GMOs as Our Food (Reflection Paper)
Over the years, I noticed when I am watching a news program in the television or browsing in the Internet ,news about food price hike, diseases and illnesses, world hunger and malnutrition, agricultural loss and food wastage, and extreme weather phenomenons are increasing and escalating. These news typically revolves about our health and our food and agriculture.
Some of these news are still fresh in my mind like the news about the "cocolisap" outbreak in our country few years ago.
As the time runs, our technologies that can address these issues and problems are becoming more innovative and more effective. One of these is Genetically Modified Organisms(GMO) through genetic engineering.
Genetically Modified Organisms such as plants or animals that their genetic material has been changed through genetic engineering. GMOs may have a new new traits introduced into them such as resistance to some species of pests and diseases, higher chance of survival in extreme environmental conditions like drought, increase in harvest, or resistance to chemicals like herbicides and pesticides.
From my perspective, genetically modified organisms as food can help us address problems like food wastes and agricultural loss, world hunger, malnutrition, health decifiencies, and food price hike.
Our food can be genetically modified to be resistant to pests and diseases, to thrive in extreme weather conditions, and last longer thus minimizing food wastes and agricultural loss. Fresh products like vegetables becoming rotten in supermarkets and being thrown away, and crops devastated by floods and droughts can be avoided through GMOs.
Also, with this innovation, we can make our food healthier like the golden rice (rice enriched with beta carotene which is absorbed by our body as Vitamin A),and more abundant harvest that can help lessen world hunger, malnutrition, and illnesses caused by nutrient defiencies.
Less pesticides, water, etc. and less space and labor, which can be a big help in agricultural sector to spend less can be achieved by GMOs. This can lead to cheaoer food prices.
GMOs may have adverse risks and effects, I can't deny that, just like any other forms of technology. On the bright side there are ways to reduce and avoid these effects and risks.
One risk of GMOs in agriculture is gene flow that may cause genetic defects if the DNA of GMOs is mixed with the normal organisms but it can be prevented by using buffer zones and terminator seeds.
Another risk is chemicals present in our food. Back then, I thought that GMOs are just enhaced wuth chemicals and are synthetic so I think they are poisonous. Now, I learned that GMOs have the same risks as the natural ones.Genetically modified plants like BT corn contains natural pesticides. It only kills insect so safe for us besides less artificial pesticides are used on them. The used of herbicide(Glyphosate) may increase with GMO plants. I think, it is still helpful because of reduction of fertilizers by eliminating competitors for nutrients. To my mind, we can avoid this herbicide in our food by preparing, washing, and cooking food properly;and after all Glyphosate is safer than other types of herbicides to humans.
I don't see problems with GMOs as our food. But I think, there are in the ones who produce them because they can control food supply and prices. I hope they can help address global issues and problems with their capabilities of producing genetically modified organisms.
After watching the two videos entitled "Are GMOs Good or Bad?Genetic Engineering and Our Food" and "Genetic Engineering Will Change Everything Forever-CRISPR",there are new knowledge learned,opinions changed, and perspectives changed. Technological advancement in Genetic Engineering like the Genetically Modified Organism(GMO) can be effective solution to fix problems in the fields and sectors of health, agriculture, environment, business and industry if used with pure intentions, ethics and morality and greed in business, politics and power aside. https://youtu.be/7TmcXYp8xu4 https://youtu.be/jAhjPd4uNFY
It's my schoolwork in Biology II. I shared this because we are somehow involved with problems stated above and some of us may still not aware of GMO. I want to share my opinion, reflection, learnings and view about this controversial topic.
Source:
https://youtu.be/7TmcXYp8xu4
When Talking About Relationship, Age Matters (Position Paper)
Some says, "age is just a number. " But it is an important factor to consider in terms of job, criminal liabilities, buying of liquors and cigarettes, and even in relationship.By considering factors like children, marriage, activities, habits and lifestyle, we can conclude that age matters in a relationship. Following can also be considered: death, life goals and especially statements from experts including data and statistics.
To have children or produce an offspring can be a goal in a relationship. Older people like those who are already undergone menopausal and andropausal stage usually do not have an abilility to have a child. If a younger partner wants to have have a child from their own flesh, it is a big deal. A relationship with big age gap can also cause confusion to others like being mistaken for your partner's parent or child; not good for your relationship's reputation. However, if the couple is planning to abstain, having children is not a problem. When talking about having a child in a relationship, age matters.
Marriage is a way to strengthen relationship. It requires proper age to be done. Someone cannot easily marry his/her partner who's underage. Nevertheless, when both partners are in legal age, this matter is not a big deal. When talking about marriage in a relationship, age matters.
In different ages, there are also different activities. Some activities are not appropriate to the different age. In relationships,there must a bonding like activities both can enjoy. For instance, if a younger partner like extreme activities and adventure, these can harm or cause discomfort to his/ her older partner. They usually cannot bond together in the activities that they like, and it can weaken their bond and relationship. Difference in activities, can still connect couple by sharing their experience in different activities. When talking about bonding in the same activities in a relationship, age matters.
People change but our malleability decreases as we age. Changing a major part of our life like our habit and lifestyle is not easy. For example, someone has been a smoker for decades, there are high chance that they are not going to quit even their partner disagrees with them. Talking about those matter can cause quarrel which is not healthy to a relationship. Sometimes habits and lifestyle of each other don't fit well with each other. Anyways, if people really lobe their partner, they will find was to change for a better. When talking about habits and lifestyle in a relationship, age matters.
All people die at anytime but we are aware that older people have higher chance of dying compared to younger ones. Older people can easily get diseases that can cause death. Relationship with big age gap do not last compared to those who have similar age when a person dies because of aging. Having the same age, means higher chance of staying together. Yet, most people do not consider this a thing for a reason that death is natural. When talking about death which shortens relationship and wanting to have long relationship, age matters.
Life goals differ between age stages. It can cause lack of time in the relationship, which is not good to hear. For example a student have a relationship with an older person: the student mostly spend their his/ her time on studies and the older one for his/ her work and career. Their interest can also differ because of life goals. It is good to have common interest in a relationship. If a couple really love each other, they will find ways to have time and sharing of interests. When talking about life goals in a relationship, age matters.
Based on data charted by family law firm JMW Solicitors, 20% divorces it is now handling which involved a large age gap between partners. It is a huge percentage even this kind of relationship is much small in number compare to relationship with small age gap. A research from. A research from Emory University shows the bigger the age gap in marriage, the more likely the couple will not last. A research group Household, Income and Labor Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) compiled 13 years of data from 8,682 households and 19,914 individuals. “The people who are married to much older or younger spouse tend to have larger declines in marital satisfaction compared with those who are married to a spouse who are similar in age, ”according to HILDA study.And according to Randy Olson,senior data scientist at University of Pennysilvenia,“The larger the age gap between you and your partners,the more likely your marriage will end in divorce. " When the following statements of expert, data and statistics about relationships are concluded, age matters.
“Love is boundless and is ageless," it is true, so love your neighbors, family ,friends and even the whole mankind. But it can be applied easily for romantic love and relationships.We should consider factors like age.In conclusion,when talking about relationship, age matters.
This is my position paper made for a school requirement last school year (Grade 11). I really love writing this because I used to write editorial.
Given the evidences above, honestly I don't believe that age matters in a relationship. I have no choice but to defend my stand. Did I defend it right? What's your thoughts and comments about the topic? Do you believe that age matters in a relationship?
Q:Where did my read.cash earnings go? A: to my regrets and lessons.
Once upon a time, a few mistakes ago, I started to join read.cash. I've been here for over eight months which I considered to be a long time. I am inactive here before especially in my earlier months due to the reason that I doubt it, then I regretted doubting this site and missed so many opportunities. Also, I've been inactive lately because of schoolworks, I hate my modules. In my existence in this platform, I've written not so many articles which I guess still be counted in my fingers. Some of those are my poems and book review written for school requirements.
Despite my inactivity and few written works I still have a pretty decent amount of income. I considered it big for my age and as a student also thinking by just doing a passion–writing, I earned. Just like everything and everyone else, earnings have a destination.
I asked myself,***"where did my read.cash earnings go?*** ". It went to my regrets and lessons.
A part of my earnings went to my personal needs expenses or what I considered needs.
**NEEDS:**
Recently, I went shopping for my personal hygiene and toiletries, I use different brands to what they use in our household;snacks like oatmeal and biscuits, food that I can eat when I stay at night ,writing or watching anime; and a thing I must not forget to buy–my coffee, this time i bought a huge pack of decaffeinated coffee to avoid being too caffeine dependent.
Sometimes, I buy load from my money in coins.ph when I really need it for my schoolworks, class,or online exam. I do this especially in times that I don't have money in my pocket or the stores nearby are already closed at night or when I really need to call or text someone as soon as possible.
Most of the time, my cashed out money goes to my transportation needs when I must pass my modules or get these and other requirements at school. I frequently go to school plus the fact that fares are affected by the pandemic by reducing passengers(from Php 15 tricycle fare to Php 30), so I spend so much for transportation.
Then, some also went to my school supplies like pens, yellow pads, staples. Furthermore, I spend for printing and materials for projects.
Obviously, there are part of my earnings that went to my wants. Scratch that, let me rephrase that. Most of my income went to my wants.
**WANTS:**
From the past months I ordered stuff like a One Piece shirts, sliders, multiple face masks from OXGN in Shopee. I like those and these are on sale. I also bought an official and authentic Twenty One Pilots band shirt. Of course, the money is from my earnings in read. cash and noise. cash that came from my coins. ph wallet.
I also used my funds to buy load for data even though I don't need it. Primarily to just watch anime or scroll in social medias.
Of course, some of my money went to my stomach. I spend frequently ,buying snacks like street food from neigbors. And eating out with my friends, I'm fine eith this one though because we rarely see each others nowadays.
Most of my income went to my wants then later on went to my regrets and lessons.
I regretted how I spend my earnings on my wants rather than things I need in the present and for my future needs.
I think, this proves that I lost a part of me that is thrifty. Back then, when I was a kid I always have a coin bank to save my money. And my parents will borrow my money and you know what will happen to my money. When I was in Grade 7-8, I am able to save money even though my daily allowance is just Php20 to be able to buy my first cellphone(Just a Cherry Mobile phone worth Php3,500) that later on, my classmate dropped and broke. I am still saving though and brought another phone–Samsung Galaxy J1 when I was in Grade 9 and lost it before reaching 1 year.
After a lot of effort saving money, I guess that my system forgot how to save money. To share this, my phone this day was just given to me by my grandmonther when I was in Grade 10 and I am curently a Grade 12 student. Having a new phone can be my motivation to save money when I am in Grade 10 but I didn't save any penny.
I have big regrets not saving money or saving it and spending it after–just a 'ningas-cogon' behavior.
Also, my earnings went to my lessons. When I had income on my own and I have control on it, the more I realized the value of money and regretted spending on these petty things. I learned that I should spend my money wisely, let it grow, and work harder.
Despite my regrets in spending my money on my wants, I am little proud of myself. I used my own money to buy things I need and I want rather than asking for money from my grandparents whose business in the public market was affected by the pandemic or to my mother who has no stable income.
Earnings I got in read.cash went to my regrets and lessons. This time, I will make sure that it will go to my goals. I am planning to save my earnings to activate a bank account when I reached the minimum amount needed to be deposited when starting. While saving, I will also invest in other cryptocurrencies so my money can grow. I am also going to have a loading business from my money stored in my coins. ph wallet.
I am going to do these so I can have enough amount to buy laptop, I will need this because I am going to college next academic year. Also, I am planning to buy a bicycle for my productive leisure.
I wish all of these will happen and I can write an article soon entitled:
"Q:Where did my read. cash earnings go? A: to my goals."
Wish me luck!
I read a lot articles and posts here about their own investments, helping other people, and using money for something important like their child's health. I am also thankful for everyone here for inspiring me. I am motivated and inspired to reach my goals.
I earned in read. cash and most went to my regrets and lessons. Soon, I will make sure it will go to my goals. I will ask you the same question,too. I really want to know your answers for my motivation and inspiration and so I can learn something from you.
Where did your read. cash earning go?
My Top 3 Heartbreaking Anime That Made Me Cry
People enjoy anime because of the its story or plot, lovely and relatable character,or the emotions they have while and after watching. Anime can make people laugh and happy, mad, curious, inspired, feel kilig,heat and also sad and crying. Countless of anime, despite the genre,are seem to made to make many heartbroken,empty and cry.
There are countless other sad anime in the world. But here's my list of top 3 anime that made me burst into tears.
`No cutting of onions. Just anime with spoilers ahead.`
**3.Angel Beats! (Enjeru Biitsu!)**
**Genre:** `Action` `Comedy` `drama` `Adventure`
**Year:** `2010`
**Series:** `13 Episodes + 2 OVA`
Angel Beats! tells the journey students who experienced trauma amd hardship in the past life in a high school in the purgatory, and they must overcome and accept these to move on to after life. Otonoshi who has amnesia meets Yuri and joined the After Life Battlefront (Shinds Seka Sensen)or SSS to rebel and fight against the Student Council President, Kanade or who they Angel, who they believed to be a God's associate.
"Even if we forget the faces of the faces our friends, we will never forget the bonds that were carved into our souls," said Otonashi Yuzuru.
Watching numerous and different anime can make you forget in many instances the anime you already watched,including the characters' names and faces. But,we can still feel and remember the emotion and memories they gave us. It is because there are also 'bond'and attachment made by viewers and character when watching. Otonoshi is definitely right, these were carved into our souls. But must remember that this 'bond'may end.
Ironically, Angel Beats! is about finality and acceptance to move on, but closure was not fully provided–either for the viewers and protagonists themselves. Seeing how characters accept their past and move on makes me feel the sadness and happiness at the same time.Watching the moments every characters leave is like piercing our hearts and leaving us with ambiguous ending is adding salt into injuries.
The last episode is really heart breaking in which when they graduated and moved on to afterlife. I can't really explain what I feel–there's joy, sadness, emptiness, kilig, and curiousity. I think, I don't want to watch Angel Beats! again to break my heart for the second time.
2. Assasination Classroom (Ansatsu Kyushito)
**Genre:** `Action` `Comedy` `Science` `Fiction` `Shonen`
**Year:** `2015`
**Series:** `47 Eps. +1 OVA (2 seasons)`
Assasination Classroom follows a story of strange, round-headed, yellow tentacled octopoid being working as a homeroom teacher to the discriminated Class 3-E filled with students considered 'misfits' who were expelled from the school's main building. Class 3-E has a mission which is to kill Korosensei to save the world and earn ten billion yen from the government.
"Fun times are bound to end, " Korosensei said to his students. Teachers know better. He is right. When we are able to achieve our goals that we have from the start? Should we be happy? I bet, you would answer yes. But, I guess, not in the case of Assassination Classroom.
Assassination Classroom, like in a real classroom setting: lets us to enjoy fun times,makes memories with everyone,and also gives reason to shed out tears. Laughs and enjoyment from humors, characters, and events became pain and sadness and excitement from actions turned into emptiness. Also, revelations and our realizations, and character backstory will make us more emotional,just like in case of Korosensei who was not actually an antagonist. And lastly, our attachments with characters particularly to Korosensei will be our heartbreak.
In the Episode 46: Graduation is where I really burst into tears. Tears streaming down my face in this episode especially in scenes of last roll call of attendance and moments they bid farewell. Before the moment they assasinate the teacher by stabbing him in his heart, my heart is already pierced a thousand times. I cried together with the class grieving for their teachers loss. They fulfilled their mission–killing Korosensei,which left me empty. As their memories flash back, it is more heartbreaking. I wish I has the strength to watch it again, but I think I will cry again the second time.
1. Grave of the Fireflies (Hotaru no haka)
**Genre**: `Animation` `War` `Drama`
**Year:** `1988`
**Movie:** `1h 33m`
The Grave of the Fireflies revolves around the survival of siblings in the middle of World War II. Losing both of their parents, they live with their not kind or generous relatives. With aunt's unfair treatment and selfiness made Seita realize it's time to leave. With no healthy foods and proper hygiene available as day goes by, his younger sister grows weaker and sick.
"How goes the war? " "It's getting worse,I heard....," A part of conversation between Seita and Setsuko's aunt and uncle. Their situation is heartbreaking –the war.
The most heartbreaking and depressing is the harsh reality happening in the world which is reflected in this. Also,this will be more painful if you have siblings. Grave of the Fireflies shows it in a realistic and heartbreaking ways.
One of the most hearbreaking amd tearjerker scene in this movie is the moment where Setsuko is having hallucinations of eating and eventually died. The tears accumulated in my head since the beginning fell because of this scene. I cried like a baby until the end of the movie which continues for hours and existential crisis for years. It is really painful to see people especially children suffering in a thing which they are victims and not involved. Setsuko and Seita, like everyone else,suffered from loss, death, hunger, malnutrition and sickness, and trauma. Honestly,Grave of the Fireflies is not actually sad, it is depressing. From the very beginning you can tell it is the most heartbreaking anime/movie ever. I already watched it twice and I still have the heartbreak the second time I watched it. I think there's no third one, because I don't want to feel that pain again.
Anime is not just about the story, plot or characters. The lessons it gives and the emotions we had also matters. There are anime that will give us heartbreak and leave us crying.
What anime made you cry or sad? And why? I'm interested to hear about that. Also, suggest other heartbreaking anime.
My Top 10 Favorite Albums
"Music to me is the air I breathe. It's the blood that pumps through my veins that keeps me alive," said Billie Joe Armstrong.
I spend most of my time in solitude while ears are plugged and music is playing. Ignoring the either noisy environment around or the deafening silence that I both hate most of the time.
The star is absolutely right. Music keeps me alive, sane and okay without any exaggeration. Sometimes, I feel some songs are talking to me; telling me that I and everyday will be okay, that I'm worthy, and inspiring me to fight and continue. Also,music provides food for thought and fills the emptiness inside.
Blood that keeps us alive flows in our veins and will enter our heart just like music. Some songs and albums will always have a place in our hearts. It's our favorite music.
Here's my top 10 favorite albums:
****10.American Idiot - Green Day****
*My Top 3 Picks:* `Boulevard of Broken Dreams` `Wake Me Up When September Ends` `American Idiot`
American Idiot is the seventh studio album by American rock band Green Day released on September 21,2004. This concept album, dubbed by band members as "punk rock opera", follows the story of Jesus of Suburbia, a lower-middle class American adolescent anti-hero.
I really love this album. It reminds me of times when I was a kid. I used to hear songs from this album in karaoke especially my top faves in this album- Boulevard of Broken Dreams and Wake Me Up When September Ends. Listening to American Idiot makes me feel nostalgic and emotional.
**9.Meteora-Linkin Park**
*My Top 3 Picks:* `Somewhere I Belong` `Numb` `Breaking the Habit`
Meteora is Linkin Park's second studio album released on March 25,2003 under Warner Bros. Records. The name of the album is taken from a rock formations in Greece–an orthodox monasteries, having the same name.
The same from my reasons earlier, Meteora makes me feel nostalgic. I used to hear songs from this in Karaoke in my childhood, especially Numb. Songs are also relatable and makes me emotional inside.
**8.Trench- Twenty One Pilots**
*My Top 3 Picks:* `Neon Gravestones` `My Blood` `The Hype`
Trench is Twenty One Pilots' fifth studio album released on October 5,2018. It is a concept album that revolves around a metaphorical city of 'Dema' and surrounding valley called 'Trench' and it explains topic like mental health, doubt, and suicide.
The storyline of this album is superb and deep. I love the lyrics from each song which few understands and many are relatable. Listening to this makes me sadder and happier at the same time and feel connected to band members especiqlly to the songwriter. Listening to Trench, makes me feel that I am not alone.
**7.Lover-Taylor Swift**
*My Top 3 Picks:* `Paper Rings` `I Forgot That You Existed` `Death By A Thousand Cut`
Taylor Swift's Lover is her seventh studio album which is released on August 23,2019. It was dubbed by her as "a love letter to love itself ". The lyrics of songs in this album cover different aspects of love, like contentment, infatuation, lust, and heartache ,and political themes like LGBT rights, feminism, and disillusionment.
Taylor Swift considers her albums like chapters of her life. So I'm happy for her to have this happy, positive and full of love chapter,unlike the dark Reputation that precedes it. This album also shows her political evolution. Songs show her lyrical prowess and songs are catchy. Listening to Lover gives me positive vibes and and a feeling of being in love and being heartbroken. I'm a lover of Lover.
**6.I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful yet So Unaware of It. -The 1975**
*My Top 3 Picks:* `If I Believe You` `UGH!` `The Sound`
An English rock band The 1975 released their second studio album which is I Like It When You Sleep,for You Are So Beautiful yet So Unaware of It.
I am hooked to this album, the first time I listen to it. Songs are really catchy and have a 70's and 80's vibes and every songs is unique. Some songs also give a food for thought like If I Believe You which is about faith. Some songs makes me feel that I should dance and some makes me want to lay down and cry myself to sleep or think. I love this album, for it is so beautiful yet so unaware of it.
**5.Science and Faith-The Script**
*My Top 3 Picks:* `Nothing` `Science and Faith` `For the First Time`
Irish rock band The Script's Science and Faith is their second studio album released. It debuted at the top of charts in Ireland and United Kingdom.
Listening to Science and Faith makes me in love and heartbroken just like their other songs. Songs of The Script is relatable(like thw hits The Man Who Can't Be Moved and Breakeven) but I feel more connection in this album especially to the song Nothing. I don't know why, even I'm not in love or heartbroken, listening to this album makes me like I am one.
**4.Nothing Happens - Wallows**
*My Top 3 Picks:* `Are You Bored Yet?` `Scrawny` `Do Not Wait`
Nothing Happens is the debut studio album of American alternative /indie band Wallows released on March 22,2019.
Honestly, listening to it for the first time, only two songs there that I like. I sleep on this album for the first time. But now, it grows on me and now my favorite.
**3.Songs About Jane-Maroon5**
*My Top 3 Picks:* `She Will Be Loved` `Sunday Morning` `Must Get Out`
Maroon 5's Songs About Jane is their debut studio album released on June 25, 2002. It is a sleeper hit. All songs have a reference to Adam Levine's past relationship with ex-girlfriend, Jane Herman.All the songs are either written or co-written by him and admitted that every songs has at least one song about Jane.
It is my most favorite album of the band and most songs from this album are my favorite like She Will Be Loved, Harder to Breathe, Sunday Morning and Must Get Out. This album is also nostalgic, I used to hear it from karaoke too when I was kid, especially Sunday Morning. Songs About Jane makes me feel what is like to be in a relationship. I wish Maroon could make another album like this again.
**2.folklore-Taylor Swift**
*My Top 3 Picks:* `this is me trying` `the 1` `invisible strings`
folklore is Taylor Swift's eight studio album released by surprise on July 24,2020 and recorded 'in isolation'during the pandemic. folklore won Album of the Year in this Years GRAMMY Awards held recently.
Taylor described folklore as a'wistful and full of escapism' which is also 'sad, beautiful, tragic.' She is not wrong though,it is indeed beautifully sad which makes me empty , emotional and happy at the same time. I really love the lyrics which is relatable like in This is me trying and the story telling in this album. This album really save and help me in this pandemic. I'm thankful to Taylor that she released it in a time like this.
**1.Vessel-Twenty One Pilots**
*My Top 3 Picks:* `Migraine` `Ode to Sleep` `Holding on to You`
Twenty One Pilots' album Vessel is their third studio album, which is their first album released via Fueled By Ramen. This album contains tracks recorded from their previous album Regional at Best and also some new tracks.
According to Tyler Joseph in a fan interview, the meaning behind the album title is that a vessel(our body) is an object carrying something far more important than the outershells, and when it die, that is set frer and lives on just like the songs' message and meaning.
Vessel is my most favorite album from Twenty One Pilots. It's my comfort album and I really listen to it when I am empty and sad. I really love the track list; all songs are great and relatable. Skipping a song in this album is I considered a crime. I love the lyrics and melody of all the songs,varying from each other. When I listen to this album, I feel connected to the band and seems like they are talking to and inspiring me. I also cried to songs in Vessel especially Truce. Vessel is not just an album it is a savior and a friend. I know how this band and album help save people and always there for them when they need it.
Listening to music is a huge part of my life and existence. It has a space in my heart. How about you? What albums are renting in your heart freely,your favorites?
Cryptography Mania: THE PIGPEN CIPHER
**THE CIPHER**
The Pigpen Cipher is alternatively called as the Freemason's ciphet,Masonic cipher, tic-tac-toe cipher,and Napoleon cipher.Looking at the grids,these may look like pigpens,hence the name.It is a geometric substitution cipher,which means graphical symbols,in this case,fragments derived from grids are assigned to each letters of the alphabet.
**THE HISTORY**
The origin of the Pigpen Cipher is unknown but it's believed to be an ancient cipher. Records of this cipher have been found that go way back to at least the 18th Century up to popular culture.
Freemasons used the Pigpen cipher so often that this cipher is usually called Freemason's cipher. They used it in early 18th Century to keep their records of history and rites private,and for correspondence between lodge leaders. Engravings with pigpen cipher can also be found on tombstones of Freemasons.
The pigpen cipher resurfaced during the American Civil War,when a postal worker found an envelope containing such symbols addressed to a suspected Confederate spy. Also, during that time,the cipher was used by Union prisoners in Confederate prisons in communication.
Several works of popular culture used the pigpen cipher. Dan Brown used this cipher in his 2009 novel The Lost Symbol,not only in book itself but also in the artwork of U.S version of the bookjacket that provides a puzzle. Another, in The Trap,a 2009 Lancanshire Children's Book of the Year nominee, a variation of the cipher was used. In the computer game Assassin's Creed II, the pigpen cipher was used in the hidden glyph puzzle number 10, titled Apollo. Also, the cipher is the key in solving of the third secret message found on "The Science of Deduction", the fictional website of Sherlock Holmes created to accompany the BBC series Sherlock.
**THE ENCRYPTION**
The encryption process is a piece of cake, it's just substituting symbols with the designated letter. The symbols are assigned to the letters using the key show below,where the letters is located to the parts of the grids they represents.
Therefore;
For example:
To encrypt the word NIGHT, see each letters in the grid,where they are placed.
When encrypted, the NIGHT would be:
**THE DECRYPTION**
The decryption process is just a reverse process of the encryption. Using the same key, just locate the symbol of the ciphertext and replace it with the letter that the symbol represents by that part of the grid.
For example:
The ciphertext above can be deciphered when we use the key. See each symbols of the ciphertext in the grids and identify what letters that can be seen on them.
So, when decrypted the word would be SWIFTIE.
**THE DISCUSSION**
The simplicity of the pigpen cipher is it's strength. It is easy to learn, math is not needed,time-saving, and symbols are only complicated as you make them out to be. This cipher is relatively easy to memorize so having a key is not really needed in this case. A good thing in cryptography because keys can easily be intercepted. Also,the pigpen cipher is very verstile, a reason why numerous variations of this cipher exists.
Simplicity is not just a strength but also it's weakness. It is easy to crack as it is easy to recognize. And it can be decrypted through trial-and-error and frequency analysis.
Cryptography is fun. If you're interested, try to decrypt the message below.
Cells at Work: Ep. 1 (Anime Review) must watch!
Entertainment and learning, both things some animes can deliver at the same time. 'Cells at Work!’ is a perfect example—the anime adaptation of original manga series produced by David Productions. This biology-comedy anime revolves around anthromorphic cells working together and performing each roles to keep the human body healthy, their world.
Cells at Work! focuses on two main protagonists: the newcomer Red Blood Cell (AE3803), who is always lost and troubled, and the dauntless and ruthless White Blood Cell (U-11146), who she always encounters.
The first episode is entitled ‘Pneumococcus’ based from the first chapter of the manga having the same title.It is about a strain of bacteria,which is the title, attacked the human body and cells are at work!
Typically, a jolly opening theme 'Mission! Ken・Kou・Dai・Ichi ’ (Mission! Health Comes First)greets audience a hello. The response-and-call song is performed by the four voice actors and actresses of the main protagonists in the series,namely: Kana Hanazawa as the Red Blood Cell, Tomoaki Maneo as the White Blood Cell, Daisuke Ono as Killer T Cell, and Kikuko Inoue as Macrophage.They have their own part of the song,duet in some part between Kana and Tomoaki, and Daisuke and Kikuko, and part they sing synchronously. In their individual part,the character that they gave voice to is working on their duties. Dialogs in the song can also be found. Other cells working and different pathogens wreaking havoc in the human body can also be seen in the visuals while the upbeat song is playing. These are the must-wait and must-see in the episode and even in the upcoming ones. This opening is catchy,cheerful and educational. Some reasons I think it will be popular and is perfect for their target audience, the children.I find this song as inspiring too,giving me the thought that are things that fight for me.The song is about the determination of cells to perform their duties for us despite struggles and challenges.
Mamiko Noto have a brief narration about the human body and cells working for it after the opening song and episode title card. Her voice is gentle and adds excitement and interest to the audience. The narrator is also the one who introduces a character,either cells or pathogens, including their characteristics and functions or effects in the body.
The plot of the episode is about invasion of Pneumococcus and elimination later on;with a 'superheroes saved the day' concept. The major conflict of this episode, appeared from the beginning,is between the cells and the bacteria and I never expected that it will be resolved not by the way White Blood Cells used to—bloody violence. The plot might be predictable but there are unexpected events that will make you feel outsmarted by the villains just like the protagonist ,and the other way around. I didn't encounter a plotline or conflicts that will continue to the following episodes,thus I conclude that it is a series with standalone episodes. A thing common for many comedy anime series, and even Western cartoons that are mostly loved by children. Each episodes feels like a different lessons for the audiences.
Characters are introduced along the way when the main protagonists met them by chance, like the Red Blood Cell encountered the Macrophage in the spleen because she is lost. Usually,just their name flashed on screen and they are the who are not yet relevant in the episode. Character designs help you to to identify and differentiate main protagonists to their kind. AE383, Red Blood Cell, has a average body, noticeable short red hair,and eye-catching amber brown eyes, these make her unique among other red blood cells. She wears red blood cell uniform and a red hat that has a shape similar to actual red blood cells. U-1146, White Blood Cell, has a pale skin and white hair, and wears a white blood cell uniform;all resembling the cell color. He has a remarkable dull eyes, just one was exposed most of the time. Their personality can change drastically at times just like how White Blood Cell becomes more aggresive and brutal in fights. The main protagonists in this episode are likeable and complements each other, so I think they probably will be shipped by audiences. And Red Blood Cell's personality and traits including being always lost and having a little knowledge pave the way for audiences' learning, when the time she knows about something or someone:can be an organ,a process taking place in human body, cells or even pathogens.
Voice plays a huge role also in showing emotions of characters and their remarkable personalities. Kana Hanazawa really did a great job by giving voice to lively and cheery AE3803, even though it is too different from her previous roles including the authoritive,cold and mysterious Kanade Tachibana in Angel Beats!. The same with Tomoaki Maneo who voice acts to other main protagonist, the aloof and ruthless U-1146 that is too far to his past roles like Moshihito Usaida of School Babysitters who is gentle and genuine. Voice actor and actress of main protagonists in this episode possess versatility and adaptability, and they gave justice to the characters.
The animation of Cells at Work! is really common among comedy anime series. Common visual symbols are widely used in the episode: the speed lines which can be seen during fights in between cells and bacteria that adds excitement and intensity to the fight;background patterns,the character defamation and exaggerated facial features such as the popping vein,colored face, X-shaped eyes etc. make up most of funny scenes. These are important in this series. From wide angle view of the human body represented as a city to the close up view of characters, the episodes show different angle views and shots. These can widen the perspective of viewers and help them to understand more about the settings and each characters. As someone becoming older, I really appreciate the story and lessons I've learned more than the series' animation.
The episode end with the calming song 'CheerS' by ClariS. A perfect song as ending,as if it is bidding farewell to tge viewers.
First episode of an anime series can give you first impression and decision whether you want to continue watching or not. Cells at Work!: Pneumococcus is better from what I expected. I thought it will be just anime with story and conversation with randomly added trivias. I was wrong, things you can learn is rooted to the plot and I'm impressed. Music and voicing are impressive ,showcasing the talent and versatility of voice actors, and make the the episode more interesting and engaging. Characters are likeable and relatable just like the Red Blood Cell who is determined yet struggling with the job. The animation will make it more popular to the target audience wigh its cartoonish nature. This episode did not only just bring entertainment but also knowledge. I crave for more and I can't wait what's in the next episodes.
I expect in the next episode that new problems taking place in human body or new pathogens will emerge.I am sure that cells will work!
I wrote this because I planned to apply for AniRadio Ph Anime Reviewers. I only wrote one because I am busy with school works–a reason I didn't continue my application.
Nyctofiles: All About Me!
I am @Nyctofiles ,a 17 year-old high school student from the Philippines. My username came from the word "Nyctophile" which means love of night and darkness. For me, nyctofiles are the pieces I write or post during the night. I am not new in this platform, I'm on read.cash for more than three months. But I'm inactive, that's why I haven't post an introduction yet. I discovered this website through a post in Facebook. I doubted it at first, so I just published my poems written as schoolworks because I am worried that I will just waste my time and effort writing for nothing. Yes, it's my mistake and I have regrets about that. I became active last week, and proved myself that writing here is not wasting time. I just published my first written article for this site,inspired of things happening around.
I really love and enjoy writing. I am a campus journalist–a sport writer and used to editorial writing. I qualified last year for the Regional School Press Conference(RSPC) for Sports Writing in Filipino,even though I'm new in this category. Sadly,because of this pandemic,there are no presscons this school year. I usually write poems in my diary for expression of my feelings and relief, rather than tweeting or talking about these. My aloof personality and caring about what people think are some of the reasons. And that's why I love read.cash , I can write without anyone knowing my identity. Also,I really want my article to influence and inform other people ,that's why I have hard time choosing a topic. Wriiting helps me to release what's in my chest,fill my emptiness,kill my time ,and hone my skills ,and I want to help others by sharing my ideas,knowledge, experiences,and emotions through writing.
While my hands are busy moving my pen and mind thinking and controlling my hands, my ears and soul are enjoying the rhythm of music. I love listening to bands/artist including twenty one pilots,The Script, Green Day, Linkin Park, Taylor Swift,The 1975, Panic! at the Disco,and Maroon 5 and to some anime songs. I would also like to recommend Wallows, Younger Hunger,half•alive, and Yungblud,give them a try and you won't regret. I always write while listening to music to distract myself from noise or sometimes from silence,and I ending up distracted by music–banging my head and tapping my pen. But it's okay ,as long as , I'm enjoying, a thing we need for our own good during this crisis.
The word write rhymes with night and express rhymes with darkness. I love writing during the night and in the dark. Obviously, I'm a nyctophile and a night owl. I don't really know why I'm more productive and active during this part of the day. While writing,I enjoy a cup of coffee,preferably black to make me more engaged and focused. Writing should be enjoyed,not forcing yourself to do it, so choose a right moment and place and have a willingness.
These might be irrelevant,but I also love anime,reading,making friends online,and watching series. I would like to travel around the world in the future. And I'm interested in cryptocurrencies since 2017 and this site is the only site I found that is legitimate.
I'm not pro in writing and I nees more experiences so I would really love to have your feedbacks,criticisms,comments and suggestions. There are times that I wouldn't be alble to reply to these,because I'm busy with my modules and reviewing for CETs, I genuinely appreciated these. Thank you! Stay safe and stay alive.
Writing.Night.Music.Coffee.
Again,I'm Nyctofiles, doing things I love together with other things I also love.
Logical Fallacies: Know to Avoid
Logical Fallacies are like air,they are everywhere and seem unnoticeable for many people. But unlike air,these are not beneficial and should be avoided.
I spend most of my time in social medias—in Facebook,Twitter,you name it. A thing I noticed that is always present is logical fallacy— a thing I farther understand in our Philosophy class.I commonly encounter logical fallacies in the comment section of a post in Facebook about news that can be linked to politics.
Logical Fallacies are the common flaws and errors in the structure of an argument which undermine and invalidate the argument. These are the faulty reasoning in arguments, so these must be avoided and identified for a bigger chance winning an argument. Knowing these logical fallacies is important to avoid using these, to compose better arguments,and identify logical missteps.
The following are some of these logical fallacies:
**AD HOMINEM**
Ad Hominem is a faulty reasoning based on the feelings of the arguer,rather logic,evidences, and reasons.It is often an attack to a person's character rather than one's argument.
Example: "Puro ka reklamo. Ano ba'ng ambag mo?" (Attacking the person rather than his argument of a complaint.)
**HASTY GENERALIZATION**
Hasty Generalization is making a conclusion from a small sample size,rather than basing at statistics and data that are much more in line with the average situation,making the argument not logically justified.It happens when one generalize an experience, rather than bigger sample size,statistics,evidences and facts.
Example: "Terorista lahat ng nag-aaral diyan."
(Forming a conclusion that all students of a certain university are terrorists based on small numbers known.)
**FALSE DILEMMA**
False Dilemma also called False Dichotomy or "Either-or" Fallacy is a logical fallacy that only process limited,usually two options or side despite the existence of countless possible outcomes or sides.
Example: "Kung ayaw niyo sa Dolomite,ibalik nalang yung basura."
(Disagreeing about having dolomite in the rehabilitation of Manila Bay,doesn't mean they want the trash back.They may want long-lasting rehabilitation or prioritize something else.)
**SLIPPERY SLOPE**
Slippery Slope is a logical fallacy a is an argument , without providing evidences,that a specific action or proposition will cause an undesirable outcome in a series of events.
Example:(Stop with the seriousness,it's time for humor. This is my fave example of slippery slope.)
Lost your pen= no pen
No pen= no notes
No notes= no study
No study=no fail
Fail=no diploma
No diploma=no work
If you lose you pen,you won't have work.
Do you use logical fallacies in arguments? If yes, it step up the game and change. It is important to know and avoid logical fallacies to have better arguments and to be a better arguer.
I don't mean to offend anyone(of there is), I just want to give advice and knowledge.
Sierra Madre Philippines : Let's Protect Our Protection (sign the petition)
Also known as the "backbone of Luzon,” Sierra Madre is the longest mountain range in the Philippines. With a length of over 540 kilometers ranging from the province of Cagayan down to the province of Quezon, spanning ten provinces. It is home to high biodiversity of flora and fauna, compromises of numerous watersheds and major river systems, and acts as natural shield that protects mainland Luzon against typhoons.
The Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park, is the largest protected area in the country where different endemic tree species,orchids such as Dendrobium aclinia, and a lot more species can be found. Also, it is habitat for numerous endemic animals including Northern Sierra Madre Forest monitor lizard (Varanus bitatawa) which belongs to the three frugivorous lizards that are only found in the country, Sierra Madre shrew mouse, and Sierra Madre forest mouse. The forest cover is composed of diffrent tree species including Almaciga, Kamagong, and our national tree–Narra. Critically endangered species can also be found in fragmented locations:the Isabela oriole, Philippine crocodile,and the Philippine eagle. Watersheds and river systems that plays a vital role in biodiversity and supplies water to different parts of Luzon can be located in this area.
Sierra Madre is Luzon's natural barrier against typhoons coming from the Pacific Ocean. Because of its large surface area, composed of many slopes and curves, it is able to weaken typhoon once it hits this region and able to curb the effects of an imminent disaster. In 2018, typhoon Ompong (with an international name Mangkhut) might be the strongest typhoon to hit the country with devastating effects that is hampered by this natural barrier. Ompong's wind speed slowed to 160 kph from 220 kph sustained winds after hitting the mountain range with a supertyphoon category. Typhoon Ompong is just one of countless typhoons and cyclones that the Sierra Madre protected Luzon from.
Sierra Madre is going through a lot of unprecedented human-induced environmental changes. These will threaten the flora and fauna, denude watersheds and river systems, and will cause adverse effects like flashfloods, landslides and siltation which are observable these times during calamities just like typhoons. The "backbone of Luzon” that is protecting us also needs our protection especially against human activities such as illegal logging, mining, slash-and-burn farming, charcoal production and intentional burning, and major constructions like Kaliwa Dam.
Please, sign the petition. Let our voices be heard.
https://www.change.org/p/president-rodrigo-duterte-stop-kaliwa-dam-save-our-future
https://www.change.org/p/president-duterte-do-not-sign-the-contract-for-the-kaliwa-dam-project-with-chinese-president-xi-jinping?recruiter=1163880033&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=psf_combo_share_abi&utm_term=psf_combo_share_abi&recruited_by_id=48215ae0-24b8-11eb-9990-ad757ab68b5a
Poetry 101:Poem about having hope inthese hard times
Hope
Are you still awake in the middle of the night,
While demons inside your head fight?
Even you feel so tired, you can't sleep,
Because of your many thought you keep.
Remember, after those nights, the sun will rise again,
And shine to alleviate your pain.
Are you drowning in a deep sea of problems?
You can't swim while carried by rushing currents.
With predators like Hopelessness lurking around you,
You feel desperate, without knowing what to do.
Even the most scourging sea can be calm,
And the buoy of your solutions will come.
Are you trapped in a depressing dungeon?
Surrounded by darkness, feeling being alone.
Stomach is empty just like yourself,
And tired waiting for other people to help.
The time will come that you will find the key,
Setting you free and making you happy.
Do you still have a burden from the past in your back?
Everytime it hurts you when memories flashback.
Like mistakes and failures you've done that doesn't define you,
What others said and done that stick in your mind like glue,
And those people that came and left that taught you lessons.
The past help you to grow, but please learn to move on.
Are you still alive but barely breathing,
Wondering why you're still existing?
You think your life is tearing you apart,
Then there are times you want to stop your beating heart.
Remember, in all the things you've been trough,
There is hope, always be there for you.
Inspiring poem for everyone because life is sometimes hard.
It was my written in school as an activity for one of my subjects.Not a professional,just high school student, but I'm open for constructive criticism.
Please support. Thank you! You can also check my other work.
Poetry 101: Poem about Hope
Unleash the Hope
Like the wild feathered creatures in an open cage,
The myriad evils flew out the box in rampage.
Pandora shut the box with hate but she's too late.
All freed to bring hell on Earth–humanity's fate.
Disaster’ wrath scourging over the land and sea,
While accompanied by Havoc and Misery.
Bombs and firearms ready, War was set upon men.
Blowing up minds and shooting their hearts, now and then.
Then Poverty came, many pockets were emptied,
While famine dilated men's pupils, stomach cleared.
Noxious Disease spreds power over the planet,
And Death with touch that grabs souls for Hades to meet.
Then some evils are lurking within humankind,
In their keen pink tongues,effete hearts and wicked minds.
They seem to reign; humans shed tears, sweat and blood,
And they need the silver lining in every cloud.
Evils around the clock, humankind's on the rocks.
Humans need what's left inside the Pandora's box;
Their fire in cold dark nights, rope to pull in steep slopes.
Please open the box again and unleash the Hope.
Sorry, not a professional. I'm just a high school student. This poem was written in school. Open for suggestions to improve :)
It should be a five four-stanza poem with 12 syllables each line. (The structure becomes different after publishing)
@Nyctofiles
