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Artist Review: Ziyi Wang

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Humans possess free will – an ability to shape our lives and choose our paths. But how free are we, truly? Raised by parents who embody ancestral traditions, we carry the influences of those who came before us. Our environments further mould us, creating a delicate tension between individuality and inheritance. This dynamic interplay is central to Ziyi Wang’s evocative film and performance work. Her art invites us to question: How much do we honour ancestral traditions, and how much do we adapt them to navigate the present without severing ties to the past?

Ziyi Wang (b. 1999) is a digital artist specialising in moving images, experimental music, and mysticism. Movements recently have been presented in the exhibition “Call It a Day” at Lipont Gallery, Vancouver, Canada. In Movements, we see the performer dance in a forest and verbalise these connections to her past and the rituals that tie her to her ancestors. While it ties to her personal history, ritual movements through expressive body language occur throughout human history in Native American traditions to the whirling dervishes in Sufism. There’s something spiritual about ritualised movement that can connect us to the past, deliver us to a trance-like state and discover deeper meaning. These movements anchor us to the past, ground us in the present, and at times, transport us into a meditative state where deeper meaning can unfold.

Movements (Still), 2023, Single-channel HD video

The performer’s graceful movements mimic those of the feather that floats in the wind and on the water – it feels light and free, but now that the feather is no longer attached to a bird is it lost or is it free? Similarly, when we let go of traditions, are we unmoored and lost, or do we find freedom? When we cling to the past, are we weighed down, or do we draw strength and inspiration from its lessons? These questions, central to her work, echo the universal human experience of navigating identity and heritage.

Movements (Still), 2023, Single-channel HD video

Almost all of humanity’s history has us in direct contact with nature and the earth and it’s only recently we’ve moved into modern housing and we rarely make contact with the leaves and soil around us with our bare skin, unlike the dancer in the film who has her feet covered in soil by the end of her performance. Research is being done into the positive effects of ‘earthing’ – touching the soil with our bare feet every day – and whether this can deliver health benefits, much like how being out in nature can lift our mood.

The work triggers an instinct in me to get out more, away from behind a computer and into nature – as most of us did when under restrictions during the global pandemic. Forcing us to interact with the natural world reminded us of how important it is to our physical and mental health, and yet this was swiftly forgotten by many in post-pandemic times.

As Ziyi Wang’s practice develops I’d like to see her delve further into these rituals and traditions passed down from her ancestors. It would be exciting to see her delve deeper into the ancestral rituals that inspire her. What knowledge has been lost, and why? What remains hidden in archives, waiting to be revived through art? Such explorations could forge stronger connections between past and present, blending historical research with her freedom of expression

I’d also like to see her focus on that connection and harmony with nature that many of us are missing in our lives – something that will become a greater issue as it’s forecast that two-thirds of the global population will be in cities by 2050.

The mixture of ritualised performance, links to our ancestors and the connection to nature are personal to the artist and are universal themes that most viewers can connect with. It ensures there is huge potential for her artistic practice to explore these themes in greater depth and create new compelling works based on that research.

Why Do Men Like Foreign Women

In the world of dating, an increasing number of men are drawn to the idea of dating foreign women. Whether it’s the allure of cultural differences, unique beauty standards, or the promise of a different kind of relationship dynamic, foreign women hold a certain charm that many find irresistible.

This interest is especially prevalent in the online space, with platforms dedicated to connecting singles worldwide. For some, the concept extends to exploring mail order brides — a term that sparks curiosity and debate alike. So, why do men often find foreign women so appealing? In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons, share insights, and provide tips for navigating international dating successfully.

The main reasons why men like foreign women

1. The allure of cultural differences

One of the most significant reasons men like foreign women is the novelty and fascination that comes with cultural differences. Dating someone from another country offers the opportunity to explore new traditions, cuisines, languages, and worldviews. For many, this cultural exchange adds excitement and depth to the relationship.

2. Unique beauty standards

Different regions of the world often emphasize varying beauty ideals. Men who date foreign women might find themselves attracted to physical features, fashion sense, or grooming practices that are uncommon in their home country. This appeal is often tied to the natural diversity of humanity and the intrigue of experiencing something new.

3. A different approach to relationships

In some cultures, women are raised with distinct attitudes toward family, relationships, and gender roles. For men seeking a foreign woman, these differences can be appealing. For instance, some may perceive foreign women as more traditional or family-oriented compared to local dating experiences.

4. Broadened horizons

Dating a foreign woman can expand a man’s worldview. Learning from someone with different life experiences fosters personal growth and encourages a more open-minded perspective. This kind of relationship often brings in new adventures, whether it’s traveling to her homeland, trying unfamiliar activities, or celebrating unique holidays together.

5. The influence of media and stereotypes

Media often portrays foreign women in a romanticized light. For example, movies and TV shows might depict European women as elegant and sophisticated or Southeast Asian women as nurturing and caring. While these portrayals can spark interest, it’s important to approach dating with realistic expectations.

Do’s and don’ts of dating a foreign woman

Do:

  • Communicate Clearly. Language barriers can exist, but open communication bridges gaps.
  • Respect Her Culture. Learn and honor her traditions and values.
  • Be Patient. Adjusting to cultural differences takes time for both partners.
  • Compliment her specific qualities in an authentic way.
  • Research reputable platforms if you’re considering this route, and ensure your intentions are sincere.

Don’t:

  • Rush the Process. Building trust in any relationship takes time.
  • Impose Your Views. Be open to compromise and understanding.
  • Overgeneralize. Avoid assumptions based on nationality or cultural background.
  • Don’t focus solely on appearances or fetishize her ethnicity.

Popular countries to meet foreign women

Top countries Female population    Most popular cities for dating
Ukraine 22 million Kyiv, Lviv, Uzhgorod
Thailand 35.9 million Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya
Colombia 26.4 million Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena
The Philippines 56 million Makati, Manila, and Davao City
Russia 78 million Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg

 

Certain countries are renowned for their dating culture and the appeal of their women. Popular destinations for meeting foreign women include:

  1. Ukraine. Known for its traditional values and striking beauty.
  2. Thailand. Famous for warm hospitality and a friendly approach to relationships.
  3. Colombia. Celebrated for passionate and family-oriented women.
  4. The Philippines. Valued for their caring and nurturing nature.
  5. Russia. Admired for elegance and strong family values.

Each country offers unique cultural experiences, making it essential to approach dating with respect and a genuine desire to connect.

Tips for building a strong connection

Successfully dating a foreign woman requires effort and understanding. Here are some tips to help you foster a meaningful bond:

  1. Learn her language: Even a few phrases can show effort and respect.
  2. Celebrate her traditions: Participating in her cultural events can deepen your connection.
  3. Be honest about challenges: Acknowledge and address potential obstacles like distance or cultural differences.

Is it right for you?

International dating isn’t for everyone. It requires effort, adaptability, and a genuine curiosity about other cultures. Before pursuing a relationship with a foreign woman, consider your own readiness to embrace the challenges and joys that come with it. The rewards can be profound, but they’re most meaningful when approached with respect and sincerity.

Conclusion

There are countless success stories of men who’ve found love with foreign women. The key lies in appreciating the uniqueness of the person, not just the allure of their culture or background. When you date a foreign woman, you’re stepping into a world of mutual discovery, growth, and adventure. Whether you’re drawn by her charm, intrigued by cultural differences, or inspired by the idea of building a life together, always approach the journey with respect, openness, and genuine intention. Love knows no borders, and with the right mindset, your international romance could lead to the connection of a lifetime.

Live Casino in Japan: A Guide to the Thrilling World of Online Gaming

The rise of online gambling has introduced a revolutionary way to enjoy casino games from the comfort of home. Live casinos, in particular, have become a popular choice for players in Japan. Combining the excitement of traditional casinos with the convenience of online platforms, live casinos provide an immersive experience that appeals to both seasoned gamblers and newcomers.

In this guide, we’ll explore the world of live casinos in Japan, with a focus on internet casinos, the popularity of live casino baccarat, and why live casino games have captured the hearts of many.

What Are Live Casinos?

A live casino bridges the gap between land-based casinos and online gaming. It uses advanced streaming technology to connect players with real dealers in real time. From the moment you join a live casino game, you’re transported to a professional studio or even a real casino floor, complete with high-definition video, interactive features, and a wide range of games.

Key Features of Live Casinos:

  1. Real-Time Interaction: Chat with live dealers and other players, just as you would at a physical casino.
  2. Authentic Gameplay: Enjoy games like baccarat, roulette, and blackjack with professional dealers.
  3. Convenience: Access live casino games anytime, anywhere, via your computer or smartphone.
  4. Fairness and Transparency: Watch the dealer’s every move, ensuring fair play.

The Popularity of Live Casino Games in Japan

Japan’s gaming culture has deep roots, from pachinko parlors to video game arcades. The introduction of internet casinos has added another layer to the landscape, with live casinos becoming a favorite choice for their immersive and authentic gaming experience.

Why Live Casinos Are Popular in Japan:

  • Cultural Appeal: Games like live casino baccarat resonate with Japanese players due to their elegance and strategy.
  • Technological Accessibility: High-speed internet and advanced smartphones make live casinos easy to access.
  • Legal Ambiguity: While traditional gambling is restricted, online gambling through offshore platforms often falls into a legal gray area, making it an attractive option.

Spotlight on Live Casino Baccarat

Among the various live casino games available, live casino baccarat stands out as a top choice for Japanese players. Known for its simplicity and sophistication, baccarat is a card game where players bet on the outcome: the player’s hand, the banker’s hand, or a tie.

How Live Casino Baccarat Works:

  1. Place Your Bets: Players select their bet amount and place their chips on the desired outcome.
  2. Dealer Action: The live dealer deals two cards to the player and the banker.
  3. Determine the Winner: The hand closest to a total of 9 wins.

Why Japanese Players Love Baccarat:

  • Fast-Paced Gameplay: Each round is quick, keeping the excitement high.
  • Low House Edge: Baccarat offers some of the best odds in the casino world.
  • Cultural Prestige: The game’s association with sophistication appeals to many.

How to Choose the Best Internet Casino for Live Gaming

With countless internet casinos offering live games, finding the right platform can be daunting. Here are some tips to guide your choice:

1. Check Licensing and Security

Ensure the platform is licensed by reputable authorities and uses encryption to protect your personal and financial data.

2. Game Variety

Look for a platform that offers a wide range of live games, including live casino baccarat, roulette, and blackjack.

3. Dealer Professionalism

Professional and friendly dealers enhance the gaming experience. Some platforms even offer dealers who speak Japanese.

4. Platform Accessibility

Choose an internet casino that’s compatible with your devices and offers a seamless experience on both desktop and mobile.

5. Bonuses and Promotions

Many casinos offer bonuses specifically for live games. Check the terms and conditions to ensure they are favorable.

Advantages of Playing at Live Casinos

Live casinos offer several benefits that make them a preferred choice for players:

Real Casino Atmosphere

Enjoy the thrill of a real casino without leaving your home.

Social Interaction

Connect with dealers and other players, making the experience more engaging.

Transparent Gameplay

Watch the dealer shuffle, deal, and manage the game in real-time.

Flexible Betting Options

From low-stakes tables to VIP rooms, live casinos cater to all budgets.

FAQ: Live Casinos in Japan

1. Is it legal to play at live casinos in Japan?

While gambling is largely restricted in Japan, playing at offshore internet casinos is not explicitly prohibited. Always ensure the platform is reputable and licensed.

2. Can I play live casino games on my smartphone?

Yes, most live casinos are optimized for mobile devices, offering a smooth experience via apps or mobile browsers.

3. What is the most popular live casino game in Japan?

Live casino baccarat is one of the most popular games due to its simplicity, low house edge, and cultural appeal.

4. Are there Japanese-speaking dealers?

Some internet casinos feature Japanese-speaking dealers, adding a local touch to the experience.

5. How do I deposit money into an internet casino?

Most platforms accept a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies. Check the casino’s payment options for specifics.

6. Is it safe to play live casino games online?

Yes, as long as you choose a licensed and secure platform. Look for SSL encryption and positive user reviews.

Conclusion

Live casinos have brought a new dimension to online gambling in Japan, offering an authentic and engaging experience that rivals traditional casinos. From the elegance of live casino baccarat to the convenience of internet casinos, players can enjoy world-class gaming from the comfort of their homes.

As live casino technology continues to evolve, Japanese players can look forward to even more immersive and innovative gaming options. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or new to the scene, live casinos are a thrilling way to explore the world of online gaming.

From Spotlight to Grow light: How Celebrities Are Shaping the Cannabis Industry

The cannabis industry is booming, and it’s no surprise that celebrities are jumping on board. From launching their own brands to becoming passionate advocates, stars are leaving their mark on the green wave. In this article, we’ll explore why celebrities are so drawn to the cannabis business, spotlight the top names in the game, and break down the challenges they face. Let’s dive in.

The Rise of Celebrities in the Cannabis Industry

Why celebrities are investing in cannabis

Celebrities are savvy entrepreneurs who see the cannabis industry as a goldmine. With legalization spreading and consumer interest skyrocketing, the potential for profits is massive. But it’s not just about money; many celebs are personally passionate about cannabis, either for its medicinal benefits or the cultural impact it’s had on their lives.

How marijuana legalization has paved the way for celebrity involvement

The shift toward legalization has made it easier for celebs to openly embrace cannabis. No longer tied down by stigma or legal risks, they can launch businesses, endorse products, and become vocal advocates. Legalization has turned cannabis into a legitimate and lucrative industry, giving stars the green light to join in.

Top Celebrities Leading Cannabis Brands

Actors breaking into the cannabis market

Hollywood actors like Seth Rogen and Kristen Bell are making waves in the cannabis industry, blending star power with entrepreneurial vision. Rogen’s Houseplant brand is a standout, known for its combination of premium cannabis products and creatively designed accessories that merge form and function. His passion for cannabis and design clearly shows with products ranging from meticulously crafted pre-rolls and flower to aesthetically pleasing home goods like ceramic ashtrays and modern lighting. By intertwining cannabis culture with an elevated lifestyle, Rogen has carved out a niche that appeals to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers.

Kristen Bell, on the other hand, has focused her efforts on wellness with her CBD brand, Happy Dance. Her products include balms, lotions, and bath bombs designed to promote relaxation and self-care. Bell’s hands-on approach and dedication to creating accessible, high-quality CBD products reflect her commitment to wellness, resonating particularly with health-conscious consumers.

Actors like Rogen and Bell are not just leveraging their celebrity status; they’re bringing authenticity and a personal touch to the cannabis industry. Rogen’s passion for cannabis is deeply rooted in his own experiences, as he often speaks openly about the role it has played in his life and creative process. His dedication to normalizing and celebrating cannabis culture has positioned Houseplant as not just a brand but a lifestyle movement. Meanwhile, Bell’s focus on wellness underscores her advocacy for mental health and self-care, further deepening her connection with her audience.

Musicians championing cannabis entrepreneurship

Musicians have long been intertwined with cannabis culture, so it’s no surprise they’re leading the charge in shaping the modern cannabis industry. Snoop Dogg, a cultural icon synonymous with cannabis, has set the bar high with his brand, Leafs by Snoop. Far from just lending his name, Snoop has been deeply involved in curating a line of premium cannabis products that reflect his decades-long passion for the plant. Leafs by Snoop offers a range of top-tier flower, concentrates, and edibles, all meticulously designed to embody the relaxed and joyful lifestyle Snoop has always championed.

Snoop’s influence extends beyond just products; he’s a vocal advocate for cannabis legalization and normalization, using his platform to break down stigma and push for reform. His ventures don’t stop there—he’s also invested in the industry through Casa Verde Capital, a venture capital firm focusing on cannabis-related businesses, highlighting his commitment to fostering growth and innovation in the sector.

Alongside Snoop, other music legends like Jay-Z and Willie Nelson are making their mark. Jay-Z’s Monogram delivers a luxury cannabis experience, emphasizing craftsmanship and exclusivity, while Willie Nelson’s Willie’s Reserve captures the spirit of community and authenticity that defines his persona. These artists aren’t just slapping their names on products—they’re using their platforms and creativity to redefine the cannabis industry, bringing it closer to the mainstream while staying true to its cultural roots.

Athletes advocating for cannabis use and launching products

Athletes like Megan Rapinoe, Ricky Williams, and Mike Tyson are demonstrating that cannabis is more than just a tool for relaxation—it’s a powerful aid for recovery, wellness, and performance optimization. Rapinoe has embraced CBD as a natural remedy for physical recovery and mental balance, launching products that reflect her active lifestyle and focus on holistic health. Similarly, Ricky Williams has taken his own experiences as a former NFL player to create Highsman, a cannabis brand aimed at athletes and active individuals, promoting the plant’s benefits for both body and mind.

Mike Tyson has made one of the biggest splashes in the cannabis industry with Tyson 2.0, a brand that combines his legendary name with a commitment to high-quality cannabis products. Tyson’s journey with cannabis stems from his personal story of recovery and wellness, and his brand offers a range of premium flower, edibles, and concentrates designed for everyone from casual users to seasoned enthusiasts. He’s also added a touch of humor and storytelling to his ventures, such as his infamous “Mike Bites”—edibles shaped like an ear, a nod to his iconic boxing moment. Beyond products, Tyson has leveraged his influence to advocate for cannabis reform and push the conversation around its medicinal and recreational uses.

These athletes are breaking stereotypes by showing how cannabis can enhance recovery, improve mental health, and support overall well-being. Their involvement is opening the door for more sports stars to embrace and promote the benefits of cannabis, further normalizing its use in professional and active lifestyles.

Celebrity-Owned Cannabis Companies

Notable cannabis brands founded by celebrities

From Whoopi Goldberg’s wellness-focused Whoopi & Maya to Jim Belushi’s Belushi’s Farm, celebrity-owned brands are as diverse as the stars themselves. These companies often reflect the founders’ personalities and passions, offering everything from premium flower to therapeutic edibles.

What sets celebrity cannabis brands apart from competitors

Star power is a game-changer. Celebrity brands benefit from built-in audiences, media coverage, and cultural relevance. But the best ones go beyond the name—they deliver quality products and unique stories that connect with consumers.

The role of celebrity status in cannabis marketing

Celebrities know how to market themselves, and they bring that same flair to their cannabis ventures. Their platforms allow them to share their vision, educate consumers, and normalize cannabis use. It’s a win-win for the industry and their personal brands.

Celebrity Advocacy for Cannabis Legalization

Famous advocates for marijuana reform

Celebrities like Woody Harrelson and Sarah Silverman have been vocal about their support for marijuana legalization. Their advocacy efforts highlight the benefits of cannabis and push for policy changes that make it accessible to everyone.

How celebrities are influencing cannabis culture and policy

By using their platforms to share personal stories and champion reform, celebrities are shaping the way we view cannabis. They’re not just supporting the industry—they’re helping to erase stigma and inspire a more open dialogue.

The impact of celebrity activism on public perception of cannabis

When a celebrity speaks out about cannabis, people listen. Their activism has helped shift public perception, making cannabis more mainstream and accepted. This cultural shift benefits both the industry and society as a whole.

Challenges Celebrities Face in the Cannabis Business

Legal and regulatory hurdles for celebrity cannabis brands

Even with legalization, navigating the cannabis market isn’t easy. State-by-state regulations, compliance issues, and the federal ban make it a tough business, even for celebrities with deep pockets.

Maintaining brand authenticity in a competitive market

Consumers can sniff out inauthenticity. If a celebrity brand feels like a cash grab, it won’t last. Celebs need to ensure their products and messaging align with their personal values to build trust with consumers.

Overcoming stigma associated with marijuana

Despite progress, cannabis still carries stigma in some circles. Celebrities must walk a fine line, balancing their involvement in the industry with their broader public image.

The Future of Celebrities in the Cannabis Industry

Emerging trends in celebrity-backed cannabis ventures

From boutique strains to high-tech edibles, the future is bright for celebrity cannabis brands. Innovations in product development and marketing are setting the stage for even bigger ventures.

Potential markets and opportunities for celebrity cannabis brands

As legalization expands globally, so do opportunities. Markets in Europe, South America, and Asia are ripe for exploration, and celebrities are well-positioned to make a splash.

How celebrity involvement is shaping the cannabis industry growth

Celebrities are driving innovation, awareness, and acceptance in the cannabis industry. Their influence has made the industry more dynamic and accessible, paving the way for future growth.

The rise in celebrity involvement in the cannabis industry has also sparked a growing interest in home cultivation. As stars promote their brands and strains, more people are inspired to try growing their own cannabis. The demand for seeds has surged as enthusiasts look to replicate the high-quality products endorsed by their favorite celebrities which in turn has seen the number of stores boom selling pot seeds for home growing.

What motivates celebrities to invest in the cannabis industry?

Celebrities are drawn to the cannabis industry for its profit potential, personal passion, and cultural relevance. It offers them a chance to align their personal brand with a booming market while supporting causes they care about.

Which celebrities have their own cannabis brands?

Big names like Seth Rogen, Mike Tyson, Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, and Willie Nelson have their own cannabis brands. Each brings unique flair, from premium flower to wellness products, shaping the industry in their image.

Are celebrity cannabis brands more successful than others?

Celebrity brands often have an edge due to star power and media attention. However, true success depends on product quality, authenticity, and connection with consumers.

What are the challenges for celebrities entering the cannabis market?

Challenges include navigating complex regulations, maintaining authenticity, and overcoming lingering stigma. Despite these hurdles, many celebrities find success by staying true to their vision.

Celebrities are playing a huge role in the evolution of the cannabis industry. From launching groundbreaking brands to advocating for legalization, their involvement is shaping the market in exciting ways. Whether you are a cannabis enthusiast or just curious about the buzz, there’s no denying the impact of star power on the green revolution.

Author Spotlight: Julia Kornberg & Jack Rockwell, ‘Berlin Atomized’

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Julia Kornberg’s debut novel, Berlin Atomized, straddles the past and the future. In the early 2000s, the three Goldstein children lived in Nordelta, Buenos Aires, in an affluent suburb, where they wished to be anywhere else. In the near and distant future, they travel to try and find themselves in Jerusalem, Berlin, Uruguay, Paris, and Tokyo to varying success; Mateo dies fighting in the IDF, Jeremías envelops himself in the punk scene, and Nina settles down with a German artist whose steely visage proves alluring. But the cities are alive — terrorist attacks from a grassroots New Resistance threaten to upend the fabric of reality just as the siblings are figuring out their interiority.

Dizzying, funny, and irreverent, Berlin Atomized runs parallel to the twenty-something question of “What now?” with some terrifying answers. For my first in-person Author Spotlight interview, I talked with Julia Kornberg and Jack Rockwell, the book’s co-translator, about terrorism, art, self-translation, Judaism, masculinity, and much more.

SAM FRANZINI: Congratulations on your debut novel and welcome to DC! How did the event in New York go?

JULIA KORNBERG: Really well, I thought.

JACK ROCKWELL: It was awesome.

KORNBERG: Christian Lorentzen, the guy who did it with us, is a genius. He handled the question-and-answer dynamic really well.

FRANZINI: Was it a reading and Q&A?

KORNBERG: We skipped the reading. We intentionally did that, because I feel like every event I go to has twenty minutes that are additional. We try to keep it short. I also have a shitty voice in English.

FRANZINI: Berlin Atomized has already been published in Mexico and Argentina — how has the US reaction been?

KORNBERG: It’s been nice. There’s a lot of excitement, and some very kind words. It’s very fresh, so there haven’t been a lot of reviews out yet.

FRANZINI: I’m interested in the Jewish culture in Latin America — you’ve written about Clarice Lispector and Marcelo Cohen before, and I’m wondering if they influenced you as an Argentinian writer.

KORNBERG: Cohen not so much, because I hadn’t read him back then, but Lispector definitely. In general, she’s one of my favorite writers; I feel like The Hour of the Star had a big impact on me. Also her first book, Near to the Wild Heart. By now I’ve read almost everything she’s ever written, but back then, those were the two I had in mind.

FRANZINI: I don’t think I’ve read a book that was also translated by its author yet, and I really wanted to talk to you about this process. In The Drift, you write that translation “enlarges a work’s renown, but sometimes even dictates the content of the work itself.” Was this true for your own novel?

KORNBERG: Well, what did you think, Jack?

ROCKWELL: I wouldn’t say the book changed a lot in translation. Or rather, I don’t think the process of translation was as responsible for many of those changes as Julia returning to something she’d written in the first half of her twenties in the second half of her twenties. From the outside perspective, it seemed you were revisiting your work with a slightly more mature writer. With some limited cases, where we’d make small, low-level decisions to change things based on the rhetorical demands of English. But my read was that it was basically an opportunity for her to edit the book again. And we worked with a really fantastic editor [Deborah Ghim] at Astra House.

KORNBERG: Our editor was great. And the circulation in Argentina and Mexico was very limited, they only printed, like, 300 copies in both cases. To her, that meant we could debut this novel as if it was for the first time, and I really enjoyed that. Having studied translation from an academic and contemporary literature point of view, I was very aware of what can happen when you have those biases to make it into an ‘English market,’ and I wanted to consciously avoid that. So we took it as a creative opportunity.

FRANZINI: Yeah, later in that essay you say that a reader is looking for ‘authenticity,’ so the Latin American writer might fit into stereotypes to convey their work to an English-speaking audience. Was this something you had to resist?

KORNBERG: For sure. I feel like the Goldsteins, particularly, are not the model Argentine citizens, they’re this rare, weird, minority of the very upper echelons. That was a way, from the conception of the book, to avoid something that was ‘authentically Argentinian,’ since there’s no such thing.

FRANZINI: As a translator, Jack, how was it like to work together on the manuscript?

ROCKWELL: It happened in different ways at different times, but generally, one of us will produce a first draft of one section, send it to the other, then there’s notes and a little back and forth. Especially at the beginning, we met in person to talk about it. I don’t think tensions ever got high, but there were occasional tensions. 

KORNBERG: Well, there’s two things to that. One is that we usually drank while translating. And we’re not married to our ideas and we’re willing to [negotiate]. 

ROCKWELL: It was a very healthy and energetic and collaborative environment. We’ve been doing this for long enough now that we’re already working on the co-translation of her next novel, and I think we’re starting to understand each other very well, and we can be frank with each other about what’s best for the book. As someone who translates a lot of other people and isn’t able to talk to them, it actually opens up the playing field as far as translation decisions.

FRANZINI: Yeah, I didn’t picture arguments, just small tiffs about a collaboration with two creative people.

KORNBERG: That happened a little bit, but I mean, we can plant the seed and say we had long arguments and broke up our friendship for months. [Laughs] I wish, because that would be a good story. But I remember one really long argument about how to translate a measure of marijuana. In the book, Jeremías, when he’s young, smokes a veinticinco, which is now a passé term for, I think, 25 pesos of weed. But that was in the late 90s, early 2000s. When I was young, un veinticinco was 25 grams. And then we had this whole thing, ‘Americans don’t use grams, how many grams should he consume, he should be really stoned, but not so stoned, etc.’ That took us weeks. I went and did a bunch of research, I talked to some old friends of mine.

FRANZINI: How did you get into translating, Jack?

ROCKWELL: I had kind of a life changing experience in high school where I took an AP Spanish Literature class, and I don’t know what happened, I was just incredibly receptive in a way I hadn’t really felt in English classes. I went to college and wanted to take literature classes in Spanish every semester, which led me to the comparative literature discipline, where I started to do translation. Something about it, I really liked it.

FRANZINI: Let’s get into the book — the three Goldstein siblings pass their time growing up in Buenos Aires with constant bathing, music, or reckoning with themselves. “What a massacre it is, growing up,” Jeremías writes. What did you pull from to create these early scenes?

KORNBERG: All of the chapters were pretty insular. Initially, I had conceived it as a collection of short stories, and each chapter had its set of influences. I think the first one, with Nina, I was thinking a lot about Sylvia Plath, who comes back towards the end. But also Sofia Coppola movies. I tried to infect myself with that girly but also miserable and masochistic teenage vibe. 

And then for Jeremías, I tried to listen to as much rock and roll and punk music as I could. I also felt the Jeremías storyline felt closer to me because I was a really awkward kid in high school, and the way I had to become a sociable person was get really into music and prove myself. I was that girl that when they asked, ‘What’s the third track on this Pink Floyd album?’ I was ready to answer. I tried to create a similar thing with Jeremías, where he’s from Nordelta, he’s a total outsider, but music is the one thing that helps him communicate to his fellow youths. And of course, the Cromañón [nightclub] massacre, which didn’t happen to my generation but really affected it. I was trying to channel my older friends, which are the same ones I asked how to translate a veinticinco.

FRANZINI: It could totally be short stories as well. I thought all of the viewpoints and locations kept the book so electric. Why did you want to have a somewhat fractured account?

KORNBERG: It was interesting narrating a family history where all three Goldstein siblings have very different trajectories in life, both in their relationship to Judaism as well as their political and historical developments. I also get tired very easily, and I feel like readers get tired very easily, so I tried to make it dynamic. I also felt like if I stuck with a character for too long, you’d get tired — you can’t read too much Nina Goldstein, because these characters take themselves too seriously. I love all the characters, but there’s only so much attention readers have. And in Latin American literature, [a fractured feel] is quite common. It felt natural.

FRANZINI: Tell me a little more about this rule between Nina and her friends, that “a boy born during the dictatorship is a broken man.”

KORNBERG: That was something my friends and I came up with; it’s another Sofia Coppola  thing, we dated much older men, but you had to set a limit. Eventually, I realized all of the men I was dating when I was a teenager were still post-1983. I thought that was a safe rule, someone who’s born during the democracy. 

FRANZINI: I thought the passage about Nina and Angélica playing Discovery by Daft Punk and making up stories, no matter how convoluted, was a good way of finding yourself in art when you can’t really in the real world.

KORNBERG: I don’t get asked enough about Angélica, who’s maybe one of my favorite characters. I don’t know what you think, Jack, if she’s the hero of the story, since she’s the one who re-reads and reconstructs the Goldstein story from the future. I like the idea of them having this very tender and genuine relationship, like when you’re kids. And then I think it develops into something that’s always a little erotic, like a lot of female friendships are, but never consummated. They never fuck, in other words. And I think that’s important, also, to hold the friendship to a highly idealized position. That was why I wanted them to be creating something and have this childish moment.

FRANZINI: Angélica bookends it too, which I thought was interesting.

ROCKWELL: I think the bookend is a very potent gesture for Angélica to be returning to these different moments in time. It’s easy to forget when you’re reading, that everything you’re getting is filtered through her, that she’s the compiler of all the materials. It’s also the story of this person’s nostalgia for who her friends used to be and who she used to be through them. 

FRANZINI: The middle sibling, Mateo, joins the IDF as he finds a version of masculinity he can access at war that isn’t available in his hometown. I’m interested in why you chose this path for him.

KORNBERG: Mateo’s story was the first one that I wrote, actually. I wrote Berlin in a very short period where I was traveling for two months. It began in Israel, where I had never been, and I met a man on New Year’s Eve — two Americans came up to me and my friend and started chatting us up in Jerusalem, and I was not interested, but this guy told me his story. He was this guy from Atlanta who had what he saw as a very boring life, playing video games all day. One day, he was like, ‘I’m gonna join the IDF.’ In his view, that redeemed his life, it gave his life a meaning, it gave his life a purpose, he was fighting for a nation, for the Jewish people. I thought that was really interesting. When my vacation was over, I sat down in a café in Tel Aviv and wrote that. Then I had to work backwards, thinking, ‘How was Mateo’s childhood like, that led him to do this?’’

ROCKWELL: It’s interesting because it’s a different and much darker version of what Jere is doing in his life with his music. You reach a certain age, and you start to feel really lost in the world, and you have to pick something. It can be as simple as a personality or new friends, or something much more serious, like connecting to history in a much more attainable and darker way.

FRANZINI: That’s so true. I feel like I know two or three people, through friends, who join the IDF because they’re bored. It’s just the thing to do.

KORNBERG: To me, that’s a big mystery. If someone said they were joining the IDF, everyone would ask why. Argentina is so tranquil, it’s so relaxed! There’s no terrorism attacks, there’s no wars. Now I think younger people in Argentina are not only moving to Israel, but joining the IDF much more. I don’t know if there’s a crisis of meaning. Maybe people are really lost. If you’re a pandemic baby, you might have lost the most valuable years of your life where you should be developing a personality. I don’t know. Or they believe there’s true meaning in fighting for a country. Men will literally join the IDF before going to therapy.

FRANZINI: There’s a masculinity crisis, for sure. While he’s in Gaza, Nina views him through Instagram along with “every sniper’s eye with a low-fi filter.” Interestingly, this “softens the memory of him” for Nina. Why do you think so?

KORNBERG: I think what softens Mateo in the end is the fact that he died, and she retraces his steps, and finds out he was in love, and had friends. I feel like in Nordelta, my impression of him was that he was a loner, and had all these girlfriends, but that was it. Whereas in Israel, life is given new meaning, and that happens for people. I felt like that happened to me to a certain extent, not that I was a loner, but my life changed dramatically when I moved to New York and my social life became much more interesting. Maybe that’s what he finds in Israel.

FRANZINI: I thought the Israel passage had an interesting way of using humor to make sense of things, if that’s a correct read.

KORNBERG: For sure. One of my favorite novels I read this year was Operation Shylock, which I think is the funniest novel ever written about Israel. It’s written by Philip Roth, and it’s about Philip Roth, the author, who finds out there’s someone LARPing as Philip Roth in Israel, trying to convince Ashkenazi Jews to move back to Europe. It develops into this crazy picaresque. He gets into trouble, he has a lover who’s in ‘Anti-Semites Anonymous.’ I read that in February. Back then, I was super tormented about everything that was happening in Israel, and all the reactions, and how radioactive it was in America. I was really shattered. And Operation Shylock carried me through it. 

FRANZINI: It’s interesting Nina is transgressive in that she’s against the PC culture that most young people subscribe to. She enjoys that Ossip’s wife owned airline stock, and is turned on when he almost says something anti-Semetic. When did you think about when making her character?

KORNBERG: I’m not entirely sure. She becomes more PC by the end, when she moves to Europe, that’s a big influence on her. I liked the idea that she’s a rebellious, irreverent character. At the time in Argentina, everything was very PC, and age-gap relationships were looked down upon. I just wanted someone who had a freer relationship to her own desire. And it can be hot, today, an old anti-Semetic guy. That’s also where the Plath influence is coming from, being able to express the contradictions and desires. It was important to create a character that felt a little truer.

FRANZINI: Later, Nina gets a job at what she says is a “screenplay factory,” a minimally creative dead end. But for artists she meets, she notes that one’s own branding is a part of their art, that “they themselves were the product they were trying to sell.” Do you feel similarly as a novelist?

KORNBERG: Oh, yeah. I think that’s what’s expected, from anyone, a writer or artist. You’re like a brand manager. I think that’s very boring and it takes a lot of time and energy from writing. If you’re so concerned with creating your brand, you end up not creating a lot of art. And I wanted Nina to be aware of that. It’s the same thing with translation, we could brand a book about being an authentic representation of Argentinian Jewish literature and culture, but that’s not my interest.

ROCKWELL: The first event we did around this book, actually, the talk was titled ‘Become Unmarketable.’ I think about it now, these days, because it seems like the book is not unmarketable, actually, because people are interested in it, which is amazing.

KORNBERG: It’s the same with advertising, for movies and TV shows. You can take an approach, which is that you see whatever’s working in the market right now and you imitate that in the hopes that you’ll be the next Sally Rooney. I haven’t read her, actually, but I respect her as an Irish person. 

You can replicate whatever works, or you can try to create a new desire. For example, I like Mariana Enríquez, and in Argentina, she decided to create a new thing. She did it for a long time, and well enough that people started to consume it. That’s more desirable for me, or when it becomes authentic, when I’m doing what I want as opposed to doing what would sell.

FRANZINI: Do you feel like you had to do that at all? Try to make it, or yourself, sellable?

ROCKWELL: I don’t want to speak to your process, but one thing I felt when I read this novel for the first time is that it’s so profoundly not a branding gesture.

KORNBERG: It’s slightly autistic.

ROCKWELL: Yeah! It’s a little messy, too, and I think that adds to it. I don’t want to say the word ‘authenticity,’ because that itself is a brand touchpoint. But to me, at least, it doesn’t feel contrived. Which makes it legitimate and important. 

FRANZINI: It’s interesting the siblings are relatively well-off, but it doesn’t usually come through in the text. Was that a conscious decision?

KORNBERG: Yeah, I think when you’re very wealthy, you don’t realize it, until you see an actual poor person. I’m not from Nordelta, but I’ve been there, and I think it’s that. It’s a utopia created so you can avoid seeing a poor person who’s not your maid, gardener, or the plumber. And even the maids and gardeners and plumbers cannot walk on the streets, they have to take these little vans. It’s awful. Have you been? We should go together.

ROCKWELL: We will. Sounds good. Yeah, I think the way you handled that gesture of creating geographic isolation for themselves is really interesting. For me, part of why it feels you can be uncertain is because the siblings are working really hard, at times, to not seem like rich kids. Finding ways to pass for cultural capital, which happens like crazy, in New York, in particular.

KORNBERG: No! There are rich kids in New York who pretend not to be? [Laughs]

FRANZINI: You do a lot of speculative thinking as the book moves towards the future — in 2027, Paris is decimated by a new terrorist group. You write that it’s “vigilante justice coming directly from the Parisian underbelly… that targeted the symbols of Capital and Power, all the elite institutions propping up the status quo.” Tell me a little more about this group and their inspiration. 

KORNBERG: If you read the Spanish version, it’s a little different; it became much clearer in English. I think it was inspired by a need to narrate a revolution in the contemporary tense, [because the present] feels so neoliberal and flat and boring. Even though [people] pretend to be very outraged on Twitter, there seems to be very little actual political action. I wanted to have something explosive — maybe because I have the need to make things happen. On the other hand, I thought that if there was going to be a contemporary revolution, especially now, when the rhetoric is so plain and uncomplicated — you know, being a leftist used to mean you would read and write and discuss, until, like six in the morning. I think that’s no longer true. I also wanted to narrate a failed revolution. I’m not sure how I personally feel about the [book’s] New Resistance, but it was important to narrate A) something happening, something big, explosive, and revolutionary and B) have it be more complicated than something like a utopia. Because that’s also harder to narrate.

FRANZINI: So was the Spanish version more toned-down, you would say?

ROCKWELL: Maybe just more incoherent. [Laughs] And not in a derogatory way! It was just something I really loved, reading Atomizado Berlin for the first time, was this Paris chapter. It was so hard to figure out what was going on. And to some extent, I think that’s still well-preserved in this new edition. And that’s a feature, probably, of what it’s like to live in wartime or chaos, when political orders or information channels break down. I find didactic speculative novels that have a strong prescription for what’s gonna happen to be uninteresting, and that’s part of what keeps Berlin Atomized interesting, the blurriness of what exactly is happening, geopolitically, makes it feel more credible and exciting. 

FRANZINI: I’m intrigued by some of the characters’ acceptance of the violence, saying that the world is constantly filled with attacks on our minds and bodies. Marlene describes an encounter with a creepy cop, and she says, “on account of that guy alone, you and I should have burned down a cathedral.” Do you think there’s some truth to that?

KORNBERG: Like, a personal, political truth, not necessarily, but I do think that’s something that’s in the air. When Notre Dame burned down, I was saddened by it, I don’t love it when things get destroyed. But I do recognize there is some kind of libidinal impulse, when something like that happens. Like, the killing of [Brian Thompson, UnitedHealth Group] CEO. It’s obviously wrong, when they kill a guy, but he was a bad guy and that was kind of funny. And the world’s not gonna change because one billionaire died. And for me, the question is open, I don’t have a solution for that. I see a lot of violent rhetoric from the left today, and I identify as a leftist and come from a leftist tradition, but I don’t necessarily think that’s good. A lot is meme-ified. But I recognize it’s funny, and there’s instant approval from me. That was the tension, in this chapter, there’s this political unconscious happening in the world right now, but how far can it go? How good is it? I don’t have an answer.

FRANZINI: I agree with you in that the world is starting to feel more dangerous and sporadic lately — did you always want the book to go into the future and explore?

KORNBERG: Yeah, I wanted it to start as a coming-of-age and end in the future. I was very naive, I didn’t know what I was doing. Those were two of the main genres I consumed: coming-of-age, and science fiction, because I was a hopeless nerd.

ROCKWELL: You said something the other day, too, which had something to do with imagining people of our generation turning 30. Something like that, where speculative fiction became required to tell that story since it hasn’t happened yet, in some ways. Having to do with their contact with history. The reason people connect to this book is because, simultaneously, [our generation] is reaching the age where the real world sinks into you and it’s hard to be a kid anymore…

KORNBERG: We’re pushing 30, Sam.

ROCKWELL: But also, reality happens a little bit. For all the jokes you want to make about the end of history, the political status quo that people were calling the end of history is definitely ending. I don’t agree terminologically with calling historical change ‘history,’ I thought that was a stupid idea ever that it had ended, but I’ll take that up with Hegel. [Laughs] The rate has only accelerated in the few years since you’ve started the book.

KORNBERG: It’s also natural for a twenty-something to ask themself, ‘Is there a future? What does it look like?’

FRANZINI: I’m there now.

KORNBERG: Me too!

FRANZINI: Well, the book makes a lot of parallels with real-world eco-terrorism or demonstrative acts. Did you ever have to limit yourself with how extreme it got?

KORNBERG: No, I tried to take it as far as I can, and see where it takes me. Those are the two models, right, Angélica has a cyber activism position. That was influenced by Edward Snowden, Aaron Swartz, the idea of using the internet and widespread military technology for good. And then there’s physical violence, to the extent of what that can or cannot be politically effective. To me, I was also thinking about the Latin American guerillas. Growing up, and even now, there’s this debate as to whether it was good or not. The people that were mass murdered during the military dictatorship in Argentina, people say they deserved to die. Militantes, we called them, activists from the left wing that would kidnap people, like [Argentine dictator Pedro Eugenio] Aramburu, the Born siblings, who were the biggest millionaires in Argentina. That’s the mark of real wealth in Argentina, if you’re kidnapped during the dictatorship, it means you’re rich as fuck. [Laughs] That was the other question I had in my mind, to what extent can political violence be useful.

FRANZINI: I think the book had so many ideas of how art will be distributed in the future. There’s the screenplay factory, Rizwan Hassan, an anonymous yet prophetic rapper, and after the UN dissolves, you write that many writers kill themselves. Do you think the novel had a little bit of satire?

KORNBERG: I think it does. I like to read satire, and I think it’s quite hard to not satirize the literary and the art world, especially, where everyone’s so cool they can’t talk. That’s real money, and real branding. [Satire] is natural for an Argentinian.

ROCKWELL: I thought the book was hilarious. I’m a bad typifer, I don’t know if it’s qualified to be a satire or not, but it is satirizing things left and right. And it’s very characteristic of your style; you have these awesome one-two punches a lot, where it ends on these snappy terms, lampooning someone or some shot of grief or horror. The fact that you cycle through so many of them makes it work and doesn’t make it feel stale.

FRANZINI: I was talking to someone else about this, who said Jews by nature are a little more cynical, which I can definitely feel when I’m writing.

KORNBERG: Yeah, I like cynicism.

ROCKWELL: Can you name a good writer who isn’t cynical or funny?

KORNBERG: No!

ROCKWELL: And cynical is one way of putting it, but one of the basic gestures of literary fiction is that it tries to break down the illusions people have of themselves, which is literally everyone’s main survival mechanism, believing they’re a worthwhile person. If you can’t have fun and make jokes about that while you’re doing it, you’re totally fucked. For me, it’s more ironic than cynical, that’s the default gesture for dealing with this stuff.

KORNBERG: Writing is a little cringe. You have to pour your soul into characters, landscapes, situations, blah blah blah. If you don’t level yourself down with a little cynicism or irony, I feel like it can get corny.

ROCKWELL: Writing is tremendously cringe, which is why most writing is really bad.

FRANZINI: I also read that you’re finishing your second novel, Las Fiestas. How is that going?

KORNBERG: I wrote it four times. For the first time in 2020, high out of my mind during the pandemic in Argentina. Then I came back and rewrote it, more sober, again in 2022, and then finally I did one last rewrite this year. And now it’s done, I hope. We’re both translating it. If you like the Paris chapter, it’s very much like that. It’s about a guerilla group in downtown New York and a woman who infiltrates this group and falls in love with one of the members.

FRANZINI: In the same style as Berlin, do you think?

KORNBERG: I feel like it’s more formally experimental, right? I tried to work with the prose a lot more, develop more of a style.

ROCKWELL: And there’s a rotating structure; there’s a chapter in the present, recent past, then a semi-redacted CIA-style document. Which I think is super fun. And another thing Julia didn’t mention is that the guerilla group is a bunch of linguistic students, and she’s mocking university culture, and they’re also supposed to be spies for the US. And their grand terrorist plot is to convert New York into a Spanish-speaking country.

FRANZINI: Terrorist nerds. I’m obsessed.

ROCKWELL: It’s fucking awesome.

KORNBERG: It’s bizarre, but I really enjoyed writing it.


Berlin Atomized is out now.

Watch Gracie Abrams Perform ‘That’s So True’ and ‘I Love You, I’m Sorry’ on ‘SNL’

Gracie Abrams was the musical guest on last night’s Chris Rock-hosted episode of Saturday Night Live. The singer-songwriter performed two tracks from her latest album, The Secret of Us, ‘That’s So True’ and ‘I Love You, I’m Sorry’. Watch it below, along with her SNL promo video with Rock and Heidi Gardner.

After wrapping up the concluding leg of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, Abrams has also announced new solo tour dates for 2025. Find her full itinerary here.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reconstituting Peptides Safely: Essential Tools and Techniques

In order to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the solution, the process of reconstituting peptides involves quite a bit of keenness and skill. No matter the level of experience for the person in this case, everyone needs to learn the instruments and methods available for reconstituting peptides. This review will elaborate on each and every one of these aspects, including all the tools that will be required as well as how to perform peptide reconstitution step by step.

  1. The process of Reconstituting Peptides-Definition And Importance Of Reconstitution Process

Most of the commercially available peptides can be obtained in powdered form and often freeze dried. In this case reconstitution means adding a solvent, preferably bacteriostatic water, to the peptide powder which will dissolve the peptide and prepare it for use. In situations such as these, where dosage is critical, and the compounds will not be usable for extended periods, the reconstruction of the powder is an important process.

  1. Desirable Equipment for Carrying Out Peptide Dispersion Procedures

As with most procedures, to reconstitute peptides, there are several specific instruments: bacteriostatic water or sterile water, a clean syringe, an alcohol swab and a vial of the peptide. Each of these tools is very important in ensuring a destructive process when handling the peptide so as to avoid any contamination.

  1. Selecting an Appropriate Diluent: Sterile Water or Bacteriostatic Water

Bacteriostatic water is commonly used due to the presence of a preservative that inhibits bacteria from growing in the solution thus increasing the durability of the prepared solution. On the contrary, sterile water droplets, because of the absence of preservatives, are ideal for vials containing liquids that can be used once only. The choice of diluent depends on how the peptide is to be stored and how often it will be used. You can check on Prime Peptides for their wide options and other products such as weight loss peptides

  1. Determining the Volume of Diluent to Use

In order to find out how much bacteriostatic water to apply, kindly refer to the dosage guidelines for the specific peptide. Correct dosing is essential and can be affected negatively in circumstances where there is too much or too little water. Therefore, it is important to figure out how much extra volume is required for the concentration of the peptide without surpassing its limits. A Peptide Reconstitution Calculator is helpful and many people use it for this purpose.

  1. Clean Preparation Area Before Sterile Reconstitution

Before you start any reconstitution procedures, you will have to make sure that your working space is tidy and that it is not contaminated with any bacteria. Alcohol swamp the surfaces, wash hands with soap, and all instruments used should be within reach. This helps to avoid cross contamination which is detrimental to the peptide solution.

  1. Drawing the Bacteriostatic Water into the Syringe

Sterilized, it is placed into a 60 ml sterile syringe that contains sufficient suck bacteriostatic water as required. Take out the syringe and insert the needle into the bacteriostatic water vial then pull the plunger of the syringe slowly to suck the water but not create air bubbles and discard excess water.

  1. Adding the Diluent to the Peptide Vial

In a parallel way, place the 3ml syringe filled with bacteriostatic water into the peptide vial and keep the syringe downward, allowing the water to flow along the wall of the vial not directly on the powder. This gives minimal turbulence and protects the peptide from its own – causing a faster rate of dissolution of the peptide forming a lump.

  1. Mixing the Peptide Solution Gently

Now, water has been added; the vial can be gently swirled to dissolve the peptide. It is important to refrain from any ‘shaking’ because it is harmful to the peptide, which can be seen in the peptide structure where the only bond that holds the peptide in this shape is there. Swirling enables the water to be incorporated without any strain on the bonds of the peptide.

  1. The Correct Storage Conditions for Reconstituted Peptides

To ensure their integrity and efficacy, reconstituted peptides need to be refrigerated. Bacteriostatic water increases the effectiveness of the peptide and helps it last longer, however, due to the nature of the peptides, even with great care, these have an expiration date and should be used within the recommended period.

  1. Specific Error Types to Keep in Mind When Reconstituting.

In order to ensure the dehydration of the peptide that it retains its effectiveness, and for your safety, it is very important to avoid errors and mistakes during reconstitution. Some mistakes people make – for example, using bacteriostatic water that is out of date or not cleaning the implements before using them, or not keeping the reconstituted peptide at an appropriate temperature. Attention to detail in this regard will assure you that you will be able to reconstitute peptide drugs without any problems.

Conclusion

Reconstitution of peptides should be done without compromising the safety of the procedure because it obviates the need of skipping important steps, using the right elements and apparatus, and also maintaining sterility. Provided that every aspect of the procedure is well managed- from right adjuvant selection to ensuring that the peptide solution is stored properly, the users can guarantee preservation and success of the peptide solution. In order to get more information on how peptides are reconstituted and what products are offered, please visit the Prime Peptides blog. There are extra suggestions, utensils and information on the safe preparation of peptides in this section.

Online games: what are the most popular types on the web?

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Online gaming has become a global phenomenon, offering entertainment to millions of players across the globe, and hosting a diverse range of game genres catering to all kinds of preferences. Before we break down the types, let’s quickly understand why online games are a hit. They’re not just about fun anymore—they’ve become social hubs, competitive arenas, and even career paths for some. Whether you’re teaming up with friends in an online raid or testing your reflexes in a solo quest, these games offer unmatched interactivity and excitement.

Online casino games: a thrilling way to play and win

Among the most popular types of games on the web are online casino games, where you can play classic games such as poker, blackjack, or roulette for real money. There are many platforms to date that offer this type of service, but to find out which are the best and most reliable, just go to Oddschecker, which lists the various casinos according to the number and types of games and bonuses, but especially for payment security. Whether you’re a fan of spinning the roulette wheel or trying your luck on slots, the variety and accessibility of these games have made them a fan favorite.

FPS (First-Person Shooters): for adrenaline lovers

FPS games are perfect for those who love playing in battlefield scenarios. You’ve probably heard of games like Call of Duty and Counter-Strike, which set the standard for the genre. Featuring fast-paced gameplay, competitive modes, and realistic graphics, FPS games immerse players in high-stakes action where they can strategize with teammates or play alone, providing an adrenaline-filled experience.

MMORPGs: massive worlds, infinite adventures

Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs) offer sprawling virtual worlds where thousands of players interact simultaneously. Titles like World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy XIV let you customize your character, complete epic quests, and even join guilds. These games are perfect for players who enjoy immersive stories and love forming connections with others online.

RTS (Real-Time Strategy): think fast, plan faster

For gamers who love a mental challenge, Real-Time Strategy (RTS) games are the ultimate test. Classics like StarCraft and Age of Empires require quick thinking and efficient planning. In RTS games, you build armies, gather resources, and outwit opponents—all while managing time and strategy. It’s like playing chess, but with a lot more explosions.

JRPGs: a blend of story and strategy

Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) like Persona and Final Fantasy offer rich storytelling combined with strategic gameplay. These games focus heavily on character development, detailed worlds, and engaging combat systems. JRPGs are a great pick if you’re someone who loves diving deep into narratives while enjoying tactical battles.

MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena): teamwork makes the dream work

Games like League of Legends and Dota 2 fall into this category, where players work together to defeat the opposing team. MOBAs combine strategy, skill, and teamwork, making them highly competitive. Players even go as far as paying other great players to boost their accounts. So whether you’re climbing the ranks or just playing casually with friends, this genre guarantees intense matches.

Why these genres stand out

Each genre we’ve discussed has carved its niche by offering unique experiences. Whether it’s the story-driven adventures of a JRPG or the fast-paced action of an FPS, players are spoiled for choice. The social aspect of multiplayer games, combined with cutting-edge technology, keeps gamers coming back for more.

The Best Way to Layer Your Accessories

Layering jewellery and accessories has always been a stylish way to add depth and a certain gravitas to an outfit. When done right and curated by someone who knows how to merge distinctive styles, layering accessories can be a sure way to express your personal tastes artistically.

While women’s jewellery has traditionally been in the front seat, the modern man is now embracing the endless possibilities and variety that layering accessories presents.

Let’s explore what the experts have to say about the many ways layering can further enhance style and give the wearer freedom to explore their stylistic identity.

The Focal Point

Layering primarily balances elements, forms and textures to create depth. You can begin constructing by having a starting point, a key piece–a bracelet, pendant, ring or necklace–that draws attention and acts as an anchor.

Thomas Sabo, a leading figure in men’s jewellery, says, “Your focal pieces should say something about you–whether it’s a family heirloom, something you’ve bought on your travels, or just a piece you’ve fallen in love with. The rest of your jewellery should complement it, not overshadow it.”

The Balance of Size & Lengths   

As previously mentioned above, balance is a primary part of layering. Adorning yourself in pieces that too closely resemble one another can ruin your composition by taking away dimension and clarity.

With men’s jewellery favouring bold and masculine designs, layering a thick, short chain with a fine, longer one can emphasise the masculine quality of one chain with the subtleness of the other. Create distinctive parallels with sizes and lengths.

“Layering necklaces of different lengths is a great way to create dimension without overwhelming the eye,” says fashion journalist Luke Day. “It allows each piece to shine individually, yet come together as a cohesive whole.”

The Art of Texture

Texture is dimension. It creates contrast with juxtaposition and gives unlimited opportunity to those looking to truly express the bandwidth of their personality through layering. A polished gold chain with a tarnished, aged pendant can make both pieces feel distinct. Whereas one appears new, the other contrasts with well-worn age.

A contemporary designer of men’s and women’s jewellery, Nadine Ghosn, expertly points out: “Texture is often overlooked but plays a key role in making a layered look feel complete. Combining smooth, polished surfaces with rugged, hammered finishes or matte metals adds a dynamic element to your style.”

The Personal Touch 

A narrative that can be told through the layering of your jewellery is equally as important as creating balance. Each piece, chosen and selected, should hold within its glint, tarnish or polish your personality. Whether it’s a signet ring you picked up on your travels, a gifted necklace with a sentimental pendant, or a simple secondhand bracelet with its own hidden story, your layering choices should be rooted in personality.

Alex Orso, a men’s jewellery brand known for its understated designs, highlights the importance of wearing what you love: “Jewellery is incredibly personal. Don’t feel pressured to follow trends. The best pieces are those that resonate with you on a deeper level. That’s when you’ll feel most confident wearing them.”

The Ocassion & Outfit

When layering your jewellery, it’s important to consider the occasion and your outfit. Wearing too much jewellery might not be well received in a professional or formal environment, but it may help achieve a more elevated streetwear look.

“Jewellery layering is a great way to express personality, but context is everything,” says men’s fashion expert and stylist Andrew Weitz. “Keep it subtle for work environments–focus on a great watch or a couple of thin bracelets. Save heavier stacking for more relaxed environments.”

The Layer of Moderation

Style should be dynamic, not overwhelming. Don’t go overboard and turn yourself into a rattling mess of gold and silver. Keep it chic. Keep it stylish. The key and core principle of layering is to find opportunities to create depth without sacrificing balance. Sometimes, less is more.

Fashion editor Jim Moore says, “More isn’t always better.” And we fully agree with him. He continues to say, “It’s about finding that sweet spot where each piece has its moment, but the overall look stil feels cohesive and put together.”

To Wrap Things Up 

Layering men’s jewellery can offer trendsetters and jewellery collectors endless ways to enhance and refine their personal style. Finding that sweet spot–with textures, sizes, metals and more–can create unique combinations with contemporary and traditional pieces.

As Shaun Leane concisely puts it: “Jewellery is about self-expression. It’s about finding those pieces that speak to you, layering them in a way that feels right, and owning your style with confidence.”

The Role of Digital Art and NFTs in the Sports and Entertainment Industry

The rise of digital art and NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) has significantly altered how the sports and entertainment industries operate, providing new ways to engage audiences and generate revenue. Digital art, backed by blockchain technology, allows for the creation of unique, verifiable pieces of work that are gaining immense popularity. NFTs serve as a bridge between fans and their favorite athletes, entertainers, and teams, offering exclusive digital assets that can be collected, traded, or even used as tickets for special events. If you’re exploring this evolving field, you can also learn about Horus casino as part of the digital revolution in entertainment. This article will explore the unique features and benefits of digital art and NFTs in the context of sports and entertainment, demonstrating how they are reshaping fan interactions, revenue models, and ownership concepts.

What is Digital Art?

Digital art refers to any artwork created through digital tools or technologies, encompassing everything from graphics and illustrations to animations and 3D models. Unlike traditional art forms, digital art exists solely in a digital format and can be reproduced endlessly without losing quality. Tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, and Blender enable artists to create works that are visually stunning and can be easily shared online. The appeal of digital art lies in its versatility and accessibility—artists from around the world can create and distribute their works with a global audience. It is especially popular in the realm of entertainment, where it can be used for visual effects in films, game graphics, and even music videos. Additionally, digital art has found a niche in NFTs, as each digital piece can be tokenized and sold as a one-of-a-kind item.

What are NFTs?

NFTs, or Non-Fungible Tokens, are unique digital assets verified using blockchain technology, making them one-of-a-kind and impossible to replicate. Unlike cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, which are fungible and interchangeable, NFTs represent ownership of a specific item or piece of content. Each NFT is stored on a blockchain, providing a secure record of ownership and transaction history. In the context of digital art, NFTs allow artists to monetize their work by offering buyers verified ownership of the original piece, which is stored digitally and cannot be duplicated. NFTs have opened new doors for artists, athletes, and celebrities by enabling them to create and sell unique digital content directly to consumers.

In the sports and entertainment industries, NFTs have created a new marketplace where fans can purchase, collect, and trade exclusive digital memorabilia. This has revolutionized how fans interact with their favorite athletes, teams, and entertainers, offering them a way to own a piece of their legacy. Furthermore, NFTs help streamline the sales process, as artists and creators can directly sell their work to their audience without relying on third-party intermediaries. As the NFT market continues to grow, it has begun to influence various sectors, including art, music, sports, and even gambling. In particular, NFTs provide a new way for fans to connect with celebrities and access exclusive content, a concept that is especially attractive in the entertainment and sports worlds.

NFTs in the Sports Industry

Digital Collectibles and Fan Engagement

One of the most significant impacts of NFTs on the sports industry is the introduction of digital collectibles, allowing fans to purchase and own unique, limited-edition items related to their favorite teams or athletes. These digital items can include highlights from iconic games, digital trading cards, and even virtual tickets to exclusive events. Fans can display their collections in digital galleries, trade them with others, or even resell them for a profit. NFTs have made it possible for fans to own a piece of sports history in a way that was not possible before. For example, NBA Top Shot allows fans to buy and trade official NBA highlight moments as NFTs, turning every memorable dunk or buzzer-beater into a collectible item.

The use of NFTs has also enhanced fan engagement by providing new ways to interact with teams and athletes. Teams can offer exclusive content such as behind-the-scenes footage, virtual meet-and-greets, and limited-edition merchandise as NFTs. For example, a sports team might release a special NFT to commemorate a championship win, giving fans a tangible piece of the team’s legacy. This exclusivity adds value to the fan experience, offering something that is not available to the general public. Additionally, NFTs allow fans to show off their support for their favorite athletes by owning rare and collectible items that hold real-world value.

Revenue Generation

NFTs have become a powerful tool for revenue generation in the sports industry. Traditional sports revenue streams such as ticket sales, merchandise, and sponsorships are being augmented by NFT sales. Teams, leagues, and individual athletes can create and sell NFTs directly to their fanbase, bypassing intermediaries and retaining a larger portion of the revenue. This has created a direct relationship between creators and consumers, where fans can invest in their favorite sports moments, collectibles, and memorabilia.

In some cases, sports NFTs have generated millions of dollars in sales. For example, NBA Top Shot has seen individual highlight moments sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars. The platform allows fans to buy, sell, and trade officially licensed NBA moments, with some rare moments reaching astronomical prices. This has proven that sports-related NFTs can generate substantial income, with both athletes and teams benefiting from the sale of digital assets. NFTs are also beneficial because they offer ongoing revenue opportunities through royalties. Every time an NFT is resold on the secondary market, the original creator (whether it’s the athlete, team, or artist) receives a percentage of the sale, creating a continuous income stream.

Authenticity and Ownership

One of the most significant advantages of NFTs is their ability to establish verifiable ownership and authenticity of digital content. In the sports world, this has major implications for memorabilia and collectibles. Fans no longer need to worry about the authenticity of a signed jersey or limited-edition collectible because NFTs provide an irrefutable proof of ownership. By purchasing an NFT, fans can be sure they are acquiring a genuine piece of sports history, as each NFT is linked to a specific item and verified through the blockchain.

The use of NFTs in sports has helped establish a new model for fan ownership, where digital assets hold the same prestige as physical collectibles. This shift is particularly evident in the market for digital trading cards and highlight clips. By verifying ownership through blockchain technology, NFTs make it possible for fans to trade and resell their collectibles, much like traditional sports memorabilia. This level of authenticity also ensures that fans can buy and sell sports NFTs with confidence, knowing that the ownership is legitimate and secure.

Sports NFT Examples Description Example of Revenue Generation
NBA Top Shot Digital collectible moments from NBA games Millions in secondary sales
Sorare Fantasy soccer game with NFT player cards Sales of unique player cards
Formula 1 NFTs Limited-edition digital collectibles from F1 Revenue from rare item sales

NFTs in the Sports Industry

Digital collectibles and fan engagement

In the sports industry, NFTs have revolutionized fan engagement by offering digital collectibles that hold both emotional and financial value. Teams, leagues, and individual athletes are increasingly using NFTs as a tool to deepen their connection with fans. Through digital collectibles such as highlight moments, virtual jerseys, or signed digital artwork, fans are able to own a piece of their favorite sports moment. For example, NBA Top Shot has allowed fans to purchase, sell, and trade video highlights, transforming iconic plays into valuable NFTs. These collectibles aren’t just limited to rare moments; they can also represent unique access, such as VIP event tickets or backstage passes to team events, which are tokenized for added exclusivity. The key benefit of using NFTs is that they offer a verifiable proof of ownership, something that traditional collectibles can’t always guarantee. As a result, NFTs are not only preserving memories but also opening the door for athletes and fans to interact in innovative ways.

Revenue generation

One of the most compelling aspects of NFTs is their potential to create new revenue streams for sports organizations, athletes, and sponsors. Instead of relying solely on merchandise or ticket sales, sports entities can sell limited-edition digital collectibles directly to their fanbase, bypassing traditional distribution channels. This direct-to-fan model benefits both the creators and the buyers. NFTs also allow for secondary market sales, where fans can resell their collectibles, potentially increasing the value of a piece over time. The athlete or team behind the NFT can earn a percentage of each subsequent sale, ensuring continuous revenue generation. As an example, in 2021, the NBA Top Shot platform recorded over $230 million in total sales, illustrating the financial success of NFTs in sports. For athletes, this model has further advantages—some are using NFTs to offer digital art that grants access to special content, enhancing fan loyalty and providing personalized experiences.

Authenticity and ownership

NFTs address a critical issue in the world of sports memorabilia: authenticity. For years, collectors have struggled with counterfeit items flooding the market, diminishing the value of genuine memorabilia. However, NFTs ensure the authenticity of items by storing verifiable ownership records on the blockchain. This digital proof of ownership adds immense value to sports memorabilia, whether it’s an iconic photograph, a limited-edition digital trading card, or a special moment from a game. With NFTs, there is no ambiguity about the item’s origin or ownership history, which is vital for collectors who want to guarantee the integrity of their investments. Additionally, as the sports industry embraces NFTs, we’re likely to see a shift toward digital-only collectibles, with fewer physical items being traded in favor of unique digital representations. This shift will redefine what it means to collect sports memorabilia, combining nostalgia with cutting-edge technology.

NFTs in the Entertainment Industry

Digital art and movie memorabilia

NFTs are rapidly making their mark in the entertainment industry, particularly in film and television, where they are used to tokenize movie memorabilia, digital posters, and exclusive content. Filmmakers and studios are now issuing NFTs for limited-edition movie posters, concept art, and behind-the-scenes footage. These collectibles provide fans with a way to invest in their favorite films and television shows while also creating a new revenue model for the entertainment industry. For example, the iconic director Quentin Tarantino released NFTs for uncut scripts from Pulp Fiction, offering collectors an exclusive digital token that came with a unique script page and a special video message. This trend is expanding, with more studios experimenting with the idea of tokenized content to foster a deeper connection with fans.

Music and NFTs

The music industry has also jumped on the NFT bandwagon, with artists using NFTs to distribute albums, exclusive tracks, and concert tickets. By tokenizing their music, artists can offer fans limited-edition content that can only be purchased using cryptocurrency. The musician or creator benefits from the direct sale, bypassing traditional platforms and distribution services that typically take a cut of the revenue. Notable examples include the release of Kings of Leon’s album When You See Yourself, which was sold as an NFT with bonus content and special perks for holders. Additionally, Snoop Dogg has been using NFTs to sell limited-edition tracks and concert experiences. As these models evolve, artists will continue to experiment with new ways to engage their audiences, offering not only music but exclusive moments and interactions through blockchain technology.

Celebrity involvement in NFTs

Celebrities from various fields—actors, musicians, and athletes—are embracing NFTs as a new way to monetize their digital presence. NFTs allow them to create unique, limited-edition digital assets that cater directly to their fanbase. For instance, social media influencers have launched NFT collections that grant holders special access to private live streams, meet-and-greets, or exclusive merchandise. This direct connection is fostering an entirely new dynamic between celebrities and their fans, creating personalized and rare experiences. In addition to providing a financial benefit, NFTs give celebrities a way to offer something truly one-of-a-kind to their followers, fostering deeper loyalty and engagement. As more high-profile figures venture into the NFT space, the popularity of these digital assets will likely continue to skyrocket.

Conclusion

The integration of digital art and NFTs into the sports and entertainment industries marks a significant shift in how content is created, distributed, and consumed. NFTs offer a unique opportunity for fans to connect with their favorite athletes, entertainers, and teams in more meaningful ways, while also creating new financial opportunities for creators. When exploring this new market, it’s essential to consider expert reviews of NFT platforms, digital art, and even online casinos, as they can provide valuable insights into the best options available. From limited-edition digital collectibles to exclusive content, NFTs are revolutionizing the way fans engage with their passions, creating a market for digital memorabilia that is both collectible and tradeable. As these technologies evolve, their impact will only grow, offering exciting possibilities for the future of entertainment and sports.

FAQs

What is an NFT in the context of sports and entertainment?

 An NFT is a unique digital asset verified by blockchain technology. In sports and entertainment, NFTs represent rare digital collectibles, such as highlights, memorabilia, music, or exclusive content, that can be bought, sold, and traded among fans and collectors.

How do NFTs benefit athletes and entertainers?

 NFTs provide a new revenue stream for athletes and entertainers by allowing them to sell digital assets directly to fans. These assets can include exclusive content like limited-edition artwork, tickets to private events, or even behind-the-scenes footage, all of which can generate continuous income through secondary sales.

What are some examples of NFTs in the sports industry?

 NBA Top Shot is a prime example, allowing fans to buy, sell, and trade video highlights from basketball games. Other examples include soccer clubs issuing digital player cards or athletes releasing exclusive memorabilia tied to NFT ownership.

Are NFTs only valuable in the sports and entertainment sectors?

 While NFTs are popular in sports and entertainment, they are also valuable in other sectors such as art, gaming, and virtual real estate. The core value of NFTs lies in their uniqueness, scarcity, and the ability to verify ownership on the blockchain.

How can fans purchase NFTs in the sports and entertainment industries? 

Fans can purchase NFTs through various platforms such as NBA Top Shot, OpenSea, or Rarible. Typically, they need a cryptocurrency wallet and funds in cryptocurrency (like Ethereum) to make purchases. Each NFT marketplace offers a different range of collectibles, so fans should explore options based on their interests.