#Integration by Parts examples with solutions

[vavaclasses]

Integration by Parts – Class 12 Mathematics Notes

Introduction:

Integration by Parts is a crucial technique in integral calculus, especially useful when dealing with the integration of the product of two functions. It is derived from the product rule of differentiation and helps solve complex integrals that cannot be integrated directly. Understanding this method thoroughly will aid in solving various problems in CBSE Class 12 board exams and competitive exams like JEE Main.

Formula for Integration by Parts:

If u = f(x) and v = g(x), then:

∫ u·v dx = u ∫v dx - ∫ (du/dx · ∫v dx) dx

Or simply,

∫ u·v dx = uv - ∫ v·(du/dx) dx

Choosing u and v – ILATE Rule:

To select which function to differentiate and which to integrate, use the ILATE rule:

I: Inverse Trigonometric functions L: Logarithmic functions A: Algebraic functions T: Trigonometric functions E: Exponential functions

Solved Examples of Integration by Parts:

Evaluate ∫ x · e^x dx

Let u = x (Algebraic), dv = e^x dx Then, du = dx, and v = ∫ e^x dx = e^x Apply the formula: ∫ x·e^x dx = x·e^x - ∫ e^x dx = x·e^x - e^x + C Answer: ∫ x·e^x dx = e^x(x - 1) + C

Evaluate ∫ ln x dx

Let u = ln x, dv = dx Then, du = (1/x) dx, v = ∫ dx = x Apply the formula: ∫ ln x dx = x·ln x - ∫ x·(1/x) dx = x·ln x - ∫ 1 dx = x·ln x - x + C Answer: ∫ ln x dx = x(ln x - 1) + C

Evaluate ∫ x · sin x dx

Let u = x, dv = sin x dx Then, du = dx, v = ∫ sin x dx = -cos x Apply the formula: ∫ x·sin x dx = -x·cos x + ∫ cos x dx = -x·cos x + sin x + C Answer: ∫ x·sin x dx = -x·cos x + sin x + C

Special Cases and Tips:

Some integrals may require repeated application of the formula. For example: ∫ x^2 e^x dx

Practice Questions

1. ∫ x · cos x dx 2. ∫ x · ln x dx 3. ∫ x^2 · e^x dx 4. ∫ arctan x dx 5. ∫ ln x dx

Conclusion:

Integration by Parts is a powerful technique in calculus, especially when dealing with products of functions. Mastery of the ILATE rule and regular practice of varied problems ensures confidence and accuracy in the exams.

[axxxx13]

what do you think about Corey and Mason?

They are SO underrated it's annoying.

They are one of the healthiest and most stable couples in the series and in my opinion no one gives them much thought because it's not an epic or tragic love like most other relationships, they are just... two boys in love.

Mason manages to bring Corey out of his metaphorical and non-metaphorical "invisibility". He helps him study and in general express his full potential, Mason is Corey's number one fan and wants him to succeed in every way possible.

Corey on the other hand is calm, quiet and in my opinion helps Mason relax and understand that there is nothing wrong with not ALWAYS having a solution or not always being 100% even if that's what everyone else often expects from him.

They just... fall in love, in the least favorable context possible (Liam initially opposes them a lot and it's perhaps one of the few situations in which we see Liam and Mason "clash") and they do it so slowly and sweetly that it's almost unnoticeable.

The locker room scene? Stay alive with me? Corey is not a coward and he's not even some kind of inept, Corey is actually just a bit like Theo in the sense that he initially has a different ethical evaluation (probably because of how he grew up/his education) and despite this, while Mason very rationally defends his integrity (I don't want to stay alive with the bad guys) Corey is like "Yeah but I love you so I don't care what side I'm on as long as you're there too" and that's actually such a powerful thing to say.

And then what actually happens is that Mason teaches Corey how much better it is to be on the good guys' side but Corey teaches Mason that sometimes it doesn't matter what side you're on but who you're with.

Corey sees Mason simply for what he is outside his "facade" and Mason has never tried to change Corey, but only to love him as he is, which is what paradoxically makes everything change.

Theirs is a very psychological and "mature" love compared to, for example, Theo and Liam, very emotional/impulsive, to Scott and Allison who are pure teenage love or even to Stiles and Lydia who have a long history behind them before love.

It's all very much played on diametrically opposed personalities/life experiences (technically they are in two different factions for a good part of the time) and on the fact that people can spontaneously evolve into each other and grow without there necessarily being friction/tension.

They are simply in love, compared to everyone else, and that is enough to put everything else in order.

[theresattrpgforthat]

Mint Plays Games: REDACTED MATERIALS (External Containment Bureau & Bump in the Dark)

As I continue to play with the Forged in the Dark toolkit and the different ways you can shift it to fit the genre of choice, I embarked on a small campaign of Bump in the Dark, which I've been itching to play for probably about a year at this point. I managed to pull together a group of 4 friends, and we set up 4-session play-through of a mystery together online.

At the same time, I also revisited my first experience with the Redacted Materials system, External Containment Bureau, by Mythic Gazetteer. The Redacted Materials system is a method of dropping the mystery mechanic popularized in Brindlewood Bay into Forged-in-the-Dark. I've played ECB a number of times, usually in a one-shot or two-shot. The system involves players gathering clues and crafting a theory using the pieces of information they cobble together to answer some key question.

Redacted Materials / Forged in the Dark

Like a typical Forged in the Dark game, Redacted Materials games both have you cultivate a d6 dice pool. When you roll, you look for the highest number: a 6 is a success, 4/5 is a mixed of success & consequences, and a 1-3 is a failure, typically with an interesting extra. In ECB, you answer a list of standard questions, while Bump has classic Blades-style Action Ratings. In both, you can spend Luck/Resonance to give yourself more dice, which culminates in a long-term consequences clock that allows for some flavorful character moments.

In Bump in the Dark, I made a story inspired by the examples in the book: teen lycanthropes, a church shrouded in mystery, and a giant elk that was menacing the town. In ECB I used a mystery I found for free on Itch: The Sidhe Conservancy of Portland, by VinMakesGames.

One thing I LOVE about these kinds of games is the amount of stuff the mystery does for you as a GM. The mystery clock helps you figure out pacing, and the clues are bite-sized pieces of inspiration that can help set the vibe, act as a life raft for a flailing GM to grasp on to, and propel the players into making interesting decisions. Couching the game into episodic mysteries also gives you an end point to look at. A short mystery makes an excellent one-shot (ECB). A longer mystery makes for a more drawn-out procedural (Bump). But even in multi-session games, the group can see the end point; this can make a game much easier to dedicate yourself to.

The Game Sessions

Our Bump in the Dark series had a number of punchy story beats. The group allowed themselves to work slowly on the mystery, checking in on the teens' families, musing on how the local church might be involved, and finding ways to make the most of their special abilities. I made 3 teen NPCs that could have been a body or a killer; the crew investigated each teen and I had to improvise elements of their home life as we went. I gave one NPC an abusive dad, another a large family with a suspicious shackle by the barn, and a third no visible family at all. One of my players made an observation that all of the teens who seemed to be suffering lycanthropy had shitty home lives: while this was never a direct clue, it became an integral part to the "why" of the mystery. It added a level of depth that I wasn't angling for at the beginning, but I was thrilled that my players decided to go there.

I've had a similar experience in a past session of External Containment Bureau, where I made a choice in one location to have an NPC seem to be unable to recognize the number 4, and while it never became an official clue, the PCs latched onto it. I carried that pattern to the other locations they visited, and part of their solution to fix the problem therefore had to include doing things in four parts.

My most recent ECB session took place on The Open Hearth, and involved the agents investigating a building that no longer appears to be standing, and small forest appearing in its' place. The PCs had to deal with an affliction of flowers growing out of peoples' heads, and a strange coffee shop that appeared to have chased out all surrounding competition. The solution involved offering a group of pixies a job with the Bureau, and trying to hide a portal to the faerie realm under the guise of a new coffee franchise. Because the entire game was a one-shot, we started with partially created characters, and filled in a few details to customize the characters according to the players' preferences.

My Bump in the Dark spreadsheets, available for public use!

The Structure

I really appreciated the clue structure in both of these games, but even when I designed them, I didn't stick by them. I found myself coming up with new ideas as the players started talking theory and making choices. In both instances, I gave myself the liberty to change some of the clues or invent new ones to fit the story that was starting to unveil itself. I think this is something I'm likely to take with me in future games; appreciating the structure a mystery provides, while also giving myself the license to add as I go. The structure breeds improvisation: it gives you the vibes to start presenting clues to the players, but you don't have to stick rigidly to what's already there.

One of the things I find myself sometimes struggling with in other Forged in the Dark games is coming up with consequences for the players in the middle of an action scene: they might overcome an obstacle faster than I thought, and it can be hard to determine when a scene is over. In Protect the Child, I'm playing with faction clocks and a Run track, but so far nothing seems to hit in the same way as a mystery clock. External Containment Bureau and Bump in the Dark add an extra tidbit in their structure as well: consequences that the GM can draw upon when the action slows down and the group needs something interesting to happen to heighten the stakes.

The question is: can you provide the same pacing mechanic for games that aren't a mystery?

In Blades in the Dark, you know you are done when you've finished the score, or when everyone is taken out. Brinkwood does the same thing with a raid; Slugblaster with a run. In each of these games however, there can still be a list of scene pieces that can give the GM something to work with: details that flesh out a location, things a faction might try to do, a list of potential NPCs, and complications sorted by scenario. I'm likely going to have to re-visit these ideas when I flesh out the setting packs for Protect the Child, since it's somewhat setting-agnostic; potentially a list of consequences that might happen depending on what happens with the kid and the factions chasing you.

Another thing I really like in Bump is the character progression that ties story beats (and arcs) to mechanical advancement. You follow the story of your character by spending various kinds of XP in order to describe pieces of your characters' backstories, develop bonds as a group, and manage the various ways the game will try to beat you down. Bump in the Dark has something similar to Slugblaster in that you need to buy one arc before you get to another. (I'm currently playing Slugblaster, and I'll definitely have more thoughts about this when I finish.)

ECB doesn't have an equivalent to this, which means that your characters don't really have a reason to grow as a group. However, the setting kind of doesn't require them to have those connections: they're co-workers, first and foremost. This also makes ECB a great potential game for a one-shot, because there's much less character advancement compared to a stereotypical Forged game. Character advancement exists in the power creep, conspiracy theories, and the potential to transfer across departments, but it doesn't make your character experience a bump in power; it's more of a lateral move. If you DO get enough supernatural powers, your character actually just… ceases to be playable. They transcend mundane existence, and straight-up vanish.

My External Containment Bureau spreadsheets, also free for public use!

Final Thoughts

At the end of four sessions, I'm not entirely sure that I'm fully at home with the rules of Bump; not in a bad way, just that I have a hard time remembering how all the rules work. It's a great reminder of how much simplicity is needed for a first-time GM who's picking up a Forged in the Dark game - and perhaps even a veteran, considering that I run a LOT of FitD.

In Bump in the Dark, I never touched on strings, struggled to figure out arcs, and it felt like there's very few resources to increase your dice pool. I'm fairly certain that if I was to stick with the game a little longer, I'd be able to get more comfortable with these kinds of rules, and the fact that we were able to play most of the game without feeling like we were missing something, even though there were tools we didn't touch, speaks to the power of modularity in a game.

I don't typically run a lot of long-term campaigns, especially not with games like FitD or PbtA. My tastes are too broad, and my schedule too chaotic. That being said, I can see the draw of mastering complex rules, and developing a knowledge base that allows you to pull of some really cool payoff after weeks and weeks of effort. My experience with Bump in the Dark and External Containment Bureau feels like two ends of a spectrum; the same game system used for punchy, one-shot-friendly action as well as a more drawn-out, slow burn style plot. I'm still trying to find the right fit for Protect the Child; thematically, I want to be able to play the game as part of long haul, but I also want a version of the game that can be used to play a one-shot and still feel like the table has managed to engage with the main themes of the game. I definitely think modularity is the way to go.

[beardedmrbean]

New research has made encouraging progress in tackling not one but two of the biggest problems facing our planet right now: plastic pollution and the use of fossil fuels as part of drug manufacturing processes.

Scientists from the University of Edinburgh in the UK have used Escherichia coli bacteria to convert molecules from the widely used polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic into the painkiller acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol).

Like a lot of drugs today, acetaminophen is mostly made out of fossil fuels. Switching those ingredients for waste products – like plastic – could offer an ingenious way of addressing two major environmental problems in one.

It's going to take a while to scale this up and prove it can be effective at an industrially and commercially viable level, so we shouldn't get too far ahead of ourselves, but there's a lot of potential in the new technology.

"This work demonstrates that PET plastic isn't just waste or a material destined to become more plastic – it can be transformed by microorganisms into valuable new products, including those with potential for treating disease," says biotechnologist Stephen Wallace from the University of Edinburgh.

The process starts by chemically degrading PET bottles. The resulting molecules are then fed to engineered E. coli, which use phosphate as a catalyst to convert the molecules into an organic compound containing nitrogen. Finally, these compounds are turned into the active ingredient of acetaminophen.

Among the numerous advantages of the process are that it can be completed in 24 hours in a compact laboratory setup, and that it works at room temperature, so there's no need for excessive heating or cooling. What's more, the team has managed to get it working at an impressively efficient 92-percent yield.

The reaction makes use of a well-established chemical reaction called the Lossen rearrangement, named after German chemist Wilhelm Lossen, who discovered it in 1872. Here, the reaction is made biocompatible so it can work in cells and living bacteria.

Related: Plastic-Eating Insect Discovered in Kenya Is The First of Its Kind in Africa

This was all done using PET bottles, but the plastic is also used extensively in food packaging, furniture, and manufacturing. This type of plastic is estimated to account for more than 350 million tons of waste per year, adding to the plastic pollution burden.

The same approach might also work for other types of bacteria and other types of plastic, according to the researchers, so there's potential here for more environmentally friendly recycling and drug production options.

It's a powerful example of how both natural and synthetic chemistry can be combined to find solutions to problems and drive innovation, and it may ultimately mean that E. coli plays a part in the production of our pain relief in the future.

"Nature has evolved an exquisite yet limited set of chemical reactions that underpin the function of all living organisms," write the researchers.

"By contrast, the field of synthetic organic chemistry can access reactivity not observed in nature, and integration of these abiotic reactions within living systems offers an elegant solution to the sustainable synthesis of many industrial chemicals from renewable feedstocks."

The research has been published in Nature Chemistry.

[rin-and-jade]

We're In This Together: A Post of Pairs & Connection in Alters

This topic's not commonly talked about, since we always thought that alters have to be different in order to be a valid experience as a system. I've come here to show you another perspective to tackle that Status Quo:

Alter's are connected with each other--sometimes obvious like in pairs, sometimes subtle ways on how they communicate to other groups better.

It'll be an interesting subject today--I'll Show ya!

Fast Pass: TLDR Section Is Available!

Alright, Im Listenin'

We've had many discussions within the community on why parts are compartmentalized, became distinct personalities, or able to hold different memories/symptoms/skills. Now, that's one view systems often focus on,, this's the time to talk about what's been keeping your innerworld and parts functional in real life despite the chaos.

Do you often think to yourself why parts come in pairs or many at once instead of one by one in a gradual timeline?

While there's no single factor that helps make sense of this, there ARE some primary ones:

Low Dissociation It's what helps them understand each other's thoughts without saying them out loud, since they vibe with similar frequencies.

Low Emotional Amnesia This helps them understand what the other is feeling, no matter how small, its like some integrated empathy that's mutually shared.

Splitting from the same Source (alter) While it's true that the essence were distributed away, some retain the original part, which often makes those separated alters gravitate towards each other again. Sometimes they also remember where or who they belonged to, retaining past memories is absolutely possible.

Arriving from similar origins They can appear one after the other (in short time span) or alternatively, appear together in a group. This can be caused by changes in the environment/daily life, which brings forth newer equipped alters if existing parts fail to integrate/download the updates.

Is this,, Normal?

It sure is, and there's reasons to back those up.

Similarities can be shared across alters due to how amnesia and dissociative barriers affect each alters differently, this can be compared with two extreme spectrums:

The OSDD 1a is subtype where amnesia and barriers are still prominent, yet the lack of distinction brings us some hints that alters do not have to be different in order to be separate.

And the Polyfrag can have multiple variations of a single alter, contrasting with OSDD's less distinct but separate parts. This suggests different forms of interconnection--meaning, alters are linked through shared origins, functions, or retained traits rather than always being fully different personalities.

Those with DID or other CDD's can also experience this, just in less obvious forms outside of my examples. Depending on what type of system you are, this experience will manifest differently for everyone, and is not universal or comparable.

If you're still confused why an alter split or formed here and there, then it might be harder to understand why groups can appear--In this case, i'll explain the basics to help you understand why.

Tell Me Why?

It's possible to split or form alters that have similar skills, traits, or purposes since the brain do not possess an innate sorting system based on aesthetics or clear organization to box each parts differently.

When you think about it, the brain is geared for survival and producing resources based on what obstacles it had encountered--think about how sharing workload provides better stress resilience when compared to a single part handling all the burden, a big contrast isn't it?

An alter who forms or splits from, is the cause of stress from uncertainty or any complex issues it cannot navigate/solve. It's much easier to simplify solutions to black and white, leaving the grey areas untouched,, this helps them perform actions immediately without overthinking any other perspectives.

Now, if they came in groups, it got the same reason why one appeared,, but now a level above it. There could be multiple stress at once which produces a batch in a similar time frame.

What does their Arrival mean?

If there's an ongoing theme or when the majority have one or multiple traits or issues it's dealing with (e.g, most of your headmates struggles with trust) , that could be a BIG hint that something is up.

You can also call it a reoccurring problem that's desperate to be solved, something that you're uncomfortable to face--yet crucial to heal from.

And, from the alters you've gained throughout your journey, it reflects what stress or trauma that needs to be overcame one day. So.. instead of dreading why you've gained new members, try using a different mindset and ask what do you need in order to cope,, assuming new ones arrived to help you get through life.

How's this related to our topic--

It does relate for today's main subject, because of how some alters talk, and often create their own social groups based on how well they connect with each other.

See for instance, holders can have better access to other holder's memories or how ANP's can talk better with their own similarities compared to talking to EP's groups. Depending on what the alter's dissociated away from, the less distinct, the better they're related to each other.

E.g, A and B are both anger holders, despite having different memories to why they adapted an explosive behavior, the dissociation between them aren't high due to holding the same emotion--Anger. This main similarity between them is what creates better inner communication.

So, its true that alters are all different, although because they belong to the same mind--it's bound to collide and create similar variations from external environment or stimulus.

Okay, i understand! (Takeaway)

That's great, because even if CDD's are made to separate stressful memories or traumas, it does not stop from parts being able to communicate due to their own connected origins which bypass the general amnesia and barriers all systems struggle with!

At the end, to simply explain why connection exists within dissociation, its definitely because of one word: Relation.

Dissociation and amnesia makes it hard to be aware of your own parts or their purpose, but if you got some common grounds to start a conversation--it'll serve as a realization that you're not as separated from everyone else as you'd thought.

Have i challenged the Status Quo? If this made you rethink how alters connect, you might find subsystems even more interesting, here's the link to it!

- c

TLDR SECTION

Alters don’t always exist as completely distinct individuals—many are interconnected in ways that challenge the common perception of system dynamics.

Some alters form in pairs or groups, sharing traits, emotions, or origins. This happens due to factors like low dissociation, low emotional amnesia, splitting from the same source, or arriving from similar life circumstances.

Polyfragmented systems can have multiple variations of a single alter, contrasting with OSDD’s less distinct but still separate parts. This suggests that alters can be linked through shared origins, functions, or retained traits rather than always being fully different personalities.

Alters arriving in groups often reflect recurring stress or trauma, signaling unresolved issues that need attention. Instead of seeing new alters as a setback, they can be understood as adaptations meant to help the system navigate challenges.

Key takeaway: Despite dissociation and amnesia, alters are often connected in ways that make inner communication and cooperation possible. Recognizing this can help systems better understand and communicate with themselves.

[jackied0minguez]

Remote Work Redefined: TopDevz CEO Ashkan Rajaee on the Future of Flexible Business

In a world where remote work has rapidly shifted from a temporary solution to a long-term strategy, TopDevz CEO Ashkan Rajaee is leading by example. Speaking ahead of the Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show, Rajaee shared insights on how his company has seamlessly integrated remote operations into its DNA—and why he believes this model isn’t just a passing trend.

A New Kind of Software Solutions

TopDevz isn’t your typical tech firm. Comprising an elite team of software developers, designers, project managers, and quality assurance specialists based in the United States and Canada, the company tackles the unique challenges that conventional off-the-shelf software can’t resolve. Rajaee explains that while standard solutions can cover 80–90% of business needs, the remaining nuances often cause significant inefficiencies. TopDevz fills this gap by offering custom solutions designed to address those critical details, ensuring that their clients achieve peak operational efficiency. With an impressive 96% workforce retention rate and 63% of their business coming through referrals, the company’s model speaks volumes about its effectiveness and employee satisfaction.

Mastering Remote Operations

Long before the global pivot to remote work, TopDevz was already thriving in a fully virtual environment. Rajaee emphasizes that the success of remote operations lies in having the right infrastructure and clear communication channels. “Working remotely isn’t as simple as logging in from home,” he notes. “It demands disciplined processes and a commitment to best practices—elements we��ve honed over the years.” His team’s seamless transition during the pandemic only reinforced the idea that a well-organized remote workforce can outperform traditional office setups.

The Indefinite Future of Remote Work

For TopDevz, remote work isn’t a temporary workaround—it’s the future. Rajaee envisions a business landscape where companies can lower overhead costs while empowering employees to work from anywhere. This flexible model not only drives client satisfaction by reducing expenses but also enriches employees’ lives by allowing them to choose environments that inspire creativity and well-being.

Rajaee even shares a personal touch: his passion for working from a yacht. Equipped with reliable Wi-Fi and satellite services, his unconventional workspace symbolizes the freedom that remote work offers. “If your current job doesn’t support the lifestyle you aspire to, it’s time to consider other opportunities,” he advises. His own journey from renting a yacht to eventually making it part of his regular work life underscores the importance of aligning one’s career with personal values and ambitions.

Empowering the Next Generation of Remote Entrepreneurs

Beyond leading TopDevz, Rajaee is passionate about sharing his remote work philosophy. Through his “RemotePreneur” initiative, he provides aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals with a playbook for building successful remote companies. This resource addresses the nuanced challenges of remote business management—from overcoming financial stagnation in traditional roles to confronting the inevitable criticisms that come with venturing off the beaten path. Rajaee’s message is clear: true freedom in work comes from rethinking established norms and embracing the possibilities that remote operations can offer.

Embracing a New Era

As businesses around the globe continue to navigate the evolving work landscape, Ashkan Rajaee’s vision serves as a powerful reminder that remote work, when executed with precision and passion, can unlock unprecedented opportunities. His leadership at TopDevz demonstrates that with the right approach, remote operations can not only sustain but also drive innovation, employee satisfaction, and overall business growth.

In a time when flexibility and adaptability are more important than ever, Rajaee’s insights offer a compelling roadmap for companies eager to thrive in a remote-first world.

[woman-respecter]

I’m Mizrahi and akajustmerry is just your regular Arab antisemite. I was going to be level headed about this but I am going to be a massive cunt instead.

Any Arab who says their family fought against Zionism is an antisemite. When Mizrahi Jews faced an actual genocide at the hands of Arab countries and forced into Israel (the popular belief is that WE CHOSE TO LEAVE so let that sink in), it was and is still considered anti Zionism. Why? Because most Arabs and Muslims in general have effectively and brilliantly absorbed their antisemitism into “ANTI ZIONISM” since the beginning so no, they can’t possibly ever be antisemitic when Israel is soooo bad and mean and evil :(

If you look at akajustmerry’s account, you will see no sort of self reflection. Arabs have been babied so much by the West that they will never stop to consider the possibility that they can be antisemitic. The typical response is “We’re semites”. Losing all common sense because they refuse to be held accountable. I have lost my fucking mind and been in countless fights with Arabs/Muslims because they refuse to acknowledge that they have oppressed us and they continue to. I know you’re a white Jew in America who probably don’t feel like it’s your place to talk about these things but Mizrahi Jews need your help. Seriously. What you’re dealing with since October 7th has been Soviet antisemitism mixed with Arab antisemitism.

Celebrities wearing those red hand pins “in honor of Palestine”. Girl Arabs have been haunting Mizrahim with red hands since forever. They did it to us during the Farhud, for example. It’s classic blood libel. There’s a joke that Arab antisemites are obsessed with dogs (their go to insult for “Zionists”). Well, they’re obsessed with telling us we have blood on our hands. It is so important that you read and educate yourself about Arab/Islamic antisemitism.

Going back to akajustmerry’s account, you will immediately see a HUGE issue. What is it you may ask? Well, they don’t believe in peace. They believe in a one state solution where Israel is destroyed and Israelis “face the consequences of their inherently evil behavior” aka be genocided again. Their entire account is filled with hatred against Israelis, wanting them be punished and killed, believing in CLASSIC antisemitic conspiracies that are INHERENTLY ANTISEMITIC such as ZOG (ZIONIST OCCUPIED GOVERNMENT). They believe this is okay because Israelis are “white Europeans” but at least half of Israelis (and most “Jews of color”) are Mizrahi who they forcibly removed from the Arab world, claiming we were all Zionists. But to acknowledge this means that they have to own up to their wrongs. so we may be here forever. A lot of us were Zionists but some of us were anti Zionist as communists and that meant NOTHING because all of us paid the price and it’s not the fault of Zionism. It was your classic case of “ugh, the Jews don’t want to be citizens of our countries, they’re scheming behind our backs and are only loyal to themselves”. Because to be Jewish is to be Zionist to Arabs. People don’t realize this but in the Muslim world, Israel and Zionism and Jews are one. which makes sense because most Jews are Zionist. we have integrated Zionism as a major part of us. Let’s not lie. Israel is very important to Jews. More than half of the world’s Jewish population lives there. so their convenient anti Zionism ends up encompassing all of us hence the inevitable antisemitism. The fact that they won’t self reflect or even put up a front where they hide their antisemitism and pretend to care about being accidentally antisemitic to the good ones SAYS A LOT. Akajustmerry got an anon accusing them of being antisemitic and their response was ZIONIST!!! and that was that. When any Jew you don’t like is a Zionist, well. What are you?

Lastly. All I have to say is. there are HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS OF ARABS. there are OVER A BILLION MUSLIMS. does this ever happen naturally? no. it was through colonization and genocide. they are no stranger to that. and yet Israel is bad? I wouldn’t have any problems with them hating Israel if they were at least honest and fair. They are no stranger to people doing bad things in their name. There are a fuckton of terrorist groups and extremists (majorly fucking up the Middle East btw) who are Muslim/Arab and many many of them are proudly supported by other Muslims/Arabs. To single out Israel is batshit insane. Mizrahi Jews in Europe (for example France) are facing some huge problems because the much larger Muslim population transported their antisemitism problem there. Think Sarah Halimi, Ilan Halimi. The second intifada enabled Muslim extremists in France to create a wave of antisemitism in response to “supporting Palestinians”. Of course any Jew would have to be insane to think Muslims are our enemy. So why are Arabs and Muslims allowed to think that of us, of Israelis and Israel and Zionists in particular? That will never be normal. Wait guys I think it’s…antisemitic….

They always say we cry antisemitism. If you spoke Arabic you’d know Arabic social media is just straight up saying yahud (jew in arabic but casually used as a slur by like everyone) instead of Zionist. They don’t even pretend. Al Jazeera knows their audience and just says yahud when talking about Israel/Israelis/Zionists.

So yeah to pick apart Jews and to say batshit insane things like anything about Israel that’s positive is propaganda. Well that’s fucking insane. it’s a complete denial of reality where Israel and Zionism is not important to the vast majority of Jews. current anti Zionism (and anti Zionism in general) has always been about ignoring reality. Because the common belief in order to pretend you’re not antisemitic JUST ANTI ZIONIST is that well only a few Jews (the bad ones) are Zionist therefore we aren’t the bad guys. but also everyone’s a Zionist because of the Zionist machine since the ZIOS (slur created by David Duke the KKK guy) control the world.

this is a long ask and i don’t 100% agree w every part of it but yeah i think ur right about how oppressed mizrahi jews have been, mostly by arab communities, and how it seems we aren’t allowef to talk about it. amd i absolutely would not be surprised if “fighting zionism” for that person entailed making lebanese mizrahi miserable or worse. i think also it’s funny when these people pretend they care about mizrahi when they can act like ur noble savages oppressed by the evil “white” ashkenazi jews when they are supporting the people who persecuted mizrahi jews most (not that u aren’t also oppressed within the jewish community at times, it’s just a less deadly oppression than literal murder etc)

[scottishcommune]

The NHS has long presented a problem to the tories in that it is fundamentally, ideologically inconsistent with everything they believe about how society should be run. It is not a capitalist model of healthcare, it is in fact an (imperfect) example of how publically owned infrastructure can function. This makes it an institution that they'd ideally like to replace, but it's also almost universally accepted as an integral part of the British state today and as an institution British people are incredibly proud of, so to appear to want to destroy it outright would be political suicide.

For the last 13 years the tory party has instead consistently cut back funding for the NHS, causing thousands of avoidable deaths and increasing patient waiting lists massively under the guise of economic prudence. Today they announce their intention to increase the number of government contracts given to the private healthcare sector as a solution to long NHS waiting lists.

This is a classic capitalist privatisation move: First underfund a service, then when it's on its knees claim there's no public money to save it. Acting as if their hands are tied, the government can then propose privatisation as the only means of making the service "efficient" again, and sell off public assetts at reduced prices to their cronies.

[blackstarlineage]

Afro-German Identity and the Struggle for Racial Equality: A Garveyite Perspective

The Afro-German identity exists within a historical and social framework shaped by German colonialism, anti-Black racism, and systemic exclusion. Despite their presence in Germany for centuries, Afro-Germans have been subjected to erasure, discrimination, and racial violence, often being treated as foreigners in a land they call home. From a Garveyite perspective, the struggles of Afro-Germans are not isolated incidents of racism but part of a larger global system of white supremacy and European neo-colonialism, designed to keep Black people divided, disempowered, and dependent on white nations.

Marcus Garvey’s philosophy teaches that Black people can never achieve full liberation within white-dominated societies and must instead focus on Pan-African unity, economic self-determination, and cultural restoration. A Garveyite analysis of Afro-German identity reveals that integration into German society will never provide true freedom—instead, the solution lies in Black empowerment, African reconnection, and global solidarity with the African diaspora.

1. The Origins of Afro-German Identity: Colonialism, War, and Erasure

Germany’s engagement with Africa began with its colonial expansion in the late 19th century, during which it controlled Namibia, Tanzania, Togo, and Cameroon. This history of exploitation laid the foundation for Germany’s treatment of Black people, reinforcing the belief that Africans were subjects, not citizens.

A. German Colonialism and the First Genocide of the 20th Century

The Herero and Nama Genocide (1904–1908) in present-day Namibia was Germany’s first large-scale crime against humanity.

German forces exterminated over 80,000 Herero and Nama people, marking one of the earliest recorded genocides in modern history.

Africans were placed in concentration camps, subjected to forced labor, medical experiments, and mass executions.

The racial ideology used to justify these atrocities later influenced Nazi racial theories, showing that European anti-Blackness and anti-Semitism were deeply interconnected.

Example: Germany only formally acknowledged the genocide in 2021, but has refused to pay reparations—just as other European nations continue to exploit Africa without accountability.

Key Takeaway: Germany’s colonial crimes are directly linked to its ongoing racism against Black people. Without historical justice, true equality is impossible.

B. The Forgotten Afro-Germans of the Early 20th Century

Afro-Germans have existed in Germany for over a century, but their history has been systematically erased.

Many Afro-Germans were the children of African soldiers from Germany’s colonies or African-American soldiers stationed in Germany after WWI and WWII.

They were denied German citizenship, segregated, and treated as “racially impure.”

During the Nazi era, Afro-Germans were sterilized, imprisoned, or killed under Hitler’s racial policies.

Example: The Afro-German Holocaust victims remain largely ignored in mainstream German history, despite their suffering under Nazi racial laws.

Key Takeaway: Afro-Germans were never meant to be part of the German national identity. They were always treated as temporary, unwanted, and disposable.

2. The Post-War Period: Neo-Colonial Racism and Systemic Exclusion

After World War II, Afro-Germans faced a new era of racism and marginalization. The German government, despite its efforts to address Holocaust crimes, never fully confronted its anti-Black history.

A. The “Brown Babies” of Post-WWII Germany

Thousands of Afro-German children were born to white German mothers and Black American soldiers after WWII.

They were seen as a “problem” for German racial purity and were either adopted out to the U.S. or raised in isolation, facing discrimination at every turn.

Many were denied citizenship and struggled with identity, being neither fully accepted in Germany nor the U.S.

Example: German authorities promoted the forced adoption of Afro-German children to America, reinforcing the idea that Blackness did not belong in Germany.

Key Takeaway: Afro-Germans have always been treated as foreigners, even when they are born in Germany.

B. The Myth of a “Post-Racial” Germany

Germany promotes itself as a nation that has reckoned with its racist past, yet Afro-Germans continue to experience:

Institutional racism in education, employment, and housing.

Police brutality and racial profiling, with Black people disproportionately targeted by law enforcement.

Erasure from mainstream German history and culture, with Black contributions ignored in national narratives.

Example: The 2020 Black Lives Matter protests exposed the deep racial inequalities in Germany, yet German officials dismissed anti-Black racism as an “American problem.”

Key Takeaway: Germany pretends to be progressive, but it still refuses to fully acknowledge and address its anti-Black history and present.

3. The Garveyite Solution: Afro-Germans Must Reject Assimilation and Build Global Black Power

From a Garveyite perspective, Afro-Germans must stop seeking inclusion in a system that was never designed to protect or empower them. Instead, they must focus on:

A. Embracing Pan-Africanism Over European Identity

Germany will never fully accept Black people, no matter how “integrated” they become.

Afro-Germans must see themselves as part of the African diaspora, not just as Germans.

The key to liberation is building connections with Africa and the broader Black world.

Example: Marcus Garvey’s vision of Africa for Africans teaches that Black people must invest in their own futures, not seek white validation.

B. Economic Self-Sufficiency and Rejection of German Dependence

Black people in Germany must support Black-owned businesses and invest in African economies.

Germany still profits from African resources through economic neo-colonialism—Afro-Germans must challenge this exploitation.

Building independent financial institutions and Pan-African trade networks is key to self-determination.

Example: The CFA franc, controlled by France, still enslaves African economies—similar systems of economic control exist in Germany’s relations with Africa.

C. Reclaiming African Culture and History

Afro-Germans must teach their children true African history, not just European narratives.

The German education system erases African contributions—Black communities must establish independent schools and cultural centres.

Language is power—Afro-Germans must reclaim African languages and reject the idea that speaking perfect German equals intelligence.

Example: Garvey emphasized that Black people must control their own education, rather than relying on white institutions that distort history.

Key Takeaway: Assimilation into white society is not liberation—true freedom comes from reclaiming African identity and power.

4. The Future of Afro-German Identity: Resistance, Not Submission

Afro-Germans are at a crossroads:

Continue seeking inclusion in a system designed to exclude them?

Or build power outside of it, aligning with Africa and the global Black struggle?

Marcus Garvey’s teachings remind us that Black people will never be truly free within white societies. The only way forward is through Pan-African unity, economic independence, and cultural reclamation. Afro-Germans must:

Reject white validation and embrace African identity.

Invest in Black economies, not European ones.

Connect with global Black movements fighting for justice.

Only through self-determination and collective strength can Afro-Germans break free from their colonial chains and forge a future on their own terms.

Black people do not need white acceptance—Black people need Black power.

[fieldofheathers-stuff]

The Silco saga, Part 3: The Eye

*This is the third (well, actually fourth) post in a series I’ve lovingly dubbed “The Silco Saga, a retrospective after Season 2”. It’s halfway between flow of conscience, meta, headcanon and review, spawned from my Arcane brainrot (and recent S1 rewatch) and vaguely aimed at trying to reevaluate the entirety of Arcane with a focus on my Main Man™ Silco. Here is Part 1 (on how S2 handled Silco and Jinx���s relationship), Part 1.5 (miscellaneous thoughts regarding timeline issues and Silco’s actions towards the kids in S1ep3), and Part 2 (Vander and a bit of Zaundads, yaaay).

Please feel free to comment! I love hearing different perspectives on this show.

----------------------------

This will be a short one, but I need to get it out of my system. I just... love, love, love Arcane's use of visual language (and specifically character and environment design) to wordlessly communicate story beats. The whole show is just a perfect synergy of writing and artistic talent, where both contribute to craft a deeply layered and meaningful story.

Silco's eye is such a perfect example of this. To use the eye as a symbol of his corruption post-drowning is such a genius intuition, because it's symbolism is so immediately understandable yet also layered with meaning that is incredibly specific to his character.

There are plenty of characters in popular media where facial disfigurement is used to convey duality and corruption (the most obvious example being DC's Two-Face), and Silco could have easily gone down this well-traveled path of character design. However, by focusing on the corrupted eye in particular, this element instantly specifies the meaning of his mutilation.

Vander's violence didn't just impact him phisically. His scars don't serve just as a constant reminder of the ways in which he (and the world, since the Pilt's toxic waters are an effect of Piltover's exploitation of the Undercity) wronged him. The violence inflicted upon him distorted his vision of the world, metaphorically and literally. He is forced (first by Vander, and later by himself) to view the world through a monstrous filter.

I wonder whether him having to constantly inject Shimmer into his eye is meant to symbolize - or rather mirror - the coping mechanism he uses to deal with his trauma. Silco is shown constantly revisiting The Drowning™ as a crucial moment in his development as a person, and while in his personal narrative he reframes it as a positive and cathartic experience, we are aware, through his flashbacks, that the moment was anything but. Him needing to constantly inject Shimmer into his eye is the physical equivalent to the psycological ritual of "healing" he performs by reframing his trauma as a moment of self-improvement (and literally dunking himself in the Pilt, Silco you madman).

It's only logical, then, that the injections don't seem to work long-term. It perfectly mirrors his psychological state: as the story goes on, we see how his narrative of death and rebirth is just a superficial fix, a solution which could perhaps be sustainable for him alone, but inevitably crumbles as soon as he attempts to apply it to another person (Jinx). Jinx's tragic arc in S1 reveals the fault in his vision: there is no healing to be found in rewriting your past by cramming it into a narrative that suits your feelings and "killing" (denying, hiding, repressing) the bits that you don't like - or that are too painful for you to face.

It's deeply symbolic, then, that he still keeps his scars in the Best Timeline™ of S2ep7, but there's no sign of infection or (what I assume is) Shimmer corruption: the wounds are still there because the past can't be changed, but he is shown to have been able to shape it into something stable, manageable. It's what healing actually looks like: it's neither a return to an umblemished state, nor a rebirth into something completely new, but rather an integration of the past and present self into a whole that is not just the sum (or, in his case, a subtraction) of its parts.

[taldigi]

I'm always a big proponent for localizing when necessary so I'm interested to hear your takes. For example, I'd much rather remove things like "senpai" or honorifics. If necessary, fully localize to the setting all the way down to the location (ex: Because Ace Attorney is a game that so heavily focuses on modern day Japan's legal system, there's the chance that could put off American players from buying the game for fear of being lost due to the differences in the systems, even though the game itself has no such issue. So localize to LA to break through that initial barrier and get the player to pick up the game). If not, keep the location (MOST stories don't need their location changed) and explain that which needs explaining, but fully translate all dialogue and speech patterns (I actually approve of P4s decision to use frequent bear puns in place of -kuma).

You don't need Japanese honorifics, English has its own honorific system. It's why children are expected to call all adults Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss [last name], except when they're family. It's why, if your boss lets you call them by their first name, they're considered more relaxed ("Please, call me [first name]. Mr. [Last name] was my father's name!") but if your university professor does so it's considered a sign of respect. And it's why it's noticeably, but not unprofessional, if someone goes by last name only without an honorific. If you're localizing a game, I believe you should use that language's honorific system. No -sans, -kuns, or -chans.

Same with things like "senpai." You don't need it. Find a way around it. I honestly don't think the solution to Teddie is to add more untranslated words. The problem with Teddie isn't what he's saying. It's dropped context. It's not clear enough that Teddie doesn't really get what he's saying. It reads more as if he doesn't get why what he's saying is wrong. But those are two different things. Knowing what you're saying but not knowing why it's wrong is a different problem than not knowing what you're saying at all and just repeating things you've heard. There isn't anything wrong with Teddie using the word "scoring," it's entirely in the way it's delivered.

Of course, that's just my thought on localization. I'm interested in yours!

I think I understand what you're saying, and I understand the exact sentiment. Normally, I feel that adding honorifics can be annoying- esp if the story doesn't really call for it.

However- Persona is a kind of series where it doesn't come off as annoying- because the story is very Japanese as well as being a game about the relationships between a bunch of super powered teens- so its implementation is more organic than say.. idk, if Pokemon did, where that relationship nuance isn't as needed.

There's a lot of nuance that gets lost when those aspects are translated or localized away. Rules like using a person's last name is wildly different in JP than it is in english. Sure, the relationships between first and lasts name have their own rules in ENG, but referring to someone via their last name can be seen as insulting, mocking, or scolding. Maybe even a bit demeaning depending on the context whereas in JP its seen as respectful and using a first name or lacking those honorifics can be seen as affectionate.

Being able to step into the headspace where these honorifics matter in relation to how the characters relate to one another is an integral part of steeping yourself in the narrative. IMO, Making it digestible for English audiences would be more akin to like... "Do we need child characters to refer to themselves in third person?"

English is no stranger to loan words to express things. American-English especially. Schadenfreude, Safari, Rendezvous. Doppelganger? If using "Senpai" is important in the narrative to define a relationship or denote authority or respect between two characters, then I believe it's important for the narrative. I mean, people don't step away from the game clueless on what a Persona or a Shadow is, right?

How I see it... Using English: If Naoto called Yu "Yu" it feels too personable, if they called him "Narukami" then it could be seen as dismissive. "Mr. Narukami" feels stiff and "Mr. Yu" is childish and unfitting. "Sir"? Maybe. But again, that feels too yielding? (AU where Naoto refers to Yu as "Dude".)

Kanji's use of honorifics is important to his characterization, too. Even though he's rough and easy to anger and slacks in a lot of social rules, he's still respectful and that's a really important.

However, I'm no linguist nor a philosopher- let alone know more than a few japanese terms at best. So that's just a train of thought. I know the balance between pure translation and necessary localization is a fickle one.

thought: If this was a fantasy world with fantasy terms and honorifics, is that annoying too? or is it good worldbuilding?

Localizing the area? N.. No. I fully disagree with that. No matter what. If someone needs to be coddled enough that they cannot handle a location change, they can go play a different game. It's like asking Pathologic to be anywhere but the Russian Steppe. That is a different issue divorced from being able to understand the meanings and implications of language.

That being said, I think most people who would find interest in a game like persona would be smart enough to pick up context in a story to give meanings to words. (imagine if persona or even SMT was localized to Soul Monsters LMAO)

(Topsicle is a translation I don't like, especially when they could have called it.. idk, a "Vanilla Bar" or just "Vanilla Ice Cream". "Animal Crackers" too. It's not hard, like.. make up more accurate names for them. "Nillabar" or "Cheeseas Crackers" idk. They had the copyright granted for them to use the originals. Weird.)

Taking a step sideways: Teddie was absolutely fumbled. And yeah, I think the blame lies less in him specifically and more in how the other characters treat him. You are correct in saying the issue isn't "scoring" vs "gyakunan", but I felt that it was the best way to express the issue curtly. But then, I must further inquire... why Scoring? Why not "I to be [Girl]'s hot stud!". I mean, I know why. but "scoring" has negative implications. Hell, they could have just used "hot wife" or "mistress" smth, which carries the ridiculousness forward more.

"Maybe I can be Yukiko's mistress!" "*gasp* YOSUKE, were you trying to be Sensei's Mistress?"

Just thinking out loud at this point.

(I want to emphasize, tho- that I LOVE Teddie. I think he is SO silly and sweet and he is absolutely in my top 5, if not top three, fellas from 4. And yes, I love his bear puns too. I like to use both them and the "Kuma" tics when writing him.)

They really needed to telegraph that the characters don't take him seriously and think he's silly WAY more. Not even in the sense of "child coded". He's a shadow. It's not that abstract that he's immature. But the rest of the world around him needs to act like he is, otherwise the reader/player isn't going to get it either. This is telegraphed suuuuper clearly ingame by the JP team, whereas the ENG team... does not. It is SO clear how fond the girls are of Kuma it's almost comical- and yeah, it even detracts from Yosuke's interactions with him. His annoyance is a little disagreeable in JP, while way more justified in ENG.

anyway, getting rambly. Hope I was able to express something akin to a reasonable opinion.

[sgiandubh]

When you do not know a thing about the issue at stake...

...perhaps it's better to remain silent.

Some of you know, others don't - and that's fine - but my main field of expertise is labor law.

I just read this in anger and disbelief:

Look, lady. I don't care who the hell you are, what you do for a living or why you felt entitled to answer those insistent questions on your side of the fandom. I suppose you are North American and have no idea of how things work on this side of the pond. It is fine: I might know what a Congress filibuster is, for example, but I'd be severely unable to judge the finer points of competence sharing between Fed and state level.

The difference between you and me?

I keep my mouth shut and/or do my own research before opening it in public.

Have you no shame to write things like: 'It was discovered clothing factories in Bulgaria and Portugal made it and how workers were exploited, mostly women, because these factories were in special economic zones in these countries exempt from EU employee rights and regulations.'

HOW DARE YOU? What strange form of illiterate entitlement possessed you to utter such things with confidence, comfortably hidden behind a passive voice ('it was discovered')?

Portugal joined the EU in 1986. Bulgaria (and my country) joined the EU in 2007. I have given 5 relentless years of my life to make this collective political project a reality, along with hundreds of other people my age who chose to come back home from the West and put their skills to good use for their country. In doing so, I rejected more than 10 excellent corporate job offers in France and China. To see you come along and write such enormities is like having you spit in my face.

Article 4 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (aka The Treaty of Rome) is formal and clear, as far as competence sharing between the EU and its Member States goes (the UK was still, back then, a full member of the EU - it quit on February 1st 2020):

That means that ALL the EU regulations are being integrated into the national legislation of the Member States. This is not a copy/paste process, however. And because it is a shared competence area, the Member States have a larger margin of appreciation into making the EU rules a part of their own. While exceptions or delays in this process can be and are negotiated, the core principles are NEVER touched.

Read it one hundred times, madam, maybe you'll learn something today:

THERE ARE NO SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES IN THE EUROPEAN UNION. THE WHOLE FUCKING EUROPEAN UNION IS A SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE, THIS IS WHY IT IS CALLED THE SINGLE MARKET.

What the fuck do you think we are, Guangzhou? We'd wish, seeing the growth statistics!

Now, for the textile industry sector and particularly with regard to the Bulgarian market, a case very similar to my own country. Starting around 1965, many big European textile players realized the competitive advantage of using the lower paid, readily available Eastern European workforce. In order to be able to do business with all those dour Communist regimes, the solution was simple and easy to find: toll manufacturing.

It worked (and still does!) like this:

The foreign partner brings its own designs, textiles and know-how into the mix - or more simply put, it outsources all these activities. The locals transform it into the finished product, using their own workforce. The result is then re-exported to the foreign partner, who labels it and sells it. In doing so, he has the legal obligation to include provenance on the label ('made in Romania', 'made in Indonesia', 'made in Bulgaria' - you name it).

The reason you might find less and less of those 'made in ' labels nowadays at Primark and more and more at Barbour, Moncler and the such is the constant raise of the workers' wages in Eastern Europe since 1990 (things happened there, in 1989, maybe you remember?). We are not competitive anymore for midrange prêt-à-porter - China (Shein, anyone?), Cambodia and Mexico do come to mind as better suppliers. To speak about 'exploited female labourers in rickety old factories' is an insult and a lie. They weren't exploited back in the Eighties, as they are not now (workers in those factories were and still are easily paid about 50% more than all the rest) and the factories being modernized and constantly updated was always a mandatory clause in any contract of the sort. Normal people in our countries rarely or ever saw those clothes. You had to either be lucky enough for a semi-confidential store release or bribe someone working there and willing to take the risk, in order to be able to buy the rejected models on the local market.

If I understood correctly, you place this critical episode at the launch of the limited SRH & Barbour collection, for the fall of 2018. How convenient for you, who (I am told by trusted people) were one of the most vocal critics of S during Hawaii 2.0!

And as far as Barbour goes, it never pretended to manufacture everything in the UK only:

This information is absolutely true. You can read the whole statement, signed in October 2017 by one of their Directors, Ian Sime, here: https://www.barbour.com/us/media/wysiwyg/PDF/Ethical_Statement_October_2017.pdf

And a snapshot for you:

Oh, and: SEDEX is a behemoth in its world, with more than 75.000 companies joining as a member (https://www.sedex.com/become-a-member/meet-our-customers/). Big corporations like TESCO, Dupont, Nestle, Sainsbury's or Unilever included.

I am not Bulgarian, but I know all of this way better than you'll probably ever do. The same type of contracts were common all over Eastern Europe: Romania, Poland, the GDR (that's East Berlin and co, for you) and even the Soviet Union. I am also sure your Portuguese readers will be thrilled to see themselves qualified by a patronizing North American as labor exploiters living in a third-world country with rickety factories.

You people have no shame and never did. But you just proved with trooping colors you also have no culture and no integrity. More reasons to not regret my unapologetic fandom choice.

I expect an angry and very, very vulgar answer to this, even if I chose to not include your name/handle. The stench of your irrelevance crossed an ocean.

[femboyclownpierce]

i think part of the general issue of "the realm whitelist is so long yet there's less than 15 active players" is the time it started. lots of folks get busy over the holidays, so the drop-off was massive. (example: clown was streaming near daily before his break for christmas and new years.) im sure a significant number of them WANT to log onto the realm, but maybe fear theyve been inactive too long and wouldnt want to integrate themselves back in/grind for skills.

idk if the solution is to continue adding people so much as to find a way to encourage those already on it to log in more. especially people like hannah, tina, and jack who've expressed interest in engaging w the lore but otherwise dont have much reason to log on

[sabrinahawthorne]

CLASH! Devlog, January 28, 2025 - Contest Reworks

Let's talk about how Contests have changed!

Perhaps the hardest lesson in game design, no matter your experience or skill, is that sometimes you must kill your darlings.

The Conflict Meter was a holdover from the game that originally inspired me to make CLASH! in the first place - a PbtA game that I haven't touched in years. It took many forms in its many iterations across games, and in each instance it fell short of what I wanted from it. Sometimes it failed to be the gravitational center of conflict; sometimes it allowed a fight to last forever; sometimes it could make a single encounter balloon in length with the addition of even a single character. It was re-inventing all the problems I hoped it would solve. I loved the Conflict meter; so I had to kill it.

In fact, I've removed "combat" as a bespoke mode of play entirely. Instead, I've split CLASH!'s resolution mechanic two ways - if you want to do something cool, you'll initiate a Skill Challenge. If you want to do something cool and Someone is Opposing You, you're initiating a Contest.

This creates a cascade of changes both great and small. For example:

NPCs can initiate Contests if you decide to oppose their actions

Contests are standalone, meaning that the act of fighting is much more freeform and integrated into the larger flow of play

It's no longer clear what, exactly, you're Bidding for

That last point is the most substantial change in my opinion, and my solution is an attempt to marry the story-based play and the more tactical elements of combat.

The way it works is this: Character A announces the action they want to take, as usual. The action in question has the following poperties:

its outcome is both uncertain and guaranteed to be dramatic

Character B is standing in the way of its completion

Once B has announced their intention to oppose A, then they both need to describe their goals. That is to say, they need to tell the table what will happen if they win the Contest. Fate veterans will benefit from thinking of this almost like an aspect - a phrase which concisely and clearly describes what winning and losing looks like in this scenario.

Fighters are encouraged to make their goals dramatic and proactive. Instead of "I want to stop Lord Skull from punching a hole in my stomach," for example, they could say, "I want to grab Lord Skull's fist as it comes for me and bury it to the shoulder in the mud, immobilizing him." Paired with Lord Skull's goal of "I want to punch a hole in this kid's stomach," we have a nice establishment of the stakes.

From here, the Contest proceeds largely as you're probably familiar with it - Bids, Counters and Techs. Now, Techniques have been reworked in their own right, but they're their own can of worms, and I'm determined to playtest their current iteration before I speak confidently about them. I've learned that lesson.

There are a couple smaller changes I should mention as well - for example, it's now possible to Bid more Points than are in your relevant Pool! Doing so will still win you the Contest if you pick a winning Pool - however, it comes at a cost, inflicting you with a Condition that will make further Contests harder for you.

This is part of the effort to balance out the first-move advantage built into Contests. I want Fighters to have a high-risk way to get out of a corner if they're the second one to Bid. This also, of course, adds further layers to the mind-games that Contests are built for.

If you want to learn more, check out the Playtest Materials! I've recently released the second version, and I have sessions planned to put this iteration through the wringer. With luck, more progress will be incoming soon.

I'd also appreciate it if you'd check out my Surgery Fundraiser Sale - as of this writing, all of my works are 75% off for the next six months, and I'd be grateful if you'd contribute. Plus, my games are pretty good!

[solarpunkbusiness]

Are solar power systems prone to cyberattacks?

“Like any technological revolution, digitalisation presents incredible opportunity, for example, energy system cost savings of €160 billion per year,”

“It also comes with new challenges, like cybersecurity. We didn’t need anti-virus protection for a typewriter - but we do need it for our laptops. As a responsible, forward-looking sector, we have mapped the cybersecurity challenge, and we’re rising to meet it with clear, comprehensive solutions.”

The report, written by risk management organisation DNV.

Europe’s move away from an energy system dependent on a few high-impact targets to a more decentralised system offers clear energy security benefits, the report states. Ukraine has learnt this in a particularly brutal way, following repeated cyberattacks on its power grid by Russia.

But to realise these benefits, cybersecurity laws, which focus on old, centralised infrastructure, need to be updated, the experts say. New legislation must address the specific security needs of distributed energy sources, like smaller rooftop solar installations.

Though on a much smaller scale than the strikes on other parts of the energy sector, the solar sector has faced attacks and interference, too.

In 2023, a group of Romanian solar customers modified mandatory inverter settings - which convert DC electricity generated by panels into the AC electricity used by homes - to disable the voltage-active power function. 

This function is required by the grid operators to reduce active power at high grid voltage, in order to keep the power system running efficiently and safely. 

Modifying this grid support function enabled the customers to make more money by not limiting their solar systems during high-voltage events, potentially jeopardising grid integrity as a result.

In a more pernicious incident, pro-Russian hacktivist group Just Evil stole credentials for 22 client sites in Lithuania and posted them on the Dark Web last year. This opened up access to the management portal of these solar sites, although access was not used to carry out further attacks on that occasion. 

Analysing risk, the report found that these large utility-scale solar installations are more secure, since they are often managed by experienced utilities and covered by the EU’s Network and Information Security (NIS2) Directive.

Small-scale solar systems, meanwhile, which are often rooftop installations on people’s homes or businesses, lack strict cyber rules. They are connected to the clouds of manufacturers, installers, or service providers. 

And while the impact of compromising a single installation is low, when grouped together for power system efficiency, they become virtual power plants of significant scale.

[enzaelectric]

The Role of Relays and Timers in Industrial Automation Systems

In the world of industrial automation, efficiency, safety, and precision are crucial. Among the many components that contribute to a well-functioning automated system, relays and timers play a foundational role. These devices act as control elements that manage the flow of electricity, signal processes, and coordinate timing sequences — ensuring that operations run smoothly and safely.

In this article, we’ll explore how relays and timers work, their types, applications in automation systems, and how high-quality products — like those offered by Enza Electric — can enhance performance and reliability in industrial settings.

What Are Relays?

A relay is an electromechanical or electronic switch used to control a circuit by a separate low-power signal or multiple signals. In industrial automation, relays act as a bridge between the control system and the equipment being operated — allowing machines to be turned on or off automatically.

Types of Relays Commonly Used in Automation:

Electromechanical Relays (EMRs): Use physical moving parts; reliable and easy to maintain.

Solid-State Relays (SSRs): No moving parts; faster switching, longer lifespan, and better for high-speed applications.

Thermal Overload Relays: Protect motors and equipment from overheating.

Control Relays: Designed for controlling multiple contacts simultaneously in automation systems.

What Are Timers?

Timers are devices used to delay or repeat electrical signals at predetermined intervals. They help synchronize tasks, automate sequences, and provide controlled outputs over time — critical for complex industrial processes.

Common Timer Functions:

On-delay and off-delay timing

Interval timing

Cyclic or repeat cycle operation

Flashing and sequencing operations

Types of Timers:

Analog Timers: Manual dial settings, simple and cost-effective.

Digital Timers: Offer precise programming, displays, and flexible timing ranges.

Programmable Timers: Ideal for complex automation routines requiring multiple sequences.

Key Roles in Industrial Automation Systems

1. Process Control and Sequencing

Relays and timers enable automated machines to follow a specific sequence — turning motors, lights, or pumps on and off in a logical order. For example, a conveyor system can use a relay-timer combination to control material flow with millisecond precision.

2. Safety and Protection

Relays protect systems by interrupting circuits in case of faults. Combined with timers, they can ensure delay before activating emergency stop functions, preventing false triggers and increasing worker safety.

3. Load Management

In high-demand industrial environments, relays help manage load distribution by selectively energizing or de-energizing machinery. Timers assist in staggered starts, reducing power surges.

4. Energy Efficiency

By automating start/stop functions and managing operation durations, timers help reduce unnecessary energy use. Relays ensure only the necessary loads are powered, minimizing wastage.

5. System Monitoring and Feedback

In smart automation, relays provide feedback signals to the control system. Timers assist with diagnostics by creating intervals for testing or data collection.

Benefits of Using High-Quality Relays and Timers

Choosing the right components significantly impacts system performance and longevity. Enza Electric’s relays and timers are engineered with:

High durability for tough industrial environments

Precision timing for reliable operation

Easy installation and compact designs

Compliance with international safety and quality standards

By integrating Enza’s low-voltage solutions, businesses in the GCC, MENA, and Africa regions benefit from cost-effective, scalable automation that supports both current needs and future expansion.

Common Applications in Industrial Sectors

Manufacturing Plants: Control of motors, robotic arms, and production lines.

HVAC Systems: Timed control of fans, compressors, and dampers.

Water Treatment Facilities: Sequenced operation of pumps and valves.

Packaging Machinery: Relay and timer-based coordination of packing, sealing, and labeling.

Food and Beverage Industry: Process automation with hygiene-compliant controls.

Final Thoughts

Relays and timers are the silent operators behind the success of industrial automation systems. From process optimization to enhanced safety and energy management, these components are indispensable.

When sourced from a trusted manufacturer like Enza Electric, businesses are not only investing in reliable hardware but also in the longevity, scalability, and safety of their entire operation.

Ready to Power Your Automation?

Explore Enza Electric’s wide range of relays, timers, and other low-voltage switchgear solutions designed to meet the evolving demands of modern industries. Visit www.enzaelectric.com to learn more or request a quote today.