied, and killed for their perceived lack. In ancient Rome, a woman who hadnt borne children could legally be divorced, and her infertility was grounds for letting a priest hit her with a piece of goat skin. (The blows were thought to help women bear children.) In Tang Dynasty China, not having a child was once again grounds for divorce. In the Middle Ages, infertility was believed to be caused by witches or Satan; worse yet, an infertile woman could be accused of being, herself, a witch. In Puritan America, it wasnt just having no children that was suspect. Giving birth to too many children could be perilous, too, and grounds, yet again, for being condemned for a witch.

Also in the US, enslaved women were expected to have babies, and were routinely raped, their potential future children considered a slaveholders property. Some of the only times women without offspring have garnered respect might be when they have formally devoted their lives to a god, and to celibacy: nuns, vestal virgins.

Which brings us to a word I havent yet used, but which often is levied against childfree women like me: selfish. Despite everything, its still common to view parenting as a moral imperative, to such an extent that voluntarily childfree people can be viewed with such outsize emotions as anger and disgust. Pope Francis, a lifelong celibate, has said: The choice not to have children is selfish. Life rejuvenates and acquires energy when it multiplies: it is enriched, not impoverished. Such judgments might be even more available now, at a time when so much, especially including parenting, has become more difficult for so many people.

I used to find this charge bewildering. How can it be selfish not to want? Why does it bother anyone if I refrain? The world is burning, and its been argued that the single best way an individual in a developed country can reduce her carbon footprint is by having fewer children. (Of course, what can really reduce our carbon footprints is ending our planet-strangling reliance on fossil fuels.) Whats more, a hundred children from a less economically developed nation could easily have a smaller carbon footprint than one American child. To be very selfless, I could move to a less rich land and help raise an entire orphanage.

And the upset about the replacement birthrate part of me is tempted to ask why it matters. Why is it prima facie an obvious good in and of itself that our species collectively keep overpopulating the earth? We abound, you and I. No other animals despoil this planet the way we do. But okay, if one wished to argue on behalf of the improved national social stability provided by having a younger population well, in that case, lets further open our borders. Lets fling them open. As Adam Minter says in Bloomberg: Until some country shows otherwise, immigration remains the most effective means of reversing a baby bust.

Voil, an elegant, satisfying, available solution for birthrate concerns.

Back to the question of selfishness: I used to wonder, as Ive mentioned, what could be selfish about wanting to live my own life, one in which Im electing not to take care of this hypothetical, doesnt-even-exist American child or ostriches. And then, I realized. Thats it, right there, I think. Im a woman; as one, Im expected to look after others. To nurture. To mother: a child, most often. Plus anyone else who could use my time, really. Thats the most uncontroversial kind of woman to be: one devoted to caretaking.

Here is where, if I wanted to, I might include a detailed paragraph about the caretaking I already do. I could line up examples of how unselfish I can be, how passionately I care about family and friends, and how I give to my larger communities. I could talk about being an aunt; I could explain how Ive tried to help sustain friends with children, all to say: Look, Im not the monster you might think I am. But I dont want to prove any claims to unselfishness here nor that of other childfree adults. Its irrelevant, and I shouldnt have to. It would be as if I abruptly started telling you how much I love Valeria Luisellis writing. What does Valeria Luisellis writing have to do with wanting or not wanting children, you might wonder, to which Id say yes, exactly, do you see?

Instead, I think of how, for as long as I can remember, Ive softened my refusal to be a parent. The times Ive said, Not yet, the parties at which Ive smiled when a stranger informs me Ill change my mind, as if hes more familiar with my body than I am. The talk of ostriches. It occurs to me that this is yet another way I force myself to take up less space: I badly dont want my private refusal to sound like an affront to anyone elses desires.

But one grows tired of extending courtesies that are too often not reciprocated, and maybe, for once, Ill say it plain: I dont want children, I never have, and it doesnt feel like any kind of lack. To me, it just feels like being alive.

Additional reporting by Adrienne Matei

See original here:

More women like me are choosing to be childfree. Is this the age of opting out? - The Guardian

First Thing: could the pandemic turn red states into swing states? – The Guardian

Posted on by

Good morning. The mayors of Houston and Austin have warned that hospitals in the two Texas cities are in danger of being overwhelmed by coronavirus patients in the coming weeks, even as Donald Trump continues to play down the exponential increase in Covid-19 cases across multiple US states.

Two months ago, Americas most severe outbreaks were in Democratic-led regions such as New York. But the countrys coronavirus map is very different now, and badly-hit states such as Texas, Florida, Arizona and Georgia which all voted for Trump in 2016 look set to be 2020 election battlegrounds amid the pandemic, as Joan E Greve reports.

Speaking at the White House over the weekend, Trump said his administrations Covid-19 strategy was moving along well and claimed, without evidence, that 99% of cases of the disease which has now killed almost 130,000 Americans were totally harmless. But, as Adrienne Matei writes, even mild cases of Covid-19 can lead to long-term health problems:

Emerging medical research as well as anecdotal evidence from recovery support groups suggest that many survivors of mild Covid-19 are not so lucky. They experience lasting side-effects, and doctors are still trying to understand the ramifications.

Trump spent the 4 July weekend stoking Americas cultural divisions, dismissing the threat of the coronavirus pandemic, and playing golf at one of his own private properties. But as he ramps up the belligerent rhetoric for his re-election campaign, there are fresh rumblings of dissent from within the Republican party.

Several anti-Trump groups have sprung up within the wider GOP. Some are openly supporting Joe Biden, reports Daniel Strauss, and almost all are better organised than the so-called Never Trump movement of 2016. Meanwhile, the presidents former national security adviser John Bolton has called into question Trumps claim never to have been briefed on the Russian bounties controversy, telling CBS that was just not the way the system works.

The coronavirus pandemic has struck the oldest generation most severely, but the impact of the economic fallout will likely be felt most deeply by young people particularly the so-called generation Z: those born between 1997 and 2012. Lauren Aratani spoke to several young Americans about entering the economy just as it goes into freefall.

Tom Hanks on surviving coronavirus

Back in March, Tom Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, became, he tells Hadley Freeman, the celebrity canaries in the coalmine of all things Covid-19. But now hes recovered and promoting his new film, albeit via Zoom. Im not one who wakes up in the morning wondering if Im going to see the end of the day or not.

Choosing to be childfree

RO Kwon never felt the urge to have children. With the world on the brink of environmental collapse, she writes, many women have joined her in choosing to be childfree. Two childfree Guardian editors introduce a new series on opting out of parenting, while Kristin Brownell says she refuses to pass on her addiction gene.

Why we need sharks

They get a bad rap from Hollywood, but the monstrous villains of the ocean are in fact a majestic, diverse bunch who help to bring balance to the underwater ecosystem. Helen Scales explains why sharks matter to humanity.

Trump nominated William Perry Pendley, a conservative activist with close links to anti-government forces, to oversee Americas public lands. His elevation, argues Cas Mudde, is a reminder that the true far-right threat to US democracy does not come from neo-Nazis.

It is this coalition of disaffected, illiberal and self-interested forces that holds Trump and the Republican leadership together and which is slowly but steadily dismantling the federal government from within.

The Dodge Charger from the TV show Dukes of Hazzard, named after General Lee and emblazoned with the Confederate flag, will not be removed from display at the Volo Auto Museum near Chicago amid the national debate over Confederate monuments. The museums director said its collection also includes Nazi artefacts: If were going to get complaints about the General Lee being here, weve got much worse items over in our military building.

First Thing is delivered to thousands of inboxes every weekday. If youre not already signed up, subscribe now.

Continue reading here:

First Thing: could the pandemic turn red states into swing states? - The Guardian

COMMENTARY: I propose changing the name of Jackson County to Jackson County – The Cherokee One Feather – Cherokee One Feather

Posted on by

By SCOTT MCKIE B.P.

ONE FEATHER STAFF

Nationwide, we are seeing statues of slave owners come down and names regarded as racist being changed, and I propose that Jackson County, North Carolina change its name to Jackson County. This proposal would change the namesake only, cost zero dollars, and lift the county up from being named after a person responsible for one of the most atrocious acts in American history to being named after the 18th Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI).

Principal Chief Walter S. Jackson (1923-71) (Photos courtesy of family)

I propose simply changing the namesake of the county from President Jackson to former Principal Chief Walter S. Jackson (1923-71). This change would not cost the county anything as nothing would really need to be changed such as signage, documents, decals on county vehicles, etc. The namesake would only change and, in doing so, would help further solidify the relationship between the EBCI and the county.

Jackson County was formed in 1851 from parts of Haywood and Macon counties and named after President Andrew Jackson, according to NCpedia.org. A portion of the Qualla Boundary, the main tribal land base of the EBCI, is located in Jackson County.

For those of you who might not know, President Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act of 1830 which led to the Trail of Tears for the Cherokee Nation. In an address to Congress on Dec. 6, 1830, he stated, And is it supposed that the wandering savage has a stronger attachment to his home than the settled, civilized Christian? Is it more afflicting to him to leave the graves of his fathers than it is to our brothers and children? Rightly considered, the policy of the General Government toward the red man is not only liberal, but generous. He is unwilling to submit to the laws of the States and mingle with their population. To save him from this alternative, or perhaps utter annihilation, the General Government kindly offers him a new home, and proposes to pay the whole expense of his removal and settlement.

The late, acclaimed author Robert J. Conley, a member of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians, wrote about Chief Jackson in his book, A Cherokee Encyclopedia describing his service to the Cherokee people.

The book outlines many of Chief Jacksons accomplishments in his short life including: World War II Navy veteran, manager of the Oconaluftee Indian Village, Chief of the Cherokee Indian Police Dept., head of the Tribes community services division, Tribal Council representative for 12 years, Vice Chief for four years, and Principal Chief (elected in 1967).

Conley wrote, He was instrumental in developing the Cherokee Boys Club, improving reservation roads, re-opening the tribal rolls, securing a new gymnasium and a new elementary school, and establishing the Public Health Service hospital.

Chief Jackson died while serving in the office of Principal Chief at the age of 47.

Conley further wrote, U.S. Congressman Roy Taylor said of him (Chief Jackson), He was a warm, friendly individual whom we all looked to seeing when he came to Washington. He always seemed to have the welfare of the Cherokee Indians at heart and vigorously pursued those programs which he felt would improve their social and economic conditions. He had the ability to combine his congenial manner with serious purpose.

Just two days after his death, the Cherokee Boys Club named the third cottage of the old Cherokee Boys Club Home for Boys the Walter S. Jackson Cottage in his honor. A resolution from the Boys Club, dated April 28, 1971, states, He worked very hard for the Cherokee Reservation for for the betterment of his people. He was instrumental in getting the Cherokee Boys Club, Inc. organized in 1964, and he has helped the Club tremendously in all of its work and has served on the Clubs Advisory Committee since its beginning. The Club appreciates the fact that Chief Jackson devoted his life to the service of his people.

This proposed change would not cost Jackson County a penny, but it could pay generous rewards in improved relations and a new spirit of cooperation in this small part of western North Carolina.

Go here to see the original:

COMMENTARY: I propose changing the name of Jackson County to Jackson County - The Cherokee One Feather - Cherokee One Feather

What 9 GOP Campaign Consultants Really Think About Republicans Chances in November – Rolling Stone

Posted on by

Shooting rubber bullet grenades at protesting priests. Catastrophically botching the pandemic response, resulting in a public health and economic calamity. Tweeting white power memes. Ranting in front of empty arenas about how he navigated a slippery ramp. Being MIA while his Russian benefactors put out a hit on American soldiers in Afghanistan.

The last three months have been a political dumpster fire for President Trump, and the flames have engulfed Republicans up and down the ballot. But while pockets of Republican resistance have roasted Dear Leader, elected officials in D.C. and their Svengalis in the consultant class have remained steadfast.

These swamp creatures were never the biggest Trumpers in the first place his initial campaign team was an assortment of D-listers and golf course grunts rather than traditional GOP ad men. So why, as Trumps numbers plummet, are these establishment RINOs continuing to debase themselves to protect someone who is politically faltering and couldnt care less about them?

I reached out to nine of my former allies and rivals who still consult for Republican candidates at the highest levels of Senate and House races, some who have gone full MAGA and others for whom the president is not their cup of tea. I asked them to speak candidly, without their names attached, to learn about the real behind-the-scenes conversations about the state of affairs. How is the presidents performance impacting their candidate? Are there discussions about either storming the cockpit or gently trying to #WalkAway from Trump? And finally, why in the hell arent they more pissed at this incompetent asshole who is fucking up their lives?

What I found in their answers was one part Stockholm Syndrome, one part survival instinct. They all may not love the president, but most share his loathing for his enemies on the left, in the media, and the apostate Never Trump Republicans with a passion that engenders an alliance with the president, if not a kinship. And even among those who dont share the tribalistic hatreds, they perceive a political reality driven by base voters and the presidents shitposting that simply does not allow for dissent.

As one put it: There are two options, you can be on this hell ship or you can be in the water drowning.

So I give you the view from the U.S.S Hellship, first the political state of play, and then the psychological.

The impact of Trumps disastrous three months on down ballot candidates was best summed up in the first text message I got back.

Could you use a poop emoji for my comments?

The assessment was excreta across the board.

But in 2006, Republican candidates could strategically distance themselves from an unpopular president without facing a mutiny within the ranks. That wont work in 2020, as though Trumps numbers are plummeting with some demos they are solidifying or improving among his core support demographic. Which makes running afoul of Trump fatal in the eyes of these strategists.

There are practical realities we ran a bunch of red district primaries, and it would come back that the number one issue for 80+% of Republican primary voters was loyalty to Donald Trump. Im not making that number up, a respondent told me.

Several consultants pointed to the situation that Sen. John Cornyn faces in Texas to illustrate the problem. They indicated that internal polling shows Trump either tied or very slightly ahead in the Lone Star State. One said Cornyn should be feeling very lucky that Beto ORourke ran for president, rather than tacking slightly center and spending $90 million on a campaign to unseat the incumbent senator. Another said Cornyns quietly in trouble.

But rather than addressing this by creating some strategic separation from Trump to solidify the historically conservative Dallas and Houston suburbs where Trump is bleeding out, Cornyn has become a Mr. Trump fan girl, echoing his virus denial and defending the attack on nonviolent protestors in Lafayette Square.

Why? According to one: You have 25% of the state is rural and Trump gets like Saddam Hussein level numbers here. 87% in 25% of the state Cornyn gets 69. And so Cornyn cant find a place to break from because he could really put that in jeopardy.

And thus the polarizing nature of Trump makes it impossible for Cornyn to make a move that helps him in the swingy suburbs without risking the floor falling out from under him in West Texas.

This same calculus pervades no matter the race, no matter the district, no matter the geography: The operatives insist that the pro-Trump zealotry the presidents supporters demand makes it far more difficult for candidates to win over anyone else.

A consultant who advises a challenger in a swing house seat that Hillary Clinton carried, for example, indicated that they thought they had less ability to distance from Trump than those who are in safer, more MAGAfied districts. No dissent is tolerated [with the base], and If my candidate is going to win, its going to be by 1 or 2 percent they cant afford to lose any votes [on the pro-Trump flank].

In fact, some candidates in competitive House seats are going the other direction because of what it takes to win a primary. A different consultant said: My candidate didnt vote for Trump. But were running ads right now about being a big Trump supporter, because in that district drap[ing] yourself in Trump is still a good decision.

This view is so widespread that when asked, all of the consultants but two said that they havent even had a conversation about the possibility of distancing from Trump with any of their candidates or campaign teams. Another put it this way: The idea of distancing, if its discussed, its discussed very quietly; its discussed one-on-one. You wouldnt talk about it on a conference call maybe someone would, but lets just say it hasnt happened yet and Im on a lot of those calls.

Sit with that for a second. The idea of separating from Trump is so verboten in GOP circles that the best consultants wont even talk about talking about doing it in mixed company, for fear of being stigmatized, and thus losing potential client work on other campaigns.

Some offered that the calculus might change in the fall, when their backs are against the wall. Well probably get to Labor Day before any chess pieces are moved on the board. But for now, they are paralyzed by the experiences of 2016, when Trump rose from the dead several times, only to make those who challenged him weaker politically. So if anyone is expecting the rats to start jumping off the sinking ship, they better be patient.

In the meantime, these strategists are left with the same strategy theyve spent three years honing: Hope & Hiding.

But if we get to fall and unemployment is in single digits and Dow over 30k hes going to get reelected, one said. Thats why you dont want to jump out right now and separate yourself because in the Fall the whole world will be different.

Per another consultant: Maybe if we dont talk about Trump and we run on issues and we talk about constituent service and we continue the antagonism on the libs maybe we eek this thing out by a couple of points.

Suggestions that maybe, just maybe, in the face of these headwinds, that they should try to win back some of the suburban vote and claim their own destiny rather than grabbing a middle seat on Trump Airlines and hope for the best, are met with derision. Trump sucks the oxygen out of the room from every other candidate to such a degree that you cant run independent of him, as one put it.

Another put it more succinctly: The press and the twitteratithey dont know a fuckin thing.

To a person, they professed that the only option they have is to go hard negative on their opponent and run a campaign on niche issues and accomplishments theyve had while in office in the hopes that some slice of the electorate will be able to distinguish their candidate from Trump even if the candidate themselves is unwilling to do it.

And maybe these guys are right, and those of us sitting in the cheap seats are wrong to think its worth a shot to try to get out from under an incompetent, overmatched, pathetic, racist, deteriorating president. Maybe Trumps Hussein-like numbers with the MAGA crowd is such that anyone who dares cross him automatically is snuffed out the way Jeff Flake and Kelly Ayotte and Dean Heller were in 2016 and 18.

Maybe. But its interesting that at a time when the numbers are as bad as it gets, the notion of trying to separate from Trump is not even being contemplated. Maybe there is something more to it.

Its a natural human trait to tell someone what they want to hear. So as an avowed Never Trumper, Im used to these hushed conversations with my former colleagues where they commiserate over how bad Trump is, and how they wish they didnt have to do what they are doing but circumstance has left no choice but sticking with Trump or quitting and becoming a goat farmer.

We havent worked for anybody who seriously thinks the guy has it all together, said one consultant.

While at some level, Im sure thats true. Im sure some, if not most, Republican consultants and candidates snicker at Trump from time to time. In private. At the bar. Very quietly. Off the record.

Im also sure that in many cases their acknowledgment of the policy wins are in earnest. The more ideological among them expressed genuine excitement at some of the victories that they dont believe wouldve occurred under other administrations.

But what I found was that, underneath that surface level eye-rolling at Trump and hat-tipping to the record on judges, there was an emotional alliance with the president that is deeper than they might let on in mixed company. A compartmentalization of the badness of the orange man, set aside in favor of a deep and visceral hatred of the presidents enemies.

That compartmentalization is reflected in the emotional valence that comes when discussing the things about our terrible political moment that really anger them. From my vantage point, the anger should be directed at Trump. After all, in most every way besides financial Trump has tarnished their daily lives. One admitted to not being able to discuss his job with his wife any longer. Another lamented being called racist and evil. All expressed exasperation that Trump encompasses everything they talk about. Some felt deeply internally conflicted about work that used to make them proud. They all felt Trump had left them with no other options. Only a couple seemed to be having much fun.

So shouldnt they be pissed at this egomaniacal racist who is making their lives miserable, bringing down their candidates, and affecting their home lives and friendships simply because he cant for a single hour control his outbursts? Shouldnt they be clamoring to tell him to fuck off and act like a damn adult and stop putting them in these terrible situations?

When asked, almost to a person, the answer was no. For some, he was simply a frustration, a circumstance to deal with, a challenge, a problem to solve. For one, there was a silver (or just green) lining in a Trump loss.

If you actually think about this very selfishly If [Trump] loses, I make more money, one said. He loses, we go back to a semi-normal Republican party that leans more populist that I think a lot of people would like. We get to run all these challenger races and probably take back the house in two years, maybe even gains on the state level because of the extremist Democrat administration. I make more money. So thats a very selfish view and people have talked about that.

But for several others, Trump was someone they related to, a shadow side who was an emotional outlet for their anger.

They are mad (rightly) at people like Ben Sasse who act like they take the moral high ground only to hide under the hay bales until their primary is over. They are mad at people like Jeff Flake who moralized while angling for a new job in corporate America.

They are mad at the Lincoln Project for attacking innocent GOP Senators (Theres no coming back for these Lincoln Project motherfuckers, it doesnt matter what next. They are madder at those people than [at] Trump for sure).

They are mad at the media. (There is so much hyperbole around Trump and around these events. And it goes so thermonuclear outrage every fuckin 3 or 4 days. The scar tissue built up on what is a big thing anymore.)

Really, really mad at the media. (Theres not a moment where they are not in your face. Its not bullshit that they are a leftist institution. The mask is off.)

They are mad at the left. (Im not going to bow to every liberal altar on this).

Really, really mad at the left. (Woke culture has created no other lane for you but to support him on the one or two things that you like and then you have to countenance all the rest of the bullshit).

And so they remain passengers on a hell ship with no control over where it takes them. Emotionally tied to a man who shares their enemies, convinced that his ills are outweighed by theirs. Politically chained to a president who has the key to voters they need. Unable and unwilling to attempt to do much of anything about it. And resigned to that fate.

Is this some sort of death bed, like ohh look back at my life I wish I had fought Trump? Im not there.

And the hell ship sails on.

More:

What 9 GOP Campaign Consultants Really Think About Republicans Chances in November - Rolling Stone

Navigating the Self: African Student Experiences in U.S. Higher Education – The Yale Politic

Posted on by

E pluribus unum. Out of many, one. This motto is not only engraved in the Great Seal of the United States, but also in the spirit of the country. For decades, the U.S. has prided itself in being a land built by immigrants; in being a land where individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds have been able to unite and work together towards greatness. The nations status as a cultural melting pot has not only been praised as an asset, but has also been seen as a defining characteristic.

This is Americaa brilliant diversity spread like stars, like a thousand points of light in a broad and peaceful sky, affirmed former President George H.W. Bush in a speech at the Republican National Convention.

Yet this idealized version of the United States differs from its reality. From racist incidents and rhetoric against Asian-Americans amidst the COVID-19 pandemic to Hispanic immigrant deaths and human rights abuses in ICE custody, the U.S. has long distanced itself from valuing the diversity that is so integral to its society. Racial tensions have challenged the notion of American unity.

Most notably, the Black Lives Matter movement and recent events of racial violence against Black Americans have elucidated upon what has always been the case: that the U.S. has been a land of opportunity for some, but a land of oppression for others.

The United States is a land built by immigrants. But many of these immigrants did not come to the nation willingly.

As a result of the Atlantic Slave Trade, which lasted approximately from 1526 to 1867, more than 12.5 million African people were forceably enslaved and transported to the American continent. More than two million did not survive the journey. The majority of those who did were brought to the Caribbean and South America; however, by 1825, a quarter of all Black people in the New World lived in the U.S.

Though the United States has made significant strides towards greater racial equality over the yearsand slavery has now been abolisheddiscrimination and hostility towards minorities remainsespecially for those of African descent.

In this environment, the perspective of African students in the United States is interesting, and they face a unique situation. By pursuing higher education in America, many will no longer belong to the majority population of their home countries, and will instead be categorized as being part of a minorityone that is extremely vulnerable and under attack.

These students are exposed to both the best and the worst parts of the United States. Through their education, extracurriculars and other opportunities for development, they are able to further flourish in their personal, intellectual, and professional pursuits. Yet as African international students they will also face many challenges, especially regarding their race and identity.

***

In an article titled A Dual Degree from Oxford. A Medical Degree From Harvard. Neither Protected Me From Racism, Dr. Tafadzwa Muguwe spoke about the constant discrimination he has experienced in many facets of his life. He first arrived in the U.S. to pursue his undergraduate education at Swarthmore College. After finishing two graduate degrees in England, he returned to the United States to practice medicine. Despite his extraordinary credentialswhich include a prestigious Rhodes ScholarshipMuguwe, who is from Zimbabwe, described in the piece how many in the U.S. have frequently looked down upon him for his race and undermined his potential over the years.

Muguwe stated that far from being isolated, [his] experiences revealed deeply held assumptions and attitudes about [him] as a Black person. These attitudes constitute the scaffolding that is structural racism, which manifests daily in the lived realities of Black people in the United States.

In his book The Great American University: Its Rise to Preeminence, Its Indispensable National Role, Why It Must Be Protected, American sociologist and Columbia University professor Jonathan R. Cole affirmed that what has made [American] universities so distinguished is not the quality of [their] undergraduate education, which may vary between institutions, but their structure and what they embody.

Cole added that U.S. universities have a system of higher learning that fosters creativity and discovery, and that allows knowledge to be transferred and developed by new industries. These properties attract extraordinarily talented young people from around the world who seek opportunities at American universities. The systems of higher learning in other nations have not been able to put these elements together in a way that rivals what has been achieved in the United States.

Awuor Onguru 24 would agree.

Onguru, who is from Kenya, is one of the 2,304 students who were accepted into Yales Class of 2024 out of an application pool of more than 35,000. She was also offered a place at the prestigious University of Oxford in England, but chose instead to study in the United States.

I am fascinated by that idea of stewardship in learning, and students taking their own learning experience into their own hands, Onguru told The Politic. In the U.S.especially at Yaleuniversities foster that environment: [one] where I will be able to ask questions, talk to people, or bring in a new perspective. The U.S. style of learning [allows for] a wider approach to my degree than the U.K. or Kenyan system.

In an interview with The Politic, Thembisile Gausi 24, who is from both Zimbabwe and Malawi, expressed similar views: The U.S. has a more rounded experience when it comes to university. In the U.K., once you go to university, you just focus on your course. When you go to the U.S., [universities] focus more on a holistic school experience. You have so much you can also achieve outside the classroom.

Gausi added that a particular aspect that appealed to her about U.S. higher education was the leeway that comes with a liberal arts education. You can declare your major after your second year. In the U.K., there is nothing like that. If you apply as an engineer, you leave as an engineer. I felt it was the opposite with the U.S. where I could come in as an engineer and leave as a lawyer!

Lukas Nel 24, from South Africa, also expressed excitement about this aspect of the U.S. higher education system. Though he plans to major in Electrical Engineering, Nel told The Politic that the U.S. liberal arts scene would allow me to look at all my interests, including economics and history, while in the U.K. and South Africa you choose a subject and just do it. Its much more specialized.

***

As a result of colonialism, the education systems of many African nations are modeled after those of their former colonizers. The British Empire was the largest in human history, and left a significant linguistic and educational legacy in the continent. Many African students are not only very familiar with U.K. high school systems, such as the Cambridge Assessment International Education style, but also with those of U.K. higher education. In the 2017-2018 school year, almost 28,000 African students attended universities in the U.K.

Yet information about the U.S. education system, which is very different from that of the U.K., is not widespread in the continent. For some who wish to study in the United States, this can lead to challenges in the application process, months before even stepping on campus.

This was initially the case for Gausi, who studied in a private Zimbabwean school that had two examination boards: Zimsec (Zimbabwe School Examinations Council) and Cambridge. Gausi chose the latter examination track, and like students in the United Kingdom, took exams such as the IGCSEs and A Levels.

For [my school], most people go to the U.K. for university or to South Africa. [When it comes to applying to U.S. colleges], there is very limited knowledge, Gausi shared about her application experience. Its only when you find the correct people that you are exposed to so much information. At first, I was stranded[but] once you start learning, you start being connected with the right people.

Nel also affirmed that his U.S. application process required much personal initiative and independence. Nel went to a local South African school, where much of the content was taught in Afrikaans.

Nobody applied [to the U.S.] from my school, Nel said, though he mentioned some classmates were recruited athletically. My school counselors didnt really know how the application process worked. I had to explain and go step-by-step with them. I watched lots of tutorials from YouTube to better understand what I was supposed to do in the system because Id never used it before.

In an interview with The Politic, Phyllis Mugadza 21, who is majoring in Mechanical Engineering and also pursuing a Masters degree in Public Health, mentioned that in the years leading up to her last year of high school: Everything was new to me completely. Before 2015, I had no idea what the Common Application even was, what I even had to look at when applying to U.S. colleges. The academic systems were so different. I was ready to go to the U.K. or South Africa.

Like Gausi, Mugadza had also studied in a private Zimbabwean school that operated under a British system, and had chosen the Cambridge examination track.

In previous years, nobody at my high school had applied to Yale, Mugadza said. Yet she mentioned that after 2015, she was much more prepared. I [became] familiar with applying to Yale through summer camps offered beforehand. I did Yale Young African Scholars and Yale Young Global Scholarsthose programs were geared towards helping students with that American application process.

***

Definitely, Mugadza said when asked whether the liberal arts education system in the U.S. had appealed to her when applying. I knew I wanted to be an engineer, but I didnt just want to be an engineer. I wanted to be able to be put in a room with an expert from any other field and be able to hold a conversation with them.

Mugadza noted that in the academics [in the U.S.]especially moving from a very structured British curriculum to the liberal artsthere is a lot of freedom and you are given an opportunity to explore.

She added that it was this system that also allowed her to explore her interest in problem-solving and passion for entrepreneurship. Mugadza is currently establishing her own startup, developing a product to relieve menstrual cramps. For these complex problems, you need knowledge from a variety of different things and subject areas. I thought the liberal arts was a perfect starting point to experience these different academic environments, learn from them, and apply my perspective to them.

In email correspondence with The Politic, Wanjiku Mwangi 22, a prospective Environmental Engineering and African Studies double major, also expressed her appreciation for the liberal arts system in U.S. higher education, stating that it had appealed to her because it would allow [her] to explore many different subjects before settling on a core area.

However, Mwangi added that this flexible application-based style of academics had initially felt so foreign to her that it had proven to be a challenge to get adjusted to when she began her university studies in the United States.

Mwangi had attended a public secondary school in Kenya that followed a rigorous 8-4-4 system of educationwhich is unique to the countryand like her peers, had taken the KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education) exam.

Because the Kenyan system of education highly capitalizes on memorization skills rather than applying what was learnt, transitioning into the American education system was particularly hard at first. It was harder for Math and Science classes I took because I felt like I had to relearn things I already knew, Mwangi stated. Humanities classes I took were somewhat easier for me because I was essentially taught how to retain large amounts of information in a limited time for years on end. So once I learnt how to synthesize and apply informationstudying at Yale became much easier.

Academically, Mugadza expressed that her transition was not very challenging, but that there were some nuanced differences that she had to get accustomed to.

The first thing I noticed was that the terminology was different, even in maths and science. Of course, [I also had to] change my keyboard to American English, said Mugadza. She added that at Yale, as is the case with many other institutions, there were many resources that helped facilitate her transition, such as her classes. In English 114, I learned all about the different types of formatting such as MLA[the class] was definitely a great way to get adjusted to the American style of writing.

***

There is one thing that I thought I understood pretty well being from the continent that became more complicated when I came to the U.S., Mugadza told The Politic, and that had to be my Blackness.

Mugadza noticed that the most significant transitions to American college life have come in the areas of culture and her identity. She said, I did come to [the United States] having identified as just Black or African. And I did also identify myself in my own way back home, but [in the U.S.], I just fell into this category of African-American. Just within Blackness itself, there were all these categories that [I was now] having to fit myself into that I wasnt aware of before.

This is something that Mwangi has also experienced.

Coming from a majority Black country, I was never actively conscious [of] my race. Soon enough, it became very apparent that my race made me stand out in a lot of places at Yale such as engineering classes, some extracurriculars, and even social scenes, she said.

Mwangi added that when she first came to the U.S., she, much like Mugadza, had to become accustomed to new categorizations. She stated: Istarted to realize that as a Black person in America, Im automatically associated with African-Americans whose history I knew so little about, especially post-slavery.

However, this was something that incoming freshman Gausi had already expected. She told The Politic: When I go [to the United States], I know that I will be classified as African-American, even though there is African and there is African-American. It will just be one group. Gausi added that she also had concerns about the current racial tensions in the U.S., and that it is really sad to see how [African-Americans] are treated.

This sentiment was also expressed by Onguru. When asked whether she had worries of her own about the situation in the United States, especially as an incoming first year student, Ongurus response was swift: I have a lot of fears about that.

Onguru recalled a recent conversation with her brother, a Black boy. Look at what they are doing to people like me in America, he told her. I dont want you to go there. Im afraid that the same thing will happen to you.

There was something Onguru found to be particularly alarming. To an extent, I had been a little ignorant about the whole situation until recently. I am a huge advocate for Black rights. Black rights matter[but] because I am going to Yale, part of me was like, this is not going to happen to me. Because I am going to an Ivy League school. There is no way people are racist in the Ivy Leagues, she said.

Unfortunately, this has not been the case. Students in institutions across the United States have all had exposure to racism. Yales community has been no exception, and many recent incidents confirm this. In 2018, an African Yale graduate student had the police called on her by a white peer for simply having fallen asleep in her common room. On Wednesday, June 3, an employee at Good Nature Market a favorite shop/restaurant/haunt of Yale studentsdenied entry to four African-American men, but provided service to other non-Black customers.

What? At Yale? I thought there was no racial discrimination. I thought we were smarter than this, Onguru said, describing the moment she heard about the GHeav incident. She has been forced to come to terms with a realization. No matter where I go in the United States, [racism] is still a prominent thing I will have to grapple with. Even in the place where I thought that I would be most safe.

Similarly, Mugadza told The Politic that there are many times she has experienced racism on campus, though mainly in the form of microaggressions.

When I am walking around and just happen to be wearing a hoodie, Ive seen white girls walking past me and hiding their phones. People can also say very insensitive things. There is a lot of ignorance that you face, she said.

Mwangi shared: I havent experienced any form of direct racism. Ive experienced forms of microaggressions, which are mostly insensitive actions and ignorant comments just because Im Black. She also noted that the Black friend defense isan interesting thing Ive picked up on [where] some white acquaintances would mention a Black friend they have just to prove theyre not racist when confronted despite clearly insensitive comments they would make occasionally. But also based on some friends experiences, most of the time overt underlying racism tends to be disguised in microaggressions.

I dont think racial discrimination is getting significantly worse in the U.S; its just that more of it is getting filmed and being put on mainstream media. And I think this is a good thing because people are becoming more aware of how deep-rooted racism is, Mwangi said about the current situation. The U.S is built on systems of racism that were designed to automatically benefit white people right from birth and that is one thing incoming African students have to understand.

***

Both Mugadza and Mwangi are very active in the Yale African community, which they described as warm, vibrant, active and welcoming. For instance, last school year, they both served in Board positions for the Yale Association for African Peace and Development. Mugadza was Director of Development, and Mwangi was Director of Publicity, but was recently elected Vice President.

They both stated that Yale has been very committed to allowing people of color to flourish in a safe environment. Mugadza and Mwangi spoke about the vast variety of opportunities to connect with and promote African identity that are available on campus. Some of the many Yale groups they spoke of were: the Afro-American Cultural Center (which houses many other organizations), YASA, BSAY, National Society for Black Engineers, and YAAPD. They also encourage incoming African students to become immersed in other mediums of learning such as research, events (one of Yales most prominent being Africa Week), and courses.

I took classes on U.S history, and two classes on slavery and its legacies. Knowing more about the Black struggle in America in the last couple of centuries significantly helped me understand why race relations are so sensitive in the U.S and what I can do about it, mentioned Mwangi.

Though the amount of resources may vary between institutions, most college campuses have become increasingly committed to protecting their BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) students. People have become more outspoken about combating discrimination, and the Black Lives Matter movement has even transformed into a global one.

At the end of the day, though, Mugadza would advise incoming African students to not be very concerned about facing any challenges, especially when taking into account how positive and life-changing their university experience will be overall.

This isnt going to be the last time you will hear about [racism], but youre certainly not going to be the first people having to experience it, and you are not going to be the only people experiencing this, Mugadza stated. You will find people who will stand with you. There are all these groups where you can find people who look like you, who are like-minded, who are there to support you and understand the struggles you are going through. Know you will be protected. You will have people walking with you and standing with you in solidarity through anything you may go through.

She added: I definitely appreciate [this university] experience because it has empowered me. I have been empowered by my Blackness. It is something I am proud of.

Mwangi added that: The African community has been crucial to my personal and professional development at Yale. The African community is honestly like my family in the U.S and I always look forward to regular dinners we have with each other. Id [] like to advise incoming first years to start building their networks with African upperclassmen as soon as they can. It really helps with regard to professional development especially after the upperclassmen graduatethey always have great advice.

Generally, excitement is the most prominent emotion shown by incoming African students.

I hope I can find a community at Yale in both international and African students so that we can navigate this together, Onguru stated. Its going to be hardbecause I am a minority. But I dont want that to stop me from seizing this amazing opportunity, this amazing education!

And being far from home, many Arican international students are also eager to find ways to remain connected and express their pride for their cultures in the U.S.

Onguru, who is interested in majoring in English and African Studies, commented that one of the things she looks forward to doing at Yale is learning more about African history.

I realized that even though I am Kenyan, I dont know much about the history of Africawhich, when you do begin to look into, is very colorful and rich, filled with amazing stories, Onguru said. She also mentioned her interest in exploring African literature, and how to create new stories of a new continent with countries trying to reinvent themselves with their own standards.

Gausiinterested in majoring in Mechanical Engineeringis passionate about both aviation and renewable energy. She also hopes to apply her knowledge to give back to the continent, and explained that she was fascinated by ways Africa could maximize its use of renewable energies like solar energy. Likewise, Nelwho describes himself as proudly South African born and raisedmentioned that he was interested in several STEM areas such as engineering and programming. He hopes to eventually contribute to the improvement of South Africas manufacturing industry, and help diminish the socioeconomic inequality in his country.

University is truly what one makes of it. It is not possible to generalize the higher education experience of a demographic. African students face a unique situation in the United States, a country that is currently more divided than ever along racial, cultural and ideological lines. They will most likely face many obstacles while transitioning to life in the United States. Yet the African community in the U.S. continues to thrive, enrich and inspire. Their experiences are insightful, and highlight the beauty of diversity.

Dont be afraid to try anything new. Explore. Venture out. Apply. Apply. Apply! Apply to as many opportunities as you can. Take advantage of your own journey, Mugadza would advise incoming African international students. Decolonize your mind.

Read the rest here:

Navigating the Self: African Student Experiences in U.S. Higher Education - The Yale Politic

From the Archives, 1995: Flagging reconciliation – The Age

Posted on by

When the Opposition Leader, Mr Howard, opposed recognition of the flag, therefore, he identified himself on this issue with a school of thought that is increasingly irrelevant to most Australians. In a multicultural society, the Aboriginal flag can be recognised officially without in any way diminishing the status of the national flag.

The flag is also an important symbol of Aboriginal aspirations for self-determination and land rights: it first flew over the Aboriginal tent embassy outside Parliament House in Canberra in 1972. Aboriginal people's rights to land and to self-determination are now widely accepted. Such old controversies have now lost most of their fire, as a new generation of Government policy makers and Aboriginal community leaders sit down together to negotiate the details of legislation to implement these rights.

Loading

To argue, as Mr Howard did, that recognising the Aboriginal flag would be divisive could hardly be further from the truth. Ms Freeman's lap of honor has helped to heal the painful old divisions between black and white Australians. The only new divisions were those provoked in the first instance by Mr Tunstall and in the second by Mr Howard's objections.

It is ironic that Mr Howard should have seized on this issue, once again demonstrating his unease on matters multicultural to the point where his tent is pitched dangerously close to the Arthur Tunstall camp. Already, his remarks have been disputed by Mr Ian Viner, QC, a former Liberal Cabinet minister who now serves on the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation. It would be surprising if Mr Viner's views are not supported by many, if not most, of Mr Howard's parliamentary party members.

Caution is a political virtue and, in his leadership so far, Mr Howard has exercised it well. He needs to, if he is to reconcile successfully the political and philosophical differences within his own party over matters such as this.

Read this article:

From the Archives, 1995: Flagging reconciliation - The Age

245 homes could be built on greenbelt land in the ‘last village in Gloucester’ – Gloucestershire Live

Posted on by

More than 200 homes could be built on the edge of Gloucester but residents have vowed to fight the proposals.

A planning application has been submitted to Gloucester City Council by Gladman Developments for 245 homes to be built in Hempsted Lane, Gloucester.

However, residents in the area and councillors are dead against the idea and have made their thoughts very clear to the city council.

The proposal would see 245 houses, the size of which is not yet known, built on a 12.22 hectare site to the south-west of the city centre. The site would have access from Hempsted Lane, and extend as far as Rea Lane and Secunda Way on each side.

Of the 245 homes, 40 would be affordable and 196 built at market rate.

Linny Jordan, chair of Hempsted Residents Association, said: The Council has already assessed the suitability of the site for residential development through its Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment and concluded it was unsuitable for a number of reasons.

Importantly, this conclusion was endorsed by a joint panel including representatives of the development industry.

Whilst there is a clearly identified need for new housing in Gloucester and nationally, this does not mean that unsuitable sites should be released for development.

Dozens of residents have already submitted objections to the planning application.

'Enough is enough'

Dr Rebecca Trimnell, from Hempsted and Westgate Liberal Democrats, has also submitted an objection to Gloucester City Councils planning department.

She said: We will fight any attempt to build hundreds of new houses at Hill Farm.

It is in the cordon sanitaire and the visual impact upon the village of Hempsted would forever be tarnished.

I am also personally concerned about the impact upon local wildlife, including possible badger setts, the presence of newts and foraging bats.

There has already been considerable recent development in the Hempsted area. We shouldnt build on every piece of green open space. Enough is enough.

Hempsted is the last village in Gloucester and we should protect it.

The developers point to various benefits in their plans, including 221 construction jobs over six years, and new residents bringing 8million a year to the city.

Gladman Developments said in their planning statement: It is clear there are significant material considerations, including the identified housing shortfall in the Gloucester City area and the contestable nature of Gloucesters current housing land supply, meaning that any areas of conflict with the development plan and this proposal should only be given limited weight.

This development is poised to deliver much needed housing for Gloucester and can demonstrate technical soundness and a lack of harm for the wider area.

The application should therefore be approved without delay

Go here to read the rest:

245 homes could be built on greenbelt land in the 'last village in Gloucester' - Gloucestershire Live

One key solution to the world’s climate woes? Canada’s natural landscapes – The Narwhal

Posted on by

This is the first part of Carbon Cache, an ongoing series about nature-based climate solutions.

Well, its 2020 now and the techno-fixes are, rather unfortunately, not in.

No promise to geoengineer the skies or seed the ocean with iron or suck carbon out of the atmosphere has really come to fruition.

Yet, all along, Canadas seaweed, dirt and trees have managed to do something thats seemed impossible for the worlds most advanced technocratic nations: provide a legitimate, ongoing and cost-effective climate solution.

Its with no irony that the worlds foremost scientific institutions are now recommending that to save nature what needs to be done is, well, save nature.

Perhaps the biggest boost to the idea of these so-called nature-based climate solutions came in late 2017 when a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that the simple act of preserving wetlands, forests and grasslands could provide more than one-third of the emissions reductions needed to stabilize global temperature increases below 2 C by 2030 under the Paris Accord.

For countries looking to make quick climate gains, the idea of these nature-based climate fixes created quite the buzz.

Those findings also thrust Canada home to 25 per cent of Earths wetlands and boreal forests, as well as endangered prairie grasslands and the worlds longest coastline into playing a vital role in the global fight against climate change.

In early 2020, before the pandemic hit, hundreds of people from across the country gathered in Ottawa to discuss what a pivot to nature-based climate solutions in Canada might entail.

In a cavernous, bright conference room booked and rebooked several times as numbers expanded from dozens to more than 400 attendees Environment and Climate Change Minister Jonathan Wilkinson delivered the keynote address.

Nature-based solutions give us the opportunity to tackle the challenges of climate change and biodiversity at the same time, Wilkinson said to the more than 400 attendees.

In addition to its global climate commitments, the federal government has also set a goal of protecting 30 per cent of lands and oceans by 2030.

As part of its 2019 election platform, the federal Liberal Party pledged to spend $3 billion on nature-based climate solutions, including the planting of 2 billion trees and other land-use projects that naturally sequester carbon.

But at the conference another voice emerged to urge Canadians to think beyond the terms of land-use when it comes to natures role in the battle against climate change.

Land relationship planning, Steven Nitah, Dene leader and former Northwest Territories MLA, pitched to the crowd.

Think of the phrase land-use planning, he challenged the audience. Land use how we use the land. That doesnt talk about land relationship planning.

Nitah was the chief negotiator for utsel Ke Dene First Nations during the creation of Canadas newest national park, the Thaidene Nn National Park Reserve. The protected area, which covers 26,525 square kilometres of lakes, old-growth boreal forests, rivers and wildlife habitat, was uniquely designed with Indigenous land management in mind.

Steven Nitah, the Lutsel Ke Dene First Nation lead negotiator for Thaidene Nene National Park. Photo: Pat Kane

Nitah argued the concept of land relationship planning should enter the collective vocabularies of Canadians as the country imagines pathways forward for nature-based climate solutions.

Its a phrase that got stuck on the tongues of the crowd for the rest of the conference as various experts pooled around tables and in the halls to discuss Indigenous protected areas and undervalued grasslands and how farmers are reimagining their relationship with soil to be better carbon stewards.

For climate solutions in particular, reimagining the relationship between humans and the land has never been more urgent.

Earth has regulated its own carbon cycle for eons, and it has only taken humanity 150 years to throw that cycle out of whack. Fortunately, the systems that balanced carbon in the atmosphere, in soil and the oceans, in living beings and inert rocks, still exist and still have the potential to recover. But doing that requires space.

The capacity for nature to bounce back is incredible, said Lara Ellis said of ALUS Canada, a national charity that works with farmers on projects that restore and benefit the natural landscapes, such as wetlands or good habitat for pollinators.

Protecting a forest is easier than recreating an entire forest, which itself is easier than building a machine to suck an equivalent amount of carbon from the air and store it. But the result, less carbon in the atmosphere, is the same.

The same holds for wetlands: artificial, built wetlands are both 150 per cent more expensive and significantly worse at storing carbon than simply protecting a wetland to begin with.

As climate change intensifies, many of the opportunities to harness natures own climate regulation systems are dimming.

Canadas forests have begun to emit more carbon than they store as wildfires, droughts, pests and diseases rage within them. Coastal wetlands are shrinking and flooding, while inland ones are facing droughts and fires.

A map created by WWF-Canada for its 2019 wildlife protection assessment indicates the levels of forest biomass across Canada. Map: WWF-Canada

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimates that as many as 30 per cent of the planets species could be at risk even in an optimistic 1.5 C temperature rise scenario.

Because of the urgency of the climate emergency, it is necessary to rethink conservation efforts not just under the banner of preservation but of restoration.

The United Nations has already declared the years between 2021 and 2030 as the decade on ecosystem restoration in the fight against climate and the growing threats to human survival.

There is still time to work with nature, not against it, said Patricia Fuller, Canadas ambassador for climate change, standing before the Ottawa conference.

But the window to do so is shrinking rapidly.

In that shrinking window, scientists, Indigenous leaders, experts and policy advisors have begun identifying the most critical regions in Canada for the implementation of nature-based climate solutions.

The concentration of carbon in the soil follows the boreal forest almost perfectly as it swoops across Canada, dipping from northern Yukon east around Hudson Bay and spilling out to cover much of Quebec, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador. Its a globally significant store of carbon that holds almost twice the carbon of the planets tropical forests.

A map created by WWIF-Canada for its 2019 wildlife protection assessment indicates the levels of soil carbon across Canada. Map: WWF-Canada

But with that storage comes the potential for release when the land changes: as much as 15 per cent of global carbon emissions come from deforestation. Destruction of peatlands accounts for 10 per cent as well, while farming accounts for another 10 per cent.

The boreal forest is one of the largest intact forests in the world, James Snider, the vice-president of science, research and innovation for World Wildlife Fund Canada, told The Narwhal.

That establishes us in an important place to be leading the charge to show how nature-based climate solutions ought to be implemented. But the boreals effectiveness at storing carbon has to do with whats happening to its landscapes logging, climate change and wildfires have all emerged as threats to the boreal and its carbon storage potential.

Canadas boreal forest is a globally significant store of carbon that holds almost twice the carbon of the planets tropical forests. Photo: Stand.earth

Protecting those lands delivers other benefits to humans too. Forests purify the air, stabilize soil and provide places for recreation.

Wetlands are exceptional water filtration systems that also provide habitat for birds and amphibians, while absorbing excess water, thereby protecting land from floods.

Grasslands are home to the pollinators that keep agriculture alive. As an added bonus, the places that hold the most carbon are often the places that support the most biodiversity.

Protecting an area isnt always enough, if climate change and its impacts are coming for the landscape and its wildlife regardless.

The solution, Snider says, is to make sure those ecosystems have the protection they need to be more resilient. He points to the Hudson and James Bay Lowlands, an area five times the size of New Brunswick on the southern edge of Hudson Bay. On a map of the richest areas of carbon storage in Canada, the Hudson and James Bay Lowlands is clearly outlined in the deepest possible shade.

Thats an area thats accumulated carbon over thousands of years, Snider says. How do we avoid that becoming future emissions?

Canada is home to the worlds largest peatland carbon stores, with peatlands covering about 12 per cent of Canadas total land area. The area is also mineral rich and being eyed for future mining projects.

A big part of the protection required for Canadas carbon-rich landscapes is likely to come from Indigenous protected and conserved areas, something the Cree Nation is working toward establishing.

To date, the nation has protected 15 per cent of its territory in northern Quebec, which is home to vast tracts of boreal forest, and isseeking to reach 30 per cent. Such big protected areas create resilience by having interconnected systems that protect one another.

Looking for opportunities to work with communities on the landscapes they already inhabit is key to coming up with practical, workable nature-based climate solutions, Graham Saul, executive director of Nature Canada, said in a webinar months after the Ottawa conference.

We can ground people who care about climate change in their own landscapes, he says, adding that efforts to build buffers against climate change can actually restore peoples relationship to the land.

This has become all the more important in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic devastation, Saul says.

A poll, released Tuesday and conducted by Pollara Strategic Insights for the International Boreal Conservation Campaign, found 70 per cent of 3,019 respondents across Canada want to see conservation of nature included as part of the economic recovery. The poll also found 72 per cent of respondents believe the government should invest in Indigenous stewardship as part of the economic recovery.

Inspired by the Great Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps in the U.S., some are asking for the establishment of a corps of workers dedicated to nature-based climate projects as part of federally funded relief programs.

Others are calling for Indigenous-led conservation efforts to be recognized as part of coronavirus resilience and recovery efforts.

How do we ensure that nature is part of the recovery process? Saul asks.

In the coming weeks, The Narwhal will look at the role of Canadas natural landscapes in the fight against climate change. This Carbon Cache series is funded by Metcalf Foundation. As per The Narwhals editorial independence policy, the foundation has no editorial input into the articles.

Saving a quarter of the earths wetlands and boreal forests could be a huge win for the climate. Is Canada up for the task? This photo was taken in Ontario's northern peatlands, home to a tremendous amount of carbon as well as mineral deposits that have attracted the interest of miners. Photo: Garth Lenz

Read more here:

One key solution to the world's climate woes? Canada's natural landscapes - The Narwhal

From Macau to Germany and Scotland, chef Monica Galetti on the worlds most luxurious hotels – The Sun

Posted on by

MASTERCHEF judge Monica Galetti knows a thing or two about high-end service.

But while presenting hit BBC series Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond The Lobby, even she was taken aback by the facilities on offer in the worlds most exclusive resorts.

5

5

The show sees the Samoan-born chef, who owns fine-dining restaurant Mere in Londons Fitzrovia, and co-host Giles Coren work alongside staff in hotels where Lamborghini dealerships in the lobby are the norm and high-rollers have access to secret in-hotel mansions.

In the three-part series, which starts on Tuesday, the pair roll up their sleeves in the technology-obsessed MGM Cotai in Macau, in Germanys Schloss Elmau, which claims to invigorate the mind, body and soul, and in The Torridon, a former hunting lodge in the Scottish Highlands.

Monica says: Macau is the Las Vegas of Asia but leaves Nevada in the dust, every year raking in triple as much in gambling revenue.

It comes as no surprise that bosses were happy to shell out almost 3billion building the MGM Cotai on Chinas south coast.

Designed to look like Chinese jewellery boxes stacked on top of each other, the hotel boasts 1,390 rooms, eight restaurants and a super-secretive casino which the BBC was banned from filming in.

5

Any guests who manage to cash in at the tables are tempted to spend their winnings within the hotel, where high-end boutiques are open 24/7 and there is, yes, a Lamborghini dealership in the lobby.

But theres one area of the hotel that only the super-rich can set foot inside.Hidden behind an electronic door is The Mansion, a glass-roofed Moro-ccan-inspired square comprising 27 luxury apartments.

Monica, who got to have a snoop around, says: Its completely separate from the rest of the hotel, which only compounds its air exclusivity. They wont even tell me how much it costs it seems if you need to ask, then you cant afford it.

In the Bavarian Alps, Germanys Schloss Elmau couldnt be more different to the MGM Cotai, as culture and calm are combined in the countryside. Guests are treated to five-star spa treatments and a concert hall that attracts the worlds leading classical music stars who all play for free just so they can stay in the hotel.

5

Monica says: This hotel is called a cultural hideaway a retreat for both body and mind.

Its proved itself to be exactly that and so much more.

Never before have we stayed in a hotel where its sole aim is the music its very spiritual.

But the jewel in the crown of this series is Scotlands The Torridon.

Set in the Highlands, where mountains meet the sea to create the most spectacular landscapes, this former hunting lodge seems worlds away from civilisation.

Staff work and live together on site, theres a pub in the grounds and an outdoor playground of wilderness in every direction.

Most impressive of all to Monica is that its rural location has forced the hotels kitchen staff to become almost completely self-sufficient, with 60 per cent of food served to guests coming from their on-site farm.

Monica says: Their remoteness has made them value produce in a way that feels traditional, but also thoroughly modern.

Im just so impressed with everything, from the field to the fork, the welfare of the animals to how the meat is aged correctly.

Thats how farming should be.

Its the only way forward, to be able to keep it sustainable both for the product and for the environment.

5

TICKET TO RIDEAlton Towers is giving away 30,000 free tickets to certain jobs

WE GOT A TICKET TO RIDEFirst look inside Disneyland Paris ahead of its opening on July 15

PITCH INCamping holidays to be cheaper this year due to VAT cuts, claims tour operator

SWIM UPCenter Parcs to reopen Subtropical Swimming Paradise from July 27 with new rules

LONG RHODE AHEADGreece on the brink of lockdown again after spike in coronavirus cases

BELITTLE ENGLANDERSVast majority of Spaniards want BAN on UK tourists this summer

The Torridon is winning the battle to be self-sufficient. Its a lovely feeling serving food you know has come from the landscape around you.

Coming from the high-end, stressful job that I do, its a real escape. Its good for the soul.

Ive discovered this beautiful sanctuary that has warmth and comfort. People are going to have to book in early because itll be almost impossible after this episode airs.

GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAILexclusive@the-sun.co.uk

Read the original:

From Macau to Germany and Scotland, chef Monica Galetti on the worlds most luxurious hotels - The Sun

Local UN institute researchers investigating cybersecurity tools to protect civil society – Macau Business

Posted on by

Local preparations against cybersecurity threats should not be exclusive to governments and the private sector, but should also include the whole of civil society, cybersecurity researchers with the local United Nations University Institute told Macau News Agency (MNA).

Currently, researchers Debora Christine and Mamello Thinyane are preparing a study entitled Data and Sustainable Development and Smart Citizen Cyber Resilience focusing on how civil society individuals, non-governmental organisations and community groups can better prepare to face cybersecurity risks.

The United Nations University Institute in Macau is a research institute that conducts UN policy-relevant research and generates solutions, addressing key issues expressed in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The research conducted by Christine and Thinyane looks to fulfil the UN Sustainable Development Goals for better data usage towards individuals development and wellbeing and better tech inclusion of individuals and population groups.

Just now we are building on a repository of all of these [local cybersecurity] risks and weve identified over 109 types of risks The whole idea of resilience is that we need to be able to anticipate and plan for when the events occur we cant adapt. It includes contingency plans and preparation, Thinyane told MNA.

Local preparations against cybersecurity threats should not be exclusive to governments and the private sector, but should include the whole of civil society, cybersecurity researchers with the local United Nations University Institute told Macau News Agency (MNA).

A former computer sciences professor in South Africa, Thinyane indicated that traditionally people tend to think of cybersecurity in terms of technical risks such as data leakages or data breaches, denial of server, and identity theft, but tended to overlook social issues such as cyberbullying, misinformation or fake news.

For each of these risks, we are developing contingency plans and countermeasures. Individuals can do two things, they can access what is their risk exposure and based on that they can have options. For example with data branches ideally you should be doing two or three data backups, Thinyane added.

So were developing these models to allow individuals to think in a methodical way on how to improve their cybersecurity resilience

The project was conceptualised last year the researchers managing to successfully apply for funding from the Science and Technology Development Fund (FDCT) funding valid for 15 months.

The first key findings of the research are expected to be published in August or September with funding expected to last until March of next year, but with the researchers hoping their work can be maintained after that period and expanded to the other Asia Pacific jurisdictions.

According to the researchers, cybersecurity approaches in countries and regions in the Asia Pacific tends to focus on top-to-bottom models, where most initiatives tend to be expected from government departments and private groups, which have more resources for these kinds of policies.

Last year local authorities enacted the citys first Cybersecurity Law, which establishes that private and public companies and entities operating in crucial sectors including internet, media and communication operators, water and energy supply, banking, financial systems and gaming would be mandated to enforce cybersecurity measures.

Those specific stakeholders are more engaged about cyber risks and they have more resources to allocate to this. For example, Macau companies would have dedicated IT departments and probably even cybersecurity directors. An organisation like Caritas, very mission-driven NGO, might not even have an IT department, Thinyane stated.

You have to establish resilience in the whole of society We know from our work that the weakest link in your cybersecurity strategy is what will compromise the whole system One of the biggest attack services is social engineering. Simple things like you receive an e-mail from your boss to transfer money. It compromises individuals to access networks.

The SAR does have a Macau Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Centre (MOCERT) managed by the Macau New Technologies Incubator Centre which provides computer security incident handling information to local enterprises however, the researchers noted that maybe many locals and organisations are not even aware of its existence.

The top to bottom model also tends to underplay the risks incurred by individuals and other civil society players, which ends up undermining the overall cybersecurity resilience of society.

The first phase of our cyber resilience research was already completed and weve looked at 14 Asia pacific national security strategies excluding Macau which does not have it yet. It has launched the cybersecurity law but no comprehensive cybersecurity measures with detailed stakeholders and their obligations to meet these objectives, Christine told MNA.

Mainland China was included in the research, but Hong Kong, like Macau, was not seen as a cybersecurity strategy that encompassed civil society.

According to the Indonesian researcher, in most of these national cybersecurity strategies, citizens or civil society organisations are not provided with avenues to be involved in these security efforts.

Singapore, Australia and New Zealand were considered as regions where cybersecurity efforts better develop a sense of overall society resilience to cyber threats.

However our focus is not to rank countries but check which ones are more inclusive in their cybersecurity resilience, Christine added.

In any sense, the researchers believe there should be a marriage between top-to-bottom and bottom-up strategies to cybersecurity and hope to be able to present their grassroots community resilience tools soon.

Original post:

Local UN institute researchers investigating cybersecurity tools to protect civil society - Macau Business

Trump finally dons mask as global infections gather pace – Macau Business

Posted on by

US President Donald Trump finally yielded to pressure and wore a face mask in public for the first time, as new figures Sunday showed the pace of the global spread of the coronavirus has accelerated.

Since the start of July, nearly 2.5 million new infections have been reported, a record level since the first outbreak of the disease in China last year, according to an AFP tally.

And in just a month and a half the number of cases worldwide has doubled, according to the count based on official figures.

Hours after the World Health Organization urged countries to step up control measures, Trump donned a dark mask bearing the presidential seal as he visited wounded military veterans in a hospital outside Washington Saturday.

Ive never been against masks but I do believe they have a time and a place, he told reporters.

White House experts leading the fight against the virus have recommended wearing face coverings in public to prevent transmission.

Trump in the past repeatedly avoided wearing a mask, even after White House staffers tested positive for the virus and as more aides have taken to wearing them.

He is trailing Democrat Joe Biden in opinion polls ahead of the November election and surveys show most Americans are unhappy with how he has handled the public health crisis.

But Trump has continued to praise his own response despite a cascade of figures showing the extent of the diseases spread.

The US posted yet another daily record of confirmed cases Saturday, with more than 66,500 new infections, while the death toll rose by almost 800 to nearly 135,000.

In Florida, where nearly one in six of those new infections were recorded, the Walt Disney World theme park partially reopened after four months of shutdown.

Hundreds of people queued to enter the park in Orlando, some sporting Mickey ears but all wearing face masks, with social distancing and other hygiene precautions also in place.

Across the planet, the pandemic has infected nearly 13 million people, killed over 565,000 and triggered massive economic damage in the seven months since it was detected in the Chinese city of Wuhan.

The latest-high profile personality to test positive for COVID-19 was Bollywood superstar and former Miss World Aishwarya Rai, whose daughter and husband have also been infected.

India, a country of 1.3 billion people, is the third-worst infected in the world after the United States and Brazil.

Last week, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro also tested positive, and again advocated the use of the controversial drug hydroxychloroquine.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has called on countries to adopt an aggressive approach to tackling the virus, citing successful efforts in Italy, South Korea and elsewhere.

Across all walks of life, we are all being tested to the limit, he said Friday.

Only aggressive action combined with national unity and global solidarity can turn this pandemic around.

Life in parts of Europe is gradually returning to some semblance of normality, although the continent remains the worst affected with more than 202,000 deaths from 2.8 million cases.

Elections were held in Spain and Poland Sunday after being postponed because of the virus, and strict hygiene measures were in place.

But the tourism industry across Europe has been battered, with many businesses forced to shut up shop because of the impact of punishing lockdowns introduced to stem the transmission of the disease.

Everythings dead, said Jesus Maldonado, owner of the Santos Bar just across from the Mesquite, the mosque-cathedral in the Spanish city of Cordoba.

In neighbouring France, where reopened bars and restaurants are bustling in the summer heat, officials have warned of rising cases as the death toll topped 30,000.

And the mayor of the French Riviera city of Nice complained about a lack of social distancing at a DJ set thronged by partying crowds, vowing that in future masks would be obligatory at such outdoor events.

The national government has also said it plans to introduce systematic testing at airports for visitors from so-called category red countries where COVID-19 is still prevalent.

Across the border in Germany, Berlin is offering financial help for the citys famous nightclubs which have remained shut for four months even though many other restrictions have been eased.

In the Middle East, the resurgence of the disease is being felt in Iran, where supreme leader said the situation was truly tragic and urged all citizens to help stem what has been the regions deadliest outbreak.

Let everyone play their part in the best way to break the chain of transmission in the short term and save the country, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a video conference with lawmakers.

Australia is also taking action after a fresh surge in cases that saw a lockdown imposed on Melbourne, the countrys second-largest city.

The authorities said they would slash by half the number of people allowed to return from overseas each day.

In Hong Kong, a spike has marked a setback for the city after daily life had largely returned to normal, with restaurants and bars resuming regular business and cultural attractions reopening.

Schools will be closed from Monday after the city recorded exponential growth in locally transmitted infections.

by Daniel WOOLLS / with AFP bureaus

Go here to read the rest:

Trump finally dons mask as global infections gather pace - Macau Business

Explained: What works (and doesnt) in Covid-19 treatment – The Indian Express

Posted on by

Written by Dr Satchit Balsari, Dr Zarir Udwadia | New Delhi | Updated: July 12, 2020 2:23:16 pm

Like a wedding guest piling food from a buffet onto their plate until there is no place left, doctors have been prescribing fistfuls of drugs when attempting to manage patients with Covid-19. We summarise based on current evidence from around the world, what scientists say works and does not, from among the treatments currently in vogue in India.

Azithromycin: This must be the most widely prescribed and misused antibiotic in this pandemic. Azithromycin, as with all other antibiotics, does not work in viral infections. Antibiotics are only warranted in patients who have evidence of a secondary bacterial infection as some hospitalised patients will have in the later stages of their disease. Indiscriminate use (as was the case even before the pandemic) in the hope that they will prevent bacterial infection only worsens antibiotic resistance, to which India is a frequent contributor.

Blood Thinners: Hospitalised Covid-19 patients have been observed to have a very high incidence of blood clots. There is current global consensus that all hospitalised Covid-19 patients will benefit from blood thinners injected daily just under their skin (like insulin injections). Though there is sound mechanistic reasoning, randomised controlled trials are awaited.

BCG & other existing vaccines: While the world eagerly awaits a new and SARS-CoV-2-specific vaccine, the use of existing vaccines (BCG, Polio, MMR vaccines) in the hope they will work is inappropriate. Trials are under way to see if they will boost innate immunity. We know that BCG has already been given at birth to all Indians, and it does not seem to have helped keep our case numbers low.

Vitamin C: More vitamin C may have been consumed than oranges since Covid-19 began! It doesnt work.

Vitamin D: A large meta-analysis just released shows that Vitamin D does not protect against Covid-19.

Favipiravir: This is an oral antiviral drug which was fast tracked by the Indian Drug Controller but is not yet approved in the EU or US. Its use should be restricted to mild or moderate infections only. Available data to support its use is sparse but Indian trials have just been completed and the results are awaited.

Hydroxychloroquine sulphate (HCQS): We now have compelling data from multiple large clinical trials including WHOs SOLIDARITY and the UKs RECOVERY trials to categorically say: HCQS does not work. Even Donald Trump may have stopped taking it by now and so should you.

Ivermectin: This is an anti-parasitic drug widely prescribed in India and parts of South America to treat infections from worms. There is no evidence it has any role in Covid-19. It should not be used.

Miscellaneous cures: The state machinery has been used to distribute unproven herbal and Ayurvedic potions (Ukalo), homeopathic drops (Arsenicum album), and treatments peddled by god-men. Anecdotes and observations do not constitute scientific evidence. In the absence of evidence generated from rigorously vetted clinical trials, the distribution of these substances must be condemned. Pushing unproven and supposedly harmless treatments and distributing them to hundreds of thousands is not only disingenuous, but provides people false hope, and risks them lowering their guard. There are no magic pills to boost immunity to fix years of malnutrition, stunting, obesity, and chronically inflamed lungs.

Oseltamivir: This is an antiviral agent prescribed for tempering symptoms from the virus that causes influenza. It has no role in treating Covid-19 infection which is caused by a coronavirus.

Plasma: Our blood is composed of cells and plasma. Plasma from those who have recovered from Covid-19 carries naturally acquired antibodies, and, when transfused to critically ill patients with Covid-19, may help improve outcomes. This form of therapy is being used across the globe and trials to access its efficacy are under way.

Remdesivir: An intravenously administered antiviral medication, it has been shown to be effective in well-designed studies. It seems to shorten recovery time and hospital stay but does not reduce the chance of death. It is currently to be used only in hospitalised patients with severe disease.

Steroids: The only drug so far shown to have a striking impact on mortality is an old and inexpensive one. Current evidence shows that dexamethasone can reduce deaths by one-third in patients with severe Covid-19 infection who need oxygen therapy or ventilators. Their use should, however, be restricted to hospitalised patients. If they are given too soon in the course of an infection, or given to someone with only a mild infection, they could prevent the bodys own immune system from fighting the virus effectively.

Express Explainedis now onTelegram. Clickhere to join our channel (@ieexplained)and stay updated with the latest

Tocilizumab: This drug is an injection originally used in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. It is being widely used to counter the severe inflammation (cytokine storm) that occurs in some Covid-19 patients. Its use can increase the risk of bacterial infections, and it must therefore be used with caution, if at all, in carefully selected patients.

Zinc: This mineral is also commonly prescribed, despite there being no evidence that it is effective.

In conclusion, six months into the pandemic, we must therefore acknowledge four facts:

(Dr Zarir Udwadia is Consultant Chest Physician, PD Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Mumbai. Dr Satchit Balsari is assistant professor in Emergency Medicine and in Global Health at Harvard Universitys medical and public health schools. )

The Indian Express is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@indianexpress) and stay updated with the latest headlines

For all the latest Explained News, download Indian Express App.

The Indian Express (P) Ltd

More:

Explained: What works (and doesnt) in Covid-19 treatment - The Indian Express

Sports Medicine Market Forecasted To Surpass The Value Of US$ XX Mn/Bn By 2016 2024 – Cole of Duty

Posted on by

Global Sports Medicine market Research presents a Comprehensive scenario Which can be segmented according to producers, product type, applications, and areas. This segmentation will provide deep-dive analysis of the Sports Medicine business for identifying the growth opportunities, development tendencies and factors limiting the development of the marketplace. This report features forecast market information based on previous and present Sports Medicine industry scenarios and growth facets. Each of the Essential regions coated in Sports Medicine report are North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa. The Sports Medicine market share and market prognosis of every region from 2020-2027 are presented within this report. A deep study of Sports Medicine marketplace dynamics will help the market aspirants in identifying the business opportunities that will lead to accumulation of earnings. This segment can efficiently determine the Sports Medicine hazard and key market driving forces.

Request Sample Report @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.co/samples/12736

The Sports Medicine report is segmented to provide a clear and Precise view of this international Sports Medicine market statistics and market quotes. Sports Medicine report Information represented in the form of graphs, charts, and statistics will show the Sports Medicine growth rate, volume, goal customer analysis. This report presents the significant data to all Sports Medicine business aspirants which will facilitate useful business decisions.

key players in setting up of R& D facilities for the development of drugs and therapeutics for athletes. Increase in importance of recreational activity along with education, funding to sports association are few drivers which will effectively boost the growth of the global sports medicine market through 2024.

Some of the major players in global sports medicine market are Blacktree Fitness Technologies, Mitek Sports Medicine, NuVasive, ZetrOZ Systems, LLC, Zimmer Biomet, Arthrex, Inc., DJO Global, Inc., Bioventus LLC, Hans Rudolph, Inc. etc.

The report covers exhaustive analysis on:

Regional analysis includes

Report Highlights:

Request Report Methodology @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.co/methodology/12736

The Sports Medicine report cover following data points:

Part 1: This part enlists the global Sports Medicine marketplace Overview, covering the simple market debut, market analysis by kind, applications, and areas. Sports Medicine industry states and prognosis (2020-2027) is presented in this part. Additionally, Sports Medicine market dynamics saying the chances, market risk, and key driving forces are studied.

Part 2: This part covers Sports Medicine manufacturers profile based On their small business overview, product type, and application. Additionally, the sales volume, Sports Medicine product price, gross margin analysis, and Sports Medicine market share of every player is profiled in this report.

Part 3 and Part 4: This part presents the Sports Medicine competition Based on earnings, earnings, and market share of each producer. Part 4 covers the Sports Medicine market scenario based on regions. Region-wise Sports Medicine sales and growth (2015-2019) is studied in this report.

America and Europes Sports Medicine industry by countries. Under this Sports Medicine revenue, market share of those nations like USA, Canada, and Mexico is provided. Under Europe Sports Medicine report contains, the countries such as Germany, UK, France, Russia, Italy, Russia and their sales and growth is coated.

Part 7, Part 8 and Part 9: These 3 sections covers Sports Medicine The earnings and expansion in these regions are presented in this Sports Medicine industry report.

For any queries get in touch with Industry Expert @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.co/ask-an-expert/12736

Part 10 and Part 11: This component depicts the Sports Medicine marketplace Share, earnings, sales by product type and application. The Sports Medicine sales growth seen during 2012-2020 is covered in this report.

Related to Sports Medicine market (2020-2027) for every region. The sales channels including indirect and direct Sports Medicine advertising, traders, distributors, and future trends are presented in this report.

Part 14 and Part 15: These components present Sports Medicine market key Research findings and judgment, research methodology, and data sources are covered.

Therefore, Global Sports Medicine report is a complete blend covering all The very important market aspects.

Visit link:

Sports Medicine Market Forecasted To Surpass The Value Of US$ XX Mn/Bn By 2016 2024 - Cole of Duty

Precision Medicine Diagnostics Market Size By Product Analysis, Application, End-Users, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies And Forecast Up To…

Posted on by

New Jersey, United States,- Latest update on Precision Medicine Diagnostics Market Analysis report published with extensive market research, Precision Medicine Diagnostics Market growth analysis, and forecast by 2026. this report is highly predictive as it holds the overall market analysis of topmost companies into the Precision Medicine Diagnostics industry. With the classified Precision Medicine Diagnostics market research based on various growing regions, this report provides leading players portfolio along with sales, growth, market share, and so on.

The research report of the Precision Medicine Diagnostics market is predicted to accrue a significant remuneration portfolio by the end of the predicted time period. It includes parameters with respect to the Precision Medicine Diagnostics market dynamics incorporating varied driving forces affecting the commercialization graph of this business vertical and risks prevailing in the sphere. In addition, it also speaks about the Precision Medicine Diagnostics Market growth opportunities in the industry.

Precision Medicine Diagnostics Market Report covers the manufacturers data, including shipment, price, revenue, gross profit, interview record, business distribution etc., these data help the consumer know about the competitors better. This report also covers all the regions and countries of the world, which shows a regional development status, including Precision Medicine Diagnostics market size, volume and value, as well as price data.

Precision Medicine Diagnostics Market competition by top Manufacturers:

Precision Medicine Diagnostics Market Classification by Types:

Precision Medicine Diagnostics Market Size by End-user Application:

Listing a few pointers from the report:

The objective of the Precision Medicine Diagnostics Market Report:

Cataloging the competitive terrain of the Precision Medicine Diagnostics market:

Unveiling the geographical penetration of the Precision Medicine Diagnostics market:

The report of the Precision Medicine Diagnostics market is an in-depth analysis of the business vertical projected to record a commendable annual growth rate over the estimated time period. It also comprises of a precise evaluation of the dynamics related to this marketplace. The purpose of the Precision Medicine Diagnostics Market report is to provide important information related to the industry deliverables such as market size, valuation forecast, sales volume, etc.

Major Highlights from Table of contents are listed below for quick lookup into Precision Medicine Diagnostics Market report

About Us:

Market Research Intellect provides syndicated and customized research reports to clients from various industries and organizations with the aim of delivering functional expertise. We provide reports for all industries including Energy, Technology, Manufacturing and Construction, Chemicals and Materials, Food and Beverage, and more. These reports deliver an in-depth study of the market with industry analysis, the market value for regions and countries, and trends that are pertinent to the industry.

Contact Us:

Mr. Steven Fernandes

Market Research Intellect

New Jersey ( USA )

Tel: +1-650-781-4080

Originally posted here:

Precision Medicine Diagnostics Market Size By Product Analysis, Application, End-Users, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies And Forecast Up To...

Pets Internal Medicine Market Size By Product Analysis, Application, End-Users, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies And Forecast Up To 2026 – 3rd…

Posted on by

New Jersey, United States,- Latest update on Pets Internal Medicine Market Analysis report published with extensive market research, Pets Internal Medicine Market growth analysis, and forecast by 2026. this report is highly predictive as it holds the overall market analysis of topmost companies into the Pets Internal Medicine industry. With the classified Pets Internal Medicine market research based on various growing regions, this report provides leading players portfolio along with sales, growth, market share, and so on.

The research report of the Pets Internal Medicine market is predicted to accrue a significant remuneration portfolio by the end of the predicted time period. It includes parameters with respect to the Pets Internal Medicine market dynamics incorporating varied driving forces affecting the commercialization graph of this business vertical and risks prevailing in the sphere. In addition, it also speaks about the Pets Internal Medicine Market growth opportunities in the industry.

Pets Internal Medicine Market Report covers the manufacturers data, including shipment, price, revenue, gross profit, interview record, business distribution etc., these data help the consumer know about the competitors better. This report also covers all the regions and countries of the world, which shows a regional development status, including Pets Internal Medicine market size, volume and value, as well as price data.

Pets Internal Medicine Market competition by top Manufacturers:

Pets Internal Medicine Market Classification by Types:

Pets Internal Medicine Market Size by End-user Application:

Listing a few pointers from the report:

The objective of the Pets Internal Medicine Market Report:

Cataloging the competitive terrain of the Pets Internal Medicine market:

Unveiling the geographical penetration of the Pets Internal Medicine market:

The report of the Pets Internal Medicine market is an in-depth analysis of the business vertical projected to record a commendable annual growth rate over the estimated time period. It also comprises of a precise evaluation of the dynamics related to this marketplace. The purpose of the Pets Internal Medicine Market report is to provide important information related to the industry deliverables such as market size, valuation forecast, sales volume, etc.

Major Highlights from Table of contents are listed below for quick lookup into Pets Internal Medicine Market report

About Us:

Market Research Intellect provides syndicated and customized research reports to clients from various industries and organizations with the aim of delivering functional expertise. We provide reports for all industries including Energy, Technology, Manufacturing and Construction, Chemicals and Materials, Food and Beverage, and more. These reports deliver an in-depth study of the market with industry analysis, the market value for regions and countries, and trends that are pertinent to the industry.

Contact Us:

Mr. Steven Fernandes

Market Research Intellect

New Jersey ( USA )

Tel: +1-650-781-4080

Originally posted here:

Pets Internal Medicine Market Size By Product Analysis, Application, End-Users, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies And Forecast Up To 2026 - 3rd...

Companion Animal External Medicine Market Size By Product Analysis, Application, End-Users, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies And Forecast Up…

Posted on by

New Jersey, United States,- Latest update on Companion Animal External Medicine Market Analysis report published with extensive market research, Companion Animal External Medicine Market growth analysis, and forecast by 2026. this report is highly predictive as it holds the overall market analysis of topmost companies into the Companion Animal External Medicine industry. With the classified Companion Animal External Medicine market research based on various growing regions, this report provides leading players portfolio along with sales, growth, market share, and so on.

The research report of the Companion Animal External Medicine market is predicted to accrue a significant remuneration portfolio by the end of the predicted time period. It includes parameters with respect to the Companion Animal External Medicine market dynamics incorporating varied driving forces affecting the commercialization graph of this business vertical and risks prevailing in the sphere. In addition, it also speaks about the Companion Animal External Medicine Market growth opportunities in the industry.

Companion Animal External Medicine Market Report covers the manufacturers data, including shipment, price, revenue, gross profit, interview record, business distribution etc., these data help the consumer know about the competitors better. This report also covers all the regions and countries of the world, which shows a regional development status, including Companion Animal External Medicine market size, volume and value, as well as price data.

Companion Animal External Medicine Market competition by top Manufacturers:

Companion Animal External Medicine Market Classification by Types:

Companion Animal External Medicine Market Size by End-user Application:

Listing a few pointers from the report:

The objective of the Companion Animal External Medicine Market Report:

Cataloging the competitive terrain of the Companion Animal External Medicine market:

Unveiling the geographical penetration of the Companion Animal External Medicine market:

The report of the Companion Animal External Medicine market is an in-depth analysis of the business vertical projected to record a commendable annual growth rate over the estimated time period. It also comprises of a precise evaluation of the dynamics related to this marketplace. The purpose of the Companion Animal External Medicine Market report is to provide important information related to the industry deliverables such as market size, valuation forecast, sales volume, etc.

Major Highlights from Table of contents are listed below for quick lookup into Companion Animal External Medicine Market report

About Us:

Market Research Intellect provides syndicated and customized research reports to clients from various industries and organizations with the aim of delivering functional expertise. We provide reports for all industries including Energy, Technology, Manufacturing and Construction, Chemicals and Materials, Food and Beverage, and more. These reports deliver an in-depth study of the market with industry analysis, the market value for regions and countries, and trends that are pertinent to the industry.

Contact Us:

Mr. Steven Fernandes

Market Research Intellect

New Jersey ( USA )

Tel: +1-650-781-4080

Visit link:

Companion Animal External Medicine Market Size By Product Analysis, Application, End-Users, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies And Forecast Up...

Certain heartburn medicines may increase the risk of COVID-19 – The Herald-News

Posted on by

People who take proton pump inhibitors, especially if they take them more than once a day, may have a greater risk for COVID-19, according to a new study.

However, people who control their heartburn with H2 blockers did not appear to have an increased risk.

The study that was part of a larger survey on gastroenterological diseases funded by Ironwood Pharmaceuticals was published online July 7.

"To our knowledge, this is the first study examining the relationship between PPIs and COVID-19 among a population-based sample of Americans," according to the study.

Proton pump inhibitors treat a variety of acid-related diseases, such as Barretts esophagus, which, if left untreated, can lead to cancer of the esophagus.

Because long-term-use PPIs also are associated with a higher risk of osteoporosis, dementia, clostridium difficile, kidney disease, pneumonia and deficiency of some vitamins and minerals, health care professionals have become increasingly concerned with the overuse of PPIS.

"Further studies examining the association between PPIs and COVID-19 and whether they increase the risk for more severe disease are needed," according to the study.

Read the original post:

Certain heartburn medicines may increase the risk of COVID-19 - The Herald-News