Indigenous peoples in the Atlantic region of Canada have a unique way to dissuade sharks from attacking their canoes. From underwater, the long, thin canoes can resemble seals that may be appetizing to a shark. The Mi’kmaq People discovered that if they tie roots from a spruce tree to the underside of their canoes, they act to deter white sharks. @cbc Mi’kmaw canoe builders share traditional knowledge for fending off sharks. Great white sharks live off Canada’s East Coast, and some filmmakers went on a mission to find them. Read more about them at the link in bio Watch Jawsome: Canada’s Great White Sharks free on @CBC Gem ♬ original sound – CBC The simple concept deters the white sharks by causing them to think they are close to the shore. The sharks will turn away from the canoes to avoid beaching and hunt for food elsewhere. The spruce roots are tied to the bottom of the canoe using eelgrass or other things close to the shore. The roots emit an oil that the sharks can taste. Instead of seeing the appetizing-looking bottom of the canoe, the animal’s senses tell them they are too close to the shore. Image from TikTok. This and other lore have been passed down through generations of Mi’kmaq. They call themselves L’nu’k, which means “the people.” Mi’kmaq is an alteration of their word “nikmak,” which means “my kin-friends.” Many items still used today originated from the Mi’kmaq People, also known as the First Nations People of Nova Scotia. The Mi’kmaq used snowshoes with differing weaves for different types of snow conditions. The word “toboggan” is from their original oral language. Mi’kmaw is the singular form that identifies one person, and Mi’kmaq is the plural form identifying a group. This resilient group of just over 70,000 people resides mainly in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick but has spread to some parts of Quebec and Newfoundland in Canada, as well as in the states of Maine and the Boston area of Massachusetts. Please share if history fascinates you. You can find the source of this story’s featured image here. The post Indigenous Mi’kmaw People Use Ingeniously Simple Method To Deter Great White Sharks appeared first on InspireMore.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Coffee has long been a part of many people’s daily routines, with many praising its ability to increase energy and focus. While some people are concerned about the consequences of too much caffeine, a large body of evidence demonstrates that moderate coffee consumption has various health benefits. From necessary nutrients to potential prevention of chronic diseases, your daily cup of coffee may be doing more for your health than you know. A nutrient-rich brew A standard eight-ounce cup of coffee contains not only caffeine but also important nutrients. Coffee contains considerable levels of B vitamins (riboflavin, pantothenic acid, thiamine, and niacin), as well as minerals such as potassium, manganese, and magnesium. When consumed in moderation, these nutrients can improve general health, especially for individuals who drink a few cups throughout the day. In addition to these minerals, coffee contains a lot of antioxidants. For many people, particularly in Western countries, coffee is a primary source of antioxidants, frequently surpassing that of fruits and vegetables. These antioxidants serve an important role in protecting the body from oxidative stress, which is connected to a variety of chronic illnesses. How coffee increases mental alertness One of the most well-known advantages of coffee is its ability to boost mental alertness and vitality. This is mostly due to caffeine, a natural stimulant that acts by inhibiting the neurotransmitter adenosine, which promotes sleep. Caffeine inhibits adenosine, which stimulates neuronal activity and the production of mood-enhancing neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine. As a result, coffee improves reaction time, cognitive function, and overall mental sharpness, making it a popular choice for remaining focused during a long workday or combating the afternoon slump. However, it is crucial to remember that, while coffee might increase alertness, the social and environmental context—such as drinking it with friends or during a break—also influences its perceived advantages. Coffee and chronic disease prevention Beyond its immediate effects, frequent coffee consumption is linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases. Here’s how coffee may benefit your long-term health: 1. Cardiovascular health Moderate coffee drinking has been associated with a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. According to studies, consuming one to two cups per day may reduce the incidence of heart failure and cardiovascular mortality. Surprisingly, current research suggests that coffee may not be hazardous even for people with irregular heart rhythms. 2. Type 2 diabetes According to research, coffee can help the body absorb glucose better, lowering the chance of developing type 2 diabetes. People who drink more coffee are less likely to develop this illness. 3. Liver protection Coffee appears to protect the liver. Both regular and decaffeinated coffee have been linked to improved liver enzyme levels. Regular coffee consumers have a much lower incidence of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. 4. Cancer prevention Coffee drinking has been associated with a lower risk of numerous cancers, including colorectal and womb cancers. According to a systematic review, drinking a lot of coffee reduces your total risk of cancer by 18 percent. 5. Neurodegenerative diseases Coffee contains caffeine, which is connected with a lower chance of developing Parkinson’s disease and may help those with the condition manage their symptoms better. Furthermore, drinking coffee may lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Mental health and longevity benefits On top of all the physical benefits, moderate coffee consumers are also supporting their mental well-being. According to several studies, coffee consumers had a 20 percent lower incidence of depression. Furthermore, regular coffee drinking has been associated with a lower risk of suicide, with studies indicating that people who consume four or more cups per day are 53 percent less likely to commit suicide. Given these benefits for both physical and mental health, it’s hardly unexpected that coffee drinkers may live longer lives. A big study with over 400,000 participants discovered that individuals who drank coffee for 12 to 13 years had a decreased chance of death, with the greatest advantages shown at four to five cups per day. This increased longevity is most likely due to the cumulative impact of coffee’s anti-disease characteristics. Moderation is key While the health advantages of coffee are great, moderation is key. Excess caffeine intake can cause jitteriness, anxiety, and sleep difficulties. Some people, particularly those who are sensitive to caffeine, may need to limit their intake or switch to decaffeinated coffee, which still contains minor quantities of caffeine. Balance is essential for all dietary components. Understanding the benefits and limitations of coffee helps you make wiser decisions about how many cups you drink. When consumed in moderation, coffee offers several health benefits, so, if you’re a coffee enthusiast, enjoy your daily cup with confidence by understanding its nutritious composition, antioxidant characteristics, and ability to improve both physical and mental health.The post The health benefits of coffee: why your daily cup of joe is worth savoring first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In the iconic setting of Carnegie Hall, a remarkable initiative is taking shape, one that seeks to bridge the stark gap between the industry’s diverse musical talent and its predominantly white leadership. The B-Side, a program specifically developed to empower young people of color, provides participants with a unique opportunity to learn about the multiple facets of the music industry, such as legal contracts and studio production. This program is a direct response to minorities’ underrepresentation in music management and executive positions, intending to develop a new generation of industry executives who reflect the diversity of the musicians who frequently top the charts. A week-long immersion in the heart of the music industry Bri Bernard, for example, describes The B-Side as a transforming trip rather than merely an educational encounter. Bernard, a young woman from the Bronx, was one of 40 trainees chosen for the program’s trial in the spring of 2023. “It was my first time working in a truly professional studio,” she shared, reflecting on her visit to Stanley Brown’s Pulse Music Studio. “That was simply awesome.” Bernard and her peers spent a week seeing key music venues, like the Louis Armstrong Museum, and receiving hands-on training from entertainment lawyers, union officials, and experienced musicians. Donald Garner, popularly known as “Dr. G” by the students, emphasized the significance of these interactions: “Research and anecdotal evidence tells us about the lack of representation young people have, especially people of color, in terms of breaking into the industry.” The program’s immersive nature not only gives vital exposure but also catalyzes participants’ creative and professional development. Diversity deserts in music management While musicians of color routinely top music charts, their representation in management and administrative positions is disturbingly low. Ayanna Cole, the director of Carnegie Hall’s Social Impact Programs, cites a USC Annenberg study from 2021 that revealed a significant inequality in sector leadership. Even though nearly half of all musicians in popular songs are from underrepresented groups, the survey found that 100 percent of top executives at the nine largest music businesses were white, with only one female executive among them. “Put differently, there were 17.7 white male executives to every one Black female executive,” the research stated, emphasizing the critical need for initiatives such as The B-Side. By focusing on the business side of the music industry, The B-Side confronts the “diversity desert” head-on. Students learn about contracts, royalties, marketing, and other important facets of the industry, giving them the knowledge and confidence to navigate and eventually lead in these areas. Cole stressed that “we really considered research around the lack of diversity in the music industry” when establishing the program, which now lasts four months and is expanding. Beyond music: preparing for industry challenges The B-Side curriculum includes more than just technical skills. Recognizing the special issues confronting underrepresented groups, the program begins and ends with classes on power, gender, and identity. “It’s important to learn about ways to keep yourself safe in any industry,” says Cole, “but in particular when you think about the ideocracy of the music industry with its big personalities and powerful celebrities.” Cole’s personal background as a former Emmy-winning television producer influenced her approach to the program. Cole, who was “almost always the only woman of color on the production side,” recognizes the challenges that young people of color confront in creative sectors. Her dedication to leveling the playing field shines through in every facet of The B-Side, from the involvement of parents in the program to the stipends provided to cover participants’ expenditures. “It is important for the parents to know that there are lots of viable careers in the creative sector,” she says, ensuring that families grasp the industry’s larger opportunities. From participants to pioneers: the impact of The B-Side The impact of The B-Side is already visible in the accomplishments of its members. One student felt so motivated by the curriculum that she released her debut single soon after completing it. Another participant leveraged the connections formed during a studio visit to sign an artist to a label. Bernard’s goals have shifted dramatically, with her major changing from music composition to sociology in order to investigate the systemic disparities she has witnessed in the industry. “The numerous opportunities to work in music that The B-Side showed me blew my mind,” Bernard says. “Before coming into Carnegie, I believed that there was one way to make it in the industry, and that was the path I had to follow. I have since encountered so many inspirational people and experiences that I wouldn’t have explored without the courage that The B-Side instilled in me.” Bernard, who is now a student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is still creating projects that combine art, activism, and academia. Her work, which includes the “Tales of Black Motherhood” project and a music production for a play addressing the links between the caste system and institutional racism, exemplifies the depth and range of options that The B-Side has provided her. As The B-Side continues to expand, success stories like Bernard’s highlight the program’s significance. Carnegie Hall is not just assisting individuals by providing young people of color with the tools, information, and support they require to thrive; it is also paving the path for a more diverse and equitable future in the music industry.The post Helping young people of color navigate the music industry with Carnegie Hall’s The B-Side first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

Absolute chaos

The post Multiple Myeloma in Cats: Our Vet Explains Signs, Causes & Treatment by Dr. Ashley Darby BVSc (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Click to Skip Ahead What Is Multiple Myeloma? Signs Causes Diagnosis Care Guide Frequently Asked Questions If you’re interested in multiple myeloma, your cat may have been recently diagnosed with this rare disease. If this is the case, we’re very sorry and understand you’ll want to know everything about the condition and what to expect moving forward. Multiple myeloma is a cancerous disease, meaning that it’s caused by the uncontrolled growth of the cat’s own cells. As these cells proliferate, they cause harm to the vital body systems that keep your cat alive. What Is Multiple Myeloma? Multiple myeloma is a rare cancer originating from a type of white blood cell in the bone marrow. In healthy cats, the bone marrow contains stem cells that reproduce and mature into blood cells such as platelets, red blood cells, and white blood cells. The white cells fight infection, platelets help with blood clotting, and red cells are the carrier cells for transporting oxygen around the body. One type of white blood cell is the plasma cell, which is responsible for the production of antibodies. Cancer of this cell line within the bone marrow causes multiple myeloma. However, if plasma cells cause cancer outside the bone marrow, it is called a plasmacytoma. However, multiple myeloma can spread from the bone marrow to other organs. The uncontrolled production of plasma cells results in excessive amounts of antibodies in the blood. Cancerous cells and the resulting antibodies can cause problems all around the body. Although cancer can originate in any bone, most arise in the spinal vertebrae. Image Credit: 4 PM production, Shutterstock What Are the Signs of Multiple Myeloma? Multiple myeloma typically occurs in cats over the age of 7 and appears to have similar rates in male and female cats. Signs of multiple myeloma are generalized to start with and worsen with time. Specific signs can be related to organs being impacted by the cancer. Generally, the first non-specific signs of the problem are: Signs: Lethargy Anorexia Weight loss Limping Pain There are, however, several complications of multiple myeloma that can result in more severe signs. These complications include: Hyperviscosity syndrome: Too many antibodies in the blood cause it to become physically thickened. Signs of hyperviscosity syndrome can be neurological or related to blood clotting or heart failure. Seizures, blindness, and respiratory distress are common signs of this syndrome in cats. Pathological fractures: Bones with tumor involvement may lose calcium and resorb, resulting in areas of weakness. Weakened bone is more prone to fractures, known as pathological fractures, as they occur without the trauma usually needed to break a bone. High blood calcium: This is common in cats with multiple myeloma due to bone resorption and cancer interfering with parathyroid gland function. It can lead to kidney damage and weakness. Kidney disease: Aside from the excess calcium, the abnormal antibody protein level can damage the kidneys. Cats with kidney problems will drink and urinate more to compensate and, in more severe cases, can develop vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and poor appetite. Blood clotting disorders: Platelets may also be impacted by the cancer, causing a reduction in blood clotting ability. Signs can include bleeding internally into the eyes, abnormal bruising, or visible bleeding. There can be blood in the digestive tract, causing black, tarry stools. Metastasis: The cancer cells can spread from the bone marrow to other organs and impact their function, including the kidneys, liver, and spleen. This is known as metastasis. Weak immune system: The immune system is weakened as the cancerous cells don’t function correctly, and the cancer may also crowd out sites needed for normal white cell production. Cats with multiple myeloma are prone to infections. Anemia: In some cases, red blood cell production may not be adequate, leading to anemia. Spinal cord compression: The tumor or weakened bones pressing on the spinal cord can lead to signs like weakness, wobbly gait, abnormal reflexes, and even paralysis. Image Credit: Olesya_Alexandrova, Shutterstock What Are the Causes of Multiple Myeloma? There has been no conclusive evidence about what causes multiple myeloma in cats. However, one study reports the occurrence of this rare condition in siblings, suggesting a possible genetic predisposition. This theory needs to be explored further but is backed up by findings in mice and humans. Unlike other white blood cell cancers, viruses like Feline Leukemia Virus, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, and Feline Infectious Peritonitis do not appear to be implicated in multiple myeloma. Finally, the environment can be important. Exposure to carcinogens like exhaust fumes and other chemicals can increase the risk of cancer. One study showed people in certain professions had an increased risk of multiple myeloma. Diagnosing Multiple Myeloma in Your Cat If your cat shows signs of being unwell, the first step is a veterinary consultation and examination. Your vet will consider your cat’s history and the signs they’re showing to determine the next steps. Since multiple myeloma is very rare and the initial signs are quite general, this potential diagnosis may not be the first on your vet’s list. There is a saying in medicine, “If you hear hoofbeats, think horses, not zebras,” which means that certain illnesses are more common than others. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Multiple myeloma can be diagnosed when two of the following are found: Moth-eaten bone lesions on X-rays Bone marrow biopsy finds cancerous cells or an abnormally high portion of plasma cells A specific protein related to antibodies in the urine (Bence-Jones proteinuria) High levels of a specific protein related to antibodies in the blood (paraproteinemia) Cancerous plasma cells in organs Extensive testing is needed to reach this definitive diagnosis. Initial testing at your general practice veterinarian may include: Hematology: This tests red and white cell and platelet counts. In cases of multiple myeloma, this may show anemia, low platelet count, or low white cell count. Serum biochemistry: This measures blood protein and calcium levels, which are likely to be high in cats with multiple myeloma. It can also assess kidney function and help rule out other health problems. Urine testing: Basic urine testing can rule out a secondary urinary tract infection and help assess hydration and kidney function. More specific urine tests are sent to a lab to look for Bence-Jones proteinuria. X-rays: They must be detailed and taken of the whole body to look for bone lesions. Ultrasound: It can help detect areas of organ enlargement, potentially indicating metastasis. Bone marrow biopsy: It’s usually performed on areas of bone lesions. Almost all cases of multiple myeloma will show abnormal plasma cells with this test. Serum protein electrophoresis: This is a laboratory test designed for paraproteinemia. The results of the tests may not only diagnose your cat but also help your vet to determine their prognosis. According to one study of nine cats, the following was associated with a poor prognosis in cats with multiple myeloma: Low blood calcium Pathological fractures Anemia Bence-Jones proteinuria Kidney damage Image Credit: mojo cp, Shutterstock How Do I Care for a Cat With Multiple Myeloma Cats with multiple myeloma need veterinary care and excellent nursing care at home. At the vet, your cat may need a fluid drip to support their kidneys and rehydrate them. Fluids also help treat hyperviscosity syndrome. On diagnosis, vets will start long-term antibiotics to protect your cat against infection. They will also provide symptomatic treatment on a case-by-case basis. Many cats need pain relief, while others need more specific medication. You will also have the option to pursue advanced cancer treatment for your cat. It’s fine not to do this based on your circumstances or beliefs. However, it could extend your cat’s life and improve their quality of life. Without it, euthanasia may need to occur sooner rather than later. Advanced cancer treatments are generally prescribed by a veterinary oncologist. In some cases, surgery can be recommended for damage control. These specialists can develop a plan for surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy, as well as extensive follow-ups, to help your cat. Your vet will want to monitor for side effects related to treatment as well as your cat’s response to treatment. For example, a reduction in blood protein after treatment is a good sign. Good nursing care at home is essential. While not all these interventions may be necessary for every cat with multiple myeloma, we recommend speaking to your vet about the following: Keep your cat clean and reduce their risk of infection: Cleaning up urine and feces, keeping your cat’s environment hygienic, and avoiding raw food can help. You should also pay attention to dental hygiene since bacteria can build up in the mouth. Optimizing their nutrition and hydration: Choosing nutrient-dense wet foods can help keep weight on your cat and hydrate them. Offering water several times a day is a good idea to encourage your cat to drink. Ask your vet if any water additives are suitable to improve your cat’s hydration. Keeping your cat rested during their initial treatments: This can help reduce the risk of pathologic fractures and improve their comfort with bone lesions that cause pain. Helping your cat with urination: If they cannot empty their bladder on their own, you may need to help them. Speak To a Vet Online From the Comfort of Your Couch! If you need to speak with a vet but can’t get to one, head over to PangoVet. It’s an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price! Click to Speak With a Vet Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) How Long Can a Cat Live With Multiple Myeloma? One study showed that out of eight cats receiving chemotherapy for multiple myeloma, four had a complete response, and one had a partial response. Those who responded survived for between 4 and 24 months. The average survival time with treatment is around 42–281 days. Cats that don’t receive advanced treatment or do not respond to treatment will have a shorter lifespan. Is Bone Marrow Cancer Painful in Cats? Bone marrow cancers like multiple myeloma can be painful, especially if they cause the bone to be eaten away or pathological fractures. These cats often need one or more pain relief medications to remain comfortable. Don’t be afraid to discuss this with your vet if your cat is in pain. In addition to the pain, these cancers can cause changes that make your cat feel generally lethargic or nauseous. Conclusion Multiple myeloma is a rare form of bone cancer in cats. While cats with multiple myeloma will eventually succumb to their condition, a period of remission is possible. Unfortunately, some cats don’t respond despite the best treatment, and many have highly aggressive forms of multiple myeloma. Your vet can look for signs that might indicate a poor prognosis for your cat. When your cat is diagnosed with multiple myeloma the most important thing is their comfort and quality of life. That is why you should pamper your cat with multiple myeloma, monitor for any signs of pain or discomfort, and follow your vet’s advice. Sources NCBI Veterinary Partner Vet Med Pet Health Network Featured Image Credit: Kginger, Shutterstock The post Multiple Myeloma in Cats: Our Vet Explains Signs, Causes & Treatment by Dr. Ashley Darby BVSc (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Recently declassified NSA documents reveal that Russia may have been in possession of secretive microwave weaponry, potentially linked to mysterious health issues experienced by U.S. officials. Known as Havana Syndrome, this puzzling phenomenon first emerged in 2016 when American diplomats and intelligence personnel in Havana, Cuba, reported a range of debilitating symptoms, including fatigue, headaches, nausea, and long-term neurological damage. For nearly a decade, the true cause of these symptoms has remained elusive. Some investigations suggest the symptoms may be psychosomatic, while others point to the use of directed energy weapons by foreign adversaries. A recently highlighted 2014 NSA document seems to support the latter theory, indicating that Russia had developed a weapon capable of producing symptoms identical to those seen in Havana Syndrome cases. According to the declassified file, two NSA counterintelligence agents were severely affected by exposure to what was suspected to be a microwave weapon during a mission to Russia. Both suffered brain-related injuries, including cognitive impairments and dizziness. One of the agents, Chuck Gubete, later died, while the other, Mike Beck, developed Parkinson’s disease, which he attributes to the alleged attack in the 1990s. The document describes a “high-powered microwave weapon” designed to silently attack a target by flooding their environment with microwaves, resulting in nervous system damage and other physical effects. Despite these revelations, the NSA could not find definitive proof that such a weapon had been used, leaving the connection between these incidents and Havana Syndrome inconclusive. The challenge of confirming the use of microwave weapons continues to cast a shadow over efforts to unravel the mystery of these health attacks. Jake Carter: As someone who’s closely followed Russian politics, I have serious doubts that this microwave weapon originated solely from Russia. The country’s notorious corruption makes it unlikely they could have developed and maintained such advanced technology on their own. It feels like there’s something deeper going on here, possibly involving more clandestine, global forces. The real origins of Havana Syndrome might lie beyond Russia. The post Could Russian Microwave Weapons Be Behind Havana Syndrome? appeared first on Anomalien.com.

If everything goes according to plan, Elon Musk announced via his social platform X that SpaceX’s Starship, the most powerful rocket ever built, could make its journey to Mars within two years. The optimal launch window will be in 2026, when Mars will be at its closest point to Earth. Elon Musk, the founder and CEO of SpaceX, revealed that the Starship, a two-stage mega-rocket consisting of a launch vehicle and spacecraft, could reach Mars as early as 2026. This mission will likely involve multiple spacecraft, as Musk implied that there will be more than just a single flight. However, no astronauts will be on board during these initial missions, which are intended to test the ability to land safely and reliably on the Martian surface. Musk also stated that if these initial landings are successful, the first human crew could be sent to Mars by 2028. Since Earth and Mars align favorably every 26 months, 2026 presents the best opportunity for this groundbreaking mission. According to Musk, once successful landings are achieved, the frequency of flights to Mars will increase exponentially. He even predicted that within 20 years, a city inhabited by humans could be established on the Red Planet. Starship is designed as a fully reusable two-stage rocket. The first stage, called the Super Heavy booster, and the second stage, the Starship spacecraft, together stand 122 meters tall, making it the tallest and most powerful rocket in the world. Starship generates twice the thrust of NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS), which is currently being used for the Artemis program aimed at lunar exploration. In 2025, NASA plans to send astronauts in the Orion spacecraft around the Moon, with a lunar landing slated for 2026—the first in 52 years. A key advantage of Starship over NASA’s SLS is its reusability. After each mission, the Super Heavy booster is designed to return to the launch pad for reuse. Musk’s vision of landing humans on Mars and building a permanent colony has been a longstanding goal, and SpaceX believes Starship is the key to turning this dream into reality. However, the spacecraft is still undergoing rigorous testing. So far, four test launches have been conducted, with each one yielding progressively better results. SpaceX is currently preparing for a fifth test flight, expected to happen soon, where the Super Heavy booster will attempt to land back on the launch pad—another critical step toward full mission readiness. Musk also envisions using Starship not only for Mars missions but for lunar missions as well, transporting both cargo and people to the Moon. The post SpaceX’s Starship to Reach Mars by 2026, Says Elon Musk appeared first on Anomalien.com.

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