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Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: A Closer Look at OCD

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD is known as a critical mental health condition. This illness is often not given enough attention, yet it can lead people into severe depression. OCD causes individuals great suffering, which can be as painful as any physical ailment. Unfortunately, its exact causes and cures remain unknown.

Even famous Indian actress Deepika Padukone struggled with this disorder. By the time she recognized it, the disorder had taken a significant toll on her. Studies show that one out of every 50 people worldwide experiences OCD at some point in their lives. It can affect anyone, regardless of gender. The journey of OCD begins with mental restlessness, anxiety, and excessive worry. Obsessions are persistent and unwanted thoughts or desires that can harm mental health. Compulsions are actions people take to try and get rid of these uncontrollable thoughts or desires. Often, they occur together in people with OCD. Mild obsessions might not be problematic, but when they become severe, they can cause significant issues in one’s social and daily life.

The exact cause of this disorder is unknown, although it may be related to neurochemical changes. Women who have experienced sexual abuse have a higher likelihood of developing OCD. In some cases, new mothers may develop OCD after childbirth. It can also be associated with brain disorders. OCD can trap you in a web of irrational thoughts, threatening your family, social life, and professional life due to the behaviors it leads to.

Several signs can indicate that someone may be at risk for OCD. They might excessively worry about the cleanliness of their surroundings or engage in irrational thinking. Severe depression can result from this condition. Many people suffer from OCD, but since it often goes unreported, there is no official data on its prevalence. People with OCD experience unwarranted fears about various things, such as contracting a severe illness, seeing blood, heights, loneliness, and more.

Regrettably, society often does not acknowledge OCD as a legitimate illness. However, many people follow their doctor’s advice and take medication to alleviate the symptoms gradually. It is important to practice yoga, meditation, and various forms of exercise to manage OCD. Getting sufficient sleep and exercise is crucial, and avoiding alcohol and sugary foods can also be helpful. Sometimes, following a psychiatrist’s guidance can help control OCD.

October 28, 2023
2023 BMW R1300GS: Lighter, Stronger, and Ready for Adventure

BMW’s new R1300GS, priced at £15,990, is a noteworthy addition to the adventure bike market. It’s the lightest, most powerful, and compact GS in BMW’s lineup. This updated model comes with an impressive range of standard features, a fresh look, and a plethora of optional extras, such as an electronic ride height system, semi-active suspension with variable spring rates, and even a collision warning system that can apply the brakes in emergencies. Additionally, it offers a variety of front and rear seats, screen options, levers, new luggage choices, and extended travel off-road suspension, providing riders with a wide array of customization.

In response to increasing competition from adventure bikes like the Ducati Multistrada V4, Triumph Tiger 1200, KTM 1290 Super Adventure S, and Honda Africa Twin, BMW has made necessary updates to their iconic GS model. The 2023 R1300GS retains the GS identity but emerges as a smaller, smoother, lighter, more agile, and refined version compared to its predecessor, the BMW R1250GS. The changes and enhancements are substantial, and while they don’t transform the riding experience completely, they make the new GS a versatile machine catering to a broader range of riders and riding situations.

It’s essential to understand that the R1300GS is not designed to outperform KTM’s off-road capabilities, offer the same precision on the road as the latest Triumph Tiger 1200, or match the superbike-like speed of a Ducati Multistrada V4. However, the GS has never needed these attributes to maintain its popularity and continues to excel in off-road adventures, touring, and spirited riding. It remains an exceptional all-in-one bike that’s challenging to surpass.

BMW has made significant changes to the bike’s structure by replacing the old tubular steel chassis with a compact pressed steel shell that uses the engine as a structural component. The subframe is now constructed from cast aluminum, and a lighter lithium-ion battery comes as standard. The updated styling marks a significant departure from the chunkier appearance of the previous R1250GS. Despite the increased engine size, the R1300GS feels smaller and more streamlined. It’s a slimmer bike with a reduced fuel tank size. However, it retains the familiar GS character and design elements, ensuring a comfortable and recognizable riding experience.

Despite the new chassis, the R1300GS maintains a ride quality reminiscent of its predecessor. It’s stable and forgiving with a superb suspension that can handle a variety of riding conditions. While it may not be the fastest steering bike, it’s more agile and precise than before. This makes it easier to navigate and offers a more enjoyable riding experience. The front calipers and larger diameter discs provide strong and progressive braking performance, supported by a powerful rear brake.

The R1300GS’s 1300cc air/liquid-cooled boxer twin engine is more powerful and torque-rich throughout the rev range compared to its predecessor, especially between 3600rpm and 7800rpm. With a new oversquare layout, increased bore size, and reduced stroke, the engine delivers 143bhp of power at 7750rpm and 110lb-ft of torque at 6500rpm. The redline reaches 9000rpm, and the engine uses the ShiftCam valve timing system for improved low-end grunt and high-end performance. It breathes through a new stainless-steel exhaust.

This new engine is not only more powerful but also lighter and more compact, resulting in a more agile bike. The gearbox, now mounted beneath the engine, has improved accuracy, especially when equipped with the optional up/down quickshifter. The engine provides a flexible and predictable power delivery, making it ideal for road riding. It maintains its distinctive boxer twin burble at low revs and delivers strong acceleration, particularly in its sweet spot. The new engine’s refinement is complemented by smoother power delivery, making it user-friendly at road speeds.

October 28, 2023
The Stylish Yamaha XSR900 GP: A Mix of Retro Aesthetics and Modern Features

Yamaha, the renowned motorcycle manufacturer, has unveiled a new bike, the Yamaha XSR900 GP, that’s turning heads. It’s a blend of classic and modern design, making it one of the most striking factory-made motorcycles we’ve seen.

Yamaha doesn’t have as many modern classic models as brands like Triumph or Royal Enfield. But they’ve been actively involved in the custom build scene through their ‘Yard Built’ initiative. This has produced several exceptional custom Yamaha bikes.

The XSR900 GP is reminiscent of a high-quality custom build rather than an off-the-shelf bike. It’s based on the ‘DB40’ prototype Yamaha showcased at the Goodwood Festival of Speed earlier this year. The production version retains the stunning design and adds practicality for the street.

Yamaha’s rich history in motorcycle racing plays a significant role in the XSR900 GP’s design. The manufacturer has a strong legacy with riders like Giacomo Agostini, Kenny Roberts, Wayne Rainey, Max Biaggi, and Valentino Rossi. The iconic Yamaha Deltabox chassis, introduced in the 1982 YZR500 OW61 Grand Prix bike, is still used in several Yamaha motorcycles today, including the XSR900.

The XSR900 GP draws inspiration from Yamaha’s Grand Prix racing heritage and the 80s and 90s boxy aesthetic. The attention to detail is remarkable, from visible fasteners on the half-fairing to a small rectangular LED headlight. The cockpit features clip-on handlebars and a relocated digital display within the fairing. Tubular fairing stays with beta pin bolts, a first for Yamaha production bikes, add to the vintage appeal.

The XSR900 GP’s eye-catching livery is reminiscent of Wayne Rainey’s 1990 YZR500, with red and white colors, yellow ‘number boards,’ and silver finishes for the chassis and swingarm. Yamaha has paid close attention to how the graphics align with the front fork angle.

Beneath the striking bodywork, the XSR900 GP is essentially an XSR900 but with frame tweaks and a reinforced swingarm to accommodate the sportier clip-ons. The riding position is set up to be spirited but not overly aggressive, with higher clip-ons, a thicker seat, and adjustable foot controls. It inherits the XSR900’s KYB suspension, Brembo front brakes, ABS, and electronic rider aids. New switchgear and bar-end mirrors enhance its appearance, and it rides on rotary-forged aluminum wheels with Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires.

The XSR900 GP uses the same 889cc triple-cylinder engine, offering 117.4 hp and 93 Nm of torque. Yamaha claims it has a higher top speed and better acceleration due to the aerodynamics of its fairing. The radiator’s air ducts aid in heat dissipation. The XSR900 GP will be available in two color options: ‘Legend Red’ and ‘Power Grey.’ Buyers can also opt for lower fairings, a different license plate holder, a tinted screen, and an Akrapovič exhaust system.

October 26, 2023
Aulumu: Innovative iPhone Accessories Redefining Style and Function

Last month, I was scrolling through a website, and I found an iPhone 15 case by a brand called Aulumu. It immediately caught my eye, and I started to look into this brand a bit more. They had a unique look and style. Their accessories had a futuristic, Cyberpunk-like design, yet they maintained a minimalistic appeal.

Let’s start with their iPhone cases. They offer two different types: the A15 vegan leather case and the A15 translucent case. My personal favorite is the vegan leather case. It strikes a fantastic balance between providing protection and not being too bulky. It looks and feels premium due to the vegan leather material. The case has some metallic accents, like a “cooling vent” on the back, which adds to its aesthetic. The matte black buttons, including the action button and the camera lip, are very tactile and satisfying to use.

Aulumu also offers a translucent series of cases that provide the same aesthetics but with a different texture. These cases are a bit more rigid and sturdy, offering enhanced protection for your iPhone. They have responsive buttons that are satisfying to click. All these cases are MagSafe-compatible, work with a screen protector, and have some passive cooling features.

Let’s start with the G05 accessory, which is one of the most unique MagSafe accessories I’ve come across. It has an attractive circular magnet with an extending arm. The accessory is made entirely of metal, and it rotates smoothly due to the strong magnets. What sets the G05 apart is its four different modes. You can use the metallic arm to stand your phone up both vertically and horizontally, and it can also function as a grip to hold your phone securely.

Aulumu also offers a MagSafe battery pack that complements their design language perfectly. This power bank provides an extra 3500mAh of battery and charges at 5W, so it’s not the fastest wireless charger, but it gets the job done. Aulumu’s charging station is among the best-designed ones I’ve ever used. It’s efficiently packaged in a slim, flat box to minimize waste. The charger can be laid flat or unfolded to create a stand. It adheres to the same aesthetic as Aulumu’s other accessories and is more than just a charger. It offers:

– 15W fast MagSafe charging
– 5W charging pad for AirPods
– 2.5W Apple Watch charger
– USB-C out that supports 10W charging
– A small adjustable night light with three modes

This charging station accommodates all your Apple devices and even has an extra port for a fourth device. It’s easy to carry with you because it folds flat, but it can also serve as your stationary charging hub when propped up as a stand. It also supports the new Standby mode on iOS 17. The built-in night light is a nice touch, although some users may wish the Apple Watch charger were propped up because it’s not ideal for closed-loop bands like the solo loop.

Source: 9to5mac

October 26, 2023
Hyperhidrosis: Dealing with it and What You Need to Know

Many people face the problem of excessive sweating, which can be quite bothersome. It’s not limited to hot weather; some individuals experience it even in winter. Let’s explore the reasons behind this issue.

In medical terms, excessive sweating is known as hyperhidrosis. It can be categorized into two types: general and localized. General hyperhidrosis refers to excessive sweating all over the body, while primary hyperhidrosis is when there’s no apparent medical cause for the sweating.

Primary hyperhidrosis can be linked to genetics and family history. It often runs in families, affecting multiple members. Secondary hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, may be triggered by underlying health conditions such as thyroid problems or diarrhea.

Medical tests are conducted to understand and identify any contributing medical issues. Individuals with diabetes or low blood sugar levels may also experience excessive sweating. In some cases, women may go through episodes of excessive sweating when they reach menopause.

Excessive sweating can lead to the loss of a significant amount of body fluids. To prevent dehydration and discomfort, it’s essential to stay adequately hydrated. Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety can also contribute to excessive sweating. If an underlying medical condition is identified, appropriate treatment should be sought.

Patients should be reassured that there’s no need to be overly anxious or nervous about excessive sweating. Sometimes, even healthy individuals may experience bouts of excessive sweating. It’s not a severe illness, and effective management can help maintain overall health. If you’re dealing with excessive sweating, it’s advisable to consult a doctor, particularly a dermatologist, for suitable guidance and treatment.

October 25, 2023
Xiaomi Watch S3 ‍and HyperOS: A New Frontier in Smartwatch Technology

Xiaomi has an exciting launch event scheduled for October 26, where they will introduce their next-generation flagship smartphones, the Xiaomi 14 series, and the HyperOS. But that’s not all; Xiaomi has more in store for its fans, including a new smartwatch. Let’s dive into what we know about this wearable.

The forthcoming smartwatch from Xiaomi is officially named the Xiaomi Watch S3. This device follows its predecessor, the Xiaomi Watch S2, which was unveiled alongside the Xiaomi 13 series last year. The Xiaomi Watch S3 boasts a fresh design and updated software, making it an exciting addition to the Xiaomi smartwatch lineup.

One of the standout features of the Xiaomi Watch S3 is its customization options. Xiaomi understands that personal style matters, and this smartwatch allows users to express themselves. It will be available in two classic colors, black and silver. Moreover, Xiaomi is taking personalization to the next level by offering a range of colorful replaceable bezels. This means users can adapt the watch’s look to match their outfit, mood, or style preference with ease.

When it comes to the display, the Xiaomi Watch S3 won’t disappoint. It features a 1.43-inch circular AMOLED display with impressively thin bezels. The 8-bit screen offers a smooth 60Hz refresh rate, ensuring a responsive and visually pleasing experience. With a pixel density of 326 PPI and a peak brightness level of 600 nits, this smartwatch’s screen provides sharp, vibrant visuals even in various lighting conditions.

The most significant software-related aspect of the Xiaomi Watch S3 is its operating system, HyperOS. This fresh software from Xiaomi is poised to bring a range of new features and capabilities to the smartwatch. However, as of now, detailed information about HyperOS and how it will enhance the user experience on Xiaomi smartwatches remains under wraps. Xiaomi has given a sneak peek of the hardware, and they might reveal more about this exciting product in the coming days.

Xiaomi’s choice to introduce HyperOS is in line with the industry trend, where smartphone manufacturers are developing their operating systems for smartwatches. This move is somewhat reminiscent of Huawei’s HarmonyOS for their smart devices. Xiaomi’s HyperOS is expected to run smoothly on its smartwatches and provide users with an intuitive and feature-rich interface.

Though it’s not confirmed yet, it’s likely that Xiaomi’s HyperOS will have a real-time operating system (RTOS) at its core. An RTOS is a type of operating system designed for systems where real-time performance is critical. It ensures that the smartwatch responds to user inputs quickly and efficiently, making for a seamless and responsive experience. Xiaomi’s decision to develop its own operating system underlines their commitment to delivering a unique and tailored user experience.

October 24, 2023
Exciting Developments in Smartphone Display Technology from OnePlus and OPPO

OnePlus and OPPO are creating a lot of excitement with their teaser for an upcoming smartphone display. The teaser, posted on the social media platform Weibo, hints at a “historic moment for Chinese screens” scheduled for October 24. OPPO, OnePlus’ sister company, is also collaborating on this display project with BOE.

While the teaser is intentionally vague, a well-known Weibo leaker, Digital Chat Station, shared some insights into what this new display might offer. According to the leak, OnePlus is gearing up to introduce a device with a BOE 2K (1440p) resolution display capable of reaching 3,000 nits of peak brightness. There are also rumors suggesting that the new display could feature a 2160Hz PWM dimming upgrade, which could be welcomed by users sensitive to this aspect.

For those not familiar with the term “nits,” it refers to the brightness of a display. The higher the nit count, the brighter the screen. To put this into context, Google’s latest Pixel 8 Pro offers 2,400 nits of peak brightness, while Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Ultra has a display that can reach up to 1,750 nits.

OnePlus recently unveiled its first foldable device, the OnePlus Open, which features a 6.3-inch cover screen and a 7.8-inch internal display, both capable of hitting a maximum of 2,800 nits. This suggests that OnePlus is already pushing the boundaries in terms of display brightness.

The exact device that will feature this “historic” display remains a mystery, but we might already have some clues. The OnePlus 12 has been a topic of discussion in the rumor mill for some time. Various details about the phone have already emerged, including its expected release in January 2024. The OnePlus 12 is rumored to come with a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with 2K resolution and Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC.

Considering the hints in the teaser, it’s quite possible that this display technology could make its debut on OnePlus’ upcoming flagship device. Smartphone enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the announcement on October 24 to learn more about this exciting development in Chinese smartphone screens.

October 23, 2023
Journey through History: The Seven Wonders of Ancient and Modern Times

The concept of the Seven Wonders of the World originates from ancient Hellenic civilization travelers. In 2007, the New Seven Wonders Foundation, through a worldwide vote of 100 million people, determined the seven wonders of the world. The unveiling of this prestigious list occurred during a grand ceremony in Lisbon, Portugal. The seven wonders encompass a rich tapestry of historical and cultural treasures. Let’s take a closer look at each of these extraordinary sites:

1. Chichen Inza, Mexico: Nestled in Mexico, Chichen Inza is one of the world’s seven wonders. To reach its pinnacle, you must ascend 365 steps to the top of the pyramid. This awe-inspiring pyramid stands as a symbol of the Maya civilization, renowned for being the first to employ a 365-day calendar. It has also earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

2. The Colosseum, Rome, Italy: Italy’s Colosseum is an architectural marvel. This four-story, circular structure stretches 189 meters in length, with a distinctive open roof design that continues to captivate observers. Originally constructed for various purposes, including theatrical performances, it holds a darker history as a site where countless individuals met their demise for the amusement of Roman emperors.

3. Machu Picchu, Peru: Known as the “ancient mountain,” Machu Picchu is an ancient city perched at 2,400 meters above sea level. Often shrouded in clouds, it features houses meticulously constructed in tiers around the hill, comprising a total of 140 stone structures.

4. The Great Wall of China: The Great Wall of China requires no introduction, as it is a world-famous marvel. Constructed from mud and stone, this monumental wall served the vital purpose of defending against military incursions and deterring invaders. It was an exceptionally costly project during its time and ranked as the world’s largest military installation.

5. Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic attraction is the Christ the Redeemer statue, majestically positioned atop a mountain. This impressive statue was brought to life through the craftsmanship of a French sculptor.

6. Petra, Jordan: Petra, situated in Jordan, dates back over 3,000 years. It is celebrated for its stone architecture and intricate water channels. The city houses famous temples dedicated to the pharaohs, and this remarkable structure was carved into the mountainside.

7. Taj Mahal, India: The Taj Mahal, a timeless symbol of India, was constructed during the Mughal era. It required the labor of 20,000 workers and an investment of 32 million rupees. This architectural gem showcases exquisite calligraphy inscriptions and earned its rightful place as one of the Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.

These seven wonders are a testament to human creativity, ingenuity, and the enduring legacy of civilizations that shaped our world. They continue to inspire awe and reverence, drawing visitors from across the globe to experience their beauty and historical significance.

October 22, 2023
2024 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure Bike: Lighter and More Powerful Advancement

BMW Motorrad has unveiled its latest adventure bike, the 2024 BMW R 1300 GS, representing a significant step forward in the world of adventure motorcycles. This new model serves as the successor to the previous R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure, emphasizing weight reduction and enhanced performance while staying true to the iconic GS legacy.

The heart of the R 1300 GS is the renowned BMW Motorrad boxer twin engine, which has been in production for over a century. With a larger capacity and more aggressive bore/stroke measurements (106.5mm x 73mm), this 1,300cc engine remains air/oil/water-cooled and features four-valve cylinder heads, along with dual-overhead camshafts. Notably, it retains BMW’s ShiftCam variable valve timing technology, which was first introduced in the 2019 BMW R1250GS Adventure.

This potent engine now boasts a 13.3:1 compression ratio, an increase of 0.8 from its predecessor. It runs on premium 91-octane fuel from a 5.0-gallon aluminum fuel tank. Power is efficiently transferred to a road-friendly 17-inch rear spoked wheel via a six-speed gearbox, which is now positioned under the engine. A hydraulic oil-bathed multiplate clutch and reliable Cardan-style shaft final drive complete the powertrain. BMW states that the boxer twin delivers 145 horsepower at 7,750 rpm and 109.9 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,500 rpm, making it the most powerful boxer twin in terms of horsepower.

Jochen Beck, the project manager of the BMW R 1300 GS, expressed the team’s commitment to bucking the trend of larger bikes, focusing instead on weight and dimension reduction. The result is a more compact and lean GS, achieved through innovative design and manufacturing methods. The engine serves as a load-bearing component within a steel main frame, with a lighter aluminum subframe taking the place of a heavier steel counterpart.

The R 1300 GS features BMW’s effective Telelever front suspension, providing a balance between steering and damping functions for optimal performance. It comes with a 19-inch front wheel, chosen over larger 21-inch wheels featured on other adventure motorcycles. The rear suspension incorporates a single-sided aluminum swingarm and BMW’s trusted paralever, seamlessly combining suspension and final drive responsibilities. Suspension travel remains consistent at 7.5 inches in the front and 7.9 inches in the rear. The wheelbase has been extended by 0.16 inches to 59.76 inches.

For riders seeking enhanced suspension, the optional Dynamic Suspension Adjustment, an upgrade from the previous Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA), now includes spring preload adjustment and variable semi-active damping. This system is managed through various rider-selectable ride modes, vehicle dynamics, and rider control input. It also allows for changes in vehicle height based on terrain and riding conditions.

The 2024 R 1300 GS introduces four distinct riding modes (Road, Rain, Enduro, and the new Eco setting). For those desiring advanced options, the Ride Modes Pro package offers Dynamic, Dynamic Pro, and Enduro Pro modes. The bike now incorporates radar-powered cruise control, providing intelligent pacing of vehicles ahead and enhancing front collision and lane change warnings. The system can apply brakes to reduce the risk of sudden vehicle deceleration accidents.

October 22, 2023
Meizu 20 Classic: Power and Performance in Your Pocket

Meizu, a smartphone company owned by automaker Geely, has unveiled its latest smartphone, the Meizu 20 Classic. This new device comes in three attractive colors and offers a variant with a substantial 16 GB of RAM. The Meizu 20 Classic is quite similar to the standard Meizu 20 model but features new color options and increased RAM capacity.

Under the hood, the Meizu 20 Classic is equipped with the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and boasts a 6.55-inch OLED display. The screen offers Full HD+ resolution, a remarkable refresh rate of up to 144 Hz, and includes a punch hole for the 32 MP front-facing selfie camera.

On the back of the device, you’ll find a ring-LED flash alongside a 50 MP primary camera, a 16 MP ultrawide lens, and a 5 MP depth-sensing camera. The smartphone is powered by a 4,700 mAh battery, and it supports fast charging at rates of up to 67W.

Whether you’re looking at the new Meizu 20 Classic or the previous model, the smartphone impresses with its internal cooling, boasting a generous 4,000 sq.mm of cooling area with a VC (Vapor Chamber). The Meizu 20 Classic operates on Flyme 10, which is based on Android 13, and it offers enhanced integration with selected vehicles through the manufacturer’s Flyme Auto system.

One of the standout features of the Meizu 20 Classic is its new color options. It is available in Green, Iron Gray, and White. These colors feature a polished back panel with the Meizu logo stylishly integrated within the panel.

The Meizu 20 Classic is offered at a starting price of CNY 3,099 (equivalent to $424) for the 16/256 GB version. There is also a variant with 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage, available at CNY 3,399 (equivalent to $465). This smartphone is already available for purchase on the Meizu website and through select retail partners in China.

October 21, 2023