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Belong Unveil New Song ‘AM / PM’

Belong – the duo of Michael Jones and Turk Dietrich – have dropped a new single, ‘AM / PM’. It’s taken from Realistic IX, their first album in 13 years, which has already been previewed by the tracks ‘Souvenir’ and ‘Image of Love’. Give it a listen below.

Realistic IX is slated for release on August 9 via Kranky.

Watch Beck Perform ‘Paper Tiger’ on ‘Kimmel’

Beck appeared on last night’s episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live, where he delivered an orchestral performance of ‘Paper Tiger’, from his 2002 album Sea Change. He also sat down for an interview with guest host Martin Short and talked about the time he and Paul McCartney were denied entry to a Grammy party. Watch it happen below.

Next month, Beck will emarbark on an orchestral tour, which kicks off July 3 at Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery in Woodinville, WA. His last album was 2019’s Hyperspace.

Kate Bollinger Shares Video for New Single ‘To Your Own Devices’

Kate Bollinger has released ‘To Your Own Devices’, the second offering from her forthcoming debut LP Songs From a Thousand Frames of Mind. Following the previously unveiled ‘Any Day Now’, the track comes paired with a video co-directed by Bollinger and Nikki Milan Houston. Check it out below.

“In May of 2023, my friends Al, Parker (Essential Forever and Good Dog Nigel respectively) and I decided to each try and write a song a day,” Bollinger said of the new single. “This is one that I wrote at that time. We recorded it on the third day of the album sessions in the Catskills, live to tape, and without headphones.”

About the video, she added:

When I first moved to Los Angeles, I came across a book of old Japanese designs called MOGA, a catchword meaning ‘modern girls’ that was used to describe fashionable city women who embraced westernized modes and manners in the 1920s. In the book I found a surrealist design that depicted a woman, underwater with fish swimming around her, wearing a beautiful costume, and stirring a giant fish bowl like a pot of soup and I knew immediately that I wanted to recreate the scene for the album cover. I wrote a script for the music video and brought in filmmaker Nikki Milan Houston as my co-director and set designer. We brought in Odie Summers as set fabricator and in a friend’s studio downtown, a kitchen set was built over several days and came to life because of the distinctive skills and devotion of everyone involved.

Songs From a Thousand Frames of Mind will be released on September 27 via Ghostly International.

How Much Should Hair Wigs Cost?

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Wigs are iconic in fashion, films, and the everyday for millions of people that love to look good without the hassle of normal hair or simply as an aesthetic tool for their dream look. In fact, Yahoo Finance state that the The Hair Wigs and Extensions market size was worth around US$ 6.48 billion in 2022. That makes it a massive market in the US alone.

From blonde to brunette colors, a great wig will change the way you feel about yourself and way people perceive you. In this guide, we’ll be looking at the typical wig costs that can range from a mere $20 to a mighty $500, the range of wigs we found will be perfect for you and hopefully will aid you in finding the perfect solution for your daily life.

Affordable Wigs

Being on a budget will help you establish a preferred style and while the quality might not be top notch you’ll still get a good deal. A cheap wig can cost as low as $20 but you will notice that tight budget within the results it will produce. We’d recommend always saving up to get a better wig if you can, but temporary cheap wig options are not a bad shout if you’re looking for a quick solution without shilling out hundreds of dollars.

Here are some example costs of affordable wigs:

  • Lace frontal wig – $40
  • Luxe lace wig – $50
  • Curtain Bang Lite Wig – $22

Real Hair Wigs

Human hair wigs like UNice pre-cut lace front wigs are a superb way to establish an authentic look that is inseparable from normal hair without the pain of maintaining the normal hair. Real hair wigs are pricier than cheap budget wigs but they do deliver on things like quality, style, application and aesthetics (a true natural look). You simply can’t go wrong with real hair wigs.

Click to buy real hair wigs here.

Here are some example costs of real hair wigs:

  • Quick Glueless Lace Water Wave Invisible Knots Wig – $139

  • Frontal Super Secure Water Wave Pre-Everything Wig – $159

Final Thoughts

Choosing the correct wig for your comes down to many things including budget, quality, and aesthetics. We hope our swift guide will help you decide on your buying decision when buying a wig online or in-person.

We always recommend trying out a few different looks and seeing what fits best. Ask your friends or family to give you some ideas too, they might know you better than yourself especially when it comes to combining or creating looks.

Remember, while budget-friendly wigs are great because they are affordable, they won’t have the high-quality of the real hair wigs which are simply unmatched when it comes to finish and look. The durability aspect of a real hair wig should also be recognised. If you buy cheap, you may pay twice, which will make it economically a bad decision. So, save your money and go with a real hair wig to make the best decision of your life!

Health Insurance for International Students: Why You Need One?

As you arrive in a new country to pursue your dreams of higher education, you are likely feeling excited and looking forward to the new experiences that lie ahead. Between getting ready and making adjustments, getting enough health insurance is an important thing for international students to think about. In this article, you will explore why having health insurance is vital for international students.

Reasons Why International Students Need Health Insurance

Financial Protection

In many countries, the cost of health care can be very high, especially for emergencies, stays in the hospital, or visits with specialists. Having health insurance for international students ensures they can access necessary medical care without worrying about the cost. Depending on the policy, it pays for things like doctor visits, prescription drugs, diagnostic tests, and surgeries.

Legal Requirements

As a condition of their visa, many countries and schools require students to have adequate health insurance. This makes sure that students can get medical care during their stay and can handle any emergencies that may come up. 

If a student does not have health insurance, it could affect their visa status and their ability to go to school.

Access to Quality Healthcare

Many insurance companies have networks of doctors and hospitals that they work with, which makes it easier for students to get medical help when they need it. This access to quality healthcare supports students in managing their health proactively and addressing any medical concerns promptly. 

Challenges Without Health Insurance

High Healthcare Costs

If someone does not have health insurance, they have to pay for their own medical bills, which can be very expensive. Healthcare costs, such as doctor visits, hospitalizations, surgeries, and prescription medications, add up quickly and may result in financial strain or debt. 

Without insurance to negotiate lower rates or cover expenses, individuals may delay seeking necessary medical care, compromising their health in the long run.

Limited Access to Healthcare

Anyone who does not have health insurance might have trouble getting medical care. Some healthcare providers may require upfront payment or refuse treatment to uninsured patients. This lack of access can delay diagnosis and treatment for medical conditions, leading to worsened health outcomes. 

Aside from that, uninsured individuals may rely on emergency rooms for primary care, contributing to overcrowding and longer wait times in hospitals.

Legal and Administrative Issues

Without valid health coverage, individuals may face penalties, fines, or legal consequences. Immigration authorities may require proof of health insurance for visa approval or renewal, and failure to comply could result in visa denial or deportation.

Administratively, managing healthcare expenses without insurance can be complex. Billing and payment issues, disputes over medical charges, and navigating healthcare bureaucracy become more challenging without insurance coverage. 

Prioritize Obtaining Adequate Health Insurance

Investing in your health today will not only mitigate potential risks but also empower you to fully embrace and thrive in your educational experience. So, stay healthy, stay informed, and enjoy your journey as an international student.

6 Best Tips to Make Your Group Greeting Cards Aesthetically Pleasing

Picture how happy someone will be when they open a beautifully made group greeting card full of sweet notes from coworkers or friends. The way the card looks adds a lot to this special moment, turning it from just a message into a keepsake that will be remembered. 

If you know what steps to take, getting to this level of beauty and cohesiveness can be fun and rewarding. Here are six best tips to help you create a stunning group greeting card that will be cherished by its recipient.

1. Choose a Consistent Theme

Start by picking a consistent theme for your group greeting card. This could be based on the occasion, like birthdays or holidays, or a specific style, like vintage or modern. 

Having a theme helps everything look cohesive and tied together. It guides your choices for colors, images, and decorations, making the card look well-planned and attractive.

2. Select High-Quality Materials

Using high-quality materials can make a big difference in how your card looks and feels. Choose sturdy cardstock or thick paper for the card base. 

High-quality materials not only look better but also feel better in the hands of the recipient. This attention to quality shows that you put effort and care into making the card, which adds to its overall appeal.

3. Opt for a Balanced Color Scheme

A balanced color scheme makes your card visually pleasing. Pick a few colors that go well together and stick with them throughout the card. 

Avoid using too many colors, which can make the card look chaotic. Instead, use complementary or harmonious colors to create a cohesive and attractive look. This makes the card look professional and thoughtfully designed.

4. Use High-Quality Images and Graphics

High-quality images and graphics can significantly enhance the look of your greeting card. Whether you’re using photos, illustrations, or patterns, make sure they are clear and high-resolution. However, blurry or pixelated images can make the card look cheap. Using crisp, high-quality visuals ensures that the card looks polished and appealing. 

5. Experiment with Unique Folding and Cutting Techniques

Adding unique folding or cutting techniques can make your card stand out. Try different folds, like a pop-up or accordion fold, to add dimension and interest. 

You can also use die-cuts or cutouts to create interesting shapes and designs. These creative touches make the card more engaging and fun, adding a special element that sets it apart.

6. Proofread and Double-Check Details

Before finalizing your greeting card, make sure to proofread and double-check all details. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, ensuring that all text is correct. Look over any names, dates, and messages to ensure they are accurate. Attention to detail shows that you care about the card’s quality and the recipient’s experience. 

Make Meaningful Connections Today

Whether you choose traditional paper cards or opt for electronic group greeting cards, every detail contributes to a memorable and meaningful greeting. So, embrace your creativity, pay attention to the details, and make meaningful connections today with beautifully crafted group greeting cards that leave a lasting impression.

6 Best Tips for Maintaining Stormwater Pits

If it is raining hard, your stormwater pits will help keep your yard from flooding and runoff under control. For stormwater pits to keep working well and protect your property and the environment from water damage and pollution, they need to be properly maintained.

Proper maintenance of stormwater pits involves more than just occasional cleaning. In this article, you will explore six essential tips for maintaining stormwater pits that will help you uphold their effectiveness and longevity. 

1. Regular Inspection

Regular inspections are crucial for ensuring stormwater pits function effectively. Inspect pits at least twice a year, ideally before and after the rainy season. Look for signs of damage, cracks, or erosion around the pit. 

Check the grate covers and ensure they are secure and free from damage. Inspections help identify issues early, preventing costly repairs and ensuring the pit operates efficiently during heavy rainfall.

2. Clearing Debris

Clearing debris from stormwater pits is essential to prevent clogging and maintain proper drainage. Remove leaves, twigs, litter, and sediment that accumulate on the grate covers and inside the pit. 

Debris can block water flow, leading to localized flooding or overflow during storms. Use appropriate tools like rakes or vacuum equipment to clear debris effectively. Regular maintenance keeps the pit clear and allows it to function optimally during rainfall.

3. Checking for Blockages

Check for blockages within stormwater pits to ensure uninterrupted water flow. Inspect pipes, inlet/outlet channels, and internal chambers for any obstructions caused by debris, sediment buildup, or vegetation growth. 

Blockages can impede water movement, causing backups and potential flooding in surrounding areas. If needed, use a flashlight to inspect interior areas and remove any blockages carefully. Consider flushing the pit with water to dislodge stubborn debris.

4. Monitoring Water Levels

Regularly monitor water levels in stormwater pits to ensure they don’t exceed capacity during heavy rains. High water levels indicate the pit may not be draining properly or could be blocked. 

Use water level indicators or observe during rain events to check for any signs of overflowing. Maintaining optimal water levels helps prevent flooding and ensures the pit functions effectively in managing stormwater runoff.

5. Inspecting for Structural Damage

Inspect stormwater pits for structural damage to maintain their integrity and functionality. Look for cracks, erosion, or signs of wear on pit walls, floors, and surrounding structures. 

Structural damage can compromise the pit’s ability to contain water or lead to leaks that affect nearby areas. Repair any identified damage promptly using suitable materials and techniques to prevent further deterioration.

6. Preventing Sediment Build-Up

Sediment can accumulate over time, reducing the pit’s storage volume and clogging drainage systems. To keep debris from getting into the pit, put in sediment traps or filters. With the right tools, clean the pit floor regularly and remove any sediment that is there. Take steps to stop erosion in the areas around the property to keep sediment from building up.

Ensure Optimal Performance of Your Stormwater Pits

By following these best practices for maintaining stormwater pits, you can ensure their optimal performance and longevity. So, keep your stormwater pits in top condition to protect your property and the environment.

How to Pick the Right Size Dining Table for Your Space

The dining table is often the centerpiece of a home, where family and friends gather to share meals, conversations, and memories. Choosing the right size dining table for your space is essential for both functionality and aesthetics. 

Whether you have a spacious dining room or a cozy breakfast nook, selecting a table that fits well and suits your needs can enhance the overall look and feel of your home. This guide will explore some essential tips on how to pick the right size dining table for your space.

1. Measure Your Space

Before you start shopping for dining tables, measure your dining area to determine how much space you have available. Consider the length, width, and height of the room, as well as any architectural features like windows, doors, or alcoves that may affect the layout. Be sure to leave enough clearance around the table for chairs to be pulled out comfortably and for people to move around freely.

2. Consider the Shape of Your Room

The shape of your dining room can influence the size and shape of the dining table you choose. For square or rectangular rooms, a similarly shaped table often works best, maximizing seating capacity and visual harmony. In long, narrow rooms, consider a rectangular or oval table to complement the space and create a balanced look. Round tables are versatile and work well in smaller or square rooms, providing a cozy, intimate dining experience.

3. Determine Seating Capacity

Consider how many people you typically need to seat at your dining table on a regular basis. This will help you determine the appropriate size of the table and ensure that everyone has enough space to dine comfortably. As a general rule of thumb, allow at least 24 inches of width per person for elbow room. For rectangular tables, a good guideline is to add 12 inches to the length for each additional person you want to seat.

Ensure that there is enough clearance around the modern dining table for people to move freely and pull out chairs without obstruction. Allow at least 36 inches of clearance between the table and any walls or furniture to create a comfortable flow of traffic. If your dining area is part of an open-plan layout, consider the overall circulation and sightlines to other areas of the room.

4. Factor in Table Shape and Size

The shape and size of the dining table play a crucial role in determining its suitability for your space. Rectangular tables are classic and versatile, offering ample seating and accommodating larger gatherings. Square tables are ideal for smaller rooms or intimate settings, while round tables promote conversation and social interaction. Choose a table size that fits comfortably within your dining area without overwhelming the space or making it feel cramped.

5. Allow for Clearance

Ensure that there is enough clearance around the dining table for people to move freely and pull out chairs without obstruction. Allow at least 36 inches of clearance between the table and any walls or furniture to create a comfortable flow of traffic. If your dining area is part of an open-plan layout, consider the overall circulation and sightlines to other areas of the room.

6. Consider Extension Options

If you occasionally entertain large groups or host family gatherings, consider a dining table with extension leaves or expandable features. Extension tables offer flexibility and versatility, allowing you to adjust the size of the table to accommodate more guests when needed. Keep in mind the additional space required to expand the table and ensure that your dining area can accommodate the extended size comfortably.

7. Think About Proportions and Visual Balance

When selecting a dining table, consider the overall proportions and visual balance of your space. Choose a table size that complements the scale of the room and other furniture pieces. Too big of a table might overtake the room, and too little of a table can seem out of place. Aim for a harmonious balance between the table size and the surrounding elements to create a cohesive and inviting dining area.

8. Test Out Different Options

Before making a final decision, consider testing out different table sizes and shapes to see how they fit within your space. Use masking tape or cardboard cutouts to create mock-ups of the table dimensions on the floor, allowing you to visualize the layout and determine the best fit. Take into account factors like ease of movement, seating capacity, and overall aesthetics when evaluating each option.

9. Think Long-Term

Investing in a dining table is a long-term decision, so consider your future needs and lifestyle when making your selection. Choose a table that can accommodate your evolving family size, entertaining habits, and design preferences. Opt for durable materials and timeless styles that will stand the test of time and adapt to changing trends and tastes.

10. Personalize Your Choice

Ultimately, the right size dining table for your space is one that reflects your personal style, meets your functional needs, and enhances the overall ambiance of your home. Choose a table that you love and that complements your decor aesthetic, whether it’s rustic farmhouse, modern minimalist, or traditional elegance. Personalize your choice with finishes, materials, and design details that resonate with your lifestyle and preferences. Check The Hairpin Leg Company to learn more tips.

Select the Right Size Dining Table

Selecting the right size dining table for your space requires careful consideration of factors like room dimensions, seating capacity, table shape, and clearance requirements. By measuring your space, determining seating needs, considering table proportions, and testing out different options, you can find a dining table that fits seamlessly into your home and enhances your dining experience.

Workplace Safety: Practice These Important Tips

Safety at work is more than just following the rules. It’s about creating a culture where everyone is vigilant and proactive in preventing accidents and injuries. 

Whether you’re an employer aiming to reduce incidents or an employee wanting to stay safe, these practical tips for workplace safety are fundamental to achieving a secure workplace.

1. Always Report Unsafe Conditions

Reporting unsafe conditions is crucial to workplace safety. If you see something dangerous, like a spill on the floor or faulty equipment, tell your supervisor right away. 

This helps prevent accidents before they happen. Never assume someone else will report it. By being proactive, you contribute to a safer work environment for everyone.

2. Keep a Clean Workstation

A clean workstation reduces the risk of accidents. Keep your area tidy by organizing tools, papers, and equipment. Make sure pathways are clear to avoid tripping hazards. Regularly clean up spills and dispose of waste properly. A neat workspace also improves productivity and helps you focus better on your tasks. For those working in outdoor areas, maintaining safety might also involve measures like a fence rental Austin to ensure that the workspace is secure from unauthorized access and hazards.

3. Wear Protective Equipment

Always wear the necessary protective equipment for your job. This might include gloves, goggles, helmets, or earplugs. Protective gear shields you from potential hazards and reduces the risk of injury. 

Check that your gear fits well and is in good shape. Don’t ignore safety guidelines, even if the equipment seems uncomfortable or inconvenient.

4. Take Breaks

Taking regular breaks is important for your health and safety. Breaks help you stay alert and reduce the risk of accidents caused by fatigue. 

Use your breaks to rest, stretch, and hydrate. This can improve your focus and productivity when you return to work. 

5. Don’t Skip Steps

Follow all safety procedures and don’t skip steps, even if you’re in a hurry. Shortcuts can lead to accidents and injuries. Each step in a process is there to ensure safety and efficiency. Take your time to do things right, double-checking your work as needed. This attention to detail helps prevent mistakes and keeps everyone safe.

6. Stay Up to Date with New Procedures or Protocols 

Workplaces often update their safety procedures and protocols. Stay informed about any changes by attending training sessions and reading updates. 

Understanding the latest safety measures ensures you’re using the best practices to stay safe. If you’re unsure about a new procedure, ask questions to clarify and ensure you’re following it correctly.

7. Maintain Proper Posture 

Maintaining proper posture is key to avoiding injuries, especially for jobs that involve sitting or repetitive motions. Sit up straight, keep your feet flat on the ground, and adjust your chair and computer screen to eye level. 

For lifting tasks, bend your knees and keep your back straight to avoid strain. Good posture helps prevent back pain and other musculoskeletal issues.

8. Offer Guidance to New Employees

Helping new employees understand safety procedures is important for maintaining a safe workplace. Share your knowledge and experience with them, showing them the correct ways to perform tasks. Encourage them to ask questions and report any unsafe conditions. Being a mentor helps create a culture of safety and ensures everyone follows best practices.

Prioritize Workplace Safety Today

Workplace safety is a shared responsibility that significantly impacts the well-being of every employee and the overall success of your organization. By implementing and adhering to these essential safety tips, you create a secure and productive work environment where everyone can thrive.

ICP-MS: Principles and Applications Explained

ICP-MS, or Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry, is a well-known method for analysing elements that can measure elements in a wide range of data with high accuracy and sensitivity. 

This blog will go into the fundamentals of ICP-MS, including how it works, what it can be used for, and how important it is in scientific study and analytical methods.

Basic Principles of ICP-MS

ICP-MS, or Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry, is a strong way to find and measure trace elements in samples. Because it is so accurate and sensitive, it is the best choice for testing the environment, drugs, and food safety.

Sample Ionization Using Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP)

Inductively coupled plasma is what makes ICP-MS work. It turns a material into ions. Small droplets of the sample, which is usually a liquid, are released into the plasma. A radiofrequency coil makes plasma that gets to about 10,000 K. This makes the atoms in the sample ionise, or change into positively charged ions.

Ion Measurement Using Mass Spectrometry (MS)

The sample ions go into the mass analyzer after they have been charged. The MS part sorts these ions by m/z, which is the ratio of their mass to charge. This sorting makes it possible to measure and identify the sample’s parts correctly. Because it has a high precision and sensitivity, the mass spectrometer can find trace elements that are present in very small amounts.

Direct Measurement of Ions vs. Optical Emission

What makes ICP-MS and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) different is how they find things. The ICP-OES analyses the light that heated atoms and ions in the plasma give off, while the ICP-MS analyses the ions themselves. ICP-MS is much more sensitive and can find elements in lower amounts because it uses a direct measurement method.

Advantages of Direct Ion Measurement

ICP-MS’s direct ion measurement cuts down on possible interference and makes the readings more accurate. Optical emission can be messed up by things like overlapping spectra. The mass spectrometer’s accurate mass-to-charge ratio determination makes these problems less likely, which means the data is more dependable.

Components of an ICP-MS Instrument

A technique called Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) can find and measure small elements in samples. Knowing what its main parts are can help you understand how sensitive and accurate it is.

Ion Source (ICP)

In ICP-MS, the negatively charged plasma is what gives off the ions. A radiofrequency field makes the plasma, and the sample, which is usually a liquid, is sprayed into it. At about 10,000 K, the plasma turns the atoms in the sample into positively charged ions.

Mass Spectrometer

The mass spectrometer, which is usually a scanning quadrupole mass filter, sorts ions by the ratio of their mass to charge (m/z). This sorting makes it possible to accurately name and measure the parts in the sample.

Detector

There are detectors that measure the ions that go through the mass spectrometer. It keeps track of how many ions there are at each mass-to-charge ratio, which lets you figure out what elements are in the sample.

Additional Components

Vacuum Pump and Vacuum Interface

The mass spectrometer is kept at a low pressure by a vacuum pump. Ions from the high-pressure plasma can move quickly to the low-pressure mass spectrometer thanks to the vacuum contact.

Electrostatic Ion Lenses

Ion lenses that are charged with electricity focus and move plasma ions through the mass spectrometer. These lenses make it easier for ions to pass through and lessen their loss, which makes the device more sensitive.

Applications of ICP-MS

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) is very useful for finding small elements very accurately, which shows how widely it can be used in science.

Biomedical Implications and Clinical Relevance

Scientists and doctors use ICP-MS to find out about trace elements and heavy metals in biological data. It helps find diseases, check on nutrition, and learn about harmful exposures.

Environmental Monitoring

ICP-MS is an important tool for environmental tracking because it can analyse samples of soil, water, and air. It keeps an eye on waste, checks the health of the environment, and makes sure that rules are followed.

Food Safety

In the food business, ICP-MS finds contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and additives. This makes sure that the food is safe and that rules are followed.

Geochemistry

Geochemists use ICP-MS to look at rocks, minerals, and sediments and learn more about how the Earth works and how to handle its natural resources.

Materials Science

ICP-MS checks the purity and makeup of materials, which makes sure they are of good quality and helps the creation of new materials for many fields.

Unveil the Power of ICP-MS

In conclusion, Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) is an important tool for analysing elements with unmatched accuracy and sensitivity. Its important part in scientific progress is shown by the many ways it is used in biomedical research, environmental monitoring, food safety, geochemistry, and materials science. 

Researchers are still working on ICP-MS to learn more about trace elements and heavy metals. This is because ICP-MS is important for diagnosing diseases, making sure food and the environment are safe, learning how geology works, and making materials better. If you’re interested, you can learn more about ICP-MS and see how it can be used for elemental research.