#Marking Scheme 20-2021

[awesome-casuallyfamouscollector]

Across the U.S. South, nearly five million households face a high or severe energy burden. Low-income residents are hit hardest, with many paying as much as 20 percent of their household income on energy. Against that backdrop, powerful monopolizing utilities in the region created an energy trading market in 2021 that favored their expensive, carbon-intensive resources over the clean energy produced by independent generators. A federal court ruled last month that the scheme may have been approved in violation of rules that were meant to prevent utilities from wielding monopoly power(..)

P.S. By the way, fossil fuel monopolists not only sell overpriced fuel and overpriced electricity, but also intensively spread Kremlin-fabricated political disinformation and fake news about renewable energy sources, as well as actively inhibit the development of electric car technology...

[fayezmahmud]

The campaign of Donald Trump generates over $7 million through the sale of merchandise featuring his mugshot.

The campaign of former President Donald Trump has reported raising over $7 million in funds following his booking at the Fulton County Jail in Atlanta, Georgia. He faces charges related to an alleged scheme to overturn the 2020 election results in the state.

After his mugshot was taken on Thursday, marking the first instance of a former president undergoing such a process in US history, Trump's campaign saw a surge in donations. Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for Trump, shared on the platform X (formerly Twitter) that the former president garnered millions in contributions.

A notable highlight was Friday, during which Trump's campaign collected $4.18 million, making it the most financially successful day for his campaign so far, as stated by Cheung.

This impressive fundraising demonstrates that Trump's legal challenges have paradoxically boosted financial support for his campaign. This financial windfall has persisted despite substantial expenditures by his political operation on legal defenses.

Furthermore, Trump's legal issues have not significantly impacted his popularity within the Republican presidential primary race. In polls, he consistently maintains a substantial lead of 30 to 50 points over his competitors.

While Trump described his recent experience as "terrible" and expressed discomfort with posing for the historic mugshot, his campaign promptly seized upon the event's fundraising potential. Even before his return to New Jersey, his campaign began using the incident to solicit donations from supporters.

Swiftly, the campaign launched a range of merchandise featuring the mugshot image, including T-shirts, shot glasses, mugs, bumper stickers, signed posters, and bobblehead dolls. The image captured Trump with his trademark red tie, signature hairstyle, and a stern expression.

Trump, who won the presidency in 2016 but lost to Democrat Joe Biden in 2020, is actively pursuing the Republican Party's nomination for the next presidential election.

Over the past three weeks, Trump has raised nearly $20 million, a timeframe coinciding with his indictment in federal and state cases related to his unsubstantiated claims of election fraud in 2020. Notably, his supporters stormed the US Capitol in January 2021 in an attempt to overturn his election loss.

Simultaneously, Trump's political operation has expended tens of millions of dollars on legal fees, as he faces charges across four different jurisdictions. According to recent campaign finance reports, while Trump amassed more than $53 million in the first half of 2023—fueled by rallying cries stemming from his initial criminal indictments—his political entities have paid out at least $59.2 million to around 100 legal professionals and law firms since January 2021.

aljazeera news desk

[powerpulsemag]

DoorDash Driver Admits Role in $2.5 Million Fake Delivery Scheme

San Francisco, CA - A former DoorDash driver has pleaded guilty to his involvement in a sophisticated scheme that defrauded the food delivery giant out of more than $2.5 million. Sayee Chaitanya Reddy Devagiri admitted in federal court to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, detailing how he and others exploited vulnerabilities in DoorDash's system to generate payments for deliveries that never actually occurred.

According to court documents, Devagiri and his co-conspirators created numerous fake customer and driver accounts. They then used these fraudulent customer accounts to place expensive food orders. Leveraging illegally obtained employee login credentials, they accessed DoorDash's internal systems to reassign these orders to the fake driver accounts under their control. The final step involved falsely marking these phantom deliveries as completed, triggering payment from DoorDash to the fraudulent driver accounts.

Prosecutors stated that this process, which took mere minutes per order, was repeated hundreds of times between 2020 and 2021, resulting in losses exceeding $2.5 million for DoorDash. The scheme was ultimately uncovered by DoorDash in 2021, leading to a federal investigation.

Devagiri is the third defendant to plead guilty in connection with this elaborate fraud. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. This case highlights the increasing challenges faced by gig economy companies in combating fraudulent activities and the potential for significant financial losses when internal systems are compromised. DoorDash has stated that they have since implemented stronger safeguards to prevent similar schemes in the future.

[news365timesindia]

[ad_1] Bhopal: Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said the Narendra Modi government has brought transformative reforms to revive India’s ailing cooperative sector, calling the current time a “golden opportunity” for Madhya Pradesh to strengthen cooperatives and empower farmers. Addressing the State Level Cooperative Conference in Bhopal as the Chief Guest, Shah emphasized that the cooperative movement had long stagnated due to outdated laws and lack of central initiative. However, the creation of the Ministry of Cooperation by PM Modi in 2021 marked a historic turning point. “Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the cooperative sector is now moving rapidly toward prosperity. The opposition left the sector in ruins, but this is a golden opportunity to revive and rebuild it in Madhya Pradesh,” Shah asserted. He announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and the Madhya Pradesh Cooperative Dairy Federation (MPCDF), which aims to increase the participation of cooperative dairy societies in milk production and expand their footprint to every village. Currently, only 2.5% of Madhya Pradesh’s surplus milk reaches cooperative dairies, and just 17% of villages have a milk collection system. The MoU envisions coverage of 83% of villages, enhancing processing capacity and ensuring higher returns for farmers. “Cooperatives are no longer limited to short-term credit. Today, PACS are offering over 20 services—ranging from Jan Aushadhi Kendras to gas distribution and common service centers,” he said. “Computerization of PACS across India has brought transparency and accessibility.” He further highlighted that Madhya Pradesh leads the country in PACS computerization, with services now available in 13 languages. PACS in MP are now connected digitally with District Cooperative Banks and NABARD, and offer government schemes, bill payments, and more—right from the village level. Amit Shah also pointed to the formation of three national-level multi-state cooperatives under the Modi government—National Cooperative Export Limited (NCEL), National Cooperative Organic Limited (NCOL), and Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL)—which provide farmers with access to global markets, fair prices, and direct income transfers. He urged the Madhya Pradesh Cooperative Dairy Federation to focus on branding, quality control, and timely payments, stating that both the NDDB and National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) are ready to support financially if required. Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, State Cooperation Minister Vishwas Sarang, and Cooperation Secretary Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani were present at the event. Shah concluded by saying that the collaborative efforts of the Centre and the MP government would ensure prosperity for farmers, transforming cooperative societies into engines of rural growth. The post Cooperative Sector Revival a Golden Opportunity for MP Farmers: Amit Shah appeared first on Global Governance News- Asia's First Bilingual News portal for Global News and Updates. [ad_2] Source link

[news365times]

[ad_1] Bhopal: Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said the Narendra Modi government has brought transformative reforms to revive India’s ailing cooperative sector, calling the current time a “golden opportunity” for Madhya Pradesh to strengthen cooperatives and empower farmers. Addressing the State Level Cooperative Conference in Bhopal as the Chief Guest, Shah emphasized that the cooperative movement had long stagnated due to outdated laws and lack of central initiative. However, the creation of the Ministry of Cooperation by PM Modi in 2021 marked a historic turning point. “Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the cooperative sector is now moving rapidly toward prosperity. The opposition left the sector in ruins, but this is a golden opportunity to revive and rebuild it in Madhya Pradesh,” Shah asserted. He announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and the Madhya Pradesh Cooperative Dairy Federation (MPCDF), which aims to increase the participation of cooperative dairy societies in milk production and expand their footprint to every village. Currently, only 2.5% of Madhya Pradesh’s surplus milk reaches cooperative dairies, and just 17% of villages have a milk collection system. The MoU envisions coverage of 83% of villages, enhancing processing capacity and ensuring higher returns for farmers. “Cooperatives are no longer limited to short-term credit. Today, PACS are offering over 20 services—ranging from Jan Aushadhi Kendras to gas distribution and common service centers,” he said. “Computerization of PACS across India has brought transparency and accessibility.” He further highlighted that Madhya Pradesh leads the country in PACS computerization, with services now available in 13 languages. PACS in MP are now connected digitally with District Cooperative Banks and NABARD, and offer government schemes, bill payments, and more—right from the village level. Amit Shah also pointed to the formation of three national-level multi-state cooperatives under the Modi government—National Cooperative Export Limited (NCEL), National Cooperative Organic Limited (NCOL), and Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL)—which provide farmers with access to global markets, fair prices, and direct income transfers. He urged the Madhya Pradesh Cooperative Dairy Federation to focus on branding, quality control, and timely payments, stating that both the NDDB and National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) are ready to support financially if required. Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, State Cooperation Minister Vishwas Sarang, and Cooperation Secretary Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani were present at the event. Shah concluded by saying that the collaborative efforts of the Centre and the MP government would ensure prosperity for farmers, transforming cooperative societies into engines of rural growth. The post Cooperative Sector Revival a Golden Opportunity for MP Farmers: Amit Shah appeared first on Global Governance News- Asia's First Bilingual News portal for Global News and Updates. [ad_2] Source link

[integratedpucollegesinbangal]

The Countdown Begins: Are You Ready for JEE MAIN 2025?

The countdown to JEE MAIN 2025 has officially begun! With the exam set to start on January 22, the race is on for engineering aspirants across the nation to secure their spot in prestigious institutions like the IITs, NITs, and IIITs. 

The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE MAIN), conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), is renowned as one of the toughest and most competitive exams in the country. Every year, it tests not just a student’s academic knowledge but also their strategy, time management, and perseverance. 

If you’re reading this, you’ve probably already started preparing. That’s great! The earlier you begin, the better your chances of mastering concepts, refining problem-solving techniques, and gaining the confidence to perform well on the big day.    JEE (Main) - 2025 Session-1 Examination Schedule and Syllabus.   

Date of Exam 

Paper 

Shift 

22, 23, 24, 28 and 29 January 2025 

Paper 1 (B.E./B. Tech) 

First shift (09:00 A.M. to 12:00 Noon) and Second Shift (03:00 P.M. to 06:00 P.M. 

30 January 2025 

Paper 2A (B. Arch), Paper 2B (B. Planning) and Paper 2A & 2B (B. Arch & B. Planning both) 

Second Shift (03:00 P.M. to 06:30 P.M.) 

  The syllabus for JEE MAIN includes three major subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech). For Papers 2A and 2B, it includes Mathematics, Aptitude, Drawing, and Planning Concepts. 

For detailed topic-wise information, click here.   

Key Changes and Updates in JEE Main 2025  JEE Main 2025 brings some significant updates that every aspirant should know. These changes reflect a shift back to pre-pandemic norms and some structural adjustments. Let’s dive into the most notable ones: 

No More Optional Questions in Section B  The option to choose numerical value questions has been removed. Candidates will now be required to attempt all five numerical value questions in Section B for each subject, reinstating the pre-2021 exam pattern. 

Revised Tie-Breaking Rules   If two or more candidates have the same score, the tie-breaking rules will prioritise those with higher marks in Mathematics, then Physics, and finally Chemistry. If the tie remains, the candidate with a lower ratio of incorrect to correct answers will be given preference. 

No Age Limit  One of the most significant changes is the removal of the age limit. Any candidate meeting the educational qualifications is now eligible to apply, irrespective of their age. 

Fewer Exam Centres  The number of domestic exam cities has been reduced to 284 (from 300), with international centres also seeing a decline. Candidates should carefully select their exam centre during the registration process. 

Negative Marking for Numerical Value Questions  Precision matters even more now as negative marking has been introduced for numerical value questions. One mark will be deducted for incorrect answers, aligning them with the multiple-choice marking scheme 

  JEE Main 2025 Exam Pattern 

The JEE Main 2025 will follow a structured pattern designed to evaluate the candidates' understanding of key concepts in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Below are the important details of the exam pattern: 

Mode of Examination:  JEE Main 2025 will be conducted in online mode (Computer-Based Test) for all subjects. However, the drawing section, if applicable, will be in offline mode for B.Arch candidates. 

Exam Structure:  The exam will consist of two papers: 

Paper 1: For B.Tech/B.E. aspirants (3-hour duration) 

Sections: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics 

Type of Questions: Objective type questions (Multiple Choice Questions - MCQs and Numerical Value Type) 

Total Marks: 300 (Each subject contains 100 marks) 

Paper 2: For B.Arch aspirants (3-hour duration) 

Sections: Mathematics, Aptitude Test, Drawing Test 

Type of Questions: MCQs, Numerical Value Type questions (Mathematics), and a Drawing Test 

Total Marks: 400 

Number of Questions: 

Paper 1: 

Physics: 20 MCQs + 5 Numerical Value Type Questions 

Chemistry: 20 MCQs + 5 Numerical Value Type Questions 

Mathematics: 20 MCQs + 5 Numerical Value Type Questions 

Paper 2: 

Mathematics: 20 MCQs + 5 Numerical Value Type Questions 

Aptitude Test: 50 Questions (MCQs) 

Drawing Test: 2 questions (subjective) 

Marking Scheme: 

For MCQs: 4 marks for each correct answer, and 1 mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer. 

For Numerical Value Questions: 4 marks for each correct answer, with no negative marking. 

Duration of Examination: 

Paper 1: 3 hours 

Paper 2: 3 hours (2 hours for Mathematics and Aptitude Test; 1 hour for Drawing Test) 

Languages Available:  The exam will be available in English, Hindi, and other regional languages, depending on the location of the candidate. 

Preparation Tips for JEE Main 2025 

Understand the Syllabus: Know the topics for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. This helps you focus on important areas and manage your time effectively. 

Create a Study Plan: Build a realistic timetable. Divide your time according to topic difficulty and be consistent in revising previous topics. 

Strengthen Core Concepts: Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorising. Clear basics are essential for solving advanced problems. 

Regular Revision: Revise weekly to ensure the concepts are fresh in your mind. Make revision a habit, especially for tougher subjects. 

Focus on High-Weightage Topics: Concentrate on key chapters like Mechanics, Organic Chemistry, Algebra, and Calculus, which carry higher marks. 

Take Mock Tests & Practice Previous Papers: Practice under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy. Regularly evaluate your performance to identify weak areas. 

Time Management: Learn to pace yourself during the exam. Attempt easier questions first and don’t dwell too long on difficult ones. 

Develop Problem-Solving Skills: Sharpen your analytical thinking with varied problem sets and practice regularly. 

Stay Healthy: Eat well, exercise, and ensure you get enough rest. Mental clarity is essential for good performance. 

When JEE Main 2025 is around the corner, it's crucial to stay focused and organized. Strengthen your foundation, practice regularly, and manage your time well to improve speed and accuracy. At Knowledge Plant Academy, we provide the tools and guidance you need to excel in your preparation. Keep a positive mindset, stay healthy, and be consistent, then success will follow. Good luck with your journey! 

[dubaiseocompanyuae]

Understanding Google Algorithm Updates: A Complete History

Google Algorithm Updates are changes made to the Google ranking algorithm to improve how search results are generated. These updates help Google provide users with more relevant and high-quality results. As the internet evolves, Google continuously modifies its algorithms to ensure that the most useful and trustworthy content appears at the top of search results. Staying updated with these changes is crucial for anyone involved in SEO and digital marketing.

Google Algorithm Updates Released

Over the years, Google has released numerous updates to its Google ranking algorithm. Each update can significantly impact website rankings and visibility in search results. Being aware of these updates allows website owners to adjust their SEO strategies accordingly and maintain their search rankings.

List of Google Algorithm Updates

Florida Update - Nov 16, 2003 The Florida Update was one of the first major updates to the Google ranking algorithm. It targeted websites using spammy techniques like keyword stuffing. This update marked a shift towards prioritizing quality content over manipulative practices, leading to more relevant search results.

Panda Update - Feb 24, 2011 The Panda Update focused on content quality, penalizing sites with thin or duplicate content. This update aimed to encourage the creation of valuable and original content, impacting many sites in the Google ranking algorithm. Websites that provided high-quality content benefited, while those with poor content saw drops in rankings.

Penguin Update - Apr 24, 2012 The Penguin Update aimed to address link schemes and spammy backlinks. It penalized websites using unethical link-building tactics, emphasizing the importance of acquiring high-quality, relevant backlinks as part of the Google ranking algorithm. This update reshaped how SEO professionals approached link building.

Hummingbird Update - Aug 20, 2013 The Hummingbird Update introduced a new algorithm designed to improve Google’s understanding of user intent. It focused on semantic search, helping users find more relevant results by considering the context of queries. This update significantly changed how the Google ranking algorithm processed complex queries.

Mobilegeddon - Apr 21, 2015 With the growing use of mobile devices, Mobilegeddon prioritized mobile-friendly websites in search results. Websites that were not optimized for mobile saw drops in their rankings, highlighting the importance of responsive design in the Google ranking algorithm. This update encouraged businesses to invest in mobile-friendly designs.

RankBrain - Oct 26, 2015 RankBrain marked a significant advancement in machine learning. This update helped Google better understand complex queries and user intent, improving the accuracy of search results and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the Google ranking algorithm. It was a crucial step in making search results more relevant.

Fred Update - Mar 8, 2017 The Fred Update targeted websites that prioritized ad revenue over user experience. It penalized sites with low-quality content filled with ads, reinforcing the need for valuable content in the Google ranking algorithm. Websites that focused on user experience saw improvements in their rankings.

Medic Update - Aug 1, 2018 The Medic Update primarily affected health and wellness sites. It emphasized the importance of expertise, authority, and trustworthiness in content, pushing low-quality sites down the rankings in the Google ranking algorithm. This update highlighted the need for credible content in sensitive topics.

BERT Update - Oct 25, 2019 The BERT Update enhanced Google’s natural language processing capabilities. This update helped Google better understand the context of words in queries, improving the relevance of search results. This change significantly impacted how the Google ranking algorithm interpreted user searches.

Core Web Vitals - May 2021 Core Web Vitals introduced new metrics focusing on user experience, including loading speed and interactivity. Websites that met these standards benefited from improved rankings in the Google ranking algorithm. This update made user experience a critical ranking factor.

Page Experience Update - June and July 2021 This update built on Core Web Vitals, emphasizing overall user experience factors such as mobile usability and safe browsing. Websites that provided a better user experience saw positive impacts in their search rankings.

Helpful Content Update - Aug 2022 The Helpful Content Update targeted low-quality, unhelpful content. Sites providing genuine value to users were rewarded with higher rankings, reflecting the ongoing importance of quality in the Google ranking algorithm.

Dec 2022 Link Spam Update This update aimed to combat spammy link practices. Websites with unnatural links faced penalties, while those following ethical link-building practices were rewarded. This change reinforced the need for clean backlink profiles in the Google ranking algorithm.

Mar 2023 Core Update The March 2023 Core Update refined algorithms to enhance search result quality. It focused on improving content relevance and authority, further shaping the Google ranking algorithm.

Nov 2023 Review Update This update improved how reviews were displayed in search results. Sites with genuine and informative reviews received better visibility and rankings.

Mar 24 Core Update The March 24 Core Update aimed to enhance the overall quality of search results, ensuring that authoritative content received higher visibility in the Google ranking algorithm.

Aug 2024 Core Update The August 2024 Core Update continued to prioritize content quality and user experience, further impacting SEO strategies and rankings.

Impact on SEO Ranking

The various Google core updates significantly influence SEO rankings. Changes in the Google ranking algorithm can lead to fluctuations in website traffic and visibility. Adapting to these updates by focusing on high-quality content, ethical link-building, and excellent user experience is essential for maintaining or improving website rankings. By staying informed about Google core updates, webmasters can ensure their strategies align with current best practices, ultimately leading to better search performance.

Conclusion

Understanding the history and impact of Google Algorithm Updates is crucial for anyone involved in SEO. By adapting strategies to align with these updates, website owners can maintain their rankings and ensure their content remains visible to users. As Google continues to evolve its Google ranking algorithm, staying informed about changes and best practices will help businesses thrive in the digital landscape.

[tillzzy]

FMP

Decline of Culture in Hong Kong - Historic Building Preservation

there has been a growing call among Hong Kong locals to preserve the city's heritage

schemes such as 'conserving central', an initative from 2009 aimed to preserve and transform old buildings into 'unique cultural landmarks

however, these landmarks seem to have focused more on commercialisation and profit rather than preservation and respect for Hong Kong's history

built heritage became an important item for the government following 1997.

The Murray Building, Central

was a former government office building

dates back to 1969

has been transformed into a luxury hotel

brings the question - is the government's aim to preserve historic buildings, or just for commercialisation?

conservation should ensure the cultural significance of a building or site is preserved before its profit potential is thought about

Central Market, Central

building was used as early as 1842, named Canton Bazaar

rebuilt in 1938 and renamed Central Market

It was a typical Hong Kong style wet market for locals to buy cheap and local produce

due to its location being in the city centre of Hong Kong, surrounded by offices and wealthier residents, they completely changed the purpose of the market

it is now full of expensive artisan grocery stores, overpriced markets and coffee shops - again reemphasising the idea of 'preservation' meaning commercialisation

Queen's Pier, Central

Demolished in 2007

colonial building built in 1954

served as a ceremonial landing place for British colonial governors

protests believed to mark the post-80s and heritage conservation movements

demolished to make way for land reclamation and construction of the central - wan chai bypass tunnel

PMQ (Former Police Marital Quaters)

the site was built on the grounds of what used to be Queen's College which was built in 1889

it was repurposed after WWII

Built in the 1950s as residential quarters for police officers and their families

all families were evacuated from 2005-2007

went under renovation in 2014

the space is now used as a shopping centre for smaller businesses - divided with 55% used for studio units, 25% for commerical use and 20% for public space

advocacy to prevent demolishment of the building turned it into a place for commercial use

Lee Tung Street, Wan Chai

During the 1950s, Lee Tung Street was known for printing and manufacturing wedding cards

there used to be printing shops all the way up the street - it was a must for brides and grooms to be

in 2007, the old buildings were demolished and replaced by newly designed architecture

focusing on higher end shops, restaurants, cafes and hotels

former tenants were forced to leave and give up their businesses

as a result of the renewal, prices sky rocketed

target customers shifted from locals to upper class and tourists

Chu, C. and Uebegang, K. (2002). SAVING HONG KONG’S CULTURAL HERITAGE. [online] Available at: https://civic-exchange.org/wp-content/uploads/2002/02/18-200202ART_SavingCulturalHeritage_en.pdf.

Lai, C. (2016). Grumblings at PMQ over design hub’s identity crisis and management decisions. [online] Hong Kong Free Press HKFP. Available at: https://hongkongfp.com/2016/07/17/grumbles-at-pmq-over-design-hubs-identity-crisis-and-management-decisions/ [Accessed 26 Feb. 2024].

‌

Pang, J. (2017). In Pictures: Demonstrations and demolition – 10 years since the Queen’s Pier was pulled down. [online] Hong Kong Free Press HKFP. Available at: https://hongkongfp.com/2017/08/06/pictures-demonstrations-demolition-10-years-since-queens-pier-pulled/ [Accessed 26 Feb. 2024].

‌

PMQ 元創方 | History of PMQ. (2014). PMQ 元創方 | History of PMQ. [online] Available at: https://www.pmq.org.hk/heritage/history-of-pmq/ [Accessed 26 Feb. 2024].

‌

South China Morning Post. (2021). SCMP. [online] Available at: https://www.scmp.com/comment/letters/article/3157976/hong-kong-failing-preserve-unique-value-old-buildings?campaign=3157976&module=perpetual_scroll_0&pgtype=article [Accessed 26 Feb. 2024].

‌

Stanley Market. (2014). Stanley Market. [online] Available at: https://www.hk-stanley-market.com/Blake-Pier/#:~:text=Originally%20located%20as%20a%20ferry,once%20again%20become%20a%20pier. [Accessed 26 Feb. 2024].

Tsang, K. and Zhang, S. (2019). A Tale of Two Streets - Varsity. [online] Varsity. Available at: https://varsity.com.cuhk.edu.hk/index.php/2019/05/a-tale-of-two-streets/ [Accessed 26 Feb. 2024].

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[maieconofolio]

Fisheries

"Fish are being taken out of their environment at a faster rate than they can reproduce!"

|Photo Courtesy of Ocean Dimensions|

Classic case of the tragedy of the commons. There’s no rules on who takes fish from the water, how much they take, or considering other fishermen while fishing. Once the big companies get their hands on things like this, they take over and they will take advantage until they can’t anymore. This leaves nothing for the smaller fishermen as the fish can’t repopulate fast enough to fulfill the increased and larger scale fishing schemes. 

The United States Environmental Protection Agency defines ecolabels as “marks placed on product packaging or in e-catalogs that can help consumers and institutional purchasers quickly and easily identify those products that meet specific environmental performance criteria and are therefore deemed ‘environmentally preferable’” (Introduction to Ecolabels and Standards for Greener Products | US EPA, 2023). Ecolabelling is used in the fish industry as a way of informing consumers of the practices used to acquire their seafood. Consumers are becoming more savvy and are more interested in where their food comes from and how it gets to them. Sustainability is becoming more common practice. Ecolabelling is an incentive for fishing companies and independent fishermen to limit the amount of fish they take from the water in the name of sustainability (Giacomarra et al., 2021, 2).

References

Giacomarra, M., Crescimanno, M., Vrontis, D., Pastor, L. M., & Galati, A. (2021). The ability of fish ecolabels to promote a change in the sustainability awareness. Marine Policy, 123(104292), 1-20. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2020.104292.

Introduction to Ecolabels and Standards for Greener Products | US EPA. (2023, August 23). Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.gov/greenerproducts/introduction-ecolabels-and-standards-greener-products

[ramblersaccount]

20

The first half of 2022 brought about one of the most challenging periods I've experienced in the last four years. In August 2021, I got into a relationship with my current boyfriend, John, without any prior notification to my family. They hadn't met or heard of him before we got together. I didn’t think of this as a big deal as I had never been one to talk about my crushes or who I liked—things like that—with my family. They were uneasy about me having a boyfriend and were concerned about lifestyle changes. Specifically, they were concerned about me going out more often. Despite their worries about partying, our activities were quite regular—eating out, watching movies, and going bowling. At this point, I still was expected to ask for my parent's permission to go out, despite being an adult, and my 8 pm curfew added an extra layer of difficulty. With my job ending at 6 pm, time with John was limited, but we managed to make it work. In February, my mom discovered that John and I had become intimate, and she was incredibly upset with me. She had asked me about it before, and I had consistently denied it. Even when we did actually become sexually active, I hesitated to share this information, given my mom's belief that once we had sex and I finally “gave him what he wanted,” he would be done with me. By the time of this interaction, we had been together for 6 months. My mother considered this too soon, and I didn't. I think this might’ve been due to our generational gap. I understood that she was upset with me for lying to her about whether I was active or not, but I felt that her reasonings beyond that didn't make sense. Moreover, I was almost 20 years old, and I believed detailed discussions about my sex life were not only uncomfortable but unnecessary, considering I knew how to establish boundaries and practice safe and healthy habits. My mother's hurt was expressed through anger, marking the beginning of months filled with snide comments and probing questions. She called me derogatory names, insinuated that I was constantly promiscuous, and asked if I had lost my virginity in the back of a car. After my revelation, tensions lingered at home, making things uncomfortable for everyone. Despite explaining my choices fully and insisting that they were made responsibly, the air stayed tense. The gap between our views on personal boundaries and my autonomy seemed too big. Though I respected her concerns, I felt unfairly judged and labeled. As time went on, I found myself caught between trying to assert my independence and keeping the peace within the family. Balancing my personal life with family expectations became difficult, and I struggled to rebuild trust. For months I worked towards bridging the gap between us, relying on the hope that time and honest conversations could fix it. Fortunately, progress was made, but the honest conversation my mother wanted to have wasn’t with me but with John. It was summer by then, and I had been experiencing the cold shoulder for months. She sat down with him, and they had a talk. I personally don't know what was said, but the positive outcome was evident as she began encouraging me to invite him over more frequently, wanting to familiarize herself with the man in my life. I was just happy that someone in my house actually wanted to get to know him and that she had also started talking to me again. To this day, my mother has never apologized for all the hurtful things she said to me during those months regarding my character and body. She even denies having said any of those things. John and I have now been together for a little over 2 years now. She calls him her son-in-law and has even gotten him Christmas presents. All in all, the emotional scars from that time still linger, but being able to see the people I care about come together has been a source of happiness for me. In the grand scheme of things, this story is not one of perfection but of progress. As we move forward, the hope is for continued growth, open communication, and a deeper understanding of each other.

[ailtrahq]

An unfortunate crypto investor has reportedly been swindled out of a staggering $4.46 million in a phishing scam involving Tether (USDT). According to blockchain data from Etherscan, the funds were initially withdrawn from a Kraken crypto exchange wallet and later transferred to an address ending in “ACa7.” Blockchain security firm PeckShield has identified this address as belonging to a phishing scammer. Scam Sniffer, another platform that alerts users to blockchain scams, indicated on Sept. 20 that the funds were directed to an address associated with a fraudulent Coinone crypto mining exchange. The platform cited a user-generated Dune Analytics dashboard, which reveals that such scams have resulted in the theft of approximately $337.1 million in USDT, affecting nearly 22,000 individuals. USDT-related scam activities on the rise The Dune Analytics report suggests that USDT approval mining scams are becoming a significant issue, attracting more newcomers to crypto than legitimate businesses. Typically, these scams start with the perpetrators sending seemingly harmless messages to potential victims through email or other online platforms. Over time, the scammers build a relationship with their targets, often spending months gaining their trust before encouraging them to invest in a fraudulent scheme. The Dune Analytics report further states that since the first recorded transaction of this scam type on Sept. 23, 2021, there have been 49,427 USDT approval mining scam transactions. The average amount stolen per transaction stands at $6,820. The issue of crypto scams isn’t limited to individual investors, as high-profile figures have also fallen prey to such scams. Billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban recently lost approximately $870,000 after clicking on a phishing link. In August, Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, the CEO of Binance, warned the crypto community about the increasing sophistication of scams, explicitly mentioning zero-transfer phishing attacks. Source

[talkstothemoonandstars]

Here are the post-election incidents that led to Georgia charges against Trump and his allies

Georgia prosecutors allege that former President Donald Trump and his allies broke state laws during about a dozen separate incidents after the 2020 election, according to the indictment made public last Monday.

There are 41 overall charges in the case, which was brought by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis. The first charge involves Georgia’s anti-racketeering law known as the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, or RICO. But the next 40 non-racketeering charges stem from roughly a dozen key incidents after the 2020 election. 

The events, and the crimes the Trump group allegedly committed, break down this way:

Counts 2-4: Presentation of fraud claims to Georgia Senate: Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani and others are accused of making false statements about election fraud and pressuring members of the Georgia Senate while presenting to a legislative panel in early December 2020.

Count 5: Call to Georgia House Speaker: Trump is charged with asking then-Georgia House Speaker David Ralston to call a special session of the Georgia General Assembly.

Count 6-7: Presentation of fraud claims to Georgia House: Two charges accuse Giuliani and another man of breaking the law as they presented a video of vote counting at State Farm Arena, misconstruing it, to the Georgia House of Representatives. 

Count 8-19: Fake electors scheme: This series of charges capture the fake elector scheme. A trio of Georgia residents were charged with crimes including forgery. Trump, Giuliani, Trump lawyer John Eastman and others around Trump's campaign were charged with conspiracies related to the fake electors. 

Count 20-21: First attempt to intimidate Atlanta election worker: Illinois pastor Stephen Lee is charged with two charges of attempting to influence witness Ruby Freeman, a 2020 election worker in Fulton County. Prosecutors say Lee went to Freeman's home, knocked on her door and spoke to a neighbor. He was “purporting to offer her help” with the intent to influence her testimony about the vote counting in Atlanta, the indictment said. 

Count 22: Trying to get DOJ to intervene in Georgia: Jeffrey Clark is charged with an attempt to make false statements when he tried to persuade the Justice Department to make false assertions in Georgia about the validity of the election's results. 

Count 23-26: Communication with Georgia Senate about voter fraud: These four charges capture efforts by Giuliani and others to influence and make false statements to the Georgia Senate on December 30, 2020, when he falsely told them thousands of dead people and felons voted in the election and smeared the vote counting at the State Farm Arena. 

Count 27: Filing election lawsuit: This charge accuses Donald Trump and John Eastman of filing false information about votes in a federal court case that sought to block Georgia's election result.

Count 28-29: Phone call to Georgia secretary of state: Donald Trump and his White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows are charged around the call they made to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger on January 2, 2021, where Trump pleaded with Raffensperger to “find” enough votes to flip the results. 

Count 30-31: Second attempt to influence Atlanta election worker: Three people are charged with conspiracy to solicit false statements from Ruby Freeman and trying to influence her on January 4, 2021.

Count 32-37: Coffee County voting machine breach: Trump campaign lawyer Sidney Powell and others are accused of conspiracies of computer theft, computer trespassing, invasion of privacy and election fraud related to the breach of voting machines in rural Coffee County, Georgia.

Count 38-39: Letter sent to Georgia Secretary of State: Donald Trump is charged with solicitation and false statements related to a letter he sent to Raffensperger in September 2021. 

Count 40-41: Alleged lies to investigators and grand jury perjury: These are two charges that relate to the course of the investigation. Georgia GOP chairman David Shafer is accused of lying to the Fulton County District Attorney's Office investigators. Robert Cheeley is also accused of perjuring himself before the Fulton County Special Purpose Grand Jury.

[exprtoiit-neet]

Cracking the IIT JEE Exam Expert Tips, Eligibility Criteria, and Success Stories of Recent JEE Toppers

The Indian Institutes of Technology Joint Entrance Examination (IIT JEE) is one of the most prestigious and competitive engineering entrance exams in India. Every year, thousands of aspiring engineers from across the country strive to crack this exam to secure a seat in the esteemed IITs. In this blog, we will explore the eligibility criteria, preparation tips, and success stories of recent JEE toppers to help you navigate your way toward success in the IIT JEE exam.

Eligibility Criteria and Number of Attempts:

To be eligible for the IIT JEE exam, candidates must have completed their 10+2 education or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as core subjects. They should have also secured at least 75% marks (65% for reserved categories) or be in the top 20 percentile of their respective boards. Candidates can attempt the JEE Main exam a maximum of three times in consecutive years, while JEE Advanced allows a maximum of two attempts in consecutive years.

Preparation Tips:

1. Understand the Exam Pattern:

Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, syllabus, and marking scheme of both JEE Main and JEE Advanced. This will help you create a structured study plan and allocate time for each subject accordingly.

2. Create a Study Schedule:

Develop a comprehensive study schedule that covers all the subjects and allows sufficient time for revision. Divide your time effectively, giving more emphasis to weak areas while not neglecting strong ones.

3. Seek Expert Guidance:

Consider enrolling in coaching classes or mentorship programs like Exprto Eportal's mentorship plan, where experienced educators and mentors guide you through the preparation process, provide valuable tips, and help you identify and rectify your weaknesses.

4. Practice Regularly:

Solve a wide range of practice questions, sample papers, and previous years' question papers to enhance your problem-solving skills and get accustomed to the exam format. Regular practice will improve your speed and accuracy.

5. Time Management:

Develop effective time management skills by attempting mock tests and simulating real exam conditions. Learn to allocate time to different sections wisely, focusing on maximizing your score.

Success Stories of Recent JEE Toppers:

(1) Arjun Mehta: Arjun Mehta secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 1 in JEE Advanced 2022. His success story inspires many aspirants as he emphasized the importance of consistent hard work, self-belief, and a never-give-up attitude.

(2) Rhea Gupta: Rhea Gupta, who secured AIR 3 in JEE Advanced 2021, credits her success to a disciplined study routine, effective time management, and stress management techniques. She also stressed the significance of solving a variety of practice papers and seeking help from mentors whenever needed.

(3) Rajesh Singh: Rajesh Singh, who secured AIR 6 in JEE Advanced 2020, highlights the importance of self-analysis after every practice test. He believes that analyzing mistakes and rectifying them plays a crucial role in improving performance.

Conclusion:

Cracking the IIT JEE exam requires a combination of hard work, dedication, and smart preparation strategies. By understanding the eligibility criteria, following expert tips, and drawing inspiration from the success stories of recent JEE toppers, you can boost your chances of achieving your dream of securing a seat in the prestigious IITs. Remember, consistent effort, self-belief, and effective time management are key to success in this highly competitive examination. Best of luck on your journey to cracking the IIT JEE exam!

[pageinextremis]

New Release: FIEC Online Statistical Report 2023 Sheds Light on European Construction Industry

The European Construction Industry Federation (FIEC) has recently released its 66th annual Statistical Report, which provides an in-depth overview of the construction industry within the European Union during 2022. This year was marked by significant challenges for the construction industry, including sustained high energy and raw material costs and the impact of geopolitical events such as Russia'sRussia's war against Ukraine. The latter has severely affected global supply chains and exacerbated global inflationary pressures, with the EU's economy being particularly vulnerable due to its proximity to the conflict and dependence on Russian energy resources.

Key Findings

Main Activities in 2022

- Civil Engineering (18.1%): Comprising roads, railways, bridges, tunnels, concrete structures, special foundations, electrical works, water supply, wastewater treatment, and works on maritime or river sites.

- Non-residential Construction (31.8%): Including offices, hospitals, hotels, schools, and industrial buildings.

- New Housebuilding (20.6%): Encompassing individual dwellings, apartment blocks, social housing, and schemes.

- Renovation (29.7%): Specifically in housing.

Economic Contribution and Employment

The construction industry significantly contributed to the EU economy, accounting for 49.7% of the total gross fixed capital formation and 10.1% of the GDP. Furthermore, it represented 29.6% of industrial employment in the EU27. In terms of employment, the construction industry accounted for 6.4% of total employment. It involved more than 3 million enterprises employing approximately 12 million workers. Notably, 95% of the enterprises in the industry have less than 20 workers. Moreover, the multiplier effect indicates that for every person working in the construction industry, two additional people are employed in other sectors.

Challenges and Future Projections

The construction sector experienced slightly weaker growth than forecasted for 2022. Total investment in construction increased by 2.0%, but employment decreased by 4.0% compared to 2021. The rising prices and supply shortages for energy and certain construction materials have negatively impacted several European contractors. Many are at risk of being unable to fulfil contractual obligations or are refraining from participating in public tenders.

In 2023, investment in construction is expected to decline at a rate of 2.5%. Interestingly, all segments are expected to contract except for civil engineering. This decline in the construction market will also be observed in most EU countries.

Concluding Thoughts

The FIEC Statistical Report 2023 offers valuable insights into the state of the construction industry in the European Union during a period marked by economic and geopolitical challenges. While the industry has demonstrated resilience in some areas, the rising energy and raw materials costs and geopolitical uncertainties present significant hurdles. Moving forward, stakeholders in the construction industry must continue to monitor these developments closely and adapt their strategies to navigate these challenges.

Rüdiger Otto, Chairman of the Economic and Legal Commission, expressed his gratitude to the FIEC Team and Member Federations for their contribution to the report and emphasised the data's importance in understanding the construction industry's developments.

Collaborative Success

The Communication Agency, #Pageinextremis, expresses its profound honour in being the communication partner of FIEC. The statistical report 2023 stands as a testament to the fruitful and effective collaboration between the two organisations. This impactful online publication is the result of an intimate creative dialogue framework that involves the creative unit of the Belgian communication agency, #Pageinextremis, and the inspiring FIEC team led by Domenico Campogrande, Director-General.

#Pageinextremis takes pride in transforming brands into valuable assets and ensuring their alignment with strategic objectives. This successful collaboration with FIEC underscores the agency's commitment to excellence, creativity, and the building of meaningful relationships with its partners. The FIEC statistical report 2023, a significant milestone in this partnership, will continue to inform, guide, and inspire stakeholders in the European construction industry.

[go-21newstv]

CBSE Board Exam 2021: CBSE Releases Sample Paper, Marking Scheme for Class 12 Chemistry at cbseacademic.in

CBSE Board Exam 2021: CBSE Releases Sample Paper, Marking Scheme for Class 12 Chemistry at cbseacademic.in

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File photo of the CBSE headquarters in New Delhi.

The CBSE Class 12 Chemistry paper will be divided into two parts. The theory paper will carry a weightage of 70 marks, with 33 questions in total, divided into four sections – A, B, C and D.

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[thepastisalreadywritten]

A historic gold pendant and chain, believed to be associated with Henry VIII and Katherine of Aragon, has been revealed by the British Museum.

The artifact, made of gold and adorned with red and white enamel, was discovered by a metal-detectorist in Warwickshire and reported to the local Finds Liaison Officer of the Portable Antiquities Scheme, who then informed Historic England.

An archaeological excavation was conducted at the site to gather more information about the item and its location, reports Historic England .

Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England noted:

A Symbol of Henry’s First Love

Henry VIII was the king of England from 1509 until his death in 1547.

He was well known for his six marriages and his role in the English Reformation, which led to the Church of England breaking away from the authority of the Pope.

Katherine of Aragon was Henry's first wife and was a Spanish princess who was highly respected by the English people.

The couple were married for over 20 years, but their marriage was annulled by the Pope, leading to a long-standing political and religious crisis that ultimately resulted in England breaking away from the Roman Catholic Church .

The pendant, which is heart-shaped and attached to a 75-link gold chain via an enameled “hand,” is thought to date back to the early 16th century, between 1509 and 1533, with the most likely date being around 1521.

The front of the pendant features the red and white Tudor rose symbol, intertwined with a pomegranate bush, which were the symbols of Henry and Katherine.

The back of the pendant features the letters H and K, for Henry and Katherine, in Lombardic script, linked by ribbon and featuring the legend "TOVS + IORS".

According to experts, the pendant may have been produced quickly for a special event, such as a joust, and could have been used as a prize or worn by those participating.

Its design is similar to the horse bards used at a joust in Greenwich in 1521.

Perhaps this was a trinket from a joust in which Henry himself participated.

He was known as a skilled jouster. However, in 1536, he was torn from his horse and injured, knocked unconscious for 2 hours.

The location of this event was unknown until just 2 years ago, when it was revealed to be Greenwich Palace.

Showcasing British Antiquities

The pendant is being showcased by the British Museum to mark the launch of two annual reports, the Treasure Annual Report for 2020 and the Portable Antiquities Scheme Annual Report for 2021.

The Portable Antiquities Scheme, which is funded by the British Museum and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport, records archaeological finds made by the public to advance knowledge and increase public interest in history.

The reports show that 45,581 archaeological finds were recorded in 2021, including 1,085 Treasure cases, with 96% of these discoveries made by metal detectorists.

The counties with the highest number of PAS finds in 2021 were Gloucestershire, Suffolk, and Lincolnshire, with significant numbers also recorded in other counties such as Buckinghamshire, Hampshire, Kent, and Wiltshire.

The discovery of the Henry VIII and Katherine of Aragon pendant highlights the significant contribution that everyday people, who enjoy metal detecting as a hobby, can make to the field of archaeology.

By recording these finds, they are helping to deepen our understanding of Britain's rich and fascinating past.