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Pufferfish Crop Circles

Pufferfish Crop Circles
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at MSU chapter.

In the mysterious depths of the oceans, a fascinating phenomenon has captured the attention of marine biologists all over the world – pufferfish crop circles. These crop circles are intricate patterns resembling geometric designs and are the result of valiant efforts by male pufferfish during mating season.

When these circles are finished, female pufferfish come to inspect them, and if they like what they see, they “reproduce” with the males. They lay their eggs in the sediments in the center of these circles and vanish, and the males fertilize the eggs externally. They then stay around for a week to guard the eggs. 

Furthermore, the crop circles are thought to function as a signal of the male’s fitness and genetic quality. A well-constructed circle may indicate the male’s ability to provide a safe and suitable environment for the female to deposit her eggs. 

These crop circles have three distinct features:

  • They have radially aligned ridges and valleys outside the center of the circle which is the main nest site for the eggs.
  • Male pufferfish decorate these ridges with tiny shell fragments.
  • They gather fine sediments to give the resulting design a distinctive look.

These formations have beautiful and intricate designs, and their formation is discussed more in detail in this research paper. 

Pufferfish crop circles stand as a testament to the incredible diversity of behaviors exhibited by marine life. The elaborate courtship displays created by male pufferfish not only showcase their artistic prowess but also play a crucial role in attracting mates for reproduction. As we unravel the mysteries of these underwater crop circles, we gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate and interconnected web of life beneath the ocean’s surface.

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Finally, a complete view of Piero Lissoni’s decades of work across architecture, interior design, furniture, furnishings, graphics, landscape and more. This substantial book, edited by Stefano Casciani, presents the Lissoni & Partners studio work in a well-organized and easy to peruse manner, from The Middle House hotel—our go-to in Shanghai, to the chic Sanlorenzo Yachts SP110 plus working, retail and living environments, there are beautiful images and inspiriting designs to inspire.

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How to Stay Motivated During Your Nursing Dissertation?

Starting to write a nursing dissertation is a big challenge. If you’re a nursing student, you’re diving into a world of complex research, looking at data, and exploring topics in a detailed way. But finishing your dissertation can be tough, and staying motivated is important. So, follow some easy ways to keep yourself inspired and focused on getting through your nursing dissertation.

Follow the given points below:

1. Define Clear and Achievable Goals

To make writing your big dissertation easier, start by breaking it into smaller tasks that you can do. Decide what you want to get done in each study session, so you can see your progress and feel good about finishing little parts of it. Celebrate the small wins as you go along!

2. Develop a Realistic Schedule

Make a schedule that makes sense and isn’t too hard to follow. Set aside specific times for doing your research, writing, and taking breaks. It’s important to find a balance so you don’t get too tired and can keep going steadily with your dissertation without feeling overwhelmed. Taking breaks helps prevent you from getting too worn out.

3. Seek Support from Your Network

Don’t forget how helpful it can be to have people supporting you. Talk to your friends, family, and classmates about your dissertation journey. Their support and understanding can lift you, especially when things get tough. It’s good to know that others have your back.

4. Embrace Professional Guidance

Consider seeking assistance from professionals specialising in Nursing Dissertation Writing Help. Experienced Dissertation Writers can offer valuable insights, answer questions, and guide you through the intricacies of the academic journey.

5. Celebrate Milestones

Take time to acknowledge and celebrate both small and significant achievements. Completing a section of your dissertation or achieving a research milestone deserves recognition. Celebrating these moments will fuel your motivation and remind you of your progress.

6. Stay Connected with Peers

Joining or forming a peer group with fellow nursing students can be highly beneficial. Sharing experiences, exchanging tips, and motivating each other can turn the often-isolating dissertation process into a collaborative and supportive endeavor.

7. Incorporate Breaks into Your Routine

Avoid burnout by scheduling regular breaks. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, allowing your mind to recharge. Remember, a well-rested mind is more focused and motivated.

8. Utilise Mindfulness Techniques

Incorporate mindfulness exercises and stress-relief techniques into your routine. Practices such as meditation or deep breathing can help you stay centered and reduce anxiety during challenging moments.

9. Consider Dissertation Writing Services

If you find yourself struggling with the writing aspect of your dissertation, consider engaging Dissertation Writing Service. Professional writers can assist in organising your thoughts and presenting your ideas cohesively, alleviating some of the stress associated with academic writing.

10. Reflect on Your Personal Growth

Take moments to reflect on the skills and knowledge you’ve gained throughout the dissertation writer process. Recognising your personal and professional growth reinforces the significance of your journey and serves as a powerful motivator.

11. Focus on the End Goal

Visualise the benefits and opportunities that completing your nursing dissertation will bring. Keeping the end goal in mind will serve as a constant motivator, reminding you of the impact your work can have on your academic and professional future.

Conclusion

Staying motivated during your nursing dissertation is a dynamic process that requires a combination of self-discipline, support systems, and strategic planning. Whether you seek guidance from professionals offering Nursing Dissertation Help or find motivation within your network, remember that each step forward is a testament to your dedication and commitment to the nursing field. By implementing these strategies, you can navigate the challenges of Dissertation Writing with resilience, ultimately emerging with a sense of achievement and a valuable contribution to the nursing profession.

How to Stay Motivated During Your Nursing Dissertation?



Jack Wilson is an avid writer who loves to share his knowledge of things with others.



Isabella Strahan Was Diagnosed With Brain Cancer : Medulloblastoma Explained

Isabella Strahan Was Diagnosed With Brain Cancer : Medulloblastoma Explained

By BlackHealthMatter.com

People who have been speculating about Michael Strahan’s absence from Good Morning America last fall now have an answer they weren’t expecting: the morning show co-host was out because one of his daughters, Isabella, was diagnosed with brain cancer. In the duo’s interview with Robin Roberts, Ms. Strahan talks about experiencing symptoms of excruciating headaches, nausea, and the inability to walk straight in early fall during her first semester at the University of Southern California. However, she initially brushed off her symptoms because she believed she was suffering from vertigo. When she began throwing blood, she knew the condition was more serious. After a thorough check-up and an appointment for an MRI, Ms. Strahan got a call from her doctor to meet her at Cedars-Sinai Hospital. After arriving, she learned there was a fast-growing tumor called medulloblastoma. It was 4cm, larger than a golf ball, and growing in the back of her brain. She had emergency surgery for its removal the day before she and Sophia, her twin sister, turned 19.

What is Medulloblastoma?

According to the Mayo Clinic, medulloblastoma is a cancerous brain tumor that starts in the lower part of the brain called the cerebellum, which plays a part in muscle coordination, balance, and movement. The medulloblastoma cells spread through the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Medulloblastoma Symptoms

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According to the NIH, people with medulloblastoma in the cerebellum may have:
• Issues with walking, balance, and/or fine motor skills
If the tumor blocks the Cerebral spinal fluid (CSF), this can lead to increased pressure inside the skull. This problem is known as hydrocephalus.
Signs and symptoms of hydrocephalus may include:
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Blurred and double vision
• Extreme sleepiness
• Confusion
• Seizures and even passing out
If medulloblastoma has spread to the spine, symptoms may include:
• Weakness or numbness in the arms and or legs
• A change in normal bowel or bladder habits
• Spinal pain

What is the Treatment?

Ms. Strahan is undergoing all the necessary steps to treat her cancer. She began with surgery and afterward went through the process of freezing her eggs. Next, 30 sessions of radiation over a six-week period. At times, she felt fatigue and dizziness and experienced bouts of nausea later in the process. Next month, she will begin chemotherapy at Duke Children’s Hospital and Health Center. For some patients, bone marrow transplants and clinical trials may be prescribed. The five-year survival rate for medulloblastoma is 72.1%.  Ms. Strahan’s doctor discussed her diagnosis and treatment here.

What is Next for Isabella Strahan?

After staying quiet about her diagnosis, Strahan wants to be a voice that brings information and hope to people with cancer. She is partnering with the hospital to document her journey on a YouTube channel.

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Meet The Duo Whose Eclectic Interests Guide Their Design Ventures

Meet The Duo Whose Eclectic Interests Guide Their Design Ventures

Nature and place are the guiding forces behind the work of Rachel Bullock and Molly Purnell, partners at the Los Angeles design firm Laun. Bullock, an architect, and Purnell, a designer, not only have a successful furniture line (expect new materials and colors in the near future) but they also have several home renovations and new builds underway in the L.A. area and beyond.

Eyes open: We love the built environment in Los Angeles—it’s liberating and fun—but we’re also influenced by art, fashion and photography. We think about form and color in all aspects. You can’t get stuck in a feedback loop of contemporary architecture.

Guilty pleasure: Collecting vintage architecture books for our office library! It’s important to look at a wide array of references for every project. For a new build in Vermont, the client recommended Big House, Little House, Back House, Barn to learn more about New England’s heritage.

Artful touches: Connecting clients with local artists to create custom elements is important. We recently commissioned a beautiful shower tile mural by artist Sara Bright for a project in Los Angeles’ Silver Lake neighborhood.

State of affairs: People aren’t as interested in the idea of “starchitects” anymore. Today, it’s about real people and real budgets. In the past, spaces were often built in service to the vision, not to the user.

Portrait: Ye Rin Mok. Photos: Lance Gerber

Network International appoints Jamal Al Nassai as Group Managing Director for Merchant Services, MENA – PRWire

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Network International appoints Jamal Al Nassai as Group Managing Director for Merchant Services, MENA – PRWire

PRWire:

 Network International (Network), the leading enabler of digital commerce across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, has strengthened its senior management profile with the appointment of Jamal Al Nassai as Group Managing Director for Merchant Services – Middle East and North Africa (MENA). In this role he will be responsible for strategic planning and execution, business development and value propositions for Merchant and Government Partners across all the Group’s MENA markets.

Nandan Mer, Group CEO of Network International, said, “We are pleased to have exceptionally talented and proven leaders like Jamal join our executive bench sharing his depth of knowledge and expertise to further empower Network’s vision to become the largest, fastest growing, and the most innovative payments enabler in the Middle East and Africa. In this new role, Jamal will further underscore our commitment to enhancing Network’s presence and achieving further milestones as we accelerate product innovation and time-to-market for our customers, enabling them to achieve their goals.”

Jamal has an impressive track record, having accomplished 18 years of service at Network in various leadership roles spanning the entire payments value chain and customer journey. He has rich and diverse expertise across business, technology, governance, regulatory compliance, and operations.

 

Jamal Al Nassai, Group Managing Director for Merchant Services – Middle East and North Africa, commented: “I have had a long association with Network International and am delighted to further enhance Network’s position as it embarks on the next phase of growth in digital payments. I look forward to working alongside our valued merchants and government partners across the MENA markets and supporting them in the fast-changing payments landscape with superior payments technology.”

Network has been instrumental in driving digital payments acceptance and broader financial inclusion in Africa and the Middle East, offering end-to-end payment solutions to a growing customer base in more than 50 countries.

Network International appoints Jamal Al Nassai as Group Managing Director for Merchant Services, MENA – PRWire

0
Network International appoints Jamal Al Nassai as Group Managing Director for Merchant Services, MENA – PRWire

 Network International (Network), the leading enabler of digital commerce across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, has strengthened its senior management profile with the appointment of Jamal Al Nassai as Group Managing Director for Merchant Services – Middle East and North Africa (MENA). In this role he will be responsible for strategic planning and execution, business development and value propositions for Merchant and Government Partners across all the Group’s MENA markets.

Nandan Mer, Group CEO of Network International, said, “We are pleased to have exceptionally talented and proven leaders like Jamal join our executive bench sharing his depth of knowledge and expertise to further empower Network’s vision to become the largest, fastest growing, and the most innovative payments enabler in the Middle East and Africa. In this new role, Jamal will further underscore our commitment to enhancing Network’s presence and achieving further milestones as we accelerate product innovation and time-to-market for our customers, enabling them to achieve their goals.”

Jamal has an impressive track record, having accomplished 18 years of service at Network in various leadership roles spanning the entire payments value chain and customer journey. He has rich and diverse expertise across business, technology, governance, regulatory compliance, and operations.

 

Jamal Al Nassai, Group Managing Director for Merchant Services – Middle East and North Africa, commented: “I have had a long association with Network International and am delighted to further enhance Network’s position as it embarks on the next phase of growth in digital payments. I look forward to working alongside our valued merchants and government partners across the MENA markets and supporting them in the fast-changing payments landscape with superior payments technology.”

Network has been instrumental in driving digital payments acceptance and broader financial inclusion in Africa and the Middle East, offering end-to-end payment solutions to a growing customer base in more than 50 countries.

Network International appoints Jamal Al Nassai as Group Managing Director for Merchant Services, MENA

0
Network International appoints Jamal Al Nassai as Group Managing Director for Merchant Services, MENA

 Network International (Network), the leading enabler of digital commerce across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, has strengthened its senior management profile with the appointment of Jamal Al Nassai as Group Managing Director for Merchant Services – Middle East and North Africa (MENA). In this role he will be responsible for strategic planning and execution, business development and value propositions for Merchant and Government Partners across all the Group’s MENA markets.

Nandan Mer, Group CEO of Network International, said, “We are pleased to have exceptionally talented and proven leaders like Jamal join our executive bench sharing his depth of knowledge and expertise to further empower Network’s vision to become the largest, fastest growing, and the most innovative payments enabler in the Middle East and Africa. In this new role, Jamal will further underscore our commitment to enhancing Network’s presence and achieving further milestones as we accelerate product innovation and time-to-market for our customers, enabling them to achieve their goals.”

Jamal has an impressive track record, having accomplished 18 years of service at Network in various leadership roles spanning the entire payments value chain and customer journey. He has rich and diverse expertise across business, technology, governance, regulatory compliance, and operations.

 

Jamal Al Nassai, Group Managing Director for Merchant Services – Middle East and North Africa, commented: “I have had a long association with Network International and am delighted to further enhance Network’s position as it embarks on the next phase of growth in digital payments. I look forward to working alongside our valued merchants and government partners across the MENA markets and supporting them in the fast-changing payments landscape with superior payments technology.”

Network has been instrumental in driving digital payments acceptance and broader financial inclusion in Africa and the Middle East, offering end-to-end payment solutions to a growing customer base in more than 50 countries.

BENTLEY CUSTOMERS PERSONALISE THEIR CARS MORE THAN EVER IN 2023 – PRWire

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BENTLEY CUSTOMERS PERSONALISE THEIR CARS MORE THAN EVER IN 2023 – PRWire

PRWire:

  • Bentley Motors delivers 13,560 extraordinary cars in 2023 – the third highest on record
  • More customers choosing personalisation than ever before – increased by 43 per cent over 2022 
  • Mixed regional performance as demand weakens in some markets due to external factors
  • Luxury SUV Bentayga remains highest selling model, accounting for 44 per cent of total sales, following introduction of Extended Wheelbase (EWB) 
  • Bentley’s home market in the UK becomes proportionally biggest selling hybrid region, with almost a third sold selected as hybrid

(PRWire) Bentley Motors achieved its third best ever year in 2023 with global sales of 13,560 luxury cars. Although an 11 per cent decrease on 2022, Bentley’s best ever result, interest in luxury personalisation reached higher levels than before. Around three-quarters of customers went beyond the 46 billion different configurations available from the standard options range to add bespoke content from Bentley’s Mulliner division, representing a 43 per cent rise over 2022, an indication of the desire for truly unique exclusivity in the luxury industry.

Customers were also increasingly attracted to higher revenue models such as Azure, S and Speed, the mix of which reached 70 per cent up from 30 per cent in 2022. The Bentayga Extended Wheelbase also exceeded expectations reaching more than a third of the company’s SUV orders in its first full-year on sale.  

Bentley’s range of hybrid vehicles remained popular, with the UK being the leading market with one in four Flying Spur and Bentayga customers choosing the hybrid option.  

Looking at regional performance, difficult market conditions persisted and although there was positive growth in Asia Pacific (5 per cent up) and the Middle East, India and Africa (2 per cent up), key markets such as China and the UK declined by 18 per cent in both cases. 

The trend for SUV buying continued as Bentayga remained Bentley’s number one model, accounting for 44 per cent of total sales and reinforcing its position as the most successful luxury SUV in the world. Furthermore, consistent appeal continued for the Continental GT and GT Convertible, accounting for nearly a third of sales, 31 per cent, with the Flying Spur, the world’s finest luxury four-door grand tourer, reaching 25 per cent of total sales.

In spite of challenging conditions in key regions around the world, the Americas maintained its position as the biggest selling global market. Interestingly, Bentley’s home market in the UK is now the number one selling region for hybrid models by proportion, with 27 per cent of sales in 2023 selected as a hybrid option.
   
Commenting on the global sales results, Adrian Hallmark, Chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors, said:

“The luxury market was not immune from the challenging market conditions seen around the world in the second half of 2023 and despite this we were able to deliver our third highest retail position in history and enter 2024 with a strong order bank. Building on this, our quality of sales was much greater, with significant increases in our higher value derivatives, and a significant growth in demand for bespoke personalisation.


“We remain cautiously optimistic for the year ahead, with a continued robust global demand by market and model, high levels of interest in our hybrid models and with more to follow this year.”

      
Regional performance 

Market

2023 (sales)

2022 (sales)

2023 (% of total sales)

Americas

3,848 (-9%)

4,221

28%

Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Macau

3,006 (-18%)

3,655

22%

Europe

2,376 (-15%)

2,809

18%

Asia Pacific

2,123 (+5%)

2,031

16%

United Kingdom

1,218 (-18%)

1,490

9%

Middle East, India and Africa

989 (+2%)

968

7%

Total

13,560 (-11%)

15,174

100%

*Bentley ended the year with 235 retailers in 63 countries.

BENTLEY CUSTOMERS PERSONALISE THEIR CARS MORE THAN EVER IN 2023 – PRWire

0
BENTLEY CUSTOMERS PERSONALISE THEIR CARS MORE THAN EVER IN 2023 – PRWire
  • Bentley Motors delivers 13,560 extraordinary cars in 2023 – the third highest on record
  • More customers choosing personalisation than ever before – increased by 43 per cent over 2022 
  • Mixed regional performance as demand weakens in some markets due to external factors
  • Luxury SUV Bentayga remains highest selling model, accounting for 44 per cent of total sales, following introduction of Extended Wheelbase (EWB) 
  • Bentley’s home market in the UK becomes proportionally biggest selling hybrid region, with almost a third sold selected as hybrid

(PRWire) Bentley Motors achieved its third best ever year in 2023 with global sales of 13,560 luxury cars. Although an 11 per cent decrease on 2022, Bentley’s best ever result, interest in luxury personalisation reached higher levels than before. Around three-quarters of customers went beyond the 46 billion different configurations available from the standard options range to add bespoke content from Bentley’s Mulliner division, representing a 43 per cent rise over 2022, an indication of the desire for truly unique exclusivity in the luxury industry.

Customers were also increasingly attracted to higher revenue models such as Azure, S and Speed, the mix of which reached 70 per cent up from 30 per cent in 2022. The Bentayga Extended Wheelbase also exceeded expectations reaching more than a third of the company’s SUV orders in its first full-year on sale.  

Bentley’s range of hybrid vehicles remained popular, with the UK being the leading market with one in four Flying Spur and Bentayga customers choosing the hybrid option.  

Looking at regional performance, difficult market conditions persisted and although there was positive growth in Asia Pacific (5 per cent up) and the Middle East, India and Africa (2 per cent up), key markets such as China and the UK declined by 18 per cent in both cases. 

The trend for SUV buying continued as Bentayga remained Bentley’s number one model, accounting for 44 per cent of total sales and reinforcing its position as the most successful luxury SUV in the world. Furthermore, consistent appeal continued for the Continental GT and GT Convertible, accounting for nearly a third of sales, 31 per cent, with the Flying Spur, the world’s finest luxury four-door grand tourer, reaching 25 per cent of total sales.

In spite of challenging conditions in key regions around the world, the Americas maintained its position as the biggest selling global market. Interestingly, Bentley’s home market in the UK is now the number one selling region for hybrid models by proportion, with 27 per cent of sales in 2023 selected as a hybrid option.
   
Commenting on the global sales results, Adrian Hallmark, Chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors, said:

“The luxury market was not immune from the challenging market conditions seen around the world in the second half of 2023 and despite this we were able to deliver our third highest retail position in history and enter 2024 with a strong order bank. Building on this, our quality of sales was much greater, with significant increases in our higher value derivatives, and a significant growth in demand for bespoke personalisation.


“We remain cautiously optimistic for the year ahead, with a continued robust global demand by market and model, high levels of interest in our hybrid models and with more to follow this year.”

      
Regional performance 

Market

2023 (sales)

2022 (sales)

2023 (% of total sales)

Americas

3,848 (-9%)

4,221

28%

Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Macau

3,006 (-18%)

3,655

22%

Europe

2,376 (-15%)

2,809

18%

Asia Pacific

2,123 (+5%)

2,031

16%

United Kingdom

1,218 (-18%)

1,490

9%

Middle East, India and Africa

989 (+2%)

968

7%

Total

13,560 (-11%)

15,174

100%

*Bentley ended the year with 235 retailers in 63 countries.