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diejager · 6 months

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what would eldritch reader vs some other eldritch person look like?

[A cheese wheel has been added to your inventory.]

[A cheese wheel has been consumed.]

Opposition Cw: blood, gore, death, cannibalism?, tell me if I missed any.

Despite old-age rivalries and ancient hostilities, to fight a Lord for One’s territory, the bloodshed and animosity shared between many, and the death of a ruling, primordial being, they had forgone the older ways, taken to learn and study humans and monsters alike, especially the sudden emergence of hybrids, a perfect cross between human and monster, one that rivalled the flawlessness of Old Ones. You were one of those that sought change, to live and prosper farther than in their imagination, their faith and their fear. You wanted something substantial, tangible under your clawed, see thing you could taste and touch, more than the pleas and cries.

Most had left their territory, travelling wherever the wind blew, some ventured far and high, drifting from the country they were born to new colonies —the Caribbean or the Thirteen Colonies in the West of the great Monopolies of the 17th centuries. You rarely strayed outside familiar lands, presiding over a small stretch of land in Europe, it was familiar, comfort. It was a decision many agreed with, those you crossed would peer at you, a subtle nod of their head and they’d be gone, vanishing when someone broke your contact; gone along the wind, leaving only a whisper of their existence in monstrous words too high for human and monster ears.

Perhaps that’s why it felt odd to fight another one after centuries of peaceful coexistence, to throw yourself into the fray, broad and towering over the trees, beak snapping at the canidae entity and talons gripping their paws, claws threatening to rip into your feathered body. You felt stretched, rusted with joints creaking and bones groaning, too old and too tired. This Entity was young, a few centuries old, with a wolf-like appearance and a character that fit a mutt more than it would a being of such prestige. They were chaotic, acting recklessly and without thought, you needn’t ask it their age, it was written all over the scarless skin and brutish acts.

Rather than fighting for land, coveting wealth and fine metals that humans loved with greedy hands, you took on the wolf for protection, the ward of your small family, under a dozen with years of bloodshed and violence under their belt. The 141 had a mastery in different skills, utilizing what they did best to push on, to fight and survive to see the next sunrise, but even hybrids had limits, where their great feats and insurmountable reputation were useless against something of old; be it young or primordial, Eldritch beings had little predator, prey to their own kind but rarely from another.

You clashed with the Wolf, standing on muscular, hind legs ruffled with dirtied fur, blood staining the greyish hair; a strong tail swaying carelessly, cutting trees down with a rough swing; a well-defined abdomen painted with a tribal tattoo, gleaming with a gold light, portraying the image of a holy symbole on a blasphemous being; sculpted arms holding back your own feathered ones, hands bleeding from your talons; and a wide mouth, silver teeth bared in a loud growl, the sound near deafening to you. It was strong and well-trained for something born in times of peace, body built to it’s peak and mind sharpened to ignore every distraction, but you were from the old, racking up more experience and wisdom it could only dream of wielding.

You were defending the LZ, standing between the Wolf and it’s mission of killing those it could kill, beings weaker than it. The only thorn in their mission was you, the lone Entity that engaged it. The Wolf hadn’t been told that the TF had an Old One, primeval in every sense. It struggled against you, your more monstrous figure compared to their tamed one, their creation stemming from some wild fantasy of the Middle Ages, when France feared the human eating wolf.

You screeched as loudly as it growled, voice gaining in force, a cacophony of screams and cries slipping from your tongue, the fears and terror of beings that brought you to life. Spreading your second pair of limbs, you slashed at it, digging into the soft skin of it’s abdomen, tearing away fibres of muscle and warm fat. It yowled, struggling to pull away, frantic at your shift of tactic —fearful that you decided to attack than defend your group. It stood on the single probability that you wouldn’t engage, preferring to protect than fight with the risk of endangering your family.

The Wolf would die today. Your grip was unyielding, keeping it in this situation however much it tried to squirm away, hands prisoners of your first pair of wings and chest bleeding from your second. Before long, it would be another body added to your count, cooling and gutted on the forest ground. You swung your tail around them, wrapping once around their slim waist, adding further leverage over it while you dug their intestines out. The strong stench of blood, metallic and tempting, filled the air, bringing fearful tears to the Wolf’s eyes, beady, yellow eyes growing hazy.

You revelled in it’s slow death, your thirst for violence growing with the ages of peace, strung tight like an itch that bothered you incessantly. You hungered, you couldn’t remember the taste of Eldritch meat, the rich ambrosia in the veins or the last whip of their dying breath. Your beak cracked open, white teeth gleaming inside your black mouth until they were dirtied, stained red with the blood of an Entity, you clamped down on it’s neck, breaking the rough skin with enough force to shatter bone, but the Wolf had tough bone. That would only prolong it’s suffering, the pain feeding you as much as the meat and bone would —a delicacy of the ages. You wonder how König and Ghost would think of Eldritch flesh.

You wouldn’t need to eat for another month after this buffet.

Taglist: @warenai @capricorn-anon @sae1kie @yeoldedumbslut @tallmanlover @distracteddragoness @vxnilla-hxrddrugs @konigsblog @havoc973 @im-making-an-effort @daisychainsinknots @0alk0msan @danielle143

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caitibugzz · 2 years

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do you have any insight on dealing with imposter syndrome and feeling like you're lying to yourself?

i had to look up what imposter syndrome meant so i apologize if my advice isn’t that fitting or if it doesn’t help,

i often feel like i’m lying to myself, or that i’m not the person i think i am, or im a different person than how people perceive me, and it’s got even worse once i started to stream.

as for feeling like u don’t know urself and therefore are lying to yourself:

i think a big thing we have to realize is that we are allowed to be different people day to day, changing as you grow up, changing based on your environment, changing when you are with people vs yourself. it’s all normal i promise. we don’t have to categorize ourself as a specific type of person, like a character in a movie with specific characteristics that they don’t very from. we are human, it’s okay to evolve with time and contradict yourself. be introverted AND extroverted. you are allowed to be sensitive and closed off. your allowed to get angry even if you are sweet most of the time. i struggle with trying to act as a character, a show i’m preforming. a persona, if you will. and i try to do this because if i don’t, if i fail to define every part of my personality in a tangible sense, i feel i don’t know myself. humans are meant to be complex.

as for imposter syndrome, there are a lot of different types:

if you are feeling you are unworthy/undeserving of the things you receive; i get it. in school i was in gifted programs but never felt deserving of it. i felt stupid when i saw all the other gifted kids, my grades were bad, the gifted kids called me dumb but all the other kids would call me smart.. i never felt like it. i felt like i knew more about all the things i didn’t know then what i did know. whether it is with school titles or even streaming, i look at everything everyone else has done to get to the position i’m in and i feel like i’m not worthy of it all. why me, i didn’t do anything/enough to deserve this? someone must have got it wrong. be kind to yourself. try and find all your talents, all the sweet parts that make you you. imposter syndrome stems from confidence issues. insecurities. just as you would any issue like it: face your insecurities, realize your talents and utilize them. stop comparing yourself. you have received everything you have for a reason, other people have different paths, that doesn’t mean yours is untrue. don’t hide from your feelings. how you feel you don’t belong or are unworthy, lean into those. feel them, so then you can begin to heal them. don’t let it hold you back. it can be very unmotivating believing you have wrongly gotten far, no matter how much you feel a fraud, keep pursuing what you want, your goals, don’t let anything hold you back. so what if it was all a fluke. use it to your advantage. if all else fails, if you can’t see how deserving you are, make yourself believe it. become what you view as deserving.

and this doesn’t have to be work/school/career related. some people believe they aren’t deserving in general, in life. for the life they now have, the kindness they receive, the people in your life. you must realize the things that have happen to you do not define you. from the moment you were born you were deserving of everything. everything that could make you smile and feel all happy and warm inside. your deserving of it all. because you always have been, and always will be.

if you feel you could always do better, that you need to be best and do it solo otherwise you feel unworthy; i get this too, being born a natural perfectionist at the core but also with my mental issues like my OCD. some days i don’t even brush my teeth, and it’ll be 7pm and i’ll be sitting in bed hating myself for not doing enough, not being enough. in my streaming, when i was at my peak, i felt like i wasn’t funny enough, not deserving of all the views i got, that someone else could have done better with all i’ve received. if you have ever felt like that, or like if you aren’t the best you are nothing. that sometimes your hardest isn’t even enough, and even if you work and receive what you want, you could’ve done better. YOU ARE HUMAN. it is okay to not be perfect. it’s okay to not push yourself all the time, just because you didn’t push yourself to exhaustion doesn’t mean you are any less worthy. it’s okay if you didn’t do “all you could”, it’s okay if you asked for help from people, it’s okay to not do it solo, that doesn’t mean you don’t deserve what comes your way after all that work. sure some people may work harder, good for them! and good for you for doing your own thing! you don’t need to work harder than others to prove your worthiness. you don’t have to be great at everything. don’t burn yourself out. it’s okay to be average! come join us over here at the mediocre club, i promise we are just as worthy of good as anyone else. and you do have talents. for some reason we see talents as something that only other people can have, because if we can do it.. it must not be that impressive, right?

wrong.

trust the judgment of those around you. you earned it, so trust yourself. they aren’t being nice, they are being honest. it’s not luck. you’re not a fake, you’re human.

#imposter syndrome #i feel like an imposter #unworthiness #feeling unworthy #feeling undeserving #mental health #i also didn’t reread this so if it makes no sense don’t come for me

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padawansuggest · 2 years

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IT IS SYRINGOMYELIA AWARENESS MONTH APPARENTLY!!! A few facts about the condition for those of you that wanna know:

I do not have Chiari Malformation (which is where the skull is too short to hold the brain so that’s why the syrinx forms) which is the main cause of syringomyelia in both humans and animals. I am in the very rare percentage of an already extremely rare condition.

This is a degenerative/progressive condition that is almost impossible to recover from.

It is caused when there is a fluid filled cyst inside your spinal cord. This pushes nerves out in all directions which causes nerve… it’s not quite damage, but it acts like damage. My nerves translate most forms of heat and warmth as painful, as well as causing extreme bowel and bladder pain that feels like ants in my bowels and a lead balloon in my bladder. It’s very painful.

I have this cyst/syrinx (the term syrinx is the term for a cyst in your spine itself) in the exact same spot that my brother had several tumors, except his were on the outside of his brain stem/spinal cord, and mine inside. This means that his was operable, while mine can only be operable under very specific circumstances. We both see the same neurologist and he is very intrigued about how both our conditions were formed in-womb and legit looked like he wanted to study us when I first met him lol.

The operable conditions are when I have a 100% chance of going paralyzed because the conditions is pushing on the right nerves and they stop reacting entirely. The reason that this is the operable condition to remove the syrinx (which isn’t so much removing it as… popping it… which also means it can grow back…) is because that surgery itself has a 50% chance of paralysis as well. So, 50% chance of keeping from being paralyzed vs a 100% chance of being paralyzed, means that in that case the surgery wins.

I take gabapentin 4 times a day, every six hours, 100mg for every hour of the day. Gabapentin is a nerve medication that peaks in usage around 2-4 hours in, and after 6 hours it starts to leave your system. Which is why I went from 8 hours for 800mg to 6 hours for 600mg. Because the meds always wore off before I could take the next dose and left me in pain again.

Because of my condition I have degenerative muscles. I have a million things to fight here (top of which are a chronic fatigue and allergies that both get me down plus IBS if I eat something wrong oooof) but because of my conditions I can never hold a job outside of the house. I can barely attempt one in the house too. Im working on starting my own work with my preferred craft and my father supports me (in both love and finances but we live together so it’s not hard) because that’s probably gonna be the only way I have my own income in life. I work with fiber, wool mostly, making and using yarn. Mostly making. Mixing the fibers together on expensive equipment that i waited so long to save up for. I have a lot invested in it. It’s one of my special interests too, so it’s really nice to have that as work. Dad is disabled with special interests too, so he gets it.

Because of all of this, I’m actually in a program slightly more… intense, than PT. My town is a college town and in the college (the gym of which is DIRECTLY across the street from my apartment I’m super lucky with that) we have a program called Wellness Elevated. This is where you get a full semester’s access to the gym for the college/public (which is separated from the gym across the building which is for sports kids so there’s no fighting over room it’s smarter) where they give you a personal student trainer in the sports fitness program. These students are training to tailor a routine to each person’s needs. This program got me from low mobility and constant backaches to mid-low mobility. I can function and even leave the house at least half my days now. I’m even hoping to just. Go outside. During this summer. Bring a backpack with emergency meds and stuff and go to the park and stuff.

Sometimes (and I know this is connected cause other people with syringomyelia say this too) I have off days where I drop things CONSTANTLY. Like, there’s this weird ass signal in my brain that keeps opening my nerves or something. It’s strange and none of us know why it happens, but we all agree it’s like our brain isn’t sending the right signals that day. It’s wild. The muscles and such are fine, the hand just keeps opening to drop things.

I’m asexual and consider my libido to sort of be an annoyance more than anything. I am on several pills that destroy sex drive and that shit’s godly. Just wreck it I’m done, I’m bored, I’m over it. My pills are not for those that actively like and want sex. I am on so many pills and every new pill I get further from the norm and I love it. I know others hate it but I’m delighted not to be there anymore.

I also have autism, OCD, anxiety (which I was informed that OCD is an anxiety disorder itself which means that’s a given, and not that anxiety is a biproduct of OCD. Other way around.), ADHD, mysophonia, pica, and a few other scattered issues. I give the therapists my list, and they give me concerned looks.

Um. Idk what else. I have syringomyelia and this is a bit of what it’s like to be me.

#syringomyelia #actually disabled #syringomyelia awareness month #personal

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thethirdwheel404 · 4 years

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Med Series Rewatch (#12)

S3 E12: Born This Way.

Episode description: Dr. Manning and Dr. Choi are faced with a tough decision.

Literally when are they not.

Okay, last episode ended with the first Ava/Connor kiss, so this episode should be a rollercoaster of emotions.

let’s get into it.

- okay, already we’re starting in connor’s apartment, so cue ava walking in bc they slept together?

- i think its hilarious that her casual clothing is.. a flannel. like lmao idk

- it is so unbelievably funny and stupid to have a one night stand with someone you work closely with. i mean come on

- never forget that dr. ava bekker has a fish tank

- this is exhausting. the tentative back and forth is so fucking exhausting

- another bit of evidence. ava is never not confident, and especially not to this extent, and she never follows connor’s lead. so, the fact that she is standing back and waiting for him to make the decision? stupid.

- it screams that she is having a moment of anxiety, which is why she isn’t up to make the decisions in the exchange.

-to be clear: what i’m claiming here is that the only reason ava actually got with connor was bc she was having a moment of anxiety because he was the only person she had built a relationship with after living in this city for six months.

- when connor says that he has plans you can see her fold in on herself. this stems from a place of anxiety

- remember when they did surgery on the panda? that’s when the show peaked

- ava in her lab coat will never not get me. especially with the gloves, running towards a patient (very hot)

- connor still looks kinda looks like a mess but ava is immaculate here like what dude out of your league

- ava asking the family questions (ik this is standard doctor stuff but showing worry, interest, all that jazz)

- okay, see here! here! ava calls connor out, saying that his procedure is too invasive. before, ava’s procedures where invasive, which everyone used as evidence to her being super cold, but now, we see that she purely does what she deems best for the patient at hand

- also, once again, the concern ava feels. you can hear it in her voice. we forget this part of her way too often

- the smile on ava’s face when she gives the family good news. god wept

- and then more concern when connor tells her they need to put him on ecmo

- the reason that ava is frustrated that connor didn’t go with her decision for their patient care is because she truly believes that if they don’t go with her treatment, he will die. don’t make it anything different. don’t argue she’s frustrated because he’s not listening to her. don’t make it anything about their relationship. she puts their patients care first and foremost

- there’s a stark shift in her demeanor when in the room with the parents vs. her alone with connor. in the room, you can see she’s stewing. she’s sucking on her teeth, she’s holding her emotions. she has control, she’s a professional. out of the room, she has full reign to be as mad with connor as she wants, which she does.

-AVA RAN INTO THE ROOM AGAIN WITH THE LAB COAT AND GLOVES AND IDK IT JUST HAS ME FEELING SOME KINDA WAY

- the way ava acknowledges everyone in the room (the nurse just informed them that the drug was running, ava nodded. just a little thing but yk)

- ava shaking her head at this sad, sad man (connor, who is floundering for a solution and misplacing his anger)

- their entire relationship is misplaced anger

- the fact that the last shot of the scene has connor in the foreground looking over the bed and ava watching from the door but ava is the one in focus - some cool cinematography points

- IS THIS THE EPISODE WHERE MAGGIE GOES TO JAIL

- med really went all over the place

- JUST THE AMOUNT OF CONCERN ON AVA’S FACE. im gonna say it again. look me in the eyes and tell this women is a psychopath. the med writers are fucking insane

- and when the parents ask ava if she disagreed with connor’s treatment decision, she has every opportunity (and right, frankly) to throw him under the bus and undermine him. but still, she says “it’s a complicated situation.” like. she never ever makes it personal, or loses her head. especially not to a patient. and she doesn’t have to defend connor. he’s made a lot of mistakes, and taken it out on her a bunch of times. yet she’s still nice to him, when he’s not even in the room

- it’s insane

- this is also the legendary scene where she comforts the family. there’s not a lot that i haven’t already said. this is the scene that most exemplifies ava’s humanity, the way she seems to feel, at least residually, what these parents are going through (since she obviously hasn’t gone through anything like this herself [unless.]). the way she kneels down, and gets on the family’s personal level.

- I... okay listen. I absolutely HATE the parallel they pull her between the line “I believe whenever you do something out of love, it can never really be wrong” and connor. especially because they show him when she says that line. and yeah, there’s obviously a connection that can be drawn between the meaning of that line and her sociopathic behavior in s4 and s5.

- it honestly feels like when writing s4, the writers hit so much of a wall they just googled the most ‘iconic’ ava moments and thought ‘how can i use these in the worst way possible?’ That’s honestly probably what they did (ava’s first interaction with connor - ‘you better watch yourself,’ this moment). There is no nuance to her character in s4. it is astoundingly terrible.

- lets move on

- THE WAY CONNOR LOOKS AT AVA HER MAKES ME FUCKING SCARED. HE HAS NO EMOTION ON HIS FACE. I know that we’ve been screen capping ava throughout this series but can someone find pictures of connor looking at ava bc, i need yall to remember how weird he looks

- like, no shade to connor, but just the emotion is undecipherable, but it is in no way a good one

- ava getting concerned (and looking slightly embarrassed) when she sees connor watching her by the door. obviously yeah she’s gonna feel weird you just caught her in a very uncharacteristic moment, outwardly expressing comfort. fucking back off

- i am so fucking protective of her and i demand he no longer look at her. it’s banned

- sam abrams looking at sarah’s dad’s head ct and asking if he’s a criminal. oh boy

- from a writer’s perspective, the storyline with sarah’s dad is actually pretty good

- ava ran into the room with gloves and lab coat again, if anybody wanted to know

- for the record, want it to be noted, ava was the one who realized that it was an issue with the machine again, so you could say she fixed connor’s mistake, again. so.

- connor making a big deal about handing the reins over to ava (if he really was selfless he wouldn’t have made a whole big thing, he still has an enormous hero complex)

- handing off control was very hard for him. boo hoo get some fucking humility I think they sell it at walgreens

- sarah fucking walking across the ed like she’s going to war. dramatic

- med really said pedophiles deserve rights with this ep huh

- anyway

- the way ava smiles

- the way she smiles when she turns him down. CAN WE TALK ABOUT THAT? SHE TURNED HIM DOWN. in the aspect of the story i cannot remember why she turned him down, but hey, i’m happy

- and it only further proves my story that the hook up came from a place of anxiety, and this is her realizing how silly that decision was. and her smiling was her laughing at herself for making such a stupid decision

- ALSO. LET’S TALK ABOUT THE FACT THAT THIS DECISION, THE DECISION TO TURN HIM DOWN, HAPPENED IN THE SAME EPISODE WHERE SHE SAID ‘IF YOU DO SOMETHING FOR LOVE, IT’S NEVER REALLY WRONG’

- like she literally says ‘last night was a mistake.’

- honestly, it’s fucking hilarious. connor deserves nothing

- and the confusion on his face when she walks away. hilarious

- if you wanted to take this the reesker route you could argue that the idea of ‘a decision of love’ was ava coming to terms with her slight little crush, though i don’t know how clean it would be if you argue that she panicked and told herself those were feelings meant for connor. idk, i’ll have to think about it further

- watching sarah let herself be betrayed by both herself and the people around in the story surrounding her dad will never not be hard to watch

This was a very good episode, character wise, for all the reasons stated above. It just hammers home the point of how strong a character Ava was. Key word, of course, being ‘was’. My conclusion over the last two episodes is that this specific sexual encounter with Connor was born out of a moment of anxiety from Ava. I suggest that over that last few weeks or days she has been experiencing some amount of anxiety out of having been living in Chicago for six months and only having one interpersonal relationship. So, that idea kind of built where she told herself the reason she only had one relationship was because she was in love with him. Then. after going through the story with this kid and comforting his parents, she realizes that she never actually loved Connor and maybe has a thing for someone else. I’m glad that I keep coming up with more ideas for this character, I was afraid the initial theory was somewhat of a one-off, but this only proves the idea of the complexity to Ava’s character.

I’m sure it’ll get worse from here, though.

as always, thanks for sticking through

read the rest here:

Part 1 / Part 2 / Part 3 / Part 4 / Part 5 / Part 6 / Part 7 / Part 8 / Part 9 / Part 10 / Extra

#chicago med #med rewatch series #ava bekker #mine #born this way

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writeraquamarinara · 4 years

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Thoughts on an artist you love? Alternately, thoughts on the false STEM vs humanities dichotomy? 💕💕

alternately?? strap yourself in, cuz you’re getting both

(this is gonna be long and I apologize. I’m on mobile and can’t figure out how to add a “read more” cut. I’ll try to keep it short by not adding any images of Sherman’s work—pls just google it if ur interested)

an artist I love but can criticize because you can enjoy imperfect content: Cindy Sherman

I wrote a 10 page paper on her this semester so I could truly talk about this for way too long but let’s try to keep it short and sweet.

Sherman came to prominence for her series Untitled Film Stills, which were self-portraits, even though she was playing a part in each one: the small, scared, feminine woman in film noir. the compositions look like they came straight from a movie, but they didn’t.

this is in the 70s, peak feminism, and everyone’s immediately hailing her the new feminist photographer. but men walking into the museum (who can later purchase these images individually to hang in their homes, and not see them as part of a critique of pop culture) feel protective of the figure—a critic writing in an expo brochure literally said that the images prompted him to want to overpower her (yikes).

so when do “subversive” images pointing out the stereotyping of women in film become just another part of the repertoire of stereotyped women on film? Sherman herself never made a statement about her intent, but rather let people see what they wanted to see.

so some people start questioning her work (is it really All That?) and she does a 180: let’s critique the other stereotype of women in pop culture. let’s depict the monstrous. let’s make body parts out of prosthetics and plastic. let’s depict death, and the abject, and disgust all of these critics, while simultaneously riding the psychoanalysis wave to get more people talking about my work.

(listen, I love her, so this is not to drag her. if anything, this is a critique of the art world and the way that women have to reinvent themselves and their work to get people to buy it. for example, Sherman’s photographs are displayed and sold at immense sizes, in order to justify the prices that her name now guarantees)

her photographs are super interesting, and an exploration of femininity as performance, of the mother as monstrous, of an exploration of the self through the other, etc. but they can also be criticized. her most recent photos of older women seem to be a critique of the ageist culture of the 21st century, but also a critique of the women who give into this culture and try to fit in.

one of her biggest missteps was a series of pictures in which she, iirc, is pretending to be waiting for the bus—in full blackface. that series is almost never shown, and I think I only found out about it through a journal article. it’s definitely not displayed on the MOMA’s website like her other work.

so yeah, we can love people’s work (as in I find it aesthetically pleasing or interesting, despite its problematics), but the people themselves? meh.

~~~

you’ve come to the right place for discourse on the STEM vs. humanities dichotomy!!

ur girl wrote her entire college essay on the falsehood of that dichotomy, and she’s now majoring in art history and organismal bio (not orgasmal, ria), so I guess I’m living proof.

psa: you can love both English and calc. you can love both physics and musical theatre. those subjects should not even be considered two different ends of a spectrum in the first place!

so don’t limit yourself! and fuck institutions that force you to limit yourself!

do I know how I’m gonna integrate art history and bio into a career in the “real world”? no. am I still gonna major in them because I enjoy them and honestly life is too short to pick one over the other? hell yeah

#long post #asks #in which mari flails over some amazing art #my opinions tm #i apologize if this post is a mess and my rant on sherman didnt make sense #condensing a ten page paper off the top of my head and on mobile is.. hard

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paleorecipecookbook · 5 years

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The Top 20 Natural Remedies for Cold and Flu

The viruses that cause a cold or the flu lurk at work, school, daycare, and everywhere in between. And even if you yourself manage to stay virus free, there’s a high chance a family member or partner will bring a bug home. In the United States, the season is roughly fall and winter, peaking between December and February—but it can last until May.

Should you happen to catch a cold or the flu, you don’t have to turn to drugs and OTC medications to avoid the misery of nasal congestion, sore throat, coughing, fever, and just feeling wiped out. Read on to learn 20 natural remedies for the cold and flu that can significantly boost your immunity and shorten the duration of illness, so you can get back to feeling your best.

Table of contents:

The cold vs. the flu

Flu shot safety and effectiveness

The drawbacks of over-the-counter and prescription medications

20 natural remedies for cold and flu

Healthy lifestyle tips to shorten your illness

Is It a Cold or the Flu?

Upper respiratory illnesses take a considerable toll on the American population. According to CDC estimates, Americans suffer approximately 30 million cases of the flu per year. (1) On top of that, American adults experience two to three colds per year and children even more—somewhere in the range of six to eight per year is a conservative estimate. (2) While both illnesses are unpleasant, there are some important differences between a cold and the flu.

You don’t need to suffer through cold and flu season, and you don’t need to turn to over-the-counter solutions to feel better. Check out this article for my top 20 natural remedies to ease symptoms and shorten your illness. #healthylifestyle #wellness #chriskresser

A cold is an acute, self-limiting viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. Colds can be caused by more than 200 different viruses, with coronaviruses and rhinoviruses the most frequent culprits. (3) The sheer number of cold-causing viruses in existence means that the body has a hard time building up resistance to them—this is why we have yet to develop a “cure” for the common cold! The common cold spreads through hand contact with an infected person, by touching a contaminated object they’ve handled, or by encountering aerosolized droplets released during a sneeze or cough.

The flu, on the other hand, is a contagious viral respiratory infection that causes mild to severe illness. (4) There are four types of influenza viruses: A, B, C, and D. Humans are primarily affected by influenza viruses A and B—these viruses are responsible for seasonal epidemics of the flu each winter. Type C causes a very mild respiratory illness, and type D infects cattle, so these two are significantly less worrisome.

Like the common cold, the flu is spread by virus-laden airborne droplets when infected people cough, sneeze, or talk. Less often, a person may contract the flu by touching a surface or object that harbors the flu virus and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.

Should You Get a Flu Shot?

The flu vaccine (or nasal spray) is available in doctors’ offices, drugstore chains, grocery stores, and even drive-through clinics. However, a growing body of research indicates that it may not always be as effective as we’ve been led to believe. Perhaps even more importantly, the flu vaccine may have some adverse health consequences. (5)

A flu vaccine “effective” in one season may increase your risk of developing the flu in a subsequent season. This effect is due to a process called “antibody-dependent enhancement,” which occurs when virus–antibody complexes adapt and find alternate ways into cells, typically after a person receives the vaccine. (6) Getting the flu vaccine may also blunt the effectiveness of subsequent vaccines and increase the chance that you will infect others. (7, 8)

The efficacy of the flu vaccine is also up for debate. Three large scientific reviews have noted only “a modest effect” of the influenza vaccine on reducing flu symptoms in children, adults, and the elderly. (9, 10, 11) In addition, a large part of the purported benefit of flu vaccines may be due to the “healthy-user bias,” a phenomenon in which the subjects that voluntarily enroll in a trial (such as to receive a flu vaccine) are, on average, healthier than the general population—meaning that they are less likely to get sick in the first place, thus exaggerating the vaccine’s preventive advantages in study results.

Last but not least, conflicts of interest abound in vaccine research. The authors of the reviews mentioned above noted that industry-funded studies were significantly more likely to report conclusions in favor of vaccines than publicly funded studies. Furthermore, they reported:

The review[s] showed that reliable evidence on influenza vaccines is thin, but there is evidence of widespread manipulation of conclusions and spurious notoriety of the studies. (12)

Who Should Consider a Flu Shot

While for many of us the flu is a temporary (albeit uncomfortable) problem, there are certain populations who are more at risk for serious complications related to the illness and may benefit from receiving the flu shot. Healthcare workers with direct patient contact may benefit from the vaccine, as they are in frequent contact with sick patients who may be carrying the flu virus. (13) Asthmatics may also benefit, since viral respiratory infections take a greater toll on their health than that of the average non-asthmatic individual. (14) Finally, the flu vaccine may also be valuable for immunocompromised and elderly people because in these populations, the flu can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening conditions such as bacterial pneumonia and respiratory failure. (15, 16)

It’s important to weigh the evidence and make your own decisions when it comes to the flu vaccine. If you’re worried about the possibility of serious complications, getting a flu shot might be the right choice for you.

Cold Medicines Only Suppress Symptoms

When many people feel the first signs of a cold or the flu, they begin popping over-the-counter pharmaceuticals such as decongestants, antihistamines, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen and aspirin. However, evidence indicates that these drugs do nothing to shorten the duration of illness or prevent illness in the first place; they merely suppress symptoms. (17) Furthermore, many of these drugs come with significant side effects. See my article “How Safe Is Your Over-the-Counter Medicine?” to learn more about the health risks associated with these drugs.

Antibiotics Are Ineffective for Colds and Flu

A surprising number of physicians still prescribe antibiotics to patients with cold and flu symptoms, even though it’s well known that antibiotics—intended to prevent or kill bacterial infections—are completely useless for treating viral infections. According to recent statistics, a shocking 25 percent of antibiotics are inappropriately prescribed, and an additional 35 percent of prescriptions are “potentially inappropriate.” Many of these inappropriate prescriptions are given to patients (often children) with upper respiratory infections, sinusitis, and sore throats, which are most frequently viral in nature and not caused by bacteria. (18)

The indiscriminate prescribing of antibiotics is one of the primary reasons why antibiotic resistance has become such a pressing problem in our society. To stem the tide of antibiotic resistance, we need to significantly reduce our use of antibiotics, especially in cases where they aren't even useful, such as in the treatment of colds and flu.

The Growing Problem of Viral Drug Resistance

It's not just bacteria that are becoming resistant to pharmaceutical drugs; viruses are also developing drug resistance. Recent research has revealed that the influenza A virus, the virus responsible for seasonal epidemics of the flu, can quickly acquire resistance to anti-influenza drugs by mutating viral components. (19) This poses a problem for the conventional medical system, which relies on antiviral drugs to treat severe flu cases.

Due to problems with the flu vaccine and over-the-counter drugs, lack of efficacy of antibiotics, and the growing problem of viral drug resistance, there is a pressing need for novel treatment options for colds and flu. Fortunately, we already have a time-tested pharmacy for colds and flu at our fingertips in the form of remedies derived from plants and other natural products.

20 Natural Remedies for Cold and Flu

We can promote recovery when we catch a cold or the flu, and even prevent it from taking hold, without relying on drugs—because nature has provided us with an abundance of botanicals, vitamins, and minerals that boost our immunity and even attack the cold and flu viruses, thereby both reducing symptoms and shortening the duration of illness.

1. Andrographis: To Reduce Duration

Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) is an herbaceous plant native to India and Sri Lanka. It is a primary herb for the treatment of fever and infectious illnesses in both traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine.

The antimicrobial and immune-enhancing properties of andrographis have garnered significant scientific attention, and research has shown that this botanical is a powerful ally in the treatment of colds and flu. When taken within the first 36 to 48 hours of illness, andrographis can significantly reduce the severity and duration of upper respiratory infections. (20) Andrographolide, a primary compound derived from andrographis, may also inhibit influenza virus replication and reduce virus-induced inflammation, the cause of multiple flu symptoms such as fatigue and muscle soreness. (21, 22) In fact, these beneficial properties have made andrographis a popular remedy in Europe for the treatment of influenza. (23)

Because the available research on andrographis is variable in terms of extracts and dosages used, it is difficult to determine the optimal dosage for treating colds and flu. (24) However, the lower end of the dosage range used in clinical trials is 400 mg of andrographis (standardized for andrographolide content) three times per day, and the upper end is 1,000 to 2,000 mg three times per day. Andrographis at these dosages is intended for short-term use.

2. Honey: For Coughs and to Speed Recovery

Honey promotes recovery from viral respiratory infections. Manuka honey, a type of honey produced by bees that feed on the nectar of the New Zealand tea tree, inhibits flu virus replication. (It also boosts the effectiveness of certain antiviral drugs used for the treatment of influenza—the prescription drug Tamiflu is one example.) (25, 26) Honey has also been shown to be more effective than dextromethorphan and diphenhydramine, the most common active ingredients in OTC cough medicines, at improving nightly cough and sleep quality in children with upper respiratory infections. (27)

Methylglyoxal (MGO) is the primary anti-influenza ingredient in Manuka honey. When selecting Manuka honey for medicinal uses, look for the “MGO” label on the jar—it should state a minimum MGO content of 83. The higher the MGO rating, the higher the level of antiviral activity of the honey.

3. Propolis: To Speed Recovery

Propolis is a resinous mixture produced when bees mix their saliva and beeswax with secretions gathered from tree buds and other botanical sources. Bees use propolis to protect their community from bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens, essentially making propolis the “immune system” of the hive. It turns out that the "immune system" of the beehive also benefits the human immune system. Propolis contains polyphenolic compounds with anti-influenza activity and, when administered nasally, may significantly accelerate recovery from the common cold. (28, 29)

To accelerate recovery from colds and flu, begin with one tablespoon of high-MGO Manuka honey per day. Complement this with a propolis throat spray, such as this one by Beekeeper’s Naturals.

4. Bovine Colostrum: For Prevention

Bovine colostrum is the first milk produced a cow following the birth of a calf. It has a similar structure to human colostrum and proffers comparable immune-boosting benefits. In fact, bovine colostrum has been found to be three times more effective at preventing the flu than the flu vaccine and significantly reduces the number of episodes and hospitalizations for respiratory infections in children. (30, 31) You can purchase bovine colostrum as a powder or capsule; just choose a supplement from grass-fed, hormone-free, and antibiotic-free cows to ensure that you are getting the healthiest product possible.

5. Chinese Skullcap: For Prevention and Treatment

Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) is an antiviral that’s often effective against drug-resistant and nonresistant strains of influenza and cold-causing viruses. (32, 33) It’s been shown to stop viruses from reproducing, inhibit proteins present on influenza viruses that facilitate their adhesion to cells, suppress viral gene expression, protect cell membranes from virus-associated inflammation, and boost immunity.

The root extract of Chinese skullcap can be taken for colds and flu in tincture form at a dose of one-fourth to one-half teaspoon three times daily or as one teaspoon of powdered root three to six times a day. Chinese skullcap should not be taken during pregnancy and should be used with caution if you are taking any medications because it can increase the bioavailability of the drugs, intensifying their effects on the body.

6. Echinacea: For Prevention and Treatment

Echinacea refers to a group of herbaceous flowering plants in the daisy family native to Eastern and Central North America. Historically, Native Americans used echinacea to treat severe infections; today, the anti-infective properties of echinacea have been demonstrated by several clinical trials.

In one trial, 755 subjects were given either Echinacea purpurea or placebo for four months; those in the echinacea group experienced a significantly reduced occurrence of virally confirmed cold episodes. (34) A second clinical trial found echinacea to be as effective as the antiviral drug oseltamivir (Tamiflu) for the early treatment of influenza virus infections. However, unlike oseltamivir, echinacea does not run the risk of inducing antiviral drug resistance. (35)

Echinacea can be consumed as a tea or tincture or in capsules. If you take echinacea in a liquid form (tea or tincture), retain the dose in your mouth for approximately 10 seconds before swallowing to boost the local antiviral effects on oral tissues. (36)

7. Elderberry: To Shorten Duration and Treat Symptoms

The small, dark purple berries of the elderberry plant have a long history of use for the treatment of colds and flu. Elderberry extracts alleviate cold and flu symptoms and can significantly shorten the duration of illness by two to four days. (37, 38) Elderberry may battle cold and flu viruses by increasing serum antioxidant capacity.

Elderberry syrup is a time-honored and palatable method for consuming elderberry and can be taken in a dosage of 15 mL four times a day until cold and flu symptoms abate. Elderberry lozenges are another option that also frequently contain other immune-supportive ingredients, such as zinc. Elderberry is safe to consume during pregnancy and has no known drug interactions.

8. Garlic: For Prevention and to Reduce Severity

The humble garlic bulb has quite a colorful history—in medieval times, garlic was worn on the body to ward off the “evil eye” and hung in homes to protect against supernatural entities believed to cause illness. Today, it has become clear that these superstitions held a grain of truth; while garlic may not ward off the evil eye or malicious spirits (or vampires), it does help to protect against disease-causing agents, including viruses.

Allicin, a compound released when a garlic clove is crushed, smashed, or chopped, has been shown to boost immunity against cold-causing viruses. (39) Aged garlic extract, a preparation that lacks the pungent scent of fresh garlic, may reduce cold and flu severity by enhancing the function of immune cells and reducing virus-induced inflammation. (40, 41)

The dose of aged garlic extract used in clinical trials for colds and flu is approximately 2.5 g per day. The optimal dosages of fresh and dried garlic for colds and flu have not been determined, but clinical trials examining the broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties of garlic have used dosages between 600 and 1,200 mg per day.

9. Ginger: For Prevention and Treatment

In China and Japan, ginger is a key supportive ingredient in traditional herbal formulas for treating the common cold. Scientific research indicates that fresh ginger may have antiviral activity against certain viruses that infect the respiratory system. (42)

To get the maximum antiviral benefits of ginger, I recommend making the following ginger tea recipe:

Juice 1 to 2 pounds of ginger; place juice in a jar and refrigerate.

Place 2 to 4 ounces of ginger juice in a mug with the juice of one-half lemon and a large tablespoon of honey. I recommend Beekeeper’s Naturals honey. Add one-eighth teaspoon of cayenne pepper and 6 ounces of hot water.

Drink 2 to 6 cups of this a day, sipping slowly throughout the day.

10. Houttuynia: For Prevention and Treatment

Houttuynia cordata is a traditional Chinese herb active against multiple respiratory viruses, including influenza. It can be taken in a tincture or as a powdered dry herb. For viral respiratory infections, the recommended dose of tincture is one-fourth to one-half teaspoon six times per day or one-half teaspoon three to six times daily for the dried herb.

11. Licorice: For Prevention and Treatment

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a botanical medicine with broad-spectrum antiviral properties. Glycyrrhizin, the sweet-tasting constituent of licorice root, can inhibit the replication of influenza virus while also reducing virus-associated inflammation. (43)

Licorice can be taken in tincture form at a dosage of 30 to 60 drops up to three times a day or in capsules at a dosage of 4 g per day in two to three divided doses. Licorice should not be taken in large doses or for long periods during pregnancy because it may have harmful effects on the unborn child. The phytochemicals in licorice root also have blood pressure-raising and mild estrogenic effects, so it should not be taken for more than 10 days by people with hypertension, hypokalemia, hypernatremia, or low testosterone levels.

12. Lomatium: For Treatment

Lomatium is a member of the carrot family native to western North America. While studies on the antiviral activity of Lomatium are scarce, the herb has a long history of use by Native American peoples for the treatment of infections. Anecdotally, herbalists have found lomatium useful for treating several types of influenza.

Lomatium should not be taken during pregnancy. Some people may experience a rash, which seems to be harmless, upon ingestion of lomatium. According to herbalist Stephen Harrod Buhner, the rash is typically dark red or purplish in color, covers the whole body, causes little to no itching or discomfort, and disappears in about a week’s time. Using lomatium as part of a mixture of herbs, rather than on its own, may prevent the rash.

13. Medicinal Mushrooms: For Prevention

Medicinal mushrooms are all the rage right now, and for a good reason: they have a broad spectrum of health benefits, including helping the immune system respond to viruses. Glucan, a polysaccharide found in medicinal mushrooms, enhances the immune response against the influenza virus. (44) Glucans are found in chaga, Cordyceps, reishi, and shiitake mushrooms.

Medicinal mushroom extracts are available in many different forms, including tinctures, capsules, and teas.

14. Probiotics: For Prevention

According to recent research, a healthy gut microbiota is crucial for initiating an appropriate immune response to the influenza virus. (45)

Fermented foods and probiotics that introduce beneficial bacteria to the gut are potent tools for preventing and fighting cold and flu viruses. A recent study found that when adults who suffered from frequent colds were supplemented with Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus casei, and Lactobacillus fermentum for 12 weeks, they experienced a significant reduction in the number of upper respiratory infections. (46) Eating lacto-fermented yogurt has also been found to reduce the risk of catching a common cold in healthy elderly individuals. (47)

In an animal study, mice were given Lactobacillus casei isolated from kimchi, a staple fermented vegetable dish in Korean cuisine. The mice treated with L. casei experienced reduced weight loss after virus infection and lower levels of viral replication in their lungs. (48)

Unfortunately, catching the flu does have some harmful effects on the gut; flu-infected patients experience reductions in intestinal microbiota diversity and increases in opportunistic E. coli and Enterococcus faecium. Taking Lactobacillus probiotics and eating lacto-fermented foods may help prevent or reduce these adverse effects.

15. Olive Leaf: For Prevention

Olive leaf contains three polyphenols—a type of micronutrient found in plant-based foods—with potent antiviral properties. Olive leaf extract changes the membrane of the influenza virus, preventing it from attaching to and penetrating cells. (49, 50)

Olive leaf can be taken in the form of a tincture, capsules, or tea. The typical dosage range is 500 to 1,000 mg per day.

16. Red Root: For Treatment

Red root (Ceanothus americanus) is native to the Americas. While there hasn’t been much scientific study on red root, the deep red tincture and tea extracted from its roots have long been used for treating respiratory infections.

In his excellent book Herbal Antivirals: Natural Remedies for Emerging and Resistant Viral Infections, herbalist Stephen Harrod Buhner provides a recipe for an herbal immune tonic that includes red root and several of the other antiviral botanicals I’ve mentioned above.

Here’s the formula for the immune-tonic combo:

Mix two parts lomatium, two parts red root, two parts licorice, and one part isatis (all in tincture form).

Take 30 to 60 drops mixed with 1 to 2 ounces of water each hour until condition improves. You may have trouble finding some of these botanicals locally, but you can get them fairly easily online.

17. Selenium: For Prevention

Selenium helps to balance and regulate the immune system and is crucial in optimizing your defenses against cold and flu viruses. Selenium deficiency has been found to cause the flu virus to mutate into more virulent forms, but replenishment of this trace mineral can improve the immune response to viral respiratory infections. (51, 52)

During cold and flu season, feel free to take 200 mcg of selenium three to four days a week. However, beyond the flu season, I don’t recommend supplementing with selenium long term because continuous selenium supplementation has been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer in men. Instead of supplementing outside of cold and flu season, optimize your intake of selenium-rich foods such as:

Brazil nuts

Cremini mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms

Cod

Shrimp

Tuna

Halibut

Scallops

Chicken

Eggs

Lamb

Turkey

18. Vitamins A and D: For Prevention

Vitamins A and D work synergistically to support your immune health. In fact, host resistance and susceptibility to influenza infection appear to depend importantly on the ratio of vitamin D to vitamin A activity in the body. (53) Extra-virgin cod liver oil is an excellent source of vitamins A and D in the proper ratio for promoting optimal immune function.

19. Vitamin C: To Reduce Duration

Over the years, there has been much debate over whether vitamin C is useful for treating colds and the flu. A recent meta-analysis of studies concluded that extra doses of vitamin C taken at the onset of a cold significantly reduce its duration. (54) During cold and flu season, consider taking 1,000 to 4,000 mg of supplemental vitamin C per day. I recommend a liposomal vitamin C because it is rapidly absorbed and highly bioavailable.

20. Zinc: To Reduce Duration

Zinc is another immune-boosting nutrient that many people don’t get enough of in their diets. According to a review of trials that assessed the body of literature on zinc for the common cold, zinc administered within the first 24 hours of a cold can significantly reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. (55) I recommend taking 30 mg per day of zinc picolinate or zinc gluconate at the first sign of a cold to speed up your recovery.

For the Best Effect, Live a Healthy Lifestyle, Too

While the natural remedies I've mentioned above are excellent cold and flu fighters, they should be combined with healthy, ancestral lifestyle choices to achieve the greatest impact.

Getting high-quality sleep, reducing your stress, and eating a nutrient-dense, whole-foods diet will do wonders to support your recovery from a cold or the flu.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Getting plenty of sleep is essential for recovering from colds and flu, as well as preventing their onset. Insufficient sleep and poor sleep quality are associated with reduced resistance to the common cold; this effect undoubtedly holds true for the flu as well, since sleep deprivation compromises immunity. (56)

In addition to getting plenty of sleep—around eight hours per night is a good goal—you should also work on optimizing your circadian rhythm. Circadian rhythm disruption, caused by factors such as blue light exposure before bed and abnormal sleep patterns, primes the body for viral infection. (57)

Reduce Stress

Mental and emotional stress depresses the immune system, making it harder to fight off colds and flu. Stress reduction practices should be a crucial part of your recovery process; in fact, meditation has been found to reduce the severity of cold and flu illness. (58) If you want to reduce your stress but don't know where to begin, try a meditation app such as Headspace, Calm, or Waking Up, or practice some easy breathing exercises.

Allow Yourself to Rest

In our 24/7 on-the-go society, busyness is often valued over rest. However, if you want to give your body the opportunity to heal from a cold or flu, then rest is essential. Give yourself permission to curl up with a good book and some hot tea (such as the immune-boosting ginger tea I mentioned above) or take a nap. Getting some much-needed rest will actually make you more productive by reducing the duration of your illness.

Eat a Nutrient-Dense, Whole-Foods Diet

Eating a nutrient-dense, whole-foods diet is also crucial when recovering from a cold or the flu. Avoid sugar, refined grains, and industrial seed oils, which impair immune function, and instead focus on eating high-quality animal proteins, non-starchy vegetables, moderate amounts of starchy plants such as sweet potatoes, some vitamin C-rich fruit, and healthy fats.

Cold and flu season comes around every year, but that’s the only thing about it that’s inevitable. You don’t have to be miserable if you catch a bug, if you use one or more of the natural cold and flu remedies I’ve discussed here. They’ll do wonders for reducing your symptoms and the length of your illness—or even preventing it—so you can get back to feeling like yourself in no time.

Now, I’d like to hear from you. What are your favorite natural cold and flu remedies? Will you consider trying any of the remedies in this article? Let me know in the comments below.

The post The Top 20 Natural Remedies for Cold and Flu appeared first on Chris Kresser.

Source: http://chriskresser.com March 05, 2019 at 06:59PM

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tipsycad147 · 4 years

Text

Garden Gnomes

By shirleytwofeathers

Origin: Teutonic

Emblem: Mushrooms, especially fly agaric or fly amanita

Plant: The presence of galbanum (freula galbaniflua) allegedly invites the protection of gnomes.

Iconography: The standard garden gnome depicts an older male with a long beard and peaked red hat. He wears a big belt over leggings, a blue tunic, and boots. Sometimes they wear gardeners’ aprons.

The name “gnome” stems from the Greek word “genomos” which means “earth dweller”. They are said to be one of the elemental spirits defined by Paracelsus, as representative of the Earth Element.

Gnomes are subterranean spirits now most associated with garden statuary. They resemble tiny people. Paracelsus described gnomes as two spans high. (A span is the width of an outstretched human hand,) Unlike dwarves or kobolds, gnomes are not mine or cave spirits but tend to live beneath human gardens. They have a reputation for emerging at night to do a little helpful garden work. Garden gnomes allegedly bring luck.

Gnomes tend to be quiet, private, taciturn spirits, but they respond well to gifts and offerings. They can be persuaded to become loyal allies, guardians, and helpers. Female gnomes may be especially taciturn; they are rarely depicted. However folklore indicates that their are entire gnome communities with male and female gnomes of all ages. Gnomes maintain good relationships with birds, rabbits, foxes, hedgehogs, and squirrels.

Originally, gnomes were thought to provide protection, especially of buried treasure and minerals in the ground. Gnomes were regarded as good luck charms by our ancestors and would often be found living in the rafters of barns where they would help watch over livestock. They are still used today.

Garden Gnomes vs “Actual” Gnomes

Modern garden gnomes are based on the legendary “Gnomes” of myth, mysticism, and fairy tales. Gnomes have historically been described as small (from a few inches to a foot or two in height) stout beings who live in Nature – usually underground. European magicians and other mystics considered gnomes the most common and important elemental spirits of the ‘Earth’ element (the other three classical elements being: ‘Water,’ ‘Fire,’ and ‘Air’).

Gnomes were said to wear conical hats and to be able to move through the earth itself as easily as we humans walk upon it, yet if any of these underground dwellers were caught out in the daylight it was said that the rays of the Sun turned them into stone.

Sometimes gnomes were said to have magical powers to protect or punish people – or to reward them with happiness. Gnomes are also said to be guardians of secret underground treasures – especially gold! Even in modern times gnomes are said by some –such as the highly influential mystic Rudolph Steiner – to be involved in the hidden processes of plant life. In fact many farms, including prize-winning wineries, follow principles based on these beliefs.

Garden Gnomes Today

More modern descriptions of gnomes usually emphasise their bright red pointed hats, solid coloured clothes, and the long white beard of the typical male. Though sightings of female gnomes are rarely reported, gnome women are generally thought to be beard-free.

The name ‘gnome’ is said to come from the Latin word ‘gnomus’ which is thought to possibly come from the Greek word ‘gnosis’ meaning “knowledge” (i.e. of hidden treasure), but is more likely rooted in the word ‘genomos’ meaning “earth dweller”

A garden gnome adds a bit of whimsy and a connection to the old world, where farmers believed the good luck charm could help their fields yield more produce and protect them from thieves, pests and other problems. They were also thought to help gardeners in the night, which we all could use!

The earliest gnome statuary was produced in Thuringia, Germany, in the early nineteenth century and was based on German folklore. Gnome statues potentially welcome and attract real gnomes, as well as Flower Fairies or other benevolent spirits. The earliest statues were carefully wrought, hand-painted terra-cotta and were exceptionally popular.

By the 1960’s, cheaper plastic and resin versions were mass-produced. The old terra-cotta ones are now extremely valuable and are family heirlooms. Garden gnome statues tend to evoke very visceral responses. Some people adore and collect them. Others loathe them so much that they feel justified destroying or removing other people’s property.

Gnomes are the subject of modern entertainment as well as old folktales. The animated children’s television show The World of David the Gnome was highly unusual in that it depicted both male and female gnomes. The gnomes in J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series are garden pests, not helpers.

Some Handy Garden Gnome Trivia:

Gnomes are banned from the Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show. We think that’s a crying shame, personally.

There are three categories of mass-produced gnomes: Worker gnomes, who always carry tools like fishing rods, shovels, or hammers; at-ease gnomes who typically carry a pipe and cultural gnomes who have a musical instrument in hand. Rock stars.

Gnomes have a life expectancy of 400 years.

Their main enemies? Mean humans who destroy the environment and trolls – obviously.

Male gnomes always wear red caps.

The world’s oldest garden gnome, called Lampy, has been living at Lamport Hall in the UK for 125 years and is worth a cool £2 million, or €2.4m!

In the 1980s, the Gnome Liberation Front stole gnomes and sent the owners photos of them from landmarks around the globe.

Gnomes are generally vegetarian and eat foods like nuts, mushrooms, peas, beans, potatoes, applesauce, fruit, berries, tubers, spices, vegetables, and preserves for dessert.

They like to drink mead dew made from fermented honey, fermented raspberries, and spiced gin as a nightcap.

Gnomes kiss by rubbing noses. They also use nose rubbing as a greeting equivalent to human handshaking.

Forest Gnomes:

There are gnomes that live in the forest in the Philippines. You can tell where they live if there’s a hill of dirt that’s a bit higher than everything else. And when you go by them, you’re supposed to be really, really respectful and say:

“Excuse me. I’m just walking by. I don’t mean any harm.”

Even if you’re not doing anything, or no one said anything, or you’re not sure. You’re just supposed to do it. If you don’t, there could be blow back as per the following:

“There was a story on the Philippines news channel, about a kid who had huge swollen lips. You could hardly see his eyes. He was speaking to reporters and he said that he was walking by the hills and his friend told him that you’re supposed to say sorry and he said, “No, I’m not. I don’t care. I don’t believe in that stuff.”

Then the next day he woke up with a tumour on his face. Not so much as a tumour, but as his lips were super swollen. It looked like someone blasted air into his lips. Like super Botox.”

Walking Gnomes

The following story is very interesting in the fact that this is one of the few stories from Mexico where inanimate objects, that are not haunted, come to life. The Mexican culture does not traditionally include creatures such as gnomes but instead, it consist of larger creatures and ghosts. This is because the country did not originally have gnomes until places, such as the United States introduced them to there.

“In Mexico they believe that garden gnomes come alive at night. The proof they have of it is that my grandma used to own gnomes and her neighbours used to own gnomes in Mexico. And the garden gnomes the next day would be found in different places and a lot of stuff was broken and sometimes my mom and her sister would wake up at night, and they would hear things, but when they looked outside, they would never see the gnomes there. So there’s that story that they become alive at night in Mexico.”

“Recently I was talking to one of my cousins who told that story to some friends whose parents were also from Mexico. And this friend told my cousin that he actually believes that story, because one night the garden gnomes were not where they had placed them. They found them inside the house one night in the house and they were rolling in the hallway. Since then, they got rid of the gnomes, or at least they tried to. They threw them away but the next day they were in the same place they had put them before.”

The Secret Lives of Garden Gnomes

From Neopets.com, here’s a story about what Gnomes do at night. I’m pretty sure this is a made up story, but I thought it was fun, and who knows? Maybe it isn’t altogether fictional. You be the judge:

The reason Garden Gnomes come alive at night is because they don’t want anyone to see them moving around. This is pretty practical, considering the fact that if any regular person saw them talking and moving, they’d want to put them in some sort of abnormality museum!

But what do garden gnomes do at night? Well, I was watching out my window at the gnomes in my garden one night, and I saw one, a Bruce gnome, have them all line up in a row as he paced back and forth in front of them, a small twig in his hand like he was the instructor of a military camp.

He was telling each gnome which direction to go in order to pick up free food. You see, garden gnomes thrive like ants. They all go off to find food that people may have dropped accidentally or on purpose, and sometimes they even venture into houses and borrow food with no intention of returning (also known as stealing, but they take such small portions most people never even notice).

After retrieving food they rush back to their home centre (which is usually a tunnel in the ground leading into a large, dug out room, since gnomes are not claustrophobic) and report to the leader, in this case the Bruce gnome. He then tallies their lot and tosses the foot morsel into another room in their tunnel, where they store their food. They act sort of like chipmunks, storing food and hunting for it, of course, gnomes are not carnivores though.

And, to their enormous pleasure, when they have collected a lot of food, they sit down at have a feast! Yes, a feast! It’s a feast of little sweets, candy peas, popcorn pieces, and sometimes even whole flower cakes (although they take more than one gnome to carry). But besides eating, what else do gnomes do? Well, I’m glad you asked.

You wouldn’t suspect this, but when they have leisure time, gnomes enjoy swimming. They are very pleased to find a Neogarden where someone owns a pond. They jump right in, clothes and all, and swim and dive around in the cool water for hours at a time. And when they want to dry off, they take a large leaf and wrap themselves up in it, drying off quickly.

Aside from swimming, gnomes also enjoy crafts. They may take green blades of grass and weave adorable little baskets or even blankets. They can also take pieces of bark off of trees and sticks and carve them with sharp stones into little sculptures. Gnomes are very talented in the artistic field, and if you see a stick carved into a Meepit, you know who did it.

Aside from swimming and crafts, another thing gnomes enjoy is sports. They might play their own version of soccer by kicking around a rounded stone, or even play basketball by throwing a rock into a hole. This not only provides exercise, but gives them lots of time together to just have fun.

But when they aren’t playing and having fun, what do they do? Throughout the whole day, they sleep, and at night they either have fun or look for food, so there’s only a little bit of time left for something else-note-taking! This is sort of like their education, which is actually an education of…what else? Neopets!

Note-taking is when gnomes grab their oversized pencils and paper, which they “borrow” from Neopets, then marching through the sleeping pet’s house and going to their bedroom, where they climb up on the bed and observe the neopet’s sleeping habits. They are trying to find out where Neopets came from. Maybe all Neopets evolved from Myncis!

Another sort of educational activity that gnomes practice is counting. It isn’t counting like 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, though, no, no no! It’s counting in a different way. The gnomes version of counting may be why your plushies eye was missing when you woke up.

Gnomes will trample in when you are catching some Z’s (it seems all of their educational activities are while Neopets are slumbering) and then they will be assigned a number (by there leader, the Bruce gnome) and then they shall go “counting” which, in other words, is another type of stealing. They have to pick up ten, for example (or however many their number is) trinkets, like plushie eyes, toothpicks, or buttons, and bring them back to their tunnel, storing them in a safe place. What they do with them I do not know, but I suspect they might make furniture or something of the sort using what they found.

One last thing I found out is that gnomes are a fan of bright colours and patterns. In the early morning, I saw them getting ready for bed and they were wearing long pants and long sleeved shirt PJ’s of hot pink, bright purple, lime green, and sunny yellow colour. Some had stripes, some had polka dots, and some even had swirlies! Gnomes are very interesting, no?

Now you know what gnomes do when you aren’t looking, what their secret life is all about. If you look out your window at night, you might be able to see them moving and hear them talking in their high pitched voices. But be warned-if they see you watching them, well, I won’t go there…

Sources:

House and Garden

Encyclopedia of Spirits

Love To Know

Folklore USC

Just Say Gnome

https://shirleytwofeathers.com/The_Blog/powers-that-be/garden-gnomes/

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indefenseofplants · 7 years

Text

Herbarium Biases

Humans carry countless biases with them wherever they go. Even the logical mind of a scientist is no stranger to prejudice. Identifying such biases in the way we do science is key to improving the discipline and, as computing power and access to big data increases, we are gaining a better understanding of just how prevalent our biases really are. A recent study that looked at herbarium collections around the world aims to do just that.

With herbaria closing shop around the globe, the need to digitize collections has never been more urgent. Although more and more collections are finding their way into digital libraries, a vast majority of herbarium collections risk being lost forever. This alone represents a major bias. Such organismal science has sadly been scoffed at in recent decades. Still, enough collections have been entered into databases that interesting patterns are starting to emerge. A team of researchers recently took a closer look at roughly 5 million digitized floras representing the most complete digital floras from Australia, South Africa, and New England.

In doing so, the team was able to find some startling biases in these collections. They broke them down into a handful of categories with the hope that botanists and ecologists can start to improve on these gaps over the coming decades. Although the floras they examined by no means represent anything close to a complete picture of our floristic understanding of the world, they nonetheless mirror issues that are sure to crop up no matter where collections have been made.

The first major category is that of spatial or geographic bias. This occurs whenever specimens are collected at a higher frequency in one place over another. There are likely many reasons for this - ease of access, proximity to research institutions, just to name a few. The team found that herbarium collections tended to occur in the same areas through time. What's more, they tended to occur more often near roads with a surprising 50% of specimens collected within 2 km of a roadside. This can result in a highly skewed perspective of the kind of taxa represented in a region. Roadside vegetation is comprised of species capable of dealing with runoff, soil compaction, and pollution, and is likely depauperate of taxa less able to handle such conditions. They also found a elevational bias, with a majority of specimens having been collected below 500 meters.

The second major category is that of temporal bias. This occurs whenever specimens are collected more frequently during certain parts of the year over others. The team found that collections disproportionately occurred during spring and summer months. As anyone who hikes can tell you, there is a lot of variation among plant communities from season to season and any good collection should sample a location multiple times a year. In addition to seasonal biases, the team also found extreme biases in terms of history. Collections in South Africa and Australia started to rise shortly after World War II and peaked in the 1980's and 1990's respectively. Compare this to New England where peak collections occurred nearly 100 years prior. If we are to track long term trends and changes in the flora of various regions, collections need to occur far more regularly. Obviously institutions have shied away from such investigations in recent decades. Only public interest and funding can reverse such trends, hopefully not before it is too late.

The third major bias they found is that of trait bias. This occurs whenever a collector specifically aims for species with a certain life history characteristic (annual vs. perennial, woody vs. herbacious) as well as species of conservation concern. Indeed, the team found that perennial species were over-represented in most herbarium collections. Also, gramminoids dominated herbarium collections in Australia and South Africa whereas herbs and trees were over-represented in New England. Another interesting pattern that emerged is that short plants had higher representation in harbaria than taller species. Obviously this has a lot to do with ease of collection.

Another pattern that emerged which is of conservation concern is that threatened or endangered species are severely under-represented in herbarium collections. Although care must be taken to not over-collect species whose numbers are dwindling, their lack of representation in herbarium collections can seriously hinder conservation efforts. Such under-represenation can lead to erroneous estimations of species abundances and distributions. It can also hinder our understanding of plant community dynamics.

The fourth major bias is that of phylogenetic bias. Certain clades are more sought after than others. This leads to a disproportionate amount of showy or valuable species turning up in herbaria around the globe. It also leads to an over-representation of potentially "useful" plant species in terms of things like medicines or dyes. This leaves a large portion of regional floras under-sampled. This in turn exacerbates issues relating to our understanding of plant community dynamics and the change in plant abundance and distribution through time.

Finally, the fifth major bias is that of collector bias. This pattern stems from the fact that in all the regions sampled for this study, a majority of the collections were made by only a handful of individuals. This means that all of these collections are the products of the habits and preferences of these collectors. Some collectors may favor sampling the entire flora of a region whereas others may favor certain clades over others. Similarly, some collectors may favor plants with interesting physiologies whereas other may favor plants with peculiar life-histories such as carnivores or succulents.

The use and importance of herbaria has changed a lot over the last two centuries. Whereas they largely started out as a tool for taxonomists, the utility of herbarium collections has since expanded into areas that were never thought possible. With the advent of new technologies, who knows what the future holds. Of course, this means nothing if interest and support for herbarium collections continues to decline. Their utility in the context of research and conservation cannot be understated. We need herbaria now more than ever. Understanding biases is a great step towards improving the discipline. We must aim to improve collections in these so-called cold spots and to avoid as many biases as possible in doing so.

Photo Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Further Reading: [1]

#ecology #herbaria #conservation #herbarium #collections #museum collections #plant collections

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hetaliareaderfanfic · 7 years

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The Name Game

Notes: Reader x 2P!America vs. 2P!Canada (Y/N) = Your Name Human AU Part 4/13

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6, Part 7, Part 8, Part 9, Part 10, Part 11, Part 12, Part 13

First ten parts before Another Ending

Going out when one was an introvert was never easy, especially if dealing with people could not be avoided, but Y/N should go out at least once a week. She did and did not want to tolerate her isolation by choosing to buy supplies, food especially, from the grocery. A trip to Cafétea was like a prize for herself for going out, only it came first before her necessary shopping and some duties. Five blocks away from the shop was good enough, with sometimes free flower-picking along the way from plants wanting to escape some unknown neighbor’s fences.

It had been two weeks since she was the spotlight of Cafétea for a very few moments, but to her, the unexpected attention, which she thought was also not very positive, it still bothered her from time to time. She would carefully spy around looking for some other people who might have been present at the peak of her Cafétea customer life so she could avoid them. And seeing the tall blonde man that was always just sitting silently next to her did not ease her anxiety. But like always, she took that usual seat, and the other one would always occupy the table next to it, which, unconsciously to both of their relief, was always available; as if their names were engraved on the silence of that space.

The previous week, just a week after the incident, he did not say anything to her, and she did not say anything to him as well. But as soon as she saw him on his usual spot, as if ‘her table’ was a prize or a curse that seemed to emptily wait for her arrival (but she took that spot anyway), she remembered that that man spoke up ‘that time’. And in an instant, her mind was flooded with thoughts and mixed emotions. Should she thank him? For what? Did he defend her? No, perhaps he was just a just man. And he was almost also directly involved. But should she thank him? She kept asking herself, until her eyes landed again on the tower surrounded by moat of maple syrup, and she just took out her notebook and pen.

And now was the second week, and it was just the same, and it would just have been the same if only she remembered she had picked a flower that morning on her way to Cafétea; if only she did not react violently, or rather, very surprised, as her hand touched its suddenly unfamiliar petals when she got her notebook from her bag, and if only she did not accidentally tossed it out of shock. If only it did not land on the man next table’s tower, then it would just have been the same.

Realizing the result of her action, her eyes widened at the sight of the flower replacing the butter’s place. The tower was invaded; the moat of maple syrup was not very effective. And oh, the owner looked surprised, shocked, and perhaps angry.

“Sir Maple, I- I’m sorry, I did not mean to…” was all that she could utter.

But the sunglasses of the man could not hide the sudden change of his expression. A crease between his brows was just forming while he was about to look for the invader when he heard what he was called. It echoed to his ears, and the furrow on his brows vanished. “What did you just call me?”, he managed to ask the distraught perpetrator.

“Sir Map- … I… it was an accident.” Trying to regain social composure, Y/N continued. “I’m very sorry about that. I will just buy you another tower.” Realizing her ‘mistake’, she hurriedly blabbered to try to overlap what she already said. “Pancakes, pancakes, I mean, and maple syrup. The flower is not dirty, though, I just picked it this morning and, but, I’ll take responsibility of the ruins.”

Indeed, it did not very much clear the situation. Nevertheless, it amazed ‘Sir Maple’.

Y/N was disturbed. She realized it was not a very good idea to playfully make a ‘plot draft’ out of someone else’s food, especially if that someone was just at the table next to you.

Embarrassed and red, she stood up to escape to the direction of the counter. She believed Oliver or Francis could easily handle this. ‘Sir Maple’ was not the cheerful type, Y/N noticed even before; very far from Oliver’s joyful nature. Perhaps Francis could effortlessly manage this, without adding more to the scene. Perhaps she needed both of them and a refill of her coffee for her to calm down.

He might have not known, but ‘Sir Maple’ was red himself; trying to refrain from laughing. Yet he was smiling as he looked at the flower on his pancake ‘tower’. “Sir Maple. What the fuck.” He chuckled and took the flower from his food. “Boule de neige.” And he brought it up to his nose, with some maple syrup still dripping from its petals and stem. And he smelled the fragrance of the rose mixed with maple and morning walk. He licked off some dripping maple syrup from the petals to not waste its flavor without minding if anyone would see him. And then he carefully laid it on a napkin beside his plate with a plan of preserving it. He got back on eating his ‘ruined’ pancake. He did not walk after Y/N to stop her from ordering a new plate of pancakes. ‘Sir Maple’ would not mind another ‘tower’ anyway.

#2P!Canada #2P!France #2P!England #Hetalia Fanfiction #Hetalia x reader #The Name Game #zanier fanfic #i'm sorry for this very short update #i am just very busy these past few days #hopefully i can update more soon #thank you for the patience and support :)

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oumakokichi · 7 years

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Since you've talked a lot about "why Ouma is not Komaeda", would it be okay if I asked you what your take is on Saihara's differences with Hinata?

This is a really fun question, actually! I’vetalked about how Saihara is his own character, as well as his differences fromNaegi and Hinata on a more general level, but I don’t think I’ve ever gone intoexplicit detail about how different he is from Hinata.

I’ve seen a lot of people raisecomplaints about Saihara’s similarities with both previous protagonists. WithNaegi, the accusations are that both of them are “weak” or “ordinary,” but withHinata the accusations are generally more directed towards the fact that bothof them as protagonists are far more depressed than someone optimistic likeNaegi, and both of them struggle with issues like their own self-image.However, the reasons for why they grapple with these things are quitedifferent.

The most important point ofdifference that I would note is that while Hinata certainly “is depressed” overhis own lack of talent, Saihara “has depression.” There’s a world of differencebetween “being depressed” and “having depression,” in my opinion, at least.

At heart, Hinata is not someonewho gets depressed often or easily. Prior to attending Hope’s Peak, we knowthat Hinata was relatively self-assured. He was far more confident than Saiharaever was or has been; his use of “ore” as a pronoun and his lack of honorificsamong his classmates suggests that in a situation removed from Hope’s Peak andtalent, he’s relatively confident and considers himself on equal footing withmost people his own age.

As we see in sdr2, wiped of hismemories and unaware of his own lack of talent, Hinata is able to performadmirably when under strain or duress. He gets much more annoyed and fed upwith his classmates than Naegi or Saihara tend to, but he also holds himselftogether relatively well, confident in his reasoning and common sense. Even asearly as the first investigation in sdr2, he notes that he’s “doing a prettygood job investigating all by himself,” despite the fact that he has noparticular talent for detective work.

These small glimpses of self-assuranceand confidence show that Hinata doesn’t “have depression,” much less theanxiety that Saihara struggles with. Instead, Hinata was someone shaped by thetalent-based society around him. Hope’s Peak Academy and its rules andregulations forced him to feel worthless and inadequate for arbitrary reasons,like not having a specific talent at which he excelled.

Despite all that, Hinata feltas though he very much deserved achance to attend Hope’s Peak. He admired the school more than anyone, and hewanted to attend it more than anyone—and for that reason, he couldn’t acceptthat not being naturally talented was reason enough to refuse him access tothose opportunities. The constant societal pressure and the implication that “talent”was equivalent with “self-worth” eventually made him willing to throw awayeverything, even his own sense of self, in order to obtain that “talent.” Butthe point still stands that he wouldn’t have made that decision if he hadn’thonestly thought that he deserved to have a chance at attending Hope’s Peak.

Hinata’s self-loathing is aresult of societal pressure and the dissonance caused by knowing that he hasworth as a human being but being told otherwise by Hope’s Peak and the worldaround him. When thrust into unreasonable or dangerous situations that he can’tdo anything about, his instinct isn’t to lie down or give up—quite thecontrary, he gets angry. Even in Chapter 1 of sdr2, there are several occasionswhere he simply screams by himself in his cottage, unable to accept thesituation they’ve all been put into.

There are many, many issuesthat Hinata struggles with—but those issues are caused by society itself. Sdr2is a story largely about how Hinata and the other characters are products of thesociety in which they’ve grown up, products of Hope’s Peak, and how others arestill trying to mold them to their own purposes even now. Were it not for Hope’sPeak existing and perpetuating the notion that “talent” is the only “real way”to achieve anything in life, Hinata might very well have lived a perfectly normal,happy life.

By contrast, Saihara is adepressed person by nature. Again, he “has depression”—I don’t think anyonecould go through ndrv3 and argue that he doesn’t have textbook symptoms ofdepression and anxiety, in any case. As Tsumugi says in Chapter 6, and as hehimself says, he’s a “weak person” by nature. His instinct when things gettough is to pretty much lie down and give up, which is a pretty understandableand human reaction. Depression by definition is a disorder which makes it feelas though everything, even the mostbasic tasks, is completely impossible, so it would be better to not even tryanyway.

On several occasions, Saiharatries to simply hole himself up in his room. Right after Kaede’s death inChapter 1, he stays in his room and doesn’t exhibit much interest in eating or eatingwith others; Momota has to come and get him in order to make him join everyoneelse at breakfast. Lethargy, apathy, and lack of sleep and appetite are allabout as textbook as it gets when it comes to symptoms of depression, andSaihara establishes very, very early on that he tends to react this way a lot.

He also panics and loses hiscool extremely easily compared to someone like Hinata, who is noticeably moreconfident and self-assured. Saihara’s anxiety largely stems from his fear ofexposing the truth. Because he feels that he “ruined a man’s life” by exposingthe truth and sending him to jail, he’s absolutely terrified of repeating thosesame mistakes.

This means that he has far lessconfidence in his own judgment, and that situations which pull him out of hiscomfort zone often disorient and scare him. Constantly throughout the game,Saihara displays a fear of the truth, fear of the unknown, and fear of hurtingthose around him. He trusts himself very little, because he knows that he’sweak and insecure, and doesn’t want to “drag down” anyone else.

In Chapter 5 especially, we seeSaihara’s depression and anxiety reach an all-time high. After Ouma shows thewhole group “the truth of the outside world” in order to grind the killing gameto a halt by removing their desire to leave, Saihara’s suicidal nature isreally shown in full, without being glossed over or downplayed at all.

Prior to Chapter 5, there wereplenty of indications that Saihara had suicidal urges—but he often dismissedthem quickly, as though trying not to think about them. After using theremember light in Chapter 2, he remembers thinking “I don’t want to liveanymore. I want to die together with everyone else.” And again, just before theChapter 2 trial, when trying to motivate himself in order to solve the mysteryand survive with everyone else, he tries thinking about reasons he might wantto live, only to come back to the same thoughts about wanting to die again.

He tries fervently denyingthose thoughts, claiming that he does want to live, that there’s no way hewants to just give up and die, but in Chapter 5 we see for the very first timejust how hard it truly is for someone like Saihara to keep living. After beingtold that none of his friends or loved ones are alive anymore, and that theearth itself is completely decimated and ruined, Saihara simply goes back tohis room without even remembering how he got there, lies on his bed, and thinksaimlessly to himself “there’s no reason to live.” And he repeats that thought,over and over again.

He stays in his room for atleast two days without eating, sleeping, or showering. It’s highly implied thatif he had actually had the energy to do so, he would’ve simply killed himself—becausedying seemed like the “nicer alternative” to living with the knowledge that hehad. Himiko exhibits similar traits; when Maki rounds them all up to talk aboutthe remember light she found in the cafeteria, she asks Maki point-blank if she’lljust kill her and put her out of her misery. Maki agrees that she’ll killanyone who wants to be killed, but only if they use the remember light first, andSaihara and the others don’t disagree with this plan at all.

As someone who has dealt withdepression for years now, I can vouch that these sorts of depressive episodes mostdefinitely happen. There have been times myself when I couldn’t leave my room,eat, or sleep. Seeing such a thing presented in such a realistic, raw way withSaihara really hit close to home for me. It’s a horrible kind of feeling, onethat I’m not sure most people could understand unless they’ve experienced itthemselves.

In Chapter 6 as well, afterbeing repeatedly hit with Tsumugi’s “reveals” about the state of their memoriesand the fact that they’re little more than fictional characters designed forthe killing game show, Saihara gives up completely.He’s simply not the kind of person who can motivate himself or inspire hope oroptimism in others.

The reason Kiibo had to take onthe protagonist role from him was because Saihara simply cannot fulfill therole of “inspirational protagonist” in the first place. Being told that hismemories, his backstory, even his feelings were all “lies” made Saihara feelcompletely, 100% defeated. And were it not for Kiibo’s willingness to sacrificehimself and his speeches about hope and optimism (even though that “hope” wasthe wrong choice), Saihara himself says that he would’ve simply given up. Theonly reason he was able to return to his senses and realized the trap inTsumugi’s “hope vs. despair” choice was because Kiibo gave him a reason to keepgoing.

There are many, many times inwhich Hinata becomes angry, upset, or depressed over the realizations that hehas in sdr2, and in which he struggles to find his own path or what he shoulddo after being constantly pulled in all directions by other people for hisentire life. But he never once gave up completely. Hinata’s story has alwaysbeen one of trying to find his own path, of making a place for himself in theworld no matter what the cost, even if it means becoming a different personentirely.

Saihara, on the other hand(along with pretty much all the other ndrv3 characters), is highly implied to haveonly signed up for the killing game in the first place because he was socompletely willing and ready to die. Regardless of how much Tsumugi may havebeen lying about, the outside world in ndrv3 definitely doesn’t seem to be in agood state. I’ve talked in other pieces of meta about why I believe the virus,at least, was real—and the existence of the virus would imply that the meteorcrashes were also real.

There are so many hints andimplications that the world itself is so awful, boring, and ruined in ndrv3that most people are simply desensitized by now. The idea of dying in a waythat’s “interesting” or “entertaining” seems preferable to simply living outone’s life the same way, day after day.

There are several MonokumaTheaters that imply this throughout the course of the game (including one whereMonokuma talks about how he thinks the ones who die in the killing game are the“truly happy ones”), as well as the boy named Makoto, who we get a glimpse ofat the beginning of Chapter 6. Tsumugi’s comments about how she and the othercharacters are people who can “only live within the world of Danganronpa” alsoseem to imply as much. Again and again in ndrv3, we’re presented with the ideathat the outside world is horrible, harsh, and cruel, and that throwing oneselfentirely into fiction is the preferable alternative, even if it means dying.

Saihara, for all hisimprovement, development, and growth, is still anxious and depressed at hiscore. His anxiety and depression remain with him for the course of the entiregame, and are never magically “fixed” or “cured,” because those things are aninherent part of who he is. Unlike Hinata, who was made to feel worthless andunsatisfied with himself because of societal pressure, Saihara is simply adepressed and anxious person by nature—even the fact that he still seemsextremely nervous and on-edge in the prologue, prior to “getting his memories,”implies as much.

He and Hinata might strugglewith similar issues, but their personalities are vastly different, as are thereasons why they struggle in the first place. Were it not for externalcircumstances like Hope’s Peak, I think Hinata would’ve developed into arelatively confident, self-assured person, capable of leading others and makinga name for himself wherever he goes. He’s ambitious, keeps his cool underpressure, and has an abundance of qualities that would make him perform well injust about any circumstance.

But I can’t say the same forSaihara. Saihara is not someone who naturally leads others, nor does he wantto; rather, he’s dragged into the protagonist role due to factors beyond hiscontrol. But he can only truly shine when following someone else’s lead, be itKaede, Momota, Ouma, or Kiibo. He needs support and encouragement in order tokeep going, because otherwise the weight of his own depression and anxietywould be too much to bear.

He is really, truly suicidaldeep down. Not only does he not trust in his own judgment, but he honestly can’tthink of any reason why he should still be alive, because he doesn’t think hedeserves to live, on some level. This is what makes it all the more poignantthat he does survive at the end, despite his absolute willingness to lay downhis life if it meant ending the killing game. Despite his weakness, hisinsecurities, and his willingness to throw his own life away, Saihara at theend of ndrv3 is presented with the opportunity to gradually find his ownmeaning in life, even if that life is “fictional” or “a lie.”

This has gotten quite long, soI’ll stop, but this was really an enjoyable question, anon. Thank you so muchfor giving me the opportunity to answer it! I love Hinata and Saihara both somuch; they’re both fantastic characters, and I’m glad I could talk at lengthabout what makes them so different and enjoyable in their own way. Thanks forasking, anon!

#ndrv3 #new danganronpa v3 #sdr2 #shuuichi saihara #hajime hinata #ndrv3 spoilers //#my meta #okay to reblog #anonymous

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diygabl · 7 years

Text

WILD MUSHROOMS: WHAT TO EAT, WHAT TO AVOID

Proper identification can mean the difference between life and death.

Mushroom collecting is one of the most widespread activities in a movement to discover local sources for food that is growing in popularity nationwide.

For people who enjoy foraging for food in the wild, there are plenty of mushrooms to choose from — several thousand fleshy species in North America. Of these many different kinds of mushrooms, almost all are “edible” but too fibrous or insignificant to consume. That still leaves a considerable portion of mushrooms as consumable and either "fair, good, or choice." While the numbers vary and are debatable, only about 250 are considered significantly poisonous.

While those numbers put the odds of picking an edible rather than a non-edible mushroom heavily in the favor of foragers, experienced mushroom growers are quick to point out that foraging for mushrooms should never be thought of as a game of chance. “Don’t guess,” advises Tradd Cotter, who has been cultivating mushrooms for more than 20 years and recently located a fungi research lab and growing operation on his Mushroom Mountain woodland in Liberty, South Carolina.

The consequences of making a wrong guess or a mistaken identification about whether a mushroom is edible can be severe, sometimes requiring a liver transplant or even resulting in death. There were 6,429 cases of people eating poisonous mushrooms and two deaths from toxic mushrooms in 2011, the last year for which data is available, according to the American Association of Poison Control Centers in Alexandria, Virginia.

One of the dangers of collecting mushrooms in the wild, Cotter said, is that of toxic look-alike — poisonous mushrooms that resemble edible ones. He pointed to the green-spored parasol (Chlorophyllum molybdites, at right) as a classic example. “This is the most commonly consumed poisonous mushroom in North America,” he said. “When it’s young, it looks like the white button mushroom seen in grocery store produce sections.” It can also be confused with the edible shaggy parasol. The green-spored parasol is widely spread in lawns across eastern North America and California, generally appearing after rains in the summer and fall.

Two highly desirable and popular edible mushrooms also have toxic look-alikes, Cotter said. “Morel mushrooms (Morchella species) can be confused with the toxic false morels (Gyromitra, Helvella and Verpa species) and chanterelle mushrooms (Cantharellus species) can be mistaken for jack-o’-lantern mushrooms (Omphalotus olearius).”

Cotter thinks that one of the problems with mistaking edible for non-edible mushrooms is the beginner's symptom of "knowing just enough to be dangerous." Morels and false morels are a case in point, he said, pointing out that looks can be deceiving.

While morels and false morels do have distinct differences in appearances (see the description below), Cotter pointed out that “they fruit at the same time, they both have a dimpled appearance and both are partially hollow inside.” However, he added, “the false morel is even brain-like inside while a true morel is perfectly and symmetrically hollow.” (A true morel is shown at right.)

The issue with beginners, he said, is that many of them are so eager to harvest wild mushrooms that when they find anything remotely close to a desirable mushroom like a morel that they tend to fill in the blanks with what they want to see rather than what is actually there. “In other words,” he said, “what they do is take a simple rule but don’t apply all the steps necessary to make a positive identification. Then, they compound that error by not following up and checking with a local club or expert before consuming a mushroom they collected for the first time."

“Also,” he said, “many beginners reference common names online and click 'images' on their search engine, where many mushrooms are misidentified. This is the biggest complaint by far I have with misleading information online. Anyone can post false information."

Social media sites are a particular problem, he added. When searching for mushrooms online, Cotter suggested that foragers stick to high-quality and referenced sites. When searching for mushrooms in the wild, he said inexperienced foragers should search for mushrooms alongside an experienced and trusted mycologist whenever possible.

Another problem that is a relatively new phenomenon has occurred in California with immigrants who mistakenly harvest poisonous North American mushrooms thinking they are the same ones as edible mushrooms in their home countries. “Immigrants from Asia and Indonesia,” Cotter pointed out, “sometimes confuse the edible paddy straw mushroom (Volvariella volvacea, at right) native to their homeland with the death cap mushroom (Amanita phalloides).” The genus Amanita is one of the most toxic mushroom genera in the world.

Cotter believes that if foragers will follow a few simple guidelines, take the right precautions and gain a little education about native mushrooms, they will be able to enjoy what should, he said, be an extremely safe activity. His suggestions include:

Join a local mycological (fungi) group. They are located all over the United States. A list is available at the North American Mycological Association.

Buy a regional field guide to learn what mushrooms grow wild near you.

Seek to identify at least the genus of the mushroom you have found (identification keys include the stem, a spore print, what the mushroom is growing on and the structure of the stem base, which could be below ground).

Take two collecting baskets when foraging. Put mushrooms positively identified as edible in one. Put mushrooms you are uncertain about in the other. You won’t get sick by simply touching a toxic mushroom, he said.

Be extremely careful if you are a pet owner and want to take your dog on a foraging trip. Dogs lead the list as victims of deadly and poisonous mushrooms — more than any other animal or humans, Cotter said.

Here is an overview of a few edible and non-edible North American mushrooms.

Edible-toxic look-alike: Chanterelles vs. jack-o’-lanterns

Chanterelles: edible

The gold-yellowish or brilliant orange color of chanterelles makes them easy to spot during a walk in the woods. Morels are better known, but chefs tend to prize chanterelles more because of their unique peppery, peachy, apricot flavor and because they are found only in the wild.

Where they grow: On the East and West coasts. At maturity, East Coast chanterelles tend to be smaller (about the size of a fist) than those on the West Coast, which can weigh up to two pounds.

When to forage: Most of the summer and into the fall on the East Coast. From September to February on the West Coast.

A tip from Cotter: On the West Coast, look for chanterelles around conifers. On the East Coast, they prefer hardwoods, especially favoring oak species.

Habitat: Chanterelles tend to grow in small clusters among hardwoods, conifers, shrubs and bushes. They are also often found in leaf litter of mountainous forests and among grasses and mosses.

Culinary use: These meaty mushrooms have a magical appeal for chefs and home cooks alike. Slice them into generous-sized pieces to retain as much of the flavor as possible. Saute them in butter, cream, oil or chicken broth. Their distinctive flavor stands up well in soups and stews, and with main courses such as scallops, chicken, pork or veal.

Jack-o’-lanterns: Toxic

The jack-o’-lantern mushroom is a common mushroom and has two forms in the United States. East of the Rocky Mountains, Omphalotus illudens is a bright orange. West of the Rockies, Omphalotus olivascens grows in southern to central California, where it has olive shades mixed with orange. Jack-o’-lanterns can be found in urban settings in large clusters at the base of trees, on stumps or on buried wood.

How to tell them from a chanterelle: There are two primary differences between chanterelles and jack-o’-lanterns. The jack-o’-lantern has true, sharp, non-forking gills that descend the stalk, whereas chanterelles have blunt, gill-like ridges on the cap to the stem. When the stem of a jack-o’-lantern is peeled, the inside is orange. In chanterelles, the interior of the stem is paler than the exterior.

Symptoms: Symptoms from eating a jack-o’-lantern appear within 30 minutes after consumption and usually abate within 24 hours. Symptoms include: excessive secretion of tears, perspiration and salivation, difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, cramps and diarrhea.

Two more edible-toxic look-alike: Morels vs. false morels

Morels: Edible

Morels are considered a gourmet’s delight and one of America’s most popular and highly regarded mushrooms. They range in color from cream to almost black, and their honeycomb pattern makes them easy to spot.

Where they grow: Morels grow in almost every state. Exceptions are Florida, which is too hot, and Arizona, which is too arid.

When to forage: Early spring before the trees leaf out. That’s February on the Pacific coast, March to mid-April in the South, and May in the Northeast. Peak season is April-May.

A tip from Cotter: Carry a cooking thermometer to measure the ground temperature. Morels fruit only when the ground temperature is 50 to 58 degrees.

Habitat: Morels associate with moist areas and specific tree types: Ash, tulip, oak, hickory, sycamore, cottonwood, maple, beech, conifers and apples. Cotter urges caution if foraging in apple orchards, because morels are excellent at absorbing pesticide residue, which can remain in the soil for long periods.

Culinary use: Morels have a unique smoky, earthy, nutty flavor that is prized by cooks worldwide. The darker the color, the stronger the flavor. A popular way to cook them is to simply saute then in butter with salt and cracked pepper. Wash thoroughly, but be aware that because of their honeycomb structure, they may retain some bits of soil that can’t be washed out.

False morels: Toxic

There are approximately a dozen species of false morels that grow in the United States. False morels fruit in the spring at the same time as morels as well as in the summer and fall.

How to tell them from a true morel: Though people sometimes confuse the two, they are actually quite different. The caps of false morels have a wrinkled, brain-like or saddle shaped structure rather than a honeycomb look. Also, when sliced down the middle lengthwise from the top, morels have hollow interiors, whereas false morels have a cotton-ball looking substance inside their stems.

Symptoms: False morels are toxic to the liver. Onset of illness usually occurs six to 48 hours after consumption. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, muscle cramps, bloating and fatigue.

Two of the deadliest mushrooms in the world

Mushrooms in the genera Amanita are among the deadliest in the world. Here are some ways to recognize two of these.

Death caps:

This highly toxic mushroom (Amanita phalloides) is blamed for the most mushroom poisonings in the world. While native to Europe, death caps occur on the U.S. East and West Coasts.

Description: Death caps have a 6-inch-wide cap, often sticky to the touch, that can be yellowish, brownish, whitish or greenish in color. The cap has white gills and grows on a stalk about 5 inches tall with a white cup at its base.

Can be confused with: Young death caps can resemble puffballs, which encompass the genera Calvatia, Calbovista and Lycoperdon.

When seen: September to November.

Habitat: Under pines, oaks, dogwoods and other trees.

Symptoms: None immediately. Then the person will experience vomiting, diarrhea and cramps. After several days, these symptoms will go away and the person will think they are OK. However, they are not. During this time, internal organs are being severely damaged, sometimes irreparably. Death can occur six to 18 days after ingestion.

Destroying angels:

Destroying angels get their name from their pure white stalks and caps. Like the death caps, they belong to the genus Amanita, with several species occurring in different regions of the country. All, however, have a similar white fruiting body.

Description: An attractive white cap, stalk and gills.

Can be confused with: In their button stage, destroying angels can be confused with button mushrooms, meadow mushrooms, horse mushrooms and puffballs.

When seen: Summer and fall.

Habitat: All Amanita species form relationships with roots of certain trees. Destroying angels can be found in or near woodlands or near shrubs and trees in suburban lawns or meadows.

Symptoms: Diarrhea, nausea and abdominal pain generally occur five to 12 hours after ingestion. As with death caps, the symptoms will typically go away and the victim might think they don’t need to see a doctor. However, a day or two later the symptoms will return and get worse. By then, it will probably be too late because the person will likely suffer liver and kidney failure and enter a hepatic coma that ends in death. If they survive, treatment is severe: a liver transplant.

Three mushrooms that are edible (and tasty to boot)

A thumbnail look at three other edible mushrooms popular with foragers.

Lion’s mane mushrooms:

Also known as the bearded tooth, hedgehog or pom pom mushroom, the distinctive Hericium erinaceus can be found growing on hardwood trees in late summer and fall. Its distinctive shape, which resembles the mane of a male lion or a pom pom, is unlike any other mushroom. Its taste is also unique and often compared to seafood.

How to recognize it: Beech trees are frequent hosts. Another identifying characteristic is that it tends to grow its spines from one group rather than from branches. It can also grow very high in the trees, as much as 40 feet up the trunk.

Maitake mushrooms:

Also known as hen of the woods, ram’s or sheep’s head, maitake mushrooms (Grifola frondosa) grow at the base of hardwood trees such as oaks. It is prolific in the Northeast but has been found as far west as Idaho. Because they can grow quite large and become too tough to eat, they should be harvested when they are young. Older specimens can be dried, powdered and used for soups and sauces, also for a unique breading adjunct.

How to recognize it: Maitakes have small, overlapping tongue or fan-shaped caps.

Oyster mushrooms:

Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) belong to a genus of some of the most commonly eaten mushrooms. They can be found in every season of the year, but are most prolific in cooler weather. Be sure to clean carefully to remove any insects that may be hiding in the gills and discard the stems, which tend to be woody.

How to recognize it: Look for their scalloped caps on dying hardwood trees such as oaks, maples and dogwoods, especially after the first rains of the fall. The caps are a whitish-gray, sometimes tan. Cultivated varieties found in grocery stores may have blue, yellow or pink caps.

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sartle-blog · 7 years

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5 times Twin Peaks was Inspired by Art History

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journalofsportsmedicine · 3 years

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Sarcopenic Obesity in the Elderly | Juniper Publishers

Juniper Publishers- Journal of Physical Fitness, Medicine & Treatment in Sports

Abstract

In this mini-review pathophysiology, comorbidities, diagnosis and management of sarcopenic obesity (SO) are discussed. SO is a high risk geriatric syndrome more associated with osteoarthritis (OA), falls, dementia and increased cardiometabolic risk profiles than obesity alone. Decreased physical activity, low-grade chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and insulin resistance all of which being by-products of obesity and the aging process are involved. Easy diagnostic tools are not yet available and sophisticated DXA and SPECT scans are not always feasible. Prevention and resistance exercise programs combined with protein supplementation are the cornerstone of SO management. When male SO patients can be easily identified, treatment with selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) might be considered in the near future.

Introduction

The prevalence of obesity in combination with sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength or physical function, is increasing in adults aged 65 and older. A major subset of adults over the age 65 is now classified as having sarcopenic obesity, a high risk geriatric syndrome. Moreover, recent estimates suggest that 37% of U.S. adults aged 65 year and older are obese [1]. The specific criteria for defining sarcopenic obesity (SO) are somewhat arbitrary and depend on the study cited [2]. Thus, the prevalence of SO varies from 4% to 84% in men and from 4% to 94% in women [3]. Older adults with SO have higher risks of mobility disability, cardiometabolic disease and mortality [4]. In this mini-review pathophysiology, comorbidities, diagnosis and management of SO are discussed.

Pathophysiology SO

Human aging is associated with a progressive decline of skeletal muscle mass. Several studies have suggested that muscle mass decreases by approximately 6% per decade after midlife [5]. Lower muscle mass results in decreased muscle strength [6]. There are significant differences among individuals in peak muscle mass, the age at which muscle loss starts, and the amount of muscle that is lost over time [7]. At the cellular level sarcopenia is accompanied by a loss of innervation and adaptive changes in the proportion of slow and fast motor units, as well as in the cross-sectional area of muscle fibers [8]. Several mechanisms have been linked to the development of sarcopenia [9]. Most mechanisms are also associated with visceral obesity, leading to a vicious circle of interacting risk factors. Insulin resistance plays an important role in obesity and results in muscle fiber atrophy and mitochondrial dysfunction [9,10]. Age-related changes in hormones play a pivotal role and affect the anabolic and catabolic processes in skeletal muscle [11,12]. Reduced androgen and estrogen levels decrease muscle mass and strength [12]. In addition, sarcopenia is an inflammatory state that is driven by proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress [13]. Oxidative stress modulates the expression of transcription factors, such as nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB), which enhances proteolytic pathways and increases the production of proinflammatory cytokines [14]. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) impairs protein synthesis in skeletal muscle by altering translation initiation, which may contribute to sarcopenia [15]. Higher levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP) are associated with a greater decline in muscle strength [16]. Myostatin (growth differentiation factor 8) inhibits muscle cell growth and differentiation and could be a potential mediator of sarcopenia [17].

Excess nutrient availability and tissue delivery, particularly saturated fat and glucose further contribute to the cluster of insulin resistance, inflammation and oxidative stress that occur in obesity. Resulting adipose tissue dysfunction develops in response to the enhanced demand for lipid storage [18-20]. These changes may result in an “anabolic resistance state” to nutrients where the muscle protein synthesis from nutrients is blunted [21-24]. Mtochondrial changes are observed in obese skeletal muscle until late stages [25,26]. Their onset may however exacerbate oxidative stress and related metabolic cascades leading to insulin resistance and catabolism. Potential reduction in ATP production may also result in low muscle strength and endurance capacity [25,26]. Stem cell dysfunction leads to functionally altered muscle stem cells that may undergo adipocyte differentiation and accompanied fat accumulation [27-29]. Low physical contributes to a positive energy balance [26]. Progressive reduction of physical activity is further observed with disease progression due to worsening obesity and musculoskeletal disorders with direct negative impact on muscle protein turnover and muscle oxidative and performance capacity [30,31].

SO and comorbidities

Osteoarthritis

Individuals with osteoarthritis (OA) may exhibit a higher prevalence of SO compared with rheumatoid arthritis (RA)- [32]. Misra et al. studied a large cohort from the Multicenter Osteoarthritis (MOST) Study, a longitudinal cohort of individuals with or at risk for knee OA. Based on body composition from whole body Dual Energy X-Ray (DXA) subjects were categorized as obese, sarcopenic obese (SO), sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic obese.

Among 1633 subjects with radiographic knee OA at baseline, significant increased risk of incident radiographic knee OA was found among obese (women RR 2,29;95%CI 1,64-3,20;men RR 1,73;95% CI 1,08-2,78) and SO women (RR 1,91;95%CI 1,73- 3,11) but not men ( RR 1,74;95% CI 0,68-4,46) .Sarcopenia was not associated with knee OA risk (women RR 0,96;95% CI 0,34- 1,30). It was concluded that in this large cohort population, body composition based obesity and SO but not sarcopenia was associated with knee OA risk. Weight loss strategies for knee OA should focus on obesity and SO [33].

Sarcopenia obesity (SO) results in more physical disability than sarcopenia alone or obesity alone and has been strongly implicated in both risk of OA and frailty [34-36]. Total joint arthroplasty (TJA) in adults with obesity is associated with increased surgical risk and prolonged recovery. SO is associated with higher infection rates, poorer function and slower recovery in other clinical populations, but not thoroughly investigated in osteoarthritis [37].

Cardiometabolic complications of SO

Ma et al. analyzed a cohort of the Framingham Heart Study’s Offspring and Omni 1 cohorts for mid-adulthood cardiometabolic risk profiles in patients with SO [38]. Utilizing BMI and sex-specific 24h urinary creatinine excretion,1019 participants from the Framingham cohorts were categorized as non-sarcopenia non obese (NSNO); non-obese sarcopenia, non-SO and SO. Cardiometabolic risk factors were quantified by standard laboratory assessment cross-sectionally and 10,20 and 30 years before SO assessment. NSNO, sarcopenia, obesity and SO accounted for 30,0%,39,6%,20,0% and 10,4% of study participants, respectively. Cross-sectionally, participants with SO had a higher proportion of hypertension, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes than those with NSNO or sarcopenia (all p<0,03) Similar patterns were observed retrospectively at 10,20 and 30 years. Compared with NSNO or sarcopenia SO was associated with a higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes at 10 years and hypertension and metabolic syndrome at all three points before baseline (all p<0,03). Individuals with SO had more type 2 diabetes than those with obesity alone at baseline and 10 years prior (all p<0,001). The authors conclude that adults with SO had more adverse midlife cardiometabolic risks, particularly diabetes 10 years earlier.

Falls and SO

Pasco et al. examined the association between falls and SO, among elderly individuals in the population [39]. Participants were 353 men and 245 women, aged 65-98 years of the Geelong Osteoporosis Study. Body fat and lean body mass were measured using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Body fat mass was expressed as a percentage of weight (%BF) and appendicular lean mass was adjusted for height (rALM, kg/m2). Poor physical performance was assessed using the timed up & go (TUG) test. Sarcopenic obesity referred to low-rALM (T score<1), poor physical performance (TUG> 10s) and obesity (%BF>25% for men,35% for women) Fallers were identified by self-report as having had at least one fall in the previous 12 months. Associations between SO and falls were determined using logistic regression after adjusting for age and sex. In total 219 (36,6%) had lower rALM,205(34,2%) had poor physical performance,466 (77,9%) were obese and 69(11,5%) had SO. There were 170 (28,4%) fallers. Falls were more common for those with OS than without (28(40,6%) vs 42(26,8%) ;p=0,017). The like li hoof of falls in association with SO were: SO,OR=1,65 (95%CI 0,96-2,85), sarcopenia, OR=1,52 (0,93-2,47),poor physical performance and obesity, OR=1,74 (1,16-2,61),low r-ALM,OR=1,41 (0,96-2,06),poor physical performance, OR=1,88 (1,26-2,80),obesity OR=0,88 (0,57-1,35). The authors conclude that while obesity per se was not associated with falls there was an increased risk of falls in SO individuals that was of borderline statistical significance and appeared largely a consequence of poor physical performance [39].

SO and dementia

Sarcopenia and obesity both negatively impact health including cognitive function. Their coexcistense however, can pose an even higher threat likely surpassing their individual effects. Tolea et al assessed the relationship of SO with performance on global-and subdomain-specific tests of cognition [40]. The study was a cross-sectional analysis of data from a series of communitybased aging and memory studies (n=353) with an average age of 69 years with a clinical visit, valid cognitive (Montreal Cognition Assessment) test, functional (grip strength, chair stands) and body composition measurements [40]. The authors found consistent evidence to link SO to poor global cognitive performance in community-dwelling older adults. This effect is best captured by its sarcopenia component with obesity likely having an additive effect. Several mechanisms may explain the obesity-cognitive dysfunction link including decreased participation in physical activity, low-grade chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and insulin resistance all of which being by-products of the aging process [41]. The authors conclude that sarcopenia alone and in combination with SO can be used in clinical practice as indicators of probable cognitive impairment. At risk older adults may benefit from programs addressing loss of cognitive function by maintaining and improving strength and preventing obesity [40].

SO diagnosis

The current definitions of SO combine sarcopenia as defined through variable criteria in the presence of obesity as defined as BMI>30kg/m2. Simple anthropometric measurements in obese individuals may be biased by confounding adipose depots. Radiological methods that include nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy CT scans (SPECT) or dual X-ray absorptiometry have been considered most accurate but are not always available and feasible in this older population. Bio-electrical impedance analysis has been mentioned as an acceptable compromise. Functional measures are heterogenous and include hand-grip, knee-extensor strength and various moblity measurements involving postural and walking tests [42-44]. At this moment there is obviously no ideal methodology to achieve simultaneously maximal precision, safety, and routine applicability.

Management SO

Management strategies for obesity commonly favor diet changes and aerobic ecercise in order to reduce levels of body fat. However, this approach doesn’t address the loss of muscle mass that may occur during weight loss and contribute to sarcopenia. It is of critical importance that management strategies focus on maintenance or accretion of muscle mass as well as fat loss in order to maintain strength, function and resting metabolic rate (RMR). Resistance exercise in combination with protein supplementation, prescribed by a dietician, can achieve these goals. In this way an 8 week resistance exercise program with protein supplementation can improve muscle mass significantly in even frail old men and women [45]. Any person starting a resistant exercise program should have at least a dietary protein intake of 1.5 g/kg. This is nearly twice the recommended daily amount (RDA) of 0,8 g/kg per day by the Food and Nutrition Board of the U.S. When male SO patients can be identified routinely in an easy manner, treatment with selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) might be considered in the near future [46].

Conclusion

Sarcopenic obesity (SO) is definitely a high risk geriatric syndrome. Decreased physical activity, low grade chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and insulin resistance all of which being by-products of obesity and the aging process are involved [41]. It is obvious SO is more associated with osteoarthritis (OA), falls, dementia and increased cardiometabolic risk profiles than obesity alone. Prevention, resistance exercise programs combined with dietary protein supplementation are the cornerstone of SO management [45]. Ideal easy routine diagnostic tools are not yet available. Radiological techniques measuring total body composition are most accurate but not always present or feasible in the elderly. When male SO patients can be easily identified, treatment with selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) might be considered in the near future [46].

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shawnjacksonsbs · 4 years

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Still ever-so inclusively for coexisting, but with a heavy hope for so much more. 4-26-20

"They think order and chaos are somehow opposites and try to control what won't be. But there is grace in their failings. I think you missed that." - Vision to Ultron Just so ya know, I had taken notes for this entry, like a lot of notes, but as I re-read over everything to edit, I found that the pieces were more of a . . . theatrical side tangent. They were arbitrarily flawed and got away from the point too far to come back from. Now everyone likes a feel-good story, and there's plenty of kindness and compassion left in humanity. But if I'm being honest, I believe there's still plenty of room for growth from the human collective as a whole. The only feel-good story I can ever be fully honest about is my own. Most of which has been recorded as I write this every week, going back over 6 years now. This won't be a specific feel-good story by the way, not really. The further along in life I get, specifically this side of life, the more I feel a disconnect from the systematic and political failures of the society I live in. The one that allows more of the less fortunate people to struggle in excess, as wealth hoarders stand by with enough to make serious social strides forward but don't. Not all of them are like this, but enough are. Eat the rich, seems more and more viable every day. lol I will never change pace with the fact that I do not think billionaires should be a thing either. Like, they just shouldn't be allowed to exist as billionaires. Pretty unrealistic to think that that will ever change, at least in my lifetime, but one can hope. And with that part being said, the least one of them could do is become the god damned Batman or fucking Iron Man!! Is that really too much to ask? I mean for I'd do it with less and a pair of tights. Wait. . . that didn't come out right. You know what I mean though. lol no lol True equality is never going to be a thing, even with a socialist or communist ideology in place that isn't flawed. It just hurts my heart on so many levels that more people don't want the same for everyone. Living in any society, drives home ideals to the largest parts of that society that their ways are the only right ways without ever thinking twice about any other parts, other regions, or other countries, and damn sure not in the whole world. People raised Christian tend to believe it's the one true religion, but in other parts of the world decent, honest, hardworking people believe that Hinduism is, or that Islam is, etc.. and they do so with every fiber of their being, some even taking offense to someone lacking that same belief. The same can be said for political affiliations, capitalism vs socialism and conservative vs liberal etc. So are your opinions and views 100% of your own free will if they match only and almost exactly with those around you? It's curious, right? The world and life are far better reached with more information that comes from more of an open mind than not. I learn a little bit more every day. Most of which is a variation of growth in areas that I would have said once I had peaked in. Arrogant I know, and ignorant even more so, but when I learn a thing, I try to aspire in that new direction to the best of my ability. Most are learnings I fight against at first, and none of them are considered backslides at the end, not by any stretch of the imagination. So I read something the other day, along these lines, ~An apocalyptic style pandemic happened and instead of perpetuating self-survival of the fittest, etc, etc, it actually required kindness, patience, and responsibility towards others.~ That shouldn't be a thing to fight against or to be disappointed in. Be super good practice for a lot of us for even after this thing is finally over. You know those of us trying to live as examples, living the change we want to see in the world. I still have faith in person(s), but continually feel repulsed by the actions of people(s). Collectives seem to be much worse than individuals and its hard for me to understand why. With that mob mentally you think it would be easier for people to do things they actually know deep in their hearts to be good and righteous, instead of following others in hate or other more negative directions. A brief conversation with a coworker made me 100% realize that it doesn't matter which side of an issue you stand on, such as racism, because without a single doubt both sides know it's wrong to be that way toward people. The true racists and their opposition know that its wrong to treat others differently, or worse based on their race/skin color. It's not much left to ignorance, regardless of whether or not it stemmed from it. It's why so many racists can't be so publically outspoken about their racsim, especially when they aren't with a group of the same. Everyone knows it's an evil. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. Period. You'll probably have a really hard time trying to ever convince me otherwise, especially in this day and age. Update, for those interested, on my two oldest boys that I've been trying to help; I'll start by saying this, as some of you already know, I have been bumping heads with the both of them for 2 to 3 months now fairly regularly. I'm not going to go into a lot of detail, but my oldest, oldest and myself just couldn't even come close to getting on the same page. He has since moved out. I haven't heard from him in a few days. I don't know if he's ok really, or if he's even trying to be. I hope against hope that he gets it together sooner rather than later, but accepting that the time frame and severity isn’t up to me, is still a hard-won life lesson that I'm working on. My second oldest and I will be going separate ways very soon as well. The imminent end will be within the coming month I imagine. With boundaries continually broken (by both) no options remain here. I am trying to help him get into some places with people that will help, where I couldn't. Because of the strain on my relationships with each of them, I know that the way I wanted to help them isn't going to work, maybe ever. So it's over. I'm not so naive to think that my way is the only way out there for either of them though, or anyone for that matter. There's plenty of other options still left and available if they're willing to put forth some effort on their own behalf(s). I guess I'd ask for you guys to keep them in your positive thoughts as we move forward. I imagine the initial struggle will be the most difficult for them. If you have relationships, of any kind, with them and you care, maybe reach out with some love and encouragement. More of the rest of their journeys and lives are on them once again. I believe, with 100% of my heart, that we can all learn to grow a little more into love, we can all do a little better, and we can all be a little better tomorrow than we were today. If you think you've reached some pinnacle I assure you that together we can go so much further. Trust me. I've fallen for that old mindset before. If you really search your heart, and your conscience it'll lead you in the right direction. It is our goodnesses that cam and will bring it all back into balance and the more we learn from it the stronger that balance becomes. I will end with reiterating a little of the beginning, in that even though we, as a whole, have a long way yet to go, at least in my opinion, we do still have lots, like shit tons of good, trying, caring people in this world, and even more of those celebratory, feel-good stories to take solace in, and comfort from. It's the very reason to keep moving forward. . . because WE ARE NOT ALONE. They’ll keep coming in too, and those new people who prove we aren't alone in this. The push for kindness and the mission to civilize is a torch to be passed down forever and ever. People like us that try and continually do right by others, and that always try to make as good decisions as we possibly can, are meant to walk as examples, to attract more and more persons to a better feeling side of life. It's not over. It’s never over. So continue to share the love and the laughter with the world around you, and please, please, please be kind to one another. Giving from the heart is easy. Taking from the heart, not so much. That takes a little more practice for most of us. And, of course, Gratitude, which really speaks for itself. Find yours. Until next week; "Empathy without boundaries is self-destruction" - Silvy Khoucasian

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discoverhealthadmin · 4 years

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Coronavirus and Healthcare Administrators

What Are Some of the Factors, Signs and Who Is at the Highest Risk for Burnout?

Healthcare workers are under a lot of stress. Their industry is facing a rapid increase in demand, largely due to an aging population. Then, corporate imperatives exert ever-increasing pressure to perform, regulations continue to mount, and then workers face economic and other pressures from outside the workplace. It's no wonder studies show that nearly seventy-five percent of all healthcare workers are experiencing some level of burnout.

Burnout is a serious matter in any industry and is all the more dire when it impacts healthcare workers. The phenomenon arises from emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a feeling that one's accomplishments, skills, or overall competency is lacking in the workplace. Each of these factors can possibly lead to poor decision-making, inattention, or other performance problems. Given that lives are on the line, burnout is a vital topic for discussion. This page is dedicated to discussing the issue of burnout in the healthcare industry in hopes that it will spark dialogue and eventual solutions for this public health threat.

Signs of Burnout

Burnout is an insidious problem. We try to cover it up, but it is all but impossible to ignore. Healthcare professionals who suffer burnout tend to experience insomnia, an array of physical pains, loss of appetite, anxiety, and chronic fatigue, to only name symptoms related to physical and emotional fatigue.

Burned-out healthcare workers also become cynical and detached from their environments. They might lose their sense of enjoyment, become pessimistic about the future, and feel both isolated and detached from others. Here are some symptoms to look out for:

Negative attitude towards work, patients, or life in general

Unusual forgetfulness and an inability to focus, leading to slowed work performance, backlogs, and eventual feelings of being overwhelmed

Chronic illnesses including colds and small infections that don't clear up

Weight loss stemming from overall lack of appetite

Lack of patience and general irritability

How Many Administrators are Dealing with Burnout?

According to a recent study, healthcare administrators are almost universally plagued by burnout. The Medical Group Management Association studied the phenomenon and found that forty-five percent of all healthcare workers reported burnout. Twenty-eight percent reported feeling somewhat burned out, while twenty-seven percent said they did not feel any burnout. Nearly three quarters of all professionals in one of the largest and most vital industries in the nation are dealing with burnout.

This indicates that more awareness and resources are needed to combat this issue. When healthcare systems begin to show signs of poor performance, perpetual attendance issues, and a general workplace malaise, they should try to diagnose whether or not burnout is to blame. To help identify the problem, organizations can employ the Maslach Burnout Inventory – Human Services Survey.

Once burnout has been identified, management can begin to assess its origins and address these one by one. It has been found that, when burnout is identified and its root causes addressed effectively, organizations see morale rise, performances improve, and absenteeism decline.

Types of Burnout Healthcare Administrators Deal With

Burnout can manifest in a variety of ways. Perhaps one of the key ways that a patient might notice burnout is when practitioners depersonalize the people in their caseload. Doctors and nurses might be under pressure to spend restricted amounts of time with a large number of patients, thus resulting in the sense that patients are mere numbers to process rather than human beings with complex and highly individual problems.

Burnout might also manifest in terms of overall attitude. Stressed out nurses and physicians may become pessimistic and have a negative attitude towards best practices. They might cut corners so that they can meet workflow demands and end up making avoidable mistakes. Burned out clinicians who are becoming negative and depressed may blame their mistakes on others.

Burnout not only erodes one's mental health, but negatively impacts overall cognitive performance. Burned out workers have shorter attention spans, reduced memory, and are more easily confused or overwhelmed. When burned out workers become depressed, they might find that they experience illness at higher rates. Infection and illness increase due to compromised immunity, exacerbating the mental deterioration so easily associated with burnout.

Healthcare Positions with the Highest Levels of Burnout

Physicians occupy some of the patient healthcare positions that experience the highest levels of burnout. In fact, more than half of all physicians experience burnout. Those who work in critical care and neurology are the most severely impacted, as nearly half of their respective colleagues have been identified as experiencing this issue. Close behind, family physicians, ob/gyns, and internists all reported burnout numbers close to fifty percent.

As for the other medical specialties, the picture is far from rosy. The group seemingly least impacted by burnout has been found to be plastic surgeons, who report twenty-three percent burnout. If a full quarter of any group is identified as burned out, there is indeed cause for concern. The picture isn't much better for dermatologists. These specialists are the second least impacted group, and they report that one third of their population is burned out.

Nurses too are impacted by burnout. A full forty-three percent have self-identified as experiencing emotional exhaustion. Nurses also show the highest rates of depression among all workers in the United States. With eighteen percent reporting depression, the problem is twice as bad as the rest of the economy. Another option to help with Burnout is to obtain a position on the admin side of the healthcare business. Learn more about the different management careers available in healthcare administration.

Physicians with High Levels of Burnout & Depression

Burnout and depression impact physicians at rather high rates. Depression can impact one's entire health picture and is often paired with heightened anxiety, pessimism, negativity, and loss of concentration and focus. Physicians across a range of specialties were asked if they were suffering from both depression and burnout or depression alone. Interestingly, the group with the highest rate of both maladies reported only 20 percent, which is nonetheless alarming. When asked about depression alone, nineteen percent of the profession reported clinical depression and a full seventy percent reported colloquial depression. Colloquial depression was defined as a general malaise with physicians reporting that they felt sad, had the blues, or were otherwise down in the dumps a significant portion of the time.

Burnout Factors

Male vs. Female

Burnout is impacted by a number of external, controllable factors. Unfortunately, the malady also shows dramatic discrepancies when measured along gender lines. Women and men experience burnout at different rates. According to studies, female physicians report burnout at a rate of 48 percent, while their male counterparts are ten percentage points lower, at 38 percent.

While it might be true that men are less likely to report emotional or other weakness, it is unknown whether that feature of gender is playing a role. It is also possible that physicians might be more likely to be truthful when given an anonymous, scientific study. It could also be the case that men experience fewer social or other stressors on the job. Other studies have shown dramatic gender biases in STEM programs and professions.

Age

Studies have shown that burnout rates are also delineated according to age group. While it might seem intuitive to think that younger physicians experience more stress and burnout since they are striving to establish a medical practice, early-career physicians report lower rates of burnout. The rates increase from approximately 35 percent for those doctors in the 28-34 age range to 50 percent for doctors in the 45-54 age group. After that peak, rates decline to approximately 41 percent for late-career doctors aged 55-69.

Employed vs. Self-Employed

While there are often dramatic differences between different subcategories in the physician population, one area shows no difference. That is, when comparing self-employed and employed doctors, both reported the same rates of burnout. Each shows a 42 percent burnout rate. Since the two groups work under very different circumstances, it might seem odd that they have the same burnout rate. However, while the employed might find burnout from demanding performance markers imposed by hospital administration or others in the corporate hierarchy above them, the self-employed doctors seemingly have equal stressors in managing a business for themselves. In fact, self-employed doctors might put themselves under the exact stress their employed colleagues receive from others in order to compete with larger facilities.

Largest Contributions to Physician Depression

Depression isn't caused by one single factor. While the death of a loved one or some particularly traumatic workplace event can precipitate acute bouts of depression, the phenomenon itself is caused by many factors, and frequently several operating in conjunction. For doctors, their jobs tend to be their single largest source of depression.

Using a scale of 1-7, physicians were asked to rate various aspects of their lives and how each impacts their depression. Their jobs were rated the highest with a score of 5.6 for both men and women. Finances were in the second-place spot with male doctors rating this factor a 3.9 and female doctors assessing it at 3.7.

The only other area showing a dramatic difference between the genders was romance. Male doctors find their romantic relationships more likely to cause depression and rated this area at 3.1, while female doctors placed romance at 2.9. On the other hand, women found that family matters were more of a contributing factor in depression than their male colleagues. Female doctors rated family at 3.2 while men scored family a 3.1. Interestingly enough, doctors seem the least impacted by issues related to health. Both men and women doctors rated health at 2.9.

The Effect on Patient Care & Colleague Interaction

Burnout might seem like it's a personal issue that only impacts individual sufferers. However, when a doctor or nurse experiences burnout or depression it becomes a problem for everyone in their world. This is because burnout impacts how they feel, which in turn impacts their behavior. One pessimistic person in a workplace can impact everyone around them. This might be particularly true in the case of workers who have leadership positions. Thus, a lead nurse who is experiencing burnout can potentially infect the morale of the LPNs and CNAs who work for them. When symptoms of burnout arise in a healthcare team, their attention to best practices is likely to erode under increasingly jaded attitudes.

Studies have shown that burnout has a negative impact on memory, ability to focus and concentrate, and attention to detail. This results in decreased ability for burned out healthcare workers to carry out their jobs at the necessary level. Safety standards tend to lag, mistakes are made, and practitioners might even find that they care less and less about maintaining and improving best practices in their profession.

Burned out healthcare workers also tend to depersonalize their patients. When administrative edicts set very high standards solely on the volume of patient care, practitioners start to carry out these imperatives as though patients were mere units to be processed rather than human beings.

Preventing or Curing Burnout

Burnout is a pervasive and corrosive aspect of the healthcare industry that must be addressed and prevented. Thankfully, there are ways to address the problem before it further erodes healthcare systems. One key area to address is communication. It's been shown that when communication is improved and clarified, clinician workplace satisfaction rises significantly.

Another way to help prevent or cure burnout in healthcare is by helping to make personal health and wellness a priority for practitioners. When hard-working healthcare workers slow down and take some of their vacation time, integrate or improve effective exercise and nutrition practices, and even speak to counselors, burnout symptoms begin to subside.

Since burnout rates are so high, perhaps the most important way to prevent further growth of this problem is to start identifying the problem. There are diagnostic tools that healthcare administrators can use to identify burnout in their workplaces. Once a problem is identified, the administration can begin to find ways to improve communication, foster self-care practices, and facilitate easier workflows. When we are able to recognize burnout and see it as a systemic, rather than personal, problem, it is possible to make progress in the struggle against it.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://journals.lww.com/

https://www.medscape.com/

https://www.healthcarefinancenews.com

https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/

Coronavirus and Healthcare Administrators was originally published on Your top Education Guide – DiscoverHealthAdmin

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