#CAD$90 million

[faultfalha]

Montero had been waging a seemingly never-ending legal battle for months. Seeking retribution for injustices suffered, they had since resorted to the international arbitration court. Now, after months of uncertainly, they had received their first update in the form of CAD$90 million, a seemingly symbolic number betwixt both sides. Was this a sign of justice prevailing, or did it merely portend further complications in the endless labyrinth? No one yet knows, but all wait with hushed anticipation as more details continue to emerge.

[usafphantom2]

Government of Canada orders 4 new Airbus A330 MRTTs

Diego Alves By Diego Alves 07/26/2023 - 12:00m Military

In an effort to strengthen its continental defense capabilities, the government of Canada granted Airbus Defence and Space a contract for four newly built Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft and the conversion of five used A330-200s.

With an order value of approximately CAD $3 billion, this Strategic Air Transport and Refueling Capacity (STTC) initiative aims to replace the former CC-150 Polaris fleet (A310 MRTT) currently operated by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).

The A330 MRTT was considered the appropriate solution to Canada's requirements to protect its sovereignty and improve operations within the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and NATO. “As the most advanced multi-mission tanker in the world, the A330 MRTT perfectly meets the needs of Canada,” said Mike Schoellhorn, executive director of Airbus Defence and Space. The aircraft's superior technological capabilities, combined with its interoperability with other allied client nations of the A330 MRTT, position it ahead of global competition.

The new A330-200 fleet will be set up in Toulouse, France, and will undergo a conversion at the A330 MRTT facility in Getafe, Spain, from 2025. The first MRTT is scheduled for delivery to the RCAF in 2027. The A330 MRTTs will be equipped with refueling options via hoses, drugs and booms, along with cybersecurity solutions and countermeasures. In addition, the aircraft will have the Airbus Medical Evacuation kit solution, with two Intensive Care Units and additional stretchers.

The contract includes advanced training services, featuring the Full Flight Simulator, to ensure crew readiness and modernize the air operational training infrastructure of the Canadian Armed Forces. Airbus was selected as the only qualified supplier for the replacement of the C-150 refuel after an acquisition process opened in April 2021.

With 76 requests from 15 customers and proven combat experience in theaters such as the Middle East and the Eastern Flank in Europe, the A330 MRTT has a market share of 90% outside the US and more than 270,000 flight hours. The history of interoperability, mission success and high availability rates of this mature platform highlights its remarkable performance and makes it the ideal choice for Canada's strategic defense needs.

Tags: A330 MRTTairbusMilitary AviationRCAF - Royal Canadian Air Force/Canada Air Force

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Design Smarter with ZWCAD and SketchUp: The Modern Choice for 2D & 3D CAD Excellence

In today’s fast-paced digital design landscape, professionals across architecture, engineering, and construction are always on the lookout for efficient, affordable, and powerful CAD tools. Choosing the right design software is more than just about creating visuals—it's about productivity, accuracy, and seamless communication.

ZWCAD and SketchUp have emerged as top-tier solutions for 2D drafting and 3D modeling, trusted by millions of users globally. Both tools offer user-friendly interfaces, extensive toolsets, and flexible licensing models, making them ideal for businesses and professionals seeking high-value design platforms. Let’s explore what makes these software options stand out and how they can enhance your workflow.

ZWCAD: A Trusted Solution for 2D Design and Drafting

ZWCAD is a professional-grade 2D CAD software that has earned the trust of over 900,000 users across 90 countries. It delivers an impressive balance between functionality and affordability, offering features comparable to industry leaders but with significant long-term cost benefits.

Familiar User Interface

One of ZWCAD’s most appreciated strengths is its intuitive interface. Users can seamlessly switch between Classic and Ribbon layouts, catering to both traditional CAD users and those familiar with newer design environments. This flexibility ensures that users experience a minimal learning curve, allowing them to focus on productivity right from day one.

Compatibility with Popular CAD Standards

ZWCAD supports DWG/DXF file formats, making it highly compatible with files from other CAD platforms. If you’re transitioning from another tool, there’s no need to worry about file compatibility or losing valuable project data. Most commands and aliases remain the same, which means there's virtually no re-learning cost.

Performance and Precision

Designed with a powerful engine, ZWCAD ensures smooth operation even with large files. Features like SmartMouse, SmartSelect, and File Compare boost productivity by reducing repetitive tasks. With native support for LISP, VBA, and ZRX, it’s also highly customizable.

Perpetual Licensing Model

Unlike subscription-only software, ZWCAD offers a perpetual license—a one-time payment that gives you lifetime access. This model is especially valuable for small businesses and freelancers looking to avoid recurring costs.

SketchUp: Bringing Your Ideas to Life in 3D

While ZWCAD handles precision 2D drafting with excellence, SketchUp takes creativity to the next dimension. It’s known globally for its simplicity, speed, and versatility in 3D modeling.

Intuitive 3D Modeling Tools

SketchUp is designed to be the most intuitive way to model in 3D. Whether you're sketching out a new architectural concept or refining product designs, its interface lets you focus on your idea—not on navigating a complex toolset. This means faster iterations, better collaboration, and more efficient project development.

Versatile Design Applications

From architecture, interior design, and construction, to landscape design, film set modeling, and even game development, SketchUp finds applications across a wide array of industries. Its flexibility makes it an ideal fit for both conceptual designs and detailed construction models.

Accuracy from the Start

SketchUp isn’t just for aesthetic presentations. It allows users to design with real-world dimensions and accuracy. You can define materials, set shadows based on geographic coordinates, and even create construction documents from your 3D models. This makes it not just a design tool but a comprehensive project planning solution.

Perfect Combo for Modern Designers

When combined, ZWCAD and SketchUp offer a powerful synergy: 2D precision from ZWCAD paired with the visual storytelling and 3D capabilities of SketchUp. This makes them a dynamic duo for AEC professionals, design studios, educators, and product developers alike.

Whether you're preparing floor plans, creating construction documents, visualizing interior layouts, or building prototypes, the integrated use of both tools can streamline workflows, reduce rework, and enhance collaboration.

Why This Matters to Businesses

Choosing the right tools can significantly impact team performance, project timelines, and overall costs. Here's how ZWCAD and SketchUp provide a competitive edge:

Lower Total Cost of Ownership with perpetual licenses and no mandatory subscriptions.

Quick onboarding due to intuitive UIs and familiar command structures.

Cross-platform compatibility with popular CAD and 3D model file formats.

Scalability for growing design teams with flexible deployment options.

These features make ZWCAD and SketchUp accessible to startups, educational institutions, and large-scale enterprises alike.

Supported and Distributed by Tridax Solution

These industry-standard tools are provided and supported by Tridax Solution, a reputed name in CAD/CAM/CAE services. Tridax ensures seamless deployment, training, and support for its clients, making it easier for organizations to adopt these tools with confidence.

For more information, specifications, demo requests, or purchase inquiries, you can https://www.tridaxsolutions.com/product/zwcad/

Final Thoughts

In a world where design timelines are shrinking and client expectations are rising, adopting the right tools can make a world of difference. ZWCAD and SketchUp are two such tools that empower designers, engineers, and creatives to work smarter, faster, and more efficiently.

Whether you're just starting in design or are an experienced professional looking for a cost-effective upgrade, these platforms are well worth considering. Invest in performance, precision, and flexibility—with ZWCAD and SketchUp, you’re not just drafting or modeling; you’re shaping the future of your creative potential.

[groovy-computers]

Discover the stunning $29.5 million (approximately 39.4 million CAD) home of Intel co-founder Gordon Moore, known for inventing Moore's Law. This 9,000 sq ft estate spans 25 acres in California's Bay Area and features a wine cellar, pool, tennis court, and a guardrail of strict preservation laws. Moore’s legacy extends beyond tech; his estate reflects timeless elegance balanced with natural harmony. Purchased for around $8 million (roughly 10.7 million CAD) in the early '90s, it’s undergone over $20 million CAD in renovations, maintaining a historic yet understated charm. Buyers must respect a conservation covenant, limiting development to protect the natural and historic features. Imagine living amidst Redwood groves, lush gardens by Bruce Porter, and historic grounds designed by Thomas Church—all with privacy and legacy intact. Would you love to own a piece of history like Moore’s estate, or is the preservation philosophy too strict? This unique property underlines the importance of balancing innovation, history, and nature in real estate investments. #LuxuryRealEstate #HistoricHomes #CaliforniaEstates #MillionDollarViews #Conservation #EcoLuxury #BayAreaHomes #RealEstateInvesting #TimelessDesign #LuxuryLiving #PropertyForSale #EstateLiving

[scholarinfohub]

12 Best Scholarships in Canada for Nigerian Students 2025–26

What if one application could save you $50,000 or even pay for your entire degree? Too good to be true? That’s what most Nigerian students think… until they meet someone living that very dream in Canada. Every year, millions of Naira in scholarships go untouched by qualified Nigerian students, not because they don’t qualify, but because they don’t know. This guide will reveal the 12 most powerful scholarships in Canada for Nigerian students in 2025–26, how to apply, and how not to miss them this time.

Why Canada?

Let’s be clear: Canada isn’t just another study destination, it’s a gateway.

Post-graduation work permit (PGWP)?

Pathway to permanent residency?

A multicultural society with a strong Nigerian community?

Scholarships specifically tailored for African and Nigerian students?

But here’s the part no one tells you: you must be early, strategic, and thorough. These scholarships are competitive, and timing is everything. Let’s break down the best options out there.

1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship – University of Toronto

You’ve heard of the University of Toronto. What you haven’t heard? This scholarship covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years.

Target: Exceptional secondary school students

Deadline: November (school nomination required!)

Acceptance rate: Less than 3%

Yes, it’s elite. But Nigerians have won it and so can you.

2. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program

UBC’s award is divided into:

International Leader of Tomorrow Award

Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award

These are need- and merit-based, and cover full tuition + living costs.

You must demonstrate financial need clearly

Apply via UBC’s online portal + nomination by your school

3. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (For Master’s & PhD)

A big one for postgraduate students: $50,000 per year for 3 years.

For: Doctoral students (or combined MA/PhD programs)

Extremely competitive, but open to Nigerian scholars with strong academic and leadership profiles.

4. University of Ottawa Entrance and Excellence Scholarships

The University of Ottawa offers automatic entrance scholarships and merit-based excellence awards for international students with Nigerian applicants included.

Up to CAD 10,000/year

Renewable with good academic standing

No separate application required

Don’t ignore the small print some of these are language- or faculty-specific.

5. Carleton University Entrance Awards

Got an admission offer with a 90%+ average? You’re in for a surprise.

Automatic awards ranging from $4,000–$16,000 over 4 years

No need to apply separately

Nigerian undergrads are eligible by default if admitted

6. McGill University Scholarships for International Students

McGill offers need-based entrance scholarships alongside prestigious major awards (up to $12,000/year).

Submit a separate application after admission

Priority given to students with leadership, research, or community achievements

7. Schulich Leader Scholarships (STEM Fields)

If you’re entering a STEM program (especially Engineering, Tech, or Science), this one is massive.

Worth up to CAD 100,000

Apply through a Canadian partner university + school nomination

8. Humber International Entrance Scholarships

This college offers partial tuition scholarships (from $2,000 to $5,000) to new international undergrads.

Offered in September, January, and May intakes

First-come, first-served, so apply early

9. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarships

One of Canada’s fastest-growing schools, and they’re investing in top students.

Up to CAD 15,000 per year

Renewable and awarded based on academic merit

10. Africa Continent Scholarship – Niagara College

Nigerian students are eligible for the CAD 2,000 African Continent Award for both diploma and degree programs.

Automatically applied upon admission

Good for trade, hospitality, and technical fields

11. Commonwealth Scholarship (DFATD – Government of Canada)

This is a Canada-wide postgraduate scholarship open to Nigerian students through the Nigerian government’s nomination.

Covers tuition, travel, living, and books

Administered via the Nigerian Federal Scholarship Board

12. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program (University of Toronto, UBC, McGill)

This one is unique: It’s not just a scholarship, it’s a life-changing mentorship, leadership, and support experience.

Fully funded for African students (tuition + living)

Application via partner institutions

Must demonstrate leadership potential and financial need

Final Advice:

Many of these scholarships for the 2025–26 academic year will open by August 2025 and close between November and February.

If you wait till next year, you might already be too late.

Here’s your 3-step plan:

Choose 2–3 universities in Canada

Visit their international funding page today

Draft your motivation letter, CV, and gather references now, not later

[indoorverticalfarmingnews]

Verdi Raises $6.5M CAD to Scale Retrofitted Irrigation Automation

Key Takeaways Verdi secured $6.5 million CAD ($4.7 million USD) in an oversubscribed seed round, bringing total funding to $9.5 million. The round was led by SVG Ventures, with participation from NEC X, Ponderosa Ventures, and several other climate-focused investors. Verdi retrofits smart irrigation automation onto existing farm infrastructure, enabling up to 90% labor savings and 70% water…

[graduatebard97]

The Trans Contradiction

I often wonder what it feels like to create something new. Not a new creation as in "this is a new drawing *I* made" or "this is a new piece of literature *I* wrote", but I mean new as in create the first 3d model, or create the first rocket ship, the first topological state of matter for a quantum computer chip. I wonder what its like to create something so fundamental, so needed, so powerful that the rest of the world uses it, that the rest of the world takes it and adapts it to different contexts.

That is not something I will ever achieve, of that I am confident. I will not create the first 4D model for a game, or the first quark drive. I won't create an advancement in medical tech that cures aging nor will I create a new philosophy bored college students SparkNotes their way through in 90 years. I will likely never work with a team who does something like that. Even with the recognition that very little is created by just one person, and that everyone has a support system for everything, I won't get to know what that feeling is like. I can only imagine what Ivan Sutherland must've felt creating the firs CAD software, or what Martin Newell felt like creating the Utah Teapot, an object so ubiquitous in 3D modeling spaces that it is still implemented in 3D modeling software today as a pre-loaded asset 50 years after it was created. What did Garrett Morgan feel like when he invented the 3-light traffic-light? Or what about Hasan Ibn al-Haytham, an Arab mathematician who furthered our understanding of mathematics and calculus by developing a formula to find the sums of 4th powers. What about every inventor who was born into a group that are oppressed by white people? How did they feel when they invented something, only for it to be stolen by a white person and their name was lost to all but the most dedicated historians? How did the contexts and times in which they live impact their feelings?

I can only guess as to that feeling. Seeing an invention work for the first time must've filled them with some form of elation. For those who had their invention stolen, what was that pain like? How angry did they get, how sad, how despondent if at all? Did they ever manage to find peace? For those who are lucky enough to be recognized, how long did those feelings last?

I am thinking about this topic, in all likelihood, due to the inherent contradiction of being trans in America. From an early age, arguably since we hear our first words coming from a TV show, or if you are unlucky enough to have parents who adore post 9/11 American nationalism country music, the first car ride home form the hospital and every car ride after, we are taught that You are exceptional and can do anything. Individually we are capable of shifting mountains, and that we alone can do anything we set our minds too. I am unable to speak to the AFAB childhood experience, however this was double true for my experience as an AMAB child. With most every main superhero save Starfire and Raven being a man, and the leader, it was instilled doubly so that I had to not only be unfeeling, but strong. In addition to all the internalized misogyny and misandry, the lesson that I must inherently be strong, unfeeling, and exceptional in every way are perhaps the strongest lessons that had been instilled in me.

On the other hand, I had always been taught that to be trans, or queer in any capacity was the same as having a mental illness, the same as being wrong. I came out in 2022, and while visible trans hate has seemingly only increased. In my youth, it was at best jokes that were distasteful on TV and jokes about crossdressing. Since then, Trump, Republicans, and to a slightly lesser extent, the democrats, have only increased their hatred, in a bid to win an election. The republican party spent $215 MILLION on anti-trans ads during the leadup to the 2024, most of which were dedicated to painting us as groomers, criminals, and enemies of the state in general. A strategy that has ultimantly allowed the DHS to monitor the LGBTQIA+ community under the justification of being threats to national security (Hello DHS agent!). All of this to say that I've been told, my entire life, that trans people are terrible and incapable of being worth something.

This created an inherent contradiction within myself. The lessons I learned as a boy, teen, and very young man did not leave my body instantly when I became trans. Those feeling haven't sopped being there despite the work I've done to deconstruct the harmful narratives I've been taught. I am left feeling like I am both the single most important person in the universe, that I am supposed to be American Exceptionalism Incarnate, and that I am worthless, that I am unable to achieve anything. Perhaps, as gross and selfish as it is, I am a tad jealous of those who came before. Those inventors and artists, both remembered and not, because their path is already complete. Their stories are there, even if it requires more dedication to find than others. Despite a desire to have my path laid out for me, I still can't help but wonder what it felt like when the reached these ultimate moments. When they accomplished something great. I cannot help but to want even a fraction of that feeling.

Perhaps I yearn for that recognition, to know I did something great for even a second because it would resolve the contradiction. I could be both, someone amazing, someone worth remembering in the long history of the human race, and trans. Knowing that there are great trans people in history, those such as Christine Jorgensen (the first trans woman to have a gender-affirming operation), or Wendy Carlos (A trans electronic music artist) does help. It re-affirms that it is not impossible to be notable and trans in a society that tells you the opposite, however it is not re-assuring as Trump's second term shows no signs of ever slowing down.

A better essay would explore deeper into this, a better essay would explore a different angle and perhaps make a grander stance on the whole thing. It would incorporate Marxist rhetoric, and gender theory into this. Perhaps I will write that essay next, however this is not that essay. This essay is merely a diary entry venting into the void (and the DHS agent reading this bc it got flagged). I am sure I will write that essay one day, because even if I can't or won't be remembered for it, it will at least help me feel a part of the elation that so many before held on to, and so many after will chase, only to be forgotten. For now though, its all I can do to write anything. And putting out a mediocre essay that explores little and says less is perhaps better than allowing myself to become a stagnant writer.

[studyincanadaorientspectra]

Master’s in Canada

This article will assist you in exploring the many advantages that Canada offers as an academic hotspot. The most notable examples are –

Students seeking an MS in Canada may expect an educational experience that extends beyond the classroom.

Canadian university graduates are prepared with the ability to think critically and creatively.

Close cooperation between educational institutions and industry partners is also maintained to keep course material relevant.

The ability to interact with individuals from all over the world provides an unparalleled cultural experience.

Canada is a friendly and cosmopolitan nation that is home to most of the world’s ethnic groups.

Types of Master’s Degrees in Canada

The Master of Arts (MA) is, through a long way, the two most famous taught alternatives. Others consist of:

How Much Does a Master’s Degree Cost?

MS in Canada Costs

The costs involved in studying abroad require international students to estimate their financial budgets.

The cost of MS in Canada includes one-time payable pre-arrival costs, tuition fees as well as living costs.

Pre-arrival Costs to Canada

These pre-arrival costs include fees for admission application, registration for standardized exams, study permit to Canada, airfare, etc.

These estimated expenses are: *Student Visa fees- Study Permit Application In Biometric Fee

Cost of MS in Canada for Indian Students

Cost of Living in Canada

The cost of living in Canada is around 2% cheaper than in the United States.

The monthly housing cost varies per Canadian province.

The average monthly accommodation cost is between 850 and 1,000 CAD per year.

Other living expenditures include food, transportation, books, materials, and so on.

Below mentioned are the expected costs:

The benefits of pursuing an MS in Canada

1. World-class educational institutions

According to the QS World University Rankings (2020), seven Canadian institutions are among the top 200 in the world.

2. Possibilities for Specialization

An MS degree is available in a variety of areas of study, including medical, information technology, engineering and technology, finance, management, business administration, architecture, nursing, design, and so on.

3. Cost-effectiveness

Canada has the lowest tuition fee among English-speaking nations. A master’s degree in Canada (30,000 CAD-55,000 CAD) is less expensive than a master’s degree in the United States (35,000 CAD- 82,000 CAD yearly) or Australia.

4. Funding Alternatives

When compared to the United States, students get about 70% more money and scholarships in the form of scholarships, fellowships, and so on.

5. Employment Possibilities

According to statistics from the Labour Force Survey, about 1.8 million new employments for university graduates were created between March 2009 and March 2019.

6. Visa and Immigration Procedures

Students seeking permanent residency may apply for a post-graduation employment visa.

7. Studying while working

While studying, foreign students may apply for a variety of part-time jobs to acquire meaningful work experience.

8. Global R&D Leader

Canadian universities undertake 40% of R&D effort, spending more than 13 billion CAD. Clinical medicine, biology, information, and communication ttechnology are some of them.

What are the most popular universities for pursuing a master’s degree?

Canada’s higher education system is very well-organized, with vital academic requirements.

Every year, thousands of foreign students enroll in Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs provided by over 90 educational institutions.

The proper degree will provide you with the greatest future and the best fruit.

When choosing a college to attend, proper study and analysis should be conducted.

Here is a list of a few top-rated universities in the United Kingdom where you may pursue your Master’s degree:

Top universities in Canada – U.S. News Rankings 2021

Top universities in Canada – THE Rankings 2021

Top universities in Canada – QS Rankings 2022

Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in Canada

Here are the best grants for Indian understudies to pursue Masters in Canada:

Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

University British Columbia (UBC) International Student Scholarship

IDRC Research Awards

Graduate Entrance Scholarship

JN Tata Endowment Scholarship

Language Prerequisites for The UK College Application

Proof of English language competence is needed for international students from non-native English-speaking nations. The minimal ELP exam score criteria may vary according to the program; nevertheless, the typical scores at leading institutions providing master’s degrees in Canada are-

TOEFL (iBT): 90+

IELTS: 6.5-7.0

College Application Documents required to study Master of Science in Canada

As part of the application package, students must submit the following documents for admission to MS in Canada:

A completed admission application form

Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates from all educational institutions attended

CV/Resume

References or Letters of Recommendation

Personal statements/writing samples

Scores of standardized tests to study in Canada include

○      GRE/GMAT scores

○      Language proficiency (English/French)

Payments of non-refundable application fee.

Copy of Passport

Proof of scholarship or funding

Here are the most important deadlines to consider while applying to colleges in Canada:

In early October 2021, the online application will be available

Access to the online college application for programs starting in the next academic year becomes accessible in early October (August to July). You may withdraw your application by creating an account.

Date of Equal Consideration: February 1, 2022

Apply on or by this date to be considered for admission to programs beginning the following autumn. Colleges will accept applications on a first-come, first-served basis after this date until programs are filled.

Please keep in mind that applications for Highly Competitive Programs must be submitted by this deadline to be evaluated. Due to a large number of applications for these programs, all seats may be filled before February 1.

Applicants are advised to submit their applications well in advance of the Equal Consideration Date since internet traffic on the online application is at its peak at this time.

After February 1, several programs continue to accept applications. To discover applications that are still running, use our Find a Program feature at any time.

The earliest offer date is November 1, 2021.

This is the earliest day on which schools may begin sending admission offers to programs for the next academic year. Offers will be made until programs are full or waitlists are formed.

May 1, 2022: Deadline for Confirming Admission Offers

By this date, applicants must confirm their acceptance of an admission offer. To accept your offer, sign in to your ontariocolleges.ca account.

Colleges may extend admission offers beyond this date. Each institution will establish a deadline for accepting offers issued after May 1, and this date will be communicated to you along with your offer.

Tuition deposits are due at the colleges in June 2022.

To guarantee your place in your program, the schools demand a tuition deposit in June. Each college determines the amount of the tuition deposit and the date for payment. The college will provide you with this information.

Top cities in Canada for Masters

According to the world ranking (2018), Montreal stands at the topmost position among the ten best student-friendly cities, not just in Canada but also in North America.

The top five cities of Canada and their respective QS rankings have been given in the table below.

Top 5 Student-friendly Cities in Canada

The top cities for foreign students in Canada have been listed above based on criteria such as safety, transportation, employment possibilities, scholarships for international students, and more.

Living in these places will expose students to a different culture and allow them to participate in an experienced learning process, allowing them to develop.

Do you intend to apply for a study visa in Canada from India? You can begin your Canada study visa application by talking with one of our knowledgeable and experienced Canada study visa experts

[drgyana]

How Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Affects Your Heart

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While it is often called the “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms, it can lead to serious health problems, especially when it affects your heart. In this article, we’ll explain how hypertension impacts your heart and why it’s important to manage your blood pressure.

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension occurs when the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high. Over time, this extra pressure can damage your blood vessels and organs, including the heart. Normal blood pressure is usually around 120/80 mmHg. When the top number (systolic pressure) is consistently higher than 140 and the bottom number (diastolic pressure) is over 90, you may have hypertension.

How Hypertension Damages Your Heart

Increased Heart Workload

When your blood pressure is high, your heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout your body. This can cause the heart muscle to thicken, a condition known as left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). As the heart becomes thicker and stiffer, it struggles to pump blood efficiently, which can lead to heart failure over time.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

High blood pressure can lead to the narrowing and hardening of the arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis. This happens when plaque, made up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances, builds up in the arteries. Atherosclerosis reduces blood flow to the heart, which increases the risk of a heart attack.

Weakened Arteries and Blood Vessels

Over time, the extra pressure from hypertension can cause the arteries and blood vessels to become less elastic. This can lead to further damage and narrowing of the arteries, making it harder for blood to flow through them. The weakened arteries can also become more prone to ruptures, leading to serious problems like strokes.

Increased Risk of Heart Failure

Hypertension is a leading cause of heart failure. When the heart has to pump harder than normal for an extended period, it can become enlarged and weakened. As a result, the heart may not be able to pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid buildup in the body.

The Link Between Hypertension and Other Heart Conditions

Hypertension not only affects the heart directly, but it also increases the risk of developing other heart conditions, such as:

Arrhythmia: High blood pressure can lead to an irregular heartbeat, known as arrhythmia. This can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly, increasing the risk of strokes or heart failure.

Stroke: Hypertension is a major risk factor for strokes. The added pressure on the blood vessels can lead to the formation of clots or the rupture of blood vessels in the brain, resulting in a stroke.

Aneurysm: Chronic high blood pressure can cause the blood vessels to weaken and bulge, forming an aneurysm. If the aneurysm ruptures, it can lead to life-threatening bleeding.

Managing Hypertension for Heart Health

If you have hypertension, it’s important to manage it to prevent damage to your heart. Here are a few tips to help keep your blood pressure under control:

Eat a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help lower blood pressure. Limit your intake of sodium, processed foods, and unhealthy fats.

Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity can help keep your blood pressure at a healthy level. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Limit Alcohol and Tobacco Use: Both alcohol and tobacco can raise blood pressure. Try to limit your intake or quit smoking altogether.

Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation to reduce stress.

Take Medication as Prescribed: If your doctor prescribes medication for hypertension, be sure to take it as directed. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider will help ensure that your treatment is effective.

When to See a Doctor

If you have hypertension or are at risk for high blood pressure, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. A Top 10 cardiologist in Bhubaneswar can provide expert guidance on managing your blood pressure and protecting your heart health.

Conclusion

Hypertension may not show symptoms, but its effects on the heart can be severe. By managing your blood pressure through healthy lifestyle choices and regular check-ups, you can protect your heart from long-term damage. If you’re concerned about your blood pressure or heart health, be sure to consult a healthcare professional for the right guidance.

[aeori-o]

The article also talks about how Microsoft will extend support for Win10 until 2028--but only if you pay a fee (which has not yet been specified but they say in the article that for a similar service provided when Win7 was phased out was 25$ a machine per year at first and then "later" $100 per year for that support).

I built my computer. Windows 10 cost me roughly $200 CAD. What also gets me about that waste (beyond just the waste in gold, copper, and lithium that will be sent to landfills which are all recyclable) is that all of those 240,000,000 machines will have Win10 which can be (currently) freely upgraded to Win11. If you're tossing it for a new PC that is 240,000,000 machines worth of Windows keys (which, as a person mentioned above, will mostly be corporations anyway--most people I know who have machines incompatible with Win11 will probably keep going with it until the machine dies, computers are way too expensive to just toss something that's still functional).

That is 240,000,000 licenses of Win11 'guaranteed' to be sold. (In quotations because I have no idea how many of those 240 million are actually corporations that have to replace them or how many are end users that might not bother.) Usually corporations get a discount for buying bulk (how much that discount is, I don't know, it probably depends on the size of the business and how many machines they're purchasing or building) but if it was 240,000,000 end-user machines that would be 48 billion Canadian dollars in windows key fees. I know that the math wouldn't actually work out to 48 billion, but how much less could they be selling keys to computer manufacturers for? Half off? 24 billion. 75% off? 12 billion. 90% off? 4.8 billion.

Maybe I'm wrong, but I have doubts that the cost to develop and update Windows costs 12 billion, or even 4.8 billion. I use machines running Win11 frequently and every single one of them has three CMD boxes open and close in a cascade across the screen every time you try to open any program. It happens quickly and all the machines run fine so it's not a real issue but it feels like Windows as presented by Bethesda: It just feels so unpolished.

Also worth noting is that one of the system requirements a lot of machines lack to upgrade isn't the CPU speed or the RAM or even the storage (though some machines are still sold with less than 500GB of storage which seems criminal to me) it's whether or not your computer has or is capable of having TPM 2.0 which is a security feature "newer" machines have (and most home-built PCs are capable of but need to be turned on) but older (it has to be pretty old for a pre-built) machines may or may not have the capability for it. I'm not saying security isn't important, but it is pretty suspect to have this kind of roadblock for upgrading to Win11. (I only know about it because shortly after building my PC Win11 started harassing me and, to my shock and horror, Microsoft gleefully told me my not-insubstantial PC couldn't run Win11. And then I figured out it was just something I had to go turn on in the BIOS/UEFI so no big deal for me but if your computer is old enough it could be a huge deal if it meets all other specs needed to upgrade).

I talked about the problem of Windows system requirements being too damn high before, and how the windows 10 to 11 jump is especially bad. Like the end of Windows 10 is coming october 2025, and it will be a massive problem. And this article gives us some concrete numbers for how many computers that can't update from win10 to 11.

And it's 240 million. damn. “If these were all folded laptops, stacked one on top of another, they would make a pile 600 km taller than the moon.” the tech analysis company quoted in the article explains.

So many functioning computers that will be wasted. And it's all because people don't wanna switch to a Linux distro with sane system requirements and instead buy a new computer.

Like if you own one of these 240 million windows 10 computers, Just be an environmentally responsible non-wasteful person and switch that computer to Linux instead of just scrapping it because Microsoft says it's not good enough.

[innonurse]

Canada: VC firm CBIV raises over $135 million CAD to support women and children-focused healthtech startups

- By InnoNurse Staff -

Cross-Border Impact Ventures (CBIV), based in Toronto, has closed its first fund after raising more than $90 million USD ($135 million CAD).

Read more at BetaKit

///

Other recent news and insights

Retinal imaging and genetic data are utilized to predict future illness risk (Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary/Medical Xpress)

Do fitness watches motivate consumers to keep to their exercise goals? This is what one research indicates (Georgia State University)

[oconnor2024]

Wise County Appraisal District | Tax Parcels

The Wise CAD budget increased from $1.29 million in 2013 to $2.22 million in 2021, a 72% increase. However, they have over 215,900 tax parcels to value annually, and that is just real property. Visit https://www.poconnor.com/wisecad-property-tax-2021/

[thimbil]

Having some thoughts about the references and inspirations used for the Bad Batch’s designs.

So Boba Fett is my absolute favorite character and Temeura Morrison was perfect casting. I went to see the 2008 TCW movie in theaters because I was so excited to see him again, even if he was animated. You can imagine my disappointment. Whoever was on screen was not Temeura Morrison. You could sort of see a resemblance if you squinted and didn’t think too hard about it. They replaced Temeura with Racially Ambiguous G.I. Joe. If I didn’t know better and someone told me the animated clones are space Italians from the moon of New Jersey I would buy it. One Million Brothers Pizzeria and Italian Bistro. Not that there’s something wrong with being space Italian, I just don’t think it’s the right choice for the Fetts. The design got slightly improved by season 7 but it still bugs the hell out of me.

I did eventually get into the show later and (of course) got invested in the clones. Unfortunately, they were largely sidelined by the Jedi storylines. Out of the two new main characters created for TCW, Ahsoka definitely got more development and focus than Rex. When they announced The Bad Batch, I was excited to see a show specifically devoted to the clones… at least that’s what it said on the tin. We have all seen what lurks beneath those stylish helmets.

Jango Fett, you are NOT the father.

So who is?

Based on interviews with Filoni, it sounds like the Bad Batch was a George Lucas idea. And like all his ideas, it’s super derivative. The original trilogy directly lifted elements from sci fi serials, westerns, and samurai movies, more specifically Kurosawa films like The Hidden Fortress. For The Bad Batch character designs, the influence is obviously American action and adventure movies.

Now let’s get specific. Bad Batch, who’s your daddy?

Hunter

Sylvester Stallone as Rambo in First Blood 1982. That bandana has become an integral part of the iconic action hero look. You see a character wearing one and it’s a visual shorthand for either “this character is a tough guy” like Billy played by Sonny Landham in Predator 1987, or “this character thinks he is/wants to be a tough guy” like Brand played by Josh Brolin in The Goonies 1985 or Edward Frog played by Corey Feldman in The Lost Boys 1987.

Hunter’s model is closest to the original clone base. If you look closely you will see the eyebrows are straighter with a much lower angle to the arch. His nose is also not the same shape as a standard clone like Rex, including a narrower bridge. It’s certainly not Temeura Morrison’s nose. Remember what I said about space Italians? It didn’t take much to push the existing clone design to resemble an specific Italian man instead of a specific Māori man. The 23&Me came back, and Hunter inherited more than the bandana from Sylvester.

Crosshair

The long narrow nose, the sharp cheekbones, the scowl. That’s no clone, that’s just animated Clint Eastwood. Not even Young and Hot Clint Eastwood from Rawhide 1959-1965. With that hair, I’m talking Gran Torino 2008. The man of few words schtick and family friendly toothpick in lieu of cigar are pure Eastwood as The Man With No Name from Sergio Leone’s spaghetti westerns A Fist Full of Dollars 1964, For a Few Dollars More 1965, and The Good the Bad and the Ugly 1966.

In a way, this is full circle because the actor Jeremy Bulloch took inspiration from Clint Eastwood for his performance as Boba Fett in ESB.

Wrecker

In an interview Filoni lists the Hulk as an (obvious) inspiration for Wrecker. Ever seen the old Hulk tv show from 1978? Well take a look at the actor who played him, Lou Ferrigno. Would you look at that. Even has his papa’s nose.

You could make the argument that Wrecker was influenced by The Rock, an appropriately buff ‘n bald Polynesian (Samoan, not Maori) man. But look at him next his Fast and Furious costar Vin Diesel and tell me which one resembles Wrecker’s character model more.

Tech

Tech is a little trickier for me to place. If he has a more direct inspiration it must be something I haven’t seen. That said, his hairline is very Bruce Willis as John McClane in Die Hard 1988. His quippiness and large glasses remind me of Shane Black as Hawkins from Predator 1987. In terms of his face, he looks a but like the result of McClane and Hawkins deciding to settle down and start a family. Although, Tech’s biggest contributors are probably just everyone on TV Trope’s list for Smart People Wear Glasses.

And finally,

Echo

Oh Echo. Considering he wasn’t created for the Bad Batch, he probably wasn’t based on a particular character or movie. But if I had to guess, his situation and appearance remind me a lot of Alex Murphy played by Peter Weller in Robocop 1987. However, Robocop explored the Man or Machine Identity Crisis with more nuance, depth, and dignity. Yikes.

The exact tropes and references used in The Bad Batch have been done successfully with characters who aren’t even human. Gizmo from Gremlins 2: The New Batch 1990 had a brief stint with the Rambo bandana. I could have picked any number of characters for Defining Feature Is Glasses but here is the most cursed version of Simon of Alvin and the Chipmunks. Suffer as I have. Marc Antony with his beloved Pussyfoot from Looney Tunes has the same tough guy with a soft center vibe as Wrecker and his Lula (also a kind of cat). Hell, in the same show we have Cad Bane sharing Cowboy Clint Eastwood with Crosshair. I actually think Bane makes a better Eastwood which is wild considering Crosshair has Eastwood’s entire face and Bane is blue.

So we’ve established you don’t need your characters to look exactly like their inspirations to match their vibe. So why go through the trouble and cost of creating completely new character designs instead of recycling and altering assets they already had on hand? Just slap on a bandana, toothpick, goggles, and make Wrecker bigger than the others while he does a Hulk pose and you’re done. Based on the general reaction to Howzer it would have been a low effort slam dunk crowd pleaser.

But they didn’t do that.

So here’s the thing. I like the tropes used in The Bad Batch. I am a fan of action adventure movies from the 80s-90s, the sillier the better. I am part of the Bad Batch’s target audience. Considering what I know about Disney and Lucasfilm, I went in with low expectations. I genuinely don’t hate the idea of seeing references to these actors and media in The Bad Batch. I don’t think basing these characters on tropes was a bad idea. If anything it’s a solid starting point for building the characters.

The trouble is nothing got built on the foundation. The plot is directionless, the pacing is wacky, and the characters have nearly no emotional depth or defining character arcs. They just sort of exist without reacting much while the story happens around them. But I can excuse all of that. You don’t stay a fan of Star Wars as long as I have not being able to cherrypick and fill in the gaps. This show has a deeper issue that shouldn’t be ignored.

Why do the animated clones bear at best only a passing resemblance to their live action actor? In interviews, Filoni wouldn’t shut up but the technological advancements in the animation for season 7. So if they are updating things, why not try to make the clones a closer match to their source material? Why did they have to look like completely different people in The Bad Batch to be “unique”? Looking like Temeura Morrison would have no bearing on their special abilities and TCW proved you can have identical looking characters and still have them be distinct. In fact, that’s a powerful theme and the source of tragedy for the clones’ narrative overall.

Here’s Filoni’s early concept art of Crosshair, Wrecker, Tech, and Hunter. (Interesting but irrelevant: Wrecker seems to have a cog tattoo similar to Jesse’s instead of a scar. Wouldn’t it have been funny if they kept that so when they met in season 7 one if them could say something like “Hey we’re twins!” That’s a little clone humor. Just for you guys 😘)

None of these drawings look like the clones in TCW, much less Temeura Morrison. Let’s be generous. Maybe Filoni struggles with drawing a real person’s likeness, as many people do. But he had to hand this off to other artists down the line whose job specifically involves making a stylized character resemble their actor. Yet the final designs missed the mark almost as much as this initial concept. Starting to seem as if the clones looking more like Temeura Morrison was never even on the table. It wasn’t a lack of creativity, skill or technical limitations on the part of the creative team. I don’t think there is an innocent explanation. They went out of their way to make the final product exactly how we got it.

This goes beyond homage. They could have made the same pop culture references and character tropes without completely stripping Temeura Morrison from the role he originated. It was a very purposeful choice to replace him with more immediately familiar actors from established franchises and films. It wouldn’t shock me if Filoni, Lucas, and anyone else calling the shots didn’t even think hard or care enough about the decision to immediately recognize a problem. And I don’t think they believed anyone else would either. At least no one whose opinion they cared about. Those faces are comfortingly familiar and proven bankable. They are what we’re all used to seeing after all. They’re white.

Lack of imagination, bad intentions, or simple ignorance doesn’t really matter in the end. The result is the same. Call it what it is. They replaced a man of color with a bunch of white guys. That’s by the book garden variety run of the mill whitewashing. There’s no debate worth having about it. For a fanbase that loves to nitpick things like whether or not it’s in character for Han to shoot first or Jeans Guy in the Mandalorian, we sure are quick to find excuses for clones who look nothing like their template. Why is that? If you don’t see the problem, congratulations. Your ass is showing. Pull your jeans up.

[rainbowcapitalism]

[image description: A bottle of cologne from Abercrombie & Fitch. It is a clear rectangular bottle with a black lid. On the back of the bottle is a gradient of the Philadelphia pride flag with the black and brown stripes at the top. At the bottom of the rainbow in white text it says “Abercrombie & Fitch FIERCE”. The bottle is on a white background. Below the picture of the bottle is the online listing that says “Pride Fierce Cologne” and is a part of the “A&F x The Trevor Project” collection, is 3.4 Oz and priced at $90 CAD.]

The Abercrombie pride collection is mainly clothes, plus this cologne and some sandals. At the top of the collection page, the website states that this year they are donating $200,000 to the Trevor Project. Across the duration of their partnership, they’ve donated over $2 million. The fine print of this statement is that your purchase does not impact the amount donated, so regardless of how much they make on this collection the donation is the same. The collection features queer creators and their words on how they’re celebrating pride this year. There’s also a few matching products in the Abercrombie kids everybody collection, which is, by my best guess, called that because it’s in neither their boys or girls sections. 

In my last post I noted that the A&F Group made $3.125 billion in 2020. In that previous post about Hollister, I said it was hard to calculate exactly what that meant for the brand because there are multiple stores within that, and I’ll say the same thing here. Using the information from the other post, A&F has donated over $5 million between the Trevor Project and GLSEN. There’s not an easy way to tell how much profit this collection makes for Abercrombie in comparison to their $200k donation, but I wouldn’t hesitate to say it’s well over that number given that a $3.125B profit translates to over $8 million per day and reported profits have of course already accounted for money that goes to donations. Using the $5M number from above between the two brands, A&F could make that $5M donation yearly and it would cost them not even a single day’s worth of profit, and yet that amount has come from at least 4 years of donations (the Hollister partnership started in 2017, the Abercrombie one did not have a starting year mentioned online).

[idoc-x]

Tuberculosis control — Artificial Intelligence is now becoming integral!

Artificial intelligence (AI) is key nowadays to harnessing data and insight to deliver better healthcare. AI platforms can ingest a vast amount of information of varying types (text /audio/ video/ images numbers and others). This enables doctors, clinicians, physicians and researchers to find correlations and insights not possible before eventually leading to better, faster and sometimes new discoveries and treatments. In summary, AI systems compliment human knowledge, as the volume and pace of healthcare data continue to explode.

Tuberculosis (TB) has been around now for decades. It is a contagious bacterial infection which spreads through the air via cough, sneeze etc and usually infects lungs but can also impact other organs of the body. As per WHO, an estimated 10 million people fell ill with tuberculosis (TB) worldwide in 2019(5.6 million men, 3.2 million women and 1.2 million children). A total of 1.4 million people died from TB in 2019 (including 208000 people with HIV). Worldwide, TB is one of the top 10 causes of death and the leading cause of a single infectious agent (above HIV/AIDS).

The WHO’s End TB strategy goal between 2016 and 2035 is to reduce worldwide TB incidence by 90% and TB mortality by 95%. The areas to focus for countries targeting to reduce their TB burden (by 2035) are digital health care, surveillance, better programme management, professional training and efficient communication. The focus is also on improved access to medical care, especially diagnostic tests.

Artificial Intelligence is making deep inroads into TB diagnosis and treatment via deep learning insights into radiology and pathology, thus helping enormously in the early and accurate detection of TB so that required treatment can be provided.

In radiology, the emphasis is on automated detection of TB on digital chest radiographs. TB is a challenging diagnosis to make due to varied radiographic presentation and it is very similar to another disease like pneumonia, edema etc. In the past few decades, automated screening and detection of TB have moved gradually from CAD (computer-aided detection) programs to CNN (convolutional neural network) and deep learning AI programs because of their higher accuracy and speed of analysing radiological images. These AI programs have been able to augment and compliment radiologists across the globe.

At iDoc.ai (https://idoc.ai/) , Swindon, UK — we are working towards pragmatic & practical AI solutions to specifically address the issues around Radiology. AI can augment Radiologist and can provide much-needed support under current circumstances.

Pathology is another important avenue for diagnosing TB. It is critical to find specially stained TB bacilli to detect and confirm TB diagnosis. This is a very difficult task to do and repeat due to very small size and the number of bacilli TB bacilli. Even for experienced pathologists this is quite strenuous and leads to delays, low detection rate and false diagnoses. AI results have been promising to detect stained TB bacilli and help clinicians to make accurate decisions. It reduces the workload of pathologists and minimizes chances of missed diagnosis.

The persistent gap in the detection of TB is the primary reason for the high mortality. AI has evolved at a rapid pace to bridge that gap and help radiologists and pathologists make better, accurate, well informed and timely decisions.