LivingnLA

Luckily for most of us, at least in Canada, people opposed to recommendations of health care authorities are the minority.

Today I went for a COVID test and I was pleased to see a line of at least 100 people waiting in line to take the test.

That was just 1 testing center of many that our government has put in place throughout the Toronto Metropolitan Area.

During my 2 hrs waiting in line there was ONLY 1 guy who showed up with 1 sign that said COVID = HOAX, and asking people to spit at him.

People just looked at him, either with disapproval or compassion, and he was quickly taken away by security staff.

They're a minority here too, anything from 20-40% depending on the poll. Unfortunately, they're the minority that controls the government and basically most of the economy. Unfortunately, they're vocal and effectively spreading their conspiracies.

https://www.newsweek.com/these-are-states-worst-vaccination-rates-1224709

https://observer.com/2020/09/poll-americans-wouldnt-take-covid-19-vaccine-this-fall/

Those toilets gross me out. I've formed a strong, albeit completely uninformed, opinion that there's a high likelihood of bits of someone else's "stuff" landing on the water wand only to later be shot up at me if I use the water spray feature.

https://www.totousa.com/cleanovation

Toto figured that out long ago. The wands are self cleaning, the bowls have many features to improve cleaning/sanitzing. The latest models even incorporate UV sanitizing.

Thoughts on the BioBidet vs. Toto C200? Ironically I was just looking at these earlier today.

https://www.amazon.com/TOTO-SW2044-01-Electronic-SoftClose/dp/B00UCIOX2Q/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=C200&qid=1600383261&sr=8-3

We went with Toto NEOREST when we renovated our bathrooms and we love them. When we used to have guests, they did too. This is complex technology and Toto was founded in 1917. They've been doing this for a very long time. BioBedet was founded in 2008, but I've heard good things about them. I may check out their Prodigy toilet for the next project.

Yes, but we have been migrating to all digital for years for the papers, magazines, and journals. Plus, with the new apple one service, it'll likely be the most convenient for everyone in the family to access such content wherever and whenever they wish. At least, that's the hope. We'll see how it actually functions once they launch it.

Pre pandemic, many of my experiences started with a drink at a bar or dinner at a good restaurant. I explained it all during the planning communication, paid for the time, and paid for the drinks and food. It helps both of us relax and create the fantasy I requested. It was also safer for me because I learned never to accept anything I didn't clearly see made or opened after I was drugged, raped, and robbed in my very first hire. I learned many lessons from that experience. Another time, a newer provider wanted to see the money when we were at the bar. I made a point of subtly fanning the bills in my money clip as I paid and tipped the bartender. If it's a fast session, there's usually a table where I place the envelope when I arrive. The provider can do whatever they want with it. Nearly all wait until the end. I would never pay a deposit or upfront. And I do not pay a new provider on arrival unless I know they're highly regarded on daddy's or this forum.

I generally leave the OC when I'm looking for this kind of "massage." I haven't had a good experience with a large variety of different providers in OC over the years. And one was even physically dangerous, almost aggressive enough to cause injury.

No one has mentioned Stendra? Lasts longer than Viagra, more like Levitra, without the side effects. No body has had it precsribed for them? For me, it works as well as the others without the back or stomachache. Not cheap however!

Avanafil, generic Stendra, is another ED med that may help. People should be talking to their doctors because there are multiple ED treatment options and they have subtly different effects on different people. In other words, some people will be affected differently and can benefit more or less from one ED med compared to another. Please also discuss popper use as they are generally contraindicated (not advised) because of dangerous and even potentially fatal interactions.

There's a very good chance that it will, if a huge experiment that's been conducted in the southern hemisphere over the last six months is any guide. You're welcome!

 

I had commented in the past about a huge reduction in respiratory disease in general and in the incidence of influenza in particular in Australia this winter. Covid-19 precautionary measures seem to have reduced other diseases as well. I've had colds every year of my life, until this year. The Economist crunched WHO data from the six southern hemisphere countries for which it was available (Chile, Argentina, Paraguay, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand), and in the article it published it noted:

 

Data from Australia tell a remarkable tale. From May to mid-August of 2015-19, an average of 86,000 Australians tested positive for the flu each year, and around 130 died of it. This winter the government has registered only 627 influenza infections and just a single death.

 

Tests were only down 20%. It's the second of three items in this podcast. https://play.acast.com/s/theintelligencepodcast/homework-thefutureoftheoffice There is even a chance that there will be a minimal flu season in the northern hemisphere because it has to come from somewhere, and the south is far less a source this year than usual, and travel, by which much of its spread occurs is minimal.

 

That is not to say that influenza won't be an issue this northern winter, so it's no reason not to have the shot.

Yes, preliminary data from many Southern Hemisphere countries with high public health compliance supports the idea that the precautions taken against COVID19 should also help against other respiratory infections with similar transmission profiles: distancing, masks, and minimizing time indoors especially around people who don't live with you are critical. Frequent cleaning and sanitizing of surfaces and hands also help.

The problem for the USA is that the very same communities with poor compliance for distancing, masking, and limiting travel/time around others are the very same people who are more likely not to get vaccinated or take the necessary precautions against the flu. Only time will tell if the healthcare systems in those communities will be overwhelmed over the next four months or so.

interesting, thanks for the clarification. I think the topic actually came up because he was saying he felt like he may have anal cancer, but had hpv vaccine.

 

I haven’t fucked him in awhile, so I’ve not been able to examine his...hole, lately. But he seems to feel like it’s something serious. So he was just saying he hopes it “wasn’t” cancer related.

That's entirely possible if he was infected with a cancer-causing strain before getting the vaccine. HPV is incredibly wide-spread in our population. That's part of why the HPV vaccination recommendation is at such low ages. It's critical to get the protection against the 9 known problematic strains before being exposed to one of them. And that's also part of why the recommendation stops around 45 because by that point, a sexually active human will have been exposed to many different HPV strains. It will take years to know if they develop cancer or other problems. I strongly encourage people to get the HPV series of Gardasil 9 as early as possible.

You claim to be a physician. I hope you are a better physician than you are gifted at furnishing incorrect information.

 

When I reported my reaction from a flu shot, I did not go into detail because I did not anticipate a forum poster (well-intended?) would respond with information that contradicts the CDC.

 

A good physician should know, that although rare, some people have adverse reactions to a flu shot.

 

The below furnished CDC article supports this fact.

 

In my case, I could not leave my bed for several days following my reaction, I was so ill and weak.

 

I was in the military at the time I had the vaccine. After I was able to leave my bed following the terrible reaction, I was eventually diagnosed with Guillain Barre Syndrome.

 

Although unusual, a patient getting a flu vaccination, can and does develop Guillain Barre Syndrome.

 

See the below CDC article that confirms the vaccine association.

 

By the way, I did not recommend that any person do as I do, i.e., not take a flu vaccination.

 

I merely reported my experience and stated that I never took another flu vaccine and have never been ill after recovering from the initial flu vaccine caused Guillain Barre Syndrome.

 

Here is a portion of the below-cited article that is offered by the CDC (Center for Disease Control).

 

 

GBS is rare.

Anyone can develop GBS, but people older than 50 are at greatest risk. In addition, about two-thirds of people who get GBS do so several days or weeks after they have been sick with diarrhea or a lung or sinus illness. Infection with the bacteria Campylobacter jejuni, which causes gastroenteritis (including symptoms of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea), is one of the most common risk factors for GBS. People also can develop GBS after having the flu or other infections such as cytomegalovirus and Epstein Barr virus. On very rare occasions, people develop GBS in the days or weeks after getting a vaccination.

 

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/concerns/guillain-barre-syndrome.html

 

My report should be considered by anyone considering a flu vaccine. The information is considered "informed consent" as you should know.

 

Dear readers, just because I got ill from a flu shot does not mean others should avoid the shot. As the CDC article states, it is a rare occurrence to get ill. Statistically, those taking a flu vaccine should be fine. Just be aware of the possibility of an adverse reaction.

Thank you for expanding and explaining because your original post is easy to misinterpret or misread. When I read it, my first thought was GBS, but it is quite rare, so many probably wouldn't think about it. What happened to you was unfortunate but most people should still get the flu vaccine because high enough compliance helps protect people like you who are unable to take it. People should talk to their doctor because their medical history matters.

@BnaC makes some good suggestions.

Psoriasis is thought to be an autoimmune disease. The question becomes what is triggering the overactive immune response. In some people it's nutritional or environmental or some combination provoking the allergic response. Stress and depression may be involved. Inflammation may be an issue too. Consulting a doctor is important to make sure it isn't a symptom of something serious like diabetes or heart disease. Treatments range from topical creams and ointments to UV treatments or even immune suppressants. Once the serious stuff is ruled out by the doctor, then take the conservative approach and explore nutritional changes, stress management, inflammation management, and environmental changes. Depending on how extensive it is, other more aggressive treatments may be required.

Dermatitis (aka, eczema) is typically thought of as an inflammatory condition of the skin. Like psoriasis, there's likely a genetic component and environmental/nutritional triggers for it. Gluten should be reduced or eliminated since one type of dermatitis is usually associated with Celiac Disease (gluten allergy). Again, consult with a doctor to rule out big concerns and then take a conservative approach. Patience matters, mindfulness helps, because stress management is likely important for both conditions.

Talking to a good Dietitian might help for either condition. A nutritionist is okay if that's the only option, but a Dietitian is the better choice.

Curious if anyone can link to, or even knows anecdotally, of an instance where mixing vasodilators (such as Viagra) and poppers resulted in a medical crisis. The warning has always been there, but I've never heard of it actually happening IRL, and it always seems to be rather hypothetical. But just because I've never heard of it doesn't mean it doesn't happen, hence my question.

I haven't seen many, but I remember the 3 gay men who died back in the late 90s, which was possibly part of why Pfizer issued their recommendation to not use viagra and poppers at the same time.

Even though it is science-based it is possible that it is a largely theoretical concern. I have read about the science, but I too haven't heard of any instances where theory has become reality.

I haven't looked into it in a long time, but there were 3 gay men in Southern California who died while on viagra, poppers, and crystal. I believe that's what led Pfizer to strongly discourage viagra and poppers being used together. And protease inhibitors were also a concern back then. And studies consistently show high STD/STI risk for gay men on viagra and/or poppers simply because they're more sexually active and more likely to take risks. But, yes, the viagra/popper risk is likely small for most people. Regardless, someone with a heart condition should know the risks, so they should talk to their doctor about any drugs they take. "Chemsex" as some call it, needs to be much better studied and understood so better recommendations can be made.

https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2020-07-02/grindr-new-ownership-american-investors-interview

Even though grindr's chinese owners were forced to sell it to americans, those americans paid more than double what grindr's previous owners paid. They want a rapid payback so they're likely trying to see how much revenue they can grow by figuring out how much advertising users will tolerate and still use the app.

The blackmailer may have a lot less to lose. I'm thinking of the head of BP, John Browne, whose escort became his boyfriend, then they broke up, and he was blackmailed for quite awhile. When he cut off the payments, the escort went public about him, and Browne felt obliged to step down from his super-lucrative job as head of BP. (I don't know what happened to the escort legally.)

Didn't he have a nervous breakdown? I thought that was part of why they broke up?

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-452983/The-TRUE-story-Lord-Browne--ex-rent-boy-lover.html

The rainbow pride flag has appeared in many forms and versions over the years since Gilbert Baker created it in 1978. His original design had two colors, pink and turquoise, that he removed because they pink was too expensive to mass produce. I've known people of color who were LGBTQ who said they felt invisible in "gay culture." Even the original black trans and poor protestors who helped start the modern gay rights movement at Stonewall have largely been glossed over until now. Shouldn't they feel welcome in the movement they started? Since the flag has been heavily modified over the decades, why not make it more inclusive? In this historic time when the historical contributions of black trans Americans are finally being seen, they deserve visibility on the flag of the movement they helped start.

^ Queer is becoming an offensive word among Gen Z'ers

https://www.bustle.com/articles/175470-what-does-queer-mean-5-things-to-know-about-the-q-in-lgbtq

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queer

We know some activists at a local nonprofit who call themselves queer. It led to an interesting and educational chat when my daughter was offended one time when we were volunteering. She's cool with it now when someone uses it for self-identification, but it still is a charged word.

^ Queer is becoming an offensive word among Gen Z'ers

https://www.bustle.com/articles/175470-what-does-queer-mean-5-things-to-know-about-the-q-in-lgbtq

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queer

We know some activists at a local nonprofit who call themselves queer. It led to an interesting and educational chat when my daughter was offended one time when we were volunteering. She's cool with it now when someone uses it for self-identification, but it still is a charged word.

LA continues to set coronavirus records. While his pictures and ad are very attractive, his choice to work so much during a pandemic in a hot zone means he's too irresponsible and reckless or thoughtless for me.

Another one: fun to look at, but nasal right out of the gate.

Colds will do that to many people. I like how politic he is about "morally uncomfortable" modeling there at the end. There are predators in every industry and sometimes they're powerful enough to make it very hard on new people or even ruin careers if they're disappointed or angered.

people say "tantra"....but none really know what it is, or how to do it.

That's probably because "tantric massage" is a made up Western idea derived from puritanical attitudes and cultural appropriation of exotic concepts from Indian Tantra philosophy. Another example is American Yoga, it misses many of the major lessons of real Yoga. In other words, Western Tantra means many different things compared to historical Tantra in India.

https://www.scienceandnonduality.com/article/tantra-and-the-west

http://www.sutrajournal.com/a-hippie-in-bhairavas-clothing-the-dangers-of-cultural-appropriation-by-christopher-wallis

I'm glad to see some sanity on this board. We are still in the first wave because we failed as a country. We've been unable and unwilling to test/trace/quarantine the way every other civilized nation has done during this pandemic. Enough of us have refused to wear masks and socially distance that transmission rates are climbing again across the country. There's a very real risk some hospitals will soon be overwhelmed. I hope it doesn't get as bad as New York. Cases and hospitalizations are climbing rapidly in many states. Thankfully, deaths haven't yet. There's a lag on deaths of about 3 weeks. In mid July we should know how many 18-49 year olds (they're over half of hospitalizations) die. And how many will survive with lifelong injuries and damaged organs that may require transplants.

If you choose to get a massage, please wear a mask the entire time. Work with a professional who wears a mask and understands how to clean, sanitize, and disinfect as required. Preferably, that professional would also have a massage room with hospital grade HEPA air filtration or outdoors with a good breeze.

How do you figure "but not much"? I read the article and it seems pretty clear that there are genetic variants for both the taste and smell of it being unappetizing. I get that they went on to say there could be other factors such as exposure, etc. but as someone who has hated it since I was a child, growing up in a place where it is prevalently used, in a family where everyone else loves it... there's genes at work. LOL

Studies vary, but as the article mentioned, "less than 10% of coriander preference is due to common genetic variants." So, there is a genetic component, but it seems more complex than just the underlying biology. Or perhaps studies have missed significant regional variance in the genetic variants specific to disliking coriander. You mention hating it since childhood. What about the rest of your family? Friends back then? Humans are surprisingly adaptable. Our lived experiences provide sociological and emotional input that combine with our underlying biology to manifest our perceptions.

https://www.nature.com/news/soapy-taste-of-coriander-linked-to-genetic-variants-1.11398

But coriander-haters — including the nearly 4,000 registered members of IHateCilantro.com — should not be in any rush to have their genomes analysed. Eriksson and his team calculate that less than 10% of coriander preference is due to common genetic variants. “It is possible that the heritability of cilantro preference is just rather low,” they say.

No, my balance workout is part of my morning routine. If you saw me, you'd see me doing something similar to half chair pose as deeply as comfortable and then sliding my underwear on one leg before slowly standing up and switching to the other leg.

He used to go by Shawn. I vaguely remember the session I had with him 2 years ago. It was enjoyable, but very unusual. As the thread mentions, some people really don't like him. Mileage varies. I only went the once, so it wasn't a good enough experience for me to return. Carson and Jerad are my go to guys. Though, I haven't seen either for about five months now.

https://m4m-forum.org/threads/411-on-shawn-art-of-touch-in-la.135497/#post-1495950

The "soap taste" response likely has some genetic basis, but not much.

https://www.nature.com/news/soapy-taste-of-coriander-linked-to-genetic-variants-1.11398

But coriander-haters — including the nearly 4,000 registered members of IHateCilantro.com — should not be in any rush to have their genomes analysed. Eriksson and his team calculate that less than 10% of coriander preference is due to common genetic variants. “It is possible that the heritability of cilantro preference is just rather low,” they say.

 

Setting aside hypothetical hopes of a biological fix, those who hate coriander have two options: avoid or adulterate. Julia Child took the former option: in 2002, she told the interviewer Larry King that she never ordered dishes with coriander: “I would pick it out if I saw it and throw it on the floor.” But the renowned food science writer Harold McGee suggested a milder solution in a 2010 column in the New York Times. Inspired by a study5 suggesting that crushing coriander sped up the rate at which plant enzymes break down aldehyde molecules — perhaps removing those to which coriander-haters are most sensitive — he recommends grinding up these ingredients for a mild, pesto-like sauce.