Babylon’s Mystery Goddess JamesHoare Thu, 06/20/2024 - 10:20

Finland’s multifaceted approach to preventing teenage abortions has proven highly effective, with a 66 percent reduction reported between 2000 and 2023. This large drop, owing to free contraception and obligatory sex education, serves as a model for public health programs. The impact of free contraception Finland’s choice to provide free contraception to teens has been game-changing. Mika Gissler, a research professor at the Finnish Institute of Health and Welfare (THL), emphasized the importance of early access to contraception in this beneficial trend. “We can assume that sexual education plays a significant role,” Gissler told Reuters, highlighting the value of both instruction and accessibility. Beginning in the 2000s, Finland made morning-after medicines available without a prescription to everyone aged 15 and up. This measure was part of a larger campaign to combat the increased number of adolescent abortions that occurred during the 1990s. Finland created the groundwork for a continuous fall in teen abortion rates by ensuring that adolescents have the ability to avoid undesired pregnancies. Comprehensive sexual education In addition to providing free contraception, Finland made sexual education obligatory in all schools. This effort ensures that young people are knowledgeable about their sexual health and the options available to them. The integration of education and access has been critical. According to THL statistics, adolescent abortions have decreased dramatically, from 2,144 in 2000 to 722 in 2023 among those aged 19 and younger. The reduction was considerably more dramatic among those under the age of 18, accounting for 78 percent. Legislative support and wider trends Finland liberalized its abortion regulations in 2022, allowing abortions on request throughout the first 12 weeks of pregnancy without providing a justification. This legal amendment, which takes effect in September 2023, illustrates Finland’s progressive approach to reproductive rights, particularly in a global environment where such rights are under attack in many places. While it is too early to know the entire impact of this legal reform on abortion rates, the move is intended to strengthen women’s reproductive health and rights. THL will continue to monitor and report on these patterns as new data become available. A broader perspective Although the decline in adolescent abortions is remarkable, the decrease in abortions among Finnish women of all ages is less spectacular. Over the last two decades, the overall number of abortions has stayed largely steady, with a little 2.9 percent increase from 2022 to 2023. This shows that, while youth gain from improved education and access to contraception, further interventions may be required to assist older age groups. Finland’s accomplishment in lowering adolescent abortions by 66 percent demonstrates the efficacy of a complete program that includes free contraception and doesn’t shy away from mandatory sex education. As the government adjusts its policies and monitors their effectiveness, it provides a valuable model for other countries looking to enhance reproductive health and minimize unwanted pregnancies.The post Finland’s free contraception initiative reduces teen abortions by 66% first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

Sunscreen is an essential component of our daily skincare routine, but many parents are curious about whether they need to buy different sunscreens for their children. For a better understanding, a board-certified dermatologist shares some advice. Meet the expert Dr. Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, is a well-known dermatologic surgeon at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue in New York City. Dr. Engelman has an exceptional educational history, including a B.S. from the Medical University of South Carolina and specialized training in dermatology and Mohs surgery. She provides essential knowledge in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. So, do you really need separate sunscreens for children and adults? “You absolutely do not need to buy separate formulas for different members of the family. In fact, I often tell my patients to buy the baby versions for their personal use,” reveals Dr. Engelman. What’s the distinction between children’s and adult sunscreen? In essence, there is very little difference. Most “kids'” or baby sunscreens are physical (mineral) sunscreens, which are less likely to irritate. This makes them appropriate for adults with delicate or sensitive skin as well. Physical vs. chemical  The fundamental difference between chemical and physical sunscreens is their mode of action. Chemical sunscreens soak into the skin, whereas physical sunscreens sit on top of the skin and block UV radiation. Both types have their benefits and drawbacks. Adults frequently choose based on personal preference, unless they have severe skin allergies or ingredient concerns. Physical sunscreens for children are commonly advised. Protecting children The best protection for youngsters is to limit their sun exposure, especially during peak hours. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, newborns under the age of six months should be kept completely out of the sunlight, while older children should avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Concerns with chemical sunscreens for children Children’s skin is thinner and more absorbent, making it more sensitive to irritation from chemical sunscreens. Dr. Engelman recommends applying physical sunscreens for children to be extra safe. These formulations, which contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, sit on the skin’s surface, deflecting UV radiation rather than absorbing it. Can children use adult sunscreen? Dr. Engelman says yes, but only if the formula is mineral or physical. “You want something that’s formulated with either zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or a combination of the two.” She suggests that the sunscreen provides broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) protection with an SPF of at least 30. Can adults use children’s sunscreen? Absolutely. In fact, Dr. Engelman frequently suggests that adults use children’s or baby sunscreens, which are typically intended to be kinder and less irritating. Children’s sunscreen safety guidelines Not all children’s sunscreens follow the specified safety requirements. Some include chemical blockers such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate. The FDA now considers only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to be generally safe and effective (GRASE). Parents should seek for these substances when purchasing sunscreen for their children. The FDA has approved three types of sunscreens: 1. Physical (mineral) sunscreens: Active chemicals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide reflect UV radiation. 2. Chemical sunscreens: Active chemicals such as avobenzone and oxybenzone absorb UV radiation. 3. Combination sunscreens include both physical and chemical UV filters. Currently, the FDA only recognizes zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as GRASE. They recommend applying broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or greater, as well as taking additional precautions such as wearing UPF clothing, sunglasses, and hats and seeking shade during peak sunshine hours. Final thoughts There is no significant difference between child and adult sunscreens. The trick is to examine the ingredients. Whether for children or adults, choose sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and ensure they provide broad-spectrum protection with at least SPF 30. Regular reapplication, particularly when spending time outside, is critical for optimal sun protection.  The post Do kids and adults really need different sunscreens? An expert weighs in first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

The post Bobcat Fever: Our Vet Discusses Signs, Causes & Treatment by Dr. Joe Mallat DVM (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 Bobcat Fever? Signs Causes Care Guide Frequently Asked Questions Bobcat Fever is a serious and life-threatening disease that causes anemia in feline species. While the name suggests that the wild bobcat is primarily affected, this is not the case. Bobcats appear to have good immunity and tend to become “carriers” of the parasite, without displaying any signs of disease. Domestic cats, however, are not so fortunate. Bobcat Fever is predominantly found in the south central and south eastern areas of North America. The range of disease is believed to be spreading due to climate change and local weather changes. This article will explain how Bobcat Fever is transmitted, what causes it, and what can be done to treat cats suffering from this problematic disease. What is Bobcat Fever? There is a technical name for Bobcat Fever: Cytauxzoonosis. This is because Bobcat Fever is caused by a blood parasite called Cytauxzoon felis. The parasite is found in ticks (most commonly the Lone Star tick and American dog tick). When a tick carrying the C. felis parasite feeds on a cat, the parasite can be transmitted into the cat’s blood. Once in the cat’s blood, the parasite undergoes several stages of division and replication. The parasite invades white blood cells (macrophages) and causes them to burst. They then infect red blood cells which are destroyed causing the cats to become anemic. Parasite clumps are also capable of occluding (blocking) blood vessels and disrupting oxygen distribution to tissues. Image Credit: Kachalkina Veronika, Shutterstock What Are the Signs of Bobcat Fever? Signs of Bobcat Fever develop approximately 10 days from the time of the tick bite. The early signs can be vague or “non-specific”: Lethargy Loss of appetite Labored breathing Pale gums, or yellow discoloration of the gums Vomiting Fever Increased heart rate Later in the course of the disease, cats become extremely unwell. The lymph nodes, spleen, and liver may become enlarged. Cats will often become hypothermic (low body temperature), and then lapse into coma. Death occurs shortly after this around day 21 post infection. What Are the Causes of Bobcat Fever? Bobcat Fever is caused by the blood parasite Cytauxzoon felis. It is carried in an infected tick’s saliva and injected into the cat’s blood stream when the tick feeds. The tick replicates in blood cells (and other tissues in the body), causing destruction of red blood cells and anemia. The disease is not caused by ingesting ticks. It is not caused by encountering bobcats or other infected cats. Image Credit: Oporty786, Shutterstock How Do I Care for a Cat with Bobcat Fever? At home, there is no way of knowing if your cat has contracted Bobcat Fever, as this requires some diagnostic tests to be run. For this reason, if your cat has any of the early signs of being unwell, it’s best to get them checked by a veterinarian. Previously, the fatality rate was believed to be very close to 100%. This meant that no cat suffering from Bobcat Fever was believed to survive. More recently, there has been some treatment success, though still minimal. Cats require hospitalization and aggressive treatment with intravenous fluids, specific injectable medications for the C. felis parasite, blood transfusions, and nutritional support (which may require the placement of a feeding tube). Cats that survive may spend upwards of one week in hospital and a further two weeks for full recovery. In cats that are severely unwell, or where hospitalization and aggressive treatment are not possible, euthanasia may be the kindest option. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. How Is Bobcat Fever Diagnosed? Bobcat Fever is diagnosed using a combination of blood tests. The C. felis parasite can often be seen in red blood cells when analyzing a blood film under the microscope. PCR (DNA) tests may be required to confirm the diagnosis. If the cause of anemia remains unclear after blood tests, imaging studies may be used to rule out other causes of anemia. 2. What Is the Prognosis for Cats with Bobcat Fever? Image Credit: Kginger, Shutterstock With prompt and aggressive treatment, it is believed that up to 60% of cats may survive. Without treatment, the mortality rate is close to 100%. It is not fully understood why some cats survive and others do not. 3. How Can Bobcat Fever Be Prevented? The only way to ensure your cat is not at risk of Bobcat Fever is to keep them indoors, where they are not exposed to ticks. Tick prevention products in the form of spot-on treatments and collars can be used, but none are 100% effective. Speak to your veterinary team about the best tick prevention tactics in your area. Conclusion Bobcat Fever is a potentially fatal parasitic disease that causes anemia in domestic cats. The disease gets its name because bobcats are the reservoir host, meaning they are the natural animal in which the C. felis parasite resides. But while bobcats do not become unwell as a result of their infection, household cats do. Treatment protocols exist but must be undertaken early. If you live in an area where cats are at risk of Bobcat Fever, it is best to keep them indoors. If this is not possible, ensure you are applying a tick preventative. If you have any concerns about your cat’s health, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian. Sources https://www.msdvetmanual.com/circulatory-system/blood-parasites/cytauxzoonosis-in-cats https://www.vin.com/apputil/content/defaultadv1.aspx?pId=11147&catId=29495&id=3846205#:~:text=The%20course%20of%20the%20disease,rate%20is%20close%20to%20100%20%25. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=102903&id=4952731 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9860807/ Featured Image Credit: one photo, Shutterstock The post Bobcat Fever: Our Vet Discusses Signs, Causes & Treatment by Dr. Joe Mallat DVM (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.

Keeping water pure is important in many aspects of society, from protecting drinking water and for hygiene to less obvious situations, such as the water that scientists use in their experiments. In laboratories, untreated water can cause contamination in scientific experiments, which can lead to wasted hours and potentially have a negative monetary impact. Laboratory water purification systems are complex with dedicated purification processes all along the system, from tap water to the final ultrapure water product. One element of the system involves cartridges containing a specialized membrane that removes minerals. The water can also undergo irradiation with an ultraviolet (UV) lamp to remove bacteria. Once filtered, the water is stored in a tank, ready for when a scientist is in need. Additional purification filters may be applied to remove even more ions and organic molecules if a scientist needs an even higher level of water purity.While water purity is important, there is another concern that is constantly looming over everyone’s heads: how to make these processes more sustainable. When it comes to water purification systems and the exhaustion of water purification cartridges, one thing that people may think about first is recycling. Recycling is one of the more common solutions laboratory technicians and professionals turn to when considering waste management of any consumables, including those involved with water purification. There have been many public messages about recycling, so much so that many people overlook the rest of a product’s life cycle, which includes waste reduction and reusing.The US Environmental Protection Agency uses the waste management hierarchy framework to evaluate its sustainability processes, such as the best way to reduce a product’s environmental footprint. This framework lists source reduction as the most preferred action, which is followed by recycling and energy recovery. This means that global corporations should look at ways to reduce the number of disposable products they create and reconsider their product design to see how they can improve its environmental impact.How can science companies make the water purification process more sustainable?During the water purification process, cartridges become exhausted over time. These should eventually be replaced before the water quality falls outside of the desired range. MilliporeSigma, the US and Canada Life Science business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, looked at its water purification systems to identify ways to make them more sustainable. They conducted a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) of the Elix® 100 water purification system to gain knowledge of the environmental impact of the systems, which revealed that 79 percent of the global warming potential of this product occurs during product use. This means that even when a good recycling system is in place, it is not getting to the heart of the problem. In the past, there was a well-intentioned program whereby the cartridges were recycled, but it raised concerns about increasing the overall footprint rather than reducing it. This was due to shipping the cartridges (often by air) to the recycling centers, the mixed materials in the cartridges making them very difficult to recycle, and a lack of customer engagement.In light of all of this, MilliporeSigma’s most recent generations of water purification systems have been designed to be more sustainable by prioritizing the areas that create the largest environmental impact: electrical and water consumption during the usage phase of the system. As an example, for Milli-Q® IQ 7003/05/10/15 water systems, the product is designed to have up to 35 percent energy savings and to recover 50 percent of water that would normally be wasted. In addition, the size of the cartridges was reduced without sacrificing performance, which reduced the plastic for purification cartridges by 33 percent, and 50 percent of the plastic is sourced from local suppliers who are audited for sustainable supply chain practices. Furthermore, they introduced more sustainable packaging and changed key purification components that originally contained mercury (i.e. the UV lamps) to be mercury-free, all in all allowing an even further reduction in chemical waste.As the climate is in a state of turmoil, product design changes like the above can have a big impact and help protect the environment. By redesigning the whole system, MilliporeSigma have demonstrated how companies can look at the whole life cycle of their products to find ways to reduce their environmental impact in a multi-pronged approach that doesn’t rely solely on recycling. To find out more, follow this link. This article includes sponsored material. Read our transparency policy for more information.

Astronomers may be watching a supermassive black hole "waking up" from a long slumber for the first time ever. The researchers think the black hole may have gotten its hands on a glut of new material to devour, causing an uptick in brightness.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) announced on Wednesday that it will be suing the state of Louisiana over its new law requiring the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools. As Breitbart…