Category Archives: Transhuman News

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Gut bacteria and longevity

Scientists recently examined the microbiomes of centenarians from Japan and Sardinia and found that they have more diverse bacteria and viruses. The study included 195 centenarians, 133 older adults, and 61 young adults. Of the 4,422 viruses they found, 1,746 were newly discovered.

People with focal epilepsy often have seizures while driving before diagnosis

Prior to a focal epilepsy diagnosis, 5% of sufferers have had a seizure while driving. Focal epilepsy accounts for half of all epilepsy diagnoses. It affects one half of the brain. There are roughly 126,180 driving-age people in the country diagnosed with epilepsy each year,"Jacob Pellinen, MD, study author, University of Colorado in Aurora and member of the American Academy of Neurology said in an article. We estimate nearly 6,500 people per year may experience prediagnosis seizures while driving in the United States alone, leading to nearly 4,000 possible motor vehicle accidents and over 2,200 hospitalizations.

Chemo drug shortage

More than 90% of cancer centers in the United States are reporting a shortage of chemotherapy drugs, specifically cisplatin and carboplatin. In response, the Food and Drug Administration announced it would partner with Chinese company Qilu Pharmaceutical to boost the supply. Canadian company Apotex will also distribute the medication.

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Morning Medical Update: Gut bacteria and longevity; People with ... - Medical Economics

Exploring the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Prolonging the Aging Process and Enhancing Longevity

Artificial intelligence (AI) has made significant strides in recent years, revolutionizing industries and transforming the way we live, work, and communicate. One area where AI is poised to make a significant impact is in the field of aging and longevity. As the global population continues to age, there is a growing need for innovative solutions to address the challenges associated with aging and to promote healthy, active, and fulfilling lives for older adults. AI has the potential to play a crucial role in this endeavor, helping to unlock the secrets of the aging process and develop novel interventions to extend human lifespan and improve overall health.

One of the most promising applications of AI in the field of aging research is the use of machine learning algorithms to analyze large-scale, complex datasets. These datasets, which can include genomic, proteomic, and other molecular data, can provide valuable insights into the biological processes that drive aging and age-related diseases. By identifying patterns and relationships within these data, AI can help researchers pinpoint key factors that contribute to aging and develop targeted interventions to slow or reverse the aging process.

For example, AI has been used to identify new genetic targets for age-related diseases such as Alzheimers and Parkinsons, as well as to discover novel compounds that can extend the lifespan of model organisms such as yeast, worms, and flies. In one study, researchers used machine learning to analyze the gene expression profiles of long-lived individuals and identified a set of genes that were associated with increased longevity. These findings could potentially be used to develop new therapies that target these genes and promote healthy aging.

Another area where AI is making a significant impact is in the development of personalized medicine for older adults. As individuals age, they often experience a decline in organ function and an increased susceptibility to chronic diseases. AI can help to address these challenges by analyzing individual health data and providing personalized recommendations for lifestyle changes, medications, and other interventions that can help to optimize health and well-being.

For instance, AI-powered wearable devices can monitor vital signs, activity levels, and other health metrics in real-time, allowing for the early detection of potential health issues and the delivery of personalized interventions. Additionally, AI can be used to analyze electronic health records and other medical data to identify patterns and trends that can inform the development of individualized treatment plans for older adults.

AI is also playing a role in the development of new technologies that can improve the quality of life for older adults and help them maintain their independence. For example, AI-powered robots and smart home systems can assist with daily tasks, provide companionship, and monitor the health and safety of older adults, allowing them to age in place and reduce the burden on caregivers and healthcare systems.

Moreover, AI can help to address the social and emotional aspects of aging by facilitating communication and social interaction among older adults. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can provide companionship and support, helping to alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation that are common among older adults. These technologies can also help to bridge the gap between older adults and their younger family members, fostering intergenerational connections and promoting a sense of belonging and purpose.

In conclusion, the integration of artificial intelligence into the field of aging research and care holds great promise for enhancing longevity and improving the quality of life for older adults. By harnessing the power of AI to analyze complex datasets, develop personalized interventions, and create innovative technologies, we can unlock the secrets of the aging process and pave the way for a future where aging is no longer synonymous with decline and disease, but rather with health, vitality, and fulfillment.

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Artificial Intelligence and the Aging Process: A Match Made for ... - Down to Game

Key Points

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Saint Bernards are beloved giant dogs known for their gentle nature, loyalty, and remarkable rescue abilities. One question often asked by potential owners is, How long do Saint Bernards live? Understanding the lifespan of this magnificent breed is essential for providing them with the best care throughout their lives.

On average, Saint Bernards have a lifespan of 8 to 10 years. However, individual dogs may vary, with some living shorter or longer lives. Several factors contribute to the lifespan of Saint Bernards, including genetics, diet, exercise, healthcare, and overall living conditions.

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The Saint Bernard is an iconic and beloved dog breed known for its massive size, gentle nature, and incredible rescue abilities. With a rich history and endearing temperament, Saint Bernards have captured the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide. Lets dive into the fascinating world of this remarkable breed.

Originating from the Swiss Alps, the Saint Bernard has a history rooted in the hospice of the Great St. Bernard Pass. These dogs were bred by monks in the hospice to serve as rescue dogs, aiding travelers who found themselves trapped or lost in the treacherous mountainous terrain. With their exceptional sense of direction, powerful build, and instinctive rescue abilities, Saint Bernards played a vital role in saving numerous lives.

One of the most distinguishing features of the Saint Bernard is its massive size. These dogs are considered giants. According to the AKC, males typically stand 26 to 30 inches (66 to 76 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh between 140 to 180 pounds (64 to 82 kg). Females are slightly smaller but still impressively large, standing 24 to 28 inches (61 to 71 cm) tall and weighing between 120 to 140 pounds (54 to 64 kg). Their imposing stature, combined with their friendly and patient nature, make them an unforgettable presence.

The Saint Bernard has a strong and muscular build, well-suited to its historical role as a rescue dog. Their broad chests, deep bodies, and sturdy legs give them the strength and endurance to navigate treacherous mountainous terrain. Their large, expressive eyes are gentle and kind, reflecting their friendly and approachable personality.

This breeds coat is dense and weather-resistant, designed to protect them in harsh alpine conditions. The Saint Bernard has two coat types: smooth and rough. The smooth-coated variety has a short and sleek coat. In contrast, the rough-coated variety has a dense, long coat with feathering on the legs and tail. Their coats come in various colors, including the classic combination of white with red, red with white, or mahogany brindle markings.

Known for their gentle and friendly nature, Saint Bernards are renowned for being excellent family pets. They are famously patient and tolerant, especially with children, making them ideal companions for families of all sizes. Their calm and easygoing temperament makes them well-suited for living in households with other pets. However, their sheer size and exuberance may require supervision and training to ensure they dont unintentionally overwhelm smaller animals or individuals.

Saint Bernards are intelligent and eager to please, although they may exhibit a stubborn streak at times. Early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement-based training methods are key to ensuring they grow up well-behaved and obedient companions. With patience, consistency, and rewards, these dogs can excel in obedience training and even participate in various canine sports and activities.

While Saint Bernards are generally calm and docile, they still require regular exercise to maintain their overall health and well-being. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are essential to prevent boredom and keep them physically fit. Despite their size, they can adapt well to living in apartments or smaller homes as long as owners meet their exercise needs.

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The lifespan of a Saint Bernard mixed breed can vary depending on several factors. While the average lifespan of a purebred Saint Bernard is around 8 to 10 years, the lifespan of a mixed breed dog is affected by the genetic traits inherited from both parent breeds. Popular mixed breeds may inherit health issues from Saint Bernard or the other parent breed. Proper care, including regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, exercise, and early detection of health issues, can contribute to a longer and healthier life for a Saint Bernard mixed breed.

Poodles are known for their intelligence and low-shedding coats, and they have a lifespan ranging from 10 to 18 years. The Saint Berdoodle may inherit these desirable traits when mixed with a Saint Bernard. This mix often results in a large, intelligent, hypoallergenic dog with a wavy or curly coat. Saint Berdoodles are typically friendly, social, and good-natured, making them excellent companions for families or individuals.

German Shepherds are renowned for their loyalty, trainability, and protective instincts, with an average lifespan of 9 to 13 years. When combined with a Saint Bernard, the Saint Shepherd can exhibit a blend of these characteristics. This mix may result in a large, agile, and intelligent dog with a protective nature. Saint Shepherds are often devoted to their families, making them excellent working dogs, companions, or guardians.

The Great Pyrenees is known for its protective nature and has a lifespan of around 10 to 12 years. When mixed with a Saint Bernard, the Saint Pyrenees can inherit both parent breeds gentle and loyal traits. This mix may result in a large, majestic dog with a thick, weather-resistant coat. Saint Pyrenees dogs are often devoted to their families, making them excellent family pets or companions.

Rottweilers are renowned for their strength and loyalty and typically have a lifespan of 8 to 10 years. When mixed with a Saint Bernard, the Saint Weiler may possess a combination of both parent breeds protective instincts and working abilities. This mix may result in a large, powerful, and confident dog that requires consistent training and socialization from an early age.

Great Danes are known for their gentle and friendly nature, with an average lifespan of 8 to 10 years. When combined with a Saint Bernard, the Saint Dane can inherit the impressive size and loving disposition of both parent breeds. This mix may result in a giant dog with a calm and patient temperament. Saint Danes often make affectionate and loyal companions, but their large size requires adequate space and regular exercise.

Belgian Malinois are intelligent and energetic dogs with a lifespan of around 12 to 14 years. When mixed with a Saint Bernard, the Saint Malinois may inherit the high energy levels and agility of both parent breeds. This mix may result in a large and active dog that thrives on mental and physical stimulation. Saint Malinois dogs often excel in various activities such as obedience, agility, and search and rescue.

Newfoundlands are known for their gentle and patient nature, with an average lifespan of approximately 9 to 10 years. When combined with a Saint Bernard, the Saint Bernewfie can possess both parent breeds sweet and affectionate qualities. This mix may result in a large and friendly dog well-suited for families. Saint Bernewfies often exhibit a calm demeanor and enjoy spending time with their loved ones.

It is important to note that each individual dog within these mixed breeds can vary in appearance, temperament, and health. While these descriptions provide an overview of the potential characteristics, it is essential to research and meet specific mixed-breed dogs to understand their unique traits and needs better.

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Barry holds the distinction of being one of the oldest Saint Bernards with documented records. One of the most celebrated Saint Bernards in history, he has become a symbol of the breeds rescue abilities. He was born in 1800. Barry served as a mountain rescue dog at the Great St. Bernard Pass hospice in the Swiss Alps. He gained recognition for his exceptional tracking skills, intelligence, and courage in rescuing stranded travelers in the mountains.

Barrys impressive rescue career spanned over a decade, during which he saved numerous lives. He became renowned for his heroic efforts and was credited with saving more than 40 people. Barrys bravery and loyalty captured the imagination of people worldwide. He became a legendary figure in the annals of rescue dogs.

After retiring, Barry lived out the rest of his life at the hospice. Here he became a beloved and cherished companion to the monks and travelers. Barry passed away in 1814 at the age of 14. He left an indelible mark on the history of the Saint Bernard breed.

Although limited official documentation exists on the ages of oldest-living Saint Bernards, anecdotal reports indicate that dogs of this breed have lived well into their teens. These unofficial reports suggest that some Saint Bernards have reached ages such as 14. Some claim of individuals who have lived to be up to 18 years old. These reports highlight the potential for extended lifespans within the breed.

The factors that contribute to the Saint Bernards longevity are multifaceted. Genetics, diet, exercise, healthcare, and living conditions all play a role in determining a dogs lifespan. Responsible breeding can increase the likelihood of producing long-lived dogs, too.

Aneta Jungerova/Shutterstock.com

Various factors influence the lifespan of a Saint Bernard. These factors range from underlying health issues to the care and environment they receive throughout their lives. Understanding these factors can help owners make informed decisions to promote a long and healthy life for their beloved Saint Bernards. Here are some key factors that impact the lifespan of these gentle giants.

Like many large dog breeds, Saint Bernards are prone to specific health issues that can impact their lifespan. Common health concerns in Saint Bernards include hip and elbow dysplasia, heart conditions, bloat, and certain types of cancer. These conditions can affect the dogs quality of life and potentially shorten their lifespan. Responsible breeding practices require following procedures such as health testing and carefully selecting breeding pairs with good genetic health. This effort can help reduce the risk of inheriting these health issues.

Veterinarians commonly perform these procedures on dogs to prevent specific health issues. As well as unwanted pregnancies. Spaying a female Saint Bernard before her first heat cycle can help reduce the risk of mammary tumors and uterine infections. Neutering a male Saint Bernard can help prevent testicular cancer and reduce the risk of prostate issues. These procedures may contribute to a longer and healthier life for Saint Bernards by mitigating certain health risks associated with reproductive organs.

Regular veterinary care is crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of a Saint Bernard. Routine check-ups, vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care are essential components of preventive healthcare. Early detection and treatment of any health issues can help prevent them from progressing and potentially extend the dogs lifespan. Regular veterinary visits also allow the veterinarian to assess the dogs overall health and provide guidance on specific care needs.

Regular exercise is vital for the physical and mental well-being of a Saint Bernard. While they have a calm and gentle nature, they still require moderate exercise to maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity. As well as to keep their muscles and joints in good condition. Adequate exercise can also contribute to cardiovascular health and mental stimulation. However, it is important to avoid excessive exercise. Especially in young Saint Bernards, as their joints are still developing, and excessive strain can lead to long-term joint issues.

A balanced and nutritious diet is essential for a Saint Bernards overall health and longevity. High-quality dog food that meets their specific nutritional needs should be provided. The diet should be rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. In addition to avoiding excessive calories that can lead to obesity. Avoiding overfeeding to prevent weight gain is important. Excessive weight gain can put extra strain on joints and organs and increase the risk of certain health issues. Consultation with a veterinarian can help determine the appropriate diet for an individual Saint Bernard. Veterinarians can determine a proper diet based on the age, weight, and specific health requirements of a dog.

The living environment of a Saint Bernard can impact their lifespan. Extreme weather conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, can be detrimental to their health and well-being. Owners must provide adequate shelter and climate control to ensure comfort and safety. A safe and secure living environment that minimizes exposure to potential hazards or accidents can also contribute to a longer and healthier life.

Saint Bernards exhibit a gentle and affectionate nature.. Providing them with love, attention, and social interaction is crucial for their emotional well-being. From an early age, positive socialization experiences with other animals and humans can help shape their behavior and temperament. Spending quality time with them and providing mental stimulation is key. As well as engaging in bonding activities to strengthen the human-canine bond and contribute to their happiness and contentment.

Rita_Kochmarjova/Shutterstock.com

In conclusion, various factors affect the lifespan of Saint Bernards. Responsible breeding practices, routine veterinary care, exercise, a balanced diet, a suitable environment, and the love and affection their owners provide all promote a long and healthy life for these magnificent dogs. By understanding and addressing these factors, owners can contribute to the well-being and longevity of their cherished Saint Bernards.

How about the fastest dogs, the largest dogs and those that are -- quite frankly -- just the kindest dogs on the planet? Each day, AZ Animals sends out lists just like this to our thousands of email subscribers. And the best part? It's FREE. Join today by entering your email below.

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Saint Bernard Lifespan: How Long Do Saint Bernards Live? - AZ Animals

Rosie Perez as Petra the Ambition Gremlin, Maria Bamford as Tito the Anxiety Mosquito, Randall Park as Pete the Logic Rock, and Keke Palmer as Rochelle the Lovebug in Human Resources (Photo: Netflix)

The animated comedy Big Mouth debuted in 2017, which means that Nick Birch (Nick Kroll), Andrew Glouberman (John Mulaney), and all their friends have already been in middle school for six years. With two more seasons on the way over the next two years, these kids have been experiencing the pains of puberty for more than half as long as theyve been alive. It puts into perspective the limits of a series that explores a very specific time and universal series of events.

The 2022 spinoff, Human Resources, seemed to solve that problem. Instead of a coming-of-age or school-based story, it was positioned as a workplace sitcom. The creatures introduced through the perspectives of the central characters in Big Mouth didnt just disappear into a void when they werent around they went back to an office with countless other departments and monsters and clients, a set with a seemingly endless well of inspiration for stories.

But Netflix announced earlier this year that Season 2 will be Human Resources last, ending two years before Big Mouth wraps up in 2025. Over the last year, the two shows have remained tethered, sharing characters and storylines, and Big Mouths final two seasons promise to continue that symbiosis. It was Human Resources, however, that was primed to be the last one standing. In fact, its the Netflix show that could have outlasted every other series on the streamer.

As an animated series, its already better positioned for longevity than most of Netflixs offerings. Unlike a show like, say, Stranger Things, theres no worry about cast members aging out of their roles, no big-budget effects to worry about, and no real need for actors to be in the same room to share a scene. The concept of the series is specific enough to stand out in Netflixs library without stepping on the toes of other original programming, but the office setting makes for a relatable and understandable format. The fact that said office exists in a completely made-up realm where earthly rules dont apply makes anything possible.

Of course, it's one thing to have that freedom without knowing exactly how to use it and something entirely different to wield it to create something smart, inclusive, and extremely silly. The newly released Season 2 does just that by introducing some new creatures while focusing on an entirely different set of human clients, offering an opportunity for more representation among the cast and narrative.

For example, disability rights activist Alice Wong plays a fictionalized version of herself. She is primarily guided by her lovebug, Rochelle (Keke Palmer), but soon grows to have a complicated relationship with the newly introduced Hope (Niecy Nash-Betts), which is made worse when Rochelle turns into a hate-worm.

On the surface, personifying each emotion into its a cartoon character may seem like an oversimplification of what Alice and other clients are feeling as they navigate the world. But humanizing even the smallest human emotion allows for a nuanced exploration of why love turns to hate, how hope can lead to disappointment, why logic alone cant solve every problem, and how often throughout someones life the hormones that make them the horniest can appear out of nowhere. Its a tactic thats not just useful for the younger audiences that Big Mouth may draw what Human Resources really taps into is the idea that all people (yes, even adults!) are just doing their best to figure out how they feel and why.

A wide variety of people could easily fit into Human Resources template for exploring universal human emotions, and there are many more nuanced emotions begging for departments and employees of their own. The series debuted with a firmly established and perpetually reloadable premise in place, and Season 2 is proof of its staying power. Unfortunately, at least for now, its potential will go unrealized, and well be left having to figure out how to deal with what and how we feel about that on our own.

Human Resources Seasons 1 and 2 are now streaming on Netflix. Join the discussion about the show in our forums.

Brianna Wellen is a TV Reporter at Primetimer who became obsessed with television when her parents let her stay up late to watch E.R.

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'Human Resources' Was Poised to Be Netflix's Longest-Running ... - PRIMETIMER

By Morgan Sherburne-Michigan

Gorillas who survive past age 6 are largely unaffected by adversity they encountered as infants or juveniles, according to new research.

Theres something most speciesfrom baboons to humans to horseshave in common: When they suffer serious adversity early in life, theyre more likely to experience hardship later on in life.

When researchers decided to look at this question in gorillas, they werent sure what they would find.

Previous studies revealed that young gorillas are surprisingly resilient to losing their mothers, in contrast to what has been found in many other species. But losing your mother is only one of many potential bad things that can happen to young animals.

Assuming that you survive something that we consider early life adversity, its often still the case that you will be less healthy or you will have fewer kids or your lifespan will be shorterno matter what species you are, says Stacy Rosenbaum, assistant professor of anthropology at the University of Michigan and senior author of the study in the journal Current Biology.

Theres this whole range of things that happens to you that seems to just make your life worse in adulthood.

Like other species, humans also deal with early life adversity, and the effects of this can follow us into adulthood, such as a shorter lifespan or health complications, Rosenbaum says. But in humans, its difficult to tease out whether we, for example, develop cancer or die early as adults because of an adverse event early in life per se, or whether its because of a multitude of behavioral, environmental, and cultural factorsor a combination of all of the above.

Studying these early adverse events in nonhuman species could help researchers understand how such events affect humans, and how to mitigate them.

When you look at animals, you remove a lot of the variation that we have in humans. For example, they are all eating similar diets, they all get exercise as part of their daily lives, they dont have the opportunity to engage in behaviors with negative health outcomes like smoking, says lead author Robin Morrison, a researcher with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

But despite this, in most species it is still the case that early adversity can have negative effects in adulthood, which suggests that there is some kind of deeper biological mechanism there that we dont understand very well, Morrison says.

That gorillas show a different pattern suggests these early life adversities can be overcome. Understanding why and how this happens can have significant implications for our own species, she says.

Like humans, gorillas live a long time and have a small number of offspring that they heavily invest in. This makes them a good comparative animal model for understanding the ramifications of early life adverse events.

For the study, the researchers looked at 55 years of long-term data collected in 253 wild mountain gorillas, 135 of which were male and 118 female. These gorillas live in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and have been monitored for more than five decades by the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

The researchers identified six different kinds of early life adversity: losing a father or mother, experiencing the death of a group member by infanticide, social group instability, having few age-mates in the social group, and having a competing sibling who was born soon after them. The data included information about how many of these early adversities each gorilla experienced and at what age, as well as how long each gorilla lived.

The researchers looked at what happened when a gorilla experienced none, one, two, or three or more adverse events. They found that the more of these adverse events gorillas experienced before age 6, the more likely they were to die as juveniles.

But if, despite experiencing early adversity, they survived until age 6past their juvenile stagethe researchers found no evidence that their lifespans were shorter, no matter how many adverse events the gorillas suffered.

In fact, if a gorilla experienced three or more forms of adversity, it actually lived longer; this group of animals had a 70% reduction in the risk of death across adulthood.

But this was driven by greater longevity in males specifically, and the researchers suspect the trend was due to something called viability selection. This means that if a gorilla was strong enough to survive difficult early life events, it might just be a higher-quality individual, and thus more likely to have a longer life span.

I was expecting to see that these gorillas would have short lifespans and would not do very well as adults, Rosenbaum says. We found that these events are definitely associated with a much higher risk of death when youre young. But if you survive to age 6, theres no evidence that those shorten your lifespan at all. This is quite different from what we see in other species.

The researchers have some theories about why these mountain gorillas were so resilient. Gorillas have very tight-knit social groups and prior studies have shown that when a young gorilla loses its mom, it doesnt actually become more isolated: other gorillas fill the gap in social companionship.

The youngster actually increases its time near other gorillas after the loss of its mom and in particular the highest-ranking adult male, even if he isnt their biological father, Morrison says. These strong networks might provide critical social buffering, as has been shown in humans. The quality of our social relationships is a very important predictor of our health and longevityin some cases, more important than genetics or lifestyle.

Another reason they may be relatively buffered from the consequences of adversity is that mountain gorillas live in a resource-rich environment compared to many other wild primates. It may be easier for a gorilla to survive difficult circumstances if they are not also constantly dealing with the stress of finding enough food and water, Rosenbaum says.

For comparison, savanna baboonswho were the inspiration for this analysislive in this highly seasonal environment where they go through extreme droughts. They sometimes will have to walk miles to get to a water hole. Theyre often struggling for every single calorie they take in, she says. Thats not the world that mountain gorillas live in. Theyre often described as living in a giant salad bowl.

The findings suggest that species similar to our own can have significant resilience to early life adversity. The results also raise important questions about the biological roots of sensitivity to early experiences, and the protective mechanisms that contribute to resilience in gorillas.

I dont think we should assume that the long-term negative effects of early life adversity are universal, Rosenbaum says. We tend to talk about this as if its a ubiquitous experience, and a given that your adulthood is going to be compromised if you live through early adversity.

But I dont think its nearly that cut-and-dry, even in the human literature. I think the data are a lot more complex for humans and this research would suggest that they might be more complex for other animals, too. And I actually think that thats a hopeful story.

Source: University of Michigan

Original Study DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.04.051

This post was previously published on Futurity with a Creative Commons License.

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Early Life Adversity Doesn't Affect Gorillas Like Other Species - The Good Men Project

Liew (fourth from right) performing the gimmick launch of the IWWCE 2024 with Lajawai (third from right) witnessed by Deputy CEO of Sabah Tourism Board, Julinus Jimit, CEO of Sabah International Convention Centre, Datuk Rosmawati Lasuki, AEI Wellness Chairman Dr Jes Lim and other invited guests.

KOTA KINABALU (June 10): The first International Wholistic Wellness Conference and Expo 2024 (IWWCE2024) that covers the 10 pillars of human wholistic wellness is scheduled to be held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here from June 7 to 9 next year.

It is organized by AEI Wellness Sdn Bhd, a local Sabahan company and will see about 300 exhibitors taking part.

In a press conference on Saturday to announce the event, Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew said the IWWCE 2024 will bring together wellness luminaries, experts and practitioners from various disciplines from the wellness and preventive health industry.

Prepare yourselves for enlightening presentations, immersive workshops, engaging masterclasses and expansive exhibitions showcasing the latest innovations in products and services that promote wellness and wholistic medical practices and remedies.

This event is a testament to our commitment to transforming lives and inspiring positive changes in the face of adversity. Together, we will explore new horizons, exchange ideas, and pave the way for a future filled with wholistic wellness lifestyle and preventive health living, she said.

According to Liew, in these unprecedented times of post-pandemic challenges and global turbulence, our spiritual, mental, emotional and physical well-being have been profoundly affected and tested to the limits of conventional healthcare and wellness.

Recognising the need to address these wholistic issues, we congratulate AEI Wellness, with the foresight and courage to organise the worlds first Wholistic Wellness, Well-being and Lifestyle event, she pointed out.

It is a gathering of like-minded people that will connect and share with all of you the wholistic natural, preventive, and remedial health and wellness practices from around the world. For the first time, an event covers all the 10 pillars of human wholistic health and wellness that support human longevity, said Liew.

The IWWCE 2024 event will be in Kota Kinabalu which is a strategic location for Asian countries. Asia has a long history of traditional, complementary, and self-help proven wellness, preventive health and longevity remedies that span thousands of years of practices, she said adding, therefore, this region is the perfect stage for our gathering on wholistic human and animal wellness and preventive health medicine and practices.

Liew in her speech also called on AEI Wellness Sdn Bhd to work on setting up a wellness centre in Sabah which has many locations that are suitable for such a facility.

She also suggested to AEI Wellness to set up a Herbs Garden and plant herbs that have medicinal properties that can be used by the wellness centre.

Both the wellness centre and the herb garden can be a tourism attraction for Sabah for those who are interested to learn about herbs and their medicinal properties as well as for those wishing to partake in holistic treatments, she stressed.

AEI Wellness can also engage local villagers in this project by providing them with the herb seedlings or seeds for them to cultivate and sell back to the wellness centre, she said, adding that this will help the villagers earn some income.

It is my hope to see my suggestions become reality by the time IWWCE 2024 is held next year, she said and also suggested that AEI Wellness Sdn Bhd consider setting up a support group for those interested in holistic wellness.

Holistic wellness, she said, is common nowadays as many people are interested in learning how to deal with the stress in their daily lives through holistic approaches.

Let us unite in our quest to make a difference, to shape a Green-Blue-Clean Sabah, and to position Asias Wholistic Wellness Centre and Health Tourism Destination in Sabah at the forefront of the global health and wellness stage, she said.

Meanwhile Organising Chairperson of IWWCE 2024, Cleopatra Lajawai, told the press conference that the event focuses on a wholistic perspective of human wellness and lifestyle and carries the theme Sustainable Wholistic Wellness Lifestyle for the 21st Century.

During the three-day event, we look forward to exposing for the first time, the 10 wholistic human wellness pillars knowledge and practices from around the world. The 10 Wholistic Wellness Pillars are, listed in order, as Soul, Mental/Emotion, Body, Auric Field, Air, Water, Food, People, Home/Workplace and Environment.

There will also be Conference and Masterclasses, where 12 plenary speakers identified for the 10 pillars will share why and how each of the pillars is important to human wholistic wellness and contribute to the hidden secrets of human longevity. Among the plenary speakers are Yuki and Terry Shimada from Japan, Cosima Scheuten from the Netherlands, Chumba Lama from Tibet/Germany, Karen Wee from Singapore, Grandmaster Dr Jes Lim representing his Qi-Mag Institute from Sri Lanka and the rest from Malaysia, she said.

According to her, 300 exhibitors from Sabah, other parts of Malaysia and international, categorised under the 10 wholistic human wellness pillars will be there to share their expertise in services and products within their related pillars.

We are blessed to have our first two sponsors, LHMR SB, a healthy and wholistic homes property investment company and Qi-Mag Institute, an international wholistic professionals training provider from Sri Lanka, who have sponsored the first RM100,000 to this event.

In our aim to promote wholistic wellness and health in our community and this region, we aim for an inclusive event for all, being mindful of costs especially for local exhibitors and attendees, of course, without discounting on content quality and event experience. We therefore look forward to getting more local and foreign sponsors for this event so that we can make this event a success and beneficial for all who participate, she said.

After the three-day event, we have prepared a 7D6N, Wellness Immersion Retreat for those who would like to experience and immerse into a totally life-changing wellness retreat that excites all the human senses. During the retreat, participants will, for the first time for some, be able to awaken and apply all their naturally endowed senses in Sabahs virgin natural environment, she said.

Lajawai added that they will also conduct donation drives to support mental and emotional wellness and have identified an organisation in urgent need of the funding support which is Befrienders Malaysia.

AEI Wellness, together with local and international health, wellness and nature tourism stakeholders, has a vision to shape a Green-Blue-Clean Sabah theme for Sabah, the Land Below the Wind as the ideal choice for a wellness and tourism destination, she pointed out.

Sabahs pristine land, blessed with vast unspoiled natural resources and high in negatively ionised air with quantum oxygen is a naturally healing wellness tourism destination, will become Asias Wholistic Wellness Centre and Health Tourism Destination of choice, she stressed.

By embracing this vision, we align ourselves with Sabahs direction of Sabah Maju Jaya, while acting as a catalyst for further local development in Health and Medical Tourism. Our aim is to celebrate wholistic unity in diversity, embracing the principles of Malaysia Madani, Lajawai said.

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Wellness luminaries, experts to meet in KK - The Borneo Post

By Aarthi Swaminathan

Don't vacuum. Drink water. Keep your kids inside.

Smoke clouds from the wildfires in Canada engulfed New York City last week -- and large parts of the Northeast -- bringing with them a sinister haze and an unwelcome smell of ash. As someone from Singapore who regularly experienced haze growing up in the city-state, I immediately knew what I needed to do to adapt.

I'm sure many Californians may have the same reaction, having endured multiple wildfires -- and smoke -- over the last few years. And we may have to brace for wildfire smoke to become a depressing reality in the U.S.

Photographer Stuart Palley wrote in National Geographic: "As climate change drives an increase in wildfires, we're seeing more smoke lofted into the upper atmosphere each fire season. Depending on wind and weather, this smoke can spread hundreds or thousands of miles from its source--as we saw in early June on the U.S. East Coast."

"And we're likely to continue seeing it increase in severity, frequency, and longevity as the planet warms," he added.

Growing up in Singapore, I experienced smoke haze caused by forest fires on a frequent basis. While the city seems to have escaped much of it over the pandemic years, the government recently warned that the haze may make a return in 2023, according to local news outlet Channel NewsAsia

Unlike the wildfire in Canada, which was caused by dry conditions and warm temperatures, the forest fires in Singapore are a result of open burning which some people use to clear land for agricultural uses. One of the more interesting ways Singapore has addressed the haze is by using aircrafts to seed clouds to induce rain. You can read how a local outlet, AsiaOne, described that process here.

But back to the wildfire smoke. When I stepped out of my apartment last week and into the outside world for an errand, I was reminded of those ash clouds of my childhood. The smell was ridiculously strong.

I posted a picture on social media of how the New York City skyline was engulfed in smoke, to which a family member replied, "As yes, June and haze, can't let you forget Singapore." Sometimes, the haze was deemed hazardous by official agencies, and other times labeled unhealthy for the general population or for those who were more vulnerable to respiratory illnesses.

My first reaction upon returning home was to switch the air purifier on, and make sure all stoves and heating appliances were off to keep my apartment cool, and maintain as much fresh air as possible.

So here's my Singapore/New York plan of action for ash clouds:

Take those N95 masks back out. I found N95 masks in almost every bag that I own thanks to COVID-19, which was very useful when I had to duck outside on Wednesday morning. Polluted air can irritate your eyes, throat, and even skin, according to one medical advisor at Mount Elizabeth Hospital in Singapore Normal surgical masks don't work, they stress, because they don't offer protection against polluted air.

Keep kids indoors. Minimize outdoor activity, particularly for kids and other vulnerable groups. I can already feel my throat get scratchy, and can say the same for my child who has been coughing more. One pediatrician's office emailed me saying that there's an uptick in parents calling out of concern, and they were offering virtual visits. Meanwhile, many outdoor school events have been rescheduled to be indoors to prevent prolonged exposure to the smoke.

Drink water. The best way to beat the dry air is to increase your water intake. Drinking water helps you flush out toxins absorbed by your skin and lungs, the Mount Elizabeth advisor said. Another novel suggestion: She even recommended putting on moisturizer with SPF to prevent skin from getting irritated.

Use an air purifier. Our air purifier, which we bought early this year, has become the main character in our home. Air purifiers will help to make sure your air indoors is fresh. You should also close your windows to limit polluted air from getting into your home. A humidifier is another major piece of equipment you can roll out, because it will help keep your environment nice and moist as the air gets dry. Consider these five things before buying a purifier.

Don't go overboard with smoke-inducing activities. Refrain from burning candles and creating smoke inside your home. Also, don't go crazy with cooking, frying food that causes smoke which pollutes your environment.

Watch that vacuum. Avoid vacuuming your carpets, one doctor interviewed by a local news outlet King 5 News said in 2018, because "vacuuming can kick up particulate matter, potentially making unhealthy air even worse."

Check your air-conditioning system. If you have a central heating and air conditioning system, see if it takes in fresh air or takes in air from outdoors. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency warned that if people have an "evaporative cooler" or a portable AC that is vented out of a window, avoid using them in smoky conditions as they will likely bring in smoke into the home.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said last year: "Research shows that changes in climate create warmer, drier conditions, leading to longer and more active fire seasons. Increases in temperatures and the thirst of the atmosphere due to human-caused climate change have increased [the] aridity of forest fuels during the fire season."

Unfortunately, the smoke clouds that became a not-exactly rare event during my childhood in Singapore, and what millions of Americans along the Northeast have experienced this past week may become a more regular event in the U.S., as millions of Californians have discovered in recent years.

-Aarthi Swaminathan

This content was created by MarketWatch, which is operated by Dow Jones & Co. MarketWatch is published independently from Dow Jones Newswires and The Wall Street Journal.

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

06-12-23 1559ET

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I grew up with hazardous smoke from forest fires in Asia. Here's what ... - Morningstar

Las Vegas, NV, June 12, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Employee networks, sponsors, and strong managers are crucial components of successfully engaging and retaining employees, according to an analysis of 3,362 employee records, released today by workplace research leaderSeramount, a part of EAB, at the annual conference of the Society for Human Resource Management,SHRM23. The data collected, using SeramountsEmployee Voice Sessiontechnology, shows that these relationships are even more closely connected to employee longevity than the promise of promotions.

Todays employees are deeply disengaged from their work, resulting in trends such as quiet quitting and working your wage, and employers need to take action, said Seramount Managing Director Dr. Laura Sherbin. This research tells us that employee surveys have only scratched the surface of solving engagement problems for employers and the economy.

Seramounts data showed that employees who do not feel included are nearly twice as likely to report desiring to leave within the next three years (19 percent versus 36 percent). Similarly, when employees do not believe someone at their organization is working to expand their visibility or directly supporting their career advancement (i.e., functioning as their sponsor), they report desiring to leave at twice the rate (34 percent versus 17 percent).

When you cut the data by demographic groups, respondents from historically marginalized groups who want to advance to a more senior position were 10 percent less likely than White employees to have a sponsor. In addition, women who report wanting to advance to a more senior position were seven percentage points less likely to have a sponsor than men who want to advance.

The demographic data also revealed that 43 percent of White employees who want to advance reported a strong network, compared to 24 percent of employees from historically marginalized groups. Forty-four percent of men who want to advance reported a strong network, compared to 24 percent of females.

On the other hand, the belief in advancement does not reduce flight risk. Among those who believe they will advance to a more senior role at their organization, 26 percent planned to stay three years or less. Similarly, 30 percent of those who did not believe they would advance planned to stay three years or less.

There is a lot of emphasis on career pathing, and that is still very important, Sherbin continued. But companies also need to focus on facilitating strong peer-to-peer and peer-to-manager relationships, especially for underrepresented employees. The research is clear: interpersonal connections are key to retaining employees.

To learn more about pathways for creating a more inclusive workforce, Seramounts full report is availablehere.

About the Methodology In March of 2023, Seramount conducted an analysis of 3,362 employee records that evaluated how employee networks, sponsors, and managers can affect a companys efforts to engage and retain employees. Companies spanned technology, pharmaceutical, legal, and finance services industries. Data was collected using Seramounts Employee Voice Session (EVS), a virtual online tool with which Seramount moderates and guides employees anonymously through a series of quantitative and qualitative questions. The live nature allows Seramount to dive deeply into responses and allows employees to share with one another openly.

About Seramount Seramount, part of EAB, is a strategic professional services and research firm dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. Over four decades, partnering with more than 450 of the most iconic companies in the world, weve built a deep, data-driven understanding of the employee experience, which lays the groundwork for everything we do. We meet each partners needs no matter where they are on their journey and guide them along an ever-changing talent landscape. Learn more atwww.seramount.com.

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Workplace Networks Are More Important than Promotions to Engage ... - GlobeNewswire

Weve spent two years organising and are trying to get a fair shake, said Laura Greene, a multimedia team leader with Accenture.

Basically, we decided that the only way to get real, lasting change is to formally unionise and, ideally, negotiate at the bargaining table.

Accenture acknowledged that it received a letter from workers requesting that the company recognise its union. We always value the ability to listen directly to our people and respond to their concerns, Rachel Frey, an Accenture spokeswoman, said in a statement.

Google said it expected all of its vendor workers to be treated fairly, in compliance with its supplier code of conduct.

We, of course, respect these workers right to join a union or not, but this is a matter between them and their employer, Accenture, said Courtenay Mencini, a Google spokeswoman. Google does not control their employment terms or working conditions.

In a letter sent to management Wednesday afternoon, workers said that over the four-year life of their contract, they had consistently requested that Google and Accenture consider their expertise and experience in executing their work, but were routinely disregarded.

Instead of recognising us as highly specialised workers worthy of respect, we are treated as resources for Google to exhaust, despite our expertise and how much genuine care we put into this complex work, they wrote.

In January, the workers said, they were recruited for a top secret project working on the companys then-unannounced chatbot, Bard.

They were told to answer theoretical prompts and fact-check Bards responses, a job that required research and creativity.

For a brief period on the Bard project, Accenture workers were also asked to handle obscene, graphic and offensive prompts, they said. Though the workers were told they could skip certain tasks, they also risked getting penalised in other ways for passing on the work.

At least one person filed a complaint with human resources at Accenture. In February, the work they had been doing was transferred over to their Accenture counterparts based in Manila, the workers said.

The change raised concerns among the US staffers that the work they are assigned could be taken away at any point and offloaded to cheaper labor elsewhere.

The outcome of the Google workers organising effort may not be immediately clear.

When most employees at a work site agree to unionise in the US, a company can voluntarily recognise and negotiate with the labour group or refuse to do so unless the union first prevails in a government-run election.

The process of determining who should be eligible to vote in an election can take weeks or months, and companies often use that time to fight organising efforts by using tactics such as mandatory anti-union meetings.

And even after securing union recognition, progress can be slow. YouTube Music workers hired via the staffing agency Cognizant Technology Solutions voted to unionise in April, but Alphabet is appealing a US National Labour Relations Board officials decision deeming it a joint employer of the workers.

The legal battle could drag on for years, as could also end up happening with the Accenture staff.

The Accenture workers said theyre undeterred by the prospect of a long campaign. What we really want is longevity in the job, and more respect and autonomy from Google, said Tahlia Kirk, a writer and team trainer with Accenture.

Bloomberg

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Accenture staff working at Google training AI move to unionise - The Australian Financial Review