Page 206 – Green Prophet

Essential to all live elements on Earth, water plays a quintessential role in human civilization as well. For a healthy life, a safe drinking water supply is required. Woefully, one of the major issues in our modern times is that waterborne diseases are creating larger numbers of deaths each year, and their spreading is accelerated.

Over the years, researchers and scientists have been looking into new ways to simplify water treatment and raise its efficiency so that it is available to our homes to fix this oppressing problem. Although there are plenty of advancements up to this point, there is still a long way to go until the global water crisis is resolved.

One of the branches where researchers are putting immense developmental efforts in nanotechnology as it can play a pivotal role in resolving water quality related issues. Devices which incorporate nano-materials are indeed already available yet new options must be explored for the needs of human development to be tended to.

What is nanotechnology?

Definition: It implies the use of techniques and applications which involve particles that are only a few hundreds of nanoparticles in diameter, these particles boasting unique surface and physicochemical properties which make them applicable for various uses.

The nature of this constantly developing technological branch makes it important for study as it could provide a fix for global scale problems we currently face. Departments like energy, medicine, and agriculture can greatly benefit, and even the worldwide water supply can be finally safe for use and consumption, something that seems far from accomplishment at the moment.

How purification undergoes

Research has employed the use of nano-membranes to soften hard water and remove contaminants of a physical, chemical, and biological nature. Microbiological filtration is one department where the technology shines as the elimination of parasites, cysts, viruses, and bacteria as small as 15 nm is possible, so chances of ingesting a health-threatening microorganism are dramatically decreased. The nano-filters feature membranes with nano-sized pores, so evidently a more thorough clearing of contaminants is due.

What makes nanoparticles reliable for water treatment:

A wider contact surface area is offered so that purification efficiency is enhanced;
Easier chemical and biological reactions;
They help change materials at a nano level when it comes to their electrical, chemical, biological, physical, or optical properties;
Particles are increased in strength, durability, and stability due to the higher volume and area.

Comparison with conventional systems

Up to this point, efforts have indeed been fruitful as a multi-functional water filtration membrane has been developed, a system which uses titanium dioxide nanotechnology as opposed to the traditional polymer-based membranes that were used until then.

Unlike traditional filtration means, nano-filters require less pressure to pass the water across their surfaces, which in turn enhances their efficiency. Cleaning is made easier as well as the large surface areas that nano-filters cover can be maintained properly through back-flushing.

Traditional purification systems do have their own set of advantages and present high potential towards clearing contaminants from water, yet they are not able to reduce impurities of a nanoscopic size. This is a considerable flaw as there exist plenty of bacteria and other nano-sized contaminants which lurk in the water, contaminants that bypass these classic-style systems.

The ideal would be to integrate nanotechnology and its potential in systems we already use, enhancing their effectiveness while potentially even reducing operational costs. The best whole house water filters have already witnessed a change for the better as there are systems available which integrate the use of nano-filtration to reduce high percentage of nitrates, nitrites, organic compounds, and salts from water.

Risks and implications

Developments have raised many eyebrows as it has been shown that various types of nano-materials have a high potential of toxicity, some even potentially leading to fire and dust explosion hazards. However, risks associated with nano-materials are not the same when we talk about bulk versions due to the larger surface area to volume ratio. Up to this point, purification based on this specific technology has not led to human health or environmental concerns, but this doesn’t mean that any risks and implications must be ruled out yet.

The team that pushes the technology’s development acknowledges this aspect and promises that further research into the biological interactions of the particles will be carried out to ensure safety on all levels.

Eat Prebiotic Foods To Keep Your Probiotics Healthy

Food
Health

November 14, 2018

Eat Prebiotic Foods To Keep Your Probiotics Healthy

An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Folk wisdom produced this proverb a long time ago. Our canny ancestors didn’t conduct laboratory experiments with rats, but they knew that people who ate an apple every day stayed healthier. The proverb would hold true even if changed to “an onion a day” or “whole grains every day.” But until fairly recently, we weren’t certain why eating these foods keeps us healthy.

We’re more than familiar with the vitamin and mineral contents of everyday foods. A quick online search brings up dozens of studies on fresh foods and nutrition. We’re also fairly well informed about the health benefits of eating probiotic foods every day, like kefir and sauerkraut. But as science delves further back into the interactions between food and our bodies, a fairly new discovery has gained a name: prebiotics.

What’s the difference between probiotics and prebiotics? For starters, prebiotics are indigestible. They’re all fibers of one kind or another. They pass through the digestive system without change, until they stop in the colon. There, probiotic bacteria break them down to ferment and devolve into short-chain fatty acids. The bacteria then feed on this fermented prebiotic matter. The result: stronger, more effective probiotics in the gut, which in turn strengthens immunities, supports gut and heart health, prevents cancer and even relieves symptoms of depression and anxiety. As beneficial bacteria grow stronger and increase, they overcome bad bacteria in the gut. Interesting that even bacteria need nourishment, right? Then again, anything that lives must eat.

Let’s see which foods deliver lots of prebiotic fibers. First, fruit, and especially, apples and bananas. Studies done on rats conclude that the pectin found in apples helps increase beneficial bacteria. Harmful bacteria is then overcome and dies out. Bananas’ high levels of inulin, a prebiotic fiber, make the fruit another healthy choice as a snack or dessert. Coconut flesh and flour are said to be rich in prebiotic fibers.

Foods from the allium family are often cited: onions, leeks, and garlic. They don’t have to be eaten raw like fruit. A fragrant onion soup warms the body and provides plenty of prebiotic material. Crush a garlic clove and stir it into salad dressing. Delicious and double-healthy, as garlic’s antimicrobial properties weaken bad bacteria while its prebiotic fibers nourish the good. Or if raw garlic is just not your thing, try our savory roasted garlic soup.

Many vegetables get those prebiotics into your system. Jerusalem artichoke is often cited, but it’s not always in season, and not to everyone’s taste. Carrots, corn, peas, radishes, and yams are easy to find and easy to eat. Leafy greens, especially dandelion greens, are especially rich in prebiotics.

Cabbage, beets, bell peppers and artichokes figure on the prebiotic list as well. Legumes, whole wheat and whole grains such oats and barley, seeds and nuts, quinoa, and – guess what – dark chocolate, are known to nurture good bacteria.

The less cooked, the higher the prebiotic content of these foods. So rather than relying on a 70% cacao content chocolate bar, put a tablespoon of fair-trade cacao powder in your smoothie.

Eat stir-fried or lightly steamed vegetables rather than boiled or fried.

What about prebiotic supplements? Research hasn’t yet proved that commercial supplements are sufficient to build healthy bacteria. While it’s more convenient to pop a couple of capsules, eating a variety of living plant foods is a far more reliable way to get those prebiotics. Tastier, too.

There is a caveat with regard to prebiotics. They may disturb the digestion of people with irritable bowel syndrome or Chrone’s disease. The catch is that a diet entirely without prebiotic foods reduces the number and quality of friendly gut bacteria. To solve that problem, some nutritionists suggest eliminating prebiotic foods entirely, then slowly reintroducing them to the diet.

Photos: apple by Jarmoluk via Pixabay; chocolate smoothie by stevepb via Pixabay; dandelions by auntmasako via Pixabay.

$50 million in funds for renewable energy in developing nations

Economy
Energy
Tech

Green Prophet Guest

November 14, 2018

Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) and The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) are inviting applications for more than US$50 million in funding through the IRENA/ADFD Project Facility. The ADFD-financed initiative is available to government-guaranteed renewable energy projects in developing countries that seek to increase energy access, improve livelihoods and advance sustainable development.

ADFD has committed US$350 million (AED1.285 billion) in concessionary loans over seven annual funding cycles to renewable energy projects recommended by IRENA. The facility welcomes proposals for projects – especially those submitted by ministries, public utility entities and rural electrification agencies – that are able to obtain a government guarantee for the ADFD loan.

“Renewable energy can have a powerful impact on the livelihoods of people across the globe,” said IRENA Director-General Adnan Z. Amin. “It is the most cost-competitive option to expand access to energy and improve socioeconomic welfare while creating jobs and empowering local communities. Now in its seventh funding cycle, the IRENA/ADFD Project Facility has a proven track record of driving positive change through renewable energy deployment, supporting developing countries to benefit from the energy transformation.”

For his part, His Excellency Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, said: “Since its launch in 2012, the IRENA/ADFD Project Facility has continued to deliver on the UAE’s promise to introduce renewable energy solutions in developing countries as a sustainable and long-term alternative to conventional energy sources. Advancing the renewable energy sector helps achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, as well as create jobs and stimulate economic growth. We are proud of the milestones this facility has marked, and look forward to receiving cutting-edge and impactful applications for the seventh and final funding cycle.”

The world’s largest solar energy dish in Sde Boker, Israel

In the first five cycles, the IRENA/ADFD Project Facility allocated US$214 million to 21 renewable energy projects across the globe, covering up to 50 per cent of the project costs. The efforts will bring more than 100 megawatts of renewable energy capacity online, improving the lives of over a million people through energy access. Spanning Asia, Africa, Latin America and Small Island Developing States, the projects encompass the complete spectrum of renewable energy sources – wind, solar, hydro, geothermal and biomass – and technologies. To fulfil its commitment to contributing a total of US$350 million towards sustainable development, ADFD will allocate all outstanding funds by the seventh and final cycle.

The projects selected for the sixth funding cycle will be announced in January 2019 – soon! Summary applications for the seventh cycle will be accepted until 17:00 GST on 14 February 2019.

For more information, please visit www.irena.org/adfd

Ibogaine and Holistic Addiction Treatment

Health

Bhok Thompson

November 14, 2018

Ibogaine and Holistic Addiction Treatment

Drug addiction treatment can be a long journey. When you have access to quality treatment, you can begin to heal. Different types of holistic treatments are preferred by different people. You may need to try a few different ones to find the one that works for you. Sometimes this is a combination of things.

Holistic options may also supplement traditional treatments when desired. Ibogaine is an alternative treatment that has become popular in many countries. Many addicts now travel far from their own home to a place where ibogaine is legal. When you are ready to commit to a treatment plan it is pertinent to research all of your options.

Making the Commitment

There are many difficult aspects to addiction treatment. The first major milestone is making a decision to get help. Many people procrastinate on this. They may keep telling themselves that they can get help tomorrow. For many, this continues for years. Whatever treatment plan you choose, you must be fully committed to fighting daily for your health. Withdrawals are also a difficult portion of the treatment process. Some addicts want to quit during this initial stage. The sweats, vomiting, and insomnia can become severe. It is easier to stay committed when you find the right treatment and have a good support group.

Holistic Options

There are many natural things you can do to get control of your addiction. Take the time to try a few different ones. You may find that an overall healthy lifestyle helps immensely. Meditation and yoga can be used to keep your body and mind relaxed. Meditation helps you to focus and clear your mind. Yoga helps you focus on your breathing and stretching your body. As you advance, you can also build strength. It may sound simple, however, a sincere effort to exercise and eat right can completely change the way you feel on a daily basis. Rigorous exercise signals the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain. This can relieve some of the anxiety and depression that may go along with your addiction. Good nutrition helps your body heal after years of drug use.

Alternative Treatment

Many people prefer to look at all options when it comes to overcoming their addiction. There are some alternative treatments that are becoming popular, even in the western world. Ibogaine treatment clinics can be found in several countries. These include, South America, Mexico, and Canada. Ibogaine is illegal in many countries, including the United States of America where is it labelled a schedule 1 drug. Ibogaine is popular because it is known to alleviate the discomfort associated with withdrawals. It also helps patients gain self-awareness so that therapists can treat the underlying cause of the addiction. Learn more about Ibogaine by conducting thorough research.

The ancient practice of acupuncture is widely available around the world. Strategically placed needles are thought to correct the flow of energy throughout the body. This practice is traditionally Chinese and goes back many centuries. It is commonly used for pain relief in the modern world. Addicts may use this to help with painful withdrawals, anxiety and withdrawals.

Addiction treatment is a personal decision. You must find the right mixture of treatments that helps you the most. For most addicts, this is a combination of tactics. It is wise to begin at a treatment center so you are surrounded by professionals. You can often visit these beforehand or check them out online. Holistic treatments are often good for many health ailments. You can incorporate several different things into your treatment routine. Yoga, nutrition, and massage can help your body stay healthy and help you relax.

Missing Aleppo Peppers

Food

Miriam Kresh

November 11, 2018

The catastrophic war in Syria and the devastation of Aleppo has resulted in a shortage of – Aleppo peppers. Western chefs and gastronomists bewail the absence of the unique spice in their pantries. Yet before rightly considering that millions of displaced and starving people in Syria endure unimaginable horrors every day, consider the loss of Syrian farming land and livelihoods exemplified by the loss of this gourmet item.

Last year, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization estimated that between 2011 and 2016, Syrian field and tree crops worth US$903 million went up in smoke or gave out due to lack of water, fertilizer, farm equipment and government support.

This loss is part of an overall US$16 billion agricultural loss that includes livestock and fisheries. Their study indicates that it would take US$11-17 billion to get Syrian agriculture back on its feet, whenever the war ends or circumstances allow. Our eyes skim the numbers. But the mind can hardly take in the size of the humanitarian disaster. These numbers have one grim meaning: starvation.

So let’s take Aleppo peppers as an example to bring the larger picture to an imaginable size. What does it take to produce Aleppo peppers ((Arabic: فلفل حلبي‎ / fulful Ḥalabī), those chillies with the exotic flavor no other pepper imparts?

Cookbook author Marlene Matar (”The Aleppo Cookbook”) wrote in an email interview with the NY Times that the pepper’s character is partly due to its artisinal processing. Families gather with neighbors, and the community sets to. The pepper harvest is never washed. Each pepper is carefully wiped with a clean white cloth, then cut on one side to allow the seeds to be removed.

When the peppers are scraped clean inside, they’re taken to the roof and laid out to partially dry. At the point when expert eyes judge the peppers ready, they’re ground and mixed with salt and olive oil. The salt and olive oil help to preserve the ground pepper, which is then spread out to dry in the sun again. The finished peppers’ color and flavor are uniquely Syrian, according to Ms. Matar. Chefs, restaurateurs and gourmet cooks rave about Aleppo pepper’s medium-mild heat through which tones of citrus and a tomato-like sweetness emerge.

But it takes a harvest to process the peppers. When fields are burnt and insect pests attack crops weakened by poor care, there are no peppers to harvest, or very few. Many of the families and neighbors who knew how to process the peppers are missing; displaced or dead. The very rooftops where the peppers were laid out have disappeared, crumbling into the rubble left after air strikes. Existence, in Syria, has nothing normal in it anymore.You can help rebuild homes and lives by giving to a Syria Appeal today.

Very few farms are left around Aleppo. Those who can still cultivate the peppers do, selling them fresh in the markets but mostly exporting the dried product via Lebanon and charging appropriate amounts. Some American chefs and spice merchants get their Aleppo pepper through those vendors who bring it from Lebanon: no questions asked. Seeds smuggled out by Syrian refugees provided a stock from which the peppers are now cultivated in Turkey. And Americans have acquired some Turkish seed and are now cultivating their own.

You can still buy Aleppo pepper, online (some actually from Syria itself), or buy seedlings. A quick Google search will bring the vendors up. You might consider buying Aleppo pepper from Syria a way of supporting Syrian farmers. But we urge you to do another search and donate to a respected charity dedicated to helping the war-devastated people of Syria.

:: www.nytimes.com
:: www.fao.org

Photos: Peppers on the vine by Barni1 via Pixabay; the Syrian civil war via Getty; dried Aleppl pepper flakes via www.onlyfoods.net; peppers drying by chrizzel_lu via Pixabay; fresh Aleppo peppers by jpmatth via Flickr.

Heating things up in your home

Energy
Lifestyle
Technology

Bhok Thompson

November 11, 2018

The temperature of your home is often determined by the thermostat, but how is the air brought in so warm and so clean? The answer is furnace filters, tools used in furnaces to clean up incoming heated airflow. The process is simple enough and starts when the air is first pumped into your home by your air systems. This air is then warmed by the furnace until it is the appropriate temperature indicated by your thermostat. The heated air then travels through the air filters and to the blower fan where it is promptly distributed. The process is quick and simple but it also leaves the filters dirtier over time.

Furnace Filter

The furnace filters in a system are used to block out any allergens or pollutants that will try to enter your home through the furnace system. This means that the air from outside is cleaned up and does not pose a risk of bringing in particles that could make the air unsafe to breathe. The cleaning process is automatic as he filters continuously trap and absorb incoming airflow. However, since the process is continuous it also means that the filters in a furnace system are always becoming dirtier. The filters eventually become so dirty that they become a problem for your home as a whole.

Dirty air filters create issues with a home that involve blocking the airflow being pumped in from going through into the blower fan. When this airflow is blocked, then the heated air becomes trapped and begins to build up over time. The resulting rise in temperature can reach a point where the system is capable of being damaged. Furnace filter repairs are often quite expensive and you are better off finding 20x20x1 air filters to replace them before the air flow becomes a problem for you.

Swapping Old Filters for the New

You will need to swap out the old filters for new ones as often as monthly depending on the environment around your home. Otherwise, the old air filters will only grow dirtier over time before they become completely covered in the captured particles. The resulting problems can be resolved by swapping out the old filters with the new in a simple switch that only takes a few minutes. The air filters you order to replace the old ones are usable upon arrival, so you can use them as soon as they come.

The air filters you order will need to match the air system you want to place them into. The furnace owners manual will tell you the size required, but you can also read the size off of the old filters cardboard edge. Once you know the correct size, all you need to do is order and swap when the new filters arrive to ensure clean air for your home.

Holy electric hotrod in a Chevy Camaro

Transportation

Bhok Thompson

November 7, 2018

My sister’s boyfriend drove a hotrod car in the late 70s and it was a Camaro. Anytime I hear the word Camaro I remember sitting the back seat on a Texas flag, the music blaring Pink Floyd or Metallica. Today, though Camaro is rejuvenating its image from the gas guzzling and racing days of yore and has surprised fans with a new electric version of its famous car.

While we do not advocate drag racing in the Middle East because it is dangerous, two motors in this new EV make for 700 horsepower and a quarter-mile time of 9 seconds. Get your green motors running. General Motors is making a comeback with its Camaro!

While still a concept car, called the eCOPO after the special Camaros in the late 60s, it looks like a regular Camaro from the outside. But inside is a different electric story. The engines are the same ones from the Daimler electric trucks, made by BorgWarner, and they draw power from an 800-volt battery pack (get parts to make your own concept car here www.bestpartstore.co.uk. This is double the power of a Chevy Volt.

The battery mass in the concept car is weighted in several units throughout the car giving it a more balanced grip on the road as drivers launch the car into the stratosphere. Maybe this will be the first car to drive on Mars?

“This project exemplifies Chevrolet and General Motors’ commitment to engaging young minds in STEM education,” Russ O’Blenes, the director of performance variants, parts, and motorsports at GM, said in a statement. “It also represents our goal of a world with zero emissions, with the next generation of engineers and scientists who will help us get there.”

Be Eco-Friendly – Go Paperless!

Cities

Bhok Thompson

November 7, 2018

Over recent years, we have all become more conscious of the need to be more respectful about our planet and environment. More and more people are trying to go green in their day to day lives and there are also many businesses that are dedicated to environmentally friendly practices. When it comes to business, there are various ways in which you can operate in a more eco-friendly way, one of which is to look at the paper products you use and determine whether they are really necessary.

Of course, there are some products that you do need to invest in because they need to be tangible and usable products. Many businesses still use name card printing services and printing services for sticker printing Singapore. However, many also use paper products that we can do without in today’s digital age, and this is where you can make changes in order to help the environment.

Reducing Your Paper Usage

Some businesses get through huge amounts of paper products including letterhead paper and envelopes as part of their day to day operations. However, in today’s digital age there are many alternatives when it comes to communication, and these do not require the use of paper, envelopes, or even postage. So, you will not only help the environment by going paperless as much as possible but you can also save yourself a huge amount of money on things such as stationery purchases and postage costs.

Of course, there are instances where you may need to send out letters to customers or clients. However, by reducing this as much as possible you can help both the environment and your own business finances. Wherever possible, try to use alternative communication methods to get in touch with people. Email is, of course, the most commonly used digital communication method amongst businesses. However, you can also use other alternatives such as social media contact.

If you do need to send out letters to clients and customers, go for the eco-friendly option when it comes to paper and envelopes. You can purchase recycled paper products with ease these days, which means you can still do your bit for the green cause even if you do have to send out letters. You will find some great deals on recycled paper stationery online so you don’t have to pay a fortune in order to do your bit.

Another thing to consider is that going paperless as much as possible will mean far less filing and administration for you to deal with. Of course, you need to ensure that your computer files and data is backed up all the time so you don’t lost any data in the event of a problem. However, it is far easier to store and file documents online compared to having to deal with paper filing and storage.

As you can see, there are many benefits that come with going paperless, which is why this is an option that all businesses should look into.

Tea for royalty starts with white-leaved savory or Zuta Levona

Food
Health

Karin Kloosterman

November 6, 2018

You can’t go anywhere in Israel and in many parts of the Middle East without enjoying a fresh herbal tea. Yeah, none of the dried out flakes of herbs planted years ago for the Mediterraneans. Just grab a few branches of herbs, wind them in a circle and pour on the hot water. Add a spoon of honey for sweetness. They like tea fresh, the flavor abundant and clear in the Middle East.

Over the years in Israel I have drank a lot of herbal tea, often just picked right from a grandma’s garden. I now have a little garden of my own and always recommend zuta levona as the best new tea to impress your guests.

Zuta levona (or זוטה לבנה or זוטא לבנה in Hebrew) in English/Latin has a clunky set of names, such as Micromeria fruticosa, White micromeria or White-leaved Savory and in Arabic is known as ashab a-shai (عشب الشاي). The tea can be bought as dried leaves in local spice markets (ask for it) but it is best when grown fresh. It has a clean, clear mint taste fit for serving a prince or princess.

Image above via Flora of Israel

Mentioned in the Hebrew holy text called the Mishnah as qoranit, the plant contains a high concentration of the essential oil pulegone and isomenthol, known for medicinal properties.

Folk remedies suggest it is good for treating abdominal pains, eye infections, heart disorders, high blood pressure, exhaustion, colds and open wounds.

Ask in your local nursery in the Levante region for a small seedling which will grow into a shrub. It makes a delightful tea that you will find nowhere else in the world. If you are pregnant, it is not advised to drink this medicinal herb which contains pulogene, dangerous for pregnancies and nursing.

You can also chop it up and add it to your Israeli salad or to your roasting fish.

Zuta grows wild in the Galilee region and grows velvety, fingernail-sized leaves not unlike sage, but much more delicate in appearance and tear-dropped in shape.

Modern Technology is Helping to Usher in a Greener Tomorrow

Cities
Technology
Transportation

Bhok Thompson

November 1, 2018

Technology, through its broad application across various sectors of industry and regular life, has managed to streamline almost every aspect of modern society, but there is apparently more to it. According to numerous studies, it has been found that the use of modern technology has severely curbed the negative impacts of industrialization on the natural environment in multiple ways.

Improving Renewable Energy

Ever since the global realization of the fact that coal and petroleum are finite sources of energy, there has been multiple ongoing research projects dedicated to finding alternate sources of power for the future. However, it wasn’t until recent years that the likes of solar power, wind energy and hydroelectricity got anywhere near feasibility for use on a mass scale. Renewable energy has now become more affordable and available for even residential use and is no longer exclusive to only commercial sectors, thanks to the rapid advances in technology.

The Digital Movement

After the industrial revolution, the digital revolution has been the single most important step in human history, and experts agree that the movement is still in its nascency. Nonetheless, the combination of internet, computers and smartphones has severely reduced pressure on the environment.

Most of the banking operations can be completed online in most parts of the developed world, which is once again, proving to be a huge bonus in terms of a greener tomorrow. As the digital revolution expands and evolves even further, it is expected that pressure on natural resources in general (especially wood and paper) will be further reduced considerably.

The Use of Technology in Prevention of Poaching

Saving endangered animals is a very tough challenge for authorities even today and especially in the African continent. The use of drone surveillance is proving to be a useful mechanism in deterring or at least identifying the criminals involved in the act of poaching.

Monitoring the Companies

Big companies with toxic waste dumps are not yet a thing of the past, but the government is able to keep a close watch on factories, constructions and manufacturing plants with monitoring instruments that record various aspects of how the concerned process is affecting the environment around it. For example, geo-spatial measurement of air pollution enables the authorities to detect how much of what is being emitted by a factory unit into the air.

Smarter Cars

Not only are electric cars more sustainable and practical now, but it is only a matter of a few more years before autonomous cars start hitting roads all around the world. Driverless cars are inevitably more fuel-efficient and they may just be able to make way for less resource-intensive vehicle designs in the very near future.

Finally, even in the residential scenario, smart thermostats, smart lights and smart electronics in general are adept at maximizing energy-efficiency, which is essential for a greener tomorrow. As human population continues to grow and the natural resources continue to shrink because of that, modern tech is at the moment, the biggest hope for the future generations.

How You Can Choose A Good Personal Injury Lawyer

Lifestyle

Bhok Thompson

November 1, 2018

Have you or a loved one just experienced a traumatic personal injury at the hands of someone else? Well, you might not know all of your rights, but you probably know that you are entitled to some form of compensation. This is where the best personal injury lawyer can come in handy. This individual will inform you of your rights as a victim and make sure you are properly compensated. Unfortunately, the only problem is finding the right lawyer. There are without doubt tons of them out there to choose from, but not all of them come with the same qualities and qualifications. Knowing exactly what to look for can help you weed out some of the ambulance chasers.

Know Your Specific Needs

Quant Nanoflowcell — *Electric cars can be in accidents too.*

There are different lawyers that specialize in different fields because each field requires specialized knowledge. For instance, a simple car crash might require a different lawyer than a more complicated medical injury suit. This is why it is imperative to understand your specific needs. Taking on a corporation like a hospital will require extensive medical and legal knowledge backed by an excellent reputation. You better believe that hospitals and big organizations are going to have the best of the best representation and use all of the dirtiest tricks. They will try to drag the case out until you are ready to settle or throw in the towel. Make sure the lawyer you choose can handle your needs and requirements.

Consider Their Track Record

Before deciding on a lawyer, you should always consider their track record. This is especially true when the case involves close death or major injuries. Highly experienced attorneys will be more than proud to post the number of cases and the number of wins on their website. You will also want to consider the number of settlements and verdicts that they have. It is possible that your case will be determined in a court of law, so this will be extremely important.

Must Have A Positive Connection

When you meet or speak with your lawyer for the first time there must be some kind of connection. It may take a few minutes or hours for the connection to develop, but it has to be there. You are possibly going to be working with this individual for long hours. Does the lawyer seem completely focused on you? Do they seem distracted by other cases? Are they keeping good eye contact? Use your deepest instincts and make sure that you are taken seriously and have a good connection. It probably wouldn’t even hurt to meet with the staff that is going to help handle the case as well.

Always Do Your Research

The Internet has made finding a service extremely easy these days. Most reputable lawyers are going to have a website and you can access a variety of them in just a matter of hours. Look at their profiles to see how long they have been in business, what associations they belong to, their leadership positions, the law school they went to, and check to see if they have published any papers.

4 Tips for Managing Seasonal Allergies and Exercise

Health
Lifestyle

Bhok Thompson

October 31, 2018

You love to be active outside, but when seasonal allergies hit, it is easier to hide in the house. While hiding in the house is one strategy, you don’t want to put on extra pounds because you are staying in the house. The challenges of seasonal allergies don’t have to keep you down. In this article, we are going to talk about four tips for managing seasonal allergies and exercise.

Exercising outside is a great way to motivate yourself to get moving. Inside exercise isn’t exciting and sometimes can be downright boring. If you are used to exercising outside, but allergies are affecting your performance, you are likely to be thinking about ways you can get your exercise in outside without going into sneezing and coughing fits. Let’s get into the tips below.

1. Ensure It Is Really Allergies

Before you start blaming allergies for your problems, make sure that is why you are experiencing the symptoms that you have. You can do this by going to your doctor, or you can do a couple of tests on your own. Try going outside during the highest pollen time and see if your symptoms flare up. Try this a couple of times so you can confirm that you are experiencing seasonal allergies. If you go outside and exercise and you don’t have any flare-ups you might have a common cold. Give your body a little time to recover and then you can get back to your outdoor workouts.

2. Medicate Before Things Get Worse

If you have confirmed that you have seasonal allergies and symptoms showing themselves, you don’t want to wait until they get worse to medicate. If you wait until things get worse to medicate, it may take a while for medication to help you get back to where you need to be. Depending on how bad your allergies are, you may have to go to the doctor to get a prescription, or you could use over the counter remedies. Make sure you are using the right dosage and taking the medication as recommended for the best results. Your body may respond to medication differently than you might expect so be careful when you are starting your exercises.

3. Avoid Wearing Shoes and Clothes Inside

After you’ve been to work, you want to take off your shoes and clothes that you wore to work. It is likely that you are going to have many allergens on your shoes and clothes from going outdoors. You probably don’t plan on washing your jacket or your shoes so make sure you have a place to put them near the door, so they don’t make it far into your living space. If these are your workout places, you should make sure you wash them since they are likely to have many allergens built up after heavy exercise and a long time outdoors.

4. Wear a Mask

When you are exercising outdoors during times that pollen is going wild, you should consider wearing a mask. While masks may not have been attractive or fun in the past, there are some cool looking masks you can wear when you are exercising so you can take your workout outside even when allergies are attacking. If you don’t want to wear a mask that makes a fashion statement, you can get a standard mask from just about any home improvement store.

5. Irrigate Your Nasal Passageway

If you are dealing with clogged nasal passageways, irrigating them is one of the best ways to give yourself relief. Being able to breathe while you are exercising is key and using nasal spray or a Neti pot are the easiest ways to do that. Irrigating your nasal passageway doesn’t sound like a fun process, and you are right. It isn’t pleasant to put the solution up your nose, but it does work. Keeping your nasal passageway cleaned out will make a world of difference throughout the day and the night. Getting a good night’s sleep can change the way you feel for the entire day.

Exercises You Can Do Inside

In case you’ve decided to avoid the outdoors as much as possible, here are some exercises you can do while indoors.

Yoga is a relaxing but also challenging exercise that can be done just about anywhere. There are different levels of yoga so whether you are a beginner or you want a work out that is challenging and gives your muscles a good workout.
Putting a punching bag in the house allows you to get a good workout anytime you want. Whether you want to box or kickbox, a good punching bag can keep you busy for hours.
Stretching is underrated as a form of exercise and can be very helpful with muscle building. If you stretch your muscles in between workouts, you are more likely to build a better body.

Working out inside doesn’t have to be boring. There are plenty of workout videos, apps and other forms of activity that can be performed even in the smallest places with a limited amount of time.

Conclusion

Seasonal allergies decrease the quality of life for many people, but that doesn’t have to be you. When you use the tips above to cope with seasonal allergies, you don’t have to suffer unnecessarily. You can continue to enjoy your life, even throughout this trying season.

10 Enchanting Shades of Purple Hair You Will Flip Over

Beauty

Bhok Thompson

October 31, 2018

If you can’t choose green or don’t want to go red or auburn with a natural henna, purple hair is perhaps the most trendy shade of hair color these days. Elle magazine says you can find an eco version of purple too. Not only is it drop-dead gorgeous, it is also one of the few trendy hair colors that looks stunning with every complexion and eye color. Choose eco and gentle options for color when you can. The last think you want is toxins on your hair.

And believe it or not, there are dozens of beautiful and edgy shades of purple hair color from soft lilac to deep eggplant! Not to mention balayage hues and stunning purple ombre fades! There is no end to the possibilities when it comes to ways to color your hair purple!

Like most hair colors, purple tends to fade very quickly. Therefore, it may require frequent touch ups. But once you go purple, you’ll find that it’s worth it!

It is wise to try to preserve your purple hair color for as long as possible. To do so, you can wash your hair less frequently, once or twice a week at the most. Use dry shampoo between wet shampoos and keep your hair hydrated with leave in conditioners. Only use products that are made for color-treated hair and are free of sulfates.

Avoid excessive use of heat as this also fades your hair color. Allow your hair to air dry when possible and use foam rollers instead of a curling wand. Wear a bathing cap when swimming and wear a hat when in the sun to protect your hair from fading due to ultraviolet rays. These simple tips can help preserve your gorgeous purple color.

What are 10 of the prettiest looks for purple hair? Have fun and get ready to embrace the purple!

Short, Wavy Boysenberry Bob

If you have short hair, such as this cute wavy bob, this blend of bright purple hues is a fun way to add a burst of color to your curly tresses.

This balayage is a stunning blend of violet, mauve and lilac hues to form a gorgeous boysenberry purple shade that is full of depth and dimension. It is the perfect blend of dark a light purple hair colors for a truly multi tonal look. It looks just stunning on wavy hair to give it even more texture and volume!

Magenta and Royal Purple Love Affair

Pink is perhaps the next most popular hair color other than purple hair. And if you like both, you don’t have to choose! Check out this totally awesome blend of magenta pink and eggplant purple. The two shades blend majestically for a totally regal look that is edgy and chic!

Start off with a dark royal purple and blend in shades of deep eggplant and dark pink for a truly multi tonal cosmic blend that is out of this world.Style your hair in loose romantic waves to give a slightly soft vibe to this otherwise edgy cut that will make you stand out in any crowd!

Velvet Black to Deep Amethyst Melt

Ombre melts are so pretty and this dark silky black to purple melt is no exception! If you are blessed with velvety black hair, you can play it up by allowing it to fade into a shiny dark amethyst. This is perfect if you are going for a dark and edgy vibe.

This wavy. Inverted lob is the perfect canvas for this gorgeous ombre melt. Longer bobs are a great way to show off your trendy black and dark purple hair!

Indigo and Amethyst Ombre Flowing Mermaid Waves

If you love beachy mermaid waves, this breathtaking indigo to shimmery amethyst ombre fade is screaming your name! You will feel like a mermaid princess with this positively beautiful blend of purple hues!

Start off with a deep indigo base at the roots and then fade to a shiny light amethyst for a shimmery purple that looks like you just stepped of the beach! Spritz your wavy locks with a generous amount of sea salt spray to add bounce and texture and let your hair dry for a look that will make your friends green with envy!

Dark Plum and Dusty Lilac Dreams

We can’t get enough of this next look! Talk about dimension! The blend of warm and cool purple tones is just exquisite! Mix in a blend of deep plum, dark mauve and indigo shades at the top and then finish it off with dusty lilac highlights for a multi galactic blend of pretty purple hues!Dusty shades are where it’s at when it comes to trendy hair colors so feel free to lay it on thick. This dusty lilac is almost too pretty for words!

Deep Violet Tresses

Blue and purple hair go so nicely together! This deep Egyptian blue is the perfect compliment for these dark violet highlights! Together the two colors form a totally regal shade of deep dark violet that is striking!

The deep blue shades will fade to a silvery gray and the deep violet will fade to a pale lavender so you will be left with a shimmery blend of colors as it slowly fades away. But dark or light, this combo is chic and edgy if you want a look that will catch the eye of many an admirer!

Black and Lilac Ombre

Lilac is one of the prettiest and most popular shades of purple hair. If you want a striking contrast between dark and light, this black to lilac ombre melt is right up your alley.

Start off with black or dark chocolate brown roots and fade to bright lilac that will make you think of a field full of flowers on a sunny spring day! Curl your hair in soft, romantic waves and top off this look with some dramatic makeup to make you feel like a goth fairy princess!

Perfect Purple Sunset

If you love sunsets, you will flip over this mind-blowing blend of purple hues! Ask for deep wine, dark magenta, violet and lavender hues that blend into a splendid sunset that resembles amethyst and sapphire gemstones!

This look is the perfect blend of edgy and romantic! If you want to embrace your inner punk rock goddess but still have a soft and feminine edge, this look is perfect! It looks especially captivating on long, flowing waves!

Purple Fairy Lights

If you prefer softer shades of purple, you will fall head over heels in love with this charming blend of soft purple hues. Ask for a dark silver base and blend in soft shades of pink, amethyst, lilac, baby blue, light orchid and iris. The finished product will be reminiscent of soft fairy lights glistening on in a dark enchanted forest.

Pastel shades are all the rage so you can’t go wrong with this enchanting blend of soft blues, pinks and purple hues. If you have ever wanted to be a fairy, then this look will make all of your dreams come true!

Electric Blue to Dusty Lilac Ombre Fade

Who says you have to choose between dark and light purple hair? Not sure if you want to stick with warm or cool purple hues? Why not go with both?

This ombre fade starts off with an electrifying shade of indigo blue and then fades to medium violet, soft lavender, dusty lilac and soft pink hues for a dusty lilac fade that is just lovely. This look is perfect if you want a look that is both dramatic and chic!

Have you fallen in love with any of these looks for purple hair? Are you ready to embrace a trendy and sexy new look? We think you’ve got what it takes to rock the purple so what are you waiting for?

From the Euphrates to the Tigris, water matters conference in Iraq

Act
Economy
Nature

Green Prophet

October 31, 2018

Save the Tigris Campaign and partners announce the first alternative civil society forum for water in Mesopotamia: the Mesopotamian Water Forum will be held from 5-7 April 2019 in Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, and will involve civil society actors from the states of Iraq, Iran, Turkey, Syria. It will be an open space to give voice to those who are marginalized and excluded from the discussion about water management in the region. The Mesopotamian Water Forum is based on the social forum model, and is part of the global world social forum process. The idea of the Forum was launched during a joint meeting of Save the Tigris Campaign in the city of Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan Region if Iraq, in April 2017.

We want to foster public debate and encourage broad involvement in initiatives that might be implemented to transform water into an instrument for solidarity and peace, making it a model for the just and fair sharing of resources. We reject the use of water as a tool for oppression, used to entrench inequitable power dynamics that perpetuate ongoing conflicts. This Forum will provide a space for open and public dialogue about the status and access of bodies of water in the Mesopotamian region, and propose a framework for a water policy which is based on participation, sustainability and other social and ecological principles.

This event will be an important opportunity to promote a society-wide coalition for transboundary water cooperation that includes all relevant actors in the region. Civil society organizations, activists, researchers, academics, journalists, local community representatives and local authorities who share our values and are involved in the struggle for sustainable and participatory water management methods, who support our conviction that water is a tool for solidarity and sustainable peace, are invited to take part in the discussions and actions of this Forum. At least 300 participants from the region and beyond will take part in the 3 days of activities.

We believe the preservation and equal sharing of water resources requires cooperation across Mesopotamia and on global levels. Thus it is crucial to share local knowledge with different parts of the world, and to gain from each other’s experiences. This event aims to gather people from Mesopotamia and beyond the region. Such as diverse group will allow us to come up with effective plans which build on and incorporate different perspectives. This in turn will facilitate actions promoting water as a force for peace among the nations of the Mesopotamian region.

Call for Contributions

We have identified 3 main water challenges in the region: public participation, dams and preservation of the ecosystem. To kickstart the discussions during the plenary sessions of the Forum, we will publish 3 papers on these topics in advance of the event, in December 2018.

o complete these papers, we will need to include views from different geographical locations and expertise! Are you based in Iraq, Turkey, Syria or Iran? Do you have expertise in water resources? Then your contribution might be valuable. To do so, please read the abstracts on the website of the Forum and contact the authors via email. Your contribution could be included in the final paper and presented during the Forum! We welcome contributions in English, Arabic, Turkish, Farsi and Kurdish.

Masjid Al-Wali mosque in NJ teaches good energy

Lifestyle

Bhok Thompson

October 31, 2018

Masjid Al-Wali, a mosque and community center in New Jersey, is using solar to reduce the electricity costs needed to run its events, while raising environmental awareness with its members. The system, designed and installed by Centrica Business Solutions, generates 100% of the community’s energy needs.

Reducing environmental impact Operating as both a mosque and a community center, Masjid Al-Wali hosts a wide variety of events and activities that require a lot of electricity. As a member of Masjid Al-Wali, Helmi Saud recommended that the community install solar power to lower operating costs and reduce environmental impact.

With all of the daily activities taking place in the building, Masjid Al-Wali no longer worries about energy bills. The solar system generates 100% of the community’s energy needs. Masjid Al-Wali purchased the system through the PSE&G Loan Program. Payments are funded by utilizing both the electricity savings and the Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) that the system generates.

The electricity generated has a 25-year average cost of $0.040/kWh versus $0.155/kWh – a 126% reduction in electricity costs. The total solar investment is projected to save the community $202,000 over 25 years, which can be used to fund future events and activities.

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1. Ensure It Is Really Allergies

2. Medicate Before Things Get Worse

3. Avoid Wearing Shoes and Clothes Inside

4. Wear a Mask

5. Irrigate Your Nasal Passageway

Exercises You Can Do Inside

Conclusion

Short, Wavy Boysenberry Bob

Magenta and Royal Purple Love Affair

Velvet Black to Deep Amethyst Melt

Indigo and Amethyst Ombre Flowing Mermaid Waves

Dark Plum and Dusty Lilac Dreams

Deep Violet Tresses

Black and Lilac Ombre

Perfect Purple Sunset

Purple Fairy Lights

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