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Author: anwaryusef
Anwar Y. Dunbar is a Regulatory Scientist. Being a naturally curious person, he is also a student of all things. He earned his Ph.D. in Pharmacology from the University of Michigan and his Bachelor’s Degree in General Biology from Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU). Prior to starting the Big Words Blog Site, Anwar published and contributed to numerous research articles in competitive scientific journals reporting on his research from graduate school and postdoctoral years. After falling in love with writing, he contributed to the now defunct Examiner.com, and the Edvocate where he regularly wrote about: Education-related stories/topics, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Financial Literacy; as well as conducted interviews with notable individuals such as actor and author Hill Harper. Having many influences, one of his most notable heroes is author, intellectual and speaker, Malcolm Gladwell, author of books including Outliers and David and Goliath.
Anwar has his hands in many, many activities. In addition to writing, Anwar actively mentors youth, works to spread awareness of STEM careers, serves on the Board of Directors of the Friends of the David M. Brown Arlington Planetarium, serves as Treasurer for the JCSU Washington, DC Alumni Chapter, and is active in the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace Ministry at the Alfred Street Baptist Church. He also tutors in the subjects of biology, chemistry and physics.
Along with his multi-talented older brother Amahl Dunbar (designer of the Big Words logos, inventor and a plethora of other things), Anwar is a “Fanboy” and really enjoys Science-Fiction and Superhero movies including but not restricted to Captain America Civil War, Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Prometheus. He is a proud native of Buffalo, NY.
Two focuses of my blog are Athletics/Sports and Health/Wellness. Sports can play an important role in the lives of young people and stay that way into adulthood. The key is getting them properly introduced to it. The following contributed post is entitled, Getting Your Kids Excited About Sport.
It can be hard to get your kids excited about sports because not all kids are interested. You can get their friends over and watch sports games together to make it more accessible to them.
Play Your Sport Together
It’s a great thing when your kids enjoy the same hobbies as you. This makes magical memories and helps you bond with your children in ways that last. Playing sports together as a family is one of the simplest and most effective ways to do this. But remember, not all kids are natural athletes. So gentle sports may be best used here. For example, you can take your kids along to pick their own golf clubs for juniors which will help them form an attachment to the sport.
Get Their Friends Over
Your kids are more likely to join in an activity if their friends do. And that includes taking part in sports and physical games. This is great if you want to get a little more exercise rather than playing video games. Great family sports in the garden include soccer, basketball, and cricket if your yard is big enough. But you can also play some physical games when the weather is fine. Simple games like tag are great. But in summer, water guns and laser tag make it more fun.
Get Kids Excited About Sport by Keeping It Fun
Speaking of fun, any sport your kids play needs to be just that. It isn’t fair to push your children to do something they don’t like. Additionally, you must remember that kids aren’t naturally competitive, so pushing them too hard will ruin the fun for them and make it more likely they won’t develop healthy habits. So ease them into a sport, encourage them to do better, and try to teach your kids about good sportsmanship when they play a specific game or activity.
Watch Sports Together
Family time often revolves around watching TV. Streaming shows or watching cartoons with the kids is common. But you can also bind over watching your favorite sports teams together. When a child associates good memories with a specific sport, they will be more likely to want to take part in it. Or you can enhance the magical memories by taking your kids to their first live sports event, such as baseball, football, or even wrestling. These are memories that last a lifetime.
Play Sports Video Games
You may be concerned about how much your kids spend playing video games. But there is no harm in this as long as you do certain things. You must regulate the content they see and limit their screen time so it doesn’t get in the way of their lives. Then you’re good to go. And you can get them excited about your sports by playing sports video games. There are cute sports like Mario Golf for younger kids. And EA Sports and 2K Games Sports titles for older kids and teens.
Summary
Getting kids excited about sports can be hard. But you can play sports as a family, always keep it as fun as possible, and even take up playing sports video games with your gamer children.
Two focuses of my blog are Financial Literacy/Money and Business/Entrepreneurship. If your in the corporate sector, training days and events are very important. You thus want to them to be as successful as possible. The following contributed post is entitled, How to Organize the Best Corporate Training Day.
Corporate training days are something every business needs to organize from time to time. When organized well, corporate training sessions can provide the perfect opportunity to remove everyone from the distractions of the office to focus on the bigger picture for a little while. Training sessions are also the ideal time to encourage your employees to bond to enable more cohesive teamwork when back in the work setting. As you can see, there are many benefits to be gained from these sessions, and they are far more than just a training opportunity.
To enjoy all the benefits of effective corporate training days, you first need to ensure that it is well-organized and allow yourself plenty of time to plan the event. Here are some of the factors to keep in mind when planning the perfect corporate training day:
Choose the Best Venue
While it may be tempting to host your training day in your office building, this can often cause issues. It can be challenging for teams to separate the training event from their usual workday schedule. This means they are more likely to be called back to the office to deal with any issues that arise and may not be fully focused on the training that you provide. Instead, it is helpful to schedule the corporate training days at a location that enables your team to fully focus. Choosing a scenic venue with great facilities that isn’t too far from the city is the choice. For example, selecting a venue close to Nashville equipped for corporate events without being too far to travel from your offices is a perfect choice.
Once you have found the perfect venue, it is crucial to book it as soon as you can. Good venues are always extremely popular, so you must act fast to secure the dates you want.
Set Clear Objectives
After securing the ideal venue for your corporate training day, it is a good idea to start focusing on what you want to achieve from the sessions. Running a training session requires time, effort, and money. Therefore, you need to be sure that investing these will be worth it and deliver a healthy return.
Setting clear objectives on what you want to achieve from the training sessions is essential. Establishing clear objectives will help encourage your team to engage with the sessions, making them worthwhile for everyone concerned.
Organize Your Itinerary and Resources
With a venue booked and clear objectives set, your next task is to focus on the finer details of organizing your training day. Mapping out how the sessions will look, the subjects that you will be covering, and how much time you want to devote to each area will help you to plan thoroughly for the sessions. Building an itinerary for the session and assessing the resources you will need to deliver it are essential tasks. It is advisable to order your resources as soon as possible so that you have everything prepared for a successful training day.
Three focuses of my blog are Financial Literacy/Money, Business/Entrepreneurship and STEM. When manufacturing nutritional products for the general public, it’s critical to have an operation that uses the best practices. The following sponsored post is entitled, The Benefits of Partnering With a GMP-Certified Supplement Manufacturer.
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Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) are standards that manufacturers follow to ensure the quality and consistency of dietary supplements. They must meet people, premises, processes, and product requirements.
Finding a GMP certified supplements manufacturer is important to your business because it reduces the risks of product failures. It also makes you more competitive in the market by demonstrating your commitment to safety and quality.
Reduced Risk of Contamination
While it may seem counterintuitive, the dietary supplement industry is highly regulated. GMPs, or current good manufacturing practices, are a key part of that regulation. They focus on five areas, including people, premises, processes, products, and procedures (or paperwork).
If supplement manufacturers follow strict GMP regulations, they avoid being cited by the FDA or losing their certification. This can lead to product recalls, lawsuits, and other serious consequences.
Finding a contract manufacturer that adheres to and exceeds the requirements of GMP is essential for your brand’s success. The right manufacturer will ensure that your product is made to the highest standards while you can focus on launching and marketing your supplements.
Reduced Liability
You can create custom product labels if you partner with a GMP-certified supplement manufacturer. This will help your brand stand out in a crowded market, and it will also increase the credibility of your business.
A GMP-certified supplement manufacturer will have high-quality control and assurance processes, reducing the risk of contamination and safety issues with your supplements. The company will follow strict standards and be audited frequently to maintain its certification.
Increased Product Confidence
A GMP-certified supplement manufacturer adheres to stringent FDA manufacturing standards. This helps reduce product recalls, contamination, ingredient deviation, and errors. The company will also be inspected and undergo audits from third-party organizations to maintain its GMP certification.
Supplements are regulated differently than pharmaceuticals and must follow what is known as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) or Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP). GMP regulations help ensure that your supplement products are made from high-quality ingredients in clean facilities to meet your specific formulation requirements.
We performed a binomial logistic regression analysis and found that adopting GMP is positively associated with revenue size, possession of a license to manufacture pharmaceuticals, and the number of own product categories a CMO can manufacture. Due to multicollinearity, the model with revenue was dropped, and only the two variables with significant associations were included in the final model.
Reduced Time to Market
If your supplement business is partnered with a GMP-certified manufacturer, you will immediately get your products into stores. This can reduce your marketing costs and give you a competitive edge over competitors waiting longer to market their products.
GMP guidelines require manufacturers to design their facilities and handle their dietary supplements in a highly careful, professional manner, minimizing risks that cannot be eliminated by testing the final product. As a result, the risk of contamination and other issues is significantly reduced when partnering with a GMP contract manufacturer.
Typically, GMP certifications are audited 1-2 times per year by third-party organizations to ensure the manufacturer follows strict rules and regulations. These audits include a review of facility cleanliness and accuracy of documentation.
Increased Profits
Many people may think that the dietary supplement industry is unregulated and not held to the same standards as pharmaceutical medications. However, the truth is that hundreds of federal regulations regulate it. One of these regulations is called Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) or CGMP, which are systems for manufacturers that ensure the design, control, monitoring, and manufacture of supplements to maintain their identity, strength, quality, purity, and composition.
Partnering with a GMP-certified supplement manufacturer means you can have peace of mind that the company will follow strict guidelines to make your product. This will help reduce contamination, errors, and other issues that can be costly to your brand. It will also show that your partner takes your brand seriously and will go the extra mile for you.
Two focuses of my blog are Financial Literacy/Money and Business/Entrepreneurship. Successfully running a business typically involves some form of sourcing. With the global economy of today, there are new complexities. The following contributed post is entitled, Sourcing Success: Navigating the Global Marketplace for Materials.
Securing materials is integral to modern business and industry success, from finding high-quality items at reasonable costs, streamlining sourcing efforts and increasing operational efficiencies; so this blog post discusses essential strategies and considerations that make material acquisition simpler both personally and organizationally.
Before Beginning: Determine Your Requirements
Establish your material needs exactly and clearly prior to initiating any sourcing project, to ensure efficient procurement by finding suppliers, such as an Industrial metal supply provider. Establish the requirements precisely as this will establish an efficient basis for procurement decisions that lead to efficient purchasing solutions, like an industrial metal supply, that are equipped to fulfill them efficiently.
Conduct Research and Locate Suppliers
In order to locate potential suppliers that can fulfill production’s materials needs, conducting extensive research is of utmost importance. Utilize online platforms, industry directories, trade shows and referrals when searching; once identified evaluate each prospective provider based on reputation, experience, financial stability and track record in providing top quality goods or services; reaching out through professional networks may even prove fruitful!
Communication Is Key: Establish Clear Lines
Once you’ve identified potential suppliers, establish clear communications lines. Discuss specifications, quantities, delivery timelines and any specific goals so you can assess if their offerings satisfy them; being upfront could even reveal cost-cutting measures specifically tailored towards meeting those goals.
Evaluation for Reliability
Before purchasing materials from suppliers, conduct evaluations based on specific criteria to gauge their reliability. Take note if suppliers meet agreed deadlines while accommodating changes efficiently without losing efficiency; request references/testimonials from previous clients before conducting site visits/audits at production facilities so as to assess them prior to any purchases from them.
Determine Your Terms
After selecting your supplier, be sure to sign a written agreement laying out all terms that protect both parties while guaranteeing an enjoyable working relationship! When discussing pricing, delivery schedules, quality control measures, payment terms and penalties related to noncompliance it’s crucial that documentation takes place to guarantee an enjoyable working experience!
Monitor Performance
Once partners, be sure to regularly assess supplier performance by reviewing quality standards, delivery timelines and competitiveness in pricing. Set up an open communication line so any problems or inquiries can quickly be addressed while working toward solutions together. Likewise, review market regularly in search for any additional vendors or materials which might strengthen operations further.
Sustainable Sources
Businesses today need to implement sustainable sourcing as both responsible and profitable practices to remain relevant in today’s eco-conscious globalized business world. Selecting suppliers who prioritize eco-friendly extraction, production, packaging or certification practices such as Forest Stewardship Council certification for wood products or Fair Trade certification for ethical commodities sourced will not only preserve environmental resources while meeting customer demands for eco-conscious purchases (thus increasing customer equity and loyalty within their customer base) but may even build brand equity through lasting business transactions!
Establish Lasting Supplier Relations
Cultivating long-lasting supplier relations is integral to your business’s success, from open communication lines and trust building among suppliers, through joint problem solving efforts between them, to long-term relationship benefits for everyone involved. Make time each week or month to meet with vendors or collaborate on joint projects together in order to keep these valuable partnerships alive over time and facilitate growth over time.
Final Thoughts
Materials acquisition is integral to business or industrial success; by taking these steps you can make your sourcing efforts simpler by finding reliable suppliers offering top quality materials at cost-efficient rates – leading to growth and profit for your organization.
“Going to college is a highly personal decision no one can make for you. While your teachers and parents might want you to find a good school, it’s not necessary for success. Instead, consider the type of career you want and whether pursuing higher education is worth it.”
A key focus of my blog is General Education. College is often thought to be the magic bullet for success for everyone, but is this the case for everyone in every arena? The following guest post looks this further and is entitled, Is College Necessary for Everybody?
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When kids are in school, their parents and teachers tell them to work hard to get into college and get a good job. As a result, many people attend college after high school, while others go to college later in life to increase their earning potential. But is college necessary for everyone? You might not want to attend college if you don’t enjoy school. Meanwhile, you might not be able to afford college even if you love school. Luckily, you don’t have to go to college to be successful, but it can help. Whether you have a bachelor’s degree or GED, anyone can succeed and find a career they love.
Does College Predict Success?
Many people thank their college education for their ability to get a high-paying job that allows them to pay for basic living expenses. In addition, some degrees have a high return on investment. For example, nurses with master’s degrees typically earn more than those with associate’s degrees, making it well worth investing in a lengthier college program. However, many jobs don’t pay enough to make a college degree worth the expense, and there are several top-earning career fields you can enter without a degree.
Before you can determine whether college is crucial to your future career success, you should consider the type of career you want. For example, if you love pets and want to be a vet, you’ll need a degree. Meanwhile, if you prefer building things with your hands, you don’t need a woodworking degree to become a successful carpenter who owns their own business.
In general, going to college provides experiences to help you make connections you can use to further your career. However, a specialized degree isn’t necessary for most positions. For example, anyone can become a digital marketer with the right skill set, especially if they’re lucky enough to find job opportunities that offer training.
The Case Against College Degrees
A college degree is required for some careers, but not all. Therefore, the most important step is determining which type of career you want and the requirements for entering the job market. First, you should look at the general career path to determine if a degree might be required down the line. For example, you may be able to find an entry-level job where a degree isn’t necessary, but if you want to become a manager, you might need one.
Of course, anyone can be successful with or without a college degree. Therefore, you must determine the skills necessary for your chosen career path and find ways to excel in them.
The Case For College Degrees
While some people can become successful without a degree, attending college can improve your chances of success. College graduates typically earn more than those with a high school diploma, and education is increasingly important to employers. Knowing you graduated college can show employers that you’re goal-oriented even if you don’t have a relevant degree. Even if the type of field you studied doesn’t matter to an employer, they may still look for candidates with bachelor’s degrees.
In addition to increased earning potential, many people believe college is essential for the experience alone. For most people, college is the best time of their lives because they’re finally free to make their own decisions independently. Furthermore, many people learn how to become adults, meet new friends, harness a network for professional opportunities, and gain valuable work experience while studying at a university. In addition to the college experience itself, you can get more information about your chosen field, including certificates and internship opportunities you can’t get anywhere else.
If you should go to college depends on several factors, including the industry you’re entering and your definition of success.
Industry
Some industries require specialized degrees, while others don’t. For example, to become a psychologist, you’ll need a degree in psychology. Meanwhile, other careers prioritize relevant skills, such as technology and business. Meanwhile, those looking to enter creative fields may not need a degree; the hiring managers will look for relevant experience and a good portfolio.
Your Definition of Success
How you define success will determine whether college is necessary for you. For example, maybe you’re someone who defines success based on your happiness at work. Individuals doing what they love may earn less, but their overall happiness makes their jobs easier and more enjoyable. Meanwhile, you might define success as starting your own business without a degree or getting a specialized nursing degree to work with a particular type of patient. Whatever the case, you must know what success looks and feels like for you to determine whether you need a degree.
Other Options
College isn’t necessary for everyone, and there are other educational opportunities to help you advance your career.
Trade Schools
Trade schools can help you gain valuable experience in a particular field, such as automotive, plumbing, electrical, or aviation. You can also find medical trade schools offering programs for nursing, billing, and allied health jobs. Meanwhile, other options include culinary schools, tech schools, and beauty schools, depending on your interests.
Certifications
If you’ve already been in the workforce, you might not have the time to return to college. Certifications can be used in place of college degrees, especially if you already have relevant experience in a particular field. For example, you can get certifications in project management, digital marketing, website development and design, and teaching.
Experience
Sometimes real-life experience is more important to employers than a fancy degree. For example, if you can find a good job, you might be able to work your way up in a company and learn the skills you need to get a management position.
Should You Go To College?
Going to college is a highly personal decision no one can make for you. While your teachers and parents might want you to find a good school, it’s not necessary for success. Instead, consider the type of career you want and whether pursuing higher education is worth it.
Megan Isola
Megan Isola holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and a minor in Business Marketing from Cal State University Chico. She enjoys going to concerts, trying new restaurants, and hanging out with friends.
A key focus of my blog is Health/Wellness. There are several aspects to our personal health. Our physical health is not the only one but it is critical. The following contributed post is entitled, How to Take Better Care of Your Health.
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Good health is one of those things that go unappreciated until you lose it. When you’re young, it’s easier to maintain your health, but it still takes effort. It’s true that, no matter how hard you try, you may develop a health condition or get injured. But in this case, it’s even more important to maintain good general health so that you can recover and manage your condition better.
If you’re fit and healthy, you will look and feel better. As you get older, you will find that you’re less likely to develop chronic, age-related health conditions. You will retain your strength for longer and even look younger. With this in mind, how can you take care of your health now?
Our bodies were designed to move. Unfortunately, modern life often encourages a sedentary lifestyle. We drive rather than walk, and we might spend hours sitting at a desk for our day jobs. We are busy and tired, which can make it hard to fit in a fitness routine.
However, it’s vital that we keep fit and active. Even thirty minutes of activity a day is better than nothing. You might also find exercise is good for your mind and enjoyable. Set goals, work your exercise regime around your schedule, and reap the benefits.
Eat Healthily
Your body needs food and water to function properly and thrive. This is also your primary way to take in nutrients, which help your body to restore and repair itself. Too much of certain foods, such as takeout and junk food that is high in fat, salt, and sugar, can have a negative impact on your health.
The trick is to eat a balanced, healthy diet that has all the nutrients you need. You should also eat an appropriate amount of calories according to your needs and activity level.
Medical Help
If you do have a health condition or you’ve injured yourself, then seek medical help right away. A doctor can diagnose your condition and come up with a treatment. Ideally, see a specialist to deal with your problems. For example, a foot doctor will be far better at diagnosing and treating foot and ankle injuries than a psychiatrist.
On that note, your body and mind are equally important. If your mental health is suffering, then you can’t maintain good physical health. If you are struggling, then see a doctor and talk to a trusted friend or family member.
Sleep Well
When you sleep, your body and brain repair themselves from the day’s activities. Most people can go without sleep for a night and, while they’ll be tired the next day, they should be okay. But if you have chronic sleep problems, then the fatigue can very quickly add up.
Practice good sleep habits, such as going to bed at a regular time each day. If you need to, drink herbal tea and encourage your body and mind to relax before you go to sleep. In some cases, you may need to see a doctor for medication or specialized advice.
On June 9, 2023, the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Michigan hosted its Pharmacology in Color Symposium. Alumni were invited back to the department to share their career paths and experiences for the first time in person since the Covid-19 Pandemic. On Thursday June 8 there was a dinner gathering for alumni, current students and faculty. On the morning of Friday June 9, students gave seminars on their research and alumni gave talks on their educational paths and current careers throughout the rest of the day. In the afternoon there were breakout sessions where students asked direct questions of alumni before the address by the keynote speaker (described below). Finally, there was a happy hour and a second dinner in the evening.
The students that presented their research included:
● Anthony Garcia, Osawa Lab, “Pharmacological Modulation of Hsp70 Selectively Removes Misfolded nNOS” ● Juan Valentine-Goyco, Auchus Lab, “Biochemical Characterization and Pharmacological Inhibition of Aldosterone Synthase” ● Chanté Liu, M.S., Satin Lab, “Understanding the Mechanisms of Pulsatile Basal Insulin Secretion” ● Loyda Morales-Rodriguez, Puthenveedu Lab, “Location-Biased Activation of the Proton-Sensor GPR65 is Uncoupled from Receptor Trafficking”
The alumni invited back to the department to speak included:
● Colleen Carpenter, Ph.D., Assistant Professor in Biology, University of Richmond (Keynote Speaker) ● Nnamdi Edokobi, Ph.D., Patent Agent, Choate, Hall & Stewart ● Mohamad Shebley, Ph.D., Head of Clinical Pharmacology Neuroscience, AbbVie ● Rashonda Flint, Ph.D., Office of the Dean, School of Medicine and Advocate Health, Wake Forest University ● Diamond Thomas, M.S., Clinical Research Coordinator, University of Michigan ● Anwar Dunbar, Ph.D., Pharmacologist, Health Effects Division, Office of Pesticide Programs, United States Environmental Protection Agency ● Tigwa Davis, Ph.D., Director, Health Economics and Outcomes, Inovalon
Opening remarks on June 9 were given by Dr. Lori Isom, Chair of the Department of Pharmacology and Dr. Steve Kunkel, the Executive Dean for Research and the Chief Scientific Officer of the Michigan Medical School. Closing remarks were given by Dr. Alan Smrcka of the Department of Pharmacology who played a key role in organizing the symposium. The sessions were moderated by alumnus Dr. Chiamaka Ukachukwu and student Hongyu Su.
“Once you are maxed out, you need to learn something new,” said Dr. Mohammed Shebley of AbbVie, a native of Southeastern Michigan. As with all the speakers, Dr. Shebley discussed his journey to and through the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Michigan. He further discussed his career at AbbVie and keys for success for working in the company. His quote involved the importance of professionals continuing to evolve and figuring out new career directions, particularly when levels of personal and professional comfort are achieved. Dr. Shebley worked under Dr. Paul Hollenberg for his doctoral studies at the University of Michigan where he worked on projects involving Cyrochrome-P450s.
“I was blown away by everything, the commitment to students – all of it,” said Dr. Colleen Carpenter discussing her arrival at the Department of Pharmacology. Dr. Carpenter worked under the tutelage of Dr. Margaret Gnegy in the areas of Amphetamines and Dopamine signaling. Dr. Carpenter discussed her introduction to science in her native Jamaica, her educational path before arriving at the University of Michigan and her research afterwards. She is now an assistant professor at the University of Richmond where she uses Zebrafish and technologies like CRISPR to screen new drugs.
The alumni in attendance worked in multiple sectors including academia, industry, government, and patent law. One of the key themes that emerged in all their talks was that no career path was a straight line. That is all experienced some form of adversity or made decisions to explore other parts of the Pharmacology world and beyond. The students in the audience were further encouraged to enjoy and take advantage of the expertise and training available to them. Dr. Anwar Dunbar who worked under Dr. Yoichi Osawa for his doctoral training, noted in his talk that science is a culture, a craft, and a way of being which is unique and not well understood by other segments of society. Dr. Dunbar’s thesis project involved the inactivation and cellular degradation of Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase.
The department endeavors to provide the best science training for its students. While academia is the classic career path following Pharmacology doctoral training, it attempts to expose them to all the career options. To learn more about the University of Michigan Department of Pharmacology, its stellar faculty, students and research, visit the department online at: https://medicine.umich.edu/dept/pharmacology .
Essays on the Science of Drugs and More
Pharmacology is the science of drugs, specifically how they modulate biological processes to treat disease and sickness. If you want to learn more about this exciting science, there is an essay discussing Pharmacology and its many aspects right here on this platform. There are similar essays on ADME/Drug Metabolism, Toxicology and Inhalation Toxicology. There are also essays describing the world of Basic Research, and the Transferable Skills learned from science training. Finally, there is a personal story regarding the challenges surrounding doctoral training as a minority.
The Big Words LLC Newsletter
Thank you for reading this piece on the Pharmacology in Color Symposium hosted by the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Michigan. There are several other science-related essays here on my blog with more on the way. As a writer, I have started a monthly newsletter for my writing and video content creation company, The Big Words LLC. In it, I plan to share inspirational words, pieces from my writer’s blog and this blog, and select videos from my four YouTube channels. One of those channels is a science and technology channel. It is entitled, Big Discussions76 Science and Technology. Finally, I will share updates for my book project entitled, The Engineers: A Western New York Basketball Story. Click this link and register using the sign-up button at the bottom of the announcement. If there is an issue with the sign-up form, you can email me at bwllcnl@gmail.com. Best regards.
Two focuses of my blog are Financial Literacy/Money and Business/Entrepreneurship. A primary residence is the biggest investment many people will make in their lifetimes. There are key renovations that can be made to increase the value of most homes. The following guest post is entitled, Home Renovation: 6 Things to Consider for Increasing the Value of Your Property.
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• Home renovation can increase the value of your property. • Look for signs that it’s time to renovate, such as outdated features or changing family needs. • Plan your project by evaluating the current condition of your property and looking for reliable suppliers. • Create an open floor plan and invest in energy-efficient appliances to save money. • Update bathrooms and kitchens and enhance curb appeal to make your home more attractive.
Home renovation is an exciting yet challenging task. This process requires a lot of effort, time, and money. If done correctly, home renovation can significantly increase your property’s value. These days, people don’t just buy homes for shelter or comfort, but they also make an intelligent investment.
Every penny you invest in renovating your house will pay off in the long run. This article will discuss six vital things to consider when renovating your home to increase its value.
Why Renovate Your Home
Home is where the heart is, but what happens when that loving feeling starts to wane? It might be time to jumpstart your passion for your living space by considering a renovation. There’s no doubt that renovating your home can be a big undertaking, but the benefits are well worth it.
By breathing new life into your home, you’ll improve your quality of life and increase the value of your property. Renovating your home can also allow you to tailor the space to your unique needs and style, creating a home that truly reflects your personality.
How to Know if It’s Time to Renovate
There are a few signs that can indicate if now is the right time to start your renovation project. For instance, when you notice outdated features, such as old windows or creaky doors and floors, it’s usually time to make some improvements.
You may also consider renovating if the layout of your home doesn’t fit your family’s changing needs or if you’re looking to boost your home’s energy efficiency. Talking to a professional designer or contractor can help point you in the right direction for tackling any renovation project.
Planning Your Renovation Project
Once you’ve decided that it’s time to tackle a renovation project, it’s essential to have an organized plan of attack. Here’s what to consider:
Evaluate the Current Condition of Your Property
The first and foremost thing you need to do is evaluate the current condition of your property. Take a close look at your house and make a list of the things that need to be repaired or replaced. It can be a leaky roof, outdated plumbing or electrical systems, or poorly insulated walls.
It is essential to address any issues potential buyers may notice when inspecting your property before putting it up for sale. These are the aspects buyers are likely to consider.
Look for Reliable Suppliers
Of course, renovating your home is impossible without suitable materials and supplies. Therefore, you need to shop around for reliable suppliers that offer high-quality products at reasonable prices. You need suppliers for everything from paint and fixtures to furniture and appliances.
Look for reputable names in the home improvement industry, such as Majestic Chemicals Industries, that can provide your project’s materials, like epoxy paint or resin.
Create an Open Floor Plan
An open floor plan is one of the best ways to create a visually appealing home. You can remove the walls that separate your kitchen from your living room or dining room to make your house look more spacious. Potential buyers love homes that are open, airy, and full of natural light. This renovation will not only increase the value of your property, but it will also improve your quality of life.
Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances
Energy costs are rising, and people are looking for ways to reduce their utility bills. By investing in energy-efficient appliances, you’re not only reducing your carbon footprint, but you’re also saving money in the long run. This investment will make your home look more attractive to potential buyers looking for a cost-effective and environmentally friendly property.
Update Bathrooms and Kitchens
Bathrooms and kitchens are the most essential rooms in any home. They are also the most used, so they must be updated and modernized. Invest in new countertops, cabinets, and fixtures to make them look more stylish and functional. You can also add intelligent technologies like motion sensors or touchless faucets to make them more appealing to potential buyers.
Enhance Curb Appeal
The first impression is the last, and that’s true for your property. Enhance your home’s curb appeal by landscaping, painting the house’s exterior, or installing a new front door. A welcoming and inviting exterior design will create a positive impression on potential buyers, even before they enter the house.
Final Thoughts
Home renovation is an investment that pays off in the long run. By considering the above-mentioned essential factors, you can increase the value of your property and make it more appealing to potential buyers. Remember to keep your renovation plans practical, modern, and affordable, and always hire a professional contractor to help you achieve your desired outcome.
Two focuses of my blog are Financial Literacy/Money and Business/Entrepreneurship. If created correctly, a real estate business can be very lucrative. A little-known secret though is that it is a team sport and choosing the right partners is critical. The following guest post is entitled, Building a Real Estate Business: What Partners You’ll Need.
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• Real estate businesses are incredibly profitable due to the growing demand for housing. • Real estate brokers provide essential services such as marketing, negotiations, research, and legal assistance. • Real estate agents have access to databases of properties and can assist with negotiations. • Property contractors are responsible for repairs and renovations, which saves investors time and effort. • It is essential to partner with experienced professionals to create a successful real estate business.
Real estate businesses can be incredibly profitable because they offer a unique opportunity to take advantage of the ever-increasing demand for housing. With the population in many cities and countries growing steadily, there is a constant need for more dwellings – and real estate investors can capitalize on this fact.
In the U.S., the total value of all residential real estate reached an estimated $33.6 trillion; this figure is projected to hit $38.5 trillion by 2024 – illustrating just how much potential there is in this sector. Additionally, according to the New York Times, despite some volatility due to COVID-19, property values in major US cities have remained strong and even increased overall compared to pre-pandemic figures. This suggests that investors willing to take calculated risks still stand to make a healthy return from their investments over time.
For individuals or companies to start a successful real estate business, however, they must partner with experienced professionals who understand all aspects of the industry. Here are a few you might need:
Real Estate Brokers
Real estate brokers are essential to any real estate business. They provide a unique set of services integral to a venture’s success. Here are some critical services provided by real estate brokers:
Marketing and Advertising
Real estate brokers specialize in marketing and advertising properties effectively. They have an extensive network of contacts and connections and access to various platforms, marketing materials, and other tools to reach different audiences with tailored messages. Real estate brokers can also create campaigns suited for specific properties or areas, making them invaluable when finding buyers or tenants quickly.
Negotiations
Real estate deals often involve complex negotiations between buyers and sellers or landlords and tenants. Real estate brokers excel at navigating these negotiations with diplomacy, fairness, and expertise. Their knowledge of the market helps them ensure that both parties come away happy with their agreements. Furthermore, their experience managing conflicts provide disputes are resolved quickly and professionally.
Research
Real estate brokers conduct comprehensive research on the local market before investing in a particular area or property type. This research includes researching pricing trends, conducting surveys on tenant preferences, comparing rental rates across different neighborhoods, analyzing housing demographics, etc.; this ensures that investors get the best possible return on their investments by investing in areas where they will have minimal risks but maximum returns.
Legal Assistance
When it comes to real estate transactions, legal assistance is always needed from experienced professionals such as lawyers or title companies who understand all aspects of the industry. Real estate brokers can help identify which lawyers would be most suitable for each transaction and ensure that all documents related to the purchase/sale process comply with state regulations. Additionally, they guide throughout the process so that all parties remain legally protected.
Real Estate Agents
Real estate agents are essential for a real estate business as they provide knowledge and expertise to help investors make informed investment decisions. Real estate agents have access to extensive databases of properties so they can provide investors with detailed information about the local market, including pricing trends, tenant preferences, rental rates in different neighborhoods, etc.
Real estate agents also play an important role in negotiations between buyers and sellers or landlords and tenants. They know market conditions and can help guide both parties toward a fair agreement considering different interests. Furthermore, they act as a mediator in case conflicts arise during the negotiation process. You can contact real estate agents to help them become part of the company.
Consider partnering with a company that specializes in providing a real estate agent database so you can access the right people quickly. With this, you can soon find real estate agents who are experienced and knowledgeable in your area, as well as those that fit perfectly within your budget and preferences.
Property Contractors
Property contractors are essential for any real estate business. They are responsible for handling the physical aspects of a property transaction, such as repairs, inspections, remodeling, etc. Contractors have experience and expertise in their respective fields, so they can help ensure that all necessary improvements are made quickly and efficiently.
Additionally, working with contractors helps investors save time because they don’t need to take care of the maintenance or repair process themselves; instead, they can focus on other aspects of building their business.
To find reliable property contractors in your area, contact local contractor associations or people who already own properties in the same place and ask them for recommendations. This will give you access to experienced professionals who can provide high-quality services at reasonable prices.
Final Thoughts
Real estate businesses are incredibly profitable, but they require a lot of planning and work to succeed. To succeed, you must partner with experienced professionals who can provide the necessary services and advice for each process step. The key partners you’ll need include real estate brokers, agents, and contractors – all of whom should have experience and expertise in their respective fields. Ensuring these individuals are part of your team will significantly increase your chances of success when starting a real estate business.
“Whether you are writing something creative for yourself or others, you are putting together some material to share with colleagues, or you’re copywriting, it’s vital that you know how to write effectively and what kinds of rules to follow.”
A key focus of my blog is Blogging/Writing. Writing is a craft and can open up numerous doors for you. The key is to grow in the craft to the point where your writing is distinct and where audiences enjoy what you create. The following contributed post is entitled, How To Write Effectively For Any Audience.
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Good writing is a skill that can be enormously useful in pretty much any context. Whether you are writing something creative for yourself or others (learn how to promote your book on Amazon here), you are putting together some material to share with colleagues, or you’re copywriting, it’s vital that you know how to write effectively and what kinds of rules to follow. One of the main things you always need to keep in mind with writing is the importance of the audience. You have to make sure you are writing effectively for the specific audience that you have in mind.
In this post, we are going to look at some of the things you might want to bear in mind to help you along with that. As long as you have thought about the following, you should find that you are able to write so much more effectively for any audience, and that is a great skill to have.
Research The Reader
First of all, if you want to write effectively for your audience, you need to make sure you know who they are. That means you need to research your reader as thoroughly as you can. If you are writing something like marketing material, then this is probably a process you have already been going through, but at other times you might find that you need to really work on it if you are going to know who you’re really writing for. In any case, it’s important to have this down before you get started where necessary.
The clearer a picture you have of your audience – who they are, what they respond well to – the easier it will be to craft writing that they will enjoy or respond well to. So it’s absolutely worth putting the effort into your writing research before you do anything else.
There are a lot of principles you may want to know about if you are trying to write effectively, and it is a really good idea to try and be aware of as many of them as possible early on. Many of these have been in place for many years, and while some are hotly contended, most of them have at least a nugget of truth to them. So you are going to find that they are absolutely worth knowing about, at least – and you can then decide how much you want to take them on board yourself.
So what kinds of principles are we talking about here? One perfect example would be Chekhov’s Gun, named after Anton Chekhov, the famous playwright. This is all about introducing an element only if it will advance the plot of the story – otherwise, leave it out. That applies not just to creative story-telling, but to pretty much any kind of writing you may engage in. If it doesn’t serve the piece, leave it out.
Then you also have principles like showing rather than telling. While not always the case, it’s often better to show the reader what you mean, rather than simply telling them. This also comes from Chekhov, believe it or not! As you can see, these two together put you in a pretty good stead when it comes to putting any writing together, so they are the kinds of principles you should try to be aware of.
If you are unsure whether your target reader will understand a piece of jargon or a niche term, avoid it altogether or introduce the concept to them in a way they can understand. This is important because there is no quicker way to frustrate an audience than by throwing some confusing terms their way, in the hope that they already know them. Sometimes the writer might even come off as arrogant as a result of this, so it is clearly something that you need to avoid at all costs.
It’s much better to slowly incorporate those terms by introducing them properly. This is altogether more respectful and more encouraging, and your reader will appreciate it.
Organize The Information Well
A lot of the time, good writing is really about how you organize the information you are trying to present. You want it to be meaningful and well and easily understood, and most of that comes down to the manner in which you arrange it on the page. Think about what needs introducing first, and then slowly go deeper and deeper. That is the best approach you can take if you are trying to talk to an audience of any kind.
