A remote island in the Outer Hebrides is at the centre of a local dispute over whether to improve its transport infrastructure. The sleepy coastal village of Gearrannan Blackhouse, located in a secluded bay in the district of Carloway on the Isle of Lewis, has a tiny population of just 80 people. However, it’s been…
A remote island in the Outer Hebrides is at the centre of a local dispute over whether to improve its transport infrastructure. The sleepy coastal village of Gearrannan Blackhouse, located in a secluded bay in the district of Carloway on the Isle of Lewis, has a tiny population of just 80 people. However, it’s been…
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Business After Hours slatedELK RAPIDS — Elk Rapids Are Chamber of Commerce has organized a Business After Hours from 5-7 p.m. Oct. 17 at the Up North Center, 103 First St. Enjoy refreshments and tour the building. More details: 231-264-8202.Business lunch set for Oct. 22
PETOSKEY — Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Connecting Women in Business will host a small business showcase from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Oct. 22 at Grand Unity Event Center.Sweetwater Catering is providing a buffet lunch. Businesses will sell their items.Admission is $35 for Connecting Women in Business members and $45 for others. Register by 5 p.m. Oct. 17 via petoskeychamber.com.Window walk in downtown TCTRAVERSE CITY — Downtown Traverse City Association is starting a new Haunts and Harvest Window Walk from Oct. 18-31.View fall- and Halloween-themed storefronts at downtown businesses. People can scan a QR code in the window to vote for their favorite display. Winning merchants can receive prizes.Business programPETOSKEY — Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce will present the webinar “Unlock the Power of AI: AI Training for Small Business” at 1 p.m. Oct. 23.Learn to use artificial intelligence for daily business tasks.Admission is $10 for the public. Register through petoskeychamber.com or call 231-347-4150.This program is free for Winfluence subscribers. To join, contact [email protected] bootcampMANISTEE — 20Fathoms and CO. STARTERS are offering a startup bootcamp from 9 a.m. to noon Oct. 28, Oct. 30, Nov. 4 and Nov. 6 at West Shore Community College Manistee Downtown Education Center.Topics include marketing a business, goal setting and financial basics. Register for free through Eventbrite.com.Call for volunteersTRAVERSE CITY — Grand Traverse County is seeking volunteers to fill board and commission positions.Residents can apply for roles with BATA, veterans affairs, Traverse Area District Library, Grand Traverse County Road Commission, Northwest Regional Airport Authority and other groups.Apply by Nov. 4 through gtcountymi.gov/242.Utility center openTRAVERSE CITY — Traverse City Light and Power has opened a second customer service center at 130 Hall St.
No one knows who Elena Ferrante is. The renowned Italian author writes under a pseudonym and is famous not only for her masterful work but also for her hidden identity.
Ferrante’s “My Brilliant Friend,” part of her Neapolitan Novels series, was recently named the best book of the 21st century by The New York Times. The four-part anthology explores the intricate lifelong friendship between two women.
The novels were adapted into a TV show for HBO, RAI and TIMvision, which premiered in 2018. Though Ferrante is credited as a writer for the show, she remains anonymous.
The final season, titled “The Story of the Lost Child” after the fourth installment of the book series, premiered in September, bringing the tale of brilliant friends Lenù and Lila to a close.
But how does the story translate to the screen? It’s no easy task. The four books delve deeply into the decades-long friendship of Elena Greco and Raffaella Cerullo, better known as Lenù and Lila.
The friends grow up in a poor neighborhood in Naples — hence the title of the novels — and overcome adversity in their own ways.
The books not only focus on their intense relationship but also engage with the sociopolitical landscape of the time, including the Italian feminist movement of the 1970s.
60 years of life can be challenging to write about, and harder to compress into a visual medium, yet the show handles Ferrante’s masterpiece with tact and care.
What makes the adaptation work is the clever decision to dedicate each season to each book, allowing the novels’ storylines to be expanded upon, not minimized.
Unlike other failed book-to-screen adaptations — like the original “Percy Jackson” movies — the show stays true to the source material, giving ample time for character development and narrative progression.
For the first three seasons, Italian actors Margherita Mazzucco and Gaia Girace play Lenù and Lila from their teenage years to early adulthood, embodying the characters of Ferrante’s mind.
Renowned Italian actress Alba Rohrwacher is the narrator for the first three seasons, eventually taking on the role of Lenù in the last season as her older self, now a well-known writer.
Actress Irene Maiorino, coincidentally of Neapolitan origin, brings a sharper edge to the older Lila, who becomes the new leader of the old neighborhood, or Rione, in Naples.
Though the relay to new actresses might feel disorienting at first, their performances solidify themselves as the episodes progress. The final season is still airing, set to conclude in November.
The series evolves visually, too. Season one begins in post-war Italy, bleak and monochromatic, and by season four we’re in the 80s, brimming with color and modernity.
The book’s most poignant sequences are executed diligently onscreen. For instance, the girls’ pivotal doll-swapping scene from the first book is recreated with precision, as is Lila’s wedding in the season one finale.
With such positive qualities, the question arises of why the show isn’t as popular as other foreign productions like Netflix’s “Squid Game” or “Money Heist.” One possible barrier is the limited language options.
On the streaming platform Max, where new episodes air weekly in the U.S., the English audio track includes an unchangeable audio description and only English subtitles are offered.
While preserving the original Italian and Neapolitan dialects is crucial to the authenticity and essence of the story, the lack of flexibility may alienate some viewers.
It’s worth remembering that adaptation is, by nature, an act of transgression. The Neapolitan Novels have already undergone literary translation, which paved the way for the TV series.
Though Ferrante’s identity is secret, her translator’s isn’t. American editor Ann Goldstein holds the key to bringing the writer’s catalog to the English-speaking world, expanding her reach outside of Italy.
At its core, “My Brilliant Friend” is a universal story about friendship. Whether translated from page to screen or from one language to a dozen more, its beauty remains intact.
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Scientists discovered an “off switch” for the P2X7 receptor, linked to cancer and brain disordersBlocking P2X7 receptor function could help treat inflammation-related diseasesResearchers aim to design drugs that precisely turn off harmful P2X7 activityNew research has revealed that scientists have found the “off switch” on a protein linked to a number of health issues including cancer and brain disorders.The protein, the P2X7 receptor, is an ion channel which once activated, stays open for a long time. This means that ions (molecules with a net positive or negative electrical charge) can flow into and out of the cell.This process can trigger inflammation and cell death, which is why scientists think it may be linked to health issues like plaque in arteries, the spread of cancer and neurological problems.Steven Mansoor, a physician-scientist at Oregon Health and Science University, led this initial research and now his latest study has furthered the understanding of this protein and how it functions.Mansoor, along with Mansoor lab graduate student Adam Oken, used advanced imaging techniques to examine the structure of the P2X7 receptor after it is bound to five known antagonists and a newly discovered one. Antagonists are molecules that bind to the receptor and stop it from activating, blocking receptor function.The research has shown how the antagonists interact with the receptor to prevent it from functioning, revealing there are at least three types of blockers shallow, deep and starfish.Understanding the starfish blocker in particular could help to develop better treatments for conditions linked to the P2X7 receptor.Mansoor said: “There are seven different subtypes, P2X1 through P2X7, that each play important roles in various aspects of cellular physiology ranging from processes in the central nervous system to aspects of the cardiovascular system and the immune system.“We are really interested in understanding how the seven P2X receptor subtypes differ from each other at a molecular level. This is important because if you wanted to design a drug that blocks the activation of P2X7, you do not want to affect the function of other receptors.”An earlier study, with Oken as the first author, examined the structure of the P2X7 receptor bound to a strong activator, BzATP. The research identified three different parts of the receptor which are important in its strong response to BzATP, helping scientists to further understand how P2X receptors turn on.The latest study goes one step further by identifying how to turn the receptor off. Now the team is hoping to develop molecules that can precisely control the receptor’s function.Oken explained: “When P2X7 is turned on, it signals for the release of unsafe molecules that trigger inflammation. Our goal is to understand how to turn off P2X7 activity by designing ligands that bind very tightly to turn off harmful P2X7 signalling. Eventually, this can lead to new therapeutics that have the potential to treat heart disease, cancer and other inflammatory diseases.”Two years ago, Mansoor began to develop more effective drugs through his understanding of how P2X receptors work at the molecular level.His latest research continues his work to develop medication which stops the activation of receptors involved in inflammatory diseases.Read more here and here.
Scientists discovered an “off switch” for the P2X7 receptor, linked to cancer and brain disordersBlocking P2X7 receptor function could help treat inflammation-related diseasesResearchers aim to design drugs that precisely turn off harmful P2X7 activityNew research has revealed that scientists have found the “off switch” on a protein linked to a number of health issues including cancer and brain disorders.The protein, the P2X7 receptor, is an ion channel which once activated, stays open for a long time. This means that ions (molecules with a net positive or negative electrical charge) can flow into and out of the cell.This process can trigger inflammation and cell death, which is why scientists think it may be linked to health issues like plaque in arteries, the spread of cancer and neurological problems.Steven Mansoor, a physician-scientist at Oregon Health and Science University, led this initial research and now his latest study has furthered the understanding of this protein and how it functions.Mansoor, along with Mansoor lab graduate student Adam Oken, used advanced imaging techniques to examine the structure of the P2X7 receptor after it is bound to five known antagonists and a newly discovered one. Antagonists are molecules that bind to the receptor and stop it from activating, blocking receptor function.The research has shown how the antagonists interact with the receptor to prevent it from functioning, revealing there are at least three types of blockers shallow, deep and starfish.Understanding the starfish blocker in particular could help to develop better treatments for conditions linked to the P2X7 receptor.Mansoor said: “There are seven different subtypes, P2X1 through P2X7, that each play important roles in various aspects of cellular physiology ranging from processes in the central nervous system to aspects of the cardiovascular system and the immune system.“We are really interested in understanding how the seven P2X receptor subtypes differ from each other at a molecular level. This is important because if you wanted to design a drug that blocks the activation of P2X7, you do not want to affect the function of other receptors.”An earlier study, with Oken as the first author, examined the structure of the P2X7 receptor bound to a strong activator, BzATP. The research identified three different parts of the receptor which are important in its strong response to BzATP, helping scientists to further understand how P2X receptors turn on.The latest study goes one step further by identifying how to turn the receptor off. Now the team is hoping to develop molecules that can precisely control the receptor’s function.Oken explained: “When P2X7 is turned on, it signals for the release of unsafe molecules that trigger inflammation. Our goal is to understand how to turn off P2X7 activity by designing ligands that bind very tightly to turn off harmful P2X7 signalling. Eventually, this can lead to new therapeutics that have the potential to treat heart disease, cancer and other inflammatory diseases.”Two years ago, Mansoor began to develop more effective drugs through his understanding of how P2X receptors work at the molecular level.His latest research continues his work to develop medication which stops the activation of receptors involved in inflammatory diseases.Read more here and here.
Scientists discovered an “off switch” for the P2X7 receptor, linked to cancer and brain disordersBlocking P2X7 receptor function could help treat inflammation-related diseasesResearchers aim to design drugs that precisely turn off harmful P2X7 activityNew research has revealed that scientists have found the “off switch” on a protein linked to a number of health issues including cancer and brain disorders.The protein, the P2X7 receptor, is an ion channel which once activated, stays open for a long time. This means that ions (molecules with a net positive or negative electrical charge) can flow into and out of the cell.This process can trigger inflammation and cell death, which is why scientists think it may be linked to health issues like plaque in arteries, the spread of cancer and neurological problems.Steven Mansoor, a physician-scientist at Oregon Health and Science University, led this initial research and now his latest study has furthered the understanding of this protein and how it functions.Mansoor, along with Mansoor lab graduate student Adam Oken, used advanced imaging techniques to examine the structure of the P2X7 receptor after it is bound to five known antagonists and a newly discovered one. Antagonists are molecules that bind to the receptor and stop it from activating, blocking receptor function.The research has shown how the antagonists interact with the receptor to prevent it from functioning, revealing there are at least three types of blockers shallow, deep and starfish.Understanding the starfish blocker in particular could help to develop better treatments for conditions linked to the P2X7 receptor.Mansoor said: “There are seven different subtypes, P2X1 through P2X7, that each play important roles in various aspects of cellular physiology ranging from processes in the central nervous system to aspects of the cardiovascular system and the immune system.“We are really interested in understanding how the seven P2X receptor subtypes differ from each other at a molecular level. This is important because if you wanted to design a drug that blocks the activation of P2X7, you do not want to affect the function of other receptors.”An earlier study, with Oken as the first author, examined the structure of the P2X7 receptor bound to a strong activator, BzATP. The research identified three different parts of the receptor which are important in its strong response to BzATP, helping scientists to further understand how P2X receptors turn on.The latest study goes one step further by identifying how to turn the receptor off. Now the team is hoping to develop molecules that can precisely control the receptor’s function.Oken explained: “When P2X7 is turned on, it signals for the release of unsafe molecules that trigger inflammation. Our goal is to understand how to turn off P2X7 activity by designing ligands that bind very tightly to turn off harmful P2X7 signalling. Eventually, this can lead to new therapeutics that have the potential to treat heart disease, cancer and other inflammatory diseases.”Two years ago, Mansoor began to develop more effective drugs through his understanding of how P2X receptors work at the molecular level.His latest research continues his work to develop medication which stops the activation of receptors involved in inflammatory diseases.Read more here and here.
The city of Jeffersontown will be voting for eight people to fill Jeffersontown City Council seats on Election Day.A previously scheduled Jeffersontown City Council Candidate forum was canceled. So, an unofficial candidate forum is being put together at a local business.It’s happening Sunday, Oct. 20 at 1:30 p.m. It’ll be at Bud’s Tavern, located at 9119 Galene Drive.There are 16 candidates running for the eight seats. Currently, the candidates expected to be in attendance include seven non-council members and two current council members. There will also be city officials attending.The forum’s format will include:An introduction of all the candidates present by the moderatorEach candidate being given five minutes to introduce themselves and their ideas as a council candidateA final round of each candidate getting three minutes to explain their thoughts on solving a city problemA chance for all the candidates to interact with the public in attendanceOnly Jeffersontown residents can vote for city council members.
JEFFERSONTOWN, Ky. — The city of Jeffersontown will be voting for eight people to fill Jeffersontown City Council seats on Election Day.A previously scheduled Jeffersontown City Council Candidate forum was canceled. So, an unofficial candidate forum is being put together at a local business.
The online gambling industry in the UK has long been a major player in the global gaming landscape, generating billions in revenue and employing thousands. However, as we step into 2024, questions loom over the sector’s stability and future growth potential.
Is the UK online gambling business facing a crisis?
Let’s see the current state of online gambling in the UK, its challenges and opportunities, and how it stacks up against its US counterpart.
The Present of Online Gambling in the UK
To understand the current state of online gambling in the UK, it’s crucial to grasp its development over the years.
The Gambling Act 2005 was a landmark legislation that allowed remote gambling operators to establish a foothold in the UK market.
This legislation opened the floodgates, leading to a boom in online casinos, sports betting platforms, and poker rooms.
By 2020, the online gambling sector had been estimated to be worth over £4 billion, contributing significantly to the UK economy.
However, by 2024, the situation has shifted dramatically. Regulatory changes, societal attitudes toward gambling, and external economic pressures are causing many to question whether the industry is in crisis.
The Economic Impact of Online Gambling
This year, online gambling continues to play a crucial role in the UK economy. It accounts for a significant percentage of the total gambling market, with over 50% of gambling revenue coming from online activities. The sector has also provided thousands of jobs across various roles, from customer service representatives to software developers.
Moreover, the online gambling industry contributes a substantial amount in taxes. In 2023, the sector generated £1.3 billion in tax revenue for the UK government, highlighting its importance as a revenue stream. There’s a 42% in revenue in 2024—compared to a 21% increase in the previous year. This money goes towards public services, further cementing the industry’s role in the economy.
Regulatory Challenges: The Stranglehold of Compliance
One of the most pressing issues facing the online gambling sector in 2024 is the tightening grip of regulation.
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has ramped up its efforts to ensure operators comply with stringent regulations aimed at promoting responsible gambling and consumer protection.
While these measures are necessary, they have placed significant pressure on operators, particularly smaller companies that may struggle to meet the compliance costs.
In recent years, the UKGC has issued hefty fines to major operators for failing to adhere to responsible gambling practices.
This has led to a surge in operational expenses, forcing some companies to rethink their strategies. The added burden of compliance could potentially drive smaller operators out of the market, leading to a monopoly by larger, well-established firms.
The Impact of Responsible Gambling Initiatives
The UK has been at the forefront of promoting responsible gambling. The introduction of features such as deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion has changed how players engage with online gambling platforms.
While these measures are vital for safeguarding players, they can also deter casual gamblers, potentially shrinking the market.
In response, some operators have begun to innovate, offering alternative products like skill-based games and esports betting to attract new customers.
Nonetheless, these innovations may not be enough to counterbalance the loss of traditional revenue streams.
Shifting Consumer Behaviours
In 2024, consumer behaviour in the online gambling space is changing. Younger generations, particularly Gen Z, are more cautious about gambling. They’re often preferring to engage with brands that demonstrate social responsibility. This shift in attitudes has prompted operators to rethink their marketing strategies, focusing on transparency and ethical practices.
Furthermore, the rise of alternative entertainment options, such as video gaming and streaming, has led to increased competition in the online gambling sector.
As people spend more time on these platforms, attracting and retaining customers becomes more challenging for online casinos and bookmakers.
The Role of Technology in Shaping Consumer Experience
Despite these challenges, technology continues to play a crucial role in enhancing the online gambling experience.
Advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning are enabling operators to offer personalised gaming experiences, tailoring promotions and games to individual preferences.
Mobile technology has also transformed the industry. With the majority of online gambling occurring on mobile devices, operators must invest in mobile-friendly platforms.
The convenience of gambling on-the-go has opened up new markets, particularly among younger consumers.
A Crisis or an Opportunity?
As we assess the state of online gambling in the UK in 2024, the question remains: is the industry in crisis? While there are undeniable challenges, there are also ample opportunities for growth and innovation.
Market Consolidation: The Rise of Mega-Operators
In times of uncertainty, market consolidation often occurs. Larger operators are increasingly acquiring smaller firms to bolster their market positions and diversify their offerings. This trend could lead to fewer choices for consumers but may also result in enhanced services as mega-operators leverage their resources to improve customer experience.
Additionally, mergers and acquisitions can drive innovation as companies pool their resources and expertise to develop new products and services. As the landscape continues to evolve, operators who can adapt to regulatory changes and consumer preferences will likely thrive.
Comparing the UK and US Online Gambling Markets
When comparing the UK online gambling market to the burgeoning US market, notable differences emerge. The US market is undergoing rapid expansion following the 2018 Supreme Court ruling that legalised sports betting nationwide. In contrast, the UK has had a more established framework for online gambling for nearly two decades.
Regulatory Approaches: A Study in Contrasts
The regulatory approaches in the UK and the US are markedly different. The UK operates under a comprehensive regulatory framework that mandates strict adherence to responsible gambling practices.
In contrast, the US is still in the process of establishing uniform regulations across states, leading to a patchwork of laws that can vary dramatically.
And if you want to keep up-to-date with the legal American casinos, this website would be of use to you, as it provides the most recent insights into gambling in the Land of Opportunity.
In 2024, states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania have embraced online gambling, leading to impressive revenue growth.
However, this fragmented approach poses challenges for operators looking to expand across state lines. In contrast, UK operators benefit from a singular regulatory body, streamlining compliance processes.
Consumer Attitudes and Market Growth
Consumer attitudes towards gambling in the US also differ from those in the UK. While online gambling has become widely accepted in the UK, many Americans still harbour reservations about the activity.
As a result, the US market has significant growth potential but may take longer to reach its full capacity.
Moreover, the UK market has seen a shift towards mobile and in-play betting, whereas the US is still developing these segments. As technology evolves, both markets will need to adapt to the changing preferences of consumers.
The Future of Online Gambling in the UK
Looking ahead, the future of online gambling in the UK will largely depend on how operators navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Several trends are likely to shape the industry’s trajectory in the coming years.
Emphasis on Innovation and Adaptation
To stay competitive, operators must continue to innovate. This could involve expanding into new markets, developing new gaming products, or leveraging emerging technologies like virtual reality to enhance the user experience. Operators that fail to adapt risk falling behind as consumer preferences evolve.
Embracing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
In an increasingly competitive environment, corporate social responsibility will become a key differentiator for operators.
Companies that demonstrate a commitment to responsible gambling and ethical practices will likely resonate with consumers, particularly younger generations.
By fostering a positive brand image, operators can build long-term loyalty and trust.
Final Thoughts: Navigating Uncertain Waters
In conclusion, the online gambling industry in the UK is at a crossroads in 2024. While it faces significant challenges, including regulatory scrutiny and shifting consumer behaviours, there are also abundant opportunities for growth and innovation. The industry’s ability to adapt and embrace change will determine its future success.
Comparatively, the US online gambling market presents a contrasting landscape, with its rapid expansion and evolving regulatory framework.
As both markets continue to evolve, operators must keep their fingers on the pulse of consumer preferences and regulatory developments to navigate the uncertain waters ahead.
The question of whether the UK online gambling business is in crisis remains open-ended. With resilience, innovation, and a commitment to responsible practices, the industry may very well emerge stronger than before, ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
As the old saying goes, “Every cloud has a silver lining,” and for the online gambling sector, that lining may soon become visible.
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Oceans Of Slumber vocalist Cammie Beverly names her favourite horror flick in the new issue of Metal Hammer.When asked by Hammer’s Emily Swingle what her top scary movie is, Beverly chooses Mother!, the allegorical piece directed by Darren Aronofsky and released to a polarised reception in 2017.“I love Mother!,” Beverly declares. “The whole movie totally disturbs me. I saw the director explain it’s about his own mother, about the struggles of being a woman and everything depleting you. It’s so fucked up.”The singer continues: “I think about it constantly – that movie is my ‘Roman Empire’.”(Image credit: Future (Jen Rosenstein))Mother! – which stars Jennifer Lawrence, Javier Bardem, Ed Harris and Michelle Pfeiffer – is a psychological horror about a husband and wife who welcome another couple into their home, only to experience strange things afterwards. Its abstract story, inspired by the Bible and with themes of environmentalism, split opinion. The film received both cheers and boos after its premiere at the Venice Film Festival. It also underperformed at the box office, grossing only $44 million against a $30 million production budget.Oceans Of Slumber released their new album, Where Gods Fear To Speak, on September 13 via Season Of Mist. The followup to 2022’s Starlight And Ash is a concept album inspired by religion and science-fiction.Beverly explains the narrative to Hammer, saying, “It’s set in a dystopian future ruled by a religious mantra, but the album follows the story of someone who revolts, rebelling against blind faith. Where Gods Fear To Speak isn’t a literal place, it’s more of a philosophical question – because when you see people suffering, is God there?”Sign up below to get the latest from Metal Hammer, plus exclusive special offers, direct to your inbox!Hammer’s Adam Brennan reviewed Where Gods Fear To Speak and gave it a glowing four stars. He called the album “a vengeful prog metal monster that needs to be heard”.The new issue of Metal Hammer features genre-splicing singer/songwriter Poppy as its cover star. The musician talks all about new album Negative Spaces, as well as her journey from Youtube upstart to lauded, eclectic sensation. You can also read about Iron Maiden, Sleep Token, Kerry King, Within Temptation and more. Order your copy now and get it delivered directly to your door, or pick up an exclusive variant with a cover inspired by Maiden’s Powerslave record, available only in Tesco.
Oceans of Slumber – “Where Gods Fear To Speak” (Official Music Video) 2024 – YouTube
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