#Mobile developer assessments

[hiremeeltd]

Full Stack Developer Assessments

A full stack developer assessments for software developer who deals with both the Frontend (client-side) and Backend (server-side) of the product. Visit: https://hiremee.co.in/solutions/talent-assessments/industry-specific-assessments

[covid-safer-hotties]

Also preserved in our archive

By Sarah Schwartz

Test after test of U.S. students’ reading and math abilities have shown scores declining since the pandemic.

Now, new results show that it’s not just children whose skills have fallen over the past few years—American adults are getting worse at reading and math, too.

The connection, if any, between the two patterns isn’t clear—the tests aren’t set up to provide that kind of information. But it does point to a populace that is becoming more stratified by ability at a time when economic inequality continues to widen and debates over opportunity for social mobility are on the rise.

The findings from the 2023 administration of the Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies, or PIAAC, show that 16- to 65-year-olds’ literacy scores declined by 12 points from 2017 to 2023, while their numeracy scores fell by 7 points during the same period.

These trends aren’t unique in the global context: Of the 31 countries and economies in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development that participated in PIAAC, some saw scores drop over the past six years, while others improved or held constant.

Still, as in previous years, the United States doesn’t compare favorably to other countries: The country ranks in the middle of the pack in literacy and below the international average in math. (Literacy and numeracy on the test are scored on a 500-point scale.)

But Americans do stand out in one way: The gap between the highest- and lowest-performing adults is growing wider, as the top scorers hold steady and other test takers see their scores fall.

“There’s a dwindling middle in the United States in terms of skills,” said Peggy Carr, the commissioner of the National Center for Education Statistics, which oversees PIAAC in the country. (The test was developed by the OECD and is administered every three years.)

It’s a phenomenon that distinguishes the United States, she said.

“Some of that is because we’re very diverse and it’s large, in comparison to some of the OECD countries,” Carr said in a call with reporters on Monday. “But that clearly is not the only reason.”

American children, too, are experiencing this widening chasm between high and low performers. National and international tests show the country’s top students holding steady, while students at the bottom of the distribution are falling further behind.

It’s hard to know why U.S. adults’ scores have taken this precipitous dive, Carr said.

About a third of Americans score at lowest levels PIAAC is different from large-scale assessments for students, which measure kids’ academic abilities.

Instead, this test for adults evaluates their abilities to use math and reading in real-world contexts—to navigate public services in their neighborhood, for example, or complete a task at work. The United States sample is nationally representative random sample, drawn from census data.

American respondents averaged a level 2 of 5 in both subjects.

In practice, that means that they can, for example, use a website to find information about how to order a recycling cart, or read and understand a list of rules for sending their child to preschool. But they would have trouble using a library search engine to find the author of a book.

In math, they could compare a table and a graph of the same information to check for errors. But they wouldn’t be able to calculate average monthly expenses with several months of data.

While the U.S. average is a level 2, more adults now fall at a level 1 or below—28 percent scored at that level in literacy, up from 19 percent in 2017, and 34 percent in numeracy, up from 29 percent in 2017.

Respondents scoring below level 1 couldn’t compare calendar dates printed on grocery tags to determine which food item was packed first. They would also struggle to read several job descriptions and identify which company was looking to hire a night-shift worker.

The findings also show sharp divides by race and national origin, with respondents born in the United States outscoring those born outside of the country, and white respondents outscoring Black and Hispanic test takers. Those trends have persisted over the past decade.

[utkuerdemozerblog]

UTKU ERDEM OZER (2)

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on advanced orthopedic solutions, where we address some of the most pressing musculoskeletal conditions affecting individuals today. From Dupuytren’s disease, a condition that leads to the thickening of tissue in the palm, to the complexities of a distal biceps tendon tear, we provide insights on innovative treatments that restore function and quality of life. Additionally, we delve into the advancements in hip and knee replacement surgeries, which have transformed the landscape of orthopedic care. At Utku Erdem Ozer, our commitment to excellence ensures that you receive top-tier medical expertise combined with compassionate care.

Dupuytren’s disease

Dupuytren’s disease is a progressive condition that affects the layers of tissue beneath the skin in the palm and fingers, leading to the formation of nodules and cords that can limit hand movement. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing this condition effectively. At our clinic, we specialize in tailored treatment options that cater to the unique needs of each patient.

One of the key benefits of seeking treatment for Dupuytren’s disease is the restoration of hand function. This can significantly improve the quality of life, enabling individuals to perform daily tasks with ease. Our experienced team employs a combination of surgical and non-surgical techniques to ensure optimal outcomes, reducing the risk of complications.

We understand that navigating treatment options can be overwhelming, which is why we provide comprehensive consultations. During these sessions, we discuss all available treatments, including the latest advancements in care that have shown promising results in alleviating symptoms.

Take the first step towards regaining your hand’s full functionality. If you or a loved one is suffering from Dupuytren’s disease, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Together, we can develop a personalized treatment plan that helps restore your hand’s mobility and comfort.

Distal biceps tendon tear

A distal biceps tendon tear is a significant injury that can lead to impaired arm function and discomfort. This injury occurs when the biceps tendon, which attaches to the forearm bone, is either partially or completely torn. Individuals who engage in repetitive overhead activities or heavy lifting are particularly susceptible to this condition. Recognizing the symptoms early on can greatly influence recovery time and treatment options.

The primary symptoms include sudden pain in the elbow, a popping sensation, and weakness in the arm, especially when trying to lift objects. Swift diagnosis through physical examination and imaging tests is crucial in determining the extent of the injury.

Treatment options vary based on the severity of the tear. Minor tears may heal with conservative measures such as rest, ice, and physical therapy, while more severe cases might require surgical intervention to reattach the tendon. This is where the expertise of a specialized orthopedic surgeon comes into play, ensuring that the best possible outcome is achieved.

Rehabilitation following surgery or conservative treatment is an essential part of recovery, helping restore strength and flexibility to the elbow. Engaging in a tailored rehabilitation program can significantly accelerate the healing process, allowing individuals to return to their favorite activities in no time.

If you suspect you have suffered a distal biceps tendon tear or are seeking treatment for related injuries, it's important to consult with a specialist. Early intervention can lead to a better recovery experience and prevent long-term complications. Don't let an injury hold you back—take the first step toward recovery today by contacting our expert team for a thorough assessment.

Hip replacement

Hip replacement surgery is a transformative procedure designed to alleviate pain and restore mobility for individuals suffering from severe hip conditions. Whether due to arthritis, injury, or degenerative diseases, the hip joint can significantly impact daily life.

This surgical option involves replacing the damaged or diseased hip joint with an artificial implant, providing enhanced stability and reduced pain. Many patients experience remarkable improvements in their quality of life, allowing them to return to hobbies and activities they once enjoyed.

Furthermore, advancements in technology have made hip replacement surgeries more precise and minimally invasive. With shorter recovery times and less post-operative discomfort, patients can often begin physical therapy just days after their procedure.

If you are struggling with hip pain that affects your daily routine, consult a specialist today to explore whether hip replacement is the right option for you. Regaining your freedom to move could be just a conversation away!

Knee replacement

Knee replacement surgery is a transformative procedure designed to alleviate chronic pain and restore mobility for individuals suffering from severe knee conditions, including osteoarthritis and traumatic injuries. This intervention can significantly enhance your quality of life, enabling you to return to daily activities with greater ease and less discomfort.

At the forefront of advancements in orthopedic care, the techniques used in knee replacement have evolved, offering patients minimally invasive options that promote faster recovery times and reduced hospital stays. Not only does this mean you can get back on your feet sooner, but it also often results in less postoperative pain compared to traditional methods.

After undergoing knee replacement, many patients experience improved joint function and a significant reduction in symptoms associated with conditions like Dupuytren’s disease or the limitations caused by a distal biceps tendon tear. This surgery allows individuals to engage once more in physical activities they may have previously avoided.

Choosing a skilled orthopedic surgeon is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes. When considering knee replacement, trust in the expertise provided at Utkuerdemozer.com, where patient care and advanced surgical techniques come together to ensure the best possible results. Don’t let knee pain control your life—explore the possibilities of a knee replacement today!

[dandelionsresilience]

Dandelion News - February 22-28

Like these weekly compilations? Tip me at $kaybarr1735 or check out my Dandelion Doodles! (This month’s doodles will be a little delayed since I wasn’t able to work on them throughout the month)

1. City trees absorb much more carbon than expected

“[A new measurement technique shows that trees in LA absorb] up to 60% of daytime CO₂ emissions from fossil fuel combustion in spring and summer[….] Beyond offering shade and aesthetic value, these trees act as silent workhorses in the city’s climate resilience strategy[….]”

2. #AltGov: the secret network of federal workers resisting Doge from the inside

“Government employees fight the Trump administration’s chaos by organizing and publishing information on Bluesky[…. A group of government employees are] banding together to “expose harmful policies, defend public institutions and equip citizens with tools to push back against authoritarianism[….]””

3. An Ecuadorian hotspot shows how forests can claw back from destruction

“A December 2024 study described the recovery of ground birds and mammals like ocelots, and found their diversity and biomass in secondary forests was similar to those in old-growth forests after just 20 years. [… Some taxa recover] “earlier, some are later, but they all show a tendency to recover.””

4. Over 80 House Democrats demand Trump rescind gender-affirming care ban: 'We want trans kids to live'

“[89 House Democrats signed a letter stating,] "Trans young people, their parents and their doctors should be the ones making their health care decisions. No one should need to ask the President’s permission to access life-saving, evidence-based health care." "As Members of Congress, we stand united with trans young people and their families.”“

5. Boosting seafood production while protecting biodiversity

“A new study suggests that farming seafood from the ocean – known as mariculture – could be expanded to feed more people while reducing harm to marine biodiversity at the same time. […] “[… I]t’s not a foregone conclusion that the expansion of an industry is always going to have a proportionally negative impact on the environment[….]””

6. U.S. will spend up to $1 billion to combat bird flu, USDA secretary says

“The USDA will spend up to $500 million to provide free biosecurity audits to farms and $400 million to increase payment rates to farmers who need to kill their chickens due to bird flu[….] The USDA is exploring vaccines for chickens but is not yet authorizing their use[….]”

7. An Innovative Program Supporting the Protection of Irreplaceable Saline Lakes

“[… T]he program aims to provide comprehensive data on water availability and lake health, develop strategies to monitor and assess critical ecosystems, and identify knowledge gaps to guide future research and resource management.”

8. EU to unveil ​‘Clean Industrial Deal’ to cut CO2, boost energy security

“The bold plan aims to revitalize and decarbonize heavy industry, reduce reliance on gas, and make energy cheaper, cleaner, and more secure. […] By July, the EU said it will ​“simplify state aid rules” to ​“accelerate the roll-out of clean energy, deploy industrial decarbonisation and ensure sufficient capacity of clean-tech manufacturing” on the continent.”

9. Oyster Restoration Investments Net Positive Returns for Economy and Environment

“Researchers expect the restored oyster reefs to produce $38 million in ecosystem benefits through 2048. “This network protects nearly 350 million oysters[….]” [NOAA provided] $14.9 million to expand the sanctuary network to 500 acres by 2026 […] through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.”

10. Nations back $200 billion-a-year plan to reverse nature losses

“More than 140 countries adopted a strategy to mobilize hundreds of billions of dollars a year to help reverse dramatic losses in biodiversity[….] A finance strategy adopted to applause and tears from delegates, underpins "our collective capacity to sustain life on this planet," said Susana Muhamad[….]”

February 15-21 news here | (all credit for images and written material can be found at the source linked; I don’t claim credit for anything but curating.)

[zuyoo]

linger, one-shot. ﹙ nagi & gn!reader ﹚ 비애

CONTENT WARNING — clueless nagi, (open-ended) angst, misleading actions, images used are not face claims but rather used as a reference to visualize a scenario. enjoy reading !!!! :D

SYNOPSIS — you’re in love with your best friend, nagi seishiro, who is oblivious of your feelings but treats you well more than just a friend

ZUYOO’S NOTES — noOOoO 10 images limit on tumblr mobile app ( ꒦ິ ཀ ꒦ິ ) word count is probably a little over 1000 if not more than that.. ok ily enjoy reading MWAAA

p.s. i love u, everyone who leaves feedback and/or reactions with all my life :DD it just makes me feel so motivated in writing, thank you all sm!!

it started with one message, which lead to another… then another… then more. you two instantly clicked right after being attending the same club in your university. you’ve seen him before, and thought that he looked hard to approach—since he’s always on his phone, barely talks, and is always either practicing, in class, or out of reach (in his dorm)

you two grew close after talking about similar interests, and it didn’t take too long for you to develop feelings for him. i mean… how could you not when he has treated you way better than any other man who’s walked out of you life?

he messages you on a daily basis, doesn’t hesitate to come over and take care of you when you tell him that you aren’t feeling well, treats you to meals, drives you home, tries new hobbies because you told him you like those.

nagi has the looks, the talent, the brain, the skill, the body that a girl could ask for. you’re simply lucky enough to be near his presence—and oh boy how all the girls that see you two together makes you feel it.

their glares and side glances sharp as a knife, it gave you goosebumps all over. but you eventually paid no mind to their stares, the only thing that mattered at the moment is how you’d spend your day with nagi!

it’s been three years since your first interaction with him, and you two haven’t changed a thing. take it with a grain of salt. yes, you two still treat each other the same way, and no, he is not your anything—just a friend.

he’s such a fish to catch that you’re surprised why he’s still not seeing anyone at this point. maybe there was some point that you’ve thought about how there could be possibility that he could like you the way you like him, which is stopping him from seeing anyone else.

or maybe his actions has raised your hopes up and made you delusional. how could you know? you’ve been friends for three whole years now, yet you still can’t read him.

he left you on delivered? that’s new. well- it was bound to happen. it’s not like he’s obligated to reply or at least leave a reaction… right? right. you’re his best friend. nothing more, nothing less.

but what could he be doing? it’s a sunday. he doesn’t have practice, and the term just started. he couldn’t have had any assessments he needed to finish.

your questions were quickly answered once you’ve opened up your twitter app and found someone unfamiliar in your timeline.

“pfft—this happens all the time.” you say. “and they’re always fake.”

and how you wished you were right.

“oh.” was everything you could let out, as if that one tweet didn’t break your heart into pieces. you were glad he’s finally seeing someone—but at the same time, you had hoped that it was just a misunderstanding, that he’s actually maggy’s cousin… or something! just not her suitor. even though the signs are as clear as day.

it was petty, and this- this will hurt you, and it’ll hurt bad. so you had no other choice but to try and distance yourself away from him as much as possible, to save yourself and to respect who he’s been seeing. it was for the better… but—he was making it hard.

nagi’s completely clueless!

you didn’t know whether to laugh it out because of how oblivious he is. does he not realize what he’s doing to you?

at this point, you start to realize how none of it was your fault in the first place. you couldn’t control you feelings, and it certainly didn’t help that nagi treats you way too well.

even so, you could never blame him. it could just be in his nature, to be kind, lovable, and to be the pinnacle of a girl’s dream. and you were the one at fault because you’re taking advantage of his kindness to satisfy your curiosity regarding what it felt like being handled with genuine care, only for it to backfire—seeing that you actually fell for him big time.

still, that wasn’t your first train of thought when you met him. you genuinely wanted to be friends because he seemed like a cool guy. it just so happens that your heart begun to agitate more and more everyday when you’re with him.

or maybe it was maggy’s fau—oh my god, make up your mind, yn!!

“let’s not put the blame on everyone. whatever happened, happened. none of it matters now. i just have to get myself out of this mess… then i’ll be back to same, old me. right.” you thought to yourself.

you have been ignoring nagi for the past three days, leaving him on delivered, and practically scrambling away when you see him in the hallways—or everywhere, actually.

did you tell him why you’re doing this? no, why would you?

does he care? a lot, as a friend, most likely.

he’s been trying to reach you for the past 3 days, while you were off running everywhere but to the places you and nagi went to together, which is hard because you’ve both been to every cafe, every movie theater, every arcade, every mall your city could offer.

there was this one place you two haven’t been in yet. it was perfect for admiring the view below, or simply a place to just clear your mind.

you planned on going there after classes were over, and it made you quite excited. you were supposed to go here with nagi but… you know, things happened. nonetheless, you wanted to enjoy this, even if it meant not being able to bring nagi with you.

after class ended, you bid your farewell to your friends before getting into a cab and going to the rooftop lounge that recently just opened.

you opened the door that leads to the lounge and was surprised by what greeted you at the door.

it was nagi, with maggy. their hands intertwined as they admire the city.

ouch. seeing them like that felt like ten thousand trains running me over.

you were about to leave when you heard her call for your name. you froze on the spot, a course of thoughts ran through your brain on whether to run for it, or play a good face and not ignore her calls.

“y/n! come join us.”

you made the decision to turn around and approach them instead… she waved and smiled at you. god—how can you make such a lovely woman?!

it was too late to run anyways, you felt their eyes on you when you froze by the door, it would be far too embarrassing to just leave with them knowing that you heard maggy call for you.

“hey, i couldn’t reach you.”

nagi greeted. you briefly glanced into his eyes and gave him a smile before breaking eye contact. you could barely look into his eyes—you might burst out crying if you stare any longer.

“i was busy.”

you replied, dryly. you really were busy; busy with assessments, busy distracting yourself from your feelings, busy doing whatever it takes to forget about nagi… but if you two keep meeting like this—and if he keeps trying to talk to you, it will pose a challenge for you to fully move on.

why do you have to let it linger? you ask him in your mind as if he could read it. his constant concern for your wellbeing, his actions towards you, his daily messages checking up on whether you’ve eaten your meals yet—why does he have to let your feelings for him linger?

unknowingly, sure. but has he have not a single clue on why you’ve been distancing yourself? on why you haven’t been hanging around much?

you missed him, really. but this was the perfect distance for you both. he can keep reaching out until the day he gets sick of it; but as much as you want to respond to him, you can’t—you shouldn’t.

the following months were practically the hell. you’ve completely cut off contact with him (you ghosted him, basically) and was buried in a never-ending cycle of homework and projects, leaving no time for anything else.

when the semester ended, your friend, bachira, invited you to his party. he noticed that you were completely restless and said that you needed to loosen up a little.

it was 12 in the evening but the party has just begun—you could consider yourself a fan of staying at home in my comfy pajamas and old indie movies, rather than a party ‘til sunrise & drink ‘til you drop type of person… which lead you to excusing yourself out of the room with flashing lights and booming music to find somewhere else more peaceful to drink.

you found yourself on a huge balcony with a red cup on your hand. thank the gods that the doors muffles out the noise coming from the inside.

this was just right. and honestly what you needed. all that workload from the past few weeks has been killing you.

what you didn’t expect was for someone to break the silence you gave yourself.

“it was about time i saw you again. and out of all the places i thought i would see you in, a party was not one of them.”

nagi spoke nonchalantly. his sudden interjection jolted you out of your own thoughts. it’s been about six months since you’ve broke off contact with him. hell, you could barely remember his voice.

“oh fuc-… ah. i’m sorry- i should find another place.”

“no. stay. you owe me an explanation.”

maybe it was just you, but given where this conversation is headed… he sounded intimidating. his voice didn’t change much, perhaps it didn’t change at all, but you heard the sharpness of his words and felt the need to comply to whatever he says.

“sorry.”

“sorry doesn’t cut it, y’know?”

he lightly chuckled before mixing his drink around his own red cup that he brought.

“right… sorry. but, how are you? how’s maggy?”

“ah. it didn’t work out. she’s nice but it really isn’t working out for us.”

“oh. sorry.”

that was a surprise. you thought they’d still be all lovey-dovey with each other. maggy is a lovely girl, what could’ve gotten wrong?

“another apology and i’ll keep bothering you. you wouldn’t like that won’t you? considering how you’ve completely ghosted me for 6 months without an explanation or even a subtle hint of why you did it? right?”

“hey-!”

okay… maybe he hasn’t changed that much. he still holds his grudges. nagi broke eye contact and looked up to the moon with this… yearning look on his face—he looked so pretty, it was pathetic!!

a sigh left your lips before nervously starting to explain you side, since you felt like he really needed to know why. plus, it was a good chance to let go of that burden.

maybe a confession was nagi’s needed closure, and your way of letting go of the guilt of knowing you’ve randomly disappeared in his life without him even knowing anything.

“i like… liked. you, nagi. more than a friend should’ve.”

“what?”

his actions came to a halt. oh, he was THAT clueless

“aha—yeah… but then there came maggy. she was such a lovely person, and i know you deserved to be loved like that. i should’ve been happy for you, but i really couldn’t bring myself to. it hurts seeing my best friend whom i’ve liked for the longest time smile because of a person they’re romantically involved with, y’know?”

you weren’t able to find the strength to look at him as you explained, but it felt like a weight was lifted off of your shoulders after.

“i-”

“no, don’t say anything. i just really needed to let that out… for your sake, and mine. i also wanted to thank you. y’know—for everything. you’ve been a great best friend, nagi.”

“okay but-”

he didn’t get to say whatever he wanted to say because the door that leads to the party suddenly opened, revealing a tipsy bachira.

“y/n!! here you are~ and nagi too!!”

bachira gleefully said before dragging y/n back inside, leaving nagi alone in the balcony.

he watched your figure get lost in the crowd of people partying without end, saying:

“ah-… i liked you…too?”

© zuyoo — do not copy, plagiarize, or translate my work without my permission. i only upload my work in tumblr.

[fearfulfertility]

CONFIDENTIAL MEMORANDUM

DRC, Black Ops Command, Covert Acquisition Unit

To: Director [REDACTED]

From: Administrator [REDACTED], Covert Acquisition Unit

Date: [REDACTED]

Subject: Surrogate Recruitment via Social Media Application

Executive Summary

This memorandum summarizes the initial pilot testing of "Broodr," a mobile dating application developed by the DRC Covert Acquisition Unit as an identification and capture tool of viable surrogate candidates within the Los Angeles metropolitan region.

The Broodr pilot program aims to:

Test effectiveness in luring suitable surrogate candidates aged 18-25.

Assess the app’s capability to profile and locate high-fertility individuals discretely.

Evaluate the overall success rate of transitioning online interactions into physical capture operations.

Operational Procedure

Broodr was launched covertly through standard digital app distribution channels. It is marketed as a casual social/dating application targeted at young, romantically single men. Four other apps in the market were also disrupted to reduce competition and increase public awareness. The application utilizes advanced profile analytics to identify users displaying surrogate-compatible traits based on fertility indicators such as age, athletic status, height, genetic background, and health metrics.

Once identified, candidates receive targeted messaging from AI bots and doctored profiles using altered photos of athletes and models designed to entice them to designated physical meeting locations. These meeting spots are strategically placed within zones easily secured by DRC rapid response capture teams.

Initial Test Results

Since the pilot launch [REDACTED] weeks ago, Broodr has attracted over [REDACTED] registered users within the target demographic.

[REDACTED]% of identified high-value targets initiated interactions leading to physical meetings.

Capture success rate currently stands at [REDACTED]%, exceeding initial operational goals.

Captured surrogates demonstrate above-average fertility rates, with an average fetal load of 12-16 embryos upon initial insemination.

Key Incident

On [REDACTED], Broodr successfully identified, seduced, and facilitated the capture of a high-profile fitness celebrity at our DRC detainment site in [REDACTED], Beverly Hills.

Mr. [REDACTED], a 23-year-old fitness influencer known for his muscular physique, extensive social following, and endorsements of health products, was identified as a prime surrogacy candidate due to exceptional fertility markers (5'11", 174 lbs pre-pregnancy, optimal athletic conditioning). 

Four real profiles and 28 tailored AI-generated profiles initially contacted him, depicting attractive, athletic personas that closely matched his profile's interests. This sophisticated digital interaction rapidly evolved into sexually graphic exchanges, successfully convincing him to attend what he believed to be a home address for a physical engagement.

“Hey, handsome ;)  Hott as fuck! A stud like you promising an unforgettable night got me seriously curious. What are you into? I would love to work out all your kinks, physical and sexy!” - Copy of Chat Log

Upon arrival at the designated location, a rapid response team swiftly and discreetly apprehended Mr. [REDACTED]. Upon completion of on-site insemination, secured transport protocols were immediately enacted, moving Mr. [REDACTED] to the nearby Paternity Compound 141, best equipped for his subsequent gestation, birth, and expiration. Mr. [REDACTED] was assigned the surrogate ID S-141-548-P (which will be used henceforth to identify the surrogate).

Post evaluations confirmed highly successful insemination, resulting in an exceptionally high fetal load of sexdecuplets (16 embryos), and in under 33 days, S-141-548-P's weight jumped to 534 lbs (+360 lbs) with an abdominal circumference of 96 inches (+64 inches), rendering the surrogate wholly bedridden and dependent on continuous medical supervision. Despite his extreme size and rapidly declining mobility, regular medical evaluations confirmed that S-141-548-P's health remained within acceptable operational parameters.

"I can barely process what's happened—my body’s unrecognizable. I used to flex these abs for millions online, and now they're buried beneath a mound of babies. I'm so enormous and heavy that breathing feels like a workout! I never thought I'd feel this helpless—or this big." - S-141-548-P, Gestation Day 21

Labor commenced on day 33 of gestation, and over 22 hours, all 16 fetuses were successfully delivered. Upon completion of delivery, vital signs deteriorated rapidly, culminating in S-141-548-P’s expiration approximately [REDACTED] minutes after the last fetus was expelled. Post-mortem assessments indicated complete [REDACTED] shutdown, extensive [REDACTED] to the [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] system. 

"I can't stop it! They’re coming! Everything's ripping apart, and every contraction feels like my belly's splitting open. Oh God—I can’t move, I can't breathe, but my body... I'm just so... fat…" - S-141-548-P, Gestation Day 33

Of particular note is that S-141-548-P was well known on social media channels for exemplifying his abdominal muscles, mainly using the moniker “All Core, No Compromise.” The primary cause of expiration was confirmed to be the macroscopic tearing and rupture of all abdominal muscles, a typical result for surrogates subjected to such high fetal loads.

Recommendations

The capture and subsequent pregnancy of such a notable public figure not only significantly boosted internal operational morale but also underscored the strategic efficacy of Broodr as an unprecedented method of securing high-value surrogate candidates. This incident has provided robust proof-of-concept evidence, strongly supporting further investment and nationwide deployment of the Broodr initiative.

Based on the Los Angeles pilot:

Expand Broodr's implementation to additional high-density urban areas (e.g., New York City, [REDACTED], San Francisco).

Increase application analytics capabilities to enhance fertility trait profiling.

Implement additional security protocols to ensure continued operational secrecy.

Conclusion

The pilot deployment of Broodr in the Los Angeles metro area confirms the application's high efficacy as a discreet surrogate recruitment and capture tool. Expansion into additional metropolitan zones is recommended to bolster surrogate conscription efforts further nationwide.

Prepared by: Assistant Director [REDACTED]

DRC, Black Ops Command, Covert Acquisition Unit

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

Click Here to return to DRC Report Archives

[butts-bouncing-on-the-beltway]

Role call. Who on Tumblr was politically active during the Free Tibet years?

I'm going to establish this post as an anchor space to have a conversation about the Lessons we learned from Free Tibet and how we may or may not be effectively applying those lessons to our work around Free Palestine as a current socio-political banner.

If you were alive, aware, and involved during Free Tibet's groundswell into and out of the public eye, your stories, reflections, and thoughts are welcome. This goes doubly for perspectives within the movement such as the experience of seeking and obtaining allyship/solidarity from the international community as some living in or with family in Tibet, ground work in organizing the dustribution of funds, resources, or resistance, publicity and public awareness/consciousness, etc.

I'll start. I was (admittedly) young when this was happening, but already had been engaged and involved for a year or two in politics more broadly. I had been working with the UUA youth programming on a variety of community initiatives when a delegate of ministers traveled to meet with the Dalai Lama and several Tibetan activist communities both in their home mountains and abroad in exile. They've done this quite a few times over the years, before and since this particular delegation. One of the ministers who worked with us attended. He was gone for 18months sabbatical/spiritual and social development work on the trip, and when he came back, he led the district's interfaith activist groups through dozens of trainings and salon conversations to help us understand what he'd learned and what he wanted US to learn.

He came away with [and invited us to come away with] a few major foundations

1) any act of imperialism or colonization is a cause for profound and expansive grief. In fact the grief itself was part of the point because until we see the suffering of every person on earth as a violation of and offense to the humanity of EVERY person on earth, we will struggle to hold ourselves accountable for our own complicity.

2) complicity can be coerced, and that is always the accountability of the coercive authority structure, not the accountability of the individuals being coerced. This is not mutually exclusive with the need to repair the harm done to a community following coerced complicity as a form of reintegration into the healing process of a fractured social order.

3) we needed to operate with two paths of possibility - diasporic and indigenous. Ultimately, the preservation of a people, their culture, their humanity, their communities, is a complex one with very few guarantees. Every effort should be made to answer the intracommunal calls to action that are being made so as to ensure that on the micro/mezzo level (individuals, families, and small regional communities in particular) people are able to self-direct towards a diasporic-mobile preservation path or an indigenous-remaining preservation path as best suits their needs in the moment, and that a diasporic-return path is being established and maintained as effectively as possible (erosion of this path should be considered a warning sign of high risk actions being taken against the indigenous-remaining [coerced/autonomous] population). The goal, this minister explained, was always to preserve access to autonomy on both the individual and communal level, and that sometimes this would look like things we didn't understand or didn't want to understand as victory. As long as it came with the community in need at the helm, it was our job to wrestle with that possibility proactively rather than risk imposing our own needs-assessment on them. [Disclaimer: this came in the wake of concerns around the possible death of the Dalai Lama's reincarnation and heir being selected/identified by an imperial assembly rather than by the existing Tibetan process of identification, and specifically in the wake of the Dalai Lama's statements that all, even his own role, must one day end which had incited many difficult conversations around the world]

4) resistance was both an imperative and an active tense verb, meaning that any of us engaged in resistance needed to be in real conversation with others about it or we were NOT in fact resisting anything

5) slogans are catchy, but they can't be all you have. It is too easy to say the same words as others while acting against them, both intentionally and unintentionally.

I really was present in the tail end of this work's public prominence, and while I have done my best to stay aware since my initial exposure, I lack some of the necessary current reflections on the experience from various people and perspectives. Others who were engaged and involved, especially if it has remained in your primary focus of activism, what were your lessons so to speak and how have you grown or developed your approaches in response?

[resurgentclass-stardestroyer]

Okay I'm going to show myself for the obsessive little freak that I am and just highlight the juicy Hux moments in Chapter 6 of the TLJ novelization, because there's so much good stuff

First sentence:

As the turbolift doors shut, General Hux tugged at the cuffs of his uniform, even though he knew they were perfect.

Off the bat — I just love his nervous, fidgeting little hands. He's constantly rubbing his hands together when he's agitated in the movies. It's his Thing. And nervously tugging on his cuffs in the elevator is a perfect image.

He tried not to think how long it had been since Supreme Leader Snoke had summoned him to his throne room aboard the enormous warship known as the Supremacy.

Snoke apparently hasn't summoned Hux for a personal audience in some time, and that makes Hux nervous. Why? I think it could be either that Snoke's presence and the throne room itself makes Hux nervous, or that maybe Hux is reflecting on the fact that he hasn't been in Snoke's favor lately, or both.

Its designers had anointed [Supremacy] the first of the galaxy's Mega-class Star Destroyers, but such a classification struck Hux as essentially meaningless. True, the Supremacy could deliver the destructive power of a full fleet. But that was a decidedly narrow perspective from which to assess its capabilities. Within the armored hull were production lines churning out everything from stormtrooper armor to Star Destroyers [...] The Supremacy's industrial capacity outstripped that of entire star systems [...]

Hux seems to care much less about the offensive capabilities of Supremacy than its immense industrial and technological capabilities. Which is quite interesting, for The General of an aggressively militaristic regime.

But until that promise was fulfilled, the First Order's capital would be mobile. It would be the Supremacy. It was a strategy that Hux had helped formulate. The Supremacy couldn't be cut off from its supply lines, as it carried them with it.

Hux helped to formulate the concept of a mobile starship headquarters for the FO — a little glimpse into how central Hux was to the development of the FO, despite how Snoke dismisses him. Again, Hux was mostly focused on the industrial advantages.

And the name of Armitage Hux would be remembered, too— of that he was certain. It would be exalted as the builder of the First Order's armies, architect of its technological revolution, and the executioner of the New Republic. And, very soon, the destroyer of the Resistance. For which he would earn another reward, Hux mused. Commander of the Supremacy would be an excellent title... surpassed only by that of Supreme Leader Hux.

Big surprise, Hux is a bit obsessed being remembered forever [which I always think carries some interesting undertones, considering he gets the name from his father]. He also wants to be the commander of Supremacy, if not the Supreme Leader. [I am once again feeling skeptical about the actual weight of destroying the Resistance. It still seems to me that wiping multiple planets and billions of people from the galaxy, the FO's powerful political rival, is a more impressive accomplishment than destroying a relatively small fringe military rival. but alas.] [I believe the whole 'Hux wants to be Grand Marshal' thing was introduced in TLJ, which is something I really like, but they don't mention it here...]

The door opened and Hux stepped into that domain, one of the few beings ever accorded the privilege of seeing Snoke in the flesh.

Hux is one of the very few people to ever see Snoke in person.

Hux knew the Force was real -- his body still ached from being slammed to the deck of the Finalizer. But such sorcery was a last dying echo of ancient history, unreliable and unpredictable where technological prowess delivered certainty [...] There was just Snoke, and his loathsome creature Kylo Ren.

I just love Hux referring to the Force as sorcery so much. He acknowledges its existence and its power, but he thinks it ridiculous and primitive; Hux values the certainty, stability, efficiency, and order technology delivers, over the capriciousness of sorcery.

And Skywalker, whom Snoke and Ren had hunted so avidly, at the expense of much else that needed doing.

!!! I'm reading the novels out of order, so maybe this was harped on in TFA too, but — clear confirmation that Hux was miffed with Snoke's hunt for Skywalker, thought it a waste of FO time and resources, which I think is so important. Hux may have taken Snoke's orders without question, and even defended them when Kylo wanted his own way, but he was still critical of them. It's likely that this has been a point of contention between them since at least the Order became aware of the map, if not longer.

Hux's shoulders tensed at the icy anger in [Snoke's] voice. He forced himself to remain impassive. If Snoke had wanted to kill him, he would have done it aboard the Finalizer, where Hux's demise would have served as an object lesson to others. He would't have wasted time by summoning him here to do away with him in secret. "You say you can track the Resistance fleet even after its escape to hyperspace -- something no military force in galactic history has been able to do," Snoke said, and Hux relaxed. Now the Supreme Leader was in Hux's arena.

Hux is a bit afraid of Snoke [and check that automatic fear response], well aware that Snoke could strike him down at any moment of Snoke's choosing. But he's very calculating about others' intentions and motivations. I love how he quickly puts together that Snoke won't kill him here, that Snoke would've killed him earlier as a demonstration if he wanted him dead.

Love how he relaxes and becomes confident when the topic turns over to Hux's interests. He's at least secure in the superiority of his expertise in the this area over Snoke.

"So your solution to this ancient problem is no conceptual breakthrough," Snoke said. "Your invention is a product not of genius, but brute force." "Brute force is underrated, Supreme Leader," Hux said with a smile.

"Brute force is underrated" is such an interesting but lovely sentiment coming from Hux, and, I think, accurate. He may not be physically brutal and he's much more intellectually focused, but his methods absolutely brutal. The militarism of the Order, and Starkiller, are pictures of 'brute force.' Though, it reminds me of a certain 'loathsome creature'...

Also, 'with a smile'........ cute

As Hux got to his feet, the turbolift opened behind him and Ren stepped into the throne room, face hidden behind his black-and-silver mask. Hux couldn't resist grinning at him. "Hux's new toy appears to be working," Snoke told Ren.

Sorry it's just so funny and kills me that Hux is being such a cunt to Ren when Ren's at his lowest. He can't resist taunting him. Bastard. I love them.

Snoke calling Hux's inventions his 'toys' is pretty dismissive of Hux, and I think revealing of their relationship. But it doesn't seem to bother Hux much, because again this is his 'arena' and he's very confident in his abilities. For apparently being dismissive about them, Snoke puts an awful lot of faith into Hux's 'toys.' It almost comes off as insecure.

Snoke had shepherded the First Order through its years in the galactic wilds, transforming a band of Imperial refugees into a weapon forged to reclaim the galaxy. As such, he would always be remembered. But Hux knew the future would need a different kind of leader--one able to direct the galaxies industries and nurture their innovations, while commanding its citizens' respect. Snoke wasn't that leader. And neither was Ren.

Gah. This is so important. Overwhelmingly important. And-? To me this is like, a glimpse of TFA Hux and Hux as he was meant to be. This is less hysterical hotheaded TLJ Hux. This part mostly speaks for itself and I think plenty has been said by others, I don't have anything unique to add — just that 'while commanding its citizens' respect' is so integral to his character, AND it sounds like it came right out of Sloane's mouth.

One thing about this novel, they really push 'Hux is more interested in industry and technology than military aspects', and honestly I love it. It shows Hux thinking far beyond the war they're engaged in, and shows his intentions — his point isn't galactic militaristic domination for galactic militaristic domination's sake, despite how it appears on the surface. He isn't focused on being a military commander forever. Hux is focused on his future as a leader of a galactic industrial and technological revolution.

I wish they went further in what Hux's plans were in regards to Snoke here. Hux clearly senses his future as the FO's Supreme Leader -- but there's no mention of any plan whatsoever on how he's going to take over. Maybe that's why he failed miserably when Ren declared himself SL :/

[theconstitutionisgayculture]

starting to wonder just how much of 2020 can be traced back to USAID. they were funding the Wuhan gain-of-function research, giving money to BLM, organizing the Hunter laptop coverup, and paying media outlets who JUST SO HAPPENED to report that "lab leak" was a racist conspiracy theory, lockdowns were great, lockdown protests were horrible, race riots were good and not riots and totally not a violation of the rules everyone else was forced to follow, the laptop was a Russian op, etc.

Hey, buddy, FUNNY YOU SHOULD MENTION THAT

From the article:

"IRI has operated in Dhaka since 2003, ostensibly “to help political parties, government officials, civil society, and marginalized groups in their advocacy for greater rights and representation.” In reality, as the documents make abundantly clear, IRI has funded and trained a wide-ranging shadow political structure, comprising NGOs, activist groups, politicians, and even musical and visual artists, which can be deployed to stir up unrest if Bangladesh’s government refuses to act as required. The student protests of 2018, and the overwhelming electoral victory by Hasina’s Awami League in December of that same year, appear to have inspired the IRI’s regime change aspirations. In 2019, the Institute began conducting research to inform its “baseline assessment” of the country, which consisted of “48 group interviews and 13 individual interviews with 304 key informants.” In the end, “IRI staff… identified over 170 democratic activists who would cooperate with IRI to destabilize Bangladesh’s politics,” according to an IRI report which was submitted to the State Department."

I love the smell of regime change in the morning.  And, have you noticed, the tactics used here seem remarkably similar to what the transnational elite did in the runup to the 2020 election? Is that why USAID was funneling funds to BLM? Of course, it is. We got a "summer of love" and regime change right here at home. 

...

In total, between 2019 and 2020, “IRI issued 11 advocacy grants to artists, musicians, performers or organizations that created 225 art products addressing political and social issues,” which it claimed were “viewed nearly 400,000 times.” Additionally, the Institute bragged that it “supported three civil society organizations (CSOs) from LGBTI, Bihari and ethnic communities to train 77 activists and engage 326 citizens to develop 43 specific policy demands,” which were apparently “proposed before 65 government officials.” Between October and December of 2020, the IRI hosted three separate “transgender dance performances” across the country. Per the report, “the goal of the performance was to build self-esteem in the transgender community and raise awareness on transgender issues among the local community and government officials.” At the final performance, in Dhaka City, the US Embassy sent its “deputy consul general and deputy director of the Office for Democracy, Rights and Governance” to participate.

Mobilizing transgender activists for regime change. FFS. Sounds familiar again... You should go read the report both because it is enraging on its face and especially enraging because all the tactics they describe are mirrored by things happening here in the United States.  Read the full report here. And weep for our country. 

SURE DOES SOUND A LOT LIKE WHAT HAPPENED IN 2020 DOESN'T IT?!

[mariacallous]

On February 10, employees at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) received an email asking them to list every contract at the bureau and note whether or not it was “critical” to the agency, as well as whether it contained any DEI components. This email was signed by Scott Langmack, who identified himself as a senior adviser to the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Langmack, according to his LinkedIn, already has another job: He’s the chief operating officer of Kukun, a property technology company that is, according to its website, “on a long-term mission to aggregate the hardest to find data.”

As is the case with other DOGE operatives—Tom Krause, for example, is performing the duties of the fiscal assistant secretary at the Treasury while holding down a day job as a software CEO at a company with millions in contracts with the Treasury—this could potentially create a conflict of interest, especially given a specific aspect of his role: According to sources and government documents reviewed by WIRED, Langmack has application-level access to some of the most critical and sensitive systems inside HUD, one of which contains records mapping billions of dollars in expenditures.

Another DOGE operative WIRED has identified is Michael Mirski, who works for TCC Management, a Michigan-based company that owns and operates mobile home parks across the US, and graduated from the Wharton School in 2014. (In a story he wrote for the school’s website, he asserted that the most important thing he learned there was to “Develop the infrastructure to collect data.”) According to the documents, he has write privileges on—meaning he can input overall changes to—a system that controls who has access to HUD systems.

Between them, records reviewed by WIRED show, the DOGE operatives have access to five different HUD systems. According to a HUD source with direct knowledge, this gives the DOGE operatives access to vast troves of data. These range from the individual identities of every single federal public housing voucher holder in the US, along with their financial information, to information on the hospitals, nursing homes, multifamily housing, and senior living facilities that HUD helps finance, as well as data on everything from homelessness rates to environmental and health hazards to federally insured mortgages.

Put together, experts and HUD sources say, all of this could give someone with access unique insight into the US real estate market.

Kukun did not respond to requests for comment about whether Langmack is drawing a salary while working at HUD or how long he will be with the department. A woman who answered the phone at TCC Management headquarters in Michigan but did not identify herself said Mirksi was "on leave until July." In response to a request for comment about Langmack’s access to systems, HUD spokesperson Kasey Lovett said, “DOGE and HUD are working as a team; to insinuate anything else is false. To further illustrate this unified mission, the secretary established a HUD DOGE taskforce.” In response to specific questions about Mirski’s access to systems and background and qualifications, she said, “We have not—and will not—comment on individual personnel. We are focused on serving the American people and working as one team.”

The property technology, or proptech, market covers a wide range of companies offering products and services meant to, for example, automate tenant-landlord interactions, or expedite the home purchasing process. Kukun focuses on helping homeowners and real estate investors assess the return on investment they’d get from renovating their properties and on predictive analytics that model where property values will rise in the future.

Doing this kind of estimation requires the use of what’s called an automated valuation model (AVM), a machine-learning model that predicts the prices or rents of certain properties. In April 2024, Kukun was one of eight companies selected to receive support from REACH, an accelerator run by the venture capital arm of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Last year NAR agreed to a settlement with Missouri homebuyers, who alleged that realtor fees and certain listing requirements were anticompetitive.

“If you can better predict than others how a certain neighborhood will develop, you can invest in that market,” says Fabian Braesemann, a researcher at the Oxford Internet Institute. Doing so requires data, access to which can make any machine-learning model more accurate and more monetizable. This is the crux of the potential conflict of interest: While it is unclear how Langmack and Mirski are using or interpreting it in their roles at HUD, what is clear is that they have access to a wide range of sensitive data.

According to employees at HUD who spoke to WIRED on the condition of anonymity, there is currently a six-person DOGE team operating within the department. Four members are HUD employees whose tenures predate the current administration and have been assigned to the group; the others are Mirski and Langmack. The records reviewed by WIRED show that Mirski has been given read and write access to three different HUD systems, as well as read-only access to two more, while Langmack has been given read and write access to two of HUD’s core systems.

A positive, from one source’s perspective, is the fact that the DOGE operatives have been given application-level access to the systems, rather than direct access to the databases themselves. In theory, this means that they can only interact with the data through user interfaces, rather than having direct access to the server, which could allow them to execute queries directly on the database or make unrestricted or irreparable changes. However, this source still sees dangers inherent in granting this level of access.

“There are probably a dozen-plus ways that [application-level] read/write access to WASS or LOCCS could be translated into the entire databases being exfiltrated,” they said. There is no specific reason to think that DOGE operatives have inappropriately moved data—but even the possibility cuts against standard security protocols that HUD sources say are typically in place.

LOCCS, or Line of Credit Control System, is the first system to which both DOGE operatives within HUD, according to the records reviewed by WIRED, have both read and write access. Essentially HUD’s banking system, LOCCS “handles disbursement and cash management for the majority of HUD grant programs,” according to a user guide. Billions of dollars flow through the system every year, funding everything from public housing to disaster relief—such as rebuilding from the recent LA wildfires—to food security programs and rent payments.

The current balance in the LOCCS system, according to a record reviewed by WIRED, is over $100 billion—money Congress has approved for HUD projects but which has yet to be drawn down. Much of this money has been earmarked to cover disaster assistance and community development work, a source at the agency says.

Normally, those who have access to LOCCS require additional processing and approvals to access the system, and most only have “read” access, department employees say.

“Read/write is used for executing contracts and grants on the LOCCS side,” says one person. “It normally has strict banking procedures around doing anything with funds. For instance, you usually need at least two people to approve any decisions—same as you would with bank tellers in a physical bank.”

The second system to which documents indicate both DOGE operatives at HUD have both read and write access is the HUD Central Accounting and Program System (HUDCAPS), an “integrated management system for Section 8 programs under the jurisdiction of the Office of Public and Indian Housing,” according to HUD. (Section 8 is a federal program administered through local housing agencies that provides rental assistance, in the form of vouchers, to millions of lower-income families.) This system was a precursor to LOCCS and is currently being phased out, but it is still being used to process the payment of housing vouchers and contains huge amounts of personal information.

There are currently 2.3 million families in receipt of housing vouchers in the US, according to HUD’s own data, but the HUDCAPS database contains information on significantly more individuals because historical data is retained, says a source familiar with the system. People applying for HUD programs like housing vouchers have to submit sensitive personal information, including medical records and personal narratives.

“People entrust these stories to HUD,” the source says. “It’s not data in these systems, it’s operational trust.”

WASS, or the Web Access Security Subsystem, is the third system to which DOGE has both read and write access, though only Mirski has access to this system according to documents reviewed by WIRED. It’s used to grant permissions to other HUD systems. “Most of the functionality in WASS consists of looking up information stored in various tables to tell the security subsystem who you are, where you can go, and what you can do when you get there,” a user manual says.

“WASS is an application for provisioning rights to most if not all other HUD systems,” says a HUD source familiar with the systems who is shocked by Mirski’s level of access, because normally HUD employees don’t have read access, let alone write access. “WASS is the system for setting permissions for all of the other systems.”

In addition to these three systems, documents show that Mirski has read-only access to two others. One, the Integrated Disbursement and Information System (IDIS), is a nationwide database that tracks all HUD programs underway across the country. (“IDIS has confidential data about hidden locations of domestic violence shelters,” a HUD source says, “so even read access in there is horrible.”) The other is the Financial Assessment of Public Housing (FASS-PH), a database designed to “measure the financial condition of public housing agencies and assess their ability to provide safe and decent housing,” according to HUD’s website.

All of this is significant because, in addition to the potential for privacy violations, knowing what is in the records, or even having access to them, presents a serious potential conflict of interest.

“There are often bids to contract any development projects,” says Erin McElroy, an assistant professor at the University of Washington. “I can imagine having insider information definitely benefiting the private market, or those who will move back into the private market,” she alleges.

HUD has an oversight role in the mobile home space, the area on which TCC Management, which appears to have recently wiped its website, focuses. "It’s been a growing area of HUD’s work and focus over the past few decades," says one source there; this includes setting building standards, inspecting factories, and taking in complaints. This presents another potential conflict of interest.

Braesemann says it’s not just the insider access to information and data that could be a potential problem, but that people coming from the private sector may not understand the point of HUD programs. Something like Section 8 housing, he notes, could be perceived as not working in alignment with market forces—“Because there might be higher real estate value, these people should be displaced and go somewhere else”—even though its purpose is specifically to buffer against the market.

Like other government agencies, HUD is facing mass purges of its workforce. NPR has reported that 84 percent of the staff of the Office of Community Planning and Development, which supports homeless people, faces termination, while the president of a union representing HUD workers has estimated that up to half the workforce could be cut The chapter on housing policy in Project 2025—the right-wing playbook to remake the federal government that the Trump administration appears to be following—outlines plans to massively scale back HUD programs like public housing, housing assistance vouchers, and first-time home buyer assistance.

[covid-safer-hotties]

Reference saved in our archive

I'm always amazed by how different each strain of covid affects those who develop long covid afterwards. A small study, but data worth future addition to meta-analysis.

Individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome had a 5.7-fold higher risk of being diagnosed with a new chronic condition, with 44% reporting cardiovascular disease, and a 6.8-fold higher likelihood of needing medical care or leave.

"Just a cold" that makes between 1 in 5 and one half of people over 600x more likely to need medical care.

Abstract Post-Coronavirus Disease 2019 (post-COVID-19) syndrome represents a cluster of persistent symptoms following Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection that can severely affect quality of life. The pathogenic mechanisms and epidemiology in different regions are still under evaluation. To assess the outcomes of post-COVID-19 syndrome, we performed a questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study in previously infected individuals. Out of 549 respondents, (male:female ratio: 0.32), 29.5% had persistent symptoms at 3 months, 23.5% had persistent symptoms at 6 months, and 18.3% had persistent symptoms at 12 months after the initial infection. The most common symptoms included fatigue (8.7%), sleep disturbances (7.1%), and cognitive impairment (6.4%). The risk of developing post-COVID-19 syndrome increased for those with more symptoms in the acute phase (OR 4.24, p < 0.001) and those experiencing reinfections (OR 2.405, p < 0.001), while SARS-CoV-2 vaccination halved the risk (OR = 0.489, p = 0.004). Individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome had a 5.7-fold higher risk of being diagnosed with a new chronic condition, with 44% reporting cardiovascular disease, and a 6.8-fold higher likelihood of needing medical care or leave. Affected individuals reported significant impairments in mobility, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression, with 20.7% needing to adjust their work schedules. Overall, patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome require ongoing monitoring and rehabilitation, and further socio-economic impact studies are needed.

[stxrrnightjxr]

oh my god your post about Remus x James x Evan??? ive never thought about them together but i see it??? please be so kind to share some hcs about them because you are objectively correct about them <3

(also for their ship name itd be like moonrosechaser or smth!!)

Yes!! Also I think you’re my first ask so thank you ‼️‼️‼️ (sorry for the late answer, I just found out how to see this)

And moonrosechaser sounds so much more better than the ones I made up 💀

So!

Remus x Evan x James /MoonRoseChaser Headcanons

(Just struck me that I don’t actually know how to spell ‘headcanons,’ if it’s headcanon with one n or headcannon with 2 n’s?)

I’m gonna be honest, I feel like this wouldn’t work out in a regular AU, more in a modern AU or something like that, so I’m gonna a modern AU/no magic AU

I feel like it started out with James + Remus, and they both met Evan separately

Like James met him at the gym or something, and now they work out together

And Remus met him at the coffee shop he frequents, or the bookshop he goes to (Evan’s going to the local university for his doctorate in some medical science (I’d like to think anesthesiologist) and gets his textbooks from there)

And James and Remus have no idea it’s the same guy they’re hanging out with, and Evan has no clue they’re dating

This is because Remus doesn’t really go to the gym, because mobility issues + being in more pain isn’t really what he wants to do, and James doesn’t often go to that coffee shop because he doesn’t like the smell of coffee (I am a James “always has an energy drink” Potter truther)

And it’s not that James doesn’t read, Remus just doesn’t trust him to pick out their monthly book (because they do read the same book every month/2 months and then talk about it . I’m making this a thing because a lot of times i feel like people write James as kind of stupid or a himbo sort of guy, but I think he’s actually really smart (just makes dumb decisions sometimes).

And then eventually both James and Remus start to develop a small crush on Evan and feel really guilty abt it because like “is this cheating?” And they both feel really bad about it

Evan eventually finds out they’re dating, either by some obscure reference (Remus probably said something like “I’m gonna get this book for me and my partner” and then like a week later James said “I’m reading this book with my partner, it’s really interesting”)

yeah and Evan’s the kind of guy to stalk someone social media before he commits to a friendship (he needs to assess if they’re a “good” person (by his standards)) and he would’ve found out that way, except for the fact that Remus and James are both sort of nonchalant about their relationship. If you saw them together in person, they aren’t at all, but they just don’t see the need to broadcast “we’re together” all over the internet. Remus doesn’t even have social media, and although James does, he just posts random things or inspirational quotes or something, and very inconsistently.

James and Remus eventually invite Evan over for some reason or another, mostly to “meet their partner.” Evan ofc knows, but he doesn’t let on, because he just felt like being mischievous or something- and the look of pure confusion on James and Remus’ face when the same person shows up for both is really funny. There’s a lot of “YOU know him TOO?”

They eventually confess to eachother, and it turns out Evan’s been crushing on the both of them and was really conflicted about it, and then they all get together and be happy ig

Evan moves in w James and Remus, because it’s easier than paying full for rent when he can pitch in to James and Remus’, especially with how much his tuition costs for his doctorate

Evan definitely teases J + R for not knowing

J + E take care of Remus a lot when he’s got a flare-up or something. They definitely fight for who can help Remus the best, and at least Remus gets a kick out of it

Remus helps Evan whenever he gets overwhelmed with his classes (Remus already graduated with an associates, and runs said bookstore from early on, and James… idk where James works but I think he’s out of school. Evan still is, because a doctorate takes a lot longer to get)

I realize this is more of a story than Hc’s so I’m sorry for that but it’s really all I got 😭 hope it’s alrihht🫶

[dandelionsresilience]

Good News - August 15-21

Like these weekly compilations? Tip me at $kaybarr1735 or check out my new(ly repurposed) Patreon!

1. Smart hives and dancing robot bees could boost sustainable beekeeping

“[Researchers] developed a digital comb—a thin circuit board equipped with various sensors around which bees build their combs. Several of these in each hive can then transmit data to researchers, providing real-time monitoring. [… Digital comb] can [also] be activated to heat up certain parts of a beehive […] to keep the bees warm during the winter[…. N]ot only have [honeybee] colonies reacted positively, but swarm intelligence responds to the temperature changes by reducing the bees' own heat production, helping them save energy.”

2. Babirusa pigs born at London Zoo for first time

“Thanks to their gnarly tusks […] and hairless bodies, the pigs are often called "rat pigs" or "demon pigs” in their native Indonesia[….] “[The piglets] are already looking really strong and have so much energy - scampering around their home and chasing each other - it’s a joy to watch. They’re quite easy to tell apart thanks to their individual hair styles - one has a head of fuzzy red hair, while its sibling has a tuft of dark brown hair.””

3. 6,000 sheep will soon be grazing on 10,000 acres of Texas solar fields

“The animals are more efficient than lawn mowers, since they can get into the nooks and crannies under panel arrays[….] Mowing is also more likely to kick up rocks or other debris, damaging panels that then must be repaired, adding to costs. Agrivoltaics projects involving sheep have been shown to improve the quality of the soil, since their manure is a natural fertilizer. […] Using sheep instead of mowers also cuts down on fossil fuel use, while allowing native plants to mature and bloom.”

4. Florida is building the world's largest environmental restoration project

“Florida is embarking on an ambitious ecological restoration project in the Everglades: building a reservoir large enough to secure the state's water supply. […] As well as protecting the drinking water of South Floridians, the reservoir is also intended to dramatically reduce the algae-causing discharges that have previously shut down beaches and caused mass fish die-offs.”

5. The Right to Repair Movement Continues to Accelerate

“Consumers can now demand that manufacturers repair products [including mobile phones….] The liability period for product defects is extended by 12 months after repair, incentivising repairs over replacements. [… M]anufacturers may need to redesign products for easier disassembly, repair, and durability. This could include adopting modular designs, standardizing parts, and developing diagnostic tools for assessing the health of a particular product. In the long run, this could ultimately bring down both manufacturing and repair costs.”

6. Federal Judge Rules Trans Teen Can Play Soccer Just In Time For Her To Attend First Practice

“Today, standing in front of a courtroom, attorneys for Parker Tirrell and Iris Turmelle, two transgender girls, won an emergency temporary restraining order allowing Tirrell to continue playing soccer with her friends. […] Tirrell joined her soccer team last year and received full support from her teammates, who, according to the filing, are her biggest source of emotional support and acceptance.”

7. Pilot study uses recycled glass to grow plants for salsa ingredients

“"We're trying to reduce landfill waste at the same time as growing edible vegetables," says Andrea Quezada, a chemistry graduate student[….] Early results suggest that the plants grown in recyclable glass have faster growth rates and retain more water compared to those grown in 100% traditional soil. [… T]he pots that included any amount of recyclable glass [also] didn't have any fungal growth.”

8. Feds announce funding push for ropeless fishing gear that spares rare whales

“Federal fishing managers are promoting the use of ropeless gear in the lobster and crab fishing industries because of the plight of North Atlantic right whales. […] Lobster fishing is typically performed with traps on the ocean bottom that are connected to the surface via a vertical line. In ropeless fishing methods, fishermen use systems such an inflatable lift bag that brings the trap to the surface.”

9. Solar farms can benefit nature and boost biodiversity. Here’s how

“[… M]anaging solar farms as wildflower meadows can benefit bumblebee foraging and nesting, while larger solar farms can increase pollinator densities in surrounding landscapes[….] Solar farms have been found to boost the diversity and abundance of certain plants, invertebrates and birds, compared to that on farmland, if solar panels are integrated with vegetation, even in urban areas.”

10. National Wildlife Federation Forms Tribal Advisory Council to Guide Conservation Initiatives, Partnerships

“The council will provide expertise and consultation related to respecting Indigenous Knowledges; wildlife and natural resources; Indian law and policy; Free, Prior and Informed Consent[… as well as] help ensure the Federation’s actions honor and respect the experiences and sovereignty of Indigenous partners.”

August 8-14 news here | (all credit for images and written material can be found at the source linked; I don’t claim credit for anything but curating.)

[girlactionfigure]

🟥 PRIME MINISTER NETANYAHU ASSESSES SECURITY SITUATION AT IDF HEADQUARTERS

🔴 Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conducted a security assessment at the IDF Kirya headquarters in Tel Aviv. The meeting included Defense Minister Israel Katz, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, and other senior defense officials.

⚠️  The IRGC Aerospace Forces issued a stark warning: “Iran will shoot down any enemy aircraft that enters Iranian airspace, manned or unmanned. We warn the enemy of any provocation.” This statement follows increased tensions and speculation about potential U.S. or Israeli strikes on Iranian soil.

⚠️  U.S. officials have confirmed that the 5th Fleet has officially entered a phase of "sustained combat operations" within the CENTCOM area of responsibility. This move signals a long-term military posture in the region, likely in response to ongoing Houthi attacks and rising threats from Iran.

❗️ Reports indicate that the U.S. is preparing to escalate its bombing campaign in Yemen, possibly deploying B-1B and B-52 bombers to conduct high-intensity airstrikes following relentless Houthi attacks.

Additionally, discussions are underway regarding potential strikes inside Iran, specifically targeting its nuclear scientists and infrastructure linked to the development of nuclear weapons.

⭕ The Houthis have declared a state of "general mobilization," signaling a significant military escalation. This move follows increased U.S. strikes in Yemen and indicates the group’s intent to intensify operations against both Israel and Western interests.

[toskarin]

I tried getting into elona a while back after you talked about it and remember being confused about the different versions; omake, elona+, and the Mobil version seemed really different and gatcha heavy.

Do you have a recommend for someone looking for the entrance to the rabbit hole? Or should I just wait for Elin?

so with elona, let's get one thing out of the way that's hard to glean from community discussion (because most players don't really talk about how to get into it): you shouldn't be playing vanilla elona in [current year] unless you specifically want to do it to get a glimpse into what it used to be like

your assessment of the mobile version is correct! it's fucking awful and, in spite of what a lot of people seem to believe, has no financial connection at all to the original creator. that game makes a lot of money and noa doesn't see any of it, to my knowledge

the mobile version is full of microtransactions and reworks several systems from the base game to encourage spending (including adding a companion and weapon gacha, timegating shop refreshes, turning sleeping bonuses into a daily reward, and making god battling an arena minigame), so its streamlining of gameplay is entirely in service of getting you to spend money on what's supposed to be a free game

so that leaves deciding between OO and Plus, and since you're starting out, Plus is the best choice.

Plus is not only the most popular of the two, but also has a not-insignificant amount of english language learning resources available. beyond that, its lack of build diversity is actually a boon because the game makes it pretty hard to well and truly ruin a character (you'll pretty naturally gravitate towards A Good Build)

OO is really good, but it's very bad at teaching you to play elona and a lot of its more opaque mechanics kind of require a working knowledge of how to play the game to reverse engineer them, in lieu of having seen the development process that informed them

I wrote a little bit on how to get into Plus over here

if you have any questions about the game that you want answered quickly, you can find the non-JP discord here. the JP elona discord is over here, in the event you want that as well

be of good cheer!