Daily Archives: July 23, 2020

Three Ways of Looking at Children and the Coronavirus – The New Yorker

Posted: July 23, 2020 at 11:33 am

A good friend recently invited me to meet his spiritual guide via Zoom. The spiritual guide does energy work, which he claims requires no physical proximity and works based on principles of Christianity and quantum mechanics. After some introduction of his methods, the spiritual guide turned his attention to me, rotating a wooden bar in the air and snapping his fingers against his hand in order to confer on me protection from the novel coronavirus. I could see his living room behind him, and his wife joined from a separate device elsewhere in the apartment.

The procedure was brief, and shortly he pronounced me protected. Is the baby protected, too, Lord? he asked. There was a scant pause and then Amen, he said, the baby, too.

Humiliatingly, I started crying. I could not explain it in that moment, so I allowed my friend to believe that I cried because of the power of being conferred such protection. I exited the Zoom, thanking them both, and snapped my laptop closed.

The fact is I was crying because I know there is no way to guarantee safety for my baby, who, at thirty-seven weeks, rides in my uterus through the hospital daily, while I work as a pediatric hospitalist and the pandemic blossoms here in Texas. Nobody can say to meor to any parent, at this pointwhat exactly will protect the little bodies that pertain to us.

This has always been true, and more pointedly so for some parents than others. To have ever believed one could keep a child safe in this world is a marker of privilege, generally reserved for affluent white parents such as myself. Yet I have never been asked so often or so fruitlessly what specific formula might confer protection on the children: if they have playdates but only with one neighbor, if they go to the park and wash hands afterward, if they start school but in the school everyone wears masks.

I tell parents about the data that supports their hope to safely liberate children from home. Though it was initially reasonable to suspect that SARS-CoV-2 would behave like other respiratory viruses and use children as the little viral culture media which God created them to be, evidence is accumulating that, so far, children are not the primary drivers of this particular pandemic. They absolutely do get sick from it, and many, around one in two hundred in some studies, get so sick that they require I.C.U.-level care. But the most frightening manifestation of SARS-CoV-2 infection in childrenmultisystem inflammatory syndrome in children, or MIS-C, which often lands them in I.C.U.s but rarely seems to kill themremains rare.

I have my own fears about infection, however. So far, the diagnostic criteria for MIS-C require proof of current or recent infection with (or documented exposure to) the novel coronavirus. Most cases seem to be occurring two to four weeks after infection. But the inflammatory sequelae of other viruses, such as measles, herpes, and chicken pox, may occur years after infection. As many as one in twenty children infected with measles will develop pneumonia, and around one in a thousand develop encephalitis: swelling and inflammation of the brain. A much smaller percentage (two in a hundred thousand) will develop subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (S.S.P.E.) generally seven to ten years after measles infection. This slow, inflammatory scarring of the brain is fatal. Just as we do not yet know what, if any, long-term complications may lie in wait for children infected with SARS-CoV-2 in utero, we do not yet know if this virus will carry any super-delayed sequelae of childhood infection.

Sometimes I think that the habit of mind that most clearly separates experienced physicians from faith healers is not scientific rigor but prudence. We physicians have seen enough irremediable suffering to know the limitations of our art. We are acquainted with fortuna, the capricious force of destiny that deals suffering and healing without regard for our efforts. We promise to work through the night for our patients, to explain every step, to be at their sides no matter what. We do not, however, promise safety. Even when I am caring for a baby with a very routine respiratory infection, I do not promise parents that their child will recover. I say, Well help your baby by giving her the extra oxygen, and we will watch her very closely. If we see that shes getting sicker even with the oxygen, then well talk to the I.C.U. doctors about the next steps to keep her safe. I know a lot of science, but I also engage with fortuna and a level of magical thinking that would be more appropriate in a four-year-old; I cant escape the fear that some horror will befall any baby whom I promise an easy recovery.

In the case of the novel coronavirus, prudence tells me that I should be at least as worried about actual measles and S.S.P.E. as I am about theoretical risks of long-term sequelae of SARS-CoV-2. Worldwide, childhood-vaccination rates are declining and measles outbreaks are blossoming amid the coronavirus pandemic. I should also worry about children losing their parents or grandparents, missing meals, and falling behind in school. I should worry about kids whose learning disabilities will go undiagnosed without school screenings, L.G.B.T.Q. teens trapped in unsafe homes, and children traumatized from witnessing domestic violence. When my friends ask me how to keep their kids safe, though, they mean safe from infection. I refer them to the guidelines of the C.D.C.

I get the sense, though, that parents dont want my prudence; they want my blessing. They want to move out into the world under the glimmering umbrella of a pediatrician who has said, Amen, the child is safe.

Early in the pandemic, the number of children admitted to my hospital fell. Kids were staying home and avoiding the usual respiratory viruses that drive hospitalization; when kids did get sick, parents were likely avoiding the hospital for as long as possible.

With fewer sick kids, the service was dominated by trauma. We saw plenty of injuries related to neglect: kids burned from having poured gasoline on fires while unsupervised, or shot from playing with unlocked guns. Then there were the abuse cases: children with brain bleeds from abusive head trauma, or liver lacerations from being pummelled in the abdomen. Although my hospital has not published data on these cases, pediatricians across the country are worried that abuse is on the rise. Educators are often the people who detect early signs of child abuse and neglect; with schools closed and fewer cases of suspected maltreatment being reported, some doctors are seeing more severe trauma among children.

When a child comes in with an injury that could be from abuse, we pediatricians go looking for other injuries. We may do X-rays to look for evidence of old broken bones, or a scan of the head to look for bleeds. We may draw blood to look for evidence that the liver has been injured by blunt trauma. We look for characteristic bruises and patterned scars. Sometimes these investigations reveal a long history of physical abuse. These are the children who keep pediatricians up at night: kids whom we probably saw in the office or in the hospital for a so-called sentinel injuryan early, less serious injury that was caused by abuse but went unrecognized. In one study of infants hospitalized for serious physical abuse, just over twenty-seven per cent had a previous sentinel injury, and nearly forty-two per cent of those were reportedly evaluated by a physician.

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Three Ways of Looking at Children and the Coronavirus - The New Yorker

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Looking to unwind outside the city? Abu Dhabis stunning resorts, islands and parks are ideal for some quiet time – Happytrips

Posted: at 11:33 am

From serene and ultra-luxurious resorts, many of which are located along the emirates sprawling shoreline and some on exclusive private islands, to expansive parks showcasing adventure and a range of camping options, the laid-back side of this extraordinary emirate is sure to impress you, with stunning vistas, old-fashioned charm and unique culture.

Sir Bani Yas Island

Jebel Hafit Desert Park

Zaya Nurai Island

Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas

When in Abu Dhabi, seclusion is just a short drive away and always comes with the ultimate comfort and luxury. The emirates stunning resorts, islands and parks offer the best service and unparalleled vistas that provide you with a distinct escape from the touristy throngs. They also pack in several activities and adventures that are distinct to this region, ensuring that it is a unique and authentic trip that you and your loved ones will always cherish.

Cannot wait to be in Abu Dhabi? Well, we have some good news. Now, you can virtually explore this magnificent city while sitting right at home. Check out the immersive #StayCurious campaign that lets you escape to this stunning destination without setting foot in it!

Disclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi by Times Internets Spotlight team.

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Looking to unwind outside the city? Abu Dhabis stunning resorts, islands and parks are ideal for some quiet time - Happytrips

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How An At-Home Test For COVID-19 Could Help Control The Pandemic : Shots – Health News – NPR

Posted: at 11:33 am

Dr. Glenn Lopez administered a standard test for the coronavirus to Daniel Contreras at a mobile clinic in South Los Angeles last week. Though highly accurate, such tests can take days or more to process. Mario Tama/Getty Images hide caption

Dr. Glenn Lopez administered a standard test for the coronavirus to Daniel Contreras at a mobile clinic in South Los Angeles last week. Though highly accurate, such tests can take days or more to process.

Anybody who has waited for hours in line for a coronavirus test, or who has had to wait a week or more for results, knows there has to be a better way. In fact, the next generation of tests will focus on speed.

But what should the Food and Drug Administration do with a rapid test that is comparatively cheap but much less accurate than the tests currently on the market? A test like that is ready to go up for FDA approval, and some scientists argue it could be valuable despite its shortcomings.

At first blush, you wouldn't want a medical test to be pushing out untrustworthy results. And that's certainly the case for a medical diagnosis. But rapid test could be valuable if used to screen large numbers of people for infection repeatedly and frequently.

For example, some of the rapid tests under development don't detect the virus in a person who is in the early or late stages of infection they only catch an infection at its peak. Dr. Michael Mina at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health says that's OK, under certain circumstances.

"As long as you're using the test on a pretty frequent basis," Mina says, "you will be more likely than not to catch the person on the day they might go out and transmit. And they'll know to stay home."

To be useful, such tests need to be widely available and affordable, he says. "I envision a time when everyone can order a pack of 50 tests for $50 and have those and use them every other day for a couple of months."

When it comes to controlling the epidemic, that could be an appealing alternative to the current laboratory-based system, an overburdened process that has become a serious bottleneck. These days, some people are waiting a week or more for results, and by then they have potentially spread the virus to others.

Highly accurate at-home tests are probably many months away. But Mina argues they could be here sooner if the FDA would not demand that tests for the coronavirus meet really high accuracy standards of 80 percent or better.

A Massachusetts-based startup called E25Bio has developed this sort of rapid test. Founder and Chief Technology Officer Irene Bosch says her firm has field-tested it in hospitals. "What we learned is that the test is able to be very efficient for people who have a lot of virus," she says.

It's nowhere near as good at detecting low levels of virus. But you can have the most sensitive test in the world, she says, and if you only test people once a month, that test, too, will miss a lot of people who are infected. So, her company is focusing on quick, easy and cheap.

"These are very simple strips," she says. "They're [like] miniaturized pregnancy tests. So, you can imagine you can't find anything more simple than this."

The sample for this test would come via a swab of the nose or mouth. Results would be available within 15 minutes, according to the manufacturer. Most important is the price.

"The test has to be affordable. It cannot work if it's not affordable," Bosch says. "Right now it might cost $3 to make it [or] $4 to make it. So affordable will be what it costs."

E25Bio would like to set the price at cost, though for the start-up company to stay in business, Bosch says, the test would need a government subsidy. The company has a local partner that's poised to produce a million of these tests a week, she says, adding that another company in the United Kingdom is poised to produce 8 million tests a day.

E25Bio has asked the governor of Massachusetts to approve the rapid test for sale not for use at home just yet, but in pharmacies and out in the community.

To bring people back to work, or teachers and students back to the classroom safely, "this is the kind of test you need," Bosch says.

The company would like to pair the test with a smartphone app. The app would take a photo of the test result and upload it to a public database. The information would be stripped of personal details and precise location, but if people volunteered to take this step, she says, the public could crowdsource information about the spread of the coronavirus that would be useful to researchers. The information would also be available to public health authorities.

The company is in talks with the FDA about approving this test, even though it would be a departure for the federal agency, which has so far required a higher level of accuracy.

She isn't sure how the FDA is responding to the company's request. "This is a Pandora's box and this like is a black box," she says with a laugh.

In other words, the FDA doesn't want to take an action that backfires, and it also doesn't tend to reveal its thinking as it deliberates. The FDA told NPR that the agency weighs the benefits and risks of all coronavirus tests, but didn't elaborate on its thinking about this novel testing strategy.

"There's always a tradeoff here. There's no free lunch," says Trevor Martin, chief executive officer of the Bay Area biotech startup, Mammoth Biosciences. His company is also making a rapid test, based on the gene-editing technology CRISPR. Though CRISPR is best known for its ability to edit DNA, part of that process involves pinpointing specific sequences. And by targeting the coronavirus' genetic sequence, this approach can be highly accurate, he says.

"Our goal is to have a test that delivers extremely high-quality results with a single test. The same as you would get in a lab, or better," Martin says.

His company's test isn't likely to be on the market until the end of the year, which seems like the distant future, considering the pace of the epidemic. He agrees tests need to be affordable, but he didn't name a price range for the test.

Martin says precision has a place in controlling the epidemic, too. A test that can detect very low levels of virus is more likely to pick up someone with a mild infection, even in the absence of symptoms. And that's "super important if you want to prevent spread," he says.

Other labs are pursuing tests based on CRISPR as well. And two companies have temporary approval by the FDA to sell a rapid test that detects certain proteins antigens from the coronavirus. These antigen tests are less accurate than the standard PCR tests, which detect genetic material from the virus. The average wholesale price for antigen tests is in the $20 range. Such tests are currently in limited supply, and available at hospitals, medical clinics and some doctor's offices.

It's unlikely that there will be one single testing solution for the coronavirus, and the best blend of approaches is still a work in progress.

You can contact NPR Science Correspondent Richard Harris at rharris@npr.org.

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How An At-Home Test For COVID-19 Could Help Control The Pandemic : Shots - Health News - NPR

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Looking to unwind outside of the city? Abu Dhabis stunning resorts, islands and parks are ideal for some quiet time – Happytrips

Posted: at 11:33 am

From serene and ultra-luxurious resorts, many of which are located along the emirates sprawling shoreline and some on exclusive private islands, to expansive parks showcasing adventure and a range of camping options, the laid-back side of this extraordinary emirate is sure to impress you, with stunning vistas, old-fashioned charm and unique culture.

Sir Bani Yas Island

Jebel Hafit Desert Park

Zaya Nurai Island

Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas

When in Abu Dhabi, seclusion is just a short drive away and always comes with the ultimate comfort and luxury. The emirates stunning resorts, islands and parks offer the best service and unparalleled vistas that provide you with a distinct escape from the touristy throngs. They also pack in several activities and adventures that are distinct to this region, ensuring that it is a unique and authentic trip that you and your loved ones will always cherish.

Cannot wait to be in Abu Dhabi? Well, we have some good news. Now, you can virtually explore this magnificent city while sitting right at home. Check out the immersive #StayCurious campaign that lets you escape to this stunning destination without setting foot in it!

Disclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi by Times Internets Spotlight team.

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Global CBD-Infused Beverages Market: Focus on Product Type (Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic), Industry Analysis (Regulatory Framework, Supply Chain,…

Posted: at 11:33 am

Global CBD-Infused Beverages Market Anticipated to Reach $1,018.3 Million by 2025

NEW YORK, July 23, 2020 /PRNewswire/ --

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05934755/?utm_source=PRN

Market Report Coverage - CBD-Infused Beverages

Market Segmentation

Product Type Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic

Regional Segmentation

North America U.S., Canada Europe U.K., Netherlands Asia-Pacific & Japan - Australia, Japan China

Growth Drivers

Rising demand and increasing legalization of cannabis Wide range of health benefits associated with CBD-infused beverages Acceptance of CBD-infused drinks by consumers in their day-to-day life and legalization in many sports

Market Challenges

Stringent regulation and lengthy approval process for CBD products Side effects associated with CBD consumption

Market Opportunities

Continuing research on the development and production of healthier forms of cannabis and its by-products Impact of COVID-19 on the CBD-infused beverages market

Key CBD-Infused Beverages Companies Profiled

New Age Beverages Corporation, Phivida Holding Inc., The Alkaline Water Company Inc., Canopy Growth Corporation, Lagunitas Brewing Company (Heineken N.V.), Puration Inc.

Key Questions Answered in this Report: How will the market react after the legalization of CBD-infused beverages by the FDA (considering health benefits)? What is the process of infusing CBD oil into the beverages? What are the patents regarding the CBD oil infusion into the beverages? What are the health benefits associated with CBD products (not particularly beverages but in general, according to research studies conducted in the past)? What investments recently happened in the CBD-infused beverages market? What is the difference between hemp and cannabis-derived products? Which countries have an existing CBD-infused beverages market, and which ones are likely to add to the list in the coming years? Which sports authorities have legalized CBD consumption, and what are the limitations? What types of CBD products are available in the market? What strategies and developments are being undertaken by the key players in the market? How can CBD-infused beverages affect other beverage industries? What is the supply chain of the CBD-infused beverages market? What are the country-wise restrictions regarding the amount of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) contents in CBD beverages? What is the regulatory framework being worked upon in the industry?

Market OverviewThe increase in the legalization of medical cannabis and its by-products by countries over the last decade has immensely transformed the CBD-infused beverages industry.CBD is the non-psychoactive compound of the cannabis plant, which is also responsible for treating various health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and mood upliftment.

After the legalization of CBD in sports by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the industry has been opened to an immense opportunity because of CBD's benefit in treating inflammation and pain.

Manufacturers are actively involved in innovating new products to cater to different consumer categories, such as sportsperson, medicinal purposes, general use, and the ever-changing consumer taste.Many alcoholic and carbonated drinks giants are also showcasing interest in the upcoming industry and made significant investments in developing their product line-ups.

As a result, the industry is witnessing a boom with growing customer knowledge and demand for the products and continuous investments for product innovations.

CBD-infused food and drinks are setting a new trend in the food and healthcare industries.These nutritious drinks have secured a strong position in the food and beverage industry.

Despite the challenges pertaining to the legalization and regulation of CBD products, CBD beverages have witnessed a worldwide adoption due to their benefits. Some of the factors responsible for shaping the CBD beverage industry's future are changing customer tastes, product innovations, awareness, and acclaim for these beverages.

Increased health concerns, such as depression (about 264 million people suffer as of 2019) and anxiety, have also fueled the need for cannabis-based products that have shown positive response in the treatment of conditions.CBD has also become increasingly popular for pain relief, mood-improvement, and relaxation.

As a result, people have started consuming CBD-infused drinks in their day-to-day lives, thus boosting the market growth.

The industry is facing some challenges related to marketing the product as dietary supplements around different regions. However, the continuous research and development for the production of healthier forms of CBD beverages will open up further opportunities for the CBD infused beverage industry.

Within the research report, the market is segmented on the basis of product type, legal landscape, and region. Each of these segments covers the snapshot of the market over the projected years, the inclination of the market revenue, underlying patterns, and trends by using analytics on the primary and secondary data obtained.

Competitive LandscapeThe exponential rise in the adoption of CBD-infused beverages on the global level has led companies to invest in this industry. Many global companies that offer different forms of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks also offer CBD-infused beverages, such as Heineken N.V. under the brand name of Lagunitas Brewing Company, Constellation brand, The Alkaline Water Company, and Puration Inc.

On the basis of region, North America holds the largest share of CBD-infused beverages sold in terms of value, due to increased demand for cannabis-based products, concerns toward health and wellbeing, and legalization of marijuana for both medical and recreational purposes in the region. Apart from this, Australia, Japan, and the U.K. are anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period 2020-2025.

Countries Covered North America U.S. Canada Europe U.K. Netherlands Asia-Pacific, Japan, and China

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05934755/?utm_source=PRN

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Global CBD-Infused Beverages Market: Focus on Product Type (Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic), Industry Analysis (Regulatory Framework, Supply Chain,...

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Don’t be fooled: There is no ‘new’ Trump on coronavirus (or anything else) – CNN

Posted: at 11:33 am

"Trump's press conference today marks a change in tone and a more disciplined and realistic approach," tweeted Republican strategist Matt Mackowiak. "It will be a good message for the public and he will benefit from it politically. Welcome news."

Um, no.

If there is anything we have learned -- or should have learned -- about Donald Trump over these past five-ish years, it's that that there is no "new" Trump, no version 2.0, no new leaf to turn over. There is just Trump. He has been this same person -- bullying, blaming, convinced of his own brilliance, willing to bend and break facts for his own purposes -- his entire adult life. He may be able to subsume those natural characteristics for a day or even a week. But they will come back out -- sooner rather than later. They always, always do.

We've been down this road before. Like, a lot of times.

Go back to the spring of 2016 when Trump was trying to convince the Republican Party that he could rein in his more base instincts (sand Twitter fingers) and be the sort of presidential nominee they had grown to expect.

"His Tuesday night victory speech at Trump Tower in New York City was brief, relatively subdued, and relatively on-message. The roughly ten-minute speech was a far, far cry from the night in March when he celebrated primary wins by hawking Trump steaks, Trump wine and threw a Trump magazine into the crowd of supporters who had gathered at his lush Mar-a-lago resort in Florida."

Trump then went on a media blitz to sell the new him.

That was more than four years ago.

And yet, when Trump delivered his first address to a bicameral session of Congress in 2017, there was still talk of a new tone.

That was more than three years ago.

"For 30 minutes on Tuesday, President Donald Trump pretended to act like something approximating a normal human in discussing the COVID-19 crisis facing our country. He read some platitudes from a script. He expressed support for basic safety precautions in the face of a contagious virus. While not eliminating them entirely he kept the wishcasting and gaslighting and hyperbolic statements about his self-proclaimed greatness to a minimum."

Yes, that.

And, even within Trump's quasi-presidential performance on Tuesday night, there was evidence that the old Trump -- aka the only Trump -- was lurking right below the surface.

Right.

You can hate that Trump. Or love him. But you cannot reasonably think that there is any other iteration of Trump that is emerging. There is not. Trump is just Trump. Always has been. Always will be.

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Can you really buy your own private island getaway? – The Star Online

Posted: at 11:33 am

Even to those who havent read Robinson Crusoe, the idea of living alone on an island is a familiar daydream.

Particularly in these times of a pandemic, what could be better than holidaying alone on your own island, with as much space and privacy as you want?

It might sound unlikely, but it isnt, although you may need the necessary capital, says Farhad Vladi, a Hamburg-born real estate agent in Germany specialising in private islands.

The 75-year-old man, who says he himself was inspired by Crusoe, has been in the business for 50 years and has sold 3,000 islands, from Canada to the Seychelles and New Zealand.

There are around 12,000 private islands in the world, Vladi says.

But not everything that sticks out of the sea is worth having as a private island.

In order to get a building permit, for example, an island needs to be at least one hectare in size. It should be reachable by boat and look nice.

If youre set on buying your own private island, youll be limited to those countries where foreigners are allowed to buy one.

There are only about 40 countries where thats possible, Vladi says. Thailand, with its rich marine life, is not among them.

If you dont have tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars to spare, many private islands up for sale can also be rented out for holidays at prices that arent very different from those of a good hotel, so long as you share the costs with friends or family.

But what about buying your own island? Isnt that something thats only for the super rich?

If you can afford a good car, you can afford an island, says Vladi.

On the east coast of Canada, for example, you can buy an island for US$50,000 (RM213,775) with nothing on it, of course. You can also buy one for US$30mil (RM1.28bil).

Its nice to have an island if you also have the freedom to travel to it when you want to. Its not good to be trapped on an island, says Vladi, who himself bought an island off New Zealand.

So whats it like spending all your time on an island? For every plan you have to have an alternative plan at the ready, says Nele Wree.

The weather can quickly destroy any plans you have.

Together with her partner Holger Spreer and her daughters Fenja and Ilvy, she has lived on the island of Hallig Suederoog, off the coast of northern Germany, for almost seven years.

It was a series of coincidences that led the 37-year-old art historian to become an island lessee. Spreer, a fisherman, also gave up his job when the pair landed jobs at the local councils coastal, park and marine protection department.

Six kilometres separate the 60ha island from the nearest big island Pellworm. Instead of power lines they have solar panels and diesel generators, though they are connected to the water mains.

Our main tasks are coastal and nature protection work and tourism. That includes securing the Hallig revetments, counting birds, monitoring the drift lines and lots more, she says.

They also look after more than 80 sheep and lambs, more than 20 ducks and geese, three cows, two mini pigs, one cat and six beehives.

People imagine it to be very romantic, that you spend the entire day together as a couple. But its more of a working community, says Wree with a laugh. You constantly have to make decisions together.

Around 1,500 tourists visit Suederoog every year between May and October. Its only possible by taking a guided tour of the mudflats or from Pellworm, says Wree.

And visitors arent allowed to stay longer than an hour. She serves them homemade cakes and hearty soups.

The island inhabited by Alexander Selkirk, thought to have been the man the story of Robinson Crusoe was based on, is still shrouded in mystery.

On the Chilean island of Mas a Tierra, whose name was officially changed to Robinson Crusoe Island in 1966, a real pirate treasure is supposed to be buried: at least 800 sacks of gold. It could be worth a visit if you want a real adventure. dpa

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Can you really buy your own private island getaway? - The Star Online

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We Tried CBD Gummies To See What Happens | Jezebel [VIDEO] – Plants Before Pills

Posted: at 11:33 am

Cannabis may be around for thousands and thousands of years, but you can expect that the plant will undergo new developments as more research is conducted. With the legalization of the plant not only in specific states of the United States but also in entire countries such as Uruguay and Canada, there are bound to be valuable additions to research and development works related to cannabis.

With the mounting mainstream interest in medical and recreational marijuana, more entrepreneurs and companies are starting to focus on the plant. From health and leisure products to new and exciting strains, complete with cannabis-focused establishments, there are plenty of things you should watch out for this 2020. Want to know where to start? Read on!

First up are newly developed strains that can make anyones cannabis journey much more exciting. In the past, experts have estimated that there are almost 800 strains available in various communities across the globe. Quite possibly, there are a lot more cannabis strains than that.

Keep in mind that each strain has its own distinct characteristics that make that strain unique. When casual and expert growers find two strains that they find preferable, they tend to experiment by breeding them to create the perfect strain for them. Because of this, you can bet that there are over 800 varieties of the plant.

This year, you might want to try some of the newest and most exciting strains. Check them out below:

Lets start this list by talking about The New. Yes, this strain is called The New because it is, well, new. Developed by Humboldt Seed Organization and Sherbinski, this feminized variety is an indica-dominant hybrid. In fact, it is 80% indica. This means that it is bound to have high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which can reach up to 28%.

To create this variety, the breeders crossed Sherbinskis Girl Scout Cookies and a special type of Larry OG. When growing these seeds, you will have to wait up to 65 to 7 days before you see flowers. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors. To learn more about growing seeds and purchasing them, please visit the cannabis seedbank experts at Amsterdam Seedshop.

Wedding Flowers one of the newest creations of Dr. Krippling, a UK-based cannabis research and development brand. In many ways, it is an improvement of the famous Wedding Cake. Wedding Flowers has a rich flavor and aroma profile.

Because it is a sativa and indica hybrid, you can enjoy a combination of cannabidiol and THC. This is an indica dominant strain, so it has high THC levels at 20%. It is known to have a flowering time of around 56 days.

Bred by G13 Labs, this auto-flowering hybrid is a mix of Sunset Sherbet and Girl Scout Cookies. As it is auto-flowering, it is easy to know that it is mixed with Cannabis ruderalis. This type of strain is known for its auto-flowering quality, which is the ability to switch from vegetative to flowering growth.

Because the two main plants are indica-dominant, you can expect a good amount of THC. However, it can also give cerebral stimulation. Fro-Yo autos profile is sweet and fruity, combined with a hint of earthy tastes.

When it comes to regular strains, New Order is one of the most notable entries. It was developed by Mosca Seeds with a whopping 85% indica dominance. Its parents are Triangle Kush and Wookies #15 (mother) and Fire Alien White (father). It has a flowering time of 60 to 65 days with medium to large yields. According to the creator Mosca Seeds, this strain a personal favorite.

While growing and consuming leaves and buds is a great way for adventurous individuals and medical marijuana patients, there are people who would rather start slow or take it easy. This is simply a matter of consumption preference. These individuals prefer to consume the plant in order ways.

With the current climate surrounding marijuana, many different ways of consumption have been found. From orally ingesting food and beverage products to topical applications, consumers nowadays have can use cannabis and CBD oil products however they please. For the latest health and leisure products, here are some you should look out for:

Who hasnt heard of Avon? This beauty product company is known across the globe for its accessible and affordable products. In the past, customers could get their hands on a wide range of items such as skincare, fragrances, and cosmetics. While these are good deals for its patrons, CBD enthusiasts will be glad to know that it has entered the green market.

Avon just launched its very first CBD skincare product called Green Goddess. It is a facial oil infused with CBD oil along with other natural ingredients such as sunflower, jojoba, turmeric and squalene oil. This product is touted as a vegan, fragrance-free and hypoallergenic product, which has been tried and tested by dermatologists.

Even if you are not a pancake addict, you have probably craved pancakes in the past. And what can make pancakes perfectly sweet? Maple syrup, of course! This syrup does not offer a sickly-sweet taste to your breakfast. Instead, it has a mild flavor that goes well not only with pancakes but also with waffles and French toasts.

If you think that there is nothing better than adding maple syrup to your morning meal, then think again. Pure BS Maple Shacks syrup is infused with cannabinoids, THC to be exact! It has 500 mg of THC per four-ounce bottle. A lot of research has been done to perfect this product, so why not go and give this tasty treat a try?

We know that there are a lot of cannabis-infused edibles ever since the legalization of the plant in many parts of the world. In fact, this market has become one of the most profitable ventures in the past months. While you can definitely try every product in your dispensary, you might be craving for some gourmet-level edibles to match your high standards for marijuana buds.

Enter Hapy Kitchen, the Cannabis Cup 2019 winner from Portland, Oregon. This artisanal kitchen uses a secret proprietary technique to extract cannabinoids from the plant, allowing them to combine THC into their line of luxury chocolates and CBD to their tinctures and other edibles. The best thing is that they give exciting twists to their items such as the chai tincture.

Now, because the plant has been legalized and is slowly becoming more and more mainstream, many businesses are starting to offer services to enthusiasts and patients alike. These establishments are consumer-friendly, making them an ideal place to meet fellow marijuana consumers and experience the culture in your area. Here are some of the places you should check out:

Those who live in Berkeley or are traveling to Berkeley will be glad to know that the city is planning to open lounges that would allow people to smoke, vape or generally consume marijuana. These lounges will be placed in the citys dispensaries. With these places, residents have a safe space to peacefully consume their preferred cannabis products. This is perfect for people who are not able to use the plant in the comfort of their own homes.

Burgers have always been decadent, but what makes Illegal Burgers menu much more appealing is the added benefit of CBD. Known as the very first CBD restaurant franchise Illegal Burger is owner Jordan Nixons answer to the growing demand for infused products in Colorado. Nixon definitely knows what he is talking about as he himself is a medical marijuana patient.

Suffering from multiple sclerosis, CBD is what made him live his everyday life normally. Nixon is passionate about his advocacy and business that he also established a CBD brand named Illegal Brands, which the restaurant chain uses in preparing their food items.

If you think gambling and endless nights out are the only attractions in Las Vegas, you will be glad to know that you can now pamper yourself with cannabis in the city. And we do not mean consuming your cannabis products in Vegas, although that is one thing you can do in Sin City.

You can drop by Waldorf Astoria Spa to see how you can experience the best self-care and wellness treatments complete with CBD topicals such as massage creams. Choose from its luxurious packages such as the Essential Stress Release Massage. You can also take home jars of CBD cream used for your massage, leaving no waste behind.

From the health and beauty departments to leisure and even the culinary world, theres no denying that the prevalence of cannabis products has become ever-present in just about any field. As the marijuana industry continues to experience a growing demand, so can we expect to see more and new products in these fields.

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Turks and Caicos Is Now Open for Tourism Caribbean Journal – Caribbean Journal

Posted: at 11:33 am

The Turks and Caicos Islands is open again for tourism.

The British Overseas Territory officially reopened its borders for tourism on July 22.

So what should travelers know?

All visitors need to complete a TCI Assured Pre-Travel Authorization application to be granted entry into the country (you can find it here).

Most crucially, the application will include the requirement that all travelers must present proof of negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken no more than five days prior to arrival in Turks and Caicos.

All travelers will also need medical insurance which covers Medevac (that is, air evacuation in the event of health emergencies like COVID) and certify that they have read the TCIs privacy policy.

Masks are required in all public places, along with social distancing (unless part of a group of family traveling together).

And travelers may only eat at restaurants and eateries that have received the TCI Assured health and safety certification.

That also applies to accommodations: travelers may only stay at hotels, villas and guesthouses that have the TCI assured symbol.(That of course does not apply to homeowners returning to their vacation properties).

Many of the destinations top resorts have also reopened, from the trio of Hartling Group properties: The Sands, The Palms and The Shore Club to the luxe Sailrock resort on South Caicos to the Amanyara resort in Providenciales.

Thats along with some of the Turks and Caicos signature private-island destinations like Como Parrot Cay and the Meridian Club on Pine Cay.

Another property to relaunch is the Sailrock luxury hotel on South Caicos.

We have developed and implemented various protocols to meet their expectations and enhance their experience during their stay at the resort, said Kashmie Ali, managing director of Sailrock, a property he says is ideal for social distancing, something more and more travelers are prizing right now.

See more info on the TCIs new protocols below:

For more, visit TCI Tourism.

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Coronavirus in Texas is hitting the state budget now – The Texas Tribune

Posted: at 11:33 am

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The cuts come next.

The latest news from the Texas comptroller that the state will have $11.6 billion less to spend in its current budget than lawmakers expected leads straight to a conversation about which programs and services in the state budget are expendable.

That conversation is already underway. The timing is tricky. A lot of the lawmakers wholl make those budget decisions are campaigning for reelection in November. The Legislature will be in session in January just six months from now to revise the current budget and write the next one.

And the budgeteers are working without all of the information theyd like to have.

Despite their efforts, the states forecasting flashlights dont shine very far into the darkness. Comptroller Glenn Hegar, revenue estimator Tom Currah and their crew have the sales, franchise, oil and gas, and other tax results from the last quarter to guide them, but everything else is guesswork. When will the states businesses be fully open and operating? When will the oil and gas industry rebound? How is anyone supposed to know when the pandemic will be effectively controlled? When will schools open, and does that mean parents can return to work?

The Texas economy is never easy to predict. Its worse now.

Hegar built that into his latest projections. Its important to note that this revised estimate carries unprecedented uncertainty, he said in the cover letter to state leaders.

Thats a comptrollers way of saying, Hey, there are so many things we dont know, and these numbers might be crazy. Good luck out there!

Lawmakers knew they were going to be in a financial bind as soon as businesses started closing in the spring. Before most economists were willing to do so, Hegar said the states economy was in a recession. He told lawmakers to expect a midsummer revision to the fiscal forecast with billions cut from his earlier projection. State leaders asked agencies to detail 5% proposed cuts in spending.

The comptrollers new numbers include new estimates of how much money will be available in a state savings account known as the rainy day fund. Its lower than before, at $8.8 billion, but thats enough to cover his newly projected shortfall ($4.6 billion) if lawmakers want to hit that account instead of making cuts. Theyll have to find a way to cover large expected deficits in their Medicaid budget, but they might also be getting more relief/response money from the federal government.

The current budget isnt really the problem.

What comes after the current budget is the hard part. In January, lawmakers will write the 2022-23 budget. Theyll have a little more information about the pandemic, a little more information about the state of the economy, and a great deal of uncertainty about how much money will roll into the state treasury, and when.

Republicans in control of state government for most of the last two decades have written the last nine state budgets. The programs that might be on the block this time have their support. And its safe to say the Democrats dreaming of winning a majority in the Texas House arent eager to cut services, either.

But if the past is the guide, legislators are likely to cut spending. The last big dip in state finance came after the global financial crisis in 2008. Texas legislators put together a two-year budget in 2009 that had considerable support from federal stimulus funds. But the economic troubles lingered after the stimulus, and a projected shortfall of $27 billion in 2011 led to deep budget cuts notably including cuts to public education that affected Texas schools for years.

If big cuts are in order, education and health and human services are the biggest spending categories in the Texas budget.

Most other spending targets, however attractive, arent big enough to cover a hole of the size Hegar has described. And the two big ones are hard to hit.

The legislative session in 2019 might seem like ancient history, but that session was marked by a new state commitment to public school finance. Lawmakers said they would increase the states share of the cost of schools. They increased overall spending. And they did all of that in response to the 2018 elections, when voters focused on support for public education showed enough strength to win the attention of the Republicans in control of state government.

It would be politically risky to cut public education in the session after that, especially with the states top elected officials on their way to a 2022 election cycle. So is cutting funding in health and human services agencies especially the ones at the front of responses to the pandemic and the recession.

But it could happen. Theyll have to cut somewhere.

Disclosure: The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here.

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Coronavirus in Texas is hitting the state budget now - The Texas Tribune

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