#Climate Control Compatibility

[caraudioexpertaustralia0]

Headunit With Carplay For HYUNDAI VERNA/l-25/ACCENT LOW | 2010-2014 | 9INCH

[kiame-sama]

can we have some of the queen's rules? Riddle already gave three (we didn't get all of the last one) but what are some you feel like sharing?

You already know three;

- Humans cannot eat a pork heavy diet as Humans are genetically close to pigs. (The genetics piece is true, but Humans can digest pork no problem, so it is ultimately a nonsense rule).

- Humans must be kept at a temperature above freezing but below boiling. (True, not too hot and not too cold is ideal for Humans)

- Humans must be paired with suitable mates based on their regional habitat. A Human from a frozen climate is not compatible with a Human from a tropical climate and therefore cannot breed. (Absolute nonsense, Humans can technically breed with other Humans regardless of region and can even interbreed with any Twisted Wonderland species and still have viable young- ie. Dragon/Human, Unicorn/Human, Drider/Human, Harpy/Human, Merfolk/Human- so long as they can make the parts fit, they can typically successfully interbreed)

But I have headcanoned many other rules for Riddle to believe are absolutely true.

- Humans love Salt, Fat, and Sugar in their diets, but should be limited as too much can cause health problems (actually 100% true. We are literally wired to crave those three food types and have been since before our days as Humans but any in excess can be dangerous/harmful)

- Humans in love or assumed to be in love should never be forced to part or be put into conflict against one another. (The queen made this rule because one of her Humans fell for the pet of a wealthy visitor and actually had stress cardiomyopathy- heartbreak syndrome- and died as a result when that loved one left)

- No species is to threaten or harm a Human. Those who break this rule are punished by the highest accord. (General for all Humans in the Queendom and still a law to current day)

- All unbirthday parties are to have one or more chairs of honor reserved for resident Humans at the left-hand side of the host. (A common rule for Unbirthday parties and one Riddle already upheld even before he met the Human)

- A pregnant Human is to be pardoned for any and all crimes committed during the pregnancy as their hormones and actions cannot be controlled. (Most Humans were quickly pardoned of any crime anyway because the Queen loved them, but pregnant Humans were basically given a free pass to steal and do as they wished).

- If a Human is to take a nap during the day, they must have no more than three pillows and one blanket. (This rule was made to prevent humans from sleeping longer than an hour or two as to not mess up their natural sleep cycle)

- If a Human chooses a non Human mate that non-Human is required by law to marry that Human and never be unfaithful regardless of prior relationships and marriages. (It didn't happen often, but some of the Queen's humans fell for their guards or other visiting nobles and the Queen refused to lose another Human to heartbreak)

[fearfulfertility]

SURROGATE PROCESSING WORKFLOW

DRC, Facility Operations Command, Compound Oversight Unit

Date: [REDACTED]

Subject: Surrogate Management Protocols

Location: Paternity Compound 131, [REDACTED], Oregon

Objective

This document provides a detailed overview of the surrogate processing workflow employed at Paternity Compound 131. It highlights the efficiency-focused methodologies implemented throughout the process, from intake to post-delivery. Personal letters from Surrogate ID S131-279-P are included, documenting his journey from arrival to delivery to help illustrate the overall operations.

I. Arrival & Intake

Transport

"Dear Dad,

I’m not sure where to start. They brought me here in this big, quiet van, and as soon as we got off, they started running all these tests. They gave me a number and tattooed it on my stomach like livestock. They keep saying I’m doing something important for the greater good, but I'm just confused." - S131-279

Candidates are transported to the facility in climate-controlled vehicles, ensuring they arrive in stable physical condition. They are processed in batches of [REDACTED] at a time for efficiency.

Initial Assessment

Upon arrival, surrogates undergo physical and psychological evaluations to assess readiness for the program. This includes fertility screening and compatibility testing for high-multiparity potential.

Registration

Each surrogate is tattooed with a unique ID number for tracking and monitoring throughout their conscription period, imprinted just above their navel.

Compound ID: The facility they will be housed in for gestation.

Arrival ID: The order number in which they arrived at the facility. 

Fetal Count: A letter to indicate the number of viable fetuses they carry:

A (1) - B (2) - C (3) - D (4) - E (5) - F (6) - G (7) - H (8) - I (9) - J (10) - K (11) - L (12) - M (13) - N (14) - O (15) - P (16) - Q (17) - R (18) - S (19) - T (20) - U (21) - V (22) - W (23) - X (24) - Y (25) - Z (26)  Example: Paternity Compound 127 + 437th Surrogate to Arrive + Carrying Quattuordecuplets (14) = S127-437-N

II. Rest & Preparation

Induction & Crowd Control

"Hey Dad,

Things are getting weirder by the day. Yesterday, they gave me a shot that burned like hell and made me feel woozy. It must have knocked me out cause I woke up, and it was tomorrow morning. I don’t know what happened, but I was so sore. I just want to go home." - S131-279, Arrival Weight 170 lbs

Entry areas are designed to funnel a group of surrogates into a single file line. Short but sweeping corridors are employed so that each candidate is prevented from seeing what lies ahead and concentrates on the individual in front of it.

Hygiene Protocols

Surrogates are directed to communal hygiene zones where they undergo full-body cleansing, enemas, and sterilization procedures.

Hormonal Optimization

Subjects are administered hormonal injections and supplements to ensure optimal uterine receptivity and increase the likelihood of successful embryo implantation.

Tranquilization (Optional)

Depending on the subject’s stress levels, mild to full sedation may be administered to maintain compliance and calm.

Note: [REDACTED]% of surrogates require some form of sedative before insemination.

III. Insemination Process

Surrogates can be assigned one of three insemination methods, depending on operational efficiency, donor availability, and strategic objectives:

"Dad,

I don’t even know who I am anymore. My body feels like it’s not mine. It’s only been a week since I arrived, and my stomach is growing so fast it scares me. I can’t stop eating, and it’s like my hunger gets worse the more I eat, but I can't stop. They keep telling me this is normal, that 16 is a "good number"?! They said it was a badge of honor. Sixteen! I feel like I’m being turned into something I don’t understand, and I can’t stop it." - S131-279-P, Day 6, Weight 192 lbs (+22 lbs)

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF):

Procedure: Embryos fertilized in a laboratory are implanted directly into the surrogate's uterus. 

Benefits: High precision, maximum control over embryo count, and genetic compatibility.

Usage: Preferred for surrogates assigned to carry high-volume fetuses or when multiple donors are involved.

Traditional Method (Sexual Intercourse):

Procedure: Selected donors engage in physical intercourse with surrogates under closely monitored conditions.

Benefits: Natural conception methods reduce laboratory overhead and offer efficient insemination for surrogates with high natural fertility markers.

Usage: Typically used donor compatibility is exceptionally high.

Fluids Infusion (Turkey Baster Method):

Procedure: Donor samples are introduced directly into the surrogate's reproductive tract using a sterile infusion device.

Benefits: Combines simplicity with minimal intervention—a cost and time-effective alternative to IVF and traditional methods.

Usage: Often employed in high-volume batches where rapid insemination is required or transportation to the nearest compound is infeasible.

Post-Procedure Monitoring: Surrogates remain in observation units for [REDACTED] hours to confirm successful implantation and address any immediate complications.

IV. Monitoring & Maintenance

Ward Assignment

"Dad,

I don’t think I can do this anymore. My belly is enormous—I can barely move, and I’m out of breath all the time. They keep saying I’m ‘thriving,’ but how can they call this thriving? I heard one of the staff joking about how I’m ‘one of the biggest ones yet.’ They think it’s funny. I don’t. I can feel them—16 of them—moving inside me, taking over everything I used to be. I’m not me anymore." - S131-279-P, Day 13, Weight 254 lbs (+84 lbs)

Surrogates are transferred to gestational wards, where they will reside for their pregnancies. These wards have medical monitoring stations, communal feeding areas, and resting zones.

Nutrition Protocols

Diets are adjusted to high-calorie "one-size-fits-all" solutions, such as nutrient-dense puddings designed to promote fetal growth while maintaining surrogate docility. Hormonal treatments are incorporated into meals to reduce the need for frequent medical interventions.

Weekly Checkups

Surrogates undergo routine ultrasound exams, weight measurements, and health assessments to ensure all embryos develop within target parameters.

Behavioral Observations

Any signs of distress or resistance are addressed promptly through psychological support or, if necessary, isolation protocols.

V. Delivery Process

"This will probably be my last letter. I don’t think I’ll make it much longer. My body’s breaking under the weight—literally. I'm too big, no one was ever meant to be this big. They’re moving me to the birthing wing tomorrow, and I know what that means. I’m terrified, but I don’t have a choice. I just want you to know I didn’t have a choice." - S131-279-P, Day 28, Weight 490 lbs (+320 lbs)

Pre-Labor Preparation

As surrogates approach full term (29-35 days), they are moved to birthing wings equipped with specialized delivery equipment and staff trained for high-multiparity births. Diets are radically adjusted to promote greater weight gain.

Labor Management & Delivery

Surrogates are monitored continuously, and medical staff is on hand to manage complications. Multiple babies are delivered in succession. This process may last several hours or more, depending on the number of fetuses.

Post-Delivery Processing:

Fetuses are immediately evaluated for health and viability.

Surrogates are provided palliative care as necessary.

VI. Post-Delivery Workflow

"Surrogate S131-279-P demonstrated remarkable endurance and successfully delivered 16 fetuses, average weight 14 lbs, in 30-45 minute intervals, after a 34-hour labor. The surrogate's abdomen showed extreme distension, with clear evidence of significant internal [REDACTED]. Full natural delivery was achieved, but the surrogate succumbed to irreversible [REDACTED] failure minutes after the final baby was delivered." - Dr. [REDACTED], Chief OBGYN, Paternity Compound 131

Vital Cessation Verification

Medical staff confirm the cessation of all vital signs immediately following delivery to ensure compliance with humane protocols. Time and cause of expiration are noted for record-keeping and research purposes.

Surrogate Decommissioning & Disposal

[REDACTED]

Note: As standard protocol, all personal items of Surrogate S131-279-P were recycled following his decommissioning, including the destruction of [REDACTED] paper letters addressed to a Mr. [REDACTED] Collazo.

Surrogate Output Metrics

Each surrogate’s performance is evaluated against pre-delivery projections. The Prenatal Division records key performance indicators for review, including total fetal weight, fetal viability, and gestational efficiency. Personal details related to the surrogate are then purged to save computer storage space and maintain confidentiality.

Key Metrics and Efficiency Goals

Average Per Surrogate: 8–14 Embryos

Delivery Survival Rate (Fetuses): [REDACTED]%

Surrogate Survival Rate: 0%

Cost per Surrogate: $[REDACTED]

This structured process ensures that surrogate output meets national population growth goals while maintaining operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

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

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[probablyasocialecologist]

The World Food Summit of 1996 approached food security through the principles of ensuring there is enough safe and nutritious food that can be accessed daily to meet healthy dietary needs and food preferences. By definition, this is a desirable and worthy goal. However, in the years since, food security has developed into a paradigm which does not question the underlying power dynamics and the reproduction of material conditions that make food insecurity a permanent feature of the global order. At its core, the food security paradigm deals only with access to food, without challenging the political and economic structures that determine and control access, as well as distribution.  By failing to address the root causes of hunger and famine, the food security paradigm makes it impossible to end hunger globally. Of course, many people worldwide possess food security, but this is restricted to increasingly limited geographic pockets. In terms of the people localised in one area, food vulnerability is influenced and determined by class, race, gender and, of course, citizenship status. Globally, “underdevelopment” and “de-development” lead to widespread food insecurity across areas. Another problem with the food security paradigm is that it is easily co-opted to generate partial answers that pose no threat to the corporate food system, or worse, that even open up new profit opportunities. Accelerated by other crises, the food security paradigm becomes ever more dependent on aid, be it through direct food delivery, cash transfers or small development projects that cannot compete with the food giants and their price-setting powers. In practice, a “science of food security” emerges, one which takes as its focus calories and the output that is compatible with precision agriculture having the aim to increase crop yields and to assist management decisions using high technology sensor and analysis tools. This model tends to be reliant on “Green Revolution” technologies that rely on chemical fertilisers and pesticides and that are tied to colonial projects and corporations, in order to optimise resources in aid response and/or development projects.  In this rationale, food insecurity can be addressed by reaching optimum yields of certain crops that should meet the demand for fats, fibres and protein. All of this is carefully managed and data-driven. Precision farming is advocated by the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) with the objective of optimising, “agricultural value chains […] critical in advancing food and nutrition sufficiency without increasing the size of land under cultivation.” The framing of food that reduces it only to “optimal input” relegates vital elements of food production and the culture of eating, like territory ownership, taste, heritage, care, well-being and connection as secondary. This reductionist approach has, though, proved useful to corporate agriculture, since it reinforces the case for genetically modified crops (GMOs), more efficient fertilisers, and the standardisation of food production for market purposes. Advocates of plant breeding technologies (including GMOs and hybrid seeds) argue that government overregulation is an obstacle to achieving food security. Overregulation, as the argument goes, denies populations the opportunity to grow crops that have increased nutrient use efficiency and are more resilient to climate shocks. 

[...]

The paradigm of food security is about optimising productivity. It’s true that productivity matters – after all, feeding the world requires enormous quantities of food. But if productivity is approached solely as a technological problem, it reinforces the tendency to fragment the quantitative and qualitative aspects of food production and consumption. On the quantitative side, production for food security is viewed as a challenge of multiplication. Whereas division, that is, distribution of food, is left to logistical planning. This ignores what Raj Patel identified in his influential 2007 book Stuffed and Starved, as the bottleneck of power that concentrates international food distribution among a small set of corporations. This bottleneck excludes the poor and small-scale food producers from decision-making. It also normalises worrying tendencies, such as an overreliance on industrial animal exploitation as a protein source, which has direct health implications, as well as longer term consequences like the proliferation of new viruses, greenhouse gas emissions and inefficient use of water and soil.

28 May 2024

[raccoonfallsharder]

First of all, i love your art. Your style is amazing.

We all know Rocket is amazing in repairing space ships (and even building them) but what about a normal Earth car?

i am BLUSHING. i feel like i don't really have a set style (at least when it comes to drawing rocket - i am still figuring it out) so this really means a LOT. you’re so sweet i could actually die, little fox. just a coin-sized blueberry pancake with whipped cream. thank you for the kind words ♡ truly ♡♡~

secondly, what about normal earth cars? ur boy rocket looks at any given machine and understands it almost instantaneously. the kree charted him within .024 points of optimum intuitive grasp. a puny little earth-car is gonna be child's play for him.

not that i would ever suggest letting him work on yours.

it'll be more or less safe (for you) because rocket does care about you and isn't trying to get you killed. and sure, if you let him do that oil change you've been needing, he'll probably make some sneaky upgrades that allow for a smoother ride and better mileage. but the next time you find yourself with a lead foot, you'll realize you can also go way faster than anything on terra should be able to go. and the next time you accidentally bump one of those buttons on the console you rarely use, you'll probably end up with laser rifles unfolding from your wheel-wells, or your taillights flipping down to ready your "brand new" plasma cannons. (brand new in the sense that rocket will probably patch them together out of some old tech he has lying around his own ship, combined with whatever he can steal out of your kitchen cabinets. don't be too surprised if that mixer you bought from the thrift store no longer works because he's jacked all the internal wiring). lucky you - he'll probably figure out a way to make your powertrain UNTN-compatible and from there, he'll figure he's only gotta get you to let him do one more tire rotation, and when he's "working" on that, he can probably figure out a way to get your car capable of actual flight. it might take a bit longer to make sure it has adequate life-support systems and an airtight seal for short-term space travel but hey, he'll figure he's doing you both a favor, piece by piece.

it'll take you a while to figure out where he's hidden all the artillery in your car - and the thrusters, and the additional fuel tanks - and how to keep yourself from accidentally opening up the wings he's installed when you're in the middle of rush-hour traffic or construction. more than once you'll scrape the bottom of your car before you realize that the clearance has changed because he'll have added some re-entry grade ceramic plating to the bottom of it.

"you got any repairs you need done?" he'll probably ask casually, the next time he's planetside. "thought you mentioned your climate control being out."

"air conditioner," you'll say dryly. "and no thanks."

his jaw will probably drop. he'll look wounded. "why not? i did a fine job on the brakes last time."

your eyes will narrow. "i keep getting pulled over by the fucken cops."

his nose will wrinkle. "ew. why?"

your glare will turn withering. "because they don't believe the thing i'm driving is roadworthy anymore," you'll have to tell him. he'll sputter, probably - outraged and insulted - but you won't really be too mad. you know he's just trying to maximize the amount of time the two of you can hang out.

besides, the upgrades he'll make to your sound system will be worth it. your music will never have sounded better.

headcanons & imagines masterlist

[terriwriting]

Possible locations for Gotham, Metropolis, & Smallville

A non-exhaustive list of places to put Gotham, Metropolis, or any other fictional city.

Notes:

Cities need reliable fresh water, transportation, and food.

Wonder Woman doesn't need a city. She already has Paradise Island.

Gotham

I'm more of a Superman fan, so my notes on Gotham are relatively short. Plus Metropolis comes in two variations, while Gotham just needs to be a city that is old enough to have old infrastructure and deep-rooted generational wealth.

Illinois/Indiana:

The Chicago-Gary area is the easiest place to put Gotham if you want to move it away from the East Coast. Hello Kitty Unpretty's Gotham is a Great Lakes city.

New Jersey:

The classic. There are two good places for a fictional city, but the one in the southern area of the state will be noticeably different from canon-Gotham.

The Camden-Rehoboth Bay corridor could be unified by an old canal system. Place Gotham one one end of the canal and Bluehaven (Bludhaven to cynical locals) on the other, according to your preference. Note that the Rehoboth Bay end is mostly mud and silt layered over more mud and silt, so you're probably better off placing Bludhaven here as a smaller city with few major towers. Either end will need extensive drainage (canals, storm drains, aqueducts, and reservoirs), so that's great for the crumbling infrastructure. Remember that if you place Gotham here, Batman's costume needs to be light, not armoured, or he'll be dead in a week from heat stroke.

The New Brunswick-Newark metropolitan area fits the climate we usually see in comics. Maybe throw in Staten Island as a little treat for New jersey.

In either case, the rest of the Justice League calls Batman Tony Soprano behind his back.

New York:

The NYC metro region with no city unification. Gotham is probably Manhattan, plus maybe Staten Island for rich people like Bruce.

Ohio:

A unified Cleveland-Akron-Canton metropolitan area with a higher population, maybe?

Rhode Island

My preferred headcanon: The Newport-Providence metropolitan area as a unified city. Bruce Wayne is old old money, some of the Wayne cousins were involved in the witch trials, and this fits the map published by Mayfair games.

Metropolis

Metropolis comes in two flavours: The more common one where Metropolis is a stand-in for an old East Coast US city, or; The Superman: TAS version where Metropolis is a new city, built under the influence of tech billionaire Lex Luthor. I like both.

If you like Clark and Lex as high school friends, that's not really compatible with a New Metro built by Lex Luthor. There's just not enough time for Lex to build anything more than a small suburb. But Lex could be manoeuvring to take control of Metropolis from his family, or from some other DCU billionaire like Simon Stagg.

Connecticut:

There are two good regions in Connecticut to place a fictional city: The Bridgeport-New Haven region, or; The area between the Connecticut River and Thames River.

The Bridgeport-New Haven version better fits the Old Metropolis version, but can also be used for the New Metro version. If you're going for Old Metro, in reality this area did industrialize before the NYC area (Which was dominated by shipping before it picked up light manufacturing), but the early industrialists didn't invest enough in the trade schools or financial institutions that would have let them keep that early advantage. Have a few mill owners and canal companies invest in engineering schools, have later industrial barons invest in office equipment manufacturing and chemical engineering, and you have your Old Metro. For your New Metro, genius tech billionaire Lex Luthor plants a few factories in the major population centres, buys up golf courses to turn them into company towns with inexpensive mid-density housing, and then uses his political and economic influence to pressure the municipalities to merge into his new Metropolis. This version of the New Metro will have more old architecture, but that's not a bad thing.

The Connecticut River-Thames River region fits either version. For an Old Metro, just have the area invest in trades and technical schools as with the Bridgeport-New Haven region. There are old whaling towns in this area so the region could move into shipbuilding, marine alloys engineering, and later railcars and elevators and escalators. This is an easy place to plant a fictional new city, with a low urban population and lots of farms, golf course, and camp/resort sites to buy out. An ambitious billionaire or group of wealthy investors could start a new urban centre with relative ease.

Delaware:

Most of the Delmarva region is mud. You're not going to build many skyscrapers here. But you could fit some in along the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal.

A Metropolis on the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal would probably be smaller than Metropolis is usually shown as, with maybe two million inhabitants instead of six-eight million. But this is comic books, so go with what feels right to your heart.

This works equally well for New or Old Metro.

New Jersey:

Have Bayonne & Newark industrialize early, deliver Staten Island unto New Jersey, invest heavily in education and financial institutions, unify Bayonne-Newark-Staten Island, and bada-bing bada-boom Lois Lane sounds like Carmela Soprano.

Staten Island isn't necessary, but you gotta put the fancy houses and big parks somewhere.

Works best with the Old Metro approach, but you could also have investors take over the urban area and push a lot of redevelopment.

New York:

There are a couple of good places in New York state for Metropolis.

For a New Metro, try the Chaumont Bay-Guffin Bay region. Access to rail, road, air, and sea shipping, and lots of tradespeople and professionals in nearby cities who are desperate for inexpensive housing.

For an Old Metro, you can't go wrong with a thinly-disguised NYC. Just file off the serial numbers, maybe some new rims, and drive it like you stole it.

Smallville

Generic East Coast:

If you're like me and prefer the feel of Bronze Age Smallville, you might want to keep Smallville as an East Coast town. This is easy. There's no reason for Smallville to be in the same state as Metropolis, so it can be anywhere from Maryland to Massachusetts. Towards the end of the Bronze Age it was generally described as vaguely New Jersey or Pennsylvania. East Coasters can entertain themselves imagining Clark Kent, MetU freshman, trying to order a pork roll and water ice in the Metropolis version of Eisenberg's Sandwich Shop.

Kansas:

The Flint Hills region matches modern continuity and the look of both the Smallville series and Bronze Age comics. Lawrence is a good model.

Special Mention: Susquehanna River

BludBluehaven: Great place for Nightwing to relocate to, regardless of where your Gotham is.

Gotham: Replaces Baltimore and/or Philadelphia as a rail and sea hub.

Metropolis: Great for the New Metro.

Opal City: Gotta go somewhere, and this matches the map DC published.

Smallville: Depends on what version you prefer.

What About The Teen Titans?

Fuck Marv Wolfman, that's what.

[hollyisanonymous]

sits on da floor... can u share some of the wof thoughts here that u told us earlier? it was good soop and we want to hoard more of them in our brain :]

WOF THOUGHTS YIPPEEEEEE

so here's various tribe biology headcanons for the wings of fire book series <3 my beloved hehe

(just the pyrrhia tribes for now!)

sandwings -

tend to be on the bigger size, built like a canid or a big cat. They have fairly long legs and they walk with their talons spread wide to distribute their weight more evenly on the sand

they often have darker scale patterns along their face, specifically under their eyes. it helps with the glare from the desert sun!

they have heat-pits in the front of their snout like a viper. they also have excellent night vision.

they tuck and curl their tail barbs as a courtesy thing. while an accidental nick wouldn't be immediately lethal for another adult dragon, it's not a fun experience to get stung.

they aren't exceptionally endothermic either; they are able to regulate their own body temperature more than strictly cold-blooded animals, but do struggle more in cold climates.

their bites are slightly venomous.

mudwings -

big guys. wide-stanced and built like a brick shithouse. they're fat and bulky and very very stout.

it's common for them to have tusks! they root around and forage in clay and mud deposits.

the most exothermic of all dragons. they aren't fully cold-blooded, but it is much harder for them to maintain their own body temperatures on their own

they sleep in big piles because of that fyi

they're built like crocodiles, bovines, and bears.

not super articulate digits or mobile forelimbs - they're built for robust sturdiness and that means their stance and gate is not super compatible with fine detail work. this kinda leads into the stereotype that mudwings are dumb - most of them can't write common script easily.

seawings -

fully aquatic at this point. they *can* exist terrestrially, but they are heavily adapted to the ocean.

short and stout, with low-set, streamlined bodies and short limbs.

their teeth are kind of like a seal's, but they have an additional row like sharks

they have the most trouble with rearing up and using their hands for things, since their legs are so short, so they use their tail to compensate (basically just leaning against or sitting on it)

primarily piscivores. sometimes they'll also grab a sea-bird or other small animal from the shore.

baby seawings actually can't breathe above water for the first month or so of their life. their lungs are very frail and cannot handle it.

extremely endothermic. they're like seals!

icewings -

actually fairly closely related to nightwings, but have a lot of similar adaptations as seawings because they're semi-aquatic!

they rattle their spine-rack on their neck as a threat display, but they can also use those thin spikes to make little songs!

eerily similar to nightwings in build. like boil them down and they're basically the same base creature.

actually endothermic - they need to be able to regulate their body temperature in such a way that their organs are able to function fully while maintaining a low enough internal temp that their frost-breath works. it's a very delicate balance, which is why you can drop scalding water or red-hot metal on an icewing's chest and neutralize their breath weapon for a short period of time.

they have very articulate digits on their hands

nightwings -

kinda like icewings but without the cool fun winter theming.

ambush predators, they're built like cats.

wider eyes, excellent night vision, but not particularly "expressive". they also have big, sensitive ears. nightwings are built for nocturnal life enitrely.

rainwings -

big ears and flappy frills - rainwings are very expressive, social creatures.

they're more exothermic. they need to take naps in the sun to feel Well.

infant rainwings struggle with color-changing, often picking specific colors that they linger on. they also don't have as much control over it as an adult

their fangs protrude outwards like a spitting cobra. even when the mouth is closed, it's common for rainwings to have their fangs poke out of their lips

it's a massive compliment to "copy" the colors of someone you love. they do this as a bonding thing, but close friends, family and lovers will often incorporate each other's colors into their resting palette.

all rainwings have their own "default" colors that they're genetically disposed to, but they often also choose some of their own as an adult.

rainwings are very closely related to skywings.

skywings -

often use their wings to walk around and balance on (like pterosaurs)

they are the most endothermic of all of them.

built for long-distance soaring and diving; skywings have huge wingspans, long tails, and strong chest and shoulders to connect their wing muscles.

they have articulate talons and long limbs

they trill and chirp like birds

they have long, feathery ears.

they have fantastic eyesight. arguably the best of all tribes.

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

The Role of Equity in Climate Justice in Brazil

A look at innovations taking root in Brazil that preserve endangered ecosystems while fostering socioeconomic equity.

“We realized that in order to guarantee the future of the Amazon we had to find a way to preserve the forest while at the same time developing the region’s economy. … We accepted that the Amazon could not be turned into some kind of sanctuary that nobody could touch. On the other hand, we knew it was important to stop the deforestation that is threatening the Amazon and all human life on the planet. We felt our alternative should involve preserving the forest, but it should also include a plan to develop the economy.”

This perspective may sound modern, but the rubber tapper, union leader, and environmental and agrarian activist Chico Mendes said these words more than 35 years ago in an interview with environmentalist Tony Gross. Documented in the book Fight for the Forest: Chico Mendes in His Own Words, the 1988 interview would be his last. Weeks later, land grabbers and cattle ranchers in Acre’s Xapuri area ordered him to be killed.

Mendes died having attained international recognition, including the United Nations’ Global 500 Award and the Better World Society Environment Award. A visionary, he organized the fight for sustainable, inclusive exploration of the Amazon rainforest and inspired generations of environmental activists throughout the Global South.

The basic tenet of his thinking—that socioeconomic equity is the political core of the fight for environmental justice—can guide us today in assessing effective, transformative actions that address climate-related challenges. The equitable allocation of burdens and benefits must underpin the fight for environmental justice, including local solutions (like creating extraction reserves in Xapuri) and global ones (like establishing carbon emission controls).

If we want to find solutions to the unique climate challenge facing our generation, the lessons of Chico Mendes and, in particular, the central role of equity, can serve as a reference for evaluating effective and transformative actions. Mendes’ ideas and the current theory of climate justice highlight three distinct but equally important dimensions of this struggle: the existence of differentiated intergenerational responsibilities, the recognition of global justice obligations, and respect for the right of local populations to participate. Carefully considering these aspects and the potential consequences of ignoring them is essential to developing compatible interventions.

Continue reading.

[shopaholicsrus]

Discover the latest in smart home technology with these must-have gadgets for 2025!

From voice assistants to cutting-edge air purifiers, we’ve rounded up the most popular smart home devices available on Amazon to transform your living space into a futuristic haven.

1. Amazon Echo (4th Gen)

The ultimate smart home hub, the Amazon Echo integrates seamlessly with Alexa for effortless voice control of smart devices. Its enhanced sound quality makes it perfect for streaming music or controlling your smart home setup.

2. Google Nest Hub Max

A powerful combination of a smart display and voice assistant, the Google Nest Hub Max lets you control smart devices, stream videos, and make video calls—all from one sleek touchscreen interface.

3. Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium

Efficiently manage your home’s climate with the Ecobee Smart Thermostat. With built-in Alexa and Siri compatibility, this device also monitors air quality for a healthier living environment.

4. Philips Hue Smart Bulbs

Set the mood with Philips Hue Smart Bulbs, offering millions of colors and compatibility with popular smart home platforms. These bulbs are a game-changer for lighting personalization.

5. Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (2nd Gen)

Enhance home security with the Arlo Video Doorbell, which delivers crystal-clear footage, a wide field of view, and two-way audio. Stay connected and safe wherever you are.

6. TP-Link Tapo Smart Plug Mini

Control your appliances remotely and track energy consumption with the compact and energy-efficient TP-Link Tapo Smart Plug Mini. Perfect for a greener lifestyle!

7. Google Nest Wifi Pro

Keep all your smart devices connected with the Google Nest Wifi Pro. This advanced mesh Wi-Fi system delivers lightning-fast internet across every corner of your home.

8. Roborock S8+ Robot Vacuum and Mop

Simplify your cleaning routine with the Roborock S8+, a powerful two-in-one device featuring advanced navigation, self-emptying functionality, and mopping capabilities.

9. Furbo Dog Camera

Keep tabs on your furry friend with the Furbo Dog Camera. This pet-friendly gadget lets you monitor, talk to, and treat your pet remotely for ultimate peace of mind.

10. Molekule Air Mini+ Air Purifier

Breathe easier with the Molekule Air Mini+. This compact purifier uses advanced technology to remove allergens and pollutants, making it perfect for creating a healthier indoor environment.

Why These Smart Devices Are Trending in 2025

Consumers are prioritizing smart home gadgets that enhance convenience, improve energy efficiency, and provide robust security. These devices integrate seamlessly with existing smart ecosystems, making them essential for tech-savvy homeowners.

Shop these trending smart home devices today on Amazon and upgrade your home to a smarter, more connected future.

[sataniccapitalist]

Nomad Century: How Climate Migration Will Reshape Our World: Author Gaia Vince

mayhem

Nomad Century: How Climate Migration Will Reshape Our World: Author Gaia Vince

I just finished reading this excellent book on climate migration, and thought a book review via video was a good idea.

The book has been on my bookshelf for a couple of years, and reading it was long overdue.

The premise is that as global average temperatures rise, we can expect the number of climate change migrants to increase about 1 billion people per degrees Celsius temperature rise. That would be 3.5 billion people by 2100, according to the author, with a temperature rise between 3 and 4 degrees C.

Absurd? Crazy number of people, isn’t it?

The book argues that even today, we are seeing climate migrants. Of course this is never mentioned in political and mainstream discourse on migrants. Large numbers of people are on the move from rural areas to cities, and other internal national moves will only get larger, as well as migrations between countries, unless walls and strict border controls keep them out of certain countries.

The argument of the book is that climate change will make vast regions of the planet uninhabitable, especially the tropics and Global South regions. People there will need to migrate, mostly northwards to cooler regions compatible to life.

How will we deal with this?

[caraudioexpertaustralia0]

Headunit With Carplay For HYUNDAI TUCSON LOW | 2015 | 9INCH, RHD

[theblackbookofarkera]

Fountain of All Gods

In the heart of Shan Ki'hi, where the city's major thoroughfares converge like spokes of a great wheel, stands the Fountain of All Gods – a monument to divine harmony that draws pilgrims from every corner of Arkera. Unlike the imposing Temple of the Thirteen Emperors or the austere shrines of the Yazai faith, this remarkable fountain serves as a testament to the Tauxien Empire's pragmatic approach to spiritual matters, acknowledging that divine truth may flow through many channels.

The fountain rises from a circular plaza of polished black stone, its massive basin crafted from a single piece of jade so dark it appears almost midnight blue in shadow. The central column splits into thirteen primary waterfalls – a number sacred to the Imperial cult – but these in turn divide into countless smaller streams, symbolizing the branching paths of faith that all eventually return to a single source.

Hundreds of niches and alcoves are carved into the fountain's various tiers, each designed to hold offerings to different deities. Some spaces remain perpetually dry despite the cascading waters, while others seem to attract more than their share of spray, creating natural shrines suited to various divine preferences. The water itself is said to never grow stagnant or foul, though none have ever witnessed it being cleaned or maintained.

The Fountain serves as a spiritual crossroads where merchants, diplomats, and pilgrims from across Arkera can honor their gods without fear of persecution or judgment. Visitors are encouraged to leave tokens of their faith – small statues, written prayers, sacred symbols, or traditional offerings specific to their beliefs. These offerings create a constantly evolving tapestry of world religion, with new artifacts appearing and old ones mysteriously vanishing to make room for fresh devotions.

"All rivers flow to the sea, all prayers rise to heaven, all gods know their own." - Common saying among the fountain's caretakers

Those who tend to the fountain speak of curious occurrences that defy explanation. Offerings to water deities sometimes vanish in mid-air before touching the water's surface. Tokens to rival gods occasionally swap positions overnight, while offerings to compatible deities may merge into single objects that incorporate aspects of both faiths. During particularly auspicious astronomical alignments, the water has been known to flow upward or change color to match the sky.

Beyond its spiritual importance, the Fountain of All Gods serves as a powerful political symbol of the Tauxien Empire's religious tolerance – or, as some critics whisper, its clever method of monitoring and controlling foreign faiths within its borders. The Imperial bureaucracy maintains detailed records of every offering left at the fountain, using this information to gauge the religious currents flowing through the empire.

Under Emperor Song Haow's rule, the fountain has taken on renewed significance. While still welcoming to all faiths, subtle changes in the fountain's administration suggest a shift toward greater Imperial oversight of religious practices. New regulations require all offerings to be registered with the Bureau of Divine Harmony, and certain alcoves have been permanently reserved for state-approved cults.

Notes from my observations:

In my countless visits to this remarkable monument, I have noticed patterns that suggest more than mere coincidence. The water's flow seems to respond to the empire's political climate – running clear and strong in times of stability, becoming turbulent during periods of unrest. More curious still are the occasions when I have observed the same offering simultaneously present in multiple niches, each version slightly different, as if reflecting alternate possibilities of the same devotional act.

The Fountain's waters hold memories of every prayer whispered at its edges, every tear shed in its shadows, every hope cast into its depths. Whether these accumulating devotions strengthen or dilute each other's power remains a matter of theological debate among the various faiths that gather here. Some claim the fountain serves as a cosmic filter, distilling pure faith from the mixture of beliefs poured into it. Others warn it is slowly blending all religions into a homogeneous spiritual current that will eventually wash away the distinct features of individual faiths.

What cannot be denied is the fountain's role as a mirror of Arkera's spiritual complexity. In its waters, one might glimpse reflections of gods both known and forgotten, or catch echoes of prayers spoken in languages long dead. Whether this represents divine harmony or spiritual dilution likely depends on which god one asks – assuming, of course, that any god still listens through the cacophony of mingled faiths.

[darkmaga-returns]

Is California’s push to phase out diesel Recreational Vehicles yet another control tactic masquerading as climate policy? Conveniently, as with so many other policies, it's both.

Nov 26, 2024

End-of-year ‘blowouts’, Black Friday sales, ‘last year’s models,’ and all manner of rebates and promotions exist to lure prospective road warriors into the showrooms of RV dealers. However, if you've been considering a new diesel motorhome as a hedge against society’s imminent collapse, you might be in for an unwelcome surprise — particularly if you live in California, Oregon, Washington, New York, Massachusetts, or Maryland.

New regulations, set to take effect in 2025, will effectively bar the sales of new diesel motorhomes as part of the push to phase out gas and diesel engines in favor of electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.

As Citizen Watch Report recently noted:

California’s Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) regulations require manufacturers of medium and heavy-duty vehicles, including RVs, to achieve 35% sales of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). The problem? A ZEV-compatible RV chassis doesn’t yet exist. This rule forces dealerships to comply or risk losing the ability to sell motorhomes entirely.

[arjunvib]

How does an engine contribute to a car's powertrain?

The powertrain in a vehicle is the system responsible for generating power and delivering it to the wheels to propel the vehicle forward. The operation of a powertrain can vary depending on whether the vehicle is powered by an internal combustion engine (ICE) or an electric motor (in the case of electric vehicles). Here's a general overview of how a powertrain works in both types of vehicles:

Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Vehicle - Combustion Process: In an ICE vehicle, the powertrain starts with the combustion process in the engine. Fuel (gasoline or diesel) mixes with air in the combustion chamber and is ignited by spark plugs (in gasoline engines) or compression (in diesel engines).

Power Generation: The combustion process generates energy in the form of mechanical power, causing pistons to move up and down within the cylinders of the engine. This motion drives the crankshaft, converting linear motion into rotational motion.

Transmission: The rotational motion from the crankshaft is transmitted to the transmission, which consists of gears that allow the driver to select different ratios (speeds). This enables the engine to operate efficiently across a range of vehicle speeds.

Drivetrain: The transmission sends power to the drivetrain components, including the driveshaft, differential, and axles, which transfer power to the wheels. The differential allows the wheels to rotate at different speeds, enabling smooth turns.

Wheel Movement: The power transmitted through the drivetrain causes the wheels to rotate, propelling the vehicle forward or backward depending on the gear selection and throttle input from the driver.

Electric Vehicle (EV) -

Battery Pack: The primary source of power for the EV, storing electricity in chemical form.Powers the electric motor and provides electricity for all electronic devices within the EV.

Battery Management System (BMS): Monitors battery cell conditions, including voltage, current, temperature, and state of charge (SoC).It protects the battery against overcharging, deep discharging, and overheating and helps balance the charge across cells. Ensures optimal performance and longevity of the battery by regulating its environment.

Inverter: Converts DC from the battery pack into AC to drive the electric motor.Adjusts the frequency and amplitude of the AC output to control the motor’s speed and torque. Critical for translating electrical energy into mechanical energy efficiently.

Onboard Charger: Facilitates the conversion of external AC (from the grid) to DC to charge the battery pack. Integrated within the vehicle, allowing for charging from standard electrical outlets or specialized EV charging stations. Manages charging rate based on battery status to ensure safe and efficient charging.

DC-DC Converter: Steps down the high-voltage DC from the battery pack to the lower-voltage DC needed for the vehicle's auxiliary systems, such as lighting, infotainment, and climate control. Ensures compatibility between the high-voltage battery system and low-voltage electronic components.

Electric Motor: Converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to propel the vehicle. It can be of various types, such as induction motors or permanent magnet synchronous motors, each offering different efficiencies and characteristics. Typically provides instant torque, resulting in rapid acceleration.

Vehicle Control Unit (VCU): The central computer or electronic control unit (ECU) that governs the EV's systems. Processes inputs from the vehicle’s sensors and driver inputs to manage power delivery, regenerative braking, and vehicle dynamics. Ensures optimal performance, energy efficiency, and safety.

Power Distribution Unit (PDU): Manages electrical power distribution from the battery to the EV’s various systems. Ensures that components such as the electric motor, onboard charger, and DC-DC converter receive the power they need to operate efficiently. Protects the vehicle's electrical systems by regulating current flow and preventing electrical faults.

In both ICE vehicles and EVs, the powertrain's components work together to convert energy into motion, enabling the vehicle to move efficiently and effectively. However, the specific technologies and processes involved differ significantly between the two propulsion systems.

[loneberry]

The new route Russia is using to export its oil to China. Unfortunately global warming and the melting of the icecaps only benefits Russia geopolitically. What’s the big deal? you might wonder. A 10-day reduction in transport time is huge when it comes to the velocity of capital. Power accrues to the nations that control key maritime trade routes.

*

Between climate change and the new Cold War, the future doesn’t look pretty. China’s economy is imploding thanks to their reliance on a debt-fueled real estate bonanza, their misguided zero COVID policy, and Xi Jinping’s head-scratchingly bad policies (and of course, his consolidation of power). Siding with Russia was a huge mistake… Now China’s biggest export markets are trying to decouple or at least diversify away from them. Youth unemployment is so bad in China (21%, but possibly significantly higher) that the government has decided to stop publishing such data. The Philippines and Vietnam are pivoting toward the US. South Korea and Japan are putting their long, historical feud aside to join forces against China. Japanese military neutrality is over. Meanwhile a tiny island called Taiwan makes over 92% of the world’s advanced semiconductors and will likely be invaded in our lifetime. Will an (economically) weakened China make it more or less likely that Xi will invade Taiwan? (Strongmen facing a domestic crisis and loss of popular support do often start wars as a kind of “gamble for resurrection,” but Xi might have become more risk adverse as he observes Russia’s debacle in Ukraine. Plus, an amphibious invasion is logistically extremely difficult to pull off.)

Defense spending worldwide is skyrocketing, climbing back toward Cold War levels. The lines on the map are hardening, particularly in the Asian/Pacific theater and the European theater. A nuclear trifecta of Russia-China-North Korea is emerging. Yes, it is a marriage of convenience, but quite a dangerous one given that Russia will likely transfer technology (specifically, platforms to deliver nuclear warheads) to North Korea in exchange for Soviet-compatible ammunition/arms to use in Ukraine. I hate feeling like the world is a frog getting boiled but as I finish this 26-part BBC documentary on World War I, I can’t help but feel that the geopolitical situation is very unstable.

Oh, the madness of nation states! Wake me up when it’s over.

[russie999]

Exploring Entertainment and Connectivity Features in Luxury Cars

Luxury cars are not just about high-end performance and exquisite design; they also offer cutting-edge entertainment and connectivity features that elevate the driving experience to a whole new level. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of entertainment, reliable car transport guide and connectivity in luxury cars, exploring the innovative technologies and features that set them apart.

Infotainment Systems

Multimedia Entertainment: Luxury cars often boast advanced multimedia systems that offer a range of entertainment options, including high-definition displays, premium audio systems, and compatibility with various media sources such as Bluetooth, USB, and streaming services.

Navigation: Integrated navigation systems with real-time traffic updates and intuitive interfaces make getting to your destination a seamless experience, adding convenience and peace of mind to your journey.

Voice Control: State-of-the-art voice control systems allow drivers to interact with the infotainment system using natural language, enabling hands-free operation for various functions, from adjusting the climate control to selecting music.

Connectivity Features

Wireless Connectivity: Luxury cars are equipped with advanced connectivity features such as wireless smartphone integration, enabling seamless pairing with mobile devices for hands-free calling, music streaming, and access to various apps and car carrier services.

In-Car Wi-Fi: Many luxury vehicles offer in-car Wi-Fi hotspots, allowing passengers to stay connected on the go, whether for work or leisure, creating a truly connected environment within the vehicle.

Smartphone Apps Integration: Integration with smartphone apps goes beyond basic connectivity, offering enhanced features such as remote vehicle control, vehicle status monitoring, and even concierge services, providing unparalleled convenience and luxury.

Entertainment for Rear Passengers

Rear Seat Entertainment: Luxury cars often feature rear seat entertainment systems, including individual multimedia screens, premium audio options, and even connectivity for external devices, ensuring that rear passengers can enjoy a personalized entertainment experience.

Luxury Audio Systems: Premium luxury cars are equipped with high-fidelity audio systems from renowned brands, delivering an immersive listening experience throughout the cabin, setting the stage for a truly captivating journey. The entertainment and connectivity features found in luxury cars redefine the driving experience, offering a harmonious blend of advanced technology, convenience, and luxury.

From state-of-the-art infotainment systems to seamless connectivity options and tailored entertainment for all occupants, luxury cars set the standard for a truly connected and entertaining journey. Whether you're behind the wheel or enjoying the ride as a passenger, the full details in this reliable website contribute to an unparalleled driving experience that transcends the ordinary.